Did you know the Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50s guitar is known for its clarity1? It comes with Epiphone Probucker 1 and 2 pickups. This guitar is pretty heavy, weighing 9.5 pounds1. This weight adds to its durability and stage presence.
If you love the sound of legendary electric guitars, the Epiphone Les Paul is perfect1. It has 50s-era wiring that keeps the highs clear, making every note crisp1. Epiphone has been trusted by musicians for over a decade1. Whether it’s a special 1962 Sheraton, a versatile 339, or any acoustic, quality is always top-notch.
Key Takeaways
- The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 50s boasts clear, articulate tones with Probucker 1 and 2 pickups1.
- The guitar is heavier than many others, weighing 9.5 pounds for a solid feel1.
- 50s-era wiring helps avoid muddy highs, ensuring pristine sound quality1.
- Epiphone has a decade-long history of crafting revered guitars, trusted by musicians1.
- The guitar’s design includes a classic gold top and vintage-looking tuners with tulip keys1.
The History of Epiphone Les Paul Guitars
The journey of Epiphone Les Paul guitars is a tale of heritage and innovation that has deeply influenced the music industry. Understanding the Les Paul legacy and the rise of Epiphone guitar history provides a comprehensive view of how these classic guitars have shaped modern music.
The Legacy of Les Paul
Les Paul, a pioneering figure in the development of the electric guitar, spent nights at the Epiphone factory in 1939, working on his revolutionary designs2. His groundbreaking work led to the first solid body electric guitar. He endorsed this for Gibson in the early 1950s2.
As a testament to his innovative spirit, Les Paul’s influence continues to inspire guitarists today.
The Rise of Epiphone
Established in 1873, Epiphone made a name for itself by the late 1920s. They introduced flat-top and archtop acoustic guitars in 19282. After Gibson acquired Epiphone in 1957 for $20,000, the company moved its factory. It went from New York to Philadelphia in 1953 embarking on a new chapter2.
The birth of the Epiphone factory in Qingdao, China in 2004 marked a significant moment. It was the first dedicated factory since the Gibson acquisition, showcasing a solid commitment to quality3.
In 1989, the first Epiphone Les Paul was introduced, quickly gaining popularity among musicians4. This was complemented by Epiphone’s resurgence with signature artists like Chet Atkins and Noel Gallagher3. The milestone of Epiphone’s 150th anniversary in 2023 celebrates a rich history of innovation and passion for classic guitars2.
Why Choose an Epiphone Les Paul Guitar?
Picking an Epiphone Les Paul guitar means you get great sound, timeless looks, and huge value. It’s good for beginners and pros.
Iconic Tones and Design
The Epiphone Les Paul is famous for its sound and style. Its mahogany body shapes that classic rock tone. Epiphone’s guitars stand out because of their warm sounds and legendary look.
Both Gibson and Epiphone offer P90 pickups. But, Epiphone’s versions have a warmer bass and richer tones5. This mix of sound and style is why musicians love it.
Affordability and Value
Epiphone Les Paul guitars are affordable and don’t skimp on quality. They range from $199 to $1,499, fitting any budget6.
The Epiphone Special Satin E1 costs just $1996. It has a SlimTaper neck and is made of poplar. This makes Epiphones a smart pick for serious players.
Durability and Build Quality
Looking for a tough electric guitar? The Epiphone Les Paul is a solid choice. It’s made of mahogany and has a secure output jack for cables5.
Its volume and tone pots are also smoother5. This makes playing it a joy. Whether on stage or at home, the Epiphone is built to last.
The Different Models of Epiphone Les Paul Guitars
The Epiphone Les Paul range is wide, fitting every guitarist’s needs. It’s perfect for both beginners and pros. You’ll easily find a model that matches your style.
Epiphone Les Paul guitars are famous for their classic look and quality. Since 1989, they have been a more affordable option than Gibson. Yet, they keep the same great sound and ease of play7. Icons like Gary Clark Jr. and Matt Heafy love them for this reason7.
