Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $563
Standard/Professional
$200
$1001+
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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.
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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
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Epiphone DR-500MCE's mahogany and spruce construction?
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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.
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How does the Fishman Presys preamp enhance the DR-500MCE's performance?
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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.
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Is the Epiphone DR-500MCE suitable for live performances?
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Yes, with its undersaddle piezo pickup and active preamp system, the DR-500MCE is well-equipped for live performances, delivering clear, amplified sound.
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What is the neck profile like on the Epiphone DR-500MCE?
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The DR-500MCE features a comfortable, medium-profile neck, making it easy to play for extended periods, suitable for both beginners and experienced guitarists.
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Does the Epiphone DR-500MCE come with a built-in tuner?
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Yes, the guitar includes a built-in tuner as part of the Fishman Presys preamp system, providing convenient tuning on the go.
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What type of strings does the Epiphone DR-500MCE use?
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The DR-500MCE uses steel strings, which contribute to its bright and articulate tone, perfect for a variety of musical styles.
Videos
OfficialEpiphone
Epiphone eSonic2 Preamp System for Acoustic Guitar Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Incredible value comparable to high-end models like Taylor
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Excellent tonal qualities both plugged and unplugged
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Fast-playing neck with perfect intonation
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Beautiful craftsmanship and finish
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Stays in tune regardless of playing intensity
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Easy setup, plays great out of the box
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High-quality electronics with dual pickups and dual outputs
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Controls conveniently located on top for easy access
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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
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Some users mention the headstock finish is prone to chipping, though this doesn't affect playability.
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The Epiphone's spruce top is favored over Martin's solid Sapele for its traditional build and tonal qualities.
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One owner reported inconsistent quality control, with cosmetic issues like yellowish top finishes and defective electronics across multiple purchases.
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Features and functionality
Comparisons
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It's frequently compared to the Taylor 214ce, with the Taylor offering a richer tone at a significantly higher price.
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The Martin is noted for its recording-focused sound, lacking the boom of a spruce top but capturing essential frequencies.
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A user compared it favorably to a Taylor 314, noting the Epiphone's deep, rich tone for half the price.
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User experience
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After extensive use, several owners emphasize its ability to maintain tuning stability, even with frequent play.
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A challenging decision for players comparing the DR-500MCE and Martin DRS1 due to their distinct tonal profiles.
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A user found the sustain to be one of the standout features, contributing to a satisfying playing experience despite average overall sound.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings
OTHER GUITAR I USED FOR MY FIRST WORLD TOUR
I rotated between this and my masterbilt, and they're both great guitars for performing
what's your favourite amp for the masterbuilt?
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Epiphone DR-500MCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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