My favorite part of all of your videos is seeing you truly enjoy new guitars. You do a great job of conveying the real guitar addict enthusiasm we all know. Thanks for the finding the hole comment...lol.
I will get hate for this comment but that is ok. I live and work in Oklahoma, USA. I worked for 18 years in a manufacturing plant, 4 years on the production floor and 14 years in the quality department. The made in America tag means nothing, quality depends on the person making the product and the resources the company gives the employee to make the product. The company and the employees both have to have pride in their work to make the end product better than others in the market, if it is about getting products out the door then where it is made means nothing at all.
I'm a teacher in Oklahoma USA! I agree 100% A lot of US companies think slapping the "Made in the USA" sticker on something is all they need to do anymore to justify a huge price tag. That may have been the case decades ago, but the rest of the world has caught up. Great guitars are made in a lot of places.
I do not agree with such a generalised comment. I could write a thesis on this but would probably be wasting my breath. However I will point out a few things such as Brand equity and country of origin ( case in point would be Swiss watches just to prove a point). The second would be pride in your country and jobs at home rather than abroad. Third would be heritage. Means nothing to you fine!
Took me a while to figure out what Gibson are doing. They are restoring Epiphone to their rightful position as another Gibson brand like it was in the sixties. Doing a good marketing job too.
Great episode, been looking forward to watching it all day and have done so in a South London pub with a couple of pints, sad fucker that I am. I’m desperate for a double cut, single P90 junior style guitar and this fits the bill perfectly, it looks and sounds the absolute bollocks and a serious contender to the SG Jnr. I love the slab rather than curved body, just like the Mosrite MK2 up against the earlier hideous German carve MK1’s. I’ll own one, one day, but it won’t be bought at the current price - single pickup, no bridge, minimal electronics. Hell, I got a 2nd hand 2015 Gibson Jnr DC and even after changing everything on it including proper Gibson P90’s it’s cost less. An hour well spent Colin, thanks.
Super and honest review. I believe a guitar or any item purchased is an individual persuit. I went to Thomann Wednesday to look at the Guild Polara and was going to buy it. It was out of stock and was now only available by request. I bought a Harley Benton DC 600 VI Vintage (3 Humbucker SG style) for 183 Euros instead. I bought it to modify, but it's so good that I only put new tuners on it. I have a great sounding and great playing guitar for 250 Euros. It's all individual my friend. Whatever makes you happy, do it. No judgement from me. I think in today's market, that or any guitar will be another couple hundred bucks more in short time. Buy what your heart tells you to buy. Life is too short for a bank account. Thanks for the great review. I'm glad you bought it and NO, you are not a hypocrite. Follow your passion. Live the dream ♫ 🎸
That US Coronet is a stunner. Nice video as always Colin, thanks. This current crop in charge of Gibson doing a good job to undo the historical crime of almost destroying a great American brand, Epiphone, but yes, some of the pricing is laughable. I got a Riviera with the mini HBs for about 500 quid. Good price, brilliant guitar. Seems to be their signature guitars where the prices are mad, like the Joe Bonamassa, Dave Grohl and Mustaine ones
Given the emotional connection you have with this gutar it's a sensible purchase. I didn't need my Les Paul Studio either, but I wanted one, since so many of my guitar heroes play Les Pauls.
Love this video Colin - thanks again for a brilliant way to enjoy a cuppa and a biccy. Now, I know it's still controversial, but I think this will save a bit of face for Epiphone under their Gibson masters. They've really ignored the brand heritage for far too long and I hope the Coronet is just the first of a whole line of original Epi's made in the USA. Guitarists like heritage but they also like variety so it hits the mark on both counts. Yes, I know it's still a lot of cash but when you compare it to other offerings from established American, Japanese and European builders (and even Chinese builders like Eastman) then it's appropriate and justifiable. The IBG and IBGC stuff has it's place for those that want fully endorsed Gibson products on a budget, but Epiphone is more than that so Gibson should be celebrating the brand's American roots and I for one applaud that.
Not sure if it sounds better, I'd almost certainly fail the blind test, but damn...that's a real premium piece of timber! That ribbon mahogany looks incredible, bet it dances like crazy in the light 🥰
Welcome back Colin! Another great review. I'd happily buy a USA Epiphone if there was no Gibson version. BUT it would have to beat my Eastman sb55dc/v, which I don't think will happen anytime soon. Rock on to all the Guitaristas out there.
For those wondering, the "Dwight" imprint noted around 12:00 refers to Sunny "Dwight" Shields music store in East St. Louis, IL. At the time, St. Louis and East St. Louis were such big music towns that Sunny Shields Music Inc. was able to get their own imprinted guitar with a tremolo from the busy factory.
Vigilante Carlstroem from the Hives plays an original Coronet. There is a cool rig rundown on Premier Guitar showing it. He beats the hell out if it. Anyway, great video once again and keep uo the awesome content! Cheers from Ontario, Canada
For information, it's not the nitro that you smell, but the impregnated odor of the glue used to coat the case (typical vanilla scent of Canada made cases).
The other thing worth noting is they have move the strap button to the top horn. I think this is a good move as the guitar should balance better on a strap.
Very interesting. Liked the vote idea and to be honest the import sounded thin and wispy by comparison. I might have been tempted to change the pickup over but i wouldn't want to give you any mad ideas. 😂 how guitars interact with us will vary from person to person but that's all part of the creative process it's where we get taken on our musical journey. Keep up the good work. ❤
As usual, a very entertaining video. Your biggest strength, apart from the fact that you admit that it might be "all in the head", which of course it is, is that you're very relatable and self-deprecating. Ultimately, rationalizing one guitar over another is just that and what really matters is that you get a kick out of whatever guitar you choose. Musically, there isn't all that much difference between one electric guitar and another one (at least among solid and semi-hollow guitars) and most of them will do whatever job you need or want them to. Yeah, the USA one is probably a bit more of a turn on, but that's really all it is.
Your new USA Coronet is luvvly jubbly, and sounds great Col 👍🏻 Imo the best guitar you've bought in a while. It just has that old school cool vibe to it 😎
Colin we had them both out in the shop today and honestly, we couldn’t tell the difference bar the grand for the sweet paint job and different pickgaurd, the latter of course which can be changed for pennies. My budget version was only £240 ex display. I’m going against my usual train of thought here, but it’s the budget all the way
I like the guitar and epiphone is my favorite guitars, but that price is just a bit to much. I'll be interested in seeing if they come down in price and and if they hold the value, I'm not sure they will. Great to get a new full video, best way to start a Friday. Cheers
I'm so glad that you reviewed this! It's funny that I watched your Scratch video again yesterday, then you posted the Coronet video today. I was pissed when they announced this model! I had just bought my Ebony Junior and don't have room for another guitar payment. Currently paying on three. I completely agree with you about the Inspired by Gibson and Custom line. I am fortunate that I can now afford USA made guitars. I'd rather pay $1600 for a Les Paul Junior or SG Special than buy the Chinese made guitars, despite the upgrades. Thanks for sharing!
