Does the Epiphone Les Paul Tribute Play Authentic? Find Out in Our Complete Review

The Epiphone Les Paul Tribute Electric Guitar at a glance:

Epiphone Les Paul Tribute Guitar in Heritage Cherry Sunburst

Les Paul Tribute Electric Guitar Overview

Epiphone guitars, the affordable line of guitars authorized by Gibson, has a long and admirable history when it comes to producing quality electric guitars. The Les Paul Tribute is no different, representing an affordable alternative to the Gibson Les Paul.

Featuring two humbucking pickups, the Les Paul Tribute is built to rock. Featuring the classic Les Paul archtop shape, beginners will be getting a comfortable, versatile, and iconic guitar.

A Reliable Remake of the World’s First Signature Guitar

Epiphone’s Les Paul Tribute is an affordable way for beginners to get their hands on a high quality, arch top Les Paul. Made famous by Les Paul himself, Slash, Jimmy Page, and many other iconic players, the Gibson LP has helped shape rock n roll history.

Famous for the warm, full sound of its humbuckers, the Les Paul Tribute is a great option for players who play rock, hard rock, or metal-style music. While there are many Epiphone Les Pauls that have upgraded features, the simple and streamlined construction helps keep the cost down.

Who is the Epiphone Les Paul Tribute for?

Closer to $300 than $200, the Les Paul Tribute is a bit more expensive than some of its similarly-rated peers. However, it is still tailored to beginner and student guitar players skill set.

The Les Paul Tribute, a Gibson-style guitar, has a smaller scale length at 24.75” than comparable Fender-style guitars like the Telecaster or Stratocaster. This may make it easier for some beginners, thanks to the size of the frets and neck.

Many players also often consider these guitars easier to bend notes on as well. Even better, the humbucking pickups have less noise or buzz than single coils, and produce high output sounds.

That makes the Les Paul Tribute a great live instrument for beginners and students as they form their first bands.

What Comes in the Epiphone Box?

Unlike the Squier Affinity Telecaster, the Les Paul Tribute cannot be purchased as part of a package deal with included accessories.

This means that you’ll have to go out and purchase your own accessories such as a strap, picks, clip-on tuner, and extra strings separately if you’re a beginner.

For some players who already stretched their budget just to get the Les Paul Tribute, this could be troubling. However, you can get Epiphone’s cheaper Les Paul II model in one of those beginner friendly packs!

Les Paul Tribute Features

Epiphone’s Les Paul Tribute is built around two powerful hot open-coil humbuckers. Humbuckers are by definition noiseless, helping to reduce the buzz and hum in your whole rig. Plus, humbuckers are higher output than single coils, giving you loud, full layers of distorted guitar tone.

The Tribute has a Mahogany body and neck, giving it a full, sustaining tone. Unlike Gibson and higher end Epiphones, the Les Paul Tribute has a bolt-on neck, not a set in neck.

The slim taper shaped neck is covered by a bound Laurel fretboard. The neck should be comfortable for most new players, especially thanks to the shorter scale length. The arched top that comes with a stunning heritage cherry finish.

Unfortunately, Les Pauls like this are known to have some tuning instability, thanks to the angle of the strings as they enter the nut.

Rounding out the features are 22 comfortably medium jumbo frets, the classic tune-o-matic bridge style, and a gloss finish that makes the guitar shine.

Highlights

• Loud, rich humbuckers
• Beautiful, glossy heritage cherry finish
• Comfortable, slim body profile
• Small scale length is easier for beginners

See and Hear it in Action

Curious how the Les Paul Tribute and those open coil humbuckers sound? Check out this great demo of the guitar, played both clean and overdriven, below! You’ll quickly see how you can recreate those vintage Les Paul tones with ease.

Epiphone Les Paul Tribute Review

What Do Epiphone Customers Think? >>

Other Affordable Electric Guitars to Try

Squier Affinity Stratocaster

There has never been as many great cheap guitars for young players as there are right now.

While it is easier than ever to find great guitars under $200, it also is harder to sift through the many great options.

If you’re looking for a classic Fender design, Squier’s Affinity Series Stratocaster might be for you.

The Affinity Strat is tried and true recreation of the three pickup Stratocaster, arguably the most iconic electric guitar of all time.

Squier Affinity Telecaster

At an equally affordable price tag, you’ll find even more tonal diversity in the Stratocaster.

Plus, it’s also sold as part of great beginner packages by many common retailers, making it student friendly.

Just like the Affinity Strat, you can also find an affordable and high quality Telecaster from Squier.

The Affinity Tele maintains that classic bright, Fender Tele tone that can be found throughout rock n roll’s history.

It’s versatile enough to cover rockabilly, country, rock, and blues and all that comes for under $200!

Find out more in our Squier Affinity Telecaster review.

Ibanez Gio GRX70QA

Tired of hearing about Fender and Gibson?

Ibanez has just the electric guitar for you! Check out their GRX70, a “super-Strat”-style guitar that mixes modern features with stunning finish options.

For players who want to pursue more technical styles of music such as fusion, metal, or Steve Vai-inspired madness, look no further.

The Ibanez GRX70 adds a unique HSH pickup diagram and dive-bomb ready tremolo system to a sub-$200 shredding machine.

Check out our Ibanez GRX70 complete review here.

Final Thoughts: Does the Epiphone Les Paul Tribute Hit the Mark as a Good Mid-Level Guitar Purchase?

If Fender single coil guitars aren’t your style, the Epiphone Les Paul Tribute is a superb alternative. It’s great for beginners in both practice and live settings, and the humbuckers can faithfully reproduce classic rock and blues lead tones.

Unfortunately, affordable Les Pauls are known for having some tuning issues, so getting a clip on tuner is highly recommended. But for beginners or students who want to play high volume and high gain music, the Les Paul Tribute is a dependable, and fairly affordable option!

Plus, with that heritage cherry color and glossy finish, there aren’t many guitars that look this good at this price point!

What are Epiphone Les Paul Tribute Owners Saying? >>

User Friendliness

Build Quality

Sound Quality

Value Factor

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Overall Score:    4.3

The post Epiphone Les Paul Tribute Review first appeared on GuitarNiche.

There are many makes and models of guitar, but two dominate the market. The most famous guitar players typically play on Les Paul or Stratocaster guitars.

Both the Les Paul and Stratocaster have been around since the 1950s: the Les Paul since 1952, and the Stratocaster since 1954.

Les Paul vs. Stratocaster: Is There a Clear Winner?

Since their inception, they’ve had entirely different paths and manufacturing strategies.

Hence, it’s nearly impossible to have a Les Paul vs Stratocaster battle and expect a clearly dominant winner.

Simply put – there isn’t one. However, there’s plenty of evidence that they’re both individual winners in their own right.

In this article, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions that come up regarding the most prominent features of these iconic instruments.

* Made in North America excluding special models and custom shop instruments.

Common Questions About Les Pauls and Stratocasters

The fastest way to learn more about the Les Paul vs. Strat debate is by asking the relevant questions. Buying a good guitar is no small feat, nor is it an insignificant investment.

Regardless of which you choose, you’ll need at least a few hundred dollars. If you’re considering a Gibson Les Paul instead of Epiphone, that number raises to thousands.

Let’s dive into the necessary information to help you see each side of the Gibson Les Paul vs Fender Stratocaster argument.

Is a Les Paul Easier to Play Than a Strat?

Right off the bat, the question doesn’t have a straightforward answer. However, in terms of playability, we have to consider several crucial characteristics.

First, the guitar body types play a significant role. But how do size and shape make a difference in the Les Paul vs. Stratocaster reckoning? Well, the Strat has a slightly thinner body, which makes it much easier to play for many.

In comparison, Les Pauls might feel like large chunks of wood if you compare them directly to Strats. But, in actual fact, modern Les Pauls aren’t as uncomfortable compared to the vintage models.

Then, we have to consider the scale length, one of the most prominent differences between the two and relevant to playability. The Les Paul scale length is 24.75 inches, and the Strat scale length sits at 25.5 inches.

The shorter scale length of a Les Paul has makes the strings a little easier to play, but the light weight and body contours of a Strat make it more comfortable.

Many professional guitar players prefer a Les Paul due to its shorter scale because it allows greater ease of use. Generally, the Gibson scale length for all models is the same as for Les Paul guitars.

Likewise, Fender scale length is always the same on Strat’s – with few exceptions.

Finally, we have to mention the string tension which directly affects playability. As mentioned, a shorter scale length equals more string elasticity.

Les Paul wins in this round as it has a lower string session than a Stratocaster.

Is a Les Paul or a Stratocaster Better?

Considering that both guitars are incredibly well-made and come in various finishes, specs, and styles, it’s impossible to say outright whether one is better than the other.

Much like an individuals taste in music – it’s entirely subjective.

Whether you think a Les Paul or Stratocaster is better is a matter of opinion, they each have their own strengths and weaknesses. When in doubt, play it out.

Perhaps the question of whether Les Paul is superior is related to the fact that it’s typically more expensive. In addition, the Les Paul weight, usually between 9 and 12 pounds, is another reason many assume it’s a better guitar.

The Stratocaster weighs around 7 to 8.5 pounds, making it lightweight compared to a Les Paul. But a Les Paul is heavier because the mahogany body typically weighs more than alder or ash.

What Is the Difference Between a Fender Stratocaster and a Gibson Les Paul?

There are some similarities between these two fantastic guitars. For example, both can have have rosewood fingerboards. However, the differences are much more notable.

The Stratocaster has a built-on neck, whereas Les Paul’s is set and glued. We already know the differences in body and neck tonewood material.

When it comes to pickups, a Les Paul has two “hum cancelling” humbuckers and a Strat three single-coils, which can be noisy at times.

In design, the Stratocaster features one volume and two tone controls with a five-way switch for electronics. By contrast, Les Paul has two volume and two tone controls, with a three-way switch.

In sound, the Strat is highly versatile thanks to its electronics design which enables a wide tonal palette. By comparison, a Les Paul is sonically more limited, but packs one heck of a punch in output due to its dual coils.

Why Are Les Pauls More Expensive Than Strats?

Essentially, the two main reasons why the Gibson Les Paul guitar is pricier than Stratocaster are the materials used, and the build method applied.

Historically speaking, by the time Gibson started manufacturing electric guitars, they had already dominated the market with acoustic guitars and mandolins.

To this day, the emphasis on meticulous hand-crafted construction is evident in the Les Paul guitar.

With the addition of time consuming cosmetic features such as binding and inlay work, the price goes up accordingly.

Furthermore, mahogany is one of the most expensive types of wood on the market, and a standard for many custom-made guitars.

In contrast, Fender guitars, Strats included, were meant to be mass-produced from the get-go using readily available materials for every detail.

Why Did Eric Clapton Switch to Fender?

In the 1970s, Eric Clapton replaced his Gibson SG for a Fender Stratocaster and further fueled the war between the two guitar communities.

Many still wonder why he made the change, as we all know Gibson makes some of the best guitars on the planet.

While we can’t say with 100% accuracy, the standard explanation is that he was influenced by Jimmy Hendrix and his bandmates to switch to a Strat.

He famously named his first Strat ‘Brownie’ due to the color of its finish.

