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Epiphone kind of rocked our world a couple months back when they unveiled the Inspired by Gibson Custom line. The collection definitely indicated a leveling up of Epiphone’s products.
Long seen as Gibson’s little-brother brand, the Inspired by Gibson Custom electric collection brought Epiphone guitars to a level of build quality and components that comes as close to the real thing as we’ve seen (they even feature genuine Gibson pickups.)
And now, prayers (that we didn’t even know we had) have been answered with the launch of the new Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom line of acoustic guitars. These six models are based on some legendary Gibson acoustics, and include the same level of period-correct detail seen on the Inspired by Gibson Custom electrics. We’re not worthy.
Designed and Developed in Bozeman
Lewis McKinney, Brand Manager at Epiphone: “Epiphone’s Inspired by Gibson Custom Collection just got bigger—and we couldn’t be more excited.” He continues, “In close collaboration with the Gibson Custom team, we’ve reissued a new wave of era-accurate acoustics. Rebuilt from the ground up with precision and care, these guitars embody our ongoing commitment to quality, accessibility, and innovation. This launch marks a fresh chapter for Epiphone acoustics, and we can’t wait for players to experience them. Happy playing.”
Let’s take a look at the new models and dive into the specs. (Check out video demos of all the guitars here!)
Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45
Gibson’s original workhorse acoustic. The J-45 was introduced in 1942 and quickly became a best seller thanks to its simplicity, reliability, and warm acoustic tone.
This Epiphone reissue features a thermally aged solid spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides, and classic appointments like open-back tuners and mother-of-pearl dot inlays. Scalloped X bracing gives you enhanced tone and projection.
But that’s not all: a L.R. Baggs Element Bronze VTC pickup system gives you modern versatility in a vintage-style package. Includes hardshell case (they all do)! [$1299]
Epiphone 1957 SJ-200
The SJ-200, AKA the “King of the Flat-tops,” was launched all the way back in 1937, and has since become iconic for its huge, booming sound and striking aesthetics.
This re-creation of that legendary instrument features a thermally aged Sitka spruce top with scalloped X-bracing, figured maple back and sides, and a flame maple neck with walnut stringer.
Period details like the eye-catching graphic SJ-200 pickguard, Moustache bridge, and Gibson “open book” headstock with Gibson Crown inlay complete the picture. You get the same L.R. Baggs pickup and electronics, plus OHSC here as well, folks. [$1499]
Epiphone 1960 Hummingbird
The Hummingbird was Gibson’s original square-shouldered acoustic, and it’s yet another visually stunning jewel in Gibson’s crown.
With its bright cherry burst finish, graphic pickguard, and mother of pearl inlays, it’s definitely a looker—but this reissue is a player as well. A thermally aged solid spruce top, real bone saddle, and L.R. Baggs pickup system combine vintage appointments with modern playability. [$1299]
Epiphone 1963 Dove
Prefer a Dove to a Hummingbird? They’ve got that too.
You get many of the same appointments here, from the solid spruce top to the Baggs system—but you also get the signature dove-inlaid bridge, plus Kluson waffleback tuners on this one. [$1399]
Epiphone Hummingbird Deluxe EC
This one, rather than being a historic reissue, gives you the full Hummingbird package, in a cutaway model for those who prefer it. [$1299]
Epiphone Pre-War SJ-200 Rosewood
This one is a meticulous re-creation of the rare prewar SJ-200 (okay, I guess that’s the real King of the Flat-Tops). At a glance, it’s hard to tell this one from the 1957 aside from a slight difference of finish color, but dang, it sure does look nice. [$1499]
All images credit Epiphone
Evidently, they must be FREE …..??? VERY POOR reporting or afraid to mention the PRICE …..???
Pricing is shown in brackets at the bottom of each description 😃
Always wanted a Hummingbird. Saw Page play White Summer / Black Mountain Side and it was love at first sight!
I must say that after reading this article that Pre-War SJ-200 might be the one I’m more interested in now. 💚
Did he say a thin C for fast easy playability?
The main reason for the love of vintage and for reissue models is and should be because of the nice thick necks. This is due to better, improved ergonomics and a much better tone.
You can’t get the same tone out of an instrument if you have a very thin neck.
The Modern C was introduced for young students and mass marketing. It has obviously sold very well.
He seemed to have his thumb floating the whole time while playing, at least on the Hummingbird demo. With proper technique for better ergonomics and playing, the thumb should ideally be braced on the neck, not hitch hiking the whole jam.
If anything, the necks should have been made even thicker, and there should be at least two choices for neck thickness and profile.
Adults with proper technique who want a great sounding instrument are otherwise left without a choice.
Ain’t any different than my master build, and I’ve got all of them. They sound much better than my Gibsons. What makes them better is the age and not having the marketing sticker inside. They are true Ephiphone. From 20 plus years back.
Lmao
So true.
Too damn expensive for Epiphone. This “inspired by Gibson” bullshit is a money grab.
That would be true if you were talking about the studio line but this is not the studio line and these guitars are fantastic I have three of them myself and I’ve owned Gibson’s the sound every bit as good not the same but every bit is good