That's the honest to God truth! Always been a fan of Firebirds for over 55+ years ❤ Someone commented saying Firebirds a basically "pissed off Telecasters" that is 100% accurate! But if you know what you're doing with Firebirds there's no tone you can't achieve!
What are you talking about? I’ve never heard anyone, at literally anytime say they hate a Firebird. I love them. I want one. Always have. One of the coolest Gibsons ever.
Upside down headstock, an amoebic body shape, too much plastic, and a toggle switch so far to the right that it's almost falling off the body..... What's not to love?
@@inherentmirth5180 I’m at trade shows all the time. Best friends with a vintage guitar dealer. I have never hear literally anyone say that. The Les Paul sold poorly in the 50s. The problem is they make too many models. Not because they hate the Firebird. That’s just silly.
I wouldn't say I hated mine, but I didn't care for it much, it looked cool but the neck dive bothered me to the point that it stayed in the closet for years until I finally sold it.
I had to have one. Im broke as a joke right now but i scrapped up a couple hundred to buy this firefly firebird. Waiting on delivery now, i expect to have to work on it but its kinda why i wanted it.
Enjoyed the whole discussion about “what makes a Firebird different?” - I’ve played one, but didn’t know exactly what was going on with the pickups (never took one apart). I’d say the Firebird is “mission accomplished” - lots more “bite” than a Les Paul, cuts right through 😎👍. As you said, almost Fender-like. If I were to have a Gibson-type guitar, it would be either a Firebird or an RD Artist (which has a body shape that’s similar to a Firebird). The RD has lots of bite, also, but it kind of “cheats” because it has active electronics. Firebird is the pure thing 👍, which is why Allen Collins and Johnny Winter both played them!
I have that exact guitar , custom shop red reissue same yr , but the neck on mine was ordered with a 55 -56 style LP neck , big rounded necked , huge , not skinny . Mine came with banjo tuners . This was my dream guitar . I watched a 65 red firebird played at my elementary school . That was 1966 . The player was a doctor s son , it was ordered special for the teen. 2019 I got mine. my guitar weights 7 pounds 2 ozs , perfect balance. Very loud un plugged .
Finally toward the end you said the two words that jumped into my mind when I saw the guitar, "Johnny Winter". It is a beautiful instrument and makes some beautiful sounds (a little less reverb would have been nice when you were playing).
It's funny the red one really looks like a car from the early 60s, but when you look at the Epiphone that's up for the drawing, the different color is much more reminiscent of a TV set from the same time period. It's a very cool looking guitar, and as a casual woodworker I really appreciate the way the wood is joined together. Love it!
I've picked up the new one in the same red. The car vibes are huge and the vibrola plate reminds me of an exposed airscoop on a hot rod. Yes furniture also came in this red in the 60's.
Phill only the kids of today hate, but those of us from 60's and 70's love it just like you. Evan if we don't own one like myself over the years there was always a neighbor or at a guitar teacher's house you saw one and got to play one. I was just thinking of getting one a few days ago. You saved me a google search.
I have one in burst with the steinberger tuners. Like you I dig the ‘bird but I’m super careful with it cause I’ve heard accounts of that big headstock breaking-even inside that King Tut sarcophagus of a case that mine also came in. But anyhow congrats Phil that red ‘bird is indeed beautiful, and moreover it sounded great.
I love the Firebird, I have two, and I also have a Thunderbird Bass. One aspect that I like is the reverse headstock makes the bass strings the longest, which helps lower the tension, even when drop tuning. I have a few explorers too, I have the Epiphone Korina Explorer and it has some amazing tones too, equipped with Gibson Burstbucker™ 2 and Burstbucker 3 pickups. I almost got the Ruby Red Firebird when it first came out, but I already have the vintage burst and Olive Drab Green versions, so a third is hard to justify, the cases are massive. You could easily build a fort for your kids with 4 of them.
My first electric was a Firebird III that I bought in… I believe it was late August 1963 for my 15th birthday. I later bought a twin reverb and I loved them together. At some point I sold it to a friend who sold it to another friend of mine who I believe still has it. I’d offer to buy it back but the value has skyrocketed. I think it now goes for over 40 times its original sale price.
That sound at 12:17 - WOW!!!! give me chaotic! I'm an Explorer fan BUT that is a nice-looking Firebird. Johnny Winter was a killer player on stage - he had so much attitude.
Love firebirds. Especially the pick up.. one of my future projects is to build a partscaster with a firebird neck pickup and an upside down strat neck.
My two favorite guitars to play... the SG and Firebird. Great upper fret access, usually a comfortable weight and they can have some pretty thin necks, which I prefer.
I love my firebird! its thin and light which i appreciate alot these days, i changed the nut and got rid of the stock ceramics. very happy with my firechicken
I had a black one, like Paul Stanley’s, way back in the day. Lightweight and played good, and the mini’s cut through better than regular HBpickups. The only problem, not really that much of one I guess, were the banjo tuners! It took a bit to remember which way to turn, lol! Cool guitars!
They look awesome. They sound good. They feel like trying to embrace someone who has extra elbows to navigate. The Explorer is a similar body shape but MUCH more ergonomic.
Love the V's myself. Had a 72 reissue Korina (stolen, still mad) got the Epiphone equivalent but never sounded as good. Replaced the bridge pu and the pots and wiring and it screams!
Love Firebirds....I had a mid 70's Ibanez copy for a while and struggled...neck dive was profound and the neck was a bit of a reach....the more I reached, the more dive. It was great sitting down.....love the look of them, love the sound, maybe now I've got more paunch, I should try again....maybe it'll sit better now.
