Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ200 | Review

Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ-200 | Review

MSRP: (UK) £1379 / (US) $1449

Introducing the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ-200, an acoustic that blends vintage vibes with modern playability. Boasting a solid Sitka spruce top and solid maple back and sides for a big, bold sound, the two-piece maple neck and rosewood fretboard ensure smooth playability. With its iconic moustache bridge, vintage-style tuners, ornate pickguard, and open-book style headstock, this guitar looks as good as it sounds. Here's Nick Jennison to tell us more.

The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ-200 is here to turn heads and win hearts, embodying everything we love about the legendary Gibson Jumbo but at a price that doesn't break the bank. Known affectionately as the "King of the Flat Tops," the SJ-200 has powered countless hits in country, rock, and folk music. Epiphone's recreation of this icon is nothing short of spectacular.

First things first, the headstock. Epiphone has brought the classic Gibson open-book headstock design to its lineup, and it makes a world of difference. This headstock shape, adorned with the Epiphone logo and graduated crown inlay, fits perfectly on a guitar like this. Flip it over, and you'll find Cluson-style tulip tuners in gold and the intersecting diamonds logo of the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop—a subtle nod to its storied heritage.

The neck is a masterpiece in itself, crafted from flame maple with a walnut stripe running down the middle. It has that familiar satin finish that feels like an old friend from the first time you play it. The neck's comfortable grip is perfect for long playing sessions, and the graduated crown inlays on the fretboard, combined with single-ply binding, add a touch of class to this already elegant instrument.

This guitar isn't just about looks, though. It's built with premium materials: a solid Sitka spruce top and solid maple back and sides, delivering that bright, powerful sound characteristic of jumbo guitars. The sunburst finish is a showstopper, though if that's not your style, there's an antique natural finish available. The iconic open moustache bridge and engraved floral pickguard are the cherry on top, both aesthetically and functionally integral to the SJ-200's identity.

Under the hood, the SJ-200 features an LR Baggs VTC system ensures that the guitar's impressive acoustic properties are faithfully reproduced when plugged in. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or performing live, this system captures every nuance of the guitar's rich, resonant tones.

Performance-wise, the SJ-200 excels. Strummed with a thin pick, it produces a warm, full-bodied sound. Switch to fingerstyle, and the delicate, nuanced tones shine through. Flat-picking brings out punchy, powerful single notes. It's a big guitar, no doubt about it, but the sound it delivers makes the size worth it.

Considering the competitive price, the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ-200 offers extraordinary value. It brings the look and feel of a legendary Gibson Jumbo to a more accessible price point, making it a fantastic option for both aspiring musicians and seasoned players.

If you've always wanted a classic Gibson but couldn't quite justify the cost, the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ-200 could very well be the perfect alternative. Whether you're jamming at home, recording in the studio, or performing on stage, this Epiphone masterfully blends inspiring tones with vintage charm and modern playability—making it a standout in any collection.

For more information, please visit:

epiphone.com