Discover the Epiphone SG That’s Right for You
The Epiphone SG has long been the go-to gateway for players chasing the bite of Angus Young and the soul of Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Once seen as a budget alternative to the Gibson original, today’s Epiphone SG lineup stands proudly on its own — combining classic style, killer tone, and rock-solid build quality.
If you’ve been on the fence about investing in your first SG or picking up a spare for the road, we highly encourage you to take any of Sweetwater’s Epiphone SGs for a spin. The sheer range of finish options, pickup configurations, and artist tributes in the modern SG collection — all beautifully adorned and ready to rip — will have you duckwalkin’ like Angus before you know it.
What Does an Epiphone SG Sound Like?
The focused, throaty tone of an Epiphone SG is influenced by several factors. These include the SG’s scale length, its neck joint, its ultra-thin construction, and, of course, its characteristic humbucker pickups — all of which shape how players approach the instrument.
Are you particular about tone? Today’s Epiphone SG guitars come equipped for virtually any style or genre. Take the Alnico II ProBuckers found in the Epiphone SG Standard ’61. These PAF-like pickups are voiced to deliver oodles of punchy warmth and classic chime. Looking for something more aggressive? The Epiphone SG Prophecy collection comes loaded with proprietary Fishman Fluence active pickups to ratify your rock riffage.
Searching for tones off the beaten path? The P-90-equipped Epiphone Tony Iommi SG Special and the Vibrola-equipped HHH Epiphone 1963 SG Custom Electric offer even more reasons to don this dimensional double-cut for whatever style of music you play — from desert rock to Bonamassa blues.
What Type of Music Is an SG Good For?
The SG has earned a reputation for being a macho rock machine, thanks to high-profile axemen like Pete Townshend of The Who and Claudio Sanchez of Coheed and Cambria. But the SG is one instrument that refuses to be pigeonholed. Jeff Tweedy makes his SG weep; Carrie Brownstein makes hers snarl; and Derek Trucks — he can just about make his squeal. So, if you’re wondering if your style is “right” for an Epiphone SG, then don’t pay any mind — the SG is happy just to be an extension of your soul.
Is an SG Lighter Than a Les Paul?
If you’re comparing an SG to a ’50s-style solidbody Les Paul, then definitely — your SG could be several pounds lighter. Compared to a modern, weight-relieved Les Paul, however, the weight differences could be minimal.
Two things that will be noticeably different to Les Paul users are the SG’s thin slab body and slim neck that rest comfortably in the hands. Note that a little neck dive is part of the SG’s charm; it might even inspire you to sling low, sweet chariot.
Which Artists Play SG Guitars?
The SG family is home to a wealth of artist signatures — and was once even briefly associated with Les Paul himself (to his great distress). Other famous guitarists who’ve played Gibson and Epiphone SGs over the years include:
- Pete Townshend — the Who
- Brittany Howard — Alabama Shakes
- Thom Yorke — Radiohead
- Grace Bowers — Grace Bowers & the Hodge Podge
- Ian MacKaye — Fugazi
- Samantha Fish — Independent
- Dweezil Zappa — Zappa Plays Zappa (Check out the neck repair Sweetwater’s Guitar Workshop performed on Dweezil’s “Roxy” SG reissue!)
Looking for more examples of iconic SG users? See the complete list in our “15 Famous SG Players” breakdown.
Shopping for Your Next Epiphone SG? Start at Sweetwater.
Are you on the hunt for that rare or special SG? You’ve come to the right place. Sweetwater is legendary throughout the guitar community for our dedication to ensuring you get the instrument of your dreams, every time you order. It starts with our 55-point Inspection on all Epiphone SGs priced $399 and up, and it culminates in our fast, free shipping and restless post-sale support.
Not only that, but it’s safe to say you won’t find a larger group of SG devotees under one roof than right here at Sweetwater. Call us and let us know if you’re looking for personalized recommendations on your next Epiphone SG. Our Sales Engineers have owned, borrowed, or play tested just about every SG on our site, and we can tell you with confidence that today’s Epiphone SGs are worth a look.