Good video. Two things : (maybe someday), I'd like to hear a vintage SG with the Firebird pickup kit swap and, even though they are long gone, would love your take on an old Hagstrom.
I had an Epi Firebird V, which I loved! Wasnt the best wood, for volume, and of course, neck dive like it was made from lead… I compensated by sticking a pound and a half of wheel weights around the back edge, which balanced it, but man it was hefty, after that! That being said, aside from those gripes, it was a wonderful guitar, and yes, in that same red!
Love seeing you play riffs. I watch most of your videos and it seems you don't play a ton on your videos, which is fine but I do like hearing the riffs you play. You really dug in on this one. Must be a really fun guitar to play ✌🏻
I had a blonde Firebird V from the 90's that I had to sell...my God I've always regretted it. It was an awesome guitar, and one I'd definitely have back.
The Firebird played Freebird! Watch the great Allen Collins show us how it's done in TWO PERFORMANCES 1st and 2nd trip to London. *Lynryd Skynyrd 1975 Free Bird BBC Old Grey Whistle Test* [ 1975, unsure what exact date...early in the year probably] and *Lynyrd Skynyrd - Free Bird (Live Old Grey Whistle Test - 1975)* [November 11, 1975] [of course I just can't see both of these being in 1975, but they were. What a busy year! First performance is with founding drummer Bob Burns and 3rd guitarist Ed King. The second performance is with new drummer Artimus Pyle and Ed King had quit. This is the 'limbo' period when founding guitarists Gary Rossington and Allen Collins would hold down the fort with Skynyrd's release of the *Gimme Back my Bullets* album. Steve Gaines joined the band about 6-7 months after the November '75 performance.
I saw Lynryd Skynyrd at Knebworth, 1976, supporting the rolling stones. Man, they were great and Freebird with Allan Collins lighting up the whole crowd with his guitar playing is something I'll never forget. Made the stones sound tame after that.
@@cbcacbcaThe Stones, with all respect to their talent and influence, weren't always great live. Those guys from Jacksonville, though, cut their teeth playing honky tonk gigs in the South. They Had to bring it live or they'd get beer bottles thrown at them. Of course they were better live!
I have an Epiphone version that I picked up used for not much. It is a true neck through 11 piece body (9 piece laminated neck through section with two wings). Put steinberg locking tuners on it, Fralin Firebird pickups. Fantastic.
One of the other unique features of the Firebird, that I think, make it a joy to play, is the tuning peg alignment. All the strings run straight thru the nut. Tunes better and bends are easier. The body shape and neck thru design does make it feel like you're playing a bass.
In 1963, the Pastor and Guitarist of the Baptist Church my family went to (Pastor Tiner) showed up to Sunday Service one day with a brand new 1963 Firebird I he’d purchased from Jenkins Music Company in Tulsa. I was a Freshman in High School in 1963 and had started my own band playing my Mom’s Gibson ES-225TD her and my Father financed new from Jenkins in Tulsa in 1958. They also got me a Gibson CG-530 Doubleneck Steel and Gibson Amp. We both took lessons and played shows together beginning in 1957. grew up listening and idolizing Steel Guitar players Leon McAuliffe, Jerry Byrd, Speedy West, etc. Once I heard Buddy Holly in 1958, then The Beach Boys in 1963, followed by the Beatles in 1964 I wanted to start a band. Anyways, I ended up buying Pastor Tiners 1963 Firebird I in 1969 and still own it to this day. Also still have mom’s ES-225TD and lots of other Vintage Fenders. The Firebird I however is the best sounding and playing Gibson I’ve ever played or owned. Including a couple Sun Burst Les Paul’s.
I love my Epiphone Firebird. (I put the Duesenberg Les trem II on it- it works great.). I don’t play it as much any more for my church gig, since the guitar (and the hard case) are massive. I find myself grabbing the Tele more, simply due to convenience. (I just stick it in the gig bag and go.) They both have the bite I need for some praise songs, but there is a little more warmth in the Firebird.
Loving to have one, and knowing whether you love it or hate it are two different things 😂 I like having mine, but it is a big awkward guitar and I understand why it’s not common
I traded a LP Classic for a 2016 Firebird and never looked back. I love every single thing about it. The pickups are incredible. It plays like a dream. Super comfortable. Screams with fuzz. The one thing people may struggle with is it is a long guitar. It would be tough for a guy sub 6ft to wrangle. Imo, the Firebird is an incredible design and my favorite from Gibson. Nothing sounds quite like it.
I always felt like the shape was a refinement on the Explorer. It has the same back “wing” and front “horn” just smaller and rounded, with a less sharp waist.
The sharp angle of the Explorer makes it wonderfully stable for seated play. I would love to see a shrunken variant (like a Dinky to Strat), with the wing truncated and the bridge positioned further to the rear of the body. I would also need a low, Fender-style hardtail and a 42mm nut to play it, but that is just me.
I actually love the Thunderbird. I just don't have one any more. Had a Firebird bass. It was fantastic, but I gave it to a church that needed one. Would love to own one again.
