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I use Gibson coated 80/20 in light guage.

I have four Masterbilts from that era and I wouldn't part with any of them. I consider them to be hidden treasures. Since Gibson bought Epi in the 50's they have relegated the brand to producing low to mid grade instruments. These Masterbilts were a breakout from that mediocrity. The fact that you can get them for under $500 is amazing. Nothing that Epiphone has produced since then can compare. Mel

I had the AJ version of this. GC had it advertised as an AJ-500MVS, which I was looking for. imagine my surprise when I opened the box !

I had an IB 64 Texan about 10 years ago or so. I don't know about the Masterbilt tribute.

I had an AJ-500RAVS pass through my hands this past summer. GC had it advertised as an AJ-500MVS.

I prefer to keep it original.

I just got a Masterbilt AJ-500MVS. The previous owner replaced the original guard with a huge aftermarket model. I've looked around on the net for an original style without luck. Does this august body have any suggestions on where to find one ? Mel

I've had two EL00 Pros, and I am unimpressed with their acoustic response. the EL 00 that I had years ago was far superior in tone. I am currently trying to sell my latest Pro. I would certainly welcome an IB L-00. I have the J-45, as well as several Masterbilts along with a Bluesmaster. I know that Epiphone can make incredibly responsive instruments. In fact, the Pro is really the only disappointment I've ever had. The brand deserves a better representation in the 00 entry.

I had an AJ 220S that had a truss rod cover that was just cosmetic.

Well folks, I bought this little sweetheart ! It's in near perfect condition, plays and sounds heavenly, and as a bonus, it came with the factory case ! Mel

Thanks for the heads up ! Mel

There are several online sites that specialize in pickguards. They offer both modern and vintage styles in your choice of material. I'm thinking of just leaving it bare, since I'm not a hard strummer.

I bought a J45 last summer. While overall I've been satisfied with it, it always sounded muted. It never seemed to develop the volume that my other Epiphones have. I've always suspected that the culprit was the pickguard. No only did it cover about 25% of the body, it was very thick. I put off removing it on the premise that the factory knew what it was doing. It was only after watching a YouTube review that also speculated that the pickguard was restricting the sound that I decided that it had to go. Out came the hair dryer and off came the guard. The difference was incredible, as though it was a different guitar. The projection and the tone markedly increased. It feels like the sound flows free for the first time. I'm not saying that everyone should get rid of their pickguards, I'm saying that a guard this extreme can choke the sound. A quarter of the top couldn't vibrate because of the mutant piece of plastic attached. Mel