Ruth from NC here You kept me company on a train ride from Edinburgh to London today. So enjoyed your channel. Think you are an awesome bluesman! Thank you so much!❤
It never hit me until just this minute. You have a classic PBS presentation type style. Your voice, the inflections, and the articulate nature of how you describe what you're doing are MONEY. The sweet riffs after the pickup swap are all just an added bonus. Seriously, well done bro. Cheers from an old Blues guy in Chicago.
Man, that sounds soooooo good and is beautiful, too!! Thanks so much for an awesome demo, Leonard!! Love your t`shirt...I live in Alaska (about 30 years)!! 😎
Thanks so much. I haven’t been to Alaska, but my wife ran sled dogs at local events for years, so we have a lot of husky memorabilia. Thanks for watching.
An Ebony ES-335. Gorgeous. What a black beauty. I wish my IGC 1959 ES-355 of the same color also came in that finish. That significant improvement in sound quality was indeed worth the effort you put into that already good sounding guitar. Reminds me of a pair of Gibson USA Burstbuckets that I have not yet put into good use. Thanks!
@@leonardgriffieblues5845Because of this video, I was reminded of a project that I have been putting aside. A pair of Gibson USA Burstbuckers that I got from eBay that is intended for a 2012 Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Pro. I finally recently found a luthier to do the work for me as I don’t know how to do it. I tried, I even bought a book and tools. But, I had other more important things to do too. For $462, he got me a bone nut, fret dress, premium wiring kit for a Gibson Les Paul, GraphTech bridge saddles, new strings and installed the Gibson pickups. When I finally got my guitar, I immediately noticed the BIG improvement in its sound, feel and playability. Others may not agree with what I did, but to me the upgrade was well all worth it. I am glad I stumbled upon this video.
SWEET tunage Lenny...uh yeah and UPGRADE!!!! PS....Seth Lovers are awesome too. Also I'm an Epi fan. I have 8 of them including 2 Epi Inspired by Gibby LP's 50's. They're bone stock and pretty darn nice for 519 each shipped to my door from Sweetwater during their annual sales event.
Yes, the Seth Lovers are very nice. I’ve had at least 3 sets of those over the years. They would have been a great choice as well, though not usually quite as budget friendly on the used market. Thanks so much for watching.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Thanks for the reply Len. You are seriously a great player and such a talented reviewer. I really enjoy your stuff. Thank you again.
as always making that guitar sing! Thank You for the great video. With respect. I own an "Inspired by Gibson" Epiphone '59 Les Paul Std. outfit. Gibson Burstbuckers 2 & 3 fancy electronic harness all that. Brand New for $849.00 2 years ago. I feel these are a better instrument to by instead of picking up one of the new ones with a $400.00 headstock. Just something to think about.
Thanks so much. I’ll be taking a look at one of the new ones soon and we’ll see if it’s just the headstock or there are other differences that matter. Stay tuned.
Glad to hear that you’re enjoying your IBG Epiphone Les Paul. Like you, I’m a big fan of the Epiphone Les Paul. I have 4 in various models that I bought brand new in 2013. Then, my interest shifted to the Epiphone Masterbilt acoustic guitars and bought 5 of them. I went into a plateau stage even with the arrival of the IBG line. Then, the new IBGC Epiphones came. For $500 premium, I thought it was a fair price considering all the Custom Shop upgrades plus a new hard shell case. So, immediately ordered the LP Custom in Alpine White since I already have a 2012 MIK 3 pick-up Black Beauty. Seeing the guitar in person for the first time was quite an experience - the looks, feel and sound are all legit. I didn’t expect that the bound and oversized Gibson-style open book headstock with real MOP logo and split diamond inlays will be that beautiful. It is indeed a work of art. This is a lot of guitar for $1299! I had to get the Ebony version as well I told myself. As reviews of these premium Epiphones started coming out, it became overwhelmingly apparent that the 1959 ES-355 offered the most value. So, I ordered one in Ebony from the official Epiphone website as it is an Epiphone Exclusive. I urge you to give it a thought as this new IBGC premium line is not just about the headstock. It’s about the combination of everything that went into the crafting of the instrument, as how Mr Leonard in his later video has summed it up. Cheers!