Choosing from the Epiphone Les Paul’s range can seem daunting. But, there are several standout models:
- Epiphone Les Paul Standard: It carries the ’60s charm with a burst finish and weight relief. This makes it comfortable to play8.
- Epiphone Les Paul Studio: This model is simpler but keeps the key Les Paul sound and feel8.
- Epiphone Les Paul Modern: For those looking for new features like ProBucker pickups. It’s perfect for players who value versatility and style8.
There’s more than these models. You’ll find various finishes, pickups, and hardware to match your music7. With so many options, every guitarist can find an Epiphone Les Paul that speaks to them.
| Model | Features | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Les Paul Standard | Classic ’60s design, burst finish, weight relief chambering | Intermediate to Professional |
| Les Paul Studio | Simplified design, mahogany body, maple top | All levels |
| Les Paul Modern | ProBucker pickups, contemporary finishes | Modern players |
Epiphone is known for quality yet affordable guitars. They appeal to many, from rock to blues7. Their rich tone comes from a mix of mahogany, maple, and humbucker pickups. It fits various music styles well7.
In short, Epiphone Les Paul guitars have something for everyone. Whether you like the classic Standard, the efficient Studio, or innovative Modern, you’ll find your match.
Exploring the Epiphone Les Paul Standard
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard is loved by guitarists for its great price, strong build, and flexible sound. It combines classic Les Paul features with modern updates.
Specifications and Features
The electric guitar specs are made for many types of players. It has a mahogany body and maple top. The mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard makes it easy and lasting to play. This guitar has 22 medium jumbo frets and a 24.75-inch scale length.
It is equipped with a LockTone ABR bridge and Grover Locking Rotomatic tuners for stable tuning. The coil-splitting pickups let players explore many sounds. It looks amazing on stage with its Vintage Sparkling Burgundy finish9.
Tonal Capabilities
The tonal quality of this guitar is highly praised. Its ProBucker pickups offer sounds from soft blues to powerful rock. Though it doesn’t have traditional coil splitting, removing the bridge cover makes the sound fuller10. Weighing about 10 pounds, its sturdy build adds to its deep, rich tones10.
With a price of $249.00, it’s more affordable than higher-end models like the $800 Gibson Les Paul Studio10. It’s great for those wanting quality without spending too much. With scores of 8.5 for sound and 8 for playability, it gets an overall rating of 8.89.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Price | $249.00 |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Neck Material | Mahogany with Ebony fretboard |
| Number of Frets | 22 Medium Jumbo |
| Scale Length | 24.75 inches |
| Pickups | ProBucker (Coil split enabled) |
| Bridge | LockTone ABR |
| Tuners | Grover Locking Rotomatic |
Overall, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard gives players a full experience. It offers a wide range of sounds, great build, and good value9.
The Allure of the Epiphone Les Paul Custom
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom stands out as a stylish electric guitar. It mixes fashion with top-notch playability. Guitar lovers prefer it for its great design and performance.
Visual Appeal
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom is stunning to look at. Its gloss finish, detailed inlays, and gold parts make it look rich. The Wino model has a Wine Red finish for a classic look11. Also, it’s made with quality materials, making it both beautiful and tough.
Playability and Feel
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom is easy to play. It has a comfy neck and a well-made fretboard for smooth playing. The Custom Prophecy, at $1,149, has Fishman Fluence pickups for different sounds: hot, vintage, and single-coil11. It’s one of the most flexible Les Pauls available11.
At £699, the Wino model offers great sound, like pricier Gibsons, giving you your money’s worth11. The Prophecy’s weight relief feature makes it lighter and easier to play for longer11.
Overall, the Epiphone Les Paul Custom excels in looks and performance. It’s perfect for experienced players and beginners wanting a dependable, high-quality guitar.
Finding the Best Epiphone Les Paul Model for You
Choosing the best Epiphone Les Paul model starts with knowing what you want. Consider your music type, how you play, your budget, and what features you desire. Epiphone has various models, such as the Les Paul Standard ’50s, Les Paul Standard ’60s, and Les Paul Junior. Each offers something unique for every player12. These guitars are priced starting at just $199, friendly to those watching their spending12
The Epiphone Les Paul Special Vintage Edition is loved for its retro look13. It’s part of the “Inspired by Gibson” collection and has special design elements. This lets you find a guitar that fits your unique style12. The Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Outfit stands out with its mahogany body and Gibson BurstBuckers. It’s an excellent choice for pros13.
