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Description
The Epiphone Alleykat is a standout in the world of semi-hollowbody electric guitars, offering a blend of classic aesthetics and modern performance. This guitar is perfect for musicians seeking versatility and rich tonal depth. The Alleykat's design is rooted in the tradition of semi-hollowbody guitars, providing a warm and resonant sound that is ideal for genres ranging from jazz to rock. Its unique construction features a solid center block, enhancing sustain and reducing feedback, which is a boon for live performances.
Equipped with a pair of powerful pickups, the Alleykat delivers a broad spectrum of tones. The bridge position houses a humbucker for a robust and punchy sound, while the neck pickup is a mini-humbucker, known for its clarity and definition. This dual-pickup configuration allows for smooth transitions between rhythm and lead playing styles.
The guitar's neck is crafted for comfort and speed, making it suitable for both intricate fingerstyle and aggressive strumming. With its user-friendly controls, musicians can easily adjust tone and volume settings on the fly, making it a reliable choice for studio sessions and gigs alike.
Key Features:
- Semi-hollowbody design with a solid center block for enhanced sustain
- Dual-pickup configuration: humbucker in the bridge and mini-humbucker in the neck
- User-friendly tone and volume controls
- Comfortable neck profile suitable for various playing styles
- Versatile sound ideal for jazz, rock, and blues genres
Product specs
| Brand | 920D Custom |
| Model | WILDKAT Prewired Wiring Harness for Epiphone Wildkat/Alleykat |
| Finish | Standard |
| Year | 2010s |
Videos
Cody Weathers
Hollowbody Guitar Shootout: Epiphone ES-339 vs Alleykat vs Casino vs Fender Coronado vs Starcaster
Reviews
PROS
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Noticeable improvement in tone clarity after installing
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Well-made wiring harness enhances sound quality
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Versatile for live and studio settings
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Excellent neck-pickup tone
CONS
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Bridge-pickup tone is subpar; potential need for replacement
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Installation may require resizing holes for new pots
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Factory knobs are not compatible; need replacements
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Requires specific tools for installation, not all may have them
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Alleykat.
Comparisons
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The AlleyKat is similar in size to the ES-339 and can share cases, but differs in design influences with Gretsch-like features.
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Features and functionality
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The AlleyKat often comes with P-90s or mini humbuckers and a Bigsby, contrasting with the ES-339's classic humbuckers and stopbar tailpiece.
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The combination of a Gibson '57 classic and mini humbucker can create a distinct tonal imbalance, with a great bridge sound but an overly twangy neck tone.
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Build quality
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AlleyKat models have flat backs, in contrast to the ES-339's arched back, affecting the perceived thickness and side profile.
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Mods and upgrades
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The Gibson '57 classic pickup in the bridge is appreciated, but the neck's mini humbucker is considered too twangy for some preferences.
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Consider DiMarzio Super Distortions or Seymour Duncan JB pickups for versatile genre compatibility in the Alleykat.
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P94 pickups fit the bridge, but P90s won't fit the neck; consider Magneto Design Lab's P90mini for a compatible neck pickup solution.
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3.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings
304
One of my two main guitars, fantastic sound in every application
This gem is a hidden treasure. Have used it in every possible live and studio setting with nothing but the best results. I alternate between this and my modded strat for all live gigs and recordings as well as rehearsals. It appears on our debut EP and followup album.
91
Discontinued but not forgotten
Insanely gorgeous neck-pickup tone. Aweful bridge-pickup tone, probably gonna throw in a SD SH5.
Artist usage
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