I take my hat off to you mate. Honest reviews and a passion for guitars. Love the channel, your honesty in reviewing guitars and its what has made me come back here. A music shop sponsor would probably ease the pain for the pocket... but hey we are all here for a good time and unfortunately not a long time. Love squier guitars which is more my budget and bought the 59 epi based on your review. They still play great so no complaints here. Happy wife happy life. Well done mate. 👏
You are a gem, Colin. Many thanks again for all that you do - straight talk, great playing and your "everyman" style of presentation adds up to be a great package. Sadly, I have just finished my christmas cake - may need to bake another to prepare for next weeks stringfest.
Hey Colin I found a bright red Les Paul shaped object in my mates shed so I gave him 30 bucks, took it home and started sanding the red paint off and boy did all my Christmas's come at once when I revealed a black les paul custom. I did some research and it turns out to be an an Ibanez "Lawsuit" Les Paul copy only made in 74 and 75. Hands down, my favourite guitar except the really expensive vintage stuff. Its been badly abused and needs a lot of paint restoration but its the real deal!
Hi Colin! When watching this video, I realized that I saw each one of these that you reviewed and remember them pretty well. It's funny when you say that you have a love/hate relationship with Gibson because I share that sentiment 100%. They're so damn inconsistent but when Gibson does actually get it right, they're magic. It's too bad that they're hit/miss ratio is what it is. The two guitars from your channel that stick out in my mind the most from this year are SG's. One was the black one that you did a few weeks ago. If you remember I raved about that one. The other one was the white non Gibson one that you got from the French luthier that was made out of steel. That one was unique. I've never seen or played anything like that before. I'm glad that I found your channel, and I really enjoy your serious deep dives that are not taken seriously. The year is not over yet, but I'm looking forward to another year of deep dives and whatever else you choose to present. I share a lot of your tastes in music and when I'm watching your videos, I feel like I'm watching a kindred spirit. Cheers man!✌
Me too - a kindred spirit! The Gibson thing is . . . difficult. Wonderful classics and disappointing 'whatevers'. Here in HK there is a terrific shop with about 40 Gibsons and 30 or so Epiphones. I drop in and play them all (I'm allowed - paying customer for 3 Epis) and it's fascinating for me - there's a 'mildly distressed' Gibson Murphy Lab LP Standard for just under USD 10,000 that's actually quite nice . . .feels good, sounds lovely . . . but that's rent on my apartment for a few months so maybe no. They also have a Murphy Lab Ultra (mildly distressed )1968 LP Custom re-issue but it's up on the wall - too high to reach! I'm gonna check it out because I have a 1968 LP Custom and interested to compare. It's going for USD 7K or so - I bought mine back in 1974 when I was 18 for NZD 800 . . . let's see how this 'relic' re-issue compares 😀PS - I hope my reply is not out of line and, Colin, please feel free to delete if I'm going on too much. Just love talkin' guitars.
@@mortonwilson795 I had the experience of briefly playing a real 1957 gold top LP once, but without plugging it into an amp. It felt and acoustically sounded exactly like the reissues so I'm guessing the 1968 will be pretty close. Cheers from Puerto Rico! 👋
I didn't see your video at first... then I thought it was an impersonator because you don't have on your signature flannel shirt. What a FUN year and what a great collection of videos and wonderful reviews. Let's do it again! Wait, no you do it and we will watch. Stay warm and keep up the good work... Happy holidays and CHEERS to you, my friend. Now it's time to put on my flannel shirt and practice, well maybe another sticky bun and coffee...
Dear Colin, I wish to thank you/blame you for my newly acquired guitar addiction (henceforth, referred to as "fondness".) Having never picked up a guitar before covid, I only just started playing when I heard my son strumming his Epiphone Special II. At that moment, I heard a bell--I raced to the front door to see who was there--no not that kind of bell. I was the only one who heard this particular bell, but it was loud and clear, and that is where my journey to learn began--without addiction--but with a great desire to learn to play. After growing out of my son's Special II, I bought an Epiphone Custom Pro Silverburst off Craigslist (zero scratches) but as you have mentioned about "niggling doubts", there was something that began to nag at me a bit. This one seems to have a richlite fingerboard. I do love it. I really do, but I have decided to sell it. Today (12-16-22) my brand new Epiphone Les Paul Custom Ebony arrived from Sweetwater. As I've learned from you (and from life) there's always some sort of shortcoming so instead of Grover tuners, it came with (Grover owned) Wilkinson tuners. I know that will gnaw at me until I get a set of Grovers, which will set me back another hundred. All in all, it's a fantastically beautiful guitar! I love it already! Now, as to my new... fondness. I've become enthralled by your thorough investigation and examination of the guitars you purchase and present. It is particularly significant for us viewers that you purchase the guitars with your own money because it makes you quite bold to speak your mind about the wondrous and less wonderous attributes of each guitar. As I've read in other comments, I can safely say we all very much appreciate you for your candidness. In my fondness for more and more information, I find myself wondering about the date of, and location of, manufacture of each guitar. For example, the Epiphones are easily identified by the serial number on the headstock. If you wouldn't mind integrating such information in the future it would greatly satisfy one of my fondest needs to know as much as possible about the guitars. By the by, I'm more of an indie filmmaker/writer by trade. To that end, I know you like punk and such. I've recently finished a music video for a local Punk/Rock band here in Austin. Please give it a look if you get a chance. Tommy Orphan and the boys in the Dead Cat Collars would be honored if the Knowledgista of the Guitaristas would check it out. I recommend viewing on as large a screen as possible, and cranking the volume: ruclips.net/video/h8Xpwzx8-sw/видео.html Cheers, Gary
Hey Gary, thanks for the kind words and support mate sorry for delay this was found In the spam folder as RUclips doesn’t like links. Will try to check that out and thanks for the support man… welcome to guitar addicts club! 😆👍👍
Hello Colin. Happy Holidays to you sir. Just want to you to know how much I’ve enjoyed your channel and all your hard work you do to put these videos together. Much appreciated man. Your channel has become one of my go-to pass times. Keep up the awesome work. Can’t wait to see what 2023 brings. GOD bless!!!
