For a long time I was considering buying a Gibson Les Paul Standard, but in the end I couldn't justify the 2K plus price tag. I'm a longtime Strat player but have always had this thing about owning a ''proper les Paul'' Some of my favourite players play these guitars (Slash, Jimmy Page etc) and for me these are the ultimate rock guitar. I just love the tone these guitars are capable of producing.
After a long time of considering some other Epiphone's I'm so glad I picked this one up. For me its a superb guitar for the price. The build is solid, don't let the ''made in China'' on the headstock put you off. The finish is flawless, no imperfections such as scratches, loose input jack, toggle switches etc. The fretboard was immaculate.
What really sold this guitar to me was that is was made in collaboration with the Gibson Custom shop, and is fitted with two genuine Gibson Burst-buckers 2 and 3 - they sound superb and are very versatile . The neck is fat, much bigger than I'm used to, but the playability is very good, and for me its a nice variation I can switch between.
For me this is the closest thing to owning a genuine Gibson you will find. I really can't see any cons with this guitar so far, but I guess time will tell. The hardshell case it comes with is good.
I'd definitely recommend this guitar and picking one up.
(I will edit this post in due course if the need arises)
A happy Thomann customer.