Another great morning with Colin. Guitars, and a few nibbles. What more could you want ? Maybe a Blood Mary to wash down the nibs. As always Thanks Guitaristas !
Ah Well Col, in words of the Stones, ‘You Can’t alwasys get what you want’. It was the Guild I was looking forward to but this was a cracking vlog as usual.
I hope that ending jam is on steal my licks! No hypocracy in my opinion. They are a little pricey. At $1300 Id be buying one. At its price I'm waiting for reverb but it's beautiful.
Nice review and lovely guitar. Chinese labour costs are between 25-40% of US equivalent depending on the industry. Given roughly comparable raw materials and parts costs this largely explains the difference in retail price of the 2 guitars. However, where US Gibson models win out hands down is on their future value retention. Whether this will apply to new, vintage nearly-correct Epiphones, who knows?
Great video Col, I went to the Gibson garage in April on my birthday and had a great day. I did only buy a t shirt this time, but I’m sure I’ll be back there 😂
I won’t care what you paid for the epiphone guitars. I just enjoy your true unfiltered criticism no matter what the price is!! There are loads of channel who don’t tell the truth.. mainly they are sponsored channel or stores making these videos. Keep up the good work ❤
Another fantastic watch thanks Colin ! Watched it back again because I can’t decide whether to get this or the Gibson LP Junior Double Cut. I’m even less sure after seeing how lovely this red Coronet is ! Heading to the Gibson Garage to hopefully compare the two.
Colin, I believe you forgot to mention the Epiphone Coronet (USA) comes with a second set of Knobs. You mentioned prices are high right now but isn't the market supposed to be getting softer due to the pandemic and people selling guitars? Thanks for the demo.
@@theguitaristas There should be a set of Black Knobs inside the case for people that like the look of the 1960's Epiphone Coronet. if you didn't get a set reach out to Gibson. You have to go through Gibson instead of Epiphone for any support. Cheers 🍺🇨🇦
The bellend adjuster haha! If a P90 is too low it will sound mushy and the hum will be very loud. Jack up the P90 in the import Coronet to no more than 3mm from the strings and it will come alive, I promise. More output, more midrange bite, and the hum will be quieter in comparison. My Coronet sounds massive now. The other difference is the pickup output. The import has an Epiphone P90 Pro that measures 8.7k IIRC so it will be darker. the USA is less than 8k so it will have more treble.
I own the black import as well I put an aftermarket aluminum bridge. And 9 gauge strings. And a leftover p-90 bridge pup from my Gibson SG special. It’s a brand new guitar! It totally took on another personality. It’s downright fantastic. And yes Epiphone is charging too much for there import guitars! Nuff Said, Much love from America to this channel.
I bought a new Epiphone Les Paul Custom loaded with gibson pickups ect... I paid £1089.00, which is outstanding for what you are actually getting... A great case included too.
I got my own Epiphone Coronet! Sweetwater offered 36-month financing, and I couldn't turn it down. I went with the Vintage Cherry, too, but I almost regret not going with Ebony. It has serious tuxedo vibes. Also, I've already replaced those goofy knobs. HAHA. But it sounds great. I love it. Cheers!
Great video max.personally,I loved going into bricks and mortar shops,but sadly,there are none left where I live in the UK,except for a small market stall, but doesn’t stock much of what I would want,except strings…so,I have also turned to using the online/internet for getting the majority of my equipment.Sadly, because most people are turning to shopping online,the shops in the towns are closing down,leaving them like ghost towns…
I used to own to MIJ Epiphone Elitist Les Pauls. They turned me to LPs. Eventually moved to Gibsons. Still have and love a 2010 R7 Gold Top that I’ll keep till I die.
I have bought an Epiphone, my first electric guitar, non bass. I have friends that bought Epiphones. The only complaints/comments that I have heard, including mine was about the electronics, they are cheaper and do not last. I never had a complaint about the quality of the wood working. My Epiphone SG is still in my playing mix, after I put in the Seymour Duncan Hot Rodded humbuckers and new Pots and resistors. I call it my red Growler.
This was a really interesting video for me Col I’m an epiphone fan I’ve agreed with your assumption on the recent epiphone prices they’re too high. My 339 pro with p90s in is still my favourite guitar to this day and I own more expensive ones. For what it’s worth my opinion is if you’re gonna start dropping over a grand on an epiphone buy an original or get a Japanese made one. The re releases of casino from America and Japan on the used market I believe are great guitars and wouldn’t cost much more than this or some of those recent china signatures. Rarely but I’ve seen some original epiphone coronet go for 3-4 grand we might be past those days and I appreciate that is a lot of money but if you can do it I think that’s the way to go on this particular model. Great vid geez
I'm definitely not personally in the market for this guitar, but I can't blame you for picking it up. I own the import version and I'm now realizing that what I'd really love is sort of a combination of both. I don't mind the polyurethane finish, and I outright prefer the flat compensated bridge, dogear P90, symmetrical pick guard, and knobs, but I would absolutely love those slab sides. Rosewood is always a big plus for me as well, not for any sort of feel or sound, but I just think it looks better. I imagine laurel will darken over time like everything else, but it does start out a tad orange-y for my liking.
I’m with you on that nitro smell. It’s intoxicating. Being old enough to remember when Epi was a front line brand, and follow it into a lower tier, I have a hard time wrapping my head around their new price structure. I hope they don’t totally abandon their lower cost guitars, because for a lot of people who can’t afford a lot of money, it’s a great product for a reasonable sum.
Great review. As far as "Epiphone prices" and others saying it's "expensive for an Epiphone"... it's not an Epiphone... it's a Gibson with an Epiphone logo. Most love Epiphone because they're so cheap.... this guitar isn't geared towards that buyer. Colin, you are NOT a hypocrite. A hypocrite is an Epiphone fanboy who complains about the price of a USA made Gibson with an Epiphone logo while defending their $1500 Chinese made "inspired by Gibson" sweatttshopp guitars.
Love it. It's a cool guitar. Made in the Gibson USA factory just like the originals were. If I didn't already have the great (IMO) import version, I'd be tempted.
