You probably know the feeling: sometimes there are guitars that just won’t let you go. They have a certain charm, an aura that sets them apart from other instruments. Today we would like to draw your attention to two very special models: the Epiphone 150th Anniversary Crestwood Custom and the Epiphone Wilshire. Both models are replicas of historical models and offer a unique combination of nostalgic charm and state-of-the-art technology. They also come with a case – practical for anyone who likes travelling with their guitar.
Technical details
Let’s start with the hard facts. Here are the most important technical details of the two models in tabular form:
| Epiphone 150th Anniversary Crestwood Custom | Epiphone Wilshire | |
| Type | solidbody | solidbody |
| Shape | Double-Cut | Double-Cut |
| Body | mahogany | mahogany |
| Neck | mahogany | mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Frets | 22 | 22 |
| Pickups | 2x Pro Mini Humbucker | 2x Epiphone P90PRO |
| Electronics | 2x Volume, 2x Tone, 3-way switch | 2x Volume, 2x Tone, 3-way switch |
| Colour | Polaris White or Cherry | Cherry |
| The price | Varies depending on model and version | Varies depending on model and version |
Construction and materials
Both models are designed as solid-body guitars with a double-cut shape. This combination enables optimum playability in the upper registers and ensures a warm, powerful tone. The mahogany bodies and necks promise a rich, warm and defined sound. The rosewood fingerboard with 22 frets rounds off the sound and offers excellent playability.
The pickups used are particularly noteworthy: the Crestwood Custom uses two Pro Mini Humbuckers, while the Wilshire is fitted with two Epiphone P90PROs. Both pickup types are known for their warm and versatile sound.
Design and appearance
The visual design of both models pays homage to the historical models. The Crestwood Custom scores with a Polaris White or Cherry finish, which contrasts beautifully with the black pickguard and chrome hardware. The shape of the body is reminiscent of the Crestwood models of the 60s and gives the guitar its nostalgic charm.
Thanks to its cherry finish and black pickguard, the Wilshire has an even more traditional look, but this is by no means meant to be derogatory. The design reflects the spirit of the 60s and conveys the feeling of holding a piece of contemporary history in your hands.
Mini humbucker
The mini humbuckers of the Crestwood Custom are the icing on the cake of this model. They are known for their clear, bright sound and are characterised by a good response. They particularly shine in clean and slightly distorted settings and also harmonise perfectly with the warm, full sound of the mahogany body. The mini-humbuckers give you a multi-faceted spectrum of expression and give you all the freedom you need to find your own individual tone.
Playability
One word that applies to both models is “fun to play”. The ergonomic shape of the bodies and the well thought-out positioning of the frets ensure a pleasant playing feel in all positions. In addition, the fluid neck with its 22 frets offers enough space for any kind of music.
Clean sounds
There is only one thing to say here: Wow! The purity and clarity, the balancing act between bite and warmth, is impressive. Whether crunchy rhythm sounds or singing solos – the guitars prove their class in every setting. Using the tone blend switch function to switch from the darker neck to the brighter bridge pickups gives you an additional sound palette to choose from.
Overdrive and fuzz sounds
The two guitars also score points here. The overdrive sound offers enough crunch for powerful riffs and creamy solos, while the fuzz adds an extra dimension. From gentle overdrive to powerful fuzz, the Crestwood Custom delivers an impressive dynamic range. The Wilshire, on the other hand, produces a rich, rocking overdrive, and with a little fuzz, the sounds become incredibly dense and powerful.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for historical icons, timeless beauties or just great sounding and playing guitars, you’ll find what you’re looking for with both models. Although they are based on historical models, they are more than just retro copies. They are modern, versatile instruments with their very own personality. Their sovereignty in every genre and their excellent playability make them a pleasure to play. They combine nostalgia with modern requirements and stand out from the crowd of “high-flyers” as winners. A pleasure for the eyes, ears and hands – a worthy continuation of a long tradition in a new guise.