Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard review

Another new Epiphone model enters the fray, promising the looks, sound and playability of its USA Gibson cousin at a fraction of the price

Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard
(Image: © Future / Olly Curtis)

Guitar World Verdict

Another budget guitar from Epiphone that gives Custom Shop Gibsons a run for their money.

Pros

  • +

    Looks.

  • +

    Finish.

  • +

    Playability.

  • +

    Value and Gibson SG attitude.

Cons

  • -

    Some might struggle with balance and the offset neck position.

  • -

    The pickup rings seem slightly oversized.

You can trust Guitar World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing guitar products so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

The Gibson SG, perhaps rather like Fender’s Jazzmaster, the Rickenbacker 330 or even Gretsch’s 6120, is one of those guitars that most of us think, “I really should get one of those.”

Yet as often than not these fine instruments stay languishing on the shelf in favour of another Strat, Tele or Les Paul. Well, if Epiphone’s recent form continues with this incarnation of the mother brand’s pointy-horned wonder, perhaps now might be the time for that to change.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month**

Join now for unlimited access

US pricing $3.99 per month or $39.00 per year

UK pricing £2.99 per month or £29.00 per year 

Europe pricing €3.49 per month or €34.00 per year

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Prices from £2.99/$3.99/€3.49