The Les Paul guitar. A timeless icon, revered for its rich tones and iconic silhouette. For decades, it has been the axe of choice for countless guitar heroes across genres. Yet, the traditional Les Paul, while legendary, can sometimes feel a bit… traditional. Enter brands like EART, aiming to inject modern playability and features into the classic single-cut design. The EART EGLP-620 is one such guitar, promising high-end specs at a competitive price point. But does this “Eart Guitar” live up to the hype, and more importantly, does it capture the essence of what makes a Les Paul so desirable?
Having spent considerable time with the EART EGLP-620, it’s clear this guitar is not just another Les Paul copycat. It’s a thoughtful evolution, blending vintage vibes with contemporary appointments. If you’re familiar with the Les Paul world, you might be aware of the quest to find that perfect balance of classic tone and modern comfort. This eart guitar certainly throws its hat into the ring, and on paper, the spec sheet is impressive.
Let’s delve into what makes the EART EGLP-620 tick. Right off the bat, the stainless steel frets are a standout feature, promising longevity and a slick playing surface. Paired with locking tuners, tuning stability is rock solid – a welcome addition for any guitarist. The roasted Okoume neck is another modern touch. Roasting enhances the wood’s stability and resonance, often resulting in a neck that feels incredibly smooth and plays fast. Indeed, the neck profile on this eart guitar leans towards a comfortable, slightly thinner profile than some traditional Les Pauls, making it accessible for a wide range of players.
The control layout is where the EGLP-620 deviates most noticeably from the classic Les Paul formula. Instead of the traditional four knobs and toggle switch arrangement, this eart guitar opts for a Fender-esque setup: a 3-way selector switch positioned lower on the body, along with two control knobs (volume and tone). While this streamlined approach might appeal to players accustomed to simpler controls, it does eliminate the possibility of pickup blending and the classic Gibson-style switch stutter effects. However, EART compensates by including a coil-tap feature, adding versatility to the humbucker pickups and allowing for brighter, single-coil-like tones.
Speaking of pickups, the humbuckers in the EGLP-620 are voiced to deliver that thick, sustaining Les Paul sound. They certainly pack a punch, providing ample warmth and power for rock, blues, and heavier genres. Playing classic punk rock riffs, the guitar felt right at home, delivering a full and room-filling tone. Sustain is plentiful, further enhancing the Les Paul character. However, the coil-split function, while present, might not be the highlight for all players. While it adds tonal variety, the split-coil tones might not be as inspiring as dedicated single-coil guitars.
So, is this eart guitar a worthy contender in the Les Paul-style arena? Objectively, the EART EGLP-620 offers exceptional value for its price. The impressive specs, solid construction, and pleasing humbucker tones make it a compelling option, especially for players seeking a modern take on the classic design. The slightly thinner neck, stainless steel frets, and lighter weight (compared to some traditional Les Pauls) contribute to enhanced comfort and playability.
However, those deeply rooted in traditional Les Paul features might find the control layout and coil-split focus a departure from the core experience. The absence of individual pickup volume controls and the classic switching options are noticeable omissions for players who utilize those features extensively.
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Stainless steel frets and locking tuners
- Comfortable roasted Okoume neck
- Powerful and warm humbucker tones
- Coil-tap feature adds versatility
- Modern playability enhancements
Cons:
- Non-traditional control layout (two knobs, 3-way switch)
- Coil-split tones may not be ideal for all
- Lacks some classic Les Paul switching options
Conclusion:
The EART EGLP-620 “eart guitar” carves out a unique space in the Les Paul-style market. It’s not a straight-up vintage reissue, but rather a modern interpretation that prioritizes playability, value, and contemporary features. If you’re looking for a Les Paul-inspired guitar with stainless steel frets, locking tuners, a comfortable neck, and powerful humbuckers without breaking the bank, the EART EGLP-620 is definitely worth considering. It’s a guitar that confidently blends classic aesthetics with modern sensibilities, offering a compelling option for players seeking a versatile and affordable instrument. While it might not fully satisfy purists seeking a strictly traditional Les Paul experience, the EART EGLP-620 stands as a strong contender for those open to a modern evolution of the single-cut classic.
