Great review, ty! I have tried 3 Hummingbirds and finally kept the 3rd. It is amazing. Ive tried a couple of the IBG J45s but the necks were just a bit wider and uncomfortable for me. I also bought an IBG J200, the neck is perfect for me. Unplugged it is a bit muddy but plugged in it is great! I am also a Gibson and USA Guild girl, I have 2 of each. The IBGs are my new favorites!
Hi Kim, thank you so much for the kind words, ma’am. The Hummingbird is certainly the cream of that crop, which you seem to be on board with as well. Yes’m, the 45 is a bit like the Gibson 50’s J-45 neck. I completely understand that those necks are not for everyone. I did a comparison video between those 2 45’s not long ago. Both have a really killer tone, but they couldn’t be more different, tonally. I hope we stay in touch 👍🏻 I did a quick listen to your channel and my jaw dropped. What a great voice you have. Would you mind if I featured one of your videos? If you check out my channel, you’ll see that I do that from time to time for other RU-vidrs, so I can send my subscribers their way. I’d love to do the same for you, ma’am.
@@randysrhythm ty so much for the compliment!! You are a great player, I was working on a new fingerpicking tune tonight inspired by your playing! You are welcome to use anything you like, please and thank you!
@@kimrileymusic Hi Kim, I plan to do the feature video this week. Could you do me a favor? If you would go into YT Studio and edit your uploads, you can select, “Not made for kids”, it will then allow folks to comment on your videos. As it stands, you only have a few videos that allow comments. That one selection will really mean a lot to folks that want to support your channel. If you have any issues, just email me at: asmallstone1977@gmail.com and I’ll walk you through it 👍🏻
Hi Kim, I’m a bit late with this comment, so hope it makes it to you, but try Elixir 80/20s on the J200, I found they really improved clarity over daddario PB 12s which were my goto set before I tried the Elixirs.
Both are Great Guitars!! That Hummingbird is beautiful sounding!! I played both and had a very hard time deciding, But the J-45 just had that thing I Love!!!!
Hi Ms J-Lyn, yes’m, the mids/dark boom of the 45 is special for sure. It is always a pleasure to have such a talented lady, like your good self, come see us, ma’am 👍🏻
That’s about the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. Thank you so much for the encouragement. You may have to make a few tweaks when you get it, but you’ll be blown away by the sound. Looking forward to hearing more from you and thanks again!
Just picked up the IBG Hummingbird and you are 100% correct! I'm amazed that Gibson is allowing this to happen. I will be adding the J-45 ASAP. Just found your channel. Love it. Keep up the good work sir!
Hi Brenden, it’s great to have you on the channel. I was playing my Hummingbird yesterday and thought, I’ll never top this! I really appreciate the kind words and the time you spent watching and commenting. It means a great deal, brother man 👍🏻
Hi Gavin, they have been a refreshing highlight, for sure! It’s impossible not to talk about it. Thanks for sharing your experience and for the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
I want to thank you for being true to your character for being forthright and honest with the information. I think in this case it's purely subjective. I like the hummingbird for the strumming but was drawn to the J-45 with the finger style. Purely subjective 😊. Thanks for the comparison 👍
Hi Bruce, yes sir, you’re welcome. I agree about the fingerstyle on the 45. It has a deep, woody tone when played that I just love. I’m really pleased that you liked the video, brother man, not to mention the fact that you own some real gems 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Yes my Dear friend Randy!! Dad and Mom manage my YT!! But I'm with them watching videos that appreciate for my Age just like this musical presentation of yours!! I really like music and I'm starting learn guitar and piano also!! Love and respect Kyle!! 😊🥁🇵🇭
Every time I watch your videos, I feel like the guitar I previously bought is not good enough, Masterbilt Texan, then an IBG Hummingbird, and I wind up buying another guitar, the one you are comparing. Good job @Randy's Rhythm: My wife has declared you public enemy number 1.
PS: Maybe I am just not great at tone, but I actually prefer the sound of the Hummingbird over the J45. I'd order the J45, but like you, I am partial to my Hummingbird (as well as my Texan lol). PS: Nice playing @Randy's Rhythm.
