Was about to fact check you, Colin, on your repetition of the 1960 debut date, but you beat me to it. I ought to know, I was around in 1958. Granted, I was six years old, but I was around.
Thinking that this style of ES335 with the shortened pickguard and less rounded "Mickey Mouse Ears" of the '58 started in' 60...So technically you could be right😁👍 Not sure which year the dot neck came out...? Great content Colin😎👍 😎👍❤🖖 Love Brother
The one you have as well as me is the 58 model...the 60s models went with the small block inlays and I think a thinner neck than the 58. I love mine but have to replace the output jack...it keeps coming loose...think I could fix it with a locking washer
Why do I watch these videos, knowing I’m going to want a guitar I don’t need? I watch because I enjoy your playing, and I really enjoy the way you talk about guitars. You have a good energy and it’s nice that you put it out into the world.
i know the fella has lots of interesting things to talk about and could help me decide on a guitar, but he just faffs about not getting to important relevant information like his opinion, ideally an opinion about something he really likes and hopefully for lots of reasons, but, i'll never know i tried a few minutes at the beginning and then jumped forward and then gave up sorry
Yet another enjoyable & informative treat! I have orbited the sun 65 times & have never come across "ubiquitous". I have now googled & have been enlightened. Cheers Colin.
Got to say Colin I’m an avid watcher of your channel and always look forward to 12.00 on Fridays! I remember the mods you done on that epiphone 335 and now it sounds amazing! ❤
I understand what you're saying completely. During the week I find myself wondering what he's going to put out Friday morning and I'm eagerly awaiting it when I wake up.
You have become my go to for a wide array of information. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into these videos. Us blokes across the pond dig you sir!
The Gretsch is my favorite of this bunch. I’m probably going to buy one after watching this. You’re right, everyone needs a 335 style guitar in their collection.
Once again another terrifyingly honest comparison. I enjoyed it immensely although it must be hard to distinguish between the feel, look and personal opinion. I have the epi inspired by I love it although I do hope to do a similar upgrade to the ones you did. Well everything except the wiring loom I still wake up in cold sweat thinking about that episode. Im off to become a patron. Enjoyed that although my coffee went cold about half way through.
@kiteflyer101 "I do hope to do a similar upgrade to the ones you did." The damn thing is that most of the 335's improvement came from fresh strings... which is either good news if (like me) you don't have endless money, or bad news if (like me) you have unreasonable urges to do stuff to your guitars. The cost/benefit ratio was way higher for strings than for anything else... and while there surely was improvement throughout, it seemed as though the more spendy the improvement the more marginal its benefit was. I'm still not sure whether that makes me glad or sad ;-)
I've said it before, but I'll say it again: one of the reasons that I like watching this channel so much is the easy pace; often videos like these will have all the natural pauses between sentences cut out to just compress it in as little time as possible, but that makes for very tiring and intensive listening. This is just GREAT relaxing time at a Friday night!
Cool, this time last year I was choosing between these, and fell in love with the Hofner Verythin in a local shop. Now I've played it for a year and still happy. It looks so understated next to the others that are too blingy for me.
So I’m one of those people that watched the entire 335 upgrade series, having a 2017 Epiphone 335 Pro. I bought it after someone replaced the original pups with Gibson 57 Classics and had the frets leveled and dressed. I always wanted to change out the wiring harness, but haven’t had reason to until my switch went out. So I dropped an RS Guitarworks harness in and while I was at it, replaced the bridge and tail piece with Faber components. You never know how it’s going to turn out, but the difference is definitely noticeable. Way more open and responsive. Is it worth it? Meh. Maybe. I’d love to have a Gibson, but this suits me fine. It’s a substantial improvement over stock. But the fun for me is in having a project to experiment with. I want to thank you, Colin, for the inspiration! It’s a journey for sure.
i have grown fond of your videos, they are informative, they are openly opinionated, but most of all they are very relaxing; you have a comfortable and benevolent air about you, and it translates well as you create content. keep it up!
I really liked the Starcaster and to be honest i love most semi/hollow body guitars and I own two or three. I just like the different tones and look of the guitars. With these models being at the cheaper end of the market, they are perfect for modding👌👍
Your playing on this video is particularly fun and tasteful! You’ve gotten great tones out of each of those guitars. I have the Epi IG ES335 in Cherry and a G2622 with Fidelisonic P90s, and my mate has the CV Starcaster. (I’m a bit envious of that Starcaster to be honest) I particularly enjoyed this review. Thank you 😊
I only discovered your videos recently, but I am so hooked on them! You are the only person doing detailed dives into each guitar you present and include difficult to find info in a down-to-earth, enjoyable way. Please keep making more videos so that for each guitar I shouldn't buy, I can find out every detail about it here! Best regards!
Time to practice my arpeggios while watching this video. This channel is great. I'll add another comment after this video. My main guitar is that Epiphone ES--335, but in flamed-maple top blueberry burst BUT, I'm already looking forward to a Starcaster, only because it has 25.5 inch scale.
In reference to the Squier Starcaster: "I'll play this over a 335 any day of the week." That's a BOLD statement my man! Now you've got me considering giving one a shot - especially at that price. Excellent rundown, thank you!
Gretsch have been putting out affordable and high quality outstanding guitars for at least a decade now and they never seem to get much love . I would love for The Guitaristas to prove that to everyone amd tackle some more Gretsch models in the new year. Colin does the best reviews on UA-cam and always seems to come up with the best licks the highlight the strengths of each guitar he reviews. While I have a feeling he wouldn't love the broadtron pickups we've seen him take other affordable guitars and turn them into absolute monsters with new pickups so I hope he'll check out some of the electromatic series. I owned a Gretsch g5220 that I absolutely loved and Jade gray with a walnut fingerboard. I did not love the broadTron pickups so I put in real filtertrons and it was a truly wonderful guitar. Unfortunately I had to sell it in order to get my dream guitar which was a Gibson Les Paul but I still think about that guitar. And now I see they offer it in a burst called Bristol fog. Despite being in the States my best friend is a Brit and fellow veteran who happens to live in Bristol so I got a feeling that I'll be making a purchase in the next few months. I'd love to see Colin get his hands on one of those to get his opinion on it but in my opinion Gretsch is underappreciated and their guitars are spectacular. Well the electromatic and up anyway.
Mate really look forward to the videos at the end of the week so thanks for making the effort. You never let us down with your input and observations/comments. Would love to have a video on how as an older player (me too) & how you have developed over the years … like the point about bar chords with the Hofner, using the thumb due to the neck. I still have lessons and on occasions go back to doing the odd exam … always looking for inspiration. Keep up good work Colin & all the best… if you weren’t so far South it be great to see you at a gig mate👍🎸
Keep going with your videos. They are much appreciated. It’s great having honest opinions rather than just positives without pointing out things that aren’t so good. We can tell that you’re as passionate about guitars as we all are.
I think my es335 is the first guitar that I bought purely based on looks. Ever since I first saw the Cream Goodbye concert I fell hard for Clapton’s cherry es335 and I eventually got one but it’s a dot. I also love the versatility of a 335 as well. My first hollow body is a 60’s Silvertone 1446 with the factory Gibson mini humbuckers and a bigsby. Both get played a lot and both are my go to guitars for noodling around the house because I find acoustic guitars uncomfortable. It’s always nice finding a quality instrument at an affordable price but sometimes you just have to scratch that itch lol. Either way I have no regrets buying my es335 and as always another great video in the books keep up the good work Colin!
Thanks for the commentary and playing. I recently purchased my first Gretsch, a streamliner with a Bigsby. Couldn't pass up the deal. Can't wait for it to arrive. All the best.
What a great job of comparing three "ES335" style guitars! Thanks for your personal responses to each of them. I am currently looking for a semi-hollow body electric and this video definitely steered me toward the Gretch G2622. I was also considering the Guild Starfire I DC, but for about $200 less in the U.S., I think I will be very happy with the Gretsch. I currently have a Gretsch solid body G2215 P90 Streamliner electric and am pleased with the quality so I'm hoping the 2622 will be of equal quality. I'll be watching your videos again. Very helpful and easy to understand.
Great episode. I’ve got an Eart 335, that’s a great satin sunburst with hand-rounded stainless steel frets. Been really impressed with it. < $400 though I’m thinking of switching from humbuckers to a P90s
We have a couple of versions My favourite is the Sire Larry Carlton.They have a new version with P90s which I’m looking forward to trying in the new year👍
First time seeing yiur channel! How!? Anyway love your relaxed manner and humility and lack of ego. Now this IS the sort of video I could watch with a cuppa!
