Firstly, I actually owned an Epi Black Beaut back in the mid 90's. It was a very awesome (kinda heavy) guitar! I Loved it, and allas, it was stollen in i think it was 2000. A great guitar for the money.

Now the difference between epi and Gibson. Besides price, Epi is made outside the US. Some in China and some in various other countries. Having played Epis and Gibson extensivly they are both very good. The epi's are cheaper because they are cheaper to make. IE; its cheaper to pay a Chinese worker 5 bucks an hour to make a guitar than an American guy 40 an hour. I guess there are some minor quality differences in materials and workmanship that go along with that territory.

But Having played and owned 2 Epis they are very good for the price. The Black Beauty is one of the best (IMO) LP's they make, and for the price, you wont find a better quality E LP.

Gibson, you get the name, the top notch quality, the warrenty, the workmanship but at least double the price. Great if you have the cash.

I have been 110% happy with both my Epi's and my Gibson. I miss my Black Beaut to this day. Play one to make sure, but rest easy that is is a great axe. At that price range, you could only buy the stripped down "faded" Gibson LPs. You would probably get the same playability and sound but better cosmetics with the BB.

Rock on!