Ibanez artcore

[varkunus]

Any tried these, specifically the AS73? And how does it compare to the epi dot, which pretty much seems to be the benchmark for semi hollows in this price range?

p.s random Q, how does the sustain of a semi hollow compare to say that of a les paul?

Thanks for all your replies in advance.

[Telerocker]

I think they're about in the same ballpark. The AS73 is good value for the money. It will not sustain like a decent solid Les Paul. Timbers are different: mahogany neck, maple top, back and sides.

[FredD]

I have 2 Artcores, an AG75 and an AS103.
The AS103 is a similar shape, size, and construction to the Gibson 335/Epi dot.
The quality of build of the AS103 is FAR superior to the Epi dot and IMO superior to the Gibson 335.

I find the 'sustain qualities' of the 103 excellent, and perfect for the Blues and Jazz fusion that I play.
The AS103 is fitted as stock with the Ibanez Cusom 57 H/Bs, which I have not yet found the need to try and improve on (by fitting BKPs).

The AS73, however, is fitted stock with 'economy' version HBs, the same PUPs as my Artcore AG75 came with, and you may find the need to 'upgrade' to BKPs on this guitar !

The Ibanez Artcore range is an excellent choice of 'bang for buck' hollowbodies, the quality of which you will not fault.

[varkunus]

thanks that was really informative! 2 questions though: besides the pickups what is the difference between the as75 and as103? and is the as103 available lefty?

[FredD]

http://www.ibanez.co.jp/products/hb_series12.php?series_id=51&area_id=3&year=2012&cat_id=7