Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
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The Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard delivers a heavy, mahogany-bodied SG with BurstBucker pickups. This model fits players who want traditional SG tone without the weight of a Gibson Custom. It features a SlimTaper C-shaped neck and weighs 17 pounds. You might look for epiphone les paul sg alternatives if you need a different spec, size, feature, or brand. Some players prefer lighter instruments or distinct pickup configurations. Others may seek locking hardware or semi-hollow construction for specific tonal needs.
The alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. The list includes options like the ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature for metal players needing locking hardware. The Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose offers HSS versatility and stable tuning. Each guitar on this list of 6 similar picks compared addresses a specific requirement that the standard SG may not meet. You can compare body materials, weight, and pickup types to find the right fit. This guide focuses on published specifications to help you make an informed decision based on your playing style and physical preferences.
How these alternatives compare
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White shifts from the SG double-cutaway design to a solid Les Paul body. It weighs 19.4 pounds, which is 2.4 pounds heavier than the 17-pound SG Standard. The width is slightly narrower at 15.8 inches compared to 16 inches on the SG. You get a classic Les Paul silhouette and tone rather than the open SG resonance. This model suits players who prefer traditional Les Paul aesthetics and deeper, thicker tones over the lighter, brighter character of the SG. It includes a case for protection.
ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte Black Satin
The ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte is built for metal players needing locking hardware and active pickups. It weighs 25 pounds, significantly heavier than the 17-pound SG Standard. The width is 23 inches, and the length is 53 inches, making it a larger instrument. The scale size is 24.75 inches. This guitar prioritizes sustain and stability over weight savings. It fits guitarists who need a heavy, set-neck instrument for high-gain tones. The black satin finish offers a dark look. You give up the traditional mahogany SG tone for a specialized metal setup with locking tuners and active electronics.
Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose
The Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose offers HSS versatility and a stable tremolo system. It weighs 13.9 pounds, which is 3.1 pounds lighter than the SG Standard. The width is 15.3 inches, and the height is 4.7 inches, providing a slimmer profile. The length is 42.1 inches. This model suits players seeking tonal range and immediate accessory inclusion. You get a comfortable neck and three pickup configuration instead of two humbuckers. The Floyd Rose bridge allows for extreme pitch bending. It fits those who value lightweight comfort and diverse tonal options over traditional rock tones.
ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin
The ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin features an Evertune bridge for exceptional tuning stability. It weighs 12 pounds, which is 5 pounds lighter than the SG Standard. The width is 16 inches, matching the SG. The height is 6 inches, and the length is 44 inches. This guitar suits players who want a heavy, stable instrument with active pickups and a dark look. You prioritize build materials and tuning stability over weight savings. The black finish offers a sleek appearance. It fits those who need reliable performance for live playing without retuning. The active pickups provide high output for modern tones.
Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case
The Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red is a semi-hollow body guitar, differing from the solid SG Standard. It weighs 19.7 inches wide and 47.2 inches long, making it larger than the SG. The height is 6.3 inches. This model suits classic semi-hollow players who value traditional construction. You get a hollow body for warmer, acoustic-like tones instead of the solid mahogany resonance. It includes a hard case for protection. The instrument fits those who want a reliable, classic-looking guitar without extra electronics. The semi-hollow design offers unique tonal characteristics distinct from the SG's punchy output.
ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo
The ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo offers unique piezo blending for versatile tone options. It weighs 10 pounds, which is 7 pounds lighter than the SG Standard. The width is 5 inches, and the height is 17 inches, with a length of 45 inches. This model suits players needing both electric and acoustic sounds without switching guitars. You get piezo pickups for blended tones instead of standard humbuckers. The See Thru Black finish provides a unique look. It fits those who value tonal versatility and lightweight comfort. The piezo system allows for acoustic-like sounds alongside traditional electric tones.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard
Best for: Traditional SG tone and mahogany resonance
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Pickup Configuration
- Gibson BurstBucker humbucking pickups
- Dimensions
- 43.9 × 16 × 6.14 inches
- Weight
- 17 pounds
View on Amazon: Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard Affiliate link
This Epiphone SG features a two-piece solid mahogany body and mahogany neck for a resonant tone. It uses Gibson BurstBucker humbucking pickups wired to CTS potentiometers for clear signal transmission. The slim taper neck profile aids playability. It weighs 17 pounds and measures 43.9 inches long. This model suits players seeking classic SG aesthetics with reliable hardware components.
