Which SG Special Would You Buy? - Gibson, Epiphone, and Gibson Custom Shop Models Compared!

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  • Опубліковано 20 вер 2024

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  • @YOSTINATOR
    @YOSTINATOR Рік тому +142

    Hello Colin. I just wanted to take a moment and tell you something that I've been meaning to tell you for a long time. Your videos are excellent and perfectly paced, you're a highly likeable guy, and you're a natural at this UA-cam channel thing. Keep up the good work! I always look forward to your videos.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +16

      Ah thanks man that's really appreciated! 🙏😊

    • @brutus6328
      @brutus6328 Рік тому +6

      GREAT comment! I could not agree more!!! I'm betting 100K subs by this time next year!!! The hard work and detailed information that Colin divulges is so greatly appreciated (and a lot of fun to watch and listen to)!

    • @YOSTINATOR
      @YOSTINATOR Рік тому +2

      @@brutus6328
      Absolutely! I have watched some of his videos more than a few times!

    • @johndaugherty4127
      @johndaugherty4127 Рік тому +3

      Here! Here!

  • @216trixie
    @216trixie Рік тому +23

    I'm 61 and been playing most of my life, professionally semi-professionally. My childhood buddy died a couple years ago and I was gifted his 69 SG special. I've never played sg's before. I fell in love with it. The shape the size the tone. Now I bought two modern sgs, both of them specials. The last one I bought, has p90s. My first p90 guitar. I love it so much! Really in love with this guitar now.

  • @martinscholes2023
    @martinscholes2023 Рік тому +42

    I love your channel, mate. Your cheery little face, great production, lovely tones and honest opinion is something I really look forward to. I’m a 51 year old guitar addict!

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +3

      Cheers Martin, thanks for the kind words and support mate its appreciated! 😁👍

    • @christylasure7072
      @christylasure7072 Рік тому

      Another Great review , I have 1 Epi special and a gibson burgundy mist special , pretty close in sound and playability , I love how you do these deep dives Colin, thanks and have a great weekend, cheers

    • @paolunna
      @paolunna Рік тому +1

      100percent. 51 yo too here. Same same. Love

    • @martinscholes2023
      @martinscholes2023 Рік тому

      @@paolunna 😍🎸

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +1

      @@christylasure7072 Thanks Christy!

  • @Dogsrule777
    @Dogsrule777 Рік тому +14

    I started taking lessons when I was 10. After about a year my guitar teacher urged my dad to get me an electric guitar that he had found at Dales music store in STL. The prior owner sanded down the neck even thinner and actually sanded off the freaking headstock logo! 😮 We bought it for $250 in 1985, checked out the serial number and it’s a genuine 64 SG Special (with a couple quirks:) that I own to this day. I’ll never sell it! Awesome vid.

  • @voiceofexperience
    @voiceofexperience Рік тому +83

    I clicked on this so fast my picking hand got whiplash.

  • @austinjosef41
    @austinjosef41 Рік тому +32

    You have really grown my attraction to SGs. I also think p90’s are vastly underrated and overlooked. Glad you gave em a shout. Enjoying the content lately. Cheers

    • @adrian_V99
      @adrian_V99 Рік тому

      Their tone depends to a great degree on the guitar body's shape and weight.

    • @tylerdurden5122
      @tylerdurden5122 Рік тому +2

      A good mate of mine has a Gibson sg standard. It’s great but I’ve never had any interest in sgs until watching this channel. Now I’m thinking maybe I want one…

    • @michaelknight4041
      @michaelknight4041 Рік тому +2

      P90s are awesome 👍 especially if you like a slightly overdriven tone. They do the clean to mean thing great with the right amp. The way some humbuckers get muddy, the p90s are the exact opposite. Very articulate with nice separation. The kind of thing you never knew you needed until you play one lol

  • @lucianoponzano
    @lucianoponzano Рік тому +6

    As a proud owner of the pelham blue SG epiphone special, I was delighted by seeing this video. Also I was quite curious for how the three would perform side by side. I think the Gibson Original Series could adjust more to a modern rock player, there is not a giant difference between the gibson original and the epiphone tbh. Glad that the guitar I bought stands against the others!!

  • @richardhowell9535
    @richardhowell9535 Рік тому +2

    Drank a few beers and listened to you play and ramble. I love the rambling and the playing! 🤣 Great job as usual, Colin. I'm working on putting some Fishman P90s in my Gibson Special. It's a bit fiddly, but i should have it going soon.

  • @justincork3838
    @justincork3838 Рік тому +4

    I love an sg! The ebony with p90s would be my pick. Another great comparison video. Cheers Colin!

