I’ve owned Gibson guitars. I now own the Epiphone Les Paul Classic gold top; I still can’t believe how much I love everything about this guitar. It inspires. I don’t play anything else anymore,
I also agree,did you check out the price difference at sweetwater?The Epiphone is $600 and the Gibson cost $2500!Epiphone all the way for me!I think gibson is insane with a price difference of $1900 more for the Gibson!I could see if there was a big difference in quality and sound but some cheaper guitars are so good now you are just wasting money spending $2000 + for any guitar brand!
Agreed. I looked away when the epi was being played and when I looked back the gibi was being played and had no idea a change had happened. I was listening with quality ear buds, so it really surprised me.
This is just a quick comparison video between the Epiphone and the Gibson 50s Standards. I only had these guitars for 48 hours but I did my best to get some videos done. Let me know what you think of the tones and which one you prefer. :-) ►Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/50sStandards ►Thomann - bit.ly/3jM7T9A ►Sky Music - alnk.to/9xdr986 (affiliate links ) - 0:00 - About 1:21 - Jam Track 3:29 - Final Thoughts
Both sound good. I still think the Gibbo had better clarity on both pick ups! HOW do these Epis stack up against the ARTIST LP59? I got 1 a few weeks ago and it plays brilliantly. Out punches most Epiphones, and MIC Tokais for LP copies! Cheers!
@@DMSProduktions The Artist is a good guitar. I think the new Epiphpnes feel a little more premium but they should given the price. Tone-wise there's not much in it I'm guessing. The Artist stuff is great.
@@intheblues Yeah, I have little complain about mine. (CHECK my unboxing and hardware cloeup vids from last week!) Once I did a set up on it, the fretwork is immaculate, no need for a leveling! BEST guitar out of the box, that once I adjusted everything, it did not need any work on the frets, (was playable with the bridge screwed ALL the way down!!) and the nut did not need any refiling! However, the roller bridge was faulty, with 3 bad screws, (replaced by Artist!) & the tuners, were absolute rubbish! (Locking, BIG deal!) Replaced by me for a $70 set of Gotohs! (That I paid $50 for!) Apart from that I have been playing it alot! BEST single cut I've played apart from a good Tokai OR the real thing! Cheers!
I couldn't tell the difference but that's a huge credit to your playing. Amazing ! If your a collector, buy the Gibson. If your just a player, buy the Epiphone. Thanks to Sky Music & Shane for the video. Blues On....💙
A few months ago my local music store re-opened and I went there to purchase a pedal. An Epiphone Les Paul 50's Standard was right there calling my name. It was lust at first sight which turned into love after I tried it out in the store. I cannot afford a Gibson and I already own three other Epiphones, so I knew the quality would be there, but... OH WOW!! And yes, it is a gold top too.
Hey Shane, I did the very same comparison test as you did and my results were equal to yours. Both great guitars! I prefer the neck on my Epi over the Gibson. I love my Epi it blows my mind every time I jam I can't get over how amazing it sounds and feels and very inspiring. Thanks mate for the great review I love your channel.
Great head to head. Virtually indistinguishable, there were some very slight sonic differences in the pick ups, epiphone has definitely made some huge strides in quality, vibe, and has authentic tone
I had a hard time telling the difference between the two. I agree the neck pickup on the Epiphone sounded clear and crisp compared to the Gibson. The bridge pickup did sound better on the Gibson but I don't think I could tell these guitars apart in a blind test.
I had to listen to the mix twice one time with eyes closed the tone difference is unbelievably small normally it’s a really noticeable difference. As for setup my experience with Gibson’s and talking to guitar techs is that the Gibson factory setup is not a guitar players setup. It’s done that way because it’s normally an experienced player buying them and there’s enough margin for the setup to be however the player wants it. Good video 👍my first LP was a gold top got stolen many years ago☹️ Oh and Happy new year Shane 😊
I Have a Gibson Classic Goldtop 2018 and the new 2020 Epi Goldtop 50's Standard (BOTH Lefties) I agree the Epi Gold top is great! Love the way it plays and the neck is big 50's style. Its really hard to say it's better than the Gibson...just different. I watch all your shows...have much the same taste in guitars - great job and being a lefty about the only one in the world putting out stuff that speaks to me.
Honestly to my far less trained ear they sounded remarkably similar and in terms of cost given my currently limited playing capabilities, Epiphone wins no question. I could buy the epi today and keep the Gibson on it's dream level pedestal until my playing abilities and, more likely, finances could justify it. Thanks for more great content Shane!
I bought an Epiphone Maple capped, mahogany neck and body; 2010 V1 50th Anniversary 1960 Les Paul Standard essentially hand made at their High Quality Chinese factory; i replaced the neck p/u with a SD Antiquity PAF and left the Gibson Burstbucker in the bridge. I bought it for $450 in 2012. It is a righteous guitar...they’re selling for $900 now...
„That vanilla cake smell“ LOL - I know exactly what you mean. My LP still has it after 18 Years. I love it. Sonically, those two were pretty close, i hear only minor differences. The Gibson had a little more grit, oomph and definition in the bass. Guess you‘ll get that from the Epi with a simple PU swap. Even if not, the Epi sounds great - a little more focused, which in context of a band might be a good thing. I‘m looking for an affordable lefty Gold Top for quite a while now. I guess the solution is near.
Great Comparison Shane! I’ve been playing Epiphone since the ‘60s and love the New line although build, although good on ones I’ve played are good for the most part, don’t compare to the Older ‘60s and early ‘70s ones. Still the majority are built well. Of course Gibson is what it is and I feel they’ve upped their game some with the New line. They’re just out of reach for the average guy. I know I wouldn’t want to take a 2.5 - 4K Guitar out to a Bar or Pub Gig! Please keep up the Good Work man!! Cheers from Salem, Ohio US!!
I got both, I gravitated mostly on Epiphone!🤘...try the 1959 Epiphone Les Paul, that will change your mind getting a Gibson. Got mine yesterday at sweetwater. You rock!🤘🔥🤘
I made this comment on your other post, but I tried them both on Saturday and came home with the Epiphone. To my mind, the Gibson feels nicer (nitro vs sticky poly) and the bridge pickup is far better. The Epi? The neck pickup is freaking glorious. Roll the tone right down, and you've got Cream tone in spades. The tuners... I'm not sure they're great. But replace them, and stick a Gibson humbucker in the bridge, and you've got a great player, and saved nearly $3,000. Which is enough to buy a very nice amp. Oh, and a case, because you don't get one with the Epiphone.
