1972 Epiphone EA-250 Hollowbody - Red - w/Gig Bag

1972 Epiphone EA-250 in Cherry Red with trem, made in Japan during that early Matsumoku era when a lot of cool, slightly off-the-radar stuff was coming out under a handful of different names. These have always been a bit quirky, but that’s part of the charm—and part of the conversation.

Here’s the honest version. The known issue with these is the neck joint. Over time, the heel wants to rotate forward under tension, and most of them eventually give up the fight. This one already went there, and instead of kicking the can down the road, it’s been properly addressed. The top had separated at the neck block and there was a crack running between the neck pocket and neck pickup. That’s all been glued and sealed, and while the repair is visible, it’s solid.

To keep it that way, a dowel brace has been installed between the heel and bridge support to stop that forward movement. We’ve done this on a handful of these over the years with great long-term results. A 1-degree maple shim was added to dial in the neck angle, and the end result is a stable, very playable EA-250 that isn’t waiting on a structural failure down the line. It’s not the prettiest around the heel, but it’s doing exactly what it needs to do.

Electronics are another weak point on these, and this one’s been gone through as well. Every cold solder joint has been reflowed, lock washers added throughout, and everything is now original, functional, and sounding as it should.

If you’ve been curious about these early Japanese Epiphone hollowbodies but didn’t want to sign up for a future rebuild, this is a great way in. It’s already been handled.

Includes a vintage leather gig bag with a tear. It still does the job, but could use a quick stitch to clean it up.

Available for a test drive here at the shop, and we’re always happy to ship worldwide. If you’ve got questions, just ask.

Weight: 7lbs 4oz