Epiphone B.B. King Lucille

Epiphone B.B. King Lucille review

The Epiphone B.B. King Lucille is a signature guitar built around the look and switching options associated with B.B. King's instrument. Its black finish and gold-plated hardware make a strong first impression, while the six-position Varitone switch gives the electronics a wider range of sounds than a basic two-pickup layout. The listed price is 759, and the model has been available since October 2021.

Its laminated maple body has five layers, with a laminated maple top. The glued-in maple neck meets an ebony fingerboard with pearloid block inlays and 22 frets. Scale length is 24.76 inches, and the nut measures 1.69 inches wide. The neck has a rounded C-shaped profile, a shape several owners describe as comfortable and substantial without feeling awkward.

Epiphone supplies a soft case. The guitar has two 6.3 mm mono output jacks, allowing connection to two signal paths. There is no tremolo system. The bridge is an Epiphone LockTone Tune-O-Matic paired with a TP-6 stopbar tailpiece.

Playability and build quality

Owner reports point to a generally comfortable playing feel, but they also show that factory setup and finish can vary. One player found the action and intonation acceptable straight out of the box and praised the smooth frets, neck, and tuners. Another had to polish the frets, file a few sharp fret ends, and improve the setup. A separate report noted binding that had been partly covered by finish.

That variation matters on an instrument in this price range. Several owners were delighted with the fit and finish, while at least one had to address small details before settling in. Buyers should inspect the fret ends, binding, and setup on arrival rather than assume every example will be ready to play without adjustment.

The body also feels substantial. One owner estimated the weight at about 4.2 kg using a personal scale and described it as solid without being excessively heavy. Other players found its size and mass noticeable compared with more compact guitars. That heft may suit players who like a planted feel, but it is worth considering if you regularly play standing for long sets.

Pickups and Varitone sounds

The two Alnico Classic Pro humbuckers are controlled by two volume knobs and two tone knobs. Owners describe the sound as full and smooth, with enough bite for blues when paired with an amplifier that adds gain. Some players were pleased with the pickups as supplied, while others felt they did not match higher-priced Gibson pickups. That is a reasonable distinction: the Lucille offers a convincing range at its price, without a claim to duplicate a more expensive instrument in every detail.

The six-position Varitone switch is the main tonal feature. Players report that its settings provide noticeably different colors, making it possible to move from a thick, rounded voice to leaner sounds without changing guitars. Learning the switch takes a little time, particularly if you are also choosing between the two output jacks. Once familiar with the controls, the range is useful for blues and other styles that call for several distinct tones.

One owner reported intermittent output from the bridge pickup and had difficulty getting the fault reproduced during service. This is a single reported issue, not proof of a wider defect, but it makes a careful check of both pickups, all switch positions, and both output jacks sensible when the guitar arrives.

Verdict

The Epiphone B.B. King Lucille makes the most sense for players drawn to B.B. King's sound and visual style who want a broad tonal palette without paying for the Gibson version. Its ebony fingerboard, comfortable neck, dual humbuckers, and Varitone circuit give it a distinct character. Owners have used it at home and onstage, and favorable reports describe a rich sound and a well-made, appealing instrument.

The caveats are practical rather than mysterious: the body is sizeable, setup quality may need attention, and isolated reports mention finish or electronics problems. Check the instrument carefully on receipt and budget time for a professional setup if needed. For a blues player willing to explore the Varitone controls, the Lucille offers a satisfying signature-guitar experience at a more accessible price.