Enjoyed this. Of course for people who want a 335 but smaller, there’s the 339. On another note, I owned a 1965 Guild Starfire III back in the mid to late 60’s. I could only afford one guitar at a time back then so had to sell it to move on. I would give a lot to have it back. It was an awesome guitar.
So glad you like the Starcaster Col, I have the Classic vibe tobacco burst, it sounds amazing the neck is so fast and smooth , great blues vibe, I love the classic vibe range also own cv 60`s custom shop Telecaster and 60`s cv Strat, all superb build quality and sound , cheers Col another enjoyable half hour or so, oh and the Epiphone Pelham Blue SG special as arrived back un harmed and is back on the wall
That's how I heavily upgraded my G2622: Gibson tailpiece New handwiring New toggle switch New pots Locking tuners New strip post (no neck diving) Seymour D. Psyclone Hot set . Turned into a BRILLIANT guitar. Hope this comment will help those who want to let shine this beautiful Gretsch!
Hello, can you say what kind of hardware (exactly) you have bought to make such upgrade? Is it possible to get good tone with upgrading just the HBs, but not the ware/electronics? Appreciate your help
@@Pudoum hi there! I just trust my luthier choices, along with his work. That's the list of the stuff that has been changed. Pickups of course play a big role in tone, so yeah swapping them out for some proper ones it does change the overall tone, BUT don't expect a crazy change. Original wiring is quite poor and cheap so a bit pointless to install pricey pickups without planning a rewiring process. Image to buy expensive tires but not upgrading the motor. That's the chronological order I made all the upgrades: 1 locking tuners (Grover's) first. 2 strip post 3 tailpiece 4 pickups, pots, toggle and wiring in the last upgrade. I start with light and cheap upgrades so I can understand if the guitar is worth it. Good tuners improve tuning stability which translates in more playability so to me is a must.
I really appreciate your videos as they are so informative and helpful. You provide a superb service for guitarists who want an unbiased view before making their purchase. Thanks.
I recently bought a Squire Starcaster. Really nice guitar. A great marriage of semi-hollow Gibson and Strat, with a fantastic mix of the styles. I had trouble for years picking out a new guitar; finally went with Starcaster precisely because it combined everything I liked into one guitar.
I have an Epiphone Riviera and a Harley Benton H35 Lemon Drop. i love both guitars though they sound very different as the Riviera has 3 P90’s and a Bigsby. While the H35 Lemon Drop had dual coil splitting Humbuckers! Colin I’ve been really enjoying your video presentation’s for a bit more than a year now. I have to admit your definitely one of my favorites when it comes to obsessing over guitars! Your playing and sense of humor is simply a joy to witness and your knowledge never fails to educate and entertain! Thanks for all of it!!
They all sound great with you playing them Colin. Having grabbed a Guild to scratch my 335ish itch and a Gretsch hollowbody, I don’t need another Spanish style electric but I was impressed with the Starcaster’s sound. That Gretsch with the P90’s that you had a few years back was a tone monster, if I remember correctly. I need to go back and watch that video again. Cheers Sensei! You played the slide nicely! P.S. if I got a Gibson it would be the 339, a bit more manageable for me.
I’ve been looking forward to this. I have loved 335’s ever since seeing Alvin Lee in the Woodstock movie. Over the years I’ve owned a Guild Starfire, an Epiphone Dot Studio and a Dearmond Starfire Special. Loved the Guild and Dearmond but never really bonded with the Dot, it was heavy, wouldn’t stay in tune and the finish had issues. The thing I noticed when listening to Colin play is that I really dug the sound of the Hofner and the Starfire, both really grabbed my attention (might just be because they sound substantially different from the other 3 which sounded similar to me). That works out for me since I recently picked up a Squier Starfire CV and have held on to an early 70’s Ovation Eclipse which has a Hofner body and either Hofner or Schaller single coil pickups. I’m glad to see that Colin liked the Starfire, even if it wasn’t his overall favorite. I wish the neck was a little chunkier but overall I really like mine.
Doh! I just noticed that I kept referring to the Squier as a Starfire when of course it is a Starcaster. So to clarify, I have the Ovation Eclipse which is sort of a Hofner with an Ovation neck and the Squier Starcaster. Love them both. If I was looking for another semi-hollow it would probably be the Gretsch. Happy New Year to one and all.
My first quality guitar was a 64 335 which my Dad bought for me in 1969. At that point he figured I was sticking with playing since I had continued lessons for about 7 years at that point. Alas, the guitar was stolen after a gig, but other than the sentimental value I felt the same way about it as you do. Great reviews my friend, I just may pick up a Starcaster after this.
Great video, as always, Colin! I've been waiting for this video for some time and I'm glad it is finally here. As I've said before in your comments, I'm not a 335 fan, but I own (and LOVE) an Epiphone ES339. It's the same shape as the 335, but sized similarly to a Les Paul. It sounds great, plays great, and in my opinion, the smaller shape makes it something that I would (and have) played live. I think that my 339 is the best sounding guitar I own!!
Interesting to read your comment. I was looking to buy myself a retirement guitar - a friend who's a luthier and was in band where he was the songwriter and singer - recommended that I not get the 339 as he did not like them... Different strokes for different folks. I ended up getting the Joe Bonamassa 1962 335 just because it was more or less a Gibson (hardware and pickups all the same) and the limited edition factor - for whatever that is worth.
Great reviews mate! Very thorough and professional 👍 came to this because I was interested in the Squier, but ended up thinking the Gretsch is one I have to try now too! Earned a subscriber 🙂
Great as always Colin...l wait patiently every Friday to pass about an hour listening and watching always interesting things👍👍👍...by the way my 1992just retourned from the luthier with perfect fretwork(not necessary a re-fret luckyly),perfect set up,Just in time for our 29th december gig...She now plays as She played 30years ago when She was fresh from factory...l am the happiest man on Earth...it's Just incredible the Joy and happyness a guitar can give you...as always Cheers from Italy 🤣👍👍👍🎸🎸🎸❤️❤️❤️
Two days ago, I ordered D'Angelico deluxe DC to be my ultimate 335, now I'm just praying you don't brake my heart with something considerably better and/or more affordable. Damn, this is going to be nail-biter for me, sir!
Again great work man 🤘... being a small guy I've always gravitated to strats sgs and lps as they fit my size and I prefer the tones and feel.. when I pulled the trigger on a semi hollow in 2020 I went es 339 Epiphone inspired by Gibson line .. classic sunburst..I absolutely love it.. fantastic guitar. for about 700 -750 w epi hard case it punches way above it's weight
I’m fortunate to have a Vox Virage DC. That Gretsch was my favorite here, though, and it’s very tempting. Love your channel, Colin. Thank you. And, oh - I finally subscribed.
Everyone's gotta have a 335 ... no truer words (it is a beast, and I remember it every time I pick up my Sire!) ... but still, you have to have one! (preferably in red)
After watching both parts I thought I could share my 2 cents. My "335"is a G2622. I swapped the hardware with Gotoh, installed a pair of "Seth Lover" SD's new pots and wiring. Of course all these doubled the price but I think it's worth it since the wood and fret work on these G2622's is superb. I don't think I will need another guitar of this type. Would like to see you upgrading yours Colin as it would be nice to see someone else's take on this great modding platform.
@@theguitaristas I have both a guild Starfire IV and a Guild Starfire 1-12. Both are fine guitars, especially for the price point. The 12 string also has coil splitting capability.
Went through most of these contenders myself a couple of months ago and decided to get the Guild Starfire. For me it was three things that set it apart from others in the same price range. First was the thin and flat neck shape, second was the coil split pickups and thirdly I just thought it sounded better overall. The only thing I didn't like is the 11 gauge strings it came with, and on mine the G tuner sticks a little. The only thing I changed other than the strings was to lower the action just a little. The playability on it really reminds me of a 60's Hagstrom Viking I had back in the 80's.
I had a 2021 Epiphone 335 in raspberry tea figured. I had it for about 10 months and found no love for it at all. I felt the same as you Colin. I have a Casino too and was finding much more love for that. Then one day I adjusted the pickup height and replaced the stock strings on the 335. And low and behold… wow! Great sound. The build quality is phenomenal. Absolutely first rate. The neck is lovely. The guitar feels really well made and solid. And now I’m enjoying the playing and the sound. I was ready to sell it. Not now 😂
Thanks Colin, you'e a big help and have a great sense of humor. Saw a Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster being played at at church today and it sparked my interest. Also demoed a Epi Casino worn today at GC and it was nice, pretty good build quality but it had slight intonation issues but more importantly it didn't want to stay in tune. The sales guy said "new strings". Was thinking about ordering a vintage sunburst. The local GC has both the Starcaster and the Gretsch G2262 Streamliner in stock, going to try them. Can't beat the prices on either. SW and MF have the Guild. I'm kind of intrigued with the Starcaster even though I think the headstock is a little goofy. If it feels and plays good I might grab it. Never though i'd consider a Squire. Can't beat the price 425 US.
