Vast majority of Ibanez`s fourty two non-signature electrics at last month`s NAMM belonged to RG, Iron Label and S series, with the rest of the range receiving less than ten models.
The largest group of models at Ibanez`s booth this year was the non-signature electrics. Traditionally these models take up from thirty to fifty percent of all models introduced, and this year was no different with forty two out of one hundred and twenty models belonging to this division. RG and its derivatives, Iron Label, S, FR, ARZ, Talman, AR and GRGA series were updated with at least one model. Premium RG models include RG1070PBZ and RG1027PBF. Iron Label`s 2017 lineup has ten new models: RGIM7BC, RGIM7MH, RGIM8MH, RGAIX6U, RGAIX7U, RGAIX6FM, RGDIX6PB, SIX6FDFM, FRIX7FEAH and ARZIR30. New RG Prestige models are: RG30JCLTD, RG6UCS, RG657MSK, RG657PB, RG652MPB, RG652AHML, RG655M, RG652LWFX, RG652FX and RG752LWFX. Standard RG series gets only three new models: RG470AHM, RG470MB and RG421. New RGA models are RGAT62, RGA42 and RGA742FM. RGD7UCS is the only RGD model. S6570SK, S6570Q, S6521Q and S6527SKFX are new S Prestige axes, while the S521 is the only Standard S series model. FR and ARZ series get one model each – FR6UCS and ARZ6UCS. Talman`s updated with two Prestige models, TM1702P and TM1730P, and two Standard models, TM330P and TM302PM. AR720 is the only new AR model and GRGA120 is the only new model in the affordable GIO range.
Ibanez RG1070PBZ is a Premium class model, a new member of RG`s 2017 lineup. It rocks a fancy top, double-locking bridge and passive pickups. Some of the most interesting features include a Zero Edge bridge, DiMarzio`s Tone Zone/True Velvet/Air Norton set of pickups and a 24-fret rosewood fingerboard. It`s available in Cerulean Blue Burst and Charcoal Black Burst. For further info and full specs list check RG1070PBZ detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG1027PBF is 1070`s seven-stringed version, with a fixed bridge instead of a locking one. Also, 1027 has H/H pickups combo (DiMarzio PAF 7) instead of the notorious trio. Other than that, 1027 and 1070 are identical. This fixed-bridge seven-stringer comes exclusively in Cerulean Blue Burst (no Charcoal Black Burst option). For further info and full specs list check RG1027PBF detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGIM7BC opens up the Iron Label lineup. It Is a seven-stringed metal axe with compound scale, active electronics and fixed bridge. Bridge is of Monorail type, while the pickups are conventional EMG 808s. The scale ranges from standard 25-1/2” to 27”. Deep Forest Burst Flat (w/Cosmo Black hardware) is the only available color option. For further info and full specs list check RGIM7BC detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGIM7MH shares the base with the previous model, with both being fan-fretted seven-stringers and having EMG`s 808 pickups. The main difference between them is in the body material, where the MH variant has all-mahogany body. Compound 25-1/2”-27” scale, Monorail bridge and die-cast tuners are also among the shared features. Weathered Black is MH`s only color option. For further info and full specs list check RGIM7MH detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGIM8MH kicks off with a flat-top, all-mahogany body paired with a Wizard-shaped bolt-on neck. Essentially it is the same as RGIM7MH, but with an additional string. Eight-saddled Monorail bridge, EMG`s 909 conventional pickups (slanted) and die-cast tuning machines are among the most prominent features. Weathered Black remains as the only available color option. For further info and full specs list check RGIM8MH detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGAIX6U is one of three RGA models in the new 2017 Iron label lineup. It is a mighty six-stringed axe, with fixed bridge, ash body and Bare Knuckle pickups. Nitro Wizard neck (with bolt-on construction), Gibraltar fixed bridge and die-cast tuners are also there. Antique Brown Stained (with white binding) is the only available color option. For further info and full specs list check RGAIX6U detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGAIX7U adds the low B string to the RGAIX6U recipe to accommodate players who prefer ash bodies over basswood and mahogany and extended range of the seventh string. Other notable features include Bare Knuckle humbuckers, Gibraltar fixed bridge (2nd generation), 24-fret fingerboard and die-cast tuners. Color Palette is same as for RGAIX6U. For further info and full specs list check RGAIX7U detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGAIX6FM shares the base with 6U model, though it utilizes a bit different choice of tonewoods. Mahogany base and flamed maple top replace all-ash body found on RGAIX6U. Other prominent features include a 2nd generation Gibraltar Standard bridge, DiMarzio pickups (instead of Bare Knuckles), bolt-on Nitro Wizard neck and die-cast tuners. For further info and full specs list check RGAIX6FM detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGDIX6PB is the only Iron Label model based