SCAM WARNING: Thanks for checking in just a reminder there are no prizes or giveaways on this channel so if anyone pretending to be me replies to you suggesting otherwise it's a scam. Cheers all... enjoy todays show!
As a Gibson player and past Gibson apologist, I am all too familiar w/this issue. I still to this day love to death a good quality Gibson guitar. I know many folks don’t find volutes attractive (I do) but they are a useful design component to strengthen wood at its weakest points. Gibson was quite aware of this at one point due to a substantial number of breaks at the headstock. However, between players balking at the addition and decisions made at Gibson, we now have the fear of heartbreak every time we open that Gibson/Epiphone case. In fact, you’re almost better off having the guitar shipped without the case. Or better yet, go with a Norlin era LP with a maple neck as you almost never see one with a broken headstock. It’s like watching a white knuckle horror film when you’re just waiting on the jump scare moment that you hope never comes, at least in this case. I’ve probably had close to 100 guitars shipped in thin cardboard boxes and never had one arrive w/broken headstock. It’s amazing. Yet I’ve had 3 Gibsons arrive w/exactly that. In fact in 1998 I took delivery of a Gibson LP Custom white SG w/a broken headstock. They (dealer) originally wanted me to reach out to Gibson to either have it replaced or repaired. You can imagine my answer to that. Anyway… “The volute offers reinforcement at this weak point, especially when bending strings which add a lot of tension to the nut. It was why Gibson added a volute to their Les Pauls from 1969 to 1981.” So, in theory some if not many of the Gibson necks are in some danger of structural compromise. I can honestly say it doesn’t stop me from buying them but it does make me ensure a great return policy! Many Classical instruments that are considerably stronger than anything Gibson makes still use volutes and frankly, I think Gibson should go back to them. Look at the ESP/LTD guitars produced. Ever see a headstock break off? And those are thin, angled, and pointed. They also use volutes and if they didn’t those would just break at tremendous rates. I get concerned each time I look at my Gibsons with 60’s slim taper necks. There’s just not much wood there. One knock against the wall could be heartbreaking. Hope you get a more solid replacement as those are very nice for the price! Always enjoy these videos sir! Cheers.
I got a ‘70 Goldtop with a valute. It’s been shipped across the US several times, had a few unfortunate spills, and never had a problem. It stays home now.
Your playing on the black V was on of your best. Incredible. Indeed sad, the broken V. Christ, almost shed a tear. Hope for a more cheery new episode next week. Hang on!
It doesn't matter if I completely dislike the guitar, and I hate V's., it's always fun watching Colin dissect them. Win lose or draw. It's always a pleasure.
One of the great things about Epiphone at this point in time (and great you tube channels like Colin’s) is the ability to own for a modest amount of money a style of guitar that you would not otherwise have contemplated. 2 years ago I’d been a Fender man for 35 years with a couple of strats and a couple of Teles. I didn’t have any interest in Gibson style guitars. If I was going to spend the money I’d rather have spent it on a Fender. Now I have a couple of Les Pauls, a Firebird, a SG, a Casino, a 335 and… the most obscure choice for me historically the ebony Flying V. I can’t ever see myself buying an expensive guitar again that sits in a case and never gets played. Now I can playing for a couple of hours, sample a variety of styles and sonic textures and put them on display to enjoy looking at as well.
Put the Bass down it’s time for a weekly dose of the Guitaristas! 🤘Always love a Flying V I had a white Pete Back one when I 16 years old and wish I’d never sold it. The look on your face when you touched the neck 5.55 😂😂 priceless. The cracked headstock! Holy smokes! Absolutely gutting. Great video Colin as always and enjoy the long weekend!
Crushes my heart to see a broken neck like that, so sorry for your loss. I don't have a listing for a black flying V that comes with a case. I have the Korina V that was issued prior to the new versions, I purchased a case separately and am very happy with the pair, confessions of a guitar addict!!
As a kid I remember Tom Petty playing a black v on an Old Grey Whistle Test concert. The epitome of cool, aviator shades, long blonde locks and the V! Rock and roll! Shame about the Korina one, but great video Col! Many thanks!
Gutted for you mate! Made a coffee, started watching with the usual excitement, then that happens 😢😢😢 Put me right off my Kit Kat !!! Had to have a rich tea !!! I know right, with coffee 😮😉 Still as long as guitarguitar weigh you in, nothing ventured, and all that fella… Look forward to next weeks tare down.
I appreciate you documenting all the triumphs and travails you experience. These are things we normal folk experience, but don’t normally see on other guitar channels. I feel a part of this enterprise. Your joys are our joys. Your disappointments are our disappointments. Sorry about the headstock. But you’re doing the Lord’s work for us guitar enthusiasts. I realized: when I first started watching, I was like, where’s the plural? I only see the one Guitarista. But I’ve come to realize: we, your viewers, are the plural Guitaristas.
I’ve bought one of those ‘58 V Epiphones, they are quite good for the money. I’ve refinished mine in Pelham Blue and I was very upset by the wood quality underneath the finish. There’s a thin mahogany veneer and the body was made from 6 pieces glued together. Nevertheless they’re very cool!
I’m glad you looked at doing the review in the korina. It felt like a bit of an omission to not track the direction of epi of the last year or so, even if it is all getting stupidly expensive. Obviously someone doesn’t want you to get the the honest appraisal out there!
Once again, great video Colin👍🏻 Epiphones are normally great quality, better than Gibsons of late. Clearly, this was broken at the factory and should never had made it into the box. Very disappointing for you but not really good enough epiphone. This got me thinking, what if the factory / store ever came back and said it was perfect when it left us. This could potentially generate a whole world of grief. Never seen a crack in the neck like that on a brand new guitar. How common is this ? Keep up the good work buddy. Can’t wait to part 2 and also hearing about the history.
I'm so sure. You see because of the headstock brake angle there's very little wood where the cavity is for the trussrod. It doesn't mention having a single piece neck but given the other custom shop colabs have I'm guessing to be the case here. That's the one thing I worry about with my 1961 SG. I'd much rather a scarf joint to add extra strength.
