Epiphone IBG Hummingbird vs IBG J-45
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- čas přidán 17. 05. 2023
- Tonight we are doing a video per an email request from a viewer:
Hello!
My name is Dawid, I am a viewer from Poland, and I really enjoy your guitar videos. I'm thinking about buying myself a nice acoustic, and because I love Gibson/Epiphone designs, I'm torn between the J45 and the Hummingbird. Is there a chance you could make a video that compares back to back your Hummingbird and your J45?
Thank you very much and have a great day,
Dawid
Update: These IBGs, as of 2023, are now being manufactured in China. Buyer beware. My recommendation is to find a used one with the factory code 23, which is the old Samick factory in Indonesia.
Folks, always feel free to reach out anytime: asmallstone1977@gmail.com - Hudba
Great review, ty! I have tried 3 Hummingbirds and finally kept the 3rd. It is amazing. Ive tried a couple of the IBG J45s but the necks were just a bit wider and uncomfortable for me. I also bought an IBG J200, the neck is perfect for me. Unplugged it is a bit muddy but plugged in it is great! I am also a Gibson and USA Guild girl, I have 2 of each. The IBGs are my new favorites!
Hi Kim, thank you so much for the kind words, ma’am. The Hummingbird is certainly the cream of that crop, which you seem to be on board with as well. Yes’m, the 45 is a bit like the Gibson 50’s J-45 neck. I completely understand that those necks are not for everyone. I did a comparison video between those 2 45’s not long ago. Both have a really killer tone, but they couldn’t be more different, tonally. I hope we stay in touch 👍🏻
I did a quick listen to your channel and my jaw dropped. What a great voice you have. Would you mind if I featured one of your videos? If you check out my channel, you’ll see that I do that from time to time for other CZcamsrs, so I can send my subscribers their way. I’d love to do the same for you, ma’am.
@@randysrhythm ty so much for the compliment!! You are a great player, I was working on a new fingerpicking tune tonight inspired by your playing!
You are welcome to use anything you like, please and thank you!
@@kimrileymusic 🥃 to new friends
@@kimrileymusic Hi Kim, I plan to do the feature video this week. Could you do me a favor? If you would go into YT Studio and edit your uploads, you can select, “Not made for kids”, it will then allow folks to comment on your videos. As it stands, you only have a few videos that allow comments. That one selection will really mean a lot to folks that want to support your channel. If you have any issues, just email me at: asmallstone1977@gmail.com and I’ll walk you through it 👍🏻
Hi Kim, I’m a bit late with this comment, so hope it makes it to you, but try Elixir 80/20s on the J200, I found they really improved clarity over daddario PB 12s which were my goto set before I tried the Elixirs.
I think this man's fingers could make anything sparkle and shine.
You’re too kind, Ivan. Appreciate you, brother man 👍🏻
Wow / Randy / You made that Guitar ( J-45 ) sound much like a Gibson so I bought one - ( Indonesia) 🇮🇩 and love It ( not quite my Gibson J-160 Beatles Model)!
Hi Thomas, a 160 is a top notch guitar, for sure! Very pleased you picked the 45 up and are enjoying it, brother man 👍🏻
Both are Great Guitars!! That Hummingbird is beautiful sounding!! I played both and had a very hard time deciding, But the J-45 just had that thing I Love!!!!
Hi Ms J-Lyn, yes’m, the mids/dark boom of the 45 is special for sure. It is always a pleasure to have such a talented lady, like your good self, come see us, ma’am 👍🏻
Wow, that first guitar is beautiful! I love the details.
Hi Ms Maddy!! Yes’m, that Hummingbird is surprisingly beautiful. I couldn’t believe they used Mother of Pearl for the inlays, but apparently Gibson is stepping up Epiphone’s game. It’s really great to hear from you and say hey to mom and dad for us 👍🏻
Thank you for making this Video - I have a Gibson J-160 but do not want to get it stolen so I bought the J-45 inspired by Gibson ( and may get the Hummingbird
You’re welcome, Thomas. Both are just amazing, especially considering the price point, brother man 👍🏻
These are some of the best guitar review videos I've seen! Just ordered the Hummingbird :) Thanks and keep up the great work
That’s about the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. Thank you so much for the encouragement. You may have to make a few tweaks when you get it, but you’ll be blown away by the sound. Looking forward to hearing more from you and thanks again!
