Overall User Ratings

"A 12 String To Use"

This reviewer purchased this item from Same Day Music.

Feature:
I have not used the pre-amp yet. It seems to be a good basic system, but it will be a while until I get a chance to "plug in". My model appears to be the 2004 version, as the headstock has a darker color than the version on this web site. It also came with Ibanez's new Ivorex II saddle and nut. It came strung with DAddario EXP strings.

Quality:
I would give quality a fair to good rating. At the nut, you can see glue runs and it does not have a real clean look, like a Seagull product. There are several finish flaws, but the overall look of the instrument is great. It is heavy, but solid. No braces on the back, and the back is convex in shape, and I believe this adds to the richness in sound. Tuners are OK and it is holding tune. Fret dressing is just OK.

Value:
Looking at what this is, a 12 string acoustic/electric with cutaway, the value is good. Price was good, and perhaps you can find another 12 string for less, but not with the mix of features on this guitar.

Desirability:
When sitting on a stand in the room, it looks like a high priced Taylor. The overall look of this guitar is very strong. When you get close, some of the appeal decreases, but I wanted something that I would use and not fuss over, and for this reason, I like it a lot. For example, this past weekend, I sat outside with it and played for an hour. I am not afraid to carry it around and USE it.

Sound:
I am pleased with sound of this insturment. It has the classic ringing sounds of a 12 string acoustic. It projects well and sustains nicely.

Support:
No experience here. If I need service, I will do it myself or go to my local shop and have a luthier take care of it.

Overall:
At some point, I will look for another 12 string that might be easier to play (a Carvin for example). For now, this is a nice instrument to advance my skills. One thing I discovered about 12 strings, if you want to warm up for your 6 string adventures, play this first. The 6 string will feel so much easier to play.

"Try the others first then come back and buy this one."

Feature:
The selection of woods used in the construction of the guitar contribute highly to the overall sound. Spruce Top, Mahogany Back, Sides and Neck. Grover tuners would have been nice instead of the Die-Cast tuners but they work well. No Case and I do not recommend buying the Ibanez case. The SKB Molded case for Dreadnaughts and most 12 strings holds this guitar snugly and provides better protection.

Quality:
I am always delighted when I look at this guitar. Though it lacks a pick guard, the fit, finish and bookmatching is a joy to behold. The arched back is something that everyone must see. Simply Beautiful.

Value:
For the money, this guitar cannot be beat. True I stated the Taylor sounded better but we are talking about VALUE. A thousand dollars difference can go a long way toward that perfect amp, case, a Luthier's setup expertise, etc.

Desirability:
The guitar is not a dreadnaught. It is more like a Grand Concert or Grand Auditorium in the Taylor line. This means it has a sharper waistline and sits nicely on the leg without fear of slipping and sliding while being played.

Sound:
The sound of this guitar is truly acceptable. The only Acoustic/Electric that can achieve a better sound is the Taylor 12 string. Thus the 9 rating since it is not as nice sounding as the Taylor but close enough given the dollar amount difference. No one string is overbearing when played. A nice even sound across all strings.

Support:
I have not needed to contact Ibanez so I cannot really comment on this aspect of the guitar.

Overall:
I expect to have this guitar a very long time. I do not play a 12 string for every song I have mastered. But for those that I do play on it, there is a certain joy that only a 12 string can bring out. Would I replace it if damaged or stolen? In a heartbeat.