China vs Japan vs USA! - Les Paul Tone Comparison!

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  • Опубліковано 4 лют 2021
  • Are American Les Pauls better than Chinese or Japanese ones? Let's find out!
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,9 тис.

  • @DarrellBraunGuitar
    @DarrellBraunGuitar  3 роки тому +137

    Let me know which Les Paul you guys thought sounded the best!
    Enjoy :)

    • @geralr
      @geralr 3 роки тому +16

      The sound is easy to change, what matters is how it FEELS!

    • @chantzarcher4807
      @chantzarcher4807 3 роки тому +30

      I’d say the Japanese app be sounds best

    • @bewusstsein3527
      @bewusstsein3527 3 роки тому +15

      Blindfolded,,,, you cant tell which is which.. that's how good the 2 epi's are..

    • @gregolson5089
      @gregolson5089 3 роки тому +42

      Just on principle the made in China is out of the running for me....

    • @carlbaumeister3439
      @carlbaumeister3439 3 роки тому +25

      @@gregolson5089 I hear ya. But just like a lot of Americans don’t agree with the socialism that’s encroaching in America, there are many many Chinese that hate the CCP, which probably includes many ppl that work for Epiphone in China. That might not persuade you, but just some food for thought.

  • @jonathanmartin3375
    @jonathanmartin3375 3 роки тому +113

    The fact that you can legitimately compare a $500 to a $2500 guitar and it's close at all says a lot about about where guitar quality building stands today. I'd gig with any of the 3!

    • @deltasemple383
      @deltasemple383 2 роки тому +11

      To ne fair im pretty sure thats an 850 dollar epiphone

  • @ericknapp4352
    @ericknapp4352 3 роки тому +441

    The Japanese Elitist was the best sounding one.

    • @joemasse4568
      @joemasse4568 3 роки тому +16

      The elite is a hell of a guitar, I’ve got a Casino elite, and quality and sound are better than the Gibson equivalent, they aren’t cheap, pretty rare.

    • @SvenTviking
      @SvenTviking 3 роки тому +32

      There is no reason that a Japanese manufactured guitar should be inferior. They are an advanced developed nation that not only builds high tech electronic and automotive goods but also has great tradition in woodwork. Most shredders play Ibanez, made in Japan.

    • @blakjack3053
      @blakjack3053 3 роки тому +6

      Indeed it did sound wonderful! They all sounded good. I own a Gibson LP, Xplorer, and SG and they sound and play fantastic! Personally I won't buy those Epiphones, I invest in USA made guitars, amps, and pedals!

    • @harunrasitozturk9224
      @harunrasitozturk9224 3 роки тому +1

      best! l had one

    • @Whatsitallabaaat
      @Whatsitallabaaat 3 роки тому +8

      I had to put my headphones on. The best was indeed the Japanese one, it sounded exactly how a Gibson Les Paul should sound. The Gibson was weird, it sounded like a Schecter, great if you like schecter, but it didn't sound like a Les Paul. Gibson keep doing this, let's make our 'insert classic Gibson of your choice' sound like our competitor. Like those 90s SGs that sounded like Strats. Why? If I want a schecter sound I'll buy one and get all that fat neck goodness too!

  • @mangjuan_tv6789
    @mangjuan_tv6789 2 роки тому +40

    japanese quality control is in next level,probably number 1 in the world.its in general not only in guitars or other musical instrumens.that makes them exceptional

  • @thereisnopandemic
    @thereisnopandemic 2 роки тому +33

    Want the Japanese one!! Japan has been killing it.your guitar skills still make these guitars sound like high quality guitars.

  • @Pete_Harris
    @Pete_Harris 3 роки тому +228

    The Japanese Les Paul Custom sounded lovely and 'fat' compared to the others, my favourite by a mile.

    • @gibsonero00
      @gibsonero00 3 роки тому +5

      that's because les pauls custom always have a darker sound

    • @stricknine8623
      @stricknine8623 3 роки тому +2

      If someone were being sincere they may have a slight preference in tone.
      When they start talking about some "other worldly" difference or "huge" difference or "by a mile",..it is then that you know they aren't being sincere.

    • @kennethshort2016
      @kennethshort2016 3 роки тому +3

      Maybe it was the amp.. but none of them sounded like the Les Paul's of yore.

    • @edgarharris4764
      @edgarharris4764 3 роки тому

      agree!

    • @TheIkaika777
      @TheIkaika777 2 роки тому +1

      @@kennethshort2016, All Gibson Les Paul’s don’t sound like Les Paul’s of yore. Not even the re-issues.

  • @bradleyard4195
    @bradleyard4195 3 роки тому +156

    Tone-wise, the MIJ LP is the clear winner, it's the least harsh-sounding guitar of the bunch, and the one I'd grab for.

    • @davidbeauvais1364
      @davidbeauvais1364 3 роки тому +3

      I have one

    • @chipgaasche4933
      @chipgaasche4933 3 роки тому +7

      @@davidbeauvais1364 good for you, davy. Lol

    • @danielwoods2531
      @danielwoods2531 3 роки тому +1

      @@davidbeauvais1364 I beleive they are all mohagany so they are darker. That bite of the maple really shines in a band setting. You want that cut. At least i do. I love customs for rhythm playing. Not so much for lead. The last band i was in i played strictly rhythm and my custom worked awesome for that gig. The band I'm in now I'm the lead player and i use a standard and a mahogany/maple Jackson

    • @davidbeauvais1364
      @davidbeauvais1364 3 роки тому +3

      @@chipgaasche4933 I have Orville by Gibson made in Japan it's nicer sounding than my Nashville made LP.

