Epiphone Les Pauls
Get ready to dive into the world of iconic guitar design as we present our comprehensive roundup of the Epiphone Les Paul collection. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious beginner, this article brings together each of the innovative and iconic Les Paul models, giving you a glimpse into the rich history and diverse offerings of Epiphone's most lauded creation. So sit back, strum along, and let our in-depth exploration of the Epiphone Les Paul guide you through the discovery of a true guitar legend.
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Reviews
Epiphone Les Paul 100 Ebony Electric Guitar
I recently had the pleasure of playing a beautiful Ebony Epiphone Les Paul 100 electric guitar. This guitar has been remarkably well-maintained, and it feels like a dream to play. The glossy finish and opulent ebony finish on the body and neck make it a true work of art.
One of the standout features of this guitar is its versatility. The humbucker pickups provide a robust and clear sound for various genres of music, from heavy metal to classic rock. The lightweight body also contributes to a comfortable playing experience, making it perfect for long sessions of practice or performance.
However, the pickups do come with some limitations. They can sometimes feel a bit muddy on the lower end of the frequency spectrum, but this is a common issue with many affordable guitars. It's not a deal-breaker, as the overall sound quality is quite impressive.
As someone who takes care of their gear, I appreciate the inclusion of a high-quality Epiphone gigbag, strap locks, and custom tone/volume knobs. These added elements show that the manufacturer takes their product seriously and wants to ensure the guitar is ready for action right out of the box.
Overall, the Epiphone Les Paul 100 Ebony is a fantastic guitar for the price. It offers a great balance of affordability, quality, and features, making it an excellent choice for beginners or guitar enthusiasts on a budget. With its beautiful finish, versatile sound, and comfortable playability, I'd highly recommend giving this Epiphone a try.
Epiphone Les Paul Special II Electric Guitar - Black
The Epiphone Les Paul Special II Electric Guitar offers a rich blend of Les Paul's signature design and exceptional sound. This affordable beauty boasts a classic solid mahogany body, combined with a mahogany bolt-on neck and a smooth 22-fret rosewood fingerboard. The high-quality open-coil humbucking pickups deliver that unmistakable, resonant tone that makes Les Paul guitars truly iconic.
Equipped with 500K potentiometers, the master volume and tone controls offer smooth customization of the guitar's output. The 3-way pickup selector toggle switch allows you to seamlessly switch between classic humbucker sounds, while the heavy-duty output jack ensures a secure connection between your guitar and your amplifier.
Notably, the Lock-Tone tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece contribute to improved sustain and make your life easier when changing strings. The slim Taper D neck shape and medium jumbo frets provide comfortable playability and a fast response.
While the Epiphone Les Paul Special II may not boast the same level of craftsmanship and precision found in higher-end models, its affordability and versatility make it an excellent choice for musicians seeking a reliable and versatile electric guitar. Whether for beginners or seasoned players, this model won't disappoint, providing a captivating Les Paul experience at an approachable price point.
Epiphone Les Paul Special VE Ebony Electric Guitar
I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Epiphone Les Paul Special VE in Ebony. This guitar offers a lovely blend of traditional and modern features that I found both appealing and practical.
One of the most noticeable highlights of this guitar is its Poplar body, which is made more appealing with the Vintage Worn finish. I appreciate the lack of binding on the neck and body, as it gives the guitar a sleek, vintage look.
The Mahogany bolt-on neck is comfortable and fast, with a 1960s SlimTaper D profile that really allows for smooth playing. The Rosewood fingerboard, adorned with traditional Pearloid "Dot" inlays, provides a great playing surface, and the 24.75" scale, 14" radius, and 22 medium jumbo frets make for a great overall experience.
The open-coil humbuckers, Epiphone's claim to fame, are warm and versatile. The 650R in the neck position offers a slightly warmer tone, while the 700T in the bridge position provides a slightly hotter sound ideal for lead playing. The controls, including the 3-way pickup selector switch, Master Volume, and Master Tone control, offer plenty of versatility to suit your playing style.
