AW4000B5489 vs AW4000CEBS-B1704 — Compare
Ibanez AW4000 BS Artwood Brown Sunburst Gloss Acoustic Guitar 5489 vs Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1704
The AW4000 BS is a pure acoustic ideal for players seeking traditional tone and simplicity, while the AW4000CE-BS adds built-in electronics (Fishman pickup and preamp with onboard tuner) for amplified performance and studio versatility. Choose the AW4000 BS if you play unamplified or use a separate mic; choose the AW4000CE-BS if you need reliable plug-and-play amplification.
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Ibanez AW4000 BS Artwood Brown Sunburst Gloss Acoustic Guitar 5489
Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1704
Specs side by side
| Ibanez AW4000 BS Artwood Brown Sunburst Gloss Acoustic Guitar 5489 | Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1704 | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 5489
- ✓ Lower price and simpler signal path for pure acoustic tone
- ✓ Slightly lighter instrument without electronics weight
- ✓ Ideal for fingerstyle players prioritizing natural resonance and sustain
- ✓ No batteries or preamp maintenance required
Why choose Ibanez AW4000CE-BS Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Guitar in Brn Sunburst High Gloss Finish 1704
- ✓ Built-in Fishman Sonicore pickup and AEQ-SP2 preamp with onboard tuner eliminates need for external mic or gear
- ✓ Balanced XLR and 1/4 inch outputs enable direct studio and live PA integration
- ✓ Tortoiseshell binding and high-gloss finish offer striking visual distinction
- ✓ Grover tuners with Butterbean knobs provide enhanced tuning stability and ergonomics
Frequently asked questions
Do these guitars sound different acoustally?
Both use solid spruce tops with mahogany back and sides and X bracing for balanced projection. The AW4000 BS uses Sitka spruce; the AW4000CE-BS uses Caucasian spruce. Tone differences from wood selection are minimal at this quality level; the real distinction is that the AW4000CE-BS adds amplified output without altering its raw acoustic character.
Can I add electronics to the AW4000 BS later?
Yes—aftermarket pickups can be installed. However, the AW4000CE-BS comes factory-equipped with professional-grade Fishman electronics and onboard tuner, eliminating retrofit costs and ensuring integrated design.
Which is better for fingerstyle?
Both have identical neck dimensions (43mm nut, 55mm at 14th fret, 400mm radius) and articulate tone. The AW4000 BS is slightly lighter without electronics, which some fingerstyle players prefer for extended sessions. Choose based on whether you need amplification.
What about the cosmetic condition mentioned?
Only the AW4000 BS listing mentions minor wear (small neck scratch and white discoloration under finish). This does not affect playability or structure. The AW4000CE-BS condition is not specified in available details.