I just bought this epiphone last week and love it. I owned a Gibson LP standard a long time ago but "lost" it. I was too young to really appreciate it. Love my new epiphone, though.
Shane got my epiphone the other day like I told you. I absolutely love it. It’s sounds and plays like my 1960 Les Paul custom. Right out of the box the action is low no buzzing. Plays like butter. Thank you for the suggestion! 👍👍👀🤘🏼🎸
I agree with you Shane. The Gibson bridge pick up was best and I preferred the Epiphone neck pick up. I guess the other thing to think about is what price you would get if, later on, you sold it.
Damn the epi sounds great. For that price... Awesome. Thank god they fixed the headstock. I bet the epi with better pick ups, I think they sound a bit weak... No problem to fix
The Gibson sounded more open to my ear. If you didn't see the guitars next to each other, the Epiphone gold would be passable. When its beside the Gibson, the lack of the darker hues in the paint is incredibly striking.
Both sound great and look amazing! I’d lean to the Epiphone only because I have (in a few weeks 😁) the 60s Gibson Les Paul Standard and while I love Gibsons, I don’t have a need to have two Les Pauls.🎸🎸🎸
Your "vanilla cake" comment reminded me of something that happened at a club I was playing a few years back in Toronto. We were between sets and a bunch of people were milling about backstage with the band which was annoying because the doormen were told not to let anybody without a pass backstage. We found out later that club had a reputation where the doormen took money for access. This club was an old 1800's era theater and the owners had sunk a lot of money into restoring it and they did an incredible job. There was wall to wall to ceiling original walnut panelling and beams with stunning intricate carvings and gargoyle heads in each corner. There was private balconies and each had a door so the common peons couldn't bother the snobbish elites! Anyway my wife and sister in law went upstairs and sat in one of those balconies. Not too longer after we'd settled in an old gentleman saw us and came over to chat. Turns out he had been an usher at the theater when he was younger and stayed there until he retired. He told us all kinds of stories about all the rock and motown stars who played the venue. He took us to the office area where there was a long hall which had signed photos of all the artists who had performed at the theater, and every inch of wall down that long hallway was covered, there must have been well over two hundred! James Brown loved performing there because of the atmosphere. You truly did step back in time to the nineteenth century when you stepped into that awesome theater. After a fascinating half hour and numerous awesome personal stories we all went back to the balcony and waited for the second set. I asked him to sit with us and tell us more stories as we were all fascinated! Then, I looked directly into his eyes and asked "is it your birthday today Max"? He was shocked and said "how did you know"?! And I replied, "elementary my good man, that fart smelled just like cake"! OH! BOOM! Brother, if you live to 120 you will NEVER get another awesome set up for a joke as you did here!! The story was 100% true minus the cake bit! We did sit and listen to Max's wicked awesome stories and inside scoup on some of rock and motown's greatest stars!! Take care brother Jack ~'()'~ Canada Manly!
Was looking at these Epiphone 50’s Standard guitars and the 1959 tribute guitars. Couldn’t find a 59 so went with this one. Listening to the reviews, I felt like the pickups were a bit lacking. Swapped them out for Seymour Duncan Seth Lover’s pick ups and wow. Sounds unbelievable. Best Epiphone I’ve ever played.
I recently got the 1959 Epiphone with the Burstbuckers, 50's wiring, CPS pots, Switchcraft jacks/switch, etc. It's insane how good this thing is for $800. My friend brought over his '59 Gibson re-issue and we did some sustain tests and the Epiphone blew it out of the water.
@@automatoncollectives7237 I also have the Epiphone '59 guitar. I have ordered locking tuners, resomax bridge and tail piece. The stock tuners seem fine, but I prefer locking tuners. Also the bridge was digging into the palm of my hand bad and saw the resomax bridge on a you tube video which will take care of that issue. The guitar is high grade for sure except they chose to save money on the bridge and tuners. Other than that everything else is high grade stuff on the Epiphone '59.
I actually prefer Epiphones. I have noticed that the strings seem to have a slightly more relaxed feel to them and be easier to bend. Probably due to the slightly shallower break angle over the nut. I expect I'm not the first person that's noticed this.
I own BOTH of these great guitars (my Epi 50s is heritage cherry). Chose identical weights @ 9.1 lbs each. Tonally VERY SIMILAR when played acoustically - how I judge ALL my guitars. This is where the differences creep in, and plugged in - the Burstbuckers of the Gibson exhibit a noticeably richer tone, although I think the ProBuckers sound better than they have previously (which didn't stop me from swapping to a DiMarzio 36th PAF on the bridge). Only real negative for me on the Gibson are the LOW frets - wish they opted for the TRUE medium jumbos. Love them both for different reasons. These latest (I've had 12 since 2006) Epiphones - *specifically* these "Inspired By Gibson" lines (50s 60s 59) are flat out amazing for the pricetag.
Gibson feels a little more in focus sound-wise, and ofc the price difference is there. Still, i'm actually keen on buying an Epiphone LP just like that, the satin goldtop looks stunning!
Great comparison. Tone-wise, I dont hear the kind of difference that would make me say "this is without a question a better guitar". It's more like the difference you can hear by having 2 gibson guitar of the same kind compared one to another. With all that considered, the epiphone is a great option, bang for bucks. Looking forward for a review on the epiphone prophecy 2020 line up. Keep up the good work!
I'm predominantly a bass player but I love the 6 string as well. I own an Epiphone EB3 bass and I've played the Gibson SG bass and aside from the mini bucker on the epi being a little less beefy I think they are essentially matched in quality and feel, right down to the obligatory neck dive. Great video man.
I bought a new 50's Epiphone Les Paul a few months ago and I have to say I love it. I usually spend a few hours doing a setup on an inexpensive guitar, but this one need no work at all. I bought a Classic Vibe Squire a few weeks later and it was a mess. I had to level and recrown the frets on the Squire. I know this sounds like a sacrilege, but the Epiphone plays and sounds better than the real Goldtop I used to have.
I think the most important thing with expensive vs affordable is the feel of the guitar when playing. You can always swap the pickups and get the same sound. Having owned an american cu24 and a prs se cu 24, you can definately tell when playing and holding them. The more expensive model feels better and more premium as it should. But love them both.
