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Description

Discover the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore, a hollowbody electric guitar that beautifully marries vintage jazz aesthetics with modern versatility. Crafted with a flame-maple body and a spruce top, this guitar offers a lush, resonant tone that stands out in any musical setting. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or a rockabilly enthusiast, the AFJ81's neck-position humbucker delivers warm, clear tones that can cut through any ensemble with ease. Its 3-piece mahogany and maple neck, paired with a bound rosewood fretboard, ensures a smooth playing experience, making it as enjoyable to play as it is to hear.

The AFJ81 is not just about sound; it’s a visual delight too. The classic hollowbody design and vintage-inspired details give it an undeniable stage presence. But don’t let its old-school charm deceive you—this guitar is built for modern players. The Sure Grip III knobs provide precise control over your sound, while the high-quality flat wound strings enhance its rich tonal palette. The AFJ81 is an ideal choice for musicians seeking an affordable yet premium-quality jazzbox that refuses to compromise on style or performance.

Key Features:

  • Flame-maple body with spruce top for rich, resonant tones
  • 3-piece mahogany and maple neck with bound rosewood fretboard
  • Neck-position humbucker for warm, clear sound
  • Sure Grip III knobs for precise control
  • High-quality flat wound strings for enhanced sound quality

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model AFJ81-SRD Artcore
Year 2012
Made In China
Categories Hollow Body Guitars
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Hollow Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Red
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez AF
Model Sub-Family Ibanez AFJ
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration H
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Series Ibanez Artcore

FAQs

What kind of music is the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore best suited for?

The Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore, with its hollow body construction and warm tone, is ideal for jazz, blues, and classic rock genres. Its single humbucker pickup provides a smooth, mellow sound that complements these styles.

How does the set-neck construction of the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore affect its playability?

The set-neck construction of the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore enhances sustain and provides a seamless transition between the neck and body, making it comfortable for playing complex jazz chords and solos.

What is the neck profile of the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore, and how does it influence playability?

The Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore features a comfortable, slim neck profile that facilitates smooth, fast playing, ideal for intricate jazz and blues lines.

Is the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore suitable for beginners?

While the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore offers excellent sound quality and playability, its hollow body and jazz-oriented design might be more suitable for intermediate to advanced players familiar with these styles.

What are the tonal characteristics of the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore's pickup?

The single humbucker pickup on the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore delivers a warm, rich tone with a smooth midrange, perfect for jazz and blues music.

How does the maple body of the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore affect its sound?

The maple body of the Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore contributes to a bright, articulate tone with excellent resonance, enhancing its suitability for jazz and blues genres.

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Second Hand Guitars 35 - Ibanez AFJ81 Mogar

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Second Hand Guitars 35 - Ibanez AFJ81 Mogar

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Ibanez AFJ81 Guitar Demo- Erskine Basilio

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez AFJ81 Artcore.

Mods and upgrades

  • Swapping the original pickup with a Gibson '57 significantly enhances tone quality, according to multiple owners.

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  • Owners recommend replacing "licensed by" Kent Anderson pickups as they are often described as dull and boring.

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  • Flatwound strings are recommended for a smoother jazzy tone with minimal string squeak during chord transitions.

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Build quality

  • The AFJ81 offers a sweet wood/finish aroma that persists even after prolonged use, adding to the sensory experience.

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  • The thick laminate and polyurethane finish of the AFJ81 reduces acoustic response, minimizing feedback issues even on larger stages.

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User experience

  • Owners report that the guitar sounds great unplugged, making it versatile for both amplified and acoustic play.

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  • An owner reports frequently playing their Ibanez AFJ81 more than other guitars due to its impressive sound and feel both plugged and unplugged with flatwounds.

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  • An owner reported successfully using the AFJ81 in high-volume settings without feedback, attributing this to its construction.

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Comparisons

  • The AFJ81 is often favored over the George Benson models for its perceived better wood quality and construction.

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  • Hollow bodies with smaller bouts tend to feed back less; avoid sizes over 16 inches for reduced feedback risk.

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  • Compared to cheaper semi-hollow models like the AM 73b, the AFJ81's neck is described as slick and comfortable for under $1000 guitars.

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Use cases and applications

  • Full hollowbody guitars like the Ibanez AFJ81 are praised for delivering a unique sound that complements eclectic jazz styles.

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Features and functionality

  • The Ibanez AFJ81's full hollow design offers a distinctive tone, especially with flatwound strings, appealing to jazz players seeking a rich acoustic sound.

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