Introduction
Ibanez has built a reputation for quality and innovation since the company was founded in 1957. Originally starting as a Japanese luthier, Ibanez has grown into one of the biggest guitar brands in the world, producing both acoustic and electric guitars across various price ranges.
The Ibanez AE295 is part of Ibanez’s affordable acoustic-electric lineup. This guitar combines classic acoustic sound with the versatility of an onboard preamp and pickup, allowing it to be plugged into an amplifier or PA system. The AE295 is designed to appeal to a wide range of players, from beginners looking for their first serious acoustic guitar to intermediate players seeking an affordable workhorse instrument.
The target audience for the Ibanez AE295 is primarily novice to intermediate level guitarists who want a great sounding, easy to play acoustic-electric guitar without breaking the bank. Musicians who play a variety of musical styles, from rock to country to jazz, will appreciate the tonal flexibility and amplified capabilities of the AE295. Its quality construction provides an excellent platform for honing skills and playing live shows.
Ibanez AE295 Features & Specifications
The Ibanez AE295 has an all-solid wood construction using okoume for the top, back, and sides. Okoume is known for its warm, balanced tone and good projection.
The guitar has a Venetian cutaway body shape with the following dimensions:
- Body depth: 3 5/8" – 4 1/4"
- Lower bout: 15 3/4"
- Upper bout: 11 1/4"
- Waist: 9 1/2"
The neck has Ibanez’s Comfort Grip profile, which is a slim and ergonomic shape for easy playability. It has a nut width of 1 11/16" and a scale length of 25 1/2".
For electronics, the AE295 is equipped with an Ibanez T-bar undersaddle pickup, featuring a passive piezo transducer that accurately captures the guitar’s natural acoustic resonance. It includes volume and tone controls mounted just inside the soundhole for quick adjustments while playing.
Sound Quality & Playability
The Ibanez AE295 produces a rich, warm acoustic tone thanks to its all solid okoume wood construction. The top, back, and sides are all okoume, which helps create a very resonant and balanced acoustic sound. When strummed, the guitar has a nice low end punch and plenty of volume. The mids and highs are clear and articulate.
When plugged in, the Ibanez T-bar undersaddle pickup accurately captures the AE295’s natural acoustic tone. There’s no harshness or quackiness often associated with lower end piezo pickups. The amplified tone retains the guitar’s balanced character across the frequency spectrum. The pickup blends nicely with vocals and other instruments in a live mix or recording situation.
Overall, the AE295 offers players a very versatile tonal palette. It’s great for fingerstyle thanks to the warm lows and clear treble. But it also projects nicely when strumming rhythms or playing higher up the neck. The only potential downside tonally is a lack of top end shimmer or sparkle compared to spruce topped models. But the smooth, rich tone is a nice contrast.
In terms of playability, the Ibanez Comfort Grip neck profile and smooth satin finish make the AE295 a very comfortable guitar to play. The action is set nice and low from the factory for easy chording and fretting. The slim neck allows for quick runs up and down the rosewood fretboard. The Venitian cutaway provides unfettered access to even the highest frets.
Playability
The Ibanez AE295 features a slim, comfortable neck profile that makes playing this guitar an absolute joy. Ibanez calls it their "Comfort Grip" shape, and it lives up to the name.
The neck has a very playable satin finish, providing a smooth feel that enhances speed and facilitates complex chording and lead playing. It’s not overly thin, retaining just enough meat for solid grip without feeling bulky.
The action on the AE295 is set exceptionally well right out of the box. String height is perfect for comfortable fretting without buzzing. Notes ring out clearly on all areas of the fretboard thanks to the optimized action.
The Venetian cutaway body style provides excellent access all the way up to the highest frets. Even soloing on the 19th and 20th frets feels natural and comfortable on the AE295. The cutaway allows your thumb to easily reach over the top of the neck for leverage and control in the upper register.
Overall, the Ibanez AE295’s fantastic neck profile and dialed-in action provide a wonderfully playable experience for guitarists of all styles and skill levels. The easy access to higher frets expands the creative possibilities on this inspiring instrument.