Agree about neck PU on the epi and bridge PU on the gibson. Overall, as I suspected would be the case, there probably is not a $2000 USD difference in the tone of these guitars. It just seems more and more like the $600 to $800 USD bracket is where it's at for guitars today. That said, if you ever come across a gibson LP tribute, I would mind a video on that. It has that neck profile that is in between slim taper and 50s, and the 490 PUs.
I'm a lefty also I have epiphone les 0aul 50s guitar I just want to mention that one of my guitars is right handed ITS VENTURA BARNEY KESSEL FROM THE SIXTIES A BEAUTY ITS A GIBSON LAW SUIT CAUSE OF THE EXACT STYLE I have it strung left handed
Did you notice that on the Gibson, the bridge pickup is closer to the bridge? This happens with all epiphones and other brand "les pauls". On Gibsons the pickup is always near the bridge, thats why it has that unique sound!
I scrolled down to read the comments, listening to the comparison test, the video was above my line of sight. What I thought was the Gibson turned out to be the Epiphone when I scrolled up! I dont think I want to pay the Premium for "smell".
I have one. It's INSANE. I would put this up against any non-Custom Shop Les Paul. My only complaint is that the Indian Laurel just doesn't feel quite as smooth as rosewood but it's not too bad after oiling it. It came set up really well. I did lower the bridge a little and the action is REALLY low and there zero fretbuzz anywhere on the neck. The Burstbuckers are legit. The neck tenon is long and exactly to 59 spec. The case is also WAY nicer than what you would have gotten in 1959. Through a Plexi it sound exactly right except the Epiphone ToneLock bridge outperforms vintage ABR bridges by a country mile in the sustain department. The only mod I've done is replace the zinc bridge and tailpiece bushings with German steel Faber pieces and a vintage spec aluminum tailpiece. The tone change is minute but it just brightened the guitar up a tad and that's always a good thing with a Les Paul. Maybe, someday, I'll upgrade the wiring harness but the factory pots and caps are great.
what could a Gibson inspired by Epiphone 1959 Les Paul be? a chinese built 6k euros expensive Guitar with a Epiphone Headstock but gibson Logo? Perfect craftmanship and Sounds good. They must start the epi custom sweat shop.
Wow they both sound great! If I heard them blind I don’t think I would know the difference. Also kudos for doing rhythm track as well. Could you make a great point to hearing a guitar and a vacuum is a bit different! Love my Epiphone 1998,’56 gold top with P 90s! Thanks for the video!
One issue with these. A/B videos is that it’s strictly about tone, when a guitar is also about FEEL . I think the real deal sounded better. Thanks for the vid !
Thanks for the review Shane, I love Gold tops and had been considering the Epiphone. I’ve only ever held one and played it acoustically and love the feel of the neck. From your playing, it sounds great too. I’d consider putting a couple of seymour duncans in it but the original pickups sound good.
The build quality on the Gibson goldtop I looked at was just appalling. So I bought an epiphone LP 59 which is the Gibson custom shop collaboration with Gibson pickups, a slash epiphone LP (I liked the colour😂), an SG, a Firebird, and a casino all brand new for the same money. I feel no love for the Gibson.
Hey Shane, wonderful reviews, love the fact that you get right to the point, very Aussie! Please review the Epiphone 1959 LP, it's a beast with the Gibson hardware on board, would love to get your take on it.
So with these guitars just being played as received the setup they came with could have a big factor in any differences. Especially pickup height and strings (material, brand). I’d love to hear a true apples to apples comparison where the same tech does the same setup with the same strings on those two guitars. Then let’s see how they compare.
Good that you did the comparison in a mix - slightly preferred the Gibson bridge tones. In a real world context you could gig or record with the Epiphone 100%. Heard of some finish quality issues with the Epiphone but I have personally seen finish quality issues with Gibsons too. I like the Epiphone headstock and I have an Epiphone Allykat from 2003-04 with a similar style headstock. The string path through the nut to tuners is better and more even with the Epiphone though I haven't detected any benefit - tuning stability between my Gibson and Epiphone is about the same!
Hey Shane, I've noticed the same thing with the setups as of late. In 2020 I purchased both an Epiphone and Gibson Les Paul and out of the box the setup on the Epiphone was much better. I'm not sure what's going on with the setups coming out of the Gibson factory, but it doesn't look good on Gibson that this is going on. I hope Gibson can get it worked out.
@@guitarocd9984 It goes to value for money. It doesn't feel good drop several grand on a guitar and then have to spend time or money getting it setup. Especially when the guy that bought the inexpensive Epiphone just goes on his way. I want to take it out of the box and go. If I have a guitar come with a bad setup, it usually ends up sitting on the rack for a few months until I have time to do the job. If someone is buying in the shop I'd argue it's even a bigger deal. If the $500 Epiphone is setup right, it's going to play better than the $2500 Gibson that isn't. That doesn't make it a better guitar, but if you're just giving them a quick play: It may lead you to some questionable conclusions.
Everybody likes a different set up. Seriously it's a matter of turning two screws to raise and lower the strings. You did not play your guitar because of that. There is different theories on how to ship a guitar and what tensions to keep on the strings. I'm still baffled who cares how the guitar setup when it arrives. You end up having to put your own set up on it anyway. But nevermind I will just remain baffled. I commented on your comment only because I've heard this before and I never understood the importance of it.
I would rather receive my guitar with low action. That shows they tested it at low action. The less expensive guitar companies set their strings High because they don't spend the time on leveling frets. Gibson does a good job leveling their frets and can play at any action.
@@guitarocd9984 It's a lot more than 2 screws man. Do you move the neck, or the bridge? You turn the truss rod, you have to adjust the intonation. You raise/lower each string, you raise/lower the bridge, more intonation adjustments. Dozens of measurements with the feeler gauges, etc... You're right that setup does go to taste, but it's important that it's decent out of the box both from a marketability standpoint and a user satisfaction standpoint. There is a difference between a the setup isn't to my taste and a situation were one of the strings is at a weird height relative to the other strings, like Shane encountered. Martin thinks it's important enough that they do a plek setup on their guitars out of the factory now. The last one I ordered was amazing right out of the box, so a good out of the box setup is very achievable. Bottom line, I think it's important as it effects customer perception of the quality of the guitar. I also think it's important for newer guitarist that are going to have to either learn how to make all the before mentioned adjustments, or pay to have them done. I can remember as a young person literally spending every last penny I made at my minimum wage job to buy a guitar. I didn't have luthier tools, or the knowledge to do a setup myself. I would have been boned if the guitar was bad, so in that regard: It's really important.
