Ibanez Artcore AF55 Hollowbody Electric Guitar - Rich Hollow Tone

In this review of the Ibanez Artcore AF55 Hollowbody Electric Guitar, the bottom line is simple: this is a well-built full hollow instrument for players who want warm, resonant acoustic-like tone from an electric platform. The AF55's traditional full hollow construction produces complex top vibrations that create a broad tonal palette, and the two humbucking pickups translate those vibrations into a pleasing electric voice. For players seeking a classic hollowbody voice, smooth playability and an attractive Tobacco Flat finish, this guitar delivers notable value.

Key Features

• Full hollow construction: The absence of a center block lets the top vibrate freely, producing rich, complex tonal textures that respond well to dynamic picking and clean amp settings.
• Maple top: The maple top adds clarity and brightness to the overall tone while complementing the warm character of the hollow body.
• Dual humbucking pickups: Two humbuckers provide a wide range of tones from mellow, rounded jazz sounds to more focused, punchy leads when driven.
• Artcore AF mahogany neck and sides: The mahogany neck and sides contribute warmth and sustain to the instrument's voice and help balance the maple top.
• Bound rosewood fingerboard: The rosewood fingerboard offers a familiar, smooth playing surface that aids comfortable fretting and articulation across the neck.

Who It's For

The AF55 is best for intermediate to experienced guitarists who want a true hollowbody instrument for genres such as jazz, blues, indie, and mellow rock. Players who value acoustic-like resonance from an electric guitar and appreciate finish details like the Tobacco Flat will find it especially appealing.

It is less suitable for players who need high-gain, feedback-free performance on loud stages without additional modification, or for those who require a center-block semi-hollow for aggressive palm-muted styles. If fret buzz is a critical concern, have a tech set it up or inspect the instrument before purchase.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Well-built full hollow body that produces rich sustain and complex overtones.
• Versatile tone from the two humbuckers, covering warm jazz tones to clearer lead sounds.
• Attractive Tobacco Flat finish and bound rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability and visual appeal.

Cons

• Several users report fret buzz on some examples, so a professional setup may be necessary to eliminate buzzing.

Specifications

Body Type	Full hollowbody
Top	Maple top
Neck	Artcore AF mahogany neck
Fingerboard	Bound rosewood
Pickups	2 humbucking pickups
Finish	Tobacco Flat

Our Verdict

The Ibanez Artcore AF55 is a compelling option for players who want a true hollowbody voice without an extreme price tag. Its combination of maple top, mahogany neck and dual humbuckers yields a warm, versatile tone and satisfying sustain, making it a good value for jazziers and tone-minded players willing to address any setup issues like fret buzz.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the AF55 feedback more than a semi-hollow?
The full hollow construction can be more prone to feedback than center-block semi-hollows, so stage volume and amp settings should be managed accordingly.

Are the pickups suitable for jazz tones?
Yes, the two humbuckers provide warm, rounded tones well suited to jazz and clean styles while still offering enough clarity for lead work.

Should I expect setup work on arrival?
Some customers reported fret buzz on arrival, so a setup by a technician may be recommended to optimize intonation and eliminate buzzing.