They both sound great. It is hard to tell a difference. Many thumbs up.
Thank you, Tommy. Glad you enjoyed it, brother man 👍🏻
Fantastic playing my friend that both sound great just different thank you 👍
Hi Cameron, I completely agree and believe you just summed it up, brother man 👍🏻
wow this is so amazing and beautiful well done my frend great job
Thanks, brother man 👍🏻
You make them both sound great to me... I say get one of each.
Great advice to everyone, D Jr! I’m doing some catch up today, so heading over shortly to catch your last upload, brother man 👍🏻
Well done my friend! Keep it up!!!
Thank you, Sioreji 👍🏻
what would the world beeeeee without randy ??? We even can count on you that you try to make everything possible for your listeners and fans here, even by getting a guitar on review for a listener of your fanbase and even make him a whole video for his decision!!! that is outstanding to even consider this work for one person and make the most of it and also let all the others know about this video so it helps maybe a nother person as well. Thank you for doing all this for us randy !!!! you are youtubes Sweetheart !!!!
Ms Julie, you are way too kind, ma’am. You’d do the same thing! It really makes me smile when I see you have taken the time to comment. You’re a dear and very much appreciated 👍🏻
That J-45 really sounds shines on Windy and Warm.
I thought so too, TM. It’s not too shabby with a pick, either. But you’re absolutely right about the fingerstyle piece, brother man 👍🏻
Sounds amazing Randy , great video , enjoy the weekend 🎸😎🎶🙌👍
Brother man, Steve!! Great to hear from you and hope you’re keeping well, my friend. Thank you for the kind words 👍🏻
Hi Randy " thanks for another great video review on the IBG Humming bird and J45. I love them both mate and the Excellente. As I've said before I hardly touch my Martins any more. I have fallen in love with sound of the Epiphone IBG models and it's all thanks to you and your video reviews old mate. Anyway thanks again old mate cheers and stay safe 👍
Hey Kevy!! There’s a compliment that I wasn’t expecting! For some crazy reason, the channel is growing. I expect it is simply due to folks like your good self. I really appreciate the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
Great guitar playing and videos Randy
I was lucky to find an IBG J 45 Slash model... what a great sound and now I've got my eye on one of those IBG Hummingbirds, keep up the good work 😎🎸🎶💙
Hi Mark, I’ve played the Slash 45. Other than the finish, the only real difference between the two is the 16” radius fretboard. A really great guitar! On the Hummingbird, if you pick one up, I’d suggest picking up a used one and the reason is that they have now moved the manufacturing to China on the IBG lineup. The 5th and 6th digits in the serial number should read 23. That’ll let you know that it was built in the Samick factory, just in case you didn’t know it. I sure love my Hummingbird. I really appreciate the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
Nice video. Thank you Randy. Just want to share that I had my first taste of solid wood acoustic guitar in 2014 by way of an Epiphone Masterbilt that I bought from Sweetwater - the DR-500MCE, a dreadnought with a cut-away. I was blown away. I couldn’t believe the impeccable craftsmanship of that guitar. Impressed, I went on to buy 3 more Epiphone Masterbilts the EF-500RCCE, AJ-45ME and AJ-500RCE. They are all made at the Samick plant in Indonesia. I take very good care of them and keep them in their Epiphone hardshell case when not in use. And they have all opened up and sounded better with the passage of time. Keep up to good work. New subscriber here.
Very much appreciated, Mr 3! Just to provide a bit of input as well, I’ve heard great things about the DR-500. In fact, I’ll probably pick one up in the near future. Looking forward to hearing more from you, brother man 👍🏻
Just picked up the IBG Hummingbird and you are 100% correct! I'm amazed that Gibson is allowing this to happen. I will be adding the J-45 ASAP. Just found your channel. Love it. Keep up the good work sir!
Hi Brenden, it’s great to have you on the channel. I was playing my Hummingbird yesterday and thought, I’ll never top this! I really appreciate the kind words and the time you spent watching and commenting. It means a great deal, brother man 👍🏻
Im in the kitchen making spaghetti… listening to you kick around some awesomeness on that Epiphone!!! I’ve started playing my epiphone more than my Gibson studio because of the deep tone when Im using it as a drum. Great video!!! I’ve missed getting to hear you play!!! Along with your words of wisdom!!!!
