I have a few Gibson Semi models... 335, 137, HR fusion, but I wanted something light and I found this one. Expecting a "meh" guitar was I ever bowled over when I played it.

Sound
The neck pup is easily as smooth as one of my gits with Gibson T-tops and better than some with Classic 57's. The tone from this one is outstanding. I don't use a bridge pup alone, but blended with the neck pup it adds a nice mid range quality

Features
OK, it's gaudy... the snake head design some do not like, the liberally slathered abalone is a bit too much, only two controls for two pups make it a deal breaker for some, and it's too bad. I can live with a garish guitar but not one that sounds like mud and plays like a $150 mass produced beginner model. This one is a winner.

Ease of Use
The action is set at 1.0 mm at the 12th fret, lower than any of my Les Paul models, it plays like butter. It weighs under 6 pounds, 2+ pounds lighter than other semi's I have, it balances perfectly in my lap or on a strap, and overall it's remarkably easy to play.

Quality
Not much can be said to add to the well known Ibanez quality, suffice it to say it is flawless.

Value
It's too bad this one was only made for a couple of years it is the best value in semi guitars anywhere. IF you decided you wanted a pup "upgrade" you can justify the expense because these are… read more so darn inexpensive.

Manufacturer Support
I have never had a problem with any Ibanez model, but Ibanez has a forum on the web and employees are very helpful answering user questions and researching issues for owners, +++ for Ibanez. Other companies can learn from them about support.

The Wow Factor
If you like slightly tack gits, then this one is the King (or Queen if you prefer) of WOW. If not you might be slightly embarrassed playing it, kinda like driving a purple car with 22" wheels, but who cares? I can't see it when I play it :-)

Musical Background:
Playing 50+ years

Musical Style:
Soft Jazz read less