Do you like the lighter or darker brown hue? 🟢Gibson For Sale on My Website: www.troglysguitarshow.com 🔴Reverb: reverb.com/shop/troglys?_aid=growsumo&gs_partner=Trogly ❓Private Help Sessions: troglysguitarshow.com/help-appraisals/
Having worked in the communications industry I've seen that " peace " symbol used regularly. It was always on a metal tag or plate affixed to utility poles.
Thank you! My son and I watched the video and he lost his mind. This was my first NGD purchase and could not have been happier with the review. Great experience. Thank you Gary and Grady
I also like the lighter Gibson finish but beside that it sounded amazing to the point I forgot about the dark color! Great review as always. Thanks again!
I got one of these about 3 weeks ago. I absolutely love it. Mine is dark also, but it plays as good as my Gibsons and the pickups are pretty impressive. In my opinion it is a steal for $900. These are under the radar so they should be available. If you are looking for a 335, you won't be disappointed, and you won't need a second mortgage.
Pfffft... Nowadays the price of a Gibson ES-335 is barely enough for a deposit in the hood. Sorry lol, I've been house hunting lately and your comment struck a chord in me. A financially frustrated one to be exact.
MMJ has been my favorite band for years. I'm glad Jim got some brand recognition. Next they need to give Carl a signature ebony LP with a Bigsby and p94 in the neck.
@@michaelpacinus242 You're right of course I guess I'll spend a little extra to buy the Gibson and then spend a little bit of extra time setting it up.
I, within the last year, bought 3 CV Squiers. A jazzmaster; jaguar and a mustang. They are all very well put together. Smooth fret-ends, working tremelo systems and great sounding!!! Good for Epiphone!!! One of these days, seeing how some budget guitar builders have stepped up their game, the only folks buying Gibsons and high-end Fenders, ect. may only be well to do folks or collectors. There's no longer a need to spend thousands on a fantastic sounding and playing "guitar".
The Epiphone/Gibson sound comparison you did was excellent! The Epiphone is very nice but OMG that finish is dark - almost ebony like! That particular Laurel fretboard is very nice looking. It seems to be hit and miss/luck of the draw with respect to how good a fretboard you're getting with an Epiphone. Absolutely love those tuners!
That, (1974 ES-335 Gibson) was my first electric guitar and it was a let down. But, it wasn't their fault, it was a music shop that convinced my dad that Altec Lancing's speakers where better than Fender speakers and a Twin Reverb and I sounded like a sitar. 40 years Later I learned that when shopping in a music store. Cheers
I just realized epiphone doesn’t scrape the binding on the TOP of the guitar like Gibson, only the sides. That to me makes a huge difference in the look of the guitar from straight on and is one of the reasons the Gibsons look better IMO
I just got mine (May 2024). I crossed my fingers that it wouldn't be too dark (I ordered it online). I'd say it's *slightly* too dark. But! ....looks perfect in the sun and I think it will eventually fade over time. I am completely happy I got it (love Jim James)and look forward to life with it.
@@toddflowers8052I played the figured ice tea one at Guitar Center and I was impressed with the neck profile! Of course I've played on a bunch of Epiphones and I gotta say once properly set up this particular model feels just as nice as the Gibson.
I really gotta try and get my hands on one of these. Have always wanted a 335. This thing is nuts for the price 🤘🤘and of course my wife love's owls so maybe she'll let me get one 😉
I like the dark better if you catch the light right the grain shows fine looks like QC is better than the overpriced Explorer from yesterday thanks Gary for letting us check out your new Guitar 👍
From the playing demo I actually prefer the Epiphone all around ftom single note solo to chord playing. Just sounds more brilliant to me. The Gibson sounds a tad shallow. On a 335 I want to feel like I could dive deep in notes and the clarity is amazing.
Same. I didn’t expect to but I much preferred the Epiphone pickups. Took me by surprise and makes me question how much value I put into “brand name” pickups.
@@michaelpacinus242 Pick up height would account for a difference in volume. There really wasn’t much difference in volume, Better, maybe more complex tone from the Epiphone.
Hard to tell, Trogs isn’t the greatest of players and isn’t known to dial in a tone. All pickups are different and have a different sweet spot. Too many variables, like with all guitars, to say one sounds better than the other.
