Ibanez AG95QADBS - Jazz Guitar - Hollow-Body
The elegance of the mottled ash combined with the prestige of the Super 58 pickups.
Designed for jazz, blues, and experimental rock, the Ibanez AG95QA from the Artcore Expressionist series redefines the value proposition of hollow-body guitars. With its compact body and organic resonance, it offers exceptional sonic clarity and superior playing comfort, perfect for musicians seeking a rich tone without the bulk of a full-body guitar.
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The Ibanez Artcore Authority: The Quintessence of Hollow Body Sound
The Ibanez AG95QA isn't just a guitar; it's a precision instrument that solves the guitarist's eternal dilemma: achieving an authentic archtop sound without sacrificing playability. Where other entry-level guitars suffer from uncontrollable feedback or sterile pickups, the Expressionist series incorporates the legendary Super 58 pickups. These are the same pickups found on the signature models of George Benson and Pat Metheny, guaranteeing a warm, woody tone and surgical articulation, whether you're jamming jazz or laying down a creamy blues solo.
Full Technical Specifications
Body Dimensions and Construction
| Characteristic | Technical Details |
| Body type | Hollow Body (Hollow Body) |
| Table material | Quilted Ash |
| Back and rib material | Quilted Ash |
| Finishing | Dark Brown Sunburst (DBS) |
| Body length | 18 7/8" |
| Maximum width | 14 1/2" |
| Maximum depth | 3 5/8" |
Neck and Fingerboard
| Characteristic | Technical Details |
| Sleeve type | AG Expressionist 3pc Nyatoh/Maple (Set-in) |
| Touch | Macassar ebony with inlay (Bound Macassar Ebony) |
| Key markers | Acrylic blocks (Acrylic block inlay) |
| Number of frets | 22 |
| Type of frets | Medium |
| Tuning fork | 628 mm / 24.7" |
| Touchdown radius (Radius) | 305 mmR |
| Nut width | 43 mm |
| Width at the 22nd fret | 57 mm |
| Thickness at the 1st fret | 21 mm |
| Thickness at the 9th fret | 24 mm |
Electronics and Marine Hardware
| Characteristic | Technical Details |
| Micro neck | Super 58 (H) - Passive / Alnico |
| Bridge microphone | Super 58 (H) - Passive / Alnico |
| Easel | Gibraltar Performer |
| Tailpiece | VT06 |
| Space between the strings | 10.5 mm |
| Deck hardware color | Gold |
| Microphone configuration | HH |
| Controls | 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-position selector |
Comparative Analysis: The Hollow Body Market
Sources consulted: Sound on Sound, MusicRadar, Gearspace.
| Alternative Product | Market Segment | Comparative Analysis | Available at Garage à Musique |
| Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II PRO | Jazz Archtop | Wider, darker sound, ProBucker vs Super 58 pickups. | Available here |
| Gretsch G5420T Electromatic | Rockabilly / Blues | Its brightest sound (Filter'Trons), presence of a Bigsby. | Available here |
| Godin 5th Avenue Kingpin II | P90 Hollow Body | Made in Canada, P90 pickups, vintage aesthetic. | Available here |
| Eastman AR372CE | Jazz Boutique | More traditional construction, higher price. | Product not listed |
| D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 | Heritage Jazz | A single floating microphone, purely focused on traditional jazz. | Available here |
| Guild A-150 Savoy | Classic Archtop | Solid wood table vs laminated ash, art deco look. | Available here |
| Hagstrom HJ800 | Jazz / Fusion | Resinate neck, longer scale length (25"). | Product not listed |
| Ibanez AF95 | Full Hollow Body | The car's body is deeper than the AG's, making it less comfortable to stand in. | Available here |
| Washburn J3 | Budget Jazz | Less refined finish, generic pickups. | Product not listed |
| Loar LH-350 | Archtop Acoustic/Elec | Focus on raw acoustic projection. | Product not listed |
History & Evolution: The Artcore Lineage
Launched in 2002, the Ibanez Artcore series revolutionized the market by offering professional-quality hollow-body guitars at a fraction of the price of established brands. The Expressionist sub-series (which includes the AG95QA) appeared later to bridge the gap between entry-level models and Japanese Prestige models. The introduction of quilted ash on this particular model marks a bold aesthetic evolution, moving away from traditional maple to deliver a visually stunning instrument with a slightly more vibrant frequency response.