G'Day Colin... Yesss... This is one of your BEST Guitar Reviews...Word by word and comment by comment ???? You have 'nailed' this Review... (Sharp interaction between P90 and Pedals too)... (First time I ever 'liked' a P90)... and then ? Like a Silly old fool ? Last week... Was sucked in to a really 'Professional' Scam and lost US$250-00 ! Well... Tried to BLOCK A/c a few hours later... but the shekels were gone ! It was a learning curve and I hope the Bastards are jailed in Siberia with bread (stale) and water (also stale ?)... and so... Yes... The USA Coronet 'could' have been a little cheaper, but then (?) would not have been available 'For Sale' the day you bought it ! Pros & Cons ?? and... Am thinking you have bought a "Keeper'... It would be a 'Keeper' for me... It DID just have the 'edge' on the Black Model... and the 'Aroma' is probably worth the extra Price-tag ! (Did you like that ?... "Aroma" ?)... Looking forward to the Maybach next week...If playing any Golf (?) may you 'Hole' in 'One' ! Keep your pencils sharp... Have just 'sharpened' all mine ! Chris...🤠...
Nah you're good.... it's essentially a Gibson junior isn't it, so it's priced as one. ... which is fine, I suppose. Although as you say the street price for a Jr is a little less but these will be around the same soon. It's right to the top of the 'cool wall' anyway, so worth every penny. 😂
Great work, I’m a big Steve Marriott fan myself…. I came across a New guitar design by Shergold called a Telstar, cheap as chips and worth looking at for a future review
Yes Tuning keys are better on the import. I may be one of the few, But I actually like the front jack on a guitar. So +2 for the import. But +3 for the American Better neck. Comes with a case and made in America. Another great video.
Hello Colin - I had a batwing Coronet made in New York - an early 1960’s model that I bought for around $250 in a pawn shop in the 90’s - but sold it when moving back up North not knowing how much it was worth/ would love 💕 to have it back .Johnny Winter - a Rock Star ⭐️ used one sometimes
One of your better reviews. I'm with you. The USA Coronet should be a couple hundred less. As intoxicating as the smell of nitro is, it's hard to put a $300 premium on it. And yeah, the tuners. That doesn't make sense that they didn't use the three on a tree tuners. Great sounding guitar. I have a couple SG Jrs so I'm a fan.
The ultimate reason to get a 1500 quid Epi is : "I want one". I happen to owe both Chinese Wilshire and Coronet. Both of great value, great playability. Since I am not a collector but a player, I have never considered a 3x the price 'original' And probably never will. For a simple reason : "I don't want one" :) . Cheers, peace
Aloha Colin! Those are nice guitars. Joe Bonamasa said the SG has a solid wood body probably 2 piece unlike his Amos V. The Amos V had Korina a veneer. But any Epiphone came out then and after increased in price. They make them nice with better features. Again the price. Mahalo Colin.
Hey Colin! . If you're happy with it, then it's money well spent. Personally, I am interested in a few of the new Epiphones, mainly the '59 and the new LP Custom. Will the new '59 be what my former one should have been? The addition of the Custombuckers have definitely picqued my interest. I do wish I was able to play my '59 Outfit through this new amp setup before trading it to give it a fair shot like I did with my SG Custom. Oh well. The difference between my Gibson and Epiphones is really substantial since I got the tube amp. It doesn't mean the Epiphone's are terrible all of a sudden, but the separation is there. Anyway... As much as I still like my white Epi LP Custom, will the new one be the bridge from my $649 one to the $6499 Gibson Custom Shop modeal at the store? Or will it make my $649 model look that much more of a great deal? Honestly, if I did buy the newer LP Custom, I'd slap some EMGs in, have a bullseye graphic painted on and re-create my Zakk Wylde Custom. I'd then put the Gibson electronics from the $1299 one into my $649 one. So tempting. Half tempted to do the ZW re-conditioning to the $649 one now. haha I do forsee a lot of these Epiphone Custom Shop models hitting the used market at a discount in the next year or two when the novelty wears off and buyers' remorse takes hold. I guess I will have to play them at that point and see for myself. I just can't spend around $1500 on an Epiphone when the used Gibsons are not too much higher. It just doesn't seem smart to me.
@@theguitaristas Marshall DSL 40. All 4 channels (clean, crunch, od1, od2) are different sounding and it has Master Volume pots that I use as an attenuator so that I can turn up the channel volumes to drive the pre amps and keep the power amp at a reasonable volume inside the house. It's nice to have a high gain sound that doesn't fall apart at higher volumes like my solid state did. :) I also picked up a Boss SD-1 and it works beautifully with it. The efx loop works quite nice as well with a chorus, delay and eq pedal in it. I want to add a reverb, but not a priority. I aslo set up the noise gate with both the front and the efx loop. Really underrated pedal. My old '81 LP Custom with the ZW modifications was a bit of a Frankenstein with so many pieces from other guitars making it whole. It was an ebay purchase from about 25 years ago. The repaired headstock is starting to break apart so I am just swapping out the electronics to one of my Epiphones and will then just throw the body away, sadly. It was going to go into the Slash, and still might. Going to create my own version of "Lazarus!" Seeing the newer one with a one piece neck, maple cap, pearl inlays, long neck tenon, headstock. None of that might mean a thing in the end, but sounds like a nicer setup to re-create such a monster that it once was. It had plenty of imperfections to look at, but the sound blew people away. That's what I want to keep.
I got so excited when I saw the thumbnail on the TV channel last night that a little bit of wee came out 😀- I'm going to get down to Lime Street and jump on a train to that London for a butchers at the Gibbo Garage
Sometimes, it’s not how perfect or otherwise the guitar is, or how expensive, it’s more how much affection one has for it, and enjoys playing music on it. Maybe added to that is the pride of ownership when it’s hanging on the wall, but an instrument is always equally a tool and a sculpture, and if it’s fun to play then the price becomes justified, but I’m grateful there are cheap guitars out there for those who like me are limited in what is feasible. It is always fun to see all these new guitars pop up on your ‘show’ and either drool or become sniffy. It’s like guitar addiction by proxy.
Great video mate!! Beautiful guitar... it'd wanna be for that money... The little black Coronet wasn't outdone, maybe a set of shims it'll have that top end sparkle. I didn't mind what you'd show us Col, but l luv gd p90s... dunno what theyre asking for these in Australia, but ld be yakkin to the bank manager!! Thanks mate!
Do the two guitars have the same dimensions? In shot after shot it appears, to my eye, that the import is smaller dimensionally, taking into account the rounded profile of the import vs the squared edge USA model. Could just be the colours? Great video!
