Introduction
Ibanez first started producing acoustic guitars in the 1970s and has since become known for its impressive lineup of both acoustic and electric models. The Ibanez AEL series, first introduced in 2009, represents the company’s foray into acoustic-electric guitars, combining the rich acoustic tone of a classic flat-top with built-in electronics for plugging in.
The AEL108MD is the latest addition to the AEL family and features an innovative 8-string design. This gives the guitar an extended lower range while still maintaining the familiar feel and playability of a standard 6-string acoustic. The doubled lower octave strings allow for new chord voicings and bass lines not possible on a traditional acoustic guitar.
The AEL108MD brings a fresh perspective to acoustic-electric guitars and demonstrates Ibanez’s willingness to push boundaries. This guitar promises to deliver something new for players looking to expand their tonal palette.
Ibanez AEL108MD Specifications
The Ibanez AEL108MD features a jumbo body shape and size, providing deep bass resonance and plenty of projection. The top is made of solid Sitka spruce, which gives the guitar a bright, articulate tone with excellent note separation. The back and sides are mahogany, adding warmth and richness to the sound.
The AEL108MD has a mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard featuring attractive wooden binding and pearl dot inlays. The 25.6" scale length and 1.69" nut width provide comfortable playing feel while accommodating the additional string spacing of an 8-string design.
Other specs include an Ibanez Advantage bridge, quality die-cast tuning machines, and Fishman electronics featuring the Sonicore pickup and Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp with tuner. The guitar comes equipped with D’Addario EJ88 strings gauged .012-.060.
The 8-String Design
The Ibanez AEL108MD features a unique 8-string design with doubled octave G and D strings. This means it has two G strings tuned in unison and two D strings also tuned to the same pitch.
The purpose of the doubled octave strings is to provide extended low-end range and bass response on an acoustic guitar. The two low D strings in particular give the AEL108MD a rich, deep tone with thunderous bass projection.
Some key benefits of the 8-string design include:
- Extended range for bass lines, chords, and melodies
- Ability to create unique voicings and chord shapes
- More sonic depth with the doubled octave strings
- Interesting new textures and tones
However, having an 8-string acoustic guitar also poses some challenges:
- Wider neck can be difficult for smaller hands to navigate
- More tension on the top with double strings
- Potential intonation problems across the extra strings
- New technique required to leverage the extra strings
Overall, the 8-string configuration gives the AEL108MD a very distinctive voice compared to most acoustic guitars. It will appeal to players looking to push the boundaries of traditional 6-string acoustics into fresh new territory.
Sound and Projection
The Ibanez AEL108MD produces a rich, resonant acoustic tone thanks to its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides. The jumbo body shape projects the sound powerfully, with plenty of volume to fill small and mid-sized venues.
The doubled octave G and D strings add extra bass response and fullness to the guitar’s natural acoustic voice. Chords ring out with authority and definition across all eight strings. Single note lines have a singing, violin-like quality in the midrange, with crisp and clear treble notes.
The AEL108MD’s X-bracing pattern contributes to its impressive projection and dynamic range. It handles aggressive strumming cleanly without muddiness. The jumbo body produces a bold low end that provides a solid foundation for the guitar’s overall voice.
This is an acoustic guitar built for the stage. It has no problem competing with drums and amplified instruments in a full band setting. The acoustic tone remains balanced across the frequency spectrum, avoiding the thin or boxy sound some jumbo guitars can suffer from.
Whether playing chords, fingerstyle, or lead melodic lines, the AEL108MD fills the room with its big, bold acoustic tone. The projection power of the jumbo body effectively showcases the creative musical potential of the 8-string design.
Electronics & Amplification
The Ibanez AEL108MD is equipped with a Fishman Sonicore pickup and Ibanez’s own AEQ-SP2 preamp, giving it excellent amplified tone and versatility.
The Sonicore is a popular undersaddle piezo pickup known for its rich, full-bodied acoustic sound when plugged in. It captures the nuances of the guitar’s natural tone while adding warmth and clarity through the preamp’s EQ controls. Fishman is one of the top brands for acoustic guitar pickups, so the AEL108MD is in good hands here.
The Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp packs a 3-band EQ, volume control, tuner, notch filter and phase switch into a compact onboard preamp. The EQ lets you shape the lows, mids, and highs to suit your taste or fit into a mix. Cutting the lows helps reduce muddiness, while boosting the mids and highs adds crispness and definition. The notch filter helps eliminate annoying feedback, always useful for live playing situations.
Overall, the electronics package on the AEL108MD provides excellent amplified acoustic tone that retains the resonance and character of the guitar. Between the Sonicore pickup and AEQ-SP2 preamp, you have pro-level control over your sound when plugging this 8-string guitar into an amp or PA system.