You apologise for potentially spoiling things for those who aren’t looking for faults like yourself, but I for one want to know (warts and all) exactly what I’m potentially getting into when parting with my hard earned cash. It’s one of the many factors why I love your films and I’m glad that I found your channel.
It was a fun year. Thanks for the entertainment along the way, and no need to apologize for your honesty. I think there are plenty of reviews out there that may not be as critical as they should be. It's like a roller-coaster ride with you Colin....you make me want something and then not want it at the same time. 😄
Colin at home, chillin'. What a treat. And what a year! Seen 'em all - many more than once, because you go where we can't always go and I think it would be fair to say I am not the only one here who appreciates that. I have only jumped back into even considering buying guitars this last year or so for reasons I won't go into but Epi Casino, the 59 Gibson collab & the Cantrell Wino are now in the house. All guitars with 'bones' and all get some mods - Lollar & Monty's. Really happy you profiled some Eastman's - I just can't get my hands on them - HK agent doesn't sell solid bodies but the SB59/v ( or not - SB57 with nitro) and the newish Juliet line just look and sound amazing . . . I can finally travel next year now that HK has dropped the 2 week imprisonment + whatever else (cannot go into restaurants etc) after a trip so maybe I can check them out in Seoul or Tokyo. If I win the lottery I will be over to UK in a flash and take 'Scratch' off your hands with love - it may have been an 'issue' for you but when you put it up against the Eastman I thought it was pretty cool! Chill for the next few weeks and reminisce - you are perfectly entitled to sit back and I (and I imagine lots of others here) look forward to your thoughts! 😃Cheers.
Colin, I dove head first into the world of guitars after turning 60. I have built nearly 75 guitars since and have also started to learn to play, and your channel gives me continued hope that an older dude can make a go of this hobby and have a blast. I have watched a zillion hours of guitar related channels but I always come back to yours when I need a breather and an in-depth real worl review...thank you so much! Peace my friend and Merry Christmas.
Great comment "I've never done this before" as you proceed to pull the wiring from the Tokai LP. What could go wrong? LOL, glad you managed to get it back together.
I like the way you approach each guitar and I'm 58 ride a Harley and have been playing since I was 15 I grew up listening to the Beatles first and everything else after . I like older rock at 15 AC/DC was my favorite band I grew up listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd and Clapton Yard birds and Zeplin real RocknRoll
Such a pleasure to watch you rock and listen to your stories! The greatest human invention of all time is the electric guitar, bar none, for me! You have no idea, how much i would like to join you for a jam! Well done Colin, love from Switzerland🎸🤘🎸
You must have the patience of a saint. I've given up buying from big box retailers now sight-unseen. There was a brief period where it was "the new way" but they quickly started taking the pi$$ and buying up all the B stock and factory seconds and palming them off for full RRP. If you complain they give you the run around before offering £50 off. Its not academic returning guitars .. and the more expensive the more risky. Just stress I can do without. I happily pay +25% now and patronise my local "store" (a guy with a storage unit and a website) who hand selects and prepares. Full circle.
A year in review of PLAID!!!! Fantastic to witness just how masterful your films are... A real treat for guitar nerds like me! Cheers to a whole new year of even more greatness... I can hardly wait!😜😜😜👹
I still haven't been able to watch all your videos, but I want to say here, the Loop with the ass video is without a doubt the best video I've ever watched in my entire life!!! 👏👏👏👏
Thats quite a collection of Gibson/Gibson style guitars. As Im mainly a Strat player Ive no idea why your channel has become one of my favourites, it must be your sparkling personality and your playing, so heres to 2023 and more humbuckers and 3 a side headstock tuners ;)
Greetings from the US, I just wanted to tell you that I absolutely love your channel. I own only a few guitars,a couple of Epiphone LP and a hybrid that I put together out of a Ibanez body and a Strat neck(plays great) but my wife just bought me my first Gibson LP. I just wanted to tell you that we watch ur channel and we both enjoy it and I have learned so much from you. Thank you so much and we wish you a very Merry Christmas 🤶
You just made me and my wife so happy!! I have watched all of ur videos and I have learned SO SO much from you. And for you to take the time to reply to my post has made me feel honored!! I look forward to every new video.I wish you many more years of enjoying your guitar's and making videos that are the best! Can I ask, what part of the UK 🇬🇧 are you from? There,as in America the accents change according to the locations of which you are from and I personally have always loved the way you guys say "me" in place of "I". "I opened me guitar case". Thank you again for responding. May God bless you and keep you safe.
Also I want to convert the bridge on my Epiphones to the small pin ABR-1 Nashville Bridge type. What brand do you recommend for that. I would like to just swap them without any problems or issues and I value your opinion the most. Thank you for your time.
@@b.tee.2600 Check out my film: 'Tokai Love Rock Les Paul Standard - Can We Make it Sound Better than a Gibson?'... the parts I use here will fit 2019+ Epiphones (inspired by Gibson range) and all links in the description box! Cheers 😎👍
I got a 1982 Japanese Tokai Love Rock about 10 years ago for 800 Canadian. It's an amazing guitar. The original case was in shreds, abs the guitar had a lot of serious dings and a Bigsby added. I took the Bigsby off two years ago and put an aluminum Greco tailpiece on it. When i bought it, the Tokai label on the headstock was swapped for a Gibson one. When i bring it to gigs, players freak out at me for bringing a vintage Les Paul to a bar.