However, like any product, there are also some areas where improvements could be made. The pickups might not appeal to everyone, depending on their personal preferences. Additionally, the lack of binding might be a concern for some players who prefer a more traditional look.
Overall, the Epiphone Les Paul Special VE in Ebony is an excellent option for a guitarist looking for a mix of classic and modern features. It's comfortable to play, versatile, and has a unique look that sets it apart from others in its price range.
Epiphone Les Paul Special TV Yellow Edition
Experience the classic feel of a 1950s Les Paul with Epiphone's Les Paul Special TV Yellow model. Mahogany construction shines through with its iconic, vivid TV Yellow finish.
The P-90 PRO single coil pickups and CTS electronics bring life to the sound, reminiscent of the rare single cutaway Les Paul Special from the same era. Adding to the vintage vibe, this guitar features lightweight, adjustable truss rods, vintage-style Deluxe tuners with ivory buttons, and lightning bar wraparound bridges. As a versatile companion for rockers, indie musicians, and more, this guitar delivers great cleans, modulations, and driven sounds, making it an ideal choice for guitar enthusiasts seeking to add an iconic touch to their collection.
Epiphone Les Paul SL Ebony Electric Guitar: Classic Design, Affordable Tone
Introducing the Epiphone Les Paul SL Ebony Electric Guitar, a perfect example of rock 'n' roll history and innovation packed into a stylish, lightweight package. This guitar's slim Poplar body with a 24.75 scale provides an easy and comfortable grip for new players, while the trademark 60s era Logo and the '2018' Edition logo on the back of the headstock give it that classic Les Paul look. The powerful Epiphone Ceramic Pickups offer a tight, responsive tone and have been a favorite among metal and hard rock guitarists for decades.
Crafted with a bolt-on Mahogany neck, the Les Paul SL comes with fast, accurate Premium Covered 14:1 ratio heads for tuning. The lightweight nature of this guitar, compared to traditional Les Paul designs, sets it apart as a friendly alternative for beginners or for those looking to add a versatile, high-quality electric guitar to their collection.
With Epiphone's new Les Paul SL, expect an excellent vintage-inspired beginner guitar at an affordable price. Its cool design, lightweight construction, and availability in various colors make it an appealing choice for guitar enthusiasts and musicians alike.
Limited-Edition Epiphone Les Paul Custom Silver Burst Electric Guitar
I recently had the pleasure of playing an Epiphone Les Paul Custom Limited-Edition Electric Guitar in Silver Burst. As a fan of classic Les Paul models, I was eager to try out this Epiphone variation with all its upgrades and high-end features.
First, the feel of the guitar was impressive – its Mahogany body and neck with SlimTaper profile, coupled with the ebony fretboard, provided a sleek and snug fit that was comfortable even during extended playing sessions. The LockTone ABR bridge and stopbar tailpiece, as well as the Grover Rotomatic tuners, ensured stability and excellent tuning stability, which is an essential aspect of any guitar.
When it came to the electronics, the ProBucker 2 and 3 pickups, along with the 3-way switch, provided a wide range of tones, allowing for versatility in my music-making process. As a result, I could transition seamlessly between various styles and genres without any drastic loss in quality.
However, I couldn't help but notice a few downsides. The gloss body finish, while visually appealing, seemed to attract dust and smudges much more quickly than my usual matt finish guitars, which required more frequent cleaning. Additionally, while the Mahogany body and neck were excellent for structure and tone, their weight started to become noticeable as playing sessions wore on, causing my wrist and shoulder to become slightly strained.
In summary, this Epiphone Les Paul Custom Limited-Edition Electric Guitar in Silver Burst is a fantastic option for guitarists looking for a high-quality instrument at a more affordable price point. Its Mahogany construction, ProBucker pickups, and LockTone bridge make it a formidable choice for rock, blues, and other genres of music. However, its gloss finish and relatively heavier weight might be minor drawbacks for some players. Overall, I'd highly recommend this guitar to anyone seeking an Epiphone Les Paul experience at a more accessible price.
