Epiphone

collapse expand iconDescription

The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1942 Banner J-45 acoustic-electric brings you a legendary instrument with contemporary additions. Based on Gibson’s original 1942 J-45 “Workhorse,” this dreadnought boasts the same round-shoulder shape and tonewood combination that defined the model. For over 80 years, the J-45 has been one of the most prized and played acoustic guitars in history, and this Inspired by Gibson Custom Epiphone is a fitting homage to an iconic instrument today’s players can appreciate.

Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 Body Shape

Timeless Shape and Construction

With its rounded shoulders and recognizable dreadnought body, the J-45 has endured for decades thanks to its versatile and balanced tone. The effortlessly recordable J-45 has seen more studio time than nearly any other acoustic guitar, noted for its natural, controlled voice that translates beautifully to tape or DAWs. On stage, the J-45 has just enough midrange bite to find its place in a band, but it’s tastefully mellow in the hands of a singer-songwriter, allowing intimate vocals to shine. The Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 lets you experience firsthand what a magical and cooperative instrument this can be.

Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 Tonewoods

Solid Tonewoods Get Better With Age

A thermally treated solid red spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and mahogany neck provide exceptional tones that resonate and bloom. Red spruce tops are prized for their articulate highs and robust mid-range, while mahogany backs and sides produce warm, balanced lows. These all-solid woods mature over time, opening up the tone even more, and letting the guitar gracefully age while taking on a new sonic character. The Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 earns a permanent place in your collection, offering years of musical companionship and creative spark.

Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 Neck

Vintage-Inspired Details

From the mother-of-pearl dot inlays to the banner logo on the headstock, every detail of the 1942 J-45 is faithful to its namesake model. The “open book” headstock shape is a Gibson hallmark, while the laurel fingerboard and bone nut provide a smooth playing feel. Its V-shape neck profile is comfortably playable for all styles, equally ergonomic for open and barre chords, as well as melodic leads. Nickel hardware, including vintage-style tuners, completes the retro aesthetic.

Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 Electronics

Modern Electronics for Stage and Studio

While the 1942 Banner J-45 nails the vintage vibe, it also features cutting-edge electronics for amplified performance. The L.R. Baggs VTC pickup system includes an undersaddle pickup and preamp with volume and tone controls just inside the soundhole. Plug in and you’ll get a natural acoustic sound for both live shows and recording. Plus, the controls are discreet and unobtrusive, so the timeless J-45 style remains untarnished.

Whether you’re drawn to its history, tonewoods or electronics, the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1942 Banner J-45 delivers an exceptional acoustic-electric experience. This guitar seamlessly blends musical heritage with choice modern enhancements, and serious players will appreciate such an iconic, finely crafted instrument at an accessible price.

collapse expand iconFeatures

  • Thermally aged solid red spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides
  • One-piece mahogany neck with laurel fingerboard, V-shaped profile
  • Built-in L.R. Baggs VTC preamp and under-saddle piezo pickup system
  • Gibson open book headstock with Inspired by Gibson Custom double diamond logo

collapse expand iconSpecs

Body
  • Body type: J-45
  • Top wood: Solid spruce
  • Back & sides: Solid mahogany
  • Body finish: Gloss
Neck
  • Neck shape: V
  • Nut width: 1.73" (44 mm)
  • Neck wood: 1-piece mahogany
Fingerboard
  • Material: Laurel
  • Scale length: 24.75"
  • Number of frets: 19
  • Inlay: Mother-of-pearl dot
Electronics
  • Pickup: L.R. Baggs VTC
  • Controls: Soundhole-mounted volume and tone
  • Tuner: No
Hardware
  • Bridge: Laurel
  • Tuning machines: Open-back with cream buttons
  • Plating: nickel
Other
  • Orientation: Right Handed
  • Number of strings: 6
  • Case: Hardshell case
  • Country of origin: China