Cultural References & Artists
Here are some artists who have used Ibanez Hollow Body models or Super 58 pickups to forge their sound:
George Benson - Breezin' (1976) : L'ambassadeur ultime du micro Super 58.
Pat Metheny - Bright Size Life : Utilisateur de longue date des archtops Ibanez.
John Scofield - A Go Go (1998) : Son célèbre modèle AS200 partage l'électronique Super 58.
Eric Krasno (Soulive) - Next (2002) : Utilise la série Ibanez pour un funk-jazz précis.
Stanley Jordan - Magic Touch (1985) : Connu pour son tapping sur modèles Ibanez.
Ben Monder - Flux (1995) : Explore les textures denses avec des Ibanez creuses.
Kurt Rosenwinkel - The Next Step : A utilisé des modèles Ibanez en début de carrière.
Emily Remler - Transitions (1983) : Une icône du jazz ayant favorisé la clarté Ibanez.
Lee Ritenour - Divers albums fusion avec des modèles semi-hollow/hollow Ibanez.
Steve Lukather - Bien que rock, a souvent utilisé des Ibanez creuses en studio pour le clean.
Ube Bhatia - Nouvelle génération utilisant l'articulation des micros Super 58.
Mimi Fox - Virtuose jazz fidèle à la réponse dynamique de la marque.
Vinnie Moore - Utilise parfois des modèles Ibanez pour des sessions blues/fusion.
Joe Pass - Bien que lié à Epiphone, a possédé et joué plusieurs prototypes Ibanez.
John Abercrombie - Pour ses explorations texturales uniques.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How does the Ibanez AG95QA handle feedback at high volume?
A: Its slightly more compact body reduces sympathetic resonances. At high volumes, precise gain control and the use of vent plugs can eliminate any unwanted hiss, ensuring stable performance on stage.
Q: Are Super 58 pickups suitable for anything other than Jazz?
A: Absolutely. Thanks to their Alnico magnet, these pickups offer excellent creamy gain for blues and classic rock. Their clarity allows them to cut through the mix without muddy distortion.
Q: What is the difference between a Macassar Ebony and a Rosewood fingerboard?
A: Macassar ebony is denser, offering a faster note attack and increased sustain. It's a fine wood that requires less maintenance and is more resistant to fret wear.
Q: Is this model comfortable for a guitarist used to solid electric guitars?
A: Yes, the AG series is the most compact of the Ibanez hollow bodies. The transition from a "solid body" guitar is natural thanks to its reduced thickness and featherweight design.
Q: What string gauge is recommended for this guitar?
A: It comes with .010-.052 gauge strings. For a more traditional jazz sound, switching to flatwound strings will enhance the warmth and eliminate finger squeaks.
Q: Is the Gibraltar Performer bridge stable for tuning?
A: This bridge is designed for a firm locking of the saddles, which minimizes vibration losses and ensures exemplary tuning stability, even during vigorous attacks.
Q: How do I care for the Quilted Ash finish?
A: Simply use a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid silicone-based products. Regular cleaning preserves the deep shine of the Dark Brown Sunburst finish.
Q: Is the guitar susceptible to RF interference or ground loops?
A: Ibanez electronics are rigorously shielded. If a hum occurs, check your ground loop at the amp, as the internal wiring of the AG95QA is of professional standard.
Q: Is the 3-piece handle stronger?
A: Yes, the Nyatoh/Maple assembly in 3 alternating sections counteracts the tension forces of the strings, thus preventing neck twisting related to climate change in Quebec.
Q: Why buy my Ibanez AG95QA from Garage à Musique?