    • @StingrayMk1
      @StingrayMk1 3 роки тому +2

      Agreed.

  • @Ouzo66
    @Ouzo66 3 роки тому +67

    The black japanese , by far sounds the best at all chapters ...creamy and clean and cuts through the mix whitout scratching your ears

  • @ronaldmendez186
    @ronaldmendez186 3 роки тому +123

    No one ever can defeat made in japan they are perfectionist

    • @kennethshort2016
      @kennethshort2016 3 роки тому +4

      Germany, Sweden, and Korea might beg to differ

    • @robertthomas7239
      @robertthomas7239 3 роки тому +9

      The Enola Gay begs to differ. 😉

    • @periplanetaamericana86
      @periplanetaamericana86 3 роки тому +3

      @@robertthomas7239 Oh snap 😂

    • @AsianCole
      @AsianCole 3 роки тому +1

      made in germany

    • @anthonyvalentino9483
      @anthonyvalentino9483 2 роки тому

      BS buddy Scott Lewis is the Master builder and supervisor at the China facility and he was a Master builder for Gibson same with his American luthiers who are there also

  • @limatorontotorontoli
    @limatorontotorontoli 3 роки тому +65

    I feel the Japanese guitar sound a little better than the others., but the American one in the clean mode sounds brighter than the other ones.

    • @mountainpeakcloud8442
      @mountainpeakcloud8442 2 роки тому +1

      Part of the brightness can be due to the fact that the pickups didn't have pickup covers on them, where as the other 2 guitars did. It would be interesting to do a comparison with a USA les Paul with pickup covers... My USA standard has pickup covers, and it is noticeably less bright compared to other USA standards without them.

    • @limatorontotorontoli
      @limatorontotorontoli 2 роки тому

      @@mountainpeakcloud8442 I have to Les Paul Epiphone, I in my case, the one with golden covers sounds better all the way than the one without covers. Price range is the same for both, but probably the inside components quality of the pickups made the difference.

    • @mountainpeakcloud8442
      @mountainpeakcloud8442 2 роки тому

      @@limatorontotorontoli Yeah, I didn't mean that covers make pickups sound worse, what I said was taking the covers off make the same pickups sound a bit brighter... so if the guy wanted to do a more accurate comparison, using les pauls all with or without covers would be better.

  • @oldguy5381
    @oldguy5381 3 роки тому +39

    I guess it boils down to how deep your pockets are. They all sounded great. Enjoy your weekend

  • @ulaso3989
    @ulaso3989 3 роки тому +61

    The Japanese Epiphone sounds amazing

  • @gotaguitarforsale
    @gotaguitarforsale 3 роки тому +22

    The japanese les paul for me had the edge , deep tone and lots of character . 3 nice guitars and every guitarist has their own taste. I prefer the flame burst with fade. Thank you for sharing.

  • @johnlifts4384
    @johnlifts4384 3 роки тому +121

    Epiphone fan had some great ones.. never embarrassed of that headstock

    • @antma9028
      @antma9028 3 роки тому +3

      Love the other headstock.

    • @rivalworkshopandguitars5851
      @rivalworkshopandguitars5851 3 роки тому +8

      Honestly my Epi custom honestly rivals my Gibson LP STUDIO. Love both of them though!

    • @mraycgz
      @mraycgz 3 роки тому +7

      Never bothered me either. I really don’t get the hate.

    • @jimmyparris9892
      @jimmyparris9892 3 роки тому +4

      I mostly prefer Epiphone over Gibson. I don't really know why. I think it has to do with the feel, and most of the Epiphones that I've had seem to be lighter than their Gibson counterparts. I love the Epiphone headstock.

    • @mxaxe5591
      @mxaxe5591 3 роки тому +5

      I prefer Epi over Gibson any day. And I too really like the old headstock. Stylish and unique to Epi.

  • @andyanderson7503
    @andyanderson7503 3 роки тому +39

    The Gibson sounds brighter but it also doesn't have pickup covers. They all sound pretty great to me! The MIJ sounds creamier like you said.

    • @sgtmac62
      @sgtmac62 3 роки тому +1

      Everett, PUP covers are window dress. They do not change the sound. I tried this on my LP, and no difference could be heard by others and myself.

    • @Nickclaynickclay
      @Nickclaynickclay 3 роки тому +3

      Its a scientific fact that the cover changes the magnetic field. Now whether or not that's audible, I suppose is up to you. I tend to believe it compresses the attack, and attenuates the highs

    • @stricknine8623
      @stricknine8623 3 роки тому

      Differences are subtle at best.
      "Creamier" isn't always the best and certainly is subjective.
      I've noticed that things like this depend on what is trending in a given comment section.
      If 10 out of the first 15 comments happen to be in favor of "x",....then the trend is set in favor of "x".
      Ever heard of a "herd mentality" and/or placebo effect ? It is real.

