Multiple bound body with arched top and gold hardware, a quick mahogany neck for great action and feel and a solid, glued neck joint for stability and a great sustain all come together to make this guitar one of the best values on the market today.
Featured review by:
ZoSo.Led.Zep., on march 02, 2005 12 of 15 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 912
Purchased from: Musicians Pro Shop
Features: Made late 2004. Has a 22 jumbo fret fat Brazilian Rosewood neck (Custom ordered) with pearl block inlays. Is a glossy black with gold hardware. The body is Mahogany with the brazilian neck. It's a Les Paul body style with a gold Tune-O-Matic bridge. It has a volume and a tone knob for the bridge pickup and a volume and tone knob for the neck pickup and a 3 way Switch. It came with awesome Grover tuners which stay in tune for so long I love them. It also came with an Epiphone hard case and a Gibson lead which is soo cool and sounds great. // 10
Sound: I play classic rock like Led Zeppelin and Guns N' Roses so this Les Paul guitar is perfect for the music I play and my Marshall VS100 rounds off the package and is an awesome combo. Its not noisy and I love the rich warm sound. I've changed the Epiphone humbuckers for a Gibson Burstbucker 2 on the neck and a Gibson Burstbucker 3 on the bridge. You can put on the neck puckup and roll the tone all the way back and to Slash solos, or put on the bridge with the tone all the way up and riff like Jimmy Page. It sounds really good when on clean, quite warm tone. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: Was set up well, a little bit of fret buzz with the factory strings but I replace them with my favorite 11s and tuned it down half a step and the buzz was gone. I changed the pickups afew days after buying this guitar but the Epiphone humbuckers seemed to be set up ok. There were no flaws it was really nice. // 8
Reliability & Durability: This guitar is built to last. I mean its a Les Paul! The hardware is holding up well but I've only had it for 3 months and the strap buttons are good. I have gigged this guitar without a backup and it went well and the finish is holding up well. // 10
Impression: This Les Paul and my Marshall are a perfect match for my playing style like Led Zeppelin and Guns N' Roses. I've been messing around with dads guitars all my life but started playing seriously like a year or two ago. If it were stolen of course I'd buy it again! But maybe try to convince parents to buy me a real Gibson? I compared it to Strats and I liked the himbucker design. A great guitar won't let you down! // 10
Reviewed by:
unregistered, on january 23, 2006 3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 732
Purchased from: Merchant City Music
Features: I bought this guitar this year, it has 22 frets, rosewood neck, plays like a dream, I have it in white looks amazing similar to that of justin hawkins plays only the cheaper version, has two Gibson designed humbuckers, all gold hardware, similar to the Les Paul Custom Plus only better looking. It has a 3-way pickup selector Switch. // 10
Sound: Sounds amazing, suits pretty much any music style from '60s blues to '80s rock and modern day metal. The two Gibson designed humbuckers give the guitar a very delicate and blues style clean down and a shickingly overdriven tone. A must buy and for the sake of 400 quid it's a bargain, I mean obviousely theres a difference between the Gibson and Epiphone version but not a 1600 pound difference in my eyes. A must buy. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar was pretty much set up properly and came from Glasgow and arrived in tune, the only down thing was the plastic guards etc. were not screwed in properly as if it had been built in a rush but nothing major. Easty to sort out yourself. The controls are really well designed as they are out of the way and I also find the bridge comfortable when playing palm muted pieces. // 8
Reliability & Durability: This guitar will most definitaley live up to its expectation it sounds great on stage but they are not that strong, unfortunately my sister managed to knock mine over onto carpet and the neck cracked, I found this quite unusual as I have seen people like Slash, Led Zeppelin, Zakk Wylde and Pete Townsend lauch there LP's across the stage and pick them up mid solo and carry on playing as if nothin ever happened. I found this unusual so I phoned Epiphone and the agreed and agreed to either repair or replace mine. They have agreed to send a replacement and it should come soon so there a great company and look after there customers well so thanks to Epiphone! // 6
Impression: My overall impression of this guitar is fantastic, although it has a few down points it is still a legendary guitar and lives up to its name. I am more of a rhythm and blues player and it is great for some songs but not brilliant for others which is why I have a Squier Telecaster to which is a stunning guitar, 15 years old and still plays as if it were brand new and together they can play any kind of music style. A must buy if you don't own oneand you want an LP then the Custom is your best bet by far. Hope my review helps you all. // 10
Reviewed by:
joe516, on march 22, 2005 3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Purchased from: Guitar Center Spokane
Features:
- 2004 model made where ever the new Epi's are made
- Thick mahogany neck, rosewood fretboard with nice sized frets
- Heavy mahogany body with maple arched top
- White finish with black and cream binding on the body, neck, and headstock
- Tune-O-Matic bridge.
- Three-way pickup selector (bridge, neck/bridge, neck)
- Two tone, two volume knobs
- Dual Gibson Designed pickups
- Grover tuners
- All gold hardware. // 8
Sound: I play just about anything. Like any Les Paul, it'll play any sort of rock/alternative/hardcore/metal or the likes. I find it a little too thick for jazzy stuff though. I play it through a Line 6 Flextone III Plus. Great thick and rich sound like you'd expect form a guitar as heavy as this. Its not the most versatile guitar. Way too bassy and thick for ligher stuff like I said though. // 8
Action, Fit & Finish: Very good quality, but like just about any guitar there are just a few faults. First, there were a couple very small blemishes on the finish near the neck. Very small though, I didn't see them until a month or so after I bought the guitar. The set-up (which I presume was done at GC) was a little off. I had to fix the intonation a little bit, but that was a quick fix. One of the tone knobs came off as well, but thats a 5 second super glue job. There is a little bit of fret buzz, but I could probably fix that when I have time to mess around with the truss rod. Lastly, the G-string has a little trouble staying in tune. I thought it might have been how it was strung, but when I restrung it, it was a little bit better, but not much. // 6
Reliability & Durability: I've had the guitar a little over 6 months now and haven't had any huge problems at all. Other than the tone knob falling off, this guitar is very solidly built. People say that Epiphones arn't very high quality, but I'll have to disagree. Sure, there are some bad ones that get through QC, but this one is top notch. I play this thing hard almost every day and there haven't been any huge issues at all. // 8
Impression: I've been playing for about three years now and this is my second guitar. It is a great match for most of the music I play, but like I said before, its way too bassy for my liking for lighter stuff. No regrets about this purchase at all. I would replace it if stolen or lost. The one thing about this guitar that I love the most is the look. The white body with black and gold accent is just plain sexy. Its a very classy "tux" look. When looking shopping for the guitar, I compared it to the Epi LP Standard. After playing both back to back, the $100 extra for was a no-brainer decision. The Standard seemed a little cheaper and didn't play nearly as well as the Custom did. I also played the Custom against a Gibson LP Studio as well. Again, the Custom played better than the higher priced Gibby. To prove that it wasn't just that Gibby, I borrowed my friend's Studio and played them back to back as well after I bought the Custom. Again, both him and I thought the Custom played better. I think the Epiphone Les Paul's are great if you don't have enough money to go for a higher and overpriced Gibson model. For the price, you'll be hard pressed to find a better overall guitar. Sure, the Agiles are nice as well, but from my experience, you'd want to replace the bridge and pickups. By the time you add that up, you're around $500 anyway. // 8
