Ibanez EW2012ASE Natural 12-String Electro Acoustic Guitar, (Used)

The Ibanez EW2012ASE Natural is a striking 12-string electro acoustic guitar from Ibanez’s Exotic Wood series, designed for players who want shimmering 12-string tone, eye-catching figured wood looks and practical plugged-in performance. With its natural finish, quilted ash-style body construction and stage-ready electronics, the EW2012ASE offers a distinctive alternative to more traditional 12-string acoustic guitars.

This pre-owned Ibanez EW2012ASE is listed in Good condition, meaning it shows noticeable cosmetic wear from previous use but remains fully functional. It does not include a case, making it a practical option for players who already have a suitable gigbag or hardcase, or who want a strong-value 12-string electro acoustic without paying for extra accessories.

The EW2012ASE is particularly well suited to players who want rich, chorus-like acoustic textures for recording, live performance, worship music, folk, pop, acoustic rock and layered rhythm playing. Its 12-string voice adds natural width and sparkle, while the onboard pickup and preamp system make it useful for stage and studio work.

Condition Overview

Good Condition

This Ibanez EW2012ASE is in Good condition. This means it shows noticeable cosmetic wear from previous ownership, but remains fully functional and ready to play.

Good condition is ideal for players who want a reliable, playable pre-owned 12-string electro acoustic guitar and are comfortable with visible signs of use.

What’s Included?

✔ Ibanez EW2012ASE Natural 12-String Electro Acoustic Guitar
✔ Built-In Pickup / Preamp System

✘ No Case Included
✘ No Additional Accessories Included

Condition Notes

This guitar is listed in Good condition, so it may show visible signs of use such as small marks, surface scratches, pick wear, finish wear or general handling marks.

No specific faults, repairs or modifications have been provided for this listing. The guitar has been checked for playability and functionality before sale.

Fair Deal Inspection & Assessment

This pre-owned Ibanez EW2012ASE has been inspected and assessed by the Fair Deal Music team before being offered for sale.

Our checks include:

• Electronics tested
• Pickup / preamp system checked
• Output jack tested
• Controls checked
• Frets inspected
• Tuners checked
• Neck relief assessed
• Bridge and saddle inspected
• Body checked for structural condition
• General 12-string playability assessed

Service / Setup Work

All pre-owned guitars at Fair Deal Music are set up and checked before leaving the shop.

This Ibanez EW2012ASE has been assessed for playability, with the following checked where required:

• Action checked
• Neck relief checked
• Frets inspected
• Tuning stability checked
• Electronics tested
• Hardware checked
• Bridge and saddle checked

Please note that guitar setup can sometimes shift slightly during delivery due to changes in temperature and humidity. We take this into account during our checks, but wood can naturally move in transit, particularly with acoustic and electro acoustic guitars. This is especially worth bearing in mind with 12-string guitars, as the additional string tension can make setup and tuning stability more sensitive than on a standard 6-string acoustic.

Why Choose The Ibanez EW2012ASE?

Rich 12-String Acoustic Sound

The main appeal of the Ibanez EW2012ASE is its naturally wide and shimmering 12-string voice. A 12-string acoustic produces paired strings that create a chorus-like effect without needing pedals or digital processing. This makes it ideal for players who want bigger rhythm parts, sparkling open chords and layered acoustic textures.

Exotic Wood Series Styling

The EW2012ASE comes from Ibanez’s Exotic Wood series and is known for its visually striking figured ash-style look. Sources describe the model as featuring an EW body with a soft Florentine cutaway, laminated quilted ash top, laminated quilted ash back and sides, mahogany binding and an abalone soundhole rosette.

Built For Plugged-In Performance

As an electro acoustic 12-string, the EW2012ASE is designed to be useful both acoustically and amplified. Listings for the model describe pickup and preamp systems with both 1/4" and balanced XLR outputs on some versions, making it practical for sending signal to an acoustic amp, recording interface or mixing desk.

Comfortable Cutaway Body

The soft Florentine cutaway gives easier access to the upper frets, which is useful for melodic playing, capo work and more modern acoustic parts. For a 12-string guitar, this added access can make the instrument feel more flexible than a traditional non-cutaway dreadnought-style 12-string.

A Strong Choice For Recording Layers

A 12-string electro acoustic can be extremely useful in the studio. Even when used subtly, it can add width, sparkle and movement to a track. The EW2012ASE is well suited to layering acoustic rhythm parts, adding chorus-like textures or creating fuller arrangements without relying on effects.

Natural Finish With Standout Visual Appeal

The Natural finish highlights the figured wood appearance that makes the EW2012ASE stand out. It offers a more distinctive look than many plain-top electro acoustics, making it appealing for players who want an instrument that looks as interesting as it sounds.

Comparison Against Popular Alternatives

Ibanez EW2012ASE vs Yamaha 12-String Electro Acoustics

Yamaha 12-string electro acoustics are often chosen for reliability, balanced tone and straightforward stage use. The Ibanez EW2012ASE offers a more visually distinctive alternative, with Exotic Wood styling and a more characterful appearance. Choose the Ibanez if you want a 12-string electro acoustic that stands out visually as well as sonically.

Ibanez EW2012ASE vs Takamine 12-String Electro Acoustics

Takamine is strongly associated with stage-ready electro acoustics and dependable plugged-in tone. The Ibanez EW2012ASE is a good alternative for players who want 12-string shimmer, onboard electronics and a more decorative exotic-wood look. Takamine may appeal more to traditional live acoustic players, while the Ibanez suits players who want a distinctive, modern-looking 12-string.

Ibanez EW2012ASE vs 6-String Electro Acoustic Guitar

A standard 6-string electro acoustic is usually easier to play, tune and maintain, while a 12-string offers a richer, wider sound. Choose the EW2012ASE if you specifically want the natural chorus effect and fuller texture of a 12-string. Choose a 6-string if you need maximum versatility and simpler everyday playability.