The neck shape of a guitar is important too. Epiphone Les Pauls come in shapes like Vintage ’50s and SlimTaper C among others12. The right shape can make the guitar more comfortable to play. This boosts your playing experience.
Don’t forget to think about price. Epiphone Les Paul guitars have a wide price range, from $199 to $1,49912. It’s smart to look for the best price. With over 250 million products checked daily, you’re sure to find a great Epiphone Les Paul within your budget13.
Ultimately, finding your perfect Epiphone Les Paul guitar means looking at several factors. Think about your music style, how you play, your budget, and the features you want. With Epiphone’s broad selection, you can choose a guitar that compliments your musical path.
Epiphone Les Paul Review: What Users Are Saying
Most people love the Epiphone Les Paul, praising its sound, ease of play, and price. The Epiphone Les Paul Studio stands out with its Alnico Classic Humbuckers. At around $500, it offers great tone and versatility. It also comes in cool colors like Smokehouse Burst and Wine Red, catching the eye of many guitar players14.
The Epiphone Les Paul is known for its durable build, averaging a 4 out of 5 in quality ratings14. People enjoy how it feels and plays, offering great sound and articulation14. The LP Standard, though pricier than the Studio, is seen as a worthy investment for its added features14.
A lot of reviews point out how much value this guitar has. One review helped 99% of 167 users, showing strong reliability and satisfaction15. The 60s standard model is particularly loved, with nearly all users praising its quality and worth16.
The approval for the Epiphone Les Paul is widespread. For example, a review of the 60s standard model was useful to 41 out of 43 readers16. Everyone who commented on the value confirmed it’s a great buy for any player16.
While there are a few small critiques, mostly based on personal taste, the overall guitar feedback is highly positive. It’s favored by many, from rock to blues players, for its rich tone and playability. These user testimonials show how well-respected the guitar is, making it a top pick for both beginners and experts.
Epiphone Les Paul Price: Getting the Best Deal
Guitar lovers know getting a great price on an Epiphone Les Paul is key. The cost varies a lot depending on the model, its features, and where you buy it. You might find these guitars priced from $109.00 to $1,199.00, with most between $200.00 and $800.0017. For instance, the Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Les Paul Special costs much less than the Gibson version18.
Looking for top electric guitar deals? Check online stores like Sweetwater, Andertons, Guitar Center, and Thomann. They have various Epiphone Les Paul Special models18. Shopping online helps you compare prices to find great discounts. Sometimes, these discounts can drop prices to as low as $199.0017.
Don’t forget about extra costs for upgrades. They can make your Epiphone Les Paul play and sound better. Zach Broyles from Mythos Pedals upgraded his guitar with new pickups, knobs, and fretwork18. These changes can make a budget-friendly guitar feel high-end.
Also, look out for limited-edition models. They cost between $549.00 and $699.00 and have unique features. They make your collection stand out17.
| Model | Price Range | Top Sellers | Discounted Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Les Paul Special | $109.00 – $1,199.00 | $259.00 – $849.00 | $199.00 |
| Limited Edition Models | $549.00 – $699.00 | $549.00 – $899.00 | Varies |
Epiphone Les Paul for Sale: Where to Buy
If you’re searching for an Epiphone Les Paul for sale, there are several places to check. Start at local music stores to try guitars firsthand. Shops like The Music Zoo even offer curbside pickup for Epiphone orders, making it easy to shop19. Online shopping is another good option, with many trusted retailers to choose from.
Guitar Center, for example, has over 1,300 Epiphone Les Paul guitars listed17. Their prices range from $199 to $1,199, fitting all kinds of budgets17. Beginners might like the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Pack for $26917. Those looking for something special can check out the Epiphone Les Paul Standard ’60s Quilt Top Limited-Edition Electric Guitar.
