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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

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1 Reviews

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Reviewed by 1 customers

  • Epiphone Banner J45... good guitar, not incredible.

    4

    Verified BuyerVerified Buyer

    submitteda year ago

    byPatrick

    fromSacramento CA

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Professional player, own multiple acoustics many in this price range. Been playing for over 40 years. I love the look and the feel of the guitar. Great neck and playability is fantastic. I also own the Inspired by Gibson Epiphone J45 that I have been playing on a regular basis for the last few years. Between the 2 versions, the Inspired by Gibson J45 seems more robust in the projection and overall tone. The Banner version is a little weaker in projection, but sounds better plugged in. I attribut the difference to the better LR Bagg VXT pickup in the Banner version versus the very inexpensive Fishman basic pickup in the Inspired version. I love the LR Baggs PU and will probably buy one to put in the Inspired version. The finish on the Banner is good, very flat finish which makes for the old look but there are some finish inconsistencies in that finish.

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collapse expand iconQ&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

  • submitted9 months ago

    asked byDennis

    fromMemphis, Tn

    Does it come already set up?

    Does it come already set up?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    Yes, it does.

  • submitteda year ago

    asked byRick

    fromWashington, Illinois

    Can these be special ordered in a different color?

    Can these be special ordered in a different color?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    Unfortunately, no.

  • submitteda year ago

    asked byjoe

    fromundisclosed

    does it come with a case

    does it come with a case

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    Yes. "Case: Hardshell case"

  • submitteda year ago

    asked byPope

    fromAsheville, NC

    Where is the battery compartment located on this guitar. What is the warranty period?

    Where is the battery compartment located on this guitar. What is the warranty period?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    It's in the sound hole. This has a lifetime warranty.