Epiphone Les Paul Special-I Limited-Edition Worn Gray Electric Guitar
The Epiphone Les Paul Special-I Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Worn Gray is a unique and limited-edition version of Epiphone's sought-after Les Paul model, available with a variety of "worn" finishes that add character to the guitar's appearance. Designed for both beginners and experienced players, this electric guitar offers great sound quality, a workhorse performance, and a classic look that epitomizes the trademarks of the Les Paul.
Featuring a basswood body and a bolt-on 1960s neck, the guitar benefits from a mahogany neck and a 21-fret fingerboard, making it an ideal choice for those who desire a comfortable playing experience. The hot open-coil 700T and 650R humbucker pickups provide the guitar with a massive, unmistakable tone, while the 500K potentiometers, master volume controls, and heavy-duty 3-way pickup selector toggle switch offer versatility and a wide range of sound options.
Additionally, the guitar comes equipped with a one-piece wraparound bridge stopbar, intonated tuners, and nickel hardware for a professional finish. Overall, the Epiphone Les Paul Special-I Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Worn Gray is a great choice for those who are looking for a guitar that offers both versatility and excellent sound quality. It's perfect for beginners who wish to experience the real tone and feel, and seasoned pros who require a reliable and high-quality instrument for their performances.
Epiphone Les Paul Custom - Luxurious White Finish
Experience the classic styling of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom in Alpine White, crafted to embody the spirit of its predecessors. With its unique blend of features, this guitar combines impeccable sound with sleek, vintage aesthetics. From the upgraded Gibson pickups to the gold hardware, this Les Paul Custom packs a powerful punch within its elegant frame. Its versatile pickups offer unmatched versatility, making it a must-have for every ambitious player seeking a guitar that truly speaks their tongue. Available in excellent condition with a hardshell case, this Alpine White Les Paul Custom is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression, whether on stage or in your studio. Don't be shy, let the rich tones of this beauty elevate your musical journey to new heights - you deserve it.
Classic Worn Purple Epiphone Les Paul Guitar
Experience the classic '50s Les Paul vibe with the Epiphone Les Paul Classic Worn. This stunning guitar offers a blend of rich, warm tones and vintage aesthetics, all at an affordable price. Featuring a pair of Alnico Classic PRO pickups, you'll get the iconic bite and warm, fat mids that define the Les Paul sound. The body is made from a high-quality mahogany, ensuring that the sound is rich and resonant, with a maple top for added sustain. The guitar is complete with LockTone hardware, a vintage-style ABR bridge, and Grover tuners for a seamless playing experience. So if you're ready to add a true classic to your collection, look no further than the Epiphone Les Paul Classic Worn.
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Koa - Natural Guitar: Customized Beauty for Your Tone
Experience the rich, warm sound of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom Koa, an exquisite limited edition guitar that's sure to grab attention. Its Koa body shares the lineage of legendary pickups, offering effortless playability with a mahogany SlimTaper neck and a high-end attitude. With premium tuners and a LockTone Tune-o-matic/stopbar system, this guitar is a dream to play.
Prepare to be blown away by the Epiphone Les Paul Prophecy in Olive Tiger Aged Gloss. This innovative guitar combines classic and modern elements, providing you with versatility and premium sound quality. With custom Fishman Fluence pickups delivering an impressive range of tones, Ultra-Modern weight relief for a lighter feel, and a stunning SlimTaper asymmetrical neck profile, you're ready to rock any genre. All this comes with a sleek Aged Gloss finish, Grover locking tuners, LockTone bridge, and a Graph Tech NuBone nut, making it an exceptional choice for any guitarist looking for an outstanding, high-value instrument.
Epiphone Alex Lifeson Les Paul Custom Axcess Electric Guitar - Ruby
The Epiphone Alex Lifeson Les Paul Custom Axcess Electric Guitar boasts a classic Mahogany body and neck, with a stunning Ruby finish and rich sound inherited from Gibson guitars of the past. Its AAA Quilted Maple veneer top enhances the quality and appearance of this musical instrument. The Floyd Rose bridge, though not for everyone, adds convenience and ease to the guitar playing experience. This near-new guitar comes with a hardshell case and a sleek, fast neck that offers a seamless and enjoyable playing experience.