Hi Colin. No, you're not a hypocrite. You've bought an original Epi model, not a Gibson copy. And made in the USA to boot. It's a great guitar. My only experience of Epiphones are with their amazing inspired by Gibson acoustic guitars and their even better original Epi Excelente. I bought a 1942 banner antique VOS J45 recently after seeing the reviews. I went to the Garage in London and played seven Gibson J45's and each one was as dull as dishwater, no volume, resonance or harmonic overtones. The Epi banner model l went home with was/is sensational, has the J45 thud, bright tops, plenty of bottom end and has fantastic overtones. Saved me £2000, l just wanted a J45 and was prepared to buy a Gibson. As for the Epi Excellente it is an absolute dream of a guitar. Great tone woods, ebony fingerboard and tailpiece, bone pegs, bridge and nut and every inlay is mother of pearl and there's a lot of it. Gold plated Gibson tuners too. The guitar looks and sounds amazing. If it had Gibson on the headstock it would cost £5-6000. But it's strange, l could not buy a Epi Les Paul, Standard or 335. They have to be Gibson. Go figure. Great review as always. I'm looking forward to the LP Maybach review, l was tempted but went the Gibson route on my Goldtop, black beauty, LP special and 335. Cheers mate!
Great review as usual Colin , any chance you could revie a Godin-summit-classic-ht-havana-brown les paul seems like a lot of guitar for the price, thanks for what you do for us GAS infected people
I am no authority on electrics. My acoustic, the last one of countless I owned, is a 1948 Gibson Southernn Jumbo. In the 25 years I've played it I often dreamt it was lost, stolen or simply vanished and woke up crying, then saw it in my bedroom and relaxed. It is not just the look,feel or tone,it has a soul no import will ever have. Quoting dr.Frankenstein: "It's alive! It's alive!"
Hi Colin, another interesting Video, thanks - Question, In a LIVE situiation, how disernable would both guitars be , one Lead, one Rhythm in a high volume air space as opposed to a in studio comparission? Would anyone need the USA version being Live & Loud . Pedals I think, can make up for so much these days . . .
Great review. This one triggered several points I want to comment on. Regarding the endless complaints about Epiphone's pricing, the prices will obviously go down as soon as enough people are no longer willing to pay them. If you do pay for premium, you probably shouldn't complain, since it obviously was worth that price to you. The expensive import models are aimed primarily at the collector market, which for Epiphones is actually surprisingly robust. ETA: A lot of people seem to think that companies have a moral imperative to sell their products for only what they cost to produce plus a "reasonable" mark up. I would ask those people if they bought a bar of gold at a certain price and the price of gold suddenly doubled, would they then sell that bar for only what they paid for it plus a reasonable, say 20%, mark up or would they sell for whatever the market could bear? IMO the morality is the same for businesses. Regarding the current view of guitars made in the USA, the first electric guitar I ever owned was an early made in the USA Peavey Predator Strat clone. While inexpensive, it was actually a pretty darn good guitar. I sold it along with a crappy Fender 10 watt amp for $75 sometime around 1990 when I drifted away from playing guitar. I now wish I still had it. Lastly, the Wilshire with P90's is on the short list of candidates for if I decide I need a second electric guitar. I'm fine with an Asian made one though.
Exactly, Epiphone makes guitars from $200 on up with the majority of them in the $400-700 range. Epiphone probably has more choices than any other brand. Nobody is forcing you to pay $1500 for a Les paul they have lots of options for much less money.
Good review! I think that you just about said everything that needs to be said regarding the two Coronets. They both look great and sound good, being an old geezer I grew up aspiring to own a “real” USA built guitar. Nowadays I own quite a few of them, most have been amazing and a few just OK. I have several single P90 guitars, some made in the USA and others in the far east, they’re all nice guitars but the USA Gibson’s just feel that little bit special, having seen and heard both the USA and Chinese Epiphones my head says the Chinese Epiphone is great but my heart longs for the USA guitar. I know that at £1500 it’s far too expensive but it’s an American guitar built in the Gibson factory! It’s only money for Christs sake.
Think of all the great guitars Steve Marriott had access to and he got some of his greatest tones out of a Coronet. Saw him and met him live 3 times. I had a chance to buy a friend's 60's Casino that had been converted to left hand, we were both right but the controls were on the top like Hendrix's Strat and the original control holes were filled with car filler and painted over black. I offered £350 a few years ago because the tone was spine chilling but he fell off a wall at work and suffered brain damage so I wish him the best. That's Epiphone's Tele/SG Jr with a P90 with a Gibson build. If I bought it I'd feel I lucked out.
My favorite part of all of your videos is seeing you truly enjoy new guitars. You do a great job of conveying the real guitar addict enthusiasm we all know. Thanks for the finding the hole comment...lol.
😆👍
I will get hate for this comment but that is ok. I live and work in Oklahoma, USA. I worked for 18 years in a manufacturing plant, 4 years on the production floor and 14 years in the quality department. The made in America tag means nothing, quality depends on the person making the product and the resources the company gives the employee to make the product. The company and the employees both have to have pride in their work to make the end product better than others in the market, if it is about getting products out the door then where it is made means nothing at all.
I'm a teacher in Oklahoma USA! I agree 100% A lot of US companies think slapping the "Made in the USA" sticker on something is all they need to do anymore to justify a huge price tag. That may have been the case decades ago, but the rest of the world has caught up. Great guitars are made in a lot of places.
GO HUSKERS
I do not agree with such a generalised comment. I could write a thesis on this but would probably be wasting my breath. However I will point out a few things such as Brand equity and country of origin ( case in point would be Swiss watches just to prove a point). The second would be pride in your country and jobs at home rather than abroad. Third would be heritage. Means nothing to you fine!
Corporate America has betrayed you and every other caring conscientious hard working person.
I'd rather buy a product from the company that originally designed it instead of a copy with a slightly different headstock
Took me a while to figure out what Gibson are doing. They are restoring Epiphone to their rightful position as another Gibson brand like it was in the sixties. Doing a good marketing job too.
Gibson put out a video on their channel two years ago talking about what they had planned for Epiphone USA & import.
Great episode, been looking forward to watching it all day and have done so in a South London pub with a couple of pints, sad fucker that I am. I’m desperate for a double cut, single P90 junior style guitar and this fits the bill perfectly, it looks and sounds the absolute bollocks and a serious contender to the SG Jnr. I love the slab rather than curved body, just like the Mosrite MK2 up against the earlier hideous German carve MK1’s. I’ll own one, one day, but it won’t be bought at the current price - single pickup, no bridge, minimal electronics. Hell, I got a 2nd hand 2015 Gibson Jnr DC and even after changing everything on it including proper Gibson P90’s it’s cost less.
An hour well spent Colin, thanks.
