6SAW4000B5471 vs AW4000CEBS-1496 — Compare
Ibanez AW4000 BS Artwood Brown Sunburst Gloss Acoustic Guitar 5471 vs Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1496
The AW4000 is a pure acoustic guitar ideal for unplugged playing and recording, while the AW4000CE-BS adds built-in electronics (Fishman pickup and Ibanez preamp with tuner) for live performance and direct recording. Choose the AW4000 if you play unplugged; choose the AW4000CE-BS if you need to amplify or perform live.
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Ibanez AW4000 BS Artwood Brown Sunburst Gloss Acoustic Guitar 5471
Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1496
Specs side by side
| Ibanez AW4000 BS Artwood Brown Sunburst Gloss Acoustic Guitar 5471 | Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1496 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $539.99 | $539.99 |
| Brand | Ibanez | Ibanez |
| Body | Dreadnought | Dreadnought |
| Body Type | — | Hollow |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Pickup Configuration | Soundhole | Under Saddle |
| Year | 2015 | Unknown |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose Ibanez AW4000 BS Artwood Brown Sunburst Gloss Acoustic Guitar 5471
- ✓ No electronics to maintain or troubleshoot; pure acoustic tone
- ✓ Solid Sitka spruce top is a classic tonal choice
- ✓ Lower price point for a solid-wood dreadnought
- ✓ Excellent for home recording via microphone
Why choose Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1496
- ✓ Built-in Fishman Sonicore pickup and AEQ-SP2 preamp for live performance
- ✓ Onboard tuner eliminates need for external tuning device
- ✓ Balanced XLR and 1/4-inch outputs for stage flexibility and direct recording
- ✓ Solid Caucasian Spruce top with X bracing for resonant, well-balanced tone
Frequently asked questions
What's the key difference between Sitka spruce and Caucasian spruce tops?
Sitka spruce (AW4000) is the industry standard, offering bright clarity and traditional tone. Caucasian spruce (AW4000CE-BS) provides a similarly balanced, resonant character. Both are solid-wood tops; the difference is subtle and largely depends on finish and overall construction. The AW4000CE-BS's X bracing also influences its tonal response.
Can I add a pickup to the AW4000 later?
Yes, aftermarket pickups can be installed in any acoustic, though it requires modification. If you think you'll need amplification soon, the AW4000CE-BS eliminates this step and offers a factory-integrated system optimized for the guitar.
Is the onboard tuner on the AW4000CE-BS worth the extra cost?
The tuner is convenient for live performance and quick soundchecks, but a clip-on tuner works just as well and costs little. The real value of the AW4000CE-BS is the Fishman pickup and preamp for amplification and direct recording.
What skill level is each guitar suited for?
The AW4000 spans beginner to advanced, making it a great learning guitar with room to grow. The AW4000CE-BS is geared toward intermediate, advanced, and professional players who need live or studio amplification, though beginners can play it comfortably.