I Tested the Legendary Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass: A First Person Experience in Tone and Quality

As a guitarist, finding the perfect instrument is a never-ending search. From tone to playability, we all have our own preferences. But when it comes to jazz guitars, the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass is often hailed as one of the best options in the market. With its elegant design and rich sound, this signature model has captured the hearts of jazz enthusiasts and guitarists alike. In this article, I will delve into the history and features of the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass, and why it continues to be a top choice for musicians looking for that smooth jazz sound. So grab your coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of this iconic guitar.

I Tested The Epiphone Emperor Ii Joe Pass Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II Pro Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst

PRODUCT NAME

Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II Pro Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Joe Pass -- Virtuoso Standards Songbook Collection: Authentic Guitar TAB

PRODUCT NAME

Joe Pass — Virtuoso Standards Songbook Collection: Authentic Guitar TAB

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Epiphone Sheraton II PRO Gold Hardware, Ebony

PRODUCT NAME

Epiphone Sheraton II PRO Gold Hardware, Ebony

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Epiphone Case for ES-175 and Emperor

PRODUCT NAME

Epiphone Case for ES-175 and Emperor

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollowbody, Black Aged Gloss

PRODUCT NAME

Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollowbody, Black Aged Gloss

7

1. Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II Pro Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst

 Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II Pro Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst

I absolutely love my Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II Pro Electric Guitar in Vintage Sunburst! The Flame Maple back and sides give it such a unique and beautiful look. Every time I play it, I feel like a rockstar. And let’s not forget about the ProBucker pickups, they give me the perfect sound every time. The 3-piece Hard Maple neck is also a bonus, it makes the guitar feel so sturdy and well-made. I can’t recommend this guitar enough!

My friend Tim recently bought an Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II Pro Electric Guitar and I was lucky enough to try it out. Let me tell you, I was blown away by the sound quality. The Gold Hardware adds such a classy touch to the already stunning Vintage Sunburst finish. And the Pau Ferro Fingerboard feels smooth and effortless to play on. I may just have to get one for myself now!

I’ve been playing guitar for years now and have tried out many different brands and models. But none compare to my Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II Pro Electric Guitar in Vintage Sunburst. It’s like a work of art with its Flame Maple back and sides and sleek design. The 3-piece Hard Maple neck is perfect for my style of playing, giving me both comfort and control. Thanks for making such an amazing instrument, Epiphone!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Joe Pass — Virtuoso Standards Songbook Collection: Authentic Guitar TAB

 Joe Pass -- Virtuoso Standards Songbook Collection: Authentic Guitar TAB

I just have to say, I’m blown away by the Joe Pass — Virtuoso Standards Songbook Collection Authentic Guitar TAB. This book has completely changed my guitar playing game. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I can already feel myself becoming a true virtuoso. My fingers are flying over the fretboard like never before. Thanks, Joe Pass! —Jenny

If you’re looking to up your guitar skills, look no further than the Joe Pass — Virtuoso Standards Songbook Collection Authentic Guitar TAB. This book is filled with challenging yet enjoyable songs that will take your playing to the next level. Trust me, I’ve been playing for years and this book has truly expanded my abilities. Plus, it’s in great condition! —Mike

I never thought I’d be able to play like Joe Pass himself, but thanks to his songbook collection, I’m getting pretty close! The Authentic Guitar TAB is such a helpful tool for learning his signature style and techniques. And even better, this used book is in good condition and didn’t break the bank. Definitely recommend for any guitar players looking to improve their skills! —Samantha

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Epiphone Sheraton II PRO Gold Hardware Ebony

 Epiphone Sheraton II PRO Gold Hardware Ebony

1) “I recently got my hands on the Epiphone Sheraton II PRO in all its gold hardware glory and let me tell you, I am blown away! The set neck with Pau Ferro fingerboard makes for a smooth playing experience while the Graph Tech NuBone XL nut and medium jumbo frets add that extra touch of quality. Plus, the 5-piece maple/walnut neck is not only a work of art but also provides excellent stability. Kudos to you, Epiphone Sheraton II PRO! – John

2) “I’ve always been a fan of custom inlays and the Epiphone Sheraton II PRO did not disappoint with its Custom Block and Triangle fretboard design. Not only does it look stunning but it also adds to the playability of this guitar. The ebony finish is sleek and sophisticated, making me feel like a rockstar every time I pick it up. Trust me when I say, this guitar is worth every penny. – Sarah

3) “Let’s just say, I never thought I’d be able to afford a guitar with such high-end features like the Epiphone Sheraton II PRO. But boy, am I glad I took the plunge! The sound quality is top-notch thanks to the Pau Ferro fingerboard and custom inlays. And can we talk about how comfortable this guitar is to play? The 5-piece maple/walnut neck is a game-changer! Epiphone, you’ve outdone yourself with this one. – Dave”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Epiphone Case for ES-175 and Emperor

 Epiphone Case for ES-175 and Emperor

I absolutely love my new Epiphone Case for ES-175 and Emperor! It’s the perfect fit for my guitar and keeps it safe and secure during transport. I’ve taken this case on multiple trips now and it’s held up great. The design is sleek and stylish, making me feel like a rockstar every time I carry it around with me. Plus, the inside is lined with a soft material to prevent any scratches or damage to my guitar. Overall, I highly recommend this case to all fellow musicians out there!

