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Awesome Guitar
By: Darren in NJ
Submitted: 1/4/2023
Product Rating
Product Review
Resonate and balanced. That’s the reason why you want one of these!
This Korina Explorer is an awesome deal. Great bang for the buck and you will not be disappointed. Aesthetically I do not like black pick guards typically and changed mine to white like the Gibson.. I also changed the control knobs to gold. It looks awesome, plays well and delivers sonically.
Go get one!
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Fantastic guitar
By: Greg
Submitted: 10/28/2022
Product Review
I have 40+ years of experience and own several American made Gibson and fender guitars and I can tell you this is a really nice and well-made guitar it came with a good set up and flawless finish I did lower the bridge a hair for my own taste but who doesn’t like to do that , the Karina wood sounds really good and is also lightweight stays in tune really well and is a very comfortable guitar to stand and play. The pick ups sound really good and they don’t need changed out unless you like a certain brand . If you’re thinking about buying this guitar go for it you won’t be disappointed I also bought the hard shell case which is high-quality very nice case and with American musical rock now pay later plans it’s a no-brainer . Epiphone has really stepped up to the plate with the whole Gibson inspired line ! As soon as I get mine paid off I’m going to try the Epiphone Les Paul custom in white !! I can’t wait!!
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very nice for the price!
By: GWVEST
Submitted: 8/12/2022
Product Review
I picked up the reissue Explorer and the V. Both were very nice. Seems like the Explorer has a Korina cap on the top, not a solid piece.
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Presently suprised...
By: Dean A Hill
Submitted: 7/28/2022
Product Review
I knew it would play great and the Korina sounds amazing and don't need to replace the pickups like I expected. The only Q.C. issue was the bridge volume knob fell right off without even touching due to being cracked. The package wasn't all beat up and was nicely wrapped with no other issues other than a missing truss rod wrench but no biggie.
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Great deal for the money
By: David
Submitted: 6/24/2022
Product Review
This guitar is a great value, I would recommend this to anyone looking for a good quality guitar for the price. The hardware is on the low end side but I just changed out the bridge and it cam to life.
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Gorgeous guitar in person
By: Dean
Submitted: 5/14/2022
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
The headstock logo is in the CORRECT position despite what the picture shows; the Gibson logo on a '58 runs NEXT the tuners - not under them like the pic above. Very good looking veneer on both sides hides the 4 piece body, the neck is wide/thin seems flatter than a 12" radius to me - this guitar is not for people looking for the old thin Gibson necks, get the Muse SG for that; not easy on smaller hands and the Pau Ferro has a "sandy" feel to it like Indian Laurel -a more open grain that you notice with lateral vibratos - I think after the set-up the wideness of the neck may be a non issue because you CAN burn on this even before the action's lowered a tad.. if not I sell it in a year - break even. But it IS a very good looking very precise playing light weight hot rod of an axe. The outer box came like it hurt someone's feelings - seriously punished but the guitar was mint despite ALL the green bubble wrap in the inner case airless FLAT - useless plastic! That's my story as a 4 day owner, and for now I'm stickin' to it. Oh, and I bought the $30 World Tour bag for it because I need it for that 10 foot world tour across the room to the DAW every day. ??
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Rock Solid Rock Guitar
By: GuitarJoe
Submitted: 5/7/2022
Product Review
This guitar has everything you could want from a solid, well built instrument. I don't really have anything bad to say except for the fact that I was disappointed that the logo is on the pointy edge of the headstock, not where it is shown on the picture. The other issue (this one a bit bigger) is the neck profile. This guitar has a very flat, almost C shaped profile, more what I think of a "shredder's neck". If you're like me and you like a chunkier neck, this will take some time to get used to. Aside from those issues, this guitar is awesome. Great hardware and solid electronics. The fretwork is perfect and the fingerboard wood was nice and dark, very close to rosewood. The body itself is three piece with a nice veneer on the front and back. This guitar is a looker! And it sounds just as good as it looks. The Alnico classic humbuckers are great for any sort of rock and roll/hard rock tones. What they aren't are Heavy Metal pickups. If that's the sound you want I suggest looking elsewhere. In summary, great guitar, highly recommended. I do want to say that I was disappointed in the packing-the outer box looked like it had been run over by a truck and and the inner box (with the guitar) was just shoved in the shipping box with a couple pieces of packing paper. I was honestly surprised by guitar arrived undamaged. AMS needs to do a better job when shipping merchandise.