My ears never fail to change their minds between hearing a video comparison and hearing the same comparison a few months later. I was absolutely convinced that the LP Studio sounded better than the Tribute, but now the opposite seems true. Same with some of the individual guitars. Some of the ones I thought sounded lacking sound good here in the reruns, and vise versa.
Such a wonderful year! I've slowed waayyy down on buying, and have settled into a nice 5-guitar electric roster, but you've been a constant presence in my home all year!
As always Colin great to watch you do your thing, I’m 68 but I’m still 19 when it comes to guitars and playing them keep up the great work. I’m glad I’m not the only crazy old joker buying guitars out there.😂😂😂
We spent the whole year with you on all the adventures! It's perfect time to lounge with Colin having a nice toddy, keeping warm and enjoying the ambiance 🍸🍹🍷🥃
Colin from the big chair summing up a year in guitars is great 👍It’s not giving me GAS and costing me any money 😎🥳🍺 The SG is fast becoming my favourite guitar to play .Thanks for a great fun year of Friday videos man 🙏 Nice chair 😎👍
@@theguitaristas credit where credit's due mate. Too many bombastic 'sports guitar', Al Do-Me-Omework, Adidas plectrum wielding, 'I finished first!', widdle merchants about for my liking. So it's great to see someone approaching their instrument with FEEL. You may not be the best player in the world (neither am I for that matter), but where you win, over the more technically proficient players, is in your evident passion for what you do. All power to you ✊
Great year in review top of list is that Tokai… with the Murray’s… out of the box it’s the Eastman… thank you for all your hard work … been pure honest fun … roll on 2023
I think I watched all of those episodes except for the looper. Not sure how I missed it since you’ve become a regular here every Friday. Looking forward to the next one.
The bevels are a complete mystery on the 1961 SG. Supposedly that's how the custom shop dose it. I wonder if the mystery will be solved. Great video Colin nadolig llawen (merry Christmas as we say in Wales). Great video as always. Can't wait to see what next year brings for the guitaristas
This SG Junior from 69, really is badass, sounds great. Nice playing with the Tokai LP, a lovely guitar, the Eastman just sounds magical, there is depth and emotion,no harshness at all, amazing instrument 👌
Great review of 2022 part 1, lots of nice guitars 👍 I just wanted to say something about the Gibson 50's Les Paul which I also own in Gold Top. I can understand the sentiment about the Gibson as a company. But this Les Paul Standards today are great in terms of how they are made, how they feel and sound. The burstbucker pickups are outstanding. I think that today Les Paul Standards are build as they should be and Gibson is finally on the right track again after some troubled years. Happy to hear that more parts of the review are coming in the next weeks. Cheers!
Hello Colin, well this year was a grand guitar year for me. If you may recall, just a week ago I got my Gibson Les Paul 50s standard tobacco burst. Every time I open the case, that dear familar smell, Nitro Cellulose, like the Candy Store and also simple admiration of the guitar before I pick it up😍it's just lovin' it each and every time. My Tele has been sitting unpetted for days 🤣so now I will enjoy your latest video of your collection. God Bless and take care
Nice idea for this video Colin. Good to see my Tribute on the channel one more time. Rest assured it’s in a good home being played. I don’t have any Gibson baggage to get in the way 😂
I started to play again so I needed a guitar for that obviously. Started wanting a Yamaha Revstar, found your channel in the search for what to buy and ended up with an Epiphone SG Standard Vibrola, which I'm loving to death. Probably thanks to you for a big part :-) Thanks for the videos!
Thank you. I can't even imagine how much work it has been for you running the channel and making these videos. Looking forward to what the new year will bring. Keep them coming, but before that, have a happy holidays and remember to have a little time to rest and relax. But I guess the love for guitars doesn't know holidays.
Lounging! Eastman products (double cut, 59, 56 goldtop, Romeo, a pair of Juilette) and PRS's S2 Satin series (Vela, Vela Semi, Studio) have really opened my eyes to lighter and more primal designs. The totally unexpected discovery was a 2007 PRS CE 22 with the most amazing maple neck ever. I guess my design oriented taste, my love of lovely wood on display, lead to GAS not for the player, but the luthier-wanabe. So many of your discoveries and comments aligned with my perception that it feels like a pub-mate telling me what's-what and me nodding. I consider myself an honorary Guitaristas Magpie, especially if I look how your discoveries affected my the breath and size of the collection. Craftsmanship in guitars is such a powerful attraction.
Cheers Stephane, I guess it’s my turn to try PRS next year? 🤔 I just need plainer tops and dots to make it ok! 😆 in the meantime I may have a Juliette incoming …😜👍
@@theguitaristas There are absolutely lovely PRS S2 models that harken to the simplicity of a "Special". I strongly lean towards the Satin open-pore models. And there is the SE line where the models that have hit a plateau get a 2nd wind. I have an S2 Mira and an SE Mira and it just makes sense that more folks can afford SEs, even on such "stripped down" design. The "Epiphone" effect. But I think the Vela is the standout PRS design. If I had my way, I would ask them to make a maple-bolt-on-neck variant, with the Studio series HSS configuration. But that's just Magpie logic. Juliette with 2 x P90s I bet!!! She's unexpectedly curvy and fine ;)
I love this channel. Quite a few times I barked out a laugh. Oh, that toggle switch you were fussing with was just too funny. Anyway, keep up the fun. I'm looking forward to the next one.
My most recent Gibson is the Studio but the smokehouse burst. Its bloody great! I had to sell my Tribute to make space/fund the Studio. It was the satin black and I loved it! I used to play that way more than i did my 2014 standard, which is still have and it still looks amazing!
Great videos in 2022. Thank you. You are one of the few channels that when I see a new upload I have to watch it right away. And your playing is great. Thanks for helping us with our GAS and to make better choices.
Hi Colin, during 2022, It has been my weekly treasured, pleasure to watch your funny and sincere videos, including your great chops, thank you very much indeed for all. Happy lounging and happy Christmas to you, and if you talk to Ben, send my regards as well please. Cheers Mate.
