AW4000B5471 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 for players prioritizing traditional tone and affordability, while the AW4000CE-BS adds built-in electronics and a preamp for live performance and recording versatility. Choose the AW4000 for home practice and studio recording via external mic; choose the AW4000CE-BS if you need to amplify and shape tone on stage or require onboard tuning.
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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
- ✓ Lower price point in the mid-tier range
- ✓ Solid Sitka spruce top delivers warm, clear articulation
- ✓ Bone nut and compensated saddle optimize intonation and sustain
- ✓ Simpler construction means less to maintain or troubleshoot
Why choose Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1496
- ✓ Fishman Sonicore pickup and Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp enable amplified performance
- ✓ Onboard tuner eliminates need for external device
- ✓ Balanced XLR and 1/4 inch outputs suit stage and studio direct recording
- ✓ Caucasian spruce top with X bracing offers well-balanced resonance
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference in wood tops?
The AW4000 uses solid Sitka spruce, known for bright clarity and traditional warmth. The AW4000CE-BS uses solid Caucasian spruce with X bracing, which delivers a more balanced, even response across frequencies. Both are solid tops; Sitka is more common in traditional acoustics.
Can I amplify the AW4000 if I need to later?
Yes, you can add an aftermarket pickup system, but it will cost extra and may not perform as seamlessly as the integrated Fishman system on the AW4000CE-BS. The CE model's preamp and outputs are factory-engineered for minimal phase shift.
Which is better for a beginner?
The AW4000 offers a straightforward, affordable entry point with excellent tone and comfortable neck dimensions suitable for learning. The AW4000CE-BS is rated for intermediate and advanced players, though the slightly steeper price and electronics add complexity a true beginner may not need immediately.
Do both guitars have the same scale length and fret count?
Both have 20 frets and a 651mm (25.6 inch) scale length, along with identical neck width at the nut (43mm) and similar radius. The key difference is the AW4000CE-BS adds satin mahogany neck finish and onboard electronics; the AW4000 has a bone saddle for better sustain.