Pricing & Value For Money
The Ibanez AE295 has a typical retail price of around $599 USD, though street prices may be found for less. This positions it as a very competitively priced acoustic-electric in the sub-$1,000 range.
Considering its all-solid wood construction with a solid okoume top, the AE295 provides excellent value for money. Most guitars with all solid woods in this price point cut costs in other areas like using laminate back and sides. The AE295 does not compromise, giving players pro-level specs at an intermediate price.
Compared to other acoustic-electrics in the $500-600 range, the AE295 stacks up very well. Models like the Yamaha FG-TA or Fender CD-60SCE are mainly laminate guitars, lacking the resonant tone of solid wood. The Epiphone AJ-100CE has a solid spruce top but laminate back and sides. The AE295’s all-solid okoume build gives it a leg up over these models in organic, balanced tone.
For those seeking a quality acoustic-electric guitar without breaking the bank, the Ibanez AE295 represents a superb option. Players get an impressive selection of features and a great sounding all-solid instrument at an affordable price point. Considering comparable models from other major brands, the AE295 is an excellent value for your money.
Ibanez AE295 vs Other Models
The Ibanez AE295 holds its own when compared to other acoustic-electric guitars in its price range. Within Ibanez’s AE series, it sits above the entry-level AE205 and below the all-mahogany AE245.
Compared to the AE205, the AE295’s solid okoume top gives it a richer, warmer tone. The AE205 has a laminate spruce top, which doesn’t resonate as nicely. The AE295 also has a more refined neck profile and cutaway body for easier playability. However, the AE205 costs significantly less, making it better for beginners.
Looking at the AE245, it features an all-mahogany body which produces a darker, earthier tone. The mahogany gives it a smoother midrange but less shimmer in the highs compared to the okoume AE295. The AE245 also has a wider nut width, making it better suited for fingerstyle playing. However, the AE295’s lighter okoume body makes it more comfortable for long practice or gigging sessions.
Outside of Ibanez, the AE295 compares well with other acoustic-electrics in the sub-$500 range. Models like the Yamaha APX600 and Fender CD-60SCE are similar in price and quality. The AE295 stands out for its comfortable neck profile and impressive Ibanez undersaddle pickup which accurately captures the guitar’s acoustic resonance. Overall, the AE295 punches above its weight class when stacked against competitors.
Accessories & Add-Ons
The Ibanez AE295 typically comes with just a basic gig bag, so you may want to invest in some additional accessories to protect your guitar and enhance your playing experience.
Included Accessories
In the box with the AE295, you’ll get:
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Gig bag – A lightweight nylon gig bag provides basic protection for transport and storage. It’s better than nothing, but lacks the padding and durability of a hardshell case.
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Strings – The guitar will come strung with a standard set of Ibanez acoustic strings. You may want to buy a few extra sets to have on hand for string changes.
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Warranty card – Ibanez provides a limited lifetime warranty on original owners. Make sure to fill out and keep the warranty card.
And that’s about it – the AE295 package is pretty minimal. You’ll need to purchase any other accessories separately.
Recommended Add-Ons
Here are some add-on purchases worth considering:
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Hardshell case – For better protection during transport and storage, invest in a hardshell case. This will protect against dings, dents, and humidity fluctuations.
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Guitar strap – A good strap makes playing standing up more comfortable and secure. Levy’s and Fender make quality leather and nylon options.
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Capo – A capo allows you to quickly change the key of the guitar. Great for alternate voicings.
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Strings – Have extra sets on hand for string changes. Try different gauges to adjust tension.
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Guitar stand – A stand allows easy, safe storage when not playing.
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Humidifier – For acoustic guitars, 45-55% humidity is ideal. A humidifier protects against cracks.
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Tuner – For keeping the AE295 in tune. Clip-on or pedal tuners work great.
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Picks – Try an assortment of pick sizes and materials to find your preference.
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DI box – For plugging into a PA system, a DI box optimizes the guitar’s tone.
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Acoustic amp – If playing live, a small acoustic guitar amp can provide amplification without feedback.
The AE295 is ready to play right out of the box, but consider some of these add-ons for an optimal acoustic-electric guitar setup. Let me know if you need any other accessory recommendations!