I've got one in the dark walnut colour, but it is a couple years older and the tuners are not banjo tuners, but have a knurled barrels to tune the strings, by Steinberger. I find the guitar very inspiring and fun to play onstage and really seems to fit when it's time to rock out. I think the pickups are so hot because that's what players seem to expect of these guitars but according to my sources the first Firebird pickups were not that high output. I have a non-reverse of this same vintage and in this red colour and they came with these same hot pickups, but I installed a set of vintage correct pickups from Q Pickups from Croatia and what a different sound. Lighter and airier and the Telecasters comparisons now make sense. So I have two pickups flavours in a Firebird. The next thing to try is putting the newer Gibson Firebird pickups that I removed into my Epiphone Crestwood instead of their unimpressive mini humbuckers. And about the big bulky cases. Why would Gibson not have installed metal glides on the bottom surface that is on the table or floor when you take out the guitar? I have some that I could have installed but I didn't have the heart to start pulling up the inside lining to install them properly.
I do NOT think it’s incorrect to say that Firebird pickups are similar to Mini-humbuckers. FB pickups WERE derived from the Mini-HB design, which originally came from Epiphone, and they ARE the same size and use mostly the same components. The main difference between them, as I understand it, is that Mini-HBs use a metal bar piece in one coil and individual screw pole pieces on the other (magnetized by a bar magnet underneath), while FB pickups basically just substitute bar magnets inside of BOTH coils. Gibson basically got the Mini Humbucker design from Epiphone when they bought Epiphone, and ended up using them in certain Gibson products, perhaps most famously the 1970’s Les Paul Deluxe, because Gibson’s LP at the time was routed for P-90’s, and they didn’t want to have to change their tooling to route for regular hunbuckers, and Mini-HB’s were the PERFECT solution, since they are a drop-in replacement into existing P-90 routes (with the mini-HB pickup rings). Some people today would say the LP Deluxe is a unique sounding hidden gem as a result!
I have the Epi Firebird and a 2013 Gibson Firebird. The Epi really nails the Firebird vibe and sound. The Gibson has hotter pups than the '60's originals. They're not bad, but I like a more classic sound, so I bought a set of Johnny Winter pups from MojoTone that I plan on installing in it. Both of mine are sunburst, but man, that Cardinal Red is the bomb.
i got those same johnny winter pups. installed them in a goldtop less+. winter voiced them with an emphasis on the neck pickup. they’re clear, balanced to each other (the neck is a bit hotter), and sound great through breakup/overdriven tubes.
I have never owned a Firebird, but I've played several, both seated and strapped on- and it's like an Explorer- that nut is WAY out there. I'd like to have one because they're really cool, but I do think there would be a big curve in getting used to.
I loved the sound and playability of my mid-60s tobacco sunburst Firebird V when I owned it in the early 80s. BUT I despise heavy guitars (I played a Les Paul Custom for too many years - a literal back breaker) and truly hate heavy guitars with "neck dive." So, even though my Firebird was incredibly well crafted with stunning attention to detail, it was heavy and had extreme neck dive. Thus, it went to a new owner whom I hoped loved it more than I did. The beauty, sound and playability just couldn't overcome the lack of comfort when playing standing!
that neck position sounds more like a strat than a tele! gave me Jimi vibes. I love the look and that color is amazing. too bad the price is so far out of my budget working at a coffee shop!
At my peak as a young man I had 13 guitars. My favorite by far was a early 70s J-200. Next favorite was an ES-1275 (dark walnut 12/6) that I picked up in Kalamazoo as soon as it was finished. I also had '62 white SG that I loved very much and a '73 EB-3 bass. But I had two Gibsons I never loved. One was a '70s flying V (worst guitar to play seated) and the other was a collector-cool 1976 bicentennial tribute where the firebird logo was morphed to a red/white/blue American Eagle kinda firebird. For reasons difficult to explain I just didn't enjoy playing it compared to others. I didn't hate it but I didn't love it.
I've always loved the sounds and tones Johnny Winter got out of all the rigs he recorded with and am glad to have seen him live...and the Firebird was his weapon of choice. Thanks for sharing!
I'd love for you to do a dive on the BC-Rich Mockingbird st. I've always played Les Pauls but I recently been stuck on this Mockingbird. It has these Dunkin designed pickups that sound great to me.😉
I just got my new Epiphone Firebird yesterday. It's the best guitar that Epi is putting out these days. It really holds its own against all my other, more expensive, guitars.
I’m a tall guy. The Firebird fits me nicely. The neck is kind of pushed out further making it comfortable to play with my long arms. When I play an LP or Strat style everything feels cramped. Sounds killer too.
Yeah same. Firebirds feel like a guitar for burly men in my opinion, and I’m tall with long arms. Les pauls feel like I’m playing a ukulele in comparison
I love my Firebird. It's an Epiphone, Drab Olive colored. Only real difference that I'm aware of is the volume and tone configuration. Normally Gibson Firebirds have the Volume set positionally to align with the pickup placement, unlike an LP where both volume knobs are all set toward the neck and the tone knobs are set to the bridge. This is how they are set on my Epi Firebird, like an LP. I love the tone and fell of that guitar. Only real dislike has more to do with the strap buttons. The button on the back of the neck heel cause the guitar to lean forward away from my body and can make playing it more challenging as it's harder to see the fret board.
It’s the only guitar other than my Telecasters that I have more than one of them in my collection. I have a tobacco sunburst and a green one, both great instruments.
I'm still trying to understand the resistance levels of the stock pickups. Mine read 19 and 24, which would lead one to think this is going to be dark and quick to distort. Not the case necessarily. Are blade pickups just totally different animals? The custom shop FB models have more traditional 50"s wiring and 7-8 ohm resistance. Opted for some Seymour Duncan FB replacements. It did lose a little of that Johnny Winter woodsy tone but it overdrives more predictably.