He then bought six more Strats and gave one to George Harrison, one to Steve Winwood, and one to Pete Townshend.

He then used the best parts of the remaining three Strats to build ‘Blackie,’ another famous Fender Strat.

Are Les Pauls Good for Beginners?

It’s essential to point out that beginners can learn how to play either a Les Paul or Strat as long as they practice.

But, as mentioned, they both have their benefits and downfalls in terms of ease of use.

For most players just starting out however, budget is a major consideration. For this reason, entry level models from the sub-brands Epiphone and Squier make more sense.

When you’re a complete novice, every guitar will seem overwhelming at first.

However, Stratocasters are lighter, have a C-shaped neck, and are often better for beginners.

What Is the Best Fender Stratocaster for the Money?

Even though they are far more affordable than Gibson Les Pauls, Strat guitars come in a wide range of prices and specs.

In terms of a meat-and-potatoes, everything you need in a US-made Strat, the most affordable option is the Fender Player Stratocaster, priced around $800.

A high-end Strat can cost up to $2,000, as is the case with the Fender American Ultra Stratocaster HSS.

It is worth noting, at the risk of stepping outside the context of true Fender USA made products, an excellent guitar that combines quality and value for money is Fender’s Squier Classic Vibe Stratocaster with a price tag of around $500.

Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster

Why Are Les Pauls So Heavy?

Gibson Les Pauls are heavy because they’re slightly thicker and made from relatively dense mahogany.

Only the best mahogany is used for the bodies; the necks can be made with the same material or maple.

This in not to say that Fender products are feather-weight either. We’ve seen some, particularly from the 70’s, that were ridiculously heavy.

Over the decades, specific gravity tolerances used for body materials have been relaxed in order to make production more cost effective.

The result is that, in some cases, Fender guitars that aren’t as light as they could be.

Can a Stratocaster Sound Like a Les Paul?

This is a great question. Les Pauls and Strats feature two very different sounds. A typical Stratocaster footprint has the thinner and brighter sound, some would express it as “sharp sounding”.

A Les Paul is all about thicker, darker tones and focuses on mid-range frequencies. But is there a way to make them sound similar?

You can make significant changes by adjusting the amplifier settings, using an EQ pedal, and opting for the neck pickup, but we’ll explain it like this:

Through modifications you can get a Stratocaster to sound very close to a Les Paul, but, because of its inherent construction, a Les Paul will never produce a convincing Stratocaster sound.

Is Gibson or Fender Better?

Again, the question is subjective and almost impossible to answer. The Fender vs. Gibson comparison comes down to personal preference.

Gibson is an older guitar maker with a different history and intense focus on details. On the other hand, Fender makes Stratocasters which are incredibly popular and more affordable.

Also, Telecaster vs. Strat by Fender is another challenging comparison to make.

Les Paul vs Stratocaster: A Breakdown

We’ve covered the main questions about these two brilliant instruments, but we have to touch on several other specific categories.

This will give us further insight into the Les Paul and Stratocaster legacies and what they represent to guitar communities.

The History

The Gibson company was founded in 1894 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and is undoubtedly one of the most well-known guitar manufacturers in the world.

When they started making electric guitars in the 1950s, and their best-known models were the Les Paul and SG, along with the Flying V, Explorer and Moderne though with limited success.

To this day, every “authentic” Gibson guitar is made in the US in one of the Nashville or Montana factories.

The first Fender guitar, Telecaster (originally Broadcaster), was introduced in 1950, and the Stratocaster came a mere four years later in 1954.

They were both designed by Leo Fender in California as marketing products used to support his amplifier business.

Today, these practical, every-day-working-man guitars are synonymous with professional guitarists.

Musical Styles

If you know what you’re doing, you can play any musical style with any guitar – talent is truly in the hands of the player.

However, due to the style, tone, and general comfort, Les Paul and Stratocaster are divided based on musical styles.

While a Strat can be used in any genre, it’s considered one of the best blues guitars ever. The low levels of gain make it suitable for country, pop and R’n’B music.

With Les Paul guitars, it’s all about the hands that play it. It’s original inception was to be an affordable electric guitar for jazz musicians.

Therefor of course it can be an excellent jazz guitar, but it found incredible popularity among, blues, rock and heavy metal musicians too.

Price Range

A Gibson Les Paul guitar is gorgeous, sturdy, durable – and expensive. No doubt that it’s a fantastic investment that can turn into an heirloom.

But it might not be the best option for a budget-minded person in need of a new guitar. Even the cheapest Les Paul is over $1,000. For that money, you can buy a reasonably high-end Stratocaster.

Ultimately, it’s about what you’re looking for and what will work for you. Besides, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard is much cheaper and shares incredibly similar features.

Les Paul vs. Stratocaster Pros and Cons

By Gibson

By Fender

Les Paul vs. Stratocaster: Which Guitar Is Better for You?

If you don’t know anything about guitars, it’d be nearly impossible to choose between the Les Paul and the Stratocaster.

You would probably be inclined to make a decision based on looks.

The lack of contours and the weight of a Les Paul would make it an automatic “no” for some. However, others will appreciate those same features.

The playability factor is essential but shouldn’t be the defining factor.

You can learn how to play either of these guitars as long as you dedicate time and effort.

However, perhaps the better way to assess the better option is to focus on the preferred music style and pickup options.

The post Les Paul vs Stratocaster (What We Love, And Hate) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack

Overall Rating: 4.4/5

We hope you find this article helpful, informative and unbiased. By using links on this page we may receive compensation at no extra cost. If you do use them, thank you so much!

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review: A Beginner Version Of The Beloved Les Paul

There are arguably no electric guitars more famous, influential, or beloved than the classic Gibson Les Paul.

From Jimmy Page to Slash, numerous icons of the guitar world have chosen this single cut model above others.

Likewise, thousands of amateur and student players have entrusted Epiphone to create this same guitar model for their needs.

This Epiphone Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is no different – specifically their Les Paul Special-II model which sits at the core; all the accessories and extras needed to get you playing guitar fast.

Overview of an Affordable Les Paul Guitar Package

Epiphone, a branch of Gibson that specializes in affordable models has long had a great reputation amongst guitarists.

Many players from the past 30 years started out on guitars from packages just like this.

In fact, this Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is likely one of their top selling products thanks to the affordable price tag and one-stop-shop deal.

Even for more experienced players who may own other guitars, this all inclusive package holds value.

Who Get’s the Most Out of It?

As with most guitar packages, this Epiphone LP offering is best suited for beginners and students. The combination of affordability and value is often too good to pass up.

This Epiphone Player package is very attractive for a few key reasons.

First off, it’s a classic guitar design and sound that many students will find their idols playing on stage or in the studio.

Next, the inclusion of the amp, cables, and other extras make it so truly easy to get home and play in minutes.

No comparison shopping for extras and accessories, just open the box and go. Furthermore, the smaller scale length of these Gibson-style instruments can be easier for some players to learn on.

What Comes in the Box?

So we’ve talked about how great it is that this guitar package comes with everything you need, but what exactly does it come with?

Each pack contains a brand new Epiphone Les Paul Special II and padded gig bag for it.

A 10-watt Epiphone amplifier is included as well with all necessary cables so that you’re ready to plug and play.

Other great extras include a strap for your new Les Paul, guitar picks, and a very hand clip on tuner.

While these are less essential than the amp and power cable, they will make your life easier.

These items specifically are things a less educated beginner or student may have trouble finding.

Features & Specs

There are several noteworthy features that make this Les Paul beginner-friendly. The flat top, thin body design makes it much less heavy than the typical Les Paul.

The Alder wood body construction, as opposed to Mahogany, further lightens the load.

The two humbucking pickups, a 700T in the bridge and 650R at the neck, also provide a more high octane sound than single coils found on competitors like Squier Stratocasters and Telecasters.

Plus, these dual coil pickups are far less noisy, meaning you won’t have as much buzz or hum coming out of your amplifier.

The 24.75” scale length also provides for a smaller neck, with less space in between frets. Compare this to the 25.5” scale length of most Fender or Ibanez guitars

Lastly, two finishes are available: a beautiful vintage sunburst or ebony finish gives this Epiphone Les Paul a classic, gig ready look.

Highlights

• High output humbucking pickups
• Simplified controls with volume, tone, and 3-way switch
• Comfortable Alder body
• Beautiful vintage sunburst finish
• Shorter scale length neck

How To Get The Most Out Of Your New Epiphone Pack

The beauty of the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package is that it’s 100% ready to go out of the box.

Clip on your tuner and tune the guitar, throw the strap on, and plug in. The flat top construction and Alder body also make it lighter and more comfortable than most classic Les Paul models.

Check out this awesome demo of the Les Paul Special-II, the guitar featured in this package!

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review: Key Points

Alternative Instruments for Comparison

Final Thoughts On A Timeless Guitar

If your love of classic rock music inspired you to pick up the guitar, it’s hard to not covet a Les Paul. Epiphone’s Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is designed to scratch that Gibson itch while still outfitting you with all the essentials.

The smaller scale length of the neck may make it more comfortable to inexperienced hands. On the other hand, affordable Les Paul’s are well known to have some tuning instability issues.

A quick tune up from a tech can help unlock the monster tones locked inside this classic body design.

Either way, the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player pack is an excellent choice for new guitarists determined to play an LP.

Check Today’s Epiphone Player Pack Price! >>

The post Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review (An Easy Start On A Budget) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

7 Best Electric Guitars for Kids Compared:

Guitar	Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Editor’s Pick! Squier Stratocaster Pack Three pickup configuration for tone simplicity		(4.9)	$$
#2 Best Budget Model Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X 22.5” scale length – ideal for small hands		(4.5)	$
#3 Best Premium Pack Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS pickup configuration for playing diversity		(4.6)	$$$
#4 Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Comes with a clip-on tuner		(3.9)	$$$
#5 Loog Pro Three-string simplicity		(3.6)	$$
#6 Ibanez Gio GRX70QA HSH pickup configuration for top genre versatility		(4.8)	$$
#7 Squier Bullet Mustang Incredibly resilient and stable		(4.1)	$$

We hope you find this article helpful, informative and unbiased. Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

There are more benefits to playing the guitar other than simply mastering an instrument. Some are social, while others revolve around the discipline of technical achievement.

This is what makes the guitar an excellent gift for your kid.

Of course, the price ballpark here isn’t thousands of dollars, meaning that you’re looking for the best electric guitar for kids, not adults.

However, bear in mind that most of the models on our list aren’t “kids’ guitars;” they’re simply guitars that are better suited for kids and beginners.

Top Electric Guitars for Kids Reviewed

1. Squier Stratocaster Pack

A classic-looking Stratocaster beginner’s pack from Squier.

A Traditional Stratocaster Pack

The typical Fender-built Stratocaster guitar has a SSS (three single coil) pickup configuration, which is fantastic for getting funky tones.

This Stratocaster Pack from Squier replicates its parent Fender guitar’s famous look, feel, and tone.

An affordable package that includes a kid’s electric guitar and amp, a gig bag, cable, picks, and some basic tools you need for this guitar’s setup.

Highlights

The Fender Frontman 10G amp that’s included here offers a range of brilliant crunch tones.

