What do you think of the new Epiphone range? I am really digging this guitar. Timestamps: 0:00 - Jam Track 2:37 - Specs 5:22 - Isolated Tones 9:54 - Final Thoughts Links ► Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/Z015K ► Thomann - bit.ly/3jM7T9A ► Sky Music - skymusic.com.au (affiliate links to Sweetwater and Thomann)
I think they are great. I may have commented this on another video but when I found these were available I picked one up immediately, in left handed. I actually take this to gigs, along with my modded mexican strat. No need to take $$$ guitars to club gigs for me.
I have always thought for the money, they are great. They have gotten better over the years. I only have 1 Gibson because it was a gift. I love both my Epi's and Gibson.
Epiphone’s can be hit n miss. I’ve owned a few over the years, currently own the SG 61” maestro with the pro buckers,great pickups. The toggle switches are crap but can be swapped out. I think the Artist LP59 CBS delux with their own Bullbuckers kill the Epiphone. If you can overlook the Artist logo on the headstock, you can’t go wrong.
Forget the guitar. It's just another Gibson but I like your playing on the Epi so much better than on the strat. The humbuckers inspire a different groove ✅👍
That's nice dear. 99.99999% of women don't need an attractive husband, but I'm confident you'd choose a handsome one over an ugly one. Music is art, and player and guitar interact in a very physical way, so most of us want to have an emotional bond with our instruments. They are more than tools......they are lovers. Thats said, looks and sounds like a lovely guitar.
The Epiphone 50's sounds better than the other Epiphone Les Paul guitars, to me. It has Probucker 1 and 2 pickups as opposed to Probucker 2 and 3 pickups in the 60's version. Also, it has the 50's wiring where the tone cap is wired to the output of the volume pot instead of directly to the output of the pickup. So, the 50's guitar has a bit more clarity and sparkle than the other Epiphone Les Paul guitars.
Yes, you're right. But, now a days if you connect any Les Paul to Boss Katana Artist or Boss Nextone Special,Boss GX 100,Boss GT 1000, you will experience different tones. This is in my own opinion.
Just thought I'd chime in as your video played a big role in my purchase this weekend of this exact model, gold top and all. This truly is a remarkable guitar for the money. Mine weights 8.4lbs, neck is wonderful and action was great out of the box. Only had to tune and raise bridge pup quite a bit as it was super low. Really fun and easy to play with its neck.
Great video. I have had Epiphones in the past and moved them on, never happy with them. But, just recently I treated myself to a Epiphone 1955 Les Paul Custom, Chinese made, and WOW. What a lovely guitar. There is nothing to dislike imho
So it's been a year now with my lefty of the same model but, from Mexico. I love it. Out of the box it was ready to play, the pickups were at close to 3/32mm correct height. Comfort and like you said lighter, no shoulder pain. I installed a Mary Ford scratch plate and arm wrest with the flower inlays. A beauty. Thank you for helping us lefty's push to try these.
Always loved Goldtop LPs. Could never afford one, so this caught my eye immediately. Wary of the neck profile since I'm coming from a Fender background, but I want some humbucking tones. Used to have an 84 Gibson Explorer, which I loved and stupidly sold. Now I'm married and no longer get to spend the kind of money on gear that I would have, but Epiphone has been making its case over the last couple of years!
I have a 2017 standard in pelham blue metallic and I have to say that it's a beautiful guitar. I have had many LP's over the 58 years that I've been playing and the Epl is hands down the best player of all of them. I do my own setups and have learned to hone in on the details and when I first got the Epi I was stunned at how nice it was!
I just bought the 2020 Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50's Goldtop a month ago. I also have a Gibson 2014 R8 that I've owned for just over 6 years. I'll have to say the Epiphone is giving the Gibson a run for the money. I can't believe Epiphone is making such a nice guitar for such a reasonable price.
I bought one earlier in 2020 with only half of my stimulus check and besides the screen print of the truss rod cover being crooked and fret sprout and needing new strings and a set up I'm very happy with actually having my very own goldtop les paul to play!
I just ordered a much-needed new acoustic-electric, but I reeeeeeeally had to tell myself I didn't need one of these first. That intro was killer, Shane!
Nice. That was my first electric guitar,dude told me it was a 2010 but I checked the serial number later and it was a 2003. Amazing condition and sound...ugh,I miss it. It went to a good home though so that's always good.
I had debated getting one. I haven’t had the chance to play one. I decided to save a few bucks and get the 50’s Standard instead. I really enjoy it. If the 59 is $200 better, I’ll be really impressed.
Excellent instrument, it’s well built and Epiphone has paid attention to the finer points and details to have a LP that is affordable without sacrificing the tone, quality and vibe. What’s not to love.
That's the one I would get if I was in the market for a les Paul standard, it has Gibson pickups I think and it's for sure got a nice custom made hard case.
Epi has been solid since the early 2000's. I'm sorry, if you don't want to pay for a Gibson, this is the best option and a lot less expensive. I've had an epi LP since 05 and that thing is still amazing.
Same, I think mine is an 04 and it was $500 then and for the most part they still are around that price. I bang that guitar up good and it still sounds and plays amazing to this day!
Nice review. I bought my first epi a couple of months ago, the 60's model. More I play it more I like it. Had the 50's briefly, but the neck was a little too big. The 60's is slightly less girthy. One thing to keep in mind for those buying online without a chance to try one out first.
