Epiphone 1942 Banner J-45 Reissue - Vintage Sunburst

Epiphone 1942 Banner J‑45 Reissue – Vintage Sunburst

A Timeless Legend Reborn

The 1942 Banner J‑45 is an Inspired by Gibson Custom recreation of the original “Workhorse” dreadnought that earned its reputation in the ’40s. Built in collaboration with Gibson Custom, it faithfully brings together vintage design and modern precision.

All‑Solid Premium Tonewoods

• Top: Thermally aged solid red spruce with scalloped X‑bracing provides immediate resonance, clarity, and a mature, broken‑in voice.
• Back & Sides: Solid mahogany delivers warmth, punch, and balanced projection.

Vintage‑Inspired Neck & Appointments

• Neck: One‑piece mahogany with a historic V‑profile, 24.75" scale length, and compound dovetail joint for vintage feel and modern solidity.
• Fingerboard: Laurel or Indian rosewood (depending on region) with 19 frets, 12" radius, and mother-of-pearl dot inlays.
• Nut: Bone, approximately 44 mm wide (~1.732″), carved for authentic feel and string spacing.

Heritage Style & Hardware

• Headstock: Classic Gibson “open book” shape with an “Epiphone Inspired by Gibson” banner on the front and double‑diamond logo etched on the back.
• Bridge & Pickguard: Rosewood rectangular bridge with compensated bone saddle; early-style tortoiseshell teardrop pickguard for timeless aesthetics.
• Binding: Clean single-ply ivory binding around the body for retro authenticity.
• Tuners: Open‑back three‑on‑a‑plate tuners with cream keystone buttons finished in nickel plating.

Stage & Studio Ready

Equipped with a L.R. Baggs Element Bronze VTC under‑saddle pickup system, it features discreet soundhole‑mounted volume and tone controls—delivering natural plugged-in acoustic tone with minimal coloration. A plush, Inspired by Gibson Custom hardshell case is included. 

Tone & Feel

Sound Character:
Expect warm, full-bodied tone—rich lows, bold midrange, and crisp sustain. The thermally aged spruce top and scalloped bracing create responsive dynamics from the first strum.

Playability:
The V-shaped neck profile offers nostalgic vintage grip, ideal for rhythm and fingerstyle. Its balanced weight and comfortable profile make long sessions effortless.

Plugged‑in Tone:
With the L.R. Baggs pickup installed, the guitar handles live and recording situations with grace—preserving acoustic integrity through PA or recording interfaces.

The Epiphone 1942 Banner J‑45 Reissue – Vintage Sunburst delivers iconic J‑45 tone and aesthetics, with all‑solid construction, premium hardware, and pro-grade electronics—all at a compelling value. It's perfect for players seeking vintage-classic voice in a ready-to-play package. Need comparisons, demo clips, or pricing info? I’d be happy to help.