Jack Fossett Beautiful song, fabulous playing. I’d love to hear the whole track but that link says this video is private? I’m in the uk so that may be the issue?
johnnny Bgood hey yes sorry, that video came down - it’s up on the updated Spotify link, or you can also listen here: jackfossett.bandcamp.com - thanks for the kind words!
Jack Fossett Hi Jack, unless I’m being exceptionally dim (& I wouldn’t rule this out!) I’m still not seeing “Savannah Mourning” on your bandcamp page? I really appreciate your demos by the way. Really helpful in thinking about guitar choice but your playing and recordings have helped steer my learning direction too.
johnnny Bgood not dim at all, sorry, one of those is an album (most are singles) and Savannah Mourning was a song on the album - I appreciate the interest in listening! jackfossett.bandcamp.com/album/shoreline it’s track 11. Also on Spotify and iTunes and what not. And thanks for the kind words, I’m glad the videos are useful and a source of inspiration!
I played my casino every evening unplugged, alongside my radio tuned to a Tennessee Jazz radio station. I learned a lot because I played a lot. But, there came a time when I heard a rattle emanating from one of the individual bridges and I started playing my Casino less and less to the point that I don't play it. I have many guitars. Tonight, listening to you I decided to play her plugged in and from what I heard, there was no rattle. Only good aggressive tone. I shall play her plugged in all day tomorrow through my '59 Bassman reissue and see where we go. George Martin, the Beatles manager is the one who recommended the Casino to the Beatles because they could play it acoustically and practice more. I also took him up on his word and he's absolutely right. If you want to enjoy your playing and play more and learn more then get a Casino. It can be a smaller, thinner and lighter Jazz Box and a Rock and Roll Guitar and even a Blues Guitar, lastly it can be strummed like an acoustic guitar so it can be a Folk guitar and a Country guitar. It got me playing for hours every evening, well into the night. From now on I shall play her through an amplifier because I do not hear that pesky rattle that sometimes shows up when played acoustically for months at a time as my main ax. -Peter
@@MaxwellAlexxis And it wasn't him who recommended the Casino. John Mayall recommended it to Paul McCartney for blues playing. After George and John got to try it out, they wanted one too. The Beatles had plenty of guitars (including acoustics) at their disposal, and they didn't need to "practice".
change the bridge. i have a casino coupe, i had the same problem, the little retaining wire on the bridge was rattling, a real piece of crap. i changed it , and the tail piece, for black parts. i had to redrill the holes, cause i ordered a bridge for a Les Paul and the bushing are bigger. no more rattling and looks way better with the black parts. i unsolderd the pick up covers and paint them blqck too
Agree with the comment above - it's most likely the bridge. Mine made the same rattle. Replaced it with a $20 Gotoh bridge and fixed it completely. Now a joy to play again. Have a search for Casino bridge replacement.
I have the Riviera P-93 and could not be happier with it. Can go from mellow to raunchy with the turn of a dial. Very capable all around guitar with looks to boot.
From what I just heard, they both have the same kinda tone and sound color, but the casino is a little brighter, while the riviera is rather darker and smooth
That Riviera he used is almost the same as the Sheraton II we have now, the New Riviera has nothing to do with te old one except the name, so if you want that style of sound, that tone, I would sugest the Sheraton II
Agree. Im bonehead in an Oasis cover band. I currently use an Epi Dot which works fantastically. However I'll soon be in possession of a Riviera for my spare guitar. Possibly main guitar.
I am hopelessly in love with that Riviera P93. I am going to get one in the coming months, I just need to be able to travel so I can go pick her up! Can't wait!
Guitar Center had them on Special recently for $499 + tax which was a great deal. Back to $599 now though. I just ordered one and may upgrade to a roller bridge for tuning stability with the Bigsby. Looking forward to it.
Love the look and sound of these guitars. Owned a Casino once, but let it go because I wanted a bigger neck 🙁 Never felt comfortable playing it...your post is making wish I still had it!
I wanted to get rid of my Riviera, simply because I couldn't figure out how to work the volume and tone knobs. I just couldn't get the sound I wanted. Then it hit me, that the pickup selector is there for the neck and bridge pickups only. The middle pickup is ALWAYS on. You need to turn the volume down to get it out of the mix. As soon as I realized that, I started to love the guitar. Now I see just how versatile it truly is. You can get a huge variety of tones with it.
I was mesmerized by the song and then you launched into a great description and then a great comparison. Great video! I've had a Riviera Custom P93 for a few years, and I love the tone of it. I also do indeed love the sound of the Casino, and there's no doubt of why it's a classic. I got the Riviera because I feel the tone is richer and sweeter. But then again, I also prefer playing mahogany-topped acoustics over spruce. Man, you ain't lying about the tuning challenges with the Bigsby. But everything is a tradeoff right?
I bought a Riviera P-93 when I first found out about them in 2005. I love this guitar. I'm not one who can buy a guitar any time I want ,so I'd been I'd been on the fence a bit comparing it to some Ibanez, Gretch, and other 330 style guitars. Well, I waited a bit too long to order it and when I did, the deal they were offering was over. $499.00 including a hard shell case. I called a sales rep the next morning and told him what I had done and basically begged him to give me the deal. At first the rep said he was sorry, but it was over, then he said let me see what I can do, the guy was great. After a minute he said ok, I'll give you the deal but the case won't be the same as the one in the add. I agreed and I received it promptly. When I opened it up I was surprised and delighted, the case was the Epi. Deluxe case, better than the one I would have gotten. I put a bone nut, 60's style Kluson Deluxe faded Ivory tuners and a roller bridge on it. Trem. is very stable now. Odd thing, I was expecting the slim taper neck but this one has a 43mm nut width.