I had to pin the remark about me being declared public enemy #1 😂. Tell your wife I said thank you!! That’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said about me. As always, David, I really appreciate your insights and honesty, brother man 👍🏻 I haven’t been over in a while due to travel. I’m going to play catch up tonight, brother man 👍🏻
what would the world beeeeee without randy ??? We even can count on you that you try to make everything possible for your listeners and fans here, even by getting a guitar on review for a listener of your fanbase and even make him a whole video for his decision!!! that is outstanding to even consider this work for one person and make the most of it and also let all the others know about this video so it helps maybe a nother person as well. Thank you for doing all this for us randy !!!! you are youtubes Sweetheart !!!!
Ms Julie, you are way too kind, ma’am. You’d do the same thing! It really makes me smile when I see you have taken the time to comment. You’re a dear and very much appreciated 👍🏻
Hey Randy....I just picked up a IBG Hummingbird off ebay for $189. It has some damage to the lower bout by the binding and it's dehydrated.....but with some patience and a bit of glue and poly work, I think I'll have a winner.
Nice video. Thank you Randy. Just want to share that I had my first taste of solid wood acoustic guitar in 2014 by way of an Epiphone Masterbilt that I bought from Sweetwater - the DR-500MCE, a dreadnought with a cut-away. I was blown away. I couldn’t believe the impeccable craftsmanship of that guitar. Impressed, I went on to buy 3 more Epiphone Masterbilts the EF-500RCCE, AJ-45ME and AJ-500RCE. They are all made at the Samick plant in Indonesia. I take very good care of them and keep them in their Epiphone hardshell case when not in use. And they have all opened up and sounded better with the passage of time. Keep up to good work. New subscriber here.
Very much appreciated, Mr 3! Just to provide a bit of input as well, I’ve heard great things about the DR-500. In fact, I’ll probably pick one up in the near future. Looking forward to hearing more from you, brother man 👍🏻
Great comparison video as always Randy. You hit the nail on the head on how we get hung up on a brand name. My rule #3 for buying and owning a guitar: 3. You can't judge a guitar by it's brand, cost, age, reputation, looks, or Facebook comments. You have to play it. I have 2 Gibsons, 5 Godins, 2 Epiphones from the Samik Masterbilt factory, 1 Taylor, and 1 Framus. Every one of those guitars was chosen for it's sound and playability, not brand. Be true to your ear. Thanks again for great videos!
Thank you for making this Video - I have a Gibson J-160 but do not want to get it stolen so I bought the J-45 inspired by Gibson ( and may get the Hummingbird
Hi Ms Maddy!! Yes’m, that Hummingbird is surprisingly beautiful. I couldn’t believe they used Mother of Pearl for the inlays, but apparently Gibson is stepping up Epiphone’s game. It’s really great to hear from you and say hey to mom and dad for us 👍🏻
Great guitar playing and videos Randy I was lucky to find an IBG J 45 Slash model... what a great sound and now I've got my eye on one of those IBG Hummingbirds, keep up the good work 😎🎸🎶💙
Hi Mark, I’ve played the Slash 45. Other than the finish, the only real difference between the two is the 16” radius fretboard. A really great guitar! On the Hummingbird, if you pick one up, I’d suggest picking up a used one and the reason is that they have now moved the manufacturing to China on the IBG lineup. The 5th and 6th digits in the serial number should read 23. That’ll let you know that it was built in the Samick factory, just in case you didn’t know it. I sure love my Hummingbird. I really appreciate the kind words, brother man 👍🏻
Hey Brother Randy.....I don't have an Epiphone ISG J-45.....but the Epiphone ISG Hummingbird has such a beautiful sound, it'd be hard to beat! My Hummnigbird even sounded better after one week of playing it. When you hold this guitar, you know you have a quality instrument!
Two fine guitars, one fine picker and a service to mankind. A decade or so ago I bought an Epiphone EA 335 at a pawn shop. It came In a hard-shell case that was for an acoustic guitar. I bought a proper case and gave the guitar to my nephew for the church band. Now I have an empty black and brown case that says Epiphone on the side. Are you thinking what I am? I think I will see if I can make my wife mad as you too,lol.