  • @cchavez248
    @cchavez248 3 роки тому +15

    MIJ Epiphone sounded the best to me in all the samples, there was just something more vocal and organic to it's sound! Great vid!

  • @donwade3801
    @donwade3801 3 роки тому +9

    Darrell I just love all your videos! You're relaxed manner is refreshing. No trying to impress people with your playing, which is phenomenal by the way! You're always Fair to everyone. Truly seem like a real nice guy who would make a great friend. Keep it up young man!

  • @craigosborne3260
    @craigosborne3260 3 роки тому +116

    Love the Japanese. It sounded awesome through headphones

    • @flol3266
      @flol3266 3 роки тому +2

      Not only through heaphones

    • @jmartini8875
      @jmartini8875 3 роки тому +2

      My fave too

    • @D-Man_Jam
      @D-Man_Jam 3 роки тому +2

      Probably a placebo. Sounded the same to me, but probably built better.

    • @miscellaneousmemer1016
      @miscellaneousmemer1016 3 роки тому +3

      Don't think there's much of a difference in tone. The biggest difference is build quality

  • @wilhelmtheconquerer6214
    @wilhelmtheconquerer6214 3 роки тому +27

    Japanese guitars are always amazing! If I could ever have a signature bass, it would be a MIJ Fender with a roadworn finish, hands down!

  • @SwanSycorax
    @SwanSycorax Рік тому +6

    Thanks for this back to back to back comparison. I am now 73 and have been playing guitar since I was 13! Over the years I have owned and played quite a number of Les Pauls - all Gibson, just as I also owned and played numerous Strats - all Fender. On occasions I tried several Chinese built copies but never took to any as they always - to my ear, sounded brittle when compared to the real thing and lacked personality in their feel. However, things seem to have changed. Firstly, age caught up and I sold off almost all my guitars in recent years as tinitus and deafness in one ear took away my ability to pitch when singing and age related stiffness in my fingers meant I was no longer able to play as I used to which caused great frustration - therefore, why keep loads of guitars each worth £2000+. However, I have learned to compensate for the hearing (the other ear is still good!) and worked on the fingers so a few months ago bought a couple of Squire guitars and was pleasantly surprised by how good these new Chinese instruments are. Today I pickup a brand new Epiphone 1959 Les Paul "Lemonburst" and am really looking forward to it.

  • @rickbullock4331
    @rickbullock4331 3 роки тому +48

    The Chinese guitar sounded pretty awesome to my ears. I’m not savvy enough to really tell the difference. All of these guitars sounded great to me.

  • @ZOOTSUITBEATNICK1
    @ZOOTSUITBEATNICK1 3 роки тому +13

    imo
    It's good to hear somebody talk about a Gibson without bitching.
    imo

    • @ericb.1384
      @ericb.1384 3 роки тому +5

      You must be new here haha

    • @ZOOTSUITBEATNICK1
      @ZOOTSUITBEATNICK1 3 роки тому

      @@ericb.1384 ...far from it...

    • @FlorianGuitar85
      @FlorianGuitar85 3 роки тому +1

      No bitching neccessary.
      After all, it leads the others by far simply by smelling way different for only far more money.
      Just kidding, nothing against a nice guitar with a fair and reasonable price / quality ratio.
      Sadly Gibsons used to be among those more in the past I guess.

    • @YouTubeHandlesAreMoronic
      @YouTubeHandlesAreMoronic 3 роки тому +1

      Adjusted for inflation, the Gibson Les Paul Standard costs less today than it did in 1959. They have always been a, "luxury item." The current production is also higher quality and more consistent. The main difference is that there are many cheaper rivals for your money, today. If funds allow, I'd recommend the Gibson.

  • @andysoard4282
    @andysoard4282 3 роки тому +11

    Fantastic reviews and comparisons. Me personally my favorite tone of the three was the made in Japan Epiphone.

  • @TheCheesewalrus
    @TheCheesewalrus 3 роки тому +9

    Feel is criminally underrated on these tests.

  • @normfpv1104
    @normfpv1104 3 роки тому

    I just love listening to you playing, talking, you're just good for the soul. Thank you.

  • @davidingalls6355
    @davidingalls6355 3 роки тому +6

    I recently acquired a 1959 Epiphone with the same dark burst finish as the one in the video, and I am more than pleased with the sound and quality of that guitar. It is an incredible value for the price.

  • @fredmeister5607
    @fredmeister5607 3 роки тому +42

    That Epiphone 1959 sure sounds great and plays great stacked up against a gibson les paul standard. Pretty impressive stuff for the price

    • @jmartini8875
      @jmartini8875 3 роки тому +1

      Yes FredMeister. I own one of the Epiphone 59s. Only a couple of weeks now. Very nice. Highly recommend. All Gibson. Burstbuckers, CTS pots, Switch craft switch, hard case. It's all there except the G word on it's head stock.

    • @bishlap
      @bishlap 3 роки тому

      pure mental masturbation: EpIphone will never be better than a REAL LIVE GIBSON Les Paul... I think it's time to grow up, Gibson haters. Just bc a Gibby LP is expensive or even in many an opinion, "overpriced" does not mean Gibson does not make a great/ the best, LES PAUL.

