Epiphone Explorer Guitars

The Epiphone Explorer is a an Explorer copy imported from overseas, mainly China I believe. It is available in a variety of models including the Goth, a Korina version, a Futura style, and of course an Ebony version with a white pickguard.

About Epiphone Explorers

Epiphones are pretty common guitars. They're manufactured in a facility that maintains the highest quality standards in China from what I have heard and read. I have not ever possessed an Epiphone myself, but have friends who have.

So I have seen and heard the Epiphone garble up close and as personal as you can get without playing it yourself. Epiphone guitars are generally considered to be good overall value for many guitar players. Epiphone is known for producing affordable instruments that offer a combination of decent quality, playability, and sound, making them accessible to musicians on various budgets.

The Epiphone brand of guitars at one time were made in the USA, this changed in the 1970's when the brand moved its manufacturing into Japan. As far as I can tell from reading historic account of the Epiphone brand, they later moved to Korean manufacturing facilities and later China.

This manufacturing is done by instrument contractors who would be licensed by Gibson. Technically, I believe there may still be building Epiphone guitars in Japan, Korea, and China simultaneously, but I'm not certain.

If you take notice at their complete model line, they are basically cheaper versions of most of the Gibson guitar lineup. This is a great concept for those who can't afford an American made Gibson.

Epiphone Guitars for Sale

The selection of Epiphones for sale at guitar stores can vary significantly depending on the size and type of the store. Larger music stores in major cities or musical hubs often have a wide and diverse selection of guitars. These stores may carry guitars from various well-known brands, including popular models, limited editions, and higher-end instruments.

Smaller local music stores might have a more limited selection, focusing on popular and budget-friendly models to cater to their local customer base. However, even smaller stores may offer a range of guitars suitable for different playing styles and skill levels.

Online music retailers also provide a vast selection of guitars, offering access to models from various manufacturers and sometimes exclusive online-only offerings.

When it comes to guitar selection, some stores specialize in specific types of guitars, such as acoustic, electric, vintage, or boutique instruments. These specialty stores often have a more concentrated selection but might offer more in-depth expertise in their particular niche.

In recent years, the availability of instruments has expanded globally, thanks to e-commerce and online retailers. Customers can now access a broader range of guitars from around the world through online stores, increasing the selection options available to them. The guitar market is continuously evolving, and the availability and selection of guitars can change over time. If you're looking for a specific guitar model or type, it's a good idea to visit multiple stores, both in-person and online, to find an Explorer, an Epiphone, or whatever suits your needs.

Epiphone Explorer Forum

Stand by for the return of the Epiphone forum at "Explorer Guitars"

Epiphone for Dummies

For those who are unfamiliar with the Epiphone brand, this is what I call "Epiphone for dummies". The first Epiphone guitar was produced in the early 1920s. Epiphone is a renowned American musical instrument manufacturer that was founded in 1873.

The first Epiphone guitars were primarily acoustic instruments, and the company gained recognition for their craftsmanship and quality. Over the years, they expanded their lineup to include archtop guitars, which became particularly popular among jazz musicians in the 1930's and 1940's.

Epiphone's success continued, and they became known for producing high-quality instruments at various price points. They were also known for producing electric guitars in the 1930's and 1940's, including the Electar series of electric Hawaiian lap steel guitars.

In 1957, Gibson, another prominent guitar manufacturer, acquired Epiphone. Since then, Epiphone has operated as a subsidiary of Gibson, and they continue to produce a wide range of electric and acoustic guitars, catering to players of all levels and musical styles.

Throughout its long history, Epiphone has been associated with numerous iconic guitar models and has earned a reputation for being a respected and influential brand in the guitar industry.

Interestingly, Epiphone is a subsidiary of Gibson Brands, Inc., which is a well-known American musical instrument company. Gibson acquired Epiphone in 1957, and since then, Epiphone has operated as a separate brand under Gibson's ownership.