Man I knew one of them was the korina, that's exactly what I expected, I didn't expect that crack and I'm wounded for you, look forward to the replacement video!!
My 28 year old daughter was in the room when I was watching the 58 flying V . Usually glued to her phone When you went into your Metallica Riff her face lit up and she burst into song . I didn't know it was Metallica as they're not my cup of tea and I've never really listened to them. But thanks Colin that was nice to see her enjoying herself. 💃 Sorry about broken headstock. Hope you get sorted out 🤞
@@theguitaristas you've still got it Colin. I dunno what it is about a v but they're always head turners. Can't say many remember Les Paul's or sg's. But my prophecy v and ghost explorer always turns heads.
Sorry Colin, couldn't resist the gentle jab! I really feel for you. The V never really ticked the box for me. As an impressionable youth one of the salesmen at Monkey Business in Romford (remember them?) tried to sell me a flying V, but I was a self conscious 6th former with no money, and didn't have the balls to strutt my stuff with something so in your face. Keep up the good work mate!
Gibson: same guitar, different body shape/ colour. At least Fender changes the pickups/ scale length/ pickup placement between models. If you have one Gibson, you have them all 🧐
I’m sorry to say Colin but I’d be amazed if the neck got broken like that in the case. I bought a Telecaster custom from Guitar guitar and when it arrived it was in shit state. Various faults that I found could not be attributed to carriage damage, the guitar was not quality checked before it was boxed and my honest opinion is it was a B stock job they tried to pass off. I complained about it and was told I would have to wait for a brand new replacement from Fender, which is what I did. So I am a bit sceptical of certain damage by “carriers”. Keep up the excellent work 🤘
Excellent. The V has fascinated this man for a vey long time, so your perspective is valuable, should I consider buying, and even in NZ, and not expensive, the Chinese version seems readily available.
And there you have it - that's why you NEVER ship anything with a non maple neck with strings tuned to pitch. Loads of RUclips reviewers (oh goody it even arrived in tune) - nope it's not good at all, its very un-good - if I want to know a merchant knows what they're doing - a Gibson for example would arrive with all the tension removed from the strings in transit and any voids in the case filled out with packing material. If that is done - barring a horrendous drop or impact in shipping, this wont happen. Of course big box retailers won't do this because of time constraints.
Great video , Colin! I have the Flying V in olive drab. Love it. It’s quickly become my goto humbucker guitar. Gutted for you about the Korina V. Cheers!
I’m a Gibson and Epiphone fan, Les Pauls and SG’s. I don’t even like flying V’s. Just goes to show how much I adore Colin and his channel that I’m watching this! Colin is a guitar addict and a lot of us are Guitaristas addicts on top of guitar freaks! 😜😜😜
The blonde one so nice and there was a loose nut and a cracked joint. It went straight in to my chest I could feel my hart turn around. You make live preformance sir, this is better than riding a rollercoaster. And a little advice from my own experience: Not to by the last one/ones without having seeing it with your own eyes and do keep away from this combination: Nice price on the last one in stock.!
Yeah, that sound does nothing for me. Will you do the same with a gibson to check if there is any difference? Keep bringing the excellent content, cheers!
I don't know why, but the same Epiphone pups that sound fine in their new Standard SGs sound crap in their Explorers & Flying Vs. Could it be the different wiring?
Nice one Colin, love the black V, shame about the Korina (double the price) V, be interesting to see what the actual difference's in sound and playability are between them....
I would be devastated to open the case of any guitar and see that damage. The Korina '58 Vs and Explorers are nicely built and the construction looks to be the same as a Gibson, but they're $1,900 in Canada. I'm I Gibson snob, I suppose and I'm not certain that either of the Korina Epis are worth the price tag. I bought a used 2018 Antique Natural Gibson Explorer in 2019 for $1200 and it's nearly flawless. It's only mahogany, and has a PCB but it was a good price. When I went to the shop to finalize the sale and trade in, there was a used white Flying V on the rack, but paying for both just wasn't possible 😞 I'm enjoying the channel, and I like your playing. Cheers!
It’s Gibsons fault they pack guitars in cases upside down in the cardboard boxes so they get banged on the headstocks. I thought I could see some damage on the case? I had exactly the same injury to a Slash Ltd edition Goldtop Les Paul last year. And the replacement had a broken switch 😡
I bought the ebony Flying V (2022? not being a Flying V fan at all. It was very reduced as a guitar store was closing down. But I was in a buying mood (thanks to Colin). It’s a great guitar. I can’t play metal (which is the incisors choice). I play blues- so more in line with Albert King rather than shredders. It sounds awesome with some moderate overdrive or even clean. Great guitar. Completely ridiculous. But great guitar. Superbly made. Sounds great. Nice to play (other than the shape). But lots of fun. I liked it so much I thought I might have a look at the Gibson version (which was about four times the price. I played it for no more than 5 minutes. I was so disappointed with the fit and finish and general build quality I put it back. Very happy with the Epiphone standard Flying V - and for the same money as the Gibson Flying V was able to also get an Epi Firebird, Epiphone 335 and a Les Paul.
Never thought I'd own a V or X until last year when they were on sale for $599USD shipped from ZZ/American (no case though). They are both BEAUTIFUL guitars, all korina, mostly one piece neck and two piece body, and (!) only 6lb.6oz. V and 6lbs. 7oz. X. The hardware is solid, and the pickups sound great. They are both gathering dust right now, however, and I need to buy cases for them. Fun guitars they are!!
V and explorer are absolutely daft guitars but they pack a punch. Out of all my guitars my v and explorer always get mentions. They were underdogs in 58 and now they're icons.
I have an Antoria (Ibanez) version of the Korina V. It's been my main guitar, on and off, for 44 years. (I also have an Epi 7-string V. Not quite as old.) Awesome guitar.
When Epiphone released the '58 Korina Explorer. The Guitar arrived damaged. Finished was chipped off near breadstick. Sent back for another. That one arrived with cracks on back of headstock by 2 tuners. I cost so much to ship back. I kept it with with little money back. Big disappointment. Better luck!