Firebird guitars are great but not my primary tone. Mostly use LP, Telli, and Strat and sometimes ES335. I think part of why I dont get and use one is the size of the guitar and case. They are pretty massive. Love it for a bass. Think it is probably my favorite bass but they are big guitars.
I never liked the “look” of them myself , but I understand others will love them. A guitar has to catch my eye first before I wanna actually see if I can bond with it. Only gibson I ever want is a 59 burst, but some fella called Joe has hoarded them all😂
Very nice of you Phil to refer to Johnny Winter (Edgar's older brother!) when detailing this axe. Hopefully some kid watching you gets a cardinal red and and upstages JW in the future - - - because you took the time to bring out the nuances !!!
I don't understand the hate. I think thats a great looking guitar. Its a big, long, attractive looking Firebird. And I want one! Fun fact: In some early videos of Lynyrd Skynyrd, you'll see the late great Allen Collins playing a Firebird, prior to his Iconic Gibson Explorer 🎸 Phil, it would be outstanding if you could ever get your hands on a Gibson Non-Reverse firebird and do a video on that.... Think of Brian Jones from early Rolling Stones. He played one during that era. Rock on!
Well , I came here to enter , but, I guess I'm too late , No worries , I have the Epi Firebird , and I also have the Gibson Custom Shop Epi 63 reissue Firebird . wowzers .
I don't 🙂🙂...The ( reverse ) Firebird is actually my favorite guitar, between my Gibsons, Epiphones and other brands I own 12... Great video as always... Very well-done...
I just bought the Epiphone Firebird and I love it. I would have grabbed the Gibson if it wasn’t a bazillion dollars and something I’d have to order. These are great guitars I think more people would play them if they were more readily available.
Funny how the word epiphone looks like the word gibson from a distance. And WTF, who doesnt like Gibson 6 Firebird V? PS I johnny winter play one in 1974 in Lakeland FLA. He kept breaking strings, like 3 times. With rick derringer and edgar. What a show!
My friend bought a firebird a few months ago, and I got to play it before he moved. Most uncomfortable experience of my playing career, they look kinda cool though.
The guitar player in our band has one and he thinks the neck is too fat compared to his SG... He talked to a local luthier and asked if he could shave the neck a bit. What he told him was the fact the body is so big and the neck is kind of "out there" compared to an SG or Les Paul. The scale is the same but your hand is further out and it changes the stretch of the arm and the grip on your hand thus, the neck feels bigger in the hand. Also, his is a 2015 or 16 I believe which has the Steinberger tuners and they're really fast for string changes! He loves them!!
I had an original 63 Firebird. Loved it unfortunately due to ending up with a busted back it was to heavy for me. I now use a one off custom hollow body telecaster style with handwound pups. I don't quite get the original Firebird sound but it's damn close.
The Winner is Joshua Lovejoy from Connecticut.
Congratulations.
I don't like them.
Yes your right don’t know what they go on about pussys
Bummer I missed out!
God what I would give for a firebird
The only reason anyone would hate the Firebird is because they heard Johnny Winter and knew they could never play that good.
SHO TRUE
And Allen Collins from Skynyrd
@@clapdrix72 No, he played one too
That's the honest to God truth! Always been a fan of Firebirds for over 55+ years ❤ Someone commented saying Firebirds a basically "pissed off Telecasters" that is 100% accurate! But if you know what you're doing with Firebirds there's no tone you can't achieve!
was going to comment that the great albino played the hell out of a firebird!!
What are you talking about? I’ve never heard anyone, at literally anytime say they hate a Firebird. I love them. I want one. Always have. One of the coolest Gibsons ever.
They sell *poorly*. Most players hate them.
@inherentmirth5180 most players have never picked one up
Upside down headstock, an amoebic body shape, too much plastic, and a toggle switch so far to the right that it's almost falling off the body..... What's not to love?
@@inherentmirth5180 I’m at trade shows all the time. Best friends with a vintage guitar dealer. I have never hear literally anyone say that. The Les Paul sold poorly in the 50s. The problem is they make too many models. Not because they hate the Firebird. That’s just silly.
I wouldn't say I hated mine, but I didn't care for it much, it looked cool but the neck dive bothered me to the point that it stayed in the closet for years until I finally sold it.
I have a cardinal red non-reverse and it’s a stunner. Also doubles as a midcentury modern coffee table!
THAT'S FUNNY!!
I had to have one. Im broke as a joke right now but i scrapped up a couple hundred to buy this firefly firebird. Waiting on delivery now, i expect to have to work on it but its kinda why i wanted it.
I was a big Les Paul guy, now I only play firebirds. I’m an exception, super unique guitarist.
That red Firebird really hits.
Just like my dad
Which one?? 😄
Hits like diarrhea after you ate McDonald's
@@inherentmirth5180 Oh my gosh that is the sexiest comment I hace read all day! 🌈💙🏳🌈
Thanks! I like your stuff!😊
Thank you
Enjoyed the whole discussion about “what makes a Firebird different?” - I’ve played one, but didn’t know exactly what was going on with the pickups (never took one apart).
I’d say the Firebird is “mission accomplished” - lots more “bite” than a Les Paul, cuts right through 😎👍. As you said, almost Fender-like.
If I were to have a Gibson-type guitar, it would be either a Firebird or an RD Artist (which has a body shape that’s similar to a Firebird). The RD has lots of bite, also, but it kind of “cheats” because it has active electronics.
Firebird is the pure thing 👍, which is why Allen Collins and Johnny Winter both played them!
I have one!!!! 1970s!!! I love it. Johnny Winter loved them!!! Great guitars.
