epiphone elite j45-vs

[doogerboosh]

I think I had this initially in the wrong forum, so I'm trying it here...

I've gotten into searching for Epiphone Elitist Les Pauls lately and ran into an acoustic Elite j45-vs.

The guitar dater project doesn't recognize the serial number, so no help there. But, it is an Elite, so it is made in Japan.

I've read some talk about the Elite j-45 but not the VS. Do you guys know of this guitar and what do you think of it? Supposedly, the Epiphone j-45, Elite or not, doesn't sound that great (as opposed to Epiphone Texans or what not) what do you all think?

As far as value, it seems the going rate is $700 for one in excellent condition with original case. The one I found does not have an original case (only a generic one) and has a Fishman pickup installed. How much should that bring the price down by?

Also, what do you all generally think about mods like the pickup on an acoustic? Does it generally increase or decrease value?

Please let me know your thoughts, thanks in advance for any help!!