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Great playability
By: Jimmie Jamming
Submitted: 4/28/2022
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Set up perfectly right out of the box, Looks amazing. Sounds great. A quality product. You would think your playing a Gibson
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String height
By: Gilrobert7148@gmail.com
Submitted: 4/18/2022
Product Review
Got the guitar and then was not set up the string height was too high I felt like a child's guitar I was thinking of her $599 guitar would have came setup I think he should set up the guitars before the pack them and ship them
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A High quality instrament
By: Seattle Mike
Submitted: 4/15/2022
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
I've owned quite a few Epiphone guitars over the years and this model 58 LE Korina explorer is hands down the best yet. Korina body and finish is excellent, Real Grover tuners, really nice sounding pickups. Came with a decent setup out of the box. Owned about a month and it's already at the top my guitars owned. Exceeds all expectations and really does give it's Gibson big brother serious competition. The only thing I can think to have made it better, a real bone nut and a limited edition brand on the back of the neck.
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My dream guitar
By: Doni Conner
Submitted: 4/9/2022
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I am very pleased with my Explorer. I have wanted one for decades but the price was always out of my range. The quality is good, it looks and sounds great. I could not be happier!
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Buy this guitar from AMS!
By: Ruiz
Submitted: 4/5/2022
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I had been looking at these epi Korina explorers for a while and no one has had them in stock or discontinued them. Went to look for used and they are selling anywhere from $300 to $400 upcharge used. Get on the AMS waiting list and save. The guitar came double boxed and the setup, frets, etc. was spot on. Honestly, I bought a Gibson Les Paul Traditional some years ago for 3x the price of this Epiphone and the explorer is 3x better as far as fit finish and playability. I'm glad AMS is doing this run.
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Killer Explorer
By: Shemp Howard
Submitted: 4/2/2022
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is simply a great looking, great playing, great sounding Explorer for a great price.
Yeah, it needed a setup upon arrival, but for the price, no complaints here. These pickups really surprised me. They clean up nicely and handle dirt as well as any big dollar pickup set. The neck is beefy without being too thick and the body is light and balances just right. The tuners are doing their job and the nut was cut well. I shouldn't have waited this long for my first Explorer. The fact that this is limited just clinched the deal.
Get one while they're available.
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Ridiculous deal
By: Roger Lyness
Submitted: 4/2/2022
4 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I got the Explorer and Flying V in Korina and are very happy with them.
I modded them both with Seymour Duncan Seth Lover Pickups and 1 Meg pullpots for pot of phase, series/parallel and coil taps.
They sounded good to begin with, but as a modding platform they are fantastic.
They play great, sound good and are very well made. As a woodworker, I was very impressed with the quality of the craftsmanship. The finish is superb.
In my opinion there are no better guitars for the price available anywhere.
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1958 Korina Explorer Reissue
By: Tillman
Submitted: 3/28/2022
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Just unboxed it today, and the box was beat up like the 1st Korina Explorer was. Fortunately this one survived shipping. Beautiful ax indeed, and after a little fret/nut work, D Addario NYXL 10-46 strings and a setup, it will rival any Explorer. Glad to have a limited edition classic for a reasonable price.
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Great Value, Why Spend a Lot More For The G Brand
By: Dave L.
Submitted: 3/28/2022
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
The Epiphone Korina Explorer is a great value! It's not perfect, but it looks good and sounds great! After some minor set up to taste, I was in Lynard Skynard Heaven "Sweet Home Alabama. "The classic humbuckers are very good for stock pickups. Clear with volume rolled off, and they really sing driven hard into a cranked amp! All in all very happy with the purchase,a classic instrument at an affordable price. Thanks AMS
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Worry free
By: Keith Richards
Submitted: 3/26/2022
4 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Everything was as it should be except one thing. The pictures just don't do justice. This thing is gorgeous. A slight tweaking to get it set up the way I like it and I couldn't be happier.
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Great guitar!