My Riviera P93 is my favourite guitar, it's wonderful. I've done 2 mods though. The pickup covers on the P93 are also metal, I switched to plastic on the mid and neck pickup. I (or rather a technically skilled friend) also installed a 6-way switch, so that the middle pickup can be taken out of the circuit. These mods both opened up the sound tremendously. Before, I found it a bit muffled. Not at all any more. I love Bigsbys, all my guitars have one. They need lubrication though...
I love the way both sound Jack. The p93 is gorgeous and unique. Since I own neither I would buy the casino first then buy the Riviera later. Great video.
@@jaydenclarke3655 nah it’s never really bothered me and I don’t think it’d be a problem if you hit it every now and then. It’s black so it won’t affect the finish that much, and you could always adjust the height :)
My first real guitar, that I got in 1965 was a Gibson ES 330TD which was identical to the Epiphone Casino. Although it was a decent instrument, it never became dear to my heart. I didn't become a Gibson fan until I got a Les Paul in the mid '70s.
I think the 330 is the only like model that Epiphone had the more popular version of (from the post buyout years). Probably of course due to the Beatles & Stones.
This is the video comparison I've been looking for. I own a Riviera P93. I love it. Have been shopping for a Casino for a while. Having heard / seen this video, I am just going to keep playing and loving my Riv. Thanks.
I got the Riviera in 2010 new and the input jack & electronics fell apart in 3 months. I fixed it. Just getting it back after all new electronics & wiring as you suggested new 500k pots and outside of the Bigsby and using it 2 times / song avg it is keeping tuned till it cools off which is just weird. It does NOT sound like a pillow is over it any more and the Tone caps at 0.002 works giving it the high-Pass filter :-) Love your stuff Jack Fossett.
Good review. I had the same experience with the Riviera. I gave up on the hitting the middle pickup and passed the guitar on. Picked up a Sheraton that I liked a lot. Ended up giving that to a friend and bought an ES-335 Pro that I am liking very much but always look at Casino’s with a longing. I think one is in my near future.
Hey Jack I was just wondering if that Casino on this video here had the stock pickups back during the recording/ filming, or was it recorded after your upgrades?
It looks like the Casino is a lot easier to clean. I honestly have a tough time keeping fingerprints off the body of the Riviera. It doesn’t help that the pain is so dark either lol really makes all those smudges stand out
Good point on the pole spacing and pickup cover thickness that is a bane when looking to change pup covers. It's less frustrating to accept it and leave it alone.
Davis Sharp thanks - yeah I’ve had a difficult time with that hunt. Seems all the good pickup covers are made for aftermarket pickups which have the wider spacing. Although I may at some point get the nickel covers for the Casino which they do make.
I have a Riviera EA250 purchased used in 1986 made in Japan. I think it's a late 1970's early 80's built but can't be sure. Apparently there was a period when serial numbers were duplicated coming out of Japan therefore I can't determine the exact year it was built. I'd love to get more information about the Rivieras built around then. A value would be nice just out of curiosity since I'm not selling. Yea, I'm an old guy and I keep my guitars. Can't have too many right?
I really prefer Riviera because it is sweeter, smoother and more gentle, plus the 3rd pickup can give even more variety and juice. Also the semi-hollow body is preferable by me (there is much loss of "woodiness" and "airiness" in sound). The only thing i don't like (apart from price which is not a high price but still..) is the color and too much of "dressing": it will be definitely gone after it gets in my hands (clear with oil finish, or tastefully dyed with oil or a satin very thin finish), but then, again, it is easier and simpler to get the parts (unfinished) and get the P90s. Then neck, .. And again another project (and not practicing). Ahh, it is never one answer... QUESTION to Jack: apart from plastic or metal covers, are there the same P90's on both (Casino and Riviera)? Thank you.
I just rewatched this video. Thanks. I love the warmth and beauty of the Riviera P93. I own one. But it’s one of my least played guitars. I’m going to put it up for sale and pick up a Casino. I love the clarity of the Casino. And then there’s the Beatles history and stuff. I’m a sucker for the classics. I’m on a one in, one out, program right now (too many guitars). So out with the Riviera, so I can pick up a Casino. 👍
Hey, Fossett. I’m curious. I’ve been using a Stratocaster for a little while now (it’s my dad’s old guitar) and I think I’m in need of a different solid body. I’m looking for something with 22 frets. I actually can’t play the version of Hotel California I have all the way because it’s missing that 22nd fret lol any recommendations? Also, I’ve found that I prefer thicker strings as they’re a bit easier on my fingers. Should I go higher than 10ga. or does a gauge higher than that compromise sound and performance?
So there's just that one note in Hotel Cali that goes to the 22nd fret, although you can always bend it. Unless you're looking for a reason to buy a new guitar. In the original solo, that part was played by Don Felder on a Les Paul (Joe Walsh played the other part on a telecaster). Both into Fender Deluxe amps as far as I know. String guage is just whats comfortable for you, if you go higher, you'll just need to setup your guitar and adjust intonation.