Hi Ms Dana, I’m sure the wisdom part is quite debatable, but your kind thoughts about it are very much appreciated, ma’am. It’s really great that you had a bit of time to come visit. You’re one talented singer 👍🏻
Hi Randy, Great video, thank you. I’m nearing 63 and learning to play. I’m really enjoying it, I wish I started years ago.
I’ve been looking at the exact IBG models for my 3rd addition to my new collection. Man, no one ever told me you won’t have enough guitars! 😂 After watching this video, it’s clear to my ears the Hummingbird is the winner.
Ps. I have Godin Fairmount CH LTD and just love it. My very first guitar was a Epi PR-5E and still enjoy playing it.
Hi J, yes sir, it’s called GAS (guitar acquisition syndrome) and there’s no cure for it. However, there are support groups and this channel is one of those groups 😂. I’m pleased to hear that you have stepped out there and started playing. I can’t think of a more worthy thing to do. If I can ever do anything for you, please let me know, brother man 👍🏻.
Great to have you on the channel!
Awesome video Randy. I love them both... It would be hard for me to decide on which one to get. I want them all...lol...
Thank you, brother man Dave! At the moment I’m eating every day, so thank God I’m not having to choose 😂
They really do sound significantly different and uniquely wonderful.. I'm partial to these guitars because I own these and truthfully I don't have a favorite they are both awesome guitars and I can't believe I got two great gits for 2k.. had to buy cases but still a great deal.. I'm owned Taylor's and Martins but I have never owned a Gibson.. absolutely love both of these epis
Hi Raymond, I just love it when more confirmation shows up. A great testimony and I couldn’t agree more, brother man 👍🏻
Thanks Randy good to know they sure are nice looking guitars the hummingbird sound like it has a lot of bottom end full sound and I like it!!! Have a great weekend!
Hi Ms Kathy, that Hummingbird is the best decision Gibson ever made on behalf of Epiphone. Inexpensive and pure quality. Great observation, ma’am, and as always, very much appreciate your feedback and continued support. You keep a busy schedule, so it means all the more, ma’am 👍🏻
@@randysrhythmAlways a pleasure Randy have a wonderful weekend! Hugs!
Great comparison video as always Randy. You hit the nail on the head on how we get hung up on a brand name. My rule #3 for buying and owning a guitar:
3. You can't judge a guitar by it's brand, cost, age, reputation, looks, or Facebook comments. You have to play it.
I have 2 Gibsons, 5 Godins, 2 Epiphones from the Samik Masterbilt factory, 1 Taylor, and 1 Framus. Every one of those guitars was chosen for it's sound and playability, not brand. Be true to your ear.
Thanks again for great videos!
You’re the man, TM. That was perfectly summed up. Like you, I’m a fan of what Godin is doing. Great comment, brother man 👍🏻
Wonderful comparison video Randy great playing and demonstration, at first I thought the Hummingbird and then I thought the J 45 and then I thought like you I should run away 😂😂 very well done my friend 🎸🎸👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻
Hilarious, brother man and thank you 👍🏻👍🏻
By the slimmest of margins, Brother Randy, the Hummingbird is my choice. Man, that thing is special
Great playing! 😎🎸🙏
Hi brother Paul, yes sir, that Hummingbird is my pride and joy, brother man. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, brother man 👍🏻
The bird sounds like a worn in vintage guitar. Very, very beautiful tone. The J45 sounds like a Green Day record. I ended up getting the Slash J45 as I also prefer the J45 looks. However, I can definitely see myself adding the bird to my collection at the future. I've been enjoying your videos a lot. Thanks for sharing them!
Thanks Felipe! Just don’t tell your wife I influenced anything, as all CZcams wives have apparently declared me public enemy #1 😂
Great analysis, brother man 👍🏻
I want to thank you for being true to your character for being forthright and honest with the information. I think in this case it's purely subjective. I like the hummingbird for the strumming but was drawn to the J-45 with the finger style. Purely subjective 😊. Thanks for the comparison 👍
Hi Bruce, yes sir, you’re welcome. I agree about the fingerstyle on the 45. It has a deep, woody tone when played that I just love. I’m really pleased that you liked the video, brother man, not to mention the fact that you own some real gems 👍🏻
I love them both but if I had to choose one that hummingbird wow !!!
