Epiphone

They are now owned by Gibson, but at one time Epiphone was one of Gibsons biggest competitors. Nowadays they are considered Gibsons budgetminded little brother. Epi makes both electric and acoustic guitars, and many of their models are based around Gibson designs. In fact, they are the only guitar company allowed to use Gibson specs to make Les Pauls, Explorers, SGs, Flying Vs and other Gibson classics. This is good news for young players, or anyone looking to get a great guitar that looks like a Gibson, sounds a lot like a Gibson, but doesnt cost nearly as much as a Gibson.