Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Ibanez AF55L Hollow Body Left-Handed Electric Guitar. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize the lifespan of your instrument.
The Ibanez AF55L is a traditional archtop jazz guitar designed for left-handed players. It features a single cutaway hollow body with a sapele top, back, and sides, complemented by a flat finish. The electronics include a pair of open-coil Ibanez ceramic Humbuckers. The neck is crafted from Nyatoh with a bound Walnut fingerboard and pearloid dot inlays.
Safety Information
- Avoid exposing the guitar to extreme temperatures or humidity, which can damage the wood and finish.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the guitar's finish.
- Keep the guitar away from direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Ensure all connections are secure before plugging into an amplifier.
Setup
Unpacking
Carefully remove the guitar from its packaging. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain all packaging materials in case the guitar needs to be transported or returned.
Initial Inspection and Tuning
Before playing, ensure the strings are properly seated on the bridge and nut. Tune the guitar using the Ibanez die-cast tuning machines. Standard tuning is E-A-D-G-B-e from lowest to highest string.
Figure 1: Front view of the Ibanez AF55L Hollow Body Left-Handed Electric Guitar. This image shows the full body, neck, headstock, and bridge of the instrument.
The guitar features a bound Walnut fingerboard with pearloid dot inlays and jumbo frets for comfortable playability.
Connecting to an Amplifier
Use a standard 6.35mm (1/4 inch) instrument cable to connect the guitar's output jack to your amplifier's input. Ensure the amplifier is turned off or at a low volume before connecting or disconnecting the cable to prevent sudden loud noises.
Operating
Controls Overview
The Ibanez AF55L is equipped with two Infinity R (H) humbucking pickups (neck and bridge) and a 3-way toggle switch for pickup selection, along with individual volume and tone controls for each pickup.
Figure 2: Detail of the guitar body, highlighting the Infinity R (H) humbucking pickups, control knobs, and the 3-way toggle switch.
Pickup Selector Switch
- Up Position: Activates the neck pickup, producing warmer, smoother tones.
- Middle Position: Activates both neck and bridge pickups, offering a balanced tone.
- Down Position: Activates the bridge pickup, producing brighter, more articulate tones.
Volume and Tone Controls
- Volume Knobs: Adjust the output level of the respective pickup.
- Tone Knobs: Adjust the treble response of the respective pickup. Turning clockwise increases treble, counter-clockwise decreases treble.
Maintenance
Cleaning
Wipe down the guitar body, neck, and strings with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth after each use to remove sweat and oils. For stubborn grime, use a guitar-specific cleaning solution sparingly on the body. Avoid applying cleaners directly to the fretboard or hardware.
String Replacement
Strings should be replaced regularly, depending on usage, to maintain optimal tone and playability. Replace one string at a time to maintain neck tension. Use alloy steel strings suitable for electric guitars.
Storage
When not in use, store the guitar in a suitable case or gig bag to protect it from dust, impacts, and environmental changes. Maintain a stable temperature and humidity level in the storage area.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from amplifier | Cable not connected, amplifier off, volume low, faulty cable/amp. | Check cable connections, turn on amplifier, increase volume, test with different cable/amp. |
| Buzzing or humming noise | Poor grounding, faulty cable, interference, single-coil hum (less common with humbuckers). | Ensure proper grounding, try a different cable, move away from electronic devices. |
| Guitar won't stay in tune | Old strings, improper string winding, faulty tuning machines, environmental changes. | Replace strings, ensure strings are wound correctly, allow guitar to acclimate to environment. |
| Fret buzz | Low action, uneven frets, neck relief issues. | Adjust bridge saddle height, check neck relief. For persistent issues, consult a qualified guitar technician. |
Specifications
- Model: AF55L
- Brand: Ibanez
- Instrument Type: Electric Guitar
- Body Type: Hollow Body, Single Cutaway
- Hand Orientation: Left-Handed
- Number of Strings: 6
- Body Material: Maple (Top), Sapele (Back/Sides)
- Neck Material: Nyatoh
- Fretboard Material: Walnut
- Fretboard Inlays: Pearloid Dot
- Frets: Jumbo
- Pickups: 2 x Infinity R (H) Humbuckers (Neck & Bridge)
- Bridge: ART-ST
- Tuning Machines: Ibanez Die-Cast
- Controls: 2 Volume, 2 Tone, 3-Way Pickup Selector Switch
- Finish: Matte (Flat Tobacco)
- String Material: Alloy Steel
- Connector Type: 6.35mm Jack
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 48 x 21 x 6.25 inches
- Item Weight: 10.27 Pounds
- GTIN: 04549763022240
Warranty
The Ibanez AF55L Hollow Body Left-Handed Electric Guitar comes with a 1-year limited warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase. It does not cover damage resulting from misuse, accidents, modifications, normal wear and tear, or improper maintenance. For warranty claims or detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the official Ibanez warranty documentation or contact Ibanez customer support.
Support
For further assistance, technical support, or inquiries regarding your Ibanez AF55L guitar, please visit the official Ibanez website or contact their customer service department. Contact information can typically be found on the manufacturer's website or included documentation.
Official Ibanez Website: www.ibanez.com