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Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE

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Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE

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Page last updated Sep 22, 2025

Pricing and availability

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Price

Average Price: $658

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Acoustic-Electric Guitars category, Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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Step into a world of timeless sound and modern innovation with the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar. This masterpiece from the esteemed Masterbilt Series is crafted to deliver an exquisite blend of classic acoustic warmth and cutting-edge electric amplification. With its solid Sitka spruce top, this guitar not only offers durability but also a tone that matures beautifully over time, making each strum richer and more resonant.

The AJ-500RCE is designed with a stylish cutaway, allowing for easy access to higher frets and making it perfect for both intricate solos and robust strumming. The guitar’s solid mahogany back and sides further enhance its deep, full-bodied sound, while the hand-shaped mahogany neck with a SlimTaper D profile ensures comfort and playability.

For those who wish to amplify their sound, the AJ-500RCE comes equipped with the revolutionary Shadow Sonic preamp and NanoFlex pickup system. This cutting-edge technology captures both the vibration of the strings and the movement of the soundboard, offering an authentic acoustic tone when plugged in. The discreetly mounted preamp provides easy access to volume, Treble, and Bass EQ controls, along with a phase switch to reduce feedback without compromising the tone.

The AJ-500RCE is rounded out with premium nickel hardware and Grover Sta-Tite machine heads, offering a pro-level 18:1 tuning ratio for precision and reliability. Whether on stage or in the studio, this guitar is a versatile and dependable choice for musicians of all styles.

Key Features:

Solid Sitka spruce top
Solid mahogany back and sides
Shadow Sonic preamp and NanoFlex pickup system
SlimTaper D profile mahogany neck
Rosewood fretboard with pearloid dot inlays
25.5-inch scale length
Grover Sta-Tite machine heads with 18:1 ratio
5-ply binding on body, single-ply on neck

Product specs

Brand	Epiphone
Model	Masterbilt AJ-500RCE
Year	2006 - 2008
Categories	Acoustic-Electric Guitars, Jumbo Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp	Yes
Back Material	Rosewood
Body Shape	Jumbo
Color Family	Brown, Natural, Tan
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Gloss, Satin
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Fretboard Radius	14"
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	20
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Non-Offset Body
Pickup	Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	25.5"
Sides Material	Rosewood
String Type	Steel
Top Material	Cedar
Wood Top Style	Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the construction of the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE?: The Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE features a solid Sitka spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides, providing a rich and resonant tone ideal for various musical styles.
Does the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE come with built-in electronics?: Yes, the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE is equipped with the eSonic2 preamp system, which includes an undersaddle piezo pickup for amplified performance.
What is the neck profile of the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE?: The neck of the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE features a SlimTaper D profile, offering a comfortable playing experience suitable for both beginners and experienced players.
Is the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its jumbo body shape providing robust acoustic projection and the eSonic2 preamp system for easy amplification.
What kind of finish does the Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE have?: The Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE features a gloss finish with a sunburst pattern, enhancing its visual appeal while protecting the wood.

Videos

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Amber Rose (the folk musician)

Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE acoustic electric guitar

Amber Rose (the folk musician)

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Epiphone Masterbilt AJ-500RCE.

Comparisons

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Described as the closest alternative to a Gibson J50 without the high cost, offering similar tonal qualities and craftsmanship.
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Build quality

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Noted for its satin finish and open gear tuners, which contribute to its classic aesthetic while enhancing playability.
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User experience

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Owners praise its resonance and overall playability, highlighting it as a standout within its price range and a joy to play.
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Setup and maintenance

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Owners have reported persistent action issues, noting a decrease in string height over time, with specific measurements dropping from 1.9mm to 1.5mm on the low E string.
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Regular saddle replacements have been necessary, with some users needing to adjust bone saddle and nut spacing, initially set at 0.4mm for low E, decreasing by 0.1mm over time.
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Humidity levels impact performance; in low humidity areas like Albuquerque (20%), moisture packs in cases are recommended to maintain guitar stability.
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A recommended check for neck alignment involves ensuring the fretboard plane meets the top of the bridge, indicating potential need for professional adjustment if misaligned.
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