My best SG is a Korean Epiphone. ( I own two Gibson SG’s)A few years ago I had my choice between two Epi ES-175’s. One was Korean one was made in China. I bought the Korean built one. I think I paid $335.
I love everything about modern Epiphone with the exception of the indian laurel fretboard. It's too porous and I can feel it when bending strings. My Standard 60's LP has it and I've only played the guitar once. Black walnut would've been a smoother answer to this.
I had an Epi Riviera in that finish many years back, (well a bit lighter than that.) and it was my #1 guitar to pick up daily, and I did several gigs with it, and it was easily as good as any Gibson 335, I regrettably had to sell it to raise money for my emigration from the U.K to where I am now, (Ireland) and I often miss it. Epiphone`s are great affordable guitars, and I`ve had several since the Riviera, and plan to get another one next year.
I'm pleasantly pleased that Epiphone puts out such a beautiful and well playing guitar for a mere $988. I bought a used older Epiphone fofr $450, it's in pretty good shape but I wish I'd held off and spent a bet more on a this guitar. Well done Austin, you've definitely motivated me to buy a new Epiphone. I'd like to buy a Gibson and if I buy one you've convinced me to buy a Custom and that is way out of my budget so for now I'll be satisfied and happy with buying Epiphones. The Epiphone definitely has brighter tones whereas the Gibson is warmer sounding. Thank you Austin, take care.
I recently bought this at a bargain price, almost 50%off. All new, not played at all, even with the fresh factory strings buuut with a neck repair done by a luthier. Mostly just the finish near the nut. I was a little afraid but oh man what a great decision, this guitar is amazing! No problems with tuning, a rock solid guitar.
FYI that looks more like 5ply, most epiphones are made like that. Three really thin ones and the two in between are thicker. Now, whether that's poplar or just thicker maple, or maybe just maple with the grain set to 90º compared to the other three layers, which would explain the color difference, who knows...
Hey, the Epiphone pickups are a lot better now They actually sound like they’re in the ballpark of a PAF. They used to be so muddy and flabby sounding. I actually liked them more than the pickups in the Gibson.
That light streak down the fretboard looks nice. I have to agree lighter would have been better just because so beautiful and you dont see them in that color ever
I though it was just my ES-335 case. Mine has a couple latches that don't line up. My 2003 ES-335 case ) older Custom Shop) is way better! Come on Gibson. When you spend that much for a CS guitar you expect a better case...
Definitely got that ‘70s BROWN right. I wonder if it’s just the difference between a thin nitro finish on the Gibson and a thick poly finish on the Epiphone.
Far from needing another instrument at all, let alone another Epiphone model, let alone another semi-hollow (as much as this one rocks), I'm going to repeat something that I have put in to previous comments. The best part was when you kicked on the dirt, Trogly. Not remotely enough rock guitar players use both overdrive and semi-hollow instruments like this one. The ones I can name include Ted Nugent, Alvin Lee, Brian May and Paul McCartney. I've been trying to demonstrate how well it can be done for years now.
I can dig it, @Cataclysmic Converter . It's May 2023, and I am painstakingly aiming to make '23 the year I kick GAS in the a**. No telling if I will let it kick me back next year, but I'm set on not getting any equipment this one. The model that I have to quench my thirst for my own ES-type guitar is a 1980 Yamaha SA-2000. If I didn't remember consciously that's what it is, I could probably fool myself into thinking I had an actual ES-335 or 345. I made sure to include it on several deep cracks from my last solo record, *Another Game to Play.*
how about Oasis? their whole sound when they broke through was based on cranked epiphone sheratons and rivieras - and the sound was huge, tracks like aquiesce, the swamp song and all the esrly stuff
Another great job by Epiphone. Of course Gibson is on a whole different level, but I respect Epiphone more. They may sacrifice some of the niceties for price savings, but Epiphone does SO much more with what they’ve got. Gibson too often over charges and under performs. I do NOT respect that.
They're all dark. Huge Epi 335 guy. Own 10 currently. I passed on this model because all the pictures made it look like an ebony finish. To be perfectly honest, you can get a same quality Epi 335 for a lot less. Unless the Owl and Name attached are worth the extra to you, I'd suggest skipping this in favor of either the new IG line or something from 19-20. Like a dot or dot deluxe. Same pickups same ol Epi headstock, better woods. Just one mans opinion. Any questions about Epi 335s I can try to answer for you.
