Epiphone To Debut Magnificent Seven At Winter NAMM

Epiphone announced new models to exhibit at NAMM 2006 in Anaheim, California. Each model will be unveiled during the convention and displayed throughout the Gibson Guitar booth.

First out of the blocks is the ES-175, which is the jazz guitar of choice. While this classic hollow-body was first launched by Gibson in 1949, this year will bring its distinctive rich tone within reach of working musicians, via Epiphone's ES-175 reissue. With its laminated maple top, mahogany body and pair of Alnico Classic humbuckers, this reissue offers the same dark and sultry tone as the original, while a hard maple neck and rosewood fingerboard ensure the performance matches any modern design.

There's no mistaking the sound of a Firebird running on angry. For 2006, Epiphone has launched a Worn Studio version of this cherished electric design, complete with faithful body styling, a set neck and full-size Alnico Classic humbuckers. It looks like a vintage, and plays like one too, but with Steinberger 40:1 direct-drive tuners delivering unequalled tuning precision, this is an instrument for the new millennium.

Next up is the Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plain Top - an affordable version of the axe that's been thrashed by everyone from Jimmy Page to Slash. This model is all about the rock, with a traditional solid mahogany body, unfigured maple top and glued-in mahogany neck supplying the perfect blend of tone, comfort and understated cool. A pair of Alnico Classic humbuckers supply the muscle, and the trusty tune-o-matic/stop bar combination ensures it can take the punishment as well as dish it out.

You won't find a cooler bass than the new Epiphone Les Paul Special Bass. Thanks to the unmistakable whiff of rock 'n' roll supplied by that iconic body, this is the only model to be seen with onstage. A solid mahogany body and glued-in maple neck combine to produce a deep and expressive tone, while two specially designed Alnico bass humbuckers and separate volume/tone controls bring versatility to the table. It's a dream to play too, thanks to the flawless weight distribution and 34" scale length.

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Then there's the New Masterbilt EF-500RCCE. A stunning solid acoustic with warm tone and unrivalled comfort, this 'fingerstyle' model is a reaction to the continued success of the Masterbilt range, and the demand amongst acoustic players for quality instruments at competitive prices. With a solid rosewood body and a solid cedar top, the EF-500RCCE sounds as good as it looks, while an L.R. Baggs acoustic/electric piezo pickup ensures all that killer tone cuts through in any context.

The MB-100 is known as the 'first pick' banjo because of its keen pricing and inviting performance. You won't argue when you try it. With no resonator (and therefore a lighter weight) this new 5-string model is perfect for impromptu jam sessions and musicians on the move.

And lastly, there's the PR-4E Acoustic/Electric Player Pack. This awesome all-in-one set contains everything you need to start rocking, including the new PR-4E acoustic/electric from Epiphone, plus a 15-watt acoustic amplifier and all the accessories that a fledgling rock star needs.

For more information, visit their web site at www.epiphone.com.