WOW Shane! You really told a passionate compelling story with that opening jam! I was stunned at both the tone and playing. Sounds as good as any Gibson LP I've ever heard.
This video and the one you did comparing the Epiphone to the Gibson is why I have an Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50's Gold Top arriving tomorrow !! Thank you Sir !!
@@johnwriterpoet1783 I played it for an hour in the shop yesterday, back to back with the Gibson equivalent. The Gibson's finish is a touch better, and I prefer the bridge in the Gibson. Other than that, there's not much difference. Certainly not $3,200 difference. For the money, it's one of the best guitars I own.
I have had an Epiphone 1960 tribute plus for about a year it’s got Gibson 57 classic pick ups in it it’s the best less pall I Have ever played great video Man great playing
@@intheblues I have three episodes. Always pleased with their product right out of the box. Have you tried the 1963 Joe bonamassa Firebird by epiphone? I love it. Try it sometime
I just bought a 2020 epiphone Joe Bonamassa Les Paul Black Beauty. All mahogany no maple top ebony fret board.desighned to match 58 specs. I have a gibson les Paul and I love the feel and sound. I would put them up against eachother any day.
I have the one in vintage sunburst and its a really awesome guitar for the price, I believe this is what epiphone should be, the best quality gibson copy in my opinion
@@intheblues Nice, I am still terrible at guitar so you have me beat :) I will keep watching your awesome videos and hopefully I can find a great amp that sounds like the Marshall but is smaller, researching the Fender Bassbreaker 15 now :)
Shane, you and Brett Kingman are driving me into debt, and eventual bankruptcy, what with the amazing playing, laid back attitudes, and phenomenal demos... I just want to thank you for that! Cheers 🍻
Thank you, James. Brett is a lovely guy and a great player. Don't worry, I just purchased a piece of Tech based on reviews I watched online, so it happens to me also! haha. :)
@@intheblues What type of gear did you get? Guitar, recording interface? A new pop, pop muffler for your Honda? Inquiring minds (me really) would like to know... I don't understand Aussie culture tho' It seems like everyone in Australia is wealthy, pretty, privileged, and happy. Not so much here in the States. Anyway, you are in the top 5 of my favorite UA-cam creators. Enough of this Fan Boy shite. Cheers 🍻
Hi Shane, happy new year. This channel is just great, I love it. No horrible jokes, exact looking at the product everytime. Keep up the good work. Feel hugged by me, high5 from Germany.
Now that you get a Graphtech nut included the only upgrade would be the pickups & pots. That might not even be necessary. Epiphone has really stepped up their game.
Shane just makes anything sound good. Epis are amazing, don’t feel bad in getting one by some forum boomer online saying they suck. They don’t. Make sure it’s set up to your liking. I love my Gibson and Epi’s. Truly great, gig worthy guitars
Great review as always mangreat to see such good instruments coming from Epiphone! Here’s a thought to ponder for the New Year: Isn’t it interesting that in the instrument industry, especially guitars, most popular NEW models of guitars are based on OLD guitars? Tuners, pickups, shapes, tuning keys, etc. are thought of as great if they are “vintage style.” I can’t think of any other business where the goal is to go back in time. I know this isn’t 100%, but it’s still curious to me. Perhaps it speaks to how impactful the music/sound of our guitar heroes over the years has been on all of us? 🤔🤙🏻🎸
This is exactly the kind of review I was looking for! The Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50s is truly my dream guitar. The combination of its vintage tone and classic design is unbeatable. Thanks for showcasing its versatility and sound quality in such detail! One thing I'm curious about-how does the Epiphone Les Paul '50s compare to the Gibson version in terms of tone and playability? Is it worth considering the upgrade, or does this Epiphone model capture the essence well enough for most players?
What pedals were you using on that demo? That tone sounded fantastic!! I am pretty much a beginner and I am keen to learn as much about pedals as I can.
The wood on the back of the guitar is a veneer. They all look like that. I’m not a fan. I would rather just see the plain wood grain. It looks fake to me. They did the veneer on both the front and back of the sg’s. I think it looks cheesy. You can see the line where the veneer ends on the sg’s. I just don’t like it personally. To each their own though.
You're right. It's a bit tricky to get it to look good on SGs because of the body shape. On LPs it's less difficult to get away with veneers. They do look good, I think.
@@xxxxneoxxxx yeah with the binding it looks a lot better than the sg’s. It’s a different species of mahogany so it takes stain differently too. The difference in color between the neck wood and the sides body wood and the veneer wreaks havok on my ocd. Lol.
@@intheblues yeah it’s a high quality veneer. They have a lot of movement to the grain but in a very uniform way. They all have that ribbon look. I think it’s cool that they went through the added trouble of adding the veneer. They easily could of saved time and money not adding it but then you would be able to see the multi piece bodies etc. So, maybe it was actually a cost saving technique so they could use more pieces of wood and hide that with the veneer. Idk. Either way it seems they addressed the issues with previous runs and they have upped their game.
@@guyfromnj My theory is that it's more of a cost savings in time than materials. Even if they're using the same number of pieces on average the veneers let them spend less (or basically no) time sorting wood/bodies, they can treat every body as if it's getting a solid finish.
Great to see Epi make an inspiring instrument that puts a smile on your face, you really seemed to enjoy the playing Shane. Beautiful tones there. But as well as some others have stated, I'm not a fan of the veneer thing either, even if it's quite a minor thing.