Great video thanks Colin. Due to your critique of these guitars you convinced me to buy a Gibson Les Paul Studio, and I absolutely love her. It’s the first electric I’ve owned but I’ve had a quality acoustic for 40ish years. Now I’m hooked on electric guitars, thanks so much and I look forward to your vids and hearing you play every week. 😊🎸🙏🏼
Colin loved this overview (part 1 no less!) Your various guitars you purchased in 2022, excellent! Also loved the Since I've Been Loving You by Led Zeppelin at the end, great stuff mate!
Hi Colin, thank you for another year full of interesting, honest videos. Like the JCM 900 sitting on top of a 1960 TV in the background of your lounge 🙂
Colin, your partner deserves accolades also. She is no doubt a wonderful lady. I could tell you about relations severed over guitars. Always, a wonderful video which make us all look forward to Friday. "Friday on My Mind" has taken on a new meaning. Cheers!
The gold top tokai update was the one I found you through and your hassles with the wiring loom confirmed my suspicion that these aren't easy to use frankly. But brilliant series.
Great year of reviews, and fantastic playing. Could you do a review of the Les Paul modern, it’s got quite a few features not found on your typical LP and I know you’d do a through review.
No need to apologise so much! You give totally fair criticism, and just given your honest opinion. Aside from feeding my addiction, you're thoroughly entertaining and informative.
I found your channel this year I believe and even though we might have really different taste in both guitars and playing (I like when they look like you could stab someone with it and the music that goes with it), I fairly enjoyed every single video of yours I've seen so far! I always liked those vintage guitars, if not for playing, then for looking at them (the few I've played felt nice though) and I just really vibe with the kind of film you're making, your honest, throughout and straight forward approach to it all, topped off by tasteful jamming and a beautiful british english... I'm looking forward to what's about to come, keep up the great work!
Love your channel Colin. Like you 2022 has been the year of Eastman for me. I've built up a nice little guitar collection over the past few years... a couple of Fender Custom-Shop guitars and a lovely PRS DGT, but I've been suffering seller's remorse for some time after letting a couple of vintage Gibsons go a few years back. That all changed this year after buying an Eastman SB55DCv (Junior) and a T59v (ES335-355). The two Eastmans that I own feel like the old Gibsons that I sold and sound as good or better than Gibson Custom-Shop guitars that I've owned... at a third of the price. So now the only Gibson I own is a 1996 Les Paul which I've upgraded with a 50's wiring harness and Lollar Imperials like in your Eastman. I can honestly say that I won't be buying another Gibson any time soon... and for the first time in my life I can say that I'm totally happy with my lot.
I take my hat off to you mate. Honest reviews and a passion for guitars. Love the channel, your honesty in reviewing guitars and its what has made me come back here. A music shop sponsor would probably ease the pain for the pocket... but hey we are all here for a good time and unfortunately not a long time. Love squier guitars which is more my budget and bought the 59 epi based on your review. They still play great so no complaints here. Happy wife happy life. Well done mate. 👏
True I appreciate that Colin reviews are impartial and fair.
Colin says what we all want to know. There’s no fluff, and his playing is great, I love his style. He’s perfect. Easily my favorite channel.
If you haven't checked out his channel I highly recommend it. And it helps him keep this ad free.
Quite the collection! A stunning year of great videos we all appreciate!
You are a gem, Colin.
Many thanks again for all that you do - straight talk, great playing and your "everyman" style of presentation adds up to be a great package.
Sadly, I have just finished my christmas cake - may need to bake another to prepare for next weeks stringfest.
Hey Colin I found a bright red Les Paul shaped object in my mates shed so I gave him 30 bucks, took it home and started sanding the red paint off and boy did all my Christmas's come at once when I revealed a black les paul custom. I did some research and it turns out to be an an Ibanez "Lawsuit" Les Paul copy only made in 74 and 75. Hands down, my favourite guitar except the really expensive vintage stuff. Its been badly abused and needs a lot of paint restoration but its the real deal!
Oh boy!... pictures on the TV channel forum please!! 😃
Thanks for your videos Colin. I think this channel is definitely my favourite on RUclips 👍
Hi Colin! When watching this video, I realized that I saw each one of these that you reviewed and remember them pretty well. It's funny when you say that you have a love/hate relationship with Gibson because I share that sentiment 100%. They're so damn inconsistent but when Gibson does actually get it right, they're magic. It's too bad that they're hit/miss ratio is what it is. The two guitars from your channel that stick out in my mind the most from this year are SG's. One was the black one that you did a few weeks ago. If you remember I raved about that one. The other one was the white non Gibson one that you got from the French luthier that was made out of steel. That one was unique. I've never seen or played anything like that before.
I'm glad that I found your channel, and I really enjoy your serious deep dives that are not taken seriously. The year is not over yet, but I'm looking forward to another year of deep dives and whatever else you choose to present. I share a lot of your tastes in music and when I'm watching your videos, I feel like I'm watching a kindred spirit.
Cheers man!✌
Me too - a kindred spirit! The Gibson thing is . . . difficult. Wonderful classics and disappointing 'whatevers'. Here in HK there is a terrific shop with about 40 Gibsons and 30 or so Epiphones. I drop in and play them all (I'm allowed - paying customer for 3 Epis) and it's fascinating for me - there's a 'mildly distressed' Gibson Murphy Lab LP Standard for just under USD 10,000 that's actually quite nice . . .feels good, sounds lovely . . . but that's rent on my apartment for a few months so maybe no. They also have a Murphy Lab Ultra (mildly distressed )1968 LP Custom re-issue but it's up on the wall - too high to reach! I'm gonna check it out because I have a 1968 LP Custom and interested to compare. It's going for USD 7K or so - I bought mine back in 1974 when I was 18 for NZD 800 . . . let's see how this 'relic' re-issue compares 😀PS - I hope my reply is not out of line and, Colin, please feel free to delete if I'm going on too much. Just love talkin' guitars.
