Superb review - you are really great at this: sharp analysis, demonstrating every aspect clearly, entertaining and insightful. Thanks so much - helped me make a decision.
Thank you for all the wonderful compliments! It's humbling to know that my review touched everyone. I was locked out of my account for a bit but am back. I have some new guitars to review so stay tuned!!!!
Thanks, Glenn. Great review and one that I have revisited several times. Your insights and no-holds barred thoughts on the many strengths of this remarkable guitar have inspired me to bring home one of my own. Thanks for keeping it real and for sharing your wisdom and experience with us.
I'm late to the party, but this is a beautiful guitar. My very first decent guitar was an Epiphone Les Paul Standard. I loved that guitar. It lasted me through my middle school through high school garage band days, playing around 50 gigs. It never failed me, it held up great with no problems, just some typical buckle wear and user wear. Stupidly I sold it after 5 years of ownership, actually getting about 100 bucks more than I originally paid for it. To this day, I can still feel that guitar in my hands, and after playing various Gibson Les Pauls, Fender Strats and Teles, Jacksons, Charvels and so on, that late 70's Epiphone Les Paul stands with the best of them.
Thank you for this review. I quit playing about 20 yrs ago. (I only cared about metal then). Anyway, I'm 50 now and I got the bug again. I've been playing a pawn shop Takamine but I never cared for the front to back width of acoustics. My brand new Epi 339 is on it's way and I feel like a kid in anticipation. I've watched several reviews of the guitar but yours was the one to tip the scale! Thanks again for your generosity in doing us this service and you have a merry Christmas!
I'm saving up for a Gibson ES-339 - which is gonna take me a couple of years ;-) This seems like a great, affordable alternative in the mean time. Thank you for taking the time to inform the masses.
Hi Glenn, thanks for a very good informative and inspiring review. I bought an Epi ES-339 on your recommendation and am extremely pleased with it. Hope you're still enjoying yours!
Thanks David. As I may have mentioned, I did have a professional fret level and crown done after I this video. I also added a Babicz Full Contact Bridge and tailpiece. The guitar really resonates now with a ton of sustain. Frankly, I did this video on a whim one day and now I am approaching 33,000 views so I am very surprised. Thanks again for the feedback. Be blessed!
Thank you so much for taking the time to do this review. I ended up buying this model in Cherry Red and its a brilliant Guitar particularly for the cost. One of my best purchases I’ve made for sure! 🙂
Dear Gleen ! I'm Luiz Henrique living in Brazil. I would like to thank you for your magnificent demo and review. Know that You help me very much. Congratulation and receive only great things.
So pleased to hear this review. I have just ordered a 339 Pro and so tend to avoid any more info - in case it is depressing! It's especially pleasing to hear this from an independent working musician, especially since my choice was based on a mix of head and gut! So thank you Glen, you have made my day! - But now, I am not going to look further!!!
Gotta say your review was the push over the edge I needed to buy the Epi ES-339...Had it now for three weeks and I'm still blown away by it, too...quality, tone, playablity, and single coil taps!. Had to steel wool the frets and adjust the neck, but no biggie. A great review on a great guitar! Thanks!
I saw a sale on these and was thinking about getting too. Thanks for the good review. I have several Epiphones now and have always been a fan of the value and quality!
I owned a Gibson ES335 50 years ago and foolishly sold it in the early 70’s. I bought a new Epiphone 339 about 5 years ago in an attempt to recapture the 335 in a slightly smaller version without the expense of a Gibson. And I like it a lot. Three years ago it fell and the head snapped off! I am a woodworker, so I repaired it by carefully gluing the head back on. It is solid like new and I still play it daily. The guitar provides a nice variety of sounds, is light and feels great. It does not disappoint.
Hi Landon. I heep treble on 5, push mids to 8 and bass to 6. Also for that classic Metheny tone set the 3 way switch to the middle position turn all pots to 10 EXCEPT the bridge pickup. This pot will now serve as your master volume. For a more Larry Carlton sound switch 3 way to rear pickup and roll that pot back to 4. For a Slash tone switch to neck pickup and roll neck pot back to 4 kick on some distortion and have some fun!
Just placed an order for one, after my typical couple o' months of vacillating. Bought it largely based on consistently great written reviews and some excellent video reviews/demos. Yours is probably the best of them, and played a significant part in my ultimate decision to buy. I'm sure I'm not alone there. Epi should give you free guitars! Thanks for the terrific demo.
Thanks but fat chance of Epiphone giving me free guitars. I do find it funny that their guy "Dr. Epiphone" is really not a player. I was LOVE that gig doing clinics and such.
"Dr. Epiphone" has got to be someone's nephew. It's actually a great PR idea for an instrument company, IMHO, but just terrible casting. You'd be great - maybe you should campaign... Received the 339 a few days ago and I am thrilled with it. I've owned Gibson electrics, but this is my first Epi and I'm very impressed. It's a great player with terrific fit, finish and tone. A definite keeper.