Terrific vid - eminently sensible upgrade and great to see Monty's getting a shout out! Will check out the new Epiphones when they arrive here in HK but not fussed to own one, frankly. Just 2 or 3 years ago I bought 4 epis with the express aim of modding them - Casino, the hybrid Gibson '59, Cantrell 'Wino' (ebony board!) and an older DC with coil-split. Casino done with Lollar p90s, '50s wiring + bone nut and will be putting Monty's Underwound PAFs, Bethnal Greens in the '59 & Wino and Lollar Imperials (4 way) in the DC along with wiring, nut and maybe some Gotoh hardware. HK is a duty free port (no sales tax / import duty and what-have you) and stuff gets discounted here after a year or two when new models turn up so it's cost effective and, more to the point, FUN! Always enjoy your show, lovely playing, thanks. PS - if anyone feels they have to repeat the (now quite tired) mantra 'Buy a real Gibson, Made in the USA' . . . well thanks, but the 1968 LP Custom I bought in '74 is still doing just fine for me for now 😂
There’s never been a better time to buy something that’s high quality at a lower cost that can be very enjoyable to upgrade. But at this point I do wish I’d kept my guitars from the 60s and 70s! Thanks so much for watching.
Great video! I did the same exact thing with my Sire H7 though I did upgrade not just the pickups but the entire wiring harness. It sure made a noticeable difference and happy with the result. Of course, always enjoy listening to your playing as well! 👍
Gibsons that I cannot afford. Epiphones I used to be able to afford. Now Epiphones I have to stretch to afford. I’ve been playing guitar for 30 YEARS, and NOW is the first time I’ve EVER made that last statement in the first paragraph. I used to be a guy who thought a stock guitar was fine and playable. And… I wasn’t wrong. But… what I want out of a guitar and how it needs to suit me and what I feel is important to keep me playing and loving a guitar, well, that’s changed. So at the price point I am able to reasonably afford, it seems nobody makes a guitar that I feel is absolutely unimproveable out of the box. When you REALLY don’t care about the name on the headstock, and can take some extra $$$ and put it into some truly functional and tonal upgrades, it’s a beautiful thing to love and feel inspired by a guitar because it moves you, and not because of its high price point. Expensive guitars are no guarantee of greatness to say nothing of joy and inspiration. And what if joy and inspiration could come at a third or fourth of what you assume it MUST cost? I’ve loved my $299 used MIM Standard Strat with some of my mods as much as or more than any other Strat I’ve ever played- price no object-and I’ve played many in the $250-$2,000 price ballpark. Millions of guitars are out there. Go find one that hasn’t reached its full potential. Start the journey and make it happen!
I think you’ve stated the point of this video and I hope some may be inspired to add to the enjoyment of their more affordable guitars. Thanks for watching.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Yes. I responded in agreement and affirmed those viewpoints you spoke were not unique to you. We’ve had different musical journeys and yet have come to that same conclusion. Thanks!
It seems to work very well. And unlike some of the DIY solutions people have tried, doesn’t come off on your fingers when you play or get glossy. Thanks for watching.
such a super sound and playing! (I listened to you before.. it was good but not always as immaculate as this). is it the guitar or the new pickups? very clear but warm at the same time 👍
Nice results. I have a nice Greco Japan LP style that came with some random $19.99 pickups, I put Duncans in it and it even makes me sound good. I’m truly going to invest in that relic wax.
Back in 1979 until 1983, I had the extreme fortune of having had the pleasure of playing my classmate/friend in college his 1977 Greco Les Paul Custom in Ebony. That was the closest I ever got to playing an actual Gibson. That experience became my reference or gold standard. 30 years later, I tried to buy that guitar from my friend. He wouldn’t sell it for sentimental reasons.
I'm really glad you chose this topic, as I was thinking of trading my old Ibanez AS 120 for one of those AS 113 (you reviewed one not too long ago). Either that, or do some upgrades to the AS 120. I'm still not decided yet!
The AS120 is a fine guitar. The AS 113 was nice but unless you just preferred the feel you really wouldn’t be gaining much other than the shiny newness.
Well, I’d your 335 is a great one you can’t really beat it. I had an 86 that was really nice and was my main guitar for awhile. Even did fly-in shows with it which was when I first started looking at the less expensive alternatives. Thanks so much for watching.
Upgrading your guitar is ok if you don't have the money to afford the guitar you really want. I had a not really good USA Strat in the early 80s. Because we had a record deal with a Mayor label, I put in a Seymour Duncan pickup. Just to make sure my tone is up to standards. It was more of a psychological benefit. Today I have great guitars that I wouldn't tinker with. But I don't have a Mayor deal anymore either. 😁
It’s not always about what you can afford. Many just enjoy the process. I try to do something for a wide range of players, and this was just a little fun exercise. Thanks for watching.
Nice! This is a review i've been waiting to hear. Thanks for the Monte's tip. I have a set of Pure PAF's and Antiquities just waiting for the right host.. thoughts? Torn on whether to do a 335 or 339. As always, enjoyed your thoughts. Rock on sir!
