Author Topic: Opinions on the Epiphone Goth Series, Specifically Les Paul (Read 3126 times)

adamzap · « **on:** January 10, 2007, 03:27:19 PM »

Are these worthwhile guitars to upgrade? (Only $300)

I think I'll get one as my first Les Paul.

Mr Ed · « **Reply #1 on:** January 10, 2007, 04:01:38 PM »

You can do better, much better. If you get an Epi, I would recommend replacing all the electrics:

Pickups
Pots
Pickup selector
Wires

The build construction generally, I've found, is pretty good - it's the electrics that give them a bad rep.

adamzap · « **Reply #2 on:** January 10, 2007, 04:16:37 PM »

How much would the materials cost to upgrade the pots, pickup selector, and wiring?

Also, I mainly just want a low end les paul as a start, I've only owned Warlock style guitars thus far.

Twinfan · « **Reply #3 on:** January 10, 2007, 04:17:48 PM »

Totally agree with Mr Ed. I've replaced all electrics, nut and bridge on my '65 Epi SG and had it professionally set up. Sounds and plays great now!

However, it adds significantly to the cost. I've spent the same as the cost of the guitar modifying it. However, it's still a cheaper option than upgrading a more expensive guitar and you can do it in stages.

Bear in mind that Epi build quality can vary considerably, so play several and make sure you get a "good one". I've not played an Epi SG as good as mine yet, and I've tried loads for comparison purposes.

Twinfan · « **Reply #4 on:** January 10, 2007, 04:20:49 PM »

Quote from: adamzap

How much would the materials cost to upgrade the pots, pickup selector, and wiring?

Also, I mainly just want a low end les paul as a start, I've only owned Warlock style guitars thus far.

Approximate UK prices:

Wiring - £3 for a metre
Pots - £15 a set of four
Jack - £3
Switch - £4
Knobs for new pots - £10

You may need to widen the holes in the guitar for new pots if you go for CTS pots or similar (recommended).

Mr Ed · « **Reply #5 on:** January 10, 2007, 04:31:31 PM »

Yeah, you're not talking much for the materials - if you go for decent stuff, as shown right there, you're only looking at an outlay of maybe an extra £30-40.

Pickups depends entirely on what you fancy, for a pair of BKP's you might be looking at £180-ish... SD's and DiMarzio's could probably get a pair for half that... or go even cheaper still with someone like GFS (http://www.guitarfetish.com) who I believe make VERY good products and the same goes for Swineshead (http://www.swinesheadpickups.com).

Good place getting parts in the UK - http://www.axesrus.com.

dave_mc · « **Reply #6 on:** January 10, 2007, 10:05:34 PM »

^swineys are probably dearer in the USA than dimarzios and duncans, though- due mainly to the weakness of the dollar, and us getting ripped off over here for anything made in the USA.

Mr Ed · « **Reply #7 on:** January 10, 2007, 10:24:35 PM »

Quote from: dave_mc

^swineys are probably dearer in the USA than dimarzios and duncans, though- due mainly to the weakness of the dollar, and us getting ripped off over here for anything made in the USA.

I buy most of my guitar parts from the US because the dollar's at a good price. Can get new Duncans for £30. 8)

dave_mc · « **Reply #8 on:** January 10, 2007, 10:35:49 PM »

^ yup.

:drink:

Tricalibur · « **Reply #9 on:** January 12, 2007, 12:04:13 AM »

^I hate you guys so much. (Goes away to rip his dollar)