The Ibanez JEM & RG: A Short History

[@StevenSiroVai1]

What a fantastic video. Thanks so much Keith. I found it fascinating as it unravelled info that I was unaware of. I very much appreciate the time and care you put into this. Steve Vai

[@fivewattworld]

Hey Steve, Glad you liked it. I figure you’re the ultimate “fact checker” on this one. Thanks for checking it out!

[@StevenSiroVai1]

@@fivewattworld Right on. As far as facts go, you pretty much nailed it. Just a few little things perhaps. I don't believe Frank ever really worked with a guitar company. He had a lab under the studio where his brother-in-law, Midget Sloatman, would tear apart Franks guitars and do all sorts of things with them. That's when I realiZed you don't have to play a standard guitar. The idea to scallop the last 4 frets was actually inspired by Billy Sheehan. He had that on his basses. Later, just a few years ago, I started slightly scalloping the whole neck on some of my guitars. My buddy Joe Despagni spelled his company "Jem". That's where I got the spelling from. But these facts are relatively inconsequential. You got the gist and more. Thanks again.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks for the clarification. The misspelling on the "Jem" name came out of the Ibanez book actually. I had it correct in the first draft. Ah, well. That moment at NAMM had to be one for the books. Wish I was there for that. Thanks again.

[@4ofwands]

Now I want one!

[@leedemkiw6085]

Very impressed with the amount of knowledge you have poured into your videos. I pretty much learn something new with each one.

[@RickBeato]

Awesome Hypes! Once again half of what I know about Ibanez I learned in the last 20 mins. Thanks dude!🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@guybolt]

Hey Rick, I love that you take the time to watch and comment on other videos

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Hypes!

[@umbertoyltp]

For me there are three important youtubers on guitar and music history: Rick Beato Five Watt World Trogly's Guitar Show (daily videos!).

[@guybolt]

@@umbertoyltp Paul Davids? Early Music Sources?

[@umbertoyltp]

@@guybolt I mentioned these three mainly for their historical value. I am subscibed to Paul Davids for his teachings.

[@BarryMoeCraig]

I was on that first David Lee Roth tour. I worked as a guitar tech for Frank Hannon of Tesla. I remember during one load in, Vai’s tech Elwood Francis, put skateboard trucks on the back of one of Vai’s axes. He was riding it around backstage. Elwood was a hoot. Elwood was actually Joe Perry’s tech but was moonlighting for Vai. He later became ZZ Top’s tech and has since taken the spot of bass player, after Dusty passed. Oh, the glory days of youth.

[@mlwilliam213]

So Ibanez and Vai were able to come up with their own original guitar in such a short time, while John Mayer and PRS took years to come up with a strat with a PRS headstock.

[@bondalero0074]

My exact thoughts! Why leave fender strat when you have your own $3k model?#Lol@mlwilliam213

[@joshuajkoplin]

It has a pointer so you know if your tone knob is on 7 vs 8 😂😂😂😂l😂😂😂😂

[@Bryce.-.]

Ok

[@funkster007]

I guess because Vai already knew what he wanted. Meanwhile, Mayer still doesn't know. LOL

[@daemonspudguy]

As far as I know, the guitar was basically done in 2015 and took so long to come out because it needed to be tinkered.

[@davidgood6744]

I’m not even that interested in the Jem or the RG, but, as usual, I learned a boatload of guitar lore and see where those models fit into our world. I hoist my newly acquired Five Watt World coffee mug to you, sir.

[@1ListerofSmeg]

I concur in general. What I'm really struggling with is: Is it wrong of me to WANT a mug? Knowing perfectly well that I don't NEED a mug..

[@whaguitars8783]

I agree. I dig the Ibanez S Series guitars. But these JEM bodies are just plain ugly.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks David!

[@fivewattworld]

Only you can answer the want/need questions "Lister". I need to look into Patreon or something like it so the shirts and mugs don't pile up in a corner of your music room.

[@shaunw9270]

Exactly David ! I'm not a fan of these guitars personally but I enjoy learning the history of all the guitars and their players and who did what etc . It's cool Steve Vai himself even commented and added some more information! I won't pretend to know much about him or his records but I just thought that was really nice of him.

[@observinghumanity3034]

I was a young teen just starting to play guitar when the Jem came onto the scene. I desperately wanted one, but at that age could never afford one, and my parents could not afford to buy me one either. Fast forward to 2017 and the release of the 30th anniversary LNG Jem777 and I finally got that guitar of my childhood dreams and I play the shit out of it and love every minute of it. I am not a collector, so to me it was about having a guitar that I dreamed about when I was starting my guitar player journey.

[@funkster007]

I couldn't even afford an RG550 in '87. lol

[@jamiemccabe6322]

I relate to that and about to get the jem7v big difference I just loved the guitar and vai Satriani and others only been playing a few months now but I must have a jem

[@ianedmonds9191]

@@jamiemccabe6322 I spent my UK student loan on an RG570 and a Boss ME6 in 1992. All of it. £715. Damn I was radical back then. I gave away the ME6 in the late 2010s to a guitarist in the band I was in. The RG570 is still hung on my wall and I play it all the time. It's still a fantastic guitar and still the fastest neck I've ever played on. I've got a PRS Custom now as well and the RG570 is still better than it in terms of playability though the Custom is probably the more flexible guitar in terms of tones... RG570 in Purple Neon is still the guitar I love the most though. Luv and Peace. Edit (than)

[@jamiemccabe6322]

@@ianedmonds9191 cheers man hope I’m still playing and a good level years down the line

[@And1slash]

