Related Tags
Epiphone collaborates with Gibson’s Custom Shop for Korina Flying V and Explorer reissues
The fine details of a custom shop model, without the hefty price tag.
Image: Epiphone
Epiphone and Gibson have joined forces to unveil a mid-priced version of the ultra-exclusive 1958 Korina Flying V and Explorer models, here’s what they include.
Making their debut yesterday (28 February), the two new Epiphone electrics promise to deliver many of the details seen with the original models, but with a price point that is far more accessible to players.
The two new mass-market designs were made in close collaboration with the Gibson Custom Shop, and sport an impressive likeness to the high-end alternatives, which often sell for upwards of $10,000.
As referenced in the name, both new Epiphones come with a solid Korina body – a hardwood that is renowned for its lighter weight, finer grain and warm tones.
Starting with the Flying V, the new Epiphone model sports a Korina neck with a 1958 Flying V profile, a 24.75” scale length and 12” radius Indian Laurel fretboard with 22 Medium Jumbo frets. White dot inlays are also featured, alongside a brass Flying V string plate tailpiece.
The Explorer model shares a similar design. Here, the Korina neck features a 1958 Explorer profile and a 24.72” scale length, as well as the same 12” radius Indian Laurel fretboard, 22 Medium Jumbo frets and white dot inlays seen with its sibling.
Deluxe tuners are embedded into both designs, alongside a dual action truss rod, ABR-1-Style bridge, all-gold hardware and an Epiphone x Gibson Custom logo on the back of the headstock.
Sonically, the new models follow a similar structure, both employing a pair of Gibson Burstbucker pickups. These are controlled via individual volume controls, a master tone control with CTS pots and a Mallory capacitor, and a 3-way pickup selector switch.
Available now for $1,299 each, the Epiphone recreations come in an Aged Natural finish and provide a choice of either a black or a white pickguard.
Find out more on the brand’s website.