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Description
The Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 (Japanese Domestic) stands as a testament to precision craftsmanship and authentic vintage tone. Designed exclusively for the Japanese market, this guitar showcases a Gibson-style "open-book" headstock, setting it apart from its export counterparts. Built for the discerning player who values both aesthetics and performance, this instrument captures the essence of the 1957 Les Paul with a modern twist.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Elitist Les Paul '57 features high-quality tonewoods and construction techniques that deliver unparalleled resonance and sustain. The solid mahogany body and carved maple top ensure a rich tonal palette, while the slim-taper neck provides exceptional playability. Equipped with USA-made humbucking pickups, this guitar offers a classic, full-bodied sound that is both warm and articulate, perfect for any genre.
Whether you're on stage, in the studio, or jamming with friends, the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 delivers reliable performance and timeless style. Its attention to historical accuracy combined with modern enhancements makes it a sought-after choice for musicians who demand the best of both worlds.
Key Features:
- Gibson-style "open-book" headstock
- Solid mahogany body with carved maple top
- Slim-taper neck for enhanced playability
- USA-made humbucking pickups for classic tone
- High-quality craftsmanship designed for the Japanese market
Product specs
| Brand | Epiphone |
| Model | Elitist Les Paul '57 (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 | Gold |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Epiphone Les Paul |
| 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 | Plain |
FAQs
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What kind of pickups does the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 use?
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The Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 features a pair of USA-made humbucking pickups, which provide a classic, warm Les Paul tone suitable for a variety of music genres.
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How does the neck profile of the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 feel?
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The Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 has a comfortable, vintage-style neck profile that is ideal for players who prefer a traditional feel, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead playing.
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Is the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 suitable for professional use?
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Yes, the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 is designed with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, making it suitable for both studio recordings and live performances.
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What is the body construction of the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57?
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The Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 features a solid mahogany body with a maple top, providing a rich, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
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How does the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 compare to a Gibson Les Paul?
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The Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 offers similar quality and tonal characteristics to a Gibson Les Paul, with Japanese craftsmanship and USA-made pickups, at a more accessible price point.
Videos
GregsGuitars
2004 Epiphone Les Paul "Elitist" Made in Japan
2004 Epiphone Les Paul "Elitist" Made in Japan
GregsGuitars
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Elitist Les Paul '57 (Japanese Domestic).
Build quality
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The Fujigen factory's high-quality control is noted for producing guitars with exceptional craftsmanship, rivaling some of the best in the world.
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Some owners report the need to tighten or replace loose input jacks and knobs on Epiphone models for better reliability.
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Some Gibson models from specific years like 2012-2016 are noted for their premium finishes and features, such as asymmetric necks and coil taps, making them desirable among enthusiasts.
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Comparisons
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An owner with multiple Elitist models, including the '57 Goldtop, remarks that these guitars have reduced the desire for Gibsons due to their comparable quality.
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The Epiphone Elitist series, especially the Japanese-made models, is often compared favorably to Gibson for their craftsmanship and can challenge the quality of higher-priced Gibsons.
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The PRS SE McCarty 594, while a quality instrument, doesn't replicate the classic Les Paul tone, emphasizing the distinct sound of the Les Paul for rock music.
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User experience
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Over several months of ownership, the Epiphone Elitist Les Paul is described as the smoothest playing guitar, even when compared to multiple Gibson models owned by the same user.
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One owner noted that the thick neck profile of the '50s Epiphone Les Paul Standard suits players with larger hands or those preferring chunkier necks.
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It's highlighted that buying a Gibson in person is recommended due to inconsistent quality, allowing buyers to select specific finishes and features that suit their preferences.
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Features and functionality
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The '59 Les Paul models feature Gibson Burstbucker pickups, which many owners find deliver a more authentic Gibson-like tone.
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Mods and upgrades
Use cases and applications
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Epiphone Firebird's unique tone, with a mix between PAF and Filtertron, suits blues, classic rock, and atmospheric styles.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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