5 років тому+3
Both have their own personalities but for my taste It's an easy pick! Casino first choice then the Riviera!
Thanks for your review Jack, you clearly know your shizzle as we say in this part of the world. I am indeed choosing between these two models, I am planning on fitting a Bigsby if I go for the Casino however. Apparently it's straightforward enough for me to do myself, I'm told. Do you know if this is the case? I'm not planning on playing live with it (I have other guitars for that) so the tuning and feedback issues won't (hopefully) be an issue. It'll be a purely studio-based guitar (I record more than I play live). I like the versatility of the Riviera but I also like the fact that the Casino doesn't sound like my other guitars and gives me an 'acoustic' quality, something a little different. Plus I love the worn olive finish that they are now producing. Even after watching your video, I'm still torn between them! But you have definitely done a great job explaining & demonstrating the differences, so thank you for that.
As far as installing a Bigsby goes I think the hardest part is lining it up straight -- otherwise its just drilling some little holes. If its something you're comfortable doing then absolutely go for it, but I generally always caution people before doing any mods that will leave permanent marks/holes. Have you looked into getting a used Casino with a Bigsby? They've made limited runs here and there.
@@JackFossett From the Bigsbys that I've seen online, it looks as though they screw into the same holes as the original tailpiece did, so no new holes to drill...does that sound right to you? Yes I believe I have seen Casinos with Bigsbys before but they seem thin on the ground at the moment, at least here in the UK. I don't blame them, I wouldn't sell mine either! In any case, after watching your video, I bought a Riviera anyway...the warmth of tone over the Casino, plus the extra tonal versatility won me over in the end Thank you so much for your contribution in making my decision, keep up the good work :)
Nice review and great details - thanks! Curious are the pickups in the Riviera RWRP to reduce hum in certain positions? By the way, I just ordered one and I'm already considering replacing the bridge with a roller bridge so I can use the Bigsby without the tuning problems. I found a couple of them for less than $50 so it seems like a worthy investment. One other recommendation I can make to everyone that purchases one of the Riviera's is to buy the inexpensive Bigsby spring from Reverend Guitars that's much softer than the ones that comes in a typical Bigsby and it gives you a lot more play in the Bigsby arm.
Awesome Jack《☆》I'm leaning towards the Rivi but maybe a hardtail. I have seen videos from People like Brian Setzer who lube & tweak the Bigsbys & the nut to help keep them in tune :*: Greetings from Florida Brother🤓🗣☮🤳👍🏾
Hi Jack, I got the opportunity to buy a used epiphone casino coupe and am a bit worried about its gig-worthiness (will it stay in tune, difference in output between neck and bridge, feedback). Could you give me some advice on this?
So I don't think you'll have any trouble with tuning, at least no more than any other guitar in the price range -- just make sure its strung up well. And I also found the stock pickups balanced pretty well, if there's a slight discrepancy, you can lower the neck pole pieces and raise the bridge pole pieces a little bit just with a screwdriver. Feedback just depends on your style of music and the gigs you're playing -- if you play with alot of overdrive or distortion in a smaller club setting, feedback will be an issue. If you're in more of a bluesy territory and down to clean then you'll be fine. Just make sure you take it easy on the bass and mids, those are usually the frequencies that start to swell into feedback.
When you say the Casino is probably a "nicer" guitar, what does that mean? I am being serious, not just nitpicking. I am considering the P93, it is an intriguing guitar.
The only problem I have with my P93 is that the pickups are pre-set height wise with the use of spacers and the middle pickup is set lower probably to address the pick problem but because it's set lower it doesn't have the output of the other pickups. If the pickups had height control I would correct that. I will someday have a guitar mechanic correct that.
I have the Riviera, with Lollar pickups, a push pull to cut the middle pickup out, and I machined a piece of bronze to make it a hard tail, I love the beefy neck and versitilty
utkarsh shrivastava yes! I’ve been working on getting my hands on a Sheraton for that exact reason, and also to do a shootout with the Casino. Hoping to be able to do one in the next month or so
Any Riviera P93 owners solved/sourced plastic covers for the pickups?? - they do have weird variable heights with a slant and non-standard pole piece spacing. They definitely knock off the top end compared with some of my other P90-equpped guitars, otherwise I love the guitar!
Riviera is sweet, throaty and fat with low gain, great for heavy blues. Each have their own highlights. I own a Sherington 2 pro and epi es335 so the Riviera is the next logical choice for me, has a great acoustic warmth. And the prices on all the Epiphones are great especially used ones.
I just sold my Riviera. Beautiful guitar but too big and too heavy for my ageing spine. Bought a Casino Coupe to replace it though. It’s a compromise but needs must sadly.
Still a great choice! I have a Casino Coupe, its a really fun little guitar and more than holds its own with guitars that are the "next step up" so to speak.
It’s hard to say... I think I generally prefer them in a fully hollow guitar. Semi hollow guitars I really associate with humbuckers. But ultimately, “better” is subjective
I love how it looks and how it feels. I see a lot of reviews where they get the controls wrong. I also don't use the bigsby bar much. Not sure why. I just never got into it
I use to have the same problem. First you need to upgrade your tuning pegs, something like Goto SD90, Epiphone seems to overlook this important piece. Also every time that you feel that the G string is out of tune pull the Bigsby slightly up and it will get close to tuning. Another solution would be change the gauge of your strings, something higher, trust me this guitar will take it. the G string is always gonna be a tricky thing, it is too thick to be unwounded and too thin to be wounded. Hope it works for you!!!