By: Ronny
Submitted: 2/19/2022
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
When I first opened up the box I was like Oh Wow!!! But then I tried to play it... the action was horrid.. but I usually have to do a set up on most guitars as I am kinda... ok very picky and I like low tight action but I want the upper tweekies (harmonic tones) to stand out. That being said, after a proper set up I am really loving this guitar!!! I may end up replacing the bridge p/u but am gonna wait n play it for awhile as it does sound pretty good as is! Worth the wait!
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Classic look with modern playability!
By: Robbie King
Submitted: 1/4/2022
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
After owning the LTD 1958 Explorer for almost 2 years I'm still so very impressed with it's quality craftsmanship and affordability. It has is become one of my favorite guitars among many more expensive guitars I own. That to the folks at Epiphone for great service and care if their product.
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Can’t go wrong
By: Greg
Submitted: 11/21/2021
6 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
The wood and gold hardwear
Playable right outa the box
Had guitar for two plus weeks
It exceeded my expectations
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The only place that has this guitar.
By: Bernardo Dominguez
Submitted: 11/9/2021
4 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
The Explorer is amazing! It came fast, and to my knowledge is the only place that has it in stock! Amazing service and great product.
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Sweet Explorer!
By: Rod DiAngelo
Submitted: 11/7/2021
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Better than I expected for sure!
Nicer neck and frets than I expected as well!
This neck has a little “heft” to it. Great feel.
And they’ve come a LONG way on their feet work.
Recommended.
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Worth the Wait. Happy camper
By: Blind Boy Bobby Ray Lightning
Submitted: 11/7/2021
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Started in May trying to buy an Epiphone Limited Run
58 Korina Explorer. Couldn't find one except for ones costing more than I wanted to pay. AMS had them on
backorder. I waited as the delivery date changed 4 times.
Finally received yesterday. This guitar is a hoot. I love the 24.75 scale length. It plays like a dream. Very happy l waited for AMS to get them in stock as AMS are the only one I have found that have them in stock. Limited run so you better get yours before they are gone.
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Epiphone explorer can't wait
By: David
Submitted: 11/7/2021
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
AMS is such a great place to shop I love their service I love their products everything I've got from them is top notch and I've bought a lot can't wait for this explorer
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Quality
By: Curt
Submitted: 2/26/2021
4 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is an amazing guitar! Looks great! Feels great! Plays great! Sounds great! Can't put it down!
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Good value
By: Wweb
Submitted: 11/11/2020
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is a great guitar for the money, set up nice right out of the box. Change the strings, the ones sent are junk on it. Pickups are meant to have some distortion behind them, not great sounds clean, the neck is a nice, flatter shape, frets were great. If you have a better set of pickups,(put an emg hetset in mine) it does what its supposed to
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What a great guitar.
By: Roger
Submitted: 10/19/2020
9 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I bought this guitar 8 months ago and now have run it thru it’s paces. What a great instrument this is. I compared my Epiphone to my Gibson Explorer and honestly the sound on the Epi is right there. My Gibson is mahogany as opposed to the Limba on the Epi but the Epi still holds its own.
The Epiphone is lighter and has a sweet, solid attack with a rich mid range that sings. The neck is super straight, the fit and finish is beautiful and hardware is great. The pickups are very sweet however I replaced mine with Pro Buckers to darken the sound slightly. The original pickups are great but with my rig I like the darker Alnico 2 sound. In my opinion the difference between the Pro Bucker and Classic pickups are the magnets. Not a lot of difference in output.
Other changes I made were a white pick guard, CTS pots and bumblebee capacitors but upgrading these guitars is the best part. Stock it’s fantastic and adding a few new parts is just a joy ride.
I consider this guitar completely ready for professional performances all the way.
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Great looking and feeling!
By: Cris
Submitted: 9/26/2020
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Honestly the title says it all, what a beautiful guitar from top to bottom. I've owned quite a few guitars before, and this is by far the best feeling guitar to play, I love it so much! When it arrived it had a bit of finish checking next to the nut but honestly I love it and it adds a bit of "character" but I would attribute that to the shipping not at all to AMS
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EPIPHONE KORINA EXPLORER
By: AH
Submitted: 9/25/2020
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I was intrigued by the availability of this new "Korina" re-issue so I ordered one and was completely blown away by the looks, the sound, the neck (especially the neck!), and everything else about this guitar. Just incredible quality which seems even better than Gibson USA. It's very resonant even unplugged. And I then ordered the Epip case and was shocked at the incredible quality of it too. Just a super purchase that I am glad I obtained. Very grateful that AMS offered this and highlighted its' availability in an email to me. Every guitar I have ever purchased from AMS has been outstanding. Thanks!