The ProBucker 1&2s are secretly some of the nicest pickups out there. If you want to clear up a bit of the wooliness (especially on the neck as you mentioned), try switching to Alnico 5 magnets. Currently have a set in my number one Gibson Les Paul. Much nicer (IMO) than burstbucker 1&2s. Great review as always ❤😊
Thank you for that great review. If you can put your hands on a 59 I would love to see more reviews of that particular model. ...but I don’t think they make a lefty 59...
Nice review and sounds great. Only problem is... they don't sell 'em. By the time they're in stock, I'll probably need tires on my rig. So much for impulse buying.
Hi shane! These 50's and 60's epis look and seem to be amazing for the money! I'm in love and thinking about buying one. I have one question, in your opinion is it worth to get the epi les paul standard 50's new or get an used older model epiphone les paul standard and spend the rest of the money in upgrades? I wonder how this new model's contruction compares to the older ones. thank you so much!
Great video. Picked mine up around October. Boy oh boy does it sound great. Mine had no issues whatsoever. I couldn't have been happier. Such a good guitar for the price.
Mate, thank you. After trying to decide weather to get Gibson or Epiphone for a day, I know which one I want after watching your amazing skills. I realize, an amateur like me don't need Gibson. I probably can't tell if it's Gibson or Epiphone with my eyes close just by hearing the tone. But I do know that 50's Epiphone is all I need after seeing your comparison with the 60s. And guess what! I found a shop in Sydney that sale Epiphone 50s Cherry sunburst for $799 only (save me $370). The shop is also just 5 minutes away from my home. Thank you so much! Your mad skills made me jump out of my bed and buy that Epiphone online immediately.
I recently bought an Ephiphone 50's Les Paul in Sunburst. I owned a great looking Tiger Top Gibson Les Paul durring 2020. It was beautiful guitar but just didn't have 'that classic Les Paul sound? A few months ago I hankered for another Les Paul and out of interest I checked out an Ephiphone 50's Les Paul. I was blown away by the feel and sound. All them classic sounds are there. I couldn't believe it at first. All the Les Pauls I've owned and I end up with an Ephiphone Les Paul that only cost me £477. 😅😅 Mine has that classic nasal treble sound from the Pro Buckers. Almost a cocked wha which you will here from them original PAFs.Think Kosoff, Greeny, Alman brothers ect. I can play along to say Free and the Ephiphone sounds like Kossoffs Les Paul so as point of referance the Ephiphone has 'that authentic 50's sound' The cork sniffers will always put down the Ephiphones but I've owned many Gibson's and I can tell you that these new Ephiphones are up there with the Gibson equivalents in terms of playability and sound. Obviously, economies are made like a poly finish and the detailing isn't up to a Gibson but I don't care about that? The main ingredients are right though?? Here's what I love about the Ephiphone Feels like a Gibson. Top carve looks synthetic, more 'Gibson' Action is virtually on the frets Feels and plays like a Gibson Solid woods, no chambering Long Tenon neck joint Pro Bucker Pickups, nail that classic PAF sound. Authentic vintage Les Paul tone High quality hardware A big grin on my face every time I play it? 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗 The only changes made was I had a Pro set up and I had the neck magnet turned round to get the Peter Green sound.
I'm guessing the right-handed thumbnail is a strategy to see if it affects clicks huh? Would love to see how the results come up... I love it when I see my favorite youtubers try stuff out. Cheers and a Happy New Year!
@@intheblues hahahah, it seems that I'm too focused on this youtube thing lol... I also noticed the sharper video quality in this one, any camera upgrades?
Hi there Shane. Amazing review as always! Quick question: how would this stack up against the PRS SE with regards to tone versatility for playing pop and jazz (perhaps with a light too heavy bottom set of strings) ? Hope all is well, thank you
Would you guys go with the Epiphone or a used made in Japan Tokai or Edwards? I'm concerned about the Pickups and neck profile on the Japanese guitars and the QC on the Epiphone
As usual, great review and exceptional playing. Your playing style helps me more than most when it comes to reviews. I'm a non-repentant owner of a 2021 Epiphone Modern. I am now a huge fan of Probucker pickups. And the guitar is second to none. Sure, you can get different. But you can't get better. At the levels of manufacture employed today, the lines haven't been blurred. They've been eradicated. Sure, if I got the right deal on an exceptional vintage Gibson, I'd still jump at it. But at my age, I want guitars that I play-in. I play a lot. It doesn't take long. So for me it's probably going to be Epiphones from here on out.
Going to get a Les Paul to use for recordings and want that classic Les Paul snarl from the bridge for some leads. Is it worth spending the extra to get the '59 Epiphone with Gibson Burstbuckers (now they have a Custombucker option too) or should I just get this 50's one with the Epiphone Probuckers? (I have another Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plustop Pro/FX which is great for song I need a floyd rose on, I think it has Epiphone Alnico Classic Plus pickups, but I want a hard tail piece model. So I'm torn between the 50's and 59)
Good Morning Shane, & Happy New Year from the Great State of Washington...Jimbo here. Wondering what amp You are using? I'm down to choosing a Peavy Silver Stripe(Sheffield)-$214, new Vox Cambridge 50-$299,or a Roland Blues Cube hot-$295. Tough choice...?!? The all sound great......