Reviewed by:
Slash_Rulz, on june 09, 2006 1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 699.2
Purchased from: Local Store
Features: I'm not sure the year it was made, but it was made in Korea, 22 fret thin '60s style mahogony neck, mahogony body. Alpine-white finish with gold hardware. Epiphone humbucker pickups. Diamond-block inlays and Tune-O-Matic bridge. // 8
Sound: I play mostly Hard Rock and Metal. Guns N Roses, Metallica, Children Of Bodom, Nirvana, Velvet Revolver, some Hendrix, Pantera, Sabbath, quite a varied range. I use a Marshall MG100DFX and although the Epiphone humbuckers aren't the most fantastic in the world it still sounds great for pretty much everything. Great distortion and easy to play. The clean sound isn't as great as the distortion, I guess you'd say its a little weak. But a touch of flange to the clean sound its it's not too bad. It's never really noisy unless your standing ontop of it with the volume on full. But as I said before it covers almost any sound, from blues to hard rock to heavy metal. // 9
Action, Fit & Finish: It was set up fine when I first got it, maybe the action was a little high but that took about 2 seconds to fix. The pickups were fine and the bridge was great. The pickup selector sometimes got stuck on one setting if I changed from rhythm to treble quickly but that was only on some amps, which were the crappy ones at school, seems fine on my amp. All the finish was great and the neck looked great. // 8
Reliability & Durability: It's great, it hardly ever goes out of tune, and is great for live performing, although because of the typical heavy Les Paul body it can be a little sore of the neck after a while, you get use to it. The only bad thing is, the gold hardware on the pickups and somewhat on the bridge are starting to wear off a little, and I've only had it for about 6 months, but I don't mind it too much, just gives it more of a raw, rustic feel. // 8
Impression: For $920 australian it isn't bad at all in my opinion. If it was stolen I would buy another les paul, whether it would be an Epiphone would depend on how much money I had. But it's still a good all-round guitar from lead to rhythm playing, it covers it all. // 8
Reviewed by:
VLVTRVOLVR13, on april 26, 2006 1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 599
Purchased from: Guitar Center
Features: This guitar has a lot of great features that help to make it an outstanding guitar! 22 frets, solid carved maple top over a mahogany body, set mahogany neck, and rosewood fretboard. Grover tuners keep it in tune very well, 2 humbuckers, all gold hardware, the guitar comes in alpine white, black, antique ivory, and wine red. There is a volume and tone knob for each pickup and a three way selector. The Epi Les Paul Custom comes set up very well, it was perfect the way I got it, I was able to sit down and play immediately. Including all this it comes with the custom block inlay and a bound body which looks awesome! // 9
Sound: All I can say is the guitar can cover a wide variety of styles. It delivers a full warm sound and plays beautifully through my Vox combo amp. I use it for all styles(blues, funk, rock, hard rock, grunge, some metal). It is very versatile with the 4 knobs and three way pickup selector. I use alot of modulation effects like chorus and flanger, delay, wah, octaves, overdrives and distortion, basically my main pedal is the Boss ME-50 and it is an excellent combo. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: No falws that really jumped out at me. Pickups are a little buzzy on my Octave Fuzz setting, and sometimes the high E string will buzz but that is usually when I have moved from playing outside to inside. Everything came well setup and the action was great! // 9
Reliability & Durability: I dont gig, but I'll be dragging this guitar with me in the guitar and to friend's houses. It feels very dependable and the finish looks good too last. I haven't had it long so I can't comment too much on the guitars longevity. // 9
Impression: Perfect match for my style of music! As I said before it fits well, some of the artists I play are Nirvana, RATM, Foo Fighters, Smashing Pumpkins, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, lots of other stuff. I compared this guitar to the C-1 Classic and IMO the Epiphone shines above. If it were stolen I would certainly buy another. I love the way I looks, plays and sounds, I hate that I didn't get it sooner! // 10
Reviewed by:
Corle, on august 01, 2006 1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 473.21
Purchased from: Musicstop
Features: This beautiful guitar was made in 2004ish I'm pretty sure, no clue where its made. It has 24 jumbo frets on a rosewood neck, 24.75" scale length, neck set into a mahogany body with a maple top. Alpine White Ebony finish. Epi Les Paul body style with a gold Tune-O-Matic bridge. 4 controls are given; volume and tone for the bridge pickup, and volume and tone for the neck pickup. And a 3-way switch for the Gold '59 Gibson pickups (bridge, neck/bridge, neck). And non-locking tuners. No accsesories came with mine, but that varies from where you buy it. // 10
Sound: I play alt/punk/rock and this guitar owns every single aspect of evreything I play. It could probably suit any style so don't judge it by just what I play. I'm using it with a wonderfull Marshall AVT150HX halfstack and all I can say is wow. These two work together to make one heck of a sound, I could not ask for better. Guitar is not noisey at all, so don't even worry about it. And a little more on the pickups. When you play on any channel with the bridge pickup, it sounds really rich and deep, yet not muddy at all, not even when I crank the bass on my amp! an the neck pickup gives you an extreamly bright, crisp & clear sound. This guitar can go from bluesy classical stuff to metal. A++ on the sound, I would give it 11/10 if I could, but it only lets you go to ten. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar was set up amazingly, the action was and still is amazing! Pickups were ajusted to perfection, the top was properly bookmatched & the bridge was routed perfectly. The guitar had no flaws when I bought it and still dosen't after one year of playing it! I have only taken it into to the shop once to get my neck ajusted because I got some buzzing in the higher frets, but this happens to evrey guitar so Who cares? // 10
Reliability & Durability: It's an Epiphone so what do you have to worry, anything that comes from Gibson is automaticly trustworthy. This guitar would easily stand live playing, even with the metal players that like to whip it around and wail on the strings. The hardware is very strong and durable, I don't expect I'll be changing it anytime soon. The strap buttons are extreamly solid, but you do need a good strap to do the job. I would and have gigged with this guitar, without a backup. And the finish, is it even possible to wear? I play a lot every single day and no rub, or even thinning so far, and it seems like it won't for a very long time. // 10
Impression: This guitar, my AVT150HX, and my style of music are a perfect match, there is no comparison. I have only been playing for about 4 years now, but don't get me wrong, I know my stuff! If this guitar was stolen I would cry, then buy another one. I love evreything about it, there is no cons at all, and my favorite feature about it has to be the two amazing pickups. I would compare it to a Gibson Les Paul Standard, pretty much the same sound, but a nice price difference. Pros: Amazing actions, Best pickups ever, Durable hardware and finish, Perfect setup, Controls for both pickups, too lazy to name more. Cons: 0, Nodda, Zip, nothing. Hope you found my review helpfull. // 10
Reviewed by:
the_guy, on december 12, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 656.97
Purchased from: nevada music
Features: 22 frets, mahogany body, rosewood fretboard, Les Paul shape (obviously), 2 Epiphone humbucker pickups, gold hardware, 3 way pickup selector, a volume an tone knob for each pickup, all finished in alpine white, a stunning looking guitar. No accesories included. // 9