That’s hilarious 😂. Yes sir,you can’t have a case for a 335 and not put the proper guitar in it!! Send me an email with a picture of it, and your next wife 🤣
Thank you very much for this great video Randy! I love the sound of both guitars, and I agree that Hummingbird seems to richer sound to it (especially that 2nd riff with capo sounded way better on it). Also to my ears it's tone is more top and bottom focused, while J-45 has more pronounced mids. So Hummingbird might be better for playing and singing with just the guitar, but maybe J-45 will cut through the full band mix better? But since you can always boost mids with EQs, Hummingbird seems to be a better choice. But I love that J45 too.... hard one for sure, guess I need to have both at some point. Thank you for the video again!
I have to agree with you that the J45 sounds like it has more “cut” to it. Hummingbird is richer and has more depth to it. Thank you Randy for the comparison.
Hi Dawid, the 45 really does have some serious mids and I agree about it cutting through the mix. That said, my first love is surely the Hummingbird. I hope this helps you out and really appreciate the idea for the video. As you can see, others are deeply interested in the very same thing. I was surprised by the turnout for this one. Thanks again, brother man 👍🏻
I watched one of your reviews on the inspired by Gibson Hummingbird prior to pulling the trigger a while back and couldnt be happier. its now my most played guitar these days. This guitar is a beauty and sounds wonderful and didnt cost me $4k (wouldve been a dream, but not a possibility) Im very satisfied! Thank you!
Ms Christina, I just landed at my home airport and your comment was the first thing I saw. It made my night, ma’am. If I helped you make up your mind on the Hummingbird, that makes me very happy and you are most welcome 👍🏻
Wow / Randy / You made that Guitar ( J-45 ) sound much like a Gibson so I bought one - ( Indonesia) 🇮🇩 and love It ( not quite my Gibson J-160 Beatles Model)!
Hey Randy. I just found your channel. Man, I really love your playing. I’m a huge fan of Epiphone. Both sound great, but the hummingbird makes me want to hear some sad cowboy songs. I also like the Hummingbird 12 string. Looking forward to more videos.
Hey Steve, I really appreciate the kind words. Yes sir, this IBG Hummingbird has captured me. I doubt I’ll ever buy a Gibson Hummingbird, it’s that good. I’ve seen the 12 string version and knew they offered it, but never played one. I’m really glad you’ve joined us, brother man 👍🏻
Wonderful comparison video Randy great playing and demonstration, at first I thought the Hummingbird and then I thought the J 45 and then I thought like you I should run away 😂😂 very well done my friend 🎸🎸👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻
Hi Randy, Great video, thank you. I’m nearing 63 and learning to play. I’m really enjoying it, I wish I started years ago. I’ve been looking at the exact IBG models for my 3rd addition to my new collection. Man, no one ever told me you won’t have enough guitars! 😂 After watching this video, it’s clear to my ears the Hummingbird is the winner. Ps. I have Godin Fairmount CH LTD and just love it. My very first guitar was a Epi PR-5E and still enjoy playing it.
Hi J, yes sir, it’s called GAS (guitar acquisition syndrome) and there’s no cure for it. However, there are support groups and this channel is one of those groups 😂. I’m pleased to hear that you have stepped out there and started playing. I can’t think of a more worthy thing to do. If I can ever do anything for you, please let me know, brother man 👍🏻. Great to have you on the channel!
Hi Joe, it’s a procedure for sure. I’ve watched a few people do it. They generally use a hairdryer, carefully, to get the glue loosened up, then once the guard is off they use lighter fluid to remove the glue. Oddly enough it doesn’t seem to hurt the finish. I always recommend taking it to a luthier, brother man 👍🏻
Im in the kitchen making spaghetti… listening to you kick around some awesomeness on that Epiphone!!! I’ve started playing my epiphone more than my Gibson studio because of the deep tone when Im using it as a drum. Great video!!! I’ve missed getting to hear you play!!! Along with your words of wisdom!!!!
