Epiphone Broadway Electric Guitar: An In-Depth Review
The Epiphone Broadway is a guitar that has been a staple in the world of jazz and blues for decades. With its rich history, elegant design, and exceptional sound quality, this electric guitar has become an iconic instrument that has captured the hearts of many musicians. In this review, we will delve into the features, specs, and performance of the Epiphone Broadway electric guitar to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your musical endeavors.
A Brief History
The Epiphone Broadway first made its debut in 1931, and it quickly became a popular choice among jazz guitarists. The original model featured an archtop design with a carved spruce top, which was considered groundbreaking at the time. Over the years, the Broadway has evolved, incorporating new materials and technologies, but it has always maintained its core characteristics of elegance and exceptional sound quality. Today, the Epiphone Broadway offers guitarists a mix of vintage charm and modern functionality.
Design and Construction
The Epiphone Broadway is an archtop guitar with a full-size body, measuring 17 inches across at its widest point. The body is made from laminated maple, which contributes to the guitar’s bright, resonant tone. The top is adorned with a beautiful vintage sunburst finish, while the back and sides are finished in a warm, natural color.
The neck is made from a three-piece hard maple and features a SlimTaper “C” profile, which is comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a slimmer neck. The fretboard is made from Pau Ferro, a sustainable alternative to rosewood that offers a similar feel and tone. It features 20 medium-jumbo frets and block pearloid inlays that add a touch of elegance to the guitar’s overall aesthetic.
The headstock is adorned with the iconic Epiphone logo and “Broadway” script, as well as the classic “tree of life” inlay that has been associated with the Broadway model since its inception. The gold Grover Rotomatic tuners not only provide exceptional tuning stability but also complement the guitar’s vintage-inspired design.
Electronics and Hardware
The Epiphone Broadway comes equipped with two Alnico Classic humbuckers, which deliver a warm, full-bodied tone with plenty of output. The neck pickup provides a smooth, mellow sound that’s perfect for jazz and blues, while the bridge pickup offers a brighter, more aggressive tone that can cut through a mix when needed.
The guitar features a three-way pickup selector switch, allowing players to choose between the neck pickup, bridge pickup, or a combination of both. Additionally, there are individual volume and tone controls for each pickup, providing a wide range of tonal options to suit various playing styles and genres.
The hardware on the Epiphone Broadway is finished in gold, adding an extra touch of class to the instrument. The floating Tune-O-Matic bridge and Frequensator tailpiece not only provide excellent intonation and sustain but also contribute to the guitar’s unique appearance. The pickguard is adorned with a classic “E” emblem, further enhancing the guitar’s vintage appeal.
Playability and Sound
One of the most important aspects of any guitar is how it feels to play, and the Epiphone Broadway does not disappoint in this regard. The SlimTaper “C” neck profile is comfortable and easy to navigate, making it suitable for players of all skill levels. The archtop design and full-size body provide excellent balance and support, ensuring a comfortable playing experience even during extended sessions.
When it comes to sound, the Epiphone Broadway truly shines. The combination of the laminated maple body and Alnico Classic humbuckers results in a bright, resonant tone that’s perfect for jazz, blues, and other genres that require a clean, articulate sound. The neck pickup offers a smooth, warm tone that’s ideal for comping chords and playing melodic lines, while the bridge pickup provides a more aggressive, cutting sound that can be used for lead work or rhythm playing.
The individual volume and tone controls allow players to fine-tune their sound, and the three-way pickup selector switch makes it easy to switch between different tonal options on the fly. Whether you’re playing fingerstyle or with a pick, the Epiphone Broadway delivers a versatile array of tones that will satisfy even the most discerning guitarist.
Final Thoughts
The Epiphone Broadway is an exceptional electric guitar that offers a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern functionality. With its elegant design, comfortable playability, and versatile sound, it’s no wonder that this instrument has been a favorite among jazz and blues musicians for decades.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, the Epiphone Broadway is an excellent choice for those looking to add a high-quality archtop guitar to their collection. Its combination of top-notch construction, beautiful aesthetics, and outstanding sound make it a worthy investment for any guitarist seeking an instrument that not only looks great but also performs at a high level.
