Buy This NOT That | Ibanez Genesis RG550 vs. Jackson Pro Series Dinky DK2

[@tjborekvideo]

Really good video. I love both guitars. The Ibanez Edge is the superior tremolo system, but the "Shredder's Cut" neck joint on the Jackson is so much better for reaching the high frets. The squaree neck joint is the reason why I chose an RG1070FM Premium (with same Edge tremolo) over the Genesis RG550DX in 2019. That was my last new Ibanez purchase.

[@mrEmu7]

I have one of these RG550s and I think if ibanez had chosen to put their all access neck joint on it (it has been featured on later 90s RG550s already) it would be one of the best guitars on the market for the price.

[@ryant3600]

i have the 570 Genesis and like before with the originals the neck joint doesn't keep me from reaching any of the frets I don't have paul gilbert fingers and I still reach them no problem, and w/ the tilt it's quite comfortable. I mean if you think about it. Vai, Satch, Timmons, Gilbert, Blaze, Batten, CC, Cody, Allen, Beach, Frusciante, Skolnick, Moore, Petrucci, Turner all played Rg's back in the day and many more axe slinger type guitarists. And they were all fine w/ it.. :) I have a Jackson soloist as well, and the Ibanez feels way better in my hands than the Jackson. I forced myself to play nothing but the Jackson for a few months and it still doesn't feel as good as my 570.

[@andrewkelly2863]

I've got an s1070pbz and a 92 rg550 and the rg550 has the older "under floyd rose patents" edge bridge with the pop in arm and the newer s1070 has the newer edge 2 trem with the screw in arm. The neck joint on the s1070 is amazing compared to the blocky rg

[@MrHjld]

did the exact same thing you did with the 1070fm

[@tippss3332]

Jackson is the better!!!!

[@karemare6426]

I have the RG550 genesis DY, bought brand new in 2021. All I have to say is this: - immaculate build quality - robust, reliable, unbreakable - never goes out of tune, and the neck is rock solid - play amazing - looks crazy cool I love it.

[@loukasphilippidis8401]

Yea I love my genesis I have a road flare red

[@ryanmichael6720]

Same i bought like 2 weeks ago and it's a beast

[@MICKEYISLOWD]

The paint will chip off on the hard corners if it takes a bump there and also any of the harder angles of the guitar. Trust me I owned one for over 20 yrs. You have to take good care of them. the paint is really thick like a half mm.

[@richardjones2811]

It's paint man!@@MICKEYISLOWD

[@travisspaulding2222]

@@MICKEYISLOWD We call that "character" Lol. I'll take an Edge trem over a FR 1000 every time.

[@edb1913]

I can’t imagine a better guitar for a grand than the RG550. The workmanship on mine is just fantastic. The action and setup out of the box is perfect. It’s 1mm at the 12th with no buzzing anywhere. A Floyd that is precise and not made of pot-metal. The nut is cut perfectly. The high and low e-strings are equidistant from the edges of the fretboard. It’s so nice to have level frets out of the box. The thing can sit for months and still be in tune. Just a wonderful pro level guitar for a great price.

[@nikaxeguitar]

Could not agree more.

[@ponzo1967]

I just got one last week and I agree 💯

[@philfrank5601]

Nothing beats a Japanese RG in their proce range. Unless ya just don't like their neck profile, Ibanez is the clear choice.

[@shanebiggs1888]

Meh. Whatever you like is what's better for you. I can make a 200$ guitar sound like a 2 thousand dollar one it's just what you know. My little Jackson js12 loves to eat les Pauls and other brand snobs and also likes to fight the big dogs who like to trash talk less expensive guitars cause everyone knows its the player not the guitar let's be real.

[@CCCowboy]

@@shanebiggs1888 What you just said - everybody knows that already. This particular 'KZbin channel' is just telling you "what you get for the money you spend", he said that right at the beginning of the video (in different words). He didn't say anything about "You're going to like this guitar better and hate that one".

[@cybernet2863]

@@shanebiggs1888 les Paul kills a Jackson

[@raakareiska9804]

@@shanebiggs1888 yep and its still pile shit of shit eventhough you put cherry on top of it How does cheap tremolo system become more reliable if its played by pro?

[@jamesevans6335]

@@shanebiggs1888 had a Jackson is 11 it was bad to be fair rg550 all day long

[@Kevinacharles]

I love Jackson guitars, but the RG550 has always had a special place in my heart. I don't know why I don't own one yet.

[@xlr8r2010]

I just bought an Ibanez RG550 Genesis in "Electric Blue" It's a great guitar...I have no complaints about the sound or build quality. I am using it with Bias FX 2 Elite...it sounds amazing.

[@nikaxeguitar]

Very nice!! I’ve been looking at that guitar it seems awesome!

[@DreidMusicalX]

I'm still playing on my Ibanez RG I got back in "2000". Low TRS bridge and still works great! Mine though is Silver metal flake. I love it still. I've gone through many guitars and she has always stuck with me. But thanks for the reviews of the newer stuff.

[@ivanbartolelli]

ibanez 500 and 700 series are absolute LEGENDS. The 550 is my favorite guitar, indeed. About the DK2, the comparison would be different if we were talking about the old DK2 made in Japan. Those beasts came with the JT580 LP bridge which was pretty good.

