Ibanez Signature Tim Henson TOD10N

The guitar meets all the expectations you would have at this price point. It is obviously catered towards polyphia fans. Only two slight problems would be the acoustic sound which could be better but is understandable for a "hollow body" guitar meant to be plugged in, and the gold plated machine heads not fitting the overall aesthetic of the instrument and not providing the desired stability.

Out of the box, it is a fantastic sounding guitar. Easily capable of more intimate and softer textures as it is snappy and resonant styles of playing. The tuning holds without much issues in my climate, and the neck - slightly slimmer than most other classical guitars - is comfortable and ergonomic. Despite playing primarily electric guitar, I found that the TOD10N was easy to adjust to after spending about an hour or two noodling around.


The tuner feels a step above the standard onboard tuners found on electro-acoustics; accurate and reliable. It also features simple controls for monitoring the output, namely an overall volume control pot and basic Treble & Bass pots to shape the tone accordingly. The phase of the signal can also be inverted from here if required.

The Fishman pickup is crisp and fairly versatile considering the single position and basic controls. Running the TOD10N through a chain or directly into a DAW or amp produces immediate results without much need for tinkering beyond basic matters of taste.


Aesthetically, the TOD10N is gorgeous. Simple matt black topped finish wherein the wood grain is allowed to bleed through just enough to give it an interesting texture. A thick pearloid trim around the body and up along the edge of the neck gives the overall look some depth, and the ornate gold-plated machine heads are a nice touch.

The standout feature, besides the lack of front-facing sound chamber (found to the left of the onboard tuner instead), is the Tree of Death intricately winding up along the neck. Dot markers can still be found on the frets themselves among the vines, and are also featured on the edge of the fretboard for clarity.


All in all, a beautiful looking and sounding guitar. Very easy to transition to from playing electric guitar, and an absolute treat to play once accustomed to. Playing God has never been made more accessible.

It's rare to come across an instrument that exudes such a harmonious blend of visual allure, user-friendly design and unusual acoustic qualities, but the Ibanez Signature Tim Henson TOD10N does just that.

First impressions count, and the TOD10N makes a stunning one. The black finish is a classic yet striking choice, beautifully complemented by the Tree of Life inlays that run the length of the fretboard. It's a subtly dramatic design that will appeal to the eyes of musicians and admirers alike.

Beneath the surface, the build quality is nothing short of impressive. It's a solidly constructed instrument that feels sturdy and well made, hinting at the high standards you can expect from an Ibanez signature model. The guitar is surprisingly light, a testament to the craftsmanship involved, which makes long sessions a breeze.

In terms of playability, the TOD10N really comes into its own. It's incredibly easy to get used to, whether you're an experienced player or a newcomer to the world of classical guitars. The comfort factor is paramount, providing a smooth and easy-to-navigate playing experience that encourages long, effortless sessions. This is a commendable quality that we can only recommend.

The acoustic voice of the TOD10N is fascinating. Most classical guitars are known for their warm, mellow tone, but the TOD10N manages to break the mould with a hint of metallic edge. While this may surprise some, it does not detract from the overall sound quality, but rather adds an interesting texture to the guitar's tone. If anything, this unique aural aspect sets the TOD10N apart in a saturated market of traditional-sounding classical guitars.

In conclusion, the Ibanez Signature Tim Henson TOD10N is a fantastic guitar that combines looks, comfort and an unusual yet appealing tonal palette. It's an instrument that doesn't just play music - it adds to the music, and we wholeheartedly recommend this guitar to those looking for something different.