I am thinking of going for a Riviera. I like the versatility and i think i can tolerate the tuning issue. I own a 2008 gibson les paul studio. The g string is notorious for tuning out. I thought i heard Rick beato mentioned that its a common problem because of the gibson scale length. I expect the same from epiphone. I guess its another gibson/epi thing we have to deal with like the other (headstock cracking).
I’ve had both these guitars and honestly couldn’t be more wrong. The casinos are fantastic but the feedback issues are absolutely horrid unless you’re just playing in your room at home or whatever. The bigsby holds tune very well as long as you’re not dive bombing and if you’re hitting the middle pickup then there’s an issue with your picking style it’s not an issue of the guitar. I have a Rickenbacker 340 and never hit the middle pickup on that either. Overall just a bias review from someone who clearly prefers casinos. Also I’d say the riviera is better put together
I chose a new Riviera and had it Plek'd with a bone nut and roller bridge installed. Half the price of a used Japanese Casino and the Riviera has more fret access.
Hey, that’s an original tune called Savannah Mourning - I don’t have a tab for it, but it’s in a key of C and you can listen and jam along if you like - it’s on Spotify, Apple Music, BandCamp, all the usual places!
Great review of two interesting Epiphones. I can understand your reservations about the Riviera, but I do feel drawn towards it. The whole look of it is pretty attention grabbing.
The casino has always been a blues guitar. You can find shots of the real blues players from back in the day with both casinos and rivieras. Otis rush and magic Sam both famously played epiphones. And I’ve seen a picture of either bb king or muddy waters playing a casino as well. When Kieth Richard’s recommended the casino it was because of its bluesy tone.
Hey folks! The tune in the intro is an original song called "Savannah Mourning" - listen on Spotify! open.spotify.com/artist/6RLQFre2Qp5T454mFR5Ol4
Jack Fossett Beautiful song, fabulous playing. I’d love to hear the whole track but that link says this video is private? I’m in the uk so that may be the issue?
johnnny Bgood hey yes sorry, that video came down - it’s up on the updated Spotify link, or you can also listen here: jackfossett.bandcamp.com - thanks for the kind words!
Jack Fossett Hi Jack, unless I’m being exceptionally dim (& I wouldn’t rule this out!) I’m still not seeing “Savannah Mourning” on your bandcamp page?
I really appreciate your demos by the way. Really helpful in thinking about guitar choice but your playing and recordings have helped steer my learning direction too.
johnnny Bgood not dim at all, sorry, one of those is an album (most are singles) and Savannah Mourning was a song on the album - I appreciate the interest in listening! jackfossett.bandcamp.com/album/shoreline it’s track 11. Also on Spotify and iTunes and what not. And thanks for the kind words, I’m glad the videos are useful and a source of inspiration!
Found it on the album on TIDAL so all good! Perfect Sunday morning music too. Thanks.
Been waiting YEARS for this review/comparison between the Casino and the Riviera. Your brief clips are A/B'd judiciously. Great video.
Awesome, glad you enjoyed it!
I played my casino every evening unplugged, alongside my radio tuned to a Tennessee Jazz radio station. I learned a lot because I played a lot. But, there came a time when I heard a rattle emanating from one of the individual bridges and I started playing my Casino less and less to the point that I don't play it. I have many guitars. Tonight, listening to you I decided to play her plugged in and from what I heard, there was no rattle. Only good aggressive tone. I shall play her plugged in all day tomorrow through my '59 Bassman reissue and see where we go.
George Martin, the Beatles manager is the one who recommended the Casino to the Beatles because they could play it acoustically and practice more. I also took him up on his word and he's absolutely right. If you want to enjoy your playing and play more and learn more then get a Casino. It can be a smaller, thinner and lighter Jazz Box and a Rock and Roll Guitar and even a Blues Guitar, lastly it can be strummed like an acoustic guitar so it can be a Folk guitar and a Country guitar. It got me playing for hours every evening, well into the night. From now on I shall play her through an amplifier because I do not hear that pesky rattle that sometimes shows up when played acoustically for months at a time as my main ax.
-Peter
George Martin was the Beatles producer. Brian Epstein was the manager.
@@MaxwellAlexxis And it wasn't him who recommended the Casino. John Mayall recommended it to Paul McCartney for blues playing. After George and John got to try it out, they wanted one too.
The Beatles had plenty of guitars (including acoustics) at their disposal, and they didn't need to "practice".
change the bridge. i have a casino coupe, i had the same problem, the little retaining wire on the bridge was rattling, a real piece of crap. i changed it , and the tail piece, for black parts. i had to redrill the holes, cause i ordered a bridge for a Les Paul and the bushing are bigger. no more rattling and looks way better with the black parts. i unsolderd the pick up covers and paint them blqck too
Agree with the comment above - it's most likely the bridge. Mine made the same rattle. Replaced it with a $20 Gotoh bridge and fixed it completely. Now a joy to play again. Have a search for Casino bridge replacement.
They both sound awesome in their own way. Love the smoothness of that Riviera, though!
Agreed!
Thanks so much for the shootout! Got a P93 on the way and I’m liking the way you make it sound!