I know the feeling of when you get the guitar you always wanted my main guitar I always wanted was a RG 550 in DSY and a 1987 model though I settled for a white 1991 model and it was worth the 15 years of waiting

[@ebathurst9216]

Can’t wait for “The Ibanez PIA: A SHORT History”

[@naegleriafowleri1715]

Probably the ugliest “jem” ever made, they discontinued all the japanese models and left this flamboyant guitar lol

[@matthewbehrle4428]

@@naegleriafowleri1715 but who cares? It’s Steve’s style and it’s HIS signature guitar, not the public’s. It’s not like the other jems just up and disappeared, you can still buy one and Steve is probably going to continue using his jems like the evo or woody

[@naegleriafowleri1715]

@@matthewbehrle4428 they did disappear lol he discontinued all the made in japan jems except tbe pia

[@chickenlegs28porkchops94]

Pia is the name of his wife so he probably named it after her and the beautiful of the guitar on her looks maybe.🤔

[@kellylee5842]

@@chickenlegs28porkchops94 I don't I do not necessarily like the Pia then again he is an artist maybe he's just evolving and changing his taste

[@FloridaManMatty]

9:59 - “The fingerboard was scalloped, something he borrowed from Malmsteen”. Minor correction, Keith - Vai actually got the idea to scallop those last four frets from Billy Sheehan, with whom he had worked when he was with David Lee Roth. Everything else was spot on! Except you still can’t pronounce “Yngwie Malmsteen” to save your life 😂. As a nearly 30 year Ibanez Jem and Vai fanboy, I can personally certify that this video is VERY accurate and hits all of the high points. You even got the photo of the right Maxxas that Hoshino sent to Vai for Christmas! Solid work!

[@fivewattworld]

You know, everytime I put Malmsteen in a script I just shake my head.

[@fvr08]

The first electric guitarist to use a scalloped fretboard on a popular recording is someone Jeff Beck called ‘the best guitarist alive’: John Mclaughlin. John used a scalloped fretboard on his groundbreaking albums with the fusion band Mahavishnu Orchestra (a Gibson ES-345) as well as his Indian-influenced band Shakti (an Abe Wechter-built 13 string built from a Gibson J-200). Mclaughlin used the scalloped fretboard for those unique Eastern bends straight down towards the fingerboard wood. The next big player who used one was the great Ritchie Blackmore, from Deep Purple and later, Rainbow. Ritchie, who knew Mclaughlin, was influenced by the lute music of the British Isles. His exciting style used mostly single notes played very fast, mixed in with wild bluesy bends. His scallops were a little different as they were deeper towards the next higher fret and virtually nonexistent under the larger strings. These asymmetrical scallops helped Ritchie achieve his big bends and wild cello-like vibrato. Yngwie Malmsteen is the one many guitarists today associate with a scalloped fretboard. His playing was influenced by Baroque violin and cello playing, and helps him obtain a similar vibrato. Being a big fan of Ritchie Blackmore helped too. (Source www.seymourduncan.com/blog/the-players-room/unleashing-the-mysteries-of-a-scalloped-fingerboard) (y)

[@glenkepic3208]

@@fvr08 Nice bit about John. He used that ES guitar to great effect on what is now my favorite release from him "Electric Guitarist".

[@fivewattworld]

Well Mathew, you got this right. Steve Vai commented and clarified this point for us all. There you go.

[@FloridaManMatty]

five watt world At the risk of coming off like a know it all internet keyboard commando, I think I can help with Yngwie’s name. It’s silly to try to pronounce it like a native Swede, but the Americanized version is so close as to make nearly no difference at all. It took me a few attempts to get it right too, so don’t feel bad. Just pronounce his first name “Ing-Vay”. Malm rhymes with “palm”, so just try “Ing-Vay Malm-steen” From now on, every time I watch one of your videos, regardless of whether it’s the first time I’ve seen or or the twentieth, every time you butcher Yngwie’s name, I’m probably going to giggle out loud. That admission would be a lot funnier if you knew what I looked like and could imagine that visage giggling... Anyway, I absolutely LOVE this channel and how you manage to present my two favorite things: Guitars and history. If you ever need a bonafide backup guitar nerd to assist with research, writing, or editing, I’m your nerd! *Will work for fun*

[@paulcoleman3081]

These Short Histories aren't getting any better, Keith. But that's because the whole series started off as close to perfect as you can be and you've maintained the standard throughout. Essential KZbin.

[@wreams2964]

*thought we really had them in the first half*

[@dougcook7507]