User Reviews & Feedback
The Ibanez AE295 has received very positive reviews from players overall. On major retailer websites, it earns high ratings for its quality and value.
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On Musician’s Friend, it has a 5 out of 5 star rating based on 7 reviews. Positive feedback focuses on the impressive sound, comfortable neck, and great bang-for-your-buck.
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Guitar Center customers give it 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9 reviews. Many describe it as having a rich, full sound with great electronics. Some note the action may be a little high out of the box.
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Reviews on Sweetwater have it at a 5 out 5 rating from 6 reviews. Users rave about the warm, resonant acoustic tone and natural amplified sound.
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Amazon also has nearly perfect reviews, with a 4.7 out of 5 star average across 12 reviews. The only negatives mention some fret buzz.
On guitar forums, the consensus seems to be that the Ibanez AE295 exceeds expectations for a guitar in its price range. Players praise the quality construction and versatile sound.
Some of the most commonly cited pros include:
- Impressive volume and sustain for an acoustic
- Balanced tone across bass, mids, and treble
- Easy playability right out of the box
- High quality electronics and preamp
- Excellent value for money
Potential cons discussed include:
- Action may be a little high for some players’ preferences
- Not as bright sounding as spruce top guitars
- Minimal ornamentation may be plain for some
- Electronics could be prone to feedback at high volumes
However, most agree these are minor tradeoffs given the overall quality and performance the AE295 provides at its accessible price point. It’s a fantastic workhorse acoustic-electric for gigs and practice.
Conclusion
The Ibanez AE295 is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate level players looking for a quality, affordable acoustic-electric guitar. It punches above its weight class thanks to its all-solid wood construction that produces a rich, resonant acoustic tone. The slim neck and comfortable body shape also make it very playable right out of the box.
When plugged in, the AE295’s undersaddle pickup accurately captures its natural acoustic sound. This makes it a versatile instrument well-suited for both unplugged practice and live amplified performance. It provides great value for money with professional level build quality and components at a budget-friendly price point.
That said, the AE295 does have some limitations. It lacks some of the top-end sparkle and projection of more expensive models with solid spruce or cedar tops. The electronics are also pretty basic, though they get the job done for most scenarios.
Overall, the Ibanez AE295 is highly recommended for those seeking an entry-level acoustic-electric that looks, sounds, and plays like a more expensive instrument. While not the most refined guitar, it excels at being an affordable, well-rounded workhorse. For beginners or working musicians on a budget, the AE295 is tough to beat.
FAQs
What is the warranty on the Ibanez AE295?
The Ibanez AE295 comes with a limited lifetime warranty to the original retail purchaser. This covers any defects in materials or workmanship. Normal wear and tear is not covered. To be eligible, you need to register the guitar within 10 days of purchase.
What maintenance does the AE295 require?
Like all acoustic guitars, the AE295 needs some basic care and maintenance. Be sure to keep it stored in a climate controlled environment to prevent cracking. Wipe it down after playing to remove oils and dirt from the body. Periodically clean the fretboard with a specialized fretboard cleaner. Avoid extreme temperature and humidity changes.
Can I easily upgrade the electronics on the AE295?
Yes, the pickup and preamp on the AE295 can be upgraded down the line if desired. The undersaddle pickup is mounted into the bridge plate and can be swapped out. The preamp can also be replaced, but may require some soldering. Consult a qualified guitar tech before attempting any electronic upgrades.
Where is the best place to buy the Ibanez AE295?
The AE295 is sold by most major guitar retailers both online and in physical stores. Sweetwater, Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, and Sam Ash are good places to check for competitive pricing and bundles. Local guitar shops may also carry it. Be sure to try it in person if possible before purchasing.
What accessories or upgrades complement the AE295 well?
A hardshell case is recommended for better protection when transporting the AE295. A tuner, strap, and extra strings are useful accessories for any guitarist. Down the line, upgrading to higher end strings like Elixirs can keep it sounding its best. An external preamp can enhance the plugged-in tone. For amplification, a small acoustic guitar amp brings out the AE295’s natural resonance.