on the down-tuned RGD platform. It sports a fancy poplar burl top (available in cool Surreal Black Burst), DiMarzio pickups (with recessed controls unit), Nitro Wizard neck (with long 26-1/2” scale) and die-cast tuners. More RGD-based Iron label models are expected throughout the year. For further info and full specs list check RGDIX6PB detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez SIX6FDFM is the only Iron Label model based on the legendary S series included into the lineup this January. Elegant S body (made of mahogany and flamed top), bolt-on Nitro Wizard neck, Gibraltar II bridge and passive DiMarzio pickups are among the most prominent features of this killing shred machine. For further info and full specs list check SIX6FDFM detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez FRIX7FEAH is a standard-scaled seven-stringer (a standard thing for Ibanez), with active electronics, fixed bridge and bolt-on Nitro Wizard neck. It is the only FR series-based Iron Label model introduced at NAMM. Charcoal Stained Flat is the only available color option. More FR-based Iron Label models are expected to be introduced throughout the year. For further info and full specs list check FRIX7FEAH detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez ARZIR30 is a brand new ARZ series Iron Label axe. It rocks a single-cut Artist body (made of mahogany and maple), set-in neck (double-cut models have bolt-on necks) and a 24-fret fingerboard (ARZ standard is 22). EMG`s 81/60 combo, Quick Change III/ART-1 bridge and 3+3 die-cast tuners guarantee top notch performance on stage as well as in studio. For further info and full specs list check ARZIR30 detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG30JCLTD is a limited edition model, made in honor of RG series` thirty years in business. It is a J. Custom model, made by hand in Ibanez`s home facilities in Japan. Some of the main features include AAAA quilt maple top, Ibanez`s favorite DiMarzio pickups set, gold-plated Ibanez/Gotoh hardware and custom designed inlays. For further info and full specs list check RG30JCLTD detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG6UCS is a Prestige class axe. It is a brand new 2017 model and it will be made in Japan, along with other Prestige models. This powerful six-stringer sports a simple, yet deadly combination of tonewoods, hardware and electronics. Prominent features include two Bare Knuckle humbuckers, Lo-Pro Edge bridge and fast Super Wizard neck. For further info and full specs list check RG6UCS detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG657MSK is based on the classic RG recipe, but includes some rarely seen tonewood choices. The inclusion of silky oak top and birdseye maple fingerboard breathes an air of extravagance into this Prestige RG. DiMarzio pickups, double-locking Edge bridge and die-cast tuners are also featured on this model. Sunset Burst is the only member of the color palette. For further info and full specs list check RG657MSK detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG657PB shares its base with the previously reviewed 657MSK. Basically, these two are the same, save for the choice of tonewoods. Where the MSK model features silky oak top, PB goes for the tested and tried poplar burl. Also, birdseye maple fingerboard is replaced by a more conventional rosewood fingerboard. For further info and full specs list check RG657PB detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG652MPB is a sibling model of the two 657`s introduced above. Some of the main differences include a birdseye maple fingerboard (thus the letter M in its name), two DiMarzio pickups instead of three (thus the number 2) and poplar burl top (accounts for letters P and B). Ghost Fleet Blue Burst is Ibanez`s color of choice for this Prestige axe. For further info and full specs list check RG652MPB detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG652AHML is the only left-handed RG Prestige model introduced at NAMM. It is based on the RG652 platform, featuring a flat ash body (letters A and H) and birdseye maple fingerboard (letter M). Other prominent features include two DiMarzio humbuckers and Edge tremolo bridge. Interesting Nebula Green Burst fits the see-thru ash grain perfectly. For further info and full specs list check RG652AHML detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG655M is a classic RG axe, featuring a simple, flat-top body with big plastic pickguard on top and solid, gloss-finished color options. DiMarzio pickups in H/S/H configuration, Edge trem bridge, 24-fret fingerboard and die-cast tuners are also among the prominent features. The color palette`s made up of Cobalt Blue Metallic and White options. For further info and full specs list check RG655M detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG652LWFX is one of “exotic wood” RG Prestige models. It sports a flat limba top over the standard basswood back (thus the letters L and W in its name). F and X account for fixed-bridge construction (Gibraltar Standard II bridge). Two DiMarzio pickups, Super