Ibanez Artcore AF75 Hollowbody Electric Guitar Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Ibanez Artcore AF75 is a hollowbody electric guitar designed for classic looks and modern playability. It features a nyatoh set neck, linden top, back, and sides, and vintage-style F-holes. The instrument is equipped with Classic Elite humbuckers and a bound laurel fingerboard, offering a versatile tonal range. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your AF75 guitar.

Figure 1: Front view of the Ibanez Artcore AF75 Hollowbody Electric Guitar in Transparent Red Sunburst.

2. Setup

2.1 Stringing and Intonation

The AF75 features a floating bridge design, which is held in place by string tension. When changing strings, it is crucial to replace them one at a time or to secure the bridge with masking tape to prevent it from shifting. If the bridge moves, the intonation will need to be reset. This design allows for easy intonation adjustments when strings are off, but requires care during string changes.

Figure 2: Detailed view of the floating bridge and pickups on the AF75.

2.2 Neck and Fretboard

The guitar features a nyatoh set neck and a bound laurel fretboard. The truss rod adjustment is conveniently located under a cover on the headstock, allowing for easy access without removing screws. The fretboard is equipped with medium nickel steel frets.

Figure 3: Headstock and tuners of the Ibanez Artcore AF75.

3. Operating

3.1 Controls and Pickups

The AF75 is equipped with Classic Elite humbucker pickups, providing a ceramic tone. It features a traditional control layout with two volume knobs, two tone knobs, and a 3-way pickup selector switch. This allows for independent control over each pickup's volume and tone, as well as blending them in the middle position.

Figure 4: Control knobs and pickup selector switch.

3.2 Hollow Body Characteristics

As a true hollow body guitar, the AF75 offers a resonant and airy tone. Unlike semi-hollow guitars, it does not have a solid block running through the center of the body. This design contributes to its unique acoustic properties but can also make it more susceptible to feedback at high volumes or with high-gain settings. Users should be mindful of amplifier settings to manage potential feedback.

4. Maintenance

4.1 General Cleaning

Regularly wipe down your guitar with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. For a deeper clean, use a guitar-specific cleaning solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.

4.2 Fretboard Care

The laurel fretboard may benefit from occasional conditioning to prevent drying and cracking. Use a fretboard conditioner designed for unfinished wood. If the frets feel gritty, they can be polished with a fine-grit sanding sponge or specialized fret polishing tools when the strings are removed.

4.3 String Replacement

As noted in the Setup section, exercise caution when replacing strings due to the floating bridge. Replace strings one at a time or secure the bridge to maintain intonation.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 Excessive Feedback

Due to its hollow body construction, the AF75 can be prone to feedback, especially at high volumes or with distorted tones. To mitigate feedback, try reducing amplifier gain, adjusting your position relative to the amplifier, or using a feedback suppressor pedal.

5.2 Intonation Issues

If the guitar sounds out of tune as you play up the neck, the intonation may need adjustment. This is typically done by adjusting the saddles on the bridge. For the floating bridge on the AF75, ensure the bridge is in its correct position before making fine adjustments to the saddles.

6. Specifications

• Item Weight: 10.62 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 45.64 x 20.39 x 5.41 inches
• Item Model Number: AF75TRS
• Date First Available: February 7, 2011
• Back Material: Maple Wood
• Body Material: Maple
• Color Name: Transparent Red Sunburst
• Connector Type: 1/4" (6.35mm) audio jack
• Fretboard Material: Laurel Wood
• Guitar Pickup Configuration: H (Humbucker)
• Scale Length: 24.75" Scale
• String Material: Brass or Phosphor Bronze
• Top Material: Maple Wood
• Neck Material Type: Nyatoh Wood
• Number of Strings: 6
• Guitar Bridge System: Fixed (Floating)
• Material Type: Linden Wood, Nyatoh Wood
• Hand Orientation: Right

7. Official Product Videos

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Ibanez website or contact your authorized Ibanez dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of ownership for any warranty claims.