[@shakebabyhitler]

I have one of those old Dinkys, and that bridge is still holding up great! I'm not usually too bat shit crazy with the trem, but it still comes back true to pitch after a few Eruption-like dive bombs. That's good enough for me, lol!

[@cederickforsberg5840]

they should make more white RG550s why only that one limited while they keep making yellow red purple

[@tsunemi01]

I agree, they would probably sell wagons of them.

[@atozee7189]

Bought a Mexican Charvel San Dimas, sent it back after 2 days and, got the red RG550 Genesis instead. To me, the Ibanez is a true pro level instrument, workmanship, precision engineering, feel, looks, tone..everything. The Ibanez was only slightly more expensive but felt like a tight highly engineered pro guitar soon as it was picked up. Not one flaw on it anywhere, it was perfect and was set up to perfection out if the box. The Ibanez pick ups are very nice, they have that classic shred tone. The neck really is fun and super fast to play on. There’s a reason why the Ibanez RG550 is still around after all these years. It’s an unbelievable bargain still in this day and age of stupidly over priced unaffordable equipment. It plays and feels like a $1800 and up guitar.

[@nikaxeguitar]

This sums up the rg’s value to a tee. Phenomenal statement my dude

[@tankdarla637]

Jackson all day, because...Jackson.

[@volkanozkol5309]

I think, Jackson is much better than Ibanez RG550. I have owned nearly ten RG prestige guitars and an RG550, now two of my guitars are a DK2 pro and an RGT42DX ugraded with two SD pickups, I love them both. My reasons that why is Jackson is superior are; 1. From my experience, basswood body guitars give dull, uncharacteristic, bassy and dark sound that suits to a very narrow style of music. Basswood RGs are not so versatile guitars as claimed usually. 2. V7 and V8 pickups are harsh, average pickups and clearly inferior to those SD's. 3. Jackson pro DK2 neck is much more comfortable than RG wizard neck for me. RG neck feels ridiculously thin for that neck width. 4. Edge tremolo is very quality made but also FR1000 tremolo is a very fine quality tremolo system that gives you no worries. They are both good guitars, but Jackson pro DK2 is more versatile, better sounding and comfortable for me.

[@Metal-Magazine-es]

Your videos are amazing! i love that even when you could talk for like 20 mins you go straight to the point... and make it in only 8 min. Thanks so much for the info!!!

[@nikaxeguitar]

Thanks my dude!! Appreciate the support. Share the vid If you can!

[@edwinstovall3334]

I disagree with your choice of instruments here, but I should explain. I'm saying that I would prefer the Jackson because I don't like the H-S-H pickup configuration of the Ibanez. I actually HAVE an Ibanez with that config, but I find it frustrating because it can't give me all seven combinations that SHOULD be available with three pickups. It's the same complaint I make about Fender Strats. I also like darker woods for fretboards. I do admit that I think Ibanez' Edge is better than the Floyd, but that alone won't change my mind. I forgot to mention that I recently discovered Jackson's "compound" radius fretboards. I LOVE them. The Ibanez won't have that. In the end, though, I agree to disagree, because it's really all about the needs of the individual player.

[@nikaxeguitar]

Hey Edwin. Thanks for stopping by. I do see your points with the HSH. I actually own the Genesis and to be honest, the HSH is just about the only thing I hate. I would like to switch it to a HH sometime.

[@edwinstovall3334]

@@nikaxeguitar If you're good with wiring, I suggest you try installing a switch (in a push-pull pot, perhaps) to bring in the pickup of your choice. I should have done that with my Ibanez, but I'm NOT good with wiring! That's one reason why I bought TWO Ibanez guitars. One is the older EX370 with H-S-H and the other is an RG220B with H-H. Both are heavily modified; I just haven't done that one mod on the EX. Anyway, good luck with whatever you decide to do!

[@naegleriafowleri2230]

sounds like a lot of crapola my guy

[@jayot182]

How many instances do you need a 7 combination in a superstrat guitar? Buy a Suhr then.

[@SamanthaBurtonGuitar]

I bought a 2002 RG570 last year and it is hands down the best guitar I have ever played! Mine comes with all the good bits like the original edge tremolo, Gotoh SG381 tuners, V7 S1 V8 pickups, super thin neck although mine is the 3 piece maple/bubinga with the scarf joint and it also has the AANJ neck joint which upper fret access is so easy! I can do mad stretches and lead playing and sweeping are a breeze! I love it so much! Mine has the metallic grey finish with matching dot inlays. P.S. The Ibanez/Gotoh whammy bars are much straighter which works so much better under a fast hand and the bridge becomes much more responsive...you can also feel it. I hate how the Floyd Rose bars are bent at such a large angle and the bridge doesn't come alive when you use the bar.

[@nikaxeguitar]

Wow. I didn’t know that about the Whammy bar! I’m going to add that to the ebook I’m about to publish. Thanks!!

[@SamanthaBurtonGuitar]

@@nikaxeguitar You should also totally check out Red Bishop. They do whammy bars and sockets that fit in all Double Locking Tremolos and they make both FR and Gotoh/Ibanez shaped bars. The sockets themselves and how the bars plug in are the same as the Ibanez Edge Zero but made with better quality. Made in Japan too!

[@cbplays4428]

I just ordered a neon purple rg 550 yesterday

[@jamesstafford3019]

Picked up a used one in Desert Yellow a couple months ago that already had a Suhr Doug Aldrich in the bridge. Only complaint is it needs a treble bleed circuit in the volume pot which I will be adding but otherwise an insane value!

