This guitar sounds better plugged in than any other guitar out there. The eSonics2 system is outstanding. Plus, it gives you a stereo option. Construction is solid, though I wouldn't describe it as top quality (bracing and kerfing inside is a bit rough, pickup wires needed to be re-bundled inside, and the output jacks needed tightening). It looks great, and it should only get better with age. Get the Epiphone Masterbilt case. It's a great value. Highly recommend this guitar.

So I just got this guitar in tonight. As I open up the box the first thing I notice is the very intrusive eSonic2 system, which not only puts an EQ preamp in the sides but also gives the awkward capability for stereo output. So the guitar now has two input jacks. Not that I mind that much normally, but on a guitar that (for the most part) strongly mimics the vintage vibe of its predessors, its kind of a turn-off. And the website clearly advertises the unobtrusive LR Baggs Element undersaddle pickup.

But aside from this issue, the guitar is beautiful. The finish is great and not as dull as I thought it would be. The guitar is built like a rock and feels like its ready to be played for many years. The action was (contrary to the norm) wonderful right out of the box. The sound of the mahogany was great and just what I was looking for. Some of the rosewood fans seem to think its lacking in bass, but I think its very moderately balanced and emphasizes all the tones equally.

Now just a few more gripes... There was a small crack in the top of mine, so obviously I am returning it. Again, it didn't come with the case that is promised on the site. And yeah I read around and knew that only the original few models came with cases and actually had bone nuts, but I'm worried for others who may not do so much research.

Overall, this guitar is great. It is worth all of the price and then some. I am defenitely going to get the DR-500M. But I think I will get the straight-up acoustic and install my own electronics at a later date.

Wow. I was very skeptical about an Epiphone acoustic. I was proven wrong with the purchase of this guitar. Epiphone has made finally made a contender. This guitar has a beautiful sound. The workmanship is first rate. The case is very high quality. I played my Martin D-28 against the Masterbuilt and made recordings of each and the Masterbuilt was preferred over the Martin! For the money this guitar is a steal. Way to go Epiphone!!

Well, first off, this is a great guitar. I've only had it for a day, but she's a beauty! I love the natural satin finish; it lets the guitar's solid spruce top and solid mahogony back and sides sing, and also it doesn't leave behind fingerprints. The L.R. Baggs Element Active system is a snap, and sounds so natural. The guitar doesn't have an onboard side-mounted preamp on it, which is good because it retains the guitar's superb acoustic (unplugged) tone. What it DOES have is a puny little volume wheel under the edge of the soundhole that can be accessed easily and discreely (go to lr baggs' website if you are confused). That being said, the DR-500ME is a great sounding, balanced instrument. The case that came with it is great too; it has a combo lock, blue plush interior, inner and outer accesory compartments, and a hygrometer (measures humidity). It seems to be made of that EPS foam stuff that they use in bike helmets; really sturdy and light. It even came with a free guitar humidifier. This is more than a gig bag, it's a nice light case, too. So, if you're considering buying this guitar or any other guitar in the Epiphone Masterbilt line, go for it!

When I bought my guitar it took me like 3 visits to music store and I've tried all sorts of different guitars. This was by far the best sounding guitar to me. It came with a set of Gibson Masterbilt strings which made it sound so deep and rich. I fell in love with my guitar and I love playing it. I recommend this guitar to anyone.