On the Corina Flying V. Since there didn't seem to be any damage to the box or the case. My guess is it happened at the factory or warehouse before it was put in the case and was boxed. Sorry for the disappointment. The company should replace it at no charge to you.
My friday evening entertainment. Always look forward to it! Really looking forward to hearing and learning about these Vs. They sure are sharp looking. Very disappointed in the Korina ones break. Really looking forward to that one. It’s so nice looking.
Bummer! The black Standard Flying V is looking and sounding damn good Sensei! And yeah, I like the case more for the Standard too. Great bluesy rock jam Colin!
Had one of those standard ebony v's from 2021 and i sold it with a huge loss....compared to my explorer (korina, made in korea 2006), it just felt cheap....the jack would not stay tight for 10 minutes, the taper of the vol. pot was terrible and i had to do the frets. Pickups sounded ok and i love the unbound necks! I think these korina v's are overpriced, but since i discovered strats i would get an american performer for the same kind of cash....🤷♂️🎸🤘🎸
Heart breaking damage! I work in a music store, and sadly this kind of broken headstock easily happens to anything Gibson based! As much as I want one, I cannot commit!
Oh, crap! At least one of them is up for some fun - sorry to hear about the second guitar, Colin. The silver lining to that cloud is that you bought it new from a dealer and you don't need to argue/negotiate with a private seller to be made whole. At least you will have a better weekend than Richard Sharp...
Colin you just cant seem to get a break with the Epic. Korina 58 Vs! I saw that headstock break and just cringed! God awful! While I do prefer the Korina one over the black one, the black one does sound pretty good, nice playing too! Looking forward to next week's episode/ part 2, great stuff!
Hey Colin. I had the same issue with the same guitar, not as severe but still a neck/headstock crack. The case mine came in had the centre hinge flapping about where the pins came out. Like you I was gutted, managed to play it for 5 mins and it sounded the absolute “dogs doodahs”. No box damage but think its a case issue! Ive given up on trying so may go down the cheaper route with the better case, such a shame.😢
I must mention 2 things about these models. The round white output jack plate is an eyesore as the only really out of place visual feature on the guitars. Besides that, I can't believe they wasted the opportunity to achieve a straight string path from the nut to the tuners by exagerating the headstock width to that extreme. I can't imagine those 1st and 6th strings won't be a PITA.
You're not alone, Col. The only guitars I've ever had issues with are the "fancy-boy" versions. Epiphones, Squiers, Gretsches, Fenders... same deal with all of 'em. I eventually decided it was karma telling me to "stay in my lane" lol. In this instance, the "vintage" Flying-V hard case is definitely inferior to the contemporary one when it comes to providing adequate protection for this unusually-shaped guitar.
I love flying V's!! The black flying v is awesome! Sad to see the other one with that big Crack! I really wanted to see the both of them played. It could've been the case maybe too much room for it to slide around who knows just a guess. Cool video nonetheless! Rock On!
great Vs brother! i knew you were pondering them all along! sad about the neck on the "butterscotch/caramel" one tho...hope they replace it with a suitable model!
Very disappointing when that sort of thing happens i once had a Gibson Les Paul that developed a neck crack just sitting on the stand under the first fret area. Thought it was checking but not when I was able to insert the corner of a piece of notebook paper then I knew it was an actual crack. Had it glued back up and repaired and it’s fine now.. also had a Les Paul one time that I bought used that the seller put in a very small box in a gig bag… and it arrived with the headstock end of the gig bag sticking completely out of the top of the box😂 by some miracle the guitar was fine and has no issues to this day
Not a fan of V's, but if you're partial to one, then that ebony one looks the business. Don't see the point of these more expensive custom shop collabs - if you want US pups, just buy a standard version and use the money you save to upgrade them, along with wiring, machine heads etc if so desired. Regarding GuitarGuitar, I recently bought a standard 50s goldtop LP from them (having watched your review). They went as far as unboxing to check the weight and the orientation of the veneer, and sent pics to make sure I was happy before buying. And you were right - it is great in itself, but I will be having a mod here and there with the £200-300 saved from not opting for the '59.
Gotta say, Epiphone is really taking their Inspired By Gibson “Custom Shop” line seriously…they even added a Murphy Lab aging treatment with that convincing headstock break. For real though, sorry to hear both Korina guitars did not work out. Most of them have been getting glowing reviews from what I’ve seen and I believe there’s more to it than the upgraded pickups. I think I read that the old Korina Epiphones might have had multi piece bodies with a veneer on top whereas these new Korina Vs are solid 2 piece Korina bodies and that V shaped wood grain is real and not a veneer. I’m more interested in the black V though! Was that nice black Epiphone case included in the price?
Thanks! What a shame, I've been looking at that Limba V. Delivery company's are so careless with items now days. 😢 Ive had problems with deliveries too. Well your R8 is a prime example.
I bought the eppi V, it would of been good deal for 600, but not 1300 , so o sent it back and got the gibson natural mahogany, for 1900, I love it , thanks for vidios
But the Gibson Antique Natural V is an entirely different guitar than the ‘58 Korina, and an ugly one at that. I own the $1300 2022 Epi ‘58 Korina ‘Inspired by Gibson Custom’ V, AND a 2021 Gibson Antique Natural Explorer. They’re BOTH killer guitars.
Personally believe that headstock was broken before being cased and shipped judging by the looks ofouter packaging as well as lack of case damage. It's definitely repairable 😉👍 😎👍❤🖖 Love Brother
If anybody in the shipping business knows if this kind of damage is common, please join the discussion. Looks to me like someone unpacked that guitar, broke the neck very intentionally and repacked it. No corresponding damage to the case or packing boxes, as if by impact/drop or crush. The headstock was well protected deep inside. Not likely this was an ordinary shipping accident. Am I the only one who thinks this? Not saying it was a malicious thing even- against Epi or Colin or whoever. Maybe just random vandalism. Too bad, this guitar is pretty f'ed now. Oh well, Cheers from Dallas!