Hi Glen, Great review! I have been playing all my life and have had a several semi hollows including 335's 355's Epi Sheratons, an ES137 custom, Eastwood Messenger, Hagstoms, and Rickenbackers. I wasn't even thinking of getting another guitar until I saw your video with my pal Joe. We both immediately bought one from Musician's friend at a great price ( $413.09 with hadrshell case, no tax, no shipping!) and are expecting delivery in 3 days.
Glen..Best review I've seen. I enjoyed your clean licks, practical advice and I wish I could take some lessons from you. Very good musicianship And you highlighted the es-339 features well. I'm inclined to buy one. Keep IP the great work my fellow sojourner. I hope to see more bids from you ...mz
Glenn this video was the deciding factor in me purchasing the 339, you are so right with every point made about this guitar it is amazing. It is now my number one go to guitar. Thank you so much for making your video and making me a very happy 339 guitar player ;)
Good review Glenn I have played this guitar a few times at the store where I take my piano lessons and I thought it was a pretty instrument. I really enjoyed your playing on your demo very tasty and you really showed what the 339 can do playing different styles of music. Thank for a really professional demo.
Excellent, comprehensive review of the Epiphone ES-339 Pro. The best part: playing the guitar clean. Distorted tone is fine, but that's processed tone. I like to hear the guitar interacting with the amp without processing. Job well done. Thank you!
Perfect description of an ideal guitar for those who want between a LP and a 335. I always find myself trying this guitar every time I go into a store. And while there is no G in the headstock this is such a nicely made guitar with great value.
Whilst thinking of buying a Gibson 339 I realised Epiphone did the same model , then after seeing Glen's video decided l'd buy one. My local store told me this model was more or less unobtainable in the UK but I managed to order one within a few days. When my cherry es 339 arrived a few days later I was immediately impressed with the sound and look. Now I've had it restrung & set up etc. I'm even more impressed with the sound , both hummbuckers & single coil & combinations of both. Also find it easy to play ; neck & action etc. I've owned a few Fenders & Gibsons in my time but never such a great sounding guitar for such a price. I can highly recommend this model to anyone. Thanks Glen. Nick . England , UK
Good review and awsome playing, man! You showcased this guitar and what it does really well. You should do more reviews, cause you are a natural at this stuff. Well done!
Hey Glenn, I just purchased the cherry ES-339 at guitar center in clearwater Saturday along with a Fender Blues Jr. I'm a beginner and with your review I thought this one is a great value for the money that covers so many different styles... I wish I could take lessons from you- your jazz blue me away. Thanks for the review... Mark - Palm Harbor
Glenn you did an absolutely wonderful job it’s this review. One of the better review videos I’ve seen on UA-cam. I may get to review this guitar too. God bless bro. By the way, I’m in Pinellas County!
Yes I would definitely recommend it. The reason why is that the 335/339 style guitars are extremely versatile (Larry Carlton said during his session days he had three guitars. One for Rock, one for Country and one for Jazz. He finally settled on the 335 for it's versatility.) You can cover a bunch of styles. I would test it out for sure. Also don't discount Classic Vibe Telecaster or Stratocaster either in the same price range. Good luck!
Hey Tom, good to hear. My friend and bass player said that he knows the plant where these pups are made and they are very high quality. He and his partner just bought the Electra brand and are bringing some nice guitars in now. He did a great set up on the 339 and leveled all the frets and this is now my go to guitar. Most band members I play with always tell me to use it because they love the tone. Blessings my friend!
Thanks so much for this great review. It has helped in my decision to purchase the ES-339 Pro in Pelham Blue. There are so many reviews on UA-cam where the reviewer can't play well and the tone from the amp is an insult to the ears. You my friend are a stand out.
I installed a Babicz Full Contact Bridge about 6 months ago and it improved the sustain immensely on a guitar that I thought could not be improved upon. Enjoy!
Dear lord, finally a demo of this guitar by someone who plays MUSIC. Clean, professional playing. Thank you. I am getting one of these so i don't have to worry about my 1941 Epi in dives. Brother musician.
Yes true! People ask me why I play an Epiphone or some other offshore guitar. I tell them, "You wouldn't park your Ferrari at Walmart would you?" I only take my better instruments out to the classier venues where I know some loser is not going to take every chance he can to swipe it and bring it to a pawn shop. At the end of the day, this guitar sounds and plays as good as it's more expensive brothers.
Thanks for this review pal, was undecided about whether yo spend another £300 for the ultra but you've convinced me that the pro is a great guitar. Can't wait to play mine when it comes! Thanks again
Thanks.. I've been looking at this guitar for a few months and I appreciate your thorough review. Also, I have a Princeton Chorus Amp so loved how it sounded for you!!!! Thanks
Glad I could help. The amount of compliments I get on are amazing. The probuckers really scream on blues. I used the guitar on a few shows over the last few weeks in a large show band I played in and it really proved to be very versatile not only on the jazzier stuff but funk and rock as well.