[@nikaxeguitar]

That’s awesome dude! I agree with the treble bleed circuit

[@joshuaH75]

I like the Ibanez Genesis RG and I like the Jackson Dinky Pro, too. The SD pickups that are direct mounted to the Jackson are a much better setup that the V7/S1/V8 pickups mounted to the pickguard. I don’t have an issue with the Ibanez ones, but the SDs are just waaay more versatile. I have a Prestige RG1550M with those same pickups and pickguard on a basswood body and they are okay, not phenomenal, but okay. A little harsh to my ears. As for the trems, I like both. I’m gonna minimally prefer the Floyd, but I have always loved the Edge. If the Ibanez had the all access neck joint (like on most RGs) instead of that blocky neck joint, it would be a total win. I like the idea that the Genesis is made in Japan. Definitely a good selling point. I have a bunch of Prestige and Premium Ibanez RG guitars and a very nice Jackson SL2 MAH. I have also previously owned two separate Jackson DK2 models. All are great in quality and fit & finish. Jacksons with SD pickups rule! Especially with coil tapping. Which the Ibanez doesn’t do, not fully, except for the S1 and I think it suuuuucks. I have to lower the middle pickup due to the way that I pick. To me, comparing these two models, I prefer the Jackson just due to the pickups and the Floyd, it has a little bit more of a warmer tone. But that’s just me. Btw, great channel!

[@ryant3600]

that's why I bought the 570 when it was available ( only for 2017-2018). It's a solid body Rg but w/ rosewood fretboard and yes it came w/ those Ibanez pups, which I took those out and put in a set of Seymours Tb6 bridge and Sh2 neck.And the pups are directly mounted on those..I left the middle pup cause I actually like that middle pup and not worth a hundred bucks replacing it. The Edge is by far the best trem on the planet at least in my opinion. And as for the tilt joint I was concerned about that even though I had played the originals back in the late 80's early 90's, but I have been playing mostly neck throughs and the AANJ's for a couple decades now. But once i got it, it felt so comfortable and i have no issues reaching higher frets, just as easy as any of my other AANJ's. it's not as blocky as it looks.

[@jjclore]

I've got 2 RG550s and am hooked on those. Such insane value at that price point. I want to collect even more LOL

[@RotterStudios]

I played Ibanez for years and liked them. Had prestige and Jems...get rid of them all except an RG550 reissue. I went back to Jackson and have the slime green. I love it.

[@2bookoo4u]

Excellent comparison video. I have the RG550 in purple neon. I replaced the pickguard with a storm guitars Korean made HH configuration. They make high quality pickguards BTW. I put a purple DiMarzio SD and an Air Norton in her. She purrs like a kitten. I also put Gotoh black metal control knobs on. It's an awesome guitar. I also have a Prestige. One thing I will say is the action can go much lower on the Prestige. The relief is set to 0.005", and the action is set to 1.25mm on low E and high E. The Genesis is set at 0.010, and the action is set at 1.5mm low E and 1.25ish on the high E. Very slight buzz acoustically on the low E on the Genesis. No buzz on the Prestige unless you wail on it. Ibanez makes quality guitars. I'm a fan.

[@sigmundlm]

Bougth a black RG 550 two months ago and it's from 1989! With V1, S1 and V2. Sound is great and fast playing. Also concider to buy one more, perhaps the new one.

[@nikaxeguitar]

This is what I’m taking about. Amazing man!

[@sigmundlm]

@@nikaxeguitar Cheers mate 😀🎸✨

[@vinaymulukutla358]

I remember buying my first two Ibanez's in the early 2000's. Back then, even the midrange RG's were still made in Japan so you would be getting an absolutely astounding and exemplary instrument for a very affordable price. I still have both of those Ibanez's and they still play like butter and sound incredible. So I would definitely go with the Genesis, the fact that you can still get a Japanese built Ibanez for under 1000 USD is incredible. I'm sure the Dinky is also a very good guitar.

[@henrychavez918]

I have both guitars…. and I value both…Jackson is creamy my every day user ..,Ibanez is edgier a scream machine with great craftsmanship…my go to…for that sound!!!!

[@cc_1983]

Thanks for a brilliant summary - Answered a lot of questions! Like the topics you picked. Im between a new rg and a Charvel or Jackson and this answered it! Rg!

[@nikaxeguitar]

Hey Charlie! Thanks for stopping by. Yeah, the RG is always a great choice

[@toddmerriott6901]

I have the Ibanez rg 550 genisis. Best guitar I have ever played. Set up out of the box was second to none. I’m a whammy bar guy and I play for weeks without tuneing! Japanese Ibanez guitars are some off the best!

[@stuartroweofficial]

Just before new year I got a neon purple 550 and it’s gorgeous to play and look at

[@GuitarDudeOfficial]

I bought a Japanese Ibanez RG430 DX in 1999 for £399 and it’s a fantastic guitar. 2003 I bought an J-Custom RG8570 TT and it’s amazing! I would love to buy one of the RG550 Genesis and the Jiva 10.

[@progrob27]

I used to have a Jackson Pro Series Dinky with a sustainiac but the bridge was terrible, I'm glad to see they're using better ones now! I'm looking to probably buy a genesis 550 for my next axe.