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Awesome. Thanx A.M.S.
By: Mikedor
Submitted: 9/4/2020
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Beautiful Axe!! Great workmanship. Plays, Sounds and Looks Incredible. I will,for as long as I'm still jammin tunes,be a loyal A.M.S. customer. Wish I had this Guitar long ago. Extremely Happy. A.M.S. payment plans ROCK!!!!!
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Sweet
By: Brian
Submitted: 7/28/2020
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
What a beautiful guitar. Sounds great and not real heavy to hold. Fulfills part of my life long dreams of owning an Explorer and Flying V. For these prices I bought all three. Couldn't resist the Modern for the price to complete the set. Gibson on the headstock would make these cost more but I doubt you could justify the price difference if you plan on playing these. Mine came set up pretty good out of the box. The workmanship is better on these guitars then on my 2019 Gibson Les Paul. Sad but true. And it cost about the same price as all three of these combined.
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This 1958 Explorer Rocks the House!
By: Kent S.
Submitted: 7/19/2020
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I love the look of this guitar that Epiphone has put out. It sounds even better! The Korina (Limba) wood gives this guitar a unique warm and stinging sound and the hockey-stick head-stock screams for attention. Looks just like Allen Collins' guitar. I bought mine in December of 2019 and I am so happy with it and it was worth every penny. 5-Stars on this guitar, get one!!
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Sweet Guitar!
By: Jake
Submitted: 6/24/2020
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Beautiful. Plays great, little getting used to higher on the neck compared to my Les Paul.
Sounds amazing.
Barely out of time but perfectly intonated out of the box.
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The quality of this guitar is excepitional.
By: Memo
Submitted: 2/26/2020
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
If your looking for a high end guitar at a low end price, look no further.
I was completly amazed at just how excellent this guitar is.
It looks great, sounds great and plays great.
I was able to lower the action way down and yet not a single buzz anywhere.
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Not worth the money!
By: Studio55
Submitted: 1/28/2020
13 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Not the guitar that's pictured, epiphone logo in a different place and is not limited as advertised! Item arrived re taped and used and defective as well, So i do not recommend although it is a cool looking guitar but that's about as far as it goes!
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Awesome Guitar
By: Blake Thompson
Submitted: 1/18/2020
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This guitar is awesome, love the body style and hockey stick style headstock! I’ve owned a lot of midrange guitars over the years and this is my favorite so far. I replaced the bridge/tailpiece with a Gotoh bridge/tailpiece. I also replaced the bridge/tailpiece bushings with Faber steel bushings as the Gotoh bushings do not fit. Very happy with the results
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Beautiful guitar
By: jsalls
Submitted: 1/6/2020
7 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Great guitar, beautiful, fun to play and sounds great. Finish is glossy and smooth. Required minimal set up out of the box. It's an Explorer so you already know its cool.
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Absolutely amazing!!
By: Larry Thompson
Submitted: 12/28/2019
8 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Smooth playability, great tone, the price couldn’t be better and fun to play...I highly recommend this guitar if you’re looking to rock ????????
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epiphone builds a great product
By: robbie russell
Submitted: 12/18/2019
5 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I own 2 of these explorers..i love the humbuckers thru a Marshall with lots of Presence..they are way built better than their sister Gibson..easily stays in tune and very durable and well balanced!!
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A Quality Buy and a Superb Price--My 55th Birthday Present
By: JP Russell
Submitted: 11/20/2019
6 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I have coveted the '58 for pretty much my entire life. I have never been able to justify pulling the trigger on a mainline Gibson. On a whim I decided to take a flyer on the Epi replica at a decent price (it was my birthday). Ordering was easy (too easy) and the box showed up two days later.
I opened the box and simply started playing it. Fit and finish are perfect--it's a beautiful guitar. The setup was 99% out of the box. Some minor string buzz, barely discernible, easily adjusted. Intonation spot on. The Explorer style is easy to wear and very easy to play. It sounds superb--very classic humbucker sound.