Phenomenal video. I bought my first RG in 1992. Was a 1990 (still new in store) RG570 in Neon Purple. This led to many future Ibanez guitars being owned. I have one of the early JEMs, a Voyager (sign by Red), and even a Universe. But, always went back to the RG570. The other slowly got sold off in the coming years as I got married and kids came along. By 1999 I had sold off everything except the RG570. By the end of the year it too was gone and I had nothing left. The whole that guitar left in my soul was huge, and when eBay was getting big, I continually looked for and RG570 in neon purple to maybe buy to have another. I divorced and remarried, my second wife (and current) knew I wanted to play again, and bought me a newer RG421. I slowly bought a couple more used ones, all while still looking for an RG570 neon purple. They would appear regularly, but were usually higher than I wanted to pay, and also would be snatched up fast, being an early Fujigen product. Then one night, on a normal search for the RG570, two popped up. Looked at the first one, and it was in nice shape, but was a bit pricey. The second one I looked into, it was priced good, but just a bit more than I had for expendable cash. I looked over the pictures and something looked familiar, a toggle, between the knobs. Just like my original I had modded. I looked closer, in great detail at all the images. I knew of three chips/dings that I had on my original, first one...yup...it was there on the lower horn...second one...yup there it was by the rear of the jack...and lastly the bigger chip from a mic stand impacting it at a show I played...yup...there it was. Could this be my original...I looked where it was being sold, from a store that was withing 30 minutes of the guy I sold it to. Calling up my mother in law, and telling her the story about it, in hopes I could maybe borrow the money I was short. By the time I got off the phone, it was marked as sold...my heart dropped. The next day my mother in law called me to tell me it would be delivered to her house in 3 days. Those were some of the longest day of my life. Eventually it arrived and I opened it up. Everything looked right, but how to verify it 100%. I called the original store I bought it from, a small (very small) store in my childhood home town. Asking them if they could help me out, they said it would be extremely hard to find the bill of sale, I told them I could give them a 7 day window of the orginal purchase date, to which they said they would try. The next day the phone rang, they had found the bill of sale, with the serial number...one by one the numbers matched...verifying this was my original guitar. It never had a name, which was uncommon for my guitars back in the day, but now...I call if F8...Fate...because its was fate that is was to be mine again. I hangs on my wall along with my other Ibanez guitar now, and it still is my go to guitar.

[@joshoptical]

There is no doubt they bet the farm on the JEM & RG models. They had to have retooled entirely to make these especially in the quantities they pushed. IMO one of the great bets of guitar marketing history, and maybe beyond.

[@MikeW-u4z]

I still have my 1975 Ibanez Flash my grandmother bought for me in 1976 two weeks before she unexpectedly passed away. I have always loved the way Ibanez guitars played. Thank you for putting together this expose’ on Ibanez RG guitars.

[@TryingYourLvck]

I remember it was 2005-06, skipping band class every chance I had to go to Guitar Center. I saw this epic looking guitar. Affordable too. It was a RG. I grabbed it and it felt so amazing. I fell in love. I saved some money with the small part time I had, and turned out they had sold out and also no longer produced them anymore. They released more RG's but none captured my attention like the one I saw. Ended up with a Les Paul instead that I only used twice .. later in 2016, went into a pawn shop and saw the exact model I wanted. Bought it for $150. Still have it. And also a Prestige Model now. Love all my guitars but all my Ibanez especially the RG's are my favorites. Also still have that Les Paul alongside another one.

[@saarangnarayan123]

Which one was it?

[@LucasLeCompteMusic]

The older MIJ RG550 etc are are still great to this day!

[@markcatron8996]

Of all the guitars I own and have owned, My Ibanez RG-570 that I picked up in 1991 is still my baby, It'll never leave my collection. I still enjoy playing it today as much as I enjoyed back in early 90's.

[@devlieg72]

I've never had an Ibenez guitar. But I've got two Ibenez bowl back mandolins that were built in the early and late 1960s. They are both still great players.

[@Bruce.t.thomas]

Bought my first RG last summer after being a long time Ibanez player: first band rehearsal I brought it to my other guitarist offered to buy it on the spot because he had always wanted an RG to add to his collection. That guitar is still mine and it's a workhorse.

[@Lacquerhead-TX]

My wife and I have watched Andy Timmons playing around the Dallas area for years. He always leaves time to meet the fans after the show, which we certainly appreciate.

[@Barbarapape]

At last i now have all the history of the Jem and RG, i used to be a Fender buyer, but never liked their necks due to my small hands, then a friend suggested trying an Jem / RG. i now have a Jem and 2 RG's, fantastic guitars that sound as good as any fender even playing clean.

[@michalmikolajmaslowski3994]

Thank you, Keith. An entirely different cup of tea, but made with such a pazazz! Blessings!

[@wesleyzimmerman94]

My first guitar wasn't an Ibanez but the first one I ever paid for myself was a GIO and I don't think any amount of money could make me part ways with it. It holds a place in my heart since it was the first guitar I ever bought and was what kicked me into my Ibanez addiction

[@prophez23]

Great video! I have a RG560 and the crown jewel of my collection is my 1988 JEM 77FP I've had for 26 years. It's the best playing guitar I've ever owned and I've owned more than I can even remember. Ibanez is really hard to beat in my opinion. But every different guitar has it's place and sometimes you need something different for that particular sound so really it's what you love and need that matters most but it's nice to be able to be able to have an instrument you can count on and is built the best it could be and Ibanez kills it on that.

[@LeoTorresGuitar]

Yeeeees! You made my Saturday.

[@RavnerRavner]

This is the greatest channel for guitar players who are cleaning their houses. I love this channel.

[@freddieellis8449]

I have an RG in bright yellow. It was the last guitar sold by a music store in my hometown before they closed down. It was quite sad because I had done my high school work experience in that store. But at least I have a memento to remember the place! RIP Pool’s Music, Grimsby, UK! Gone but not forgotten!

[@ThePedroDB]

"...a follower, a copier, no longer'. I love that line. I've watched this video many, many times and I always find that inspiring. Thanks for a fantastic summary of Jem history, Keith. Keep up the great work! I was a latecomer to Jem ownership. I got my first in 2012 and then realised what I had been missing. I now own 12 different Jems, an AT10P and a couple of RGs. I also own the same White Universe 7 string you show in the video. Not quite a complete collection but all great guitars. There's still time for more...