There’s a quick button that toggles between clean and crunch that allows your kid to adjust the gain level.

This is a fantastic for letting your child learn about the dynamics of electric guitar playing.

The guitar comes equipped with the typical tremolo bridge that will introduce your kid to the dynamic world of the whammy bar.

Squier Stratocaster Pack Features

• Lightweight body made of poplar is perfect for kids, plus it brings out a superb tone
• Custom-voiced overdrive from the Fender 10G amp
• Synchronized Tremolo bridge for whammy style of playing
• Included strap, picks, gig bag, cable, and setup tools
• Maple neck and rosewood fretboard for tonal stability

A Variety of Features at a Low Price

For a remarkably low price, you get a cool-looking beginner’s Squier Stratocaster, a solid amp, and various other features.

The SSS pickup configuration allows your kid to get introduced to the world of electric guitar gradually.

This is a truly classic beginner guitar package that offers a decent starter instrument with various simple tonal properties.

No Tuner

A clip-on tuner would be a nice addition to the package. It’s important that kids learn about guitar tuning from the get-go.

Fortunately, there are various smartphone tuner apps available out there.

Squier Strat Pack in Review

View the Latest Squier Stratocaster Packs from Fender >>

2. Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X

A serious-looking rock/metal guitar for kids from Jackson.

A Future Metalhead’s Ax

Jackson is a popular name, especially in heavier music. And the JS1X is as cheap as a Jackson model gets.

Although this guitar is aimed at the young future metalheads, don’t be surprised if you end up liking it yourself.

The default color of this model is Gloss Black, but Bright Blue, Neon Orange, and Ferrari Red are options that may appeal more to your kids.

Potent Humbuckers and No Whammy

You can use this guitar for various genres, but it’s primarily aimed at heavier music styles.

The two high-output Jackson humbucker pickups work wonders for heavily distorted sounds.

It comes with a fixed bridge, so your kid won’t be able to do any whammy bar tricks that compromise tuning – simplicity is definitely desired here.

Play this guitar through a decent amp, and you’ll be surprised at how good it sounds.

Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X Features

• Poplar body with a maple top for tonal balance
• 5” scale is ideal for small hands
• Fixed bridge for tuning stability and overall setup simplicity
• Four color options to appeal to everyone’s taste
• Graphite reinforcement truss rods for even more stability

Small Hands Love It

Normally, Jackson guitars feature a 25.5” scale used on many instruments such as Fender Guitars.

Nevertheless, a regular scale length might not be ideal for the young ones. The JS1X has a 22.5” scale, which is just perfect for small hands.

This shorter scale length makes the strings a little more flexible and easier on fresh fingers.

Furthermore, we’re talking about a relatively cheap, straightforward guitar that’s more than decent enough for talent shows and similar children’s performances.

Large Hands Do Not Love It

As time passes, your kid’s going to grow past the unusually short 22.5” scale. This model will last them a few years, but they’ll probably grow out of it. Fortunately, the price is perfectly fitting.

Jackson Dinky Minion in Review

3. Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster

Another Squier Stratocaster offering – but with a lot more oomph!

Similar to the previous Strat Pack, this is a quick-start guitar beginner’s pack from Fender’s daughter company, Squier.

Unpack, Plug In, and Play

The familiar Stratocaster look is known far and wide across the world. Many of the greats adore this model.

The Affinity Series Stratocaster is a great choice with a range of diversity. Inside the package, you get a strap, cable, gig bag, picks, and the Fender Frontman 15G amp.

In other words, your kid gets everything they need to get started right away.

Comfort and Diversity

Comfort is hugely important when it comes to beginner guitars. We’re talking about a complex and a fairly hard instrument to play here.

After all, making it easy for your kid to get started with it is the right way to go.

Thanks to the crisp maple neck and the fretboard made out of laurel hardwood, the player gets a ton of smoothness and ease of playing.

Diversity is another cool thing about the Affinity Series. With the HSS (humbucker, single, single) pickup configuration, you get to rock out with heavier music.

The super versatile pickup combination also lets you have fun with jazz, funk, and any other style you, or should we say, your kid, prefers.

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Features

• Poplar body brings rock-solid tone to the table
• HSS pickup configuration for maximum playing diversity
• 5-way blade selector for tone shaping variety
• A bunch of features inside the package to get you started
• Vintage-style tremolo

Undeniable Comfort

Expect unexpected comfort from this model. In fact, you might feel sort of jealous that you didn’t get the chance to own this guitar as a kid yourself.

With most guitar purchases, you get a guitar, and then you have to go out of your way and find various other features necessary to get your kid started.

With the Affinity Series, you get everything you need, including an upgrade, in a single package.

Pricey

Although the price point is low compared to more professional-level guitars, the Affinity Series is the most expensive option.

Nevertheless, when put against other products on this list. It does bring a lot of quality to the table.

Affinity Strat Pack in Review

View the Latest Affinty Series Models >>

4. Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack

Beginner’s pack from Gibson’s daughter company, Epiphone.

The Good Old Les Paul

Back in the day, there were two claimants to the throne of the best guitar in the world: Les Paul and Stratocaster.

The Les Paul model remains very recognizable. This from Epiphone also comes with a 10-watt amp, gig bag, cable, strap, picks, and a clip-on tuner.

A Simple Tuner Means a Lot

Unlike strat-style guitars, Les Pauls are more about that fat, rock/metal sound. This is why this Epiphone features two humbuckers in its pickup configuration.

The neck build is fairly standard – maple with a rosewood fretboard. This gives it a solid, balanced tone.

Also available in a Vintage Sunburst finish, the guitar itself is surprisingly good for the price, it’s also about all the additional things you get inside the package.

It may not seem like much, but the included clip-on tuner is incredibly useful for your kid’s ear development.

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Features

• Every piece of equipment your kid needs to start playing immediately
• 10-watt amp with clean and crunch settings
• Solidbody build – among the most popular design options
• Maple neck with rosewood fretboard
• One volume knob, one tone knob, and a 3-position switch – simplicity is king

HH Simplicity

If your kid is into rock-style music, the double humbucker setup is the best pickup configuration for them. This configuration is very straightforward.

The same goes for the included 10-watt amp. You get two channels – clean and crunch – and some basic amp options. Nothing too complicated.

Although it’s not the most affordable kids beginner electric guitar option, it offers everything you need to get started.

Your Kid Might Not Be Into Rock

If your kid’s into heavier music, this is a good place to start. But it can turn out to be less than ideal for a kids’ first guitar.

Epiphone Les Paul Pack in Review

5. Loog Pro

A real beginner’s three-string guitar from Loog, specifically aimed at kids.

A Kid’s Guitar That’s Not a Toy

You can always get a standard guitar and have your kid learn how to play it. But Loog is a manufacturer that’s specifically oriented toward youngsters.

To avoid any off-putting string confusion, this model has only three strings.

The idea here was to make a kid’s guitar that isn’t a toy. Although the string spacing is smaller and the neck is thinner, the feel of it is very much like on a real grown-up guitar.

Simplicity is King

The body here is made out of solid wood, and the maple neck brings out the classic trebly quality.

Control-wise, things are very straightforward – a single volume knob (no tone knob), a single-coil pickup, and an input jack. Simplicity is key when it comes to an absolute newbie guitar.

Loog Pro Features

• Lightweight, stable basswood body for tuning stability and solid resonance
• Low string action for ease of playing while learning
• Three real guitar strings to keep things simple but replicate the feel of a real guitar
• Fantastic sound and excellent intonation from the single-coil pickup
• Maple neck and fretboard for crispy spunkiness

Arguably the Best Kid’s Beginner Solution

Simply put, there isn’t a better way to get used to the feel of a guitar than playing a real guitar made for kids’ hands.

The bridge system is adjustable, which is fantastic for ideal comfort.

This instrument’s price is also appealing, especially when you consider the fact that a regular beginner’s guitar will set you back about the same.

Only Three Strings

Although the three strings feel and work the same as on a regular guitar, we’re still talking about three strings.

Some kids may find the transition from three to the traditional six strings a bit confusing.

Loog Pro in Review

6. Ibanez Gio GRX70QA

An affordable and versatile shredder-style guitar from Ibanez’s Gio line.

Overview

Ibanez’s Gio is a well-known affordable line of electric guitars. The GRX70QA is among the cheaper Gio options, which makes it ideal for kids.

This guitar is far from top-notch, but offers a ton of versatility. Plus, the finish looks simply fantastic.

Highlights

The HSH (humbucker-single-humbucker) pickup configuration makes this Ibanez very versatile.

You can get a very heavy lead tone from the bridge pickup, but the warmth of the neck humbucker for clean tones is not to be understated.

If you like the tonal properties of a single pickup, there is one available in the middle position.

Like most Ibanez guitars, this one puts an emphasis on the neck. It’s very comfortable, and the hand glides across it – amazing playability for the price.

Ibanez Gio GRX70QA Features

• Basswood body for tuning stability and light weight
• Maple neck for crisp, trebly tones
• Purpleheart fretboard works perfectly with the maple neck
• Solid FAT 6 tremolo bridge with a whammy bar
• 3 Powersound pickups

A Breathtakingly Good-Looking Beginner’s Guitar

The Gio GRX70QA from Ibanez definitely doesn’t look like a kids’ model. This is because it wasn’t primarily intended for youths.

Electric guitar practice starts with a comfortable guitar, and the Ibanez Gio GRX70QA is remarkably playable for its price.

Is it only for beginners? No. Is it a recommended electric guitar for beginners? Absolutely. And don’t forget its breathtaking looks.

Pickups Not Perfect

For a beginner, the pickups sound just fine. But given that the build quality of this model is more than decent, you may end up desiring a better pickup set.

The thing is, a set of solid pickups is likely to cost more than the original price of the guitar.

Ibanez Gio in Review

7. Squier Bullet Mustang HH

A cheap HH-configuration guitar from Squier.

An Indie Kid’s Guitar

It’s difficult to imagine the indie, underground, and alternative scenes without the popular Mustang guitar shape.

Well, here it is – a beginner’s Squier guitar with the popular Mustang shape and feel.

Yes, you get only two humbucker pickups, but this only means straightforward playing simplicity.

Your kid will rock out with the bridge pickup and enjoy the deep, resonant tones of the neck humbucker on clean settings.

Solid Workhorse

At 24 inches of scale length, this guitar’s neck is compact and a perfect fit for smaller kids’ hands.

Thanks to the dual humbucker configuration, expect a midrange-oriented tone. This guitar is quite the workhorse – a resilient and stable model.

Considering that kids aren’t exactly careful with their things, this means a lot.

Squier Bullet Mustang HH Features

• This is a no-nonsense, straightforward workhorse guitar
• Lightweight basswood body offers setup stability
• Smaller hands will greatly benefit from the 24” scale length
• Crunchy, hot, rock tone
• Soft laurel fretboard simply feels great

Brilliant Resilience

Kids aren’t careful. They will break things. This affordable guitar is very tough and, although dents and scratches may occur, the playing quality is unlikely to be affected by wear and tear.

The Squire Bullet Mustang is a perfect model for heavier tones. The 24” scale length is a true gift for smaller hands.