For me, it's the 335 or the Gretsch, but mostly the 335. When I see it with that colour, I'm thinking Clapton with Cream at the RAH in 1968. I can't unsee it. I'm gassing for it and I'm gonna get one eventually. Allegedly, Ted McCarty - who designed it - said that the 335 was the design he was most proud of.
Interesting one again - good cross-section. Inclined to agree with your overall 335 take, albeit some people love them of course. I have one (good enough) well-known budget brand example. I got it because I felt I should have one even if I'm not sure why. It has a, "very good" setup but I seldom reach for it.....After this video, I think that's where my 335 experience will stay. I am a very basic classic rock/punk guy at heart (no great shakes). Super playing again, mate.
I was searching for a Gretsch 335 style in 2020 and came across an Epi 335 pro that was virtually unplayed so…I pulled the trigger. Its a fine guitar and I feel lucky to have yet in the four years since, not a week goes by without a ponder as to why I did not wait for the Gretsch version. I feel another new guitar day coming soon. Thanks for the video.
Colin, thanks again for another great video, it’s always a pleasure watching and learning your opinion on guitar, your relaxed honest way of expressing your thoughts and feelings on the guitars you review refreshing and always entertaining. I always smile when you say to skip forward if we don’t have enough time, I’m sure there are not many who do that, the time you give goes so quickly and I for one could watch for much longer! Thanks again buddy, you are much appreciated. Chris
I bought the Gretsch G2622 WS (like yours) as my first Gretsch and first semi-hollow. Love it, fantastic for the money, especially like the flawless fit and finish, the neck is great and I love the master volume control and the output jack down on the guitar side (instead of on the top). Liked it so much I bought the 2019 G2622T-P90 and like it even more! P-90s rock!
Thank you for your helpful insights. I’m a huge fan of my highly customized custom WARMOTH necked FENDER Starcaster. I swapped out the 335 style string snapping bar-stop tailpiece with a DUISENBERG vibrato tailpiece.
Hi Colin! Thanks for another great video. All of the guitars sounded really good. Those semi-hollow electrics are so versatile. I played my first show ever with a Korean made Epiphone Sheraton II in the 90's playing with lots of distortion and It handled it pretty well. It was also a great jazzer at the same time. I traded that guitar for a Telecaster that is now my favorite guitar that I own, but I still really miss that Epiphone two decades later. So much so that I'm tempted to try and track it down and make the current owner an offer. I'm not sure which of the ones you played were my favorite. Again, they all sounded pretty good. You've got great tone anyway and you make pretty much any guitar sound good. Btw, England looked great against Senegal! The French are going to be a much tougher test though. Again, best of luck tomorrow. I'll raise a toast to you one way or the other. Cheers Colin!
Thanks for the comparison! I have a Gretch single cutaway, a D'angelico premiere and a custon shop 61 es335. I like all 3. Had a Ibanez semi hollwbody that i loved too. Just bought a Epiphone les paul custom because of your review. Much better quality than they used to put out. I've already changed the pups to dimarzzio's but the stock humbuckers sounded decent too.
Loved Part 1 of this, so much so, i was inspired to purchase a Epi Casino. Great guitar.. Part 2 didn't fail to deliver either. Great video Colin. For me that Fender Starcaster sounded Great. Real Unique Earthy,Bluesy sound followed closely by the Gretsch. There is definitely something about a Hollowbody guitar. Every guitar player should own one..keep up the great content Colin👍
I want a Gibson ES335/345, I love the look of them, and they are one of the best guitars I've ever played. But if I wasn't to get that, I'd go for the Guild.
Fantastic comparison from someone who is not just trying to give us a bunch of sales pitches Amazed by what Gretsch have managed to do for the money! Sounds awesome, my Les Paul literally weighs the same as two of them, and looks cool too
Lucky enough to have 8 of these hollow to semi hollow - Epiphone, gibson and Eastman. I really only like 5 of them but they all look perfect hanging on the wall! Throw on the vinyl copy of Claptons’ “Nothing But The Blues” crank up the ‘65 Deluxe Reverb - and I’m there man! Great video. Love the slide work too! Cheers Colin.
Really good video mate as always thanks! I picked up a secondhand Epi 335 in mint order for £200 pretty good for that money, BUT up against my smaller bodied Gretsch streamliner G2655T, I dont honestly think it cuts it. The Gretsch seems more versatile being a bit smaller it handles nicely and its got a Bigsby on it and bearing in mind new these two guitars are pretty close in price I would take the Gretsch all day. Something about its feel, the way it plays is just to me a nicer guitar all round with quality to match. Anways thanks for another great episode Colin Cheers!
I have had a Gretsch G2622 for a couple of years. I agree with your assessment. It's a great guitar for the money, but it needs a pup and wiring upgrade along with some locking tuners. I'll get around to upgrading it one of these days. I've been watching your channel for a while now. Keep up the good work!
Well, I am biased because I own and love a Epiphone Inspired by Gibson red 335! But since I am a fan of your channel I will watch the whole thing, it's like hanging out with you for a while! Thanks Colin!
I love those semi-acoustic guitars. Got a gretsch 5420t and i pick it up the most, probably also because of the old troll living beneath always complaining bout the sound when i wanna rock.. Your gretsch was probably my number 1 choice though i like the darker Hofner and the starcaster too. I got a Hagstrom Viking deluxe (longer neck) which also has great quality. Thanks again for the review Colin. I must say it's the only thing i watch everytime. This channel has star quality.
When you said, “The Gretsch here needs some new pickups, new pickups and new wiring” (29:10), you hit the nail on the head. (It’s no mystery to me that it is your favorite out of the bunch.) That is exactly what I have done with several Streamliners. I buy used Streamliners (wonderful Indonesian workmanship), and I replace all of the budget hardware and electronics with the best stuff-TV Jones, Grover, CTS, Tru-Arc, Switchcraft, orange drop-and they are fantastic and rival the Gretsch Professionals. I call them “Super Streamliners.” The Pros are pricey, and I have not been impressed by the Electromatics, but upgraded Streamliners are the proverbial bomb. I put Fralin noiseless alnico P90s in one upgraded G2622, and its absolutely wonderful. More people should know about this and do this. Gretsch could seriously challenge the guys who make the 335 but, for too many, a guitar isn’t a real Gretsch unless it’s a single-cut hollow body with a Bigsby…and one must play only rockabilly on it. More of us need to think outside the box regarding Gretsch guitars.
hey Colin Glad you kept something 335 ish, i just got a JB Epi 62 335 , im excited this is my third JB epiphone with burstbuckers cheers from Playa Del Rey california
Colin, I usually find your critiques to be spot on, but different tastes and different needs will lead people to different opinions, even though they might be incorrect ones. I wanted as versatile of a guitar as I could find, and favored a 335 specifically for its size; I'm 6'4" tall which equates to 1.93 meters, with a correspondingly large frame, and to me smaller guitars feel like toys. I also preferred true 335 styling, something that couldn't be seen to be different from the original without looking at the head stock, so the Epi was my choice. I absolutely love it. I may not have a great basis for comparison, I don't own 30 guitars, nor specialize in comparing them, But I find it hard to imagine finding a guitar that I would prefer over my Epi. In conclusion, despite repeatedly being denied in my confirmation bias, I find your videos very informative, as well as just fun to watch, so will continue to be a fan for as long as you choose to keep making them. Thanks.
Thanks for your arm bruise sacrifice! My very first electric was a pretty 70s Framus 335 clone, then downsized to a 60s Tele Thinline, then settled on playing on solid bodies solely. I have enough tones to keep me occupied with the various full, mini and Firebird humbuckers and the many single coils in a solid body to add to the tonal complexity with a giant empty air bellows underneath the pickups. But I agree that semi/hollows sure are pretty looking and a covetous thing.
I played solid bodies all my life. Semi or hallow bodies would take some adjustment. They feel odd the first time I held one. Nothing wrong with that style of guitar. Love the 335. 50 years of playing solid bodies. They are an extension of me. Great channel am subscriber.
