Guitar sites across the internet are on fire! A highly anticipated electric guitar, the Epiphone Explorer ’80s EMG in Classic White, has accidentally been posted by a major European (EU) dealer, giving us the full scoop on this incredible new model. Priced at a fiercely competitive €999 (European Price), this axe is set to be the must-have guitar for rock and metal players across the continent and globally, especially those channeling their inner James Hetfield on a budget!
Metallica Tones for Less: ’84 Explorer Vibe
The excitement is palpable, and it’s all down to the uncanny resemblance this new Epiphone bears to the legendary white 1984 Gibson Explorer—the very guitar that defined the sound and look of early thrash metal legends like James Hetfield of Metallica (often referred to as his “Explorer 83”).
While the original Gibson models command premium prices, this Epiphone offers the iconic styling and, crucially, the aggressive tone at a fraction of the cost. The pickguard-less design and sleek Classic White finish give it that menacing, retro-futuristic edge that defined the hard-rockin’ ’80s.
Active Attack: Loaded with EMG Pickups
The headline feature—and the reason for the blistering tone—is the installation of a classic, industry-standard active humbucker set:
- Bridge Pickup: Genuine EMG 81 for that high-output, razor-sharp aggression and searing lead tone.
- Neck Pickup: Genuine EMG 60 for tight low-end and clear, powerful clean tones, ideal for chunky rhythm work.
The active pickups are powered by a single 9-volt battery, easily accessible via a discreet compartment on the back of the mahogany body. This setup is a staple of ’80s hard rock and metal, guaranteeing the immense, sustained output this guitar promises.
Full Specifications Breakdown
This new Explorer isn’t just about looks and pickups; it offers great playability and hardware for the price point:
| Feature | Specification |
| Body Shape/Material | Explorer / Mahogany |
| Neck Material/Profile | Mahogany / 60s SlimTaper |
| Fretboard | Rosewood with Pearloid Dot Inlays |
| Scale Length | 24.75″/ 628.65 mm |
| Nut | Graph Tech 1.69″Â / 43mm width |
| Bridge/Tailpiece | Epiphone LockTone Tune-O-Matic / LockTone Stop Bar |
| Tuners | Mini Die Cast |
| Hardware Plating | Nickel |
| Controls | 2 Volume, Master Tone (with Metal Knurled Knobs) |
| Case | Premium Gig Bag |
The combination of the Mahogany body and the fast-playing 60s SlimTaper neck profile will make this a comfortable and resonant guitar, ready for rapid riffing and blistering solos right out of the included premium gig bag.
Global Availability and Price
While the initial leak occurred through a European distributor, listing the guitar at €999, this strongly suggests an imminent worldwide release. Fans in the UK, USA, and Asia should keep an eye out for local pricing and pre-order announcements, which we expect to be released shortly. The excitement is already reaching fever pitch on guitar forums, cementing this model as one of the most anticipated Epiphone releases of the year.
Are you ready to grab your slice of ’80s metal history without breaking the bank? Let us know what you think of the new Epiphone Explorer ’80s EMG Classic White in the comments below!
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#Epiphone #Metallica #James Hetfield #Explorer ’80s EMG Classic WhiteÂ
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