I have that exact guitar , custom shop red reissue same yr , but the neck on mine was ordered with a 55 -56 style LP neck , big rounded necked , huge , not skinny . Mine came with banjo tuners . This was my dream guitar . I watched a 65 red firebird played at my elementary school . That was 1966 . The player was a doctor s son , it was ordered special for the teen. 2019 I got mine. my guitar weights 7 pounds 2 ozs , perfect balance. Very loud un plugged .
Finally toward the end you said the two words that jumped into my mind when I saw the guitar, "Johnny Winter". It is a beautiful instrument and makes some beautiful sounds (a little less reverb would have been nice when you were playing).
It's funny the red one really looks like a car from the early 60s, but when you look at the Epiphone that's up for the drawing, the different color is much more reminiscent of a TV set from the same time period. It's a very cool looking guitar, and as a casual woodworker I really appreciate the way the wood is joined together. Love it!
I've picked up the new one in the same red. The car vibes are huge and the vibrola plate reminds me of an exposed airscoop on a hot rod. Yes furniture also came in this red in the 60's.
It's funny you should say that because Gibson did not design this guitar, it was designed for Gibson by Ray Dietrich, an automobile designer.
@@Mr.56GoldtopRay Dietrich designed for Packard! He was a genius!
Phill only the kids of today hate, but those of us from 60's and 70's love it just like you. Evan if we don't own one like myself over the years there was always a neighbor or at a guitar teacher's house you saw one and got to play one. I was just thinking of getting one a few days ago. You saved me a google search.
I have one in burst with the steinberger tuners. Like you I dig the ‘bird but I’m super careful with it cause I’ve heard accounts of that big headstock breaking-even inside that King Tut sarcophagus of a case that mine also came in. But anyhow congrats Phil that red ‘bird is indeed beautiful, and moreover it sounded great.
I had a 2015 Cherry version of this guitar. It had a stunningly good sound! Incredibly versatile, comfortable to play and looked amazing!
I love the Firebird, I have two, and I also have a Thunderbird Bass. One aspect that I like is the reverse headstock makes the bass strings the longest, which helps lower the tension, even when drop tuning. I have a few explorers too, I have the Epiphone Korina Explorer and it has some amazing tones too, equipped with Gibson Burstbucker™ 2 and Burstbucker 3 pickups. I almost got the Ruby Red Firebird when it first came out, but I already have the vintage burst and Olive Drab Green versions, so a third is hard to justify, the cases are massive. You could easily build a fort for your kids with 4 of them.
I have the exact Gibson Firebird that you have here in the Video. Cardinal Red. But mine is a 2017. I love this guitar.
It sounded great! Super playing sir!! I would have to jam on one myself to decide👍👏🎸
My first electric was a Firebird III that I bought in… I believe it was late August 1963 for my 15th birthday. I later bought a twin reverb and I loved them together. At some point I sold it to a friend who sold it to another friend of mine who I believe still has it. I’d offer to buy it back but the value has skyrocketed. I think it now goes for over 40 times its original sale price.
I don't like the way they look, but they sound the way I like 😂
That sound at 12:17 - WOW!!!! give me chaotic! I'm an Explorer fan BUT that is a nice-looking Firebird. Johnny Winter was a killer player on stage - he had so much attitude.
Love firebirds. Especially the pick up.. one of my future projects is to build a partscaster with a firebird neck pickup and an upside down strat neck.
My two favorite guitars to play...
the SG and Firebird. Great upper fret access, usually a comfortable weight and they can have some pretty thin necks, which I prefer.
I love my firebird! its thin and light which i appreciate alot these days, i changed the nut and got rid of the stock ceramics. very happy with my firechicken
When I played in a Band, I had 3 Firebirds! All 1963's.
2 Tobacco Sunbursts, and 1 Fire Engine Red one.
I LOVED them! Wish I still had 'em.
Still have the '64 reverse VII my dad got in '65, has survived the years somehow.
I had a black one, like Paul Stanley’s, way back in the day. Lightweight and played good, and the mini’s cut through better than regular HBpickups. The only problem, not really that much of one I guess, were the banjo tuners! It took a bit to remember which way to turn, lol! Cool guitars!
They look awesome. They sound good. They feel like trying to embrace someone who has extra elbows to navigate. The Explorer is a similar body shape but MUCH more ergonomic.
Thanks!
Love the Firebird coverage! Thank you !!
Huh? I love them!
I had a vintage, '76 Bicentennial Firebird V.
The balance is funky due to the large headstock, but I loved the tone I got from it.
Love the V's myself. Had a 72 reissue Korina (stolen, still mad) got the Epiphone equivalent but never sounded as good. Replaced the bridge pu and the pots and wiring and it screams!
Love Firebirds....I had a mid 70's Ibanez copy for a while and struggled...neck dive was profound and the neck was a bit of a reach....the more I reached, the more dive. It was great sitting down.....love the look of them, love the sound, maybe now I've got more paunch, I should try again....maybe it'll sit better now.
Good video. Two things : (maybe someday), I'd like to hear a vintage SG with the Firebird pickup kit swap and, even though they are long gone, would love your take on an old Hagstrom.
I had an Epi Firebird V, which I loved! Wasnt the best wood, for volume, and of course, neck dive like it was made from lead… I compensated by sticking a pound and a half of wheel weights around the back edge, which balanced it, but man it was hefty, after that! That being said, aside from those gripes, it was a wonderful guitar, and yes, in that same red!
