Tone Report Weekly 201 | Page 40

Epiphone Johnny A. The Gibson Johnny A. model has been around for several years now, and it’s one of the best looking guitars I’ve ever seen. Its sharp cutaways and gorgeous flamed maple top make it look like the Rolls Royce of electric guitars. Unfortunately for some, it also features a Rolls-Royce price tag, putting it out of reach for players without a great day job or substantial surprise inheritance. If you’ve lusted after the Gibson model, but couldn’t justify the cost, the Epiphone Johnny A. is here to save the day. While it looks nearly identical to the Gibson, there are some differences. For example, the Epiphone model features a center block inside laminate maple, whereas the Gibson is fully hollow but made of solid wood. The Epiphone is actually closer to an ES-335, but it still has the beautiful look. And let’s be honest, if you’re drawn to either of these guitars, that’s a big part of it. 40 TONE TALK // 6 Superb Signature Six-Stringers