Ooh have you!... is the review up yet?? I'm wondering what you will think of the maestro vibrola as they take a bit of getting used to and do sound different to stop bars imho. Great guitar though and I am a bit jealous... but not enough to shell out £1150. That may change by tomorrow though! 🤣 Cheers Mike have a great weekend 👍
So it has been really tough to choose a winner better the JB 335 and the Eastman. They both are excellent, so I have to say it’s a draw with each taking wins in different columns. I did take the arm off the Maestro. I don’t use it and it was very much in the way. No tuning stability issues on either. I think in a perfect world I would have a stop bar on both as the response is a little tighter on the Eastman. I’m not sure if this is down to playing 12s on both? So the tension is pretty high.
Yeah, definitely review the ES339, especially the PRO with P90s. Maybe compare with Gretsch 2655 and 2657, both HB and P90. Cool stuff. And thanks for today's vid. I enjoy em all !!!
Another great vid! I have a '97 Sheraton that I've had for about 15 years. It's a great looking and solidly built Koren made guitar. The original pups were so microphonic that I could actually hear myself speaking through them. I replaced them with older Epi '57 pups which sound OK, but the plan is to install some Duncan '59 pups in it that I have. I also have some metric Tone Pros hardware to install on it. I don't play it much, but hauled it out the other day and quite enjoyed it.
Excellent show! I have the Starcaster in the same finish. I do love Squiers, and they are affordable. I like the copies they do of older Fender models, the Starcaster, and the Squier VI, a copy of the Bass VI.
I pulled out the P-90 SG.... it's cracked but still in tune so I plan to plat it until the headstock falls off. I bought a B Bender for the Tele and it's tuned to C6. Have a great weekend. Awesome show as usual! Cheers to you my friend... play more slide! I love it. SQUIRE
Snagged a epiphone 335 figured too for $150 off a week ago. Very happy with it! However, your bridge/tailpiece episode has me wanting to swap those out.
I started and played for 20+ years on acoustics only. I think 335s are great for those used to acoustics. It feels the most like an acoustic when I hold one compared to any electric I have held. I think teles (surprisingly) are the second to most like feeling like holding an acoustic. My 335 is actually a 20 year old Epiphone Sheraton. I have changed the tuners, pups and the wiring harness - it is a wonderful guitar. I may eventually get another 335, but the Epiphone will never leave me. Each 335 I have played have been very different - so anyone buying one should either be able to play many of them to compare or have a great return policy if buying from a distance. I totally understand why some people wouldn't like 335s - they are big guitars and can be heavy. Also, if you like looking like you are slaying it playing metal, even though 335s can do play that style, they don't (to me) have the right look. To me, SGs have the right look for that style.
Yep, I have the Gretsch G2622 in exactly that colour. It's great but the electronics let it down, though the Broad'Trons have quite a nice tone that isn't quite a Filter'Tron but not like a typical humbucker either. Be a fantastic base to upgrade from.
I really enjoy your channel. I’m not exactly a youngster either and I definitely don’t need any more pain in my wrists etc. Let me give you a take on what I did which helped tremendously. I notice you are a right leg player. So was I. But I switched to my left leg. And I got one of those little guitar foot elevators for my left foot raising the guitar up a bit. Play with fretboard at a 45 degree angle. Barre chords much much easier and most of the wrist pain has settled down. Try it. Love your work. Keep it up. (From North Carolina, USA).
I just discovered your videos and really enjoyed this - thanks very much. I’ve recently been researching Gretsch guitars myself, and have been particularly impressed with the Electromatic series. They seem to have a great tone and are still unbelievably affordable. It would be great to see you do a video on one of these down the road. Thanks again.
I used to love 335 style guitars, but I’ve changed over the years. But I still have 3, two Ibanez, and an original starfire lll. I prefer a telecaster nowadays. Of the ones you reviewed here, I like the Hofner. The fatter neck suits me. I like the simplicity and the matte finish. You know, the Ibanez semis are pretty good overall but get a lower rung on the ladder for some reason. Great video as usual!
Good pair of shootout vids Col' 👍 I was a bit surprised you didn't try a Gretsch centre block with Filtertrons just for the variety. "Everyone needs a 335"... When as a life long bass player I started getting into thing stringers, I got me an Harley Benton HB35+. Their take on the 335. About an inch slimmer across. I still have it and play it. I levelled the frets straight away and then, 4 years later, I put Blues Engine from IronGear pickups in.
But Then ... The 335'ish G.A.S. kicked in again after posting that comment. Two Epi Rivieras arrived ... with broken necks, followed by a Sheraton Frequensator with LACERATING fret ends !! ... So I tried a used Ibanez AS113 .. nice jazzy box but it had been too well used to be worth it. It took me a LONG time to get my money back from a certain seller in Cologne ... Grrr !! In the end I ticked another off my bucket list and got a real Gibson. We're going to be very happy together. The HB35+ will be Staying though. She's different enough sounding to warrant a place here. I'm back at this shoot-out again because I'm looking for something to put flat-wound 'jazzer' strings on. A full on Jazz Box might be the obvious choice and there are a few 'affordable' offerings out there - San Diego Semi Acoustic Guitar by Gear4music - BUT if I go for something a bit more versatile, I could do something else with it if I wanted or needed to. Enter the Gretsch G2622 or the Guild Starfire.
Every 335 alternative video I see always leaves out my favorite semi-hollow thinline alternative for some reason. That guitar would be the Cort Source. There are 3 versions and I own 2 of them. Fantastically constructed guitars.
I have a Parkwood semi-hollow that is great. Made by Cort I believe. it has 2 hum bucker pickups plus a piezo pick up. It doesn't look like the 335 though.
I bought the same Gretsch 2622,just before the 1st video,I agree it's a bit big but can be got used to. I didn't play it much either because I got a Michael Kelly 1953 type Tele with coil tapped Humbuckers, which I can't get away from playing. I probably have too many guitars bought over past 18 months, I 've never had a guitar with P-90s & was thinking of swapping some on to the Gretsch, which might happen in New Year now, thanks for the video, as always entertaining & informative
Correction: The ES-335 was of course first released by Gibson in 1958 and not 1960 as I repeatedly stated. Sorry!
Was about to fact check you, Colin, on your repetition of the 1960 debut date, but you beat me to it. I ought to know, I was around in 1958. Granted, I was six years old, but I was around.
Thinking that this style of ES335 with the shortened pickguard and less rounded "Mickey Mouse Ears" of the '58 started in' 60...So technically you could be right😁👍
Not sure which year the dot neck came out...?
Great content Colin😎👍
😎👍❤🖖
Love Brother
@@richardlynch5632 Thanks man... appreciated the heads up! 😎👍
The one you have as well as me is the 58 model...the 60s models went with the small block inlays and I think a thinner neck than the 58. I love mine but have to replace the output jack...it keeps coming loose...think I could fix it with a locking washer
Wait , then what about Marty Mcfly in 1955 😂😂😂😂😂
Why do I watch these videos, knowing I’m going to want a guitar I don’t need? I watch because I enjoy your playing, and I really enjoy the way you talk about guitars. You have a good energy and it’s nice that you put it out into the world.
It's a nice way to ease into the day. I share your sentiments.
Cheers man that's appreciated! 😁🙏
Yep, it's pleasing to see a person who actually knows and loves guitars.
i know the fella has lots of interesting things to talk about and could help me decide on a guitar, but he just faffs about not getting to important relevant information like his opinion, ideally an opinion about something he really likes and hopefully for lots of reasons, but, i'll never know i tried a few minutes at the beginning and then jumped forward and then gave up sorry
Same
I love this guy. He plays great. He had a wonderful demeanor and I always lean something from his videos
Yet another enjoyable & informative treat! I have orbited the sun 65 times & have never come across "ubiquitous". I have now googled & have been enlightened. Cheers Colin.
🤣👍 Excellent... I used that word several times for effect!
Got to say Colin I’m an avid watcher of your channel and always look forward to 12.00 on Fridays! I remember the mods you done on that epiphone 335 and now it sounds amazing! ❤
I understand what you're saying completely. During the week I find myself wondering what he's going to put out Friday morning and I'm eagerly awaiting it when I wake up.
You have become my go to for a wide array of information. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into these videos. Us blokes across the pond dig you sir!
The Gretsch is my favorite of this bunch. I’m probably going to buy one after watching this. You’re right, everyone needs a 335 style guitar in their collection.
😎👍👍
I have the 3 humbucker model 2627t it’s a great guitar
Once again another terrifyingly honest comparison. I enjoyed it immensely although it must be hard to distinguish between the feel, look and personal opinion. I have the epi inspired by I love it although I do hope to do a similar upgrade to the ones you did. Well everything except the wiring loom I still wake up in cold sweat thinking about that episode. Im off to become a patron. Enjoyed that although my coffee went cold about half way through.