Been looking at reviews of this guitar and had totally written it off with the demo's I have seen..but Thank you...you make it sound really nice...I need a warm sound and you get it.....thanks again..
What a versatile guitar. Love the 339. Had no idea it comes with coil split push-pull. Killer. Thanks for the stellar review and out-of-sight playing/tone.
Thanks Glenn, I just bought a 339 copy today,it has no name,the 3 way switch is mounted on the top, it came from the USA, to Ireland by a friends brother. It has gold tuners and gold pickups-Sunburst no serial number no names but it sounds great.
Glenn thank you for the great review. It is nice to see an intelligent review done well and the sound... wow I never would have guessed it was a Princeton Chorus. Great tone and i love the playing too.
I borrowed an older Epi ES-339 model from a friend to do a setup on the thing, and I had zero idea that I would like this guitar so much. I've never actually considered myself a semi-hollowbody archtop kinda guy, but MAN my opinion changed fast. These guitars are so good that they'll even improve your playing ability because they are just THERE, unlike some other solidbodies and sometimes even Les Pauls, where it seems like you're playing this small little toy. I just came back from playing bass seriously for about 4 years, and jumping back on guitar full time, I've had a hard time finding a guitar with a good amount of hand space to it, and the ES-339 is really there without being too bulbous. The brand new models are probably just as good as when this video was made, way better even than the one which converted me.... but I think I just found the guitar love of my life, what will define my sound as a player... and I have never found that before, after playing for almost 16 years. I guess 30 is the new 15, so here's to young adulthood! Rock on, and thanks for the review. EDIT: To add that I was always a heavy Sabbathy punk rock player, so I kind of subconsciously frowned upon the classier looking guitars because they just didn't seem mean enough.... but I pop a fuzz distortion onto this baby, and this thing can make a Black Sabbath type riff sound even more Sabbath than Sabbath ever was!!!
Enjoyed your review very much. You cut to the heart of the matter. So many "reviews" laden the mix with effects, i'm always looking for the cleans. You did that and more. i just bought one of these used today. And very nice playing, i should add. Thank You!
Great review. I bought a ES -339 Pro and love it. Wanted a semi-hollow to add to my American Strat, Epi Less Paul, and Epi SG. Fun guitar to play, and a lot of bang for the buck. I will never buy a Gibson when ai can purchase a quality guitar like Epiphone makes at a fraction of the cost. Love my Epi Les Paul and Epi SG too. Both fantastic guitars.
Great review and playing! I just left Guitar Center and started to research this guitar. Yours was the first link and you've answered all of my questions and then some. I was split between Pro/Ultra and I think you've convinced me. Love the small semi-hollow body idea.Thanks..
Just bought a used 2015 this morning. Brought it home and cleaned it up and a fresh set of Elixir strings. Sounds as nice as this one. Best $320 I've ever spent on an Epiphone. Looking at a Duesenberg Les Trem now.
Great review! I checked one out at gs and picked one up at a discount for $240 it had neck damaged due to shipping. Iv been loving it and playing it for 3 months with no problems. Thanks again for the review if I didn't see this video I probably would have not try'd one and missed out on a great instrument.
Went with my friend yesterday to try one out at Guitarguitar in Epsom, Uk. As soon we took it down from the shop wall it virtually played itself. Also did an AB test between the Epiphone and the equivalent Gibson at 3 times the price....no comparison, the Epiphone won hands down.
Thanks I appreciate your comments and have helped me make up my mind and yes I've had my beloved strat damaged on stage and its expensive to replace thanks again
Great video and review Glenn the best I saw on UA-cam. S convincing I opted to get one of these in Cherry Red a sentimental choice as my first real US guitar was a 1965 SG Special with P 90's in Cherry Red. Recently played it at a gig and sounded really good specially in the middle position with the neck p/u split and the bridge p/u in the hum-bucking position. I look forward to checking out some more of your videos. Have a great Thanksgiving week-end. Cheers, David Stein Ottawa, Canada.
Thanks for this review and comments. Playing through Fender amps really helps. I like the hot rod deville which makes my gibsons come alive. Will definitely check this guitar out.
Thank you. I think by my count, this video has sold at least 12 339's. My friends at Sam Ash said a man walked in and mentioned this video and ordered 3 of them! Fat chance of me getting anything from Epiphone however. All I am doing is giving them free advertising. I do it mainly because I know a lot of player sincerely need a good budget guitar and this one fits the bill nicely (as do the Fender Classic Vibe series) Thank you for your comments!
Richard, the fit and finish is wonderful for a guitar that retails for less than $400 USD. In previous comments I stated the only problem I had with the guitar (after I recorded the video) was at an outdoor concert there was a temp drop of about 40 degrees. (Christmastime in Florida, started out in the 80's and by nightfall colder weather came in with dew and mist) I developed a nasty buzz at the 5th fret on the high E string. I had a fret level and crown done by a luthier friend of mine.