Epiphone Les Paul Special II Electric Guitar Package
Experience the thrill of playing with the Epiphone Les Paul Special II Player Electric Guitar Package in Ebony. This impressive bundle includes the iconic Epiphone Les Paul guitar, Studio 10 amplifier, a gig bag, pitchpipe, strap, picks, instrument cable, instructional DVD video, and more. Perfectly suited for beginners, this pack also comes with a clip-on headstock chromatic tuner and access to free downloadable guitar lessons from media. Elegantly designed and built to provide excellent sound quality, this package is sure to inspire and motivate you to play guitar with ease and comfort.
Limited-Edition Epiphone P-90 Electric Guitar - Ebony Finish
Epiphone's Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar in Ebony is a beauty that blends classic style with modern innovation. With a bound mahogany body and maple top, this guitar delivers the legendary tone and sustain that have been the foundation of rock and blues music for decades. The slim '60s neck profile, paired with an ebony fingerboard, ensures effortless playability, while the P-90 pickups evoke the vintage-hot sound of seminal era rock.
Despite its substantial weight, the guitar's comfortable design and solid Lock-Tone bridge tailpiece ensure stability and durability, making it an excellent choice for players of all skill levels. However, it's crucial to note that it requires some tuning adjustments for optimal performance.
The gloss finish and slim taper finish on the instrument's 22-fret fingerboard further enhance its playability. The Epiphone Deluxe tuners and Lock-Tone stopbar tailpiece add to its striking appearance and solid tuning stability. Overall, the Epiphone Les Paul Custom P-90 Limited-Edition Electric Guitar in Ebony is a stellar option for those seeking a classic yet modern electric guitar with a distinct personality.
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Blackback Antique Ivory Electric Guitar
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom Blackback Limited-Edition Electric Guitar Antique Ivory is a striking and eye-catching guitar, featuring a traditional custom-style mahogany body with an ebony fingerboard. This model boasts gold hardware, Grover machine heads, and Probucker humbuckers with CTS electronics. The slim taper neck profile makes for comfortable playing, and the locktone ABR bridge ensures solid tuning.
With its limited edition status and attractive design, this guitar is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Buyer's Guide
Welcome to our buyer's guide on Epiphone Les Paul electric guitars. This guide is designed to provide you with essential information and considerations when purchasing an Epiphone Les Paul. We will cover various features, the importance of these features, and general advice on how to make the best choice for your needs.
Body Style and Construction
One of the most significant factors to consider when purchasing an Epiphone Les Paul is the body style and construction. The Epiphone Les Paul comes in both solid and chambered body options. Chambered bodies have been designed to give an airy, resonant sound while also being more lightweight. On the other hand, solid bodies provide a thicker, warmer tone but can be heavier. Determine which body style best suits your playing style and preferences.
Pickups and Electronics
Epiphone Les Paul electric guitars come equipped with different pickup configurations, including humbuckers, single-coils, and P-90s. Humbuckers are ideal for heavy rock and metal music, as they offer a powerful sound with high output. Single-coils, on the other hand, are better suited for lighter genres and provide a more articulate high-end response. P-90s offer a blend of the two, providing a warm, vintage tone. Consider the types of music you play and the sound you are looking for when selecting a pickup configuration.
Accessories and Hardware
When choosing an Epiphone Les Paul, consider the accessories and hardware that come with the guitar. This includes the case, strap, and pickguard. A hardshell case is generally preferred for optimal protection, while a gig bag provides a more lightweight option. Consider if you require additional hardware such as tuning pegs, bridge pins, or pickups.
Comfort and Playability
Another important factor to consider when purchasing an Epiphone Les Paul is comfort and playability. The guitar's neck should be comfortable to hold and play on, with a suitable fret size and spacing. The weight of the guitar is also essential, as a heavy guitar can cause fatigue during extended playing sessions. Compare the dimensions and weight of various Epiphone Les Paul models to find a comfortable and suitable option for your needs.
