Epiphone AJ-100CE Acoustic/Electric Review (2019)

Body And Neck:
Hardware:
Sound:
Value:

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With the AJ-100CE Acoustic/Electric Guitar, Epiphone has succeeded in producing an attractive and functional budget-level model. It has features that are commonly found in guitars costing much more than its under $300 price point, making the AJ-100CE a great value for the money.

Body and Neck

Acoustic guitars with the advanced jumbo body style have been used by beginners and pros alike, and the AJ-100CE follows in that tradition. Featuring a strong select spruce top along with a mahogany back and sides, the AJ-100CE is built tough for many years of use (both onstage and off). A smooth cutaway design lets you reach those upper notes, and let’s call it for what it is – cutaway acoustics just look cool!

The AJ-100CE uses a set-in mahogany neck that has a rosewood fingerboard to cap it off, loaded with 20 frets and Pearloid dot inlays for the fret markers. It has the traditional Epiphone headstock design as well, giving a traditional but attractive visual appeal when combined with the natural finish of the body.

Hardware

Hardware on the AJ-100CE is decidedly minimal, but that shouldn’t necessarily be looked upon in a negative light. The most impressive feature from that standpoint is the NanoFlex pickup – it’s not your typical setup, that’s for sure.

While the NanoFlex is an under-saddle pickup solution just like most units you’ll find on other acoustic/electric models, it’s unique in a few ways from traditional piezo technology. Instead of separate piezo crystals for each string, the NanoFlex is made up of several layers of sensor material that will conform to any irregularities, ensuring complete contact with the bridge. It also picks up vibrations from the AJ-100CE’s body as well, leading to a more balanced tone.

While the NanoFlex pickup is truly a benefit, our only con here is that there is no onboard preamp module installed. That means there is no volume or EQ adjustability (and no onboard tuning capability).

The tuning machines are chrome-plated and operate with precise and smooth action, helping to keep you in tune even under the most spirited playing.

Sound

Playability on the AJ-100CE is great right off the rack, with a minimal amount of the string buzz or rattle that is sometimes found on models in this price range. A big plus is that the AJ-100CE offers the SlimTaper neck profile, making everything from playing chords to flatpicking smooth and comfortable.

The tone is warm and full, with clear highs and bass that isn’t too boomy; that’s a good thing considering the larger advanced jumbo body shape. The AJ-100CE shines enough on its own when played unplugged, and the electric capability that the NanoFlex offers helps to make it a great model for beginners that are venturing out into live settings.

Conclusion

Overall, the Epiphone AJ-100CE Acoustic/Electric is a solid entry-level model that would be a great choice for a first guitar. The ease of playing and impressive tone may fool you into thinking that you are playing an instrument that costs much more.

For more info about the Epiphone AJ-100CE, click here.
For more of the best acoustic guitars under $300, click here.