So, all in all this is a great guitar at a great price. Epi guitars have always impressed me (I have an Epi accoustic and Les Paul type replica) and it is clear they are on their game. If you have always wanted a '58 Korina, here is your chance. Buy it. You won't be disappointed.
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Soon to be my favorite!
By: Jim
Submitted: 10/26/2019
5 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Beautiful guitar.Had to make a couple adjustments to the neck and string height but that is my preference.Sounds and plays like a Gibson.
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I always wanted an explorer!!!!!!
By: William Cox
Submitted: 7/5/2019
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
This guitar is stunning to look at and has the classic rock sound I was looking for. With just a few adjustments it plays like a dream. The action was a little high and I changed the strings. I would play this guitar anywhere. I have guitars that are a lot more expensive but this is my new favorite.
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One beautiful guitar
By: Rockin Randall
Submitted: 6/11/2019
6 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I highly recommend this guitar before they are gone. The finish is awesome. The amber colored wood gold hardware and black pickguard. Im a huge lynyrd skynyrd fan and i always wanted a Allen Collins style guitar. The pickups sound alot better than I thought they would. Got it hanging in my music room with a snakeskin guitar strap on it. Love it
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Beautiful guitar great fit and finish.
By: James K
Submitted: 5/25/2019
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This guitar exceeded my expectations. Initial setup is quite good and it sounds great through both my Roland cube and my Line 6 Bogner amps. Really nice guitar especially for the price. The first one that was delivered unfortunately had a cracked neck which was very disappointing but the staff at American musical was extremely helpful in providing me with the return instructions and I received the replacement in two days- Amazing! Thanks American musical for the great service and a beautiful instrument.This guitar compares well to my much more expensive Gibson's.
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METAL MONSTER at a great price!
By: John
Submitted: 4/29/2019
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
First of a the finish is stunning. This is one beautiful guitar. The setup put of the box is great. The stock pickups have a nice tone without being too muddy. With the right settings on my Peavey VYPYR Amp I was able to get a nice metal sound with a solid punch. I would definitely recommend!
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Great guitar. The sound and feel is great. well worth the money.
By: KELLY PARSONS
Submitted: 3/13/2019
33 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Great guitar for the money. The sound and feel is more than I expected.
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Every bit as good, possibly better, than a Gibson
By: Michael
Submitted: 3/5/2019
Product Review
This guitar is most likely the best $600 I've ever spent. The body is good and solid, the neck profile feels perfect, the pickups are great, the only thing I had to do to this guitar was move the top strap button to the back of the neck joint, in order to counteract the weight of the neck and hold the guitar level when I play standing up. All in all, an amazing product for the price.
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Better than I thought it would be
By: Joe
Submitted: 3/5/2019
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
I must admit, I was skeptical about buying this guitar but I discovered that this explorer not only sounds and plays well, it looks great too. For $600 you can't go wrong. I wanted an Explorer in my arsenal for a long time but didn't want to fork out big money for a Gibson. If you don't have an Explorer you owe it to yourself to take this one for a test ride. She's a keeper for sure.
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A little bold - A lot awesome!
By: Greg 'Purple' Hays
Submitted: 1/21/2019
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
Wow! Received it the day after New Years 2019, opened the box and it was "Merry late Christmas to me"! The quality of the fit, finish and gold hardware to the eye was stunning. Even though it's a brand new guitar, it was manufactured in 2016 and the strings were DOA. Quick change to new GHS Boomers and it was "man this thing cranks". No fret buzz or neck adjustment needed, the intonation was almost spot on. The play-ability and sound are terrific, the alnico double-waxed pups are almost 'but not quite' as good as the Gibson 57' classics in my Epiphone Tribute Plus. I'm not a professional gigging guitarist so I have no need to change the pickups. Whether it's jammin' with the boys, playing at parties or filling in for a band member at church, this fits my needs perfectly. Can't tell you how many 'oohs & awes' I've gotten but it's quite a few. If you want a guitar that sounds terrific and looks a little different, do yourself a favor and pick one up. The 58' Korina Explorer is awesome!
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Love this guitar!
By: Rob Terry
Submitted: 1/5/2019
6 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is an awesome guitar!! Rides fantastic...like I e played it for years! Excellent sound!