It's the Marshall. I mentioned it at the start of the isolated tone section. The best amp for you is the one you like the sound of the best. I haven't tried the Cambridge before. :)
@@inthebluesHmm, I thought it was the Marshall.. Thx, Mon...I really like it also, but the cost is somewhat prohibitive, compared to these. Ultimately, My goal is to be giggable/buskable with both My Japanese Greco Superstrat & My Epiphone Masterbuilt DR-400 MCE, A/E guitars. I've always enjoyed the Vox sound, had a small Box amp at one time..and this new Cambridge 50 does too. But the Sheffied Peavy Silver Stripe sounds great, also...?!? Heck, $214 for the Peavy, and $299 for the Vox? I may buy them both. Then get this Epiphone LP Gold Top....all for about a grand. That'd work..!! Best of Luck to You & Rick in 2021.. Jimbo, out....
Great review as usual Shane....it’s funny how that sounds almost EXACTLY like the real deal LP but we still lust after the Gibson. I watched the shootout you did with the American Tele and the Harley Benton 52. And the HB sounded better!.....but I still want the Damn Tele. Curse you Branding and Advertising!!
i literally don’t even need another guitar but this one is so good i’m tempted. actually in my defense i’ve realized my epi LP custom PRO from 2012 is kinda not cutting it now that i know more about guitars and levels of quality. just picked up an epi 335 and if this goldtop is as good as that i might just have to check this one out.
I’m a bit of a gear snob. I have a couple of other Epiphones and they never became favorites. But this one…….Simply blew me away. There is not a single fit & finish flaw anywhere on it. The electronics are rock solid and the Probuckers are every bit as good as the 490’s in my Gibson. Epiphone really got their act together with this guitar. I can’t say if all the new ones are like this but this one is crazy good. I can’t imagine spending 4x for the Gibson.
What do you think of the new Epiphone range? I am really digging this guitar.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Jam Track
2:37 - Specs
5:22 - Isolated Tones
9:54 - Final Thoughts
Links
► Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/Z015K
► Thomann - bit.ly/3jM7T9A
► Sky Music - skymusic.com.au
(affiliate links to Sweetwater and Thomann)
I think they are great. I may have commented this on another video but when I found these were available I picked one up immediately, in left handed. I actually take this to gigs, along with my modded mexican strat. No need to take $$$ guitars to club gigs for me.
I have always thought for the money, they are great. They have gotten better over the years. I only have 1 Gibson because it was a gift. I love both my Epi's and Gibson.
Epiphone’s can be hit n miss. I’ve owned a few over the years, currently own the SG 61” maestro with the pro buckers,great pickups.
The toggle switches are crap but can be swapped out.
I think the Artist LP59 CBS delux with their own Bullbuckers kill the Epiphone. If you can overlook the Artist logo on the headstock, you can’t go wrong.
Forget the guitar. It's just another Gibson but I like your playing on the Epi so much better than on the strat. The humbuckers inspire a different groove ✅👍
@@mike70s I have a set of Probuckers also. They are well worth it. No other pickups in the world can beat them at their price point.
Let‘s be honest: 99.999 % of players don‘t need an overpriced Gibson. They need to practise more
That's nice dear. 99.99999% of women don't need an attractive husband, but I'm confident you'd choose a handsome one over an ugly one. Music is art, and player and guitar interact in a very physical way, so most of us want to have an emotional bond with our instruments. They are more than tools......they are lovers.
Thats said, looks and sounds like a lovely guitar.
But if owning an overpriced Gibson inspires someone to practice more, then power to them!
@@sillyskeleton you mean: the more you pay for your guitar, the more you practise.....? Should have thought of that myself😃👍🇩🇪
@@jehovahnissi1961 well I mean its Prince but I understand what you are saying
99 % of Mercedes drivers don’t need a Mercedes. But they enjoy it.
The Epiphone 50's sounds better than the other Epiphone Les Paul guitars, to me. It has Probucker 1 and 2 pickups as opposed to Probucker 2 and 3 pickups in the 60's version. Also, it has the 50's wiring where the tone cap is wired to the output of the volume pot instead of directly to the output of the pickup. So, the 50's guitar has a bit more clarity and sparkle than the other Epiphone Les Paul guitars.
Yes, you're right. But, now a days if you connect any Les Paul to Boss Katana Artist or Boss Nextone Special,Boss GX 100,Boss GT 1000, you will experience different tones. This is in my own opinion.
wtf, they are supposed to have burstbuckers. at least the 59 one does
@@SimonHaestoeno they’re not, 50s has probucker 1 and 2, 60s has 2 and 3. The neck pickup in the 50s is underwound
Just thought I'd chime in as your video played a big role in my purchase this weekend of this exact model, gold top and all. This truly is a remarkable guitar for the money. Mine weights 8.4lbs, neck is wonderful and action was great out of the box. Only had to tune and raise bridge pup quite a bit as it was super low. Really fun and easy to play with its neck.
Great video. I have had Epiphones in the past and moved them on, never happy with them. But, just recently I treated myself to a Epiphone 1955 Les Paul Custom, Chinese made, and WOW. What a lovely guitar. There is nothing to dislike imho
So it's been a year now with my lefty of the same model but, from Mexico. I love it. Out of the box it was ready to play, the pickups were at close to 3/32mm correct height. Comfort and like you said lighter, no shoulder pain. I installed a Mary Ford scratch plate and arm wrest with the flower inlays. A beauty. Thank you for helping us lefty's push to try these.
Always loved Goldtop LPs. Could never afford one, so this caught my eye immediately. Wary of the neck profile since I'm coming from a Fender background, but I want some humbucking tones. Used to have an 84 Gibson Explorer, which I loved and stupidly sold. Now I'm married and no longer get to spend the kind of money on gear that I would have, but Epiphone has been making its case over the last couple of years!
