This is a phenomenally well built lawsuit era Ibanez, modeled after the Gibson Johnny Smith. It has the oversized headstock and Super 400 style inlays of the Gibson version, as well as Johnny Smith style dual humbuckers, ebony fingerboard, 1 3/4 inch nut width, and similarly Gibson styled ebony bridge. 

These archtops were built in Japan by two master luthiers, Sugihara and Tamura. The dedication of these luthiers is evident in every guitar of theirs I have ever handled. This one is no exception and the condition is the best of any I have ever had in my shop. This one has only a couple of minute dings in the finish and the binding is in absolutely remarkable, almost perfect condition. 

I have personally had four Gibson Johnny Smiths. While these Ibanez guitars are not quite competitive with the very best of those Gibsons, they are certainly comparable to the average one and at less than half the price!

The playability is wonderful with low, fast action. The frets are in great shape as well with very little wear. The pickups, like most of those made by Ibanez in this era have a great singing tone. George Benson style licks will be found perfectly at home on this guitar, but it’s far more versatile than just that. I actually find the bridge pickup very useful on this guitar, especially when blended with the neck. It’s equally at home comping for a band, playing chord melody, or maneuvering fast bebop lines. 

Weight - 8 lb 2 oz. 

The original hardshell case is included. It’s in excellent condition and all of the latches work. 

This guitar has been thoroughly inspected and found to be in superb playing condition

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