Jump to content
Gibson Brands Forums

What pro really uses epiphone guitars???


sdgails

Recommended Posts

  • Replies 146
  • Created
  • Last Reply

When on stage Billy Gibbons plays custom made guitars that look like stock Gretsch, Gibsons, and etc. guitars.

Some are slightly smaller than the real guitar, and/or hollowed out (both body and neck) to make them light.

He runs them through a spectrum analyzer then uses EQ and other electronics, to make them all sound the same (I do this same thing with my gear).

Billy's not really alone on this. Many big names play custom "lookalike" guitars, built to their spec's/particular wants, that were never even touched by the 'brand name builders' that they appear to be.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6DrxfrbbF8

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Here's a pic of the group Echosmith with a metallic blue Riviera and a black Jack Casady bass. They performed on the season finale of American Idol last night using the same Riviera but a white Casady.

 

echosmith-cool-kids-video-600x337.jpg

Link to comment
Share on other sites

For the record, I wasn't referring to Mr. Billy, rather to the fella between him and Daryl. It looks like he's playing a Casino.

 

Not a Casino - there are no P-90's and the headstock isn't right. Looks like a mid-2000s 64 Reissue Sheraton Elitist. (or maybe an original from the early 60's??)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Not a Casino - there are no P-90's and the headstock isn't right. Looks like a mid-2000s 64 Reissue Sheraton Elitist. (or maybe an original from the early 60's??)

 

I think it is a reissue Sheraton too. I have seen, in other shots of him playing that guitar that it has Seymour Duncan mini hums in it...

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 2 weeks later...
  • 3 weeks later...

Just to digress for a moment, that clip reminded me that Billy Gibbons is using Gibson SGs these days, which is great to see.

 

BillyandBeck.jpg

Yep, I thought that was pretty cool, too!

So now when's the Epiphone Billy Gibbons signature model coming out!?!

Perhaps a fully chambered (body, neck, headstock) Les Paul with pinstripes...or fur? [flapper]

(Obviously a joke, but if Epiphone does do this, I should get some credit.)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 3 weeks later...

I saw an interview with Joe Bonamassa about his signature guitars and when talking about the Epiphone model he said (and I can't believe this) that he considered it a beginners guitar for children to play. I guess that goes to show how he really feels about it. I don't know about him but when I was just starting out I didn't have $700 to spend on a guitar but I guess he did.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

How can anyone compare a vintage Epi to a modern day Epi? It's very much apples and oranges. If you're a pro, you buy the best. You write it off. If you're an average person, you buy what you can afford. I like cheap guitars because I can let go on them. Because I can take them out and not worry too much. My mind is at ease and I relax.

 

However, if I'm recording and tone is most important, I break out the best gear I have. I hope everyone gets a chance to own a Gibson and Fender, Martin and vintage Epiphone.

 

Just as I enjoy kicking around with various cheaper electrics for fun. I just ordered an EJ160e John Lennon model and have my eye on an Epi Les Paul to add for kicks.

 

It won't displace my Gibson LP. But it'll be a blast to have anyhow.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

How can anyone compare a vintage Epi to a modern day Epi? It's very much apples and oranges. If you're a pro, you buy the best. You write it off. If you're an average person, you buy what you can afford.

 

Well, being "Pro" won't land you a Gibson. Having money in your pocket will. Pro or no Pro. Playing guitar these days isn't really a rocket science and there are lots of talented "average persons" out there who wouldn't be able to afford Les Paul if it wasn't for Epiphone. And quite a few of them play for a living.

 

While Gibson is indeed a great guitar brand and I might actually get one, the biggest problem I have with them is, if I want to get a nice playing and nice looking guitar, I have to cough out an insane amount of money. If I get one, It'll probably be a Studio but it doesn't really look appealing as my Plus Top Pro Epi no matter the price tag and supposed quality difference coming with the package.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Perhaps I misunderstood. I thought 'Pro' in this context was meant to be famous established name guitarists that we all see on TV or that we own their records. In other words, people of some means who can write off their guitar purchase as a tool for work. I thought the point of this discussion was to name players who we have all heard of.

 

As for working musicians, yes, I'm sure there are many who use Epiphones. But, surely, if your income allowed, you'd love to own a Gibson. I love Epiphones. I own several acoustics and have eyeballed a number of electrics. (Space limits my purchases.) But Gibsons are clearly made of better materials. You may prefer Epiphones. That's a personal taste thing. But as per materials, there is no argument. You may not think the price to value ratio is there on a Gibson. You do get a LOT for your money with an Epi. But I sincerely hope that all aspiring and pro musicians get a chance to own a Gibson in their lifetimes.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Picked up this YouTube video from another thread, but it would appear that Conan's guitar player has a Casino (or maybe Sheraton, I couldn't get a close enough look).

 

 

probably has both Dennis, he's a huge collector. I think the one in the video is a Casino.

 

this is cool toohttp://www.vintageguitar.com/15501/jimmy-vivino/

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Here's another one --- Taj Mahal with his Emperor Regent.

 

N_TajMahal.jpg

I recorded Taj in the 90's. He wrote the song there in the booth in the middle of the night after he had gigged all day. Of all the seasons I've done over the years that is one the I'll remember fondly forever.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.


×
×
  • Create New...