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Average Price: $1,055
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$500
$1201+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Custom Bigsby Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
If you're seeking a guitar that melds iconic style with modern versatility, the Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Custom Bigsby Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar might just be your perfect match. Inspired by Shinichi Ubukata, a stalwart of Japan's rock scene, this guitar captures the essence of the renowned ES-355 with a twist. Its maple semi-hollowbody, adorned with striking diamond-shaped F-holes, offers not only visual allure but also a resonant and open sound. Equipped with dual Gibson ’57 Classic humbuckers, this guitar delivers a spectrum of tones, from articulate cleans to a raw rock edge. The vintage-style 6-position Varitone switch adds a layer of tonal exploration, giving you the freedom to sculpt your sound with precision.
The mahogany neck, shaped into a rounded “C” profile, ensures comfort and playability, while the ebony fingerboard with custom block inlays adds a sleek touch. Designed for performance, the guitar features Grover Rotomatic tuners and an ABR-1 LockTone bridge, maintaining tuning integrity even during expressive performances. The Bigsby B70 Vibrato system is perfect for those who crave the classic warble and sway of a traditional vibrato, without compromising on tuning stability.
Whether you're channeling the alt-rock spirit of Shinichi or crafting your own sonic signature, this guitar stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design.
Key Features:
- Signature guitar of Shinichi Ubukata, celebrated Japanese rock musician
- Maple semi-hollowbody with elegant diamond-shaped F-holes
- Rounded “C” mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and custom block inlays
- Dual Gibson ’57 Classic humbuckers for versatile PAF-style tones
- Vintage-style 6-position Varitone rotary switch for tonal diversity
- Grover Rotomatic tuners and ABR-1 LockTone bridge for reliable tuning
- Bigsby B70 Vibrato for classic vibrato effects
- Unique Shinichi skull design on the back of the headstock
Product specs
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | Semi-hollowbody |
| Body Shape | ES-355 |
| Body Material | 5-Ply Maple |
| Body Finish | Gloss |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Rounded C |
| Neck Joint | Set Neck |
| Radius | 12" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Pearloid Blocks |
| Number of Frets | 22, Nickel |
| Scale Length | 24.75" |
| Nut Width | 1.692" |
| Nut Material | Graph Tech |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | ABR-1 LockTone with Bigsby Licensed B70 |
| Tuners | Grover Rotomatic |
| Neck Pickup | Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker |
| Bridge Pickup | Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker |
| Controls | 2 x volume, 2 x tone, 1 x varitone |
| Switching | 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Strings | Gibson, .010-.046 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Custom Bigsby?
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The Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Custom Bigsby features Gibson 57 Classic Humbucker pickups, offering a warm, vintage tone with rich midrange and smooth highs, ideal for rock, blues, and jazz genres.
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How does the Bigsby tailpiece affect the playability of this guitar?
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The Bigsby Licensed B70 vibrato tailpiece allows for subtle pitch modulation, adding expressive vibrato effects to your playing without significantly altering the guitar's tuning stability.
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Is the neck profile of the Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 comfortable for fast playing?
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The guitar features a rounded C neck shape, providing a comfortable grip suitable for various playing styles, including fast lead work and smooth chord transitions.
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What materials are used in the construction of this semi-hollowbody guitar?
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The body is made of 5-ply maple with a mahogany neck, offering a blend of resonance and sustain, while the fingerboard features pearloid block inlays for a classic look.
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Does the Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 come with a case?
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Yes, this guitar comes with a hardshell case, ensuring protection during transport and storage.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 - Any Good?
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata ES-355 Custom Bigsby Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar.
Use cases and applications
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The Shinichi Ubukata is praised for its versatility across genres like blues, rock, and country, providing clear string separation even under distortion.
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The guitar is praised for being a "tone monster" and suits larger body preferences, appealing to those who favor substantial instruments.
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The Varitone on the Ubukata is particularly effective when used with mid to high gain settings, offering a variety of tonal options.
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Value and pricing
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Negotiations can lead to discounts, with one owner securing a $100 reduction, showcasing potential flexibility in pricing.
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User experience
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A user reported needing only a minor setup with neck and string height adjustments and oil on the fretboard for optimal playability.
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The slim neck profile of the Shinichi Ubukata allows for easy playing, appealing to those who prefer a less chunky feel.
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The weight of the Ubukata, ranging from 4.25 kg to 4.6 kg, is attributed to the Bigsby and Varitone, though differences with the IBG are minor.
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Comparisons
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Compared to the Eastman thinline, some feel the Epiphone still has a "China guitar" feel, though others find it comparable to lower-end Gibsons.
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The Jim James model is noted for having a neck profile not as round as the "rounded C" on IBG 335s, offering a more comfortable grip for some players.
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Owners note that the '57 Classic pickups in the Ubukata provide a richer sound compared to the thinner tone of the IBG's Custombuckers, particularly in the bridge position.
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Build quality
Mods and upgrades
Features and functionality
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The Epiphone Shinichi Ubukata features an ebony fretboard and real mother-of-pearl inlays, contributing to a premium feel and aesthetic.
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The Shinichi Ubukata model includes a Bigsby and Varitone, offering more sonic versatility compared to the IBG 1959, which lacks these features.
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The Shinichi Ubukata model's Bigsby and Varitone add weight, but the slim body design enhances comfort for extended play sessions.
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Genre Usage
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