[@SxSxG666]

My RG550 is really fantastic and easily holds up with my far more expensive guitars from ESP and Gibson and Fender. I even got luky with my mapel fretboard having flamed woodgrain. It's perfectly crafted and the only thing I don't like too much are the stock pickups. It's propably just my personal taste. They are far from bad. I just prefer the sound of Duncans.

[@ruleinblood]

Yep the Ibanez ! I bought a RG 565 VK without even playing it online because of the reviews it received ! It has the same neck ( but reverse head stock ) and is built the same as the RG 550. When I got it I was absolutely floored by the thing ! I don’t think I’ve played a better guitar TBH ! Swapped the pickups out ( Which aren’t really that bad anyway ) and it’s my go to Axe ! What a guitar 🎸

[@pedrolicks8316]

I've RG550 PN and its amazing guitar, there is something special vibes with V7 and V8 pickups plus legendary Edge Tremolo

[@MICKEYISLOWD]

I learned to play on a Beautiful RG750 which was the same as a 550 but with rosewood fingerboard instead of maple. It sounded great and I really miss it. I was so disappointed that they never re-issued the 750 when they would of sold as well as the 550s are doing.

[@jeffpolk4800]

Mexican Jackson’s are stellar! I have a DK2 granite and it’s phenomenal! It was perfect straight outa the box! But I did add a brass block and now it’s ridiculous! Best guitar I’ve ever had and! So good in fact I just ordered the slime green.

[@tjborekvideo]

In my experience, the RG holds its value better on the used market (in the US, anyway). I regularly see the Jackson Pro Series (DK2 and SL2 models) in the $550-$650 price range and the Ibanez in the $750-$850 range. In terms of improving Floyd Rose 1000 Series playability, the Floyd Rose Push-In Arm is a simple, affordable upgrade that makes any Floyd Rose or Floyd Rose-licensed tremolo a joy to use. It does away with the need to ever tighten down that arm collar that always comes loose, and eliminates noise and slop from the bar rattling in the socket. Easily the best $20 I've ever spent upgrading a guitar, and so far I've installed them on trems from Floyd Rose (1000 Series), Ibanez Standard DL (JEM JR pink), and Golden Age (Stewart-MacDonald, discontinued), and never had a problem. You'll need to buy your own 1.5mm hex key to set arm tension, as Floyd Rose couldn't be bothered to include one for an extra $0.75. You can upgrade the socket without removing strings, and it only takes 5-10 minutes with a nice deep well socket driver.

[@WakizashiSabre]

Or just using teflon tape on the bar works wonders.

[@gral9440]

I have a RG565 Genesis for which i changed the stock pickups with DP220/DP180 and it's a killer guitar even better than my RG5120 Prestige

[@nikaxeguitar]

An RG565 is my next guitar Ive decided. It looks too damn cool

[@ryant3600]

lucky.. I tried to order one and they said out of stock, will get more at a later date.. NOPE.. all of a sudden they were taken off most of the websites that I buy at. so frustrating.. cause that is one of my dream guitars.

[@gral9440]

Unfortunately the model is no more on Ibanez 2022's lineup. It's why there's no stock. The QC is awesome. Ibanez has the best QC, even better than ESP japan and having such a quality for less than 1000€ (I'm in France) is a great opportunity

[@danielwalker6230]

Bro Hearing this is painful I have an rg5120 😂

[@edzell87]

Awesome. I've ordered an RG550 and immediately right after I receive it, stock pickups are coming off and being replaced by Dimarzio's ones

[@nikaxeguitar]

I hear that man. I threw a Nazgul and sentient in mine

[@philfrank5601]

Don't be so sure man....try them. The stock are actually really close to Dimarzio tone.

[@saadshah7857]

Hold on man. Give the pups a chance. They are really really good.

[@Andrew_182]

I have a MIJ Dk2 from the 90s. Love it, it's one of my two mains. Obviously different from the modern DK2 in the video and I do think Jackson has has been slipping the last few years in both value for dollar and QC, but I have to say I prefer the looks and the pickups of the Jackson over the Ibanez. However, the Ibanez is probably the better buy between the two here. Having said that, if it's my money, I'm spending that $1000 on an LTD 1000 series over either. Stainless frets, locking tuners, Fishman/SD/EMG pickups standard, not using basswood bodies, ebony boards, high level QC, ect ect just make them too hard to beat at the price range imo. I have an LTD 1000 with fishmans (my other main) and it's just sublime.

[@JacksonAxe]

Those serials ran in sequence: They hit 9700000 circa '03 and 9800000 circa '07. If you have chrome hardware and a VERY low 96 serial it may be a late '90s considering the DK2 began in '98. Black hardware and real Duncans replaced chrome/Duncan Designed in 2006. My 9853xxx DKMGT is stamped 2011 in the neck pocket....months before the shutdown of Jackson MIJ's in 2011.

[@Andrew_182]

Chrome hardware, jb in the bridge and Duncan designed singles in the mid and neck (no idea if the bridge pu is original though) and serial is 9622xxx. What do you think? I haven’t taken the neck off to see if there’s any stamping (and probably won’t just for that as I’m not curious enough).