Hi Ms Dana, I’m sure the wisdom part is quite debatable, but your kind thoughts about it are very much appreciated, ma’am. It’s really great that you had a bit of time to come visit. You’re one talented singer 👍🏻
What a nice, nice fella!! I just happened across this video, I told my wife recently I'd buy a new Bosch dishwasher for the house, (I work for them) , a holiday in Athens for us, and another guitar for me. I don't play live these days but have started busking again and got the love of music/guitars back. I use a Martin dreadnought junior (Mexican made) which I love dearly, but have always wanted a "Gibson". Have seen these IBG and every time I've seen a video I've completely dismissed the Hummingbird for some unknown reason, and only listen to the J45 and J200. Man, I put my studio headphones on to listen to this and goshdarnit if that Hummingbird didn't bring a lump to my throat and a little tear in my eye! I'm absolutely shellshocked now! I live in a small Spanish city and there's only a small guitar shop here and even the big ones in the capital Madrid (a few hours away) don't stock these, so I have to take a gamble on a second hand one if I can find it. Great video and way of presenting, I subbed straight away and will enjoy looking through your content! Thank you!
Well I’ll say this, Mr Busker, welcome back to the world of guitar love! Glad to have you back. Appreciate the commentary and hope you land a great one, just as I did. Don’t forget to check the serial number to be sure that the 5th & 6th digits from the left are 23. That’s the factory code for the old Samick factory in Indonesia. They are really great instruments. You are most welcome, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm I will be looking for a IBG model with the serial 23, just to ask, is a Hummingbird Pro with that serial 23 a bad one then? Or just not as good as IBG? Many thanks for your help!
The Pro is laminated back and sides and the quality of build is definitely not the same. The IBG guitars are built in the custom part of that factory. They are daylight vs dark in sound and build quality.
Hey James, great to see you on the channel. I couldn’t agree more. I was that guy for many years, until these guitars came about. They have caused me to pause and look deeper. Great point, brother man 👍🏻
The bird sounds like a worn in vintage guitar. Very, very beautiful tone. The J45 sounds like a Green Day record. I ended up getting the Slash J45 as I also prefer the J45 looks. However, I can definitely see myself adding the bird to my collection at the future. I've been enjoying your videos a lot. Thanks for sharing them!
Thanks Felipe! Just don’t tell your wife I influenced anything, as all RU-vid wives have apparently declared me public enemy #1 😂 Great analysis, brother man 👍🏻
Apples and oranges to me but It would be nice to have either to learn on! Not that I have the time but it would be great to. They sound very nice when you play them my friend! Great demo, Randy!
@@randysrhythm We don't leave until Wednesday! I will have a hard time staying away from my You tubing even on vacation, but I will try and I do have a good excuse for not visiting EVERYONE !
Thanks for the review! Just got the Epi IBG J45 in Sweetwater’s Viper Blue -loving it! Looking to get another IBG acoustic for open tunings. Do you know if the J45, Hummingbird and Frontier all sit within close size specs? Thanks!
Hi Mike, you are most welcome. The J-45 is a bit smaller, being a slope shoulder. However, I doubt you’d be disappointed with either. Glad to hear that you’re enjoying the 45, brother man 👍🏻
How could you choose !! Randy your knowledge and mad skills on the strings are enuff to make anyone jealous - ok I'm jealous - now you know !! 😊 - I used to have a Hondo imitation hummingbird sunburst and gorgeous ( I gave it to some kid at church wanting to learn ) .... And I thought you was a famous musician..... GOD bless ....
Baker, Baker, Baker, me famous? 😂😂😂😂 I love your wit brother. My skills are so lacking that I freak myself out! That’s not to say I don’t appreciate the kindness, my friend and brother. I wish I could sing like you, so we’re even, brother man 👍🏻
Thanks Randy good to know they sure are nice looking guitars the hummingbird sound like it has a lot of bottom end full sound and I like it!!! Have a great weekend!
Hi Ms Kathy, that Hummingbird is the best decision Gibson ever made on behalf of Epiphone. Inexpensive and pure quality. Great observation, ma’am, and as always, very much appreciate your feedback and continued support. You keep a busy schedule, so it means all the more, ma’am 👍🏻
Hi Randy. Thanks so much for your very helpful videos. I bought myself the Hummingbird and I love it. Could you tell me the name of the tune you’re playing at 5:30 mark on this video please. Thanks mate. All the best from Australia🥃😎 🇦🇺
I got a Sweetwater version of the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ45-ME, black with gloss finish.. I was going to trade it toward a used Martin D15M and played it "one last time". Put it back in the case and kept it. Solid Sitka top, solid African mahogany b&s. Put bone pins on it too. Not a J45 but close enough. It has plenty of punch and it rings. Epiphone has raised the game for offshore guitars. Guild has too. I love my USA Guild D20 more than the Martin anyway and am happy I kept the Masterbilt. Now about that IBG Hummingbird.....
