Epiphone

Epiphone is one of the oldest and most respected names in the music industry, evolving from a family-run workshop into a global powerhouse. Today, it is best known as the official subsidiary of Gibson, providing high-quality versions of iconic designs at accessible price points.

A Legacy of Innovation
Before it was Gibson’s partner, Epiphone was its primary rival. Founded by the Stathopoulo family, the company rose to fame in the 1930s with its legendary “Masterbilt” archtops. They were pioneers in the jazz era, often outperforming Gibson in both volume and playability.

The Modern Identity
Since being acquired by Gibson in 1957, Epiphone has carved out a unique space in the market:

Affordable Icons: They produce “Inspired by Gibson” models—like the Les Paul, SG, and ES-335—using the same blueprints as their premium American-made counterparts.

Unique Originals: Epiphone maintains its own heritage through exclusive designs like the Casino (famously played by The Beatles), the Sheraton, and the Texan acoustic.

Quality Tiers: Their lineup ranges from beginner-friendly “Starters” to the Prophecy series for metal players and the “Inspired by Gibson Custom” line, which features high-end components like USA-made pickups and electronics.