Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500: Epiphone Masterbilt DR-500M Review

$499

• Body Design: Dreadnought
• Tuners: Nickel vintage style open back
• Saddle: Bone compensated
• Hardware: Nickel
• Scale: 25.5 inches
• Nut Width: 1.68 inches bone
• Neck: Set
• Neck Material: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Inlay: Split diamond
• Bridge: Rosewood
• Binding: Body and neck
• Body Material: Solid mahogany
• Top: Solid Sitka spruce

Epiphone Masterbilt series guitars are often regarded as the best all-solid wood values in acoustic guitars available today. There are many different models and sizes in the Masterbilt collection, but for the purpose of this article we'll focus on the traditional acoustic dreadnought. The all solid wood construction features a sitka spruce top and a mahogany back, sides and neck with a satin finish. Overall, this instrument looks to be made with the quality materials and attention to detail that many good guitars $800+ include. The diamond fret inlays add a more expensive, luxurious look to the neck along with the Masterbilt logo included on the headstock of the guitar. It is a solid, well build instrument that includes everything it needs to create a sound comparable to guitars double the price.

The combination of the solid sitka spruce and solid mahogany give this guitar a great balanced tone. The lows are rich and full sounding, while high ring out in a bright, crisp fashion. The Masterbilt DR-500M really has a voice of its own, to the point where it feels that the guitar is actually playing for you. Just playing one open chord will showcase the power and volume of this dreadnought. The sound is great for anyone, singer-songwriters or those who just want to play some classic guitar tunes and progressions. 

Some who purchase this guitar without playing the exact one that they will be taking home out of the box have complaints about the action, but that can be easily fixed with a quick trip to the shop. If you are like most people and find the action to be set up quite well out of the box, you will be pleased. Usually it will be set up at low to medium, with no buzz and perfect intonation. Another small complaint is that the tuners were not exactly of the best quality. I personally felt that they were fine, but maybe some just didn't try tightening or loosening them up with the simple twist of a screwdriver. 

There's no doubt in my mind that anyone on a budget, but looking for a solid wood guitar should first take a look at the Epiphone Masterbilt DR-500M. And if you're not looking for a dreadnought, take a look at some of the other Masterbilt guitars. They are all a great solid wood value for your money, but make sure that you try the guitars before purchase. Everyone has his/her own style, and a sound that may impress myself may disappoint others. Regardless, this is a beautiful instrument that should at least be given a good glance before blowing a huge hole in your wallet on another guitar that may sound just as good.