Why Metal Musicians Choose Ibanez Guitars
As a seasoned guitar player and owner of an Ibanez RG, I can confidently say that there are several compelling reasons why many metal musicians opt for Ibanez instruments. From their iconic design to their performance capabilities, Ibanez guitars offer a perfect blend of sound, playability, and durability. In this article, we will explore the various attributes that make Ibanez guitars a top choice for metal musicians.
Playability and Design
The Ibanez RG series, in particular, is renowned for its ergonomic design and ease of play. The guitar's flat fingerboard and low action make it an excellent choice for fast rhythm and lead playing. This feature is especially advantageous for metal musicians who require quick and precise fretwork. Additionally, the locking nut near the headstock and the Floyd Rose tremolo system provide exceptional tuning stability, allowing players to perform extreme whammy bar maneuvers without fear of detuning.
However, it's worth noting that players can encounter some tuning issues if they play extremely heavy or press down on the bridge too hard. This is, in fact, a common issue with many guitars when played with high intensity. Despite this, the Floyd Rose tremolo with fine tuners and a lock nut significantly enhances the overall playability and versatility of the Ibanez RG series.
Audio Performance
The high-output pickups found in Ibanez guitars are another key factor in their popularity. These pickups produce a clear, tight distorted tone that is ideal for metal music. The increased output also makes it easier to achieve pick harmonics, as more gain allows for a simpler application of pinch harmonics. This feature is particularly appealing to metal guitarists who frequently incorporate intricate harmonic techniques into their playing style.
Historic and Cultural Impact
The choice of Ibanez guitars by legendary metal guitarists has played a significant role in their widespread adoption. One of the earliest notable metal guitarists to popularize Ibanez guitars was Paul Stanley of KISS, who famously played an Ibanez Ice Man. Prior to this, Ibanez was primarily known as a Japanese-made budget alternative to guitars like Gibson and Fender. During the 1980s, metal bands such as M?tley Crue, Haim Salkin, and Van Halen embraced so-called "Super Strats" and "pointy guitars" with high-output humbuckers. Ibanez, in particular, leveraged these trends to create iconic models like the RG and Roadstar series.
Despite their historical significance and ongoing popularity, Ibanez discontinued the 80s Blazer/Roadstar series. This move has left a nostalgic void for many metal guitarists who fondly remember the versatility and affordability of these early models. However, the remaining Ibanez offerings continue to cater to modern metal players, providing a robust combination of performance and value.
The Verdict
In conclusion, Ibanez guitars offer a perfect blend of design, playability, and audio performance that makes them an excellent choice for metal musicians. Their iconic flat fingerboard, low action, and advanced locking nut and Floyd Rose tremolo system ensure a seamless playing experience. Combined with their high-output pickups, Ibanez guitars provide the crisp, distorted tones and pick harmonics that are crucial for metal music.
While many Ibanez models have been optimized for heavy metal, it's important to recognize the historical impact of early Ibanez instruments. The 80s Blazer and Roadstar series, though no longer available, left an indelible mark on the world of metal guitar. Nonetheless, the current lineup continues to fulfill the needs of modern metal musicians, offering an affordable and reliable alternative to established brands.