Cheers man, it was great to spend an hour in the boozer with you! 😁👍🍺
Super and honest review. I believe a guitar or any item purchased is an individual persuit. I went to Thomann Wednesday to look at the Guild Polara and was going to buy it. It was out of stock and was now only available by request. I bought a Harley Benton DC 600 VI Vintage (3 Humbucker SG style) for 183 Euros instead. I bought it to modify, but it's so good that I only put new tuners on it. I have a great sounding and great playing guitar for 250 Euros. It's all individual my friend. Whatever makes you happy, do it. No judgement from me. I think in today's market, that or any guitar will be another couple hundred bucks more in short time. Buy what your heart tells you to buy. Life is too short for a bank account. Thanks for the great review. I'm glad you bought it and NO, you are not a hypocrite. Follow your passion. Live the dream ♫ 🎸
That US Coronet is a stunner. Nice video as always Colin, thanks. This current crop in charge of Gibson doing a good job to undo the historical crime of almost destroying a great American brand, Epiphone, but yes, some of the pricing is laughable. I got a Riviera with the mini HBs for about 500 quid. Good price, brilliant guitar. Seems to be their signature guitars where the prices are mad, like the Joe Bonamassa, Dave Grohl and Mustaine ones
Given the emotional connection you have with this gutar it's a sensible purchase. I didn't need my Les Paul Studio either, but I wanted one, since so many of my guitar heroes play Les Pauls.
Welcome back. Nice video as always. Like the USA Coronet. 🙂
Cols the only man i trust when it comes to a throughly proper review
Love this video Colin - thanks again for a brilliant way to enjoy a cuppa and a biccy. Now, I know it's still controversial, but I think this will save a bit of face for Epiphone under their Gibson masters. They've really ignored the brand heritage for far too long and I hope the Coronet is just the first of a whole line of original Epi's made in the USA. Guitarists like heritage but they also like variety so it hits the mark on both counts. Yes, I know it's still a lot of cash but when you compare it to other offerings from established American, Japanese and European builders (and even Chinese builders like Eastman) then it's appropriate and justifiable. The IBG and IBGC stuff has it's place for those that want fully endorsed Gibson products on a budget, but Epiphone is more than that so Gibson should be celebrating the brand's American roots and I for one applaud that.
Bought a epiphone creastwood last year great guitar
Ditto. I love mine too.
A review full of Col’s innuendos!! And why not…nothing wrong with having fun. Nice guitar. Cheers mate
What a diverse group of guitar lovers. What a great video. Very cool. I loved the voting thing. Feels so interactive.
Thanks for this Col. Had no idea Gibson had made a USA reissue of the Coronet. Great to have you back!
Not sure if it sounds better, I'd almost certainly fail the blind test, but damn...that's a real premium piece of timber! That ribbon mahogany looks incredible, bet it dances like crazy in the light 🥰
Welcome back Colin! Another great review. I'd happily buy a USA Epiphone if there was no Gibson version. BUT it would have to beat my Eastman sb55dc/v, which I don't think will happen anytime soon. Rock on to all the Guitaristas out there.
Eastman for the win I reckon 👍
Yep my pick got it 😂
Was wanting a review on it. Thanks!
For those wondering, the "Dwight" imprint noted around 12:00 refers to Sunny "Dwight" Shields music store in East St. Louis, IL. At the time, St. Louis and East St. Louis were such big music towns that Sunny Shields Music Inc. was able to get their own imprinted guitar with a tremolo from the busy factory.
Cheers for the info! 😁👍
Wow, stunning colour on this one. Cheers for the video, as always. Nothing like kicking back and enjoying a nice review with a pint!
another brilliant video and review, mate. Thanks for all you do.
I just wanted to buy a T-Shirt 😂 Great review. Thank you Colin.
Vigilante Carlstroem from the Hives plays an original Coronet. There is a cool rig rundown on Premier Guitar showing it. He beats the hell out if it. Anyway, great video once again and keep uo the awesome content! Cheers from Ontario, Canada
My 69 SG has the same nitro and wood aroma it had when my brother bought it in the early 70s. 😎
For information, it's not the nitro that you smell, but the impregnated odor of the glue used to coat the case (typical vanilla scent of Canada made cases).
Oooh is that an actual fact?… and it seeps into the guitar and can last for quite a long time?? My Les Paul still smells sweet after many months…
How do explain the same smell when the guitar comes with a gig bag?
Possibly but glue out gases pretty quickly compared to nitro which continues to dry for years.
Gibson bought Epiphone 57 iirc!
I think the more massive body on the US model would make a bit of difference
I really love this channel
The other thing worth noting is they have move the strap button to the top horn. I think this is a good move as the guitar should balance better on a strap.
Having voted for the Coronet I'm now feeling strangely sorry for the Fazely 😁
IKR. We are a fickle lot.
Please review the Fazely next.
Very interesting. Liked the vote idea and to be honest the import sounded thin and wispy by comparison. I might have been tempted to change the pickup over but i wouldn't want to give you any mad ideas. 😂 how guitars interact with us will vary from person to person but that's all part of the creative process it's where we get taken on our musical journey. Keep up the good work. ❤
As usual, a very entertaining video. Your biggest strength, apart from the fact that you admit that it might be "all in the head", which of course it is, is that you're very relatable and self-deprecating. Ultimately, rationalizing one guitar over another is just that and what really matters is that you get a kick out of whatever guitar you choose. Musically, there isn't all that much difference between one electric guitar and another one (at least among solid and semi-hollow guitars) and most of them will do whatever job you need or want them to. Yeah, the USA one is probably a bit more of a turn on, but that's really all it is.
😊🙏
Thanks for giving your viewers what we want! 🙏🏻
I knew it!!!! ❤❤❤ I tried one even though I’m a lefty in the Gibson Garage .. loved the quirky look and feel
An absolute great deal in my opinion, sounds fantastic and looks beautiful. Definitely a keeper! Enjoy
Your new USA Coronet is luvvly jubbly, and sounds great Col 👍🏻 Imo the best guitar you've bought in a while. It just has that old school cool vibe to it 😎
That is a beautiful, stunningly simple, sonically gorgeous, Coronet!! 👍💯
Colin we had them both out in the shop today and honestly, we couldn’t tell the difference bar the grand for the sweet paint job and different pickgaurd, the latter of course which can be changed for pennies. My budget version was only £240 ex display. I’m going against my usual train of thought here, but it’s the budget all the way
I like the guitar and epiphone is my favorite guitars, but that price is just a bit to much. I'll be interested in seeing if they come down in price and and if they hold the value, I'm not sure they will. Great to get a new full video, best way to start a Friday. Cheers
Just started the video, looking forward to your review.
I'm so glad that you reviewed this! It's funny that I watched your Scratch video again yesterday, then you posted the Coronet video today. I was pissed when they announced this model! I had just bought my Ebony Junior and don't have room for another guitar payment. Currently paying on three. I completely agree with you about the Inspired by Gibson and Custom line. I am fortunate that I can now afford USA made guitars. I'd rather pay $1600 for a Les Paul Junior or SG Special than buy the Chinese made guitars, despite the upgrades. Thanks for sharing!