[@JacksonAxe]

@@Andrew_182 Well, you're actually one of the few that originally guessed correctly. It most likely is a late '90s. I compiled a list of serials confirmed by neck pocket date stamps years ago while I was on the forums daily and here's the numbers I have from that time period.... 9615xxx 1998 9629xxx 1999 Jan/22 Occasionally, an oddball will come along that doesn't 'follow the rules', but generally the list is pretty accurate. DK2's started in '98 with Duncan Designed pups and chrome, so someone changed the bridge pickup. Those 7 digit 96xxxxx serials started around '96-7ish, though some of them WERE date coded, the majority weren't. 6 digit serials and neck thru body serials are a different story, though. If you ever check used Jackson MIJ's online, you'll notice how many are '90s'. This is by far the hugest misconception about used MIJ Jacksons. Almost none of them are actually '90s, and oftentimes people DON'T want to hear that. lol

[@Andrew_182]

Thank you for all the info! I had done some digging which is why I believed it actually was a 90s model, but obviously not to the extent you have. I also wouldn’t have been crushed if it wasn’t lol. But I know most of them listed weren’t 90s, my buddy had one that had a 98 serial and black hardware and full Duncan’s, he didn’t believe it wasn’t a 90s. I found a link to dating the pickups through logos on the baseplate and stickers, so one day I was working on it and checked and showed him. He was bummed about it (I honestly don’t know why) but accepted it after I showed him evidence.

[@Andrew_182]

“Tone wood” doesn’t exist with electric guitar imo, and it seems people are starting to figure that out more and more lately. The reason I mentioned basswood being a downside is due to it being much softer than other options which makes it prone to dings/dents and other issues. For example, I have a good friend who got a basswood body Jackson and after a little over a year, the posts for the floyd started stripping out. I know that isn’t the case for all basswood bodies, evh loved them, etc etc, but basswood is softer and there’s a reason a lot of other manufactures don’t use it in premium instruments or refuse to use it all together (Kiesel for example won’t touch it for the reasons mentioned). As for QC, I don’t agree that the 1000 series is somehow inferior to the 550 there. A good chunk of them are still made in Korea at world music which has a really good reputation for quality and I haven’t heard many if any complaints about them, or even worlds qc coming from indo (from people who have actually put hands on the guitars). Anecdotally, I got to directly compare an MiI and MiK ec1000 last summer and both were flawless. I went with the MiK just due to the fact that it was a little lighter and because rightly or wrongly people look at MiKs as higher tier, but Im sure would have been just as happy with the MiI one. And the fact is, there is no free lunch. What you’re paying extra for Japanese labor on the 550 is coming out elsewhere to hit the price point hence why the 1000 is able to be specced better with stainless frets, better body woods, ebony boards instead of maple (arguably preference, but there is a cost difference associsted) and name brand pickups (fishmans, SDs, emgs) for similar prices. Its a better bang for the buck hands down. And to say that the only difference between a 550 and prestige level Ibanez is the pickups is hilariously untrue. Otherwise, Ibanez would be costing themselves a lot of money just selling the 550 as anyone who was wanting a similar prestige would be dumb not to buy the 550 and swap out the electronics instead of buying a prestige. Again, there is no free lunch and you’re sacrificing features/specs/wood quality and hands on time in exchange for a lower price point than a prestige (or e-ii). If that’s a worthy trade off is up for everyone to decide for themselves, but for me, there is no discernible benefit in quality of having a Japanese worker assemble the Ibanez vs a Korean/Indonesian worker with the ltd as they are all perfectly capable of making extremely high quality instruments at this point. This isn’t all to say the 550 is junk by any means. If it’s what calls to you over other options, get it because it’s going to be a great guitar too. And it does have some nice appointments that I’d say are better than the LTDs like the five piece necks and gotoh locking tuners, but it is lacking in features for the price and just because it’s assembled in Japan does not make it inherently better than the 1000 series by any measure. Tl:dr - the LTDs objectively better specced, and there’s no real difference in QC. If you like the 550 more, that’s perfectly understandable, but the ltd is the better bang for your buck and just as quality.

[@MikmawWarriorBrave]

I just ordered an RG550 Genesis in desert yellow...really wanted the purple one, but long and mcquade has them back ordered and said they won't be available until next January...lol...I'll just buy the purple one next year I guess..

[@karl07777]

In Asia, RG550's been sold out since 2021 and they don't even receive pre-orders

[@southboundguitar]

I've been waiting for months for them to come in stock here in the US. I figured you guys would have easier access to them. Guess we're all waiting :-/

[@danjosephmusic]

Great profile and radius on the 550, thicker profile on the Jackson. Mid bump tone on Jackson, smoother on the 550.

[@brianbarnett100]

love your vids man and look forward to more

[@nikaxeguitar]

Hey Brian! I appreciate it!

[@ponzo1967]

Haven't owned a Dinky but I've owned a 550 and I can tell you it's a fantastic guitar. The heel on it is a little rough it would have been nice to have the edges smoothed out but It came off the rack set up and ready to play, no adjustments needed as far as I'm concerned.

[@basandi4017]

You forgot to mention one thing... Ibanez RG in '90s has Super Wizard neck which was the world's thinnest electric guitar. They stopped to produce Super Wizard neck and replaced by Wizard III neck (slightly thicker), so now by buying RG550 it's like going back in time as we can enjoy again Super Wizard neck! 💪👌👍I'm the owner of Ibanez RG550DX (1992) so I know what Super Wizard neck means 😜

[@CitizenFortress]

I have the Ibanez RG550 Genesis Purple Neon guitar, it truly is amazing. I'm still kind of figuring out this edge bridge though. If you don't know how to tune it properly it can really be a pain.

