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Average Price: $1,363

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Description

The Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom (Japanese Domestic) is a tribute to one of the most iconic guitars in music history, offering authentic craftsmanship and premium components. Built exclusively in Japan, this model blends classic aesthetics with modern playability, capturing the essence of a '60s-era instrument. Its handcrafted quality is evident in every detail, from the meticulously carved mahogany body to the smooth, set-in neck, providing a resonance that both novices and seasoned guitarists can appreciate.

Outfitted with USA-made Gibson Classic '57 humbuckers, this guitar offers a rich tonal palette that covers everything from warm, vintage blues to hard-hitting rock. The thick rosewood fingerboard and medium-jumbo frets ensure effortless playability, while the mother-of-pearl block inlays and multi-ply binding deliver a visually stunning finish. This Les Paul Custom is not just a guitar; it's a statement piece for any musician looking to capture the timeless sound and style of the 1960s.

Key Features:

  • Japanese Domestic Market exclusive
  • Mahogany body and set-in neck construction
  • USA-made Gibson Classic '57 humbuckers
  • Rosewood fingerboard with medium-jumbo frets
  • Mother-of-pearl block inlays
  • Multi-ply binding on top and back
  • Tune-o-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece
  • Gold hardware for a classic look

Whether you're playing on stage or in the studio, the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom offers a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern reliability, making it a worthy addition to any guitarist's arsenal.

Product specs

Brand Epiphone
Model Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom (Japanese Domestic)
Year 2003 - 2005
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Red, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Epiphone Les Paul
Model Sub-Family Epiphone Les Paul Custom
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Series Epiphone Elitist, Epiphone Japanese Domestic Models
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom pickups?

The Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom features a dual humbucker (HH) configuration, providing a rich, warm tone with plenty of sustain. It's ideal for genres ranging from rock and blues to jazz, offering classic Les Paul sound with enhanced clarity and depth.

Is the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom is designed with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, making it suitable for advanced players. Its Japanese construction and vintage specifications offer superior playability and sound quality that professionals appreciate.

How does the neck profile of the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom affect playability?

The Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom features a set-neck construction with a mahogany neck, providing a smooth playing experience. The neck profile allows for comfortable access to all 22 frets, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead playing.

What is the primary difference between the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom and other Epiphone Les Paul models?

The Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom is made in Japan with meticulous attention to vintage detail, using premium materials like a mahogany body and rosewood fretboard. It offers a higher level of craftsmanship and sound quality compared to standard Epiphone models.

Is the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom good for live performances?

Yes, the Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its robust build and reliable hardware. The classic Les Paul tone ensures it cuts through in a band mix, making it a great choice for gigging musicians.

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Dylan Rose of Archer and his Epiphone Elitist Les Paul Custom

Video thumbnail for Dylan Rose of Archer and his Epiphone Elitist Les Paul Custom by OfficialEpiphone

Dylan Rose of Archer and his Epiphone Elitist Les Paul Custom

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Video thumbnail for 2004 Epiphone Les Paul "Elitist" Made in Japan by GregsGuitars

2004 Epiphone Les Paul "Elitist" Made in Japan

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Elitist '60s Les Paul Custom (Japanese Domestic).

Features and functionality

  • The LPS-85F has a flame top with finish options like Cherry Sunburst (CS) and Vintage Sunburst (VS), distinguishing it from the plain-top LPS-80.

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  • Epiphone Japan models from this era used Epiphone Original humbuckers, differing from the Gibson USA pickups in Elitist models.

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  • The Elitist Les Paul Custom from 2004 is equipped with Epiphone USA pickups made by Gibson, specifically the "50SR - 60 ST" models, known for their high output.

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Comparisons

  • The LPS-80 is akin to a '59 standard with a plain top or goldtop, while the LPS-85F offers a flame top for visual distinction.

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  • Compared to a Seymour Duncan-loaded Gibson Les Paul, the Epiphone Elitist has a looser low end but similar or greater output levels.

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Build quality

  • The Fujigen factory's craftsmanship is highly regarded, with consistent quality control noted among owners of Japanese-made Epiphone Elitists.

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User experience

  • Owners express a strong preference for the Epiphone Elitist series over Gibson due to the high-quality build and playability, diminishing their desire for Gibson models.

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  • One owner with multiple Elitist models, including a Blueburst Studio and Dot 63 335, praises the series, highlighting their satisfaction across different models.

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  • Owners looking to replicate a Frank Iero vibe can consider this model, as it resonates with his style preferences.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Custom guitar straps can be created online, offering unique designs like "Frankenstein" cloth patterns for those seeking personalized aesthetics.

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