A: By choosing Garage à Musique, you benefit from the expertise of a local specialist who understands the needs of local musicians. Every instrument is inspected to guarantee perfect playability right out of the box.
The Ibanez Artcore Authority: The Quintessence of Hollow Body Sound
The Ibanez AG95QA isn't just a guitar; it's a precision instrument that solves the guitarist's eternal dilemma: achieving an authentic archtop sound without sacrificing playability. Where other entry-level guitars suffer from uncontrollable feedback or sterile pickups, the Expressionist series incorporates the legendary Super 58 pickups. These are the same pickups found on the signature models of George Benson and Pat Metheny, guaranteeing a warm, woody tone and surgical articulation, whether you're jamming jazz or laying down a creamy blues solo.
Full Technical Specifications
Body Dimensions and Construction
| Characteristic | Technical Details |
| Body type | Hollow Body (Hollow Body) |
| Table material | Quilted Ash |
| Back and rib material | Quilted Ash |
| Finishing | Dark Brown Sunburst (DBS) |
| Body length | 18 7/8" |
| Maximum width | 14 1/2" |
| Maximum depth | 3 5/8" |
Neck and Fingerboard
| Characteristic | Technical Details |
| Sleeve type | AG Expressionist 3pc Nyatoh/Maple (Set-in) |
| Touch | Macassar ebony with inlay (Bound Macassar Ebony) |
| Key markers | Acrylic blocks (Acrylic block inlay) |
| Number of frets | 22 |
| Type of frets | Medium |
| Tuning fork | 628 mm / 24.7" |
| Touchdown radius (Radius) | 305 mmR |
| Nut width | 43 mm |
| Width at the 22nd fret | 57 mm |
| Thickness at the 1st fret | 21 mm |
| Thickness at the 9th fret | 24 mm |
Electronics and Marine Hardware
| Characteristic | Technical Details |
| Micro neck | Super 58 (H) - Passive / Alnico |
| Bridge microphone | Super 58 (H) - Passive / Alnico |
| Easel | Gibraltar Performer |
| Tailpiece | VT06 |
| Space between the strings | 10.5 mm |
| Deck hardware color | Gold |
| Microphone configuration | HH |
| Controls | 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-position selector |
Comparative Analysis: The Hollow Body Market
Sources consulted: Sound on Sound, MusicRadar, Gearspace.
| Alternative Product | Market Segment | Comparative Analysis | Available at Garage à Musique |
| Epiphone Joe Pass Emperor II PRO | Jazz Archtop | Wider, darker sound, ProBucker vs Super 58 pickups. | Available here |
| Gretsch G5420T Electromatic | Rockabilly / Blues | Its brightest sound (Filter'Trons), presence of a Bigsby. | Available here |
| Godin 5th Avenue Kingpin II | P90 Hollow Body | Made in Canada, P90 pickups, vintage aesthetic. | Available here |
| Eastman AR372CE | Jazz Boutique | More traditional construction, higher price. | Product not listed |
| D'Angelico Excel EXL-1 | Heritage Jazz | A single floating microphone, purely focused on traditional jazz. | Available here |
| Guild A-150 Savoy | Classic Archtop | Solid wood table vs laminated ash, art deco look. | Available here |
| Hagstrom HJ800 | Jazz / Fusion | Resinate neck, longer scale length (25"). | Product not listed |
| Ibanez AF95 | Full Hollow Body | The car's body is deeper than the AG's, making it less comfortable to stand in. | Available here |
| Washburn J3 | Budget Jazz | Less refined finish, generic pickups. | Product not listed |
| Loar LH-350 | Archtop Acoustic/Elec | Focus on raw acoustic projection. | Product not listed |
History & Evolution: The Artcore Lineage
Launched in 2002, the Ibanez Artcore series revolutionized the market by offering professional-quality hollow-body guitars at a fraction of the price of established brands. The Expressionist sub-series (which includes the AG95QA) appeared later to bridge the gap between entry-level models and Japanese Prestige models. The introduction of quilted ash on this particular model marks a bold aesthetic evolution, moving away from traditional maple to deliver a visually stunning instrument with a slightly more vibrant frequency response.
