The Epiphone Casino USA Collection marks the first American production of this iconic hollow body guitar in over 50 years. Built with premium materials and hand-wired electronics, these instruments combine vintage authenticity with modern manufacturing precision.
The Epiphone Casino USA Collection represents a significant milestone in the guitar's storied history. After more than five decades of overseas production, this iconic hollow body electric guitar has returned to American manufacturing, bringing with it enhanced specifications, premium components, and meticulous craftsmanship that honors its legendary status while meeting modern professional demands.
Since its introduction in 1961, the Epiphone Casino has been synonymous with some of the most influential music in rock history. The Beatles famously adopted the Casino, with John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison all playing the model extensively. Beyond the Fab Four, artists including Keith Richards, Ray Davies, Dave Davies, and Paul Weller have relied on the Casino's distinctive tone and playability. The USA Collection brings this heritage full circle, offering players an American-made instrument that captures the essence of the original while incorporating modern manufacturing excellence.
The decision to manufacture the Casino in the USA reflects both market demand for premium instruments and a commitment to quality that requires hands-on craftsmanship. These guitars are not simply reissues but carefully considered instruments that balance historical accuracy with contemporary performance expectations. For players seeking an authentic Casino experience with the assurance of American quality control, the USA Collection delivers on multiple fronts.
The USA Casino features a fully hollow body construction using a three-ply laminate of maple, poplar, and maple. This configuration provides structural integrity while maintaining the resonant characteristics that define the Casino sound. Unlike semi-hollow designs with center blocks, the fully hollow construction allows for maximum acoustic resonance and the characteristic feedback potential that players have exploited creatively for decades.
The body measures in the traditional Casino dimensions with a double cutaway design that provides access to all 22 frets. Quarter-sawn spruce bracing reinforces the top while allowing it to vibrate freely, contributing to the instrument's acoustic properties and overall tonal character. The cream binding around the body edges adds visual elegance while protecting the laminate edges from wear.
The USA Collection offers two classic finish options: Royal Tan and Vintage Sunburst. Both finishes utilize nitrocellulose lacquer, a traditional finishing material that differs significantly from modern polyurethane finishes. Nitrocellulose is thinner, more porous, and allows the wood to resonate more freely. Over time, nitro finishes age and wear in ways that many players find aesthetically appealing, developing a patina that reflects the instrument's history.
The Royal Tan finish pairs with nickel hardware and dogear P-90 pickups, creating a warm, vintage aesthetic. The Vintage Sunburst option features black dogear P-90s, offering a slightly different visual character while maintaining the same tonal foundation. Both finishes are applied in multiple thin coats, hand-rubbed between applications to achieve a smooth, even surface that enhances the wood's natural beauty.
The neck on the USA Casino is crafted from solid mahogany and features a rounded C profile that balances comfort with substance. This shape accommodates various playing styles, from rhythm work to lead playing, without feeling overly thick or thin. The set neck joint, a hallmark of quality guitar construction, provides excellent sustain and upper fret access while contributing to the instrument's overall resonance.
The fingerboard is Indian rosewood with 22 medium frets and acrylic parallelogram inlays, faithful to the original Casino specifications. The 1.687-inch nut width provides comfortable string spacing for both chord work and single-note lines. Side dot markers aid position finding during performance, while the adjustable truss rod allows for precise neck relief adjustment to accommodate different string gauges and playing preferences.
Fret installation and dressing on the USA Collection models receives particular attention. Each fret is properly seated, leveled, crowned, and polished to ensure smooth bending and accurate intonation across the entire fingerboard. The Graph Tech nut is precisely cut for optimal string height and spacing at the first fret, eliminating common issues like buzzing or binding that can occur with improperly cut nuts.
Factory setup includes proper neck relief adjustment, string height optimization, and intonation setting. However, as with any quality instrument, players may wish to have their Casino professionally set up to their specific preferences regarding action height and string gauge. The adjustable truss rod and ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge provide all necessary adjustment points for comprehensive setup customization.
One of the most significant features of the USA Casino is its hand-wired electronics. Rather than using printed circuit boards, the volume and tone controls are wired point-to-point using vintage-style cloth-covered wire. This approach reduces signal loss and maintains tonal purity from the pickups to the output jack. Orange Drop capacitors, renowned for their warm, musical response, are used in the tone circuits.
The pickup complement consists of two Gibson USA P-90 Dogear single-coil pickups. These are not import versions but genuine American-made Gibson pickups, the same units found on premium Gibson models. P-90s occupy a tonal middle ground between vintage single-coils and humbuckers, offering clarity and articulation with increased midrange presence and output compared to traditional Stratocaster-style pickups.
