The Epiphone ES-335 is a semi-hollowbody electric guitar that has been a favorite among musicians for decades. With its rich, warm tone and sleek design, it's no wonder why this guitar has become a staple in many genres of music. If you're considering adding an ES-335 to your collection, here are seven things you should know before making a purchase.
History of the Epiphone ES-335
The Epiphone ES-335 was first introduced in the 1950s as a more affordable alternative to the Gibson ES-335. While the two guitars share many similarities, the Epiphone ES-335 has its own unique features and tone. Over the years, the ES-335 has been played by many famous musicians, including Al Di Meola, Tony Iommi, and Noel Gallagher.
Key Features of the Epiphone ES-335
So, what makes the Epiphone ES-335 so special? Here are some of its key features:
- Semi-hollowbody design with laminated maple top and back
- Mahogany neck with rosewood fretboard
- Pair of Epiphone humbucker pickups
- 3-way pickup selector switch
- Volume and tone controls for each pickup
- Chrome hardware
Tone and Playability
The Epiphone ES-335 is known for its warm, balanced tone that is perfect for a variety of musical styles. The semi-hollowbody design gives the guitar a rich, resonant sound that is similar to a full hollowbody guitar, but with less feedback. The humbucker pickups provide a full, smooth sound that is perfect for jazz, blues, and rock music.
In terms of playability, the ES-335 has a comfortable, fast-playing neck that makes it easy to navigate the fretboard. The rosewood fretboard provides a smooth playing surface, and the chrome hardware ensures that the guitar stays in tune.
Types of Epiphone ES-335
Over the years, Epiphone has released several variations of the ES-335, each with its own unique features and tone. Some of the most popular models include:
- Epiphone ES-335 Pro: This is the standard model of the ES-335, featuring a pair of Epiphone humbucker pickups and a 3-way pickup selector switch.
- Epiphone ES-335 DOT: This model features a pair of humbucker pickups with a coil-splitting feature, allowing players to access a wide range of tonal options.
- Epiphone ES-335 Ultra: This is a high-end version of the ES-335, featuring a pair of high-output humbucker pickups and a mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard.
Upgrades and Modifications
While the Epiphone ES-335 is a great guitar right out of the box, many players choose to upgrade or modify their instrument to suit their individual needs. Some popular upgrades include:
- Pickup upgrades: Many players choose to replace the stock pickups with higher-end humbuckers or single-coil pickups.
- Electronics upgrades: Players may choose to upgrade the tone and volume controls, or add a coil-splitting feature to the pickups.
- Hardware upgrades: Players may choose to upgrade the bridge, tailpiece, or tuners to improve the guitar's playability and tone.
Common Problems with the Epiphone ES-335
While the Epiphone ES-335 is a well-made guitar, there are some common problems that players may experience. These include:
- Feedback: The semi-hollowbody design of the ES-335 can be prone to feedback, especially when played at high volumes.
- Fret buzz: Some players may experience fret buzz or rattling, especially on the lower frets.
- Pickup hum: Some players may experience hum or noise from the pickups, especially when played near sources of electromagnetic interference.
Conclusion
The Epiphone ES-335 is a great guitar that offers a unique tone and playability that is perfect for a variety of musical styles. While it may have some common problems, these can be easily addressed with upgrades or modifications. Whether you're a jazz, blues, or rock player, the Epiphone ES-335 is definitely worth considering.
We hope you've enjoyed this review of the Epiphone ES-335. Do you have any experience with this guitar? Let us know in the comments!
What is the difference between the Epiphone ES-335 and the Gibson ES-335?
+The main difference between the Epiphone ES-335 and the Gibson ES-335 is the price. The Epiphone ES-335 is a more affordable version of the Gibson ES-335, with a lower price point. However, the two guitars share many similarities in terms of tone and playability.
Is the Epiphone ES-335 a good guitar for beginners?
+Yes, the Epiphone ES-335 is a great guitar for beginners. It's easy to play and has a warm, balanced tone that is perfect for a variety of musical styles. Additionally, the ES-335 is a relatively affordable guitar, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Can I use the Epiphone ES-335 for heavy metal music?
+While the Epiphone ES-335 is a great guitar for many styles of music, it may not be the best choice for heavy metal music. The ES-335 has a warm, balanced tone that is better suited for jazz, blues, and rock music. However, with the right pickups and modifications, it's possible to use the ES-335 for heavy metal music.