I think the darker finish on the Epiphone looks incredible compared to the Gibson, so it just comes down to personal taste. Epiphone have done an amazing job here.
@@Stephen_M. I believe in some of Alex Lifesons guitar collection,I think he had something like this in his collection. I believe it's in the fly by night video or anthem video.
@@rogercardenas111 I just recognized it as the album cover. (Old guy here, saw them all the way back in the fall of 1980 for the first time). They were so friggen tight it was insane!
I’m happy he reviews and documents all styles and brands. I know it’ll be a quality review and damn educational. I’ve based a couple purchases on his review. Thanks Austin!
Epiphone necks always feel like epiphones. I like the darker color. I would at least replace the bridge p-up. But for the price difference, with a good set up and new bridge pup, this is an amazing deal. The fact that it comes with a hard shell case blows my my mind, most under a grand, and some over, always come with a gig purse...
Do you like the lighter or darker brown hue?
🟢Gibson For Sale on My Website: www.troglysguitarshow.com
🔴Reverb: reverb.com/shop/troglys?_aid=growsumo&gs_partner=Trogly
❓Private Help Sessions: troglysguitarshow.com/help-appraisals/
Lighter you see more wood grain👍
Lighter
I like them both. The Epi sounds great.
Lighter
Having worked in the communications industry I've seen that " peace " symbol used regularly. It was always on a metal tag or plate affixed to utility poles.
Thank you! My son and I watched the video and he lost his mind. This was my first NGD purchase and could not have been happier with the review. Great experience. Thank you Gary and Grady
Great sounding and looking guitar. Thanks for allowing Trogly to review it. Hope you enjoy it. Cheers
Congrats! I thought this sounded better than the Gibson version compared to
I also like the lighter Gibson finish but beside that it sounded amazing to the point I forgot about the dark color! Great review as always. Thanks again!
Sounds great!
That finish will look nice under BRIGHT stage lights!
I got one of these about 3 weeks ago. I absolutely love it. Mine is dark also, but it plays as good as my Gibsons and the pickups are pretty impressive. In my opinion it is a steal for $900. These are under the radar so they should be available. If you are looking for a 335, you won't be disappointed, and you won't need a second mortgage.
Pfffft... Nowadays the price of a Gibson ES-335 is barely enough for a deposit in the hood. Sorry lol, I've been house hunting lately and your comment struck a chord in me. A financially frustrated one to be exact.
Just bought mine a few minutes ago. Lol I love the es335 but I’ve always preferred thin necks so when I heard this model had it… I HAD TO try it out
Pickups sound great! I like the darker wood myself. Different strokes!!
Welcome back everyone!
We mist you🎉😊
Ahhhhhhhh!!!! 🎉 I can’t believe it’s you! It’s been so long!!!
MMJ has been my favorite band for years. I'm glad Jim got some brand recognition. Next they need to give Carl a signature ebony LP with a Bigsby and p94 in the neck.
That's a great damn guitar, I want one! I think this is the closest Epiphone I've seen to the Gibson model, I really like it.
This beats the Gibson, sorry.
@@I-Libertine I totally agree
@@michaelpacinus242 You're right of course I guess I'll spend a little extra to buy the Gibson and then spend a little bit of extra time setting it up.
I, within the last year, bought 3 CV Squiers. A jazzmaster; jaguar and a mustang. They are all very well put together. Smooth fret-ends, working tremelo systems and great sounding!!!
Good for Epiphone!!!
One of these days, seeing how some budget guitar builders have stepped up their game, the only folks buying Gibsons and high-end Fenders, ect. may only be well to do folks or collectors.
There's no longer a need to spend thousands on a fantastic sounding and playing "guitar".
The Epiphone/Gibson sound comparison you did was excellent! The Epiphone is very nice but OMG that finish is dark - almost ebony like! That particular Laurel fretboard is very nice looking. It seems to be hit and miss/luck of the draw with respect to how good a fretboard you're getting with an Epiphone. Absolutely love those tuners!
