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Average Price: $275

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$200

$1001+

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Description

The Yamaha APX500 is a versatile companion for both budding and seasoned musicians seeking a reliable acoustic-electric guitar. With its spruce top and nato back and sides, this instrument delivers articulate and crisp sound that resonates beautifully in any setting. Whether you're strumming away in a cozy corner or commanding the stage, the APX500 ensures your music is heard with clarity.

Designed with the modern guitarist in mind, the APX500 features a saddle-mounted piezo pickup system. This innovative setup, complemented by a 3-band EQ and built-in tuner, allows for seamless transitions between acoustic and amplified performances. The guitar's slim, comfortable body and easy-to-reach frets make it an ideal choice for those who prioritize playability alongside sound quality.

Perfect for live performances and studio sessions alike, the Yamaha APX500 is a testament to Yamaha's commitment to crafting quality instruments that cater to the needs of diverse musicians. Its sleek design and reliable performance make it a staple in any guitarist's collection.

Key Features:

  • Spruce top with nato back and sides for crisp, articulate sound
  • Saddle-mounted piezo pickup for clear amplification
  • 3-band EQ with a built-in tuner for easy tone control
  • Comfortable slimline body for effortless playability

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model APX500II Thinline Acoustic/Electric Guitar
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Laminated Hardwood
Body Shape Auditorium
Color Family Black
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Internal Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Sides Material Laminated Hardwood
String Type Steel
Top Material Laminated Hardwood

FAQs

Is the Yamaha APX500 Black suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Yamaha APX500 Black is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable thinline body and easy playability, which makes it easier to handle and play compared to larger acoustic guitars.

What type of pickup does the Yamaha APX500 Black use?

The Yamaha APX500 Black uses an internal piezo pickup, which is ideal for amplifying the guitar's natural acoustic sound in live performance settings.

Does the Yamaha APX500 Black have built-in electronics for tone control?

Yes, the Yamaha APX500 Black features a 3-band EQ and a built-in tuner, allowing for easy tone adjustments and tuning on the go.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha APX500 Black?

The Yamaha APX500 Black features a laminated hardwood top, back, and sides, with a rosewood fretboard, providing durability and a balanced tone.

How does the body shape of the Yamaha APX500 Black affect its sound?

The auditorium-style thinline body of the Yamaha APX500 Black offers a focused sound with clear mids, making it suitable for both strumming and fingerpicking styles.

Full Compass

Full Compass

Yamaha APX500 Acoustic Electric Guitar Overview | Full Compass

Video thumbnail for Yamaha APX500 Acoustic Electric Guitar Overview | Full Compass by Full Compass

Yamaha APX500 Acoustic Electric Guitar Overview | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Video thumbnail for Yamaha APX500 Acoustic Electric Guitar Demo | Carl Tosten by Austin Bazaar

Yamaha APX500 Acoustic Electric Guitar Demo | Carl Tosten

Austin Bazaar

Austin Bazaar

Video thumbnail for Yamaha APX500 Acoustic Guitar - Kosmic Sound by Kosmic Sound

Yamaha APX500 Acoustic Guitar - Kosmic Sound

Kosmic Sound

Kosmic Sound

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha APX500 Black.

Features and functionality

  • The built-in tuner is highly appreciated by beginners, aiding in ease of use and accessibility.

    Source

Build quality

  • The laminate top is noted as a downside by some, impacting resonance and tone quality compared to solid tops.

    Source

User experience

  • Players with long-term experience prefer the natural finish over black for a smoother neck feel, enhancing playability.

    Source
  • Owners report that the APX series provides limited acoustic volume and sustain, making it suitable for shared living spaces where loudness is a concern.

    Source

Comparisons

  • It's recommended to look at alternatives like Takamine G series or used Mexican Martin guitars for potentially better sound at a similar price point.

    Source
  • The CPX series is recommended over the APX for a fuller unplugged sound, suggesting the CPX as a better choice if budget allows.

    Source
  • The CPX model is highlighted for its deeper body, offering a more robust sound when unplugged compared to the APX.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • It's important to have the guitar set up post-purchase, as adjustments in action and intonation can significantly improve playability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • While the Yamaha APX500II is an acoustic-electric, users often prefer using a separate Snark tuner over the built-in electronics.

    Source
  • The APX series is favored for its compact body, which is convenient for electric-acoustic playing but less impactful acoustically.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
simeon_minchev

Good

Nice acoustic guitar with great piezzo pickup. It sound better plugged in.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Gabriella Quevedo uses Yamaha APX500 Black

Gabriella Quevedo

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

"Yiruma - River Flows In You arranged by Sungha Jung"

This video was made at her house on January 15, 2011, just 2 years after she first started learning to play a guitar. Yamaha APX 500 is prominent throughout the recording. There are 29 videos in total where she portrays her uses of the guitar, wherein she plays great cover songs effortlessly, clean, precise, with amazing studio quality performance, every single time.

Genre Usage

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

Community setups

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fatbwoi

fatbwoi

Gear IQ 67

michi_

michi_

Gear IQ 123

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