Cheers Steve 😁👍
@kiteflyer101 "I do hope to do a similar upgrade to the ones you did."
The damn thing is that most of the 335's improvement came from fresh strings... which is either good news if (like me) you don't have endless money, or bad news if (like me) you have unreasonable urges to do stuff to your guitars.
The cost/benefit ratio was way higher for strings than for anything else... and while there surely was improvement throughout, it seemed as though the more spendy the improvement the more marginal its benefit was.
I'm still not sure whether that makes me glad or sad ;-)
I've said it before, but I'll say it again: one of the reasons that I like watching this channel so much is the easy pace; often videos like these will have all the natural pauses between sentences cut out to just compress it in as little time as possible, but that makes for very tiring and intensive listening. This is just GREAT relaxing time at a Friday night!
Cheers mate, i always think it's a little bit like music... the gaps between the notes are equally as important! 😁👍
@@theguitaristas Exactly!
Cool, this time last year I was choosing between these, and fell in love with the Hofner Verythin in a local shop. Now I've played it for a year and still happy. It looks so understated next to the others that are too blingy for me.
So I’m one of those people that watched the entire 335 upgrade series, having a 2017 Epiphone 335 Pro. I bought it after someone replaced the original pups with Gibson 57 Classics and had the frets leveled and dressed. I always wanted to change out the wiring harness, but haven’t had reason to until my switch went out. So I dropped an RS Guitarworks harness in and while I was at it, replaced the bridge and tail piece with Faber components. You never know how it’s going to turn out, but the difference is definitely noticeable. Way more open and responsive. Is it worth it? Meh. Maybe. I’d love to have a Gibson, but this suits me fine. It’s a substantial improvement over stock. But the fun for me is in having a project to experiment with. I want to thank you, Colin, for the inspiration! It’s a journey for sure.
i have grown fond of your videos, they are informative, they are openly opinionated, but most of all they are very relaxing; you have a comfortable and benevolent air about you, and it translates well as you create content. keep it up!
Thanks for the support it's appreciated! 😁🙏
I really liked the Starcaster and to be honest i love most semi/hollow body guitars and I own two or three. I just like the different tones and look of the guitars. With these models being at the cheaper end of the market, they are perfect for modding👌👍
The starcaster has been really great for me, they are running a great sale right now.
Your playing on this video is particularly fun and tasteful! You’ve gotten great tones out of each of those guitars. I have the Epi IG ES335 in Cherry and a G2622 with Fidelisonic P90s, and my mate has the CV Starcaster. (I’m a bit envious of that Starcaster to be honest)
I particularly enjoyed this review. Thank you 😊
I only discovered your videos recently, but I am so hooked on them! You are the only person doing detailed dives into each guitar you present and include difficult to find info in a down-to-earth, enjoyable way. Please keep making more videos so that for each guitar I shouldn't buy, I can find out every detail about it here! Best regards!
Cheers Nick, glad you found us man thanks for the support! 😁👍
Time to practice my arpeggios while watching this video. This channel is great. I'll add another comment after this video. My main guitar is that Epiphone ES--335, but in flamed-maple top blueberry burst BUT, I'm already looking forward to a Starcaster, only because it has 25.5 inch scale.
In reference to the Squier Starcaster: "I'll play this over a 335 any day of the week." That's a BOLD statement my man! Now you've got me considering giving one a shot - especially at that price. Excellent rundown, thank you!
Gretsch have been putting out affordable and high quality outstanding guitars for at least a decade now and they never seem to get much love . I would love for The Guitaristas to prove that to everyone amd tackle some more Gretsch models in the new year. Colin does the best reviews on UA-cam and always seems to come up with the best licks the highlight the strengths of each guitar he reviews. While I have a feeling he wouldn't love the broadtron pickups we've seen him take other affordable guitars and turn them into absolute monsters with new pickups so I hope he'll check out some of the electromatic series. I owned a Gretsch g5220 that I absolutely loved and Jade gray with a walnut fingerboard. I did not love the broadTron pickups so I put in real filtertrons and it was a truly wonderful guitar. Unfortunately I had to sell it in order to get my dream guitar which was a Gibson Les Paul but I still think about that guitar. And now I see they offer it in a burst called Bristol fog. Despite being in the States my best friend is a Brit and fellow veteran who happens to live in Bristol so I got a feeling that I'll be making a purchase in the next few months. I'd love to see Colin get his hands on one of those to get his opinion on it but in my opinion Gretsch is underappreciated and their guitars are spectacular. Well the electromatic and up anyway.
I got a hold on a new streamliner 3 humbucker 2627 in white I had no clue they played that good I bought it on the spot
Guild or the Hofner or both!
Well said!!!
Lovely! Thanks for putting this together. What I found really neat was the "memorable Hofner solo" moment. Great stuff! Peace.
Mate really look forward to the videos at the end of the week so thanks for making the effort. You never let us down with your input and observations/comments. Would love to have a video on how as an older player (me too) & how you have developed over the years … like the point about bar chords with the Hofner, using the thumb due to the neck. I still have lessons and on occasions go back to doing the odd exam … always looking for inspiration. Keep up good work Colin & all the best… if you weren’t so far South it be great to see you at a gig mate👍🎸
Keep going with your videos. They are much appreciated. It’s great having honest opinions rather than just positives without pointing out things that aren’t so good. We can tell that you’re as passionate about guitars as we all are.
I think my es335 is the first guitar that I bought purely based on looks. Ever since I first saw the Cream Goodbye concert I fell hard for Clapton’s cherry es335 and I eventually got one but it’s a dot. I also love the versatility of a 335 as well. My first hollow body is a 60’s Silvertone 1446 with the factory Gibson mini humbuckers and a bigsby. Both get played a lot and both are my go to guitars for noodling around the house because I find acoustic guitars uncomfortable. It’s always nice finding a quality instrument at an affordable price but sometimes you just have to scratch that itch lol. Either way I have no regrets buying my es335 and as always another great video in the books keep up the good work Colin!
Thanks for the commentary and playing. I recently purchased my first Gretsch, a streamliner with a Bigsby. Couldn't pass up the deal. Can't wait for it to arrive. All the best.
What a great job of comparing three "ES335" style guitars! Thanks for your personal responses to each of them. I am currently looking for a semi-hollow body electric and this video definitely steered me toward the Gretch G2622. I was also considering the Guild Starfire I DC, but for about $200 less in the U.S., I think I will be very happy with the Gretsch. I currently have a Gretsch solid body G2215 P90 Streamliner electric and am pleased with the quality so I'm hoping the 2622 will be of equal quality. I'll be watching your videos again. Very helpful and easy to understand.
correction ... Actually five different styles, not just three. So much the better! Thanks!
I love that you said the Grestch is in one word "CREATIVE" Mine always brings stuff out of me that I didnt know I had. Its very very inspiring.
Great episode. I’ve got an Eart 335, that’s a great satin sunburst with hand-rounded stainless steel frets. Been really impressed with it. < $400 though I’m thinking of switching from humbuckers to a P90s
The best guitar channel on youtube!!
Ordered my Verythin last night! Thanks to this and the individual review.
Cheers!
We have a couple of versions My favourite is the Sire Larry Carlton.They have a new version with P90s which I’m looking forward to trying in the new year👍
First time seeing yiur channel! How!? Anyway love your relaxed manner and humility and lack of ego. Now this IS the sort of video I could watch with a cuppa!
Cheers man glad you found us! 😁👍
Enjoyed this. Of course for people who want a 335 but smaller, there’s the 339.
On another note, I owned a 1965 Guild Starfire III back in the mid to late 60’s. I could only afford one guitar at a time back then so had to sell it to move on. I would give a lot to have it back. It was an awesome guitar.
Buddy Guy had one for a while until it broke
So glad you like the Starcaster Col, I have the Classic vibe tobacco burst, it sounds amazing the neck is so fast and smooth , great blues vibe, I love the classic vibe range also own cv 60`s custom shop Telecaster and 60`s cv Strat, all superb build quality and sound , cheers Col another enjoyable half hour or so, oh and the Epiphone Pelham Blue SG special as arrived back un harmed and is back on the wall
That's how I heavily upgraded my G2622:
Gibson tailpiece
New handwiring
New toggle switch
New pots
Locking tuners
New strip post (no neck diving)
Seymour D. Psyclone Hot set .
Turned into a BRILLIANT guitar.
Hope this comment will help those who want to let shine this beautiful Gretsch!
