Can only share what I've heard, much of it first hand. FWIW
I haven't played a new electric Epiphone...well, ever! But I do have a good friend, a gigging/teaching pro who makes every penny he earns through music who was gifted a 2012 Epiphone John Lennon Casino. Despite it's 1000.00 price tag, this is a Chinese build. He gushes about the thing every chance he gets, and I daresay he plays better and more enthused than I've seen him in the 10 years I've been watching him play.
He literally can't say enough good things about it. He's playing it bone stock, no changes. He's had it set up for him of course. You get him talking about he and he starts grinning and talking fast like I would if you gave me a vintage LP.
So, knowing this guy well, I take that as a major thumbs up for modern Epi semis.
Additionally, I've heard rave reviews about the Masterbuilt acoustic line, as DVM has been sharing here. I've got other friends giving the same feedback.
It seems Epi is delivering on it's objective of high value/low price.
"It's never too late to be what you might have been" - Eliot
Guilars: '02 Heritage H-535 ASB; '04 Larrivée LV-03 w/Fishman Blend; '95 Washburn/Bourgeios D-55SW Cherokee
Amphs: Boogie DC-2; DVM/BYOC Tweed Champlifier; Marshall AS50D
Currently on Board: Ditto Looper; Boss TU-2; EB VP Jr; crybaby; DVM Spring Fever; DVM Mini Klone, Brena Effects Cali-Tremor tremolo; Strymon El Capistan