I have a 2017 standard in pelham blue metallic and I have to say that it's a beautiful guitar. I have had many LP's over the 58 years that I've been playing and the Epl is hands down the best player of all of them. I do my own setups and have learned to hone in on the details and when I first got the Epi I was stunned at how nice it was!
I just bought the 2020 Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50's Goldtop a month ago. I also have a Gibson 2014 R8 that I've owned for just over 6 years. I'll have to say the Epiphone is giving the Gibson a run for the money. I can't believe Epiphone is making such a nice guitar for such a reasonable price.
I bought one earlier in 2020 with only half of my stimulus check and besides the screen print of the truss rod cover being crooked and fret sprout and needing new strings and a set up I'm very happy with actually having my very own goldtop les paul to play!
Epiphone is hitting it outta the park these last couple of years with the stuff they are putting out. Great video and playing brother!
I just ordered a much-needed new acoustic-electric, but I reeeeeeeally had to tell myself I didn't need one of these first. That intro was killer, Shane!
Recently bought a ‘56 reissue with P90s made in 2010, it’s the best guitar I’ve ever had
From my guitars my epi '56 gold top P90s 2009 is the best I own, even that is the made in China, It sounds and feels amazing, just a tusq nut and wow.
Nice. That was my first electric guitar,dude told me it was a 2010 but I checked the serial number later and it was a 2003. Amazing condition and sound...ugh,I miss it. It went to a good home though so that's always good.
I have 2009 56 Gold Top because I liked the neck shape/size. Converted it to a Deluxe.
As is mine. One of my favorite in my collection.
I almost bought an Epiphone 60’s LP, but after watching your videos, I went with the 50’s. It’s such a beautiful instrument. Thanks for your videos!
Can you tell why you chose the 50s?
I don’t watch these videos for the gear, and with that intro, I wasn’t let down. Killer playing.
I just got the Epiphone 59 LP in cherry sunburst! It plays like a dream!
I got mine in aged dark burst and I love it!
How do you like the neck?
@@lincolnjohnson6511 I like it. It's not too fat but nice and rounded and it feels full. The fretboard feels nice and wide too. I do have larger hands
@@Rollermanfromspace The epi necks feels really sticky for me. But i got quickly used to it
I had debated getting one. I haven’t had the chance to play one. I decided to save a few bucks and get the 50’s Standard instead. I really enjoy it. If the 59 is $200 better, I’ll be really impressed.
Excellent instrument, it’s well built and Epiphone has paid attention to the finer points and details to have a LP that is affordable without sacrificing the tone, quality and vibe.
What’s not to love.
Yes they upped their game in 2020. I bought a LP Special and am surprised at how good it is. As good as the original Gibson imo.
This is a nice guitar!
I’ve got mine for 2 years now and it brings smile to my face every time I open the case and play some of those soulful blues!
Perfect timing. I was shopping for a Epiphone LP when you popped on my screen!
consider the epiphone 1959 , you can thank me later..
That's the one I would get if I was in the market for a les Paul standard, it has Gibson pickups I think and it's for sure got a nice custom made hard case.
they're always listening
Epi has been solid since the early 2000's. I'm sorry, if you don't want to pay for a Gibson, this is the best option and a lot less expensive. I've had an epi LP since 05 and that thing is still amazing.
Same, I think mine is an 04 and it was $500 then and for the most part they still are around that price.
I bang that guitar up good and it still sounds and plays amazing to this day!
Got one of these a year ago because of this video. Absolutely love it best guitar i have ever owned
I think that Epiphone have really improved the pots and electronics in this range as well. Great vid!!! Awesome jam track!!!!
Scott, Gibson decided to put CTS pots and Orange drop caps on the Epi line.
Nice review. I bought my first epi a couple of months ago, the 60's model. More I play it more I like it. Had the 50's briefly, but the neck was a little too big. The 60's is slightly less girthy. One thing to keep in mind for those buying online without a chance to try one out first.
Would be nice if they'd do one with the P90s. That neck pickup does sound great though!
WOW Shane! You really told a passionate compelling story with that opening jam! I was stunned at both the tone and playing. Sounds as good as any Gibson LP I've ever heard.
I own one and love it and my other 4 different brands .I have an EVH Wolfgang standard black coming today and can't wait! Love watching your reviews
This video and the one you did comparing the Epiphone to the Gibson is why I have an Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50's Gold Top arriving tomorrow !! Thank you Sir !!
Great review Shane. Liked it so much I bought one after watching this…. Cheers from Arizona!
Good timing. I bought one this afternoon!
Tell us how you like it!
@@johnwriterpoet1783 I played it for an hour in the shop yesterday, back to back with the Gibson equivalent. The Gibson's finish is a touch better, and I prefer the bridge in the Gibson. Other than that, there's not much difference. Certainly not $3,200 difference. For the money, it's one of the best guitars I own.
Love the way you mix the intro tracks man...keep it up!
I have had an Epiphone 1960 tribute plus for about a year it’s got Gibson 57 classic pick ups in it it’s the best less pall I Have ever played great video Man great playing
Hi Shane, would you prefer this or the Harley Benton SC 550? Great Review, I love your Channel.
This is a nicer guitar than my SC450 was but I haven't tried the 550.