FAQ
What are some key features of the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar?
The Epiphone Les Paul electric guitar is renowned for its powerful humbucker pickups, classic mahogany body, and a beautiful glossy finish. Its slim taper neck profile offers comfortable playability, and the coil-split feature allows players to switch between single-coil and humbucker tones. The guitar comes with a built-in Tune-o-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece, ensuring precise intonation and enhanced tuning stability.
Overall, with its vintage hardware and modern features, the Epiphone Les Paul electric guitar provides an excellent balance between the traditional and the contemporary. It’s a versatile instrument that’s suitable for various styles of play, making it the perfect choice for guitarists looking to add a legendary piece to their collection.
What types of woods are used in Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitars?
The Epiphone Les Paul electric guitars are known for their sturdy construction, and the primary woods used for their body and neck are mahogany and maple. Generally, the body of the guitar is made from solid mahogany, contributing to its rich, resonant sound and the ability to project a strong mid-range punch. The neck, on the other hand, may be made from mahogany or maple – the choice depends on the particular model. This solid wood neck gives the guitar its characteristically smooth and silky feel.
Many Epiphone Les Paul electric guitars also feature a glossy maple top, which not only adds an appealing aesthetic to the instrument but also contributes to the overall tonal balance. The combination of the solid mahogany body, maple or mahogany neck, and the maple top give these guitars their signature sound, a unique blend of warm, punchy lows, full mid-range, and bright, cutting highs.
What is the Epiphone Les Paul's action like?
The action of an Epiphone Les Paul electric guitar generally refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard and the ease with which they are played. Many players find that the Les Paul models offer a low and stable action, which facilitates faster playing and ease across the neck. This aspect is further enhanced by the Tune-o-Matic bridge system, which aids in maintaining proper intonation even under heavy playing.
It must be noted, however, that the action can vary slightly depending on the specific model and production year. Guitarists should always ensure that their instrument is properly set up to optimize playability and overall performance. Regular maintenance, like proper tuning and restringing, can also help maintain an optimal action and enhance the overall playing experience.
Can Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitars be used for various genres?
Absolutely! The Epiphone Les Paul electric guitar's versatility lies in its suitability for various musical styles. Its powerful humbucker pickups allow it to excel in rock, blues, and hard rock, delivering thick, dynamic, and warm tones. The coil-split feature also enables it to produce single-coil tones, ideal for jazz, country, or rhythm and blues.
Its classic body shape, mahogany construction, and the wide range of tones make the Les Paul a popular choice amongst guitarists seeking a versatile instrument for live performance or studio recording. Furthermore, the solid wood neck and precision hardware enhance its resonance and staying power, making it suitable for a diverse range of musical applications.
What are the common issues faced by Epiphone Les Paul electric guitar users?
While Epiphone Les Paul electric guitars are generally well-regarded for their playability, craftsmanship, and sound, some users do encounter a handful of common issues. Some of these might include difficulty in achieving proper intonation, inconsistent action across the fretboard, and fret buzz or "rattle" when playing at certain positions or volumes.
It's crucial to remember that some of these problems may be resolved with proper setup, string choice, and adjustments. Regular maintenance and setup by experts can help prevent these issues from becoming chronic. Additionally, addressing these concerns promptly can maintain the guitar's overall performance and playing enjoyment. For any significant concerns or issues arising after the warranty period, guitarists are advised to consult professional technicians or customer service.
How does the Epiphone Les Paul compare to other guitars in the same price range?
The Epiphone Les Paul electric guitar presents a robust and versatile offering in its price range. Compared to others, it combines classic design elements, rich hardware specifications, and unique tonal qualities that set it apart from its competitors. It offers a range of options tailored for different styles of play, such as signature pickups, a variety of finishes, and distinctive body styles.
While other brands may offer similar specifications or finishes, the Epiphone Les Paul maintains its position as a trusted instrument within the affordable price range. Its rich history, association with top-tier brands, and distinctive sound set it apart from others on the market, promising a satisfying playing experience to beginners and experienced players alike.
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