  • @calogeroavanzato398
    @calogeroavanzato398 Рік тому +1

    Thanks again Colin since I lost my dad a couple of months ago I really look forward to your video, thanks again

  • @stevenorvell9929
    @stevenorvell9929 Рік тому +2

    Great show I can watch SG content all day. Love how you show guitars and details about them. Keep up the good work.

  • @kolchak357
    @kolchak357 Рік тому +7

    Always looking at these SG specials. Also interested in the new Epiphone Iommi SG. But it’s all very confusing to me. Thanks for doing this video.

    • @joehahn8817
      @joehahn8817 Рік тому +4

      Get the regular Epi SG Special P-90 and save yourself $500.
      They're basically the same guitars, just the Tony Iommi signature model has a fatter neck carve. And a sticker...

    • @adamfiedorczuk5969
      @adamfiedorczuk5969 Рік тому +1

      or go 500 bucks more for the pelham blue gibson version. I love Iommi but that model is just a cash grab honestly.

  • @waynewagner395
    @waynewagner395 Рік тому +10

    I bought my first SG in '68 and although that particular one is gone, I still have a few newer ones from Gibson and Epiphone so I know the attraction. Epis have evolved into very good guitars over the last decade or so. The newer Gibsons disappoint but the Epis are usually a pleasant surprise. Thanks for the great video!

  • @Darth.Shredder
    @Darth.Shredder 9 місяців тому +3

    One thing I noticed immediately about these Specials was the bridge pickup placement. The current production line Gibsons place the bridge pickup very close to the bridge compared to the vintage and custom shop versions. Ironically, the placement of the bridge pickup on the Epiphone is more authentic than the Gibson production model. I'm wondering if the reason the Gibson bridge pickup sounds a little hotter (harsh to some).

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  9 місяців тому +2

      Yes it makes it very brittle sounding and not in any good way. I sold the ebony one now.

  • @Theguy702
    @Theguy702 Рік тому +2

    I got my ebony sg special today! Absolutely incredible guitar!! It was everything I was hoping for! I didn't have any issues with the paint or hardware. If you like going from Dirty to cleans, and everything in between, this guitar is for you! Love it!

  • @stevengallardo9258
    @stevengallardo9258 6 місяців тому +1

    Hi Colin, was thinking about putting a Bigsby on a Vintage VS6MRMA SG but after seeing this I'll keep it as is for awhile. Added the Toneman wiring harness, made a world of difference for anyone considering this mod. These guitars look great as they are. Thanks

  • @nellayema2455
    @nellayema2455 Рік тому +5

    The pickups on the ebony Gibson USA are further apart than the other 2 guitars. It looks like the bridge pup is further back, making it closer to the bridge. The Custom shop sounds fantastic. The Epiphone is a great value and sound great. Epiphone's been killing it lately. I may have mentioned it before, but I've purchased 3 lately. the Moderne, the Firebird and the Coronet. All 3 are excellent, IMO.

  • @blakestepp7940
    @blakestepp7940 Рік тому +2

    Colin, Love this Honest Review!!! Love SG's, they are vastly underrated!! Most of the time they play like a Dream, even though I do like the chunky neck like the 50's Les Pauls. They are a Lot of Fun and the weight is so nice, especially for longer gigs, but even sitting in the studio, fooling around with the processor, and or pedals, easier to manage!!! Excellent Review!!!! Cheers!!!!

  • @dudley509
    @dudley509 Рік тому +3

    I'm 59 years old .
    I started playing last year
    Love your show and your humor and honesty.
    I've gone a bit over board , I have 16 guitars at this point so far.
    I have two Epiphone SGs , both
    have good QC .
    Can't justify a gibson cause they just don't sound or feel any better than my sons gibsons( he has 10).

    • @gazzy_burns
      @gazzy_burns Рік тому +1

      Ace that you have a family love of guitars!!!

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +1

      Nice one David, thanks for the support! It's great that as a fairly new player you have already amassed quite a collection... you are at home here mate! 😆👍

    • @dudley509
      @dudley509 Рік тому

      @@theguitaristas thanks

  • @robertmellang6998
    @robertmellang6998 3 дні тому

    My SG Special is so different. Mine was $150.00. It has a stop tail bridge. It has Humbuckers. It was made in Indonesia. I really like mine. I have it in several videos on my channel.

  • @darwinsaye
    @darwinsaye Рік тому

    As soon as I looked at the thumbnail for the video, the finish/colour of the Custom Shop caught my heart.