Pros
- Two-piece solid mahogany body construction
- Gibson BurstBucker humbucking pickups
- CTS potentiometers for signal control
- SlimTaper C-shaped neck profile
Cons
- Heavier at 17 pounds compared to standard SGs
- No piezo or active electronics listed
- Standard fixed bridge rather than locking tremolo
Good fit if
- You prefer the classic SG double-cutaway shape
- You want Gibson BurstBucker pickups in an Epiphone model
- You value mahogany body resonance
Skip if
- You need a lighter instrument under 8 pounds
- You require a Floyd Rose tremolo system
- You prefer a Stratocaster HSS configuration
Verdict: Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard delivers a heavy, mahogany-bodied SG with BurstBucker pickups. It fits players who want traditional SG tone without the weight of a Gibson Custom.
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White
Best for: Players wanting classic Les Paul tone and style
- Pickup Configuration
- Gibson 490/498 Humbucker set
- Dimensions
- 43.8 × 15.8 × 5.91 inches
- Weight
- 19.4 pounds
View on Amazon: Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White Affiliate link
This Epiphone Les Paul Custom features a two-piece maple top over a solid mahogany body. It includes a Gibson 490/498 Humbucker set for tone and a long neck tenon for sustain. The Alpine White finish comes with a case. It suits players seeking a classic Les Paul look and feel without the premium price tag of the Gibson counterpart.
Pros
- Gibson 490/498 Humbucker pickup set
- Two-piece maple top over mahogany body
- Long neck tenon for sustain
- Includes hard case
Cons
- Heavier build at 19.4 pounds
- Limited to two color options
- Standard single-cutaway shape limits upper fret access
Good fit if
- You want a Les Paul Custom aesthetic
- You prefer the warmth of Gibson humbuckers
- You need a guitar with a case included
Skip if
- You need a lighter instrument for long gigs
- You prefer modern thin neck profiles
- You want more than two color choices
Verdict: Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White offers classic specs and a case for players who value traditional tone and style over lightweight comfort.
ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte Black Satin
Best for: Metal players needing locking hardware
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Three-piece mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Number of Frets
- 22
- Scale Length
- 24.75"
- Dimensions
- 53 × 23 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte Black Satin Affiliate link
The ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte is a set-neck electric guitar with a mahogany body and a three-piece mahogany neck. It features a 24.75-inch scale length and an ebony fingerboard with 22 extra-jumbo frets. The instrument includes EMG JH Set active pickups and a TonePros locking bridge. It weighs 25 pounds. This model suits players seeking a heavy, stable instrument with high-output electronics for metal rhythms.
Pros
- Set-neck mahogany construction for sustained tone
- 24.75-inch scale length with ebony fingerboard
- EMG JH Set active pickups
- TonePros locking bridge and tailpiece
Cons
- Heavier build at 25 pounds
- Active pickups require battery power
- Limited to 22 frets
Good fit if
- You want a set-neck guitar with high-output pickups
- You prefer a heavier instrument for stability
- You play metal rhythms requiring locking hardware
Skip if
- You need a lightweight guitar under 20 pounds
- You prefer passive pickups
- You want a floating tremolo system
Verdict: The ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte is a heavy, set-neck guitar built for players who need locking hardware and active pickups. It fits guitarists who prioritize sustain and stability over weight savings.
Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose
Best for: players needing HSS versatility and stable tremolo
- Neck Material
- Modern "C" neck (not specified)
- Fretboard Material
- 12" radius fingerboard (not specified)
- Pickup Configuration
- HSS
- Dimensions
- 42.1 × 15.3 × 4.7 inches
- Weight
- 13.9 pounds
View on Amazon: Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose Affiliate link
This Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster features an HSS pickup configuration with a bridge humbucker and noiseless single-coils. It includes a Floyd Rose Special tremolo for pitch changes and a coil-split control for tonal variety. The Modern C neck with rolled edges aids playability. It suits players needing versatile tones and stable tuning. The bundle includes a gig bag, strap, and cable for immediate use.
