Introduction
Ibanez is a Japanese brand that has been making high-quality guitars since the late 1950s. They are known for their innovation in guitar design and technology, as well as their attention to detail in construction.
Ibanez first gained recognition in the 1960s and 70s when they began exporting affordable, well-made copies of popular American guitar models like the Gibson Les Paul and Fender Stratocaster. While some dismissed them initially as mere "copycats", Ibanez soon earned a reputation for reliability, playability, and great tone that made their instruments stand out in their own right.
Over the decades, Ibanez has continued to innovate with new guitar shapes, slim neck profiles, exotic tonewoods, and electronics designed specifically for the metal and shred guitar genres. Signature models for influential guitarists like Steve Vai and Joe Satriani have further cemented Ibanez’s credibility among serious guitar players.
Today, Ibanez offers instruments across a wide range of styles and price points. From entry-level guitars perfect for students to high-end professional models, Ibanez is trusted by musicians across genres for their quality, performance, and value. Their acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars like the AEG series demonstrate their continued commitment to building instruments that can keep up with the demands of today’s working guitarists.
Body and Construction
The Ibanez AEG50 features a grand concert body shape, which is a comfortable size smaller than a dreadnought but still capable of producing a full, balanced tone. The grand concert shape’s compact profile makes it easy to handle and ideal for playing seated, while still offering rich low end, sparkling highs, and excellent projection.
For tonewoods, the AEG50 utilizes a solid Sitka spruce top paired with sapele back and sides. The solid spruce top helps create an open, airy voice with crisp articulation and good volume. Spruce is prized for its resonant properties and dynamic range. The sapele back and sides add warmth and sweetness to the spruce’s direct sound. Sapele is tonally similar to mahogany with a clear voice.
The Ibanez AEG50 comes in three distinct aesthetic options: a sleek black high gloss finish, an eye-catching indigo blue burst, and a traditional natural blonde look. The black high gloss is bold and modern, while the indigo sunburst offers vintage appeal. The natural finish puts all the focus on the instrument’s pristine woods. All three looks are handsome and highlight the AEG50’s high-end appointments.
Neck and Playability
The Ibanez AEG50 features a slim, comfortable neck profile made from quality mahogany. This not only feels great in the hand, but provides the stability and sustain that mahogany is known for. The neck has a 25.6" scale length and a 20-fret rosewood fretboard, giving it very smooth and easy playability.
The slim neck and shorter scale length means chords and lead lines are very comfortable to play. The action is set low and buzz-free from the factory, so no adjustments are needed to start playing right away. It’s a very playable neck that lends itself well to various techniques and playing styles, from fingerpicking to strumming. The smooth satin finish on the back of the neck also allows for fast movement up and down the fretboard.
Overall, the Ibanez AEG50 gets top marks for its neck design and playability. It’s built for comfort, speed, and versatility. The mahogany and rosewood combo provides a great feel and sound. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, you’ll find this a very inviting and enjoyable guitar neck to play.
Electronics and Preamp System
The Ibanez AEG50 features the Ibanez AEQ-TTS preamp system, designed specifically for their acoustic-electric guitars. This preamp aims to accurately capture the true acoustic tone and voice of the guitar.
The heart of the preamp system is the undersaddle piezo pickup. This pickup sits under the saddle and detects the vibrations of the strings, converting them into an electric signal. Piezo pickups are known for providing a very natural and transparent amplified tone.
Ibanez’s AEQ-TTS preamp has simple and intuitive controls to shape your tone. It features a 3-band equalizer, allowing you to boost or cut the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. This makes it easy to dial in just the right amount of low-end punch or shimmering highs. There is also a phase switch, which can help eliminate feedback in certain live situations.
One of the most useful features of the preamp is the built-in tuner. The tuner is very accurate and makes tuning on stage quick and efficient. The tuner can be activated with a simple press of a button. An LED light indicates if you are tuned up or need to make further adjustments.
Overall, the Ibanez AEQ-TTS preamp provides acoustic players with great amplified tone and flexibility. Between the transparent undersaddle pickup and the intuitive EQ shaping options, you can easily craft your ideal acoustic sound. The onboard tuner is icing on the cake, ensuring you stay in tune even in loud live environments.
Sound Quality
The AEG50 produces a balanced, articulate acoustic tone when played unplugged. The solid spruce top provides clarity in the high end, while the sapele back and sides add warmth to the midrange and low end. There is good projection and volume for playing solo or in small groups.
When plugged in, the AEG50’s undersaddle piezo pickup and Ibanez preamp deliver a very natural amplified acoustic sound. The EQ controls allow you to shape the tone to your liking, with options to add brilliance or boost the lows. The phase switch helps eliminate feedback when playing live. Overall, the amplified tone is very accurate and responsive, without sounding too processed.
Compared to other guitars in its price range, the AEG50 stands out for its versatile acoustic and plugged-in tones. Many affordable acoustic-electrics can sound somewhat quacky or sterile through an amp or PA. But the AEG50 retains the resonance and organic quality of the all-solid wood body, resulting in excellent sound for live gigs or recording. It’s a noticeable step up in acoustic tone from cheaper laminate guitars.
Accessories and Case
The Ibanez AEG50 comes with a basic gig bag for protecting the guitar during transportation and storage. While a hardshell case would provide more protection, the included gig bag is lightweight, affordable, and gets the job done for most players.