Both sound great, but then again, it's the musician first and last! Excellent presentation again, Jack!
I have the Riviera P-93 and could not be happier with it. Can go from mellow to raunchy with the turn of a dial. Very capable all around guitar with looks to boot.
Awesome!
From what I just heard, they both have the same kinda tone and sound color, but the casino is a little brighter, while the riviera is rather darker and smooth
Bonehead from Oasis played a Riviera too for those wondering how nice they work, just listen to the rhythm guitar on Supersonic!!
That Riviera he used is almost the same as the Sheraton II we have now, the New Riviera has nothing to do with te old one except the name, so if you want that style of sound, that tone, I would sugest the Sheraton II
@@mor5964 yep it just has the mini humbuckers and the unique tailpiece
Agree. Im bonehead in an Oasis cover band. I currently use an Epi Dot which works fantastically. However I'll soon be in possession of a Riviera for my spare guitar. Possibly main guitar.
I'm a strat guy with mild gibson yearnings and the neck+middle sound of the riviera spoke to me lol
Well , I don't know why , but I do prefer the sounding of the Riviera , thx for this vid , great job .
I am hopelessly in love with that Riviera P93. I am going to get one in the coming months, I just need to be able to travel so I can go pick her up! Can't wait!
Guitar Center had them on Special recently for $499 + tax which was a great deal. Back to $599 now though. I just ordered one and may upgrade to a roller bridge for tuning stability with the Bigsby. Looking forward to it.
@@nazmoking3171 WHAT? I've been monitoring the prices on them. Well, guess I'll have to keep waiting...
Love the look and sound of these guitars. Owned a Casino once, but let it go because I wanted a bigger neck 🙁 Never felt comfortable playing it...your post is making wish I still had it!
I wanted to get rid of my Riviera, simply because I couldn't figure out how to work the volume and tone knobs. I just couldn't get the sound I wanted. Then it hit me, that the pickup selector is there for the neck and bridge pickups only. The middle pickup is ALWAYS on. You need to turn the volume down to get it out of the mix. As soon as I realized that, I started to love the guitar. Now I see just how versatile it truly is. You can get a huge variety of tones with it.
I was mesmerized by the song and then you launched into a great description and then a great comparison. Great video! I've had a Riviera Custom P93 for a few years, and I love the tone of it. I also do indeed love the sound of the Casino, and there's no doubt of why it's a classic. I got the Riviera because I feel the tone is richer and sweeter. But then again, I also prefer playing mahogany-topped acoustics over spruce. Man, you ain't lying about the tuning challenges with the Bigsby. But everything is a tradeoff right?
One of the best comparison vids I have ever seen. Well done Jack!!!
Tim McDonald thank you!
I"m a bit late to this party but what a great review, Jack! Cheers!! Also, beautiful playing.
Glad you enjoyed it!
@@JackFossett I really did, mate, your reviews are excellent. only thing is now I can't decide which of these to get!!
I bought a Riviera P-93 when I first found out about them in 2005. I love this guitar. I'm not one who can buy a guitar any time I want ,so I'd been I'd been on the fence a bit comparing it to some Ibanez, Gretch, and other 330 style guitars. Well, I waited a bit too long to order it and when I did, the deal they were offering was over. $499.00 including a hard shell case. I called a sales rep the next morning and told him what I had done and basically begged him to give me the deal. At first the rep said he was sorry, but it was over, then he said let me see what I can do, the guy was great. After a minute he said ok, I'll give you the deal but the case won't be the same as the one in the add. I agreed and I received it promptly. When I opened it up I was surprised and delighted, the case was the Epi. Deluxe case, better than the one I would have gotten. I put a bone nut, 60's style Kluson Deluxe faded Ivory tuners and a roller bridge on it. Trem. is very stable now. Odd thing, I was expecting the slim taper neck but this one has a 43mm nut width.
My Riviera P93 is my favourite guitar, it's wonderful. I've done 2 mods though. The pickup covers on the P93 are also metal, I switched to plastic on the mid and neck pickup. I (or rather a technically skilled friend) also installed a 6-way switch, so that the middle pickup can be taken out of the circuit. These mods both opened up the sound tremendously. Before, I found it a bit muffled. Not at all any more. I love Bigsbys, all my guitars have one. They need lubrication though...
Sounds awesome!
Man, that sound like a gret mod! I'm interested in a Riviera P93 and when I buy one, maybe I'll do the 6 switch thing. :)
What kind of lubricant have you found works best? Also, do you think treble bleeds could help with the muffleness?
Sounding nearly identical depending on your attack/ picking approach.. I Like them both! ^_^
I love the way both sound Jack. The p93 is gorgeous and unique. Since I own neither I would buy the casino first then buy the Riviera later. Great video.
Not a bad plan at all - and thanks!
Good point
Great song and shootout. Thank you 👍
I recently bought a riviera p93 in pearl white and I can’t recommend it enough. Plays so nice and you honestly have so many tonal option
Do u have any problems hitting the middle pickup?
@@jaydenclarke3655 nah it’s never really bothered me and I don’t think it’d be a problem if you hit it every now and then. It’s black so it won’t affect the finish that much, and you could always adjust the height :)
My first real guitar, that I got in 1965 was a Gibson ES 330TD which was identical to the Epiphone Casino. Although it was a decent instrument, it never became dear to my heart. I didn't become a Gibson fan until I got a Les Paul in the mid '70s.