Pros
- HSS pickup configuration with a bridge humbucker
- Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo system
- Coil-split tone control for single-coil sounds
- Modern C neck with rolled edges for comfort
- Bundle includes gig bag, strap, and cable
Cons
- Heavier build at 13.9 pounds
- Floyd Rose requires setup for dive bombs
- Fingerboard material not specified in data
Good fit if
- You want HSS versatility with a humbucker
- You need a stable tremolo for pitch changes
- You prefer a comfortable neck profile
Skip if
- You prefer traditional tremolo systems
- You want a lighter instrument under 10 pounds
- You need a maple fingerboard specified
Verdict: Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose delivers HSS versatility and stable tuning for players seeking tonal range. It fits those who value a comfortable neck and immediate accessory inclusion.
ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin
Best for: Black finish lovers
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Neck Material
- mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 active humbucking pickups
- Body Type
- solidbody
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin Affiliate link
This solidbody electric guitar features a mahogany body with a maple top and a mahogany neck. It uses an ebony fingerboard and two active humbucking pickups. The black satin finish matches the badge theme. Weighing 12 pounds, it offers a stable build for players seeking reliable tuning stability and a dark aesthetic.
Pros
- Mahogany body with maple top for tone
- Ebony fingerboard for smooth playability
- Two active humbucking pickups
- Black satin finish
Cons
- Heavier at 12 pounds
- Active pickups require battery power
- Limited to two pickups
Good fit if
- You want a black electric guitar
- You prefer active humbucking pickups
- You value a mahogany and ebony build
Skip if
- You need passive pickups
- You prefer lighter instruments under 10 pounds
- You want a maple fingerboard
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune BB Black suits players who want a heavy, stable instrument with active pickups and a dark look. It fits those who prioritize build materials and tuning stability over weight.
Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case
Best for: Classic semi-hollow players
- Dimensions
- 47.2 × 19.7 × 6.3 inches
View on Amazon: Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case Affiliate link
This Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1959 ES-355 is a full-size semi-hollow electric guitar in Cherry Red. It measures 47.2 inches in length, 19.7 inches in width, and 6.3 inches in height. Key features include gold-plated lightweight aluminum Stop bar tailpiece and a Long Neck Tenon for stability. Multi-ply binding adds visual detail. It comes with a hardshell case. This model suits players seeking classic ES-355 styling and reliable construction.
Pros
- Gold-plated lightweight aluminum Stop bar tailpiece
- Long Neck Tenon for structural stability
- Multi-ply binding on body
- Includes a hardshell case
Cons
- Full-size body may be bulky for smaller players
- Semi-hollow design may feedback at high volumes
- No piezo or active electronics listed
Good fit if
- You want a classic semi-hollow electric guitar
- You prefer a Cherry Red finish
- You need a hardshell case included
Skip if
- You need a solid-body guitar for high gain
- You prefer a smaller, lighter instrument
- You require active electronics or piezo output
Verdict: Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red is a solid choice for players who value traditional semi-hollow construction and included protection. It fits those who want a reliable, classic-looking instrument without extra electronics.
ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo
Best for: Players needing blended electric and acoustic tones
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- ebony
- Dimensions
- 45 × 5 × 17 inches
- Weight
- 10 pounds
View on Amazon: ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo Affiliate link
This ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo features a mahogany body and ebony fretboard for a solid, resonant feel. The Fishman Powerbridge system lets you blend magnetic humbuckers with piezo signals, giving you acoustic-like tones alongside standard electric sound. Weighing 10 pounds, it is a substantial instrument. The quilt maple top adds visual appeal. It suits players seeking versatility in a single guitar.
