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Average Price: $927
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$400
$1001+
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Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Epiphone "Inspired by Gibson Custom" '63 Firebird I". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Crafted for those who appreciate a blend of iconic design and modern playability, the Epiphone "Inspired by Gibson Custom" '63 Firebird I is a testament to timeless style and sonic versatility. Originally conceived by automotive designer Ray Dietrich, the Firebird's distinctive offset body is a visual marvel, capturing the essence of 1960s rock 'n' roll. But this guitar is more than just a pretty face. Its 9-ply mahogany and walnut neck-through construction ensures unparalleled sustain and resonance, allowing your notes to sing with clarity and power.
At the heart of the Firebird I lies a Gibson USA-made Firebird mini-humbucker, delivering a unique tonal blend that marries humbucker depth with single-coil clarity. This setup provides a wide tonal palette, from warm, vintage-inspired cleans to aggressive, snarling overdrives, perfect for any rock or blues setting. The Firebird I's simplicity is its strength, featuring a single pickup and a straightforward control layout that allows you to focus on your playing without distraction.
The guitar's vintage appeal is further enhanced by its period-accurate appointments, including Kluson "banjo-style" planetary tuners and a wraparound Lightning Bar bridge, which offer both aesthetic authenticity and reliable performance. Whether you're a seasoned player or a vintage enthusiast, the Epiphone '63 Firebird I promises to elevate your musical journey with its classic charm and modern reliability.
Key Features:
- 9-ply mahogany/walnut neck-through construction with mahogany wings
- Gibson USA Firebird mini-humbucker pickup in the bridge position
- Kluson "banjo-style" planetary tuners for vintage accuracy
- Wraparound Lightning Bar bridge for excellent sustain and intonation
- 12" radius Indian laurel fingerboard with a comfortable 1963 neck profile
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Solidbody |
| Body Shape | 1963 Firebird I |
| Body Material | Mahogany (wings) |
| Body Finish | Gloss Polyurethane |
| Neck Material | 9-piece Mahogany/Walnut |
| Neck Shape | 1963 Firebird |
| Neck Joint | Neck-through |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fingerboard Material | Indian Laurel |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Mother of Pearl Dots |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Nut Width | 1.692" |
| Nut Material | GraphTech |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Wraparound Lightning Bar |
| Tuners | Kluson "Banjo-style" Planetary |
| Bridge Pickup | Gibson USA Firebird Mini Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x volume, 1 x tone |
| Strings | Gibson, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What is the neck profile like on the Epiphone "Inspired by Gibson Custom" '63 Firebird I?
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The Epiphone "Inspired by Gibson Custom" '63 Firebird I features a 1963 Firebird neck profile, providing a comfortable grip that is well-suited for both rhythm and lead playing.
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What type of pickup is included in the Epiphone '63 Firebird I, and what tones can I expect from it?
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This guitar includes a Gibson USA Firebird Mini Humbucker in the bridge position, delivering a bright, punchy tone with excellent clarity, ideal for rock and blues.
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Is the Epiphone '63 Firebird I suitable for beginner guitarists?
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While the Epiphone '63 Firebird I offers high-quality construction and sound, its unique neck-through design and vintage styling may be better appreciated by intermediate to advanced players.
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How does the neck-through construction of the Epiphone '63 Firebird I affect its sound and playability?
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The neck-through construction enhances sustain and resonance, providing a smooth transition between neck and body, which can improve playability and overall tonal quality.
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Does the Epiphone '63 Firebird I come with a case?
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Yes, the Epiphone "Inspired by Gibson Custom" '63 Firebird I comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection and easy transport for the instrument.
Videos
Premier Guitar
Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Firebird I & V Demos | First Look
Reviews
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" '63 Firebird I.
Comparisons
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Owners compare the Epiphone to Gibson Custom Shop models, noting the Epi "Inspired by Gibson Custom" can rival some Gibson USA models, especially if it had nitro and rosewood.
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The neck on the Epiphone is thicker, resembling a '50s style, and offers a different feel compared to the flatter Gibson necks.
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The headstock angle on the Epiphone is less sharp than on a Gibson, but this doesn't impact playability.
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The tone and sustain of the Epiphone are highlighted as being on par with a 2019 Gibson Les Paul Standard.
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The Firebird I is compared to the Joe Bonamassa Firebirds, with differences noted in the pickup and fretboard materials.
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Value and pricing
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It's highlighted that the Epiphone price, though high, is competitive compared to vintage or '63 spec Gibsons, which are significantly pricier.
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User experience
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An owner reported satisfaction purchasing the Firebird I for $900, suggesting positive value perception at this price point.
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An owner with a Gibson Les Paul Custom describes the Epiphone as 99.8% similar, praising its gloss finish for its durability compared to nitro finishes.
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Despite initial reservations about its appearance, a user found the Firebird I's quality impressive, suggesting it might change perceptions.
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Build quality
Features and functionality
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The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom models include upgraded Gibson Custombucker pickups, which are typically priced around $500 per set.
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The new Epiphone line features CTS pots, Graphtech nuts, and full maple caps, differing from previous models that had standard pots and thin maple veneers.
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The guitar comes with a case, though its quality is described as merely acceptable, not exceptional.
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Use cases and applications
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The Epiphone's sustain and tonal response are described as identical to Gibson when played both plugged and unplugged.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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