I think the 330 is the only like model that Epiphone had the more popular version of (from the post buyout years). Probably of course due to the Beatles & Stones.
I have an Epiphone Riviera p93 but have fitted a string butler to the headstock and use nut sauce and the Bigsby is now useable
This is the video comparison I've been looking for. I own a Riviera P93. I love it. Have been shopping for a Casino for a while. Having heard / seen this video, I am just going to keep playing and loving my Riv. Thanks.
Peter Chase wait... did I dissuade you from buying a new guitar?? WHAT HAVE I DONE *runs off crying*
I like the sound of single coils. But I'd prefer gibson-type or ES-type body. So, I'll definitely get the Riviera P93
I got the Riviera in 2010 new and the input jack & electronics fell apart in 3 months. I fixed it. Just getting it back after all new electronics & wiring as you suggested new 500k pots and outside of the Bigsby and using it 2 times / song avg it is keeping tuned till it cools off which is just weird. It does NOT sound like a pillow is over it any more and the Tone caps at 0.002 works giving it the high-Pass filter :-) Love your stuff Jack Fossett.
hey! One that I would find super interesting would be casino Vs. Wildkat, if you ever need ideas!
I stumbled upon a mint Riviera for $300 this week. Love at first sight, Cleaned it all up and wow what a great guitar for the price of a Fender Squire
Great deal!
Man I would like to get a casino in that colour with no pick guard one day but until then I will stick with the riviera
any hum cancelling when you are using the middle pickup (or any two vs just a single)?
Good review. I had the same experience with the Riviera. I gave up on the hitting the middle pickup and passed the guitar on. Picked up a Sheraton that I liked a lot. Ended up giving that to a friend and bought an ES-335 Pro that I am liking very much but always look at Casino’s with a longing. I think one is in my near future.
I havent played the 335 pro but I've heard great things. Casinos are just awesome.
The Riv sounds very muted which is kind of expected with the 3 p90s. Almost just too much feed or volume.
Good sound sample of the two- thanks
Hey Jack I was just wondering if that Casino on this video here had the stock pickups back during the recording/ filming, or was it recorded after your upgrades?
Stock
very impressing, then! Thank you Jack!
It looks like the Casino is a lot easier to clean. I honestly have a tough time keeping fingerprints off the body of the Riviera. It doesn’t help that the pain is so dark either lol really makes all those smudges stand out
Good point on the pole spacing and pickup cover thickness that is a bane when looking to change pup covers. It's less frustrating to accept it and leave it alone.
Davis Sharp thanks - yeah I’ve had a difficult time with that hunt. Seems all the good pickup covers are made for aftermarket pickups which have the wider spacing. Although I may at some point get the nickel covers for the Casino which they do make.
@@JackFossett
That would be an interesting look, did you ever do it?
I have a Riviera EA250 purchased used in 1986 made in Japan. I think it's a late 1970's early 80's built but can't be sure. Apparently there was a period when serial numbers were duplicated coming out of Japan therefore I can't determine the exact year it was built. I'd love to get more information about the Rivieras built around then. A value would be nice just out of curiosity since I'm not selling. Yea, I'm an old guy and I keep my guitars. Can't have too many right?
I really prefer Riviera because it is sweeter, smoother and more gentle, plus the 3rd pickup can give even more variety and juice. Also the semi-hollow body is preferable by me (there is much loss of "woodiness" and "airiness" in sound).
The only thing i don't like (apart from price which is not a high price but still..) is the color and too much of "dressing": it will be definitely gone after it gets in my hands (clear with oil finish, or tastefully dyed with oil or a satin very thin finish), but then, again, it is easier and simpler to get the parts (unfinished) and get the P90s. Then neck, .. And again another project (and not practicing). Ahh, it is never one answer...
QUESTION to Jack: apart from plastic or metal covers, are there the same P90's on both (Casino and Riviera)?
Thank you.
I just rewatched this video. Thanks.
I love the warmth and beauty of the Riviera P93. I own one. But it’s one of my least played guitars.
I’m going to put it up for sale and pick up a Casino. I love the clarity of the Casino. And then there’s the Beatles history and stuff. I’m a sucker for the classics.
I’m on a one in, one out, program right now (too many guitars). So out with the Riviera, so I can pick up a Casino. 👍
I just aquired a 2023 Casino. There's not a bad tone to be had with this guitar. It's bone stock, and it sounds better than just about anything I own.
Hey, Fossett. I’m curious. I’ve been using a Stratocaster for a little while now (it’s my dad’s old guitar) and I think I’m in need of a different solid body. I’m looking for something with 22 frets. I actually can’t play the version of Hotel California I have all the way because it’s missing that 22nd fret lol any recommendations? Also, I’ve found that I prefer thicker strings as they’re a bit easier on my fingers. Should I go higher than 10ga. or does a gauge higher than that compromise sound and performance?
So there's just that one note in Hotel Cali that goes to the 22nd fret, although you can always bend it. Unless you're looking for a reason to buy a new guitar. In the original solo, that part was played by Don Felder on a Les Paul (Joe Walsh played the other part on a telecaster). Both into Fender Deluxe amps as far as I know. String guage is just whats comfortable for you, if you go higher, you'll just need to setup your guitar and adjust intonation.
Both have their own personalities but for my taste It's an easy pick! Casino first choice then the Riviera!
José Benito Martínez Jr. I tend to agree.
great stuff! happy owner of a gorgeous riviera royal white here! price/value unbeatable!
Awesome!
would love to hear the middle pickup only on the riviera
Thanks for your review Jack, you clearly know your shizzle as we say in this part of the world.
I am indeed choosing between these two models, I am planning on fitting a Bigsby if I go for the Casino however. Apparently it's straightforward enough for me to do myself, I'm told. Do you know if this is the case?
I'm not planning on playing live with it (I have other guitars for that) so the tuning and feedback issues won't (hopefully) be an issue. It'll be a purely studio-based guitar (I record more than I play live).
I like the versatility of the Riviera but I also like the fact that the Casino doesn't sound like my other guitars and gives me an 'acoustic' quality, something a little different. Plus I love the worn olive finish that they are now producing.
Even after watching your video, I'm still torn between them! But you have definitely done a great job explaining & demonstrating the differences, so thank you for that.
As far as installing a Bigsby goes I think the hardest part is lining it up straight -- otherwise its just drilling some little holes. If its something you're comfortable doing then absolutely go for it, but I generally always caution people before doing any mods that will leave permanent marks/holes. Have you looked into getting a used Casino with a Bigsby? They've made limited runs here and there.
@@JackFossett From the Bigsbys that I've seen online, it looks as though they screw into the same holes as the original tailpiece did, so no new holes to drill...does that sound right to you?
Yes I believe I have seen Casinos with Bigsbys before but they seem thin on the ground at the moment, at least here in the UK. I don't blame them, I wouldn't sell mine either!
In any case, after watching your video, I bought a Riviera anyway...the warmth of tone over the Casino, plus the extra tonal versatility won me over in the end
Thank you so much for your contribution in making my decision, keep up the good work :)
@@CrystalizedSound oh so you mean a b3?
@@JackFossett Yeah, the B3 and B30 both look like a straight swap for the original tailpiece as far as I can tell
Nice review and great details - thanks! Curious are the pickups in the Riviera RWRP to reduce hum in certain positions? By the way, I just ordered one and I'm already considering replacing the bridge with a roller bridge so I can use the Bigsby without the tuning problems. I found a couple of them for less than $50 so it seems like a worthy investment. One other recommendation I can make to everyone that purchases one of the Riviera's is to buy the inexpensive Bigsby spring from Reverend Guitars that's much softer than the ones that comes in a typical Bigsby and it gives you a lot more play in the Bigsby arm.
Thanks for the spring tip!
Got a few needs, couple of Wildcats etc.
Awesome Jack《☆》I'm leaning towards the Rivi but maybe a hardtail. I have seen videos from People like Brian Setzer who lube & tweak the Bigsbys & the nut to help keep them in tune :*: Greetings from Florida Brother🤓🗣☮🤳👍🏾
Yeah there are definitely ways to keep a Bigsby in tune, it just takes a little more work than usual.
cool demo. nice playing! thanks!
Hi Jack, I got the opportunity to buy a used epiphone casino coupe and am a bit worried about its gig-worthiness (will it stay in tune, difference in output between neck and bridge, feedback). Could you give me some advice on this?
So I don't think you'll have any trouble with tuning, at least no more than any other guitar in the price range -- just make sure its strung up well. And I also found the stock pickups balanced pretty well, if there's a slight discrepancy, you can lower the neck pole pieces and raise the bridge pole pieces a little bit just with a screwdriver. Feedback just depends on your style of music and the gigs you're playing -- if you play with alot of overdrive or distortion in a smaller club setting, feedback will be an issue. If you're in more of a bluesy territory and down to clean then you'll be fine. Just make sure you take it easy on the bass and mids, those are usually the frequencies that start to swell into feedback.
@@JackFossett Thank you Jack for your in depth response
When you say the Casino is probably a "nicer" guitar, what does that mean? I am being serious, not just nitpicking. I am considering the P93, it is an intriguing guitar.
Slightly better quality - better piece of wood, a little more resonant, etc
The only problem I have with my P93 is that the pickups are pre-set height wise with the use of spacers and the middle pickup is set lower probably to address the pick problem but because it's set lower it doesn't have the output of the other pickups. If the pickups had height control I would correct that. I will someday have a guitar mechanic correct that.
I like them both 😊
I had a Casino Worn, and I honestly wish it was just a regular Casino. I never really fell in love with it.
I have the Riviera, with Lollar pickups, a push pull to cut the middle pickup out, and I machined a piece of bronze to make it a hard tail, I love the beefy neck and versitilty
Hey Jack, can u please compare Epiphone Sheraton II pro with Riviera coz there is no such video on UA-cam
utkarsh shrivastava yes! I’ve been working on getting my hands on a Sheraton for that exact reason, and also to do a shootout with the Casino. Hoping to be able to do one in the next month or so
Any Riviera P93 owners solved/sourced plastic covers for the pickups?? - they do have weird variable heights with a slant and non-standard pole piece spacing. They definitely knock off the top end compared with some of my other P90-equpped guitars, otherwise I love the guitar!
Great comparison, playing and composing! I love my P93. New subscriber.
Awesome, thank you!
