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Average Price: $1,475

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$400

$1001+

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Description

Introducing the Epiphone SC-550, a distinctive addition to any musician's collection, bringing back the vintage allure of the late '70s with modern reliability. This solid body electric guitar is a testament to Epiphone's legacy of crafting instruments with exceptional sound and style. The SC-550 stands out with its elegant scroll design, providing both aesthetic appeal and ergonomic comfort for players. Crafted with an ebony fretboard adorned with block inlays, this guitar offers a smooth playing experience with a touch of classic sophistication.

Whether you're a seasoned player or an aspiring guitarist, the SC-550's versatility is sure to impress. It comes equipped with either covered Epiphone humbuckers or open coil Gibson humbuckers, ensuring a rich, full-bodied tone that suits a variety of musical genres. The brass nut enhances its sustain, offering a brighter tone and increased durability. Additionally, players can choose between a stop bar/Tune-O-Matic bridge system or a Leo Quann wraparound bridge, providing options for personalized performance.

The SC-550 is not just about looks and sound; it’s about the feel. Its balanced weight and comfortable neck make it a joy to play for hours, whether on stage or in the studio. The build quality and attention to detail reflect the high standards Epiphone is known for, making the SC-550 a reliable choice for musicians who demand excellence from their gear.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar with unique scroll design
  • Ebony fretboard with block inlays
  • Brass nut for enhanced sustain
  • Choice of covered Epiphone humbuckers or open coil Gibson humbuckers
  • Available with stop bar/Tune-O-Matic bridge or Leo Quann wraparound bridge

Product specs

Brand Epiphone
Model SC-550 Scroll
Finish Ebony, Natural
Year 1976 - 1979
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, Tan
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Ebony
Model Family Epiphone Scroll
Model Sub-Family Epiphone SC-550 Scroll
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Epiphone SC-550 have?

The Epiphone SC-550 is equipped with a humbucker pickup configuration (HH), offering a rich, full sound ideal for genres like rock and blues.

Is the Epiphone SC-550 suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Epiphone SC-550 is suitable for advanced players, featuring a set-neck construction and a 24-fret ebony fretboard that provides excellent playability and tonal versatility.

What is the neck profile of the Epiphone SC-550?

The Epiphone SC-550 features a set-neck made from mahogany, providing a comfortable and smooth playing experience with easy access to higher frets.

What materials are used in the construction of the Epiphone SC-550's body?

The body of the Epiphone SC-550 is made from maple, contributing to its bright tone and sustain, with a double cutaway design for enhanced playability.

How does the Epiphone SC-550's scale length affect playability?

The Epiphone SC-550 has a 25.5" scale length, which offers a balanced tension across the strings, making it suitable for a wide range of playing styles and tunings.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone SC-550.

Features and functionality

  • The SC-550 II has stainless steel frets, an ergonomic neck heel, and locking tuners, distinguishing it from the Epiphone Les Paul Standard Pro.

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  • Owners highlight a superb neck finish on the SC-550, with comparisons suggesting it rivals more expensive models in terms of playability.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Tesla pickups on the SC-550 are praised for their performance, while some owners suggest replacing Epiphone's ProBuckers due to perceived muddiness.

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  • Consider Fleor Alnico 5 covered pickups for $45/pair as a budget-friendly upgrade to improve tonal quality over stock options.

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Comparisons

  • ProBuckers on the Epiphone are compared to Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates and PRS 58/15, but some argue they aren't truly "virtually identical."

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  • The SC-550's stock pickups offer less bite than those on an Epiphone SG, but with good pedals and amps, they perform adequately for live gigs.

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  • Some users advise against the SC Custom or Plus lines for a traditional Les Paul experience, as they feature a more modern, ergonomic design akin to ESP guitars.

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Value and pricing

  • Epiphone Les Paul Standard Pro is more expensive than the SC-550, but multiple owners question whether it offers significant improvements.

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  • The SC-550 is praised for offering features and build quality that rival guitars in the $1750+ price range, despite its significantly lower cost.

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  • In the EU, the SC-550 II's value is particularly noted due to the absence of tariffs, which can affect its price competitiveness in the US.

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Build quality

  • The SC-550 is reportedly as heavy as a traditional Les Paul, with a robust feel that matches its appearance.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report minor setup issues, such as fret buzz developing over time, though these are not uncommon even in higher-end models.

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  • For the SC-550 II, polishing the frets and replacing the tuners are the most commonly suggested maintenance tasks to enhance playability.

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User experience

  • It's noted that the SC-550 can be effectively set up to closely mimic more expensive guitars, like the Gibson Les Paul Studio, in terms of feel and sound.

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  • Owners remark that the SC-550 II remains solid and enjoyable in stock form, with no immediate need for pickup replacements.

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  • Some users prefer the SC-550 II over Epiphone models priced below the Prophecy or Widow Customs for better overall value and build.

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