Hi Colin! I saw the video about the Explorer, and now this. That crack on the korina V is brutal. That was a hard hit man! Your luck with these has been truly awful. That's too bad. At least the black V looks and sounds good. I'm looking forward to the deep dive on it too. Hopefully your luck will change on this. The law of averages suggests that one of these tries will be successful. I would like to see you play an Explorer. Cheers man! ✌ Have a great weekend!
I thought the less expensive guitar had a case that protected the guitar better. I also think the more expensive guitar will have to go a long way to sound as good as the black one.
Yeah the epi v hardcases and lite cases are awesome. I bought a lite case for prophecy v. It's got a perfect great neck support tight fit and plenty of padding. They are a cross between a hardcase and softcase. Sure they aren't cheep but they do job very well highly recommend them.
It shows in what world we are living nowadays: A case that was missing, a guitar gone missing for quite some time, a broken guitar . . . what comes next ? And there is nothing that you can do, that´s the real shame.
I've been wanting an Epiphone '58 V for a good while now since I narrowly missed out on the last run of korina models. My excitement at the announcement of these new korina Vs faded as soon as I saw the price tag. If I'm going to spend over a grand on a guitar it isn't going to have Epiphone on the headstock! I'd have snatched up an ebony one but I have a (possibly irrational) hatred of black guitars. I keep hoping that they'll release another cheaper (sub £800) version in wood finish or some interesting colour finishes - an emerald '58 V would be very smart.
Epiphone are knocking it out the park at the moment. Bloody shame with the crack, I got the epiphone 59 a couple of years ago from guitar guitar and that came with a broken neck! I was distraught! But they replaced it no problem.👏👍
Hi Colin, you've got me on a Flying V kick now. I love anything Korina. If you're in the market for a $1299 Epiphone, it looks like there are still some of the new Adam Jones Les Paul Customs for sale. I Am SERIOUSLY impressed with mine. I'd love to see your thoughts on the model. Again, greetings from the U.S.! ✌️🎸
Hi Colin, bummed with that Korina, but the black one looks amazing, classy, even the case looks tidy and proper, and apparently better designed. Now I wonder about a thorough, sound comparison between the alnico pro buckers in the black one, that sounded really good, and the outstanding (glorious sounding) ceramic pups? from the: Secret guitar shop find, from last year, "treasure, that I'm in love with" red Gibson one. Cheers mate, take care.
Real shame about the Korina but such is life with these designs shipping. I had a Epiphone 58 Korina V that I bought new in 2018 for £399. It was a 2016 model. It looked great but was the worst guitar I’ve ever had - no case or gigbag, felt cheap as chips, the neck was massive, needed a new nut, tuning problems galore - even after getting a set up, new tusq nut, new saddles. Sad times.
This happened to me on the 59 epiphone less Paul. And it was from guitar guitar. Well well isn’t that a coincidence!!!!!! They were ok with taking it back but claimed it was damaged in the post. I begged to differ as it was in a flight case. I have a few ideas 💡
Damn that's a shame, going back to your previous video regarding the Korina Explorer or lack of I should say, and now this with the V, third time lucky perhaps? I managed to order the Explorer model and placed a 20% deposit down. I asked for the store to send some pics though once received. They did but the Explorer had somehow metamorphosed into a V. Got my money back and now sourced an Explorer locally. The standard V looks and sounds sweet 🙏
i would be so bummed opening up that korina and seeing the nut, then the crack. i have ordered guitars online in the past and it's a nerve wracking experience waiting for them to arrive. i had a bad experience the first time and every time after I always expect the worst. recently i've done nothing but shop at my local mom n pop shop. lucky to have a nice one nearby that has an amazing selection. major bummer.
As man that is a heartbreaker even if it is the ridiculous priced one ! Major plus though is the ebony one sounds great and I’d prefer the case that came in too.
I once saw a staff member in a guitar store fall off a ladder with a vintage LP and smash the headstock clean off and take out two other guitars into the process by the falling of the ladder, a couple of months later all the expensive models were no longer in the heavens but low down and in glass fronted cabinets, I guess the insurance company came up with that idea
I manage a warehouse, I've been doing shipping, receiving and inspection for 15 years. To me it looks like that box was dropped from at least knee hight onto it's long narrow side. The side that has the outward creases.
SCAM WARNING: Thanks for checking in just a reminder there are no prizes or giveaways on this channel so if anyone pretending to be me replies to you suggesting otherwise it's a scam. Cheers all... enjoy todays show!
Who the fuck would want to pretend to be you. X
That black flying V sounds amazing and fantastic playing as always. I love your channel. Keep it up, regards from Cyprus 🇨🇾
As a Gibson player and past Gibson apologist, I am all too familiar w/this issue.
I still to this day love to death a good quality Gibson guitar.
I know many folks don’t find volutes attractive (I do) but they are a useful design component to strengthen wood at its weakest points.
Gibson was quite aware of this at one point due to a substantial number of breaks at the headstock.
However, between players balking at the addition and decisions made at Gibson, we now have the fear of heartbreak every time we open that Gibson/Epiphone case.
In fact, you’re almost better off having the guitar shipped without the case.
Or better yet, go with a Norlin era LP with a maple neck as you almost never see one with a broken headstock.
It’s like watching a white knuckle horror film when you’re just waiting on the jump scare moment that you hope never comes, at least in this case.
I’ve probably had close to 100 guitars shipped in thin cardboard boxes and never had one arrive w/broken headstock. It’s amazing. Yet I’ve had 3 Gibsons arrive w/exactly that. In fact in 1998 I took delivery of a Gibson LP Custom white SG w/a broken headstock. They (dealer) originally wanted me to reach out to Gibson to either have it replaced or repaired. You can imagine my answer to that.
Anyway…
“The volute offers reinforcement at this weak point, especially when bending strings which add a lot of tension to the nut. It was why Gibson added a volute to their Les Pauls from 1969 to 1981.”
So, in theory some if not many of the Gibson necks are in some danger of structural compromise.
I can honestly say it doesn’t stop me from buying them but it does make me ensure a great return policy!
Many Classical instruments that are considerably stronger than anything Gibson makes still use volutes and frankly, I think Gibson should go back to them.
