d55124 Posted December 14, 2016 Share Posted December 14, 2016 . . . . another new guitar! Wow, Epi just keeps 'em coming. The Les Paul ES is a new release modeled after the 2-3 year old Gibson version of same. A few key differences - 60's slim taper-like neck, genuine Grover 18:1 tuners, poly finish and, of course, Epi pups and electronics. And, at about 20% of the Gibby's price ($600 vs $3000)! Similarities include full ES construction (maple ply top, bottom & sides, center-block - looks to be only to the bridge rather than full length, 24.75" scale, weight about 6.5-7 lbs. The ES is also similar to the Epiphone Les Paul Florentine release of a few years ago - differences are mainly in the body construction - the Florentine has a carved mahogany, semihollowd out back with maple top. Kinda like a Gibson Cs-336 vs Es-339. Looks very similar from a few feet. I've tried the Gibson version at various retailers over the years but could never get comfortable with the thick necks - really wanted to own one but could never pull the trigger. I've actually owned many flavors of Gibson & Epi ES-339s, ES-335s and even a Gibson CS-336. My favorite tone machine for my playing (soft jazz, 50-60s blues/rock) is the '335, but at a height of 5'7" they are just too large for my frame. The '339s fit better and were a close approximation of the tone I was looking for, not all the way to the '335s fullness, but close. The Epiphone Les Paul ES is perfect! Small, lightweight, and with every bit of ES tone a '339 brings. To me, and a few friends who have helped me compare, they are indistinguishable in sound (played clean, slight tube break-up, neck and/or both pick-ups). Never ventured into high gain as that's not my style. I have found a new #1! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dReit1 Posted December 14, 2016 Share Posted December 14, 2016 Congrats on your new guitar. I play 2 EPI LP ES models from the '90s and love them. I think the newer versions are great looking guitars. But I like fat necks. Play long and enjoy. [thumbup] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
charlie brown Posted December 15, 2016 Share Posted December 15, 2016 Photos, or it didn't happen! CB Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
d55124 Posted December 15, 2016 Author Share Posted December 15, 2016 Photos, or it didn't happen! CB . . . a few minor changes from stock (amber switch tip, dark amber volume/tone knobs, poker chip removal) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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