Online stores sometimes offer up to 10% off certain models17. Checking out second-hand markets can lead to even bigger savings. For instance, an Epiphone Les Paul Custom Electric Guitar might be new at $799 or OpenBox at $703.12, showing a clear discount17.
Stores like The Music Zoo carry a wide range of Epiphone models, from new to vintage. Epiphone, famous for quality since 1873, offers famous designs like the Les Paul and SG19. In the Northeast U.S., The Music Zoo delivers orders in about a day with ground shipping19.
There’s an Epiphone Les Paul for every player, including six-string, seven-string, or left-handed guitars17. You can find them at local music stores, online, or used. Enjoy your shopping!
Key Features of the Les Paul Electric Guitar
The Les Paul electric guitar boasts a unique carved top body. Gibson introduced it in 1952, making it a guitar icon20. It’s known for top-notch tone and looks. The guitar’s high-quality parts ensure it lasts and performs well.
Its humbucking pickups are a big deal. They cut out static and enrich the sound. The Les Paul Standard has a solid mahogany body, adding to its strong build and tone20. These guitars fit many music styles, like rock and jazz, thanks to their versatile pickups21.
Les Paul guitars shine in hardware, offering various setups and top materials. The Studio model has 490R and 498T pickups, allowing tone changes20. A mahogany body paired with a maple top gives the classic Les Paul sound – deep and full21.
The Les Paul Modern has cool updates. It’s got a contoured heel for better high fret access and it’s lighter for a comfy feel20. Innovations like these keep the Les Paul at the forefront of guitar design. From the simple Les Paul Junior to the luxurious Custom Color Series, there’s a model for every player20.
Knowing the Les Paul’s features explains its popularity. It excels in electronics, hardware, and design21. That’s why both new and pro guitarists love it.
Setting Up Your Epiphone Les Paul Guitar
Getting your Les Paul guitar set up right makes it play better and sound awesome. To start, you’ll want to set the neck’s curve. Aim for a curve of 10-12 thousandths of an inch at the 8th fret22. You can adjust this using a special tool, like a ¼” box spanner for Gibsons or an Allen key for copies23.
Then, look at the nut height by the 1st fret. You want it to be 1/64th of an inch for the high E string and 2/64th for the low E string22. The gap should be between .004” to .008”23. Make sure the strings evenly match the curve of the fretboard23.
The action, or string height, at the 12th fret needs attention next. It should be 3/64ths of an inch for the high E string and 5/64ths for the low E string22. Start by adjusting at the nut, then set the bridge height to 2mm for the sixth string and 1.5mm for the first string23. Pickup height is also key for a good sound. Aim for 4/64ths of an inch for the neck pickup and 3/64ths for the bridge pickup22. A height of about 3.5mm is good for humbuckers23.
For intonation, compare notes at the 12th fret and adjust the saddle as needed23. Watch out for the bridge bending down during guitar setup23. Make sure the stopbar tailpiece is set right for easier string bending23.
Lastly, it’s crucial to have the right tools. You’ll need screwdrivers, a feeler gauge, capo, new strings, string winder and cutters, and a tuner23. Keep your guitar clean, especially the fretboard. Use lemon oil for non-lacquered fretboards23.
Tips for Beginners on Playing the Epiphone Les Paul
Starting your journey with the Epiphone Les Paul is exciting yet challenging. Here are some tips for beginners to start off correctly.
Firstly, proper hand positioning is key for beginners. Make sure your fretting hand is comfy and correct to prevent strain and boost technique24. Practice simple riffs and chords to build muscle memory.
Tuning your Epiphone Les Paul often is vital. A well-tuned guitar makes learning and practicing more fun24. Beginners should learn standard and alternate tunings to boost their skills.
Start practicing riffs with basic, popular songs fit for the Epiphone Les Paul. Tunes by Slash or Jimmy Page showcase the unique Les Paul sound. Try songs from rock, blues, and jazz to become more versatile25.
Investing in beginner-friendly gear can greatly improve your practice. Beginners often use EQ pedals like Behringer to change guitar tones24. Also, learning about how magnet types affect pickups can customize your sound24.
