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Average Price: $350
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$200
$1001+
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Description
The Yamaha APX500III is a harmonious blend of comfort and performance, making it a favorite among musicians seeking versatility in their acoustic-electric guitars. This model is crafted with a spruce top that ensures exceptional clarity and projection, while the nato/okume back and sides contribute to a warm, resonant sound. Designed with a thinline body, it offers an easy playing experience without compromising on the rich tonality that Yamaha is renowned for.
What sets the APX500III apart is its System 66 preamp, complete with a built-in piezo pickup, allowing you to effortlessly transition from unplugged to amplified settings. This preamp is equipped with a 3-band EQ for fine-tuning your sound, ensuring that whether you’re on stage or in the studio, your performance is always pitch-perfect. The non-scalloped X-style bracing enhances the guitar’s responsiveness and sustain, providing a full-bodied low end that complements any musical style.
Whether you're serenading a small crowd or rehearsing with the band, the Yamaha APX500III delivers a balanced, articulate sound that's both reliable and dynamic. Its sleek design and innovative electronics make it an ideal choice for guitarists who crave both style and substance in their playing.
Key Features:
- Spruce top with nato/okume back and sides
- Thinline body for comfortable playability
- System 66 preamp with built-in piezo pickup
- 3-band EQ for precise sound shaping
- Non-scalloped X-style bracing for enhanced resonance
Product specs
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Model | APX500III Thinline Acoustic/Electric Guitar |
| Finish | Black, Natural |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars, OM and Auditorium Acoustic Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Laminated Hardwood |
| Body Shape | Auditorium |
| Color Family | Black, Natural, Tan |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | Undersaddle Piezo Pickup |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Sides Material | Laminated Hardwood |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Laminated Hardwood |
FAQs
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What is the body shape of the Yamaha APX500III?
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The Yamaha APX500III features an auditorium body shape with a thinline design, making it comfortable to play and suitable for live performances.
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Does the Yamaha APX500III have a built-in preamp?
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Yes, the Yamaha APX500III is equipped with an active preamp and an undersaddle piezo pickup, providing enhanced sound control and amplification options for live settings.
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What materials are used for the top and sides of the Yamaha APX500III?
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The top of the Yamaha APX500III is made from spruce, while the back and sides are constructed from laminated hardwood, specifically nato/okume.
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How many frets does the Yamaha APX500III have?
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The Yamaha APX500III features 22 frets on a rosewood fingerboard, allowing for a wide range of playability across various musical styles.
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Is the Yamaha APX500III suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Yamaha APX500III is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable thinline body, easy playability, and built-in electronics, making it a versatile choice for learning and performing.
Videos
Kraft Music
Kraft Music - Yamaha APX500III Acoustic Electric Guitar Demo with Jake Blake
Kraft Music - Yamaha APX500III Acoustic Electric Guitar Demo with Jake Blake
Kraft Music
Yamaha APX500 III
Yamaha Music Europe
Yamaha APX500III Thinline Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar Vintage Sunburst
Music & Arts
Yamaha APX 500 III acoustic/electric review
stevekonbass
Yamaha APX500III Series of Acoustics
Guitars United
Yamaha APX500 III DUSK SUN RED
GUITARGUITAR
Yamah APX500iii Electric Acoustic Guitar
Derringers Music | Adelaide Forestville Store
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha APX500III.
User experience
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Owners report the APX500III seems smaller than typical acoustics, which is initially surprising but ultimately found to be preferable and comfortable.
Source
Use cases and applications
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One owner uses the APX500III for home practice but is considering live performances due to its satisfying unplugged and plugged-in sound quality.
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The APX500 can last decades with proper care, making it suitable for long-term use even with signs of wear.
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A user interested in playing Led Zeppelin material noted the APX500III for its bright tonal quality, which suits this musical style.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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Surface rust on metal parts is common and generally not a concern if the guitar remains structurally sound.
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The soundboard may cave over time, affecting action height; solutions include shaving the saddle or installing a bridge doctor.
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Regular maintenance like saddle sanding and nut replacement can keep the guitar playable for years.
Source
Build quality
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The guitar's poly finish can crack over time, though it's not usually structurally damaging.
Source
Features and functionality
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The APX500III features an updated preamp system, providing a more dynamic and powerful tone compared to its predecessor.
Source
Comparisons
Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 3 Reviews and 14 Ratings
65
Little guitar with pretty big sound!
Bought this guitar when I wanted to transition to more of an acoustic style. Very small and comfortable to play, has a pretty great midrange tone but still feels like an electric to a certain extent. Built-in EQ is fun and it plugs in. Pretty sure it uses a mic, rather than a pickup when you plug it in, but it sounds pretty good without amplification as well.
296
Yamaha APX500 III Natural
Thin Nato body. Yamaha SRT pick-up. Great for electric players that need an acoustic. VERY inexpensive but sounds great when plugged in.
plays amazing
Great guitar for practice or sitting around with your friends. This guitar is acoustic/electric so you can plug it in too.
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