  • @typingdude4833
    @typingdude4833 Рік тому +2

    What a great review. I have Les Pauls but you made me look at an SG. Although I’m not a very experienced player and don’t need all that upper fret access LOL. Keep up the great videos. And I’m in total awe of your supernatural playing, holy cow. You’re great. I hope to achieve just a sliver of your playing ability before I grow too old.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +2

      Ah thanks that's really kind and very much appreciated! 🙏😊 I reckon SG's might make me seem a better player than I actually am so I'd definitely recommend you get one too! 🤣👍

  • @paulstaffordcook8799
    @paulstaffordcook8799 Рік тому +1

    Having my usual Friday night glass of vino…. and what better way to spend the time! Great vid as usual Colin, at this rate you’ll be 50k subs before you know it! One day I’m hoping you’ll get someone special like Jon Case (Case guitars) or Patrick Eggle to build you a guitar…. Expensive but certainly a great comparison video would ensue…..

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Cheers Paul, thanks for stopping by mate!. I saw your latest vid and that you've ordered another Oswald and had the turmoil of deciding which one has to go... all I can say is you have willpower of steel letting that lovely 335 go but i reckon the JM is going to be a beauty... what's the eta on that?? Difficult to imagine 50K subs but if it happens and the ad revenue is equally as impressive maybe I will treat myself to a custom build eh? 😆👍

  • @arturoalvarez6770
    @arturoalvarez6770 Рік тому +1

    Amazing video, very good Review, greetings from Mexico

  • @MusicShed
    @MusicShed Рік тому

    I absolutely love this dude!

  • @BladeDoomer86
    @BladeDoomer86 Рік тому +4

    The satin finish on my 2014 SG i just bought used, is absolute rubbish and coming off left and right just from sweating on it 🤣 but that's what makes it cool and sound so lively! Like i told you in my last comment, it's the best guitar I've ever played 😱🎸. It sounds so darn great and cuts through the mix like butter

  • @PicassoPerformedMyCircumcision

    I bought the Gibson when it was available in the Sparkling Burgundy Metallic finish, the tone from the neck P90 is amazing. I've since become addicted to the upper fret access and can't imagine going back to a guitar without it.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +2

      Yes indeed!...once you get used to that upper fret access there's no going back! 😆👍

    • @joehahn8817
      @joehahn8817 Рік тому +1

      I have one of the Epi '59 LPs that I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!!
      But... I've got to admit, SG Specials with P-90s are almost alive by comparison. I find myself reaching for my Epi SG just as often as I do for my Les Paul.
      If guitars were cars the SG would be like a sports car compared to the Cadillac Les Paul...lol.

  • @macgruff69
    @macgruff69 Рік тому +2

    Wonderful channel. You do a great job of reviewing guitars honestly. I really enjoy your style of review. Great comments, classy playing just great work. Each review is like a deep dive into the guitars. Disassembly, basically dissecting the guitars. All very useful stuff. I can see you really love guitars especially SGs. Keep them coming.

  • @nemanjafilipovic4130
    @nemanjafilipovic4130 7 місяців тому +1

    If you ever decide to sell that beautiful custom shop special, let me know! Great video. Thank you

  • @elwalker9034
    @elwalker9034 5 місяців тому

    As much as u love SGs I'm proper impressed u kept this under an hour. Great reviewing & info, as always.

  • @PaulIsbell
    @PaulIsbell 4 місяці тому +2

    I’m pretty gassed for the P90s. They cut through the mix like butter

  • @jefftucker201
    @jefftucker201 Рік тому +3

    Great vid as always Colin mate, have to admit, if i was after one I think I would just go for the Epi! all the best mate, have a great weekend!

  • @jameslanclos568
    @jameslanclos568 Рік тому

    I bought the 2022 Gibson Exclusive SG Standard '61 with the case from Zzounds.
    It's cherry finish but very dark "black" cherry finish.
    I'm absolutely in love with it.

  • @benredmond3
    @benredmond3 Рік тому +1

    I’m finally early for a vid! Adore SG specials with all my heart

  • @beckyalvarado5008
    @beckyalvarado5008 10 місяців тому +1

    Colin, you do excellent reviews because you tell your viewers what you believe is the best bang for your Buck, often others that do guitar reviews will not tell the viewers their overall opinion. I would love if someday you can do a review on the new Gibson LP Modern Lite thanks!

  • @carpathus
    @carpathus Рік тому +4

    Awesome review Colin. Your custom shop SG is beautiful. Love me some Epi SG Specials. Mine are the "cheapie" ones having a gloss poly finish and bolt on necks with one each master tone and master volume. They only came in two colors, ebony and cherry and since they were so affordable it was easy to justify having one of each 😁✌

    • @joehahn8817
      @joehahn8817 Рік тому

      And they probably do the job just fine, don't they???