Such a cool-looking guitar that sounds just as good. Love it!
always enjoy the depth of guitar knowledge you share. cheers especially the reviews where you show the way it is assembled and your thoughts.
Love seeing you play riffs. I watch most of your videos and it seems you don't play a ton on your videos, which is fine but I do like hearing the riffs you play. You really dug in on this one. Must be a really fun guitar to play ✌🏻
I had a blonde Firebird V from the 90's that I had to sell...my God I've always regretted it. It was an awesome guitar, and one I'd definitely have back.
Loooovely looking guitar. If you do end up doing the epi firebird review I’ll be eager to watch it!
I love classic Firebirds. Played one of my best solos ever on one of them.
I looked at that guitar for sale from Guitar Chimp, also a custom shop V they had. Nice purchase!
The Firebird played Freebird! Watch the great Allen Collins show us how it's done in TWO PERFORMANCES 1st and 2nd trip to London.
*Lynryd Skynyrd 1975 Free Bird BBC Old Grey Whistle Test* [ 1975, unsure what exact date...early in the year probably] and
*Lynyrd Skynyrd - Free Bird (Live Old Grey Whistle Test - 1975)* [November 11, 1975]
[of course I just can't see both of these being in 1975, but they were. What a busy year! First performance is with founding drummer Bob Burns and 3rd guitarist Ed King. The second performance is with new drummer Artimus Pyle and Ed King had quit. This is the 'limbo' period when founding guitarists Gary Rossington and Allen Collins would hold down the fort with Skynyrd's release of the *Gimme Back my Bullets* album. Steve Gaines joined the band about 6-7 months after the November '75 performance.
I saw Lynryd Skynyrd at Knebworth, 1976, supporting the rolling stones. Man, they were great and Freebird with Allan Collins lighting up the whole crowd with his guitar playing is something I'll never forget. Made the stones sound tame after that.
Rossington on an SG and Van Zant without his signature hat. Rare stuff.
@@cbcacbcaThe Stones, with all respect to their talent and influence, weren't always great live. Those guys from Jacksonville, though, cut their teeth playing honky tonk gigs in the South. They Had to bring it live or they'd get beer bottles thrown at them. Of course they were better live!
It’s his Explorer on the record.
I'm not much for "racy red guitars" but yours is very cool!!Love the color. I have played, but never owned a Firebird.
I like em.
Nice playing man!
I have an Epiphone version that I picked up used for not much. It is a true neck through 11 piece body (9 piece laminated neck through section with two wings). Put steinberg locking tuners on it, Fralin Firebird pickups. Fantastic.
12:20 Now I want a Firebird so I can rip into some Johnny Winter licks. *That* is the sound of Texas blues to my ear. Great playing as ever 👍
I love that he played “Rock Me Baby” from “Still Alive and Well”, which is probably my favorite Johnny Winter album.
That OD on the bridge is IT!!!
Spot on....
One of the other unique features of the Firebird, that I think, make it a joy to play, is the tuning peg alignment. All the strings run straight thru the nut. Tunes better and bends are easier. The body shape and neck thru design does make it feel like you're playing a bass.
In 1963, the Pastor and Guitarist of the Baptist Church my family went to (Pastor Tiner) showed up to Sunday Service one day with a brand new 1963 Firebird I he’d purchased from Jenkins Music Company in Tulsa.
I was a Freshman in High School in 1963 and had started my own band playing my Mom’s Gibson ES-225TD her and my Father financed new from Jenkins in Tulsa in 1958. They also got me a Gibson CG-530 Doubleneck Steel and Gibson Amp. We both took lessons and played shows together beginning in 1957. grew up listening and idolizing Steel Guitar players Leon McAuliffe, Jerry Byrd, Speedy West, etc.
Once I heard Buddy Holly in 1958, then The Beach Boys in 1963, followed by the Beatles in 1964 I wanted to start a band.
Anyways, I ended up buying Pastor Tiners 1963 Firebird I in 1969 and still own it to this day. Also still have mom’s ES-225TD and lots of other Vintage Fenders.
The Firebird I however is the best sounding and playing Gibson I’ve ever played or owned. Including a couple Sun Burst Les Paul’s.
I love my Epiphone Firebird. (I put the Duesenberg Les trem II on it- it works great.).
I don’t play it as much any more for my church gig, since the guitar (and the hard case) are massive. I find myself grabbing the Tele more, simply due to convenience. (I just stick it in the gig bag and go.) They both have the bite I need for some praise songs, but there is a little more warmth in the Firebird.
Guitar player here. I don't hate Firebirds. On the contrary, I'd love to have one
If u want one, if u did get one u would have the same complaints as the unsatisfied owners & former owners. unless u r a rare bird😂🤣😂
Loving to have one, and knowing whether you love it or hate it are two different things 😂 I like having mine, but it is a big awkward guitar and I understand why it’s not common
@@3acharyy87 uncommon guitar for uncommon musical minds!! 😉
I traded a LP Classic for a 2016 Firebird and never looked back. I love every single thing about it. The pickups are incredible. It plays like a dream. Super comfortable. Screams with fuzz. The one thing people may struggle with is it is a long guitar. It would be tough for a guy sub 6ft to wrangle. Imo, the Firebird is an incredible design and my favorite from Gibson. Nothing sounds quite like it.
I always felt like the shape was a refinement on the Explorer. It has the same back “wing” and front “horn” just smaller and rounded, with a less sharp waist.
The sharp angle of the Explorer makes it wonderfully stable for seated play. I would love to see a shrunken variant (like a Dinky to Strat), with the wing truncated and the bridge positioned further to the rear of the body. I would also need a low, Fender-style hardtail and a 42mm nut to play it, but that is just me.