Hi Russell, I had my Hummingbird out yesterday, just admiring it with each pick. A mind blowing guitar by any standard. In other words, I feel you, brother man. Appreciate you sharing your thoughts 👍🏻
I got a IBG Hummingbird new and it sounded great but it had a buzz. Turned out it needed a full fret level. So check your guitar when it arrives and send it back or take it to a tech if something is wrong.
Great advice, Zorglub. Ocean rides can reek havoc on a guitar, so that’s why I always recommend getting these from Sweetwater, unless you can play them before you buy. Thanks for that input, and yes sir, it sounds great 👍🏻
Picked up a refurbished J45 a few weeks ago. Cutaway model. It's becoming my daily guitar. I've read about most owners replacing the thick pickguard. If I had solid evidence of it affecting the tone or volume, I'd do it. I don't think it's noticeable with the sunburst. The tuners are really tight. Did you keep the stock 3 on a plate Wilkersons? Also, are you using the same strings on both guitars?
Hi Bat, yes sir, I kept everything original except for 2 things, the pickguard and the electronics. The electronics were completely removed and not replaced with anything. Appreciate the feedback, brother man 👍🏻
Thank you so much for your great information - about where the guitars were made too .... I attended the some of your very good videos .... Must say when I listen to your two guitars here, I may prefer the J-45 .... Can't really tell you why.. For a short time I owned a Epi Hummingbird I bought second hand... But it simply had not the richness and the full sound yours have .... so I sold it ... I was happy to see both of the Epi's I have ... the SJ 200 and a small El-00 sound excellent to me, and I can see they are both made in the Sammick factory ... and I love to play them... I find the neck-work is superb ...
You are certainly welcome. I appreciate you checking the channel out. I’ve heard some good things about the two guitars you have, so glad you’re enjoying them. The 45 is pretty impressive. Hope to see more of you on the channel, brother man 👍🏻
Excellent review, excellent playin'! ...really enjoying your no-bullshit down-to-earth videos... What is that tune your're playing at 5:29? I think I know it, but I can't remember which tune it is... And another question, if you don't mind... I currently have a Martin 000-15SM, which I like a lot. I think it's a great guitar for oldtime backup and fiddle tunes, which I play most of the time. Now I'm looking for a second guitar that has a different flavor, and is better suited for strumming, Rock/Pop style playing, accompanying a singer etc... I'm considering the Epi J45... or should I go for a Martin 000-18? I also like the 000-15M (14fret), it's a bight lighter sounding and less punchy, but it's still very close to the 15SM (12fret). Not sure about the Epi Hummingbird, it's too punchy for what I have in mind - the 15SM already covers the punch department, I think. What would you recommend as a good complement for the 000-15SM? Thanks!
That tune is Windy & Warm. I love the way Tommy Emmanuel plays it. As far as a good strummer goes, the Martin DSS-17, the 000-17, or the 000-18 would be great. I’d a dred is not too big for you, then I’d go that route. The 000-18 would be my second choice and the 000-17 my third. I don’t think you’ll go wrong with any of those 3. I really appreciate the kind words and hope to see more of you on the channel. We have a great group of folks here 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Thanks for bringing up the Martin 17 series... I had contemplated them, but somehow sorted them out. After reading your comments I've listened into some reviews again, and I have to say I quite like them - but soundwise they're certainly less middle-of-the-road than a J45 or 000-18... we live in an age with too many good guitars to buy - options, options & more options 😀
Hey Randy, great playing! your playing draws out the different guitars character, but still sounds like you! I have an IBG J45 cutaway and IBG J200 which is also superb. I’ve been tempted by the HB but don’t like the one in my local guitar shop, sure it just needs a setup and and new strings, but just turns me off every time I’ve strummed it and it sounds dead😂 I’ll need to try another somewhere else. I did try 3 J200s before I found one that played well and sounded great! I agree they are just different, not better or worse. I love the honesty of the J45 and the sparkle and depth of the J200(and also that the J200 is a little less bassy than a Gibson SJ200 which I think just makes it a bit more versatile.