@@mortonwilson795 I had the experience of briefly playing a real 1957 gold top LP once, but without plugging it into an amp. It felt and acoustically sounded exactly like the reissues so I'm guessing the 1968 will be pretty close.
Cheers from Puerto Rico! 👋
Glad you brought arse looping back even as a replay. Denim cant hide your talent.
Arse looping is the guitar technique of 2022. Thank you for a year of awesome videos. PS you need an Orville 😹
I didn't see your video at first... then I thought it was an impersonator because you don't have on your signature flannel shirt. What a FUN year and what a great collection of videos and wonderful reviews. Let's do it again! Wait, no you do it and we will watch. Stay warm and keep up the good work... Happy holidays and CHEERS to you, my friend. Now it's time to put on my flannel shirt and practice, well maybe another sticky bun and coffee...
Yeah I was in disguise this week! 🤣👍
@@theguitaristas Name's Bond, James Bond
@@theguitaristas I just posted a video of me jamming with Jeff Beck
Dear Colin,
I wish to thank you/blame you for my newly acquired guitar addiction (henceforth, referred to as "fondness".) Having never picked up a guitar before covid, I only just started playing when I heard my son strumming his Epiphone Special II. At that moment, I heard a bell--I raced to the front door to see who was there--no not that kind of bell. I was the only one who heard this particular bell, but it was loud and clear, and that is where my journey to learn began--without addiction--but with a great desire to learn to play. After growing out of my son's Special II, I bought an Epiphone Custom Pro Silverburst off Craigslist (zero scratches) but as you have mentioned about "niggling doubts", there was something that began to nag at me a bit. This one seems to have a richlite fingerboard. I do love it. I really do, but I have decided to sell it. Today (12-16-22) my brand new Epiphone Les Paul Custom Ebony arrived from Sweetwater. As I've learned from you (and from life) there's always some sort of shortcoming so instead of Grover tuners, it came with (Grover owned) Wilkinson tuners. I know that will gnaw at me until I get a set of Grovers, which will set me back another hundred. All in all, it's a fantastically beautiful guitar! I love it already!
Now, as to my new... fondness. I've become enthralled by your thorough investigation and examination of the guitars you purchase and present. It is particularly significant for us viewers that you purchase the guitars with your own money because it makes you quite bold to speak your mind about the wondrous and less wonderous attributes of each guitar. As I've read in other comments, I can safely say we all very much appreciate you for your candidness. In my fondness for more and more information, I find myself wondering about the date of, and location of, manufacture of each guitar. For example, the Epiphones are easily identified by the serial number on the headstock. If you wouldn't mind integrating such information in the future it would greatly satisfy one of my fondest needs to know as much as possible about the guitars.
By the by, I'm more of an indie filmmaker/writer by trade. To that end, I know you like punk and such. I've recently finished a music video for a local Punk/Rock band here in Austin. Please give it a look if you get a chance. Tommy Orphan and the boys in the Dead Cat Collars would be honored if the Knowledgista of the Guitaristas would check it out. I recommend viewing on as large a screen as possible, and cranking the volume: ruclips.net/video/h8Xpwzx8-sw/видео.html
Cheers, Gary
Hey Gary, thanks for the kind words and support mate sorry for delay this was found In the spam folder as RUclips doesn’t like links. Will try to check that out and thanks for the support man… welcome to guitar addicts club! 😆👍👍
@@theguitaristas Love all of you videos. I've binge watched many of them over the past several weeks. You're a gem, Colin. 🎸
I like year end reviews. Getting very cold here in Texas, USA too. Got my hot tea and I am ready! take it away!
Guitar term of the day - Arse-Looping. That was hysterical!
this is such a comfy channel to watch
Hello Colin. Happy Holidays to you sir. Just want to you to know how much I’ve enjoyed your channel and all your hard work you do to put these videos together. Much appreciated man. Your channel has become one of my go-to pass times. Keep up the awesome work. Can’t wait to see what 2023 brings. GOD bless!!!
Have a great Christmas and keep on rocking in the free world !!!
You apologise for potentially spoiling things for those who aren’t looking for faults like yourself, but I for one want to know (warts and all) exactly what I’m potentially getting into when parting with my hard earned cash. It’s one of the many factors why I love your films and I’m glad that I found your channel.
It was a fun year. Thanks for the entertainment along the way, and no need to apologize for your honesty. I think there are plenty of reviews out there that may not be as critical as they should be. It's like a roller-coaster ride with you Colin....you make me want something and then not want it at the same time. 😄
Colin at home, chillin'. What a treat. And what a year! Seen 'em all - many more than once, because you go where we can't always go and I think it would be fair to say I am not the only one here who appreciates that. I have only jumped back into even considering buying guitars this last year or so for reasons I won't go into but Epi Casino, the 59 Gibson collab & the Cantrell Wino are now in the house. All guitars with 'bones' and all get some mods - Lollar & Monty's. Really happy you profiled some Eastman's - I just can't get my hands on them - HK agent doesn't sell solid bodies but the SB59/v ( or not - SB57 with nitro) and the newish Juliet line just look and sound amazing . . . I can finally travel next year now that HK has dropped the 2 week imprisonment + whatever else (cannot go into restaurants etc) after a trip so maybe I can check them out in Seoul or Tokyo. If I win the lottery I will be over to UK in a flash and take 'Scratch' off your hands with love - it may have been an 'issue' for you but when you put it up against the Eastman I thought it was pretty cool! Chill for the next few weeks and reminisce - you are perfectly entitled to sit back and I (and I imagine lots of others here) look forward to your thoughts! 😃Cheers.