Hello, can you say what kind of hardware (exactly) you have bought to make such upgrade? Is it possible to get good tone with upgrading just the HBs, but not the ware/electronics?
Appreciate your help
@@Pudoum hi there! I just trust my luthier choices, along with his work. That's the list of the stuff that has been changed. Pickups of course play a big role in tone, so yeah swapping them out for some proper ones it does change the overall tone, BUT don't expect a crazy change. Original wiring is quite poor and cheap so a bit pointless to install pricey pickups without planning a rewiring process. Image to buy expensive tires but not upgrading the motor. That's the chronological order I made all the upgrades:
1 locking tuners (Grover's) first.
2 strip post
3 tailpiece
4 pickups, pots, toggle and wiring in the last upgrade.
I start with light and cheap upgrades so I can understand if the guitar is worth it.
Good tuners improve tuning stability which translates in more playability so to me is a must.
@@tomz1989 thanks a lot!
I really appreciate your videos as they are so informative and helpful. You provide a superb service for guitarists who want an unbiased view before making their purchase. Thanks.
I recently bought a Squire Starcaster. Really nice guitar. A great marriage of semi-hollow Gibson and Strat, with a fantastic mix of the styles. I had trouble for years picking out a new guitar; finally went with Starcaster precisely because it combined everything I liked into one guitar.
I have an Epiphone Riviera and a Harley Benton H35 Lemon Drop. i love both guitars though they sound very different as the Riviera has 3 P90’s and a Bigsby. While the H35 Lemon Drop had dual coil splitting Humbuckers! Colin I’ve been really enjoying your video presentation’s for a bit more than a year now. I have to admit your definitely one of my favorites when it comes to obsessing over guitars! Your playing and sense of humor is simply a joy to witness and your knowledge never fails to educate and entertain! Thanks for all of it!!
Cheers mate! 👍
Very nice comparison video. Thanks.
I love ‘em all, but that Gretsch is gorgeous.
God I love semi hollows so much. All of these really make me want another one.
They all sound great with you playing them Colin.
Having grabbed a Guild to scratch my 335ish itch and a Gretsch hollowbody, I don’t need another Spanish style electric but I was impressed with the Starcaster’s sound.
That Gretsch with the P90’s that you had a few years back was a tone monster, if I remember correctly. I need to go back and watch that video again.
Cheers Sensei! You played the slide nicely!
P.S. if I got a Gibson it would be the 339, a bit more manageable for me.
Cheers Pinkie... I still keep wondering why on earth I sold that P90 one! 🤷♂️
@@theguitaristas We all do that. Possibly so we can buy them again later. 🤔 😉 😂
I’ve been looking forward to this. I have loved 335’s ever since seeing Alvin Lee in the Woodstock movie. Over the years I’ve owned a Guild Starfire, an Epiphone Dot Studio and a Dearmond Starfire Special. Loved the Guild and Dearmond but never really bonded with the Dot, it was heavy, wouldn’t stay in tune and the finish had issues. The thing I noticed when listening to Colin play is that I really dug the sound of the Hofner and the Starfire, both really grabbed my attention (might just be because they sound substantially different from the other 3 which sounded similar to me). That works out for me since I recently picked up a Squier Starfire CV and have held on to an early 70’s Ovation Eclipse which has a Hofner body and either Hofner or Schaller single coil pickups. I’m glad to see that Colin liked the Starfire, even if it wasn’t his overall favorite. I wish the neck was a little chunkier but overall I really like mine.
Doh! I just noticed that I kept referring to the Squier as a Starfire when of course it is a Starcaster. So to clarify, I have the Ovation Eclipse which is sort of a Hofner with an Ovation neck and the Squier Starcaster. Love them both. If I was looking for another semi-hollow it would probably be the Gretsch. Happy New Year to one and all.
My first quality guitar was a 64 335 which my Dad bought for me in 1969. At that point he figured I was sticking with playing since I had continued lessons for about 7 years at that point. Alas, the guitar was stolen after a gig, but other than the sentimental value I felt the same way about it as you do. Great reviews my friend, I just may pick up a Starcaster after this.
Great video, as always, Colin! I've been waiting for this video for some time and I'm glad it is finally here. As I've said before in your comments, I'm not a 335 fan, but I own (and LOVE) an Epiphone ES339. It's the same shape as the 335, but sized similarly to a Les Paul. It sounds great, plays great, and in my opinion, the smaller shape makes it something that I would (and have) played live. I think that my 339 is the best sounding guitar I own!!
Interesting to read your comment. I was looking to buy myself a retirement guitar - a friend who's a luthier and was in band where he was the songwriter and singer - recommended that I not get the 339 as he did not like them... Different strokes for different folks. I ended up getting the Joe Bonamassa 1962 335 just because it was more or less a Gibson (hardware and pickups all the same) and the limited edition factor - for whatever that is worth.
Great reviews mate! Very thorough and professional 👍 came to this because I was interested in the Squier, but ended up thinking the Gretsch is one I have to try now too! Earned a subscriber 🙂
Great as always Colin...l wait patiently every Friday to pass about an hour listening and watching always interesting things👍👍👍...by the way my 1992just retourned from the luthier with perfect fretwork(not necessary a re-fret luckyly),perfect set up,Just in time for our 29th december gig...She now plays as She played 30years ago when She was fresh from factory...l am the happiest man on Earth...it's Just incredible the Joy and happyness a guitar can give you...as always Cheers from Italy 🤣👍👍👍🎸🎸🎸❤️❤️❤️
Great news Marco! 👍👍
Two days ago, I ordered D'Angelico deluxe DC to be my ultimate 335, now I'm just praying you don't brake my heart with something considerably better and/or more affordable. Damn, this is going to be nail-biter for me, sir!
Whatever happens I hear they are excellent Jan! 🤣👍
Again great work man 🤘... being a small guy I've always gravitated to strats sgs and lps as they fit my size and I prefer the tones and feel.. when I pulled the trigger on a semi hollow in 2020 I went es 339 Epiphone inspired by Gibson line .. classic sunburst..I absolutely love it.. fantastic guitar. for about 700 -750 w epi hard case it punches way above it's weight
I’m fortunate to have a Vox Virage DC. That Gretsch was my favorite here, though, and it’s very tempting. Love your channel, Colin. Thank you.
And, oh - I finally subscribed.
Cheers man!
Update: I bought a Starcaster (Fender).
Excellent comparison! Thanks for finding and including a Verythin! I had mentioned it to you after part one. 🙂
😁👍👍
Everyone's gotta have a 335 ... no truer words (it is a beast, and I remember it every time I pick up my Sire!) ... but still, you have to have one! (preferably in red)
After watching both parts I thought I could share my 2 cents. My "335"is a G2622. I swapped the hardware with Gotoh, installed a pair of "Seth Lover" SD's new pots and wiring. Of course all these doubled the price but I think it's worth it since the wood and fret work on these G2622's is superb. I don't think I will need another guitar of this type. Would like to see you upgrading yours Colin as it would be nice to see someone else's take on this great modding platform.
I think that's on the cards!
@@theguitaristas I have both a guild Starfire IV and a Guild Starfire 1-12. Both are fine guitars, especially for the price point. The 12 string also has coil splitting capability.
The tones of a sweet 335 type guitar with blues/rock is unlike any other 😉👍
Great video Colin 😃👍
😎👍❤🖖
Love Brother
Went through most of these contenders myself a couple of months ago and decided to get the Guild Starfire. For me it was three things that set it apart from others in the same price range. First was the thin and flat neck shape, second was the coil split pickups and thirdly I just thought it sounded better overall. The only thing I didn't like is the 11 gauge strings it came with, and on mine the G tuner sticks a little. The only thing I changed other than the strings was to lower the action just a little. The playability on it really reminds me of a 60's Hagstrom Viking I had back in the 80's.
Great video Colin as usual, tried a few 335’s and there big, landed a 339 and was stunned with the feel and sound.
Are there giant differences, in your opinion, between the 335 and 339?
The body on the 339 is smaller and in my humble opinion, more comfortable.
I had a 2021 Epiphone 335 in raspberry tea figured. I had it for about 10 months and found no love for it at all. I felt the same as you Colin. I have a Casino too and was finding much more love for that. Then one day I adjusted the pickup height and replaced the stock strings on the 335. And low and behold… wow! Great sound.
The build quality is phenomenal. Absolutely first rate. The neck is lovely. The guitar feels really well made and solid. And now I’m enjoying the playing and the sound. I was ready to sell it. Not now 😂
The stock strings are Gibson Bright Wires. I think the only way they can get rid of them is to put them on their new guitars... 🤣🤣🤣
@@joehahn8817 lol. I bet no one buys those. Not even the most hardcore Gibson collector.