Thanks so much. Honestly, it just comes down to your personal preference. I tend to prefer the full size semi hollow, but that doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with the 339 style, especially if the larger guitar isn’t as comfortable for you.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Nice ! I like your phrasing, enjoyed playing over your performance and swiped a few nice leaks from you. The backing track would have been the icing on the cake !
Great video playing Leonard as usual. I have bought a fender vintera 2 60's Sunburst. I will bought as i said you a Gibson. For you, should i stay on a wish a new lespaul standard 50 or 60, or should i go to Epiphone ? I search the creamly sound of Gibson... I have a boss katana mk2 amplifier and my seller said, perhaps it's better a Gibson lespaul 50 standard. I don't wan't to spend money for a prs usa just for the sound. Gibson is a style too. I really need your opinion.. Thanks for all
I would say that if you really want a Gibson, then that’s probably what you should buy, so long as you shop carefully and get the best one you can find. Most of the newer Gibsons are pretty good, though the regular USA production guitars aren’t usually as flawless as something like a PRS. I’ve owned some great ones over the years so just shop wisely. The Epiphones are built quite well, but I’d never advise someone to buy one if they really want a Gibson. Best of luck to you and thanks for watching.
Ruth from NC here
You kept me company on a train ride from Edinburgh to London today. So enjoyed your channel. Think you are an awesome bluesman! Thank you so much!❤
Thanks so much. I’m very happy you enjoy the channel.
It never hit me until just this minute. You have a classic PBS presentation type style. Your voice, the inflections, and the articulate nature of how you describe what you're doing are MONEY. The sweet riffs after the pickup swap are all just an added bonus. Seriously, well done bro. Cheers from an old Blues guy in Chicago.
Now if only it were actual money! LOL. Thanks again my friend.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 My pleasure sir, thank you
Great idea and what an epic sound from that guitar!
Lovely blues playing as always 👏
Thanks so much. Appreciated.
Man, that sounds soooooo good and is beautiful, too!! Thanks so much for an awesome demo, Leonard!! Love your t`shirt...I live in Alaska (about 30 years)!! 😎
Thanks so much. I haven’t been to Alaska, but my wife ran sled dogs at local events for years, so we have a lot of husky memorabilia. Thanks for watching.
An Ebony ES-335. Gorgeous. What a black beauty. I wish my IGC 1959 ES-355 of the same color also came in that finish. That significant improvement in sound quality was indeed worth the effort you put into that already good sounding guitar. Reminds me of a pair of Gibson USA Burstbuckets that I have not yet put into good use. Thanks!
I’m glad you found it enjoyable. Thanks so much for watching.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845Because of this video, I was reminded of a project that I have been putting aside. A pair of Gibson USA Burstbuckers that I got from eBay that is intended for a 2012 Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Pro. I finally recently found a luthier to do the work for me as I don’t know how to do it. I tried, I even bought a book and tools. But, I had other more important things to do too. For $462, he got me a bone nut, fret dress, premium wiring kit for a Gibson Les Paul, GraphTech bridge saddles, new strings and installed the Gibson pickups. When I finally got my guitar, I immediately noticed the BIG improvement in its sound, feel and playability. Others may not agree with what I did, but to me the upgrade was well all worth it. I am glad I stumbled upon this video.
Excellent as usual!
Thank you my friend.
SWEET tunage Lenny...uh yeah and UPGRADE!!!! PS....Seth Lovers are awesome too. Also I'm an Epi fan. I have 8 of them including 2 Epi Inspired by Gibby LP's 50's. They're bone stock and pretty darn nice for 519 each shipped to my door from Sweetwater during their annual sales event.
Yes, the Seth Lovers are very nice. I’ve had at least 3 sets of those over the years. They would have been a great choice as well, though not usually quite as budget friendly on the used market.
Thanks so much for watching.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Thanks for the reply Len. You are seriously a great player and such a talented reviewer. I really enjoy your stuff. Thank you again.
as always making that guitar sing! Thank You for the great video. With respect. I own an "Inspired by Gibson" Epiphone '59 Les Paul Std. outfit. Gibson Burstbuckers 2 & 3 fancy electronic harness all that. Brand New for $849.00 2 years ago. I feel these are a better instrument to by instead of picking up one of the new ones with a $400.00 headstock. Just something to think about.
Thanks so much. I’ll be taking a look at one of the new ones soon and we’ll see if it’s just the headstock or there are other differences that matter. Stay tuned.