The USA Collection represents Epiphone's commitment to premium craftsmanship. Each Casino undergoes rigorous quality control processes, from wood selection through final setup. The manufacturing process emphasizes traditional techniques including hand-wired electronics and nitrocellulose finishing methods that allow the wood to breathe and resonate naturally.
Production standards mirror those of high-end Gibson instruments, with attention to detail in every component. From the Graph Tech nut to the vintage-style Deluxe tuning machines, each element is selected for performance and durability. The result is an instrument that honors the Casino's heritage while meeting contemporary professional standards.
The control layout features two volume knobs and two tone knobs, one set for each pickup, along with a three-way toggle switch. This configuration provides extensive tonal flexibility. Players can blend pickups by adjusting individual volumes, create darker jazz tones by rolling off treble, or achieve bright, cutting tones with everything wide open. The gold knobs with silver inserts and cream switch tip maintain the vintage aesthetic while providing positive, tactile control.
The three-way toggle switch allows selection of the neck pickup, both pickups together, or the bridge pickup alone. The middle position, with both pickups active, creates a fuller sound with enhanced harmonic complexity. Many players find this position ideal for rhythm work, while the individual pickup selections offer distinct voices for lead playing or specific tonal requirements.
The USA Casino employs an ABR-1 Tune-O-Matic bridge, a design that has been standard on quality Gibson and Epiphone guitars for decades. This bridge allows for precise intonation adjustment of each string while maintaining excellent string-to-body contact for optimal tone transfer. The bridge posts thread directly into metal inserts in the body, providing a solid foundation that contributes to sustain and resonance.
The trapeze tailpiece is a signature Casino feature, attaching to the body's end block rather than mounting on top like a stop tailpiece. This design is partly aesthetic, maintaining the clean top appearance, but also affects string tension and break angle over the bridge. Some players find the trapeze contributes to the Casino's distinctive feel and response.
Vintage Deluxe tuning machines with nickel finish provide reliable tuning stability while maintaining period-correct appearance. These are modern reproductions of classic designs, offering improved gear ratios and smoother operation than true vintage units while preserving the aesthetic. Proper string installation and stretching during initial setup ensures the Casino holds tune reliably even with moderate tremolo arm use or aggressive playing.
The combination of quality tuners, properly cut nut, and well-maintained bridge ensures tuning stability under normal playing conditions. Players who frequently use heavy vibrato or perform in environments with significant temperature and humidity changes should expect to tune more frequently, as is normal with any guitar featuring vintage-style hardware.
The Casino's fully hollow body and P-90 pickups create a distinctive voice that differs from both solid body electrics and traditional jazz boxes. The hollow construction adds acoustic resonance and air to the tone, creating a lively, dynamic response that reacts to playing dynamics. Light picking produces clear, articulate tones, while aggressive playing yields increased compression and harmonic richness.
The P-90 pickups deliver substantial midrange presence, making the Casino cut through band mixes effectively. The neck pickup offers warm, full tones suitable for jazz, blues, and rhythm work. The bridge pickup provides bite and clarity for lead playing, with enough output to drive amplifiers into natural overdrive. The combination of both pickups creates a thick, harmonically complex tone that works well for power chords and textured rhythm parts.
While the Casino is often associated with British Invasion rock, its tonal range extends across multiple genres. Jazz players appreciate the warm neck pickup tones and the guitar's acoustic-like response. Blues musicians find the P-90s deliver the right balance of clarity and grit. Rock players exploit the natural feedback characteristics and the pickups' ability to drive amplifiers effectively. Even country and rockabilly players have adopted the Casino for its bright, articulate tones and vintage aesthetic.
The Casino does have limitations. Players seeking heavy metal tones or extreme high-gain applications may find the P-90s too noisy and the hollow body prone to uncontrolled feedback. However, for roots music, classic rock, indie, and alternative styles, the Casino offers a distinctive voice that stands apart from ubiquitous solid body designs.
The USA Collection Casino differs significantly from import Epiphone Casino models in several key areas. The hand-wired electronics represent a substantial upgrade over printed circuit board assemblies, providing better signal integrity and easier serviceability. The Gibson USA P-90 pickups offer superior tonal quality compared to import pickups, with better clarity, dynamics, and frequency response.
The nitrocellulose lacquer finish, while more delicate than polyurethane, allows the wood to resonate more freely and ages in a way many players find desirable. Construction quality, while good on import models, receives additional attention in USA production, with more thorough fret dressing, setup, and quality control inspection. These differences justify the significant price premium of USA models for players who prioritize tone, playability, and long-term value.
