Epiphone G-310 SG Electric Guitar Review

The SG style of guitar has been a mainstay of hard rock and metal artists for over forty years. It is one of few styles of guitars instantly recognized as classic by even the most casual music fans. In trying to recapture the true SG sound, look, and feel of the real thing in an affordable package, Epiphone Mate its own G-310 SG. Let's take a close look at what this guitar is all about.

Features: The G-310 features a glossed alder body, with a bolt on neck made of mahogany. The alder body is undoubtedly a deliberate choice by Epiphone to lower the cost of manufacture of the instrument. On the flip side, however, the mahogany neck is a touch of class, especially for "affordable" guitars. It also features a 22 fret rosewood fingerboard with pearl dot inlays. The little bit of extra length is great for reaching the highest notes when ripping out a solo. The hardware is all genuine chrome, giving it a touch of flash as well. The bridge is the in the time-tested Tune-O-Matic style, which eliminates any tough chores for adjusting string height or changing them. The electrics in it are 2 Epiphone brand humbucker open coil pickups, and there are two volume and two tone control knobs (along with a three way selector switch). This gives the player full control over both pickups.

Playability: The bolt on neck may make it a bit difficult for some players to reach the highest frets comfortably. On the other hand, it is generally agreed that this guitar does a great job of staying in tune. I also recommend that you change the strings after you buy the guitar. The ones that come stock just aren't up to snuff.

Sound: This instrument displays a little more versatility in the sound department than some of the cheaper Epiphones offer. The two volume and tone controls really give the player great control of what it will sound like. With a good amp, this guitar will hold its own against those at the top of the line playing anything from soft rock to heavy metal.

Overall: The Epiphone G-310 SG is a great and affordable alternative to its older siblings made by Gibson. It offers full sound control, an authentic look, and a high quality feel. When playing this, it would take a very experienced musician to notice any big differences between it and a thousand dollar instrument. The G-310 is available for about $250, and would make a great Christmas gift for anyone who loves to play.