I just received an Artist LP59GT Gold Top. Besides having a great finish and different due to the new stacked split P90 pups, the gold top looks just like the Gibson in your video. It's the darker more 'bronze' look gold. Classy Hope you can give the new Artist a review soon. I love the playability and sound (and the price)
@@metalliholic never know what circumstances you'll be in. I've had to put 2 gibsons up for sale due to current climate. 2 second hand epiphones wouldn't get me very far.
I think the Gibson sounded much fuller... But really it was a close one. Maybe upgrading the pickups on the Epiphone will give a really nice investment for a player who's on a average budget.
I gotta agree about the neck pick up it sounded better on Epiphone. But with the price difference you can easily update neck pickup for better one. Nice comparison.💪🤜
I amazingly found one of the Gibsons brand new on Reverb during the guitar drought that's going on right now. Shot the shop an offer and the took it. Got a brand new Gibson for under retail. Cant wait to get it.
Thanks Shane..the Epi is no doubt good for the money, but I wonder if it's like my MIC Gretsch in some respects- handicapped by cheap hardware. I had to replace the cheapo tuners and bridge to make it stay in tune - but now it's a much better guitar. Probably worth keeping in mind if one buys an Epi copy of Gibson - they are cheaper for a reason and you may need to budget a few hundred $$ to get it right.
Great video! I thought the Gibsons pickups had a bit more output and more rounded sound, but not a lot. I don't think there's any question that the Epiphone has better value for money and I think it's a shame that so many worry about the name on the headstock. If the guitar feels great then it's a great guitar.
One thing I’ve learned from owning many Gibson guitars over the years is…..there are good ones and great ones. Unlike something like fender where they all exactly the same. If you buy one, play as many as you can and one will speak to you.
If I hadn’t already gotten an excellent LTD EC-256(which I love), I might have given the Epiphone a go. I think I may be starting to like the revamped headstock even more than the Gibson version....😆
I hear a slight slight difference when I turn my beats down a bit the Gibson has a more classic buzz or static sound to it I don’t really know how to explain it but it sounds nice 😂
I have an Epi Les Paul Standard Plus Top PRO that plays like a dream. It's the last year they made them with the "clipped wing" headstock. I just got a Prophecy Flying-V too!!! It's on par with Gibson quality all day long. Epiphone ain't no joke!!!
I agree on pick up tones, better to my ears Epi neck and Gibs bridge. You didn't talk about electronics reliability, should be better in the Gibs on the long term ? Would you say the Epi is giggable by a professional ?
Here's my thoughts on Epi vs Gibson right now...using the Classic as an example. The Gibson version is probably a 10 out of 10 and costs $2,400. The Epiphone version is an 8 out of 10 and costs $599. To me, it's not worth $1,800 more to get 2 more points. I'd rather take that savings and put it towards a great amp. A solid guitar and a great amp, to me, is the way to go.
I’ve owned Gibson guitars. I now own the Epiphone Les Paul Classic gold top; I still can’t believe how much I love everything about this guitar. It inspires. I don’t play anything else anymore,
I agree, I have Gibsons but it’s the inspired by 50’s GT in my lap. It’s one hell of a les paul.
Never bought a guitar that 6 months later it's still inspiring and in my lap everyday I can play.
Won't change anything..
(Goldtop Epi 50's 2023)
If I had closed my eyes, I wouldn't have been able to tell when you were switching between the two of them personally. That Epiphone is great.
I also agree,did you check out the price difference at sweetwater?The Epiphone is $600 and the Gibson cost $2500!Epiphone all the way for me!I think gibson is insane with a price difference of $1900 more for the Gibson!I could see if there was a big difference in quality and sound but some cheaper guitars are so good now you are just wasting money spending $2000 + for any guitar brand!
Agreed. I looked away when the epi was being played and when I looked back the gibi was being played and had no idea a change had happened. I was listening with quality ear buds, so it really surprised me.
The moment you laid hands on them you'd know straight away.
@@jimsimmons2674You've never played a Gibson, clearly
This is just a quick comparison video between the Epiphone and the Gibson 50s Standards. I only had these guitars for 48 hours but I did my best to get some videos done. Let me know what you think of the tones and which one you prefer. :-)
►Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/50sStandards
►Thomann - bit.ly/3jM7T9A
►Sky Music - alnk.to/9xdr986
(affiliate links )
-
0:00 - About
1:21 - Jam Track
3:29 - Final Thoughts
Both sound good. I still think the Gibbo had better clarity on both pick ups!
HOW do these Epis stack up against the ARTIST LP59? I got 1 a few weeks ago and it plays brilliantly. Out punches most Epiphones, and MIC Tokais for LP copies!
Cheers!
@@DMSProduktions The Artist is a good guitar. I think the new Epiphpnes feel a little more premium but they should given the price. Tone-wise there's not much in it I'm guessing. The Artist stuff is great.
@@intheblues Yeah, I have little complain about mine. (CHECK my unboxing and hardware cloeup vids from last week!)
Once I did a set up on it, the fretwork is immaculate, no need for a leveling! BEST guitar out of the box, that once I adjusted everything, it did not need any work on the frets, (was playable with the bridge screwed ALL the way down!!) and the nut did not need any refiling!
However, the roller bridge was faulty, with 3 bad screws, (replaced by Artist!) & the tuners, were absolute rubbish! (Locking, BIG deal!) Replaced by me for a $70 set of Gotohs! (That I paid $50 for!) Apart from that I have been playing it alot! BEST single cut I've played apart from a good Tokai OR the real thing!
Cheers!
Confirmed what I experienced when trying out the 50's standard from epiphone I thought it was really good, honestly for the money its a winner.
@@stepvanjoe3469 Yet for around the SAME money, you can GEt a REAL Gibson Studio model!
Epiphone's new headstock really did them wonders.
Imagine IF they had a fully correct one!!!!
Well I believe it’s the old headstock 😂
@@ces69 it is Epiphones fully correct headstock it's the original Epiphone headstock nothing new about it
It’s a “Tone Headstock”. 😆
What's a "tone headstock "?
"Few extra bucks"😂
I couldn't tell the difference but that's a huge credit to your playing. Amazing ! If your a collector, buy the Gibson. If your just a player, buy the Epiphone. Thanks to Sky Music & Shane for the video. Blues On....💙
Best comment yet ,!!
