United States · Est. 1873
Epiphone
Gibson's sister brand brings the Les Paul, SG, and ES-335 experience to players at prices that open the door to the Gibson sound.
About the brand
Epiphone was founded in 1873 in Greece and became one of Gibson's main rivals through the 1930s and 1940s. After Gibson acquired Epiphone in 1957, the brand was gradually repositioned as a more affordable alternative to Gibson's premium lines, eventually focusing on producing lower-cost versions of Gibson's classic designs.
Today's Epiphone catalogue includes Les Paul Standard, SG Standard, ES-335 Pro, and Casino models — all based on the corresponding Gibson originals, produced primarily in China and South Korea. The Inspired by Gibson series in particular has raised build quality substantially, offering genuinely impressive instruments at their price point.
For countless players worldwide, an Epiphone is the first serious guitar — the instrument that bridges the gap between a cheap beginner guitar and a proper Les Paul. The brand also maintains its own original designs, including the Riviera and Sheraton, which carry genuine vintage cachet.
Key facts
- Founded in 1873, acquired by Gibson in 1957
- Inspired by Gibson series offers high-quality Les Pauls and SGs at accessible prices
- Casino model played by The Beatles during the 1960s
- Entry point into the Gibson sound for millions of players globally
Iconic models
Epiphone Les Paul Standard
The affordable version of Gibson's Les Paul, which for decades has allowed millions of guitarists to access that iconic tone without breaking the bank.
Epiphone SG Standard
An affordable replica of Gibson's SG, faithful to the original design and popular among students and budget-conscious hard rock guitarists.
Epiphone Casino
Epiphone's most iconic hollow-body guitar, a favorite of the Beatles and one of the few Epiphone guitars with its own independent history.
Epiphone Sheraton
Epiphone's deluxe semi-hollow model, used by B.B. King in his early years and a symbol of the golden age of jazz and electric blues.