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Epiphone introduces two affordable basses for 2023: the acoustic El Capitan J-200 and the revived Newport Bass
Both offer classic Gibson and Epiphone designs, topped with modern-day refinements.
Image: Epiphone
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Epiphone has kicked off the new year by introducing two new affordable bass models into its catalogue: the acoustic El Capitan J-200 studio bass and a revived version of the Newport bass.
Both designs made their debut yesterday (25 January), and offer a wallet-friendly, modern-day take on some of the brand’s most iconic designs.
The first of the two launches is the 2023 Newport Bass, which recreates its original 1961 design and embeds a series of features that makes it more practical for modern players.
Sporting a 30.5” scale length and a Medium C profile, the bass is made to be comfortable for all players, regardless of the size of their hands. Similarly, the body incorporates a symmetrical double-cutaway design for increased fret accessibility.
Rich, deep tones are provided through the neck’s Bass Sidewinder pickup and brighter-sounding, crisp timbres can be accessed through the TB PRO in the bridge position. A blend knob is incorporated so players can precisely adjust tones to their individual preferences, as well as master volume and tone controls.
The Newport bass is the most affordable of the two new launches, priced at $379, and comes in Classic Cherry, California Coral, Sunset Yellow, and Pacific Blue colourways.
The second of the two new designs introduces the El Capitan J-200 – an acoustic four-string designed specifically for studio use.
Aesthetically inspired by the iconic SJ-200 acoustic guitar design, the instrument aims to provide a great sound when playing both acoustically and plugged in.
As also seen with the original six-string model, the J-200 embeds pearloid crown inlays, a 20-fret Indian laurel fretboard and a solid Sitka spruce top, paired with layered mahogany back and sides.
Like the Newport design, the El Capitan J-200 also features a mahogany 30.5” scale length and Medium C profile for enhanced comfort. In addition, the bass includes an iconic Moustache bridge, a Fishman Sonitone under-saddle pickup and a Sonicore preamp, making it ideal for both stage and studio settings.
Marketed at a slightly higher price point than the Newport model, the J-200 is available for $699, and comes in Aged Vintage Sunburst and Aged Vintage Natural finishes.
Find out more about both new models on Epiphone’s website.