evilGuitar: 
I've certainly seen and heard lots of Epiphones which were questionable, but lately some of the better ones are quite good bang for the buck, and worth considering.
I rarely even try the cheap guitars I find in the shops, but last year I actually purchased a finish flawed (and thus price reduced) Epiphone Dot Studio. You know, faded cherry finish, 335 design without fingerboard dots, single volume and tone, 3 way pu switch. The tuners were complete and utter crap, and I knew that at the point of purchase, so I replaced them with Gotoh 510s. Added strap lock buttons too. But it's a damn good 335 at an entry level price. Eventually a pickup upgrade will be considered as the stock ones area a bit bland, but they're serviceable for now.
Not my first call axe, but a worthy addition to the fold.
Peace, Mooh.
I rarely even try the cheap guitars I find in the shops, but last year I actually purchased a finish flawed (and thus price reduced) Epiphone Dot Studio. You know, faded cherry finish, 335 design without fingerboard dots, single volume and tone, 3 way pu switch. The tuners were complete and utter crap, and I knew that at the point of purchase, so I replaced them with Gotoh 510s. Added strap lock buttons too. But it's a damn good 335 at an entry level price. Eventually a pickup upgrade will be considered as the stock ones area a bit bland, but they're serviceable for now.
Not my first call axe, but a worthy addition to the fold.
Peace, Mooh.