Being a subsidiary means that Epiphone is not an independent, standalone company with its own ownership structure. Instead, it is wholly owned and controlled by Gibson Brands, Inc. Gibson is a larger corporation that owns multiple musical instrument brands, and Epiphone is one of its most prominent subsidiaries.

The headquarters of Epiphone is located in Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville is a significant hub for the music industry, particularly known for its association with country music. It's also a center for guitar manufacturing and is home to several well-known guitar companies.

Pros and Cons of Epiphones

As with any guitar brand, Epiphone has received both positive feedback and occasional complaints from guitar players and customers. It's important to note that individual experiences can vary, and what might be a complaint for one person might not be an issue for another. Some of the common complaints or criticisms about Epiphone guitars reported by some players include:

1. Quality Control: Some players have reported inconsistencies in build quality, especially on certain models. Complaints include issues with fretwork, setup, and finish.
2. Electronics and Hardware: Some players have mentioned that the stock electronics and hardware on certain Epiphone models may not meet their expectations. They might experience issues with pickups, switches, or tuners.
3. Setup and Playability: While Epiphone guitars are generally known for their playability, some players might find that certain guitars require a professional setup to optimize playability and intonation.
4. Resale Value: Some players feel that the resale value of Epiphone guitars is lower compared to similar guitars from other brands, particularly in the used market.
5. Limited Customization Options: Compared to more expensive guitar brands, some players might feel that Epiphone guitars offer limited customization options and upgrades.

It's essential to keep in mind that these complaints represent only a portion of the feedback from players, and many other musicians have had positive experiences with their Epiphone guitars. Epiphone has a long history of producing affordable and accessible instruments that appeal to players of various skill levels and musical genres.

Before buying an Epiphone Explorer or any guitar, it's essential to research the specific model you're interested in, inspect its condition thoroughly, and play it if possible. There are plenty of accolades with theis brand as well though.

Many guitar players and customers have had positive experiences with Epiphone guitars. Epiphone is known for offering a wide range of affordable and accessible instruments that provide excellent value for money. Here are some of the positive aspects and experiences that players appreciate about Epiphone guitars:

1. Affordable Quality: Epiphone guitars are often praised for their quality, especially considering their relatively affordable price points. They provide an opportunity for players on a budget to own a well-made instrument with decent playability and sound.
2. Classic Designs: Epiphone offers various guitar models inspired by classic designs, such as Les Paul, SG, and ES-style guitars. Players appreciate the iconic and timeless aesthetics of these instruments.
3. Versatility: Epiphone guitars cater to different playing styles and musical genres, making them suitable for a wide range of players.
4. Great for Beginners: Many beginner guitarists find Epiphone guitars to be an excellent choice to start their musical journey. They are easy to play, offer good sound quality, and provide a stepping stone for players to develop their skills.
5. Epiphone Elite and Custom Shop: Epiphone offers higher-end lines like the Epiphone Elite and Custom Shop series, which have received positive feedback for their premium materials, craftsmanship, and improved playability.
6. Artist Signature Models: Epiphone has collaborated with renowned artists to produce signature models, allowing fans of these musicians to own guitars that closely resemble their heroes' instruments.
7. Reputable Brand: Epiphone is associated with Gibson, a legendary guitar manufacturer, which adds to the brand's credibility and heritage.
8. Wide Availability: Epiphone guitars are readily available in many music stores and online retailers, making them easily accessible to guitar players worldwide.

It's important to remember that individual preferences and experiences can vary, and what works well for one player may not be the best fit for another. As with any guitar purchase, it's recommended to try out the instrument personally, if possible, to ensure it aligns with your playing style and preferences.

Many guitarists have found great satisfaction and enjoyment in playing Epiphone guitars, and they continue to be a popular choice among musicians of all levels.

Other Explorer style guitars...

See also: Agile | Aria Pro | Cort | Dean | Dommenget | Epiphone | ESP | Gordon Smith | Hamer | Ibanez | Jackson | Kramer | LTD | O Hagan | Peavey | Tokai