Epiphone Casino

Why Play an Epiphone Casino?

The Casino’s fully hollow laminated maple body gives it a warm, open tone that breathes with your playing—perfect for everything from punchy pop chords to bluesy licks and psychedelic riffing. Unlike many semi-hollow guitars, the Casino has no center block, which gives it more acoustic resonance and a lively, raw feel. Its P-90 pickups are the heart of the sound—bright and gritty when you dig in, but smooth and mellow when you ease off. That tonal flexibility has made it a go-to hollowbody electric guitar for artists like Keith Richards, The Edge and Gary Clark Jr. Whether you’re chasing ’60s sparkle or lo-fi garage attitude, the Epiphone Casino delivers unmistakable character.

Key Recognizable Epiphone Casino Features

• Fully Hollow Body: Lightweight, resonant and responsive
• Laminated Maple Top, Back and Sides: Bright tone with warm undertones
• Dogear P-90 Pickups: Classic chime and gritty bite
• SlimTaper Neck: Fast and comfortable feel
• Trapeze Tailpiece: Vintage look and smooth sustain
• No Center Block: A true hollowbody electric guitar with a wide-open, airy tone
• 24.75" Scale Length: Easier bends and smooth playability
• Used by Legends: John Lennon, George Harrison, Keith Richards
• Iconic Recordings: “Revolution,” “Paperback Writer,” “Don’t Let Me Down”

What are the pros and cons of the Epiphone Casino?

• Pros: Extremely lightweight and resonant feel; authentic hollowbody guitar tone with tons of personality; P-90s cut through the mix with clarity and growl; great for rock, blues, indie and retro tones
• Cons: Fully hollow design is more prone to feedback at high gain; no center block means less sustain than a semi-hollow; not ideal for heavy metal or ultra-clean modern tones

Which artists made the Epiphone Casino famous?

The Epiphone Casino became iconic thanks to The Beatles—John Lennon stripped the finish off his and played it on stage and in the studio throughout the band’s later years. George Harrison and Paul McCartney also used Casinos on classic tracks. Outside the Fab Four, players like Keith Richards (Rolling Stones), Paul Weller (The Jam) and more recently, Gary Clark Jr., have embraced its distinctive tone.

Is the Epiphone Casino good for beginners?

Yes, especially for those who value comfort and tone. Its slim neck and lightweight hollowbody design make it easy to play for long sessions. Plus, the Casino’s signature voice can be inspiring for players just getting into blues, classic rock or indie styles. Just be mindful of potential feedback at high volumes.

What makes the Epiphone Casino different from other hollow or semi-hollow guitars?

Unlike semi-hollows with a center block, the Casino is a true hollowbody guitar, which gives it a more open, airy sound. Its P-90 pickups provide a unique tonal profile—brighter and more raw than humbuckers, but with more bite than traditional single coils. It’s a true blend of electric and acoustic character, wrapped in one of the most storied designs in rock history.