Thanks Colin, you'e a big help and have a great sense of humor. Saw a Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster being played at at church today and it sparked my interest. Also demoed a Epi Casino worn today at GC and it was nice, pretty good build quality but it had slight intonation issues but more importantly it didn't want to stay in tune. The sales guy said "new strings". Was thinking about ordering a vintage sunburst. The local GC has both the Starcaster and the Gretsch G2262 Streamliner in stock, going to try them. Can't beat the prices on either. SW and MF have the Guild. I'm kind of intrigued with the Starcaster even though I think the headstock is a little goofy. If it feels and plays good I might grab it. Never though i'd consider a Squire. Can't beat the price 425 US.
For me, it's the 335 or the Gretsch, but mostly the 335. When I see it with that colour, I'm thinking Clapton with Cream at the RAH in 1968. I can't unsee it. I'm gassing for it and I'm gonna get one eventually. Allegedly, Ted McCarty - who designed it - said that the 335 was the design he was most proud of.
Interesting one again - good cross-section. Inclined to agree with your overall 335 take, albeit some people love them of course. I have one (good enough) well-known budget brand example. I got it because I felt I should have one even if I'm not sure why. It has a, "very good" setup but I seldom reach for it.....After this video, I think that's where my 335 experience will stay. I am a very basic classic rock/punk guy at heart (no great shakes). Super playing again, mate.
Cheers James, its only when I'm actually making these film that I realise that maybe peer pressure does play such a big part in our guitar choices!
I was searching for a Gretsch 335 style in 2020 and came across an Epi 335 pro that was virtually unplayed so…I pulled the trigger. Its a fine guitar and I feel lucky to have yet in the four years since, not a week goes by without a ponder as to why I did not wait for the Gretsch version. I feel another new guitar day coming soon. Thanks for the video.
Colin, thanks again for another great video, it’s always a pleasure watching and learning your opinion on guitar, your relaxed honest way of expressing your thoughts and feelings on the guitars you review refreshing and always entertaining. I always smile when you say to skip forward if we don’t have enough
time, I’m sure there are not many who do that, the time you give goes so quickly and I for one could watch for much longer! Thanks again buddy, you are much appreciated. Chris
Cheers Chris that's appreciated! 😁🙏
Great review! Appreciate your thoroughness and detail. Good chops, too! Thanks
I bought the Gretsch G2622 WS (like yours) as my first Gretsch and first semi-hollow. Love it, fantastic for the money, especially like the flawless fit and finish, the neck is great and I love the master volume control and the output jack down on the guitar side (instead of on the top). Liked it so much I bought the 2019 G2622T-P90 and like it even more! P-90s rock!
Thank you for your helpful insights. I’m a huge fan of my highly customized custom WARMOTH necked FENDER Starcaster. I swapped out the 335 style string snapping bar-stop tailpiece with a DUISENBERG vibrato tailpiece.
For the best sounding and looking is from part 1 and the epiphone riviera with mini humbuckers. Killer guitar 🎸 ❤
For when you want a ES-335 but don't want an ES-335. The Riviera has it's own style.
Hi Colin! Thanks for another great video. All of the guitars sounded really good. Those semi-hollow electrics are so versatile. I played my first show ever with a Korean made Epiphone Sheraton II in the 90's playing with lots of distortion and It handled it pretty well. It was also a great jazzer at the same time. I traded that guitar for a Telecaster that is now my favorite guitar that I own, but I still really miss that Epiphone two decades later. So much so that I'm tempted to try and track it down and make the current owner an offer. I'm not sure which of the ones you played were my favorite. Again, they all sounded pretty good. You've got great tone anyway and you make pretty much any guitar sound good.
Btw, England looked great against Senegal! The French are going to be a much tougher test though. Again, best of luck tomorrow. I'll raise a toast to you one way or the other. Cheers Colin!
Cheers man!.... me tomorrow night is 😬🏴🤞
Thanks for the comparison! I have a Gretch single cutaway, a D'angelico premiere and a custon shop 61 es335. I like all 3. Had a Ibanez semi hollwbody that i loved too. Just bought a Epiphone les paul custom because of your review. Much better quality than they used to put out. I've already changed the pups to dimarzzio's but the stock humbuckers sounded decent too.
😁👍 What colour did you get??
Loved Part 1 of this, so much so, i was inspired to purchase a Epi Casino. Great guitar..
Part 2 didn't fail to deliver either. Great video Colin. For me that Fender Starcaster sounded Great. Real Unique Earthy,Bluesy sound followed closely by the Gretsch.
There is definitely something about a Hollowbody guitar. Every guitar player should own one..keep up the great content Colin👍
I want a Gibson ES335/345, I love the look of them, and they are one of the best guitars I've ever played. But if I wasn't to get that, I'd go for the Guild.
Freddie King es 345 my dream guitar
Listen to these albums there all Gibson 335. Alvin Lee Free Fall, RX 5 and then Albert King The Burglar
Fantastic comparison from someone who is not just trying to give us a bunch of sales pitches
Amazed by what Gretsch have managed to do for the money! Sounds awesome, my Les Paul literally weighs the same as two of them, and looks cool too
Cheers Elliot!
Lucky enough to have 8 of these hollow to semi hollow - Epiphone, gibson and Eastman. I really only like 5 of them but they all look perfect hanging on the wall!
Throw on the vinyl copy of Claptons’ “Nothing But The Blues” crank up the ‘65 Deluxe Reverb - and I’m there man!
Great video. Love the slide work too! Cheers Colin.
Great Start to the weekend Colin. 👍🏻
Really good video mate as always thanks! I picked up a secondhand Epi 335 in mint order for £200 pretty good for that money, BUT up against my smaller bodied Gretsch streamliner G2655T, I dont honestly think it cuts it. The Gretsch seems more versatile being a bit smaller it handles nicely and its got a Bigsby on it and bearing in mind new these two guitars are pretty close in price I would take the Gretsch all day. Something about its feel, the way it plays is just to me a nicer guitar all round with quality to match. Anways thanks for another great episode Colin Cheers!
To me, the Höfner sounded best, very close comes the Starcaster. Thanx a lot for the hours that you spent for this comparison of guitars, Colin 👌
I have had a Gretsch G2622 for a couple of years. I agree with your assessment. It's a great guitar for the money, but it needs a pup and wiring upgrade along with some locking tuners. I'll get around to upgrading it one of these days. I've been watching your channel for a while now. Keep up the good work!
Love your vids ..refreshingly honest and I learn so much listening to your take on things...well done on a great channel
Cheers Thomas!
Well, I am biased because I own and love a Epiphone Inspired by Gibson red 335! But since I am a fan of your channel I will watch the whole thing, it's like hanging out with you for a while! Thanks Colin!
Cheers Todd, good to see you as always mate! 😁👍
I love those semi-acoustic guitars. Got a gretsch 5420t and i pick it up the most, probably also because of the old troll living beneath always complaining bout the sound when i wanna rock.. Your gretsch was probably my number 1 choice though i like the darker Hofner and the starcaster too. I got a Hagstrom Viking deluxe (longer neck) which also has great quality. Thanks again for the review Colin. I must say it's the only thing i watch everytime. This channel has star quality.
When you said, “The Gretsch here needs some new pickups, new pickups and new wiring” (29:10), you hit the nail on the head. (It’s no mystery to me that it is your favorite out of the bunch.) That is exactly what I have done with several Streamliners. I buy used Streamliners (wonderful Indonesian workmanship), and I replace all of the budget hardware and electronics with the best stuff-TV Jones, Grover, CTS, Tru-Arc, Switchcraft, orange drop-and they are fantastic and rival the Gretsch Professionals. I call them “Super Streamliners.” The Pros are pricey, and I have not been impressed by the Electromatics, but upgraded Streamliners are the proverbial bomb. I put Fralin noiseless alnico P90s in one upgraded G2622, and its absolutely wonderful. More people should know about this and do this. Gretsch could seriously challenge the guys who make the 335 but, for too many, a guitar isn’t a real Gretsch unless it’s a single-cut hollow body with a Bigsby…and one must play only rockabilly on it. More of us need to think outside the box regarding Gretsch guitars.
Cheers man, I’m definitely going to do the upgrades on this early next year 😎👍
hey Colin Glad you kept something 335 ish, i just got a JB Epi 62 335 , im excited
this is my third JB epiphone with burstbuckers cheers from Playa Del Rey california
Men, I’m surprised how much I liked the sound of the Squier. But those are looks only a manufacturer can love.