Choosing strings by trial and error is crucial24. Guitarists find that testing different strings helps discover the best tone. Also, tweaking the pickup height can boost your guitar’s sound quality24.
Epiphone Les Paul guitars are loved for their timeless design and great craftsmanship25. As you get better, explore amp compatibility and tone settings to refine your playing. Even small adjustments can hugely improve sound quality.
These tips will make your Epiphone Les Paul experience rewarding. They’ll also build a solid base for your musical future.
Advanced Techniques for the Epiphone Les Paul
For skilled guitar players, the Epiphone Les Paul is perfect for mastering advanced guitar skills. Its great craftsmanship and versatile sound make it great for players who want to get better at playing the guitar.
Bending and Vibrato
Learning how to bend notes and use vibrato can make your playing more expressive. The Epiphone Les Paul makes it easier to do these techniques because of its quality. Its dual humbucker pickups catch the small details of vibrato well.
When practicing, pay attention to bending notes with control and consistency. The Epiphone Les Paul’s solid build and comfortable neck help you improve. These skills not only make your playing better but also make the most of the guitar’s range of sounds.
Sweep Picking
Sweep picking is a complex technique you can learn with the Epiphone Les Paul. It’s key for rapid note changes, often heard in metal and progressive rock. The guitar’s smooth fretboard and responsive pickups are important for doing sweep picking well.
Start with slow, clear sweeps to make sure each note is heard. The Epiphone Les Paul’s ability to produce many sounds helps with getting a clear sound for sweep picking26. With hard work and practice, you’ll get much better at sweep picking, making your playing more dynamic and exciting.
Using these advanced techniques will really improve your guitar skills with the Epiphone Les Paul. Whether bending notes, using vibrato, or doing sweep picking, this guitar supports advanced playing styles.
Maintaining Your Epiphone Les Paul Guitar
Regular cleaning is key for Les Paul guitars. Dust and dirt can harm both looks and playability. Use a soft cloth and gentle cleaner to keep your guitar looking its best and playing well.
Changing strings often is crucial for guitar care. Old strings can make your music sound lifeless. You should replace your strings every 1 to 3 months. This depends on how much you play. New strings help keep the sound of your Epiphone Les Paul bright and full of life.
Looking after your guitar’s hardware is important too. Check the tuning pegs, bridge, and pickups for wear or damage. A good bridge setup can make your intonation better, giving you more control over your playing, though more research is needed27. Changing parts like volume pots and capacitors can improve sound. For example, Gibson 500k pots and .22 uF Orange Drops can better your volume and tone, making your guitar sound warmer within 15-20 minutes27.
Storing your guitar correctly is key. Keep it in a case to protect it from humidity and temperature changes. These can damage wood and corrode metal parts.
Neck maintenance is crucial too. Adjusting the neck and polishing frets can boost playability and sound. This may take more than an hour, but it’s important for your guitar’s health27.
Using a GraphTech TusQ XL Nut instead of a plastic one is smart. It can make tuning more stable, especially for the G-string. It also helps with vibration, improving sound. This change is quick, around 10-20 minutes27. By following these guitar care techniques, your Les Paul will stay beautiful and sound great for years.
Conclusion
In our journey through the Epiphone Les Paul series, we see why guitarists love it. From the budget-friendly Epiphone Les Paul Junior at £320 to the high-end Epiphone Les Paul Custom28. Each model shows great care in making29. They’re known for their powerful dual humbucker pickups. This feature offers flexibility in music styles, from rock to jazz29.
The partnership with Gibson in the late 1950s was a key moment for Epiphone30. Since 1989, the Epiphone Les Paul stands tall among famous brands like Ibanez and Fender in quality and sound29. These guitars impress with their beautiful finishes, like Vintage Sunburst30.
Choosing an Epiphone Les Paul means you value classic style and modern skill. They suit both beginners and experts293028. With their warm sounds from a mahogany body and easy-to-play necks, they are top picks. These guitars are more than an instrument; they’re a journey in music’s legacy and future29.