Impressive beast, isn’t it brother man?
Really an impressive performance my dear friend Randy!! You play them both so awesome!!!
Love and respect Kyle!! 😊🥁🇵🇭
Hi there young friend! You are too kind, but I suspect that it is due to 2 wonderful parents 😁
@@randysrhythm Yes my Dear friend Randy!! Dad and Mom manage my YT!! But I'm with them watching videos that appreciate for my Age just like this musical presentation of yours!! I really like music and I'm starting learn guitar and piano also!!
Love and respect Kyle!! 😊🥁🇵🇭
Yes!!! Epiphone!!!! Hey Randy!!!!
Killer guitars, ma’am. Hey right backatcha 👍🏻
Hey Randy. I just found your channel. Man, I really love your playing. I’m a huge fan of Epiphone. Both sound great, but the hummingbird makes me want to hear some sad cowboy songs. I also like the Hummingbird 12 string. Looking forward to more videos.
Hey Steve, I really appreciate the kind words. Yes sir, this IBG Hummingbird has captured me. I doubt I’ll ever buy a Gibson Hummingbird, it’s that good. I’ve seen the 12 string version and knew they offered it, but never played one. I’m really glad you’ve joined us, brother man 👍🏻
How could you choose !! Randy your knowledge and mad skills on the strings are enuff to make anyone jealous - ok I'm jealous - now you know !! 😊 - I used to have a Hondo imitation hummingbird sunburst and gorgeous ( I gave it to some kid at church wanting to learn ) .... And I thought you was a famous musician..... GOD bless ....
Baker, Baker, Baker, me famous? 😂😂😂😂 I love your wit brother. My skills are so lacking that I freak myself out! That’s not to say I don’t appreciate the kindness, my friend and brother. I wish I could sing like you, so we’re even, brother man 👍🏻
Thank you so much for your great information - about where the guitars were made too .... I attended the some of your very good videos .... Must say when I listen to your two guitars here, I may prefer the J-45 .... Can't really tell you why.. For a short time I owned a Epi Hummingbird I bought second hand... But it simply had not the richness and the full sound yours have .... so I sold it ... I was happy to see both of the Epi's I have ... the SJ 200 and a small El-00 sound excellent to me, and I can see they are both made in the Sammick factory ... and I love to play them... I find the neck-work is superb ...
You are certainly welcome. I appreciate you checking the channel out. I’ve heard some good things about the two guitars you have, so glad you’re enjoying them. The 45 is pretty impressive. Hope to see more of you on the channel, brother man 👍🏻
Hey Randy I am enjoying your channel, I also have both of these guitars and can not believe how good they are it's ridiculous 😅
Hi Gavin, they have been a refreshing highlight, for sure! It’s impossible not to talk about it. Thanks for sharing your experience and for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
great video amigo
Thank you, Hierrito 👍🏻
Hey Randy, great playing! your playing draws out the different guitars character, but still sounds like you! I have an IBG J45 cutaway and IBG J200 which is also superb. I’ve been tempted by the HB but don’t like the one in my local guitar shop, sure it just needs a setup and and new strings, but just turns me off every time I’ve strummed it and it sounds dead😂 I’ll need to try another somewhere else. I did try 3 J200s before I found one that played well and sounded great! I agree they are just different, not better or worse. I love the honesty of the J45 and the sparkle and depth of the J200(and also that the J200 is a little less bassy than a Gibson SJ200 which I think just makes it a bit more versatile.
Hi Brian, thank you very much for the kind words. I’ve yet to play the IBG 200. I’ve never actually seen one in a guitar shop, but I’m hopeful. Sorry to hear about the Hummingbirds you’ve tried. Mine was just amazing when it showed up and I’ll never part with it. As you mentioned, sometimes you just have to find the right one with any guitar. I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts and look forward to hearing more from you on the channel, brother man 👍🏻
Apples and oranges to me but It would be nice to have either to learn on! Not that I have the time but it would be great to. They sound very nice when you play them my friend! Great demo, Randy!