[@naegleriafowleri2230]

RG565 is even better. I have both rg550 and rg565 genesis and the rg565 not only sounds better, but is lighter and cooler, reverse headstock and colored dots. The fact that it does not have a pickguard and weights less makes the tone sound better for whatever reason

[@nikaxeguitar]

Dude I want one badly!

[@atozee7189]

The 570 too if you like a rosewood fingerboard and more of a 90s look.

[@OrkhanJulfa]

I think it weights less just because it has less pickups

[@naegleriafowleri2230]

@@OrkhanJulfa very possible either way i prefer over it the rg550 lol

[@OrkhanJulfa]

@@naegleriafowleri2230 I think to convert my 550 pickup configuration to 565. I mean full sized humbucker in bridge and single sized rail pickup in neck with 5 way switch. Just need to find good rail pickup that will work with DiMarzio Evo 2.

[@KennedyRetzko]

The reason I’m watching videos I’m torn between Ibanez and Jackson as we speak

[@nikaxeguitar]

Let me know what you decide!!

[@farshadzandi4015]

RG550'll be a professional guitar if you swap out its stock pickups ahead. I used Tone Zone for the bridge position, Air Norton single shape hotrail on the middle and Super Distortion on the neck!! It became an angry monster particularely for shredding. There is just one draw back I've seen in RG550: After a year some crevices show up in the sides of the joint of neck to the body, but it's not a big deal. Don't worry. They do not expand more than an inch!😊

[@jeremywho2289]

I bought the RG550 Genesis but couldn't get used the thin/flat neck carve. It's a bummer because the guitar was amazing. Do you have any recommendations for something with a bit thicker neck, flat-ish radius and a locking trem?

[@nikaxeguitar]

An HM Strat has a neck that isn’t QUITE as thin. Another would be a Schecter Sunvalley Supershredder

[@ares8991]

Firstly i dont want to waste my money on that Floydrose 1000...The other hand is Japanese crafted guitar that you shouldn't doubt about it...even the price is 1100 i have no problems to buying..

[@kingofshrimp]

great video! i have a 1991 Ibanez Rg750 that needs to retire lol. you just convinced me to get the genesis rg550.

[@rickk1235]

Excellent video...thanks so much for posting!

[@l0rd_breeigo-sama954]

Would you ever consider doing the ftm33 vs another 8 string of the same price (2k)?

[@nikaxeguitar]

Absolutely dude

[@ShreddedShredder0]

I honestly don't see the point of having expensive tuners on a guitar that locks at the nut. Also wished the Ibanez came with their All-Access Neck Joint, although I see their point of being as accurate as possible to the original.

[@robzvlogs1987]

I honestly thought u were gona say jackson, but my fave has to be the ibanez, the versatility is crazy especially with the single coil, to strat players it wont be the same but it will feel alot better 😂 hreat review man

[@Fast2Whls]

I'd tend to agree; the RG just by a smidge and mostly because of the Edge bridge. To throw a wrench in the mix, I have a mid-2000's DK2 Pro that was made in Japan. Aging myself, I paid $600 for it new in 2003. Now that's a great axe. Compared to my '92 RG550 (yes, I bought that new too...) they're a dead heat, but the Jackson sounds and plays better (the JB pickup is the bomb, and the compound radius fretboard is better). FYI, the Ibanez pickups are Dimarzio design/made (the V or Q series). Have been since the 80's, or at least were...

[@workingorder2189]

Can you do a shoot out between a Kramer Baretta vs LTD 87 M1.

[@ryant3600]

Technically.... the Genesis are Prestige.. the ONLY thing that doesn't make them a prestige is that Ibanez chose to put them in a "genesis" title rather than Prestige title, but whats funny is mine came in Prestige boxes... said Prestige right on it in bold face print w/ the Ibanez logo.. I mean yes one can argue the heel joints are different and the electronics are different.. But, lets face it if these came w/ a set of Fishman pups and a case, they'd be a Prestige. I upgraded mine w/ a set of Seymour distortions and bought an Ibanez case. total cost 1450.00 A Prestige Rg w/ the same type of after market stuff. 2 Grand.

[@nikaxeguitar]

That’s super interesting dude

[@IngviMcFly]

To be honest as big fan Jackson guitars(owns USA one) I would not buy this Dinky, nowadays Jackson is garbage for money they want and factories are so low. However I'm not big fan of Ibanez but definetly I would buy RG550 made in JApan worth it, cool looking, cool setup for the money, 80s legacy especially in red!

[@nikaxeguitar]

Hey Igor! Thanks for stopping by. I agree

[@ericlarsenhbeleatherworks4992]

I’ve owned both of these and I have to agree with you. One thing is Mexican guitars made lately are sssoooooo f’n nice. Charvel, EVH etc. will blow you away. But fujigen guitars are mind blowingly nice. The rg is better. But not by much.