[@careycummings9999]

I've been waiting for this one Keith! The JEM is my "forever guitar", and I finally got a 1995 JEM 777 in Desert Yellow last year. Like a vintage car, it only comes out on special occasions, or when I'm feeling extra shreddy. It's surprisingly not as easy to play as my trusty Jackson Reverse Dinky, but it definitely has a feel all its own and sounds just amazing. One tidbit you forgot to mention was the JEM 2K DNA, which featured some of Steve's blood in the actual swirl paint job. Talk about innovation ;)

[@7VSF-SR72-OA-X33]

Hell yeah! Still rocking several RG's all these decades later! Can't beat those late 80's/early 90's Fujigen plant 470's/550's/570's! Best all around Guitars, great to mod, fix and very versatile machines. Owned 70+ Guitars since starting and always had at least two in arms reach.

[@greekfreak1980]

One thing to add: The design of the JEM was heavily influenced by Steve Vai´s "Green Meanie", which was originally a Charvel San Dimas superstrat, that Vai modded extensively over the years. Among other things, he had the cutaway widened for better upper fret access, scalloped the neck and had the H-S-H pickups with the 5-way blade switching installed by DiMarzio. All things that ended up in the design of the JEM.

[@MartyV666]

Another great documentary of one of my favorite brands. Thank you.

[@norlynclick6824]

For so many years and many guitars i always considered myself a 'vintage' / classic styles guitar guy (Gibson/Fender). But after a 15 yr hiatus from playing i found myself drawn to these models and hence to this video. I was a senior in high school when they were released and even though they are now considered 'classics' i will always consider them very cutting edge. Thanks for the video.

[@ZajibGherici]

What a great video, for all of us ibanez amateurs and for the instruments and music industry history. This is the kind of Channels we have to help grow. I’ve playing guitar for 16 years, all the way in the beginning when I had the chance to have an RG in my hands right away I knew this is the type of guitar that I need, I played around with the cheap ones rg350 rg370 Rg420 for few years, and saved money with what I earned playing with these for to finally be able to buy one of my dreams, the Jem77brmr the bad horsie edition which is a GEM! that was one hell of a guitar, few years later I switched to Js1000 cause I always thought the neck would suit my hands better, but in the end i prefer way better the wizard and super wizard necks, so I took me about 16 years of playing to realise and be sure that for my hands it’s the Rg prestige and the Jem. The ideal compromise for me would be a Jem with satch dimarzio pickups PAFPRO and FRED, or a js1000 body with these pickups and a Jem neck. Not sure anyone will read my comment though 😂 but as musician and even a human being, my story is that ibanez is really part of my life, even half of my life literally since I’ve spent the second 16 years of my life playing on Rg’s and Jem’s Musically yours

[@DarttheLegend]

I am so pleasantly surprised you covered this. now a Jackson soloist episode doesn't seem like a pipe dream anymore!

[@bigsauce1116]

I shared this channel with everyone I know. Seriously deserves more attention.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Joe. We’re growing, thanks for the help man!

[@BluesCast]

Bravo! loved this Short Ibanez history episode. Though I play my various American guitars more often today. I still own my early 90's Black RG550 and Desert Yellow RG550. In 87 I was 20 and didn't have the scratch to pick up the Jem so settled for the next best thing, the RG550.

[@kevinwilson1124]

Back in 92, i bought a candy apple red RG750. It was so nice, just a wonderful guitar. Then, in late 93, i actually won a brand new Universe 7 string in a raffle. It was the black with fluorescent green knobs and pickups. The case was incredible too, rectangle with bright pink padded fuzz. I could have slept in it! Like most young guitarists, they got traded off for other gear. Today, the original Universe I had is a collectors item.

[@SolamenteVees]

Keith makes a topic that’s not typically in my wheelhouse interesting enough that I’m now perusing the Ibanez website 😉 Came for the Tele, Strat, Champ- stayed for the Jem.

[@fordhammie]

I'm grateful for youtube shows like this 5WATT!

[@beepboop974]

this series is excellent, im an amateur luthier and these are my gospel.

[@simongordonx]

Thanks for the video chap👌 I am an Ibanez man Got a 1982 Artist, which was and still is Magical And an RG550, which was my professional work horse from 1988. Had an Iceman.... that went walking. These guitars are brilliant and have and still do serve me well. 🖖 Live long and party

[@recordatron]

Really fallen down the rabbit hole with these videos. The way you deliver them is really pleasing to listen to and the videos are really well researched. You've definitely earned a sub 🙌

[@fivewattworld]

Welcome to five watt world recordatron!

[@MattosMaul]

I went into a music store back when I was 14 and saw for the first time the Jem desert yellow model in this video, but alas I did not have that kind of money to buy one. Then at 19 at another music store I saw a second hand RG560 hanging on the wall which I fell in love with and still have it to this day, now I'm 47. Though it has always been a dream to walk into a store now, and see an old Jem desert yellow hanging there for me to buy. Though out of all the guitars I have owned over the years no neck has ever been as thin and shred tastic as the Rg560 of mine. Love the channel, this was a really good video, enjoyed it very much :)

[@pops71]

