Ibanez isn’t just a brand; it’s a promise of quality and innovation to guitarists everywhere. Whether you’re strumming your first chord or laying down a killer solo on stage, Ibanez has got you covered.
With a lineup that spans from the bedroom to the big stage, Ibanez guitars are crafted for every player, every genre, and every budget.
And it also makes an entire slew of totally sick signature series models too.
Looking for the lowdown on Ibanez’s most iconic series? You’re in the right place. This guide slices through the noise, giving you a clear-cut overview of what Ibanez offers.
Let’s dive in, and help you discover the guitar that could be your next partner in crime…
Ibanez AZ Series
The Ibanez AZ Series is the brand’s answer to the modern guitarist’s call for versatility. These instruments are engineered to excel across a multitude of genres, making them a stellar choice for the musician who refuses to be boxed in by labels.
Main Strengths:
- Dynamic Range: The AZ Series boasts a wide tonal spectrum, thanks to its versatile pickup configurations, allowing for everything from crystal-clear highs to deep, warm lows.
- Playability: With a smooth neck and a body designed for comfort, these guitars are built for hours of playing with minimal fatigue.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Incorporating Ibanez’s latest innovations, the AZ Series guitars come with features like roasted maple necks and stainless steel frets for durability and performance.
Main Weaknesses:
- Complexity for Beginners: The wide array of features and tonal options might overwhelm new players.
- Price Point: While offering high value, the price tag can be a bit steep for those on a tight budget.
- Specific Aesthetics: The modern look of the AZ Series may not appeal to players with a taste for more classic or vintage styles.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Genre-Hopping Guitarists: The AZ Series is perfect for players who find themselves jumping from jazz gigs to rock concerts.
- Studio Musicians: The versatility in sound makes these guitars a great fit for session musicians who need to cover a wide range of styles.
- Tech-Savvy Players: Guitarists who love tweaking and fine-tuning their setup will appreciate the advanced features the AZ Series offers.
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AZ2204 | Mahogany | Maple | Quantum humbuckers | $899 |
| AZ2402 | Alder | Maple | Quantum humbuckers | $1,199 |
| AZ2202H | Mahogany | Maple | Seymour Duncan humbuckers | $1,299 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez AZES Series
The AZES series presents a budget-friendly alternative to the popular AZ models, making the signature AZ style and versatility more accessible.
These guitars are tailored for those who are budget-conscious but still crave the quality and feel of the AZ lineage.
Main Strengths:
- Affordability: The AZES series is priced to accommodate players who are watching their wallet without compromising on a quality instrument.
- Quality Construction: Despite the lower price, these guitars maintain a level of craftsmanship that mirrors the higher-end AZ models.
- Versatility: Like their pricier counterparts, the AZES guitars are versatile across music genres, making them suitable for a wide array of playing styles.
Main Weaknesses:
- Component Quality: To keep costs down, the components such as pickups and hardware may not match the higher-end specifications of the AZ series.
- Tonal Range: While versatile, the tonal range might not be as broad or as nuanced as the more expensive models, which could be a factor for more experienced players.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Beginners: The AZES series is perfect for those just starting their musical journey, offering a quality first guitar that won’t break the bank.
- Intermediate Players: For those looking to step up from their first instrument, the AZES provides an affordable upgrade path.
- Budget-Conscious Pros: Even seasoned players with a tight budget can appreciate the AZES series as a reliable backup or a modifiable project guitar.
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AZES40 | Poplar | Maple | Infinity R humbuckers | $399 |
| AZES31 | Poplar | Maple | Infinity R humbuckers | $449 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez AZS Series
The AZS series is the pinnacle of the AZ lineup, showcasing the zenith of craftsmanship and feature-set for discerning players who demand the best. This series is a testament to high-end evolution, where premium materials meet meticulous design.
Main Strengths:
- Superior Materials: The AZS series uses top-tier woods and materials, ensuring durability, stability, and a superior tonal quality.
- Advanced Electronics: Equipped with high-end pickups and wiring options, these guitars offer a vast tonal landscape and dynamic response.