Hi Brian, thank you very much for the kind words. I’ve yet to play the IBG 200. I’ve never actually seen one in a guitar shop, but I’m hopeful. Sorry to hear about the Hummingbirds you’ve tried. Mine was just amazing when it showed up and I’ll never part with it. As you mentioned, sometimes you just have to find the right one with any guitar. I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts and look forward to hearing more from you on the channel, brother man 👍🏻
Great video and great playing....I want to add IBG J45 in my collection...I want to know two things, How is the bass response from the IBG J45 And will I be able to use it for bluegrass playing?
Hello there, kind sir. The bass response is not as pronounced as a Gibson J-45 Standard, so the Gibson wins in that category. The mids on this beat the Standard, so a killer sound for Bluegrass. I’ll never sell this one, or my IBG Hummingbird. The IBG Hummingbird has some punchy low end. If you’re looking for something that has that, and you don’t want to pay a fortune, there’s not a better sounding guitar on this planet than a IBG Hummingbird. They are both killer guitars, in their own rite 👍🏻
I've played them both. They're both very great guitars. I would not hesitate to buy and play either. I'd go for the Hummingbird but would be pleased with either. You don't need to get hung up about Asian construction anymore.
Hi Gordon, I agree exactly with your assessment. They did move the factory builds on these to China recently. I finally got to play a IBG Hummingbird from the China factory and they need some practice to get where the Indonesian factory was on these. That said, there are definitely some factories in China that have some great guitars, such as Eastman and Mackenzie & Marr. At some point I’m going to get one of the higher end Eastman builds. I’ve heard nothing but great things about them. Appreciate you stopping in and sharing, brother man 👍🏻
I didn't see a J-45 in guitar center, but i did play an Ibanez AE series cutaway and i did play the Epiphone Hummingbird, and it wasn't even close. The Hummingbird was so easy to play, no frett buzz, loud as can be and was the prettiest guitar out of all the guitars even the $2,000 dollar ones. I say you can't go wrong getting that Hummingbird, i'll be buying it shortly.
Hi J, thanks for the commentary. I am really attached to this IBG Hummingbird, so I’m really pleased you’re getting one. I was blown away by the quality. Let me know how your purchase turns out, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Randy, I ran into a used Martin road series or X series which is made in Mexico, but it sounded better then the Hummingbird, used in perfect condition for 425.00 plus tax...played so smooth and full deep sound, going to get it I think. Thanks again for your wonderful channel.
@@randysrhythm No Randy, I ended up getting the Talor Mini in mahogany. Played better then everything I tried..please get one to do a review. Sound incredible for this small 🎸
They really do sound significantly different and uniquely wonderful.. I'm partial to these guitars because I own these and truthfully I don't have a favorite they are both awesome guitars and I can't believe I got two great gits for 2k.. had to buy cases but still a great deal.. I'm owned Taylor's and Martins but I have never owned a Gibson.. absolutely love both of these epis
Thanks for the comparison. I was leaning towards the Hummingbird, but as soon as I heard the J-45 my heart started racing. I had a 1956 J-45 that was so warm and mellow when finger picking and so thunderous you felt it like no other guitar when you hammered it. OTOH...I always felt like the D-18 was a more "honest" guitar, whereas the J-45 was a bit more of a specialty/niche guitar -- something you'd have in addition, to say, a D-18. Just my take.
Hi Sam, great observations all the way around. I have a Mossman Tennessee Flattop, which a better voiced D-18, so couldn’t agree more. The IBG 45’s body depth is not as deep as the Gibson. I think it would be more like a Mahogany J-45 Studio, if Gibson were to ever make one. It’s a little canon, for sure. Great observations, brother man 👍🏻
Hi Grant, you must have missed it in the video, but I did mention that the guy I bought it from did put a smaller pickguard on it. You’re right, the original pickguard was way too large, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythm Yes! I commented before finishing the video. My bad! I was wondering if you'd removed these pickguards before? I'm wondering if it's an easy job with a little heat and naptha or if I should have my luthier do it
@grantmartin6094 Great question. I would personally have a professional do it. Something about heat, some cleaner and my lack of attention to detail that makes me shiver to consider, brother man 👍🏻
I own both- great playing review. To me my Bird is alive and friskier- the Slash J-45 just lacks something. It's balanced and perfectly presentable- but sounds unremarkable.
