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Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera

Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera

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Page last updated Jan 24, 2026

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Average Price: $2,300

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1201+

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In the Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars category, Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Description

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Engineered for those who crave a fusion of vintage allure and modern precision, the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera is not just an instrument but an extension of your sound ethos. This semi-hollowbody electric guitar is a tribute to Nick Valensi's iconic style, capturing the raw energy and sonorous charm that defined an era of rock music. Meticulously crafted with a 5-ply maple top, it delivers a rich, resonant tone that complements its elegant design. The Riviera's distinctive pair of P94 single-coil pickups provide a dynamic range and clarity, allowing musicians to explore a spectrum of sounds, from crisp, clear highs to warm, mellow lows.

The Elitist model stands apart with its superior build quality and attention to detail, ensuring a playing experience that is as satisfying as it is inspiring. Whether you're strumming the rhythm or blazing through a solo, the Riviera's comfortable neck profile and smooth playability will make every note count. With the classic "Elitist" logo on the back of the headstock and a sleek black truss rod cover, this guitar doesn't just play like a dream—it looks the part too. Perfect for the stage, studio, or jamming with friends, the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera is your ticket to a world of sonic exploration.

Key Features:

5-ply maple top for enhanced resonance
P94 single-coil pickups for versatile sound
Distinctive black truss rod cover
"Elitist" logo on the headstock
Comfortable neck profile for smooth playability

Product specs

Brand	Epiphone
Model	Nick Valensi Signature Elitist Riviera P-94
Finish	Antique Natural
Year	2006
Made In	Japan
Categories	Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
Artist	Nick Valensi
Body Material	Maple
Body Shape	Double Cutaway
Body Type	Semi-Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Stop-Bar
Color Family	Tan
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Model Family	Epiphone Riviera
Neck Construction	Set-Neck
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	22
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration	SS
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	24.75"
Series	Epiphone Artist Collection, Epiphone Elitist
Top Material	Maple
Wood Top Style	Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera use?: The Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera is equipped with Gibson P-94 pickups, which provide a unique blend of single-coil clarity and P-90 style warmth, making it versatile for various music genres.
How does the semi-hollow body of the Nick Valensi Signature Riviera affect its sound?: The semi-hollow body design of the Nick Valensi Signature Riviera offers a resonant, warm tone with a bit of natural acoustic feedback, making it ideal for genres like rock and blues.
Is the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera suitable for beginner guitarists?: While the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera offers professional-grade features and sound, its playability and comfortable neck profile can also make it suitable for dedicated beginners willing to invest in a quality instrument.
What is the neck profile of the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera like?: The Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera features a comfortable mahogany neck with a set-neck construction, offering smooth playability and easy access to upper frets.
Does the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera come with a case or gig bag?: The Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera typically includes a hard case, providing excellent protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

Videos

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Mark Flores

Epiphone Riviera Nick Valensi Signature

Mark Flores

Gear Profile: 2007 Epiphone Nick Valensi Signature Riviera

John Budnik Band (John Budnik Band)

Epiphone Nick Valensi Riviera [LASTGUITAR]

lastguitarcom

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera.

Mods and upgrades

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Some owners have replaced the stock pickups with '61 Zebras for a different tonal profile, often accompanying a Bigsby installation for enhanced playability.
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Owners consider installing P94s as a valuable upgrade for those who prefer their unique tonal characteristics, though these pickups are becoming harder to find.
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The original bridge can collapse; replacing it with a more robust bridge is recommended by some owners.
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Original Seymour Duncan pickups were added by a previous owner, and P94s were kept for tonal versatility.
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Setup and maintenance

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The neck can be recontoured and "Elitest" labels sanded off, with some users opting for a Plek setup to refine the neck radius and fret wire.
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It's noted that using gauge 10-46 strings offers a balance between playability and maintaining tuning stability, especially for those not playing in a lower tuning.
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Comparisons

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It's suggested that the tone and playability might surpass some Gibson 335 models, offering a bendable neck suitable for styles reminiscent of B.B. King.
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One owner likened the necessity for repairs to Nick Valensi’s own guitar, which also underwent extensive repairs after water damage, adding a layer of authenticity.
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The guitar was compared to a Korean Peerless factory model, suggesting a preference for the Japanese-made Elitist version due to craftsmanship.
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User experience

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The guitar is noted for its exceptional voice when combined with polished frets and imported strings, attributing to an overall high-quality sound.
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Some users have experienced challenges in finding a good luthier for repairs, especially for fixing extensive body and neck damage.
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One owner mentions gutting the electronics for a complete overhaul, including removing push-pull pots for a streamlined setup.
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Features and functionality

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There's mention of unlabeled tailpieces and custom shop pickups, indicating potential pre-production or limited-run elements that might intrigue collectors.
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Build quality

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The thick poly finish is prone to micro fractures when impacted, especially on the back and bottom, which may require careful repair.
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Some owners have upgraded from import electronics to USA CTS pots, wiring, and toggle switch, enhancing durability and performance.
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Artist usage

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Nick Valensi

Guitarist

The Strokes

Verified via Getty Images

Here Nick is using the elitist model of his signature riviera. The riviera in the image has a black truss rod cover that says "Valensi Riviera P94" which is how you can tell this is the elitist model of the riviera.

Andrew Jordan

Guitarist

Matchbook Romance

Verified via Photo

Andrew Jordan has been seen playing the Epiphone Elitist Nick Valensi Signature Riviera during several performances at the Warped Tour, as evidenced by a user-uploaded photo.