I haven't played an Epiphone ES339 recently, but I have been a big fan of that size and shape for many years. I've owned several Ibanez AM's over the years including a 1987 AM70. The smaller semi hollow style guitars including the ES339 are very comfortable to hold and play.
I've test driven both the Gibson and Epiphone ES339's at the store in the past. I think the Epi is a decent sounding, decent playing, no-frills guitar especially for the money; at least from what I remember. For the price you mentioned, you could always use some of the money that you save to drop in some nicer pickups. I'm a big fan of Ibanez Super 58 Customs and Seymour Duncan 59's.
Good luck in your search!
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“Sometimes you have to play a long time to be able to play like yourself”
— Miles Davis.
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