Nik73
Inspired
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Apart from the hollow/semi hollow guitars, I’ve never been a fan of Epiphone guitars. After a lengthy break from playing, I picked up a Tribute Plus LP in 2012 that was highly regarded, but I wasn’t impressed. At all.
Since then I’ve avoided them like the plague.
I thought I was all set for guitars last year (yeah, I know), but then decided to spread my wings a bit from the LP, Strat, Tele style guitars that make up 90% of my collection. Picked up a TVL JM first. Love it, especially how it inspires me to play differently. Then picked up one of the Epiphone IBG Firebirds for £500 after hearing good things about how Epiphone has upped their game recently. I’d agree, incredible guitar for the money and, again, it makes me play outside my comfort zone.
The IBG Explorers and Vs were on sale recently, so was tempted, but then the Korina Explorer went on sale. Not sure I’ve heard a bad word about them, so after a failed first attempt, picked one up last week.
Amazing guitar and easily holds its own against some Gibson Les Pauls I have. Genuinely. No it doesn’t make me play differently, but good lord it rocks. Pair it with a Marshall style amp and OOOOFF!!!
Was so impressed, I had to pick up the V as well. Again, it rocks. Hard.
I managed to get both for £1800, which is a lot for Epiphone guitars, but in my humble opinion, worth every penny. Maybe even for the full price of £2600.
The one thing I’d say about the Explorer is that the finish seems to crack around the neck joint just by looking at it. I’d recommend getting one in store rather than having it delivered. Mine has one, but everything else about the guitar is so good I’m not returning it and the store did give me some money back.
So yeah. VERY impressed