Cheers man, glad they are letting you roam free at last!
Colin, I dove head first into the world of guitars after turning 60. I have built nearly 75 guitars since and have also started to learn to play, and your channel gives me continued hope that an older dude can make a go of this hobby and have a blast. I have watched a zillion hours of guitar related channels but I always come back to yours when I need a breather and an in-depth real worl review...thank you so much! Peace my friend and Merry Christmas.
That's excellent... sounds like you got that guitar gas worse than me! 😆👍 Thanks for kind words and support its appreciated 🙏
What a year Colin, you don’t help my GAS but saying that, I feel more informed and really appreciate your view.
Great comment "I've never done this before" as you proceed to pull the wiring from the Tokai LP. What could go wrong? LOL, glad you managed to get it back together.
Absolutely the best guitar channel on RUclips ! Thanks !
Thanks mate! 😁🙏
I like the way you approach each guitar and I'm 58 ride a Harley and have been playing since I was 15 I grew up listening to the Beatles first and everything else after . I like older rock at 15 AC/DC was my favorite band I grew up listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd and Clapton Yard birds and Zeplin real RocknRoll
@@motorcyclemark2889 Love my bikes too Mark! 😁🏍👌
That is what I and I can not speak for everyone, but I bet everyone and myself like your honesty in your great reviews. All videos are always great.
So many guitars, so little time. Thanks Colin. You have done Yeoman's work.
Cheers mate!
Such a pleasure to watch you rock and listen to your stories! The greatest human invention of all time is the electric guitar, bar none, for me! You have no idea, how much i would like to join you for a jam! Well done Colin, love from Switzerland🎸🤘🎸
You must have the patience of a saint. I've given up buying from big box retailers now sight-unseen. There was a brief period where it was "the new way" but they quickly started taking the pi$$ and buying up all the B stock and factory seconds and palming them off for full RRP. If you complain they give you the run around before offering £50 off. Its not academic returning guitars .. and the more expensive the more risky. Just stress I can do without. I happily pay +25% now and patronise my local "store" (a guy with a storage unit and a website) who hand selects and prepares. Full circle.
Those thoughts Have ran through my mind lately. I want to hold it and play it and see if it's for me.
Great year Colin merry xmas and happy new guitar year 🎸👍
For autos and bikes black is the hardest paint job to get right. Shows all imperfections.
Fridays new recipe- Guitaristas & a glass (or two) of Red - cheers 🥂 Colin
Merry Christmas Colin.... love love love your channel.... keep them coming sir...
Cant wait for next week, cheers Colin!
A year in review of PLAID!!!! Fantastic to witness just how masterful your films are... A real treat for guitar nerds like me! Cheers to a whole new year of even more greatness... I can hardly wait!😜😜😜👹
I still haven't been able to watch all your videos, but I want to say here, the Loop with the ass video is without a doubt the best video I've ever watched in my entire life!!! 👏👏👏👏
Cheers man! 😆👍
Just realized how freakin' gorgeous white SG's are😍
Thats quite a collection of Gibson/Gibson style guitars. As Im mainly a Strat player Ive no idea why your channel has become one of my favourites, it must be your sparkling personality and your playing, so heres to 2023 and more humbuckers and 3 a side headstock tuners ;)
Wonderful video. Really enjoyable this fine Friday morning. Happy New Year everyone!
Greetings from the US, I just wanted to tell you that I absolutely love your channel. I own only a few guitars,a couple of Epiphone LP and a hybrid that I put together out of a Ibanez body and a Strat neck(plays great) but my wife just bought me my first Gibson LP. I just wanted to tell you that we watch ur channel and we both enjoy it and I have learned so much from you. Thank you so much and we wish you a very Merry Christmas 🤶
Cheers that’s really appreciated… and what an amazing Christmas present (and wife! 😁) have a good one you two! 😎👍
You just made me and my wife so happy!! I have watched all of ur videos and I have learned SO SO much from you. And for you to take the time to reply to my post has made me feel honored!! I look forward to every new video.I wish you many more years of enjoying your guitar's and making videos that are the best! Can I ask, what part of the UK 🇬🇧 are you from? There,as in America the accents change according to the locations of which you are from and I personally have always loved the way you guys say "me" in place of "I". "I opened me guitar case". Thank you again for responding. May God bless you and keep you safe.
@@b.tee.2600 You're welcome and I am honoured to have such great support for my channel! 😊🙏 PS. I am from Essex! 😎👍
Also I want to convert the bridge on my Epiphones to the small pin ABR-1 Nashville Bridge type. What brand do you recommend for that. I would like to just swap them without any problems or issues and I value your opinion the most. Thank you for your time.
@@b.tee.2600 Check out my film: 'Tokai Love Rock Les Paul Standard - Can We Make it Sound Better than a Gibson?'... the parts I use here will fit 2019+ Epiphones (inspired by Gibson range) and all links in the description box! Cheers 😎👍
I got a 1982 Japanese Tokai Love Rock about 10 years ago for 800 Canadian. It's an amazing guitar. The original case was in shreds, abs the guitar had a lot of serious dings and a Bigsby added. I took the Bigsby off two years ago and put an aluminum Greco tailpiece on it. When i bought it, the Tokai label on the headstock was swapped for a Gibson one. When i bring it to gigs, players freak out at me for bringing a vintage Les Paul to a bar.
😁👍👍
My ears never fail to change their minds between hearing a video comparison and hearing the same comparison a few months later. I was absolutely convinced that the LP Studio sounded better than the Tribute, but now the opposite seems true. Same with some of the individual guitars. Some of the ones I thought sounded lacking sound good here in the reruns, and vise versa.
Hi Colin
A good sound is an experience
That enjoy the heart
Something happened
And we are no more the same
Happy Days ❤️
I should add, discovered your channel about a month ago. Love it.
