Japanese guitar brand Ibanez has been a reputable manufacturer in the musical world since its inception in the late 1950s. Today, Ibanez is known for producing high-quality instruments at an affordable price point.
In this guide, we’re exploring the acoustic-electric Ibanez V70CE, deep-diving into everything you need to know about this guitar.
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Ibanez V70CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar
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PROS
CONS
Ibanez V70CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Specs
Type of Guitar: Acoustic-Electric
Body Type: Dreadnought
Number of Strings: 6
Tonewood: Mahogany
Orientation: Right-Handed
Scale Length: 25.5”
Color: Transparent Blue, Black, Violin Sunburst
Pros
Good Body Build
If you want a good looking guitar, the V70CE won’t disappoint! This guitar is surprisingly well made for its price point, hosting an impressive mahogany body with a laminated select spruce cap. The neck here is also made of mahogany, with a rosewood bridge and fingerboard. These impressive wood choices look great and assist in producing some beautiful acoustic tones.
The dreadnaught body shape found on this acoustic-electric model lends a hand when it comes to the ease of playing. The soft cutaway in the body allows for higher access.
Built-In Preamp
Take advantage of this guitar’s electric capabilities to show off your sound. The Ibanez V70CE comes equipped with an Ibanez AEQ200 pickup and preamp. This leads to some solid sound quality when you go for a plugged-in play. Here, you’ll be able to achieve a balanced tone and natural sounding.
The EQ here is somewhat basic, but you at least get some solid treble and bass controls that can help you make the adjustments needed to find the right tone. These controls are simple and user-friendly, making them especially approachable for beginners.
Solid Hardware
Alongside its solid electrical offerings, the V70CE also has some decent pieces of hardware. The tuners on the V70CE are diecast chrome tuners. These tuners are built to last and will ensure that your instrument keeps its tone locked in place.
The fingerboard is a standard width for acoustic guitars, and this model also features a compensated saddle at the other end. This will allow users to play in tune much more easily.
Impressive Pricing
Ibanez is known for offering guitar models at an incredible value, and that is especially true for the V70CE. A guitar of this build, with an impressive tonewood body, good hardware, and a durable build, is hard to come by, especially at the price point offered by Ibanez.
There’s a reason this has been a popular model on the market for many years. Beginners and intermediate players alike cannot deny the great amount of value from such a reasonably priced instrument. This makes it a great addition to any existing selection or a solid choice for those looking for their first acoustic-electric guitar.
Cons
Here are a couple of areas of concern for the Ibanez V70CE, as noted by reviewers online:
String/Fret Buzz Issues
Many reviewers online have noted that string buzz is a commonly encountered problem on this model. While this doesn’t seem to be an issue for plugged-in play, it is more prevalent for acoustic play.
A visit to a good guitar tech can help to remedy the issue. In fact, a common remedy for this problem appears to be replacing the stock strings with something a little more high-end. While this can be an annoying issue to navigate, this guitar's low price point does leave some room to spend on improvements.
Body Flaws
While some users praise the V70CE for its impressive body build for the price, some common build issues are noted among different buyers online. One of the most common being issues with cracking on the neck bolts on this model.
It’s important to take extra care of your acoustic guitars to avoid such issues. This kind of damage can be caused by issues such as rough usage or even extreme humidity and temperature changes. However, manufacturer flaws can also be a common source for this issue, especially in more mass-produced instruments like the ones from Ibanez.
What Are the Components of the Ibanez V70CE?
What components work to make this build so great? Let’s take a closer look at the hardware:
Built-in Electronics
As mentioned above, this guitar hosts some easy to navigate electric guitars. As an electric-acoustic model, you’ll be able to take advantage of these to transition from acoustic to plugged-in play.
This guitar’s body is fitted with an Ibanez AEQ200 preamp, with a control panel located underneath the saddle. There you’ll find the pickup connected to the preamp, with controls for the instruments treble, bass, and volume.
A handy “low battery” indicator also lives here. These controls are fairly simple and don’t lend to too much customization in sound but are easy enough to navigate for any new player.
Tuners
The headstock on the Ibanez V70CE is fitted with some solid chrome tuners. These aren’t necessarily anything to write home about, but they do a good job at keeping your guitar in tune and matching the guitar's overall look.
Neck
The Ibanez V70CE features a solid mahogany neck with an impressive rosewood fingerboard. Here you’ll find 20 frets and a standard 1 11/16” nut width. Many users note that the use of mahogany here provides some great durability and tension and easy playability.
What Types of Music is the Ibanez V70CE Best For?
As a beginner acoustic-electric guitar, the Ibanez V70CE can suit a good range of acoustic-suited genres:
Indie/Folk
A favorite among acoustic players, indie, and folk music will sound like a dream on the V70CE. You can learn some great beginner tracks on this model, showing off some bright acoustics with a loud, amplified sound.
Country
Country fans can achieve crisp, clean notes with ease on this Ibanez model. Though this guitar is incapable of some of the twang and vibrato found on strictly-electric models, you’ll still be able to achieve some great acoustics for stripped-back playing.
What Ages and Skill Levels is the Ibanez V70CE Suitable For?
The Ibanez V70CE is the perfect guitar for beginners. Its comfortable design, solid action, and easy to navigate electronic controls make it approachable for even the most novice player. Young players should also be able to handle its light weight and will be helped by its slim and solid neck.
Its low price point further ups its appeal among those looking for a first guitar. With an acoustic-electric, you’ll easily explore unplugged acoustic and plugged in amp play to discover your sound. If you’re searching for a first guitar, this would be a great pick.
Of course, intermediate players can also enjoy this guitar if they’re looking for a reliable but modestly priced acoustic-electric for their collection. They may even benefit from purchasing this model as a baseboard for custom mods of their choice.