I just ordered one because of this post. Do I NEED another guitar? Yes
You are going to love this thing. It's one of the best guitars I've played straight out of the box. :)
@@intheblues I have three episodes. Always pleased with their product right out of the box. Have you tried the 1963 Joe bonamassa Firebird by epiphone? I love it. Try it sometime
I just bought a 2020 epiphone Joe Bonamassa Les Paul Black Beauty. All mahogany no maple top ebony fret board.desighned to match 58 specs. I have a gibson les Paul and I love the feel and sound. I would put them up against eachother any day.
Hi there
How much did it cost?
Great intro jam, Shane. Not even in the market for this but couldn’t help listening!
I have Seymour Duncan pearly gates in mine, it's a very useable guitar
I have the one in vintage sunburst and its a really awesome guitar for the price, I believe this is what epiphone should be, the best quality gibson copy in my opinion
Epiphone stepped it up, I have the 2020 '50s and a '60s and they're both great guitars. Great review.
Which is the best for small hand, short finger.
@@nazirulakmal9202 The '60s has a thinner neck profile than the '50s.
@@GhostDragon1182 Great! Thanks man!
When I grow up, I want to play as well as you Shane. Thanks for the video and knowledge.
Blues On....💙
Are you able to play that Marshall DSL40C at home to practice? Do you use a power attenuator or just play on the 20w setting?
These amps sound best loud. You can use them at lower volumes but it’s very different. You’d be better with a practice amp by the sounds of it.
@@intheblues Thank you so much for the reply :)
No worries I didn’t want to get beat up 🤣💪
@@intheblues Nice, I am still terrible at guitar so you have me beat :) I will keep watching your awesome videos and hopefully I can find a great amp that sounds like the Marshall but is smaller, researching the Fender Bassbreaker
15 now :)
That fender bassbreaker 15 is fantastic. It’s one of the only ones that has reverb and also 3 gain stages from memory. It’s a good choice. :)
Shane, you and Brett Kingman are driving me into debt, and eventual bankruptcy, what with the amazing playing, laid back attitudes, and phenomenal demos...
I just want to thank you for that!
Cheers 🍻
Thank you, James. Brett is a lovely guy and a great player. Don't worry, I just purchased a piece of Tech based on reviews I watched online, so it happens to me also! haha. :)
@@intheblues What type of gear did you get?
Guitar, recording interface?
A new pop, pop muffler for your Honda?
Inquiring minds (me really) would like to know...
I don't understand Aussie culture tho'
It seems like everyone in Australia is wealthy, pretty, privileged, and happy.
Not so much here in the States.
Anyway, you are in the top 5 of my favorite UA-cam creators.
Enough of this Fan Boy shite.
Cheers 🍻
I'd like to see a comparison of one of these to the bonamassa signature epiphone goldtop
Hi Shane, happy new year. This channel is just great, I love it. No horrible jokes, exact looking at the product everytime. Keep up the good work. Feel hugged by me, high5 from Germany.
Now that you get a Graphtech nut included the only upgrade would be the pickups & pots. That might not even be necessary. Epiphone has really stepped up their game.
Don’t the current ones come with CTS pots now?
Shane just makes anything sound good. Epis are amazing, don’t feel bad in getting one by some forum boomer online saying they suck. They don’t. Make sure it’s set up to your liking. I love my Gibson and Epi’s. Truly great, gig worthy guitars
Really nice playing in the intro Shane
Great review as always mangreat to see such good instruments coming from Epiphone! Here’s a thought to ponder for the New Year: Isn’t it interesting that in the instrument industry, especially guitars, most popular NEW models of guitars are based on OLD guitars? Tuners, pickups, shapes, tuning keys, etc. are thought of as great if they are “vintage style.” I can’t think of any other business where the goal is to go back in time. I know this isn’t 100%, but it’s still curious to me. Perhaps it speaks to how impactful the music/sound of our guitar heroes over the years has been on all of us? 🤔🤙🏻🎸
Great intro on this one Shane.
Great playing! Love the sound of that! Greetings from the Netherlands!
I received Epi SG Modern for Christmas. I’m 66 yrs old, been playing over 50 years. The Epi’s are fantastic! LP’s are too heavy for my liking.
I got one, I love the neck, I just swapped the pickups for phat cats and I'm now in love with that guitar!
This is exactly the kind of review I was looking for! The Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50s is truly my dream guitar. The combination of its vintage tone and classic design is unbeatable. Thanks for showcasing its versatility and sound quality in such detail!
One thing I'm curious about-how does the Epiphone Les Paul '50s compare to the Gibson version in terms of tone and playability? Is it worth considering the upgrade, or does this Epiphone model capture the essence well enough for most players?
Great video :) I have a PRS Zach Myers or I would definitely consider picking this up :)
Saw your comment, went to your channel. You have a lot of content there.
It’s a really nice guitar. One of the best I’ve tried in a long time :)
@@ricmel8008 Yup, tons of videos over many years
@@mmacandy Nice
Same reason I haven’t gotten one. I look at my beautiful green Zach Myer prs and ask myself if the Epiphone is better.
And I close Sweetwater lol
I bought the lemonburst from Sweetwater.....looks ....sounds and plays BEAUTIFULLY
Epic demo. Respect from Mexico.
What pedals were you using on that demo? That tone
sounded fantastic!! I am pretty much a beginner and
I am keen to learn as much about pedals as I can.
