The Ibanez Artcore series delivers warm, versatile jazz tone at accessible price points, and choosing a left handed version ensures a balanced feel for southpaw players. These guitars feature slim, comfortable necks and full-hollow or semi-hollow bodies that pair rich low end with smooth articulation.
Designed specifically for left handed players, these Artcore models reverse the pickup orientation and bridge configuration so the controls sit naturally under your fretting hand. The result is a playable, stage-ready guitar that feels intuitive for rhythm comping and melodic improvisation.
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Model | Body Style | Neck Joint | Pickups | Typical Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Artcore AF75 | Full Hollow | Set Neck | Dual Humbucker | 700–900 |
| Artcore 1200 | Semi-Hollow | Set Neck | Dual Humbucker | 600–750 |
| Artcore 500 | Hollow | Bolt-On | Single Coil Jazz | 400–550 |
| Artcore Union | Thin Line Semi-Hollow | Set Neck | Dual Humbucker | 1100–1300 |
Left Handed Ibanez Artcore Identity
Design Intent for Southpaw Players
Left handed Artcore guitars flip the electronics layout so the volume and tone knobs remain within easy reach of your picking hand. This positioning makes subtle volume swells and timbre shifts intuitive while you maintain your fretting technique.
Visual and Structural Balance
The symmetrical curves of a full-hollow Artcore look the same from both directions, but the internal wiring and bridge orientation are engineered for left handed comfort. Strap buttons, output jack placement, and pickup alignment all support smooth playability in a left handed stance.
Articulation and Sound Signature
Warm, Breathful Resonance
Whether you choose a full hollow like the AF75 or a thin line semi-hollow Union, the Artcore line emphasizes woody mids and singing highs. Left handed versions preserve this tonal character while ensuring the guitar does not feel top heavy or unbalanced.
Dynamic Response Across Genres
From mellow bebop comping to slightly brighter indie rock textures, the paired humbuckers in Artcore models offer a wide sweet spot. The left handed layout keeps the weight distribution comfortable, which supports long practice sessions and live sets without fatigue.
Setup, Hardware, and Playability
Action and Intonation Out of the Box
Ibanez typically ships these guitars with conservative action that suits most intermediate players. Left handed Artcore models are set up in reverse, with bridge saddles intonated for optimal pitch stability across the fretboard.
Hardware Components and Adjustments
Tuning machines, pickups, and output jacks are positioned to match a left handed grip. Many players appreciate the option to adjust the strap button location so the guitar settles naturally against the body while seated or standing.
Key Takeaways for Left Handed Players
- Confirm left handed orientation before purchase to avoid returns.
- Test the neck profile and body balance in person or review detailed left handed setup videos online.
- Match the body style to your music, such as full hollow for warmth or semi-hollow for versatility.
- Budget for light setup or minor tweaks to optimize action and intonation.
- Leverage the reversed control layout to streamline your volume and tone shaping during performances.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I use a standard right handed strap on a left handed Artcore?
Yes, the strap buttons are typically placed in the same locations, but the balance point shifts. You may want to reposition the rear strap button or use a slightly shorter strap to keep the horn from digging into your ribs.
Will the reversed pickup orientation affect feedback at higher volumes?
Feedback behavior is very similar to right handed versions, but the exact hotspot location on the body can feel different under stage lights. Experiment with your angle to the amp and consider a feedback suppressor if you play at high gain in loud environments.
Are left handed Artcore models available in the same color finishes as right handed ones?
Most popular colors and limited editions are offered in left handed versions, but availability can vary by region and production batch. Check with your local dealer or Ibanez’s regional site for current finish options.
Should I choose bolt-on, set neck, or through neck for left handed jazz lines?
Set necks offer the most resonance and sustain for smooth legato, while bolt-on necks provide easier access to the upper frets and lower repair costs. Through neck constructions are rare in this lineup but deliver the warmest overall tone if you prioritize sustain over versatility.