Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (29)
$949.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (15)
$949.00
Amazon
4.1 (5)
$1,448.12
Reverb
5.0 (16)
$854.81 New
$587.91 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (3)
$949.00
zZounds
5.0 (10)
$949.00
Thomann
4.7 (12)
$899.00

Average Price: $948

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard - Aged Sixties Cherry is a remarkable blend of tradition and innovation. This model is a tribute to the iconic 1961 Les Paul SG, one of the most impactful and beloved electric guitar designs ever. Epiphone, in collaboration with Gibson Custom Shop, has meticulously recreated this classic marvel, combining vintage aesthetics with modern craftsmanship.

The guitar's body is constructed from solid mahogany, featuring a double cutaway design that enables easy access to the higher frets. The SlimTaper neck moulded from a single piece of mahogany, provides a smooth, comfortable feel, letting you play effortlessly. A key highlight of this model is the set of Gibson Burstbucker '61 humbucking pickups, which deliver a warm, balanced tone that's reminiscent of the original SG.

The Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard is more than just a guitar; it's a piece of music history. Its vintage-inspired design, complete with a long pickguard, double-ring vintage tuners, and an aged cherry finish, transports you back to the golden era of rock music. Despite its classic appeal, this guitar is equipped with high-quality CTS potentiometers, Mallory capacitors, and a reliable Switchcraft toggle switch and output jack, ensuring a modern, top-grade performance.

Key Features: - Double cutaway solid mahogany body - One-piece mahogany SlimTaper neck - Gibson Burstbucker '61 humbucking pickups - CTS potentiometers and Mallory capacitors - Switchcraft toggle switch and output jack - Vintage-style hardshell case included - Available in Aged Sixties Cherry finish.

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape 1961 Les Paul SG Standard
Body Material 2-Piece Mahogany
Body Finish Aged Gloss
Neck Material 1-Piece Mahogany
Neck Shape SlimTaper C
Neck Joint Set Neck
Radius 12"
Fingerboard Inlay Pearloid Trapezoids
Number of Frets 22, Medium Jumbo
Scale Length 24.75"
Nut Width 1.693"
Nut Material Graph Tech
Bridge/Tailpiece Epiphone LockTone Tune-O-Matic Bridge with Stopbar Tailpiece
Tuners Epiphone Deluxe
Neck Pickup Gibson BurstBucker 2 Humbucker
Bridge Pickup Gibson BurstBucker 3 Humbucker
Controls 2 x volume, 2 x tone
Switching 3-way toggle pickup switch
Strings Gibson, .010-.046
Case/Gig Bag Hardshell Case

FAQs

What kind of neck profile does the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard have?

The Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard features a SlimTaper C neck profile, providing a comfortable and fast playing experience suitable for a variety of playing styles.

What pickups are installed in the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard?

This guitar is equipped with a Gibson BurstBucker 2 humbucker in the neck position and a Gibson BurstBucker 3 humbucker in the bridge position, offering a classic rock tone with rich harmonics and clarity.

Is the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard suitable for beginners?

While it offers professional features and quality, its comfortable neck profile and versatile tone make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced players.

What is the body material of the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard?

The body of the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard is made from 2-piece mahogany, providing a warm and resonant tone characteristic of classic SG models.

Does the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard come with a case?

Yes, the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard includes a hardshell case, ensuring safe transport and storage for the guitar.

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Battle of the SGs - Epiphone 1961 SG Standard vs Gibson Custom Shop!

Video thumbnail for Battle of the SGs - Epiphone 1961 SG Standard vs Gibson Custom Shop! by Andertons Music Co

Battle of the SGs - Epiphone 1961 SG Standard vs Gibson Custom Shop!

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard - OUT OF THIS WORLD! by Danny Guitar

Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard - OUT OF THIS WORLD!

Danny Guitar

Danny Guitar

Video thumbnail for Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard - Should You Just Get A Gibson? by Oli Royer

Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard - Should You Just Get A Gibson?

Oli Royer

Oli Royer

Video thumbnail for Guitar Talk - Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Review by Guitar Talk

Guitar Talk - Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Review

Guitar Talk

Guitar Talk

Video thumbnail for TONE CHECK: Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Demo by Cream City Music

TONE CHECK: Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Demo

Cream City Music

Cream City Music

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Aged Classic White by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Aged Classic White

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Aged Sixties Cherry by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Aged Sixties Cherry

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Aged Sixties Cherry by rmenga

Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Aged Sixties Cherry

rmenga

rmenga

Reviews

PROS

  • Comes with Gibson Burstbucker pickups, offering a classic rock sound

  • High-quality electronics with CTS pots and Switchcraft parts

  • Lightweight design enhances playability and comfort

  • Excellent upper fret access for soloing

  • Indian laurel fretboard feels comparable to rosewood

  • Vintage aesthetic with accurate body beveling and soft gloss finish

  • Includes a stylish Lifton style hard case

  • High build quality rivaling more expensive models

  • Great value for money considering the features and accessories

  • Sounds great both clean and distorted, versatile for various genres

CONS

  • Reports of neck dive, although opinions vary

  • Some issues with fret quality, such as high frets needing adjustment

  • Headstock durability concerns reported by a user

  • Some users dislike the satin finish, preferring a glossier look

  • Bevels could be sharper, especially around the neck joint and controls

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard.

