Review: Yamaha APX 500ii Acoustic/Electric Guitar
Yamaha’s APX line of guitars have been around for almost three decades, having originally set the stage for acoustic electric guitars in the 1980′s.
Yamaha has continued the tradition with it’s newest version of the popular APX500 with a well-priced Yamaha APX500II that is both affordable and sounds great.
If you’re looking for a good entry-level acoustic-electric guitar that balances a great sound with a reasonable price tag, this Yamaha APX500II Thinline Cutaway Acoustic might be right up your alley.
The Yamaha APX Family
Yamaha’s APX line of guitars includes the 500, 700, 900 and 1200. Each guitar is a thin-body with a slim neck that many beginner players really enjoy.
Each guitar in the lineup includes Yamaha’s A.R.T. pickup system (which stands for “Acoustic Resonance Transducer”) that is designed to make the most of dynamic changes in playing such as going from fingerpicking to strumming. Each guitar includes onboard electronics that range from a simple volume + EQ to some having a digital tuner.
Review 0f the Yamaha APX500II
Although the APX lineup offers some great options, the 500II is one of the best guitars for beginners learning to play. It has an affordable price, offers great playability and has the electric option that many players expect.
The Sound
The Yamaha APX500II was designed to be plugged in, and when heard through a properly set up sound system the guitar shines. Individual notes seems to ring clear and the full-body sound of a strum rings with great tone and color.
Even unplugged it sounds worlds better than many cheap beginner guitars, but the smaller, thin body doesn’t offer the same “wow” factor when played acoustically. The bracing is specifically designed to promote the A.R.T. pickup system and unfortunately the acoustic sound suffers slightly. Additionally, the spruce top and Nato back/sides are all laminate wood, which detracts slightly from the acoustic sound.
Regardless, most beginner guitarists won’t even be able to tell the difference.
The Feel
One of the most liked features of the APX500II is the slim neck that allows the hand to wrap around and attack the strings with more ease.
The smaller body is preferred by younger players who don’t feel dwarfed. In fact, many people comment that it feels more like playing an electric guitar than an acoustic guitar.
The Look
Some interesting features of the APX500 series include: a soft cutaway, a raised sound hole ring, decorated sound hole and a beautiful headstock pattern.
But perhaps the greatest aesthetic feature is the option for so many different colors. The guitar can be purchased in sunburst, white, blue, natural and many others.
Yamaha APX500II Pros vs. Cons
For those interested to purchase their first acoustic/electric guitar, this is a surefire winner.
Pros:
- Time Tested: The Yamaha APX series has been a best-selling guitar for over 20 years. There’s a reason for that.
- Excellent Electronics: The A.R.T. system offers the best sound for the price of any acoustic/electric option.
- Playability: The guitar action is relatively low for comparable guitars and the slim neck is nice.
- Color Options: A load of different options for colors, there’s bound to be one that fits your style!
- Good Price: Hovering around $300, any guitar cheaper than this just isn’t worth the decrease in sound quality.
Cons:
- Laminate Wood: the use of laminate wood on the top, back and sides means that the acoustic (unplugged) sound isn’t as good as a solid wood guitar
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