There are shorter-scale guitars on this list, but the 24” will prepare your kid for moving on to longer scales down the line.

Too Sturdy?

The sturdy build does come at a price. This guitar might feel a bit too stiff for some. This boils down to personal preference, though.

Squier Bullet Mustang in Review

Best First Electric Guitar For Kids Buyer’s Guide

The guitars that you’ll find on this list all make for great choices for the young ones.

Whether you’re a guitar player yourself or not, you should know what to look for when buying a guitar for your kid. They’ll undoubtedly have no idea where to start themselves.

With this in mind, here’s a buyer’s guide that will help you better understand the world of kids’ guitar playing.

What is the Best Age to Start Learning Guitar?

Ask any guitar player about the perfect age to get into guitar playing, and they’ll say “as soon as possible.”

Unlike the piano, for example, guitar playing does involve brute force, to an extent (fretting notes is not easy for beginners).

Buy your kid a guitar too soon, and they might end up being put off by this struggle.

Many top-of-the-line guitar players first picked up their instrument of choice in their teenage years. So, the age of 13 is optimal. It all boils down to knowing your kid, though.

Some will benefit from starting out as early as age seven, while others won’t pick up the instrument until they’re 17.

In any case, pushing your kid into guitar playing is not the way to go. Even if you get them a guitar early on, they might end up picking it up later in life.

What Guitar Should I Buy for a Beginner Child?

If you are a guitar player yourself, you probably have a small old amp lying around somewhere.

In this case, you don’t need to get them a beginner guitar package with an included amp and other guitar essentials.

If you don’t have any guitar-related equipment at home though, focus on getting them the best electric guitar starter kit that you think will fit them.

Get the best electric guitar starter kit that fits them, and your budget.

You can get them a guitar separately and buy them a cheap amp, but this will set you back quite a bit more.

The starter kits are usually the best idea; the included equipment is more than decent enough for young beginners.

Are Electric Guitars Worth It?

We tend to underestimate the importance of having a hobby. What’s great about music is that it can grow into a passion, leading to a profession that your child will love and cherish.

However, even if it forever remains a hobby, the value that playing the electric guitar brings to the table is immense.

In fact, even if they completely drop the instrument after a few years, the guitar can do wonders for your child’s motor development.

As opposed to acoustic guitars, electric guitars require much less brute force for playing. Starting with one of the mentioned is usually preferable to getting an acoustic model.

Therefor, yes, buying an electric guitar for your kid is definitely worth it, especially considering that the outlined models are very cheap.

How Big is a Junior Guitar?

Junior guitars tend to be a quarter, a half, or three quarters of the regular guitar size.

Most guitars on this list aren’t considered “junior” guitars, although some feature shorter scale lengths.

This is because we think that starting out with a normal-sized guitar is generally preferable – let your kid grow into it instead of out of it.

We have included the Loog Pro model, which is much more compact than the other models on the list and features three strings.

If you want your kid to start out with a non-adult model, why not introduce them to fewer strings as well, to avoid confusion.

Still, we think that your kid will have an easier time adjusting to the world of guitars if they have an instrument that has realistic proportions.

Can You Make a Cheap Electric Guitar Sound Good?

Go ahead and ask any guitarist out there if this is possible. In all likelihood, they will answer with a “yes.”

While acoustic guitars produce their sound, well, acoustically, electric guitars rely on electronics to reproduce sound.

Naturally, the wood quality, the overall build, the pickups, and other components each have a role here.

Even the cheapest electric guitar can sound good with a good setup, and some practice.

However, as long as you have a good amp, you can make pretty much any guitar sound at least decent.

In fact, learning how to set the tone on a cheap guitar will help develop your ear for this.

Additionally, not only can you make a cheap guitar sound good, but it’s even preferable to starting off with an expensive model. For your kids, $300 is the recommended ceiling.

How Much Does a Good Quality Electric Guitar Cost?

Most guitarists would answer, “depends.” And it truly does depend on many factors.

But, as a rule of thumb, the $1,000 ballpark is a reasonably certain range for a high quality electric guitar. With most products, you’re looking for quality.

Do not look at quality guitars when browsing the models for your kid. We don’t just say this for the sake of your budget, but for your kid’s guitar learning process, as explained above.

In reality, you can find production model and boutique guitars that go as far up as $3,000 or much more.

And then, you’ll see a famous musician rocking a $600 workhorse on the stage. There is absolutely no need to go overboard with your kid’s first model.

What is the Best Electric Guitar for Beginners?

The best electric guitar for a beginner is the one they like to observe while it’s played.

In truth, there is no way to tell whether your kid will find a perfect match on their own.

Taking them to the guitar store and having an employee play each model for your kid is the best way to have them choose their first instrument.

See what they like the most – unless you really want them to go with a junior-style guitar. In that case, we recommend the above-mentioned Loog Pro.

Who Wins Top Seat For The Best Electric Guitar For Kids?

Although we’ve reviewed many quality guitars, we’re going to have to go with a guitar-amp-essentials pack here.

The Squier Stratocaster Pack offers the most comprehensive set of extra features. The triple pickup combo is perfect for a beginner, and the included amp will help your kid learn how to dial in their tone.

With the Squier Stratocaster Pack, your kid has a chance to start learning electric guitar basics, from its playing aspects to the technicalities and tone.

This is why we think that the Squier Stratocaster Pack is the best electric guitar for kids.

EDITOR’S PICK

Squier Stratocaster Pack!

What Do Squier Stratocaster Pack Owners Think? >>

The post Best Electric Guitar for Kids (7 Exceptional Instruments) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

To play bluegrass the way it was intended, you’re going to need a good weapon. In this article, we’ll show you some of the best bluegrass guitars available. Don’t expect low prices – expect quality, awesome tone, and playing comfort.

Great Bluegrass Guitars Compared

Guitar	Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1  Best Bluegrass Acoustic Gibson J-45 Standard A top quality workhorse guitar		(5.0)	$$$$
#2 Best Mid-Range Acoustic Taylor 214ce Deluxe Modern design with exceptional transparency		(4.3)	$$$
#3 Best Budget Model Epiphone Dove Studio Fishman Sonitone pickup system		(4.8)	$
#4 The King Of Acoustics Martin D-28 Traditional tone and huge bottom projection		(4.9)	$$$$
#5 Classic Engineering Yamaha LL16D ARE ARE tone aging		(4.4)	$$$
#6 Style and Electronics Washburn Comfort G25SCE Mahogany elbow binding		(3.9)	$$
#7 The Underdog Seagull S6 Pressure-tested cedar top		(4.2)	$

We hope you find this article helpful, informative and unbiased. Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Top 7 Bluegrass Guitars in Review

1. Gibson J-45 Standard

(5.0)

A top-end round-shoulder dreadnought acoustic-electric guitar from Gibson.

Top-Tier Bluegrass Axe

Gibson is, without a doubt, one of the two most popular guitar brands on the planet.

You may love them, you may hate the brand, but the fact remains – they make fantastic guitars for almost every player’s need. Of course, bluegrass musicians have a lot to be happy about here.

The J-45 Standard from Gibson features a top-notch tone wood blend and has a lot of style.

The Workhorse

The J-45 Standard has been aptly nicknamed “The Workhorse” – used on stages and in studios all across the world.

Its premium mahogany side and back build is highly resonant and brings a lot of depth to the J-45 Standard’s tone foundation. Of course, this is contrasted with the Sitka spruce top, which evokes tonal clarity and presence.

The high-grade rosewood on the fretboard is visibly different to most other fingerboards of the same base material. The VTC pickup system from LR Baggs has a lively, robust, and, above everything else, natural sound to it.

Check Today’s J-45 Standard Price >>

Gibson Acoustic J-45 Standard Features

• Workhorse acoustic guitar
• Back and sides made out of solid mahogany, bringing out a round and warm sound
• The Sitka spruce top evokes tone clarity and projection
• Soft fretboard edges for extra comfort
• VTC pickups from LR Baggs help the J-45 Standard sound natural even when plugged in

Huge Attention to Detail

Gibson’s J-45 Standard offers a uniquely good build. A lot of attention to tonal and physical details went into this guitar’s design.

The result is an all-round workhorse that performs brilliantly for studio recording and stage performance.

Expect to Pay a Lot

This is a Gibson guitar. Not only that, but it’s a quality Gibson guitar. So, expect quite a hefty price tag here. Other than that, it’s pretty much perfect.

Gibson J-45 Standard Key Points

2. Taylor 214ce Deluxe

(4.3)

A modern-shaped grand auditorium acoustic-electric guitar from Taylor.

Grand Auditorium Bluegrass Machine

Taylor is a widely renowned acoustic guitar brand that’s popular with various bluegrass musicians.

Out of all Taylor guitars, however, the 214ce Deluxe is probably the best fit for a bluegrass enthusiast who’s looking for a quality mid-range guitar.

Although it’s still a fairly large-bodied instrument, this bluegrass axe isn’t a dreadnought. It boasts a grand auditorium shape, like many other Taylor-made guitars.

A Very Comfortable Shape

The grand auditorium shape appears smaller than the popular dreadnought. If you’re worried that the size of the 214ce Deluxe will compromise its volume capacity, you can rest easy.

Although grand auditorium guitars feature a narrower waist than dreadnoughts, their lower bout is actually wider. Many bluegrass musicians will find this guitar shape more comfortable than the dreadnought shape.

The sides and the back of this guitar are Indian rosewood, which brings that claret sweetness type of vibe to its overall tone.

To balance things and bring out that crisp, clear sound, the Taylor 214ce Deluxe has a Sitka spruce top.

Check Taylor 214ce Deluxe Availability >>

Taylor 214ce Deluxe Features

• Sitka spruce top for tone balance and projection enhancement
• Ebony fretboard on a Sapele neck helps you play smooth and fast
• Taylor’s proprietary Expression System 2 (ES2) amplifies the tone accurately
• The tasteful Venetian cutaway helps with upper-fret access
• A grand auditorium model with a huge tone

Versatility Is King

The best thing about this guitar is that it’s comfortable for guitarists of any size. Thanks to its slick action, it will appeal to electric enthusiasts and bluegrass guitar players alike.

While the rosewood adds capacity for strumming and flatpicking, the spruce top brings out clarity for fingerpicking.

Strength vs Weakness

The biggest upshot of this guitar (its versatility) is also its downside. More experienced players who know what they’re looking for might not like the emphasized versatility.

Taylor 214ce Key Points

3. Epiphone Dove Studio

(4.8)

An extremely affordable acoustic-electric guitar from Epiphone.

Fishman Sonitone in a Cheap Guitar

If you’re looking for a dirt-cheap acoustic-electric guitar for bluegrass that provides great value for the price, look no further.

Epiphone, a daughter company of one of the most popular guitar manufacturers on the planet, Gibson, has released the Dove Studio guitar that sits at a remarkably low price.

Cheap as it is, it sports Fishman Sonitone electronics, which is among the best acoustic guitar pickups available on the market.

The Dove Studio is worth the purchase for the pickups alone. But this model has much more to offer than the fancy electronics.

Enhanced Tone as It Breaks In

Perhaps the most surprising thing on this guitar (in addition to the Fishman electronics) is the fact that it actually sounds better as it ages.

