What is the finish on this specific Epiphone Texan model?

This model features a Faded Cherry Aged Gloss finish, which is designed to give the instrument a vintage, played-in appearance while maintaining a protective coating.

Which electronics are installed in the Masterbilt Texan?

The guitar is equipped with a Fishman pickup and preamp system. It includes onboard volume and tone controls to help players adjust their amplified sound.

Which famous musicians are associated with the Epiphone Texan?

The Texan is famously associated with Paul McCartney, who used a 1964 model for the song 'Yesterday', and Peter Frampton.

What kind of tone can I expect from this guitar?

The manufacturer describes the tone as smooth, warm, rich, and resonant. The materials are selected to ensure a high-quality, balanced acoustic voicing.

Is the Epiphone Masterbilt Texan a full-sized guitar?

Yes, it is a full-sized electro-acoustic guitar, offering a much larger body and longer scale length than travel models like the Martin LX1E or Yamaha APXT2.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Epiphone Masterbilt Texan typically retails for approximately £699 in the United Kingdom.

How does the Masterbilt series differ from standard Epiphone models?

The Masterbilt series is positioned as a higher-quality line that uses premium materials and construction techniques to emulate the standards of classic vintage instruments.

Can I control the sound of the guitar when it is plugged in?

Yes, the integrated Fishman system includes tone and volume controls that allow you to shape the output to suit your specific playing style.

Is this guitar suitable for live performances?

Yes, the inclusion of a Fishman preamp and pickup makes it specifically designed for live use, allowing for easy connection to amplifiers or PA systems.

Does the guitar come in other colours?

This specific reference is for the Faded Cherry version, though the Texan has historically been available in other vintage finishes such as Antique Natural.

How does the Texan compare to a Guild F-2512E?

The Guild F-2512E is a 12-string jumbo guitar, whereas the Epiphone Texan is a 6-string model. The Texan is better suited for players seeking a traditional 6-string folk and rock sound.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

While it offers a 'luxurious playing experience' that beginners would enjoy, its price point and build quality target intermediate to professional players who want a vintage-spec instrument.

Gear article

Epiphone Masterbilt Texan Electro Acoustic Faded Cherry Aged Gloss

The Epiphone Masterbilt Texan Electro Acoustic is a professional-grade guitar inspired by the iconic 1960s models famously used by Paul McCartney and Peter Frampton. Featuring an all-solid wood construction and an Aged Gloss finish, it combines vintage aesthetic appeal with modern Fishman electronics for versatile performance.

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Overview and Heritage

The Epiphone Masterbilt Texan is a contemporary recreation of a legendary flat-top acoustic that rose to prominence in the mid-20th century. Part of the acclaimed Masterbilt series, this model is specifically designed to replicate the look and feel of the instruments that defined the 1960s folk and pop movements. It is most notably associated with Paul McCartney, who used a 1964 Texan to record and perform 'Yesterday', and Peter Frampton.

The current iteration maintains the traditional advanced jumbo body shape, which is known for its balance of volume and clarity. The Faded Cherry Aged Gloss finish provides a vintage patina that suggests a well-cared-for historical instrument while ensuring the wood can vibrate freely.

Construction and Tonality

The Masterbilt Texan is built using carefully selected materials intended to provide a rich and resonant acoustic experience. Key construction features include:

Tonal Profile: The instrument is engineered to deliver a smooth, warm, and rich voicing. Each material is chosen to contribute specific tonal qualities that result in a balanced frequency response.
Masterbilt Build Quality: Unlike entry-level models, the Masterbilt series focuses on high-quality craftsmanship that lives up to the standards of the original 1960s production line.
Playability: The guitar is designed to offer a luxurious playing experience, suitable for both studio work and live performance.

Electronics and Sound Shaping

To suit the needs of modern performers, the Texan is equipped with a Fishman pickup and preamp system. This allows the guitar's natural acoustic resonance to be amplified without losing its organic character.

The system includes discreet volume and tone controls, allowing the player to shape their sound to suit different musical styles or room acoustics. This makes the instrument highly versatile for singer-songwriters, session musicians, and live bands who require a reliable 'plug-and-play' solution.

Market Comparison

Positioned at a mid-range price point of approximately £699, the Epiphone Masterbilt Texan competes with several other electro-acoustic options. Compared to travel-sized or 3/4 scale models like the Yamaha APXT2 or Martin LX1E, the Texan offers a full-scale, full-bodied resonance.

While jumbo alternatives like the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher or the Guild F-2512E offer different aesthetic and string configurations (such as 12-string options), the Texan focuses on the classic 6-string dreadnought/jumbo hybrid feel. For those seeking premium high-end luxury, it stands as a more accessible alternative to boutique models like the Taylor Presentation PS14ce.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the finish on this specific Epiphone Texan model?: This model features a Faded Cherry Aged Gloss finish, which is designed to give the instrument a vintage, played-in appearance while maintaining a protective coating.
Which electronics are installed in the Masterbilt Texan?: The guitar is equipped with a Fishman pickup and preamp system. It includes onboard volume and tone controls to help players adjust their amplified sound.
Which famous musicians are associated with the Epiphone Texan?: The Texan is famously associated with Paul McCartney, who used a 1964 model for the song 'Yesterday', and Peter Frampton.
What kind of tone can I expect from this guitar?: The manufacturer describes the tone as smooth, warm, rich, and resonant. The materials are selected to ensure a high-quality, balanced acoustic voicing.
Is the Epiphone Masterbilt Texan a full-sized guitar?: Yes, it is a full-sized electro-acoustic guitar, offering a much larger body and longer scale length than travel models like the Martin LX1E or Yamaha APXT2.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Epiphone Masterbilt Texan typically retails for approximately £699 in the United Kingdom.
How does the Masterbilt series differ from standard Epiphone models?: The Masterbilt series is positioned as a higher-quality line that uses premium materials and construction techniques to emulate the standards of classic vintage instruments.
Can I control the sound of the guitar when it is plugged in?: Yes, the integrated Fishman system includes tone and volume controls that allow you to shape the output to suit your specific playing style.
Is this guitar suitable for live performances?: Yes, the inclusion of a Fishman preamp and pickup makes it specifically designed for live use, allowing for easy connection to amplifiers or PA systems.
Does the guitar come in other colours?: This specific reference is for the Faded Cherry version, though the Texan has historically been available in other vintage finishes such as Antique Natural.
How does the Texan compare to a Guild F-2512E?: The Guild F-2512E is a 12-string jumbo guitar, whereas the Epiphone Texan is a 6-string model. The Texan is better suited for players seeking a traditional 6-string folk and rock sound.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?: While it offers a 'luxurious playing experience' that beginners would enjoy, its price point and build quality target intermediate to professional players who want a vintage-spec instrument.