What's the difference between a epiphone J-200 and a Gibson EJ-200?
Now, I'm aware that Epiphone is the company which makes lowbudget Gibson guitars. But I would love to have a view on this from some professional guitarists since I'm planning to save money for one of them.
I'm talking differences in quality, sound, looks, ... (tell me what you know!)
>>I'm aware that Epiphone is the company which makes lowbudget Gibson guitars.<<
Not precisely. Epiphone is a label owned by the Gibson company and used on the guitars made in China on contract to Gibson.
In general, Epis have a lower quality of wood, workmanship, finish, and equipment (tuning machines, etc.). This is not to say that there would never be a fine sounding Epi, it's just that the chances are lower than if you randomly picked the Gibson equivalent. Plus, the Gibson will last longer and hold its value better.
I believe that EJ-200 is the Epiphone model designation and J-200 is the Gibson model designation.
The J-200 is an iconic guitar, used by everyone from Elvis to Emmy Lou Harris. With the engraved pickguard, moustache bridge, and jumbo body it is in a class by itself for appearance. I have played many of them - mostly in music stores - and hated every single one of them. I find them impossibly tubby and bass-heavy, unpleasantly so. If you like them then fine - start saving, but make sure you really like it first.
For the price of the J-200 there are in my opinion much better guitars available from Taylor, Martin, Santa Cruz, and Collings. At least give them a try. Good luck.
PS I think Scooter thinks it's an electric guitar. You don't put Seymour Duncan pickups and a Bigsby on a J-200.