Look at the ESP/LTD guitars produced. Ever see a headstock break off? And those are thin, angled, and pointed. They also use volutes and if they didn’t those would just break at tremendous rates.
I get concerned each time I look at my Gibsons with 60’s slim taper necks.
There’s just not much wood there. One knock against the wall could be heartbreaking.
Hope you get a more solid replacement as those are very nice for the price!
Always enjoy these videos sir!
Cheers.
Yeh man i agree, its madness that people want short grain on a very vulnerable point of maybe their prized possession. Bring back the volutes haha.
@@Paul-D 100% agree or at least make it an option to see if it catches on.
I got a ‘70 Goldtop with a valute. It’s been shipped across the US several times, had a few unfortunate spills, and never had a problem. It stays home now.
You don't have to have a volute a scarf joint solves the problem nicely.
Your playing on the black V was on of your best. Incredible. Indeed sad, the broken V. Christ, almost shed a tear. Hope for a more cheery new episode next week. Hang on!
Cheers man! 😎👍
It doesn't matter if I completely dislike the guitar, and I hate V's., it's always fun watching Colin dissect them. Win lose or draw. It's always a pleasure.
One of the great things about Epiphone at this point in time (and great you tube channels like Colin’s) is the ability to own for a modest amount of money a style of guitar that you would not otherwise have contemplated. 2 years ago I’d been a Fender man for 35 years with a couple of strats and a couple of Teles. I didn’t have any interest in Gibson style guitars. If I was going to spend the money I’d rather have spent it on a Fender. Now I have a couple of Les Pauls, a Firebird, a SG, a Casino, a 335 and… the most obscure choice for me historically the ebony Flying V. I can’t ever see myself buying an expensive guitar again that sits in a case and never gets played. Now I can playing for a couple of hours, sample a variety of styles and sonic textures and put them on display to enjoy looking at as well.
Put the Bass down it’s time for a weekly dose of the Guitaristas! 🤘Always love a Flying V I had a white Pete Back one when I 16 years old and wish I’d never sold it. The look on your face when you touched the neck 5.55 😂😂 priceless. The cracked headstock! Holy smokes! Absolutely gutting. Great video Colin as always and enjoy the long weekend!
Crushes my heart to see a broken neck like that, so sorry for your loss. I don't have a listing for a black flying V that comes with a case. I have the Korina V that was issued prior to the new versions, I purchased a case separately and am very happy with the pair, confessions of a guitar addict!!
As a kid I remember Tom Petty playing a black v on an Old Grey Whistle Test concert. The epitome of cool, aviator shades, long blonde locks and the V! Rock and roll! Shame about the Korina one, but great video Col! Many thanks!
That was a disappointing surprise on the 2nd V, but the black V is beautiful! Having seen them both side-by-side, I prefer it.
It a real beauty ain't it mate.
Gutted for you mate!
Made a coffee, started watching with the usual excitement, then that happens 😢😢😢
Put me right off my Kit Kat !!!
Had to have a rich tea !!!
I know right, with coffee 😮😉
Still as long as guitarguitar weigh you in, nothing ventured, and all that fella…
Look forward to next weeks tare down.
I appreciate you documenting all the triumphs and travails you experience. These are things we normal folk experience, but don’t normally see on other guitar channels. I feel a part of this enterprise. Your joys are our joys. Your disappointments are our disappointments.
Sorry about the headstock. But you’re doing the Lord’s work for us guitar enthusiasts.
I realized: when I first started watching, I was like, where’s the plural? I only see the one Guitarista. But I’ve come to realize: we, your viewers, are the plural Guitaristas.
BEST COMMENT!
Thanks Geoff, that's appreciated and you got it exactly right... 'we' are The Guitaristas! 😁👍
Thanks for sharing another great video Colin! The black V sounds amazing! Can’t wait for part two!
I’ve bought one of those ‘58 V Epiphones, they are quite good for the money. I’ve refinished mine in Pelham Blue and I was very upset by the wood quality underneath the finish. There’s a thin mahogany veneer and the body was made from 6 pieces glued together. Nevertheless they’re very cool!
I was curious about this but others claimed the 58's did not have a veneer. Oh well. All the more reason to get the standard Epiphone version.☺
@@christopherguzzi1316 hi Christopher, I’ve meant the black standard 58, not the Korina. The Korina body is only with two pieces with a center seam.
I’m glad you looked at doing the review in the korina. It felt like a bit of an omission to not track the direction of epi of the last year or so, even if it is all getting stupidly expensive. Obviously someone doesn’t want you to get the the honest appraisal out there!
Once again, great video Colin👍🏻 Epiphones are normally great quality, better than Gibsons of late. Clearly, this was broken at the factory and should never had made it into the box. Very disappointing for you but not really good enough epiphone. This got me thinking, what if the factory / store ever came back and said it was perfect when it left us. This could potentially generate a whole world of grief. Never seen a crack in the neck like that on a brand new guitar. How common is this ? Keep up the good work buddy. Can’t wait to part 2 and also hearing about the history.
I'm so sure. You see because of the headstock brake angle there's very little wood where the cavity is for the trussrod.
It doesn't mention having a single piece neck but given the other custom shop colabs have I'm guessing to be the case here.
That's the one thing I worry about with my 1961 SG. I'd much rather a scarf joint to add extra strength.
Man I knew one of them was the korina, that's exactly what I expected, I didn't expect that crack and I'm wounded for you, look forward to the replacement video!!
My 28 year old daughter was in the room when I was watching the 58 flying V . Usually glued to her phone
When you went into your Metallica Riff her face lit up and she burst into song .
I didn't know it was Metallica as they're not my cup of tea and I've never really listened to them. But thanks Colin that was nice to see her enjoying herself. 💃
Sorry about broken headstock. Hope you get sorted out 🤞
Cheers Paul, cheers mate great to hear I am broadening my demographic! 😆👍👍
@@theguitaristas you've still got it Colin. I dunno what it is about a v but they're always head turners.
Can't say many remember Les Paul's or sg's. But my prophecy v and ghost explorer always turns heads.