Sound: I play anything from Indie to shred and anything in between, and this guitar is perfect for pretty much all styles. I’m using it with a Marshall MG15 practise amp, garbage I know but this guitars quality still shines through, I was lucky enough to play this through both a Laney VC15 valve amp and a Marshall JVM half stack and this guitar shone through both. This guitar has a very full and rich sound. On clean, I can get incredible warm jazz tones on the neck pickup and with the treble pickup selected, a nice jangly tone reminiscent of Oasis and Manic Street Preachers, a design for life. The sound can get a little muddy on this selection, but I barely use the treble pickup for cleans, because I have found the best clean sound of them all. When I select the middle option on the pickup selector (which combines both pickups) I get the most amazing clean sound. It's incredible, sweet, warm, bassy and the high end just shimmers, in some ways it's better than a Fender clean, more warmth and body. However the sound of this guitar is a little too dense for styles such as funk and Indie, so the Fenders are better for that. On to distortion. It's a Les Paul, the sustain is unbelievable, play a note and it will ring for what seems like days. The bite and clarity of the treble pickup excels for any form of rock, classic rock, even metal, and with the rhythm pickup, I get a very sweet solo tone that cuts through and stands out with incredible sustain. This pickup however, I find very muddy for rhythm playing, despite being the rhythm pickup, so I would maybe swap out this pickup for a Bareknuckle Mule or another pickup. The good thing about Les Pauls is that they are very easy to modify, if you want to enhance or have a different sound, then it’s easy to do so. // 9
Action, Fit & Finish: This guitar was very well setup, the action was perfect, on the low side but I like that. All parts were aligned properly, the pickups were perfectly adjusted. The finish was beautiful and there were no imperfections; the neck was straight and true, for the price, I cannot fault it. // 10
Reliability & Durability: The guitar is very heavy but very durable, I accidently knocked it on a wooden table and it did no damage whatsoever. I have had no problems with electronics but I shouldn’t really. The finish is very thick, which adds to the weight but also the beauty of the instrument. The strap buttons don't seem to be too solid so they might need replacing as the strap has come off a couple of times to my shock, but this can be easily resolved. This could do a gig without a backup but I use other guitars for different sounds anyway. // 10
Impression: I’ve been playing for 2 years and own a Yamaha Pacifica but have played other gear, such as Mexican Fender Strats and Teles, Jaguars, and even a Gibson Les Paul. This guitar is perfect for my music as it is so versatile, and for the price, the quality cannot be faulted. If it were stolen I would buy this again definitely, because I think this guitar is great quality for the money. I love the way it does both clean and distortion so well. The neck pickup is a bit muddy, but what do you expect, it's not an £1000+ guitar. It doesn't sound exactly like a proper Gibson, but it's close, and is much better value for money. I bought this guitar because I like and needed the Les Paul sound to add to my rig. I compared it to a Fender Standard Stratocaster (nice, but I have a Yamaha Pacifica which pretty much gives the same sort of sound at a slightly lower quality) and a Fender Standard Telecaster (ok but nowhere near as good as the American), but I chose this mainly because I have a Strat copy, so I wanted a guitar with humbuckers. I wish I had tried out the PRS SE range, but I prefer the look of the Epiphone. Overall this guitar is fantastic as a second guitar, and it can be used for gigs and recording too and sound great. // 9
Reviewed by:
LesPaulCowboy, on november 14, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 299.99
Purchased from: Musicians Friend
Features: The Les Paul Custom is a great guitar. Mine was made just last year. The neck is thin and you can wrap your hands around it. The frets are big trapazoid pearl inlays. I do know the neck is a maple neck, and the body I do not know what wood it is. The bridge is a chrome tune-o-matic, the finish is a transparent with a Vintage sunburst. The given controls are you treble volume, and rythum volume, treble level, and rythum level. It also gives you the Switch to use only one humbucker at a time (top is rythum, center is both, and bottom is treble) The pickups are humbucker, 57's style humbuckers. My guitar came with just a cable and needed tools. // 10
Sound: The Les Paul Custom suits my style of play. I mostly play older rock, from late 60's early 70's. I also use it to play Johnny Cash. The guitar gives a real good tone, and stuff, by just tweaking it, using the rythum and treble knobs on the guitar. A flip of the selector switch, to rythum, gives you the nice warm feel of country, which lets you play a lot of Johnny Cash songs real well. While on the Treble you get the nice string sound that The Ventures made. The guitar lets you make a good variety of sound. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: My guitar came from the factory, as a referbished one, something about the wiring, and it had newer more expensive internals. It came with no blimishes or anything on it, and it was practicaly in tune, I just had to adjust it up or down a little. The humbuckers are great, and I have never had a problem. They pickup what needs to be picked up. The only problem I had is the strap button up front, wants to unloosen it's self and I have to tighten it, but I have been told by others who play guitar like I do, that it happens. I have found no flaws, and it's a great guitar. // 9
Reliability & Durability: This guitar will stand Live playing, and there is no need for a backup. Unless you are playing like some super heavy metal. The hardware is good, heavy chromed hardware. The strap buttons are good, but that's the flaw with mine, the one up front it likes to unscrew sometimes. But nothing major. But rember mine is referbished. The finish is superb, and should last until I die. // 9
Impression: I like to play older rock, and Johnny Cash. This guitar does all I need plus more. When I hook up my CryBaby pedal and my Crate Flexwave15R amp, I am ready to jam. I have had the guitar for about a month now, and it is a great guitar. I have thrashed it, and it still stands up. I looked into other les pauls, and other epiphones, but I figured out threw reasoning, that this guitar was the best guitar I could get for my money. If it were stolen, I would go out and beat the SOB Who stole it from me, I would hate to have to buy another one. I love it there is nothing I would really change. I wish it had a third humbucker in the middle, but that is not needed, and I am extremly happy with what I got. // 10
Reviewed by:
johnny-rock, on september 15, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 911.24
Purchased from: Leading Edge Music
Features: My custom is in alpine white with gold hardware, it's a great combination and looks awesome on stage. 22 frets with pearl inlays on a rose wood fret board. It has two Standard Epiphone humbuckers. 3-way selector Switch: Treble, Rythm and midway. 2 volume and 2 tone knobs. Grover tuners. the G string seems to go out of tune quicker than the others but it's not a problem. Medium action, easy to play. Because I work at the place of purchace I got a deal of the guitar and hard case for 1000. // 9
Sound: Sounds fantastic! Great sustain. I'm into playing guns n roses, led zep, ACDC, so it's my kind of guitar. I'm going to get active electronics put in but I have nothing to complain about the Standard. I'm putting it through a Roland microcube. it's just for bedroom use but still good. I've giged it with some Ashton 100 and 80 watts through a Zakk Wylde overdrive pedal and it sounded awesome! It's got a warm full sound on rhythm and a good strong lead sound on treble which I always use for soloing or lead work. good variety of sounds from clean to heaps of gain. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: the guitar was in great condition when I bought it. of course as with most Epiphones, there are some tiny finishing flaws but they are deffinately not noticable, only if your looking for them. The G-string seems to go out of tune quicker and with more difference than the others but it's not a problem. great action, easy to play. // 10
Reliability & Durability: This guitar is a tank. I've giged it and gone nuts and it stayed together fine. No loose knobs or Switch. when I got it I got straplocks put on. One of the locks didn't stay in that well but I got the hole filled in and redrilled and glued so it's fine now. I've knocked it a couple of times and there were no dints or scratches. I'd gig it without a backup, but I'm paranoid so I always carry spare strings and am tuning it every 5 mins. // 9