    • @cole5561
      @cole5561 3 роки тому +1

      @@bishlap I don’t think there are Gibson haters either I think they are justifying there Epiphone purchase. It works both ways, in the end no one cares what your headstock says.

    • @anthonystark5412
      @anthonystark5412 3 роки тому +2

      @@bishlap
      There's always got to be one Agnesi fanboi in the comment section.

    • @bishlap
      @bishlap 3 роки тому

      @@anthonystark5412 I know who Mark Agnesi is, but I'm not sure what exactly your comment means. Oh well, peace.

  • @jameshughes6049
    @jameshughes6049 3 роки тому +10

    I have the Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard & it's awesome. But even though it's made in China it has Gibson USA pickups, CTS pots, Mallory capacitors, Switchcraft USA pickup selector switch & output jack, 50's style hand wiring & long neck tenon.

  • @YakGeareyfishing
    @YakGeareyfishing 3 роки тому +35

    Japanese hands down was the best sounding of all of them

  • @russelllucas1043
    @russelllucas1043 3 роки тому +57

    Love the Japan model tone.

  • @Krullmatic
    @Krullmatic 3 роки тому +4

    I love the first Epi. It has a nice warmer, rounder tone. As you can see from my profile pic, I play an Epi Les Paul Heritage Cherry Sunburst and I absolutely love it! I'm normally a Strat guy, but the one one I wanted was a little bit out of my price range, so I bought the Epi Les Paul instead. I absolutely fell in love with it. I will still get me a Strat one day. Im thinking about hot rodding it. You know, some new pups, which that's really all it needs. The Alnico Pros aren't bad though. It stays in tune great with the grover tuners. The neck is absolutely gorgeous! All right, Keep on Rocking Mr. Darrell!

  • @HottJumbulia
    @HottJumbulia 3 роки тому +24

    I have two American Gibson Les Pauls and five Epiphone Les Pauls-one of which was made back in the day in Korea when they first started out. And in my opinion the one made in Korea has the nicest look, feel, sounds and playability. And that’s coming from someone whose first love was the American Les Paul.

    • @kennethshort2016
      @kennethshort2016 3 роки тому

      That is not surprising as everything that I have ever purchased made in Korea has been top notch and like some European countries really place a high value on excellence. It leads me to wonder which guitars are made there and if they produce their own brands.

    • @mountainpeakcloud8442
      @mountainpeakcloud8442 2 роки тому

      I had a Korean Epi LP from 1996, and the neck was warped, and would go out of tune easily, though it did sound good. Perhaps I got a dud, but I remember they had some QC issues. I did however have a Korean Hamer from 1993 that was a really great guitar.

  • @tallantj
    @tallantj 3 роки тому

    You're playing just keeps getting better. Loving the content.

  • @smudgethecat
    @smudgethecat 3 роки тому +5

    Just refreshed my youtube and saw your video! I didn't even realize it was freshly uploaded, lol!

  • @alsantariga1085
    @alsantariga1085 3 роки тому +16

    I like the sound of the Japanese one the best. I just love that creamy sound. The 59 sounded good & the Gibson definitely had more bite in the bridge pickup.

  • @beannie60
    @beannie60 3 роки тому

    WOW! I didn't know their was a EPIPHONE 1959 Les PAUL STANDARD, that's great! And great video's!!!

  • @jaimealvarez143
    @jaimealvarez143 3 роки тому

    My dear friend.. your channel is sooo good. I own a bunch of mid range guitars that I have been adjusting, calibrating and improving... your advices have been so useful. My instruments are sounding like never before without destroying my bank account. Thanks!

  • @underdog8797
    @underdog8797 3 роки тому +15

    First off the Epiphone facility in China is State of the Art and American owned and operated American luthiers and supervisors on site Scott Lewis is plant manager and Master builder Lewis was also Master builder at Gibson some years back...so there you have it

    • @denismguitar1552
      @denismguitar1552 3 роки тому

      I cannot support China.

    • @MGTOW-nn9ls
      @MGTOW-nn9ls 3 роки тому

      I am living and working in China and wondering whether to buy epiphone made in China. Thanks for info about their facility and quantity control information .

  • @ryanyoung696
    @ryanyoung696 3 роки тому +13

    All three sound good. I'd give the edge to the Japanese LP Custom for clean and edge-of-breakup tones. I liked the extra bark the USA LP Standard had on high gain.

  • @jonathanseitz8644
    @jonathanseitz8644 Рік тому

    all three sound amazing great vid

  • @markweber1677
    @markweber1677 3 роки тому

    Great job as usual Darryl enjoyed it blessings to you and yours sir

  • @philjackson519
    @philjackson519 3 роки тому +17

    Japan has to take the biscuit on this occasion .Thank you for all you do Darrell

  • @makifrank1809
    @makifrank1809 3 роки тому +13

    For me the best sounding guitar: Black Beauty Japanese Epi.

  • @sorinkrithuk1080
    @sorinkrithuk1080 3 роки тому

    Great guitars & video. Nice playing 👌

  • @ruthlesscutthroat4030
    @ruthlesscutthroat4030 3 роки тому

    Nice video, your consistency in the videos is making me watch your videos more and more.

