Epiphone - Product Introduction

Hello.
In my previous post, I wrote about the history of the Epiphone brand. This time, I’ll be introducing some specific models.

As mentioned in the previous post, as of 2023, Epiphone guitars are manufactured in factories in China.
However, don’t be quick to dismiss them just because they’re made in China!
The guitars are crafted with exceptional quality and attention to detail in woodworking, painting, and assembly, thanks to the meticulous quality control and high technical standards of Gibson’s own factories.
This level of quality and dedication cannot be achieved by OEM factories.

Today, let me introduce the four 150th Anniversary models of Epiphone currently available at Sound House!
These anniversary models include reissues of iconic guitars from Epiphone’s history and special designs featuring stunning appearances and unique pickups, making them truly special editions.
Each guitar is so attractive and unique.
You might find the perfect one to accompany you for a lifetime.

Epiphone / 150th Anniversary Sheraton Cherry

First up is the Sheraton, designed based on the ES-335.
The standout feature of this 150th Anniversary Limited model is its appearance.
It has a semi-hollow body made from layered maple.
Using a one-piece mahogany neck, bindings on the side of the fingerboard, block Mother of Pearl and abalone inlays, the Tree of Life inlay on the headstock, and the Epiphone logos on the pickguard and tailpiece, showcasing a luxurious design.
Its electronics are also high-spec, with Gibson Mini Humbuckers, reliable CTS pots, Orange Drop capacitors, and Switchcraft switch and jack.
This model is traditional and lavish, perfect for the 150th anniversary of the brand.

Epiphone / 150th Anniversary Zephyr DeLuxe Regent Aged Antique Natural

This model is a reissue of a guitar produced from 1948 to 1957 and is a 150th Anniversary Limited Edition full-hollow body guitar.
If you know Epiphone’s history, you’ll recognize this 1948-1957 model as a model from before Epiphone’s ownership transferred to Gibson.
It has a classic, stately appearance compared to the Sheraton, with a thick body. This model features a 1950s-style headstock logo.
With cloud inlays on the fingerboard, it creates a stylish combination.
It is equipped with Epiphone NY Mini Humbuckers, making it a must-have guitar for fans of the time.

Epiphone / 150th Anniversary Wilshire Pacific Blue

Next is the Wilshire, a popular model in the Japan vintage guitar scene.
Since its debut in 1959, it has been one of the most successful original solid-body electric guitars in Epiphone’s history. Its defining feature is the cutaway.
The 150th Anniversary Edition upgrades the usually symmetrical body to asymmetrical.
It’s called the Wilshire double cutaway. It’s deeply cut, making high-fret access easy.
It is similar to the Gibson SG, which was made in the late 1950s to meet the needs of musicians.
The Batwing-style headstock, rare for Epiphone, is asymmetrical. The limited Pacific Blue color and Wilshire Double Cutaway body shape match perfectly.
The Wilshire uses Wilkinson tuners, and the electronics include Gibson Mini Humbuckers, CTS pots, Orange Drop capacitors, and Switchcraft switch and jack.
Its unique color and excellent playability make it one of a kind.

Epiphone / 150th Anniversary Crestwood Custom California Coral

The last one for today is the Crestwood, which looks similar to the Wilshire at first glance.
This model features a comfortable 1960s SlimTaper D profile neck, enhancing playability in both high and low frets thanks to the combination with the Wilshire double cutaway.
Unlike the Wilshire, it has an Epiphone LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge and Graph Tech TUSQ saddles, with a Tremotone Vibrato tailpiece that adds an elegant touch.
This model is perfect for those seeking unique looks and sound.

What do you think?
The Epiphone 150th Anniversary Limited models are all incredibly appealing.
Personally, I’m especially excited about the reissue of the Zephyr DeLuxe Regent.
Vintage models are expensive on the used guitar market, and many older ones are in poor condition.
Being able to get a new, affordable, and special anniversary edition model is a delight for any guitar player.
If these guitars are in stock at our Narita headquarters, you can visit the Sound House showroom to try them out. Please consider this!

[Sound House Showroom Inquiries]

Stock is limited, so make your decision quickly!
See you again in the next Sound House staff blog.
Goodbye!