Glad to hear that you’re enjoying your IBG Epiphone Les Paul. Like you, I’m a big fan of the Epiphone Les Paul. I have 4 in various models that I bought brand new in 2013. Then, my interest shifted to the Epiphone Masterbilt acoustic guitars and bought 5 of them. I went into a plateau stage even with the arrival of the IBG line. Then, the new IBGC Epiphones came. For $500 premium, I thought it was a fair price considering all the Custom Shop upgrades plus a new hard shell case. So, immediately ordered the LP Custom in Alpine White since I already have a 2012 MIK 3 pick-up Black Beauty. Seeing the guitar in person for the first time was quite an experience - the looks, feel and sound are all legit. I didn’t expect that the bound and oversized Gibson-style open book headstock with real MOP logo and split diamond inlays will be that beautiful. It is indeed a work of art. This is a lot of guitar for $1299! I had to get the Ebony version as well I told myself. As reviews of these premium Epiphones started coming out, it became overwhelmingly apparent that the 1959 ES-355 offered the most value. So, I ordered one in Ebony from the official Epiphone website as it is an Epiphone Exclusive. I urge you to give it a thought as this new IBGC premium line is not just about the headstock. It’s about the combination of everything that went into the crafting of the instrument, as how Mr Leonard in his later video has summed it up. Cheers!
Terrific vid - eminently sensible upgrade and great to see Monty's getting a shout out! Will check out the new Epiphones when they arrive here in HK but not fussed to own one, frankly. Just 2 or 3 years ago I bought 4 epis with the express aim of modding them - Casino, the hybrid Gibson '59, Cantrell 'Wino' (ebony board!) and an older DC with coil-split. Casino done with Lollar p90s, '50s wiring + bone nut and will be putting Monty's Underwound PAFs, Bethnal Greens in the '59 & Wino and Lollar Imperials (4 way) in the DC along with wiring, nut and maybe some Gotoh hardware. HK is a duty free port (no sales tax / import duty and what-have you) and stuff gets discounted here after a year or two when new models turn up so it's cost effective and, more to the point, FUN! Always enjoy your show, lovely playing, thanks. PS - if anyone feels they have to repeat the (now quite tired) mantra 'Buy a real Gibson, Made in the USA' . . . well thanks, but the 1968 LP Custom I bought in '74 is still doing just fine for me for now 😂
There’s never been a better time to buy something that’s high quality at a lower cost that can be very enjoyable to upgrade. But at this point I do wish I’d kept my guitars from the 60s and 70s! Thanks so much for watching.
Great video! I did the same exact thing with my Sire H7 though I did upgrade not just the pickups but the entire wiring harness. It sure made a noticeable difference and happy with the result. Of course, always enjoy listening to your playing as well! 👍
Thanks so much. Appreciated.
Brilliant video Leonard,
Really enjoyed it
✌️🧷🎸
Thanks so much. I’m very happy you liked it.
Gibsons that I cannot afford. Epiphones I used to be able to afford. Now Epiphones I have to stretch to afford.
I’ve been playing guitar for 30 YEARS, and NOW is the first time I’ve EVER made that last statement in the first paragraph.
I used to be a guy who thought a stock guitar was fine and playable. And… I wasn’t wrong. But… what I want out of a guitar and how it needs to suit me and what I feel is important to keep me playing and loving a guitar, well, that’s changed.
So at the price point I am able to reasonably afford, it seems nobody makes a guitar that I feel is absolutely unimproveable out of the box.
When you REALLY don’t care about the name on the headstock, and can take some extra $$$ and put it into some truly functional and tonal upgrades, it’s a beautiful thing to love and feel inspired by a guitar because it moves you, and not because of its high price point.
Expensive guitars are no guarantee of greatness to say nothing of joy and inspiration.
And what if joy and inspiration could come at a third or fourth of what you assume it MUST cost?
I’ve loved my $299 used MIM Standard Strat with some of my mods as much as or more than any other Strat I’ve ever played- price no object-and I’ve played many in the $250-$2,000 price ballpark.
Millions of guitars are out there. Go find one that hasn’t reached its full potential. Start the journey and make it happen!
I think you’ve stated the point of this video and I hope some may be inspired to add to the enjoyment of their more affordable guitars. Thanks for watching.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Yes. I responded in agreement and affirmed those viewpoints you spoke were not unique to you. We’ve had different musical journeys and yet have come to that same conclusion. Thanks!
Faboloso!! Looks and sounds great!
Love that “Fast Action” neck work!!🤙
You didn’t know I could work that fast did ya.
Great, as always, Leonard!
Or perhaps, adequate? 😆 Thanks.