Playability and Comfort
The AEL108MD features a comfortable, slim-profile mahogany neck that should feel familiar to most players. The action is set medium-low from the factory, providing very playable access to all 8 strings without excessive buzzing.
The wider string spacing required by the 8-string design takes some adjustment coming from a 6-string, but should not present major challenges for experienced players. Those with smaller hands may need to stretch a bit more to fret some of the wider chord shapes and bass note runs, but the neck width remains very manageable.
Overall, the AEL108MD provides a smooth and enjoyable playing experience. The jumbo body and Fishman electronics give it a balanced, full-bodied tone that makes it satisfying to strum and pick. The slim neck and comfortable action allow easy access to the expanded note range. While requiring some adaptation from 6-string players, the AEL108MD feels immediately familiar and playable for those experienced with 8-string guitars.
Aesthetic Appeal
The Ibanez AEL108MD-NT model features a natural high gloss finish that allows the beauty of the tonewoods to shine through. The top is solid Sitka spruce, which has an attractive straight grain pattern. The back and sides are mahogany, giving a nice contrast to the lighter spruce.
The body binding helps accentuate the guitar’s shape and gives it a more refined look. The binding is a three-ply material in a cream color. There is also back body purfling and rosette inlay around the soundhole that complements the binding.
The neck has a five-piece mahogany/walnut construction with a slick rosewood fretboard and pearl dot inlays. The headstock has the classic Ibanez logo branded on the front. Overall, the AEL108MD has a very sleek and modern aesthetic perfect for the stage.
While not overly flashy, there are some nice decorative touches like the wooden bridge pins and chrome die-cast tuners. It’s a good looking guitar with just enough visual interest while maintaining a relatively minimalist design. The Natural High Gloss finish helps show off the tonewoods and bindings nicely.
Accessories & Value
The Ibanez AEL108MD comes packaged with several useful accessories for the musician on the go. It includes a padded gig bag to protect the guitar during transport and storage. The gig bag is well-made and fits the AEL108MD snugly.
Also included is an adjustable fabric strap in black that complements the look of the guitar. There are several picks included as well – both medium and heavy gauges to accommodate different playing styles. The included accessories add value as most acoustic-electric guitars at this price point may only include a basic gig bag.
When comparing the price to other acoustic-electric guitars, the AEL108MD represents a good value at around $899 USD. While not the most affordable, it is priced similarly to other premium jumbo acoustic-electrics from major brands. The innovative 8-string design and quality appointments like the solid spruce top help justify the cost. Overall, the AEL108MD gives you a lot of guitar for the money.
The included accessories, thoughtful design, and fair pricing make the Ibanez AEL108MD a great value for musicians looking to explore the possibilities of an 8-string acoustic-electric guitar. It gives you an inspiring new creative tool at a reasonable price point given the features and build quality.
Pros & Cons
The Ibanez AEL108MD has many strengths that make it a unique and appealing 8-string acoustic-electric guitar. However, it also has some potential drawbacks to consider.
Pros
- Innovative 8-string design with doubled octave G and D strings expands the tonal range and possibilities
- The jumbo body produces rich, deep acoustic tone and projection
- Fishman electronics and Ibanez preamp provide excellent amplified sound
- Smooth playability despite the wider 8-string neck
- Visually stunning natural gloss finish
Cons
- Wider neck and added string tension takes adjustment for players used to 6 strings
- Intonation can be tricky with the doubled octave strings
- Higher price point than comparable 6-string models
- Electronics don’t have a built-in tuner
The Ibanez AEL108MD’s innovative design and full acoustic-electric implementation make it an intriguing option for players looking to expand their tonal palette and push the boundaries of acoustic guitar. While the 8-string configuration poses some initial challenges, the guitar’s rewarding tone and smooth playability make the learning curve worthwhile. The AEL108MD delivers on versatility for modern acoustic guitarists.
Conclusion
The Ibanez AEL108MD is an innovative and unique 8-string acoustic-electric guitar that offers players an extended range and new creative possibilities. With its jumbo body and solid spruce top, it projects a bold acoustic tone, while the Fishman electronics provide pristine amplified sound.
Some players may find the wider neck and additional strings challenging at first. But with practice, the AEL108MD allows intricate chord voicings and bass lines not possible on a standard 6-string. The guitar feels substantial yet comfortable to play.
For solo artists, guitarists in percussive styles, or anyone looking to push their playing in new directions, the Ibanez AEL108MD is highly recommended. Its quality construction, great electronics, and eye-catching looks make it an inspiring instrument. I encourage all adventurous players to try out the AEL108MD and discover just how dynamic an 8-string acoustic can be.