Just complementing your review, for those who wanted to see more about the distortion in this guitar, I went to a guitar center store and tried some guitars in a range of $300 to $500. The es-339 is the best by far! Different from all others, both the clean and distorted sounds are perfect. Not too bassy (like some LPs) or too sharp (like SG), has a very good contrast between the strings. For me it's a perfect build, so I chose to buy this beauty! :)
Excellent Artur. If you really want it to have even better sustain and stable tuning check out the Jeff Babicz full contact hardware. I installed last year and Babicz products are the best. Enjoy!
Hi Alex. Really both the 339 and the Les Paul are good options for both classic rock and blues. The 339 has a slight edge for jazz. I prefer the larger body style of the 339 and it's big cousin the 335 for playing blues and jazz. Les Paul's tend to be a bit heavier in weight when standing and playing depending on what model you choose. I would go to a music store and take some time and test them both out. As far as tone, they would fit both applications just fine. Good luck and let me know!
Thanks Glenn , I have a princeton chorus & I wondered what this guitar would sound like through it, very impressed with your sound , I'm off to buy the guitar now
Nice review ! I own a Sheraton , a Dot deluxe , and a Joe Pass . I have been playing since 1963 , and started off playing on American made Epiphones ( the only country they were made in at the time ). I have to say that these newer Epiphones made in the 90's and 2000's are just great playing and sounding guitars , and a super value for the money . By the way , you play beautiful !
Received Es 339 Pro, Cherry Red. First impression wasnt sure I liked it, played about 1 hr, guitar started sounding better and better. Great low end, chimey, good sustain, light, comfortable, Biting highs, good crunch, meaty sound. Just what Ive been looking for, without pedals. My favorite guitar. Have Fender Tele with upgraded pups, Warmoth neck, Am Strat, Gib Les Paul Gold Top 57 Classic, The Epiphone 339 pro kicks ass. I bought guitar from Sweetwater, great to deal with, paid for set up, Frets needed polishing, 1500 Wet Dry, and polishing compound, Neck smooth as silk. Love the pups too. Epiphones very underrated !!!
someone who can actually play doing a review! excellent job.
and someone who's actually playing the guitar , not pedals
OK I am not slamming it OK
Glenn, what part of the country are you in ? Iwould like establish a rapport. I have the same guitar.
Superb review - you are really great at this: sharp analysis, demonstrating every aspect clearly, entertaining and insightful. Thanks so much - helped me make a decision.
Many people have asked what amp I am using. I mentioned in the video I am using a Fender Princeton Chorus through a BOSS ME70 with some delay.
Thank you for all the wonderful compliments! It's humbling to know that my review touched everyone. I was locked out of my account for a bit but am back. I have some new guitars to review so stay tuned!!!!
Thanks, Glenn. Great review and one that I have revisited several times. Your insights and no-holds barred thoughts on the many strengths of this remarkable guitar have inspired me to bring home one of my own. Thanks for keeping it real and for sharing your wisdom and experience with us.
Best demo and review of this guitar hands down. I just bought a natural one! Awesome playing mate. Thanks again.
+Parkwaymania Thank you! Enjoy!
I'm late to the party, but this is a beautiful guitar. My very first decent guitar was an Epiphone Les Paul Standard. I loved that guitar. It lasted me through my middle school through high school garage band days, playing around 50 gigs. It never failed me, it held up great with no problems, just some typical buckle wear and user wear. Stupidly I sold it after 5 years of ownership, actually getting about 100 bucks more than I originally paid for it. To this day, I can still feel that guitar in my hands, and after playing various Gibson Les Pauls, Fender Strats and Teles, Jacksons, Charvels and so on, that late 70's Epiphone Les Paul stands with the best of them.
This by far the "gold standard" of online guitar reviews. Great job, and fantastic playing. Thank-you :)
The best guitar review of UA-cam. I've heard them all. Few are working players. This guy has the goods.
Thanks Glenn!!
I often watch guitar reviews and they're not as useful as yours. To the point, touching upon what you'd expect... Clear, and true!!
Hi Glenn, thank you very much for taking the time to put this excellent review together. Much appreciated.
Terrific zero bullshit review. Once again proves you don't have to spend megabucks for the sound.
Thank you!
maxwellfan55 I just purchased a like new used natural finish one at GC for $349..... ridiculous guitar for that amount 😊🎸
@@aquatichighs starts playing at 2:22.....
Thank you for this review. I quit playing about 20 yrs ago. (I only cared about metal then). Anyway, I'm 50 now and I got the bug again. I've been playing a pawn shop Takamine but I never cared for the front to back width of acoustics. My brand new Epi 339 is on it's way and I feel like a kid in anticipation. I've watched several reviews of the guitar but yours was the one to tip the scale!
Thanks again for your generosity in doing us this service and you have a merry Christmas!
Great to hear Richard! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Merry Christmas as well.