This will make a great companion to the junior and hopefully by the time you’ve saved up the prices will have dropped 👍👍
Love the how the guitar sounds, love the wittering.
It’s not hypocritical to admit a mistake. It’s growth.
Looking GOOD! Thanks for the review!
Another great morning with Colin. Guitars, and a few nibbles. What more could you want ? Maybe a Blood Mary to wash down the nibs.
As always Thanks Guitaristas !
Top stuff as always mate
Nice balance review and comparison. Love your informative channel...
That Nitro Drug Black Market is very under the radar! Good on you for calling attention to it, in your subtle way ;)
Gotta love the smell of nitro in the vid...............Intresting vid. Thanks.
Ah Well Col, in words of the Stones, ‘You Can’t alwasys get what you want’. It was the Guild I was looking forward to but this was a cracking vlog as usual.
I hope that ending jam is on steal my licks! No hypocracy in my opinion. They are a little pricey. At $1300 Id be buying one. At its price I'm waiting for reverb but it's beautiful.
Got one today Lovin it so far. Haven't had a chance to Rock it through my rig yet but soon.
Nice one! 😁👍
Nice review and lovely guitar. Chinese labour costs are between 25-40% of US equivalent depending on the industry. Given roughly comparable raw materials and parts costs this largely explains the difference in retail price of the 2 guitars. However, where US Gibson models win out hands down is on their future value retention. Whether this will apply to new, vintage nearly-correct Epiphones, who knows?
Great video Col, I went to the Gibson garage in April on my birthday and had a great day. I did only buy a t shirt this time, but I’m sure I’ll be back there 😂
Cheers Phil... £69 for a T Shirt is a pretty decent present all the same! 😆👍
I won’t care what you paid for the epiphone guitars. I just enjoy your true unfiltered criticism no matter what the price is!! There are loads of channel who don’t tell the truth.. mainly they are sponsored channel or stores making these videos. Keep up the good work ❤
Cheers man that’s appreciated! 😁👍
Your “meanderings” are almost my favorite parts of your reviews.
Another fantastic watch thanks Colin ! Watched it back again because I can’t decide whether to get this or the Gibson LP Junior Double Cut. I’m even less sure after seeing how lovely this red Coronet is ! Heading to the Gibson Garage to hopefully compare the two.
Yeah tricky choice but I reckon this has more character… but I want a new dc now as well! 😂
@ they had one yellow one in the Gibson Garage today but QC issues again. The high E string was pretty much off the fretboard… went home empty handed
@@ScottDavies-p8g it's a shame but that's Gibson all over 🤷♂
Another great film ! Pretty sweet Epiphone !!
Great video, love the Coronet!
Colin, I believe you forgot to mention the Epiphone Coronet (USA) comes with a second set of Knobs. You mentioned prices are high right now but isn't the market supposed to be getting softer due to the pandemic and people selling guitars? Thanks for the demo.
I didn't see them... I shall have another look and pay more attention! 😁👍
@@theguitaristas There should be a set of Black Knobs inside the case for people that like the look of the 1960's Epiphone Coronet. if you didn't get a set reach out to Gibson. You have to go through Gibson instead of Epiphone for any support. Cheers 🍺🇨🇦
The bellend adjuster haha!
If a P90 is too low it will sound mushy and the hum will be very loud.
Jack up the P90 in the import Coronet to no more than 3mm from the strings and it will come alive, I promise.
More output, more midrange bite, and the hum will be quieter in comparison.
My Coronet sounds massive now.
The other difference is the pickup output. The import has an Epiphone P90 Pro that measures 8.7k IIRC so it will be darker. the USA is less than 8k so it will have more treble.
Nice one. Recently bought a second hand Shecter Silver Mount. Hands down the best guitar I’ve ever played. Quality is unbelievable for £800
What a fantastic video have a wonderful weekend Colin also my favorite year is 2010 2011 2014 also 2016 to be honest ❤❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
Thanks man, I find that as years pass by each one gets better and better so you have much to look forward to! 😁👍
I own the black import as well I put an aftermarket aluminum bridge. And 9 gauge strings. And a leftover p-90 bridge pup from my Gibson SG special. It’s a brand new guitar!
It totally took on another personality.
It’s downright fantastic. And yes Epiphone is charging too much for there import guitars! Nuff Said, Much love from America to this channel.
I bought a new Epiphone Les Paul Custom loaded with gibson pickups ect... I paid £1089.00, which is outstanding for what you are actually getting... A great case included too.
I got my own Epiphone Coronet! Sweetwater offered 36-month financing, and I couldn't turn it down. I went with the Vintage Cherry, too, but I almost regret not going with Ebony. It has serious tuxedo vibes. Also, I've already replaced those goofy knobs. HAHA. But it sounds great. I love it. Cheers!
I purchased the white Coronet with the tremolo bar about 2 years ago, I love this guitar, bikini headstock awesomeness!
Great video max.personally,I loved going into bricks and mortar shops,but sadly,there are none left where I live in the UK,except for a small market stall, but doesn’t stock much of what I would want,except strings…so,I have also turned to using the online/internet for getting the majority of my equipment.Sadly, because most people are turning to shopping online,the shops in the towns are closing down,leaving them like ghost towns…
I used to own to MIJ Epiphone Elitist Les Pauls. They turned me to LPs. Eventually moved to Gibsons. Still have and love a 2010 R7 Gold Top that I’ll keep till I die.
I have bought an Epiphone, my first electric guitar, non bass. I have friends that bought Epiphones. The only complaints/comments that I have heard, including mine was about the electronics, they are cheaper and do not last. I never had a complaint about the quality of the wood working. My Epiphone SG is still in my playing mix, after I put in the Seymour Duncan Hot Rodded humbuckers and new Pots and resistors. I call it my red Growler.
This was a really interesting video for me Col I’m an epiphone fan I’ve agreed with your assumption on the recent epiphone prices they’re too high.
My 339 pro with p90s in is still my favourite guitar to this day and I own more expensive ones.
For what it’s worth my opinion is if you’re gonna start dropping over a grand on an epiphone buy an original or get a Japanese made one.
The re releases of casino from America and Japan on the used market I believe are great guitars and wouldn’t cost much more than this or some of those recent china signatures.
Rarely but I’ve seen some original epiphone coronet go for 3-4 grand we might be past those days and I appreciate that is a lot of money but if you can do it I think that’s the way to go on this particular model.