Hi EJ, I would agree for sure that there are just some guitars that you play that simply touch you personally and the IBG Hummingbird is one of those that touched me, as well as your good self. Appreciate the kind words and you taking the time to watch the video, brother man 👍🏻
Thank you Randy for a spot on the mark review of these two honeys. Your good self and JP got me lit up about masterbilt and IBG, Your timely red alert about code 23 sent me into orbit. I said to myself Christ ,theyre too good so gibson has to let the air out of these so theyre moving production to china . To cut a long story painful, i bought 3 , a hummimgbird, J45 slash, and a frontier thats arriving on thursday. This is whiskey money ive gathered up since i quit drinking and started playing again. The J45 is a tough old railroad man who got his heart broken a long time ago and never got over it if that makes any sense. I will never be able to do the two i already have the justice they deserve but feel a duty of care towards them. somebody will sometime, Thanks again, Paddyland out,
Brother man, what a kind comment, which is very much appreciated. I think you picked up three winners. I haven’t played the Indonesian Masterbilt before, but I have played the Montana counterpart and it was pretty killer. The Slash Masterbilt 45 is another one I’ve played and loved it. The only thing about the Slash version is that it has a 16” radius fretboard, so it is pretty flat. However, it just takes a little getting used to. I’m sure you’ll love it. Please let me know what you think of the Frontier, if you don’t mind. Sorry to hear about the girl, but thrilled to hear that you put the bottle down. At the very least, that heartbreak will give you some song writing material 👍🏻
Guitars .....if possible, gotta play them in person. No matter the brand........a guitar/any instrument has to stand on it's own. Nice comparison. enjoy your videos' 🎸🎸🎸
@@randysrhythm thank you so much I got the hummingbird also I really enjoy thank you for all your advice I'm really enjoyed watching your videos I made sure to get the ones with the 23 code thank you much
Hi Jimmy, I’m really pleased to hear you ended up with a Hummingbird. It’s really difficult to get across just how phenomenal these guitars are. I really appreciate the kind words of support and you are very welcome, brother man 👍🏻
I have both. I kind of think the j45 sounds better, it's brighter and punchier and has just as big of a sound. Less overtones. My ibg j45 sounds more resonate than the one you're playing. Are you using light or medium gauge strings?
Hi PJ, I’m using Martin Retro 12’s, so light gauge. My 45 Epi is a cannon, while the Hummingbird is a tad softer and sweeter, if that makes sense? Appreciate the view and the question, brother man 👍🏻
@@randysrhythmI use mediums on my j45 and combo light with medium on my hummingbird 12/56. I lean towards the j45 more, depends on the song I'm recording. D'addario or elixir. Usually the D'addario.
My 45 sounds great, but I might, based on hearing your thoughts, try a set of mediums. In fact, you’ve just given me a video idea. Appreciate that, brother man 👍🏻
7:37 8:09 They sound pretty similar here.. I cant make up my mind.. I like the look of the j45 more but not sure about the sound compare to the Hummingbird.. Im also starting to eye the Epiphone Frontier. That burst on that guitar is so good looking, just dont dig the long headstock.
Glad you enjoyed this, even though it didn’t swing you one way or another. To my ear there’s a rich depth to the Hummingbird that the 45 doesn’t have. However, both have a space. Happy hunting, brother man 👍🏻
Since I have owned a Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500 for many years think my next one will be the Hummingbird and I have owned a house full of very high dollar U.S.A made guitars over the past years.
Everyone that I’ve talked to that didn’t like the IBG Hummingbird, discovered that they didn’t actually have an IBG Hummingbird 😂. There’s a testimony that should further encourage your good decision, brother man 👍🏻🥃
@@randysrhythm I Found that the one doing the picking makes a big difference in the sound of the guitar.. I have owned loads of some very good high dollar guitars and seems I like Gibson best, had many of the older Martin's they sounded good but seemed harder on my fingers. Thanks for the video.
Hi Hank, I haven’t heard anyone talk about the Banner. It’s great to hear from you and really great to hear that the 45 Banner is a good experience. Appreciate you sharing that, brother man 👍🏻