This is thanks to the tonewoods used on it – maple on the sides and back and a solid spruce top.

Epiphone Dove Studio Availability >>

Epiphone Dove Studio Features

• Spruce top and maple sides and back help enhance the tone as the Dove Studio ages
• Brilliant Fishman Sonitone pickups make Epiphone Dove Studio sound much more expensive than it is
• Vintage Dove artwork reminiscent of the original Gibson model
• Tuning stability and precision from Grover tuners
• Fast and smooth playing thanks to the SlimTaper D neck

A Whole Lot of Cool Features

There is a mind-boggling amount of value packed into this very cheap acoustic-electric guitar.

You get quality Grover tuners, Fishman Sonitone system, and a neck profile called SlimTaper D. This neck profile helps bring smoothness and speed out of your playing.

You Get What You Pay for

It’s important that you note that this is a budget guitar. Expect certain parts like the nut and the bridge to be subpar in quality terms.

Epiphone Dove Key Points

4. Martin D-28

(4.9)

The undisputed standard, and extremely popular acoustic from a widely renowned guitar brand Martin.

An Age-Old Dreadnought

The Martin D-28 is, without a doubt, the most popular bluegrass guitar in the world. Quite a feat, as it’s been around since the 1930s, and still retains the top popularity title.

The D-28 hasn’t changed much since its inception, because there’s been no need for change. It remains a powerful dreadnought guitar that’s held dearly in the heart of many bluegrass musicians.

Smooth and Balanced Tone with a Punch

Originally designed to project through a the sonic wall of folk instruments such as fiddles and mandolins, the D-28 sports a well-balanced and dynamic acoustic tone – the foundation of any bluegrass guitar performance.

Thanks to the Sitka spruce and East Indian rosewood, this Martin bluegrass guitar delivers balance to a punchy, full warm tone and volume.

Its build is immediately recognizable, and understated in appearance, there’s really nothing overly ornate about the standard aesthetics. But this is the humble profile greatly preferred by many bluegrass enthusiasts.

Martin D-28 Acoustic Guitar

Martin D-28 Features

• Familiar dreadnought shape
• Tone depth and “bassiness” perfect with vocals
• Fantastic in all “unplugged” environments
• High-quality tonewoods for a timeless tone
• Low frequency response is never boomy – expect a tight tone

Familiar Tone

If you happen to find the D-28’s tone familiar, that’s because it’s been used on countless records over time. Modern bluegrass musicians either own this model, desire to have it or have a great deal of respect for it.

The Sitka spruce top fits the guitar’s rosewood body brilliantly and helps deliver projection and clarity.

May Be Too Boxy for Some

The iconic boxy-shoulder dreadnought build is great once you get used to it, whether you’re performing sitting down or standing up.

However, it might be a bit off-putting to electric guitarists, or individuals with a more compact body frame.

Martin D-28 Key Points

5. Yamaha LL16D ARE

(4.4)

A mid-range premium acoustic-electric guitar from Yamaha.

Rosewood Warmth

Yamaha is a world-renowned company that makes a variety of products. Quality guitars happen to be one of them, and the Yamaha LL16D is a prime example when it comes to acoustic-electric models.

Every bluegrass player knows how important a warm and rich sound is for this music style.

This is why Yamaha has introduced solid rosewood back and sides on the LL16D’s body. To evoke clarity and a crisp tone, they’ve gone with a solid spruce top.

Artificial Tone Aging

Quality guitars tend to start sounding better with age. Of course, for that smooth aged broken-in tone, years of playing are required.

Yamaha has developed a process called Acoustic Resonance Enhancement (ARE ), that brings the aged tone right out of the box.

The neck is made out of mahogany for extra resonance, and a rosewood fretboard is added for extra depth in tone.

Yamaha LL16D ARE Original Jumbo

Yamaha LL16D ARE Features

• ARE tone aging qualities – broken-in tone on a brand-new guitar
• Mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard for more resonance and depth
• SRT Zero Impact pickup with piezo
• Engelmann spruce top complements the rosewood sides and back perfectly
• Innovative design

A Top-Tier Guitar for a Mid-Range Price

Piezo is a guitar technology that is usually used to make an electric guitar sound like an acoustic one.

The passive SRT Zero Impact pickups provide each string with piezo elements, further enhancing the LL16D’s tone while plugged in.

Considering all the innovative features and a fantastic build, Yamaha LL16D ARE brings much more value to its mid-range price.

Outside The Box

Unfortunately for dreadnought lovers, this guitar simply isn’t one – meaning it’s lacking in terms of the bottom end and loudness.

Still, there are many bluegrass players who aren’t looking for a dreadnought-style guitar.

Yamaha LL16D ARE Key Points

6. Washburn Comfort G25SCE

(3.9)

An affordable acoustic-electric guitar with an elbow comfort binding from Washburn.

Uniquely Washburn Look

Washburn is a reputable guitar brand that makes fantastic mid-range acoustic guitars. Washburn Comfort G24SCE is a great example of a mid-range-level guitar that’s cheaper than most mid-range models.

The guitar boasts a really unique appearance that truly stands out. But appearance is not the only feature that sets the G25SCE model apart from its peers.

Mahogany Elbow Comfort

The G25SCE has a mahogany binding for elbow comfort, located on the guitar’s left lower bout.

The Fishman Presys+ pickup system is generally found on much more expensive models, but the G25SCE comes equipped with it.

The sides and the back are made out of solid mahogany, which emphasizes resonance. The alternating maple strips help compliment the aesthetics and tighten up the potentially muddy mahogany tone qualities.

Washburn Comfort G25SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Washburn Comfort G25SCE Features

• Mahogany binding for extra elbow comfort on the lower bout
• Fishman Presys+ pickup perfectly replicates the unplugged sound
• Ovangkol fretboard is a beautiful, atypical choice for a guitar
• Bookmatched mahogany back panels for a unique look
• Neck has a satin finish for playing smoothness

Looks That Deceive

Apart from the fact that you get a high-quality instrument for a fairly low price, with Washburn Comfort G25SCE, this is a very unique looking guitar that will definitely turn a few heads.

Expect surprised reactions when you tell people how much you paid for it. You also get awesome Fishman Presys+ pickup and Grover 18:1 tuners for a fantastic sound and tuning stability.

An Acquired Taste

You may find the ovangkol fretboard weird at first. Don’t worry – it’s an acquired taste.

Washburn Comfort G24SCE Key Points

7. Seagull S6

(4.2)

A simple, capable bluegrass acoustic guitar from a Canadian brand Seagull.

Overlooked Quality

Although this is not the cheapest guitar on the list, it’s certainly very close to it. Unfortunately, owing to its non-mainstream name, the Seagull S6 often gets overlooked.

Still, this guitar is offering a full-range tone that fits all music styles, although it’s predominantly used in bluegrass.

Years of Maximum Harmonic Vibration

Tuning stability is definitely something that Seagull S6 prides itself on. This is all owing to the compound curved top and the integrated set neck. These features also ensure projection and resonance.

To ensure the best possible harmonic vibration, each S6 top is tested for stiffness and rigidity. The overall guitar build here will give you years and years of great performance. Certainly well worth the low price.

Seagull Guitars S6 Cedar Original Acoustic Guitar

Seagull S6 Features

• Cedar top is pressure-tested to ensure maximum tonal, response, and projection quality
• Proprietary TUSQ nut offer more harmonics than bone nuts
• Modified dreadnought body to avoid extra boominess
• Perfect neck relief and alignment thanks to the dual-function truss rod
• Custom-polished finish for better vibration

Brilliant Guitar for the Money

When put into perspective of how good this guitar’s build is, the S6’s price point becomes really ridiculous.

You get a high-quality TUSQ nut, excellent neck alignment and relief, pressure-tested top for best tonal quality, and rich, resonant sound.

Some Parts Aren’t Perfect

Don’t expect a top-of-the-line instrument with maximum-quality parts. You’re still paying much less than $1,000.

Seagull S6 Key Points

Bluegrass Guitars Buyer’s Guide

Every guitar from our list will find its ideal owner. We hope that the information provided is more than enough to help you make an educated decision about your new guitar.

However, knowing some basics of the genre and the guitars used for it can help you find the perfect guitar for you.

Here are some common questions that you may be wondering about yourself.

Is Bluegrass Hard to Play?

Bluegrass isn’t the most fast-paced genre, but it can’t be considered slow, either. Some bluegrass songs are fairly fast.

The genre is relatively straightforward, and most artists tend to use similar chord progressions. When it comes to rhythm, playing bluegrass with your guitar isn’t very complex.

First-position G, C, D, F, A, and B chords are used for the most part. These are very basic and pretty much the first thing a beginner bluegrass guitar player learns.

However, as far as solo playing is concerned, bluegrass can be very hard. Although the solo playing mostly involves pentatonic scales, these are played at high BPMs, and there are lots of “runs” involved.

Usually, one guitar is playing rhythm, while the other is soloing. The magic of bluegrass, though, boils down to lead-follow switches.

In other words, as a bluegrass player, you’ll be expected to know how to lead and how to follow. More importantly, you’ll be expected to know when to start and stop leading.

This is a skill acquired through practice and is based on the “feel” of the performance.

Start with solid rhythms and practice the chord patterns

The best way to practice bluegrass playing is to start with the rhythm. Learn the chords mentioned above and practice them.

Then, find someone to practice with. Be open and don’t be afraid to contact people – you’re just starting out, that’s nothing to be ashamed about. Try not to practice lead and rhythm playing in combination, take turns.

Bear in mind that you are going to have to practice a lot. Jams are awesome, but you also need to put in time on your own, at home. Combining practice and jams will help you learn bluegrass guitar.

What Key is Most Bluegrass In?

As a lively, upbeat genre, it is hardly a surprise that bluegrass relies mostly on the major scale.

Learning the major scale shape and the major pentatonic shape is a great idea for learning how to lead in bluegrass music.

Particular keys are less important. If you learn different major scale patterns, you can move them across the fretboard.

Still, the most common bluegrass keys are G, C, D, A, E, and F. Naturally, the bluegrass genre is rich with quality bands, and there is plenty of diversity to go about.

You’ll find bluegrass songs in different keys than these and even those who don’t rely on the major scale.

However, the mentioned keys and the major scale (and its pentatonic) are a great place to start your bluegrass guitar playing journey.

Learn the shapes in different scale patterns and play them across the keys mentioned above.

Then, move on to the minor scale and the minor pentatonic scale. It’s the most popular scale in the world used in various genres.

Finally, learn the Mixolydian scale. Don’t worry, it’s a tricky name, but the concept is simple: Play the major scale and move the 7^th note down a semitone (one fret back towards the headstock).

Although it’s important to learn these patterns, it’s even more critical that you play them. Practice soloing over music in various different keys.

What Guitars Do Professionals Use?

You might think that only the pros use the most expensive guitars on the market. In part, you are right; you’ll find many professional bluegrass players using expensive top-tier brands such as Gibson and high-end Taylor models, for instance.

But in truth, most popular players are endorsed by a brand, meaning that they don’t pay for the instrument or pay only a small fraction of it.

You’ll also find many professionals who use relatively cheap guitars. Don’t be surprised if you see one of the models mentioned above at a high-profile show.

