Which budget Explorer should I get?

HotHead

HotHead

New member
I'm in the market for a new guitar, and I have my eyes set on an Explorer shape. After a few days of research, I've narrowed my choices down to an Epiphone Gothic Explorer and a Hamer XT. Both guitars are about $300 used, which is well within my budget. I feel like those are the most reliable options so far; I've heard good things about Hamer and Epiphone is a household name. I haven't played either, because I'm shopping online, and my local music is a barren wasteland when it comes to guitars. I'm not a fan of the LTD Explorers or the Jackson Kellys; I like the classic rounded Explorer shape. Anything I might have overlooked, please recommend them. If not, which one would you chose?

I'd say my budget for this is $400. I prefer used guitars and I don't care much about condition as long as it's playable. I don't care about the stock electronics, because I intend to upgrade whatever guitar I get with EMG 57/66 pickups.
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

Some years ago, I tried one of the Epiphone Goth Explorers. It was a nice, solid guitar. It balanced well, played well, and had a good meaty sound. A guitar like this is right in Epiphone's wheelhouse. I'd put some favorite high-output pickups in it and just pummel it relentlessly. I thought they were discontinued until I went on their website just now. I might get one of these yet.
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

I cant vouch for the Hamer, I imagine its a decent guitar. Epi has been putting out really good guitars last few years. If I was getting an EPI Explorer, I would get the Epiphone 1984 Explorer. I prefer the look of the Explorers without the pickguard. AND it already has EMGS in it. They are just alil more money, but used will be close to your ballpark.

Here is a used one on Reverb for $499
https://reverb.com/item/1674082-epi...id=pla&pla=1&gclid=CNbppbGM2c8CFcsdgQodKWkEHw
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

IMG_0374.jpg

I can also vouch for a 58 reissue from epiphone. I've got the mayhem distortion set in mine right now. I had to move the strap button to behind the neck (bad neck dive beforehand), but after that, it became a workhorse
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

Epi makes great Explorers and Vs. If was looking for a Les Paul or SG, I'd try to find a secondhand Gibson, but I'd always look to Epiphone for a solid Explorer.
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

I decided to go with the Epiphone. After doing some research, I learned that specific Hamer model had issues in a few areas. It plays very well and it has a big neck, bigger than what I'm used to anyway.

I have 2 minor problems. The first one is that the Explorer shape doesn't fit comfortably in my normal sitting position. I put all my guitars on my left knee instead of my right, like most players. It feels pretty good on the right knee, I just have to learn to adjust (perhaps I should've gotten a V.) The second is that it's very neck-heavy. I'll have to weigh the body down if I plan on using it live someday.
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

I've got an Epi that's neck heavy too. There are different strategies for dealing with it. I bought a 3" wide leather strap and the extra surface area seems to keep it steady.

BTW, my '58 Korina always falls back into being my number 1. There's just something about it.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

My epi was neck heavy too. I moved the strap button to the heel of the neck and the dive is almost completely gone
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

probo_squad_henry said:
My epi was neck heavy too. I moved the strap button to the heel of the neck and the dive is almost completely gone
Click to expand...

+1

There's a reason Gibson moved the strap button on their '76 reissues. Every Explorer I've ever played with the strap button in the '58 position was neck heavy, while every one I've played with the button behind the neck heel balanced.
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

I had a Hamer. It was ok but just ok. I have never had an Epi Explorer. I can tell you from experiance that a real American Hamer Explorer is usually a great guitar and in my opinion a cut above an American Gibson Explorer. However, on a basic model I think Epi has done a great job in its selective price range of making good bang for the buck guitars. You may need to do a little finish work like the nut at the top of the neck or replace a tuner here or there or a little short but overall the guitar is usually well manufactured and just needs a good setup. I vote the Epi in this price range.
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

Owned an Epi 76 reissue in black. Needed a new nut and setup BADLY, but then it was a dream. If I was still gigging I would have put Duncans in it, but it was fine for around the house.
 
Re: Which budget Explorer should I get?

I like the Epi '58 Korinas; have two of 'em right now, both natural. They play well & are nice and lively despite having veneer tops & backs (I believe the core on these is korina too, just multipiece). A great platform for upgrading pickups and maybe hardware. I got a BareKnuckle Rebel Yell set for the one I play more often. And straplocks, but now I'm thinking about moving the strap button also- glad to know that works well.
 
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