Great playing! That sure sounds good too
I have les paul 50 s also left handed long time 17 years old still sounds great
The wood on the back of the guitar is a veneer. They all look like that. I’m not a fan. I would rather just see the plain wood grain. It looks fake to me. They did the veneer on both the front and back of the sg’s. I think it looks cheesy.
You can see the line where the veneer ends on the sg’s. I just don’t like it personally. To each their own though.
You're right. It's a bit tricky to get it to look good on SGs because of the body shape. On LPs it's less difficult to get away with veneers. They do look good, I think.
@@xxxxneoxxxx yeah with the binding it looks a lot better than the sg’s. It’s a different species of mahogany so it takes stain differently too. The difference in color between the neck wood and the sides body wood and the veneer wreaks havok on my ocd. Lol.
It looked cool in person and I didn't even notice the veneer. The website didn't specify anything like that. Great eye! :)
@@intheblues yeah it’s a high quality veneer. They have a lot of movement to the grain but in a very uniform way. They all have that ribbon look. I think it’s cool that they went through the added trouble of adding the veneer. They easily could of saved time and money not adding it but then you would be able to see the multi piece bodies etc. So, maybe it was actually a cost saving technique so they could use more pieces of wood and hide that with the veneer. Idk. Either way it seems they addressed the issues with previous runs and they have upped their game.
@@guyfromnj My theory is that it's more of a cost savings in time than materials. Even if they're using the same number of pieces on average the veneers let them spend less (or basically no) time sorting wood/bodies, they can treat every body as if it's getting a solid finish.
Great to see Epi make an inspiring instrument that puts a smile on your face, you really seemed to enjoy the playing Shane. Beautiful tones there. But as well as some others have stated, I'm not a fan of the veneer thing either, even if it's quite a minor thing.
really good review, thanks a lot!
I don't know why but it's weird watching playing guitar with left hand
I'm sure it's great. I have the Elitist Les Paul standard plus. I will never get rid of this guitar.
Great quitar and playing as always!!! Is this the new 2020 model?
The ProBucker 1&2s are secretly some of the nicest pickups out there. If you want to clear up a bit of the wooliness (especially on the neck as you mentioned), try switching to Alnico 5 magnets. Currently have a set in my number one Gibson Les Paul. Much nicer (IMO) than burstbucker 1&2s.
Great review as always ❤😊
Great playing and tone!
I love that tone at the beginning
Happy new year with even better gear!!!
As always Shane great job, you keep it interesting. Always looking for your views on the guitar. Thanks
My epiphone has 30year ago she ´ wonderful.
Thank you for that great review. If you can put your hands on a 59 I would love to see more reviews of that particular model. ...but I don’t think they make a lefty 59...
I am actually really digging the lighter gold color on it. I don’t think I’d mind it. The sound is great as well. Looks and sounds like a solid axe
Nice review and sounds great. Only problem is... they don't sell 'em. By the time they're in stock, I'll probably need tires on my rig. So much for impulse buying.
That tone was really really Sweet. Good job and playing 👍
Hi shane! These 50's and 60's epis look and seem to be amazing for the money! I'm in love and thinking about buying one. I have one question, in your opinion is it worth to get the epi les paul standard 50's new or get an used older model epiphone les paul standard and spend the rest of the money in upgrades? I wonder how this new model's contruction compares to the older ones. thank you so much!
Great video. Picked mine up around October. Boy oh boy does it sound great. Mine had no issues whatsoever. I couldn't have been happier. Such a good guitar for the price.
New are epiphones are such killer guitars! Love em! Nice video again Shane!
Thnx for the review! Happy new year to you and your family!
Does this guitar got a maple cap or a maple veneer?
I have this baby for 3 months. Can't put my hands off her! Waiting for Gibson vs Epi battle! Nice review Shane (as always)
Hey Greg how do find the neck shape ? I'm torn between this and a 60's slim profile
Mate, thank you. After trying to decide weather to get Gibson or Epiphone for a day, I know which one I want after watching your amazing skills. I realize, an amateur like me don't need Gibson. I probably can't tell if it's Gibson or Epiphone with my eyes close just by hearing the tone. But I do know that 50's Epiphone is all I need after seeing your comparison with the 60s. And guess what! I found a shop in Sydney that sale Epiphone 50s Cherry sunburst for $799 only (save me $370). The shop is also just 5 minutes away from my home.
Thank you so much!
Your mad skills made me jump out of my bed and buy that Epiphone online immediately.
I recently bought an Ephiphone 50's Les Paul in Sunburst. I owned a great looking Tiger Top Gibson Les Paul durring 2020. It was beautiful guitar but just didn't have 'that classic Les Paul sound? A few months ago I hankered for another Les Paul and out of interest I checked out an Ephiphone 50's Les Paul. I was blown away by the feel and sound. All them classic sounds are there. I couldn't believe it at first. All the Les Pauls I've owned and I end up with an Ephiphone Les Paul that only cost me £477. 😅😅 Mine has that classic nasal treble sound from the Pro Buckers. Almost a cocked wha which you will here from them original PAFs.Think Kosoff, Greeny, Alman brothers ect. I can play along to say Free and the Ephiphone sounds like Kossoffs Les Paul so as point of referance the Ephiphone has 'that authentic 50's sound' The cork sniffers will always put down the Ephiphones but I've owned many Gibson's and I can tell you that these new Ephiphones are up there with the Gibson equivalents in terms of playability and sound. Obviously, economies are made like a poly finish and the detailing isn't up to a Gibson but I don't care about that? The main ingredients are right though??
