Epiphone Elite J-45 MIJ w/OHSC

Here is a cool find that you don't see every day! The Epiphone Elite models  are something of a little known secret - made in Japan with quality rivaling their Gibson counterparts. This particular model was made in the much renowned Terada factory ca. 2003,  which makes it a bit rare, as the model saw some changes in '04 when Epiphone was forced by Ovation to change the model name to "Elitist". This example is quite a fine playing and sounding guitar, and so far has been a favorite here in the store!

This one has seen some use, and there is "worming" aka. buckle rash throughout the back - while not super noticeable, is visible under direct lighting. There are various dings/scuffs/imperfections throughout, but overall gives the guitar a nice, well loved vibe - with nothing hideous or unusual for a 20+ year old guitar. There is some fretwear throughout, with some divoting in the commonly played areas, however it doesn't choke or fret out anywhere on the neck. The finish looks to have checked a bit around the heel as it's moved/settled over the years. Structurally the guitar is solid, and the neck angle is good - yielding nice, low string height. 

This example truly is a joy to play and hear, with a rich low end and nice definition. It really blows the last couple of recent Gibson J-45s that we've seen out of the water! 

Includes original "Elite" case with purple interior - a bit of a rare find on it's own!