@@Robstafarian I think that's honestly a very cool idea! Love Gibson/Epiphone but hate how freaking greedy Gibson seems to be omg.
@@Robstafarian that's the rd body shape.
@@HunnysPlaylists I hope someone someday will clone that shape with the specs I mentioned.
@@Robstafarian esp sells an rd-like shape. gibson had a few rereleases (that are now selling for new car money).
I actually love the Thunderbird. I just don't have one any more. Had a Firebird bass. It was fantastic, but I gave it to a church that needed one. Would love to own one again.
I had a Firebird. Drove it all over the place! 😊
I've got one in the dark walnut colour, but it is a couple years older and the tuners are not banjo tuners, but have a knurled barrels to tune the strings, by Steinberger. I find the guitar very inspiring and fun to play onstage and really seems to fit when it's time to rock out. I think the pickups are so hot because that's what players seem to expect of these guitars but according to my sources the first Firebird pickups were not that high output. I have a non-reverse of this same vintage and in this red colour and they came with these same hot pickups, but I installed a set of vintage correct pickups from Q Pickups from Croatia and what a different sound. Lighter and airier and the Telecasters comparisons now make sense. So I have two pickups flavours in a Firebird. The next thing to try is putting the newer Gibson Firebird pickups that I removed into my Epiphone Crestwood instead of their unimpressive mini humbuckers. And about the big bulky cases. Why would Gibson not have installed metal glides on the bottom surface that is on the table or floor when you take out the guitar? I have some that I could have installed but I didn't have the heart to start pulling up the inside lining to install them properly.
I do NOT think it’s incorrect to say that Firebird pickups are similar to Mini-humbuckers. FB pickups WERE derived from the Mini-HB design, which originally came from Epiphone, and they ARE the same size and use mostly the same components. The main difference between them, as I understand it, is that Mini-HBs use a metal bar piece in one coil and individual screw pole pieces on the other (magnetized by a bar magnet underneath), while FB pickups basically just substitute bar magnets inside of BOTH coils. Gibson basically got the Mini Humbucker design from Epiphone when they bought Epiphone, and ended up using them in certain Gibson products, perhaps most famously the 1970’s Les Paul Deluxe, because Gibson’s LP at the time was routed for P-90’s, and they didn’t want to have to change their tooling to route for regular hunbuckers, and Mini-HB’s were the PERFECT solution, since they are a drop-in replacement into existing P-90 routes (with the mini-HB pickup rings). Some people today would say the LP Deluxe is a unique sounding hidden gem as a result!
I have the Epi Firebird and a 2013 Gibson Firebird. The Epi really nails the Firebird vibe and sound. The Gibson has hotter pups than the '60's originals. They're not bad, but I like a more classic sound, so I bought a set of Johnny Winter pups from MojoTone that I plan on installing in it. Both of mine are sunburst, but man, that Cardinal Red is the bomb.
i got those same johnny winter pups. installed them in a goldtop less+. winter voiced them with an emphasis on the neck pickup. they’re clear, balanced to each other (the neck is a bit hotter), and sound great through breakup/overdriven tubes.
Got an Epi FB with the Mojotone JW signature pups. Totally nails the sound and playing experience. Rock and Roll, Hoochie-Coo!
Love my Epi Firebird
Love mine, played it for years
I have never owned a Firebird, but I've played several, both seated and strapped on- and it's like an Explorer- that nut is WAY out there. I'd like to have one because they're really cool, but I do think there would be a big curve in getting used to.
I loved the sound and playability of my mid-60s tobacco sunburst Firebird V when I owned it in the early 80s. BUT I despise heavy guitars (I played a Les Paul Custom for too many years - a literal back breaker) and truly hate heavy guitars with "neck dive." So, even though my Firebird was incredibly well crafted with stunning attention to detail, it was heavy and had extreme neck dive. Thus, it went to a new owner whom I hoped loved it more than I did. The beauty, sound and playability just couldn't overcome the lack of comfort when playing standing!
too me it was the sit down / strap balance .
i love the neck and sound
Firebirds are some of my favorite guitars. I even like the non reverse Firebird.
that neck position sounds more like a strat than a tele! gave me Jimi vibes. I love the look and that color is amazing. too bad the price is so far out of my budget working at a coffee shop!
Very cool guitars!!
Hi Phil great vid as always. I just wondered if you ever include string spacing in the geeky stuff? I think its an overlooked stat. Cheers :)
At my peak as a young man I had 13 guitars. My favorite by far was a early 70s J-200. Next favorite was an ES-1275 (dark walnut 12/6) that I picked up in Kalamazoo as soon as it was finished. I also had '62 white SG that I loved very much and a '73 EB-3 bass. But I had two Gibsons I never loved. One was a '70s flying V (worst guitar to play seated) and the other was a collector-cool 1976 bicentennial tribute where the firebird logo was morphed to a red/white/blue American Eagle kinda firebird. For reasons difficult to explain I just didn't enjoy playing it compared to others. I didn't hate it but I didn't love it.
I've always loved the sounds and tones Johnny Winter got out of all the rigs he recorded with and am glad to have seen him live...and the Firebird was his weapon of choice. Thanks for sharing!
love my firebird, plays great feels great and sounds great
I'd love for you to do a dive on the BC-Rich Mockingbird st. I've always played Les Pauls but I recently been stuck on this Mockingbird. It has these Dunkin designed pickups that sound great to me.😉
Before even watching the video, I'm going to say, as a former Firebird player,....NECK DIVE.......a big lot of it.
