This one is a keeper. If money was no issue though I would consider the Gibson Songwriter, Taylor 800 series or most likely would design a Custom Martin. All of these guitars are thousands of dollars more than the price of the Ibanez.

Sound
In my opinion this the the nicest sounding 12 string under $1,000. It has a deep, full sounds and can really project without an amp or having to play too hard. I like the pickup, pre-amp and on board tuner. You really can't go wrong with Fishman. The pre-amp has a low, mid and high as well as a shaper and phaser which are nice additions. This guitar has a very clean sound when attached to an amp. I haved messed around with it and various effects pedals, clean chorus sounds really good with this guitar. Also being a metal guitarist i tried playing with distortion and a wah and the sound was "interesting" this is not a metal guitar (duh). It does hold it's own on with power ballads as well as classic rock and folk. Tips: Change the strings, it comes with Elixors which are fine but the gauge was a too light for me.

Features
I already mentioned I like the electronics. The on board tuner is accurate, handy and simple to use. There are 2 interface types on the pickup, a 1/4 and the 3 pronge. The bridge is fine and comes with 2 height ajustments. The bridge pins are standard plastic I have not changed them, others might want to. I have been thinking about putting on better ones. I really… read more like the tuning machines, they are very precise. I also mentioned before the strings in comes with are ok, but I would change to suite your preference.

Ease of Use
I have no issues. The fret markers are smooth and the edges are finished and flush. Only advise, you need big hands. This is a big neck, even by 12 sting standards it is a big neck. Also keep in mind this is a jumbo body, it is bigger than a standard guitar. When buying a case or gig bag have the guitar with you. Not all cases and bags with fit, I use Roadrunner Roadsters for both of my jumbo guitars.

Quality
There are no blemishes or marks on mine, I can not speak for any others. The finish is really nice. The online picture do not do this guitar justice, you can really see the contrast of the flamed maple. I think it is dependable. I would say it is road worthy. I do not feel I need a back up. I do not buy a guitar if I think I need a back up. If I was a professional musician I would keep a back up of all of my guitars because anything can happen on the road.

Value
This guitar far exceeds the any other 12 string acoustic electric under $1000. Gibson, Breedlove and Taylor make 12 string a/es that compare or are better, but are all over $1,000.

Manufacturer Support
I have dealt with Ibanez, they are great. I had to special order this guitar from them. I have never needed to exercise the warranty or needed service though.

The Wow Factor
The first time I played this I had to have it. I was not even looking for a 12 string, (I was looking to add a base). This is as "sexy" as 12 strings get, lets face it, it's not a '57 Les Paul. It is good looking guitar though. The feel is just right for me, but it may not be for everyone.

Musical Background:
hobbyist

Musical Style:
almost anything but rap read less