    • @carpathus
      @carpathus Рік тому

      @@joehahn8817 I like them better than the set neck SGs because the necks attach further into the body so it's much more comfortable to play. I also very much prefer the simpler controls as well since the pots are dimed most of the time anyway! The ones I looked for and found were made between 2011-2017. These are not that old so you can easily find them in mint condition. I found a 2017 Ebony in the box never played a couple months ago that I jumped on. They have hog bodies and necks with rosewood fretboard and can be had today for $200 or less. Install some Invaders or Black Winter pickups and a set of Grover 133N tuners and you've got a rock machine on your hands without having to loot the treasury ;-)

  • @oldmanzen6682
    @oldmanzen6682 Рік тому +1

    That Epi is absolutely gorgeous. I’ll never understand the headstock issue that some have; whether it’s the name on said headstock, or shape (in particular the difference between the old and new Epi design). I mean, each to their own, of course… I just don’t understand why it matters (except that one is perceived as more valuable to those that care).
    Great video. I’ve been itching for a new SG, but there are others higher on the list.

  • @njcranes
    @njcranes Рік тому +1

    I have never been a fan of the SG shape but I love the way the specials sound, especially with Soul Food!! Been GASing for P90s

  • @JoshLikesFuzz
    @JoshLikesFuzz Рік тому +1

    Recently subscribed to your channel. Really enjoy your content. I’m also an SG fan.
    I’d wait and save to get the Custom Shop or wait until a player grade vintage 60s special came up. I couldn’t own the other two without thinking about the CS one!

  • @adamjolin
    @adamjolin Рік тому

    My favorite guitar channel talking about my favorite guitar! Perfect

  • @markdakel9253
    @markdakel9253 Рік тому

    I haven’t been able to keep up with your films for the past few weeks but I was able to watch this one in and I thoroughly enjoyed the deep dive into these SG’s, excellent film, thank you for making this one, I enjoyed every moment…

  • @DougGarrett
    @DougGarrett Рік тому +2

    Brilliant as always. That custom shop is beautiful. I almost bought the red special from sweetwater last week, but grabbed a Les Paul instead. Love your channel.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +1

      Cheers Doug, I predict the Red Special will follow soon anyway....😆👍

  • @DanEvans-yb6wk
    @DanEvans-yb6wk Рік тому

    I study your videos. Study them. I'm in the market for an SG. I'm a solo gig. For years I've played one of several Epiphone Jumbos in front of my Gibson Jumbo because they are at least as good. I'd like to get a Gibson SG, but my experience and your opinion keep screaming "Epiphone!" I'm a retired teacher of high school English. You sir, are the teacher. Thank you greatly!

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Cheers Dan, definitely recommend you give the Epiphone SG special a go! 😎👍

  • @soulagent79
    @soulagent79 Рік тому +1

    Over the years I've owned several Gibson SGs with P90s and a few Epiphones. The current "Inspired by Gibson" Epiphone SG Special is my favourite. I like it even better than the Gibsons I've had.

  • @margaretzabinski9977
    @margaretzabinski9977 Рік тому

    Keep juggling all those SGs. We love it all. Thanks for the great work (and humor). Looking forward to the player 1969 review.

  • @yrmthr
    @yrmthr 5 місяців тому

    SG Specials are one of the best guitars ever made. Tons of attitude!

  • @Sparedda_72
    @Sparedda_72 Рік тому

    Only One: I love this Channel

  • @alexgarnett5373
    @alexgarnett5373 Рік тому +1

    Great video again Colin … glad you picked up on the binding that’s the thing that drives me nuts and one of the things why the custom shop stuff is so different .. if you want older model specs Gibson have an archive section on their website … cheers Alex 🖤❤️…. Oh yeah and I think you should buy the 69 SG Special you have my blessing

  • @vladimirpoutine7522
    @vladimirpoutine7522 Рік тому +2

    Yup, the poly finish puts me off. I have a collection of 58 guitars and most have the poly finish, so I tend to gravitate to my lacquer finished guitars. They have this ability to change to my own playing nuances.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +1

      Nice collection man!... about the same number as me so you definitely have a problem too! 😆👍

  • @str8shooter36
    @str8shooter36 Рік тому +1

    P90's are my favorite pickups. I get all the tones I like to play with a LP Jr or one of these fine fiddles.

  • @randallsmith7885
    @randallsmith7885 8 місяців тому

    Regarding one piece vs multiple piece mahogany bodies, as a woodworker, I argue that a two or three piece body may easily be more dimensionally stable than a one piece body. This assumes that the multi-piece body is properly glued up, which is easy to do correclty. And if the guitar has a clar finish, the aesthetics are better to my eye if the body is a book matched set.