Impression: for my style of Gunners, ACDC, Led Zep it's perfect. I've been playing for 6 years and started teaching this year. I also just joined a bad with some mates. I used to have a Yamaha pacifica which was a good guitar which I had no problems with, but it was time to move up. If it were stolen I'd track down and kill whoever stole it and then maybe try to upgrade to a Gibson. But I would deffinately miss it. The white and gold looks fantastic on stage with all the lights. it leaves rival guitarists in envy. When I was buying it I was also considering a Les Paul Standard and an SG. but ther were some extra little flaws in those guitars and I wasn't willing to risk that, so I just paid the bit extra for a more reliable and better looking guitar. // 10
Reviewed by:
Coil_Tapped, on july 10, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 599
Purchased from: Professional Musician's Center of Des Moines
Features: // 9
Sound: This guitar is definitely made for those Who want a more rich tone. I'm a bit of a mellow player, comparative style to Joe Satriani, Dan The Man, and Carlos Santana. The rhythm pickup that came with it was VERY warm and mellow. And when I say warm, I mean that even with a metal distortion and a little reverb, you can get some very pretty tones out of it, it's not a shredding machine, more like something that the effect junkies out there will love. The bridge pickup actually surprised me. I actually thought about not changing it out. The distortion is absolutely gorgeous on that pickup, somewhat punchy, with a very throaty mid. Metal players may not like this too much, but any other sort of distortion wizard will love it. In clean is where this guitar really shines. The rhythm sounds like some of your higher end PRS guitars, very hard sound to explain, but it's very rich and the chording sounds really good, considering it has such a full tone. The bridge pickup in clean is what will get a lot of you funk and ska players worked up. Every note is punctual and clear, definitely required for anybody Who uses a wah. // 9
Action, Fit & Finish: The factory set up on the action and truss rod were my biggest complaints with this guitar. They totally just threw out random string-to-fingerboard measurements with every string. one would be 1/32 of an inch off, another would be 3/64, and still another would be 1/16. Very annoying! It took me forever to measure and gauge them just right. Plus, the truss rod was barely securing anything! That was a good 40 minutes. But in the end, I set it up the way I wanted. The finish, wow, it far outshines almost any other finish I own or have ever played. Gibson should use this paint job more, that way I can get my 335 prettied up without having to spend on the paint job. But I truly love this paint job, especially for my classier gigs. I'm just giving it a 7 because I believe the factory could have saved me a little trouble in adjustments. Fix those and this guitar is a real Beauty! // 7
Reliability & Durability: This guitar, for any of you little dudes out there, is very heavy, which is expected of most Les Pauls, but it seemed to me this one was especially heavy. Don't get me wrong, that meant that the sustain was beautiful, but it can get very old swinging that thing around for a 3 hour stage performance. Especially when you have a broken Strap-lok. It should outlive me, that's for sure. Very solid, and the bridge (which I usually have the most problems with in a guitar) is burried in this thing. Really deep. which makes tweeking or modding with it very difficult. But it really is a very good guitar that should last you a long time. // 9
Impression: So I'm on to year 6 in my playing, and I'm starting to realize what kind of a guitarist I want to be. This has taken a very long time, but my Les Paul has ridden it out with me. I own an Austin Strat (if you play funk, buy this guitar), my Epi Paul, and my Gibson ES-335. Now, my music is varried alot, and I mean a lot. Satriani-esque major and natural minor chorus lines, all the way to transposed Pan Flute music. Each of these 3 guitars contributes to every song I play in some way, one that's quick and punchy (my Austin), my Epi (for the sad, slower, more minor and harmonic movements), and the 335 (a good balance between the other two.) My single pedals and my PodXT make this baby sing, and I know I'd buy it again for sure. I suggest that if you are very technical and are looking for a "perfect sound", then this guitar is great. It has all the features of a Gibson, and is easily customizable. I mean, I changed the pickups, tuners, glow-gobbed the inlays (putting a permanent glow-in-the-dark finish on them), modified the bridge with a small pully system to work out a sound that replicates bending. So know that you can, literally, turn this guitar into anything you want. So, if you don't have the money for a Gibson, buy this. If you do have the money for the Gibson, by this anyway, because it'll be cheaper to have Gibson equip put in it anyway than buying a Gibson. Don't worry about the logo. Most people have no idea what the difference is anyway! // 9
Reviewed by:
Cheeseus36000, on july 12, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 704.55
Purchased from: Sound Control
Features: I think it was made in 1998 and crafted in Korea but I'm prety sure that the parts were made in the U.S. 22 thin frets are a abit tricky for really technical playing especially if you want to get really high up the fret board. Laminated top unlike the real Gibson model. It a 100% official copy so all the specs are the same. Locking stop bar and tune-O-matic bridge. Obviously like every other Gibson/Epiphone it has a thre-way selector Switch. The Grover tuners keep the guitar in tune really well. // 9
Sound: I play plenty of glam and Indie and it suits the style exceptionally well. I'm currently using a Line 6 Spider III and the humbuckers sound great especially on the rock solo setting. without distortion the treble sound is a bit raunchy but the rhythm pickup is soft but rich and warm. // 9
Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar was perfectly setup in the factory at least I think it was (it was second hand when I had it). The pickups are all in line and the guitar was bookmatched properly and the bridge was routed porperly also. It doesn't contain any flaws except for a scratch on the underside of the cutaway. // 7
Reliability & Durability: The guitar will definitley withstand Live playing (I should know, I jump and down with it in my room all the time). The pickups and hardware will last a centruy. The finish is good and will last but brass pickup covers get tarnished easily. The strap buttons are secure but continuously taking the strap on and off it can become loose easily. // 7
Impression: As I said this guitar is perfect my styles (Glam and Indie), I've only being playing 19 months and it's my second guitar, I'm so pleased that I bought it. I own all sorts of gear, a Strat, Marshall MG30DFX to name a few. If it was lost or stolen I would buy another, either that or an Epiphone SG (my next investment). My favourite feature is the humbuckers. I can't really compare it to anything because it's in a class of it's own. The only thing that I it had was a five way selector Switch but otherwise it's a 10/10. // 10
Reviewed by:
epiphoneg310, on august 06, 2007 0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased from: GAK.co.uk
Features: My guitar was Brand New and made in January 2007 and was made in china. It has the Standard 22 frets full scale with sexy block mother of pearl inlays and the famous Gibson split Diamond on the head stock. The body is made of solid mahogany and so is the neck with a rose wood fingerboard and a carved top with a shiny ebony finish with cream binding on the body, neck and headstock. It has a tune-o-matic bridge with Epiphone USA made pickups that sound fantastic, 2 volume and control knobs with Grover tuners, all hard ware is gold. I didn't get anything with it except an allen key for the truss rod. // 10
Sound: this guitar is a spot on match for my needs (metal like Trivium and hard rock like Guns n Roses but I'm certain it could do blues and country if you're into that stuff).I've tried this through a friends Marshall MG100DFX and it sounds so sweet on clean it could charm birds from trees and with distortion make em explode! it's very bright on clean and with distortion it really crunches (in a good way). if I had to compare it to something I'd have to compare it to a Gibson Les Paul Studio or SG Special which for 300 quid is an absolute bargain. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: The action was good, better than expected but the bridge pickup needed a little lowering. There were no flaws at all except a tiny pinhead indent on the back that I only noticed because it caught the light, but it was nothing to make a fuss over and all in all I was very happy with the setup. // 9
