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Average Price: $517

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$1001+

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Description

Discover the harmonious blend of vintage charm and modern innovation with the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic. This masterfully crafted parlor-style guitar is a tribute to Epiphone's storied past, offering the timeless appeal of a bygone era while catering to the needs of contemporary musicians. At its heart is a solid spruce top, renowned for its rich tonal quality and dynamic range, paired with a sturdy mahogany body that enhances its warm resonance. The aged nickel trapeze tailpiece not only adds to its classic allure but also ensures durability for years of play.

Whether you're strumming solo or stepping onto the stage, the Zenith has you covered. Its eSonic HD preamp system coupled with a Shadow NanoFlex HD undersaddle pickup guarantees that every note rings true, allowing you to seamlessly switch from unplugged sessions to amplified performances without missing a beat. This versatile instrument is perfect for those who appreciate a nostalgic aesthetic without compromising on cutting-edge functionality.

Elevate your musical journey with the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic, where tradition meets technology in perfect harmony.

Key Features:

  • Solid spruce top for rich tonal quality
  • Mahogany body for warm resonance
  • Aged nickel trapeze tailpiece for vintage aesthetic
  • eSonic HD preamp system for seamless amplification
  • Shadow NanoFlex HD undersaddle pickup for authentic sound reproduction

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

What is the neck profile of the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic?

The Epiphone Zenith Acoustic features a rounded C neck shape, providing a comfortable grip suitable for a variety of playing styles.

What type of wood is used for the top of the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic?

The top of the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic is made from solid spruce, known for its excellent tonal qualities and projection.

Does the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic come with a built-in pickup system?

Yes, the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic includes an undersaddle piezo pickup with a 3-band preamp EQ, phase control, and tuner, making it ideal for amplified performances.

Is the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic suitable for jazz music?

With its archtop body and warm, resonant tone, the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic is well-suited for jazz and other genres that benefit from rich, mid-focused sound.

What kind of tuning machines are on the Epiphone Zenith Acoustic?

The Epiphone Zenith Acoustic features historic Epiphone Reissue Tuners with Marboloid "Crown" buttons, offering reliable tuning stability and a vintage aesthetic.

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith Classic - Jim Oblon

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith Classic - Jim Oblon by OfficialEpiphone

Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith Classic - Jim Oblon

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Video thumbnail for The Epiphone Masterbilt Century Archtops - Overview by OfficialEpiphone

The Epiphone Masterbilt Century Archtops - Overview

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Reviews

PROS

  • Bright sound profile, perfect for blues, jazz, and fingerstyle

  • High-quality construction, feels durable and reliable

  • Smooth ebony fretboard with excellent fretwork

  • Very low string action, making it easy to play

  • Unique round-hole archtop design adds character

  • Intonation remains accurate up past the 15th fret

  • Capable electronics, minimal feedback issues

  • Attractive, vintage-inspired aesthetics

  • Warm and loud midrange sound, perfect for cutting through ensembles

  • Affordable price for the quality, under $1000

CONS

  • Limited bass response, not ideal for bass-heavy play

  • Tone and volume knobs in f-holes may be fragile

  • Neck width may not suit players with smaller hands

  • Finish slightly obscures the natural wood grain

  • Feedback common with certain amplifier placements

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about epiphone zenith acoustic.

Mods and upgrades

  • The DeArmond Rhythm Chief pickup is recommended for amplifying without drilling; modern replicas are affordable and period-correct.

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  • Mounting pickups with blue tack is a non-invasive method for this guitar.

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  • Mention of the eSonic HD Preamp and Shadow NanoFlexHD Under-saddle pickup as components originally fitted, suggesting these for potential upgrades.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Archtops have violin-like bracing making them stronger and possibly easier to repair than flat tops.

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Build quality

  • The guitar features a fast growth Sitka spruce top, likely not laminated, and a hardwood bridge, with unique sparkly golden flecks in the grain.

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  • Owners appreciate the aesthetics of the Masterbilt Zenith line, specifically praising the visual appeal of the fretboard.

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Use cases and applications

  • Playing a Min7b5/half-diminished chord on this model enhances its sound significantly.

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  • It's noted that these guitars were primarily crafted for amplified performances rather than purely acoustic play.

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  • While some consider the Epiphone Zenith primarily for amplified performance, it offers a distinct unplugged sound that sets it apart from typical flattop acoustics.

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User experience

  • Owners find the straightness of the grain impressive and often comment on the aesthetic appeal of this vintage model.

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  • A past owner expressed regret after selling their Zenith, indicating strong attachment and satisfaction with the model.

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  • Players find the fretboard surprisingly easy to navigate despite its unique look, with inlays serving as effective reference points for less experienced guitarists.

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Value and pricing

  • Owners indicate that scoring a Zenith for around $440 AUD is considered an exceptional deal, emphasizing the value for rare models.

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Features and functionality

  • The pickup can be discreetly located inside the bottom F-Hole, a detail buyers should check if unsure of its presence.

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Comparisons

  • The Masterbilt Zenith's performance and uniqueness in sound often lead owners to retain it despite owning other guitars, like the Masterbilt Olympic.

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Critic Reviews

Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith Classic - Guitars - Harmony Central

harmonycentral.com

The Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith Classic is a visual stunner but stumbles on sound. While its design evokes the 1930s with gorgeous flame maple and elegant ebony fingerboard, the tonal delivery disappoints. The guitar's acoustic brightness can be too forward, lacking the subtlety and balance needed for fingerpicking. Electrically, the Shadow system's controls are awkwardly placed and difficult to finesse, leading to an unbalanced sound. Despite the eye-catching aesthetics and nostalgic appeal, it's an instrument where the sizzle outweighs the steak. For a guitar priced over $700, it may not meet the sonic expectations of discerning musicians. If looks are your priority, it shines; if sound is paramount, you might want to look elsewhere.

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Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Epiphone Masterbilt Century Zenith archtop guitar impresses with its excellent build quality and decent electronics, offering a unique alternative to typical flat-top acoustic designs. Its retro appearance and solid construction are commendable, making it a good fit for players seeking a vintage aesthetic. However, its tone may be too harsh for some, with a slightly hollow, jagged sound when unplugged. The Zenith excels when amplified, providing an authentic, mids-heavy sound that can be adjusted for clarity. While its full-bodied design demands a confident playing style, it provides a distinctive option for those looking to break away from the norm.

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Artist usage

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See how Howlin' Wolf uses epiphone zenith acoustic

Howlin' Wolf

Singer, Guitarist

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This photograph shows Howlin' Wolf with an Epiphone Zenith acoustic guitar.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use epiphone zenith acoustic, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Epiphone Zenith
Epiphone Zenith Electric Basses
1

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