GReat review and most importantly we can see it's a reliable opinion by an honest pro and not a salesman or UA-cam addict! Very well done mate..
I'm saving up for a Gibson ES-339 - which is gonna take me a couple of years ;-) This seems like a great, affordable alternative in the mean time. Thank you for taking the time to inform the masses.
Hi Glenn, thanks for a very good informative and inspiring review. I bought an Epi ES-339 on your recommendation and am extremely pleased with it. Hope you're still enjoying yours!
Thanks David. As I may have mentioned, I did have a professional fret level and crown done after I this video. I also added a Babicz Full Contact Bridge and tailpiece. The guitar really resonates now with a ton of sustain. Frankly, I did this video on a whim one day and now I am approaching 33,000 views so I am very surprised. Thanks again for the feedback. Be blessed!
Never posted reviews before...Does an AWESOME review with some very tasty playing as well. Kudos, Sir!
Thank you so much for taking the time to do this review. I ended up buying this model in Cherry Red and its a brilliant Guitar particularly for the cost. One of my best purchases I’ve made for sure! 🙂
Dear Gleen ! I'm Luiz Henrique living in Brazil. I would like to thank you for your magnificent demo and review. Know that You help me very much. Congratulation and receive only great things.
So pleased to hear this review. I have just ordered a 339 Pro and so tend to avoid any more info - in case it is depressing! It's especially pleasing to hear this from an independent working musician, especially since my choice was based on a mix of head and gut! So thank you Glen, you have made my day! - But now, I am not going to look further!!!
this video helped me to look at, then buy, my 339 limited.. thanks Glenn.. well thought out and well delivered ..
This is probably the best review of this guitar on youtube. I have had my eye on this guitar for a while. Hope to get it soon.
Gotta say your review was the push over the edge I needed to buy the Epi ES-339...Had it now for three weeks and I'm still blown away by it, too...quality, tone, playablity, and single coil taps!. Had to steel wool the frets and adjust the neck, but no biggie. A great review on a great guitar! Thanks!
I saw a sale on these and was thinking about getting too. Thanks for the good review. I have several Epiphones now and have always been a fan of the value and quality!
I owned a Gibson ES335 50 years ago and foolishly sold it in the early 70’s. I bought a new Epiphone 339 about 5 years ago in an attempt to recapture the 335 in a slightly smaller version without the expense of a Gibson. And I like it a lot. Three years ago it fell and the head snapped off! I am a woodworker, so I repaired it by carefully gluing the head back on. It is solid like new and I still play it daily. The guitar provides a nice variety of sounds, is light and feels great. It does not disappoint.
Hi Landon. I heep treble on 5, push mids to 8 and bass to 6. Also for that classic Metheny tone set the 3 way switch to the middle position turn all pots to 10 EXCEPT the bridge pickup. This pot will now serve as your master volume. For a more Larry Carlton sound switch 3 way to rear pickup and roll that pot back to 4. For a Slash tone switch to neck pickup and roll neck pot back to 4 kick on some distortion and have some fun!
Just placed an order for one, after my typical couple o' months of vacillating. Bought it largely based on consistently great written reviews and some excellent video reviews/demos. Yours is probably the best of them, and played a significant part in my ultimate decision to buy. I'm sure I'm not alone there. Epi should give you free guitars! Thanks for the terrific demo.
Thanks but fat chance of Epiphone giving me free guitars. I do find it funny that their guy "Dr. Epiphone" is really not a player. I was LOVE that gig doing clinics and such.
"Dr. Epiphone" has got to be someone's nephew. It's actually a great PR idea for an instrument company, IMHO, but just terrible casting. You'd be great - maybe you should campaign... Received the 339 a few days ago and I am thrilled with it. I've owned Gibson electrics, but this is my first Epi and I'm very impressed. It's a great player with terrific fit, finish and tone. A definite keeper.
Hi Glen, Great review! I have been playing all my life and have had a several semi hollows including 335's 355's Epi Sheratons, an ES137 custom, Eastwood Messenger, Hagstoms, and Rickenbackers. I wasn't even thinking of getting another guitar until I saw your video with my pal Joe. We both immediately bought one from Musician's friend at a great price ( $413.09 with hadrshell case, no tax, no shipping!) and are expecting delivery in 3 days.
very good presentation with somebody who really knows what he's talking about!
Glen..Best review I've seen. I enjoyed your clean licks, practical advice and I wish I could take some lessons from you. Very good musicianship And you highlighted the es-339 features well. I'm inclined to buy one. Keep IP the great work my fellow sojourner. I hope to see more bids from you
...mz
Thank you SO much for your kind words! If you can, check them out at a music store. Quality varies from what I have found.
Thank you for the excellent demo and reviewing. Been eyeing this guitar for a while.
Glenn this video was the deciding factor in me purchasing the 339, you are so right with every point made about this guitar it is amazing. It is now my number one go to guitar. Thank you so much for making your video and making me a very happy 339 guitar player ;)
Cool Hugh. Glad you are happy with it.
