Blast From The Past: Epiphone’s New USA Collection Coronets

By C.

In today’s world, its becoming more unusual to see a newly offered or reintroduced model from Gibson or Epiphone. I mean, let’s be honest. They’ve graced us with many iterations of almost every one of our favorite models of the 50’s and 60’s. You name it and they’ve probably done it at one point or another. But that’s not to say they might be leaving some models behind in the distant past. Well, we’re pleased to be discussing a new model from the Epiphone USA Collection, and one that’s become increasingly popular in recent years, the slab-bodied Coronet!

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The Epiphone Coronet from the USA Collection harkens back to the classic original Coronet design, known for its rich heritage and timeless aesthetics. Originally introduced in 1958, the Coronet has been a favorite among musicians for its simplicity, versatility, and powerful sound.

The first thing to note about these guitars (and you might be wondering from the title) is yes! They are proudly made in USA. These Coronets feature a solid mahogany body, which provides the warm and resonant tone we all know and love. Its double-cutaway design allows for easy access to the higher frets, making it ideal for lead playing. The body depth is also a slightly slimmer 1.375″, which keeps the weight reasonable. The gloss nitrocellulose lacquer finishes (in Vintage Cherry, Ebony, or TV Yellow) gives the guitar a sleek, classic look that appeals to both vintage enthusiasts and modern players.

The neck is also made of mahogany and has a comfortable, slim taper profile. This makes it easy to play, whether you’re strumming chords or playing intricate solos. The fingerboard is made of Indian rosewood, offering a smooth and responsive surface for your fingers. With 22 medium jumbo frets and dot inlays, the Coronet provides excellent playability and navigation along the neck.

One of the standout features of the Epiphone Coronet is its hardware and electronics. It comes equipped with a single Epiphone PRO P-90 Dogear pickup, which is known for its punchy and articulate sound. Original Coronets featured the “New Yorker” single-coil in the bridge position, so the addition of a P-90 is a nice modern twist for today’s players. The P-90 pickup provides a perfect balance between the brightness and clarity of single-coil pickups and the warmth and grit of humbuckers, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from blues and rock to punk and indie.

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The guitar also features a wrap-around bridge, which ensures excellent sustain and tuning stability. This bridge design not only contributes to the guitar’s vintage aesthetic but also enhances its overall tonal quality. The vintage-style Deluxe tuners are reliable and precise, allowing for accurate tuning adjustments and ensuring that the guitar stays in tune even during extended playing sessions.

The Epiphone Coronet is renowned for its distinctive sound. And the P-90 pickup delivers a raw tone that can sit comfortably in the mix. When played clean, these Coronets produce a clear and chime-like sound, perfect for rhythm playing and arpeggios. When overdriven, they’ll unleash a powerful and aggressive tone that is ideal for rock and punk genres.

The simplicity of having just one pickup and a single volume and tone control allows players to focus on their playing without being distracted by multiple controls. This straightforward setup is perfect for players who prefer a no-nonsense approach to their instrument. Take a look at the knobs too, just like your grandaddy’s Coronet!

The Epiphone Coronet has a rich history that dates back to its introduction in 1958. It has gained popularity among musicians for its affordability, playability, and distinctive sound. Over the years, it has been used by numerous notable players, and coveted by collectors, contributing to its iconic status in the world of electric guitars. These new Coronets are perfect for those looking to explore the model without coughing up 5 figures for an original. And speaking of which, For your viewing pleasure, we snapped a few photos with an original 1958 Coronet. Looks like Epiphone really hit this one right out of the park!

While the Epiphone Coronet retains its vintage charm, it has also been updated to meet the needs of modern players. The combination of classic design and modern craftsmanship makes it a versatile instrument suitable for both beginners and experienced guitarists. Its lightweight and ergonomic design make it comfortable to play for extended periods, whether you’re practicing at home, recording in the studio, or performing on stage.

The Epiphone Coronet from the USA Collection is a no-frills guitar that beautifully blends vintage aesthetics with modern performance for the fraction of the cost of a vintage example. Its high-quality construction, distinctive sound, and straightforward design make it a valuable addition to any guitarist’s collection. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, blues, punk, or indie music, the Coronet offers a versatile and enjoyable playing experience that is sure to inspire and delight.

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