Reliability & Durability: I wouldn't go to a gig with a backup because this guitar is so well made and I have so much Faith in it. I think the hardware would fade with time but in my opinion that brings character to a guitar, but the guitars finish wouldn't chip or come off if you did a quick polish every now and again but everything is very solid and sturdy I've given it a knock on the headstock a few times an no chips or splits or any sight of damage. // 10
Impression: I love this guitar, would never sell it or give it away and I treat it as if it was made of porcelain (although I still play hard). I've been playing about a year now and are starting to get speedier and better at playing and this guitar can handle it well. If it were stolen I'd beat the guy take his money and my guitar and buy another one to match. This is a top quality guitar for the price and I highly recommend it to anyone, if your short on your budget I'd say keep saving because believe me it's worth every penny. // 10
Reviewed by:
nariek, on november 08, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 549
Features: This guitar has a 22 jumbo fret fat made out of Rosewood neck with pearl block inlays. My one is glossy black which really makes the gold hardware pop! The body is mahogany which means it isn't too heavy. It has a Tune-O-Matic bridge which is easily adjusted and grover tuners which stays in tune very well. There are 2 volume and 2 tone knobs; one set for each gold, Alnico pickup and there is also a 3-way switch. // 9
Sound: It definitely suits my styles, which are hard rock and metal. The les paul has an awesome distortion which is less crunchy than my SG but has a lot more tone which really brings out the distortion hard! I run mine through a microcube I'm currently looking for Marshall for gigs, instead having to borrow mates. Not noisy at all and the type of cable you use does make a difference so if Epiphone give you a cable with your guitar invest in a high quality one, it really does make a difference. It doesn't have the bright sound which you would find on a Strat, but you shouldn't expect that when buying a Les Paul on rhythm setting the tone is so full and rich it's just awesome. The Treble setting does have more definition but does lose some of the richness, so that's why I just have it on Rhythm all the time. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar was a sufficiently set up from the factory, but as I do with all my guitars I got it set up by my tech, now it plays low and very comfortably. The pickups were perfectly adjusted, no problems there. Everything was nice and shiny and superbly fitted. // 9
Reliability & Durability: I think that this guitar will and has stood up to Live playing as long as you have a strong enough strap. The hardware has not tarnished yet and I have had it for 3 years, shows the quality. I would use it without a back up for sure. // 9
Impression: It is a perfect match for me I love it to bits, and so do the girls. It's one out of 8 and it definitely is the prettiest. I've beeen playin for 3 years and it would take too long to list wat else I have so check out the pics on mi profile. If it was stolen I would definitely get the same model but maybe in white because of Frank Iero. I love the contrast of the body colour and the hardware! // 9
Reviewed by:
KingNando, on january 24, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 988
Purchased from: Steve Forrest Music
Features: I believe this guitar to be made in late 2004, in Korea. It has 22 Jumbo frets, with a contour top. Both the body and the Neck are constructed of Mahogany, with a rosewood fingerboard, which has block style inlays. The finish is a solid ebony, a.k.a black. The guitar has the famed Les Paul body shape, with a Tune-O-Matic bridge and HardTail stop piece. The electronics are all passive, with 4 controls, 2 volumes, and 2 tones, as well as your selector switch. The pickup configuration is a dual humbucker layout. The tuners the guitar came with are Grover, 3 a side, and non locking. Included were a poster, a warranty card, some styrofoam, and a cardboard box. // 9
Sound: I play heavy metal. With a change of pickups, this guitar suits my playing extremely well. I left the original Alnico neck humbucker in the guitar, because I'm in love with the way it sounds, clean or dirty. I use this guitar with an Ashton GA100H solid state half stack and no effects. When I got the guitar, it was very hard to play Heavy Metal with, due to the microphonic feedback produced by the bridge and neck humbuckers, so I had the bridge humbucker replaced. I always play with the gain set above 4 o'clock, treble max, and mid at 11 o'clock. The sound of the guitar, even with the humbucker change, is very good. It sounds very heavy, but can be bright with a change of settings, and takes distortion a little better now. This guitar is also great for bluegrass and country music. You can roll back the volume, put on a straw hat and you'll be jamming along to some Lynyrd Skynyrd in no time. // 8
Action, Fit & Finish: When I got this guitar, it was set up immaculately. All I did was lower the action by a small amount. It was pretty much great the way it was, I just prefer very low action. The pickups were also adjusted perfectly, and I did not bother to re-adjust them after lowering the action, because I didn't feel I needed to, as it sounded great the way it was. Why fix it if it ain't broke right? Upon purchasing the guitar, I found few to no flaws. Apart from a roughly cut nut, everything was as it should have been. Intonation was perfect, Truss rod seemed perfectly adjusted, and the electronics were in top shape. // 10
Reliability & Durability: Any Les Paul player will tell you that it's hard to bring down one of these beauties in a Live situation, provided the strap buttons do their job! I have played many gigs with my Les Paul, never have I encountered any problems directly related to the guitar. The hardware has lasted and remained stable, although it is fairly rusted and oxidised now, even with regular cleaning. I did'nt trust the strap buttons that were supplied with the guitar, as I rarely ever keep Standard strap buttons. They did not seem solid, and appeared rather small, so I replaced them with a set of Dunlop strap locks. I always depend on this guitar, both in a live setting, and at band rehearsals, and I have used this guitar many times without a backup at hand, and it has never let me down. After a year and a half of rough playing, being hit with the headstocks of band mate's guitars, and getting it's fair share of sweat dropped upon it, the finish on the Les Paul still stands strong. There are close to no scratches on the front of the body. However, as with most guitars, the back of the body has a nice case of buckle rash, but this is hardly an issue. // 10
Impression: I play heavy metal music, and with a pickup change, I have no doubt that any guitar player Who plays the same style of music would be satisfied with this guitar. I have been playing guitar for over 4 years now, and own an Ibanez RGR421, a Washburn X40, and an Ashton GA100H half stack, among other equipment. I didn't need to ask any questions when buying this guitar, as there wasn't really too much left to ask by the time the salesman has his way with me. If the guitar were lost or stolen, provided I was unable to retrive it, there is no doubt in my mind that I would get another as soon as humanly possible. I love this guitar to death, there isnt too much not to love about it. The only thing I can say that I hate about it, is that the hardware has begun to rust, and it is very noticeable, after less than 2 years of play time. I plan to replace the gold hardware with black Gibson replacement parts. My favourite feature of this guitar is the sound. It is very rich and chunky, just what I love in a guitar. When I purchased this guitar, I had my heart set on a Les Paul. I had been wanting to get a hold of one of those sweet lookin', round love machines for months. The only other guitars I compared it to were the other Les Paul models the shop had in stock, and I had a choice between lower end Epiphone Les Pauls, or a $4000 Gibson Les Paul. Had my budget been 2 to 3 times as much as I had, I would have gone for the Gibson. I coulnd't really wish for more than I got, as I am pretty much satisfied. I have only played 2 Gibson Les Pauls, and I believe that this is right up there with them. // 10
Reviewed by:
wrighty2012, on may 29, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 915
Purchased from: Dolphin Music
Features: Mine was made in 2007 in japn I think. the on I purchased has the Standard 24.75inch scale length and has 22 frets. this came with the maple top and mahogany back and both are perfect with the 5ply binding. has the tune-o-matic stopbar and stud tailpiece. as with most les pauls it has the passive electronics. // 10
Sound: I Play all types of music from jazz to metal blitzes all the style. with distortion the note definition is awesome. I've played and heard a Gibson and there's no difference. I play this through a Vox AD30VT and on every setting this shines. as for hum there's non what so ever it plays great and sounds great too. As for variety of sounds this will take on anything. // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: The action on mine was medium high but manageable it just takes ten minuites if less to adjust to this and all is forgiven. the pickups were set just right as was the intonation making harmonics rich and full. Top was bookmatched but this can't be seen as it is a solid colour. The finish was perfect with not a single flaw an all round brilliant build. // 10
Reliability & Durability: This will withstand Live playing extremely well and I dropped it onece and there wasn't a scratch on the thing it's a tank for the hard rocker. the hardware will last as it wears nicely to a somewhat steve jones-esque wear it looks so much better when worn. The strap buttons had to be relaced for locking ones as these werent that strong. You don't need a backup with this I was playing for an hour Live and the tuning didn't move. the finish is moderatly thich and will last very well. // 9
Impression: Overall this is very impressive. perfect for all types of music easily. I also own a VOXAD30VT with the VFS2 Footswitch. I don't regret buying this one bit it's just right for larger hands. If this was stolen I would cry but I would by another one the second I knew it was stolen. What can't you love about it 100% awesome. I compared this to a Gibson Les Paul Standard an Epiphone G400 and an Ibanez RG. This just sounded the best. // 10
Reviewed by:
unregistered, on june 23, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 355.00
Purchased from: eBay
Features: // 10
Sound: Good God is this thing amazing! I play a pretty wide variety of music, including classic rock, metal, punk, and blues. I stick mostly to punk and metal. This guitar has extremely versatile tone. It has all the tone you will need and then some. You can put the tone way up for sound brighter than the sun, or drop it down for some really warm stuff. I havn't really found the need to put it on either extreme, but if I ever need to go further in either direction, I know I will always have room. And with seperate tone knobs for the bridge and neck pickups, anything is possible. I play this using a Fender amp. It sounds pretty good on the clean channels. Crystal clear. But the distortion is where this baby really blows you away. This thing is monstrous! It has such a strong sound to it. It sounds like a guitar that can't be stopped. Sound is full and rich. And the sustain is phenomenal. Will resonate forever. Very little buzz from the pickups. You will notice it if you are trying to listen for it, but these things are pretty stealth otherwise. If I could give this an 11 I would. The sound says "I'm here and there ain't nothing you can do about it!" // 10
Action, Fit & Finish: The guitar came pretty well setup. Not perfect, but pretty well. My only real complaint is that the action on the lower end was a little low, so my sixth string was buzzing, but that was easy to take care of. And everybody has their own preference for action, so it is hard to knock them for it. There was some binding at the nut, but nothing a little lube couldn't take care of. Pickups were extremely well balanced. I did have to raise them on the lower end a little, but that is only becouse I raised the action on that end. Finish is amazing! I never get tired of looking at this guitar. The black finish has so much depth. I am very paranoid about wear and tear on the finish, so I am always making sure to keep it very clean, but it hides fingerprints and other dirt pretty well. The black and gold give it a "classy" look. Everything else is in excelent condition. // 9
Reliability & Durability: This thing is built like a tank! I havn't giged with it yet, but I am by no means nice when I play it. There is no doubt that this guitar can withstand live playing. I would gig with it without a backup. The hardware isn't just on the guitar, it is part of the guitar. Whatever happens, the hardware isn't going anywhere. The gold hardware does seem like it will tarnish slightly if you let it go for a long time. But if you take any kind of care of it at all, it shouldn't be a problem. I haven't seen any waer on the finish yet. It is very solid. I almost droped it once, but cought it by the neck. Unfortunately, the body kept swinging, and the body hit the corner of my bed. I was expecting to see a huge dent, with bare wood showing. There was barely a dent on the finish, and I can't even notice it anymore unless I look for it. // 10
Impression: I have been playing for 6 years, and I am far more excited about this guitar than I have been about any other peice of gear. This is definately a monster. It sounds and feels like you would think a Les Paul should. I am very impressed with its variety of sound. You can create just about any sound you want. If it were lost, I would think about getting an eletist Les Paul Custom. If I couldn't afford it, I would definetely buy this again. I think this is the best guitar for the money. It is very close to the lower end gibsons, and some might argue a little better than some of the cheaper Gibson models. Either way, it is similar quality, for a much cheaper price. I did a lot of research before buying this guitar. It out performed it's competion by a long shot. I love the 3-way pickup selector. It allows for ultimate tone control when combined with seperate volume and tone knobs for each pickup. If you are in the market for a new guitar, I would suggest giving it a try. Les Paul Custom is the way to go! // 10
Reviewed by:
Randomkid37, on june 30, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: £ 370
Purchased from: Dawson's
Features: I got my Epiphone Custom from a Dawson's branch in Basingstoke. They sell loads of instruments and their guitars are average, if not, decent enough to play. Mine has 22 frets, mahogany body and neck, gold hardware and two humbucker pickups with gold covers. Four controls: two volume and two tone. Rhythm & treble 3-way switch. Mine came with a gig bag, three plectrums and spare strap buttons. // 9
Sound: I haven't actually tried it on a decent amp yet since I haven't bought one. However, when I tested it on one of the rubbish amp my school has, the bottom three strings sound distorted when I strummed them hard, but it was actually smooth when I tried playing single notes. I still think it's a versatile guitar though I still have to test it on an amp. Fingers crossed. // 8
Action, Fit & Finish: My guitar was, technically speaking, second-hand. The first buyer returned it because the strap button at the neck fell off, hence the free gig bag and plectrums and spare buttons. There were a couple of small scratches, too. The strings were perfectly put and the bridge was perfect. I could easily play on all the frets easily since the trings are neither too high or too low. Other than the strap button, it was great! // 9
Reliability & Durability: I think my guitar could withstand anything. I've bumped it once or twice, and it's barely damaged. It seems like a pretty solid guitar, but I'd probably keep a backup guitar since I'm fairly cautious. The hardware is not solid gold, it's just gold plated and it only wears out at the place of action: the bridge, but it's barely noticeable. // 9
Impression: Overall, if this guitar was a person, it'd be my best buddy. It's easy to play and barely got any problems. I've only been playing for half a year (I got this as a birthday/christmas present rolled into one, plus I figured it'd probably be the only guitar I'll ever buy). I bought this because one of the guys in My Chemical Romance has one, and it works like a dream. If it were lost/stolen, I wouldn't buy another one, though I'd probably very much regret losing it. I wish it had 24 frets, but anyhoo, it's still perfect! // 10
Reviewed by:
A Certain Death, on december 03, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: A$ 1300
Purchased from: SF Music, Australia.