[@johnhareiel5118]

I had an original 90's Ibanez 550DX in Lazer blue. Looks cool but sounds like some tin. I'm gonna end up getting another one that's black with sharktooth inlays one day just cause they look cool even though they sound like tin. I want me a few Jackson V's plus a Soloist one day

[@stewarttiley9683]

I’ve played Ibanez for years great guitars, except for the saddles in all their various bridges corrode from sweat from constant gigging and rehearsals. I switched to Jackson and find the bridges on the hard tales way superior to Ibanez. Plus I got one with the Jackson custom active pups and they are incredible! For metal they can’t be beat imo. But I still use an Ibanez. Both great guitars!

[@anthonystark5412]

@04:30 Don't swap out your pickups. Swap the magnets.

[@ThePedroDB]

I have an Indo Jackson Soloist Pro and an RG550 Genesis. To be honest, it's a mixed bag. I prefer the Edge Trem and the Ibanez neck profile but love the Jackson upper fret access (the neck thru carve is miles better) and tone of the Seymour Duncans. The Ibanez has visually better build quality - there are a few bits of rough finish to pickup routes etc. on the Jacko. The use of DL Trems on both negates the (potential) benefit of Gotoh tuners on the RG. The winner? My Indo Jem 70V-SFG!

[@Wh33lsofFortune]

I'm fairly positive the Jackson tuners are made by gotoh but with the Jackson logo on the pro series. I can't 100% confirm that but they look very similar and I know they're decent quality

[@zsaxeshed5743]

All Jackson tuners are the same they suck lol

[@Wh33lsofFortune]

@@nonserviam4813 yeah you may be right.. thanks for the info

[@tarekaly7587]

I think they both are shredding machines but they carry different wood and pickup tones however they both has great stability, If you're into EVH, Savatage, Megadeath then Jackson would be the choice, Ibanez RG is Vai, Petrucci, Satriani kinda tone and it could play metal too so it's kind of what you seek.

[@rapiststan5272]

Ibanez can do both and more unlike the dinky.

[@disco4535]

I have fallen in love with my RG550. I have many other guitars but I can't put this one down

[@leostratonly]

Mannn. I have RG565 and Jackson king V and I love LOVE love both guitars the same way. I hope next time I go guitar shopping I’ll get myself dinky and soloist ☢️🤘

[@Aeon_Electronics]

Ibanez all the way. I mean it is quality made in japan ... and oh boy it delivers! Have a genisis RG565 myself.

[@maggryszun9584]

had both... numerous times:) First of all, I'm a Jax fan and sadly MIM DK2 were nothing but disappointment. To be honest Indonesian and Chinese ones weren't far behind. Hell, I can say something about new MJ and American Series too:) The one I really loved was Slime Green... came with Floyd mounted wanky, although neck was so superb it was at awkward angle that needed to be corrected. Anyway it was nice guitar after all! Personally I think the design of it is way superior than any other guitar but execution is something different! Period. Now, 550. I had five of them, keep selling them and somehow I'm keep buying them again :) Execution of this concept is absolutely flawless! Superb finish, everything is up to specs! Trem as you said is very important and Original Edge made a massive difference here, it is truly superior to any Floyd! However RG550 Genesis lack something, it's a soul. The feeling of the guitar as she is. It is perfectly mastered piece of wood and metal but it doesn't represent what she is for unlike her original models. Jackson, perhaps giving you an idea of what she's for but with bad craftsmanship putting you away even farther. Therefore I would say: if you want a Jax (in budged) go for DXMG, if you really want to have RG550 go for original, they are out there! Both second hand, sure. If you fancy new I would say Jax from Korea (World Factory) or Ibbie made for order:)

[@henrychavez918]

Have both…Luv them both….real close speed machines…

[@shanebiggs1888]

I think any guitar that is set up and is to your own comfort is the best. Idk if I pick up my 200$ Jackson and it feels better and plays better than something more expensive then well it is. - Floyd Rose systems aside cause unless it's original it's trash - idc what features it has if it literally plays better then its a better guitar period. Sorry just a veteran players opinion.

[@ImThe5thKing]

The RG seems better in this but I can't get over the tacky looking black pickguard. I simply want Ibanez to put the Edge in the RGA42FM. They already have it in the RGA42HPT, but the finish mixed with the gold hardware is too much for my eyes. Just a simple black or chrome Edge trem on the FM model would be an instant buy for me.

[@nikaxeguitar]

You know. I’m with you dude. The black pick guard is the ONLY thing I don’t really like on this guitar

[@ImThe5thKing]

@@nikaxeguitar The only guitar I think looks good with a black pickguard is an already black guitar like the vintage inspired Fenders or an SG

[@nikaxeguitar]

@@ImThe5thKing I feel you. You like the new fender Luxe series?

[@ImThe5thKing]

@@nikaxeguitar Yeah they're not bad. That all black Tele with the maple fingerboard looks badass with a Floyd haha and you can never go wrong with an HSS Strat

[@naegleriafowleri2230]

thats why prestiges don't have pickguard, neither do the jcustom, rg565 doesn't either, only tacky looking guitars like jem and pia do lmao and thats why it has a pickguard is a poor mans jem

[@brian770]

100% agree on the trem, have a Kramer jersey star with a 1000 in it and just got a JS 2410 ibanez with the Edge, the Edge is far and away a better unit.

[@dpajc056]

While these episodes are very interesting and kinda more or less correct, it's just different when you have the guitars side by side in front of you and in your hands to do an accurate assessment. A lot of his stuff is just hearsay. You should rent the guitars you compare and speak from experience not just internet research. And let us hear them...! It'd be even better

[@nikaxeguitar]

Great advice. Thank you!