Table of Contents
What Makes the Ibanez V70CE Stand Out From the Competition?
The biggest appeal of the Ibanez V70CE is its ability to immediately deliver! This guitar comes with all of the features a first-time guitar player would be searching for. It has some handy, easy to use electronics, a solid body build, great tone, and a price point that doesn’t break the budget.
Sure, the V70CE may not be as heavy-duty as other acoustic dreadnoughts on the market. Other models, including more premium Ibanez acoustic models or even some Fender builds, might have more to offer when it comes to electronics and hardware. But with what you’re getting for this price point, the Ibanez V70CE can still hold among the competition.
Comparison Overview
Let’s see how the V70CE stands up against some of its competitors:
Ibanez V70CE vs Ibanez PF28ECE
The Ibanez PF28ECE is a different build from the 70CE with a mahogany body and maple top rather than the V70CEs spruce cap. The largest difference between them is the PFT28ECE’s Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp, an onboard tuner, and a balanced XLR jack. This tech is an upgrade from what you’d find on the V70CE.
With the FR28ECE, you’re paying more money for a different body, upgraded tech, and some stronger hardware. It’s still reasonably priced for an entry-level acoustic but outshines the V70CE with its upgrades.
Ibanez V70CE vs Fender 300CE
The Fender 300CE is another solid acoustic-electric choice that’s well suited for beginner players. This is one of the best acoustic-electric models in their catalog.
Like the Ibanez 70CE, this is a dreadnought acoustic-electric made of mahogany, though this sports a maple top. Its built-in electronics are slightly above the 70CE, with an Isys III System 3-band EQ, volume controls, and a built-in digital tuner than the 70CE lacks altogether. This guitar also comes in a vastly wider range of color options if the look of your instrument matters most.
These instruments are capable of similar sounds, have solid mahogany builds, and are available at similar beginner price points. However, the improved electronics on the Fender do put it a slight step above the 70CE.
Common Issues
Here are some common issues V70CE owners run into and what you can do to remedy them:
Ibanez V70CE 1st String Bend Problems
There is a tendency for the first string on the V70CE to experience bend problems. However, some relatively easy adjustments can remedy the issue. All you’ll need to do is make adjustments to your action and radius, which can be approached differently.
You could try adjusting your truss rod to provide more action across all your strings. Alternatively, you can make adjustments to the individual string on the bridge, raising the action on the 1st string to reduce the fret contact and tension.
Electronics on Ibanez V70CE Stopped Working
If your guitar appears to be on and working but fails to connect to your amp, there are a couple of different troubleshooting methods to try before you phone into a repair shop.
The easiest thing to try first is changing the battery for a different brand, as compatibility issues can be common. Next, feel the jack on the guitar, making sure the connection feels secure and locked in. These jacks sometimes need to be resoldered into place for a better connection. If both of these methods don’t work, it’s time to get the opinion of a guitar repair expert.
Ibanez V70CE Won’t Turn on
An easy first step here is to replace the battery. If that doesn’t work, and you can determine that it’s your guitar and not your amp that isn’t working, there’s a chance something came loose within the guitar itself. In this case, you may want to take it to a repair center for an internal check-up.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a first time acoustic-electric, the Ibanez V70CE is a model that ticks all the right boxes! You’ll get a nice build with decent hardware, easy electronic controls, and all at a super approachable, low price point.
People Also Ask
Still, have questions you need to be answered before purchasing the Ibanez V70CE? Read on below for the answers to some of the more commonly asked questions so you can buy with even more confidence.
How to Care for an Ibanez V70CE Guitar
Practicing good guitar care will help you to keep your Ibanez V70CE for a long time! As this is a mid-quality build, take care to store your guitar in a sturdy case and a controlled climate.
Changes to temperature and humidity can affect the wood and lead to body issues. Basic guitar cleaning can also help maintain your instrument - clean the strings, polish the body, and oil the neck whenever possible.
How to Date an Ibanez V70CE
The easiest way to date an Ibanez V70CE is to look for its Ibanez serial number. These are most commonly found on the headstock of Ibanez models but can also appear on the fretboard, neck plate, or inside the neck block, depending on the build.
What Famous People Play an Ibanez V70CE?
While it is difficult to identify players who gravitate towards this specific model, some music legends are masters of the acoustic guitar! Joe Satriani and Steve Vai are two highly respected Ibanez acoustic guitar players, working as proud representatives for the Ibanez brand.
How to Use the Onboard Electronics on the Ibanez V70CE
The onboard electronics on this model we designed with easy navigation in mind. Here, you’ll find three switches for custom EQ controls. These knobs work to control the bass, treble, and overall volume, respectively. Simply slide the slides to your desired placement until you find the sound you’re looking for.
What Strings to Use on an Ibanez V70CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar?
Changing up the strings of a guitar is a common modification for most serious players. It’s encouraged to do so once a month if you have the budget for it. The springs you put on your Ibanez V70CE depend mostly on personal preference. In general, for an acoustic, copper/bronze metal works best to provide the tone you’re looking for.
Which is Better, Ibanez V70CE vs Fender FA135CE?
These two guitars share a lot of similarities in looks and price. So which is the better model? If you’re looking for better electronics, the Fender model is a good choice, with an impressive electronics system and built-in tuner that’s missing from the V70CE.
Does the Ibanez V70CE Guitar Have a Tuner?
A built-in tuner can be super handy, especially for new guitar players. Unfortunately, the V70CE does not come with the built-in tuner that is common on other acoustic-electric models within its price range.
What Are the Ibanez V70CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Dimensions?
The Ibanez V70CE is 119.38 x 53.98 x 15.8 cm and weighs in at around 3.49 kg. It’s a standardly sized 6-string guitar build, with a light weight suitable for all players.