  • @HarleyBob957
    @HarleyBob957 Рік тому

    Enjoyed your video. I have a 72 special, I’m the original owner, l still love the guitar as much as when my grandmother bought it for me. Mine is ebony also. The only work I’ve done to it is replace the pots and three way, touched up the frets from road dings but still rocks out. Once again thanks for your videos, I enjoy spending time watching.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Nice one!... I really love those older SG's as you well know 🙌🔥 Thanks for watching!

  • @hankreus7196
    @hankreus7196 2 місяці тому

    😊each one is an awesome instrument on their own to be well proud of owning. Your Epi SG Special in lovely Pelham Blue, inspired me to overcome my irrational fear of the wrap around tailpiece. Leading to another rabbit hole tangent story. You proved your point ✌️🫶

  • @kennethh2430
    @kennethh2430 Рік тому

    A friend of mine loves SG's and has a few different ones. A few months ago he bought a Custom Shop SG Special and loves it, it's his main player. He most recently picked up a Gibson SG Tony Iommi Special, not the $20k (USD) one lol, he still likes and plays the CS better/more.
    After playing "normal" USA Gibson LP's and then transitioning over to CS's...yeah, there is something about CS's, I kind of hate it and love it at the same time :D Keep up the great work Colin!

  • @timothyausten3390
    @timothyausten3390 3 місяці тому

    What in the world are we going to do if Eastman makes an SG...?!
    Seriously, though: AMAZING channel, Colin. Was in Nashville recently shopping for my dream SG (I went with a custom shop Heather Poly '64 Standard Reissue for way too much money), and I played a ton of vintage and custom shop specials. For all that Gibson makes a mediocre/hit-or-miss USA standard, their custom shop stuff, especially since the 2019 overhaul, really is that good. It holds up to vintage almost every time. I mean, you have as good a chance of meeting one of the best electrics you've ever played on the Gibson Custom rack as you do the vintage Gibson rack.

  • @jmoses580
    @jmoses580 Рік тому

    Absolutely love every one of your videos! Very enjoyable to listen to at anytime! Thank you!!!

  • @theprolixramblr4307
    @theprolixramblr4307 Рік тому

    One of the BEST guitar review videos on UA-cam, if not the best. Love your channel.

  • @alexwoolridge94aw
    @alexwoolridge94aw Рік тому +2

    I own a 1961 Les Paul/sg jr and it's a fantastic guitar. I'd love to add a custom shop sg special to the arsenal. I've owned two USA Gibson SG Standards and I hated both of them. The Custom Shop does a great job of putting the feel of a vintage guitar in the hands of most who could never get an original

  • @frankdardano3182
    @frankdardano3182 9 місяців тому

    I love the Gibson sg! A most versatile gitbox.your balance of information, with attitude is appreciated.Thanks for your articulation,a most intelligent ,complete review of the guitar. I have owned 7 over my 71 years,and l learned many technical aspects I did not seek,yet was curious about.Rock on mate!

  • @adrian_V99
    @adrian_V99 Рік тому

    An honest video, once again. Why would I pay full price for paint flaws, etc.? Rather look for a used one from 20 years ago.
    As per Epiphone the SG Special has Alnico V's. I tried several and all wonderful instruments. And the colours are amazing.

  • @bobramirez588
    @bobramirez588 Рік тому

    Hey Colin, I had a 61 SG Special that I kept for 40 years. Under the pickups there was no springs, foam or metal plates, very much like your Custom shop SG. Thought I’d pass that along since you wondered what the originals were like. It was the best guitar I ever owned. The dimensions were different. The neck was narrower and thinner in depth than todays versions and the guitar was incredibly light weight like about 1/2 the weight of yours, Last year I bought the Gibson SG Special in Lake Placid blue as a replacement for my 61. In a comparison the new one has some advantages over my original but I must say that my original had a very raw sound that the new ones haven’t replicated. Thanks for your video

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +1

      Cheers Bob, nothing quite like an original! 😁🔥

  • @melchiando
    @melchiando Рік тому

    "Hundreds of pieces of driftwood" 😂 that's the funniest thing I've heard in a minute 😂

  • @lonewolffgrey8983
    @lonewolffgrey8983 Рік тому +2

    lovely, thank you.

