Theory Thursday: AF75 vs AF95FM

 

AF75 vs. AF95FM: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

There’s nothing quite like getting a new guitar. That mix of excitement and curiosity—how does it play? How does it compare to what I already have? Will it find a permanent spot in my rotation? Today, we’re diving into just that.

For years, my go-to jazz guitar has been the Ibanez AF75—a reliable, affordable hollow body that has seen me through countless gigs and sessions. I picked it up during my university days, and it’s been a true workhorse ever since. But recently, I decided to upgrade, stepping up to the Ibanez AF95FM, a slightly pricier model with a few notable refinements.

So, is it worth the jump? Let’s break it down.

AF75 vs. AF95FM: The Specs

At first glance, these two guitars are very similar. They share the same body size, depth, and scale length, meaning the playability is nearly identical. But when you look closer, the differences start to show:

  • Neck & Fretboard: Both guitars use Nyatoh wood for the neck, but the AF95FM has a three-piece construction, adding stability and a slightly different feel. The fretboard upgrade from walnut to ebony is noticeable too—darker, smoother, and a little snappier under the fingers.

  • Pickups: This is where the biggest difference lies. The AF75 comes with Classic Elite ceramic pickups, which get the job done but lean toward a brighter, more budget-friendly sound. The AF95FM, on the other hand, features Super 58 alnico pickups—the same type found in higher-end jazz guitars. These offer a warmer, fuller tone with a more dynamic response, making them ideal for jazz, blues, and even fusion.

  • Hardware & Aesthetics: The AF95FM steps things up with gold hardware and a flamed maple top, adding a touch of elegance. The tailpiece has a sleeker, more classic design compared to the AF75’s slightly busier look.

How Does It Sound?

Of course, specs only tell part of the story. The real test is in the sound.

The AF75 has a bright, articulate tone that works well in a mix but can sometimes feel a little thin. The AF95FM, with its alnico pickups, brings a rounder, warmer tone with more character. It responds better to touch and dynamics, offering a more expressive playing experience—exactly what I want in a jazz guitar.

Another subtle but important factor is sustain. The ebony fretboard and improved pickups on the AF95FM contribute to a slightly longer sustain, giving notes more bloom and depth, especially on clean tones.

Final Thoughts

For players on a budget, the AF75 remains an outstanding choice—it’s reliable, affordable, and sounds great. But if you’re looking for an upgrade without breaking the bank, the AF95FM is absolutely worth considering. The better pickups, improved fretboard, and upgraded aesthetics make it a clear step up without changing the feel of the instrument.

Now, let’s hear them in action. Check out the full sound demo and let me know—is the AF95FM worth the upgrade to you? CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO.

JS
 jonshields.org
 guitarbook.org


*note - part or all of this article may have been written with AI.

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