Such a wonderful year! I've slowed waayyy down on buying, and have settled into a nice 5-guitar electric roster, but you've been a constant presence in my home all year!
Thanks for a year of great films and great guitars!!
Great stuff this year bro...I've enjoyed your channel and company very much..best of luck..
hello from snowy sunny Hampstead! thanks again for hours and hours of entertainment this year, sir.
As always Colin great to watch you do your thing, I’m 68 but I’m still 19 when it comes to guitars and playing them keep up the great work. I’m glad I’m not the only crazy old joker buying guitars out there.😂😂😂
😁👍
We spent the whole year with you on all the adventures! It's perfect time to lounge with Colin having a nice toddy, keeping warm and enjoying the ambiance 🍸🍹🍷🥃
Colin i wish you happy holidays i so much enjoyed your videos and your honesty you are a great guy i wish you the best
Colin from the big chair summing up a year in guitars is great 👍It’s not giving me GAS and costing me any money 😎🥳🍺
The SG is fast becoming my favourite guitar to play .Thanks for a great fun year of Friday videos man 🙏
Nice chair 😎👍
Awesome year end round up series by The Guitaristas. We love you, Happy Holidays!
😁👍
Merry Christmas Colin and thanks for all your reviews and great videos!
Love your gentle approach to reviews.
Keep up the good work.
I've just upped your subscriptions to the power of 1 😃
Cheers Steve! 😁👍
@@theguitaristas credit where credit's due mate.
Too many bombastic 'sports guitar', Al Do-Me-Omework, Adidas plectrum wielding, 'I finished first!', widdle merchants about for my liking.
So it's great to see someone approaching their instrument with FEEL.
You may not be the best player in the world (neither am I for that matter), but where you win, over the more technically proficient players, is in your evident passion for what you do.
All power to you ✊
Lord Colin Sire is releasing some P90 guitars that might be worth checking out.
Will have to have a look at those 😁👍
Great year in review top of list is that Tokai… with the Murray’s… out of the box it’s the Eastman… thank you for all your hard work … been pure honest fun … roll on 2023
I think I watched all of those episodes except for the looper. Not sure how I missed it since you’ve become a regular here every Friday. Looking forward to the next one.
The bevels are a complete mystery on the 1961 SG. Supposedly that's how the custom shop dose it.
I wonder if the mystery will be solved. Great video Colin nadolig llawen (merry Christmas as we say in Wales).
Great video as always. Can't wait to see what next year brings for the guitaristas
Thanks Colin. Love the no BS approach. Watching your vids have made me GAS...no bad thing 😀 Keep up the good work and cheers.
This SG Junior from 69, really is badass, sounds great. Nice playing with the Tokai LP, a lovely guitar, the Eastman just sounds magical, there is depth and emotion,no harshness at all, amazing instrument 👌
Great review of 2022 part 1, lots of nice guitars 👍
I just wanted to say something about the Gibson 50's Les Paul which I also own in Gold Top. I can understand the sentiment about the Gibson as a company. But this Les Paul Standards today are great in terms of how they are made, how they feel and sound. The burstbucker pickups are outstanding. I think that today Les Paul Standards are build as they should be and Gibson is finally on the right track again after some troubled years.
Happy to hear that more parts of the review are coming in the next weeks.
Cheers!
Love the Eastmans, but actually I like the non-vintage version better. Thanks for all the great demos!
Hello Colin, well this year was a grand guitar year for me. If you may recall, just a week ago I got my Gibson Les Paul 50s standard tobacco burst. Every time I open the case, that dear familar smell, Nitro Cellulose, like the Candy Store and also simple admiration of the guitar before I pick it up😍it's just lovin' it each and every time. My Tele has been sitting unpetted for days 🤣so now I will enjoy your latest video of your collection. God Bless and take care
Nice idea for this video Colin. Good to see my Tribute on the channel one more time. Rest assured it’s in a good home being played. I don’t have any Gibson baggage to get in the way 😂
A MOST EXCELLENT AND INFORMATIVE VID MT.
CHEERS MT AND HAVE A GOOD XMAS
I started to play again so I needed a guitar for that obviously. Started wanting a Yamaha Revstar, found your channel in the search for what to buy and ended up with an Epiphone SG Standard Vibrola, which I'm loving to death. Probably thanks to you for a big part :-) Thanks for the videos!
Thank you. I can't even imagine how much work it has been for you running the channel and making these videos. Looking forward to what the new year will bring. Keep them coming, but before that, have a happy holidays and remember to have a little time to rest and relax. But I guess the love for guitars doesn't know holidays.
many thanks mate, always a welcome site to see one of your videos pop up on a friday evening downunder 👍
Mary Christmas and keep the good job , very interesting and I learn lots, tanks for your great video.
Lounging! Eastman products (double cut, 59, 56 goldtop, Romeo, a pair of Juilette) and PRS's S2 Satin series (Vela, Vela Semi, Studio) have really opened my eyes to lighter and more primal designs. The totally unexpected discovery was a 2007 PRS CE 22 with the most amazing maple neck ever. I guess my design oriented taste, my love of lovely wood on display, lead to GAS not for the player, but the luthier-wanabe.
So many of your discoveries and comments aligned with my perception that it feels like a pub-mate telling me what's-what and me nodding. I consider myself an honorary Guitaristas Magpie, especially if I look how your discoveries affected my the breath and size of the collection. Craftsmanship in guitars is such a powerful attraction.
Cheers Stephane, I guess it’s my turn to try PRS next year? 🤔 I just need plainer tops and dots to make it ok! 😆 in the meantime I may have a Juliette incoming …😜👍
@@theguitaristas There are absolutely lovely PRS S2 models that harken to the simplicity of a "Special". I strongly lean towards the Satin open-pore models. And there is the SE line where the models that have hit a plateau get a 2nd wind. I have an S2 Mira and an SE Mira and it just makes sense that more folks can afford SEs, even on such "stripped down" design. The "Epiphone" effect.