  • @thecaveofthedead
    @thecaveofthedead Рік тому +1

    I was also tempted to think that the cherry SG sounded better due to the direct to timber pickups. But when you consider the extra output, I think it's more likely that the pickups are just sitting higher. You should look into it, I think, because I'm pretty sure it should have springs to set the heights. I mean... it sounds killer now. But yeah. I'd guess that's the major difference in sound.
    I like that all the SGs now - including the Epiphone - have the full deep early '60s bevels. For years (since 1966 basically), only the custom shop guitars put those full bevels in. And that's a big part of the great looks of early '60s SGs. One of those "once you see it you can't unsee it" things. On the Epiphone, the thicker finish means it doesn't look quite as sharp. And the Gibson USA both has a worse nitro finish than the CS guitar, plus it's black (I'm totally against unbound guitars in black since they disappear on a lot of club stages). But at least they're all there. My AY signature SG is a close copy of a '69 SG standard and it accurately has very light bevels compared to any of these.
    And - speaking for my SG too - there's no point in Gibson USA doing nibs if they hack them out in five minutes. When Japanese copies occasionally do fret-end nibs - high end Tokais and ESP Navigators - they show that it's possible to put nibs on without making a total mess of the binding like Gibson USA does.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +2

      Cheers man, nice to hear from a fellow SG fanatic! 👍 I did balance pickup heights btw so they were pretty similar...just something about the CS that makes it shout a bit louder! 😎👌

  • @bws1billsimpson362
    @bws1billsimpson362 2 місяці тому

    This is a great review and comparison. I like a slim neck, and it's amazing that Epiphone has the slimmest neck. Does Epiphone usually have a slimmer neck than their Gibson counterpart?

  • @mikepj1025
    @mikepj1025 Рік тому

    I’ve tried a few times but never found an SG I felt comfortable with. Not sure what it is about them. I love the way they look and sound. The search will continue. Awesome video.

  • @THEScottCampbell
    @THEScottCampbell Місяць тому +1

    Nitro is virtually ALWAYS sprayed over an acrylic grain filler, which is why they idea that the wood "breathes" is idiotic, but you need some way to get the suckers to overpay for a guitar.

  • @CaptToe
    @CaptToe Рік тому

    Perfect timing .. I've been looking at SGs all week.. Love your reviews .

  • @johnrogers2826
    @johnrogers2826 Рік тому

    I didn't give my Les Paul a name either. I just did. Colin. Now you are the "worlds coolest grandad"!

  • @catdaddy57
    @catdaddy57 Рік тому

    My favorite guitar in my small collection..

  • @corneliuscrewe677
    @corneliuscrewe677 Рік тому +1

    I don’t know if this is actually the case, but the “solid mahogany” moniker of the Custom Shop might mean it’s Honduras mahogany, whereas the the Gibson and certainly the Epiphone are a different species of similar wood they refer to as mahogany. The Epi I believe is an Asian wood that is similar to but not genuine mahogany, but close enough, and is even a different species that the Gibson.
    I have the Epiphone, I just love it. It’s every bit as good as my old Gibson Faded SG Special that I modified with a pair of P-90’s. Very different neck shapes, though. My Epi almost feels like a moderately slim “U” with a subtle flatness to the back.

    • @mattrogers1946
      @mattrogers1946 Рік тому

      Yup, the CS is Honduran, the Epi is Taiwanese driftwood mahogany...

  • @taborturtle
    @taborturtle Рік тому

    I just wanted to thank you for putting this video out. I decided a while back that I wanted at least 1 P90 guitar and your video convinced me to get one. I got the Epiphone worn finish red SG Special and it is INSTANTLY my absolute favorite guitar! I have many different types of guitars, and this one is the one I can't stop playing! My PRS used to be my favorite. Not any more!
    And I'm not convinced that spending $1000 more on the Gibson version would have been better. I'm actually very happy with the Epi! It is an amazing sounding guitar! Thank you again!

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому +1

      Cheers man, yes that particular guitar is a real winner in every respect! 👌🎸🔥

  • @chuckschaible5410
    @chuckschaible5410 Рік тому +1

    Hey, Love 💕 your playing AND excellent commentary... BACK IN THE DARK AGES (1975, WHEN I WAS A HOWLIN WOLF 🐺🐺 🐺 AGE 14!!!). MY DAD BOUGHT ME A USED 1967 GIBSON SG SPECIAL...WOW BEAUTIFUL BIG NECK, SCREAMING P9OS, THINK DAD PAID $200.00 U.S. BACK THEN; NOT EXACTLY CHEAP...I STILL KICK MYSELF FOR TRADING IT IN 1983 during STRAT MANIA... Love strats, teles, Les Pauls, TRIPLE pick-up Les Paul custom, Old Rics gretsches ET AL... Love 💕 em All...

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Hey Chuck, ouch that memory hurts I bet! 😂👍 cheers man, you were one lucky teenager all the same!!

  • @ushnicyuvnikof2748
    @ushnicyuvnikof2748 11 місяців тому +1

    I subbed for your love of the SG.

  • @jsdcband2841
    @jsdcband2841 Рік тому

    Great review, I recently bought a Gibson Special Original. I absolutely love it. I appreciate your honest straight forward take on all 3. You Rock!

