Ibanez debuts SRT800DX 4- and 5-string basses
(Dave Molter | Posted 2010-03-06)
Ibanez began making quality basses and guitars at reasonable prices in the late 1970s, and the workmanship and value of their instruments continues to improve. In particular, Ibanez Soundgear basses took the realm of affordable basses in 4-, 5- and 6-string models to new heights with slick styling, features usually found only on boutique basses and playability across the board.
With 31 new bass models announced at Winter NAMM 2010, picking winners out of this bumper crop might seem an impossible task, But based on features and my previous experience with Ibanez basses, two new basses in the Soundgear line -- the SRT800DX 4-string (pictured) and SRT805DX 5 string basses -- offer looks, thoughtful styling and playability with a modern sound at an affordable price.
Neck-through construction for better sustain and US-made EMG® 40DC pickups reproduce everything from the cleanest highs to the dirtiest growling lows. The 3D-contoured ergonomic body has an arched top and scooped for stylish looks and playing comfort. Controls include Volume, Balance and concentric boost/cut Treble-Bass for each pickup.
Specs (identical for both 4- and 5-strings except neck dimensions, as noted):
Neck Material: 5pc Maple/Bubinga
Neck Type: Thru-neck
Body: Mahogany body/Figured Maple top
Frets: Medium frets
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Inlay: Abalone oval inlay
Bridge: Accu-Cast B20 bridge
Neck PU: EMG®-40DC
Bridge PU: EMG®-40DC
EQ: VARI-MID III (SRT)
HW Color: "Cosmo Black"
Finishes: Amber & Trans Gray (4-string)/ Charcoal brown (5-string)
Scale/Length: 864mm/34"
a: Width at Nut 1.5"/38mm (4-string); 1.75"/45mm (5-string)
b: Width Last Fret 2.44"/62mm (4-string); 2.64"/77mm (5-string)
c: Thickness 1st Fret 0.85"/21.5mm
d: Thickness 12th Fret 0.93/23.5mm
Radius 12"/ 305mm
The SRT800DX carries an MSRP of $1,199.99 and street price of $899. Case not included.
The SRT800DX carries an MSRP of $1,266.65 and street price of $949. Case not included.
From an Ibanez press release and information on the Ibanez website: www.ibanez.com