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Beautiful guitar
By: Renee
Submitted: 1/3/2019
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
Looks and sounds amazing
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Beautiful guitar to rival expensive Gibsons
By: Timothy Butler
Submitted: 10/4/2018
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is a beautiful guitar with the same dimensions as the pricier Gibson. The korina wood is prettier than the regular mahogany. Gold hardware adds class. Great neck and action!!
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Killer tone and playability action
By: Brett potter
Submitted: 9/5/2018
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
Was really impressed with the playability of this guitar.slim neck fast action. The al nico pickups have a great tone for everything from rock to metal.great finish as well. All around great axe!
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Love it,had one when i has a kid,now i am back judt like old times
By: Chuckie
Submitted: 8/10/2018
4 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Great looking guitar,love the feel and tone,well balanced and beautiful
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My favorite guitar!!
By: Tim Rodrigue
Submitted: 7/22/2018
Product Review
I looked at the guitar and the flying “V” online for about a month and couldn’t make up my mind which one I really wanted. I’m extremely happy that I picked the Explorer!! Not only were the looks impressive, but the set-up and action were right-on!!.
The guitar is balanced perfectly for me!!
I’m a short fat dude and it’s extremely comfortable to play!!
My Strat and Les Paul are very jealous!!
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Awsome guitar
By: Rocknrick
Submitted: 4/20/2018
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
Beautiful, the wood (korina), the the gold hardware, the set up was near perfect as it could be. I found no blems on this instrument. Will be installing a Floyd Rose on it shortly. I'll have this guitar working hard soon after.
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Still just a veneer.
By: Mark Maranta
Submitted: 4/11/2018
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is a great guitar. Excellent value. I just wish Gibson would be more honest and admit that the Korina is only 1/64th deep. Bought one back in '99 I think it was... and also decided that a black pickguard looks better. Next step: Burstbuckers.
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Very nice guitar for the price.
By: joerocks
Submitted: 3/17/2018
Product Review
When the guitar arrived it had a slight buzz on the low E string but once the neck settled in it plays great.I really like the pickups,body and action is really good.It came with the pickguard scratched up is my only complaint,but I didn"t return because of the hassle and I liked everything about this guitar.A great value for the money.
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Absolutely Fabulous
By: Christie
Submitted: 1/24/2018
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Great quality guitar! Beautiful wood. Packaged perfectly. Love this guitar and this company
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Bravo!Epiphone!
By: Bobby S
Submitted: 1/16/2018
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
After ordering a Dean Zalinsky Zephyr (Explorer) and waiting a month! It finally showed up. It was a complete p.o.s.! So I sent it back and ordered this 58’Epiphone Explorer LE! It sounds killer and plays great! I saved over $200 dollars and got a much better guitar!
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Great Guitar
By: Dan C
Submitted: 11/15/2017
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Very well made. Plays and sounds great. Going to change the strings to Roto Yellows 10-46; should make it sound even better.
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Exceeds Expectations
By: Bruce Satinover
Submitted: 10/19/2017
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
The build quality and sound are as advertised. More importantly the reviews here have been pretty accurate with more criticism than I would give.
The pickups are retro so if you're doing metal you'll be changing pickups.
I do progressive rock and heavily processed electronic for which this light weight, well balanced guitar will be something most rock, blues, or moderately aggressive guitarists will most likely appreciate.
Setup was fine. The neck is slightly thick, not 50s style baseball bat or early 60s Gibson slim taper. I have an SG with such a neck and while it's not my favorite it is still good sounding and playable.
How much do I like this guitar?
I bought it in hope of replacing the Gibson SG. The Korina Epiphone Explorer gets the job done with a bit more bite in the neck and more warmth in the neck pickups.
Maybe there are variances but to a person the reviews here and on the net have been very positive.
It is an inexpensive guitar and I have experienced mixed results from Epiphone, but this guitar seems to transcend it's price point.American Musical did a good job on pre sale and delivery was prompt.
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Nice Guitar for the monely. Good sound and feel
By: Rob
Submitted: 10/18/2017
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
If your looking to find an affordable "Gibson type" guitar, I would recommend Epiphone
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Well worth the money
By: Wyatt Groshong
Submitted: 10/12/2017
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
Love this guitar! Surprised how light it feels and how well it plays. I'm a fender guy but will definitely be buying more epiphone in the future. A must have!
