The Japanese-made Elite Series launched in 2002 as an earnest attempt to build high-quality Epiphone-branded guitars to Gibson USA specs. Later renamed "Elitist," the Elite Series mainly focused on electric models, but the Japanese Terada factory built some exceptional acoustic guitars with the "Epiphone Elite" stamp on the peghead. These acoustic Elites are easily the finest Epiphones made since Epiphone was shipped out of Kalamazoo.
This 2002 Epiphone Elite J-45 NA features a classic Gibson slope-shoulder body with a natural finish. It has a solid spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides. While the Kalamazoo-made Epiphone Texan had a longer 25-1/2" scale, this J-45 NA has the shorter Gibson-appropriate 24-3/4" scale. With that and the natural finish in mind, the model name is probably a slight misnomer—we think it should be called a "J-50" because it's essentially a Japanese-made J-50.
This 2002 Elite J-45 NA has been played and enjoyed over the years, so it shows some general play wear around the body (see photos). But fortunately, it is free of severe cosmetic damage or deep scratches. It is setup with nice action, and it's a great player. The frets are still nice and clean, too, so it's ready to roll!
Sound-wise, this 2002 Epiphone Elite J-45 NA produces the strong, throaty voice and low-end rumble you want from a good slope shoulder. In general, it shows impressive build quality that rivals the USA-made Gibsons, but with the Epiphone name inlaid on the headstock, this Elite J-45 NA brings something a little different to the table. It includes its original hardshell case.