If I could have the perfect Casino I think it would be an Elitist with IBJL neck dimensions and Klusons. I like the overall shape and feel of the neck shape on the Chinese casinos better (standard and IBJL), but the quality of the fretwork was just not there for me on the Chinese models I tried. I don't particularly care for the super-slim neck on the Elitist, as I have somewhat large hands and long fingers. Someday I will probably sand it down so it is less conspicuous. The only drawback is that the spacer is larger in area than the pickup, so you can see a black 'ring' around the pickup. The neck/bridge position also sounds fantastic now, since the bridge pickup is contributing more. The bridge pickup is louder, brighter, and chimier. I recently installed a 1/8' spacer (from Allparts) under the bridge pickup and WOW, what a difference.

My initial impression was that the neck pickup sounded wonderful, but the bridge pickup sounded kind of weak and lifeless in comparison. ( I know it's going to be just coal & switches for me ) We're getting close so Merry Christmas to all and I hope you get lots of guitar stuff this year. Maybe some differences in pots too, I don't know. The Standard have quite a bit more volume it seems as well at the same settings. Must be something else other than where they are made IMHO. What is everyone in Epiphone land's take on the two guitars, sound & playing? There must be some difference in the PUP's isn't the Elitist Gibson USA made & the Standard Chinese made for Epiphone? Something like that. Overall, I really want to like the Elitist better, cuz I really don't like much made in China except for fine China plates & cups! You know, porcelain type stuff. Fit & finish kicks the butt off the Standard however big time!!! Also, my pup selector switch on the Elitist seems to pop into the center position from either the bridge or neck position easy. My standard plays about as well as the Elitist it seems too. What I hear is a more chimmy, brighter ring & more sustain from the standard vs the Elitist. I don't drink or smoke anything so we can't blame that. But, when playing along w/ Beatles tunes, I believe the Standard Casino sounds more Beatles like than the Elitist does. I love the fit, feel, & look of the Elitist. I've now had my Elitist 1965 Casino for a couple of weeks & would like some constructive feedback from other users & their thoughts/impressions.

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