But I think the Vela is the standout PRS design. If I had my way, I would ask them to make a maple-bolt-on-neck variant, with the Studio series HSS configuration. But that's just Magpie logic.
Juliette with 2 x P90s I bet!!! She's unexpectedly curvy and fine ;)
Love the vibe here, your studio seems like a GREAT place to spend time dude. Love to come down some time in 23
Sounds good mate!
I love this channel. Quite a few times I barked out a laugh.
Oh, that toggle switch you were fussing with was just too funny. Anyway, keep up the fun. I'm looking forward to the next one.
😁👍👍
My most recent Gibson is the Studio but the smokehouse burst. Its bloody great! I had to sell my Tribute to make space/fund the Studio. It was the satin black and I loved it! I used to play that way more than i did my 2014 standard, which is still have and it still looks amazing!
Great videos in 2022. Thank you. You are one of the few channels that when I see a new upload I have to watch it right away. And your playing is great. Thanks for helping us with our GAS and to make better choices.
I have enjoyed watching the collection grow. Thank you
Currently Colin you are my favorite guitar RUclipsr, keep it up and dont take your foot off the gas.
Cheers Tony!
Colin, Great start to the series, looking forward to the rest, Thanks
Hi Colin, during 2022, It has been my weekly treasured, pleasure to watch your funny and sincere videos, including your great chops, thank you very much indeed for all. Happy lounging and happy Christmas to you, and if you talk to Ben, send my regards as well please. Cheers Mate.
Cheers mate!
Great video thanks Colin. Due to your critique of these guitars you convinced me to buy a Gibson Les Paul Studio, and I absolutely love her. It’s the first electric I’ve owned but I’ve had a quality acoustic for 40ish years. Now I’m hooked on electric guitars, thanks so much and I look forward to your vids and hearing you play every week. 😊🎸🙏🏼
Colin loved this overview (part 1 no less!) Your various guitars you purchased in 2022, excellent! Also loved the Since I've Been Loving You by Led Zeppelin at the end, great stuff mate!
Hi Colin, thank you for another year full of interesting, honest videos. Like the JCM 900 sitting on top of a 1960 TV in the background of your lounge 🙂
Happy holidays! Looking forward to 2023!
Colin, your partner deserves accolades also. She is no doubt a wonderful lady. I could tell you about relations severed over guitars.
Always, a wonderful video which make us all look forward to Friday. "Friday on My Mind" has taken on a new meaning. Cheers!
The ass-stomp at 7:03 is classic. Practicing it right now
😁👍
I enjoy your videos. I appreciate your honest opinion. Keep up the good work into 2023 and beyond. Merry Christmas!
I really enjoy the way you play Colin. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a great 2023, full of New guitars and riffs. Greetings from Chile 🎊🎸🤟
Always been tempted by the Tokai. Might get that goldtop as my next guitar. Excellent video mate!
Thanks for all the Friday Fun. I'm still planning on one of those '61 Epiphone LP SG's. Do you see other color choices in the future for that model?
Great 1st part round-up, Colin !
The gold top tokai update was the one I found you through and your hassles with the wiring loom confirmed my suspicion that these aren't easy to use frankly.
But brilliant series.
Thanks for such a fun year Collin!
Great insight - lack of humility at Gibson, but also having the humility yourself to recognise that this view impacts your judgement....nicely said
😊🙏
A great year. Have enjoyed it every step of the way. Rock on Colin, have a great Christmas and new year. 👍🏻
Great year of reviews, and fantastic playing. Could you do a review of the Les Paul modern, it’s got quite a few features not found on your typical LP and I know you’d do a through review.
I woke up to a foot of snow in Glasgow this morning! Stuck my nose through the blinds and thought Nah! 😂
A great three-part series you've graced us with, Colin. So much knowledge and entertainment too. Cheers, and all the best for the new year.
Cheers Adrian and you mate! 🍻
No need to apologise so much! You give totally fair criticism, and just given your honest opinion. Aside from feeding my addiction, you're thoroughly entertaining and informative.
Well done old boy. Enjoy the entire project. Happy Christmas
Happy Christmas Pete!
I found your channel this year I believe and even though we might have really different taste in both guitars and playing (I like when they look like you could stab someone with it and the music that goes with it), I fairly enjoyed every single video of yours I've seen so far!
I always liked those vintage guitars, if not for playing, then for looking at them (the few I've played felt nice though) and I just really vibe with the kind of film you're making, your honest, throughout and straight forward approach to it all, topped off by tasteful jamming and a beautiful british english...
I'm looking forward to what's about to come, keep up the great work!
Thanks man that's appreciated! 😁👍
Love your channel Colin. Like you 2022 has been the year of Eastman for me. I've built up a nice little guitar collection over the past few years... a couple of Fender Custom-Shop guitars and a lovely PRS DGT, but I've been suffering seller's remorse for some time after letting a couple of vintage Gibsons go a few years back. That all changed this year after buying an Eastman SB55DCv (Junior) and a T59v (ES335-355). The two Eastmans that I own feel like the old Gibsons that I sold and sound as good or better than Gibson Custom-Shop guitars that I've owned... at a third of the price. So now the only Gibson I own is a 1996 Les Paul which I've upgraded with a 50's wiring harness and Lollar Imperials like in your Eastman. I can honestly say that I won't be buying another Gibson any time soon... and for the first time in my life I can say that I'm totally happy with my lot.
Cheers Peter, yes for me too Eastman have changed my thinking a little bit... finally weaning me off of Gibson I think!! 😁👍
You're creativity never ceases to amaze me. Looking forward to part 2.
Thanks William! 😊🙏
What a great guitar year we’ve had with you! 🎸
Cheers mate and thanks for all the support!!