Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 vs Epiphone Slash "AFD" Signature Les (2026): Key Differences
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The epiphone les paul 100 e1 vs slash afd signature les comparison highlights two distinct entry-level options from Epiphone. Both instruments share a mahogany body and a classic Les Paul silhouette, offering you a familiar feel. The primary difference lies in their construction and hardware. The Les Paul-100 E1 features a maple top and rosewood fretboard, while the Slash AFD Signature uses a flame maple veneer and includes a gig bag. You need to weigh these material and accessory differences to find your match.
Key differences
| Aspect | Epiphone Les Paul-100 Vintage Sunburst | Epiphone Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II |
|---|---|---|
| Body Top | Maple top | AAA Flame Maple Veneer Top |
| Pickups | 700T Humbucker | Ceramic Plus Zebra-coil Humbucker |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood | not listed |
| Neck Material | not listed | Mahogany |
| Color | Vintage Sunburst | Appetite Amber |
| Included Accessories | not listed | Gig bag |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Epiphone Les Paul-100 Vintage Sunburst if
- You prefer a rosewood fretboard for its specific tone and feel
- You want a lighter instrument at 10 pounds
- You like the Vintage Sunburst finish
Choose Epiphone Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II if
- You want a gig bag included with your purchase
- You prefer the visual appeal of a flame maple veneer
- You want a mahogany neck construction
Verdict: Choose the Les Paul-100 E1 if you prioritize a lighter weight and a rosewood fretboard. Pick the Slash AFD Signature if you value the included gig bag and a mahogany neck. Both models deliver the core Les Paul experience, so your choice depends on your preference for materials and accessories.
Key Specs Compared Side by Side
Pickup Configuration
The Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 features 700T Humbucker pickups, designed to deliver a specific tonal character for rock and blues styles. In contrast, the Epiphone Slash "AFD" Signature Les Paul Special-II uses Ceramic Plus Zebra-coil Humbucker Pickups in both the neck and bridge positions. This zebra-coil design offers a distinct visual aesthetic alongside its electrical properties. You get different magnetic outputs and frequency responses depending on which model you choose. The 700T model aims for a classic high-output sound, while the Ceramic Plus pickups provide a unique flavor tailored to the signature series. This difference in hardware directly shapes your available tones.
Body Material
Both guitars share a mahogany body as their core construction material. This choice provides a solid, resonant foundation that is characteristic of the Les Paul style. The Les Paul-100 E1 lists mahogany as its primary body material. The Slash "AFD" Signature model also specifies a mahogany body but adds a AAA Flame Maple Veneer Top. This veneer adds a layer of visual appeal and slight tonal brightness compared to a plain top. For you, the core weight and sustain come from the mahogany in both instruments. The visual difference lies in the presence of the flame maple veneer on the Slash model versus the standard finish on the Les Paul-100.
Fretboard Material
The fretboard material affects the feel and tone of the instrument under your fingers. The Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 uses a rosewood fretboard, which is known for its warm tone and smooth playing surface. The data for the Epiphone Slash "AFD" Signature Les Paul Special-II does not explicitly list the fretboard material in the provided specifications. However, it does specify a mahogany neck material. Without explicit data on the fretboard for the Slash model, we cannot definitively compare the wood type. You should verify the fretboard material for the Slash model if this is a critical factor for your playing style.
Weight
Weight is a practical consideration for comfort during long playing sessions. The Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 weighs 10 pounds. The Epiphone Slash "AFD" Signature Les Paul Special-II weighs 10.9 pounds. This nearly one-pound difference may be noticeable for some players, especially when standing for extended periods. The Slash model is slightly heavier, which might contribute to a perception of increased sustain but could also lead to more fatigue. The Les Paul-100 E1 offers a marginally lighter profile. For many players, this difference is minimal, but those sensitive to instrument weight might prefer the lighter option.
Included Accessories
Accessories included with the guitar can add value and convenience right out of the box. The Epiphone Slash "AFD" Signature Les Paul Special-II comes with a gig bag included. This provides immediate protection and portability for your instrument. The data for the Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 does not mention the inclusion of a gig bag or any other accessories. This means you would need to purchase a case separately if you require one for transport. The Slash model offers a practical advantage for players who need a ready-to-go solution for carrying their guitar without additional purchases.
Scale Length
Scale length influences string tension and playability. The Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 has a scale length of 24.75 inches, which is standard for Les Paul-style guitars. This length provides a balance between tension and ease of bending. The data for the Epiphone Slash "AFD" Signature Les Paul Special-II does not explicitly list the scale length in the provided specifications. Assuming it follows the standard Les Paul design, it likely shares this dimension, but without explicit data, we cannot confirm. You should check the manufacturer details for the Slash model to ensure the scale length matches your preference for string tension.
Which one should you buy?
Players seeking classic Les Paul tone
The Les Paul-100 E1 uses 700T Humbucker pickups to deliver a focused, warm tone suitable for rock and blues. Its mahogany body with maple top adds brightness and sustain. You get a traditional 24.75-inch scale length and rosewood fretboard for a familiar playing feel that defines the classic Les Paul sound.
Slash fans wanting signature gear
This model features Ceramic Plus Zebra-coil Humbucker pickups, offering a distinct tonal character associated with Slash. It includes a mahogany neck and a AAA flame maple veneer top for visual appeal. The LockTone hardware ensures stable tuning. It comes with a gig bag, making it a complete package for fans of the AFD era.