Therefore, the simple answer here would be professionals use any kind of guitar that suits them best. Until you learn what works for you, don’t think about expensive models.

What are the Best Acoustic Guitar Strings for Bluegrass?

Every guitar player will tell you that they know that a particular brand of strings is the best one.

What you won’t hear often is the truth: It boils down to personal preference. Don’t put too much stock in any one person’s opinion.

Try the wide variety of guitar string brands available

As long as we are talking about bronze acoustic guitar strings, anything goes. Bronze banjo, phosphor bronze, nickel bronze, etc., are all great options for bluegrass. Get out there and try out different strings.

What is the Best Guitar for Bluegrass?

The best guitar for bluegrass would be one that featured all the greatest aspects of the models mentioned above.

Unfortunately, such a model doesn’t exist, and you’re probably going to have to compromise.

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line guitar, take a look at the brands such as Martin, Taylor, and Gibson.

If you’re looking for a mid-tier solution, Washburn might not be a bad idea.

But as an absolute beginner, don’t go north of $500. If you already own a guitar, even if it’s not particularly good for bluegrass, you can start there.

Always keep in mind that good bluegrass guitars aren’t necessarily built solely for bluegrass.

Who Wins The Battle For Overall Best Bluegrass Guitar?

All of the mentioned instruments from this list feature great qualities. It all depends on how much you want to spend on a bluegrass guitar.

But the prize for the king of the best bluegrass guitars goes to the renowned Gibson Acoustic J-45 Standard.

This is a reliable, durable workhorse guitar with excellent resonant properties and great clarity and projection.

Its soft fretboard edges ensure player comfort, and LR Baggs VTC pickups are some of the most natural-sounding ones on the market.

We hope that this guide has helped you make the right choice. If not, keep on searching for the instrument that fits you best.

EDITOR’S PICK

Gibson Acoustic J-45 Standard

What Do Gibson J-45 Owners Think? >>

The post Best Bluegrass Guitars (7 Killer Acoustics) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

Fender and Squier: How Do Their Guitars Differ?

🎸 Fender, and its sub-brand Squier, currently rank as the top-selling guitars in the world.

In fact, Fender reported the highest number of sales ever in just 9 months in 2020.

However, while the two have one big thing in common, massive sales numbers, many people are more interested in their differences.

If you’ve been wondering about Squier vs Fender, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s dig into some comparisons and distinctions to help you learn about two of the most legendary guitar brands out there.

FAQs & Common Questions

With Fender and Squier offering so many of the same products, it is natural to have questions about the differences between the two. Maybe you want to know about how the spec sheet difference impacts price?

Or what’s the difference between the Strat vs Tele within both brands? Let’s jump into some frequently asked questions with detailed answers below.

Is Squier As Good As Fender?

The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as some might make you seem. With obvious price differences, most associate Fender’s premium price tag and reputation as the superior guitar and bass line.

The same question could also be asked of Epiphone and Gibson. In contrast, Epiphone is still very much thought of as an affordable brand, while Gibson, compared to Fender, has seemed to price itself out of the reach of many players into what is perceived as elitist territory.

Still, Squier has upped its game to the point where some of the high end Squier guitars are just as studio and stage ready, if not more, than some low end Fender products. At the end of the day, it will all come down to what you’re looking for in a guitar.

There are multiple factors that influence a player’s choice of instrument. Everything from historical identity, rarity, or price point, down to a simple choice of color.

If you want a truly robust instrument, a perfectly set up guitar that’s been gone over with a fine tooth comb, Fender products are better.

On the other hand, if you want a perfectly functioning, sweet sounding guitar that won’t break the bank, Squier may actually be better.

What’s The Difference Between A Squier And A Fender?

The two biggest differences between the two brands are the price points and countries of origin. Squier is meant to be the affordable line of Fender guitars, meaning you can get a Tele, Strat, or P-Bass that is made overseas to cut costs.

Additionally, it comes down to the details that go into making a better instrument. Fender branded instruments will have better quality woods, hardware, electronics, and more man-hour time put into finishing processes.

When you first pick up a guitar, there is no mistaking an instrument that’s had the extra time put into the small things that elevate it – the human touch. But it has to be paid for!

Which Squier Is The Best?

Just like Fender, Squier’s best guitar comes down to a Strat vs Tele faceoff. Squier’s highest quality line is the Classic Vibe series, which recreates popular historical Fender models for less than $500.

For the money, the Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Telecaster is widely considered one of the best affordable guitars on the market, not just the best Squier.

Check out this side by side demo of a Tele vs Strat from the ‘50s Classic Vibe Series to decide for yourself.

Additional awesome Squier guitars include:

• Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster
• Squier Contemporary Telecaster
• Squier Affinity Jazzmaster
• Squier Paranormal Cyclone

Are Squier Bullet Strats Any Good?

Plain and simple, YES! Squier Bullet Strats are an incredibly affordable option for beginners or DIY guitar modders. They even come as part of a beginner package with accessories like an amplifier, strap, and guitar cable.

Why Are Squier Guitars Bad?

Generally speaking, Squier guitars are not bad at all. In fact, they are often underrated because they lack name brand pickups or hardware.

Their overseas origins also tend to lead to assumptions about the quality. Squiers are not perfect guitars, but Squier guitars are by no means bad and offer supreme value for the money.

Is Epiphone Better Than Squier?

Another tough question, especially because Epiphone and Squier make such different products despite the similar price point.

Ultimately, no Epiphone is not better than Squier, especially when you consider Squier and Fender have sold more guitars than any other company from 2015-2020.

But Squier makes affordable Fender designs, so if you are looking for a Strat, Tele, or Jaguar Squier is a better bet than Epiphone!

Breaking Down Fender Vs Squier: What We Looked For

We’re not here to tell you which brand is superior to the other. In fact, we want to shed light on how wonderful all these products are depending on your needs.

Whether you are considering a Signature model Jazzmaster, Mexican vs American Strat, or are interested in a Classic Vibe Squier, there is a guitar for everyone here. Here are a few key differences to consider.

Price Difference

It’s not uncommon for the price of a guitar to be the main driving force behind a purchase. Everyone wants to get the most guitar for the money.

However, sometimes cost doesn’t equate to overall quality, so it is important to understand why the prices are different.

Fender

Fender guitars cost more because of where they are produced. Paying the factory workers in the US and Mexican factories simply costs more than it does overseas in Asian countries.

While there is certainly a price difference attributed to the upgraded features and parts in Fender guitars, most of the price difference comes from the labor associated with building guitars in North America.

Squier

As stated above, it is just so much more affordable to mass produce guitars overseas. Squier guitars also feature overseas made copies of things like Fender pickups, tuners, and bridges which cost less to produce separate from the already cheap assembly.

Sound Quality 

The way an individual guitar sounds is often subjective, with each musical genre and player having their own definition. Squier vs Fender guitars certainly sound different, even if both have generally impressive sound quality.

Other than the natural qualities of the tonewoods and quality of the hardware, the most important sonic factor is the pickups. They’re the engine behind the sound.

Moreover, one of the first places a guitar manufacturer will cut costs is in the electronics. Whether it’s a Squier or a Fender, the quality of the electronics can make or break your sound.

Fender

Fender is known for pioneering so many iconic electric guitar sounds. When comparing Strat vs Tele pickups, Fender has a strong reputation for reproducing their signature tones in every guitar, be it Mexican or Fender. The sound quality is undoubtedly high.

Squier

Squier’s whole mission is really to clone those Fender sounds and tones and bring them in a more accessible package. But can you cut production costs and still maintain an authentic vintage-stlye tones?

They certainly succeed in doing that, especially with the Squier Classic Vibe series. In our humble opinion, they sound eerily similar to original Fender guitars. So much so that it hardly warrants replacing the pickups.

Even when you put the Squier Bullet vs Affinity lines up against each other, the distinct Fender sound is there.

Build Quality

Overseas production quality has drastically increased in the past decade. This has been a net positive for consumers like you and me, who can get better products without having to dig deeper into our pockets.

Fender

Fender very well may be the industry leader in build quality. Even Mexican Fender products are known to last a lifetime.

And on the off chance they don’t, Fender’s modular guitar design makes it easy and affordable to swap parts in and out for upgrades or repairs. But if Fender is on the headstock, you can expect top notch build quality.

Squier

Squier is no slouch when it comes to build quality either, with drastic improvements from past decades. Many Squier guitars come out of the box ready to go, with smooth action and sweet pickups.

Quality control certainly lags behind Fender a bit, but really it should be on the dealer to make sure that you don’t get a lemon or beat up instrument.

Pros and Cons of Each Make

Fender Guitars

Squier Guitars

Which Brand Is Right For You?

Ultimately, Squiers are beloved by beginner players because they are an affordable way to learn guitar. Squier guitars even come with a free trial of Fender Play, their proprietary online guitar instruction program.

If you are a beginner or want to start learning guitar, Squier may be right for you.

Now, if you are a player who has progressed through lessons, upgrading to a Mexican or American Fender could be the right choice for you. The smoother playability and reliable tuning make Fenders a tad more stage or studio ready.

The post Fender vs Squier – Which One Is Better? first appeared on GuitarNiche.

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Epiphone SG Special VE, Vintage Edition Electric Review

The SG Special VE at a glance:

Epiphone SG Special VE, Vintage Edition Electric Guitar

Presenting Epiphone’s SG Special Vintage Edition Electric Guitar

The Gibson SG shape is probably most well known because of AC/DC and Angus Young. Or maybe you got into it because of Tony Iommi from Black Sabbath?

Either way, you’re more than aware that Gibson’s straightforward solid body is a hard rock monster. That essence has been distilled down into Gibson’s more affordable Epiphone family of guitars with the SG Special VE electric guitar.

This dual humbucking guitar has long been one of the most recognizable guitars, and a strong beginner option. Let’s dig into the Epiphone SG Special Vinatage Edition and find out if it’s the next guitar for you!

One Of Gibson’s Most Famous Models At Budget Prices

Despite being an entirely different guitar, the SG was actually introduced as the Gibson Les Paul SG in 1961. Since it has dropped the Les Paul signet, it has taken on a complete life of its own.

The guitar is even reported to be Gibson’s highest selling Standard model of all time. Part of the reason for this guitar’s inception was to create a more streamlined, affordable guitar.

One that lacked the arch top and binding of traditional Les Pauls. Epiphone’s SG Special VE isn’t much different in that it was designed to be stable and affordable.

Who Is the SG Special VE Best Suited For?

Epiphone’s SG Special VE is certainly best suited for beginners and students. Partly because of how affordable it is, coming in under $300.

But also, it’s a very simple, straightforward guitar that most students will recognize their idols playing. Epiphone’s standard 24.75” scale length is also easier for some players to wrap their hands around.

For beginners, it may make for an easier learning experience with less distance between each fret. Plus, the lightweight, compact body is comfortable to play for students of all sizes.

Does The Epiphone SG Vintage Edition Come With Accessories?

Unlike other Squier or Epiphone products, the SG Special VE does not come as part of a beginner package. Such packages are known to include an amp, strap, power cables, and picks.

The SG Special VE is an excellent beginner option, but you will have to spend additional money on necessary accessories.