Great vid geez
Most Excellent review Colin........Alabama
I'm definitely not personally in the market for this guitar, but I can't blame you for picking it up. I own the import version and I'm now realizing that what I'd really love is sort of a combination of both. I don't mind the polyurethane finish, and I outright prefer the flat compensated bridge, dogear P90, symmetrical pick guard, and knobs, but I would absolutely love those slab sides. Rosewood is always a big plus for me as well, not for any sort of feel or sound, but I just think it looks better. I imagine laurel will darken over time like everything else, but it does start out a tad orange-y for my liking.
I’m with you on that nitro smell. It’s intoxicating.
Being old enough to remember when Epi was a front line brand, and follow it into a lower tier, I have a hard time wrapping my head around their new price structure. I hope they don’t totally abandon their lower cost guitars, because for a lot of people who can’t afford a lot of money, it’s a great product for a reasonable sum.
nice one mt loved the vid m.
Your the best man great video
Great review. As far as "Epiphone prices" and others saying it's "expensive for an Epiphone"... it's not an Epiphone... it's a Gibson with an Epiphone logo. Most love Epiphone because they're so cheap.... this guitar isn't geared towards that buyer. Colin, you are NOT a hypocrite. A hypocrite is an Epiphone fanboy who complains about the price of a USA made Gibson with an Epiphone logo while defending their $1500 Chinese made "inspired by Gibson" sweatttshopp guitars.
Love it. It's a cool guitar. Made in the Gibson USA factory just like the originals were. If I didn't already have the great (IMO) import version, I'd be tempted.
G'Day Colin... Yesss... This is one of your BEST Guitar Reviews...Word by word and comment by comment ???? You have 'nailed' this Review... (Sharp interaction between P90 and Pedals too)... (First time I ever 'liked' a P90)... and then ? Like a Silly old fool ? Last week... Was sucked in to a really 'Professional' Scam and lost US$250-00 ! Well... Tried to BLOCK A/c a few hours later... but the shekels were gone ! It was a learning curve and I hope the Bastards are jailed in Siberia with bread (stale) and water (also stale ?)... and so... Yes... The USA Coronet 'could' have been a little cheaper, but then (?) would not have been available 'For Sale' the day you bought it ! Pros & Cons ?? and... Am thinking you have bought a "Keeper'... It would be a 'Keeper' for me... It DID just have the 'edge' on the Black Model... and the 'Aroma' is probably worth the extra Price-tag ! (Did you like that ?... "Aroma" ?)... Looking forward to the Maybach next week...If playing any Golf (?) may you 'Hole' in 'One' ! Keep your pencils sharp... Have just 'sharpened' all mine ! Chris...🤠...
Nah you're good.... it's essentially a Gibson junior isn't it, so it's priced as one. ... which is fine, I suppose. Although as you say the street price for a Jr is a little less but these will be around the same soon. It's right to the top of the 'cool wall' anyway, so worth every penny. 😂
Great work, I’m a big Steve Marriott fan myself…. I came across a New guitar design by Shergold called a Telstar, cheap as chips and worth looking at for a future review
l love it too. Wish I never got ride of my LP Jr.
Yes Tuning keys are better on the import. I may be one of the few, But I actually like the front jack on a guitar. So +2 for the import. But +3 for the American Better neck. Comes with a case and made in America. Another great video.
Hello Colin - I had a batwing Coronet made in New York - an early 1960’s model that I bought for around $250 in a pawn shop in the 90’s - but sold it when moving back up North not knowing how much it was worth/ would love 💕 to have it back .Johnny Winter - a Rock Star ⭐️ used one sometimes
One of your better reviews. I'm with you. The USA Coronet should be a couple hundred less. As intoxicating as the smell of nitro is, it's hard to put a $300 premium on it. And yeah, the tuners. That doesn't make sense that they didn't use the three on a tree tuners. Great sounding guitar. I have a couple SG Jrs so I'm a fan.
Colin can you review a Sire guitar at some point. Thanks. Love your channel!
He’s done a T7 & an L7. Just search for them with Guitaristas & the model name.
The ultimate reason to get a 1500 quid Epi is : "I want one". I happen to owe both Chinese Wilshire and Coronet. Both of great value, great playability. Since I am not a collector but a player, I have never considered a 3x the price 'original'
And probably never will. For a simple reason : "I don't want one" :) . Cheers, peace
Exactly
Aloha Colin! Those are nice guitars. Joe Bonamasa said the SG has a solid wood body probably 2 piece unlike his Amos V. The Amos V had Korina a veneer. But any Epiphone came out then and after increased in price. They make them nice with better features. Again the price. Mahalo Colin.
Hey Colin! .
If you're happy with it, then it's money well spent. Personally, I am interested in a few of the new Epiphones, mainly the '59 and the new LP Custom. Will the new '59 be what my former one should have been? The addition of the Custombuckers have definitely picqued my interest. I do wish I was able to play my '59 Outfit through this new amp setup before trading it to give it a fair shot like I did with my SG Custom. Oh well. The difference between my Gibson and Epiphones is really substantial since I got the tube amp. It doesn't mean the Epiphone's are terrible all of a sudden, but the separation is there. Anyway...
As much as I still like my white Epi LP Custom, will the new one be the bridge from my $649 one to the $6499 Gibson Custom Shop modeal at the store? Or will it make my $649 model look that much more of a great deal? Honestly, if I did buy the newer LP Custom, I'd slap some EMGs in, have a bullseye graphic painted on and re-create my Zakk Wylde Custom. I'd then put the Gibson electronics from the $1299 one into my $649 one. So tempting. Half tempted to do the ZW re-conditioning to the $649 one now. haha
I do forsee a lot of these Epiphone Custom Shop models hitting the used market at a discount in the next year or two when the novelty wears off and buyers' remorse takes hold. I guess I will have to play them at that point and see for myself. I just can't spend around $1500 on an Epiphone when the used Gibsons are not too much higher. It just doesn't seem smart to me.
Remind me what tube amp you just got? Sounds like you have a great plan to end up with both versions of the Custom! 😆👍
@@theguitaristas Marshall DSL 40. All 4 channels (clean, crunch, od1, od2) are different sounding and it has Master Volume pots that I use as an attenuator so that I can turn up the channel volumes to drive the pre amps and keep the power amp at a reasonable volume inside the house. It's nice to have a high gain sound that doesn't fall apart at higher volumes like my solid state did. :)
I also picked up a Boss SD-1 and it works beautifully with it. The efx loop works quite nice as well with a chorus, delay and eq pedal in it. I want to add a reverb, but not a priority. I aslo set up the noise gate with both the front and the efx loop. Really underrated pedal.
