Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (3)
$1,499.00
Guitar Center
$1,499.00
Amazon
5.0 (3)
Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (7)
$1,499.00
zZounds
$1,499.00
Thomann
5.0 (5)
$1,444.00

Average Price: $1,490

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Vintage Sunburst is a striking blend of iconic design and modern functionality, perfect for both seasoned musicians and collectors. This guitar revives the legendary "King of the Flat-Tops" with its Super Jumbo body shape, delivering a rich tapestry of sound that includes articulate lows, warm mids, and shimmering highs. Its thermally aged solid Sitka spruce top and solid flamed maple back and sides offer an enchanting tone that resonates with authenticity and depth, akin to a well-preserved vintage instrument.

The SJ-200 is adorned with elegant details like mother-of-pearl inlays and a decorative pickguard, capturing the opulence of its illustrious predecessors. Its flame maple neck, shaped to a comfortable C profile, ensures an easy playing experience, complemented by the Indian laurel fingerboard and 20 medium-jumbo frets.

Equipped with the L.R. Baggs VTC system, this acoustic-electric marvel allows you to effortlessly transition from unplugged warmth to amplified brilliance, with controls discreetly mounted inside the soundhole to preserve its classic aesthetic. Whether you're performing in an intimate setting or a larger venue, the SJ-200 delivers uncompromised sound quality, making it a versatile companion for any musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Thermally aged solid Sitka spruce top with scalloped X-bracing
  • Solid flamed maple back and sides
  • Flame maple neck with C profile and Indian laurel fingerboard
  • Mother-of-pearl graduated crown inlays
  • L.R. Baggs VTC pickup system
  • Iconic SJ-200 moustache bridge and engraved pickguard
  • Vintage Sunburst finish
  • Includes hardshell case

Product specs

Available since April 2024
Top Solid Spruce
Back and Sides Maple, Solid
Cutaway No
Fretboard Rosewood
Nut width in mm 44,00 mm
Frets 20
Pickup(s) Yes
Colour Sunburst
Case Yes
Incl. Gigbag No

FAQs

What is the top wood used in the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200?

The top of the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 is made from solid spruce, which is known for its bright and clear tonal qualities.

Does the Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 come with a cutaway design?

No, the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 does not feature a cutaway design, maintaining a traditional jumbo acoustic shape.

What type of pickup system is included in the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200?

The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 includes a built-in pickup system, allowing for amplified performance while retaining the guitar’s acoustic tone.

Is the Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 is suitable for live performances due to its built-in pickup system, which enables easy amplification.

What kind of case is included with the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200?

The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 comes with a hard case, providing protection during transport and storage.

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 - Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom

Video thumbnail for Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 - Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom by OfficialEpiphone

Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 - Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Video thumbnail for SJ200 SHOOTOUT! Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 VS. Gibson Original SJ200 by Dirk Witte Music Store

SJ200 SHOOTOUT! Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 VS. Gibson Original SJ200

Dirk Witte Music Store

Dirk Witte Music Store

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Is Going Vintage with the 1957 SJ-200 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Reissue by American Musical Supply

Epiphone Is Going Vintage with the 1957 SJ-200 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Reissue

American Musical Supply

American Musical Supply

Video thumbnail for Dirk Witte | Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Custom 1957 SJ 200 by Dirk Witte Music Store

Dirk Witte | Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Custom 1957 SJ 200

Dirk Witte Music Store

Dirk Witte Music Store

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ200 | Review | Guitar Interactive by Guitar Interactive Magazine

Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ200 | Review | Guitar Interactive

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Video thumbnail for Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 | The sound of the “King of the Flat-Tops” for a more budget-friendly price? by Guitar Bonedo

Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 | The sound of the “King of the Flat-Tops” for a more budget-friendly price?

Guitar Bonedo

Guitar Bonedo

Video thumbnail for Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 Inspired by Gibson Demo Review by Jorge Bentura

Epiphone 1957 SJ-200 Inspired by Gibson Demo Review

Jorge Bentura

Jorge Bentura

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent value for money, offering Gibson-like quality at a fraction of the price

  • Beautiful vintage sunburst finish and high-quality craftsmanship

  • Warm sound with a strong bottom end, appealing to personal taste

  • Comes with a well-designed, protective hard shell case

  • Equipped with a high-quality Bagg's pickup for great amplified sound

  • Torrified top and quality materials enhance playability and tone

  • Perfect fit and finish; rivals more expensive guitars

  • Ideal for singer-songwriters with its balanced sound that complements vocals

  • Satisfies the desire for a Gibson SJ-200 look and sound without the hefty price tag

  • Great for both strumming and fingerpicking with a light to moderate touch

CONS

  • Chunky neck may not suit all players, especially those preferring slimmer necks

  • Heavier than the original Gibson SJ-200, affecting playability

  • Battery installation is cumbersome, requiring string loosening

  • Presence of minor wood imperfections on the neck for some units

  • Not as loud as a dreadnought, limiting use in bluegrass jam sessions

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst.

Comparisons

  • The 1957 model is noted to be superior in sound and cosmetics compared to the earlier Inspired by Gibson J-200, though build quality remains consistent between the two.

    Source
  • The guitar has a distinct voice with beautiful harmonics, unlike the boomier Breedlove dreadnought.

    Source
  • A Gibson J-150 owner anticipates better projection from their guitar due to the gloss nitro finish compared to the poly finish on the Epiphone SJ-200.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For $1500, the 1957 J-200 is considered a top contender in its price range, offering close quality to Gibson without the higher cost.

    Source
  • The anticipated US price for the new SJ-200 model is about $400-$500 more than the current 1957 model, reflecting its enhanced features.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner, who plays extensively, reports the instrument's durability in extreme temperatures, from 36°F to 116°F, without any issues.

    Source
  • Some owners report the guitar's sound becomes more resonant and boomy after consistent daily play over several months.

    Source
  • One owner notes the guitar's historic script and MOP inlays as adding to its visual allure, enhancing the overall playing experience.

    Source

Build quality

  • The case accompanying the guitar is described as robust, made from durable plywood, adding to the guitar's overall value.

    Source
  • Plastic bridge pins are used despite claims of being bone, contrasting with the bone bridge.

    Source
  • The two-piece maple neck and solid figured maple back/sides are highlighted as standout features, contributing to the guitar's robust construction and aesthetic appeal.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the original bone bridge with a TUSQ bridge improved sound quality for one owner.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • One user found the large body loud but unwieldy, indicating suitability for style preference.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar includes an ebony fretboard, mustache bridge, and Grover Imperial tuners, ensuring both playability and tuning stability.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45, 1957 SJ-200 and J-180 LS review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Epiphone's Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a stunning instrument that marries classic aesthetics with impressive sound quality. Its craftsmanship shines through, and players will appreciate the vintage vibe and tonal richness it delivers. However, the SJ-200's large body may be cumbersome for some, and the lack of left-handed options could deter potential buyers. Overall, this guitar provides exceptional value, making it a must-try for acoustic enthusiasts looking to elevate their playing experience.

positive

Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Shop 1957 SJ200 | Review - Guitar Interactive Magazine

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

With its stunning vintage sunburst finish and remarkable sound quality, the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1957 SJ-200 stands out as a fantastic homage to the iconic Gibson Jumbo. Its solid Sitka spruce top and maple body deliver a rich, full tone, while the comfortable neck ensures easy playability. However, some may find its size a bit cumbersome, and the guitar's price, while competitive, is still a significant investment. Overall, it's a worthy alternative for those seeking the classic Gibson vibe without the hefty price tag, making it an excellent choice for both aspiring and seasoned musicians.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Epiphone Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides