I purchased the Epiphone SJ200 1957 because you get a lot of guitar for a decent price especially if you compare with the original Gibson SJ200. I am in the position to compare both the instruments since I also own the Gibson SJ200 Original from 2007 . Test was done purely acoustically so no mikes or pick up. Is there a difference? Sure is, first of all the weight of the Epiphone is a lot heavier than the original and this also reflects in the sound , the Gibson has less bottom end and a lot more clarity while the Epiphone is somehow warmer and has a more bottom end. This is not necessarilly a bad thing , it is a matter of taste and in my book it sounds very nice. The Epi plays somewhat heavier with its 50's like neck while my Gibson has a somehow slimmer neck. All things considered It's a very nice guitar to play and certainly has the Gibson SJ200 DNA on board. Lovely instrument , beautifully finished at an affordable price if you realise that the Gibson comes at more than 5000 €.
P.S. As usual perfect service from Thomann.