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A Great Player at A Fair Price
By: RedWineKline
Submitted: 9/23/2017
5 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
I owned the last Korina Epiphone released and it really grew on me. There is a warmness to Korina as a tone wood that is just great and as I played the last one until it was pretty much a pile of splinters, I was excited for the opportunity to get another.
Looks-
This time around, the aesthetics are much more appealing. The black pick-gaurd and the gold hardware look royal next to the amber finish and an attractive piece of wood.
Sound-
Keep in mind, it is an Epi and they are not exactly known for pro-level instruments, but this guitar is exceptional. I found the buckers to be a serious upgrade over the last Epi Korina Explorer I played. Good range of tones from warm and thick to bright, clear, and bitey.
Playability-
Obviously a Gibson inspired guitar in dimensions. If you enjoy a thicker neck and genrously-sized frets you'll feel at home. As far as setup goes, mine was fine out of the box, one should never count on that being the case.
Build Quality-
The guitar feels solid in your hands. My selector switch went bad after maybe 7-8 hrs of use over a couple weeks- Etremely annoying, but not an uncommon problem to experience with any guitar in any pricerange.
Final Veridt-
A great looking and fun to play guitar at a solid price.
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As good as you've heard!
By: Tom Talbert
Submitted: 7/17/2017
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
The instrument is AT LEAST as good as I could have dared hope, especially at the price! Also- A BIG shout-out to AMS Customer Service... On the off chance you have a problem with ANYTHING, rest assured you will be taken care of quickly, courteously, and completely!!!
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Order# W8735031 - DAMAGED! Crack at headstock/neck junction....
By: Den
Submitted: 7/6/2017
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Three days after receiving this instrument, I was surprised to find a 3/4-inch long crack at the junction where the headstock & neck meet. It's on the backside of guitar...behind the first fret. I did not see the need to repackage the guitar and send it back. The overall look, feel & tone are not really impacted by this defect. But...the instrument should be in perfect condition when purchased new, right? Regardless, it is a gorgeous guitar, and I really love playing it.
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Just as good
By: Rany K
Submitted: 6/10/2017
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Feeling as a real vintage one. Light and balanced great tone through my normal rig
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Even Better than i thought it was going to be
By: 58Deluxe
Submitted: 5/21/2017
Product Review
Early impression: This is an incredible pick (& a little hard to) guitar find. This LE '58 Korina Explorer run sells out fast and is on backorder often - that in itself says a lot about the demand. Upon receipt, a couple of very small backside finish imperfections near the rear neck/body, far from show stoppers. The pickup selector switch needed to be loosened & realigned for playability (prob should be changed to a quality switchcraft sw). Probably will change the control cavity wiring to old school (incl BB caps) ,& that's it. A very resonant Korina body yields a smile one could only hope for; notes just sing off the neck - this; with only a tune up. A pro secondary setup will happen, but upon observation/play, really, little adjustment is needed OTB. Looks are great. Play & feel is Fantastic, Thanks, AMS!
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Lots of bang for the buck
By: Tom A.
Submitted: 5/19/2017
Product Review
I'd actually rate it at 4.5, but that's not an option so I'm rounding up. The guitar itself is an insane value for only $549. It arrived in one piece, well set up, intonated properly, and on schedule. There are a couple of tiny cosmetic flaws that can't be seen more than a couple of feet away, but at this price point I more or less expect it. The pickups are not particularly to my liking, but a couple Benjamins for a set of Seymour Duncan humbuckers will fix that. The customer service folks were outstanding...as of the day before delivery, there were still no tracking results on the FedEx web site. The customer service staff verified that the shipment had been picked up, initiated a trace on the shipment, and offered to send a second one if the first one didn't arrive. All of the tracking data finally popped up the afternoon before delivery, which I ascribe to IT problems at FedEx - but the customer service folks sent me a $25 gift card to compensate me for my trouble!
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Explore the Explorer!
By: Majc1957
Submitted: 3/25/2017
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
My first mail order purchase of an instrument went off without a hitch. The guitar was flawless and the set up was spot on! Overall a great experience!