Bought this guitar at Christmas, just love it, very versatile, well made, sounds great for rock, blues, even acoustic!!!
Good review Glenn I have played this guitar a few times at the store where I take my piano lessons and I thought it was a pretty instrument. I really enjoyed your playing on your demo very tasty and you really showed what the 339 can do playing different styles of music. Thank for a really professional demo.
Nice review Glen. It's a pleasure to hear jazz played on demos instead of just classic rock and heavy metal.
Excellent, comprehensive review of the Epiphone ES-339 Pro. The best part: playing the guitar clean. Distorted tone is fine, but that's processed tone. I like to hear the guitar interacting with the amp without processing. Job well done. Thank you!
Perfect description of an ideal guitar for those who want between a LP and a 335. I always find myself trying this guitar every time I go into a store. And while there is no G in the headstock this is such a nicely made guitar with great value.
Whilst thinking of buying a Gibson 339 I realised Epiphone did the same model , then after seeing Glen's video decided l'd buy one. My local store told me this model was more or less unobtainable in the UK but I managed to order one within a few days. When my cherry es 339 arrived a few days later I was immediately impressed with the sound and look. Now I've had it restrung & set up etc. I'm even more impressed with the sound , both hummbuckers & single coil & combinations of both. Also find it easy to play ; neck & action etc. I've owned a few Fenders & Gibsons in my time but never such a great sounding guitar for such a price. I can highly recommend this model to anyone. Thanks Glen. Nick . England , UK
That is good news Nick! I hope it gives you many years of playing fun.
Awesome and informative review. You did a great job demonstrating all the different tone settings for this guitar. Thanks!!
Thanks Austin. I can't believe this is coming up on two years old...
Good review and awsome playing, man! You showcased this guitar and what it does really well. You should do more reviews, cause you are a natural at this stuff. Well done!
+Bjørn Lodvar Larsen Thank you so much for your kind words Sir!
Love the way you give an unbiased review of what I am increasingly thinking is an excellent guitar. Way to go.
Hey Glenn, I just purchased the cherry ES-339 at guitar center in clearwater Saturday along with a Fender Blues Jr. I'm a beginner and with your review I thought this one is a great value for the money that covers so many different styles... I wish I could take lessons from you- your jazz blue me away. Thanks for the review... Mark - Palm Harbor
Excellent demo! I hear a lot of tones I'm searching for in there! Thank you Glenn.
Glenn you did an absolutely wonderful job it’s this review. One of the better review videos I’ve seen on UA-cam. I may get to review this guitar too. God bless bro. By the way, I’m in Pinellas County!
Yes I would definitely recommend it. The reason why is that the 335/339 style guitars are extremely versatile (Larry Carlton said during his session days he had three guitars. One for Rock, one for Country and one for Jazz. He finally settled on the 335 for it's versatility.) You can cover a bunch of styles. I would test it out for sure. Also don't discount Classic Vibe Telecaster or Stratocaster either in the same price range. Good luck!
Glenn, thanks for the review. Gave me the confidence to purchase the Epiphone 339
Good review! Picking one up today in a trade for an 8-person tent I bought for $50! Cheers from Dunedin, FLA!
Hey Tom, good to hear. My friend and bass player said that he knows the plant where these pups are made and they are very high quality. He and his partner just bought the Electra brand and are bringing some nice guitars in now. He did a great set up on the 339 and leveled all the frets and this is now my go to guitar. Most band members I play with always tell me to use it because they love the tone. Blessings my friend!
Thanks so much for this great review. It has helped in my decision to purchase the ES-339 Pro in Pelham Blue. There are so many reviews on UA-cam where the reviewer can't play well and the tone from the amp is an insult to the ears. You my friend are a stand out.
Just picked this guitar up and your review is on the money thank you very much well done.
I installed a Babicz Full Contact Bridge about 6 months ago and it improved the sustain immensely on a guitar that I thought could not be improved upon. Enjoy!
Dear lord, finally a demo of this guitar by someone who plays MUSIC. Clean, professional playing. Thank you. I am getting one of these so i don't have to worry about my 1941 Epi in dives.
Brother musician.
Yes true! People ask me why I play an Epiphone or some other offshore guitar. I tell them, "You wouldn't park your Ferrari at Walmart would you?" I only take my better instruments out to the classier venues where I know some loser is not going to take every chance he can to swipe it and bring it to a pawn shop. At the end of the day, this guitar sounds and plays as good as it's more expensive brothers.
Thanks for this review pal, was undecided about whether yo spend another £300 for the ultra but you've convinced me that the pro is a great guitar. Can't wait to play mine when it comes! Thanks again
Thanks.. I've been looking at this guitar for a few months and I appreciate your thorough review. Also, I have a Princeton Chorus Amp so loved how it sounded for you!!!! Thanks
Thank you! I hope you enjoy it. Do have the frets dressed and a set up done. The Chinese factories kind of fall down in this area.