That, (1974 ES-335 Gibson) was my first electric guitar and it was a let down. But, it wasn't their fault, it was a music shop that convinced my dad that Altec Lancing's speakers where better than Fender speakers and a Twin Reverb and I sounded like a sitar. 40 years Later I learned that when shopping in a music store. Cheers
I just realized epiphone doesn’t scrape the binding on the TOP of the guitar like Gibson, only the sides. That to me makes a huge difference in the look of the guitar from straight on and is one of the reasons the Gibsons look better IMO
Yes! And also binding is slightly thinner on the Epi.
I just got mine (May 2024). I crossed my fingers that it wouldn't be too dark (I ordered it online). I'd say it's *slightly* too dark. But! ....looks perfect in the sun and I think it will eventually fade over time. I am completely happy I got it (love Jim James)and look forward to life with it.
Sounds really good. As good as the Gibson to me, and for the price... I'd take the Epi any day.
Great vid! Presume the finish is dark to soften any inconsistencies / patching in the wood grain. No issues at this price point. Nice.
One of the best sounding guitars I've ever heard you review weird how it sounded better than the gibson
had a 71 ES-345 stereo walnut stolen......this made me cry
Shame, if they would have kept it a little lighter I would have been in.
All the examples I’ve seen are pretty dark. Good video
Epi is making some really great stuff of late.
Nugent tones remind me of his Byrdland days. I like the lighter brown of the Gibson’s. I like my inspired by Gibson Blueberry figured ES 335 also.
I have the Blueberry Burst too ....great guitar !!!
@@toddflowers8052I played the figured ice tea one at Guitar Center and I was impressed with the neck profile! Of course I've played on a bunch of Epiphones and I gotta say once properly set up this particular model feels just as nice as the Gibson.
Love it aside from the finish being too dark…don’t know why they did that.
Maybe the epiphany will fade some over time? And BTW the white owl is RUSH's logo, Jim James!!!
That sounds amazing!!!
Indeed
Literally bought a Vintage vsa in walnut the other day… love it.
I really gotta try and get my hands on one of these. Have always wanted a 335. This thing is nuts for the price 🤘🤘and of course my wife love's owls so maybe she'll let me get one 😉
I liked the Epiphone version and thought it stood up well against the Gibson. Thanks Trogly
Woot woot Trogly's guitars 🎸 🙌
You made the podium for today and earned a Bronze Medal.
Oh wow Epiphone did a fantastic job with this one. Only $899? Tempting. So very very tempting
I like the dark better if you catch the light right the grain shows fine looks like QC is better than the overpriced Explorer from yesterday thanks Gary for letting us check out your new Guitar 👍
From the playing demo I actually prefer the Epiphone all around ftom single note solo to chord playing. Just sounds more brilliant to me. The Gibson sounds a tad shallow. On a 335 I want to feel like I could dive deep in notes and the clarity is amazing.
Dang side by side the Epiphone sounds better!! Surprised anyone?? 😂
Agreed and yes I'm surprised. Both.
Same. I didn’t expect to but I much preferred the Epiphone pickups. Took me by surprise and makes me question how much value I put into “brand name” pickups.
@@michaelpacinus242 Pick up height would account for a difference in volume. There really wasn’t much difference in volume, Better, maybe more complex tone from the Epiphone.
Hard to tell, Trogs isn’t the greatest of players and isn’t known to dial in a tone. All pickups are different and have a different sweet spot. Too many variables, like with all guitars, to say one sounds better than the other.
@@michaelpacinus242 No, it increases the gain that’s it, smart ass.
Why buy the Gibson version?
Because it's made in the 🇺🇸...by well paid free people 🤷and better materials and craftsmanship 🫡
Congratulations on a beautiful and damn good sounding 🎸
My best SG is a Korean Epiphone. ( I own two Gibson SG’s)A few years ago I had my choice between two Epi ES-175’s. One was Korean one was made in China. I bought the Korean built one. I think I paid $335.
A Gibson Owl ! Dove, Humming Bird, Firebird, Owl, Nighthawk, Corvus, Raven, Byrdland
I like the dark of this Epi Jim James 335, over the lighter Gibson stain.