Pros
- Fishman Powerbridge piezo system for blended tones
- Mahogany body construction
- Ebony fretboard
- Quilt maple top
Cons
- Heavier at 10 pounds
- Only two humbucking pickups
- Piezo system requires external preamp or mixer
Good fit if
- You want acoustic and electric tones in one guitar
- You prefer mahogany and ebony wood combinations
- You need a versatile instrument for studio work
Skip if
- You prefer lighter instruments under 9 pounds
- You only use magnetic pickups without piezo
- You want a simpler two-knob control layout
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000 Piezo offers unique piezo blending for versatile tone options. It fits players who need both electric and acoustic sounds without switching guitars.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard | Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White | ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte Black Satin | Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose | ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin | Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case | ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Material | Mahogany | not stated | Mahogany | not stated | mahogany | not stated | mahogany |
| Neck Material | Mahogany | not stated | Three-piece mahogany | Modern "C" neck (not specified) | mahogany | not stated | not stated |
| Fretboard Material | not stated | not stated | Ebony | 12" radius fingerboard (not specified) | ebony | not stated | ebony |
| Pickup Configuration | Gibson BurstBucker humbucking pickups | Gibson 490/498 Humbucker set | not stated | not stated | 2 active humbucking pickups | not stated | not stated |
| Body Type | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | solidbody | not stated | not stated |
| Number of Frets | not stated | not stated | 22 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Scale Length | not stated | not stated | 24.75" | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Color | Aged Sixties Cherry | Alpine White | Black Satin | 3-Color Sunburst | Black | Cherry Red | See Thru Black |
| Dimensions | 43.9 × 16 × 6.14 inches | 43.8 × 15.8 × 5.91 inches | 53 × 23 × 6 inches | 42.1 × 15.3 × 4.7 inches | 44 × 16 × 6 inches | 47.2 × 19.7 × 6.3 inches | 45 × 5 × 17 inches |
| Weight | 17 pounds | 19.4 pounds | 25 pounds | 13.9 pounds | 12 pounds | not stated | 10 pounds |
| Size | 22, Medium Jumbo | not stated | 24.75 inches | 42.1x15.3x4.7 inches | not stated | Full Size | Piezo |
| Model | EIGC61SGACHNH1 | ECLPCAWGH1 | LSNAKEBYTEBLKS | 147440300 | LEC1000ETBBBLKS | EC35559CHVGH | LEC1000PIEZOQMSTBLK |
Frequently asked questions
Which Epiphone SG alternative is best for traditional tone?
The Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard is the top choice for traditional tone. It features a mahogany body and BurstBucker pickups. This combination delivers the heavy resonance associated with classic SG designs. The model weighs 17 pounds and measures 43.9 inches in length. It fits players who prioritize authentic sound over lightweight comfort.
Is there a lighter alternative to the heavy SG Standard?
The Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose is significantly lighter at 13.9 pounds. It offers HSS pickup configuration for tonal versatility. The guitar includes a Floyd Rose tremolo for stable tuning during aggressive playing. It measures 42.1 inches in length and features a 3-Color Sunburst finish. This model suits players seeking comfort and range.
What option provides locking hardware for metal playing?
The ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte is built for metal players needing locking hardware. It features active pickups and a set-neck design for maximum sustain. The guitar is heavy at 25 pounds and measures 53 inches in length. It comes in Black Satin and prioritizes stability over weight savings. This model fits those who need precise tuning retention.
Can I get a semi-hollow alternative with a case?
The Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red is a solid semi-hollow choice that includes a hard case. It measures 47.2 inches in length and 19.7 inches in width. This model suits players who value traditional construction and included protection. It offers a classic look without extra electronics. You get reliable performance and classic styling in one package.
Which guitar blends electric and acoustic tones?
The ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo offers unique piezo blending for versatile tone options. It allows you to mix electric and acoustic sounds without switching guitars. The instrument measures 45 inches in length and weighs 10 pounds. It features a See Thru Black finish. This model fits players who need diverse sonic capabilities in a single instrument.
Is there a stable option with a black finish?
The ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin suits players wanting a heavy, stable instrument. It features active pickups and an Evertune bridge for tuning stability. The guitar weighs 12 pounds and measures 44 inches in length. It comes in a dark black finish. This model prioritizes build materials and consistent tuning over weight reduction.