Best Jazz Guitar: Buying Guide
So, guys, let's be clear: when we talk about “jazz guitar”, many immediately think of instruments costing thousands of euros, inlaid archtops and exotic woods. Of course, they are dream instruments, but it's not like to play two diminished seventh chords and some walking bass you necessarily have to mortgage your house. On the contrary.Since I started tinkering with guitars and a soldering iron in my garage, I've learned one fundamental thing: often, with the right knowledge and a bit’ of elbow grease, a good base economic can turn into an instrument that gives you great satisfaction. And for jazz, the story doesn't change.
I'm not a professional luthier, I've told you a thousand times. I'm someone who has bought, made mistakes, redone, and finally understood that certain things can be done even without a NASA lab. This time, I want to guide you in choosing a guitar that, while not costing an arm and a leg, allows you to delve into the world of jazz, with the awareness that, if there's work to be done, you'll know where and how.
Today we put under the magnifying glass a model that, in my opinion, is an excellent starting point for those looking for their best jazz guitar without breaking the bank: the’Ibanez Artcore AS73. A timeless classic for those who want a warm and versatile sound, without spending a fortune.
What’s a “jazz guitar”? Let's clarify
Before delving into the technical details of our candidate, let's take a step back. What do we mean when we talk about “jazz guitar”? There is no single definition, jazz is a vast genre. However, there are characteristics that we usually find in the instruments preferred by jazz musicians.We often talk about guitars with a warm, round sound, with good sustain but also a certain “air”, a particular resonance. This is mainly achieved with two types of construction: guitars archtop (fully hollow, like the old Gibson L-5 or Gretsch White Falcon) and the semi-hollow body, which are hollow but with a central wooden block.
Pure archtops have a very acoustic sound, a soft attack and a lot of sustain, but they tend to squeal (feedback) at high volumes or with distortions. Semi-hollows, on the other hand, thanks to the central block, reduce feedback and increase sustain, making them more versatile and also suitable for other genres like blues or rock.
And the pickups? Humbuckers with moderate output are often preferred, for a full but not too aggressive sound. Or, for those looking for a brighter and more defined tone, P90s are used. The neck, then, is another key factor: many jazz musicians appreciate comfortable, not too thin necks, which facilitate complex chords and fast passages. The scale length, the hardware… in short, there's a whole world.
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 fits perfectly into this context, offering a mix of these characteristics at a really interesting price. Let's see in detail.
Technical characteristics of the Ibanez Artcore AS73: The X-ray
When evaluating a guitar, the technical sheet is the starting point. It's not everything, of course, but it gives us a clear idea of what we have in our hands. The Ibanez Artcore AS73 is a semi-hollow body that, over the years, has had small variations in materials, but the construction philosophy has remained the same. Here I report the most common and recent specifications. Body: The body is Sapele on the sides, back, and top. Sapele is an African wood similar to Mahogany, with a warm, resonant sound, and good attack on the mid-frequencies. It's not the “true” Mahogany of a historic Gibson, but for the price, it's an excellent choice that contributes to that round and full tone we look for in jazz. The construction is, as mentioned, semi-hollow, with a central maple block. This reduces feedback and increases sustain compared to a full-hollow.Handle: The neck is made of Nyatoh, another wood with characteristics similar to Mahogany, known for its stability and warm tone. It is a glued neck (set-in neck), not screwed, which favors the sustain and overall resonance of the instrument. The profile is the classic “Artcore”, usually comfortable, not too thick
it's too thin, which adapts well to different styles.
Keyboard: The fretboard is in Laurel (Indian laurel), an alternative to Rosewood, with a very similar color and feel. It has 22 medium frets, a 12-inch radius, flat enough to facilitate bending but not so much as to make chords uncomfortable.
Stairs: The scale length is the classic Gibson style, 24.7 inches (628 mm). A shorter scale compared to Fender (25.5 inches) means less string tension, easier bending, and a slightly warmer and more compressed tone. Perfect for jazz.
Pick-up: It features two passive Ibanez Classic Elite humbuckers. They are budget-friendly ceramic pickups, designed to be versatile. Don't expect the sound of a vintage PAF, but for the price, they do their job, offering a clean and balanced sound, with good definition.
Hardware: The bridge is an Ibanez ART-1, a standard Tune-o-matic, and the tailpiece (string holder) is the Quik Change III, which facilitates string changes. The tuners are Ibanez die-cast, chrome-plated. They are functional, but, as we will see, they are often one of the first points that a tinkering guitarist modifies.
Finish: The finish is usually in glossy polyurethane. Robust and resistant, but sometimes a little thick, which can slightly "suffocate" the natural resonance of the wood, according to some purists.
Relevant construction notes: The build quality, for the price, is generally good. Ibanez has a long experience with the Artcore series, and the quality control is decent. The presence of the maple center block is, as mentioned, the key to its versatility, allowing you to push the volume a bit more without too many feedback issues.
Popular Sentiment: What do the fans really say?