You obviously don't have an ear for music because there's a big difference in sound. The Gibson sounds way better.
That's silly,you don't need to be a collector to play a Gibson.
@@boss_acg not really bro u trippin any ways u csn make that sound just like gibson with tone studio or just put gibson pick upsnin it
@@cmichalski420 Respond to me properly without your ebonix garbage 🗑 typing.
Shane, your comparisons just get better. This was a great choice for competition. Thank you, Sky Music for making this possible.
A few months ago my local music store re-opened and I went there to purchase a pedal. An Epiphone Les Paul 50's Standard was right there calling my name. It was lust at first sight which turned into love after I tried it out in the store. I cannot afford a Gibson and I already own three other Epiphones, so I knew the quality would be there, but... OH WOW!! And yes, it is a gold top too.
I like this quick comparison format, please keep it. 👍
Hey Shane, I did the very same comparison test as you did and my results were equal to yours. Both great guitars! I prefer the neck on my Epi over the Gibson. I love my Epi it blows my mind every time I jam I can't get over how amazing it sounds and feels and very inspiring. Thanks mate for the great review I love your channel.
Great head to head. Virtually indistinguishable, there were some very slight sonic differences in the pick ups, epiphone has definitely made some huge strides in quality, vibe, and has authentic tone
That was an awesome comparison. Just with my computer speakers I thought the Epiphone neck pickup sounded really good. Thanks for the video :)
Youre convincing me. I dont have a back up Les Paul per say. Might actually pull the trigger. Cool video thanks.
Per se, not per say
@@piage84 you knew what he meant, no? If so, why bother correcting somebody’s spelling or grammar on a CZcams comment?
That backing track was on point 💯🔥
The Gibson pickups seem to sound a BIT smoother and rounder.
Probably due to the difference in pups...which can easily be corrected.
@Captain Beano Some Epiphone guitars come with the BB pickups too. My Epiphone '59 came with the burstbucker 2 and 3 pickups stock.
Man I am considering buying that exact Epi now... Thanks CZcams for suggesting your content! Good job, man!😎
Gibsons are way overpriced, I'd be more than happy with an Epiphone and buy a drum kit with the money I'd saved
That’s because you are logical.
I can agree there!
I’ll take them both !.. epiphone sounds great got and older one here that’s tail wrapped it great .. what’s the 60s like !
I had a hard time telling the difference between the two. I agree the neck pickup on the Epiphone sounded clear and crisp compared to the Gibson. The bridge pickup did sound better on the Gibson but I don't think I could tell these guitars apart in a blind test.
I had to listen to the mix twice one time with eyes closed the tone difference is unbelievably small normally it’s a really noticeable difference.
As for setup my experience with Gibson’s and talking to guitar techs is that the Gibson factory setup is not a guitar players setup. It’s done that way because it’s normally an experienced player buying them and there’s enough margin for the setup to be however the player wants it.
Good video 👍my first LP was a gold top got stolen many years ago☹️
Oh and Happy new year Shane 😊
I Have a Gibson Classic Goldtop 2018 and the new 2020 Epi Goldtop 50's Standard (BOTH Lefties) I agree the Epi Gold top is great! Love the way it plays and the neck is big 50's style. Its really hard to say it's better than the Gibson...just different. I watch all your shows...have much the same taste in guitars - great job and being a lefty about the only one in the world putting out stuff that speaks to me.
A Gibson smells like Vanilla.
An Epiphone smells like nothing.
And a Fender.....smells like teen spirit.
🤣
Mmh, teen spirit 😋
@@TommySurfink
Ok calm down Michael Jackson
Honestly to my far less trained ear they sounded remarkably similar and in terms of cost given my currently limited playing capabilities, Epiphone wins no question. I could buy the epi today and keep the Gibson on it's dream level pedestal until my playing abilities and, more likely, finances could justify it. Thanks for more great content Shane!
I bought an Epiphone Maple capped, mahogany neck and body; 2010 V1 50th Anniversary 1960 Les Paul Standard essentially hand made at their High Quality Chinese factory; i replaced the neck p/u with a SD Antiquity PAF and left the Gibson Burstbucker in the bridge. I bought it for $450 in 2012. It is a righteous guitar...they’re selling for $900 now...
„That vanilla cake smell“ LOL - I know exactly what you mean. My LP still has it after 18 Years. I love it.
Sonically, those two were pretty close, i hear only minor differences. The Gibson had a little more grit, oomph and definition in the bass. Guess you‘ll get that from the Epi with a simple PU swap. Even if not, the Epi sounds great - a little more focused, which in context of a band might be a good thing. I‘m looking for an affordable lefty Gold Top for quite a while now. I guess the solution is near.
Check out Artist Guitars!
They are now offering a Goldtop with P90’s!
Great Comparison Shane! I’ve been playing Epiphone since the ‘60s and love the New line although build, although good on ones I’ve played are good for the most part, don’t compare to the Older ‘60s and early ‘70s ones. Still the majority are built well. Of course Gibson is what it is and I feel they’ve upped their game some with the New line. They’re just out of reach for the average guy. I know I wouldn’t want to take a 2.5 - 4K Guitar out to a Bar or Pub Gig! Please keep up the Good Work man!! Cheers from Salem, Ohio US!!
I got both, I gravitated mostly on Epiphone!🤘...try the 1959 Epiphone Les Paul, that will change your mind getting a Gibson. Got mine yesterday at sweetwater. You rock!🤘🔥🤘
I made this comment on your other post, but I tried them both on Saturday and came home with the Epiphone. To my mind, the Gibson feels nicer (nitro vs sticky poly) and the bridge pickup is far better. The Epi? The neck pickup is freaking glorious. Roll the tone right down, and you've got Cream tone in spades. The tuners... I'm not sure they're great. But replace them, and stick a Gibson humbucker in the bridge, and you've got a great player, and saved nearly $3,000. Which is enough to buy a very nice amp. Oh, and a case, because you don't get one with the Epiphone.
I just bought this epiphone last week and love it. I owned a Gibson LP standard a long time ago but "lost" it. I was too young to really appreciate it. Love my new epiphone, though.
I need some peanut butter to go with that sweet jam!
Thanks mate! Hope you guys are doing well :)
Shane got my epiphone the other day like I told you. I absolutely love it. It’s sounds and plays like my 1960 Les Paul custom. Right out of the box the action is low no buzzing. Plays like butter. Thank you for the suggestion! 👍👍👀🤘🏼🎸
Which model did you get ?