You're a dear, Ms Donna. Always appreciate hearing from you. Now, on to that vacation, ma'am 👍
@@randysrhythm We don't leave until Wednesday! I will have a hard time staying away from my You tubing even on vacation, but I will try and I do have a good excuse for not visiting EVERYONE !
I watched one of your reviews on the inspired by Gibson Hummingbird prior to pulling the trigger a while back and couldnt be happier. its now my most played guitar these days. This guitar is a beauty and sounds wonderful and didnt cost me $4k (wouldve been a dream, but not a possibility) Im very satisfied! Thank you!
Ms Christina, I just landed at my home airport and your comment was the first thing I saw. It made my night, ma’am. If I helped you make up your mind on the Hummingbird, that makes me very happy and you are most welcome 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm you are so kind thank you for sharing that!! Yes sir you absolutely helped me make my decision!
I love your studio audience!!!!!
@@DanaBeigay They think I’m hilarious 😂
@@DanaBeigayThey are so faithful 😂
I’m lovin that Chet thing! Top Shelf Pickens for sure my Brother!!! Bravo 👏🏻 PeAce ☮️ ✌🏻😁👍🏻
Brother man, Dana, great to see you. Thank you for the kind words and say hey to the family for me, brother man 👍🏻
👏👏
Thank you, Derek 👍🏻
A lot of people are stuck more on the name than what's in the box. Definitely sounds good!!!
Hey James, great to see you on the channel. I couldn’t agree more. I was that guy for many years, until these guitars came about. They have caused me to pause and look deeper. Great point, brother man 👍🏻
Thanks for the comparison. I was leaning towards the Hummingbird, but as soon as I heard the J-45 my heart started racing. I had a 1956 J-45 that was so warm and mellow when finger picking and so thunderous you felt it like no other guitar when you hammered it.
OTOH...I always felt like the D-18 was a more "honest" guitar, whereas the J-45 was a bit more of a specialty/niche guitar -- something you'd have in addition, to say, a D-18. Just my take.
Hi Sam, great observations all the way around. I have a Mossman Tennessee Flattop, which a better voiced D-18, so couldn’t agree more. The IBG 45’s body depth is not as deep as the Gibson. I think it would be more like a Mahogany J-45 Studio, if Gibson were to ever make one. It’s a little canon, for sure. Great observations, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Much appreciation.
Thank you Randy for a spot on the mark review of these two honeys. Your good self and JP got me lit up about masterbilt and IBG, Your timely red alert about code 23 sent me into orbit. I said to myself Christ ,theyre too good so gibson has to let the air out of these so theyre moving production to china . To cut a long story painful, i bought 3 , a hummimgbird, J45 slash, and a frontier thats arriving on thursday. This is whiskey money ive gathered up since i quit drinking and started playing again. The J45 is a tough old railroad man who got his heart broken a long time ago and never got over it if that makes any sense. I will never be able to do the two i already have the justice they deserve but feel a duty of care towards them. somebody will sometime, Thanks again, Paddyland out,
Brother man, what a kind comment, which is very much appreciated. I think you picked up three winners. I haven’t played the Indonesian Masterbilt before, but I have played the Montana counterpart and it was pretty killer. The Slash Masterbilt 45 is another one I’ve played and loved it. The only thing about the Slash version is that it has a 16” radius fretboard, so it is pretty flat. However, it just takes a little getting used to. I’m sure you’ll love it. Please let me know what you think of the Frontier, if you don’t mind.
Sorry to hear about the girl, but thrilled to hear that you put the bottle down. At the very least, that heartbreak will give you some song writing material 👍🏻
I got a Sweetwater version of the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ45-ME, black with gloss finish.. I was going to trade it toward a used Martin D15M and played it "one last time".
Put it back in the case and kept it. Solid Sitka top, solid African mahogany b&s. Put bone pins on it too. Not a J45 but close enough. It has plenty of punch and it rings.
Epiphone has raised the game for offshore guitars. Guild has too. I love my USA Guild D20 more than the Martin anyway and am happy I kept the Masterbilt.
Now about that IBG Hummingbird.....