Here’s my Ibanez JEM/RG Story: I was 16 the summer of 1987 when the JEM released and my most often visited (to play the “Look at all the bad @$$ licks I learned” game) Ibanez dealer Thoroughbred Music had a LNG777 Jem #137 (if my memory serves) that I wanted sooooo bad. There was one dude, Chris Knoth I dealt with all the time. He was a great player and didn’t have to sell me to hard on that Jem. They had 90 day “Lay-A-Way” with only 10% down. I scraped up the requisite $178.00 and plunked it down on Chris Knoths counter for the dream guitar. I was pretty faithful dropping cash on that guitar every week. I had seen Chris a few times already in the middle of August when I came in to pay down my balance. I overheard Knoth talking to one of the other guys about going to see Steve Vai at the Eat ‘em and Smile dress rehearsal. When it came time to pay out I asked him what was up conversation? He told me that David Lee Roth’s dad was a Dr in Lakeland and he was doing dress rehearsals at the Lakeland Civic Center before the tour started and tonight was the last night. Ibanez was making sure Thoroughbred was taken care of since they had sold so much gear. The light bulb went off and I reminded him that I was the holder of the Jem777, #137 how about getting me in. He said wait a minute, got on the phone, came and got my ticket, pointed to my last name for my approval as he talked and waked back and forth on the phone. He hung up and said, “OK your in, go to the will call window, tell them who you are and there’ll be a ticket with your name on it. Oh and make sure you bring your ID”. Sure enough, the ticket was their, and the show was there and I got to meet Mr Vai and have been a total Jem/RG guy ever since. I even made my living dealing primarily in Ibanez RG parts on e-Bay for a couple of years.

[@Henrique_Henriques]

Great Story!!!

[@anthonycrudo2728]

Yes, I remember Chris and Thoroughbred very well. I started going there in 1977 when they had that little hole in the wall shop by USF. Let's see, they sold me a Medallion Flying V ($400), a 1968 ($400) and a 1969 Les Paul Standard($475), a Floral Pattern Jem ($700) and even a first year RG555 ($175) - all used of course. I sold the V, the FP Jem and the RG555 but still have the 2 Gibsons. I bought a bunch of other stuff but it is all a blur now. Chris was like my drug dealer back then...but for guitars. I haven't heard Chris's name is decades. It' seems like a small world sometimes

[@groovetrain5756]

Always quality content. I love this channel. Have a great weekend ladies and gentledudes 🤘

[@LiesThatBind]

Loved it! I'm an Ibanez fan and your short history of Ibanez video was fascinating. Great job!

[@AllenWilliams25]

I have always wanted a ibanez when i was 11 yrs old. I am now i proud owner of a ibanez RG series 320fm from Japan. Im loving this amber color with flame maple top.😌

[@gtr1952]

That was outstanding Keith! As an old blues guy, I've never seen or had an Ibanez in my hands, and new very little about them. I do now, thanks to you! Hope you and yours are safe and well! --gary

[@raulperez2308]

man you might wanna try a blazer, they're basically more compact strats, pretty awesome

[@svenkaahedgerg3425]

I've been playing blues too since I started playing in -86. Stratocaster. Try the Ibanez az premium 22 frets. Solid, sturdy and can take a fierce playing style. I switched from fender last year because it was like it was a strat designed for my way of playing. I locked the term with a piece of wood and put a 011 standard set on.

[@markfleming8438]

In 1974, I bought my 2nd guitar; an Ibanez SG. It was SO GOOD! It was on the rack next to a Gibson SG and the Ibanez blew the Gibson away. It played so much better and looked cooler too. I had that guitar until the mid 80s when I sold it. I kick myself every day now for the last 20 years. I would do anything to get my old SG back. She was my darling. It would also be worth a butt-load today too. Today, my Ibanez collection has grown with a few Jems and 4 RG's. I've played a lot of guitars but Ibanez has always felt better in my hands. I have Strats, Gibsons and a Carvin DC series (awesome guitar in its own right) and a few PRS's. I always come back to my Ibanez's.

[@justinhamilton9381]

My initial thought was ‘how much can there really be to say about the Jem?’ As usual you delivered a thoroughly researched video that kept me fascinated the whole way through and gave me a new appreciation for the subject. Way to go Keith!!

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Justin.

[@kambion]

My man, any episode that you mention Meshuggah and Korn in deserves all of my upvotes. Also, I just bought a mint UV777P from late 97, basically first or second run.

[@sammyrabon7736]

I’m a fender guy but I thoroughly enjoyed this Keith. Another Home Run.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Sammy, I’m sort of right there with you..,but it’s a great story and Steve’s a great guy.

[@adamrichards2072]

Also a fender guy. Have a custom shop strat. Still use my j craft rg though and gets that 2 and 4 position sound spot on. Definitely worth a try if you're into it.

[@MrClassicmetal]

What a _great_ video, utterly fascinating. 👍🏼 With the JEM model the timing was just right. Sometimes a little luck helps. Because although Vai's popularity was increasing at the time due to Crossroads and the DLR band, he _really_ became a superstar and household name right after the introduction of the JEM. Ibanez picked the right guitarist at the right time. And the rest is history!🙂

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

Great review! It's Fujigen (hard G, as in "get").

[@HakusW140]

Fantastic. Filled in many gaps in my Ibanez knowledge. Thank you for This!

[@fprintf]

I bought an RG570 when it first came out. I had no interest in metal and if I'd done my research would have probably been happier with a plain old Strat to play my 3-chord punk/alternative. But I still have that guitar 30 years later. It isn't worth much but it represents more than 30 years of this intermediate plunking around on electric guitars so I don't get rid of it.

[@markrogers7304]

Not worth much, lol...you need to check reverb on current prices. My 1991 rg570 purple color changing is around $1000 now. I paid $130 for it in 2000. My 1990 rg570 jewel blue is worth about $800-$1000 now and I paid $50 for it in 1993...lol They really jumped up in last couple years.

[@fprintf]

@@markrogers7304 Thanks for the info, I had no idea. I need to sell it then. I've never been happy with it and would likely prefer a Tele or Strat anyway.