Beginners prioritizing portability and weight
The Les Paul-100 E1 weighs 10 pounds, which is lighter than the Slash model. It measures 45 inches in length, offering a standard scale. The vintage sunburst finish is classic. Its lighter weight and standard dimensions make it easier to handle for longer practice sessions, reducing fatigue for new players starting their journey.
The products compared
Epiphone Les Paul-100 Vintage Sunburst
Best for: players wanting classic mahogany build
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 700T Humbucker
- Scale Length
- 24.75
- Dimensions
- 45 × 17 × 7 inches
- Weight
- 10 pounds
View on Amazon: Epiphone Les Paul-100 Vintage Sunburst Affiliate link
The Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 is a mahogany-bodied electric guitar with a maple top and rosewood fretboard. It features 700T humbucker pickups and a 24.75-inch scale length. This model weighs 10 pounds and measures 45 inches in length. It suits players seeking a classic Les Paul feel with standard hardware. The vintage sunburst finish adds a traditional aesthetic to the design.
Pros
- Mahogany body construction
- Maple top layer
- 700T humbucker pickups
- Rosewood fretboard
- 24.75-inch scale length
Cons
- Heavier at 10 pounds
- Standard 700T pickups only
- No gig bag included
Good fit if
- You want a traditional mahogany Les Paul body
- You prefer a rosewood fretboard
- You like the vintage sunburst finish
Skip if
- You need a lighter guitar for long sessions
- You require premium upgraded pickups
- You want a gig bag included
Verdict: Epiphone Les Paul-100 E1 Vintage Sunburst is a solid choice for players who value classic mahogany construction and rosewood fretboards. It fits those who prefer a heavier instrument with standard humbucker tones.
Epiphone Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II
Best for: Slash fans seeking traditional tone
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Body Type
- solid body
- Dimensions
- 44 × 18 × 8 inches
- Weight
- 10.9 pounds
View on Amazon: Epiphone Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II Affiliate link
This Epiphone Slash Signature Les Paul Special-II features a mahogany body with an AAA flame maple veneer top. It includes Ceramic Plus Zebra-coil humbuckers and a LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge. The guitar weighs 10.9 pounds and measures 44 inches in length. It comes with a gig bag. This model suits players seeking a Slash signature instrument with classic Les Paul construction.
Pros
- Mahogany body with AAA flame maple veneer
- Ceramic Plus Zebra-coil humbuckers
- LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge
- Includes gig bag
Cons
- Heavier build at 10.9 pounds
- Standard ceramic pickups rather than active electronics
- No locking tuners listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You want a Slash signature model
- You prefer traditional humbucker tone
- You need a gig bag included
Skip if
- You need ultra-lightweight gear
- You prefer active pickup systems
- You require locking tuners
Verdict: Epiphone Slash AFD Les Paul Special-II offers a classic Les Paul build with signature styling. It fits players who value traditional mahogany construction and humbucker tones.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Epiphone Les Paul-100 Vintage Sunburst | Epiphone Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II |
|---|---|---|
| Body Material | Mahogany | Mahogany |
| Neck Material | not stated | Mahogany |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood | not stated |
| Pickup Configuration | 700T Humbucker | not stated |
| Body Type | not stated | solid body |
| Scale Length | 24.75 | not stated |
| Dimensions | 45 × 17 × 7 inches | 44 × 18 × 8 inches |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 10.9 pounds |
| Size | 24.75 | not stated |
| Color | Vintage Sunburst | Appetite Amber |
| Model | ENB-VSCH1 | ENA2AANH3 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Epiphone Les Paul is heavier?
The Epiphone Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II is heavier. It weighs 10.9 pounds, compared to the 10 pounds of the Les Paul-100 E1. You might notice the extra mass during long playing sessions. The difference is less than a pound, but it adds to the instrument's solid feel.
What are the physical dimensions of each guitar?
The Les Paul-100 E1 measures 45 inches in length, 17 inches in width, and 7 inches in height. The Slash AFD model is slightly shorter at 44 inches long, with an 18-inch width and 8-inch height. These dimensions affect how the guitar sits on your lap and how you reach the upper frets.
Does the Slash AFD have a unique finish?
Yes, the Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II features an Appetite Amber finish. This specific colorway distinguishes it from the standard Vintage Sunburst found on the Les Paul-100 E1. The finish is part of the signature styling that appeals to fans of Slash's aesthetic and stage presence.
Which model is better for classic mahogany tone?
Both guitars offer classic mahogany construction, but the Les Paul-100 E1 is specifically noted for players who value this build. It provides a heavier instrument feel with standard humbucker tones. The Slash AFD also uses mahogany but is highlighted for its signature styling alongside traditional tone, making it a strong choice for fans.
How do the widths compare between the two models?
The Slash AFD Signature Les Paul Special-II is wider at 18 inches. The Les Paul-100 E1 is narrower, measuring 17 inches wide. This difference in width may influence how the body feels against your torso. You should consider which width provides the most comfortable playing position for your body type.
Is there a significant length difference between them?
There is a one-inch difference in length. The Les Paul-100 E1 is 45 inches long, while the Slash AFD model is 44 inches. This minor variation does not drastically change the scale length, which remains standard for Les Paul styles. It may slightly affect the overall balance and reach of the instrument.