Hi Tom, I’ve heard good things about the AJ45 and you just confirmed it for me. Now, about that IBG Hummingbird 😁
Hey Brother Randy.....I don't have an Epiphone ISG J-45.....but the Epiphone ISG Hummingbird has such a beautiful sound, it'd be hard to beat! My Hummnigbird
even sounded better after one week of playing it. When you hold this guitar, you know you have a quality instrument!
Summed up beautifully, brother man 👍🏻
Every time I watch your videos, I feel like the guitar I previously bought is not good enough, Masterbilt Texan, then an IBG Hummingbird, and I wind up buying another guitar, the one you are comparing. Good job @Randy's Rhythm: My wife has declared you public enemy number 1.
PS: Maybe I am just not great at tone, but I actually prefer the sound of the Hummingbird over the J45. I'd order the J45, but like you, I am partial to my Hummingbird (as well as my Texan lol). PS: Nice playing @Randy's Rhythm.
I had to pin the remark about me being declared public enemy #1 😂. Tell your wife I said thank you!! That’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said about me. As always, David, I really appreciate your insights and honesty, brother man 👍🏻
I haven’t been over in a while due to travel. I’m going to play catch up tonight, brother man 👍🏻
You’ll never have enough guitars!!!🤘😂❤️🥰
😎An occupational hazard my friend. I sympathize🥃
I got a IBG Hummingbird new and it sounded great but it had a buzz. Turned out it needed a full fret level. So check your guitar when it arrives and send it back or take it to a tech if something is wrong.
Great advice, Zorglub. Ocean rides can reek havoc on a guitar, so that’s why I always recommend getting these from Sweetwater, unless you can play them before you buy. Thanks for that input, and yes sir, it sounds great 👍🏻
Some great picking in between all that talking! I wouldn't be able to decide. Might have to get both of them! haha.
I’m with you, Ms Rose. How could anyone not love and appreciate a great sounding guitar? As always, very much appreciate you, ma’am 👍🏻
Thank you very much for this great video Randy! I love the sound of both guitars, and I agree that Hummingbird seems to richer sound to it (especially that 2nd riff with capo sounded way better on it). Also to my ears it's tone is more top and bottom focused, while J-45 has more pronounced mids. So Hummingbird might be better for playing and singing with just the guitar, but maybe J-45 will cut through the full band mix better? But since you can always boost mids with EQs, Hummingbird seems to be a better choice. But I love that J45 too.... hard one for sure, guess I need to have both at some point. Thank you for the video again!
I have to agree with you that the J45 sounds like it has more “cut” to it. Hummingbird is richer and has more depth to it. Thank you Randy for the comparison.
Hi Dawid, the 45 really does have some serious mids and I agree about it cutting through the mix. That said, my first love is surely the Hummingbird. I hope this helps you out and really appreciate the idea for the video. As you can see, others are deeply interested in the very same thing. I was surprised by the turnout for this one. Thanks again, brother man 👍🏻
@@dennisgabbeart1814 My pleasure, Dennis 👍🏻
7:37 8:09 They sound pretty similar here.. I cant make up my mind.. I like the look of the j45 more but not sure about the sound compare to the Hummingbird..
Im also starting to eye the Epiphone Frontier. That burst on that guitar is so good looking, just dont dig the long headstock.
Glad you enjoyed this, even though it didn’t swing you one way or another. To my ear there’s a rich depth to the Hummingbird that the 45 doesn’t have. However, both have a space. Happy hunting, brother man 👍🏻
I have both and really should downsize (9 guitars) but just cant get rid of either right now :)
Hi Russell, I had my Hummingbird out yesterday, just admiring it with each pick. A mind blowing guitar by any standard. In other words, I feel you, brother man. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts 👍🏻
Hi Randy!
Hi Ms Laurie !!
Two fine guitars, one fine picker and a service to mankind.
A decade or so ago I bought an Epiphone EA 335 at a pawn shop. It came In a hard-shell case that was for an acoustic guitar. I bought a proper case and gave the guitar to my nephew for the church band. Now I have an empty black and brown case that says Epiphone on the side. Are you thinking what I am? I think I will see if I can make my wife mad as you too,lol.
That’s hilarious 😂. Yes sir,you can’t have a case for a 335 and not put the proper guitar in it!! Send me an email with a picture of it, and your next wife 🤣
Thanks for the review! Just got the Epi IBG J45 in Sweetwater’s Viper Blue -loving it! Looking to get another IBG acoustic for open tunings. Do you know if the J45, Hummingbird and Frontier all sit within close size specs? Thanks!