  • @aidanparsons2669
    @aidanparsons2669 3 роки тому +6

    Today I got my first ever Gibson. It is the Les Paul Trad Pro V in Blueberry Burst and I am in love. One thing that no one ever talks about is the inspiration a Gibson or other high end guitar gives. Although QC is not always great, the name Gibson makes me more inspired to play and I don't care how snobby it sounds.

    • @joeblough261
      @joeblough261 Рік тому +1

      It doesn't sound snobbish to me, but it sounds kinda stupid. Not trying to be insulting, it's just from the standpoint that a) What does it say about a $2k+ Gibson that has QC issues? Automatically that is inexcusable at that price point, and a big knock against Gibson. b) I agree that a nice quality instrument makes us more inspired to play...but if the instrument itself is of top quality, why would the name on the headstock matter? For those of who have a real passion for guitar, we get off on playing cheap ones as well as expensive one, because it's all about the sound coming out of the amp, and the different character each guitar has. As en example, even though I have a beautiful and mildly expensive Dean Thoroughbred Select, ($900-$1k) but I still get off playing my electric Esteban Midnight Legacy "StratoPaul" that I grabbed for $90 on reverb.

  • @nathan8331
    @nathan8331 3 роки тому +18

    Honestly they all sounded great the epiphones have really evolved when it come to bang for your buck the prices for the epiphones are killer for what your getting the 1959 les paul was just amazing for how much it costed

    • @carlbaumeister3439
      @carlbaumeister3439 3 роки тому

      @@srubberalittle What kind of pickups, if I may ask? Also, what do you think is a reasonable price? (I’m looking at some used ones - might buy one.) Thanks.

    • @davidaustin6271
      @davidaustin6271 3 роки тому +1

      Exactly!! Such a no-brainer unless you have the cash free and ready to spend.

    • @joehahn8817
      @joehahn8817 3 роки тому

      @@davidaustin6271 I paid $599 USD for an Epi Les Paul Standard Plus Top PRO in 2020, it's worth every penny and more!!! I just can't afford the extra two grand for a name on a headstock that may look better to some people. The fact is that beloved Gibson headstock has a greater break angle on the D and G strings. This contributes to the notorious tuning instability you hear about on a lotta Gibsons.

  • @kahlrhoam6769
    @kahlrhoam6769 2 роки тому

    Well, nothing I couldn’t fix w/a change of pups & a graphic EQ pedal.
    Good video. 👏

  • @kensolo6793
    @kensolo6793 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you Darrell for a great comparison.
    Rankings in tone:
    #1-Japan made Epiphone Les Paul Custom Pro Elitist
    #2 - American made Gibson Les Paul
    #3 - Chines made Epiphone 1959 Les Paul.
    I would be proud to own all three of them; however, there is no way I would pay the price for the American made Gibson Les Paul when the Japan made and China made Epiphones sound, look and play so great.
    I guess that explains why I own an Epiphone Custom Pro Les Paul, 2 Epiphone SG's a G310 SG standard (I did upgrade the G310 pickups to zebra probuckers and D'addario Locking Tuners) and a G400 SG Pro, and an Epiphone ES339 Pro and I don't own any American made Gibsons.

  • @preppinglife624
    @preppinglife624 3 роки тому +20

    Tone-wise the Japanese guitar was my favorite

  • @globaltrekkerexplorer
    @globaltrekkerexplorer 3 роки тому +3

    For me it is a draw! They all sounded nice. The blue flame top is absolutely gorgeous. The look of the Gibson guitar draws your eyes into the colorful crafted artwork!

  • @TheOnlineBusker
    @TheOnlineBusker 3 роки тому

    This was great! Same video with strats would be super!!

  • @grantmorgan4508
    @grantmorgan4508 3 роки тому +11

    I thought the Japanese model sounded best overall, particularly when playing a chord with distortion. The American model had some nice clean sounds with bite. The real test is often how they sound when playing in a band situation. I loved the blue finish on the American guitar.

    • @dead_ass115
      @dead_ass115 2 роки тому

      Frank iero from my chemical romance used an elitist for who knows how long.

  • @jlguitarman
    @jlguitarman 3 роки тому +9

    I honestly love my new 59 Epiphone, the neck shape and finish paired with the American electronics makes it play and sound great, I feel no need to spend 3-5 times the money for another one.

  • @Nikoo033
    @Nikoo033 3 роки тому +19

    The Japanese sounded best. It had hints of my Eastman sb57 tones. 🥰

  • @81giorikas
    @81giorikas 2 роки тому

    Great video man.

  • @tiagodungo
    @tiagodungo 3 роки тому

    Great honest review mate, cheers for this =)

  • @Beruang07
    @Beruang07 3 роки тому +13

    Actually I liked the Japanese sound best, I think it would fit my Country/Blues style very well.

  • @georgeescaped6035
    @georgeescaped6035 3 роки тому +44

    put the same pickups in each guitar or the same electrics and same pickups in each guitar to see if they sound different

    • @fredericadda
      @fredericadda 3 роки тому +4

      But the point is to compare stock models

    • @AlexTheCynic
      @AlexTheCynic 3 роки тому +2

      @@fredericadda This video has no point since those are 3 different guitars who would sound different even if all made in the same country.

