USED Ibanez / Artist AR500 Antique Violin [11]

The "AR500" is a high-end model in Ibanez's Artist series, featuring a wide range of functions.

Based on the serial number, this model is believed to date from around 1979.
Despite its classic appearance—featuring an archtop mahogany body with a maple top and a set-neck construction—its design philosophy is remarkably advanced. While based on the Les Paul style, this guitar incorporates the versatility and expandability characteristic of Ibanez at the time.

It is equipped with Ibanez’s original high-power humbucker, the “SUPER 80.” Characterized by a wide dynamic range and excellent projection, along with a solid core and rich harmonics, it delivers highly expressive tones ranging from clean to distorted.

Furthermore, each pickup is equipped with a Tri-Sound switch, allowing for series, parallel, and coil-tap switching. It also features a built-in active 3-band EQ and gain boost circuit; when the EQ is engaged, both volume and frequency response undergo significant changes. With a design that effectively functions as a “built-in guitar preamp,” it supports a wide range of tone-shaping possibilities.

While its exterior features a classic, timeless design, its internals are extremely modern. This model stands apart from guitars with simple controls, embodying both the experimental spirit and high level of craftsmanship that defined Ibanez at the time.

Traditional looks, the robust tone of the SUPER 80, and a highly expandable control system.
Positioned at the intersection of vintage and modern, this is a high-end Artist model that epitomizes early 1980s Ibanez.
The tuning pegs have been replaced with locking pegs.
The body top shows some fine scratches, but there are no major, noticeable scratches.
The body back has several scratches and fine dents.
The metal parts show some plating wear and discoloration.
There are no noticeable issues with the neck, and it is in good playing condition.
Condition Grade: B+: Some scratches, but no issues for normal use

Serial Number: L795643
Year of Manufacture: 1979-
Country of Manufacture: Japan
Case: Original hard case
Accessories: Locking pin, strap
Weight: 4.29 kg
Truss Rod: No issues; checked up to 60 degrees left and right with no problems
Fret Wear: Within normal range; fret height is sufficient for playing
String height (low-E string): 2.0 mm at the 12th fret
String height (treble side): 1.5 mm at the 12th fret
Nut width: 43.5 mm
Neck thickness near the 1st fret: 21.7 mm
Neck thickness near the 12th fret: 24.0 mm
Scale: 628mm (24.75")
Radius: 254mm (10")
Strings at setup: ERNIE BALL 2221 / .010-.046 set
Repairs and Maintenance: Cleaning, string replacement, truss rod adjustment, octave adjustment, string height adjustment, electronics repair, and fine-tuning

* As this is a used item, there may be scratches, dents, and other imperfections that are not visible in the photos or not listed here. Please be aware of this in advance.

* Any measurements listed for the truss rod, remaining fret life, or string height were taken by our staff during setup. These values may change due to environmental factors such as climate and humidity.
These measurements are intended as a reference at the time of purchase; we cannot guarantee that the measurements will be exactly the same when the item arrives at your location.

* This item is a one-of-a-kind product currently listed simultaneously on multiple online marketplaces, including our in-store display. While we strive to remove product listings promptly upon sale, updates may not always be in real time.
We sincerely apologize if the item happens to be sold out after you place your order, and we ask for your understanding in such cases.