The USA Casino includes a hardshell case designed specifically for hollow body guitars. The case provides excellent protection during transport and storage, with plush interior lining and secure latches. The case interior includes a storage compartment for accessories like cables, picks, and tools. Proper case storage protects the nitrocellulose finish from environmental damage and helps maintain stable humidity levels around the instrument.
The guitar ships with Gibson strings, properly installed and stretched. While string choice is ultimately personal preference, many players keep the factory strings for initial playing and evaluation before experimenting with different gauges or brands. The included documentation covers warranty information, care instructions, and specifications.
Nitrocellulose finishes require more careful handling than modern polyurethane. Nitro can be damaged by prolonged contact with rubber guitar stands, certain synthetic strap materials, and harsh cleaning chemicals. Players should use guitar stands with inert foam or fabric contact points and avoid leaving the instrument on stands for extended periods. Cleaning should be done with products specifically designed for nitrocellulose finishes.
The hollow body construction makes the Casino more susceptible to humidity changes than solid body guitars. Maintaining stable humidity between 45 and 55 percent helps prevent finish checking, neck movement, and structural issues. Using a case humidifier during dry winter months and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures protects the instrument's integrity.
String changes on the Casino require removing the trapeze tailpiece to access the ball ends. This process is straightforward but differs from guitars with top-mounted tailpieces. When changing strings, it is advisable to change one string at a time to maintain tension on the neck and bridge, preventing the bridge from falling out of position. After installing new strings, proper stretching and multiple tuning cycles ensure stability.
Periodic truss rod adjustment may be necessary as seasons change and humidity levels fluctuate. The truss rod access is at the headstock, requiring removal of the truss rod cover. Adjustments should be made in small increments, allowing the neck time to settle before making additional changes. If uncomfortable making these adjustments, professional setup services ensure optimal playability.
The Epiphone Casino USA Collection successfully brings this iconic instrument back to American production with specifications and quality that honor its heritage while meeting contemporary standards. The combination of traditional construction methods, premium components, and meticulous craftsmanship results in an instrument that delivers authentic Casino tone and feel with the reliability and consistency expected from modern manufacturing.
For players seeking a professional-grade hollow body electric with historical significance and distinctive tonal character, the USA Casino represents a compelling option. While the price point positions it above import models, the upgrades in pickups, electronics, finish, and overall quality provide tangible benefits that justify the investment for serious players. Whether used for recording, live performance, or collection, the USA Casino stands as a worthy continuation of a legendary design.
The USA Casino typically weighs between 6 and 7 pounds, with most examples around 6.5 pounds. The fully hollow construction makes it significantly lighter than solid body guitars, contributing to playing comfort during extended sessions.
While the Casino can be used with moderate overdrive and distortion, the fully hollow body makes it prone to feedback at high volumes with extreme gain. It excels with clean to moderately overdriven tones but is not ideal for heavy metal or extreme high-gain applications.
The USA Casino closely replicates vintage specifications including body construction, neck profile, and hardware. Modern examples benefit from improved manufacturing consistency, better fretwork, and more reliable hardware while maintaining the essential character of vintage instruments.
Yes, the USA Casino uses genuine Gibson USA P-90 Dogear pickups, the same units found in premium Gibson models. These are not budget versions but full-specification American-made pickups.
The Casino ships with 10-46 gauge strings, which provide a good balance of playability and tone. Players can use gauges from 9s to 11s depending on preference, though heavier gauges may require setup adjustments including truss rod and intonation changes.
Nitrocellulose is thinner and more porous than polyurethane, allowing the wood to vibrate more freely. Many players and luthiers believe this contributes to improved resonance and tonal openness, though the difference is subtle and somewhat subjective.
The Epiphone Casino USA Collection is available through authorized Gibson and Epiphone dealers across North America and internationally.
The Royal Tan finish option features nickel hardware and delivers classic Casino aesthetics with warm vintage appeal. This finish showcases the maple and poplar body construction while providing a distinctive look that stands out on stage.
The Vintage Sunburst option offers traditional three-tone sunburst aesthetics with black dogear P-90s. This finish choice provides classic visual appeal that references the Casino's 1960s heritage while maintaining all USA Collection premium specifications.
Epiphone has increased production capacity for the USA Casino Collection due to strong demand from professional players and collectors.
Multiple touring artists have adopted the USA Casino as their primary instrument, citing superior tone and build quality compared to import models.
Additional authorized dealers across North America now stock the USA Casino Collection, improving availability for players seeking to try before purchasing.