Description
Epiphone SG Special Electric Guitar, Cherry Review: A Close Look at the ESGSCHCH1 Model
The Epiphone SG Special Electric Guitar, Cherry (Model ESGSCHCH1) has its share of quirks, strengths, and areas for improvement. This guitar is marketed as a budget-friendly option for players who want the iconic SG design and tone without breaking the bank. Does it deliver? For the most part, yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
First Impressions: Looks That Could Rock Any Stage
The cherry finish on this guitar is absolutely stunning, catching the light in just the right way to highlight its sleek mahogany body. It screams classic rock-and-roll aesthetic, the sort of guitar that invites an Angus Young impression. The slim-taper D-profile neck is incredibly comfortable, and the overall weight of around 11 pounds makes it easy to handle during long practice sessions.
However, upon closer inspection there can be a minor blemish in the finish, likely a speck trapped under the clear coat. While it’s not a dealbreaker, it’s something perfectionists might frown upon.
Sound Quality: Surprisingly Robust for the Price
Plugged in, the dual Epiphone humbuckers deliver a warm, punchy tone that suits rock, metal, and blues. The kill-pot feature is a fun addition, though more of a novelty than a workhorse control. It invites hours of experimenting. The guitar’s sound is bold and dynamic, but it’s slightly lacking in sustain compared to higher-end models, likely due to the bolt-on neck design.
Setup and Adjustments: A Mixed Bag
What the Epiphone badge means against the Gibson SG it copies is set out in the guide on Epiphone versus Gibson. Straight out of the box, the setup is decent but requires some tweaking. The intonation on a few strings runs off, and the truss rod needs adjustment. Lowering the bridge height to fine-tune the action makes a world of difference. The tuning machines, however, leave much to be desired. They feel a bit cheap, and they can work loose after just a week of use. Many owners recommend upgrading the tuners, which is worth considering down the line.
How It Stands Against Competitors
Epiphone lists the same SG Special in a satin walnut finish, covered here as the SG Special in satin walnut. Compared to similar budget guitars like the Squier Bullet Stratocaster or Ibanez GRX20, the Epiphone SG Special holds its own with its vintage design and tonal versatility. While the Squier might have smoother tuners, the Epiphone’s humbuckers deliver a fuller, richer sound. On the other hand, the Ibanez GRX20 offers a slightly more modern feel and better sustain, but it doesn’t have the undeniable charisma of the SG.
Value for Money: Does It Justify the Investment?
The heavier Les Paul 100 and the cheaper Les Paul Special satin E1 are the two alternatives within the brand, all listed under electric guitars. The Epiphone SG Special is an excellent choice for beginners or intermediate players on a budget. It delivers a respectable performance for its price range, though the need for some initial adjustments might deter complete novices. You’re paying for a guitar that looks great, sounds solid, and offers decent build quality, but don’t expect premium components at this price point.
Design and Build Quality: Classic with a Few Flaws
The carved SG body is lightweight and ergonomic, making it comfortable to play for extended periods. The rosewood fretboard feels smooth and responsive, and the 22 frets are well-polished with no sharp edges. However, the machine heads feel flimsy, and as mentioned earlier, the bolt-on neck design slightly compromises the sustain.
Pros
- Iconic SG Design: The cherry finish and classic double-cutaway shape are undeniably appealing.
- Affordable Price: It’s hard to find a guitar that looks and sounds this good for such a low price.
- Comfortable Playability: The slim-taper D-profile neck is a joy to play, especially for beginners.
- Versatile Sound: The dual humbuckers handle everything from rock to blues with ease.
- Lightweight Build: At 11 pounds, it’s easy to handle during practice or gigs.
Cons
- Flimsy Tuning Machines: The tuners feel cheap and may need upgrading for long-term use.
- Slightly Inconsistent Setup: Adjustments to intonation, string action, and the truss rod are necessary.
- Bolt-On Neck Design: While cost-effective, it impacts the sustain compared to set-neck models.
- Occasional Finish Imperfections: Minor blemishes in the lacquer may bother detail-oriented buyers.
- Kill-Pot Gimmick: Fun but not particularly useful for most players.
What Comes with the Product
- Epiphone SG Special Electric Guitar
- User Manual
- Warranty Registration Card
- Allen Wrench for Truss Rod Adjustment
Warranty & Support Information
The guitar comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. Epiphone also includes a 24/7 customer support line and an extensive FAQ section on their website to help with common issues. However, the warranty does not cover wear-and-tear or damage caused by improper use.