Ibanez EW2012ASE vs Traditional Non-Electro 12-String Acoustic

A purely acoustic 12-string may be ideal for unplugged playing, but the EW2012ASE adds the benefit of onboard electronics. That makes it more useful for live performance, recording direct and amplified acoustic sets.

Who Is It For?

Beginner Players

This may not be the easiest first guitar for a complete beginner, as 12-string acoustics require more tuning, slightly more hand strength and extra maintenance compared with standard 6-string guitars. However, it could suit a committed beginner who specifically wants the sound of a 12-string and understands the extra setup involved.

Intermediate Players

Intermediate players are likely to get the most from the EW2012ASE. It offers a distinctive sound that can expand arrangements, inspire songwriting and add new textures beyond a standard acoustic guitar.

Professional Players

Professional players may appreciate the EW2012ASE as a useful studio or stage tool. It can add shimmer to recordings, broaden live acoustic arrangements and provide a different tonal colour when a standard 6-string acoustic is not enough.

Suitable Genres And Uses

This Ibanez EW2012ASE is well suited to:

• Folk
• Pop
• Acoustic rock
• Worship music
• Singer-songwriter arrangements
• Studio layering
• Open chord textures
• Jangle pop
• Country
• Indie
• Live acoustic sets
• Recording
• Players wanting natural chorus-like acoustic sound

Why Choose A 12-String Electro Acoustic Guitar?

A 12-string electro acoustic guitar gives players a sound that is instantly bigger, brighter and more layered than a standard 6-string. Each course of strings creates subtle movement and natural doubling, producing a shimmering tone often associated with folk, acoustic rock, worship music and classic pop recordings.

The benefit of an electro acoustic 12-string is that it can be used in more situations. You can enjoy its natural acoustic sound at home, then plug into an acoustic amp, PA system or recording interface for performance and recording. This makes it a more practical choice than a purely acoustic 12-string for players who perform live or record regularly.

The Ibanez EW2012ASE adds standout looks and Ibanez playability to that formula. It is a strong option for players who want a 12-string guitar that feels stage-ready, visually distinctive and useful for adding width and sparkle to a musical arrangement.

Looking for advice on choosing the right 12-string acoustic, electro acoustic guitar or pre-owned Ibanez? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Story & Context: Ibanez Exotic Wood Series

The Ibanez Exotic Wood series was created for players who wanted acoustic guitars with more distinctive visual character than standard spruce or plain-top models. Rather than relying only on traditional acoustic looks, the range used more decorative wood appearances and modern stage-friendly features.

The EW2012ASE was introduced as a 12-string acoustic-electric model in the Exotic Wood series and was produced in China. It is commonly described with a quilted ash-style body, abalone rosette and natural high-gloss finish, giving it a striking visual identity within Ibanez’s acoustic range.

For players looking for a 12-string electro acoustic that combines practical performance features with a less conventional appearance, the EW2012ASE remains a memorable option.

Technical Specifications

Power Requirements

The Ibanez EW2012ASE is an electro acoustic guitar with onboard electronics, so battery power is required for amplified use.

The exact battery type may vary depending on the pickup and preamp system fitted to the individual guitar. The guitar can still be played acoustically without battery power, but the pickup/preamp system will require a working battery for plugged-in use.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Fair Deal Music is a family-run independent music retailer founded in 1987 and is Birmingham’s largest independent music store. With over 6,000 Excellent Trustpilot reviews, we have built our reputation on friendly advice, reliable service and genuine product knowledge.

When buying a pre-owned electro acoustic guitar from Fair Deal Music, you benefit from a team that checks instruments before they leave the shop. Our staff are musicians themselves and can offer advice by phone, online or in-store, whether you are looking for your first 12-string, a recording tool, a stage-ready electro acoustic or a distinctive Ibanez model.

We offer fast UK delivery, secure online ordering and a large Birmingham showroom where you can browse new, used and vintage guitars, amps, effects, keyboards, drums, PA equipment and accessories. We also buy, sell and trade pre-owned gear, helping musicians upgrade, part-exchange or sell used instruments with confidence.

FAQ

What condition is this Ibanez EW2012ASE in?

This guitar is in Good condition, meaning it shows noticeable cosmetic wear but remains fully functional.

Does this Ibanez EW2012ASE include a case?

No. This guitar does not include a case.

Is the Ibanez EW2012ASE a 12-string guitar?

Yes. The EW2012ASE is a 12-string electro acoustic guitar.

Is this guitar electro acoustic?

Yes. It has onboard electronics for plugging into an acoustic amplifier, PA system or compatible audio interface.

What finish is this guitar?

This guitar is finished in Natural, showing off the figured wood-style appearance associated with the Exotic Wood series.

Is a 12-string guitar harder to play than a 6-string?

A 12-string can require more finger pressure and more tuning time than a standard 6-string, but it rewards the player with a much fuller and more shimmering acoustic sound.

Is this suitable for beginners?

It can suit a committed beginner who specifically wants a 12-string, but most complete beginners may find a standard 6-string acoustic easier to learn on.

Is it good for recording?

Yes. A 12-string acoustic is excellent for adding sparkle, width and layered rhythm textures in recordings.

Does it need a battery?

Yes. The onboard electronics require battery power for plugged-in use.

Can I use it live?

Yes. The EW2012ASE is designed as an electro acoustic guitar, making it suitable for live performance through an acoustic amp or PA system.

Can I try this guitar in-store?

Fair Deal Music has a large Birmingham showroom, and our team can offer advice on 12-string acoustic guitars, Ibanez electro acoustics and pre-owned acoustic instruments.