Ok, the spec sheet is one thing, but field experience is another. When it comes to guitars in this price range, the “popular sentiment” on forums and among buyers is crucial. I spent hours reading reviews, comments, and discussions about the AS73, and the general opinion is quite clear.The first thing that stands out is the excellent value for money. Many call it a “best buy” for those looking for a versatile semi-hollow. It's not a perfect guitar, and no one expects it, but the foundation is solid.
The most common defects (and what to do about them)
The mechanics: This is perhaps the most criticized point. The standard Ibanez die-cast tuners, while functional, are not the best in terms of tuning stability and precision. They are not terrible, but they are not excellent either. Many users, myself included, recommend replacing them with a set of Gotoh or Grover, which make a huge difference. The investment is contained (50-70 euros), and the result is a tuning that holds much better. It’s one of the first modifications I would make.The nut: Often, the stock plastic nut is not cut perfectly. This can cause intonation problems, strings getting stuck, and suboptimal sustain. It's a delicate job, but with a bit of patience and the right files, you can rectify it or, even better, replace it with a bone or TUSQ one. If you don't feel confident, a good luthier can do it in a few minutes. But if you want to learn how to modify your guitar, this is a great starting point.
The Classic Elite pickups: This opens a debate. For the price, they are more than decent. They offer a clean and warm sound, versatile for blues, rockabilly and, yes, even jazz. But for jazz purists, or for those looking for a more “boutique” or vintage tone, they can be a bit generic, lacking the character and nuances found in more expensive pickups. Upgrading the pickups is one of the most popular modifications for this guitar. Many install Seymour Duncan SH-2 Jazz, P.A.F. ’59, or even P90 for a different tone.
The keys: Generally well finished, but it's not uncommon to find some sharp edges on the fretboard edges, especially on cheaper models. A quick pass with a fret end file and a polish can significantly improve playability. It's not a serious defect, but a sign that mass production isn't always perfect.
The undisputed merits
Playability: Despite the small finishing defects, the AS73 is an extremely comfortable guitar to play. The Artcore neck is a strong point: fast, comfortable, it adapts well to both chords and solo passages.The acoustic sound: Even when unplugged, the AS73 has a beautiful resonance. The Sapele body and semi-hollow construction give it surprising acoustic volume and a warm tone, which translates well when amplified.
The versatility: This is not just a jazz guitar. Thanks to the center block, it performs excellently in blues, rockabilly, and light rock too. The stock pickups, while not excelling, contribute to this versatility.
The basis for modifications: It's a perfect blank canvas for those who love to tinker. With a few targeted interventions (tuners, nut, pickups), it can be transformed into an instrument that plays well above its price range. And for us DIY enthusiasts, this is a huge plus!
In short, the community agrees: the Ibanez Artcore AS73 is a fine guitar for its price, but it requires a bit of attention and, if desired, some small interventions to bring out its best.
Pros and Cons in relation to the price
When evaluating a guitar, especially in an economic range, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons, always keeping in mind how much you have spent. We cannot expect the perfection of a 3000 euro instrument from a guitar that costs 400-500.PROS:
1. Affordable price: It is one of the main strengths. It offers an excellent introduction to the world of semi-hollows without emptying your wallet. For a limited budget, it's hard to find better.n2. Overall build quality: Ibanez has a solid reputation, and even in the Artcore range, the construction is robust and reliable. The body is well assembled, the neck is stable. There are no gross manufacturing errors.n3. Playability and comfort: The Artcore neck is a strong point. It is comfortable, fast, and adapts to different hands and varied playing styles. The lightness of the semi-hollow body makes it pleasant even for prolonged sessions.n4. Sonic versatility: From jazz to blues, from rockabilly to pop, this guitar holds its own well. It's not a “one trick pony”. The center block makes it more manageable at high volumes compared to a full-hollow.n5. Upgrade Potential: It's a fantastic base for tuning. By replacing the “weak” components (tuners, nut, pickups) with higher quality parts, you get an instrument that competes with much higher price ranges.AGAINST:
1. Economical hardware components: The tuners and nut are the weakest points. They are not disastrous, but they are the first bottleneck for tuning stability and intonation. They require attention or an upgrade.n2. “Neutral” pickups: The Classic Elite are versatile, but lack a distinctive character, especially for those looking for a more specific jazz or vintage sound. They work, but don't inspire.n3. Thick finish: The polyurethane finish, although robust, is often applied in generous layers, which can limit the natural resonance of the wood. It is a compromise for durability and production costs.n4. Small finishing details: It is not uncommon to find some sharp edges on the frets or small aesthetic imperfections. Nothing that compromises functionality, but a sign of mass production.n5. It's not a “true” archtop: For jazz purists looking for the acoustic and airy sound of a full-hollow body, the AS73, being a semi-hollow, might not fully satisfy. It has a more compressed and less “woody” sound compared to its fully hollow older sisters.In summary, the AS73 offers incredible value for its price. Its flaws are almost all solvable with relatively inexpensive interventions within the reach of those with a bit of manual skill, transforming it into a guitar of a much higher level.
Who is the Ibanez Artcore AS73 suitable for? And who should avoid it?
