epphone cortez ft-45

[6stringTom]

I'm referring to a 1960s epiphone Cortez made in Kalamazoo. I've seen it referred to as the epi equivalent to an lg-2, but also to a b-25. Can anyone here tell me which is correct? I'm a bit more familiar with the LG-2, but I've payed a B-25 and did not think they were the same.

[6stringTom]

OK, did my homework and got out my copy of Gibson's Fabulous Flat-top Guitars. ( Forgot I had it, duh). So I see that the LG-2 did morph into the B-25. That still leaves some question regarding which a 65 epi would most resemble, though from the dates of the conversion it would most likely be most like a B-25. I see 2 possible issues with the B-25. First is the plastic adjustable bridge and the second is that some had laminate sides.

 

Were the adjustable bridges always bad or just sometimes?

 

Were the Epi Cortez models exactly like the B-25s or were there some non-cosmetic differences?

 

anyone care to describe the tonal quality/desirability of this model from this era?

 

Finally, what's a fair price range for a 65 Cortez in very good condition?. The few examples I can find range from $500-$1950.

[bobouz]

Were the Epi Cortez models exactly like the B-25s or were there some non-cosmetic differences?

Had a Cortez back in the late '70s, then a '65 B-25 which I played for twenty years. Traded it off in '01 for the J100-Xtra I still have. This model is one of the few guitars I've ever missed after a trade, so lo & behold I happened upon a nice Cortez about a month ago & snapped it up, and it has completely filled that void. Amazingly sweet!

Here's some info on the mid '60s Cortez:

-The body construction will be exactly like a B-25.

-The pickguard and headstock shape are the only differences.

-Plastic bridge thru '66, wood from '67 until model was discontinued in '70.

-A fair price, imho, would hover around $1000, moving up or down depending on condition.

-Tone can be very satisfying when fingerpicked, which is all I do. Full & punchy, with plenty of bass on a good example. These have X-braced tops. Poor examples can sound like a t-shirt is stuffed inside & dead to the world.

-Laminated sides are a non-factor in terms of tonal generalizations. Assess this model on the tone of each individual piece.

-About that plastic bridge: If it is structurally sound, you can leave it. On the B-25, I replaced it with an ebony bridge because a crack was forming behind one of the screw holes. The difference in tone was surprisingly minimal, with highs being slightly more accented.

-Problems can easily develop associated with the plastic bridge if the ball end of the string is not seated properly on the bridge plate & instead digs into the spruce top, placing all the string tension directly onto the spruce (which can easily split). This is also true of any typical wooden acoustic bridge, but the issue is even more of a factor in this case, given the particular design of Gibson's plastic bridge. Careful evaluation is required.

-Many Cortez and B-25s that are out there are thrashed, so ask about everything if not evaluating in person. In particular would be the condition of the bridge area and neck angle. The plastic bridges can be pulled up slightly at the center point (behind the 3rd & 4th strings) and still be structurally sound. Most important is having no cracks in the top behind the bridge, and a proper neck angle.

-Pre '63 Cortez models are less frequently seen, and may have some variations in specs such as headstock design, and a wood bridge rather than plastic. These are still essentially identical to an LG from the same period.

Bottom line - Cortez & B25 models from the '60s can be terrific guitars, but difficult to assess if not in hand. Therefore, make sure you have an iron clad return option!

[6stringTom]

Bobouz, thanks for a very informative response. It's quite interesting that the bridge change didn't make an enormous difference on yours. A plastic bridge just seems like a bad idea. But sometimes a change on one guitar has great effect and on another very little. I agree that the laminated sides would be a no-issue if the tone is good. I have a Voyage-Air with laminated sides and it has an incredible sound.

[bobouz]

Bobouz, thanks for a very informative response. It's quite interesting that the bridge change didn't make an enormous difference on yours. A plastic bridge just seems like a bad idea. But sometimes a change on one guitar has great effect and on another very little. I agree that the laminated sides would be a no-issue if the tone is good. I have a Voyage-Air with laminated sides and it has an incredible sound.

Yes, the plastic bridge was a very goofy idea, but I wanted to clarify that an example with a plastic bridge that is structurally sound should not be dismissed out of hand. The Cortez I recently picked up is a '66. I was shocked to find that after 46 years, the bridge assembly is completely sound! Since the tone is also spot on, the bridge will remain. Once again, each instrument should be individually assessed without preconceived notions. My particular example is weather checked everywhere, but otherwise is in excellent condition, with a perfect neck angle & minimal fret wear. It came in a period hardshell alligator case, which obviously contributed to it's survivability (most were sold with a chipboard case). As I mentioned earlier, many of these are thrashed. But if you find a good one, the tone can be sooooo sweet. Best of luck in your search.