Here's what I love about the Ephiphone
Feels like a Gibson. Top carve looks synthetic, more 'Gibson'
Action is virtually on the frets
Feels and plays like a Gibson
Solid woods, no chambering
Long Tenon neck joint
Pro Bucker Pickups, nail that classic PAF sound.
Authentic vintage Les Paul tone
High quality hardware
A big grin on my face every time I play it? 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
The only changes made was I had a Pro set up and I had the neck magnet turned round to get the Peter Green sound.
I'm guessing the right-handed thumbnail is a strategy to see if it affects clicks huh? Would love to see how the results come up... I love it when I see my favorite youtubers try stuff out. Cheers and a Happy New Year!
It's more so to fit the text on the left because the timestamp will cover it up on the lower right portion. I forgot to take a thumbnail photo :)
@@intheblues hahahah, it seems that I'm too focused on this youtube thing lol... I also noticed the sharper video quality in this one, any camera upgrades?
It seems you over thought this one.
Please review the P90 version?
Man Epiphone killed it this year. Great video as usual!
Do you think that they’ve put a veneer on the back like they’ve done with the SG?
Certainly looks like they have put a veneer on the back. The lines look very similar to the SG.
The back is a veneer cap yes. I personally think it looks wrong just let the natural wood show but cost saving on multiple amounts of joints
Great playing on that intro!
It’s funny cuz I’m about to order this goldtop 50s !! Thank you for making this vid
I need to get one of these, always wanted a Gold Top
The best playing I’ve heard from you sir 😊 I’ve always been very prejudiced toward Epiphone. You have done this a great justice.
just bought that one tonight love it is cool
Hi there Shane. Amazing review as always! Quick question: how would this stack up against the PRS SE with regards to tone versatility for playing pop and jazz (perhaps with a light too heavy bottom set of strings) ? Hope all is well, thank you
Would you guys go with the Epiphone or a used made in Japan Tokai or Edwards? I'm concerned about the Pickups and neck profile on the Japanese guitars and the QC on the Epiphone
As usual, great review and exceptional playing. Your playing style helps me more than most when it comes to reviews. I'm a non-repentant owner of a 2021 Epiphone Modern. I am now a huge fan of Probucker pickups. And the guitar is second to none. Sure, you can get different. But you can't get better. At the levels of manufacture employed today, the lines haven't been blurred. They've been eradicated. Sure, if I got the right deal on an exceptional vintage Gibson, I'd still jump at it. But at my age, I want guitars that I play-in. I play a lot. It doesn't take long. So for me it's probably going to be Epiphones from here on out.
Going to get a Les Paul to use for recordings and want that classic Les Paul snarl from the bridge for some leads. Is it worth spending the extra to get the '59 Epiphone with Gibson Burstbuckers (now they have a Custombucker option too) or should I just get this 50's one with the Epiphone Probuckers?
(I have another Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plustop Pro/FX which is great for song I need a floyd rose on, I think it has Epiphone Alnico Classic Plus pickups, but I want a hard tail piece model. So I'm torn between the 50's and 59)
Good Morning Shane, & Happy New Year from the Great State of Washington...Jimbo here.
Wondering what amp You are using?
I'm down to choosing a Peavy Silver Stripe(Sheffield)-$214, new Vox Cambridge 50-$299,or a Roland Blues Cube hot-$295.
Tough choice...?!? The all sound great......
It's the Marshall. I mentioned it at the start of the isolated tone section. The best amp for you is the one you like the sound of the best. I haven't tried the Cambridge before. :)
@@inthebluesHmm, I thought it was the Marshall.. Thx, Mon...I really like it also, but the cost is somewhat prohibitive, compared to these. Ultimately, My goal is to be giggable/buskable with both My Japanese Greco Superstrat & My Epiphone Masterbuilt DR-400 MCE, A/E guitars.
I've always enjoyed the Vox sound, had a small Box amp at one time..and this new Cambridge 50 does too. But the Sheffied Peavy Silver Stripe sounds great, also...?!?
Heck, $214 for the Peavy, and $299 for the Vox? I may buy them both. Then get this Epiphone LP Gold Top....all for about a grand.
That'd work..!!
Best of Luck to You & Rick in 2021..
Jimbo, out....
Which would you choose? Epiphone les paul 50s standard gold or vintage v100 afd slash? I want to play guns n’ roses songs.
How suitable is this guitar for an adult beginner? Should I be worried about fretboard radius?
Great review as usual Shane....it’s funny how that sounds almost EXACTLY like the real deal LP but we still lust after the Gibson. I watched the shootout you did with the American Tele and the Harley Benton 52. And the HB sounded better!.....but I still want the
Damn Tele. Curse you Branding and Advertising!!
i literally don’t even need another guitar but this one is so good i’m tempted. actually in my defense i’ve realized my epi LP custom PRO from 2012 is kinda not cutting it now that i know more about guitars and levels of quality. just picked up an epi 335 and if this goldtop is as good as that i might just have to check this one out.
I’m a bit of a gear snob. I have a couple of other Epiphones and they never became favorites. But this one…….Simply blew me away. There is not a single fit & finish flaw anywhere on it. The electronics are rock solid and the Probuckers are every bit as good as the 490’s in my Gibson. Epiphone really got their act together with this guitar. I can’t say if all the new ones are like this but this one is crazy good. I can’t imagine spending 4x for the Gibson.