Never heard of that stain. Great to know about because I could use it.
It seems to work very well. And unlike some of the DIY solutions people have tried, doesn’t come off on your fingers when you play or get glossy. Thanks for watching.
such a super sound and playing! (I listened to you before.. it was good but not always as immaculate as this). is it the guitar or the new pickups? very clear but warm at the same time 👍
Thanks so much. Semi hollows do have a certain thing going, and nice pickups are a help.
Nice results. I have a nice Greco Japan LP style that came with some random $19.99 pickups, I put Duncans in it and it even makes me sound good.
I’m truly going to invest in that relic wax.
That’s great. I’m a big fan of Japan made guitars. Thanks so much for watching.
Back in 1979 until 1983, I had the extreme fortune of having had the pleasure of playing my classmate/friend in college his 1977 Greco Les Paul Custom in Ebony. That was the closest I ever got to playing an actual Gibson. That experience became my reference or gold standard. 30 years later, I tried to buy that guitar from my friend. He wouldn’t sell it for sentimental reasons.
I'm really glad you chose this topic, as I was thinking of trading my old Ibanez AS 120 for one of those AS 113 (you reviewed one not too long ago). Either that, or do some upgrades to the AS 120. I'm still not decided yet!
The AS120 is a fine guitar. The AS 113 was nice but unless you just preferred the feel you really wouldn’t be gaining much other than the shiny newness.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Thanks, I'll take your advice!
Sounds excellent. You put great pickups in. Sorry I bought a Gibson ES335 last year, I could have bought the new Epiphone for half the price.
Well, I’d your 335 is a great one you can’t really beat it. I had an 86 that was really nice and was my main guitar for awhile. Even did fly-in shows with it which was when I first started looking at the less expensive alternatives. Thanks so much for watching.
Upgrading your guitar is ok if you don't have the money to afford the guitar you really want. I had a not really good USA Strat in the early 80s. Because we had a record deal with a Mayor label, I put in a Seymour Duncan pickup. Just to make sure my tone is up to standards. It was more of a psychological benefit. Today I have great guitars that I wouldn't tinker with. But I don't have a Mayor deal anymore either. 😁
It’s not always about what you can afford. Many just enjoy the process. I try to do something for a wide range of players, and this was just a little fun exercise. Thanks for watching.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 I didn’t want to criticize. I was a Little narrow minded. :D like your videos very much.
Thank you.
Nice! This is a review i've been waiting to hear. Thanks for the Monte's tip. I have a set of Pure PAF's and Antiquities just waiting for the right host.. thoughts? Torn on whether to do a 335 or 339. As always, enjoyed your thoughts. Rock on sir!
Thanks so much. Honestly, it just comes down to your personal preference. I tend to prefer the full size semi hollow, but that doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with the 339 style, especially if the larger guitar isn’t as comfortable for you.
Do you ever review acoustics, as Id like to hear what the the new Epiphone J200 sounds like?
I do occasionally review an acoustic. I’ll keep that in mind. Thanks.
Secret sauce looks a bit like brown shoe polish !
Possible to have the backing track of the 2nd song, please ? Thx !
Backing tracks will be a available on my Patreon page. I plan to upload a bunch very soon. Thanks for watching.
@@leonardgriffieblues5845 Nice !
I like your phrasing, enjoyed playing over your performance and swiped a few nice leaks from you. The backing track would have been the icing on the cake !
Great video playing Leonard as usual. I have bought a fender vintera 2 60's Sunburst. I will bought as i said you a Gibson. For you, should i stay on a wish a new lespaul standard 50 or 60, or should i go to Epiphone ? I search the creamly sound of Gibson... I have a boss katana mk2 amplifier and my seller said, perhaps it's better a Gibson lespaul 50 standard. I don't wan't to spend money for a prs usa just for the sound. Gibson is a style too. I really need your opinion.. Thanks for all
You have to know that this will my last guitar. That's why i need to had a good advice before. Probably i will buy it in June.
I would say that if you really want a Gibson, then that’s probably what you should buy, so long as you shop carefully and get the best one you can find. Most of the newer Gibsons are pretty good, though the regular USA production guitars aren’t usually as flawless as something like a PRS. I’ve owned some great ones over the years so just shop wisely. The Epiphones are built quite well, but I’d never advise someone to buy one if they really want a Gibson.
Best of luck to you and thanks for watching.
So...If you use the Monty's would you ever be able to use lemon oil down the road?
I’ve not heard of any issues with lemon oil, Monty’s is a permanent stain, but I’ve yet to try it myself. I’ll have to give it a try.