I love everything about modern Epiphone with the exception of the indian laurel fretboard. It's too porous and I can feel it when bending strings. My Standard 60's LP has it and I've only played the guitar once. Black walnut would've been a smoother answer to this.
I had an Epi Riviera in that finish many years back, (well a bit lighter than that.) and it was my #1 guitar to pick up daily,
and I did several gigs with it, and it was easily as good as any Gibson 335, I regrettably had to sell it to raise money for my
emigration from the U.K to where I am now, (Ireland) and I often miss it.
Epiphone`s are great affordable guitars, and I`ve had several since the Riviera, and plan to get another one next year.
I'm pleasantly pleased that Epiphone puts out such a beautiful and well playing guitar for a mere $988. I bought a used older Epiphone fofr $450, it's in pretty good shape but I wish I'd held off and spent a bet more on a this guitar. Well done Austin, you've definitely motivated me to buy a new Epiphone. I'd like to buy a Gibson and if I buy one you've convinced me to buy a Custom and that is way out of my budget so for now I'll be satisfied and happy with buying Epiphones. The Epiphone definitely has brighter tones whereas the Gibson is warmer sounding. Thank you Austin, take care.
Hi, great review, after seeing it I bought it too, what string gauge did you use for this type of guitar? 010, 011, 012?
I recently bought this at a bargain price, almost 50%off. All new, not played at all, even with the fresh factory strings buuut with a neck repair done by a luthier. Mostly just the finish near the nut.
I was a little afraid but oh man what a great decision, this guitar is amazing! No problems with tuning, a rock solid guitar.
I would hate to have recently bought a Gibson semi-hollowbody and then saw this video.
The balance and clarity of those pickups is pretty nice. With a good EQ pedal you could do a LOT wit them.
The bridge pickups on the Epi and the Gibby sound incredibly close, and the Epi's neck pickup is darker and fuller sounding. Nothing wrong with that.
FYI that looks more like 5ply, most epiphones are made like that. Three really thin ones and the two in between are thicker. Now, whether that's poplar or just thicker maple, or maybe just maple with the grain set to 90º compared to the other three layers, which would explain the color difference, who knows...
I like it sounds good to me. Very nice guitar 😊😊
That sounds beautiful!
I have a question! Which one do you prefer between Epi ubukata 355(ver.2) and this one...?
Hey, the Epiphone pickups are a lot better now They actually sound like they’re in the ballpark of a PAF. They used to be so muddy and flabby sounding. I actually liked them more than the pickups in the Gibson.
The bass tone is excellent!🔈🎸 Great dirty tones!
That light streak down the fretboard looks nice. I have to agree lighter would have been better just because so beautiful and you dont see them in that color ever
Neck was the biggest difference. Middle and bridge was close to same
I though it was just my ES-335 case. Mine has a couple latches that don't line up. My 2003 ES-335 case ) older Custom Shop) is way better! Come on Gibson. When you spend that much for a CS guitar you expect a better case...
What height did you set the pickups at for the Epiphone?
I’m digging the sound from this guitar
It's called silk screened ,as far as the owl on the Gibsons case,but you still rock trogly. 🤣👍
Definitely got that ‘70s BROWN right. I wonder if it’s just the difference between a thin nitro finish on the Gibson and a thick poly finish on the Epiphone.
Epiphone has really come a long ways
Far from needing another instrument at all, let alone another Epiphone model, let alone another semi-hollow (as much as this one rocks), I'm going to repeat something that I have put in to previous comments. The best part was when you kicked on the dirt, Trogly. Not remotely enough rock guitar players use both overdrive and semi-hollow instruments like this one. The ones I can name include Ted Nugent, Alvin Lee, Brian May and Paul McCartney. I've been trying to demonstrate how well it can be done for years now.
I can dig it, @Cataclysmic Converter . It's May 2023, and I am painstakingly aiming to make '23 the year I kick GAS in the a**. No telling if I will let it kick me back next year, but I'm set on not getting any equipment this one.