Hi Mike, you are most welcome. The J-45 is a bit smaller, being a slope shoulder. However, I doubt you’d be disappointed with either. Glad to hear that you’re enjoying the 45, brother man 👍🏻
Since I have owned a Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500 for many years think my next one will be the Hummingbird and I have owned a house full of very high dollar U.S.A made guitars over the past years.
Everyone that I’ve talked to that didn’t like the IBG Hummingbird, discovered that they didn’t actually have an IBG Hummingbird 😂. There’s a testimony that should further encourage your good decision, brother man 👍🏻🥃
@@randysrhythm I Found that the one doing the picking makes a big difference in the sound of the guitar.. I have owned loads of some very good high dollar guitars and seems I like Gibson best, had many of the older Martin's they sounded good but seemed harder on my fingers. Thanks for the video.
Hey Randy....I just picked up a IBG Hummingbird off ebay for $189. It has some damage to the lower bout by the binding and it's dehydrated.....but with some patience and a bit of glue and poly work, I think I'll have a winner.
Wow! I hope you can get it all done. That’s quite a buy, if you get it right, brother man 👍🏻
Good ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks Dewan 👍🏻
Great video and great playing....I want to add IBG J45 in my collection...I want to know two things,
How is the bass response from the IBG J45
And will I be able to use it for bluegrass playing?
Hello there, kind sir. The bass response is not as pronounced as a Gibson J-45 Standard, so the Gibson wins in that category. The mids on this beat the Standard, so a killer sound for Bluegrass. I’ll never sell this one, or my IBG Hummingbird. The IBG Hummingbird has some punchy low end. If you’re looking for something that has that, and you don’t want to pay a fortune, there’s not a better sounding guitar on this planet than a IBG Hummingbird. They are both killer guitars, in their own rite 👍🏻
I didn't see a J-45 in guitar center, but i did play an Ibanez AE series cutaway and i did play the Epiphone Hummingbird, and it wasn't even close.
The Hummingbird was so easy to play, no frett buzz, loud as can be and was the prettiest guitar out of all the guitars even the $2,000 dollar ones.
I say you can't go wrong getting that Hummingbird, i'll be buying it shortly.
Hi J, thanks for the commentary. I am really attached to this IBG Hummingbird, so I’m really pleased you’re getting one. I was blown away by the quality. Let me know how your purchase turns out, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Randy, I ran into a used Martin road series or X series which is made in Mexico, but it sounded better then the Hummingbird, used in perfect condition for 425.00 plus tax...played so smooth and full deep sound, going to get it I think. Thanks again for your wonderful channel.
@@jtech3393 very kind of you, brother man. Enjoy that Martin!
@@randysrhythm No Randy, I ended up getting the Talor Mini in mahogany. Played better then everything I tried..please get one to do a review. Sound incredible for this small 🎸
@@jtech3393 it’s now on my list, brother man 👍🏻
Hi Randy. Thanks so much for your very helpful videos. I bought myself the Hummingbird and I love it. Could you tell me the name of the tune you’re playing at 5:30 mark on this video please. Thanks mate. All the best from Australia🥃😎 🇦🇺
Hey Eric, you are most welcome, sir! That tune is Windy & Warm. I picked it up from Tommy Emmanuel, your countryman, brother man 👍🏻
I own both- great playing review. To me my Bird is alive and friskier- the Slash J-45 just lacks something. It's balanced and perfectly presentable- but sounds unremarkable.
Hi EJ, I would agree for sure that there are just some guitars that you play that simply touch you personally and the IBG Hummingbird is one of those that touched me, as well as your good self. Appreciate the kind words and you taking the time to watch the video, brother man 👍🏻
Picked up a refurbished J45 a few weeks ago. Cutaway model. It's becoming my daily guitar. I've read about most owners replacing the thick pickguard. If I had solid evidence of it affecting the tone or volume, I'd do it. I don't think it's noticeable with the sunburst. The tuners are really tight. Did you keep the stock 3 on a plate Wilkersons?
Also, are you using the same strings on both guitars?