Riviera is sweet, throaty and fat with low gain, great for heavy blues. Each have their own highlights. I own a Sherington 2 pro and epi es335 so the Riviera is the next logical choice for me, has a great acoustic warmth. And the prices on all the Epiphones are great especially used ones.
Wow , a very good Review.....Thanks . Sounds Good to !
I own a bunch of epi semi hollows and I find they all sound only as good as the (generally) bad electronics.
Yeah I would agree they could majorly benefit from a wiring upgrade. Typical of guitars in this price range.
Both sound great ! The unique thing bout the p93 3 Volume 1 Tone control, luv them both tho👍
I just sold my Riviera. Beautiful guitar but too big and too heavy for my ageing spine. Bought a Casino Coupe to replace it though. It’s a compromise but needs must sadly.
Still a great choice! I have a Casino Coupe, its a really fun little guitar and more than holds its own with guitars that are the "next step up" so to speak.
Jack Fossett Great, I’ve ordered one but they’re on back order so very excited to get it now!
You can take off the bigsby and put the original Frequensator Tail piece?
A very good Review , thanks .
Glad you enjoyed it!
i have the riviera and im very happy with it
You are a bastard. I came on youtube to see how the riviere sounded. Now I HAVE TO BUY BOTH. lol
We aim to be enablers here at Jack Fossett & Friends ~
Do you think p90s sound better in a semi hollow or hollow guitar?
It’s hard to say... I think I generally prefer them in a fully hollow guitar. Semi hollow guitars I really associate with humbuckers. But ultimately, “better” is subjective
I bought a p93. I can hardly stop playing it. Every time i walk by it i stop.
The best guitar is the guitar that inspires you to play 🍻
I have that same Riviera! I love it but I do have a problem with the g string always going out of tune
Yes great guitars except for the trouble tuning.
I love how it looks and how it feels. I see a lot of reviews where they get the controls wrong. I also don't use the bigsby bar much. Not sure why. I just never got into it
I use to have the same problem. First you need to upgrade your tuning pegs, something like Goto SD90, Epiphone seems to overlook this important piece. Also every time that you feel that the G string is out of tune pull the Bigsby slightly up and it will get close to tuning.
Another solution would be change the gauge of your strings, something higher, trust me this guitar will take it. the G string is always gonna be a tricky thing, it is too thick to be unwounded and too thin to be wounded. Hope it works for you!!!
I am thinking of going for a Riviera. I like the versatility and i think i can tolerate the tuning issue. I own a 2008 gibson les paul studio. The g string is notorious for tuning out. I thought i heard Rick beato mentioned that its a common problem because of the gibson scale length. I expect the same from epiphone. I guess its another gibson/epi thing we have to deal with like the other (headstock cracking).
Very nice tune
Rock Hard Riffs thank you, I appreciate that!
nice playing btw
They're both winners.
Yay!
PeteW. Yeah I definitely prefer the Casino but the Riviera has really charmed its way into my heart
But the Casino cannot be played above the 18th fret without climbing onto the fretboard.
Riviera takes the cake
...apparently it has a sweet tooth. Probably where that center block comes from.
Can we remove Riviera's middle pickup? How will it sound then
@@utkarsh_Shrivastava Yeah I mean, you can take it out. It would leave a big gap though. Then you could wire it like a standard 2 pickup guitar.
I’ve had both these guitars and honestly couldn’t be more wrong. The casinos are fantastic but the feedback issues are absolutely horrid unless you’re just playing in your room at home or whatever. The bigsby holds tune very well as long as you’re not dive bombing and if you’re hitting the middle pickup then there’s an issue with your picking style it’s not an issue of the guitar. I have a Rickenbacker 340 and never hit the middle pickup on that either. Overall just a bias review from someone who clearly prefers casinos. Also I’d say the riviera is better put together
I chose a new Riviera and had it Plek'd with a bone nut and roller bridge installed. Half the price of a used Japanese Casino and the Riviera has more fret access.
Great video!! Thank you for you job mate! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻😊
Christovam Matheus my pleasure!
The tabs for the song of the intro??
Hey, that’s an original tune called Savannah Mourning - I don’t have a tab for it, but it’s in a key of C and you can listen and jam along if you like - it’s on Spotify, Apple Music, BandCamp, all the usual places!
9:05 the Riviera tone
It’s all about the attack🎯🤷🏻♂️
Great review of two interesting Epiphones. I can understand your reservations about the Riviera, but I do feel drawn towards it. The whole look of it is pretty attention grabbing.
It is a super classy looking guitar
Do these pickups go up & down by their mounting screws-never had dogear P90s before (?)
Dimitrios Dolaps no, you can adjust the height of the pole pieces or use shims, but otherwise you’re stuck at the cover height
@@JackFossett oh oh! ok! Thank you very much sir!
How are the fret ends on the Riviera, did you have to dress the ends of them are were they pretty good right out of the box?
Donald Trump no fret problems on mine
Never did like all that big thick Hardware a Gretsch
I like your videos. But this one is like comparing a toothbrush to a toothbrush.
The casino has always been a blues guitar. You can find shots of the real blues players from back in the day with both casinos and rivieras. Otis rush and magic Sam both famously played epiphones. And I’ve seen a picture of either bb king or muddy waters playing a casino as well. When Kieth Richard’s recommended the casino it was because of its bluesy tone.
I know that is a Epiphone but still don't like the hardware and the whammy bar
Riviera