Ibanez Guitars & Basses

Ibanez are most often seen in the hands of big-hitters in the hard rock and metal scene. With legendary virtuosos such as Steve Vai and Joe Satriani using their guitars since the '80s, and modern metal pioneers like Jake Bowen (Periphery) and Nita Strauss choosing Ibanez guitars to establish their ground-breaking tones — these instruments are specifically built to ensure uncompromising performance.

History of Ibanez

Ibanez Guitars are a Japanese company with a long history, although the modern era of the brand began in 1957. With original designs being considered fairly outlandish, it was in the '60s and '70s that Ibanez produced instruments inspired by the designs of more-established brands. Leading to a lawsuit, Ibanez started manufacturing original models such as the Iceman and Roadstar guitars shortly thereafter.

It was in the late '80s that Ibanez’s reputation blossomed. With renowned guitarist Steve Vai, who had played alongside Frank Zappa and David Lee Roth, Ibanez developed the iconic JEM guitar. Featuring a pointed S-style body, thin neck profile, high-output DiMarzio H/S/H pickups, a double-locking tremolo system and the famous “monkey grip” — this guitar took the industry by storm.

By 1990, they developed the ground-breaking Universe guitar — the first mass-produced 7-string guitar available on the market. This instrument inspired a generation of metalheads, with bands like Korn and Fear Factory using the lower tuning to pioneer the Nu-Metal genre.

Ibanez are now one of the world's premier guitar manufacturers. With a huge range of instruments, they cater for players of all budgets and styles.

The Ibanez Range

The Ibanez lineup starts with the GIO Series — encompassing affordable electric guitars and basses perfect for beginners. The Iron Label models are also affordable, but boast high-spec parts and finishes that provide the famously sleek Ibanez feel and aesthetic.

Ibanez's Premium Series bridges the gap between their mid-tier instrument lines and high-end instruments. Built in Indonesia, these guitars and basses feature first-class hardware and electronics — built to an excellent standard that would satisfy professional musicians.

Ibanez’s top-of-the-range Prestige and J Custom guitars are crafted in Japan. With only the best components used, these superior instruments are built from exotic timbers by some of the best luthiers in the world.