Features: This is a Korean Made Les Paul, manufactured in late 2003 I believe. It comes with 21 jumbo sized frets, on a rosewood fretboard, with a maple neck. It is a solid curved top guitar, with mahogany body and neck. It comes in a variety of colours, mine is black, with white binding, and gold hardware. The Tune-o-matic bridge and stop tail team up with passive electronics, 2 Volume pots and 2 Tone pots, Grover tuners and a dual humbuckers manufactured by Epiphone to provide a hell of a playing experience.
No Accessories are included, but I DID get a poster, manual, and a FREE cardboard box! // 8
Sound: First of all, the versatility of any good Les Paul is massive, especially when you can change your pickups. Straight out of the box, you can achieve a great metal tone, sweet blues tones, and crunchy rock tones. I have had my pickups changed to the EMG 81+85 set, and they sound sweet in this baby. This combination of pickups and guitar destroy all, and paired with a Peavey 5150 half stack, nothing can beat it. I have no need for any effects at this stage, so I can't comment on it's sound with effects. At high gain levels, the original humbuckers squeal like crazy, so it is advisable to change the pickups out if you play in a band that's always cranking the gain and volume to 11. With a set of EMG's, the guitar puts out some of the best sounds I've ever heard, very full and articulate, with harmonics like a banshee. I've rated the sound at 7 because for heavy metal, you'll definately want to change the pickups. // 7
Action, Fit & Finish: The factory setup was pretty good from what I remember, with the action being at a perfect level in Harmony with the way the humbuckers were adjusted. The top was perfectly carved, with not a single out of place dent or line, and both parts of the bridge are perfectly positioned. At time of buying, there were no flaws to speak of, what'soever. However, due to living near the ocean, some of the once beautiful golden hardware has become rusted and oxidised. though some would call this ageing, and I think it makes the guitar look distinguished. // 9
Reliability & Durability: These guitars are like tanks. They will take whatever you can throw at them. Live playing is like letting it play in a sand box. The hardware DOES last, however it is also subject to rust depending on where you Live and where you keep it. The strap buttons never had a chance to prove themselves to me, as I bought a set of Dunlop Straplocks along with the guitar, but I do still own them, and may one day use them. I have gigged with this guitar for about 3 or 4 years, without a backup guitar, and never had a problem with it, apart from a string breaking mid-set here and there.
The guitar's finish has lasted superbly, with only a few dents and nicks here and there from almost 5 years of tough love. // 8
Impression: I play metalcore, and with a Peavey 5150 behind you, and a set of EMGs in your les paul, you feel like a king. I've been playing for about 6 years now, and own a fair few guitars I wont bother mentioning, as well as an Ibanez RG421, and the afforementioned Peavey 5150. I asked all I could when I bought the guitar so I knew exactly what I was getting. If this guitar was lost or stolen, firstly I'd take any neccessary steps to bring justice to the fiend Who stole it. Then, I would definately go buy another one, possibly 3 more. I love everything about this guitar. The body shape, the colour of it, and the way the neck feels especially. I didn't compare it to any other products specifically, just other les pauls, and this model came out on top.
it has all I need, never been a fan of tremolos. // 8
Reviewed by:
121lespaul, on april 17, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased from: Music123.com
Features: The Epiphone Les Paul Custom is made in Epiphone's Chinese factory. It has 22 frets with a 24.75" scale with a nut width of 1.68". The neck itself is a set mahogany neck with Rosewood-block inlays. The body is a Mahogany Body with gold hardware. It has a single thick single cutaway body which gives a sustain like no other. Like most Les Paul's this one comes with a Tune-O-Matic Bridge. This comes with 1 Volume and 1 tone for each pickup. The Pickups are 2 classic alnico humbuckers. The custom comes with Grover tuners which have only made me happy with keeping it in tune there is no slipping what'soever that I have found it came with the usual cable and a couple picks. // 10
Sound: I play classic rock with a twist of Randy Rhoads and I couldn't have asked for a more perfect guitar for this sound. I push everything through a Boss GT-8 and then through a 1968 Fender Princeton Tube Amp and the sound that comes through this combination is totally amazing! When on your rhythm setting with the tone knob all the way to 10 it's a little blah for me can't really hear all the strings when strumming it all just blends together and sounds kinda muddy but other than that it sounds amazing! I have played everything from country to blues, blues to rock, and rock to metal and haven't wished for another guitar any of those times this really does have an amazing sound. // 9
Action, Fit & Finish: I like my action somewhat medium and that's how it comes from the factory medium and I haven't even touched it since it just feels great right out of the box! I lowered my pickups a little because they were a little to close for my liking but I have friends that have left them how they are and it still sounds great. The bridge was perfect no need to adjust that I haven't touched it to this day. Like most guitars I've had the output adapter was a little loose but that took about 2 seconds to tighten. Other than that this guitar was ready for a show right out of the box. // 10
Reliability & Durability: The Epiphone Les Paul Custom could be sent to hell and back and still not lose any tone what so ever! This guitar can take a beating and not even show it. With Grover tuners and alnico pickups this baby is built to last. I don't see me changing anything anytime soon. The strap buttons will keep tis guitar from falling it's a little heavy but the buttons will hold it up with out a worry! The only reason I would use a backup is for string breaks. If they made strings that wouldn't break I wouldn't ever buy another guitar! this finish has withstood hours upon hours of continuous playing and still looks Brand New the black finish does show fingerprints easily tho. // 10
Impression: I'm a big fan of Slash and Randy Rhoads I think they are amazing and this guitar couldn't be better for this style of playing! I have been Playing for about 2 years now, and I own a Boss GT-8 Multi effects pedal and a 1968 Fender Princeton Tube amp. that's my main setup my other gear is in my profile if you want to check it out. I played this guitar for weeks before I bought it I was constantly at guitar center hooking up to different amps and different pedals and trying other guitars and this is the one I fell in love with! I couldn't be happier about it! This guitar is my baby through and through I would defiantly buy another but it wouldn't have the feel as the one I have does it's been with me through a lot of different situations. But if it were stolen and I found it I'd feel sorry for the person who had it because I'd be leaving with it in my hands again! I love everything about this guitar! The only thing that could be better is the rhythm pickup on 10 for the tone I just wish it was a tiny bit brighter. my favorite feature is the treble pickup on 5 for tone I love the sound that comes from it! At the time I had an Ibanez RG350DX and this blows that guitar out of the world! I also compared it to a Epiphone '50s style and the pickups just didn't have that Les Paul crunch. // 10