I love my Epi LP Trad Pro, goes well for every style of music, lots of tone possibilities with the push pull pots.
I agree with you Shane. The Gibson bridge pick up was best and I preferred the Epiphone neck pick up. I guess the other thing to think about is what price you would get if, later on, you sold it.
I was surprised that I could actually hear a difference. Even with CZcams compression, I liked the Gibson better.
Is it $1900 better than the cost of the Epiphone?
Damn the epi sounds great. For that price... Awesome. Thank god they fixed the headstock. I bet the epi with better pick ups, I think they sound a bit weak... No problem to fix
The Gibson sounded more open to my ear. If you didn't see the guitars next to each other, the Epiphone gold would be passable. When its beside the Gibson, the lack of the darker hues in the paint is incredibly striking.
Congrats on a great comparison.
Both sound great and look amazing! I’d lean to the Epiphone only because I have (in a few weeks 😁) the 60s Gibson Les Paul Standard and while I love Gibsons, I don’t have a need to have two Les Pauls.🎸🎸🎸
Wow some of the most tasteful feel and in the pocket playing Iv heard in a long time! The track was very good as well! Great job mate!
Your "vanilla cake" comment reminded me of something that happened at a club I was playing a few years back in Toronto.
We were between sets and a bunch of people were milling about backstage with the band which was annoying because the doormen were told not to let anybody without a pass backstage. We found out later that club had a reputation where the doormen took money for access.
This club was an old 1800's era theater and the owners had sunk a lot of money into restoring it and they did an incredible job.
There was wall to wall to ceiling original walnut panelling and beams with stunning intricate carvings and gargoyle heads in each corner.
There was private balconies and each had a door so the common peons couldn't bother the snobbish elites!
Anyway my wife and sister in law went upstairs and sat in one of those balconies. Not too longer after we'd settled in an old gentleman saw us and came over to chat.
Turns out he had been an usher at the theater when he was younger and stayed there until he retired. He told us all kinds of stories about all the rock and motown stars who played the venue. He took us to the office area where there was a long hall which had signed photos of all the artists who had performed at the theater, and every inch of wall down that long hallway was covered, there must have been well over two hundred!
James Brown loved performing there because of the atmosphere. You truly did step back in time to the nineteenth century when you stepped into that awesome theater.
After a fascinating half hour and numerous awesome personal stories we all went back to the balcony and waited for the second set.
I asked him to sit with us and tell us more stories as we were all fascinated!
Then, I looked directly into his eyes and asked "is it your birthday today Max"? He was shocked and said "how did you know"?!
And I replied, "elementary my good man, that fart smelled just like cake"! OH! BOOM!
Brother, if you live to 120 you will NEVER get another awesome set up for a joke as you did here!!
The story was 100% true minus the cake bit! We did sit and listen to Max's wicked awesome stories and inside scoup on some of rock and motown's greatest stars!!
Take care brother
Jack ~'()'~
Canada Manly!
Wow.
Was looking at these Epiphone 50’s Standard guitars and the 1959 tribute guitars. Couldn’t find a 59 so went with this one. Listening to the reviews, I felt like the pickups were a bit lacking. Swapped them out for Seymour Duncan Seth Lover’s pick ups and wow. Sounds unbelievable. Best Epiphone I’ve ever played.
I recently got the 1959 Epiphone with the Burstbuckers, 50's wiring, CPS pots, Switchcraft jacks/switch, etc. It's insane how good this thing is for $800. My friend brought over his '59 Gibson re-issue and we did some sustain tests and the Epiphone blew it out of the water.
I know the neck is thicker but how thick is it ? I have small hands so debating between the 59 and 60’s but I want the 59:
That’s the elite Epiphone right now, as nothing needs to be upgraded.
@@automatoncollectives7237 I also have the Epiphone '59 guitar. I have ordered locking tuners, resomax bridge and tail piece. The stock tuners seem fine, but I prefer locking tuners. Also the bridge was digging into the palm of my hand bad and saw the resomax bridge on a you tube video which will take care of that issue. The guitar is high grade for sure except they chose to save money on the bridge and tuners. Other than that everything else is high grade stuff on the Epiphone '59.
@@warrenmooney9422 Ok...thx man! So I’ll have to upgrade a little...
@@automatoncollectives7237 WHICH ONE ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT, THE 59 OR THE 50?
That Epi is the yellowest gold top I've ever seen. Still sounds great, though
Shane, I like the comparison format & really believe it provides a sonically accurate portrayal
I actually prefer Epiphones. I have noticed that the strings seem to have a slightly more relaxed feel to them and be easier to bend. Probably due to the slightly shallower break angle over the nut. I expect I'm not the first person that's noticed this.
I own BOTH of these great guitars (my Epi 50s is heritage cherry). Chose identical weights @ 9.1 lbs each. Tonally VERY SIMILAR when played acoustically - how I judge ALL my guitars. This is where the differences creep in, and plugged in - the Burstbuckers of the Gibson exhibit a noticeably richer tone, although I think the ProBuckers sound better than they have previously (which didn't stop me from swapping to a DiMarzio 36th PAF on the bridge). Only real negative for me on the Gibson are the LOW frets - wish they opted for the TRUE medium jumbos. Love them both for different reasons. These latest (I've had 12 since 2006) Epiphones - *specifically* these "Inspired By Gibson" lines (50s 60s 59) are flat out amazing for the pricetag.
I'll have to buy the one that smells the best. Honestly. Thanks for the comparison. I wish you the best Shane!
Great stuff Shane, as usual and I loved your neck pickup riffing! Now it would be interesting to compare the Epi with a Harley SC-550…
Very interesting
Pretty sure the Epi is a better guitar but ya never know right
Gibson feels a little more in focus sound-wise, and ofc the price difference is there. Still, i'm actually keen on buying an Epiphone LP just like that, the satin goldtop looks stunning!
Great comparison. Tone-wise, I dont hear the kind of difference that would make me say "this is without a question a better guitar". It's more like the difference you can hear by having 2 gibson guitar of the same kind compared one to another. With all that considered, the epiphone is a great option, bang for bucks. Looking forward for a review on the epiphone prophecy 2020 line up. Keep up the good work!
Exactly.