[@Arfonfree]

I'm too cheap to get either one, but I have an RG470 that plays way better than I do. If you're looking for a budget metal guitar, you could do a lot worse.

[@dennisd5395]

I have an lower end Ibanez RG350M (Desert Sun) and an S-Series. Also a Jackson RR3 pro MIJ with Seymours. The Ibanez's are much better for playability. Is there a specific Edge model on the Genesis?

[@naegleriafowleri2230]

original edge

[@puffybuns2311]

I never played a good Ibanez. I played a dk2M and never played an easy to play and fun guitar. It just slays.

[@mortemorphosis1104]

Now it's interesting that I end up watching this after just ordering a PRS Mark Tremonti SE custom instead...must be said I paid less than half price...But I had been looking at the Ibanez for a long time...hope I will be satisfied with the PRS...

[@comment.highlighted]

I wouldn’t worry. PRS SE series are pretty awesome. I highly recommend them for the price 🙂

[@mortemorphosis1104]

Great to hear man!🤘

[@thebuck1152]

Only the second time I have caught one of your videos, first one I think was a Jackson/ charvel comparison. N I was expecting you to choose the Jackson in this one, next time you need a side by side comparison........good info though

[@nikaxeguitar]

Hey Buck. I appreciate the comment. Thanks for stopping by.

[@thebuck1152]

@@nikaxeguitar no problem. Enjoy the comparison, but where is the proof? Not a lick in the video.................

[@shawncarson4109]

Haven't tried the premium edge but my floyd 1500 which has a push in arm is amazing. Would say my cheap edge (at least I assume it's a cheaper one) in my S Series is pretty comparable, though slightly better than my floyd 1000. Also hard to compare as my floyd 1000 is an 8 string model trem but it seems to hold up for the most part. Doesn't pull up very well though.

[@buffdaddy2032]

The rg 550 and the 550dx . . Plus the neck is so much better then any jackson .

[@nikaxeguitar]

Yeah I agree

[@StressedSkull357]

I'm trying to debate between ibanez genesis rg550 or jackson pro series soloist sl2p mah, I got until Tuesday to decide what do you think between these two axe

[@drewwesley9506]

Which did you ultimately decide?

[@comment.highlighted]

I’ve played them both and I would take the Ibanez Genesis over the Pro Series Dinky 🙂

[@GuitaristFrankCC]

I used to be a huge Jackson fan. Got a few ones including a DK2M. I miss the days when they were like only made either in USA, Japan and Korea. All my Jackson's are japanese made as I didn't have that much money back then for US made models but now it feels like the rest are all cheap labour built and overpriced for their popularity.

[@jonathanong4538]

Man DK2M is one of the best guitar ever made

[@phantomwarrior0313]

Can you compare a solar guitar with another guitar of your choice?

[@dodoschizophonic]

The Ibanez anyday! The only cool thing about that mexican made Jackson are the Duncans. Ibanez pickups sound great though - they are authentic for the brand. So the Jackson doesnt touch the Ibanez at all. It would be interesting if you could compare that Japanese Genesis to the brand new USA-Made Jackson soloist that costs over $2 000. Because even the American Jackson doesnt get close to the Ibanez for me.

[@calebmckinney1442]

I'd personally go with the Dinky cause I hate Ibanez Wizard Necks

[@toddmerriott6901]

Not even close, only because of the original edge trem! Best trem made!

[@9th_note]

I know this much, my prestige pisses all over those new USA Jackson's. A lot of Jackson Guitars that I have ran across in recent years have had so many quality control issues that I just gave up. I have a Mick Thompson signature series USA Jackson and that's basically the only one I like. But it is basically a Jackson with a wizard neck lol.

[@DreidMusicalX]

I also thought the difference between a dinky and the Soloist was size and the necks?

[@TheRealChetManley]

The made in Japan Ibanez is the winner. The value and quality is off the charts.

[@optimusminimus-v3d]

The RG has a 5 piece Maple & Walnut neck.

[@hiteshchand]

Great video 👍

[@Bleachdemon88]

In this instance yes the ibby wins. But an Ibanez prestige vs a USA Jackson I’d take the Jackson myself. The prestige neck for some reason makes my hand hurt (the genesis neck is different so I’m not sure about this). But the value (and color) of the Ibanez is far and away better than this Jackson

[@loukasphilippidis5944]

I have a rg550 genesis it’s great!

[@saadshah7857]

Maple walnut 5 PC neck. Not maple mahagony. And yeah, the MIJ is a way better deal.

[@rickycompton2610]

This Really weird I stumbled on your KZbin channel and I dig it Funny I bought an RG 550 genesis and I got to say It’s one of the best playing guitars I Own i had one In the Eigties when they first came out but this one is killer and it stays in tune the fretwork is awesome but no case I had to buy one when I bought it from Sweetwater.

[@atozee7189]

You’re right. The new ones are much better than the originals.

[@f7viivvgiv]

I wish ibanez could have made that guitar a set neck

[@rapiststan5272]

Edges out the dinky by a hair??? Blows it out of the water. Ibanez has been the benchmark for all the custom guitars builds and Luthiers. And the edge bridge is the crème de la crème, even above the floyd rose original (have played both). Both are on par on stability but the edge's degisn and ergos are way superior.