Colin, I usually find your critiques to be spot on, but different tastes and different needs will lead people to different opinions, even though they might be incorrect ones. I wanted as versatile of a guitar as I could find, and favored a 335 specifically for its size; I'm 6'4" tall which equates to 1.93 meters, with a correspondingly large frame, and to me smaller guitars feel like toys. I also preferred true 335 styling, something that couldn't be seen to be different from the original without looking at the head stock, so the Epi was my choice.
I absolutely love it. I may not have a great basis for comparison, I don't own 30 guitars, nor specialize in comparing them, But I find it hard to imagine finding a guitar that I would prefer over my Epi.
In conclusion, despite repeatedly being denied in my confirmation bias, I find your videos very informative, as well as just fun to watch, so will continue to be a fan for as long as you choose to keep making them. Thanks.
Thanks for your arm bruise sacrifice! My very first electric was a pretty 70s Framus 335 clone, then downsized to a 60s Tele Thinline, then settled on playing on solid bodies solely. I have enough tones to keep me occupied with the various full, mini and Firebird humbuckers and the many single coils in a solid body to add to the tonal complexity with a giant empty air bellows underneath the pickups. But I agree that semi/hollows sure are pretty looking and a covetous thing.
I played solid bodies all my life. Semi or hallow bodies would take some adjustment. They feel odd the first time I held one. Nothing wrong with that style of guitar. Love the 335. 50 years of playing solid bodies. They are an extension of me. Great channel am subscriber.
Hello sir! Great show as always. I just got the Joe B. 335 and it is a wonderful piece of work. Really an outlier. Cheers!
Fully agree! I lucked in to the signature fretboard model to go with my Lazarus. Truly a great set of guitars
Ooh have you!... is the review up yet?? I'm wondering what you will think of the maestro vibrola as they take a bit of getting used to and do sound different to stop bars imho. Great guitar though and I am a bit jealous... but not enough to shell out £1150. That may change by tomorrow though! 🤣 Cheers Mike have a great weekend 👍
So it has been really tough to choose a winner better the JB 335 and the Eastman. They both are excellent, so I have to say it’s a draw with each taking wins in different columns.
I did take the arm off the Maestro. I don’t use it and it was very much in the way. No tuning stability issues on either. I think in a perfect world I would have a stop bar on both as the response is a little tighter on the Eastman. I’m not sure if this is down to playing 12s on both? So the tension is pretty high.
... another great video! When You play, You reminds me JJ Cale a lot... Wonderful touch, nice phrasing and perfect pauses timing... 👍👍👍👍
😊🙏
Love them both Epiphone and Gretche Colin both are legendary brands
Yeah, definitely review the ES339, especially the PRO with P90s. Maybe compare with Gretsch 2655 and 2657, both HB and P90. Cool stuff. And thanks for today's vid. I enjoy em all !!!
Another great vid! I have a '97 Sheraton that I've had for about 15 years. It's a great looking and solidly built Koren made guitar. The original pups were so microphonic that I could actually hear myself speaking through them. I replaced them with older Epi '57 pups which sound OK, but the plan is to install some Duncan '59 pups in it that I have. I also have some metric Tone Pros hardware to install on it. I don't play it much, but hauled it out the other day and quite enjoyed it.
Cheers Allen, those older Korean Sheraton's are great guitars 👍👍
Excellent show! I have the Starcaster in the same finish. I do love Squiers, and they are affordable. I like the copies they do of older Fender models, the Starcaster, and the Squier VI, a copy of the Bass VI.
I pulled out the P-90 SG.... it's cracked but still in tune so I plan to plat it until the headstock falls off. I bought a B Bender for the Tele and it's tuned to C6. Have a great weekend. Awesome show as usual! Cheers to you my friend... play more slide! I love it. SQUIRE
Excellent... just get some glue!! 🤣 Slide?... you were my inspiration to give it a go mate! 😁👍
@@theguitaristas sound great! try C6... normally a laptop tuning
I'm in love with that Guild Starfire.
Snagged a epiphone 335 figured too for $150 off a week ago. Very happy with it! However, your bridge/tailpiece episode has me wanting to swap those out.
I thought the Gretsch sounded the best too. I don't have a Gretsch, but I'm inching closer thanks to you. Another great Vid!
I started and played for 20+ years on acoustics only. I think 335s are great for those used to acoustics. It feels the most like an acoustic when I hold one compared to any electric I have held. I think teles (surprisingly) are the second to most like feeling like holding an acoustic. My 335 is actually a 20 year old Epiphone Sheraton. I have changed the tuners, pups and the wiring harness - it is a wonderful guitar. I may eventually get another 335, but the Epiphone will never leave me. Each 335 I have played have been very different - so anyone buying one should either be able to play many of them to compare or have a great return policy if buying from a distance. I totally understand why some people wouldn't like 335s - they are big guitars and can be heavy. Also, if you like looking like you are slaying it playing metal, even though 335s can do play that style, they don't (to me) have the right look. To me, SGs have the right look for that style.
Yep, I have the Gretsch G2622 in exactly that colour. It's great but the electronics let it down, though the Broad'Trons have quite a nice tone that isn't quite a Filter'Tron but not like a typical humbucker either. Be a fantastic base to upgrade from.
I really enjoy your channel. I’m not exactly a youngster either and I definitely don’t need any more pain in my wrists etc. Let me give you a take on what I did which helped tremendously. I notice you are a right leg player. So was I. But I switched to my left leg. And I got one of those little guitar foot elevators for my left foot raising the guitar up a bit. Play with fretboard at a 45 degree angle. Barre chords much much easier and most of the wrist pain has settled down. Try it. Love your work. Keep it up. (From North Carolina, USA).
I just discovered your videos and really enjoyed this - thanks very much. I’ve recently been researching Gretsch guitars myself, and have been particularly impressed with the Electromatic series. They seem to have a great tone and are still unbelievably affordable. It would be great to see you do a video on one of these down the road. Thanks again.
Hey Robert, there's a review of the Electromatic G5230T here not eh channel so check that out... great guitars!!
I used to love 335 style guitars, but I’ve changed over the years. But I still have 3, two Ibanez, and an original starfire lll. I prefer a telecaster nowadays. Of the ones you reviewed here, I like the Hofner. The fatter neck suits me. I like the simplicity and the matte finish. You know, the Ibanez semis are pretty good overall but get a lower rung on the ladder for some reason. Great video as usual!
Good pair of shootout vids Col' 👍
I was a bit surprised you didn't try a Gretsch centre block with Filtertrons just for the variety.
"Everyone needs a 335"...
When as a life long bass player I started getting into thing stringers, I got me an Harley Benton HB35+. Their take on the 335. About an inch slimmer across.
I still have it and play it.
I levelled the frets straight away and then, 4 years later, I put Blues Engine from IronGear pickups in.
But Then ... The 335'ish G.A.S. kicked in again after posting that comment.
Two Epi Rivieras arrived ... with broken necks, followed by a Sheraton Frequensator with LACERATING fret ends !! ...
So I tried a used Ibanez AS113 .. nice jazzy box but it had been too well used to be worth it.
It took me a LONG time to get my money back from a certain seller in Cologne ... Grrr !!
In the end I ticked another off my bucket list and got a real Gibson.
We're going to be very happy together.
The HB35+ will be Staying though.
She's different enough sounding to warrant a place here.
I'm back at this shoot-out again because I'm looking for something to put flat-wound 'jazzer' strings on.
A full on Jazz Box might be the obvious choice and there are a few 'affordable' offerings out there - San Diego Semi Acoustic Guitar by Gear4music - BUT if I go for something a bit more versatile, I could do something else with it if I wanted or needed to.
Enter the Gretsch G2622 or the Guild Starfire.
Great video, really enjoyed the series... More! 😀👏
I'm definitely a 335 lover ❤
The Riviera in part one was probably my 2nd fave
Every 335 alternative video I see always leaves out my favorite semi-hollow thinline alternative for some reason. That guitar would be the Cort Source. There are 3 versions and I own 2 of them. Fantastically constructed guitars.
I have a Parkwood semi-hollow that is great. Made by Cort I believe. it has 2 hum bucker pickups plus a piezo pick up. It doesn't look like the 335 though.
I bought the same Gretsch 2622,just before the 1st video,I agree it's a bit big but can be got used to. I didn't play it much either because I got a Michael Kelly 1953 type Tele with coil tapped Humbuckers, which I can't get away from playing. I probably have too many guitars bought over past 18 months, I 've never had a guitar with P-90s & was thinking of swapping some on to the Gretsch, which might happen in New Year now, thanks for the video, as always entertaining & informative