The model that I have to quench my thirst for my own ES-type guitar is a 1980 Yamaha SA-2000. If I didn't remember consciously that's what it is, I could probably fool myself into thinking I had an actual ES-335 or 345. I made sure to include it on several deep cracks from my last solo record, *Another Game to Play.*
Try to get one of them back, @@cataclysmicconverter. Mine is wine red,and it's awesome!
how about Oasis? their whole sound when they broke through was based on cranked epiphone sheratons and rivieras - and the sound was huge, tracks like aquiesce, the swamp song and all the esrly stuff
If they could have duplicated the the lighter finish I would snag one of those up right away
I'm really surprised it's so dark, normally Epi's are brighter or more vivid than the Gibsons...seems to be a great player & value!
Yep, that's why I have no problem with Epiphone. You go eppi.
Myself I prefer the dark finish reminds me of the blood ox do they make this in a Lefty?
Another great job by Epiphone. Of course Gibson is on a whole different level, but I respect Epiphone more. They may sacrifice some of the niceties for price savings, but Epiphone does SO much more with what they’ve got. Gibson too often over charges and under performs. I do NOT respect that.
We need a Epiphone Buckethead signature!!!
I played this guitar at Guitar Center and it has a similar neck profile as an Korean made Epiphone, very thin!
Sounds good.
I love that dark brown colour on a es335.
That guitar sound badass
👍
Greetings Andy
@@sgt.grinch3299 Hi ya Sgt
They're all dark.
Huge Epi 335 guy. Own 10 currently.
I passed on this model because all the pictures made it look like an ebony finish.
To be perfectly honest, you can get a same quality Epi 335 for a lot less. Unless the Owl and Name attached are worth the extra to you, I'd suggest skipping this in favor of either the new IG line or something from 19-20. Like a dot or dot deluxe. Same pickups same ol Epi headstock, better woods.
Just one mans opinion. Any questions about Epi 335s I can try to answer for you.
this thing sounds fantastic.
I might actually order one. hmmmm
I’m impressed
I think the darker finish on the Epiphone looks incredible compared to the Gibson, so it just comes down to personal taste. Epiphone have done an amazing job here.
I just purchased one, and I thought that the finish was also dark.other than that, I am happy with my purchase.
Lovely guitar and it sounds excellent.
How do everyone?!
All I can hear is fret buzz in clear sound in both epi and Gibson, I suggest to review your setup man;
Nice guitar, shame its so dark! It almost looks black unless you catch the light right.
Fly by night!?!?? Owl on the case.
Right?!
My first thought before he opened the case was "Rush, Fly By Night"!
And I could hear Alex strumming those opening chords.
@@Stephen_M. I believe in some of Alex Lifesons guitar collection,I think he had something like this in his collection. I believe it's in the fly by night video or anthem video.
@@rogercardenas111 I just recognized it as the album cover. (Old guy here, saw them all the way back in the fall of 1980 for the first time). They were so friggen tight it was insane!
@@Stephen_M. cool I didn't get see them until the 1985-1986 Power Windows tour. Ever since then I've seen every tour from that point.
Im very impressed by this model. I like it a lot.
yeee
Well done, you earned a Silver Medal
Trogly , please demo an Eastman 486. We need to see and hear your take
Good sounding guitar! 👍
Would love to see the Epi ‘Wino’!! Please don’t make me do a NGD! Lol
p/ups sound great
Looks like they forgot the walnut on the walnut model. Finish looks far too dark...
Stain is too dark, it looks black on camera.
I’m happy he reviews and documents all styles and brands.
I know it’ll be a quality review and damn educational.
I’ve based a couple purchases on his review.
Thanks Austin!
Didn't know there's Gibson version 😅. Gotta watch that version first, then! Come back soon!
This thing is awesome
Chitarra fantastica, l’ho comprata dopo aver visto questo video. Grazie
🎸🎶💥
those Gibson pickups sound weak next to that Epiphone
Your Insta post was just pics of the Gibson one.
✌️
Peace Peace Hector
Whats the first riff that he plays?
Epiphone finishes are the draw back thick finishes kill resonance
Epiphone necks always feel like epiphones. I like the darker color. I would at least replace the bridge p-up. But for the price difference, with a good set up and new bridge pup, this is an amazing deal. The fact that it comes with a hard shell case blows my my mind, most under a grand, and some over, always come with a gig purse...
Is a hollow body press board guitar really worth over $500? Gibson are overpriced in general.
That’s how they are often made. High end are made this way to by Gretsch and the like.