[@markrogers7304]

@@fprintf now would definitely be the time. Guitar sales new and used have increased a lot in the past year,its even caused a shortage. Plus the prices of currently made in Japan guitars are up there too. If I had the cash now I'd offer to buy it.

[@markaochoa2017]

I have recently found a love for the gem. Perfect timing!

[@mister_syre]

Been playing an RG for the last 16 years and I tried a lot of other guitars in the meantime, ending up selling all of them and reverting to my good old RG.

[@greglivo]

Thanks again for another one of your straightforward, no nonsense, informational gear videos. It is absolutely crazy in the United States right now (early June 2020), but your videos have provided me with a much needed moment of peace while watching during my lunchbreak at work. Incidentally, I met Head from Korn after a show a few years ago and he is a truly caring person and born-again Christian. He said a prayer for me for my stepmother that was nearing the end of her battle with cancer.

[@buffalo7163]

Thank you for this video. Fujigen’s “ge” is supposed to be pronounced like guess’s “gue.” Anyways, I bought white JEM in 1996 when I was living in Japan. I still have it.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks for the help on the pronunciation man.

[@andreyvanakoff9412]

I'm a happy owner of RG521Genesis. In the neck pickup (3.5mm), i have Gibson Les Paul and Fender between Tele and Strat (on a coil split). At the bridge (2.2mm) i have shredder/rock/metal machine called Ibanez. The most comfortable guitar. The best build quality, 11/10.

[@kevin7rxxx346]

I first noticed Vai as the Devils minion that takes in Lighting Boy in the movie Crossroads and I’ve bern a fan since 🤘🏼

[@svenkaahedgerg3425]

Same here 🤘

[@richardlasner7653]

Keith- I always enjoy your videos. Insightful and really solid info. I was the head designer at Ibanez during the Jem/RG period and everything in your video is correct. I was the guy at Steve's house when he disassembled the Jem protos right in front of me. Definitely a clench-worthy moment! Hats off to the team we had- Bill Reim, Bill Cummiskey, Mace Bailey, Leon Reddell (who painted the protos), myself and the great Fritz Katoh (Hoshino Gakki) and Nick Sugimoto (Fujigen). And of course Steve. Thanks again for a great series!

[@fivewattworld]

Hi Richard! Wow, so glad you got to fact check this for me. Steve commented that the video had filled in some gaps for him in the story. I just did built it from every book and interview I could find of course. Thanks also for adding all the names you have above. I love it when the community fills in the gaps of what I could find.

[@richardlasner7653]

I appreciate your diligence in getting correct info and working hard to get the stories as straight as possible. Great stuff.

[@GoodVolition]

Ibanez's in general were of great quality. Their necks are my favorite. Dangerously thin. I noticed around 2014 or 2015 the quality kind of went down a bit. The Artcores are my preferred ES-335 variants beating out the Epiphone Dots.

[@pdy666]

A couple of years ago I picked up a used Ibanez Artcore Custom AS103 from 2011/2012. Its SOOO nice.

[@glenkepic3208]

I've had a SB AS73 for over 10 years now. Its great !

[@misterknightowlandco]

Quality is going down on all gear these days. I think these companies have realized that the market has changed. It's no longer a majority of players being working musicians but basement/garage players who don't need the quality or ruggedness just a good price point. It's sad really.

[@victorformosa2825]

I have the artcore A75, its a very good guitar for such a low cost.

[@andersf324]

Yeah. I do have an AS73 that I got for free and the fit and finish is great and plays beautifully after I benched it. PUs are good but will need to replace the rest of the electronics.

[@gloriouspeanut]

My first electric guitar was an RG 220 B my dad bought for me in a pawn shop when I was 16. Over the years, I've taken it apart and relegated it to a dusty corner of my rack as I've gone from a more "heavy metal" to "indie" style in the music I enjoy, but while I've sometimes been frustrated by the lower-end components, the quality and workmanship continue to amaze me. The fit of the neck into the body belie the low cost of the guitar, and the rosewood fretboard has aged beautifully despite my neglect. I'm currently re-assembling it with a few tweaks and look forward to rediscovering the joy of my first forays into the world of rock guitar.

[@1ListerofSmeg]

Thanks Keith, Personally, I'm a huge fan of mid/early 80s Roadstars(II). I consider them the grandfathers of the gem lol.

[@iamanovercomer3253]

I'm a Fender guy all the way. Love my strat and my next 🎸 is a professional 2 telecaster Miami Blue. Well like a kid in a candy store ( music store) . I checked out an Ibanez prestige 2200 and I love the way the guitar feels ( I have checked out Gibson, PRS and didn't get a feel for them) . I was pleasantly surprised and I will get this guitar also ‼️👍

[@brownwrench]

Vai used the 7 string on "Slip of the Tongue" with Whitesnake.

[@gregguepy763]

When the RG came out my world was flipped upside down. I would visit this music store almost daily and stare at the RG550s and Jems. My parents co-signed a loan for me for one of their rare late 80's USA custom shop models, I was hooked. I've gone more traditional on the past years, but I find myself craving a high end RG again. Amazing guitars.