Sorry Colin, couldn't resist the gentle jab! I really feel for you. The V never really ticked the box for me. As an impressionable youth one of the salesmen at Monkey Business in Romford (remember them?) tried to sell me a flying V, but I was a self conscious 6th former with no money, and didn't have the balls to strutt my stuff with something so in your face.
Keep up the good work mate!
Cheers Paul 😎👍
Gibson: same guitar, different body shape/ colour. At least Fender changes the pickups/ scale length/ pickup placement between models. If you have one Gibson, you have them all 🧐
I’m sorry to say Colin but I’d be amazed if the neck got broken like that in the case. I bought a Telecaster custom from Guitar guitar and when it arrived it was in shit state. Various faults that I found could not be attributed to carriage damage, the guitar was not quality checked before it was boxed and my honest opinion is it was a B stock job they tried to pass off. I complained about it and was told I would have to wait for a brand new replacement from Fender, which is what I did. So I am a bit sceptical of certain damage by “carriers”. Keep up the excellent work 🤘
OH DEAR, WHAT A PITY MT, LOOKING FORWARDS TO THE TEST, IT SOUND GREAT, MOST EXCELLENT VID.
ok mt good luck if ya get a replacement v ?
Excellent. The V has fascinated this man for a vey long time, so your perspective is valuable, should I consider buying, and even in NZ, and not expensive, the Chinese version seems readily available.
Always said I’d no interest in a Flying V. Until you unboxed the ebony. Will be checking them out asap!
And there you have it - that's why you NEVER ship anything with a non maple neck with strings tuned to pitch.
Loads of RUclips reviewers (oh goody it even arrived in tune) - nope it's not good at all, its very un-good - if I want to know a merchant knows what they're doing - a Gibson for example would arrive with all the tension removed from the strings in transit and any voids in the case filled out with packing material.
If that is done - barring a horrendous drop or impact in shipping, this wont happen.
Of course big box retailers won't do this because of time constraints.
Great video , Colin! I have the Flying V in olive drab. Love it. It’s quickly become my goto humbucker guitar. Gutted for you about the Korina V. Cheers!
I’m a Gibson and Epiphone fan, Les Pauls and SG’s. I don’t even like flying V’s. Just goes to show how much I adore Colin and his channel that I’m watching this! Colin is a guitar addict and a lot of us are Guitaristas addicts on top of guitar freaks! 😜😜😜
Thanks for these. I spend every Friday morning with coffee and the new Guitaristas video.
Thanks for sharing Colin 🎵🎶🎸
Great show. I've been looking for a flying v and I really like the black one. I didn't realize how nice they were. Thanks for the demo.
I'm gutted for you Colin but the black one is a great guitar on first watch. Keep up the great work.
The blonde one so nice and there was a loose nut and a cracked joint. It went straight in to my chest I could feel my hart turn around.
You make live preformance sir, this is better than riding a rollercoaster.
And a little advice from my own experience: Not to by the last one/ones without having seeing it with your own eyes and do keep away from this combination: Nice price on the last one in stock.!
Black and white V !!! Sweet !!!
black one is a beautiful guitar and sound is awesome
Yeah, that sound does nothing for me. Will you do the same with a gibson to check if there is any difference? Keep bringing the excellent content, cheers!
I don't know why, but the same Epiphone pups that sound fine in their new Standard SGs sound crap in their Explorers & Flying Vs.
Could it be the different wiring?
Oh, the disappointment! What a shame. The black one's nice though . . . all is not lost. 😀
Nice one Colin, love the black V, shame about the Korina (double the price) V, be interesting to see what the actual difference's in sound and playability are between them....
I would be devastated to open the case of any guitar and see that damage.
The Korina '58 Vs and Explorers are nicely built and the construction looks to be the same as a Gibson, but they're $1,900 in Canada. I'm I Gibson snob, I suppose and I'm not certain that either of the Korina Epis are worth the price tag.
I bought a used 2018 Antique Natural Gibson Explorer in 2019 for $1200 and it's nearly flawless. It's only mahogany, and has a PCB but it was a good price.
When I went to the shop to finalize the sale and trade in, there was a used white Flying V on the rack, but paying for both just wasn't possible 😞
I'm enjoying the channel, and I like your playing.
Cheers!
It’s Gibsons fault they pack guitars in cases upside down in the cardboard boxes so they get banged on the headstocks. I thought I could see some damage on the case?
I had exactly the same injury to a Slash Ltd edition Goldtop Les Paul last year. And the replacement had a broken switch 😡
Wow that’s a fail for sure, I’d be gutted too. It looks beautiful though. Go for it Colin, you know it makes sense😂
I bought the ebony Flying V (2022? not being a Flying V fan at all. It was very reduced as a guitar store was closing down. But I was in a buying mood (thanks to Colin). It’s a great guitar. I can’t play metal (which is the incisors choice). I play blues- so more in line with Albert King rather than shredders. It sounds awesome with some moderate overdrive or even clean. Great guitar. Completely ridiculous. But great guitar. Superbly made. Sounds great. Nice to play (other than the shape). But lots of fun. I liked it so much I thought I might have a look at the Gibson version (which was about four times the price. I played it for no more than 5 minutes. I was so disappointed with the fit and finish and general build quality I put it back. Very happy with the Epiphone standard Flying V - and for the same money as the Gibson Flying V was able to also get an Epi Firebird, Epiphone 335 and a Les Paul.
Your the man, Colin! What gorgeous guitars. No wonder you are giddy!
Never thought I'd own a V or X until last year when they were on sale for $599USD shipped from ZZ/American (no case though). They are both BEAUTIFUL guitars, all korina, mostly one piece neck and two piece body, and (!) only 6lb.6oz. V and 6lbs. 7oz. X. The hardware is solid, and the pickups sound great. They are both gathering dust right now, however, and I need to buy cases for them. Fun guitars they are!!
V and explorer are absolutely daft guitars but they pack a punch. Out of all my guitars my v and explorer always get mentions.
They were underdogs in 58 and now they're icons.
I have an Antoria (Ibanez) version of the Korina V. It's been my main guitar, on and off, for 44 years. (I also have an Epi 7-string V. Not quite as old.) Awesome guitar.
