The electronics are better now too (many Koreans had mini-pots). There's no comparison between the upgraded humbuckers Epi's had the last couple years, to the cheap ones in Koreans. In comparison the 1990's Koreans usually had cheap generic tuners. The grover tuners that Epi's been using lately are excellent, tough and reliable, never had a problem with them.

1990's Koreans varied a lot, the quality of some just wasn't as good. The workmanship is very good, and they're much more consistent overall. Now they're turning out the guitars they've always wanted to. Epiphone's factory, new machinery and tooling, they control the whole process. I've owned dozens of Epi's over the years and think the Chinese are better. So, IF they're now putting on the 'Korean style' 5-piece necks, they'd be just about 'perfect!,' as long as the pickups and hardware are 'decent.' One can always change those, on either version, to one's own preferences. It's more the traditional 'Gibson' style.in horn shape, waist location, and lower bout size, and style. Don't know if that's a fact, or 'wishful thinking?' Maybe someone on here can comfirm or deny that? However, I DO (much) prefer the body sillouette, on the Chinese versions. I've 'heard' (but, not seen.yet, anyway) that the Chinese have started incorporating that 5-piece neck, in their standard Sheraton.

The Chinese versions had a bit of a 'time of it,' at first, but seem to be very nicely made, now. But, I know a lot of folks like the 5-piece laminated necks, on the Korean versions, as well as their overall quality. Can't speak about the other models, as I have NO experience, there. I think some may always prefer the Korean Epi Sheraton's.

Epiphone casino vs dot 335