Cultural References & Artists
Here are some artists who have used Ibanez Hollow Body models or Super 58 pickups to forge their sound:
George Benson - Breezin' (1976) : L'ambassadeur ultime du micro Super 58.
Pat Metheny - Bright Size Life : Utilisateur de longue date des archtops Ibanez.
John Scofield - A Go Go (1998) : Son célèbre modèle AS200 partage l'électronique Super 58.
Eric Krasno (Soulive) - Next (2002) : Utilise la série Ibanez pour un funk-jazz précis.
Stanley Jordan - Magic Touch (1985) : Connu pour son tapping sur modèles Ibanez.
Ben Monder - Flux (1995) : Explore les textures denses avec des Ibanez creuses.
Kurt Rosenwinkel - The Next Step : A utilisé des modèles Ibanez en début de carrière.
Emily Remler - Transitions (1983) : Une icône du jazz ayant favorisé la clarté Ibanez.
Lee Ritenour - Divers albums fusion avec des modèles semi-hollow/hollow Ibanez.
Steve Lukather - Bien que rock, a souvent utilisé des Ibanez creuses en studio pour le clean.
Ube Bhatia - Nouvelle génération utilisant l'articulation des micros Super 58.
Mimi Fox - Virtuose jazz fidèle à la réponse dynamique de la marque.
Vinnie Moore - Utilise parfois des modèles Ibanez pour des sessions blues/fusion.
Joe Pass - Bien que lié à Epiphone, a possédé et joué plusieurs prototypes Ibanez.
John Abercrombie - Pour ses explorations texturales uniques.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How does the Ibanez AG95QA handle feedback at high volume?
A: Its slightly more compact body reduces sympathetic resonances. At high volumes, precise gain control and the use of vent plugs can eliminate any unwanted hiss, ensuring stable performance on stage.
Q: Are Super 58 pickups suitable for anything other than Jazz?
A: Absolutely. Thanks to their Alnico magnet, these pickups offer excellent creamy gain for blues and classic rock. Their clarity allows them to cut through the mix without muddy distortion.
Q: What is the difference between a Macassar Ebony and a Rosewood fingerboard?
A: Macassar ebony is denser, offering a faster note attack and increased sustain. It's a fine wood that requires less maintenance and is more resistant to fret wear.
Q: Is this model comfortable for a guitarist used to solid electric guitars?
A: Yes, the AG series is the most compact of the Ibanez hollow bodies. The transition from a "solid body" guitar is natural thanks to its reduced thickness and featherweight design.
Q: What string gauge is recommended for this guitar?
A: It comes with .010-.052 gauge strings. For a more traditional jazz sound, switching to flatwound strings will enhance the warmth and eliminate finger squeaks.
Q: Is the Gibraltar Performer bridge stable for tuning?
A: This bridge is designed for a firm locking of the saddles, which minimizes vibration losses and ensures exemplary tuning stability, even during vigorous attacks.
Q: How do I care for the Quilted Ash finish?
A: Simply use a clean microfiber cloth. Avoid silicone-based products. Regular cleaning preserves the deep shine of the Dark Brown Sunburst finish.
Q: Is the guitar susceptible to RF interference or ground loops?
A: Ibanez electronics are rigorously shielded. If a hum occurs, check your ground loop at the amp, as the internal wiring of the AG95QA is of professional standard.
Q: Is the 3-piece handle stronger?
A: Yes, the Nyatoh/Maple assembly in 3 alternating sections counteracts the tension forces of the strings, thus preventing neck twisting related to climate change in Quebec.
Q: Why buy my Ibanez AG95QA from Garage à Musique?
A: By choosing Garage à Musique, you benefit from the expertise of a local specialist who understands the needs of local musicians. Every instrument is inspected to guarantee perfect playability right out of the box.