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WORTH EVERY PENNEY
By: Paul
Submitted: 3/13/2017
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Really a little surprised at how well this played right out of the box. I own some really nice Gibsons but always loved the looks of these Korina guitars Bought the Flying V also
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I love this thing
By: Fred
Submitted: 3/2/2017
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Plays like a dream ranks right up there
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Great right out of the box!
By: Rayvynr
Submitted: 2/26/2017
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This guitar right out of the box was set up almost flawlessly. Tone is great, action is great, and looks great too.
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Can't beat it for $$
By: Kevin Roeder
Submitted: 2/21/2017
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
Shipped quickly and safely.Plugged it in right out of the box!It was in tune!!Very nice action,could use minor set up as others have stated.Fit and finish is super nice.Pickups are very good.You would be hard pressed to find a better bang for your buck.I suppose you could swap out p ups and electronics but not sure why??Get it you will not be disappointed!!Big bargain.Stayed away from the "V" because of some of the reviews.
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Love the Look
By: Fox
Submitted: 1/28/2017
5 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
What I expected. I got what I wanted & what I paid for. Will prolly upgrade the electronics. Overall plays nice and looks great.
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Well worth the money
By: SC
Submitted: 1/6/2017
Product Review
I did a review for the 58 V and it was not as good as I hoped. We will see if it gets posted. This one on the other hand was great out of the box after a minor setup. I did replace the bridge pickup because it just wasn't enough for me. Lots of black residue on your fingers is about the only issue with this guitar and the V. I did move the guitar strap pins so they neck doesn't dive bomb when you let go of it. The V had the same issue and I forget to write that in the review. Still overall a great guitar for the price.
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Well worth the money
By: Steven meinster
Submitted: 12/26/2016
1 person found this review helpful.
Product Review
I ordered it on Friday and I got her on Saturday this epiphome Explorer right out of the box was set up perfrct. I just put on a new set of strings and what can I say the guitar is fantastic and has a look to kill. I owill 87 guI tars now and this guitar is worth every dollar
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Great guitar
By: Steve
Submitted: 12/12/2016
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is a great guitar. Feels like a Gibson, plays really well out of the box, and I could quickly get the tone I wanted out of it (sludge with a hint of brightness). Also set up different tones to experiment - sounds great. Generally I play tuned down super heavy trash, but this guitar will do well for other styles too. Really stoked, my neighbors are pretty sad though - at least the ones who don't enjoy thrash.
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Killer Rock Guitar!
By: Greg Grant
Submitted: 12/6/2016
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Really a joy to play. You don't have to pick a point to anchor your hand to the body. The resting position of your arm is really well thought out. It sounds great, like my last Korina guitar (Epiphone V) that was stolen years ago. Get one before they are gone. I'm hoping to get the bass version too.
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Fantastic Guitar
By: Mike F
Submitted: 12/4/2016
3 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This is one of the better guitars in my large collection, it looks great and sounds like a beast unleashed on a slab of beef lol what I mean is the sound is fantastic its easy to palm mute and you can paddle an E chord for hours and held right next to my Marshall full stack you can get feedback for days. I waited a long time to get this guitar and it was worth every second of the wait. Buy yourself one today you won't regret it.
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Well worth the money
By: Thomas Magnani
Submitted: 12/3/2016
2 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
Pros: aesthetically awesome with an equally awesome bright midrange tone both due to the Korina wood. Cons: Like any guitar fresh out of the box it needed to be professionally adjusted and setup to play to its full potential.
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Midrange Monster
By: John
Submitted: 12/2/2016
10 people found this review helpful.
Product Review
This a great guitar with killer yet elegant looks and great playability. The slim taper neck is very comfortable for my medium sized hands and the fretwork is quite good. The rosewood fretboard has some of the best figuring I have every seen in my 35+ years of playing. Real Grover tuners, by the way! The guitar has a huge lower midrange in its sound that is great for classic rock but may not suit super-scooped recto players. The sound varies quite a bit between the three pickup settings and all are very usable. This Explorer is very light for its size and surprisingly balances well with a strap. The finish is deep amber and really compliments the black plastic and gold-plated hardware. The only downside are the obvious top and bottom veneers for the body which sandwich several mismatched grain white limba body blanks (Korina wood). Overall, very satisfied.