whats the difference between Epiphone and Gibson Les Paul guitars?

Question

Why is one cheaper than the other when they seem to be identical?

Answer 1

Hi, Epiphone are a sub-division of Gibson guitars, basically, Gibson own Epiphone. Epiphone guitars do not have the same high specs that Gibson guitars do because Epiphone are affordable and they are more of an entry level guitar. They have all the same features {ie shape,neck scale,layout} but are made from cheaper componants then the Gibson guitars.
You could buy an Epiphone Les Paul and replace the pick-ups in it to get nearly the same tone as an original Gibson Les Paul. Hence why Epiphone are cheaper then Gibson.

Answer 2

They might look identical but looks mean nothing. The price you pay for a real Gibson is for the quality of the wood, the electrics and most importantly the sound. A beginner might not notice, but an experienced guitarist will be able to tell you which one is which by hearing it because one simply sounds cheaper.

Answer 3

My husband has a Gibson sg.. deluxe 1969 edition in sunburst red..Its quality..he also has a fender but he always picks up and prefers the gibson. i didn't answer your question correclty but just thought i'd put in my twopenneth...