Wizard neck and die-cast tuners complete this prestigious RG. For further info and full specs list check RG652LWFX detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG652FX is a simple, versatile RG Prestige axe. It comes with six-string construction, bolt-on neck and 24-fret fingerboard. Prominent tonewood, hardware and electronics features include a flat basswood body, Gibraltar Standard II bridge and dual DiMarzio humbuckers (with a standard five-position switch). Galaxy Black and White options form the color palette. For further info and full specs list check RG652FX detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG752LWFX is a Prestige class model, made in Japan together with the rest of Prestige models (including basses and hollow bodies). This exclusive 752 comes with two passive pickups, fixed bridge and super wizard neck with bolt-on construction. The main selling point is (rarely seen in Ibanez catalog) limba top in Anvil Gray Burst. For further info and full specs list check RG752LWFX detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG470AHM is the first of three RG Standard series models. It sports the classic flat-top design, bolt-on construction, Wizard-shaped neck and standard hardware and electronics. Prominent features include an Edge tremolo bridge in Cosmo Black, three Ibanez Quantum pickups in HSH arrangement and plain maple fingerboard. Blue Moon Burst and Tri Fade Burst color options are offered. For further info and full specs list check RG470AHM detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG470MB is a member of the same sub-level as the previous model, but with a slightly different combination of tonewoods. Whereas the AHM variant had ash body, MB rocks mahogany (solid, flat RG design). Other than that, these two are the same. MB comes in modern, trendy Autumn Fade Metallic. For further info and full specs list check RG470MB detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RG421 is the most affordable RG Standard model in the lineup. It is a simple, workhorse instrument, made for all the players out there who want to start out on a proper hard rock/shred guitar. All the bare necessities are there: 24-fret fingerboard, dual humbucking pickups, fast and smooth Wizard neck and reliable die-cast tuners. For further info and full specs list check RG421 detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGAT62 opens up the three-piece RGA lineup. It is a Standard level model, featuring an RG body with a carved top, through-body Wizard neck and 24-fret fingerboard. Standard fixed bridge (string-through construction), DiMarzio dual humbucking pickups and die-cast tuners are also there. Sapphire Blue Flat and Transparent Gray Flat form the color palette. For further info and full specs list check RGAT62 detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGA42FM is an RG with carved (and bound) top, sleek Wizard neck and 24-fret fingerboard. Standard hardtail bridge, Ibanez`s humbucking pickups and die-cast tuners, combined with an affordable price and attractive color palette, make this one of the strongest contenders in the lower intermediate class. Blue Lagoon Burst Flat and Dragon Eye Burst Flat are the names of available color options. For further info and full specs list check RGA42FM detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGA742FM follow the same recipe and philosophy as the six-stringed 42FM model, sporting a modern, carved-top RG body (with flamed maple top and white binding around the edges), Wizard neck and 24-fret fingerboard. Ibanez`s Quantum humbuckers grant this axe a mighty roar, worthy of an upscale model. Dragon Eye Burst Flat is the only color option. For further info and full specs list check RGA742FM detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez RGD7UCS is the only regular RGD model featured in the lineup. It is accompanied by one Iron Label model. 7UCS is a Prestige class axe and it sports some of the finest features seen on RGD models. Some of them include Bare Knuckle Aftermath pickups, 5-piece Wizard 7 neck (26-1/2” scale) and stainless steel frets with Prestige edge treatment. For further info and full specs list check RGD7UCS detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez S6570SK opens up the regular S lineup. It belongs to the S Prestige series, along with three more models introduced at this year`s NAMM. Some of the focal points include silky oak top (in Sunset Burst), DiMarzio pickups, high-end Lo-Pro Edge tremolo bridge and Super Wizard neck (exclusive Prestige tier feature). For further info and full specs list check S6570SK detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez S6570Q belongs to the Prestige class of the classic S range. Together with three other models it comprises the quartet of this year`s reinforcements. This Japanese-made S axe comes in with a top quality quilt maple top, trio of DiMarzio pickups, Lo-Pro Edge locking trem bridge and Super Wizard neck with bolt-on construction. For further info and full specs list check S6570Q detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez S6521Q is largely the same as the previously introduced 6570Q. However, several details differ. They`re both Prestige level models with top grade quilt maple tops, but the 6521 rocks a Gibraltar bridge instead of Edge, and has only two instead of three pickups. Surreal Blue Burst Gloss top against natural back is the only available color option. For further info and full specs list check S6521Q detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez S6527SKFX is a seven-stringed S Prestige model, with silky oak top In Sunset Burst finish. Fixed Gibraltar II bridge (with seven saddles), dual DiMarzio (passive/ceramic PAF 7) pickups, 24-fret fingerboard (with Prestige fret edge treatment), Wizard-shaped neck (with standard 25-1/2” scale) and die-cast tuners complete this majestic S series axe. For further info and full specs list check S6527SKFX detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez S521 is the most affordable S series model introduced at NAMM. It rocks the classic S body with carved top and (25-1/2”-scaled) bolt-on neck. Other important features found on this budget-friendly S include a standard fixed bridge, Quantum pickups, Wizard neck profile and die-cast tuners. 521 is available in Ocean Fade Metallic and Blackberry Sunburst. For further info and full specs list check S521 detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez FR6UCS is the only regular FR model in this year`s lineup. Prestige FR is the home series of this upscale axe. It features a flat mahogany body (clad in satin-finished black, with white binding), Wizard-shaped bolt-on neck, chrome-plated Tight End bridge, dual Bare Knuckle humbuckers and Gotoh MG-T tuning machines. For further info and full specs list check FR6UCS detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez ARZ6UCS is one of several Prestige tier models with UCS badge in their name. All of them sport Black Flat paint jobs with white binding and no fingerboard inlays. Both six and seven-stringed UCS models come in with Bare Knuckle pickups (Nailbomb model on this model, Aftermath on other three) and black hardware. For further info and full specs list check ARZ6UCS detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez TM1702P is the first of four Talman electric models introduced into this year`s lineup. It belongs to the Prestige tier and features only the finest and best Talman range has to offer. Some of these features include dual Seymour Duncan pickups, bone string nut, IFX-PRO bridge (modern Tele bridge style) and 22-fret fingerboard. For further info and full specs list check TM1702P detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez TM1730P is a Prestige model, as well. It comes in classic Candy Apple, with sparkle scratchplate, white plastics and chrome-plated hardware. ITL-PRO tremolo bridge (with string-through construction), Seymour Duncan trio of single-coil pickups in front of it, bolt-on neck with 25-1/2” scale and rosewood fingerboard, and Gotoh tuners are some of the main features of this vintage-oriented rocker. For further info and full specs list check TM1730P detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez TM330P is a brand new Talman model, a member of the Standard division. It features three single-coil pickups (thus the number 30 in its name) and a tremolo string-through bridge as main distinctions from the “02” models. This particular model also features an alder body, bolt-on neck and a 22-fret fingerboard. For further info and full specs list check TM330P detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez TM302PM is the fourth and final Talman model in this year`s lineup. It features only two single-coil pickups, sparkle scratchplate and Tele-styled bridge (string-through construction). Bolt-on neck with maple fingerboard on top, die-cast tuners and medium-sized frets are also featured on this model. Blue Sparkle, Red Sparkle and Sea Foam Green options are available. For further info and full specs list check TM302PM detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez AR720 is the last model featured in the regular division of electrics catalog. It belongs to the AR Standard series and features classic Gibson-reminiscent design and hardware. Double-cut AR body with carved top, dual humbuckers with classic Gibson controls unit and a 22-fret fingerboard with pearl/abalone inlays are some of the main features of this potent rocker. For further info and full specs list check AR720 detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
Ibanez GRGA120 is the only representative of the GIO range (including guitar and bass divisions). It is based on the elegant RGA design and features distinctly metal-oriented appointments. Standard tremolo bridge (string-through construction), dual humbuckers (Ibanez Infinity R), 24-fret fingerboard, combined with legendary Ibanez playability and balance, set this super affordable axe far ahead of the similarly priced competitors. For further info and full specs list check GRGA120 detail page on Chorder.com or Ibanez Guitars` official web page.
