Review quickie: Ibanez FRH10N

The Ibanez FRH10N is actually a non-signature version of the Tim Henson model. It is fundamentally a classical guitar sporting the FR body outline. Yes, that body outline isn't new, it's from the FR series, one of the few singlecut Ibanez designs. Between the TH version & this FRH, every appointment is the same save for: 1) Preamp. This FRH is only equipped with Ibanez's own T-Bar pickup & CE electronics. As such, it has no volume / EQ controls of any kind & runs on the CR2032 button type battery 2) Blank fretboard. The TH version sports a tree of death inlay. 

Likes

• solid top
• wider neck profile
• weight
• overall construction
• price

Dislikes

• no volume / EQ control
• side sound port does not help acoustic volume projection
• no bag

The FRH10N does not fall into the typical demand for an acoustic instrument with a shred potential. Ibanez wouldn't have introduced this on its own accord save for the insistence of a certain Tim Henson & the provision of a more affordable take thereafter. The FRH10N is a very shred-able guitar but those of us who are unaccustomed to the nylon strings need to adapt to that annoying roll-over feel once too much pressure is applied. Ditto playing too fast. 

Those of us who played & liked the TH version need to understand the major setback here; there are no volume or other voicing controls when plugged in. Be reminded that the FRH10N is essentially a plug in guitar unless one is content with the measly volume projection during unplugged moments. That side sound port is a novelty inclusion as it does not project sound unto the player's audio territory (ie. the face / ear). Nevertheless, the default tones are above expectations especially with chorus dialled in. Coming from a predominantly electric solid body perspective, the FRH10N profile suits the electric player very well. Maybe Ibanez could add an elbow relief at the body end for prolonged playing comfort. Is it too much to ask for a bag as well?

Final rating: 82%

Ibanez: FRH10N

Availability: Swee Lee Co.

List: $649

Pic: Ibanez