Pricing and availability
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Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,011
High-end/Boutique
$400
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Epiphone '58 Explorer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Epiphone '58 Explorer is a captivating tribute to one of rock history's most iconic designs. Crafted in collaboration with the Gibson Custom Shop, this solid body electric guitar is a nod to its ultra-rare predecessor, featuring a korina body and neck that exude both style and substance. The distinct korina wood delivers a resonant tone reminiscent of high-quality mahogany, yet with a touch more brightness. It's a sound that has inspired legends.
The '58 Explorer is not just about looks; it's packed with performance-driven features. The guitar is equipped with Gibson Burstbucker 2 and 3 pickups, providing a classic PAF tone that transitions seamlessly from smooth and melodic to bold and biting. Whether you're channeling the spirit of classic rock or venturing into more modern soundscapes, these pickups deliver with precision.
Beyond its tone, the ‘58 Explorer ensures a vintage feel with a period-correct neck shape and long neck tenon. High-spec electronics, including CTS pots and Mallory capacitors, further enhance its sonic output. The hardware is a mix of modern reliability and vintage aesthetics, featuring an ABR-1 bridge, LockTone stopbar tailpiece, and deluxe tuning machines. Complete with black top hat knobs and a striking hockey-stick-style headstock, this guitar demands attention both visually and sonically.
Key Features:
- Inspired re-creation of the 1958 Gibson Korina Explorer
- Korina body and neck for resonant, mahogany-like sound
- Gibson Burstbucker 2 and 3 pickups for classic PAF tone
- High-spec electronics with CTS pots and Mallory capacitors
- ABR-1 bridge and LockTone stopbar tailpiece for improved sustain
- Deluxe tuning machines and vintage-style appointments
- Includes hardshell case for protection between gigs
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | Explorer |
| Body Material | Korina |
| Body Finish | Aged Gloss |
| Neck Material | Korina |
| Neck Shape | 1958 Explorer |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fingerboard Material | Indian Laurel |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| 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, 1 x tone |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | D'Addario, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used for the body of the Epiphone '58 Explorer?
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The Epiphone '58 Explorer features a solid Korina body, known for its lightweight and resonant qualities, contributing to the guitar's rich, warm tone.
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What pickups are installed in the Epiphone '58 Explorer?
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The Epiphone '58 Explorer is equipped with Gibson Burstbucker 2 and Burstbucker 3 humbuckers, providing a classic PAF-era sound with a balance of clarity and crunch.
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Is the Epiphone '58 Explorer suitable for heavy rock or metal music?
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Yes, the Epiphone '58 Explorer's powerful Burstbucker pickups and solid Korina construction make it well-suited for heavy rock and metal genres, delivering strong sustain and punchy tones.
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What is the neck profile of the Epiphone '58 Explorer?
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The Epiphone '58 Explorer features a 1958 Explorer neck profile, offering a comfortable and vintage feel that appeals to both rhythm and lead guitarists.
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Does the Epiphone '58 Explorer come with a case?
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Yes, the Epiphone '58 Explorer includes a hardshell case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.
Videos
Thomann's Guitars & Basses
NEW Epiphone Korina Guitars | Explorer & Flying V Reissue | Thomann
NEW Epiphone Korina Guitars | Explorer & Flying V Reissue | Thomann
Thomann's Guitars & Basses
Epiphone '58 Korina Explorer Demo
Guitarist
Epiphone 1958 Korina Explorer | zZounds
zZounds
Reviews
PROS
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Authentic '58 Korina Explorer design with classic aesthetics
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Lightweight body for comfortable extended play
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Smooth satin finish for a non-sticky feel
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Burstbucker pickups offer versatile and clear tones
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Substantial neck ideal for powerful chords and leads
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High-quality construction comparable to top-dollar guitars
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Comes with a robust, protective case
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Excellent balance when playing both standing and sitting
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Great value for the price, resembling higher-end models
CONS
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Thick '58 neck may require adjustment for players with smaller hands
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Neck dive issue due to light body
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Strap button placement may need relocation for better playability
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone '58 Explorer.
Setup and maintenance
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The neck is described as "slim-thick" and plays well after resolving fret issues. It initially had snapped tuner posts, necessitating a switch to Grover locking tuners.
Source
Build quality
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One owner noted the guitar is lighter than an Epiphone Standard LP, offering a more comfortable playing experience.
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Finish cracks around the neck joint were observed in a demo model, but overall build quality is considered excellent.
Source -
The satin finish provides a smooth neck feel, preferred by some over the thicker Gibson finishes.
Source
Mods and upgrades
Use cases and applications
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It's used as a workhorse guitar, particularly effective in lower tunings like B for heavy music styles.
Source
Value and pricing
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The Epiphone '58 Explorer pricing has significantly increased over the years, with pre-2017 models often selling under $400, compared to today’s $750-$999 range.
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Features and functionality
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The Indian Laurel fretboard is noted for its growing appeal among rosewood enthusiasts, offering a satisfying tactile experience.
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The included Gibson Burstbucker pickups are praised for their sound quality, with no desire for immediate upgrades reported by some users.
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The stock Burstbucker 2 and 3 pickups are noted for their versatility, although they are 2 conductor, limiting wiring options.
Source
User experience
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Shipping experiences vary, with some users noting issues when not double-boxed, highlighting the importance of careful packaging during transit.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Epiphone '58 Explorer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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