Ashthorpe Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Review Full-Size Cutaway Design and Premium Sound

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar (model 21637111) immediately stands out with its sleek black finish and ultra-glossy coating. I was genuinely impressed by the lightweight build—just 4.2 pounds—making it easy to carry around without feeling like a chore. The thinline body design (just 3 inches thick) is not only visually appealing but also ensures that the guitar is comfortable to hold during long jam sessions. The cutaway design near the neck is a practical touch, providing better access to higher frets, which is great for solos or intricate fingerpicking.

The choice of materials is worth highlighting. The spruce top and basswood back and sides bring a balanced tonal quality, combining resilience with warmth. The neck made from Okoume wood fits snugly in my hand, and the basswood fretboard felt smooth while playing. However, I did notice that the glossy finish—while stunning—can be prone to smudges, so a quick wipe-down after every session is a good idea.

Sound and Performance

This guitar doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sound quality. Whether strumming chords or picking individual strings, the tone is rich and full-bodied. The combination of spruce and basswood delivers a nice contrast: crisp highs and warm mids. The phosphor bronze strings, which come pre-installed, add a brighter, more vibrant sound that I thoroughly enjoyed.

The onboard 4-band pickup/EQ system is a game-changer for anyone who performs live or records. With controls for bass, mid-range, treble, and presence, I found it easy to tweak the sound to suit various styles, from mellow acoustic vibes to brighter, punchier tones. Plugging it into an amplifier revealed its versatility—whether I needed to amplify its natural acoustic sound or add effects, the guitar handled it beautifully.

That said, I did notice some slight buzzing on the lower frets when strumming hard, which could be a setup issue. Adjusting the bridge system, which is thankfully adjustable, might address this minor hiccup.

Positives

There are several winning points to this guitar, especially for its price range. Here are some highlights that stood out during my testing:

• Lightweight and portable design makes it perfect for travel or long practice sessions.
• The cutaway body shape allows easy access to higher frets for complex solos.
• The 4-band EQ system adds versatility and is ideal for live performances or recording.
• Phosphor bronze strings deliver a vibrant and dynamic tone.
• A complete accessory bundle (gig bag, picks, extra strings, strap, and cable) is included, making it beginner-friendly.

Negative Attributes

While the guitar has a lot going for it, there are a few areas of concern worth mentioning:

• The glossy finish, while attractive, tends to show fingerprints and smudges easily.
• Slight buzzing on lower frets when strumming forcefully, which may require adjustments to the action or bridge.
• The basswood fretboard, though functional, doesn’t have the same premium feel as rosewood or ebony.

Competing Products

Comparing this guitar to similar acoustic-electric options, it holds its ground, especially for beginner to intermediate players. For instance, the Yamaha FGX800C boasts a more premium solid spruce top, which might offer slightly better resonance, but it comes at a higher price point. On the other hand, the Ibanez Talman TCY10 has a similar thinline design and EQ system but lacks the same level of warmth in its tone due to its laminate construction.

What sets the Ashthorpe apart is its affordable package—the inclusion of all the accessories and the focus on comfort without sacrificing sound quality. While it may not have the high-end features of pricier brands, it offers a fantastic balance of quality and playability, especially for those just starting out or looking for a reliable secondary guitar.

Value for Money

When you consider the price to quality ratio, this guitar is a smart spending choice for anyone on a budget. It’s rare to find a full-size acoustic-electric guitar with a thinline body, a 4-band EQ system, and all the included accessories at this price point. While it might not satisfy a professional musician looking for top-of-the-line materials, it’s more than sufficient for beginners, casual players, or even gigging musicians who need a lightweight backup.

It’s worth noting that the guitar’s versatility—suitable for everything from fingerpicking to strumming, and from unplugged practice to amplified performances—adds to its overall value. If you’re looking for an affordable quality instrument, this one delivers.

Additional information