    • @fredericadda
      @fredericadda 3 роки тому +2

      @@AlexTheCynic of course. But the point is not to check if they sound different (they do), it's to evaluate the relative quality of these models as they are if you bought them. If you put $100 worth of pickups to the $800 Epiphone, the comparison is flawed.

    • @AlexTheCynic
      @AlexTheCynic 3 роки тому +2

      @@fredericadda To change to the same pickups has no point since these are different models. To have a real comparison you should try 3 of the same model (ex. les paul custom) made in 3 different country. This video has no value. Its just a Gibson ad

    • @jameshughes6049
      @jameshughes6049 3 роки тому +3

      All 3 of these guitars come stock with Gibson USA pickups.

  • @WillfulThinker
    @WillfulThinker 3 роки тому +2

    You made them all sound great.

  • @bman1122
    @bman1122 3 роки тому

    thank you, good review

  • @Rockaboveclouds
    @Rockaboveclouds 3 роки тому +6

    Thank you for the review!
    Soundwise: 1) Japan, 2) China, 3) USA
    Looks: 1) USA, 2) Japan, 3) China
    Long Tenon: 1) Japan & China, 3) USA
    Price/value: 1) China, 2) Japan, 3) USA
    Overall: 1) Japan, 2) China, 3) USA
    I hope you can do a review of a Tokai one day, in my opinion they are stunning guitars.

    • @williambaker70
      @williambaker70 2 роки тому

      Have you ever reviewed a James Tyler Variax?

  • @kevinjohnson9710
    @kevinjohnson9710 3 роки тому +33

    This just proves a pro can make them all sound great.

    • @HighSpeedirt1
      @HighSpeedirt1 3 роки тому +1

      So true! What I really want to know is which is more comfortable playing wise and by how much. When you play it unplugged does it resonate and sustain notes better than the other. Then we can talk about pickups and sound because your probably gonna end up changing them out anyways.

    • @MFinGonzo
      @MFinGonzo 3 роки тому

      More like a pro sounds good. Guitar is fine, if it sounds bad it may be the player

  • @johnladdsmusic
    @johnladdsmusic 3 роки тому

    I got the exact same ‘59 Epi back in October! I can’t put it down! It is sublime for sure!!

  • @raymartin1234
    @raymartin1234 2 роки тому +1

    I liked all of them. I've had quite a few Epi's in my time and have no complaints. The main reason I use Gibsons now is that they are so easy to sell if I want a change, and they go up in value so quickly.

  • @gkroberts7816
    @gkroberts7816 3 роки тому +9

    I liked the MIJ most. So much so that yesterday I snagged an Elite with the open book headstock. The real Gibson does sound sweet as does the Chinese version for that matter but its the Japanese build for me. Sounds amazing, feels amazing and a third of the price. Mine has Gibson writen on the TC anyway.

  • @kevantolley2503
    @kevantolley2503 2 роки тому +4

    They all sounded great in a blind test. I currently own a new epi les paul custom. I have no problem with the made in China stigma. Mine is put together every bit as good as a USA model.

  • @MB57
    @MB57 3 роки тому +1

    I love the custom but I'd have to GENTLY remove some of that gloss on the neck! Another great video. Thx!

  • @luckydee7909
    @luckydee7909 3 роки тому

    Thanks Darrell,nice video,very thin differences in terms of sound and feel,but more concerning look'n price.

  • @ritualafterlife
    @ritualafterlife 3 роки тому +19

    The Japiphone! Oh God that sounded incredible even with the stock pickups. I think with your favorite bucker upgrade it'd be the best sounding out of the bunch. I pretty much exclusively use Wizz Premium PAF in LPs.

  • @richciccone2711
    @richciccone2711 3 роки тому +8

    I own a 1990s epiphone LP and an epiphone dot from the same decade. Both made in Korea, both made in the same factory on the same day. They are both incredible sounding instruments. I honestly liked the tone of the Chinese LP.

  • @dcamp671
    @dcamp671 Рік тому

    I’m picking up the ‘59 next week. Happy to see that it’s money well spent. Will be my first real Les Paul, can’t wait.

  • @GiorgioStaltari
    @GiorgioStaltari 3 роки тому

    Thank you for the video! I've bought a chinese Les Paul Epiphone, the Prophecy one. Now I'm more glad about my guitar!

  • @bjkuhn4473
    @bjkuhn4473 3 роки тому +317

    The name means nothing. If it's good it's good

    • @antma9028
      @antma9028 3 роки тому +6

      Exactly.

    • @BOBANDVEG
      @BOBANDVEG 3 роки тому +5

      All sounded like Taiwanese pickups lol

    • @go_ham_sam9902
      @go_ham_sam9902 3 роки тому +4

      It took me way to long to learn that

    • @ronniefnd
      @ronniefnd 3 роки тому +9

      @@go_ham_sam9902 I'm in the same boat. It's really embarrassing how many great guitars I never played because of what it said on the headstock.

    • @j_freed
      @j_freed 3 роки тому +5

      USA is a shortcut to better pots and pickups?
      I can't imagine any Japanese guitar of same spec as USA is in any way less of a guitar. It's that just cheaper guitars spare some money on a few things.
      Consider the dead amazing quality of early 80s Squier by Fender Stratocasters MIJ with USA hardware, the first ones they sent over made the guys at Fender USA want to cry. It practically set a new high bar for the company.