Build quality

  • The Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard features vintage-style tulip tuners, which help minimize neck dive issues common in SG models.

    Source
  • Some owners dislike the veneer on the SG Standard, describing it as looking cheap compared to the 1961 model.

    Source
  • Some units have been noted to have cracks near the nut, indicating potential issues with the neck's structural integrity that buyers should inspect before purchase.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have replaced stock pickups with '57 Classic pickups for enhanced tonal quality, particularly aiming to match the sound of higher-end Gibson models.

    Source

User experience

  • After two years of ownership, users report the guitar remains stable and durable, often comparing it favorably to more expensive models in their collections.

    Source
  • Owners report varied experiences, with some guitars feeling exceptionally high-quality while others are perceived as cheap, highlighting inconsistencies in manufacturing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Epiphone 1961 SG is often compared to Gibson models, with some players preferring it for its affordability and quality, despite being made in China.

    Source
  • Anticipation exists for a new model similar to the 1959 Les Paul Standard with potential changes, like a Gibson headstock, impacting buyer decisions.

    Source
  • The guitar is part of the "Inspired by Gibson" custom shop release, making it a desirable alternative to higher-end Gibson models without the substantial price tag.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is described as having a unique ergonomic design that appeals to players seeking a distinct feel and sound, making it a preferred choice for diverse playing styles.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 1961 model includes upgraded electronics and Gibson pickups, contributing to its higher price and perceived value over the SG Standard.

    Source
  • The guitar includes Gibson USA Burstbucker pickups, specifically Burstbucker 61s, offering a vintage tonal vibe appreciated by players seeking classic rock sounds.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The 1961 Les Paul SG Standard's included case and hardware upgrades justify its additional cost, according to several users.

    Source
  • A significant price drop has been noted, with clearance pricing at $589, originally $949, making it an attractive purchase for budget-conscious buyers.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Epiphone's 1961 Les Paul SG Standard is a stunningly playable guitar that captures the essence of its Gibson counterpart at a fraction of the cost. With its attractive finish, solid playability, and excellent value, it impresses as a worthy addition to any guitarist's collection. However, players might find the offset neck position a bit challenging and the pickup rings slightly oversized, which could affect balance and aesthetics. Despite these minor flaws, the overall craftsmanship and sound quality make this guitar a fantastic option for those looking to channel their inner rock legend.

positive

Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

A solid homage to the iconic 1961 model, the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard shines with its stunning aesthetics and impressive Burstbucker pickups that deliver rich tones. The neck design promotes agility, making it a delight to play. However, some users may struggle with its balance, which could detract from the overall experience. While it feels lightweight and ergonomic, the SG's unique shape may take some getting used to. For those seeking a high-quality instrument without the hefty price tag of a Gibson, this model offers exceptional value, though it may not fully satisfy everyone due to its slight playability compromises.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
M

Fantastic

Best Epiphone SG yet. Functionally great guitar, only complaints (as with all Epiphone SG's) are the bevels. The bevels are getting closer, the only issues with them now (though they can always be deeper and sharper) are areas where they transition out at the neck joint, where they transition out near the controls, and where they come together on the backside of the horns. Almost there!!!

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Favorite setting, neck pickup, tone all the way off, volume all the way up. Pushes the amp into a fuzz state with no pedal. Rockin'

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kevin Parker uses Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard

Kevin Parker

Singer, Guitarist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo from the live at greek theatre in 2023 (Source : https://youtu.be/l8yUFFwfZnM?si=aacGQzH0D6H7U_6i) , Kevin Parker can be seen playing Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Aged Classic White. Considering the distinctive shape of its neck and body, the logo on the neck, and the text on the truss rod cover, you can say that it is this guitar. In another photo posted on Instagram, Dua Lipa posted a photo of her recording with Kevin Parker. (Details are listed on the Reddit page : https://www.reddit.com/r/TameImpala/comments/z5whpv/kevin_parker_x_dua_lipa_incoming/) Considering the characteristics of the neck and fingerboard of the guitar in the photo, it seems to be the same as this guitar. With all that said, he uses this guitar live and in recordings.

See how Chuck Treece uses Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard

Chuck Treece

Singer, Guitarist

Bedouin Soundclash

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post Chuck Treece can be seen playing an Aged Classic White Epiphone 1961 Les Paul Sg

See how Matthew Strong uses Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard

Matthew Strong

Singer, Guitarist

Custard

...
Verified via Photo

In the provided photo from ABC's Recovery show, Matthew Strong is clearly seen playing an Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

1 alternative for Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard, curated by the Equipboard community.

Epiphone SG Standard

$399.00 - $668.03

cheaper alternative

More affordable, if that is needed. Can't recommend for any other reason though because of the awful veneers and grainless, differently colored bevels.

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