My old '81 LP Custom with the ZW modifications was a bit of a Frankenstein with so many pieces from other guitars making it whole. It was an ebay purchase from about 25 years ago. The repaired headstock is starting to break apart so I am just swapping out the electronics to one of my Epiphones and will then just throw the body away, sadly. It was going to go into the Slash, and still might. Going to create my own version of "Lazarus!"
Seeing the newer one with a one piece neck, maple cap, pearl inlays, long neck tenon, headstock. None of that might mean a thing in the end, but sounds like a nicer setup to re-create such a monster that it once was. It had plenty of imperfections to look at, but the sound blew people away. That's what I want to keep.
Hi Collins,
I would be curious of a comparison between this guitar and old scratch. Cheers!!
great video! but tbh cant wait for the maybach.
you already had a nitro aged one, is the next a poly not aged?
I got so excited when I saw the thumbnail on the TV channel last night that a little bit of wee came out 😀- I'm going to get down to Lime Street and jump on a train to that London for a butchers at the Gibbo Garage
Sometimes, it’s not how perfect or otherwise the guitar is, or how expensive, it’s more how much affection one has for it, and enjoys playing music on it. Maybe added to that is the pride of ownership when it’s hanging on the wall, but an instrument is always equally a tool and a sculpture, and if it’s fun to play then the price becomes justified, but I’m grateful there are cheap guitars out there for those who like me are limited in what is feasible. It is always fun to see all these new guitars pop up on your ‘show’ and either drool or become sniffy. It’s like guitar addiction by proxy.
Great video mate!!
Beautiful guitar... it'd wanna be for that money...
The little black Coronet wasn't outdone, maybe a set of shims it'll have that top end sparkle.
I didn't mind what you'd show us Col, but l luv gd p90s... dunno what theyre asking for these in Australia, but ld be yakkin to the bank manager!!
Thanks mate!
Do the two guitars have the same dimensions? In shot after shot it appears, to my eye, that the import is smaller dimensionally, taking into account the rounded profile of the import vs the squared edge USA model. Could just be the colours? Great video!
Hi Colin. No, you're not a hypocrite. You've bought an original Epi model, not a Gibson copy. And made in the USA to boot. It's a great guitar.
My only experience of Epiphones are with their amazing inspired by Gibson acoustic guitars and their even better original Epi Excelente.
I bought a 1942 banner antique VOS J45 recently after seeing the reviews. I went to the Garage in London and played seven Gibson J45's and each one was as dull as dishwater, no volume, resonance or harmonic overtones. The Epi banner model l went home with was/is sensational, has the J45 thud, bright tops, plenty of bottom end and has fantastic overtones. Saved me £2000, l just wanted a J45 and was prepared to buy a Gibson.
As for the Epi Excellente it is an absolute dream of a guitar. Great tone woods, ebony fingerboard and tailpiece, bone pegs, bridge and nut and every inlay is mother of pearl and there's a lot of it. Gold plated Gibson tuners too. The guitar looks and sounds amazing. If it had Gibson on the headstock it would cost £5-6000.
But it's strange, l could not buy a Epi Les Paul, Standard or 335.
They have to be Gibson.
Go figure.
Great review as always. I'm looking forward to the LP Maybach review, l was tempted but went the Gibson route on my Goldtop, black beauty, LP special and 335.
Cheers mate!
Wow. I like the pickup plate. Well done Gibson
Great review as usual Colin , any chance you could revie a Godin-summit-classic-ht-havana-brown les paul seems like a lot of guitar for the price, thanks for what you do for us GAS infected people
I am no authority on electrics.
My acoustic, the last one of
countless I owned, is a 1948
Gibson Southernn Jumbo.
In the 25 years I've played it
I often dreamt it was lost, stolen or simply vanished and
woke up crying, then saw it in
my bedroom and relaxed. It is
not just the look,feel or tone,it
has a soul no import will ever
have. Quoting dr.Frankenstein:
"It's alive! It's alive!"
Hi Colin, another interesting Video, thanks - Question, In a LIVE situiation, how disernable would both guitars be , one Lead, one Rhythm in a high volume air space as opposed to a in studio comparission? Would anyone need the USA version being Live & Loud . Pedals I think, can make up for so much these days . . .
Cheers Jim, as usual suggest you’d be hard pressed to hear the difference at a gig imho.
Great review. This one triggered several points I want to comment on. Regarding the endless complaints about Epiphone's pricing, the prices will obviously go down as soon as enough people are no longer willing to pay them. If you do pay for premium, you probably shouldn't complain, since it obviously was worth that price to you. The expensive import models are aimed primarily at the collector market, which for Epiphones is actually surprisingly robust. ETA: A lot of people seem to think that companies have a moral imperative to sell their products for only what they cost to produce plus a "reasonable" mark up. I would ask those people if they bought a bar of gold at a certain price and the price of gold suddenly doubled, would they then sell that bar for only what they paid for it plus a reasonable, say 20%, mark up or would they sell for whatever the market could bear? IMO the morality is the same for businesses. Regarding the current view of guitars made in the USA, the first electric guitar I ever owned was an early made in the USA Peavey Predator Strat clone. While inexpensive, it was actually a pretty darn good guitar. I sold it along with a crappy Fender 10 watt amp for $75 sometime around 1990 when I drifted away from playing guitar. I now wish I still had it. Lastly, the Wilshire with P90's is on the short list of candidates for if I decide I need a second electric guitar. I'm fine with an Asian made one though.
Exactly, Epiphone makes guitars from $200 on up with the majority of them in the $400-700 range. Epiphone probably has more choices than any other brand. Nobody is forcing you to pay $1500 for a Les paul they have lots of options for much less money.
Good review! I think that you just about said everything that needs to be said regarding the two Coronets. They both look great and sound good, being an old geezer I grew up aspiring to own a “real” USA built guitar. Nowadays I own quite a few of them, most have been amazing and a few just OK. I have several single P90 guitars, some made in the USA and others in the far east, they’re all nice guitars but the USA Gibson’s just feel that little bit special, having seen and heard both the USA and Chinese Epiphones my head says the Chinese Epiphone is great but my heart longs for the USA guitar. I know that at £1500 it’s far too expensive but it’s an American guitar built in the Gibson factory! It’s only money for Christs sake.
Think of all the great guitars Steve Marriott had access to and he got some of his greatest tones out of a Coronet. Saw him and met him live 3 times. I had a chance to buy a friend's 60's Casino that had been converted to left hand, we were both right but the controls were on the top like Hendrix's Strat and the original control holes were filled with car filler and painted over black. I offered £350 a few years ago because the tone was spine chilling but he fell off a wall at work and suffered brain damage so I wish him the best. That's Epiphone's Tele/SG Jr with a P90 with a Gibson build. If I bought it I'd feel I lucked out.