Epiphone

Epiphone is an American musical instrument brand, primarily known for manufacturing guitars. Founded in 1873 by Anastasios Stathopoulo in Smyrna, Ottoman Empire (present-day İzmir, Turkey), as "House of Stathopoulo," the company initially produced lutes, violins, and other stringed instruments. The family immigrated to the United States in the early 20th century.

The name "Epiphone" was coined in the 1920s by Epaminondas "Epi" Stathopoulo, the son of Anastasios, combining his nickname ("Epi") with the suffix "phone" (from the Greek "phon-" meaning sound or voice), a common suffix used in musical instrument names during that era.

Epiphone gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s as a major competitor to Gibson in the archtop guitar market, producing instruments favored by jazz musicians. Key models during this period included the Emperor, Deluxe, and Broadway.

In 1957, Gibson's parent company, Chicago Musical Instrument Co., acquired Epiphone. Under Gibson's ownership, Epiphone production shifted focus to creating more affordable versions of popular Gibson models, such as the Les Paul, SG, and ES-335. While originally manufactured in the United States, Epiphone production was later moved to Asia to further reduce costs.

Today, Epiphone continues to produce a wide range of guitars, basses, and other instruments, primarily as a more budget-friendly alternative to Gibson instruments. The brand retains a loyal following and is popular among both beginners and experienced players. Epiphone also produces versions of its vintage archtop models, offering instruments inspired by its historical designs.