Glad I could help. The amount of compliments I get on are amazing. The probuckers really scream on blues. I used the guitar on a few shows over the last few weeks in a large show band I played in and it really proved to be very versatile not only on the jazzier stuff but funk and rock as well.
Been looking at reviews of this guitar and had totally written it off with the demo's I have seen..but Thank you...you make it sound really nice...I need a warm sound and you get it.....thanks again..
What a versatile guitar. Love the 339. Had no idea it comes with coil split push-pull. Killer. Thanks for the stellar review and out-of-sight playing/tone.
Thank You! So informative and this has convinced me once and for all how good this Guitar is and others in the lower end bracket!
Nice review, nice playing, nice guitar!
Thanks Glenn, I just bought a 339 copy today,it has no name,the 3 way switch is mounted on the top, it came from the USA, to Ireland by a friends brother. It has gold tuners and gold pickups-Sunburst no serial number no names but it sounds great.
Glenn thank you for the great review. It is nice to see an intelligent review done well and the sound... wow I never would have guessed it was a Princeton Chorus. Great tone and i love the playing too.
I borrowed an older Epi ES-339 model from a friend to do a setup on the thing, and I had zero idea that I would like this guitar so much. I've never actually considered myself a semi-hollowbody archtop kinda guy, but MAN my opinion changed fast. These guitars are so good that they'll even improve your playing ability because they are just THERE, unlike some other solidbodies and sometimes even Les Pauls, where it seems like you're playing this small little toy. I just came back from playing bass seriously for about 4 years, and jumping back on guitar full time, I've had a hard time finding a guitar with a good amount of hand space to it, and the ES-339 is really there without being too bulbous. The brand new models are probably just as good as when this video was made, way better even than the one which converted me.... but I think I just found the guitar love of my life, what will define my sound as a player... and I have never found that before, after playing for almost 16 years. I guess 30 is the new 15, so here's to young adulthood! Rock on, and thanks for the review.
EDIT:
To add that I was always a heavy Sabbathy punk rock player, so I kind of subconsciously frowned upon the classier looking guitars because they just didn't seem mean enough.... but I pop a fuzz distortion onto this baby, and this thing can make a Black Sabbath type riff sound even more Sabbath than Sabbath ever was!!!
Glen, great demo and review. I really like the tone of this guitar, great quality
Thank you soo much for a no BS Demo! Been looking at these epi 339s for a while now.
Great review! Thanks for not playing two minutes of licks for every ten seconds of talking. Found this review super helpful and I'm buying one
Enjoyed your review very much. You cut to the heart of the matter. So many "reviews" laden the mix with effects, i'm always looking for the cleans. You did that and more. i just bought one of these used today.
And very nice playing, i should add.
Thank You!
Thank you! Enjoy the guitar, I know you will.
Great review. I bought a ES -339 Pro and love it. Wanted a semi-hollow to add to my American Strat, Epi Less Paul, and Epi SG. Fun guitar to play, and a lot of bang for the buck. I will never buy a Gibson when ai can purchase a quality guitar like Epiphone makes at a fraction of the cost. Love my Epi Les Paul and Epi SG too. Both fantastic guitars.
Well my friend, you have just sold me on this guitar. Very slick piece of gear!
Well, certainly for the money it is a terrific guitar. I hope you like it.
Just went to GC today and settled on this guitar over a dot and your video is right on! Keep up the great work!
Great review and playing! I just left Guitar Center and started to research this guitar. Yours was the first link and you've answered all of my questions and then some. I was split between Pro/Ultra and I think you've convinced me. Love the small semi-hollow body idea.Thanks..
Amazing review, it actually helped decide to go with the 339 over the 335 and I'm loving it!
solid overview and nice display of the guitar's versatility. that thing just looks gorgeous, too.
Just bought a used 2015 this morning. Brought it home and cleaned it up and a fresh set of Elixir strings. Sounds as nice as this one. Best $320 I've ever spent on an Epiphone. Looking at a Duesenberg Les Trem now.
Great review! I checked one out at gs and picked one up at a discount for $240 it had neck damaged due to shipping. Iv been loving it and playing it for 3 months with no problems. Thanks again for the review if I didn't see this video I probably would have not try'd one and missed out on a great instrument.
thank you sir for this review and letting us hear the different tones. I very much want this guitar and this review has helped a lot!
Went with my friend yesterday to try one out at Guitarguitar in Epsom, Uk. As soon we took it down from the shop wall it virtually played itself. Also did an AB test between the Epiphone and the equivalent Gibson at 3 times the price....no comparison, the Epiphone won hands down.
