Ibanez AS73G Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar Review Perfect for Versatile Playing Styles

Description

Eye-Catching Design and Build Quality

The Ibanez Artcore AS73G Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitar immediately strikes you with its sleek Black Flat finish and elegant gold hardware. The maple body material and linden back provide a sturdy yet lightweight structure, making it easy to handle during long jam sessions. I particularly loved the acrylic block inlays on the walnut fingerboard, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds a touch of sophistication. Its dimensions (47 x 21.2 x 6.25 inches) make it a comfortable fit for most players, whether you’re seated or standing. The craftsmanship here is undeniably impressive; everything from the nyatoh neck to the Quik Change III tailpiece screams quality.

Playability and Comfort

Playing this guitar feels like a dream. The nyatoh neck is smooth and ergonomic, allowing for seamless transitions between chords and solos. I found the 25.5-inch scale length to be just right for my playing style, offering enough tension without feeling too stiff. The walnut fingerboard is incredibly responsive, and the frets are well-polished, ensuring no annoying buzzing or dragging. Whether you’re strumming gentle rhythms or shredding leads, the guitar feels equally accommodating. The weight, a manageable 11.5 pounds, means it won’t wear you out during longer performances.

Sound Performance and Versatility

One of the standout features is its tonal versatility. The dual Classic Elite humbuckers deliver a rich, warm sound that’s perfect for jazz, blues, and even rock. Plugging it in for the first time, I was greeted with sweet vintage-tinged tones that had just the right amount of resonance and clarity. The semi-hollow design contributes significantly to this, adding a natural depth to the sound. Whether I was playing clean tones or experimenting with overdrive, this guitar handled it beautifully. The fixed Gibraltar Performer bridge ensures excellent intonation, and I was particularly impressed with how well it stayed in tune even after heavy use.

Key Benefits

• Elegant design with a classy Black Flat finish and gold hardware.
• Versatile sound suited for multiple genres like jazz, rock, and blues.
• Smooth playability with a nyatoh neck and walnut fingerboard.
• Reliable intonation and easy string changes with the Gibraltar Performer bridge and Quik Change III tailpiece.
• Lightweight yet sturdy build, weighing 11.5 pounds.

Areas for Improvement

Despite how much I enjoyed the guitar, there are a few shortcomings worth mentioning:

• The factory setup could have been better; I had to adjust the string height and intonation to fit my preferences.
• The gold hardware, while stunning, is prone to tarnishing over time if not properly maintained.
• Lack of additional accessories like a gig bag or strap, which would have been a nice touch for such a high-quality instrument.

Competitive Options

When comparing this semi-hollowbody guitar to others in its price range, a couple of names come to mind. The Epiphone Dot, for instance, also offers a semi-hollow design but lacks the refined finish and hardware quality of this Ibanez model. Another competitor, the Gretsch Streamliner, provides similar tonal versatility but falls slightly short in terms of playability, especially for players with smaller hands. Where the Ibanez Artcore AS73G shines is its balance of quality materials, user-friendly features, and gorgeous aesthetics. The Classic Elite humbuckers also have a warmer, more vintage vibe compared to the brighter sound of its rivals.

True Value

For anyone considering adding a semi-hollowbody guitar to their collection, the cost-effectiveness of this model is hard to ignore. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the blend of premium tonewoods, high-quality hardware, and versatile sound makes it a smart investment for both beginners and seasoned players. I’ve used more expensive guitars in the past that didn’t offer the same level of value for money. If you’re after a guitar that looks as good as it sounds without breaking the bank, this one should be on your radar.

Overall, the Ibanez Artcore AS73G stands out as a solid choice for musicians looking for a versatile, high-quality semi-hollowbody guitar. From its stunning design to its excellent sound performance, it delivers on almost every front, with only minor areas for improvement.

Additional information