Epiphone SG Special VE Features & Specs

Epiphone’s SG Special VE is made of Poplar with a Mahogany veneer and a bolt on Mahogany neck. Unlike Gibson, many of these more affordable Epiphone’s feature bolt on necks.

This does lessen the sustain of the guitar, but also makes them easier and cheaper to replace should they be damaged. Two Epiphone Open Coil humbuckers with ceramic magnets provide tons of high output tones.

These pickups are plenty loud enough, but lose note to note clarity quickly. One of the true highlights on these guitars is the “worn in” finish you get, available in Black, Heritage Cherry Sunburst, Vintage Sunburst, and Walnut.

Lastly, the simplified tone controls make it fairly easy for a student or beginner to workout the SG’s best sounds.

Epiphone SG VE Key Features

• Classic SG tone and style at an affordable price
• Poplar body with an okoume neck and rosewood fretboard
• Epiphone humbuckers deliver thick tones
  • Bridge Pickup: 700T Ceramic-8 Humbucker
  • Neck Pickup: 650R Ceramic-8 Humbucker
• Worn Vintage Edition finish
• Refined intonation thanks to a Tune-o-matic bridge

How To Best Use The SG Special VE

The SG Special VE should come ready to play right out of the box. You’ll just have to tune it up and you’ll be off to the races.

To be fair, it will not have all the accessories included in the package that some Squier models do, so to really use it to its full potential, have an amplifier and cable ready.

Otherwise, there isn’t much else necessary for a tutorial. Check out this demo below to get some idea about the guitar’s best tones!

How Does The Epiphone SG Special VE Stack Up Overall?

The Good And The Bad

Epiphone SG Special VE Electric Review

Check Epiphone SG Special VE Electric Guitar Availability >>

Alternatives to Consider

Final Thoughts On The SG Special VE

Overall, the Epiphone Special VE is a sturdy and fairly dependable guitar option. The dual humbuckers and classic Gibson wiring design give you plenty of hard rock snarl.

There are definitely more versatile guitars out there, but if you’re an SG fan it’s hard to beat the value here.

Some Gibson-style headstocks have been known to lead to iffy tuning stability, but it is hard to find any other red flags on this vintage inspired models!

Check Today’s Epiphone SG Special VE Price >>

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Epiphone Limited Edition 1959 Les Paul Standard Review – Is It The Classic You Always Wanted?

Epiphone Limited Edition 1959 Les Paul Standard Electric Guitar

Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Overview

Designed in collaboration with Gibson’s Custom Shop, the Epiphone Limited Edition 1959 Les Paul promises to bring a lot to the table for long time Les Paul fans.

Resting on the rich history of one of the world’s most collectible guitars, Epiphone’s much more affordable version of Gibson’s historic 1959 Les Paul Standard is being touted as the “poor man’s 59 Les Paul”.

Along with the recently redesigned headstock (a great cosmetic improvement in our opinion), the Epiphone Limited Edition 1959 Les Paul Standard definitely has a foot in the door.

In this review, we’ll look at the quality of fit and finish, playability, and how the guitar sounds, and perhaps most importantly, the overall value if you’re in the market for just one more guitar.

Epiphone has grown into one of the world’s most versatile guitar manufacturers. Originating in Turkey in the 1800s, the company is now well established with a long history of its own, and of being associated with its parent company Gibson.

Considering the relationship between the two companies, it makes a lot of sense to release a tribute to the 1959 Les Paul Standard, pump up the quality, and add an extra layer of respectability to the Epiphone brand.

Retailing at around the eight hundred dollar mark (USD), the re-envisioned 1959 Standard from Epiphone makes for a great deal that should appeal to fans of Les Pauls – especially when you add in the vintage-style pink plush lined case which is included.

A Classic Les Paul Design for Everyone

In general, the Les Paul range of guitars is one of Epiphone’s most featured products with the instantly recognizable shape automatically conjures up an instrument with plenty of history.

At its core, the combination of the mahogany body and maple cap, plus the solid mahogany neck are the basis of a traditional Les Paul sonic footprint. Mix in a pair of killer Burstbucker pickups as the output engine and you immediately have a recipe for great tone.

Sporting a great pedigree combined with great build quality, the Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Electric Guitar is certainly a far more affordable option compared to its more purebred counterpart.

Currently available in three classic color schemes: Aged Dark Burst, Aged Dark Cherry Burst, and Aged Honey Burst gloss, all three finishes give a respectable nod to the original cosmetic designs.

Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Features:

• Inspired 1959 Gibson Les Paul design
• American-made Gibson USA Burstbucker pickups
• Mallory 150 polyester film tone capacitors
• CTS pots and Switchcraft toggle switch
• Figured AAA maple top on a mahogany back
• Rounded Medium “C” mahogany neck
• Aged gloss finish
• Tune-O-Matic bridge
• Epiphone Vintage Deluxe 18:1 tuners

Finish Variations to Choose From:

Aged Dark Burst

Aged Dark Cherry Burst

Aged Honey Burst Gloss

Superior Electronics that Perform

As mentioned, the Epiphone Limited Edition 1959 is powered by two fabulous USA-made Burstbucker pickups: a Burstbucker 2 in the neck position for more of a 57 tone, and a Burstbucker 3 in the bridge for full-on PAF tone.

In the main control cavity, you’ll find quality CTS pots combined with Mallory 150 polyester film caps which together provide excellent overall control over output.

When we inspected the interior of the electronics cavity, the only real concern we had (other than the unsightly wiring itself)  was the lack of extra insulation around the braided pickup wires. Not that it’s a huge issue, but the possibility of a short across live contacts should be taken into consideration.

The toggle switch is Switchcraft, a well respected brand known for producing rugged long-lasting electronic parts found in great guitars.

On the face of the instrument, the vintage-style gold bell knobs sit proud just as they would on a real ’59.

As many players know, superior electronics go a long way in producing the sounds you want. Overall, this is a mod-free, no upgrades required electronics setup right out of the box.

Click Here to Read the Latest Epiphone 1959 Standard Reviews >>

Warranty Coverage That Lasts

Unlike many companies on the market, Epiphone offers a lifetime warranty. As stated on the Epiphone website, “Your new Epiphone instrument is warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the original retail purchaser”.

That being said, you really can’t go wrong trusting the company will take care of any issues with their Limited Edition 1959 Les Paul Standard.

While this warranty doesn’t necessarily cover everything, it does help ensure that you don’t have to worry about manufacturing issues. Considering most other companies only offer a one-year warranty, this is an exceptional offer.

How Does the Epiphone 59 Les Paul Standard Sound?

The Burstbucker pickups are particularly refined producing full, rich, classic (yet controlled) tones. There are few more refined sounding guitars on the market making this is one of your best options for an electric powerhouse of an instrument.

Plugged in, the controls interact on a professional level – which is to be expected. As you roll back the volume controls, the pickups clean up nicely, especially when put through a good tube amp.

There’s no hint of the muddiness that comes from cheaper pickups at all. Much the dynamics between the controls can be attributed to the original 50’s style wiring.

When full out, the pickups are dynamic and responsive to touch and attack – just as they should be.

The tone controls work excellently within the network, rolling off highs in a smooth contour. The .022 Mallory caps easily shunt the hi frequencies well into the ground as you approach zero.

In fact they go so deep some players might find the final cutoff a bit much. That being said, it’s better to have too much in this case rather than not enough – you can still dial in what works for your ears.

What’s the Build Quality Like?

Our first impression was very good. On the workbench the guitar was resonant and rang out loud, long and strong with a single rake of the strings. Overall, the fit and finish seemed pretty clean.

As expected, the full weight mahogany construction is typical of a Les Paul. The body itself is two pieces and capped with a maple which is finished off with an attractive AAA maple veneer to complete the visual.

The neck was beefy with its rounded medium C contour but was not uncomfortable. A scarf joint was evident where the neck started to flare into the headstock at the back.

It’s worth noting that there isn’t a true “59” one-size-fits-all neck profile. Because the original instruments were not so machine made, the more hands-on manufacturing of the day produced variations in neck profiles. That being said, we do have somewhat of a generalized average to go by.

Moving on, the Indian Laurel fretboard was a little dry and happily soaked up a few drops of lemon oil conditioner. The medium-jumbo frets were clean and even, but definitely had a machine finish to them. Nonetheless, the guitar played flawlessly with ringing notes and easy bends.

The newly minted Epiphone Deluxe vintage tuners, much like Kluson keystone tuners, have an excellent smooth feel indicating a high level of attention to machining detail. With an 18:1 ratio and maching vintage-style inserts on the headstock face, the overall effect is indeed complete.

During our setup procedure we noticed a few small things that needed attention:

• The slots of the Graph Tech NuBone nut were a little high and needed to be filed down to be more comfortable. Keep in mind, it’s not uncommon to have nut slots a little proud from the factory. If you play a lot of slide, this is a good thing and is anticipated.
• The knurled nut for the toggle switch was a little loose. Again this is a fairly common issue with some new guitars in general, and was easily tightened up using an appropriate tool.
• We noticed the jack was a bit unnaturally stiff when plugging in the guitar. The problem was due to the inner positive contact bumping into the inner wall of the route. The remedy was to simply loosen the jack, rotate it a few degrees, tighten it back up and voila! Problem solved.
• Cosmetically, there was a noticeable flat spot at the very top part of what should be the arch. The pickup surrounds were designed to marry with the complete curve therefor there was a small gap evident. With a little work, they could be trimmed to fit.
• Lastly, there was a little bit of a sharp edge in a few spots where the binding transitioned to the top. We suspect the uppermost part of the binding liquified a little during the polishing phase producing the edge. The fix was easy and the excess was removed cleanly with a little help of a fine file.

Should you wish to trade or sell the instrument down the road, the resale value is very much in the name. As long as the instrument is kept in good condition, the Epiphone brand will allow you to recover a good chunk of its value.

Epiphone Les Paul Standard Key Points

Epiphone Les Paul 1959 Standard Electric Guitar in Review

What Do Epiphone 1959 Standard Users Think? >>

Compare other Epiphone guitars:

Final Thoughts On The Epiphone Les Paul 1959 Standard Limited Edition: Is It The Guitar For You?

The Epiphone Les Paul 1959 Standard from Gibson definitely offers a huge bang for the buck. When you factor in the premium electronics and vintage style hardshell case, these upgrades alone make for a good deal.

It’s definitely not the original by any means – but it’s certainly in the wheelhouse. There are a few small details that could be improved which. when you consider the price point, are easily offset.

Whether you’re a collector or an enthusiast, this guitar is designed to hit the sweet spot for anyone looking for a vintage-inspired Les Paul purchase.

Check Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Availability Here! >>

Manufacturer Info:

Website: https://www.epiphone.com/

About: Since 1873, Epiphone is one of American’s oldest and most revered instrument makers.

The post Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Electric Guitar Review [Limited Edition] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

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Epiphone DR-100 Review – Dollar for Dollar, Is This The Best Acoustic Guitar For The Money?

The Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic at a glance:

Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Guitar

Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Guitar Overview

Given Gibson’s long history of quality acoustic guitars it should be no surprise that Epiphone has a quality budget option of their own.

