Description
One pickup, zero worries! Epiphone Les Paul Junior with a no name P90, $199!
The Epiphone Les Paul Junior with a P-90 pickup installed offers a classic, stripped-down rock and roll experience, inspired by the original Gibson Les Paul Junior models of the 1950s. Known for its simplicity and powerful tone, the Les Paul Junior has become iconic in rock, punk, blues, and indie music. Adding a P-90 pickup brings out the characteristic punch and midrange warmth of single-coil pickups, providing a raw, expressive sound with plenty of bite and grit. This setup is ideal for players who want a straightforward, no-frills guitar with vintage tone.
Key Features
Single-cutaway Les Paul Junior-style body, offering comfortable access to upper frets
Mahogany body, delivering a warm, resonant tone with solid sustain
Bolt-on or set neck construction, depending on the model, providing durability and a smooth playing feel
Rosewood or laurel fingerboard with dot inlays, offering classic aesthetics and smooth playability
P-90 single-coil pickup in the bridge position, delivering punchy, articulate tones with midrange warmth
Master volume and tone controls for straightforward sound shaping
Wraparound bridge, providing stability and enhancing sustain
Available in vintage-inspired finishes, like Vintage Sunburst and Cherry, contributing to the classic aesthetic
Sound Profile
The Epiphone Les Paul Junior with a P-90 pickup delivers a bright, punchy tone that cuts through the mix while maintaining a warm, full-bodied low end. The P-90’s midrange presence gives the guitar a gritty, vocal-like quality, making it perfect for rock and punk where you want aggressive yet articulate tones. With the volume rolled back, the P-90 can produce a smoother, cleaner sound, while cranking it up delivers raw, overdriven power. The mahogany body contributes warmth and depth, balancing the P-90’s bright, edgy character.
Applications
This guitar is ideal for players seeking a straightforward, expressive instrument for rock, punk, blues, and alternative styles. The single P-90 pickup setup offers simplicity and tonal purity, making it well-suited for rhythm playing and gritty, expressive leads. The Les Paul Junior’s design and lightweight body make it comfortable for both live performances and studio use, providing enough tonal versatility to handle everything from cleans to gritty, high-gain sounds.
Build Quality and Aesthetic
Epiphone’s Les Paul Junior models are well-constructed, with durable hardware and solid wood choices. The classic single-cutaway design and vintage finishes give the guitar a timeless look, while the wraparound bridge ensures tuning stability and resonance. The P-90 pickup’s design and open coil add to the guitar’s vintage appeal, making it both a functional and stylish instrument.
Country of Manufacture
Typically China (Epiphone’s modern entry-level models are often made in China or other Asian countries)
Collectibility and Market Value
The Epiphone Les Paul Junior with a P-90 pickup is a popular, accessible option for players seeking the vintage vibe of a Les Paul Junior without the cost of a vintage Gibson model. While not considered a collectible, it holds strong value as a gigging and recording instrument due to its simplicity and iconic tone. The P-90 upgrade is especially valued among players who appreciate the classic single-coil sound for rock, punk, and blues.