Inside the Epiphone 335

From its invention in 1958 by the Gibson Guitar Corporation, the Epiphone 335 has become the semi-acoustic guitar of choice for blues, jazz, and rock musicians alike.

Here are a few tips to understanding the features of the Epiphone 335–and tips for finding your own version of this great-sounding guitar.

The Sound

The Gibson Epiphone 335 guitar generates a warm tone and lesser feedback than its competitors, which are made possible by a body that is neither hollow nor solid. Generally, the more hollow the construction of a guitar, the more feedback. The solid wood that runs through the center of the 335 is what enables the magic to happen.

However, because the body is still essentially hollow, it has not lost its characteristic dark tone from a sound point of view. The same goes for the natural non amplified volume of the instrument–giving it a very even and consistent overall sound.

The Look

How these exacting requirements were met has been made possible by years of experimentation with different guitar shapes and sizes. The Epiphone 335 would evolve from earlier models to hold its ground eventually in the music industry. It is easy to spot when it is in use.

Aside from the arched top, it has hollow wings on both sides, and in addition, there are two sound holes over the hollow chambers. Of course, this guitar is made of wood: usually, the body is made of maple, while the neck is from mahogany, and the fingerboard rosewood.

How to Buy

When buying the Gibson Epiphone ES-335, it is important to distinguish the price difference triggered by cosmetic or non-cosmetic variations. (For example, an ebony fret board can add to the cost.)

Also, do not expect the price to be any lower than say $30,000 if one’s sights are set on a 1960 or earlier generation. Comparatively, a brand new ES-335 will be in the below $3,000 range.

By far the most cost-effective is the Epiphone 335, which could be had for several hundred dollars. For best results, consult a guitar connoisseur, and as a rule of thumb be able to distinguish between cosmetic and sound-changing features.