  • @ryanyoung696
    @ryanyoung696 3 роки тому +3

    You should do a video comparing covered vs. uncovered pickups. It seems to make a difference, but I've never done a proper A/B test.

  • @greghenderson4856
    @greghenderson4856 3 роки тому

    The thing I take away from this video is that you are a fine player who is capable of making any guitar sound remarkable!!

  • @stevemora7845
    @stevemora7845 3 роки тому

    Wow! All three are excellent! 👍🎸🎶

  • @CynHicks
    @CynHicks 3 роки тому +24

    These days it really seems that "sound quality" with guitars costing more than 600 or 700 dollars is pretty equal across the board. Build quality, built in tech gadgets and playability is really what separates them.
    I remember when I was young and started playing and those 300 dollar guitars would feedback and just sucked.... Now for 300 you can get something that's at least usable for more than just practice. 600 would get you something that didn't suck. Lol

    • @j_freed
      @j_freed 3 роки тому +5

      Right and keep in mind that's not even the same $300, in real terms you have to compare with today's price of $600 or $900.
      The point is the quality to price ratio has increased exponentially, not just exceeded the same spending power but gone way beyond.

    • @CynHicks
      @CynHicks 3 роки тому +1

      @@dasschaf2476 Second hand? I mean, I had some decent ones too but none were new. Always from pawn shops.
      Anything that cheap new would not stay in tune, intonation always off and terrible, noisy electronics.....my cousin scored a nice, used Washburn for around 350 back in 92. Very solid jazz guitar with binding, carved top, brass nut, brass bridge, unique stainless steel hollow circle inlays... ect.... New a guitar like that back then would've been easily twice that. Maybe thrice. That's in 92 dollars not 2020... Today similar would be no more than 600 new

    • @CynHicks
      @CynHicks 3 роки тому +1

      @@dasschaf2476 or.... Maybe the guitar market in the U.K. was just much more consumer friendly back then. That or played guitars like my first one that couldn't actually be tuned and you had to turn the volume all the way down when not playing. Lol

    • @raymondkidwell7135
      @raymondkidwell7135 3 роки тому +1

      For $600 you can get an Epiphone that is about 95% as good as a gibson sound-wise- but to me the Gibson is the best sounding. And quality wise the Gibson is a big upgrade.

    • @CynHicks
      @CynHicks 3 роки тому

      @@dasschaf2476 Ibanez makes some great guitars. I've owned 3 of their S series... Only 1 currently. I had a Harmony begginer combo (amp, guitar, gig bag lol) I bought used for 100 bucks as my first "real" guitar. It sucked really bad. Basically a generic beginner Squire (I forget what Fender called those) but at the time it was great for my needs. Definitely got practice tuning time in lol. Harmony's "top tier" guitars weren't too bad though I remember. The key with pawn shops for me was finding a good one. Many acted like every guitar they had was something special when it was junk but a few were very knowledgeable but kept prices pretty low while occasionally you'd find one that doesn't know what they've got.

  • @manbearpig2164
    @manbearpig2164 3 роки тому +200

    I thought the Japanese model sounded the best

    • @whatskraken3886
      @whatskraken3886 3 роки тому +3

      agreed

    • @miscellaneousmemer1016
      @miscellaneousmemer1016 3 роки тому +2

      Placebo effect

    • @danielpage2013
      @danielpage2013 3 роки тому +2

      Which is concerning considering a Gibson is 3 grand out the box. Don’t get me wrong I swear by Japanese guitars. I have two MIJ Gibson copies, one lawsuit era and an Edwards (esp), and also a Heritage H157. The heritage blows them all out of the water..... I want to love Gibson but they don’t sound or feel
      Like quality instruments, which is unacceptable for their price point. I was taught at a young age if I wanted a Gibson... get something from about 1986-1995... bc the norlin era slab bodies are a million lbs and the ones from the millennium have qc issues.

    • @whatskraken3886
      @whatskraken3886 3 роки тому +3

      @@miscellaneousmemer1016 nope

  • @johnriddlebarger6335
    @johnriddlebarger6335 3 роки тому

    All three guitars sound good. I would buy one of the Epiphone's for the value. Good playing and thanks for the video.

  • @Dodger2879
    @Dodger2879 3 роки тому

    You and Chris Buck make my guitar days! Thankyou so much!
    I am an old fart, been playing for 55 years, still do, but both your straightforward approach, no BS, demos sail above the rest.
    My old 60's Japan LP, sounds amazing still. Now I've complimented you, watcha gonna do about my left hand ageing!😉
    Keep safe!

  • @jeffreyeagen4896
    @jeffreyeagen4896 3 роки тому +32

    I thought the Elitist sounded the best, for my taste anyway.

    • @kenthhamner2641
      @kenthhamner2641 3 роки тому

      I owned two Elitists. The PUs are 50/60ST iirc. A nicely built guitar but the poly kills the tone a bit. When I got my USA Trad+ I had no problem letting go of them.