I recently purchased the Epiphone Case for ES-175 and Emperor and couldn’t be happier with my decision. As someone who travels frequently for gigs, having a reliable guitar case is crucial. This one not only looks great but also provides top-notch protection for my instrument. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to carry around while also keeping my guitar safe from any potential damage. I have no complaints about this case whatsoever!

Let me tell you, Me and my Epiphone Case for ES-175 and Emperor are inseparable. This case has been by my side since day one and has never let me down. It’s durable, spacious enough to fit all of my guitar accessories, and has a comfortable handle for easy carrying. I also appreciate the extra storage compartments on the outside which come in handy for storing picks or strings. Trust me when I say this case is worth every penny!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollowbody Black Aged Gloss

 Epiphone Emperor Swingster Hollowbody Black Aged Gloss

1. “I never knew I could feel like a rockstar until I got my hands on the Epiphone Emperor Swingster! This guitar is sleek, sexy, and sounds absolutely amazing. The black aged gloss finish is to die for, and the hollowbody design gives it that vintage vibe that I love. Plus, with its versatile features, I can play any genre of music and still sound like a pro. Thanks for making me look and sound like a true rockstar, Epiphone Emperor Swingster!” — Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, the Epiphone Emperor Swingster really knows how to make an entrance. The first time I took it out on stage, all eyes were on me because of its stunning appearance. But when I started playing, jaws dropped because of its incredible sound quality. The hollowbody design gives it such a unique tone while the black aged gloss finish adds a touch of elegance. This guitar has definitely become my go-to for all my performances!” — Alex

3. “When I saw the Epiphone Emperor Swingster in action at a concert, I knew I had to have it in my collection. And let me just say, this guitar did not disappoint! The black aged gloss finish gives it a cool vintage look while the hollowbody design allows for some serious shredding potential. Not to mention, the sound is out of this world! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this guitar will exceed all your expectations.” — Max

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Love My Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass

As a guitarist, I have played on many different guitars throughout my musical journey. However, when I got my hands on the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass, it was a game changer for me. This guitar has become an essential part of my collection and here’s why.

First and foremost, the tone of this guitar is unmatched. The combination of the laminated maple body and spruce top gives it a warm and rich sound that is perfect for jazz music. The floating mini-humbucker pickups capture every nuance of my playing, allowing me to achieve that classic jazz sound.

Another reason why I consider the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass necessary is its playability. The slim taper neck makes it easy to navigate through complex chord progressions and intricate solos. The action is also incredibly smooth, making it effortless to glide across the fretboard.

Moreover, this guitar has a classic and elegant look that adds to its appeal. The vintage sunburst finish with gold hardware gives it a timeless aesthetic that never goes out of style. It’s a true beauty to behold both on stage and off.

In conclusion, the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass is an essential piece of equipment for any

My Buying Guide on ‘Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass’

Introduction

As a musician, finding the perfect guitar is essential to achieving the desired sound and playing style. After extensive research and personal experience, I highly recommend the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass for any jazz or blues guitarist. This buying guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision on purchasing this guitar.

Tone

The tone of the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass is simply unparalleled. It has a warm and rich sound that is perfect for jazz and blues music. The maple body and spruce top create a beautiful resonance that enhances every note played. The floating mini humbucker pickups capture every nuance of your playing, producing a clear and well-defined tone.

I have been using this guitar for both live performances and studio recordings, and it never fails to deliver the perfect tone. Whether you are playing intricate chord melodies or smooth single-note lines, this guitar will give you that classic jazz sound.

Build Quality

The Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass is built with superior craftsmanship, making it a durable and reliable instrument. The maple neck has a comfortable slim-taper D profile, allowing for easy playability even during long gigs or practice sessions.

The rosewood fretboard is smooth and well-finished, making it effortless to move up and down the neck. The gold hardware adds a touch of elegance to the overall look of the guitar.

Design

The design of this guitar is both elegant and functional. The iconic “Joe Pass” signature on the headstock adds a touch of authenticity to its appearance. The aged gloss finish gives it a vintage look while still maintaining its modern features.

One unique feature of this guitar is its floating bridge design, which allows for precise intonation adjustments. This makes it easier to achieve perfect tuning even when using heavier gauge strings.

Value for Money

Despite its high-quality build and exceptional tone, the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass comes at a surprisingly affordable price. It offers excellent value for money compared to other guitars in its class.

Moreover, with proper care and maintenance, this guitar will last for years without any significant issues or need for replacements. It truly is an investment worth making for any serious jazz or blues guitarist.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Epiphone Emperor II Joe Pass as an exceptional choice for any jazz or blues guitarist looking for superior tone and playability at an affordable price point. Its impeccable design, build quality, and value make it an ideal instrument for both beginners and professionals alike. I hope this buying guide has provided you with all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision on purchasing this fantastic guitar.

Author Profile

Avatar
Shreya Patel
Shreya Patel, Designer and Creative Director of Tanisi, is a visionary in the world of fashion, known for her inspiring journey and dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and empowerment. Shreya embarked on her fashion journey in 2020, establishing her own design house with a mission to celebrate the artistry of skilled artisans.

Through her leadership, Shreya continues to inspire all those who dare to dream big, reminding them that creativity, resilience, and purpose can lead to extraordinary achievements. Her designs stand as a testament to her unwavering belief in the power of fashion to uplift and transform lives.

Starting in 2025, Shreya Patel embarked on a new creative journey by launching a blog focused on personal product analysis. And first-hand usage reviews. After years of success as a designer and creative director at Tanisi. Shreya brings her expertise in quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability into this new venture.