- Craftsmanship: The attention to detail in construction and finish is heightened, offering players a luxurious playing experience.
Main Weaknesses:
- Price Point: The high-end features come with a higher price tag, which might be out of reach for some players.
- Complexity: With advanced electronics, these guitars might present a learning curve for less experienced players.
- Niche Appeal: The specific enhancements may cater to a niche market, potentially making it less appealing to casual players.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Professional Musicians: The AZS series is designed for professionals who need a reliable, stage-ready instrument that can handle rigorous use.
- Recording Artists: The superior tonal quality makes these guitars ideal for studio work, where every nuance is captured.
- Guitar Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the finer details of guitar craftsmanship will find the AZS series a worthy addition to their collection.
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AZS1312 | Flamed maple top with mahogany body | Roasted maple | DiMarzio humbuckers | $1,999 |
| AZS1711 | Figured walnut top with mahogany body | Roasted maple | Fishman Fluence pickups | $2,399 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez RG Series
Ibanez’s RG series guitars have carved out a reputation for being the go-to axes for shredders and speed demons. Known for their sleek design, these guitars are engineered with performance in mind.
Main Strengths:
- Fast Neck Profile: The RG series is renowned for its thin, flat necks which facilitate quick finger movement and comfort during extended shredding sessions.
- High-Output Pickups: Typically equipped with hot pickups, these guitars are designed to cut through the mix with clarity, even under heavy distortion.
- Double Locking Tremolos: Many RG models come with a double locking tremolo system, allowing for extreme whammy bar use without losing tuning stability.
Main Weaknesses:
- Focused Sound: While versatile, the RG’s sound is particularly tailored for rock and metal, which might not be as suitable for genres requiring a more nuanced tone.
- Complex Maintenance: The double locking tremolo system can be complex to set up and maintain, potentially daunting for beginners.
- Weight: Some players might find the RG series a bit heavy, which could impact playing comfort over long periods.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Metal and Rock Guitarists: The RG’s design and high-output pickups are ideal for genres that demand speed and precision.
- Soloists: The fast neck and tremolo system make it a favorite for lead guitarists who perform a lot of solos.
- Tech-Savvy Players: Those who are comfortable with the intricacies of guitar hardware will appreciate the fine-tuning capabilities of the RG series.
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RG421 | Basswood | Maple | Quantum pickups | $349 |
| RG550 | Basswood | Maple | Super Quantum pickups | $799 |
| RG652AHM | Ash | Maple/bubinga | DiMarzio humbuckers | $1,199 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez RGA Series
The RGA series from Ibanez brings the essence of the iconic RG series into a more accessible price range, making the RG’s celebrated features available to a wider audience.
Main Strengths:
- Cost-Effective: The RGA guitars offer the core RG experience without the premium price tag, providing great value.
- Playability: They maintain the RG’s player-friendly features like the fast neck profile and comfortable body contours.
- Versatile Sound: While affordable, RGA guitars still offer a versatile sound palette suitable for various musical styles, though they are particularly favored by rock and metal enthusiasts.
Main Weaknesses:
- Simplified Electronics: To keep costs down, the electronics and pickups may not offer the same level of sophistication as those found in the higher-end RG models.
- Build Materials: The materials used for the body, neck, and fretboard might be less premium, which can affect the guitar’s tone and durability.
- Hardware Quality: The tremolo systems and tuners may not have the same robustness or tuning stability as those on the more expensive RG models.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Budget-Conscious Players: The RGA is perfect for those who want the RG feel without the financial stretch.
- Up-and-Coming Shredders: Emerging guitarists who aspire to fast playability will find the RGA series meets their needs as they develop their skills.
- Gigging Musicians: Players needing a reliable, stage-worthy instrument that can withstand regular use will appreciate the RGA’s balance of quality and affordability.
The RGA lineup stands as a testament to Ibanez’s commitment to making high-performance guitars more attainable, ensuring that a wider range of players can experience the brand’s hallmark speed and precision.