When Epiphone released the '58 Korina Explorer. The Guitar arrived damaged. Finished was chipped off near breadstick. Sent back for another. That one arrived with cracks on back of headstock by 2 tuners. I cost so much to ship back. I kept it with with little money back. Big disappointment. Better luck!
On the Corina Flying V. Since there didn't seem to be any damage to the box or the case. My guess is it happened at the factory or warehouse before it was put in the case and was boxed. Sorry for the disappointment. The company should replace it at no charge to you.
The Spoon of Discovery joins the Butter Knife of Delight.
😆👍
My friday evening entertainment. Always look forward to it! Really looking forward to hearing and learning about these Vs. They sure are sharp looking. Very disappointed in the Korina ones break. Really looking forward to that one. It’s so nice looking.
Bummer!
The black Standard Flying V is looking and sounding damn good Sensei! And yeah, I like the case more for the Standard too.
Great bluesy rock jam Colin!
Somebody dropped the Guitar hard straight on the back ! It’s a shame it got broken! Hopefully you get one that’s good
I have to admit, I used to not be a fan of the Flying V guitar shape. Nonetheless, amazing work Collin! Keep rocking!! Greetings from Greece!!!
better luck is certainly on your way....hopefully. Great entertainment as always, cheers.
Had one of those standard ebony v's from 2021 and i sold it with a huge loss....compared to my explorer (korina, made in korea 2006), it just felt cheap....the jack would not stay tight for 10 minutes, the taper of the vol. pot was terrible and i had to do the frets. Pickups sounded ok and i love the unbound necks! I think these korina v's are overpriced, but since i discovered strats i would get an american performer for the same kind of cash....🤷♂️🎸🤘🎸
Heart breaking damage! I work in a music store, and sadly this kind of broken headstock easily happens to anything Gibson based! As much as I want one, I cannot commit!
You could still buy one just don't drop it
Oh, crap!
At least one of them is up for some fun - sorry to hear about the second guitar, Colin. The silver lining to that cloud is that you bought it new from a dealer and you don't need to argue/negotiate with a private seller to be made whole.
At least you will have a better weekend than Richard Sharp...
Omg was waiting to see the second guitar and then see the headstock! Beautiful guitars though!
That damage looks like it happened even before it was put into the case no? I hope you can get a replacement Colin.
Colin you just cant seem to get a break with the Epic. Korina 58 Vs! I saw that headstock break and just cringed! God awful! While I do prefer the Korina one over the black one, the black one does sound pretty good, nice playing too! Looking forward to next week's episode/ part 2, great stuff!
Hey Colin.
I had the same issue with the same guitar, not as severe but still a neck/headstock crack. The case mine came in had the centre hinge flapping about where the pins came out. Like you I was gutted, managed to play it for 5 mins and it sounded the absolute “dogs doodahs”. No box damage but think its a case issue! Ive given up on trying so may go down the cheaper route with the better case, such a shame.😢
I want that black flying V!!
omg that headstock crack would kill me opening that for the first time
aaah bummer ,mate😢😢 ...hope you get a new one , fast . keep going :)
I must mention 2 things about these models. The round white output jack plate is an eyesore as the only really out of place visual feature on the guitars. Besides that, I can't believe they wasted the opportunity to achieve a straight string path from the nut to the tuners by exagerating the headstock width to that extreme. I can't imagine those 1st and 6th strings won't be a PITA.
Great playing man 🤘
waiting for the next video... poor guitar!!! nice week-end...
Aloha and Mahalo Colin!
It breaks my heart to see that happen to any guitar 😕. I feel your pain, Colin. C'est la vie
You're not alone, Col. The only guitars I've ever had issues with are the "fancy-boy" versions.
Epiphones, Squiers, Gretsches, Fenders... same deal with all of 'em.
I eventually decided it was karma telling me to "stay in my lane" lol.
In this instance, the "vintage" Flying-V hard case is definitely inferior to the contemporary one when it comes to providing adequate protection for this unusually-shaped guitar.
I love flying V's!! The black flying v is awesome! Sad to see the other one with that big Crack! I really wanted to see the both of them played. It could've been the case maybe too much room for it to slide around who knows just a guess. Cool video nonetheless! Rock On!
Another great video. Thanks Colin, keep them coming 😊
great Vs brother! i knew you were pondering them all along!
sad about the neck on the "butterscotch/caramel" one tho...hope they replace it with a suitable model!
Very disappointing when that sort of thing happens i once had a Gibson Les Paul that developed a neck crack just sitting on the stand under the first fret area. Thought it was checking but not when I was able to insert the corner of a piece of notebook paper then I knew it was an actual crack. Had it glued back up and repaired and it’s fine now.. also had a Les Paul one time that I bought used that the seller put in a very small box in a gig bag… and it arrived with the headstock end of the gig bag sticking completely out of the top of the box😂 by some miracle the guitar was fine and has no issues to this day
Not a fan of V's, but if you're partial to one, then that ebony one looks the business. Don't see the point of these more expensive custom shop collabs - if you want US pups, just buy a standard version and use the money you save to upgrade them, along with wiring, machine heads etc if so desired. Regarding GuitarGuitar, I recently bought a standard 50s goldtop LP from them (having watched your review). They went as far as unboxing to check the weight and the orientation of the veneer, and sent pics to make sure I was happy before buying. And you were right - it is great in itself, but I will be having a mod here and there with the £200-300 saved from not opting for the '59.
Gotta say, Epiphone is really taking their Inspired By Gibson “Custom Shop” line seriously…they even added a Murphy Lab aging treatment with that convincing headstock break. For real though, sorry to hear both Korina guitars did not work out. Most of them have been getting glowing reviews from what I’ve seen and I believe there’s more to it than the upgraded pickups. I think I read that the old Korina Epiphones might have had multi piece bodies with a veneer on top whereas these new Korina Vs are solid 2 piece Korina bodies and that V shaped wood grain is real and not a veneer. I’m more interested in the black V though! Was that nice black Epiphone case included in the price?
Love your tone!!