[@Kreln1221]

*It's ironic that the Jem has become more iconic and far more successful than the Barretta, the guitar that inspired Ibanez to say, "We need a rockstar to do for us what Eddie Van Halen has done for Kramer..." In all honesty, that's a good thing though. I was never a fan of one pickup, 22 fret guitars... The three pickup 24 fret Jem, who's bridge can pull sharp as well as push flat, is a far more versatile instrument... Basically, the Jem can do everything the Barretta can, but the Barretta can't do everything the Jem can do... The only minor exception being that the Jem's Edge Floyd is free floating, while the original Floyd on the Barretta, being dive only with a hard stop, does provide a bit more bridge stability, which helps for tuning stability when palm muting, using double stops, going to Drop D, etc..., but with the addition of one of several tremolo stabilizers that are available on the market to a Jem, then even that one small advantage is removed...*

[@kospandx]

A Baretta most definitely isn't dive-only. Kramer didn't add recessed tremolos until late 1987, after the JEM was introduced, but even before that you could pull the Floyd Rose up (to be honest, a recessed Floyd Rose has more to say for fine-tuning the height of the action and removing the need for neck shims than it does for the ability to pull up). If you've looked at Eddie's guitars, he would add a coin under the Floyds in order to make them dive-only. A more substantial difference is the slanting of the pickup. This hasn't been a long-term winner, but if can help to warm your tone, though at the expense of tightness.

[@mmpatriot2170]

Thanks for that history of Ibanez. I learned a lot. The first guitar I acquired was a “lawsuit” thin line Tele, that I bought used in 1982. Still have it.

[@michaelbashford2733]

I swear by RG's. I have 4 electric guitars and 3 of them are RG's.

[@jeffjfindley4802]

This was actually among the most interesting episodes of this series. Well done ya maniac!!!

[@truckercowboyed2638]

How about another metal head brand. Do a history on Jackson or Schecter!!

[@arlumlightfinger]

I've been following Ibanez since the mid '80s and everything from that time forward in this video is dead on. So now it's 2020 and I still have my 1989 RG550 and a 2002 JEM DBK. I really enjoyed this video. Thank You five watt world.

[@firewalker6712]

Great! Next you should do Eddie's Ernie Ball Music Man and Wolfgang guitars.

[@Knightmare-gz9ls]

The entire Wolfgang series would be cool. The Ernie ball, peavey, and the new evh

[@avgjoegat8126]

I was thinking the same thing but covering his guitar's evolution

[@firewalker6712]

@@avgjoegat8126 Yeah he could do all of them.

[@Malum09]

Ernie Ball Music Man would be interesting

[@glenkepic3208]

I don't listen to shred much anymore (let alone play it ;) but as the owner of two IBZ's (pre S/N RR Sr and AS 73) I knew I needed to see this. Fascinating!!! Great work once again, Keith !! Got my day off to a great start.

[@mariogamutan6513]

Should it be Ibanez be pronounced as " ee BA nyez " since the name is derived from a Spanish name?

[@WizardOfArc]

The image of Salvador Ibañez name definitely has the ñ.... so maybe it should be?

[@zachthomas7810]

English speakers usually just say “eye-bun-ez”

[@toneseeker4968]

I thought Ibanez guitars are a Japanese company... not a Spanish company...

[@SlimeyGuitarStrings]

@@toneseeker4968 That is explained in the video. They were originally built in Spain by someone whose surname was Ibanez but they shifted production factories in Japan and kept the name.

[@SlimeyGuitarStrings]

Depends on who you talk to, my Hispanic friends pronounce it correctly, but they are the only ones. I just use the Americanized name because it's what I grew up thinking the name was and change is hard. Also people don't always know what you're talking about.

[@CommonInsider]

My first real guitar that my parents bought for me in 3rd grade was an Ibanez RG320, it's bright transparant yellow with a beautiful flame maple veneer. I learned nearly everything I know about playing and working on guitars because of that instrument. It's been nearly 2 decades now, I of course still have it in the stable with a few other nice instruments and it remains one of my favorite and most important guitars in to me and to my playing. Thanks for this video Keith, like all of them, it was a great one!

[@Flyingcybersec]

New FWW day, and Led Zep releasing celebration day. Is this a dream?

[@moabt.frican7163]

@Chris Huntington yes it is and its also a wet dream

[@cnelsonmusic]

My first guitar was an Ibanez starter pack that I got for a birthday, around 2001. It featured an RG-style model, and many players mentioned in this video inspired me, and a lot of things here bring me back to that time! The nostalgia is strong with this video, looking at the Jem & RG models! Mine didn't end up making me play like Steve, but it did start me down a long and perpetually rewarding path I'm still walking today. Always love these videos; thanks for posting!

[@mikel8367]

A Vai fan over 30 years and an Ibanez fan since then. Thanks for this informative video. I really enjoyed it.

[@maxdatsun]

I was buying one this weekend and this has got me more hyped.

[@paul_domici]

This is so Amazing!!! I had no Idea the name Ibanez was from Spain! And of course I bought a RG Ibanez in 87! I couldn't afford the GEM! And my RG is still amazing!!! Thank you for this History!!!

[@2122banks]

YES YES thank you so much for this I've been waiting for this video 👍🖤💜💚I've been a Ibanez fan ever since I heard Joe flying in a blue dream and Steve passion and warfare. My first Ibanez that I bought was a deep dark red with a mirror faceplate reverse headstock I believe it was the 450. I currently own a JS 2000 20-year anniversary silver surfer and and a Rg.

[@DavidHBurkart]

Rewatched this one again Keith, enjoyed it as much today as I did a year ago. There is still nothing like this channel on You Tube. Just a breath away from 200K Subs. Congrats my friend, you deserve it!

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks David

[@stevesmith1712]

Thank you, Keith. Well up to your usual high standard. I'm getting old, and I am a firm Telecaster (and Martin) man, so all this new-fangled stuff from the 80s is news to me. I learnt loads from this video - thanks again. I can certainly echo Leo Torres (above) in saying that a FWW post makes it a good day over here in the UK. Stay safe.