Understanding who a certain instrument is intended for is fundamental. There is no perfect guitar for everyone. The AS73, with its characteristics, is aimed at a very specific audience, but it is not suitable for everyone.Who is it suitable for:
The beginner or intermediate who wants to start playing jazz: If you're taking your first steps in jazz or want to expand your repertoire, this is a fantastic gateway. It gives you the right sound without asking for a mortgage.The bluesman or rocker looking for a different tone: If you play blues, rockabilly, or classic rock and want to add some warmth and resonance to your sound, the AS73 is perfect. Its versatility makes it an excellent second guitar.
The DIY hobbyist and modder: If you like to tinker with instruments, change them, improve them, this guitar is a goldmine. Its weaknesses are its strengths for those who love to customize. A pickup change, a new nut, better tuners… and you'll have a unique and high-performing instrument.
Those with a limited budget but unwilling to compromise on quality: If you can't spend three or four-digit figures, but still want a well-built and playable instrument, the Artcore AS73 is a smart choice.
Who should avoid it:
The traditional jazz purist: If you're looking for the acoustic, deep, and airy sound of a true full-hollow archtop, the AS73 (being semi-hollow) won't give you that feeling. You might want to aim for models like the Ibanez AF95 or Epiphone Broadway, which are full-hollow, but with a slightly higher budget.The professional looking for an ultra-specific sound: If you are a professional and need a very particular tone, with nuances and dynamics that only the highest quality pickups and selected woods can provide, you will probably need to look for much higher-end instruments (e.g. Gibson ES-335, D’Angelico, Heritage). The AS73, even with upgrades, will not reach that level.
Those who don't want to tinker with the instrument: If you buy a guitar and want it to be perfect out of the box, without having to make adjustments or upgrades, you might be a bit disappointed by the finishing details or the performance of the stock components.
In summary, the Ibanez Artcore AS73 is an excellent affordable jazz guitar for those willing to understand its limits and, eventually, overcome them with some minor intervention.
Final Advice and Interesting Alternatives
Ok, we've dissected the Ibanez Artcore AS73 inside and out. My conclusion is clear: if you're looking for your best jazz guitar in an accessible price range, and you're willing to get your hands dirty to make it sound its best, the AS73 is a very strong candidate.It's not the guitar that will make you sound like Joe Pass overnight, but it's an excellent tool for studying, learning, and performing in not-too-demanding contexts. And above all, it's a fantastic base for experimenting. I still remember the first time I changed the pickups on one of my guitars, or when I learned to file a nut: it's an experience that connects you to the instrument in a completely different way. It makes you understand how it works, why it sounds a certain way.
What to do as soon as you buy it (or almost):
1. Complete setup: The very first thing. A good setup (string height, intonation, neck relief) works wonders on any instrument. If you don't know how to do it, invest in a luthier for the first time and have them explain how it works. Then, over time, you'll learn to do it yourself.n2. Nut check: Check that the strings slide well without getting stuck and that the height is correct. If necessary, consider filing or replacing it with a bone one.n3. Checking the mechanics: If the tuning doesn't hold, don't think twice: a set of Gotoh or Grover makes a huge difference. It's an investment that pays off immediately.n4. Consider upgrading the pickups: This is the most expensive modification, but also the one that changes the character of the guitar the most. If the stock sound doesn't convince you, start looking for good used humbuckers. You might find some incredible deals.Alternatives to consider:
If the AS73 doesn't quite convince you, or you want to explore other options in the same or slightly higher price range, here are some names I recommend keeping an eye on. Epiphone Dot: Another iconic semi-hollow, often a bit cheaper than the AS73. It's the 'cousin' of the Gibson ES-335. It has a warm and round sound, a good neck, and similar upgrade potential. Sometimes it can be found at bargain prices used.Gretsch Streamliner Series: If you're looking for a slightly more vintage aesthetic and a sound that winks at rockabilly and blues, the Streamliner (like the G2622) are excellent. Many are semi-hollow, some full-hollow, and offer a distinctive sonic character with their Broad’Tron pickups.
Harley Benton HB-35Plus: We're not talking about a renowned brand, but for the price, Harley Benton offers surprisingly good instruments. The HB-35Plus is a semi-hollow inspired by the ES-335, with good hardware and sometimes even decent quality Roswell pickups. Ideal for those on a budget Really tight but wants a base to tinker with.
* Ibanez AF75 (full-hollow): If your heart beats for a full-hollow and you want a more acoustic and less compressed sound, the AF75 is the full-hollow sister of the Artcore series. It has a more 'woody' and resonant sound, but is more prone to feedback at high volumes. Excellent for traditional jazz at moderate volumes.
Remember, choosing a guitar is personal. There's no universal answer to the question 'what is the best jazz guitar'. There's the instrument that makes you feel good, that inspires you, and that, with a little care and attention, can become a true extension of your music. And if I managed to make some pieces of wood and wires sound decent, you can do it too. Just try.
For further technical details on the specifications of the Ibanez Artcore AS73, you can consult the official manufacturer's page Ibanez Artcore AS73 (external site).
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