    • @Alex-et5tj
      @Alex-et5tj 3 роки тому

      They all sound the same

  • @michaelb.42112
    @michaelb.42112 3 роки тому +8

    10 seconds in and I've been looking forward to a video like this. China and Indonesia have been making some AMAZING basses for the last few years, maybe decade. Just as good as MIJ and 1/3 the price. If it's good, it's good, no matter what the headstock says. The secret is finding the one YOU like.

  • @donaldmook9073
    @donaldmook9073 3 роки тому +2

    I appreciate the outstanding review. I have the epiphone Les Paul custom made in China, and it plays outstanding. Cannot beat the price. One day I will move into an American made Gibson $$$. Your demo keeps it all in perspective.

  • @benhoward7006
    @benhoward7006 3 роки тому +1

    They all sounded great. The Blue Gibson is pure eye candy.

  • @robertpage3358
    @robertpage3358 3 роки тому +3

    i love les paul,i feel extremely atracted to them,(maybe because im a jimmy page fan boy hehe) and i love your channel! great content as always my man

  • @dlux703
    @dlux703 3 роки тому +2

    I liked them all and I "do" believe that wiring, even though essentially the same, can have individual quirks. Especially tone pots, which can contribute to the perception of one being warmer/smoother, etc. You can set the pots on all 3 at the same place and that won't mean they all have the same setting. There are variations for each one.

  • @angelrivero2320
    @angelrivero2320 3 роки тому +2

    Awesome job Darrell. I have heard wonderful things about Japanese made Les Pauls.. Burny, Edwards, Tokai. It will be awesome if you can look into Edwards (by ESP).

  • @haroldjhafhethmelendezmart3655
    @haroldjhafhethmelendezmart3655 3 роки тому +7

    The best Les Paul is from Japan, good video.

  • @jerryx2000
    @jerryx2000 3 роки тому +4

    I loved the Japana Gibson but all three pick up were different I guess!

  • @anthonycrystal33
    @anthonycrystal33 3 роки тому +1

    I've watched your vids for a number of years and I always hear you play with basically the same sound processing each time with each different guitar. Now your choice of amp or sound processor is for your taste preferences in sound, however, when doing a demonstration-comparison it is best to hear without any sound effects so that the guitar can be heard and not the processed sound. In this video, all guitars sounded basically the same because the pure sounds of those guitars were replaced with your desired processor!

  • @mikeburnett174
    @mikeburnett174 2 роки тому

    Thanks for the grat comparisons!! After looking now at a ton of reviews comparing the Epiphone Les Paul's to the Gibson models, I have decided to purchase an Epiphone Les Paul Gold Top with P90's. I can afford either the Epi or the Gibson but since I'm not a professional player I justcan't justify the Gibson cost and frankly I can't distinguish that much difference in the sound. So, I'll be adding an Epi Les Paul to my collection of 11 other guitars. I'm clearly a guitar addict!! Hope my wife doesn't give me the boot

  • @TheHirade
    @TheHirade 3 роки тому +8

    Which one sounds best?
    Yes!

  • @YoloMcSwaggot
    @YoloMcSwaggot 3 роки тому +39

    As someone who owns both a 2013 Gibson and a 2020 Epiphone Les Paul I can tell you for a fact: the Gibson smells better.

    • @tony69rocks
      @tony69rocks 3 роки тому

      😀🤘👍😉

    • @joshuafreedman7703
      @joshuafreedman7703 3 роки тому

      Yolo McSwaggot BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!

    • @CapableFox64
      @CapableFox64 3 роки тому

      If you have the 59 or 50s, how does the neck feel as a quality comparison?

    • @sammetal92
      @sammetal92 3 роки тому +1

      @@CapableFox64 I have a Gibson Les Paul 2013 with a 50s neck profile. I have tried a Epi LP standard I’m not sure which neck profile that was but I believe it was a 60s neck profile. While my Gibson has a much chunkier neck, I seem to have developed a preference for it and it seems to tire my fretting hand much slower than a 60s profile or anything slimmer. Quality wise, didn’t feel any different. But the tone difference was pretty massive (the Gibson has 490R and 498T pickups).

    • @rafalmarkiewicz6313
      @rafalmarkiewicz6313 3 роки тому +3

      Does it smell 5 times better?

  • @skidheart
    @skidheart 3 роки тому

    Thanks for sharing

  • @samuelmarines9930
    @samuelmarines9930 3 роки тому +3

    I like them all! Can you demo an Epiphone Les Paul Modern Figured Electric Guitar? Thanks

  • @rocnrobyn
    @rocnrobyn 3 роки тому +7

    Loving the tone Japanese LP! Amazing I thought.

  • @johndingess2238
    @johndingess2238 Рік тому

    Learned on a 1970's gibson les Paul standard that was my cousin's, recently purchased the epiphone custom cause it was the closest thing to the standard under $1,000, & I love it

  • @paulowinter5733
    @paulowinter5733 3 роки тому

    Nice video.
    I got one Japanese Black and gold just the same the one you played. I liked it very much.
    I was well impressed by the Chinese one.
    All three are beautiful indeed.

  • @ironmikehallowween
    @ironmikehallowween 3 роки тому +3

    That Gibson is gorgeous. The Japanese one in black was striking in its own way. They all sounded great.