  • @touchthesun2448
    @touchthesun2448 Рік тому

    just in from California and here we go! You picked my favorite guitar for this comparison, and it's still broken... I don't know what I will do because it cost so much to drive across the country, I could have bought the Gibson from you. Now I'm just going to bang on the Wilshire pro and be happy with what I have. Great show Colin! Thanks for all the P-90 sounds... I love it!

  • @cantfindamerica877
    @cantfindamerica877 Рік тому +1

    The biggest thing I’ve noticed on the epiphone p90’s they are placed closer together and that changes the tone.
    The Gibson models are spread further apart and that to me sounds way better. I totally believe they do that on purpose.

  • @Csibu89
    @Csibu89 Рік тому +7

    it is quite clear that the Epiphone SG is one of the best value propositions when it comes to a nice rock n roll guitar. Nothing really beats it.

    • @mattrogers1946
      @mattrogers1946 Рік тому

      Unless you own a real 60s SG Special....

    • @joehahn8817
      @joehahn8817 Рік тому

      @@mattrogers1946 If you spend $2000 on a Gibson you might get $1800 when you sell it.
      I'll pay $500 for an Epiphone and sell it for $300.
      The difference being, while you're worrying about EVERY little scratch hurting the resale value, I'll be playing mine worry free!!!
      Gibson's just DO NOT sound thousands of dollars better in my opinion!!!

    • @mattrogers1946
      @mattrogers1946 Рік тому +1

      @@joehahn8817 My '68 SG Special is over 50 years old and has a number of dings and dents. Frankly, I could care less because I'd never sell it. I daresay it would blow away any guitar made in some overseas sweat shop. For what it's worth, I spend my time playing my guitars, not speculating their future resale value. Call me crazy...😜

  • @Mitch-6-Strings
    @Mitch-6-Strings Рік тому +2

    Another fantastic review Colin, great tones, great juggling - half expected you to juggle the 3 SGs at the end for an encore. Now then, the Epiphone was really interesting, there’s quite a bit of evidence emerging out there on a number of platforms that put Gibson in the shade on quality. Not dissimilar to the Fender Squire Classic Vibes -v- Fender Player perhaps. Interesting times….. Just wondered if you could do a video on your pedal board one day and tell us a little bit about it. Cheers Mitch.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Cheers Mitch! 😎👍

    • @michaelknight4041
      @michaelknight4041 Рік тому

      I wonder if Mark Agnesi ever calls the Epiphone people with some half veiled threat of violence if they don't stop making such nice guitars cause they're making the Gibson versions look bad. "Stop out doing us on fit and finish or we're comin for ya" 🤨

  • @Ray-Angel
    @Ray-Angel Рік тому

    After watching this I bought an Epiphone SG Classic. Thanks for the reviews very helpful making my choice.

  • @sixbladeknife44
    @sixbladeknife44 Рік тому

    Excited to watch! I have a very nicely figured recent Iommi Sig. SG Special, big baseball bat neck and beastly sounding guitar!

  • @gt-37guy6
    @gt-37guy6 Рік тому

    It is amazing how good the Epiphone is for the cost - in Pelham Blue it is quite impressive. Spot on - you can't tell the diff between the Epi and the Black Gibson A to B comparison. I thought at first the Custom Shop as well, but after 2nd listen you are correct, the Gibson was shrill sounding compared to Custom shop. I think the pickup spacing relative to the bridge is the main factor, then the differences in pickups - assuming the custom shop is a bit higher quality design ? No doubt the FEEL is different on the custom shop! When a guitar has soul...wow - it is just different. I nearly sprung $3500 on a customer shop SG standard a few years ago , but settled on a 2013 Les Paul Traditional for $1800 - which I do love allot as well. You really do a fine job of disassembly analysis on these machines - you can see that this is your passion - bravo!

  • @rocktorrocks
    @rocktorrocks Рік тому +1

    Late to comment but wanted to say great job as usual! This was a very SPECIAL episode. 😁 I have the USA standard one but now I really wanna try a custom shop haha. The GAS is never ending.

  • @joybuzzer
    @joybuzzer Рік тому +1

    3:25 If you had a second channel where you uploaded the same videos as this channel but with only the nerdy stuff and without any playing, I'd be really into that.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Crikey you're a glutton for punishment! 🤣👍

  • @atomnetton
    @atomnetton Рік тому

    I've binged this channel after discovering the p90 strat video mainly because of the lovely, lovely p90 tones and excellent playing. Plus I'm fascinated by all the specifications and details of each guitar and how some wood, wire and magnets can have its own individual sound. Love it, thanks Guitaristas.