Price List
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RGA42 | Mahogany | Maple | Quantum pickups | $399 |
| RGAIX6 | Basswood | Maple | Quantum pickups | $649 |
| RGAT62 | Ash/maple top | Maple/walnut | Quantum pickups | $849 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez RGD Series
The RGD series from Ibanez is the brand’s offering specifically tailored for the heavy music enthusiast. These guitars are built with the needs of modern metal and hard rock players in mind, especially those who prefer lower tunings for a deeper, more aggressive sound.
Main Strengths:
- Extended Scale Length: The RGD guitars often feature a longer scale length, which provides better tension and clarity for lower tunings.
- Heavy-Duty Pickups: They are equipped with pickups that are optimized for high-gain settings and low-end clarity, ensuring that even the heaviest riffs come out crisp and defined.
- Durable Construction: Designed to withstand the rigors of aggressive playing styles, the RGD series is built solidly, which also contributes to sustain and resonance.
Main Weaknesses:
- Less Versatility: While excellent for heavy music, the specialized nature of the RGD series might not be as adaptable to other genres.
- Weight and Size: The extended scale length and solid construction can make these guitars heavier, which might be a consideration for some players.
- Complex Setup: Players not familiar with the nuances of setting up and maintaining guitars for lower tunings might face a learning curve.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Metal Guitarists: The RGD is a dream for metal guitarists, especially those who utilize drop tunings and extended-range guitars.
- Recording Artists: In the studio, the clarity and definition of the RGD series can really shine, making it a solid choice for recording heavy tracks.
- Live Performers: The durability and sound of the RGD make it reliable for live performances, where the energy and intensity of heavy music are on full display.
Price List
| Model | Scale | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RGD61AL | 27” | Ash | Maple | DiMarzio humbuckers | $849 |
| RGD3127 | 27” | Basswood | Maple/bubinga | Quantum pickups | $949 |
| RGD2127FX | 27” | Basswood | Maple/bubinga | Fishman Fluence pickups | $1,199 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez Q Series
Ibanez’s hollowbody and semi-hollow guitars are a nod to the jazz genre, where warmth, depth, and nuance in tone are paramount. These guitars are crafted to deliver the smooth, mellow soundscapes that jazz guitarists seek, but with the versatility to cross over into blues, rockabilly, and other genres.
Main Strengths:
- Rich Acoustic Tones: The hollow and semi-hollow bodies provide a natural resonance that’s ideal for the complex chords and smooth runs found in jazz music.
- Elegant Aesthetics: These guitars often feature sophisticated designs with beautiful finishes, binding, and f-holes, reflecting the classic jazz guitar look.
- Versatile Electronics: Equipped with pickups that offer a cleaner, more rounded sound, these guitars can capture the subtle dynamics of jazz playing.
Main Weaknesses:
- Feedback Issues: At high volumes or with high-gain settings, hollow and semi-hollow guitars can be prone to feedback, which may limit their use in certain live situations.
- Size and Comfort: The larger body size of these guitars might not be as comfortable for all players, especially those used to the more compact solid-body guitars.
- Price: High-quality hollow and semi-hollow guitars can be on the pricier side due to their complex construction.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Jazz Musicians: Naturally, these guitars are a perfect match for jazz players looking for that classic sound and feel.
- Blues Players: The warm tones also lend themselves well to blues musicians who want a guitar that can sing with soulful expression.
- Guitarists Seeking a Classic Vibe: Players who appreciate the vintage aesthetic and sound will find these guitars to be a fitting choice, whether for performance or personal enjoyment.
Price List
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AF75 | Hollowbody | Maple | Super 58 pickups | $399 |
| AF55 | Hollowbody | Maple | Super 58 pickups | $449 |
| AG75 | Semi-hollow | Maple | Super 58 pickups | $499 |
| AG95 | Semi-hollow | Maple/bubinga | Super 58 pickups | $699 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez S Series
The Ibanez S Series guitars are renowned for their sleek design and versatility, making them a favored choice for players who navigate through rock, blues, and a spectrum of other styles.
Main Strengths:
- Slim Body Profile: The S Series guitars are known for their slim, lightweight bodies, making them extremely comfortable for players to handle, especially during long performances or practice sessions.