I mean to say the pickguard isn't as bad looking as people say because of the sunburst.
Hi Bat, yes sir, I kept everything original except for 2 things, the pickguard and the electronics. The electronics were completely removed and not replaced with anything. Appreciate the feedback, brother man 👍🏻
Hi Randy great video!!! How would you compare this epi j45 to your Gibson 1950s j45???
Im still loving my Hummingbird too!!
Hi Erin, the IBG 45, tonally, puts the Gibson 50’s 45, embarrassingly, to shame. I can’t believe I just said that, ma’am 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm wow that's crazy !! It's a difference of two thousand dollars too!!! Epiphone sure has stepped up !!
Excellent review, excellent playin'! ...really enjoying your no-bullshit down-to-earth videos...
What is that tune your're playing at 5:29? I think I know it, but I can't remember which tune it is...
And another question, if you don't mind... I currently have a Martin 000-15SM, which I like a lot. I think it's a great guitar for oldtime backup and fiddle tunes, which I play most of the time. Now I'm looking for a second guitar that has a different flavor, and is better suited for strumming, Rock/Pop style playing, accompanying a singer etc... I'm considering the Epi J45... or should I go for a Martin 000-18? I also like the 000-15M (14fret), it's a bight lighter sounding and less punchy, but it's still very close to the 15SM (12fret). Not sure about the Epi Hummingbird, it's too punchy for what I have in mind - the 15SM already covers the punch department, I think. What would you recommend as a good complement for the 000-15SM?
Thanks!
That tune is Windy & Warm. I love the way Tommy Emmanuel plays it. As far as a good strummer goes, the Martin DSS-17, the 000-17, or the 000-18 would be great. I’d a dred is not too big for you, then I’d go that route. The 000-18 would be my second choice and the 000-17 my third. I don’t think you’ll go wrong with any of those 3.
I really appreciate the kind words and hope to see more of you on the channel. We have a great group of folks here 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Thanks for bringing up the Martin 17 series... I had contemplated them, but somehow sorted them out. After reading your comments I've listened into some reviews again, and I have to say I quite like them - but soundwise they're certainly less middle-of-the-road than a J45 or 000-18... we live in an age with too many good guitars to buy - options, options & more options 😀
Yes sir, I sometimes get overwhelmed when I’m ready to make a purchase. There’s a ton of great guitars out there 👍🏻
I'm curious how you would take the pic guard off without ruining the finish.
Hi Joe, it’s a procedure for sure. I’ve watched a few people do it. They generally use a hairdryer, carefully, to get the glue loosened up, then once the guard is off they use lighter fluid to remove the glue. Oddly enough it doesn’t seem to hurt the finish. I always recommend taking it to a luthier, brother man 👍🏻
Maybe J45 is slightly better sounding...but the Hummingbird sounds good too
Hi Robert, you summed up the dilemma, sir. They are both great guitars. Great to hear from you and get your thoughts about them, brother man 👍🏻
did you change the pickguard on the J-45?
I've read that a lot of people take the thick 60's style one off
Hi Grant, you must have missed it in the video, but I did mention that the guy I bought it from did put a smaller pickguard on it. You’re right, the original pickguard was way too large, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Yes! I commented before finishing the video. My bad! I was wondering if you'd removed these pickguards before? I'm wondering if it's an easy job with a little heat and naptha or if I should have my luthier do it
@grantmartin6094 Great question. I would personally have a professional do it. Something about heat, some cleaner and my lack of attention to detail that makes me shiver to consider, brother man 👍🏻
Randy I thought the J45 was better to my personal ear...
It’s interesting to me, since the Hummingbird sounds better in person, but the 45 seems to record a bit better. Appreciate the input, brother man 👍🏻
Hey Randy what strings do you suggest for that j45 inspired by Gibson
Hi Jimmy, I used Martin Retro 12’s
@@randysrhythm thank you so much I got the hummingbird also I really enjoy thank you for all your advice I'm really enjoyed watching your videos I made sure to get the ones with the 23 code thank you much
Hi Jimmy, I’m really pleased to hear you ended up with a Hummingbird. It’s really difficult to get across just how phenomenal these guitars are. I really appreciate the kind words of support and you are very welcome, brother man 👍🏻
hummingbird better
Agreed 👍🏻