Some additional accessories to consider for the AEG50 include:
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Guitar strap – a basic strap can help make standing and playing more comfortable and secure. Levy’s and Fender make quality, affordable strap options.
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Extra strings – having an extra set or two of your preferred gauge acoustic strings on hand is always a good idea in case you break one mid-gig. Elixir and D’Addario make great acoustic strings.
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Guitar picks – the AEG50 will sound and play great with either a pick or fingers, so having a variety pack on hand is recommended.
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Guitar cable – you’ll need a cable to connect the AEG50 to an acoustic amp, PA system, or interface. A 20-30ft instrument cable from brands like Mogami or Monster work well.
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Acoustic guitar tuner – although the AEG50 has a built-in tuner, having a clip-on headstock tuner as a backup is handy. Brands like Snark and Korg make small, accurate tuners.
While not required, a few optional extras like a capo, slide, or effects pedal can open up more tones and versatility for the AEG50 when gigging or recording. Taking the time to customize your acoustic-electric setup is part of the fun!
Price and Value
The Ibanez AEG50 has a street price that typically ranges from $300 to $400, making it a very affordable option in the mid-range segment of the acoustic-electric guitar market. When you consider the all-solid wood construction using quality tonewoods like spruce and sapele, paired with Ibanez’s excellent electronics, the AEG50 provides outstanding value for the price.
Compared to similarly priced acoustic-electrics from other major brands like Fender or Yamaha, the Ibanez AEG50 competes very favorably and in many cases exceeds expectations for build quality and sound. The slim neck, comfortable body size, and versatile tone give the AEG50 a playing experience that punches above its price class.
Overall, the exceptional build quality utilizing premium tonewoods along with Ibanez’s expertise in electronics and hardware make the AEG50 an incredible value purchase. The combination of great acoustic resonance and amplified sound in an affordable package is hard to beat. For guitarists looking for a quality acoustic-electric guitar option without breaking the bank, the Ibanez AEG50 delivers in spades.
Conclusion
The Ibanez AEG50 delivers impressive value and quality in an accessible package. This review summarizes the key strengths that make it stand out in the mid-range acoustic-electric market.
The AEG50’s all-solid wood construction with tonewoods like Sitka spruce and sapele results in a balanced, nuanced acoustic tone. The slim neck and shorter scale length enhance playability across styles. The onboard Ibanez preamp reproduces the guitar’s natural resonance when amplified while remaining simple to control.
Overall, the Ibanez AEG50 punches above its class with the quality of a more expensive instrument. The versatile sound production and comfortable feel make it the ideal choice for gigging musicians, students, or home recording artists. It provides a compelling option for those seeking a stage-ready acoustic-electric without breaking the bank.
The final verdict: Ibanez succeeds in delivering outstanding value and quality with the AEG50 grand concert model. Players who appreciate the slim neck profile, balanced acoustic tone, and plugged-in versatility will find this to be a superb option in the sub-$500 price range. The AEG50 merits strong consideration by anyone needing an affordable, gig-ready acoustic-electric for live performances or recording.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- All-solid wood construction with quality tonewoods
- Ibanez AEQ-TTS preamp with onboard tuner
- Balanced, articulate acoustic and plugged-in tone
- Slim, comfortable neck ideal for various playing styles
- Affordable price for a high-quality acoustic-electric
Potential Cons:
- No included accessories beyond a gig bag
- Grand concert body may lack volume projection for some styles/venues
- Limited aesthetic options compared to some competitors
Related Gear
When looking for accessories to pair with the Ibanez AEG50, here are some recommended options:
Gig Bag/Case
While the AEG50 comes with a basic gig bag, you may want to upgrade to a hard case for maximum protection. The Ibanez AEGC50 hardshell case is form-fitted for this model.
Guitar Strap
A comfortable strap is essential for standing and playing live. The Fender Monterey strap comes in various colors and has suede ends for reduced slipping. Or check out leather straps from Levy’s for a vintage look.
Guitar Strings
It’s a good idea to keep extra sets of strings on hand. Try D’Addario EJ16 strings for a bright, balanced acoustic tone that complements the AEG50. Opt for phosphor bronze or 80/20 bronze acoustic strings.
Guitar Pick
Dunlop Tortex picks come in a variety of thicknesses perfect for acoustic strumming and picking. Try a .60mm or .73mm gauge. The Ultex and Gator Grip lines offer different textures.
Guitar Cable
The Fender California Coast 10′ cable is ideal for connecting to an acoustic amp or DI box. It’s designed for acoustic instrument tone with a twisted pair and tangle-resistant cloth jacket.
Acoustic Guitar Amp
For amplified tone, the Fishman Loudbox Mini is a top choice – 60W, EQ controls, and a balanced XLR DI output. Alternatives like the Fender Acoustasonic 15 and Vox AD50 offer comparable features.
DI Box
Use a DI box like the LR Baggs Venue to connect the AEG50 to a PA system for live sound reinforcement. It has a tuner, EQ controls, and balanced XLR output.
Capo
A Shubb C1 capo allows quick key changes while providing buzz-free performance. Use it to play in alternate tunings or higher keys while staying in standard EADGBE tuning.
Those are some of the most useful accessories for getting the most out of your Ibanez AEG50 on stage and in the studio. Let me know if you need any other gear recommendations!