- Versatile Pickup Configuration: They often come with HSS (humbucker/single-coil/single-coil) or HSH (humbucker/single-coil/humbucker) configurations, providing a wide tonal range to suit various genres.
- Smooth Playability: The necks on the S Series are designed for ease of play, facilitating fast playing techniques which are essential for rock and smooth transitions ideal for blues.
Main Weaknesses:
- Focused Features: While versatile, some models may lean more towards rock-oriented features, such as thinner necks and flatter fingerboards, which might not be the preference for traditional blues players.
- Tremolo Systems: Many S Series guitars come with a tremolo system, which adds versatility but can complicate setup and maintenance for some players.
- Sound Depth: The lighter body may not provide as much natural resonance as a full-depth guitar, which some blues and jazz players might find lacking.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Rock Guitarists: The S Series’ fast necks and versatile pickups make it ideal for rock guitarists who need to switch between rhythm and lead roles.
- Blues Players: The single-coil pickups in the mix can achieve the expressive, warm tones that blues players often seek.
- Musicians Who Value Comfort: The ergonomic design is a significant advantage for players who perform regularly and prioritize comfort.
Price List
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SA160 | Mahogany | Maple | Quantum pickups | $199 |
| SA260 | Meranti | Maple | Quantum pickups | $299 |
| S670 | Maple top with mahogany body | Maple/walnut | Quantum pickups | $399 |
| S1070 | Flamed maple top with mahogany body | Maple/bubinga | DiMarzio pickups | $899 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez Iceman Series
The Ibanez Iceman series stands out with its unique body shape, which has become synonymous with an aggressive aesthetic that appeals to metal guitarists and fans of unconventional designs.
Main Strengths:
- Distinctive Look: The Iceman’s sharp angles and unconventional contours make a bold visual statement that matches the intensity of metal music.
- Solid Build: These guitars are constructed to handle the rigors of aggressive playing styles, often seen in metal performances.
- High-Output Pickups: Iceman guitars are typically equipped with pickups that deliver a high output, ideal for driving amplifiers hard to achieve that quintessential metal tone.
Main Weaknesses:
- Weight and Balance: The unique shape can sometimes result in a heavier instrument that may have different balance points compared to traditional guitars.
- Niche Appeal: The distinctive design might not appeal to players outside of hard rock or metal genres.
- Comfort: The angular design, while visually striking, may not be as comfortable for all players, especially during extended playing sessions.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Metal Guitarists: The Iceman is a natural fit for players who specialize in metal and want their instrument to visually complement the genre’s aesthetic.
- Stage Performers: The eye-catching design of the Iceman makes it a great choice for performers who want to make a visual impact on stage.
- Players Seeking Distinction: Guitarists looking for an instrument that stands out in both appearance and sound will find the Iceman series aligns with their desires.
Price List
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICM100 | Basswood | Maple | Powersound pickups | $399 |
| IC200 | Basswood | Maple | Powersound pickups | $449 |
| ICT700 | Basswood | Maple/bubinga | EMG 707 pickups | $849 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez AR Series
The Ibanez AR Series offers a range of affordable semi-hollow and hollowbody guitars that cater to players who desire the rich, warm tones associated with these types of instruments, without the hefty price tag often seen in the market.
Main Strengths:
- Cost-Effective: The AR Series is priced to be accessible while still delivering the quality craftsmanship Ibanez is known for.
- Versatile Tones: These guitars provide the tonal warmth of a hollowbody and the sustain of a solid body, making them versatile for various genres, from jazz and blues to rock.
- Classic Aesthetics: With a design that harkens back to the vintage era of guitars, the AR Series carries a timeless appeal.
Main Weaknesses:
- Simpler Electronics: To keep the cost down, the electronics may not offer the same level of sophistication or custom options as more expensive models.
- Build Materials: The woods and materials used are selected to be cost-effective, which may affect the tonal richness compared to high-end hollowbody guitars.
- Hardware: The tuning machines and bridge may not have the same high-end specifications, potentially affecting tuning stability and intonation.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts: Players who want the semi-hollow or hollowbody experience without a large financial outlay will find the AR Series appealing.