[@fivewattworld]

Well then maybe it's time to do a SH on the D-18? :)

[@stevesmith1712]

@@fivewattworld Or a 000-18? But anything you like - you have a gift for telling stories.

[@I____HonzA____I]

My first guitar was Ibanez Gio RG (grg170dx). I still have it and play some times. Then I bought another RG - rg581. And its perfect guitar for me. I love RGs

[@mugi1550]

I love my Ibanez RG Prestige ( the one with an oak top) . Thank you for your innovation Mr. Vai. You are a living legend. Much thanks and respect.

[@philcoates9157]

These are great videos. I've been playing RGs for decades, currently own 4 and 2 S series... they make me happy

[@christhomas5004]

The JPM100 was my favorite guitar I've ever owned. I traded it in 2003 for a subpar preamp and have regretted it ever since that day. I started with an RG450 DX which I'm restoring at the moment, and own an RG 7 string and love it dearly. The low pro edge is the greatest trem of all time. Thanks for this awesome recap of a great guitar brand.

[@Henrique_Henriques]

This is such a great and informative video. Next time someone asks me about Ibanez guitars I'll just send them this link. I own both an RG 470 and a Jem 555 model. Both 1996 models. Probably the guitars with best responses I've ever played.

[@jrtme]

First, Thanks for doing this. I grew up in Bensalem PA. The U.S. Headquarters of Ibanez. The guitar stores were full of RGs when I was a Teenager. I wanted one so bad in 1987 when they came out. I remember seeing them on the racks. I couldn’t afford them. The RG550 in Desert Sun Yellow. That was the one that got away. I never stopped looking for one when I got money. But... they were never in good shape and the color didn’t look the same as at the store. Until NAMM 2007. The RG 20th Anniversary. They were going to make 1987 of them world wide. I had to have one. Original specs. (cept the neck was now a 5 piece to make it stronger). It was that guitar the 14 year old kid wanted. I had a hard time locating a Desert Sun Yellow one. I settled for a Road Flare Red one. I think I got it from Musicians Friend. It came and I liked it. It was everything I thought it would be. But...... It wasn’t Desert Sun Yellow. One day I took a Subway Ride down to 48th street. I walked into Sam Ash and there it was. Desert Sun Yellow. I played it and somehow it was even better than my Red One. I got the price down a bit and bought it right there. I will never forget that bright yellow case on the Subway. But I had found it. I have had that guitar for 13 Years now. It is still my favorite guitar. (Yes I still have the red one). It is getting due for a fret job. I have never modded it. It is completely stock. I have many other guitars many are much more expensive including my J Custom I bought in Japan. It is such a great sounding guitar. It is my “EVO”.❤️❤️❤️❤️😊

[@rickbennett105]

Bought my 1st RG in 1988. Have 5 now. Absolutely love them. Great video!!

[@grinder2401]

I have an Ibanez RG550LTD (all black with a mirror pickguard) made in Japan by the infamous FugjiGen factory (according to the S/N it's a February 1998 build). It was a gift from my parents when I made it to university after finishing high school. 22 years have passed since then, but I still remember the conversation very vividly: My mom asked me what I 'd like to have for my success and without hesitation I said an electric guitar. "But you already have one" she noted to which I responded "So? That's what I want. Thank you". I was targeting an all white Gibson Explorer with no pickguard, but it was too expensive. I ended up paying a visit to almost all the major music stores in the city centre where I lived at the time trying superstrats when I saw the RG. Immediately fell in love with the Wizard neck and the overall looks. So, I eventually ordered it from my local music shop. As I was getting more and more into heavy music some years later I discovered that Glenn Tipton from Judas Priest (my favourite band) had a Fender Strat with similar looks (black, mirror pickguard). So another reason to love it :) Apparently, I still have the guitar. She's actually next to me together with my ESP Edwards Explorer (yeah I finally got an Explorer :p) and my PRS. Here is a photo of the family: tinyurl.com/ybbq8umk And that's my story with the RG. Thanks for the great video Keith :)

[@youssefkasim7556]

Love the work that was put into making this video.

[@dagthewog6290]

I love this video! I've had an RG for what feels like at least 20 years, maybe longer. Nothing special about it except it is mine. I'm never getting rid of it.

[@dt81819]

Thanks for the video! I'm so blessed to own an Ibanez Steve Vai Signature JEM7V. I love everything about it: the fast neck, the PUs, the Edge bridge, the vine inlays, the weight, etc. In fact since owning it, my Gibson LP Std. hardly sees any playing time. Ibanez did a great job at making this to Steve's recommendations. Thanks Steve and thanks Ibanez!

[@limpindug]

Well you've did it again Keith, you've Had me fixated to another top class video thanks bud hope your well and keep up these great videos. Respect to you.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Willie. Glad you liked it.

[@limpindug]

@@fivewattworld hey bud a need all the help a can get so the education in you videos are moving me from really dumb to ordinary dumb. 😂Thanks.

[@idiaho9601]

This sort of narrative separates the ordinary from excellence. Simply put what a way to bring about one to walk to a music shop in pursuit of an iconic guitar.

[@ianedmonds9191]

I have a purple RG570 from 91 that I bought with my student loan in 92 and it it is my best guitar by a mile. I've played it out a ton and enjoyed that and recorded with it and it's bit beat up now but it still feels like home. Amazing guitar. Now 29 years old and still my favourite guitar. I did replace the bridge pickup with a DiMarzio mulitbucker so I can coil tap the bridge pickup and also have a bit more gain. Fantastic Guitar. Luv and Peace.