I have had my AEX500 for about 10 years, brought second hand, I play Gibson Les Pauls, Stats, Teles etc, but I go back to the AEX500 every time. Its a no nonsense guitar, good bright sounds, amps well, never seems to let me down. Low sound acoustic, but great if playing in bedroom. The body/neck feels much better quality than the price. Get one if one comes up in good condition in a pre-loved sale

The neck and slim body are both very comfortable. It enables a much better right-hand angle for finger-picking and palm-muting. Despite its appearance, the Yamaha AEX 500 is a semi-hollow body electric guitar, not an acoustic guitar. I haven't measured the nut, but the string spacing seems to be slightly narrower than my dreadnought acoustics. Don't expect to get a full sound out of it without using an amp; it produces less acoustic sound than a 335. When amped, the piezo pickup allows for acoustic tones when EQ'ed properly.

I bought this guitar new from a local dealer south of Seattle WA. They were not moving very many and wanted to make a deal so I got it fairly cheap. I think it was back in 1999. They included the custom case in the deal. I don't think people really understood the guitar when it was in production. it has a standard issue humbucker in the neck position that while adequate, seems a little muddy. There is a piezo pickup installed in the bridge that can be very bright. The tone came be managed by the 3 band EQ on the top side, and by adjusting the balance knob. This really is a cool guitar that makes you play better. the only effect I use with it is simple reverb. Most everything else is done with the equal, balance knob, and style of pick I use. I cannot imagine life without my AEX. It sees as much action as My teles, but in a broader sense. It's a great guitar to compose on because you an hear every nuance of your playing. Bottom line: if you see one for sale, you should buy it if the price is reasonable. They really are great guitars.