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Average Price: $600
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Description
For those who yearn for the charm of a bygone era paired with the reliability of modern craftsmanship, the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith delivers in spades. This exquisite parlor-style acoustic guitar is a nostalgic nod to Epiphone's golden age, yet it houses contemporary features that cater to today's discerning musicians. With its solid spruce top and mahogany body, the Zenith produces a rich, warm resonance that echoes the soulful tones of vintage instruments. Its aged nickel trapeze tailpiece not only adds to its old-world allure but also enhances tonal stability.
Beyond its stunning acoustic presence, the Zenith is perfectly equipped for electric performance. Thanks to the eSonic HD preamp and Shadow NanoFlex HD undersaddle pickup, transitioning from unplugged practice to an amplified gig is seamless and sonically satisfying. Whether you're strumming in a cozy living room or captivating an audience on stage, the Zenith offers a versatile sound palette that's both dynamic and expressive.
Crafted with a meticulous attention to detail, the Zenith features a classic "f-holes" design, reminiscent of the days when jazz and blues were king. Ideal for players who appreciate a blend of tradition and innovation, this guitar is more than just a musical instrument—it's a bridge between the past and present, inviting you to create your own timeless melodies.
Key Features:
- Solid spruce top with mahogany body
- Aged nickel trapeze tailpiece for vintage appeal
- eSonic HD preamp and Shadow NanoFlex HD undersaddle pickup
- Parlor-style body with classic "f-holes" design
Product specs
| Brand | Epiphone |
| Model | Masterbilt Century Collection Zenith Acoustic/Electric Guitar |
| Finish | Vintage Natural, Vintage Sunburst |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars, Archtop Acoustic Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Maple |
| Body Shape | Archtop |
| Color Family | Brown, Natural, Tan |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | Undersaddle Piezo Pickup |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Sides Material | Maple |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Spruce |
FAQs
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith?
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The Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith delivers a warm and resonant tone due to its solid spruce top and maple back and sides, making it well-suited for jazz and blues styles. Its archtop design enhances projection and clarity, ideal for both acoustic and amplified settings.
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How does the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith perform when plugged in?
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Equipped with an undersaddle piezo pickup and an active preamp, the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith offers a clear and natural amplified sound, maintaining its acoustic character. This makes it a versatile option for live performances and recording.
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Is the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith suitable for fingerstyle playing?
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Yes, the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith's responsive spruce top and ebony fretboard provide excellent dynamics and articulation, making it a great choice for fingerstyle players. Its comfortable neck profile also supports intricate fingerpicking techniques.
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What is the neck profile of the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith like?
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The Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith features a comfortable "C" shaped neck profile, which offers a smooth playing experience suitable for various playing styles, whether you're strumming chords or playing single-note lines.
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Does the Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith come with a case?
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The Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith typically does not include a case, so it's advisable to purchase one separately for protection and easy transport. Check with the retailer for specific bundle options.
Videos
Long & McQuade Musical Instruments
Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith [Product Demonstration]
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional build quality with flawless construction and smooth ebony fretboard
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Bright, midtone-heavy sound ideal for blues and old-style jazz
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Attractive vintage design, praised for its aesthetic appeal
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Versatile sound that can be adjusted via equalizer for different tones
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Affordable price for the quality offered, especially under $1000
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Solid top with durable construction, reminiscent of classic archtops
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Perfect for fingerstyle and blues, with an addictive attack when played hard
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Intonation is accurate even up past the 15th fret
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Electronics perform well with minimal feedback when amplified
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Includes a plush, tight case for protection
CONS
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Limited low-end sound may not suit all preferences
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Tone and volume knobs are hidden in f-holes and may lack durability
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Neck width may be too wide for players with smaller hands
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Finish on the laminated body is darker than some might prefer
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Feedback issues typical of hollow archtops require careful amp placement
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith.
Comparisons
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Players note the Century Deluxe sounds similar to a vintage 1940s Deluxe, offering comparable tones despite being a newer model.
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Use cases and applications
Mods and upgrades
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Some users have customized their Zenith with new pickguards and tailpieces, enhancing both aesthetics and performance.
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Value and pricing
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Owners describe the guitar as a rare find, with one user noting they would buy multiple units if available at similar pricing.
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Features and functionality
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Some guitars in this series have pickups hidden inside the F-Hole, which may not be immediately visible.
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Build quality
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The guitar's aesthetic is praised, with one user mentioning its beauty and another noting regret over selling theirs.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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Both Dylan and Braeden can be seen here using Epiphone Masterbilts in this live video at Paste Studios. Dylan uses the sunburst.
In the Sound On Sound magazine video titled "Oak Felder - Recording Demi Lovato's 'Sorry Not Sorry'," at the 0:10 mark, the headstock of an Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith guitar is visible in Warren "Oak" Felder's studio.
In the picture above, Daniel is seen performing with an Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith, in a Vintage Natural finish. This specific guitar model was built as a callback to the original Epiphone guitars, alongside the Zenith models produced by Framus in the 40s-50s. This specific model that Daniel used had several special specifications, with a sound hole, tortoise pickguard, and a extensive decal on the headstock. The guitar's production year is still currently unknown.
It felt like a common man's guitar and that's what I wanted and that's why I love Epiphone. It sounds like those guitars Robert Johnson was playing. Time went on and different people were offering me guitars. Gibson offered me guitars. And I thought, well Gibson is nice but the Epiphone sounded more accessible. It sounded uglier (laughs). That's my sound. My hand is like the claw. The sound reminded me of me! The guitar, like me is shouting (waves his fists in the air): "I will not die!" It's old and beautiful and ugly and dirty. It's just so sweet baby!
Aly can be seen playing this guitar in a Paste live session as well as during a show in NYC (link 1, link 2)
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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