Ibanez (Actually) Made What Fender Wouldn't.

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[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

You forgot to mention the incredibly ergonomic heel joint. Fender acts like their "easy access" heel joint is something special, when all they did is round off one corner of their clunky-ass block joint. The AZ heel joint is stunningly good for a bolt on, and as close to a neck-through as you could ask for.

[@jamesmarciniec4787]

It's not just one corner. It's the whole block. I own an American Ultra Luxe Stratocaster and Ultra Luxe Telecaster

[@mthew6721]

​@@jamesmarciniec4787 he's talking about the rounded off heel on the professional series. The ultra series is definitely closer to the az.

[@jamesmarciniec4787]

@@mthew6721 , thanks for the clarification 👍

[@WildWildWeasel]

Even the freaking Ibanez GIO guitars come with the rounded off heel, same with the basses, my GSR320 has a rounder neck heel.

[@russellzauner]

Fender has that AANJ. It's on the Fender Prophecy basses and Fender Talon guitars. IYKYK

[@obiwanjacobi]

The output jack is positioned to run the cable behind the strap. Makes sense when your wearing a strap.

[@mikehartigan2703]

That was the first thing I thought when I saw it.

[@creggur]

@@dano7690 A right angle wouldn't work with my JEM that had that style output jack. I like it though - aimed perfectly to run behind the strap, and wouldn't pull out if I accidentally stepped on the cable...

[@DDWyss]

Exactly. 👍

[@russellzauner]

I've had acoustic guitars where it was literally in the strap button and that actually worked out real well with straight when sitting and perfectly when using an angled cord standing with a strap. I know it may limit options for people who are using straplocks but it's also an opportunity for them (whoever starts putting straplock jacks in) to design, brand, sell straplocks that work for guitars that have 1/4" jack where the straplock goes, then just add it to the feature set of their higher end guitars (because routing programs, parts list, etc change, it would add cost and no value to do for production mid/low tier models).

[@fuzzymuppet1990]

I've always used straight cables , and i like the reverse input jacks on guitars . It gets the cable out of the way for me when im sitting down, instead of digging into my hip or into my chair or bed

[@wesleyalan9179]

The input jack is made that way for a reason. Its so its in line with the strap so you can wrap the cable around it like alot of people do. I think its a great feature if you're the kind of person that wraps the cable around the strap.

[@0b11000100]

it's an output jack though.

[@Craig52-zq1bt]

Anyone who plays on stage, wraps the cord over the strap pin. Otherwise, it can pull out as you move, making you look like a total noob, not to mention the noise.

[@agirlsname7159]

I actually love input jacks that don't poke into the couch when I'm sitting!

[@lulu5243]

same feeling bro but now im avoiding it by using 90 degree input jacks

[@jamesgalick5278]

My strat doesn’t either.

[@adaamdavis5434]

After he pulls the cable through the strap and then plugs it in he will understand

[@benirodriguez9516]

​@@adaamdavis5434precisely! I was going to write the same. Much better than plugs sticking down, cause they get easily tramped on, and fall out on stage, and putting these thru the strap, creates uncomfortable kink on the cable. Ibanez thought of this!

[@Maktheblade]

I only want them to add a daisy wheel truss rod adjustment at the heel. It's more accessible, you won't damage the wood around the entry hole (giggity), and there's no risk of rounding the edges of the socket.

[@unleashed1966]

“Giggity” 😂😂

[@paulanderson6511]

As an owner of a Fender Pro II Strat (HSS) and a Ibanez AZ2204 Prestige (Hazy Rose) I have to say both are great but the Ibanez is definitely a step up. The necks are similar shape deep C but the roasted maple and stainless frets are a massive upgrade and the heel joint is way better. The Hyperion pickups give me all the Strat warmth and quack I get from the V-Mod II's in the Strat plus 4 more really cool options. I find myself reaching for the Ibanez more than the Strat. Fender needs to step up it's game! You can get these used at a really good price as well.

[@nickfarrow4788]

Bought the Hazy Rose Yesterday. The neck is incredible and the Hyperions are good.

[@jhhag]

This one has Fortunas, not Hyperions. (And a non-recessed bridge cavity, so no floating trem). I've got one. Incredible sustain, waaay better than my MIA Fenders.

[@nickfarrow4788]

@@jhhag yes i was answering to Paul, that like me has the regular 2204. Fortuna are also great, maybe less modern? I love the AZ

[@thefrogking481]

Its perspective. I've played both (owned most of everything). Some guys swear by PRS....its all perspective.

[@valebliz]

@@nickfarrow4788fortuna are slightly less output than hyperions, still more modern and full sounding compared to vintage voiced strat pickups. I like them a lot though.

[@Gitfiddle]

I have this exact model. It’s very very good. I personally think this model is attempting a mass production version of a Suhr Modern mixed with a Strat. The biggest selling points for me are the jumbo SS frets, the satin neck and neck heel, and the low output pickups. This is a one guitar for any gig type instrument.

[@dkobola]

Exactly. They named it AZ bc it can play everything from A to Z and in my experience this is totally true of these guitars.

[@JasonHobbsGuitarist]

Love the paint scheme … with tortoise shell 👍 Totally agree with the “tool”, Fender needs to include one as well. Cool video man!

[@DylanODonnell]

Re: the jack, I've got the TOD10 with the same angled jack and I like it better than a locking jack where you have to click to release. By angling it you can still pull it out raw, but also on stage you don't have to worry about stepping on the lead and pulling it out accidentally. (or doing the old school loop around the strap thing.)

[@cs83]

I absolutely love the Vai-style input jack, to me it makes way more sense than the standard 4:00 jack placement that constantly gets in the way if you're playing sitting down, while not being as visually obtrusive as the Strat football jack.

[@dahmc59]

I did not start off thinking Ibanez would be the main name in my studio, but it is. Jem (w/o bling-bling), Artstar (the first series) semi-hollow, and a 5 string soundgear bass. Still have the pt5 multi eff pedal, too. I did not set out to buy a bunch of Ibanez, yet here I am. A fan.

[@RyanWellsMusic]

I went to a music store a while back to buy a used Gibson ES335 (from the 80s). I had the cash and fully intended to walk out with it; however, they had a 2005 Ibanez JSM100 as well. I shot them out both acoustically and plugged in. The JSM was much more balance and alive sounding. The guy behind the counter even changed the strings on the 335 suggesting they could be dead (reasonable). That didn’t help. I came home with the JSM.

[@jasondorsey7110]

​@@RyanWellsMusicGibsons can be fantastic, but in my experience the japanese are more consistent

[@highstreetjackmusic]

I always love the little compositions in your videos.

[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

A couple points to make: You should mention that this is a Japanese-made Prestige model. It is the only AZ line that comes with stainless frets and a hard case. If you get a Premium version made in Indonesia, it does come with a gig bag, and nickel frets. They are however, still amazing instruments. The much cheaper line of AZs that are made (I believe) in China are not on the same level as the Premium and Prestige versions, both of which have Seymour Duncan pickups.

[@RobertBakerGuitar]

great point I'll pin this comment for peeps to see.

[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

@@RobertBakerGuitar Good deal. Thanks for highlighting the AZ. I have one of the Premium versions with the two SD humbuckers (Hyperion, I believe), and it's just awesome. Definitely a daily driver.

[@metraxray]

All the premiums have stainless steel frets.

[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

@@metraxray You are correct. I feel like that is more recent, maybe? I feel like in the back of my mind remembering them not having stainless when I got mine... Not positive, but thanks for the correction.

[@vmx23]

The standard AZ is also made in Indonesia dude. Tested one when they came out back in 2018

[@BigHairyGuitars]

Such a nice one!!! They really got the necks right on the AG series

[@RobertBakerGuitar]

YES the necks are so awesome. I prefer it to some of the more modern Fender necks

[@travissimpson7829]

*AZ

[@taylormedia1000]

"Historical weight" is a very accurate description, and not one I'd not considered as it relates to a company's mandate of don't fix it if ain't broke, Given my age, I should use that to describe myself

[@weedian710]

Why do I keep watching AZ demos? I have one already 😅 It’s like the perfect guitar.

[@taossmith85]

I have this same one and I'm watching too

[@signal76]

I have the black version, and I'm watching as well.

[@jean-philippemorin1176]

I have 2 fender strats and I am still watching strat videos... Ibanez makes nice instruments. I have had many ibanez basses.

[@bsaj1]

It's for reassurance from an expert... Good decision...

[@impartialobservers7060]

Same - fantastic guitars.

[@koryjames8361]

My Jem has that same input jam placement. It's great for live performances (or standing up in general) because it angles the cable upwards to easily go behind the strap button. Sitting down, it's not the greatest if you place the guitar on your left leg. Then it gets in the way. It's a catch 22. Advantages and disadvantages.

[@joermnyc]

My favorite 2-point trem are those Wilkinson ones where the saddles are the only thing above the bridge plate (the intonation screw just lets the saddles slide back and forth. You’ll find those on Reverends (usually), but I’m sure other brands might use them as well.

[@arthurgonzales4949]

Wow! Crazy nice tones! Also an amazing amount of various tonal options! I didn't expect this!

[@bacongl]

Sounds amazing. Prestige is a thing. I just didn't realize they did a Prestige AZ. I just saw the entry level ones, which are excellent as well. Also the output jack is designed so you can tuck the cable behind the strap. Which everyone already mentioned. But I actually love that feature.

[@KitBasher1]

I’m pretty happy with Ibanez. I started playing a couple of the 1980s era early five strings. There are really super skinny neck and early EMG designed pick ups they made in 1985 and in 1986 before changing headstock and string spacing for the five strings. But these have become my favorite bases to play and they’re approaching the 40 year mark. I like them so much I wish Ivan is with reissue this model.!

[@grandpasmuse]

Thanks for the clean and cool intro. Reminded me of Adrian Legg. Beautiful 😊

[@allengoeddey2719]

You got me at compound neck radius. I don’t have a HSS guitar. Hmmmm going to check these out

[@dahmc59]

before you decide on a pickgaurd, consider a p90 style pickup in neck instead a single strat style. My double is too thick and singles there sound less impressive to me.

[@rmaxtpmx]

@dahmc59 then you need a more appropriate humbucker to match single coil output.

[@allengoeddey2719]

@@dahmc59 I have a strat with two P-90's which I love, and a parts caster with dual humbuckers, and yet another strat (mim) that is all singles. So an HSS would complete the collection. As if a collection of guitars is ever complete.

[@Revelatus]

That thing looks incredible. I love the pick guard which is something I never thought I'd say about a pick guard.

[@charlesg.1207]

Lots of features this year. Was really impressed. HSS, SS frets (what???), the neck and radias, and all the PUP selections, 2 point trem, big fat tires and everything. Would have liked to seen a Gotoh 510 with the more modern saddles, but I get it. Glad they stepped up. Really cool. Great price point too. The jack could have been better designed.

[@southboundguitar]

This year? These are like two years old.

[@RyanWellsMusic]

That's a nice looking "super strat". So much to appreciate here: I like how the volume knob isn't up under the pickup; going sans truss rod cover, just makes sense imo. Also, I wonder if they took cues from Andy Timmons' broken pick gurad, how they are terminating the point of the guard extending into the lower horn early. Lol, like it.

[@DE-GEN-ART]

i had an ibanez GIO that looked like that with the pointier horns like tne RG, or a GEM without the floating trem and a few frets. they been hitting it out of the park for a while

[@miladeisaei82]

I got the Mint green one, with fortuna pickups, i really love it, such a unique sound and stable sensitive system all the way through. Impressive and inspiring,imo!

[@brandontreyborup5179]

Wow! I have always thought you were a great player, but I really love the intro piece you composed. I thought it was super interesting and loved the use of harmonies in the guitar solo. Kudos, sir!

[@creggur]

Had a JEM with that style output jack - I liked it because it was aimed perfectly to run the cable behind the strap. Often wondered why other manufacturers didn't do that to be honest...

[@Scrimshaw_DuBois42]

Charvel uses a similar design on their Dinky models, they basically cut wood off that corner and stuck a regular input jack on it. Which actually means Fender has been making guitars like the AZ for a while haha

[@johnladdsmusic]

My first guitar way back in the 80’s was a Roadstar series…I still have it…it’s built like a tank and rivals any Strat I’ve ever played

[@northy556]

I have a Roadstar II and love it. I wonder if Ibanez will ever do the Roadstar again?

[@pablodebiddlybo3771]

Fujigen gakki. Master craftsmen

[@simonsmith2642]

Those were great road warriors back in the day. Had one in the 90’s

[@afterstars]

I still have an 83 Roadatar II I got in a pawn shop when I was maybe 16. It’s got a Floyd on it and it’s sweet. Have some 4-6k guitars and I always come back to the Roadstar

[@stratfanstl]

My first Strat style guitar was a 1984 Roadstar II purchased new for $279 cuz a $599 Strat was out of reach in HS. I still have it. Still plays great, sounds great and has never had electronic / wiring problems. That generation even had pickups that were like Lace Sensors before those started appearing on the Clapton signature Strat in 1986. Dead quiet. The only thing I don't like about it is that the body has no tummy cut and arm cut tapering. Not quite as comfortable to play. Phenomenal quality instrument.

[@terrycornelius4]

8:00 - I'm pretty sure they made the input jack in that position so it's easier to plug your straight instrument jack in while looping the cable through the strap. Though I do see the annoyances that come with it (setting it on a stand plugged-in for example).

[@bruunm1975]

Love my AZ's... got a Miller AZ in HH and a Indonesian HSS in Topaz Burst (with Suhr pickups). The HSS is my main gigging guitar and stays in tune all might... 4 sets from 60s to current hits, no issues. Love it. Can't wait for Mahogany HSS Miller to be more widely released.

[@toddyrocks]

The input is based on Steve Vais' specs for the Jem. It was, according to him, to stop the lead being pulled out if trod on plus the smaller loop when thread through the strap

[@lordmandalor]

I have 3 RG550s. LOVE them! I do have one of these to for when I travel for work. It is fantastic. I wish they made more left-handed so I could get better colors.

[@ClintCurtis]

Been looking at these for a long time! How's the action setup? I like a straight neck with low action ;)

[@alextorry4057]

I like those kind of input jacks for playing live. The way it angles upwards makes it so if you step on your lead it won't pull out of the guitar. when I was playing in bands I'd always run my lead through the strap to stop that exact thing from happening (especially seeing as we played on small stages that were often cramped for space XD).

[@troykelso]

That output jack is perfect - use a straight cable and run it through your strap when standing, or use a 90-degree cable while sitting. Both ways keep the cable completely out of your way.

[@johnnyrandom100]

the input jack is for use with a strap when you put your lead through it.

[@iamanovercomer3253]

I like the Ibanez AZS PRESTIGE GUITAR. I agree Robert, being a Fender guy, I've tried quite a few different guitars and none of them got my attention, until I picked up an Ibanez AZS Prestige and I was impressed with the guitar ❗️

[@feelmytool]

The Ibanez AZS I have might be the most comfortable neck I’ve ever played. Not only that but the pickups sounds amazing as well.

[@rsuazon]

Ibanez did a great job with the AZ2204N. The new Yamaha Pacifica Pro's are also another good option as it is also MIJ, stainless steel frets and HSS. What I don't get though is that here in Canada the Yamaha is $500 cheaper than the Ibanez, but in the US the Ibanez is $200 cheaper.

[@JacobMoen]

The Pacifica Standard Plus do have stainless frets as well. No compound radiused neck, but the rest of the guitar is equivalent.

[@thelongvirtuesignal8551]

Great video. Wish the Ibanez could do the tele thing where its only neck pup and humbucker bridge split to single (no middle)

[@calebfodor6258]

I had this exact model last summer but returned it. Couldn’t get into the beefier neck and lower output pickups.

[@tns4421]

I have been playing my Ibanez rg standard for many years and it's a keeper. Never thought about a strat Ibanez so thank you!!

[@rudiyantohalim736]

Ibanez AZ at the begining came with SD Hyperion pups, and it's easily become my fav modern guitar from an old school guitar nerd. I also love Lari Basillio's Ibanez AZ with Telecaster shape. 👍👍👍

[@uptownphotography]

Nice job. Looks cool. I am thinking of making one in HO scale. Question please: What did you use mixed with the vinegar. I can't quite make out what you said. Thanks. Phil NYC Area

[@Crunch0123]

The input jack has been like that on JEM series forever. Once you get used to it, it is cool. It is not ugly like in a strat, it does not pop out like in a tele. Its great.

[@bobbusby5058]

the input jack for the chord would be great if you're the type that loops the chord through your strap while playing live. I think thats the intention, I kinda like it for that reason but would annoy me for noodling in general.

[@talbertini83]

I have that exact AZ, color and all. It's my absolute favorite guitar. Super versatile, plays like a dream. I splurged on one for my 40th bday last year and man was it worth every penny.

[@Pj32Sr]

Great to have options

[@ALTDOK667]

...as for the out jack, i would try a right angle plug.

[@BAND-MAID-USA]

And the 2 versions of the AZ-ES models are absolutely incredible too. Got $350. I bought both version HSS and SSS. 2 incredible guitars for less than a Fender Mexico. Both even have roasted necks. And both have the most comfortable heel joints on earth. And the stock pups sound amazing.

[@offbeatbassgear]

Reminds me of my Aerodyne HSS Strat, extremely similar, but with the standard Fender controls.

[@stricknine8623]

Why does every manufacturer insist on putting the closest volume pot RIGHT IN THE WAY of soo many players ? There have been soo many guitars that I was interested in that have this deal breaker condition. It's just ridiculous.

[@JunkfoodZombieGuns]

Some people who like to constantly adjust their volume like it, but I'm with you. It could be a little further away and be both out of the way, and usable for those who fiddle with the knob a lot.

[@stricknine8623]

@@JunkfoodZombieGuns That is EXACTLY what I mean. Thankyou. For some people or perhaps many people,..I just cannot play Fender Strat or Strat style guitars for this reason. They aren't really my thing from a neck feel and certainly not my favorite tone but I do like like the tone would like to own a Strat. Maybe buy one and have the pot re-located I guess..

[@trev3971]

Because we like pinky swells.

[@stricknine8623]

@@trev3971 I wasn't questioning or wondering WHY someone may like it there. Obviously I'm referring to an option to that for the players that the pot is dead in the way and a deal-breaker.

[@joebloe9901]

Amen. I usually throw the tone knob in the dumpster and move the volume to that spot. The rhythm guitarist in my band throws all his knobs away and uses an on/off switch. Volume knobs are almost useless unless you're Jeff Beck....a good amp and good pickups are touch sensitive so playing quiet or loud isn't a problem for me.👍

[@stephenreese9841]

That guitar sounds very good IMHO... the single coils have the classic bell, chime and sparkle, and the humbucker doesn't seem too hot. Thanks for sharing Robert.

[@dlux703]

You are right about the output jack location. You cannot stand the guitar on the floor and lean it against your amp because of that, and even the nice compact 'low' guitar stands I like to use will still result in the cord sticking out where you don't want it. Why couldn't they do the regualar strat style jack in the back of the body?

[@michaelrains64295]

It’s meant to wrap your cable up around your strap like most people connect their guitar anyway.

[@dlux703]

That's obvious, but the inset fender-style jack in the back would do that as well without having the cord sticking out when you want to set down the guitar.. @@michaelrains64295

[@pauloldfield6968]

That's nearly an exact copy of an e series contemporary strat I had back in the 80s even the coil split position and tone and volume knobs

[@TheCjbowman]

The output jack placement is a great feature, in my opinion.

[@Neesavampi]

I have an AZ Es I had a Dimarzio Gravity Storm put in the bridge. Besides my Jiva X2, it's my favorite! Great guitars!

[@jeremyfried5463]

Very dynamic tones.

[@Ramiroocampo]

The input jack placement is for usage with a strap, obviously.

[@kc.88]

I have the AZ2204 and it's my favourite guitar, esp. the neck. Really awesome guitars, strat with modern appointments. The switching system makes it super versatile. I dun mind the output jack, but it does get in the way if you're playing classical style; right angled jacks will help, tho.

[@jacoblendzion2372]

Great video Rob! I’ve never seen one of these but curious if you would consider this over a fender in the same price point?

[@davidnoguera1470]

Thank you for the great content and honest reviews !

[@chrispile3878]

Very nice demo - excellent playing.

[@aspirativemusicproduction2135]

You can run the chord behind your strap so the input jack is actually in a good place if you want to do that.

[@DreidMusicalX]

I hate to say this. But I have owned 3 Fender Strats in my life and I hated every last one of them. Back in 2004 was my last attempt with Fender because they just kept using cheap ass bridges with the 6 screws and a screw in bar that always wiggled. Its was a miracle when they put on the first Floyd Rose with locking nut. I ended up buying that STRAT and then it broke the body because they made them too thin there. I was done! DONE with Fender! And those baseball bat necks. Yuck! That doesn't bother me so much anymore, because no matter the guitar I buy now ill sand the chunk right off to make the neck what I want. But I might go play one of these and check them out. I have the Ibanez RG550 Japan model. Love it!

[@LeonLandgren-qt9pg]

Good for you 7321 ibanez for me.

[@deadstarr7]

the only realy problem the az lineup has currently imo is that if you want the fortuna pickups (more standard output) you have to get a rosewood fretboard and if you wan the hyperion pickups (hotter output) you have to go with a maple fretboard otherwise i love these guitars theyre awesome

[@thefrogking481]

Agree with your thoughts on jack location. Looks like future repairs to me....

[@numbersabcdefg]

I wanted to ask, have you ever done a video on HOW you approach playing a Strat, Les Paul, PRS, etc differently?

[@danz4904]

I don't like the input jack location either. You have to unplug to set it on a guitar stand. Also, I play more often sitting down at home without a guitar strap than I do at gigs. I think it was a poor decision to orient the jack like that. Some folks say it makes it easier to wrap the cord around your strap when gigging. With traditional jack placement you can simply use a cable with a right-angle plug to make the wire easily route towards your strap. So, this awkward new jack orientation isn't really fixing anything and causes more issues.

[@AllanGildea]

Glorious demo, Robert.

[@virginiadeath4507]

Jack position makes it so you can sit on a bed. Potentially kinda cool, for those of us who have had a guitar pretty much posted up on a cable plug and the jack...

[@garrisonic]

Never was much of an Ibanez fan. To me and other players I knew, Ibanez was for beginners who couldn't play a big boy's guitar. Then Steve Vai loaned me a black Vai model from the late 80s and a lime green one from the early 90s and I used them as back ups for my Tom Anderson's. Within a couple of weeks they were often times opening the shows with the TAs playing backup. Fast, articulate and at least the Vai model was definitely not a little boy's guitar.

[@warrenwalker2665]

Awesome, reminds me a tad of Claudio Pertronic...beautifully fluid and warm...

[@BSPotter]

Fender does SS frets on the American Ultra Luxe series. Priced a bit more than this Ibanez series. I have a couple Suhr guitars with SS frets and a bunch of custom specs but the price point is way beyond these Ibanez guitars. Really glad to see SS frets on a guitar in this price range.

[@anmolatwal]

You can find SS frets on harley bentonite these days.

[@BSPotter]

@@anmolatwal ill pass. however Schecter uses SS at an even lower price than this Ibanez series.

[@anmolatwal]

@@BSPotter True.

[@southboundguitar]

Stainless Steel frets aren't all they're cracked up to be. They chew through strings and they're nearly impossible to fix once they're fucked (i.e. filing, recrowning & polishing). That's why Fender still uses Nickle plated on everything they make (except the ones they're trying to sell to the spoiled rich kids whose parents buy them really expensive toys all of the time).

[@valebliz]

@@southboundguitarlol you can work on SS frets easily provided you use the right abrasives, mainly diamond based. Even stew mac sell this stuff today, don’t swallow up every bs lazy luthiers tell you. I personally crowned and polished SS frets on a warmoth neck at home in about an hour.

[@franksmith6871]

Doesn't have stainless steel frets, but Fender did do a lot of these things on a 2014 Fender Stratocaster American Deluxe Strat HSS Shawbucker, including a variety of pickup wiring configurations: BODY •Body Shape: Stratocaster® NECK •Neck Material: Maple •Neck Shape: Modern "C" •Scale Length: 25.5" (648 mm) •Fingerboard Radius: 9.5" to 14" Compound Radius (241 mm-355.6 mm) •Number of Frets: 22 •Fret Size: Medium Jumbo •Nut Material: LSR Roller •Nut Width: 1.685" (42.8 mm) •Truss Rod: Bi-Flex™ ELECTRONICS •Bridge Pickup: Shawbucker Humbucking •Middle Pickup: Noiseless™ N3 Single-Coil Strat •Neck Pickup: Noiseless™ N3 Single-Coil Strat •Controls Master Volume (with S-1™ switch), Tone 1 (Neck Pickup), Tone 2 (Middle and Bridge Pickups; No-Load™ Tone control) •Switching 5-Position Blade and 2-Position Push/Push S-1™, 2-Position Push/Push “Passing Lane” Switch: S-1 Switch Up (Off), Passing Lane Switch (Up) Off: Position 1. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series (Lead Tone Control) Position 2. Middle Pickup and Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup in Parallel (Lead Tone Control) Position 3. Middle Pickup (Lead Tone Control) Position 4. Neck and Middle Pickup in Parallel (Lead and Rhythm Tone Controls) Position 5. Neck Pickup (Rhythm Tone Control) S-1 Switch Down (On): Position 1. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series, and in Series with Middle Pickup (Tone 2.) Position 2. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series, in Series with Middle Pickup. Special Tone Capacitor is in Parallel with Middle Pickup (Tone 2.) Position 3. Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series, in Parallel with Middle Pickup, and in Series with Neck Pickup (Tone 2.) Position 4. Middle Pickup and Neck Pickup in Series, with Special Tone Capacitor in Parallel with Neck Pickup (Tone 1. and Tone 2.) Position 5. Middle Pickup and Neck Pickup in Series (Tone 1.) Passing Lane Switch Down (On): All Positions: Full Bridge Humbucking Pickup with Coils in Series Directly to Output. No No-Load Control, No Tone Control, No Volume Control •Configuration: HSS •Special Electronics: S-1™ Switch, Passing Lane Switch HARDWARE •Bridge 2-Point Deluxe Synchronized Tremolo with Pop-In Arm •Tuning Machines Deluxe Staggered Cast/Sealed Locking •Neck Plate 4-Bolt with Micro-Tilt™ Adjustment MISCELLANEOUS •Strings Fender® USA Bullets® 3250L, NPS, (.009-.042 Gauges) •Other Features Compound Radius Fretboard, New Noiseless™; N3 Strat®; Pickups (Neck/Mid), Shawbucker Humbucking Pickup (bridge) Reconfigured S-1™; Switching, Locking Tuning Machines, Contoured Heel ACCESSORIES •Case/Gig Bag: Hardshell Case •Included Accessories: Hardshell Case, Cable, Strap, Straplocks

[@briankeenan4901]

I've got a 1982 Ibanez Roadstar II series hardtail guitar with phase switch and three typical strat pickups. The plug is in the pickguard. It's quite obvious and a big afterthought . I know I wouldn't like the plug on the one shown by you either. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@Kaisermb1]

I’m a pretty traditional Strat guy but bought an MMN1 because of the list of features and every single MIJ instrument I’ve owned has been legit amazing with exceptional build quality.

[@LatentPoet]

I played one at Sam Ash back in June last year, they play amazing. It's definitely something I didn't expect to like as much as I did, the price point though at $2,000 is pretty high.

[@deadstarr7]

its really not compared to other guitars that are similar for example the prs fiore or silver sky at 2850 and 2750 respectively and honestly the quality is the same. ibanez makes some really great guitars before the fiore went up in price i was in between an az and a fiore (could have gotten them about the same price used at the time) ended up going with the ibanez after playing both

[@kevinmusso2397]

I have the LM-1 version. Love everything about it, but HATE the Jack angle and location 😣

[@geruto17760]

Great playing, Robert. Your playing has taken a great leap ahead.

[@KyleCarrington]

Been watching you for years. I like the guitar. I like your playing on this video even more, very melodic and tasty. As fir the input jack, I'd say it's specifically intended to place your cable over your guitar strap, then into the input jack, while standing. Cheers

[@mj6582]

That's the reason why I bought one. For just about 2k you can get the prestige version from Japan. The finish and quality are great, the components are great, love the bridge, love the roasted neck it feels amazing although a bit too much shoulder for my hand size. And yes stainless frets are so good, still glide like the first day I got the guitar and never polished them once. For the money you get such a great versatile guitar that none of the other big brands offer honestly. Plus I didn't want an RG or S shape so the AZ design is an absolute banger from ibanez, classy yet modern

[@RalphMercuroMusic]

I always thought this was Ibanez' answer to the Classic SuperStrat. Suhr, Anderson, Tyler seem to be the big three boutique brands making those guitars today. Now Ibanez produces two lines at different price points for that market.

[@trystensmith819]

Hey Robert, I purchased your Guitar Rut Buster course and noticed that the tabs section was different than what you explained in the video in the modes section. Just wanted to lyk out of respect. Thank you man, love the videos.

[@picksalot1]

The Pickups sounded good. How stable is the Whammy on Divebombs?

[@bartvschuylenburg]

Really nice guitars. Now you have to test the new top of the line Yamaha Pacifica models as well. Those aim for the same type of guitarist.

[@actuallysilentrob2570]

I agree about disliking the jack location. As others have stated, it's great when using a strap (standing up). However, it gets in the way when sitting down sometimes. Some songs I play require my to tilt the guitar up a little bit to be able to play, such as the solo in Ice Cream Man. When seated, ff I tilt up the guitar, the cord hits by leg and causes the jack to lose contact with the cable. Otherwise, it's a fantastic guitar.

[@DGM-uf3ny]

I've got the tele style AZ and just love it.

[@ksharpe10]

The new pacifica is a Good one to check out too. They put alot of research into, and scientific Measuring methods for where tone chambering needs to be, and with the measuring found out Supposedly that moving the Truss Rod opening from the headstock to the neck heel, Did in Fact According to the measuring Change some of the resonance and Sustain factors. I do not know what type of machine they used for the measuring, some kind of Sonic device.Sweetwater did a video chatting with the creators too, so you probably know the Head guy in that video.

[@psulux]

Hi I play an ibanez RG550 But if memory serves me right There was a Fender 84 ish with white covered pick ups which had a wide fat neck and was nearly there

[@jasonbannan4024]

It looks like that jack configuration might be good for when the cord is going to a wireless unit on your strap. Just a thought...

[@CerealDust-nStuff]

I didn’t know that about the roadhouse deluxe…. I’m gonna check one out!

[@hutchfromba]

I love the stainless steel frets. Wonderful instrument ! Blues On....💙

[@jamesmarciniec4787]

Fender has the American Ultra Luxe Stratocaster HSS with a Floyd Rose and locking nut, stainless steel frets and compound radius neck.

[@garycoraluzzi1166]

Another Great video! Beautiful guitar as well . Thank you!!

[@m0j0b0ne]

I may have to re-evaluate my guitar desires. I'd been meaning to add a shredder axe to my stable, despite I don't shred; I do production music, which requires versatility, and a Stratocaster is my ride or die, for that reason. Well also, my three favorite guitarists are strat wranglers and whammy masters: SRV, Jeff Beck and Adrian Belew, in no particular order. Well, also Jimi but I mean, come ON; Jimi's switch was stuck on God mode. There's so much to love about this design, stuff I've always wanted from a stock Strat; the two-point trem, brass block/saddles, compound radius, locking tuners, roasted neck, stainless frets, bone nut and then there's this wonderful pickup complement/system. Even the oddball output jack makes sense to oldie stage musicians like meself, because I'm threading my cable through the strap, on the way to the wireless transmitter. And if I weren't, it'd still go through the strap, in case I step on the cable, lol. Ibanez, if you're listening, the ONE thing I'd miss is a scaled UP swamp ash body; I'm six feet plus and nigh 300 lbs, and your skinny little suoer strats make me look like I'm playing a toothpick. Even so, you just knocked a David Grissom PRS off the top of my list.

[@CynHicks]

My overall favorite electric has been my favorite since I first got one in around 95. The Ibanez S. I love everything about them. I've only gotten 3 but that's plenty.

[@rmp5s]

Been an Ibanez fanboy since I first started playing and they just KEEP killing it. Love it!!