I'm predominantly a bass player but I love the 6 string as well. I own an Epiphone EB3 bass and I've played the Gibson SG bass and aside from the mini bucker on the epi being a little less beefy I think they are essentially matched in quality and feel, right down to the obligatory neck dive. Great video man.
I bought a new 50's Epiphone Les Paul a few months ago and I have to say I love it. I usually spend a few hours doing a setup on an inexpensive guitar, but this one need no work at all. I bought a Classic Vibe Squire a few weeks later and it was a mess. I had to level and recrown the frets on the Squire. I know this sounds like a sacrilege, but the Epiphone plays and sounds better than the real Goldtop I used to have.
I barely heard any difference. Certainly not an almost 2000 dollar difference for me.
I think the most important thing with expensive vs affordable is the feel of the guitar when playing. You can always swap the pickups and get the same sound. Having owned an american cu24 and a prs se cu 24, you can definately tell when playing and holding them. The more expensive model feels better and more premium as it should. But love them both.
@@Silkaz7 Very true. The new Gibson’s have a great feel to them
Nooo Shane
We are all waiting on you to review the epiphone 1959
That’s if you can get your hands on one that is!
There are no lefties of those at the shop yet. Hopefully soon. I review what I can :)
@@intheblues I have one but I still want you to review it 💯❗
There’s only one solution then, I have chosen your 2021 resolution challenge
Learning to play the guitar with your right hand!!
@@intheblues
I don’t think they even
make it in a left hand
model.
Agree about neck PU on the epi and bridge PU on the gibson. Overall, as I suspected would be the case, there probably is not a $2000 USD difference in the tone of these guitars. It just seems more and more like the $600 to $800 USD bracket is where it's at for guitars today.
That said, if you ever come across a gibson LP tribute, I would mind a video on that. It has that neck profile that is in between slim taper and 50s, and the 490 PUs.
*wouldn't
I'm a lefty also I have epiphone les 0aul 50s guitar I just want to mention that one of my guitars is right handed ITS VENTURA BARNEY KESSEL FROM THE SIXTIES A BEAUTY ITS A GIBSON LAW SUIT CAUSE OF THE EXACT STYLE I have it strung left handed
Did you notice that on the Gibson, the bridge pickup is closer to the bridge? This happens with all epiphones and other brand "les pauls". On Gibsons the pickup is always near the bridge, thats why it has that unique sound!
I scrolled down to read the comments, listening to the comparison test, the video was above my line of sight. What I thought was the Gibson turned out to be the Epiphone when I scrolled up! I dont think I want to pay the Premium for "smell".
Can you please try an Epiphone Inspired by Gibson 1959 Les Paul? I heard they are really good.
I have one. It's INSANE. I would put this up against any non-Custom Shop Les Paul. My only complaint is that the Indian Laurel just doesn't feel quite as smooth as rosewood but it's not too bad after oiling it. It came set up really well. I did lower the bridge a little and the action is REALLY low and there zero fretbuzz anywhere on the neck. The Burstbuckers are legit. The neck tenon is long and exactly to 59 spec. The case is also WAY nicer than what you would have gotten in 1959. Through a Plexi it sound exactly right except the Epiphone ToneLock bridge outperforms vintage ABR bridges by a country mile in the sustain department. The only mod I've done is replace the zinc bridge and tailpiece bushings with German steel Faber pieces and a vintage spec aluminum tailpiece. The tone change is minute but it just brightened the guitar up a tad and that's always a good thing with a Les Paul. Maybe, someday, I'll upgrade the wiring harness but the factory pots and caps are great.
@@autodidacticprofessor869 Thank you.
what could a Gibson inspired by Epiphone 1959 Les Paul be? a chinese built 6k euros expensive Guitar with a Epiphone Headstock but
gibson Logo? Perfect craftmanship and Sounds good. They must start the epi custom sweat shop.
Wow they both sound great! If I heard them blind I don’t think I would know the difference. Also kudos for doing rhythm track as well. Could you make a great point to hearing a guitar and a vacuum is a bit different! Love my Epiphone 1998,’56 gold top with P 90s! Thanks for the video!
One issue with these. A/B videos is that it’s strictly about tone, when a guitar is also about FEEL . I think the real deal sounded better. Thanks for the vid !
Thanks for the review Shane, I love Gold tops and had been considering the Epiphone. I’ve only ever held one and played it acoustically and love the feel of the neck. From your playing, it sounds great too. I’d consider putting a couple of seymour duncans in it but the original pickups sound good.
The build quality on the Gibson goldtop
I looked at was just appalling. So I bought an epiphone LP 59 which is the Gibson custom shop collaboration with Gibson pickups, a slash epiphone LP (I liked the colour😂), an SG, a Firebird, and a casino all brand new for the same money. I feel no love for the Gibson.
Hey Shane, wonderful reviews, love the fact that you get right to the point, very Aussie! Please review the Epiphone 1959 LP, it's a beast with the Gibson hardware on board, would love to get your take on it.
closed my eyes and couldn't tell a diff, bang for buck you'd have to go the epi. great test man
awesome job!
So with these guitars just being played as received the setup they came with could have a big factor in any differences. Especially pickup height and strings (material, brand).
I’d love to hear a true apples to apples comparison where the same tech does the same setup with the same strings on those two guitars. Then let’s see how they compare.
Good that you did the comparison in a mix - slightly preferred the Gibson bridge tones. In a real world context you could gig or record with the Epiphone 100%. Heard of some finish quality issues with the Epiphone but I have personally seen finish quality issues with Gibsons too. I like the Epiphone headstock and I have an Epiphone Allykat from 2003-04 with a similar style headstock. The string path through the nut to tuners is better and more even with the Epiphone though I haven't detected any benefit - tuning stability between my Gibson and Epiphone is about the same!
Hey Shane, I've noticed the same thing with the setups as of late. In 2020 I purchased both an Epiphone and Gibson Les Paul and out of the box the setup on the Epiphone was much better. I'm not sure what's going on with the setups coming out of the Gibson factory, but it doesn't look good on Gibson that this is going on. I hope Gibson can get it worked out.
Why does that make a difference if it's set up or not out of the box. Maybe I'm missing something.
@@guitarocd9984 It goes to value for money. It doesn't feel good drop several grand on a guitar and then have to spend time or money getting it setup. Especially when the guy that bought the inexpensive Epiphone just goes on his way. I want to take it out of the box and go. If I have a guitar come with a bad setup, it usually ends up sitting on the rack for a few months until I have time to do the job.