Reviewed by:
unregistered, on march 27, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 599.99
Purchased from: Music and arts center
Features: My custom was built in 2007. It is the alpine white edition. It has a mahogany body and neck with rosewood fingerboard. It has binding all around the body and on the fretboard (no aesthetic flaws either. kudos to Epiphone.) Not sure what to call the finish. The pickups that come with it are passive Epiphone pickups which sounded absolutely great. I however wanted to try EMGs and slapped an 81 and 85 in. it sounds great now and if you can afford it it's a cool look and sound. It has grover tuners and holds tuning well. It has a 3 way selector for the pickups. 2 volume and 2 tone controls. It weighs about 10 pounds as well. // 10
Sound: The sound on this guitar is heavy and full which is great for rock and metal which is aided by the emg's. I play rock, metal, classical, and jazz. It gets great jazz tones if you roll the tone of to zero on either pickup. I am using a line six spider 3 30 watt and the Boss OD-20 and SD-1. It sounds great now and is my main axe for it's thick penetrating sounds. It is ridiculously warm and rich. I can't believe how great it sounds for 600 bucks. I would not use it for country though. // 9
Action, Fit & Finish: The one thing wrong with this guitar (but is easily remedied) is the setup. You know how sometimes one of your frets seem like it's dead. Imagine nothing on every fret. I had to raise the action a great amount and then intonate it. The pickups were set up good but I changed the screws height for preference. No finish flaws. Nice nut height and no binding so far. The buzz may discourage any young beginners though. // 7
Reliability & Durability: This is a tough guitar. No scratches so far and does not dent easily. I replaced the strap buttons to Dunlop strap locks the day I got it because I wont take chances with it, so I don't know how good the buttons are and I can't tell you. I would definitely use it without a backup because unless you get mad at it and throw it out of a building, it will be fine. The finish seems fine and I don't see it fading any time soon. // 10
Impression: Les Pauls are very versatile and I would use it for anything that needs heavy distortion or a nice clean. I would definitely replace it if it was stolen. I got it because I wanted a custom and I chose white because of Randy Rhoads. Nothing wrong with it and is a great investment. // 10
Reviewed by:
unregistered, on april 02, 2007 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Features: Not sure of year, made in Korea. 22 large-ish frets on a chunky neck, rosewood fretboard and it's a shorter scale length, 24.75". I do believe this guitar has a mahogany body with a maple top, very heavy anyways. Glossy black finish with gold hardware (very pretty). Tune-O-Matic bridge and passive PUs. Neck and bridge Epi humbuckers with 2 vol 2 tone and 3-way selector but you knew that anyway. Non-locking Grover tuners and I got a case thrown in. // 8
Sound: I play a wide range of styles and it will fit most but seems best at the heavy end of things ie classic to hard rock, metal, blues. I'm using it with my trusty PodXT Live as I am between amps. Hardly any noise on all but the most distorted of settings but I think that's more the fault of the POD rather than the Epi. Quite a rich mellow sound at the neck and a brighter sound at the bridge. You can get cleans out of it but it sounds best through a Vintage overdrive or distortion setting. // 8
Action, Fit & Finish: I haven't had to adjust anything, action nice and low etc. I haven't tinkered with the PUs yet but they seem ok. I haven't noticed any flaws in the finish but I have found the 1st string does get caught under the 5th fret occasionally and the socket comes loose also. // 9
Reliability & Durability: This guitar should easily withstand live playing, built like a tank. I've knocked it several times and not a scratch. Hardware seems good. Strap buttons are nice and large but due to the large weight of the guitar I would recommend a wide strap and some strap-locks. I would use a more expensive guitar if I was gigging but I would always have a backup. // 9
Impression: It is perfect for my style, although jumping to 11s from 9s was a challenge. I've been playing 3 or 4 years to quite a good Standard. My previous guitar was a Yammie Pacifica. If some git stole it I would probably buy a different guitar just to have something different. I love the finish and being able to play GN'R, Led Zep etc properly. I wish I could get single coil tones out of it but that's what you buy a Strat for. I compared it with an Ibanez (I think it was an S series) but I was taken with the nicer finish and more Vintage tone of this. It ain't perfect but it is a very nice guitar for the price, better than many more expensive options out there. // 9
Reviewed by:
blaze2thekings, on january 24, 2008 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Price paid: $ 580
Purchased from: guitar cntr
Features: Overall great setup, but the volume pots sucks as there is only on and off, no difference between the 2. The pickups are great for stock, but in my case new ones are needed to get those harmonics. It stay in tune well and all the pots roll nice and smooth, and still do actually. The finish was all white with cream binding, all mahogany, and it's new so made probably 2006 to now or so. // 6
Sound: I play everything. I put down hooks over my friends beats and I just like to jam to whatever song comes on the radio for hours. I prefer the beefy sound compared to a Strat. I have it through mostly Vox and Marshall amps and heads. The pickups are quiet but occasionally I get a constant buzz around some electric equipment, which my active pups in another don't produce. Overall the tone slices and there's great sustain, works well for whatever you want. // 7
Action, Fit & Finish: I used to like the slimmer Ibanez necks, but now I'm used to the wider neck of a LP or SG or anthing similar. The frets were even much smoother than some of my Ibanezs. The action, bridge, etc etc, is all preference so blah. The finish is great however the cream binding does kinda standout as factory made on the body portion so an 8 instead of a 9. // 8
Reliability & Durability: Thick as a brick. It's got gold hardware that I know wont last because it's obviously not solid gold so in about 2 months it will be a dull chrome, but that's ok because I plan to change it anyway. The strap buttons need replacing, but I usually do anyway. My finish is just white which I purposely got so I wouldn't obsess over wiping prints off all day. // 8
Impression: I been through many guitars, from Fenders, to Ibanez, to Agile, to Jackson, to Epiphones, to Deans, to PRS, and others. It plays very well, as far as playability it's great and it's feels like a Gibson however, it doesnt't sound nearly like a Gibson or look like a Gibson because they have much better quality woods and the finish would usually be no less than 100% perfect (assuming a new Gibson). I always liked the looks of the custom more than a Standard, probably the block inlays, which I believe are the only difference in epiphones standards and customs, because they sure as hell sound the same. So if price is an issues get a Standard. But overall this thing has beauty and with the Gibson 500T, and 490 it's a 6-string razor. // 8
/ my profile 
Was this review helpful to you?