Thanks I appreciate your comments and have helped me make up my mind and yes I've had my beloved strat damaged on stage and its expensive to replace thanks again
Great video and review Glenn the best I saw on UA-cam. S convincing I opted to get one of these in Cherry Red a sentimental choice as my first real US guitar was a 1965 SG Special with P 90's in Cherry Red. Recently played it at a gig and sounded really good specially in the middle position with the neck p/u split and the bridge p/u in the hum-bucking position. I look forward to checking out some more of your videos. Have a great Thanksgiving week-end. Cheers, David Stein Ottawa, Canada.
Good to hear David. It does have great tone for live shows. I have cranked it and it sounds great!
Thanks for this review and comments. Playing through Fender amps really helps. I like the hot rod deville which makes my gibsons come alive. Will definitely check this guitar out.
Terrific, informative and enjoyable review from a worker. Thanks, gonna go try one of these out.
Excellent review. I was really looking for a review of the 335 pro, but this will do.
Best review video for this guitar. Trust me Any one whoes viewing. This is the best review out there
Thank you Riley! Much appreciated!
Thank-you, this is very helpful! Just went guitar shopping today and I'm thinking about buying one myself! 👏
Thank you. I think by my count, this video has sold at least 12 339's. My friends at Sam Ash said a man walked in and mentioned this video and ordered 3 of them! Fat chance of me getting anything from Epiphone however. All I am doing is giving them free advertising. I do it mainly because I know a lot of player sincerely need a good budget guitar and this one fits the bill nicely (as do the Fender Classic Vibe series) Thank you for your comments!
Richard, the fit and finish is wonderful for a guitar that retails for less than $400 USD. In previous comments I stated the only problem I had with the guitar (after I recorded the video) was at an outdoor concert there was a temp drop of about 40 degrees. (Christmastime in Florida, started out in the 80's and by nightfall colder weather came in with dew and mist) I developed a nasty buzz at the 5th fret on the high E string. I had a fret level and crown done by a luthier friend of mine.
I like your review I just ordered one. Tried one a few weeks ago at guitar center, could not get it out of my head had to have it. Thanks
great review and loved your playing. you convinced me, I just bought one yesterday. I also liked the vintage sunburst. thanks again!
great review this one told me the most about this guitar its nice to have an independent review
Just complementing your review, for those who wanted to see more about the distortion in this guitar, I went to a guitar center store and tried some guitars in a range of $300 to $500. The es-339 is the best by far! Different from all others, both the clean and distorted sounds are perfect. Not too bassy (like some LPs) or too sharp (like SG), has a very good contrast between the strings. For me it's a perfect build, so I chose to buy this beauty! :)
Excellent Artur. If you really want it to have even better sustain and stable tuning check out the Jeff Babicz full contact hardware. I installed last year and Babicz products are the best. Enjoy!
Great honest review, and a good guitar player.
This 339 sounds nice. I hope when shops send it out the action is low , without buzz or choke.
Hi Alex. Really both the 339 and the Les Paul are good options for both classic rock and blues. The 339 has a slight edge for jazz. I prefer the larger body style of the 339 and it's big cousin the 335 for playing blues and jazz. Les Paul's tend to be a bit heavier in weight when standing and playing depending on what model you choose. I would go to a music store and take some time and test them both out. As far as tone, they would fit both applications just fine. Good luck and let me know!
Nice clear concise review, lovely tones from it and the Princeton, thanks.
Thanks Glenn , I have a princeton chorus & I wondered what this guitar would sound like through it, very impressed with your sound , I'm off to buy the guitar now
Kevin Jones That's what I am playing it through! Enjoy!
Great review! Straight forward, no silliness or clowning around. Great info, and playing too!
Thanks! I tried to at least approach the videos how I would like to get information about the instrument.
A+... :)
Just ordered one of these today... Listening to you play it, I can't wait!!!
Best demo and description I have seen yet. Well Done! ( I own one by the way)…
Nice review ! I own a Sheraton , a Dot deluxe , and a Joe Pass . I have been playing since 1963 , and started off playing on American made Epiphones ( the only country they were made in at the time ). I have to say that these newer Epiphones made in the 90's and 2000's are just great playing and sounding guitars , and a super value for the money . By the way , you play beautiful !
Received Es 339 Pro, Cherry Red. First impression wasnt sure I liked it, played about 1 hr, guitar started sounding better and better. Great low end, chimey, good sustain, light, comfortable,
Biting highs, good crunch, meaty sound. Just what Ive been looking for, without pedals. My favorite guitar. Have Fender Tele with upgraded pups, Warmoth neck, Am Strat, Gib Les Paul Gold Top 57 Classic, The Epiphone 339 pro kicks ass. I bought guitar from Sweetwater, great to deal with, paid for set up, Frets needed polishing, 1500 Wet Dry, and polishing compound, Neck smooth as silk. Love the pups too. Epiphones very underrated !!!
Great review, thanks. I bought one from Guitar Center and love it.
+Jonathan Hubbs Enjoy. How are the frets? Mine were uneven so I had a fret level done on it.
Very nice demo Glenn, nice playing, nice sound and very clear information about the guitar. Thank you.