I just got my new Epiphone Firebird yesterday. It's the best guitar that Epi is putting out these days. It really holds its own against all my other, more expensive, guitars.
I’m a tall guy. The Firebird fits me nicely. The neck is kind of pushed out further making it comfortable to play with my long arms. When I play an LP or Strat style everything feels cramped. Sounds killer too.
Yeah same. Firebirds feel like a guitar for burly men in my opinion, and I’m tall with long arms. Les pauls feel like I’m playing a ukulele in comparison
I love my Firebird. It's an Epiphone, Drab Olive colored. Only real difference that I'm aware of is the volume and tone configuration. Normally Gibson Firebirds have the Volume set positionally to align with the pickup placement, unlike an LP where both volume knobs are all set toward the neck and the tone knobs are set to the bridge. This is how they are set on my Epi Firebird, like an LP. I love the tone and fell of that guitar. Only real dislike has more to do with the strap buttons. The button on the back of the neck heel cause the guitar to lean forward away from my body and can make playing it more challenging as it's harder to see the fret board.
I love my 1993 VII. Sure the back is heavy but it has a great sound and reverse tuning keys
The Firebird looks like something Gumby would play.
@douglasn. Great image!!!
I can imagine this red Firebird being very striking up against Gumby's green body.
Gumbies fingers are a little thick🤣😂
@@brnrik500 Firebird bass* 😂
Gumby, Johnny Winter same difference
Love the neck pup with the Zen Drive.
It’s the only guitar other than my Telecasters that I have more than one of them in my collection. I have a tobacco sunburst and a green one, both great instruments.
I have a non reverse Gibson Custom Shop in that red. Awesome looking, but I like my Hamers.
I'm still trying to understand the resistance levels of the stock pickups. Mine read 19 and 24, which would lead one to think this is going to be dark and quick to distort. Not the case necessarily. Are blade pickups just totally different animals? The custom shop FB models have more traditional 50"s wiring and 7-8 ohm resistance. Opted for some Seymour Duncan FB replacements. It did lose a little of that Johnny Winter woodsy tone but it overdrives more predictably.
Firebird guitars are great but not my primary tone. Mostly use LP, Telli, and Strat and sometimes ES335. I think part of why I dont get and use one is the size of the guitar and case. They are pretty massive. Love it for a bass. Think it is probably my favorite bass but they are big guitars.
I never liked the “look” of them myself , but I understand others will love them.
A guitar has to catch my eye first before I wanna actually see if I can bond with it.
Only gibson I ever want is a 59 burst, but some fella called Joe has hoarded them all😂
Sounds great!
You mention Alnico II magnets. When did they use the ceramic magnets in the Firebird that I’ve heard people hate on?
Very nice of you Phil to refer to Johnny Winter (Edgar's older brother!) when detailing this axe. Hopefully some kid watching you gets a cardinal red and and upstages JW in the future - - - because you took the time to bring out the nuances !!!
no one is going to upstage Johnny , he was a walking dictionary of blues music , the guitar explosion of the sixties is over
I don't understand the hate. I think thats a great looking guitar. Its a big, long, attractive looking Firebird. And I want one! Fun fact: In some early videos of Lynyrd Skynyrd, you'll see the late great Allen Collins playing a Firebird, prior to his Iconic Gibson Explorer 🎸 Phil, it would be outstanding if you could ever get your hands on a Gibson Non-Reverse firebird and do a video on that.... Think of Brian Jones from early Rolling Stones. He played one during that era. Rock on!
extremely cool tone
Not into mini humbuckers which sound compressed to me. Always wondered what it would be with standard humbuckers.
Well , I came here to enter , but, I guess I'm too late , No worries , I have the Epi Firebird , and I also have the Gibson Custom Shop Epi 63 reissue Firebird . wowzers .
Dat sounds really good ... my older brother has a tobacco burst one and it smokes!
I don't 🙂🙂...The ( reverse ) Firebird is actually my favorite guitar, between my Gibsons, Epiphones and other brands I own 12...
Great video as always... Very well-done...
I just bought the Epiphone Firebird and I love it. I would have grabbed the Gibson if it wasn’t a bazillion dollars and something I’d have to order. These are great guitars I think more people would play them if they were more readily available.
Funny how the word epiphone looks like the word gibson from a distance. And WTF, who doesnt like Gibson 6 Firebird V? PS I johnny winter play one in 1974 in Lakeland FLA. He kept breaking strings, like 3 times. With rick derringer and edgar. What a show!
My friend bought a firebird a few months ago, and I got to play it before he moved. Most uncomfortable experience of my playing career, they look kinda cool though.
The telecaster is a great guitar,grat feel to this axe.
The guitar player in our band has one and he thinks the neck is too fat compared to his SG... He talked to a local luthier and asked if he could shave the neck a bit. What he told him was the fact the body is so big and the neck is kind of "out there" compared to an SG or Les Paul. The scale is the same but your hand is further out and it changes the stretch of the arm and the grip on your hand thus, the neck feels bigger in the hand.
Also, his is a 2015 or 16 I believe which has the Steinberger tuners and they're really fast for string changes! He loves them!!
We have always admired the Firebird
I had an original 63 Firebird. Loved it unfortunately due to ending up with a busted back it was to heavy for me. I now use a one off custom hollow body telecaster style with handwound pups. I don't quite get the original Firebird sound but it's damn close.
One of the most beautiful guitars ever designed. Ray Dietrich was a genius.