- Intermediate Players: Those looking to expand their tonal palette can explore the nuances of a semi-hollow or hollowbody guitar with the AR Series.
- Performers: Musicians who need a reliable and visually appealing guitar for gigs will appreciate the balance of performance and affordability.
Price List
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR220 | Maple semi-hollow | Maple | Classic Elite pickups | $399 |
| AR325 | Maple semi-hollow | Maple | Classic Elite pickups | $449 |
| AR420 | Maple hollowbody | Maple | Super 58 pickups | $499 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez miKro Series
The Ibanez miKro Series is a collection of smaller-scale guitars designed for ease of playability and convenience. These guitars are an ideal match for players with smaller hands or those seeking a compact instrument for travel without sacrificing quality and playability.
Main Strengths:
- Compact Size: The miKro Series features a reduced scale length, making it easier for players with smaller hands to form chords and reach notes.
- Portability: Their smaller size makes these guitars perfect for on-the-go musicians or as a travel companion.
- Quality Construction: Despite their size, miKro guitars are built with the same attention to detail as their full-sized counterparts.
Main Weaknesses:
- Sound Projection: Due to their smaller bodies, these guitars may not project as loudly as full-sized guitars when played acoustically.
- Tonal Range: The shorter scale can affect the tonal range and resonance, which might be noticeable to more experienced players.
- Versatility: While versatile, the smaller fret spacing might be challenging for some techniques and styles that require more finger room.
Ideal Player Profile:
- Young Musicians: The miKro Series is great for children or beginners who are just starting out and need an instrument that’s easier to handle.
- Traveling Guitarists: Musicians who travel frequently will appreciate the miKro’s compactness and durability.
- Players with Smaller Hands: Adults with smaller hands will find the reduced scale length more comfortable for playing.
Price List
| Model | Scale | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| mIKRO GIO | 22.2” | Poplar | Maple | Infinity R pickups | $179 |
| GRGM21BKN | 24.75” | Mahogany | Maple | Quantum pickups | $399 |
| GRGM21M | 24.75” | Mahogany | Maple | Quantum pickups | $399 |
Editor’s Notes
Christopher Horton – Editor & Chief Guitar Tech / Guru
Ibanez Guitar FAQs
Is Ibanez a good brand of guitar?
Ibanez has established itself as a reputable brand known for producing a wide range of guitars that cater to various styles and skill levels. With their commitment to quality, innovative design, and versatility, Ibanez guitars are favored by many of the best players alive today.
Is Ibanez owned by Fender?
No, Ibanez is not owned by Fender. Ibanez is a brand owned by Hoshino Gakki, a Japanese company that has been independent of Fender throughout its history.
Which is a better guitar, Fender or Ibanez?
The choice between Fender and Ibanez guitars depends on personal preference and the specific needs of a player.
Fender is known for its classic designs and signature twangy tone, making it a staple in genres like blues, country, and rock.
Ibanez, on the other hand, offers a wide tonal range and is often preferred for its fast necks and versatility, especially in rock and metal genres. Both brands have their unique strengths.
Are there fake Ibanez guitars?
As with many popular brands, there are counterfeit versions of Ibanez guitars in the market. It’s important to purchase from reputable dealers and to be aware of the common signs of a fake, such as poor craftsmanship, incorrect logos, and subpar materials.
What is special about Ibanez guitars?
Ibanez guitars are special for their innovative designs, such as the fast Wizard necks for shredding, their wide range of pickup configurations for tonal versatility, and their use of premium materials even in more affordable models.
They are also known for their distinctive body shapes, like the Iceman and the RG series, which have become icons in the guitar world.
Why Ibanez is better than Fender?
Ibanez and Fender are two very different guitar brands; they’re both excellent choices for a range of reasons. But there are distinct differences between the brands’ guitars that players should be aware of.
For instance: players seeking guitars with a modern edge, faster necks for shredding, and more aggressive styling, Ibanez might be the preferred choice. Ibanez also tends to offer more features aimed at metal and rock guitarists, such as active pickups and double-locking tremolos. Ultimately, the “better” brand is the one that aligns with an individual’s playing style and aesthetic preference.