If someone is buying in the shop I'd argue it's even a bigger deal. If the $500 Epiphone is setup right, it's going to play better than the $2500 Gibson that isn't. That doesn't make it a better guitar, but if you're just giving them a quick play: It may lead you to some questionable conclusions.
Everybody likes a different set up. Seriously it's a matter of turning two screws to raise and lower the strings. You did not play your guitar because of that. There is different theories on how to ship a guitar and what tensions to keep on the strings. I'm still baffled who cares how the guitar setup when it arrives. You end up having to put your own set up on it anyway. But nevermind I will just remain baffled. I commented on your comment only because I've heard this before and I never understood the importance of it.
I would rather receive my guitar with low action. That shows they tested it at low action. The less expensive guitar companies set their strings High because they don't spend the time on leveling frets. Gibson does a good job leveling their frets and can play at any action.
@@guitarocd9984 It's a lot more than 2 screws man. Do you move the neck, or the bridge? You turn the truss rod, you have to adjust the intonation. You raise/lower each string, you raise/lower the bridge, more intonation adjustments. Dozens of measurements with the feeler gauges, etc...
You're right that setup does go to taste, but it's important that it's decent out of the box both from a marketability standpoint and a user satisfaction standpoint. There is a difference between a the setup isn't to my taste and a situation were one of the strings is at a weird height relative to the other strings, like Shane encountered.
Martin thinks it's important enough that they do a plek setup on their guitars out of the factory now. The last one I ordered was amazing right out of the box, so a good out of the box setup is very achievable.
Bottom line, I think it's important as it effects customer perception of the quality of the guitar. I also think it's important for newer guitarist that are going to have to either learn how to make all the before mentioned adjustments, or pay to have them done. I can remember as a young person literally spending every last penny I made at my minimum wage job to buy a guitar. I didn't have luthier tools, or the knowledge to do a setup myself. I would have been boned if the guitar was bad, so in that regard: It's really important.
I just received an Artist LP59GT Gold Top. Besides having a great finish and different due to the new stacked split P90 pups, the gold top looks just like the Gibson in your video. It's the darker more 'bronze' look gold. Classy Hope you can give the new Artist a review soon. I love the playability and sound (and the price)
Both are good but the name Gibson has value power over the years.
Are you buying a guitar to sell it later? or to play guitar?
So long as the Gibson doesn't get stolen.
@@metalliholic never know what circumstances you'll be in. I've had to put 2 gibsons up for sale due to current climate. 2 second hand epiphones wouldn't get me very far.
@@YouSaveYou yea that’s true. I did end up selling my Gibson when I was having money troubles.
Every-time I go to check out a guitar review, there you are! Thanks for putting so many out there...and, great to see a lefty playing so sweet!
Could you please do a video on the Gibson SG junior there are no good ones on CZcams and your videos are always informative
I have Epiphone Les Paul standard Left handed same 59 it's great
Awesome as usual ...
Great video Shane
I think the Gibson sounded much fuller... But really it was a close one. Maybe upgrading the pickups on the Epiphone will give a really nice investment for a player who's on a average budget.
Left handed. I want it!
Honestly whatever string or guitar you play is GOLD.
Great video thanks 🎭
That little bit of extra depth of the sound and the look and feel of the nitro finish are worth it to some people. What can I say?
I gotta agree about the neck pick up it sounded better on Epiphone. But with the price difference you can easily update neck pickup for better one. Nice comparison.💪🤜
I amazingly found one of the Gibsons brand new on Reverb during the guitar drought that's going on right now. Shot the shop an offer and the took it. Got a brand new Gibson for under retail. Cant wait to get it.
The gold one sounded good ay carn....
I’ll take the one you don’t like... 😉👍🏻 (Great content, keep up the great work! Love your videos!)
Thanks Shane..the Epi is no doubt good for the money, but I wonder if it's like my MIC Gretsch in some respects- handicapped by cheap hardware. I had to replace the cheapo tuners and bridge to make it stay in tune - but now it's a much better guitar. Probably worth keeping in mind if one buys an Epi copy of Gibson - they are cheaper for a reason and you may need to budget a few hundred $$ to get it right.
Sounds very classic LP. And you are telling it feels like that.
Great video! I thought the Gibsons pickups had a bit more output and more rounded sound, but not a lot. I don't think there's any question that the Epiphone has better value for money and I think it's a shame that so many worry about the name on the headstock. If the guitar feels great then it's a great guitar.
One thing I’ve learned from owning many Gibson guitars over the years is…..there are good ones and great ones. Unlike something like fender where they all exactly the same. If you buy one, play as many as you can and one will speak to you.
Definitely prefered the Gibson pickups fuller sound. Although, maybe buy the Epi and upgrade the pickups
So Gibson's gold tops started as clear with copper powder. It pretty evident when looking at those
Me: bought an epiphone model and having a blast.
Shane: badass blues player.
Thanks for your videos.
If I hadn’t already gotten an excellent LTD EC-256(which I love), I might have given the Epiphone a go. I think I may be starting to like the revamped headstock even more than the Gibson version....😆
I just bought a LTD EC 256 GOLD TOP AGED (and used) and very pleased with it
which would you choose? epiphone les paul standard 50s gold top OR vintage v100 afd slash?
I hear a slight slight difference when I turn my beats down a bit the Gibson has a more classic buzz or static sound to it I don’t really know how to explain it but it sounds nice 😂
I have an Epi Les Paul Standard Plus Top PRO that plays like a dream. It's the last year they made them with the "clipped wing" headstock.
I just got a Prophecy Flying-V too!!!
It's on par with Gibson quality all day long. Epiphone ain't no joke!!!
I agree on pick up tones, better to my ears Epi neck and Gibs bridge. You didn't talk about electronics reliability, should be better in the Gibs on the long term ? Would you say the Epi is giggable by a professional ?
The bridge saddles placements were hurting my brain until I remembered that they would have to be reversed that way on a lefty, haha
Man you guys need to give it a rest with these comparisons! I can’t keep any money in my wallet 🤩🤩🤩
Lol….I’ve got 25 guitars!
Here's my thoughts on Epi vs Gibson right now...using the Classic as an example. The Gibson version is probably a 10 out of 10 and costs $2,400. The Epiphone version is an 8 out of 10 and costs $599. To me, it's not worth $1,800 more to get 2 more points. I'd rather take that savings and put it towards a great amp. A solid guitar and a great amp, to me, is the way to go.