Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $563

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Introducing the Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar, an exemplary addition to the Masterbilt line, blending historical charm with modern advancements. Crafted with all-solid wood, this guitar not only promises durability but also enhances tonal quality, maturing like fine wine over time.

The DR-500MCE's robust sound profile is attributed to its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides. Its dreadnought shape complements these elements, delivering deep bass and clear, balanced mids.

Taking you back in time, the DR-500MCE showcases an offset headstock design reminiscent of the 1930's Epiphone guitars. The "split diamond" mother-of-pearl inlays on the pau ferro fretboard further accentuate its vintage appeal. Despite its old-school aesthetic, the guitar incorporates a sleek cutaway, ensuring easy access to the higher frets - a nod to the needs of the modern musician.

Key Features:

  • All solid wood construction
  • Solid Sitka spruce top
  • Mahogany back and sides
  • Mahogany neck in slim-taper D profile
  • Pau ferro fingerboard
  • 6-ply body, 1-ply neck, and 3-ply headstock binding
  • Historic offset headstock design
  • Bone nut
  • Nickel hardware

The Epiphone DR-500MCE is a testament to the Masterbilt line's enduring legacy, skillfully marrying traditional craftsmanship with innovative design for an unparalleled playing experience.

Product specs

Brand Epiphone
Model Masterbilt DR-500MCE Acoustic/Electric Guitar
Finish Natural
Year 2010s
Made In Indonesia
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural, Tan
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Epiphone DR-500MCE's mahogany and spruce construction?

The combination of mahogany back and sides with a spruce top provides a warm, rich tone with excellent projection, making it suitable for both strumming and fingerstyle playing.

How does the Fishman Presys preamp enhance the DR-500MCE's performance?

The Fishman Presys preamp offers a 3-band EQ and built-in tuner, allowing for precise tone shaping and easy tuning adjustments, ideal for live performances and recording.

Is the Epiphone DR-500MCE suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its undersaddle piezo pickup and active preamp system, the DR-500MCE is well-equipped for live performances, delivering clear, amplified sound.

What is the neck profile like on the Epiphone DR-500MCE?

The DR-500MCE features a comfortable, medium-profile neck, making it easy to play for extended periods, suitable for both beginners and experienced guitarists.

Does the Epiphone DR-500MCE come with a built-in tuner?

Yes, the guitar includes a built-in tuner as part of the Fishman Presys preamp system, providing convenient tuning on the go.

What type of strings does the Epiphone DR-500MCE use?

The DR-500MCE uses steel strings, which contribute to its bright and articulate tone, perfect for a variety of musical styles.

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Epiphone eSonic2 Preamp System for Acoustic Guitar Demo

Video thumbnail for Epiphone eSonic2 Preamp System for Acoustic Guitar Demo by OfficialEpiphone

Epiphone eSonic2 Preamp System for Acoustic Guitar Demo

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Video thumbnail for Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-electric Guitar Review - Sweetwater Sound by Sweetwater

Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-electric Guitar Review - Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Everything You Need To Know by Sam Ash Music

Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Everything You Need To Know

Sam Ash Music

Sam Ash Music

Video thumbnail for The Epiphone Masterbilt DR-500MCE by OfficialEpiphone

The Epiphone Masterbilt DR-500MCE

OfficialEpiphone

OfficialEpiphone

Video thumbnail for Epiphone Masterbilt acoustic guitar - DR 500 MCE!!! REVIEW by Schopfield Music

Epiphone Masterbilt acoustic guitar - DR 500 MCE!!! REVIEW

Schopfield Music

Schopfield Music

Reviews

PROS

  • Incredible value comparable to high-end models like Taylor

  • Excellent tonal qualities both plugged and unplugged

  • Fast-playing neck with perfect intonation

  • Beautiful craftsmanship and finish

  • Stays in tune regardless of playing intensity

  • Easy setup, plays great out of the box

  • High-quality electronics with dual pickups and dual outputs

  • Controls conveniently located on top for easy access

  • Durable construction, responds well to regular play

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar.

Build quality

  • Some users mention the headstock finish is prone to chipping, though this doesn't affect playability.

    Source
  • The Epiphone's spruce top is favored over Martin's solid Sapele for its traditional build and tonal qualities.

    Source
  • One owner reported inconsistent quality control, with cosmetic issues like yellowish top finishes and defective electronics across multiple purchases.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Owners note the onboard Shadow eSonic-2 preamp offers decent control but lacks the warmth and depth of higher-end systems.

    Source
  • The Nanomag/Nanoflex pickup system allows versatile performance, enabling players to switch between acoustic and electric tones, enhancing live performances.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's frequently compared to the Taylor 214ce, with the Taylor offering a richer tone at a significantly higher price.

    Source
  • The Martin is noted for its recording-focused sound, lacking the boom of a spruce top but capturing essential frequencies.

    Source
  • A user compared it favorably to a Taylor 314, noting the Epiphone's deep, rich tone for half the price.

    Source

User experience

  • After extensive use, several owners emphasize its ability to maintain tuning stability, even with frequent play.

    Source
  • A challenging decision for players comparing the DR-500MCE and Martin DRS1 due to their distinct tonal profiles.

    Source
  • A user found the sustain to be one of the standout features, contributing to a satisfying playing experience despite average overall sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The stereo setup capability, using the Nanoflex through PA and Nanomag through a distorted amp, is highlighted for dynamic live performances.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
officialjacobsartorius

OTHER GUITAR I USED FOR MY FIRST WORLD TOUR

I rotated between this and my masterbilt, and they're both great guitars for performing

T

what's your favourite amp for the masterbuilt?

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matthew Healy uses Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Matthew Healy

Singer, Guitarist

The 1975

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Matthew Healey plays an Epiphone Masterbilt DR-500MCE in regular finish.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
tonightsspecialguest

tonightsspecialguest

Gear IQ 218

kuffer

kuffer

Gear IQ 401

More Epiphone Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    recurve
    recurve

    Gear IQ 81