For generations of guitar players, Alex Lifeson’s white ES-355 has been one of the most recognizable instruments in progressive rock. Now, Epiphone is bringing that guitar back with the new Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 Reissue, part of the Inspired by Gibson Custom Collection.
The Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 Reissue starts with a five-ply Maple and Poplar semi-hollow body built around a solid Maple center block. Multi-ply binding around the top and back reinforces the upscale styling that has long separated the ES-355 from its ES-335 sibling, while the guitar’s gloss Alpine White finish recalls Lifeson’s original instrument.
Get the Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 Reissue for $1,499: Sweetwater
The neck is constructed from three pieces of Maple and features a volute (a small, carved ridge or thickened bump at the back of a stringed instrument’s neck where it meets the headstock) for added strength, commonly found on Gibson models from the 1970s. A Slim C profile keeps things comfortable and fast, while the ebony fretboard adds a touch of snap and clarity to the overall tone.
The fretboard is fitted with 22 medium-jumbo frets and large mother-of-pearl block inlays, while the bound open-book headstock carries Epiphone’s split-diamond Custom inlay. For an added personal touch, Lifeson’s name appears on the truss rod cover.
Gold hardware is featured throughout, including the harmonica-style Tune-O-Matic bridge and pickup covers. Completing the period-correct appearance is a gold Maestro Vibrola, allowing players to add subtle pitch effects while maintaining the visual character of the original guitar. The instrument also benefits from practical upgrades, including a Graph Tech nut and high-quality die-cast tuners with keystone buttons for improved tuning stability.
Electronics are centered around a pair of USA-made Gibson T-Type humbuckers, a pickup choice designed to capture the clarity, warmth and articulation associated with vintage Gibson semi-hollow instruments.
Each pickup receives its own volume and tone controls, fitted with CTS potentiometers and Mallory capacitors, while a Switchcraft three-way selector handles pickup switching duties.
One of the guitar’s most distinctive features is its onboard Varitone circuit. Long associated with the ES-355 platform, the system offers a range of alternative tonal voices beyond standard humbucker sounds. A dedicated mini-toggle switch allows players to engage or bypass the Varitone instantly, making it easier to access those sounds during performance.
Lifeson’s original ES-355 played a major role in shaping Rush’s sound throughout the late 1970s and beyond, appearing on countless recordings and stages around the world. With its combination of vintage-inspired construction, premium electronics and Custom-level appointments, the Epiphone Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 Reissue aims to deliver that experience to a wider audience.
Get the Alex Lifeson 1976 ES-355 Reissue for $1,499 right here at Sweetwater.
