Discovering a vintage Ibanez Artstar AS 80 guitar is more than unboxing a mere musical instrument. It's stepping into a realm of rich history, craftsmanship, and iconic music that spans decades. This semi-hollow body electric guitar has not only defined generations of guitarists but also evolved as a classic symbol of the Ibanez legacy.
Manufactured in the late 1970s and early 1980s during Ibanez's peak ' typu ' era, the Ibanez Artstar AS 80 is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality, innovation, and unprecedented playability. With a diverse roster of influencers, from jazz legends to heavy metal virtuosos, who have wielded the Artstar AS 80, it's no wonder this guitar commands a cult following even today.
Understanding the Ibanez Artstar AS 80: A Brief History
To appreciate the Ibanez Artstar AS 80, one must first understand its roots. Born out of a necessity to cater to the diverse needs of professional guitarists, the Artstar series is an offshoot of the Ibanez Millennium line, which itself was inspired by high-end Gibson and Fender guitars. The AS 80 was introduced as part of the Artstar range in 1979, marking Ibanez's entrance into the US market and setting a new benchmark for affordability, quality, and playability.
-producing guitars with ES-style bodies and humbucking pickups. The AS 80/shared the body shape and specifications of the ES-335 and 355, yet it was priced within the reach of aspiring musicians. This strategically placed the guitar alongside more expensive offerings from competition brands but with a distinctive Ibanez twist.
The Body and Aesthetics
Central to the Artstar AS 80 appeal lies its semi-hollow body. Sandwiched between a maple centerblock and a laminate spruce/mahogany top and back, the body is not only lighter but offers a unique resonance and acoustic character. The two f-holes not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also contribute to this tonal eccentricity. The guitar's smooth curves and sleek lines, finished in multiple sunburst options, project a timeless elegance that transcends trends.
What sets the AS 80 apart is the thin (often 3/4") maple neck joined to the body at the 19th fret (rather than the neck joint of the original ES-335) and the dual humbucking pickups—all features borrowed from the iconic Ibanez SR-1000.
Playability and Tonal Versatility
A defining aspect of the AS 80 is its exceptional playability. With a rosewood fretboard featuring large, medium-sized frets, the Artstar exudes comfort and agility, making it an ideal partner for both beginners and seasoned players. The neck, often hewn from maple, provides ample support for thegivens, contributing to a taut yet dynamic feel.
Sonically, the AS 80 revels in its tonal versatility. From warm, smooth jazz tones to aggressive, pummeling rock overdrive, this guitar adapts seamlessly, thanks to its humbuckers and coil-tap switches. The T-Top and Super II pickups, installed in models from different production years, each bring their unique sonic personality to the table.
The Ibanez Artstar AS 80: A Legacy that Endures
Despite production ceasing in 1987, the Artstar AS 80's spirit lingers. Its legacy lives on through contemporary models like the AM series that pay homage to the original. Moreover, the AS 80 has left an indelible mark on the world of guitar production, spawning numerous replicas and influencing countless guitarists.
A testament to its enduring legacy is the number of iconic guitarists who have favored the Artstar AS 80. Musicians like Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert, and even George Benson have all picked up an AS 80 at some point in their careers, attesting to its universal appeal and versatility.
Collecting and Restoring an Ibanez Artstar AS 80
Today, the Ibanez Artstar AS 80 stands as a coveted collectible. Vintage models can fetch high prices at auctions and specialist music stores. Yet, the AS 80's everyman legacy remains untarnished. Given its durability and the availability of numerous replacement parts, restoring a vintage Artstar is a rewarding and accessible endeavor.
Aside from tracking down a mint-condition original, building a custom Artstar AS 80 replica or modding an existing guitar can be a rewarding labor of love. Scores of guitar techs and DIY enthusiasts offer services and guidance, ensuring the Artstar legacy continues in the hands of dedicated players.
Ultimately, the Ibanez Artstar AS 80 is more than an amalgam of wood, strings, and hardware. It's an embodiment of Ibanez's commitment to pushing boundaries, delivering quality, and inspiring musicians. Its legacy continues, not just through reissue models, but also in the hands of musicians who wield its spirit, fulfilling the promise of a guitar that belongs to the ages.