Thanks! What a shame, I've been looking at that Limba V. Delivery company's are so careless with items now days. 😢
Ive had problems with deliveries too. Well your R8 is a prime example.
Sorry brother. That’s heart breaking. I hope you receive a new unblemished one soon!
I bought the eppi V, it would of been good deal for 600, but not 1300 , so o sent it back and got the gibson natural mahogany, for 1900, I love it , thanks for vidios
But the Gibson Antique Natural V is an entirely different guitar than the ‘58 Korina, and an ugly one at that. I own the $1300 2022 Epi ‘58 Korina ‘Inspired by Gibson Custom’ V, AND a 2021 Gibson Antique Natural Explorer. They’re BOTH killer guitars.
Personally believe that headstock was broken before being cased and shipped judging by the looks ofouter packaging as well as lack of case damage.
It's definitely repairable 😉👍
😎👍❤🖖
Love Brother
If anybody in the shipping business knows if this kind of damage is common, please join the discussion. Looks to me like someone unpacked that guitar, broke the neck very intentionally and repacked it. No corresponding damage to the case or packing boxes, as if by impact/drop or crush. The headstock was well protected deep inside. Not likely this was an ordinary shipping accident. Am I the only one who thinks this? Not saying it was a malicious thing even- against Epi or Colin or whoever. Maybe just random vandalism. Too bad, this guitar is pretty f'ed now. Oh well, Cheers from Dallas!
Hi Colin! I saw the video about the Explorer, and now this. That crack on the korina V is brutal. That was a hard hit man! Your luck with these has been truly awful. That's too bad. At least the black V looks and sounds good. I'm looking forward to the deep dive on it too.
Hopefully your luck will change on this. The law of averages suggests that one of these tries will be successful. I would like to see you play an Explorer.
Cheers man! ✌ Have a great weekend!
Thanks For Sharing 🎸 🎸
I thought the less expensive guitar had a case that protected the guitar better. I also think the more expensive guitar will have to go a long way to sound as good as the black one.
Yeah the epi v hardcases and lite cases are awesome. I bought a lite case for prophecy v. It's got a perfect great neck support tight fit and plenty of padding.
They are a cross between a hardcase and softcase. Sure they aren't cheep but they do job very well highly recommend them.
It shows in what world we are living nowadays: A case that was missing, a guitar gone missing for quite some time, a broken guitar . . . what comes next ? And there is nothing that you can do, that´s the real shame.
oh, and I forgot the scratches on the Junior of course
I've been wanting an Epiphone '58 V for a good while now since I narrowly missed out on the last run of korina models.
My excitement at the announcement of these new korina Vs faded as soon as I saw the price tag.
If I'm going to spend over a grand on a guitar it isn't going to have Epiphone on the headstock!
I'd have snatched up an ebony one but I have a (possibly irrational) hatred of black guitars.
I keep hoping that they'll release another cheaper (sub £800) version in wood finish or some interesting colour finishes - an emerald '58 V would be very smart.
Epiphone are knocking it out the park at the moment. Bloody shame with the crack, I got the epiphone 59 a couple of years ago from guitar guitar and that came with a broken neck! I was distraught! But they replaced it no problem.👏👍
Hi Colin, you've got me on a Flying V kick now. I love anything Korina.
If you're in the market for a $1299 Epiphone, it looks like there are still some of the new Adam Jones Les Paul Customs for sale. I Am SERIOUSLY impressed with mine. I'd love to see your thoughts on the model.
Again, greetings from the U.S.! ✌️🎸
Oh dear! The Kurse of the Korinas Kontinues.
What a fantastic video I actually enjoyed it have a ⁹good good weekend
The bane of the Gibson-style headstock.
Hi Colin, bummed with that Korina, but the black one looks amazing, classy, even the case looks tidy and proper, and apparently better designed. Now I wonder about a thorough, sound comparison between the alnico pro buckers in the black one, that sounded really good, and the outstanding (glorious sounding) ceramic pups? from the: Secret guitar shop find, from last year, "treasure, that I'm in love with" red Gibson one. Cheers mate, take care.
Yep I reckon we should try to roll that out too! 😁👍
GAK have them on order May apparently
Real shame about the Korina but such is life with these designs shipping. I had a Epiphone 58 Korina V that I bought new in 2018 for £399. It was a 2016 model. It looked great but was the worst guitar I’ve ever had - no case or gigbag, felt cheap as chips, the neck was massive, needed a new nut, tuning problems galore - even after getting a set up, new tusq nut, new saddles. Sad times.
This happened to me on the 59 epiphone less Paul. And it was from guitar guitar. Well well isn’t that a coincidence!!!!!!
They were ok with taking it back but claimed it was damaged in the post. I begged to differ as it was in a flight case.
I have a few ideas 💡
Damn that's a shame, going back to your previous video regarding the Korina Explorer or lack of I should say, and now this with the V, third time lucky perhaps?
I managed to order the Explorer model and placed a 20% deposit down. I asked for the store to send some pics though once received. They did but the Explorer had somehow metamorphosed into a V. Got my money back and now sourced an Explorer locally. The standard V looks and sounds sweet 🙏
i would be so bummed opening up that korina and seeing the nut, then the crack. i have ordered guitars online in the past and it's a nerve wracking experience waiting for them to arrive. i had a bad experience the first time and every time after I always expect the worst. recently i've done nothing but shop at my local mom n pop shop. lucky to have a nice one nearby that has an amazing selection. major bummer.
As man that is a heartbreaker even if it is the ridiculous priced one ! Major plus though is the ebony one sounds great and I’d prefer the case that came in too.
It’s given me some good options for coming weeks though… 😜
I once saw a staff member in a guitar store fall off a ladder with a vintage LP and smash the headstock clean off and take out two other guitars into the process by the falling of the ladder, a couple of months later all the expensive models were no longer in the heavens but low down and in glass fronted cabinets, I guess the insurance company came up with that idea
Ouch! 🤣
Woot ! Unboxing Joy !
I manage a warehouse, I've been doing shipping, receiving and inspection for 15 years. To me it looks like that box was dropped from at least knee hight onto it's long narrow side. The side that has the outward creases.