Ibanez AS93FML-VLS

Ibanez AS93FML-VLS review

The Ibanez AS93FML-VLS is a left-handed, double-cutaway semi-hollow electric guitar in the Artcore series. Its violin sunburst finish and flamed maple body give it a polished, traditional look, while the white block inlays and gold-colored hardware add contrast. Owner comments repeatedly praise its appearance, with several noting that the finish looks even better in person than in product photos.

The listed price is $694. The model has been available since January 2018 and is built around a three-piece set neck made from nyatoh and maple. It has an ebony fingerboard, 22 medium frets, and a 628 mm scale, equivalent to about 24.7 inches. Ibanez equips it with two Super 58 humbuckers, an ART-1 bridge, and a Quik-Change III tailpiece. There is no tremolo, and a case or gig bag is not included.

Build quality and setup

Reports from owners are largely positive about the overall finish and assembly. Several describe the guitar as well finished for its price, and one long-term owner reported no problems after a year of use. The bridge and tailpiece also receive favorable comments. The tuning machines were judged acceptable rather than exceptional, and one buyer mentioned a damaged tuning-machine screw. These are individual reports, not evidence that every instrument has the same issue.

Setup can vary. Some owners found the action needed a small adjustment, while another received an instrument that was ready to play after tuning. One player found the fret ends or playing surface rough at first, but said the problem eased after about two weeks of playing. That experience is worth keeping in mind: check fret feel and setup when the guitar arrives, and ask a technician to address anything that remains uncomfortable.

There is also a report of a cracked neck on arrival, which the customer attributed to transport damage. The retailer arranged a return and replacement, and the replacement arrived in good condition. That account describes a shipping problem and its resolution, rather than a confirmed recurring flaw in the guitar. Another customer reported a split nut and a crack near the neck joint, with an unsatisfactory service experience. These contrasting accounts make a prompt inspection after delivery sensible.

Playing feel

The neck receives mixed descriptions, which is unsurprising given how personal neck shape can be. One owner called it substantial but comfortable, including for a player without large hands. Players accustomed to very slim, fast necks may need a little time to adjust. Another owner praised the fret leveling and found the guitar easy to play after a minor setup. Taken together, feedback suggests a neck with a noticeable amount of substance, rather than an especially thin profile.

One reviewer put the weight at about 3.5 kg, or 7.7 pounds, and found it comfortable. That figure comes from an owner report, not a guaranteed weight for every instrument. The left-handed version is also especially relevant for players who have struggled to find semi-hollow guitars in their orientation. A customer noted that left-handed availability can come at a higher price, so it is worth comparing current listings before buying.

Sound and controls

The two Super 58 humbuckers are the strongest point in the owner feedback. Players describe them as clear, full, and versatile, with a convincing semi-hollow character. The neck and middle selector positions are praised for retaining an audible acoustic quality, while the bridge pickup can deliver a more forceful sound. Owners mention jazz and blues in particular, but also report using the guitar across other styles.

One player found the three-way selector quiet in operation and the controls satisfactory. Another described the pickups as strong enough that changing their height was not an immediate concern. These impressions point to a usable range of sounds straight out of the box, although amplifier settings, strings, and setup will shape the result.

Verdict

The Ibanez AS93FML-VLS makes a strong case for left-handed players looking for a semi-hollow instrument with classic styling and capable humbuckers. Its flamed maple body, ebony fingerboard, and gold-colored hardware give it visual presence, while owner reports consistently highlight the Super 58 pickups and comfortable playing feel. Expect some variation in setup and inspect the frets, hardware, and neck joint on arrival. At $694, it offers a compelling mix of appearance, sound, and playability for players drawn to jazz, blues, and related styles.