Much like Yamaha and Fender’s offerings, the Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic is targeted at serving beginners and pros alike, especially electric guitar players who will love the DR-100’s neck.

Available in black, natural, or sunburst, it should be pretty easy for any player to enjoy the DR-100. The familiar dreadnought shape and Epiphone’s long track record of customer satisfaction make it a must try acoustic.

From a Storied Acoustic Maker Comes a Budget Friendly Option: The Epiphone DR-100

An Acoustic Meant for Players of All Levels

Much like Fender/Squier, Epiphone is the little brother of the guitar giants Gibson. Their lineage of high quality acoustic and electric guitars helped them craft the DR-100 to be incredibly player friendly.

The DR-100 features upgraded tone woods when compared to some similarly priced acoustics, but retains the slim, fast neck that makes it easy for beginners to play.

That same slim neck profile also makes the acoustic a great option for players who mainly play the electric guitar.

Who is the Epiphone DR-100 for?

The Epiphone DR-100 is certainly best suited for beginners, thanks to the affordable price tag and friendly features.

Despite having somewhat rough fret edges, the neck is fast, smooth, and slim making it easy on the hands of beginner guitarists.

Having a guitar that doesn’t discourage you from playing it can do wonders for students, making it an important part of the DR-100’s appeal.

For experienced players who just want an acoustic guitar to add to their arsenal, the DR-100 is an affordable options from a company they likely know and trust already.

What’s In the Box?

Unlike some of its competitors, the Epiphone DR-100 isn’t often sold as part of a value or beginner pack. You’re more likely to find the guitar available by itself, as they often don’t even come with a gig bag or case.

To some beginner’s this may limit the value of the DR-100, as others come with a bag, guitar strap, tuner, picks, and extra strings.

However, the DR-100 is still really affordable, well under $200, and is a quality product that won’t let you down. Plus you can tailor your accessories to suit your specific needs later.

If you’re strongly considering a DR-100, carefully consider how much budget room you will have left for the necessary accessories.

Read the Latest DR-100 Acoustic Reviews Here! >>

DR-100 Acoustic Features

Epiphone’s DR-100 is a very straightforward and simple acoustic guitar, which helps keep the price so low. The Select Spruce top is paired with a Mahogany body and neck, giving it a bass heavy, full bodied acoustic tone.

The slim taper neck features a Rosewood fingerboard and dot inlays, and the neck meets the body at the 15th fret. The Rosewood bridge is also carefully selected to help stand up the high tension points where the strings meet the pin holders.

Epiphone’s DR-100 features their well known sloped dove-wing headstock as well as die cast hardware, including chrome tuners.

The dreadnought shape gives the guitar a balanced acoustic tone, making it great for rock, folk, or country players alike. Beginner guitarists and songwriters will both be impressed by the volume of the guitar, making it easy to hear and play.

However, without many of the extras featured included in the competitors value packages, you may be left wanting for a capo or guitar strap.

Highlights

• Select Spruce top
• Reliable chrome tuners
• Rosewood bridge looks great against top
• Resonant, bass heavy tones
• Slim, fast neck

See it in Action

For a look at the DR-100 in action, check out this linked video demonstration! You’ll notice the full, warm tones of the Mahogany-made acoustic, as well as all the styles it can cover thanks to its versatile and fast neck taper.

Available Colors:

Epiphone Songmaker DR-100, Dreadnought Acoustic...

Epiphone Songmaker DR-100, Dreadnought Acoustic...

Epiphone Songmaker DR-100, Dreadnought Acoustic...

Pros and Cons

Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Guitar Review

Waht are DR-100 Acoustic Customers Saying? >>

Other Affordable Acoustics to Try

There are plenty of sub-$200 acoustics on the market, some of which stack up just as good as the Epiphone DR-100.

Another top seller, the Squier SA-150 is considered to be a bit more resonant and lightweight thanks to the Basswood body. Plus you can get it as part of a nice beginner package, that will set you up with picks, a strap, tuner, and capo!

Yamaha’s FG800 is another high quality, sub-$200 guitar that many people would call the SA-150’s rival. The FG800 is a bit more of a bright sounding acoustic, that chimes and rings out.

The lighter Nato tone wood is what causes this, as opposed to the bass heavy Mahogany used in the Squier SA-150.

Epiphone Songmaker DR-100, Dreadnought Acoustic...

YAMAHA FG800 Solid Top Acoustic...

Takamine GD20-NS Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar...

Overall though, it has many similarities including chrome die cast tuners, a laminated top wood, and can be bought as part of a value pack.

Willing to go a bit above $200? Takamine’s G Series GD20 Dreadnought is comparable in quality but for an extra hundred or so dollars.

With a solid Cedar top and Mahogany back and sides, the upgraded tone wood will provide a bit more volume and bass response from the G Series dreadnought.

The slim-satin finish on this guitar is a bit nicer than the gloss on the SA-150, making it feel and cost a bit more than the SA-150 Dreadnought.

Final Thoughts: Is the DR-100 Acoustic a Good Guitar for You?

It’s hard to go wrong the Epiphone DR-100 guitar, and it is one of their top selling acoustics for a reason.

Epiphone’s affordable take on the dreadnought body design is warm, loud, and comfortable to play. The longstanding legacy of Epiphone and Gibson acoustics also should give you plenty of confidence in the brand to meet your demands.

Some players may wish the acoustic had a bit more top end, but for under $200 it is still quite a bargain. It’s a versatile and fun guitar, simple as that!

While some of the fret ends can be a bit rough, I think any player who picks it up will feel right at home.

Check Today's Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Price! >>

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We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Folk Guitar Review: Is it the Best Affordable Acoustic on the Market?

The Yamaha FG830 Folk Guitar at a glance:

Click Here to Check Yamaha FG830 Availability! >>

The Yamaha FG800 Folk Guitar is one of the best values on the acoustic guitar market, for beginners and experienced players alike.

The guitar features laminated Nato wood on the back and sides, with a solid Sitka Spruce top and satin finish. The neck meets the body at the 14th fret on this 25” scale length dreadnought acoustic.

The comfy feel makes it ideal for singer-songwriters who are looking to string a few chords together or practice.

A New Edition to Yamaha’s FG Series

Yamaha’s FG800 is the newest entry into Yamaha’s Acoustic Guitar line, based on the classic FG series. This series has been a top seller and player favorite since its 1966 inception.

The FG800 is the most budget friendly of the new FG family, coming in just under $200. Laminated Nato wood makes up the back, sides, and neck with a solid Sitka Spruce top and Rosewood fretboard.

The guitar is a 25” scale length instrument with the same familiar V-shaped headstock that makes all Yamaha’s recognizable. Die-cast chrome tuners and a  urea nut and saddle round out the construction.

Who is the Yamaha FG800 for?

The FG800 is a versatile product in that it should serve beginners and guitar veterans equally well. The budget friendly price and comfortable feel certainly make it a great option for students.

Furthermore, the tuning stability is far superior to most other cheap acoustics. This guitar puts performance above all else, making it a great option for more experienced players too.

Especially, if you aren’t willing or able to shell out big money for a premium acoustic guitar. Overall, it’s a must try acoustic guitar model from any player from one of the most trusted and familiar brands on the market.

Opening the Box

You can purchase the FG800 in a variety of packages, including a value pack, accessory kit, or just as the individual guitar. If you purchase just the guitar, the only extra feature you’ll get is a hex wrench.

You can add a case, picks, tuner, or other sweet extras via the value packs. There is no assembly necessary with this guitar, and it should be ready to go with a quick tune-up straight out of the box.

For pickier players, you may want to get it setup to lower the action a bit. Otherwise beginner players may want to go stock up on picks, capos, and a strap to get the most out the FG800 Acoustic.

Read the Latest Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Guitar Reviews >>

FG800 Acoustic Guitar Highlights

• Solid Sitka Spruce top
• Reliable chrome tuners
• Rosewood bridge
• Resonant, bright sounds
• Classic V-shaped headstock
• Fast, Rosewood fretboard

See it in Action

There’s nothing too crazy here, the Yamaha FG800 should be ready to go out of the box, after tuning it up that is. Check out this helpful review and demo to see how great the FG800 can be for fingerstyle and solo playing!

Yamaha FG800 Folk Guitar Features

As we said before, there aren’t a lot of extra frills or features to prop up the cost of this quality acoustic guitar. The FG800 Folk Guitar features unbranded but reliable die-cast chrome tuners that hold tune great alongside a rosewood bridge and comfortable satin finish.

With no electronics or name brand parts, you end up with an ideal inexpensive acoustic guitar for at-home songwriters and students. More advanced acoustic players may feel limited by the dreadnought-shape, with access to the higher frets pretty difficult.

The Rosewood fretboard is fast and comfortable, making it a good option for players of all skill levels. Because the body meets the neck at the 14th fret, this guitar is definitely more suited for staying within one octave.

The solid Sitka Spruce top is supported by scalloped-bracing, giving it rock solid construction underneath the glossy finish and multi-ply binding.

The Nato wood sides and back sound great, but not quite as warm and loud as higher quality tonewoods like high pressure Mahogany.

You do get bright, very top heavy chime and the chords ring out at a still reasonable volume for jamming. Practicing along to songs, or song writing with a partner should come second nature on the FG800.

Pros and Cons

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Folk Guitar Review

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Other Affordable Acoustics to Try

There are plenty of sub-$200 acoustics on the market, but not necessarily any as great as the FG800. Another top seller, the Epiphone DR-100 is not lauded for the same playability but is a bit cheaper at under $150.

Many of Epiphone’s more expensive options are superior guitars, but come at a steep cost. While the construction is pretty similar, Spruce top, Mahogany back and sides, the build quality is often more spotty with some rough fretwork and less tuning stability.

Epiphone Songmaker DR-100, Dreadnought Acoustic...

Takamine GD20-NS Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar...

Fender’s FA-115 dreadnought is a bit more comparable in terms of quality and price. Retailing around $150, the FA-115 features a Nato set neck, a laminated Spruce top, and Agathis back and sides. Thanks to its light weight, this also is a similarly comfortable and balanced guitar.

Willing to go a bit above $200? Takamine’s G Series GD20 Dreadnought is comparable in quality but for an extra hundred or so dollars.

With a solid Cedar top and Mahogany back and sides, the upgraded tone wood will provide a bit more volume and bass response from the G Series dreadnought. The slim-satin finish on this guitar is comparable to the FG800, making it feel and look familiar when comparing them side by side.

Final Thoughts: Is the Yamaha FG800 Acoustic a Good Fit for You?

Overall, the Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar is one of the best budget acoustic guitars on the market. It has a ton of great features like the smooth Rosewood fretboard and quality tuning stability.

We think most players will be genuinely surprised by how great this guitar feels for the price. It’s an equally great option for beginners and experts alike, and the pros far outweigh the cons.

Once you get the FG800 set up properly it should be ready to go. Without a set up it is definitely best suited as a practice instrument as opposed to a stage instrument.

For $200, it’s hard to find any serious faults with the FG800. It’s absolutely worth checking out if you’re looking for an acoustic guitar. Get your hands on one today, you won’t be disappointed!

What Do Yamaha FG830 Guitar Owners Think? >>

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