Ibanez GA5TCE Slim Classical Guitar - Amber High Gloss

I ordered this guitar two days ago, and received it today.Although I was a bit hesitant to buy a guitar without first trying it, I took the plunge .. based on the brand name alone: I've had an Ibanez GA80S since the early 80's and it has been an excellent guitar.I now wanted an classical guitar with a pickup element.I probably should have done some more research: while it looks like a very nicely crafted guitar, I was NOT prepared, at all, to receive a 'thin line' guitar (I suppose that's what the 'T' stands for in GA5TCE), meaning it has a very shallow body, and consequently the sound is a bit 'thin' as well.The bass strings sound punchy, but the treble strings lack brilliance. (Maybe better strings can help here, maybe higher tension ones, have to ... MoreI ordered this guitar two days ago, and received it today.Although I was a bit hesitant to buy a guitar without first trying it, I took the plunge .. based on the brand name alone: I've had an Ibanez GA80S since the early 80's and it has been an excellent guitar.I now wanted an classical guitar with a pickup element.I probably should have done some more research: while it looks like a very nicely crafted guitar, I was NOT prepared, at all, to receive a 'thin line' guitar (I suppose that's what the 'T' stands for in GA5TCE), meaning it has a very shallow body, and consequently the sound is a bit 'thin' as well.The bass strings sound punchy, but the treble strings lack brilliance. (Maybe better strings can help here, maybe higher tension ones, have to experiment).So, yeah, the 'thin line' thing: unless you're familiar with the Ibanez product codes, nothing, neither the picture nor the description, mentions this is a thin line guitar: If you expect a full body classical guitar, with a full warm sound, then this is a major let down. It can still be a good guitar, just not what I meant to order: it doesn't fit me well .. the thin body simply doesn't feel right on my leg.So, it's partially (Sam Ash could have done a better job describing the product) my own fault (not doing more research, buying online, etc), so I don't know what to do.But if Sam Ash would consider taking it back, then I would probably consider upgrading it to the more expensive Yamaha CG172SF (flamenco).Having said all that, for a nylon string guitar with piezo element, and if you can live with the shallow body and 'thinner' sound, it's a steal at that price.But again, for 'real' serious classical guitar work: this is not the right guitar .. it's more a 'campfire' guitar.Note: The picture here shows the 'electronics' (knobs etc) on the body above the wide part of the body .. my version of this guitar actually had them close to the neck (where they should be, so as not to hinder your right arm!

Been playing it for a couple of weeks. My feedback.1. Bajaoo ServiceThe delivery and packaging was to my expectations.2. The guitarIdeal for someone who has relatively less longer fingers. I used to play on a yamaha c40 which has a std 52mm nut size, whereas this comes with a 46 mm one, so the stretching is comparatively smoother.2. Retuning of strings is a must before each session, but after a few days the strings seem to retain their tone, which is the case with all guitars.3. Due to the thin soundboard, the sound is not very projecting but good enough for soloing in a medium sized room. However, the tone for me is acceptable.4. The preamp works well after connecting to my kustomsound amp if one really needs amplification. There is no on/off switch, so ... MoreBeen playing it for a couple of weeks. My feedback.1. Bajaoo ServiceThe delivery and packaging was to my expectations.2. The guitarIdeal for someone who has relatively less longer fingers. I used to play on a yamaha c40 which has a std 52mm nut size, whereas this comes with a 46 mm one, so the stretching is comparatively smoother.2. Retuning of strings is a must before each session, but after a few days the strings seem to retain their tone, which is the case with all guitars.3. Due to the thin soundboard, the sound is not very projecting but good enough for soloing in a medium sized room. However, the tone for me is acceptable.4. The preamp works well after connecting to my kustomsound amp if one really needs amplification. There is no on/off switch, so the battery may have to be removed if you are not using the amp.5. It is artfully finished in terms of its looks.6. Would be a good buy for someone playing the steel guitar which usually have a 43mm nutsize and wanting to move to a nylon guitar.My overall experience with this guitar has been good so far.

The guitar is plenty loud for practicing and playing at home without plugging in. The onboard tuner is very useful, as well. The neck is very playable and there is plenty of space for someone like me who has large hands. I have enjoyed playing the guitar every day and I heartily recommend it to guitarists of all playing levels. As an added note: I've played the instrument for several years. Cheers!