  • @BostonWhoFan515
    @BostonWhoFan515 Рік тому

    I just looked at your SG Special Reverb list. There's two Pete Townshend sig models. One's nearly double the price of the other but does contain more Who/Townshend memorabilia. That's not to say the lesser priced one is void of any Who/Townshend stuff. Just less. Both are identical SG Special's with the large batwing pickguard. With Pete being my favorite guitarist and The Who my favorite band, I'd love to get my hands on one of those. But for now I own a 2022 Gibson SG Special in Vintage Cherry, same as your Ebony model. It was the closest to Pete's that I could afford. I like the small pickguard, too. It complements the wood more. And it's a really sweet guitar! Great electronics! The P-90's sound wicked and clean up incredibly well. It was easily worth every penny of the $1400+ price tag. Great video. Cheers!

  • @lasombra_br
    @lasombra_br Рік тому +2

    Another enjoyable video, thanks, mate! The Epiphone is a great value and sound killer. It's the guitar that made me love SGs and don't like Les Pauls :)

  • @s9plus20
    @s9plus20 Рік тому

    "I'll never have any money" I should find that funny, unfortunately I can really relate to that statement!! If only I was a young man again, working.... Love your channel!!!

  • @alexmartin2517
    @alexmartin2517 Рік тому

    Had an Epiphone SG Special but sold it for an Epiphone SG Standard.. then upgraded everything - ha! The Epi Standard sounds awesome with alnico II pickups and 50's wiring!

  • @jimmyhartman573
    @jimmyhartman573 Рік тому

    I GOTTA STOP WATCHN U !!! I must say i bought a vintage cherry SG special a couple of days ago , it came to me damn near perfect doesnt have a vanilla smell but definitely has a finish type odor . .case fit is snug , a tiny amount of neck dive ( but thats a non issue i think) . . by far the most thoughtfully assembled Gibson ive bought . . Thanx for your deep insight into these items

  • @aarongrimwood6594
    @aarongrimwood6594 Рік тому

    I’d love to spend a day with you and your collection! We are worlds apart in terms of knowledge and experience (guitar number 17 is on the way but see you’re surpassed that just in the background!) but I think I’d learn so much and we’d have a great time comparing guitars, showing off our favourites from our collections and having a cuppa I’m sure.
    Thank you for the videos!

  • @JosephEvanss
    @JosephEvanss 3 місяці тому

    Brilliant video. Just pushed me to purchase the Epiphone. Beautiful colour and as you say, for the price it is a BARGAIN!!!!

  • @davelewis4215
    @davelewis4215 Рік тому

    Colin,
    I bought the Pelham Blue one after watching your video again yesterday 👍

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Nice one!... hope you like it mate (you will) let me know! 😎👍

  • @bradleyclosson5042
    @bradleyclosson5042 Рік тому

    Thanks Colin! Another superb review! Nothing else comes close to your channel.

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      Cheers Bradley that's high praise indeed! 🙏😊

  • @Edward1312
    @Edward1312 Рік тому +1

    The SG Special custom shop is a beautiful guitar, but the cost is truly eye watering! Nitro finishes look great, but they mark so easily, even guitar stands will do it. While I agree the Epiphone inspired by is excellent value the best value SG special with P90s I've come across is the JHS Vintage VS6MRMA Icon series Jim Abrahams signature model. These are long since discontinued but come up occasionally on the secondhand market for around £250.

    • @petercollier1211
      @petercollier1211 Рік тому

      I got a stupid cheap Mick Abraham signature...Turns out to be an absolute gibson killer.cheers

  • @alanburl8273
    @alanburl8273 10 місяців тому

    I didn't know that James May had a twin Brother Who can play Guitar (AWESOME DUDE) 🐱

  • @MaxLeeTV
    @MaxLeeTV Рік тому

    Your videos make me feel happy, i really like your work sir :). Regards from argentina 🇦🇷

  • @xenophonkirby
    @xenophonkirby Рік тому

    @Colin. I am now addicted to your channel. You can't have too many guitars

    • @theguitaristas
      @theguitaristas  Рік тому

      😁👍 cheers man you are in the right place!

  • @NonApplicable1983
    @NonApplicable1983 Рік тому

    I wish Epiphone would release their version of the Gibson 2018 SG Special.

  • @mortonwilson795
    @mortonwilson795 Рік тому

    Another great live session! The Custom Shop really is a thing of beauty! There's a black Epi SG at my local - hum-buckers, mind you, apparently solid Mahogany with Ebony fretboard . . . might take a look. Love P90's but I have that side of things covered with the Combinata. Thanks, as always for a fun viewing experience :) P.S. And the juggling was GREAT!