Gear article
Ibanez AZ24S1F Violin Sunburst
The Ibanez AZ24S1F Violin Sunburst is a versatile electric guitar designed to balance traditional aesthetics with modern performance specifications. It features a roasted maple neck, a flamed maple top, and the dyna-MIX10 switching system, catering to a wide range of musical genres from blues to metal.
See live pricesBackground and Design
The Ibanez AZ24S1F represents an expansion of the AZ series, a line of guitars developed to offer a more traditional look and feel compared to the brand's iconic RG models, while retaining high-performance hardware. The 'Violin Sunburst' finish provides a classic visual appeal, referencing the aesthetics of vintage bowed instruments. The instrument is constructed with a combination of an Alder body and a Flamed Maple top, a pairing known for balancing weight and resonance.
Neck and Playability
One of the standout features of the AZ24S1F is the Roasted Maple neck. The roasting process removes moisture and impurities, resulting in increased stability, durability, and resistance to temperature changes. The neck is paired with a Jatoba fretboard and fitted with jumbo stainless steel frets, which provide a smooth surface for string bending and longevity against wear. The inclusion of the Super All Access Neck Joint is a critical ergonomic feature, allowing the player to reach the highest frets with minimal palm obstruction.
Electronics and Sound Character
The guitar is equipped with Ibanez Modern Custom pickups, designed to deliver a broad frequency response suitable for various styles. The core of its versatility lies in the dyna-MIX10 switching system. This innovative circuit allows the player to access ten distinct sound variations through a combination of humbucking and single-coil tones. By engaging the Alter Switch, players can explore serial and parallel connections that are not typically available on standard five-way selector configurations.
Suitability and Applications
Due to its diverse tonal palette, the AZ24S1F is suited for session musicians and performers who require multiple sounds from a single instrument. The combination of Alder and Maple creates a bright resonance and sustain that serves expressive blues and jazz, while the high-output capabilities of the humbuckers make it equally effective for high-energy rock and metal. The addition of locking machine heads ensures tuning stability, which is essential for professional stage use.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the Ibanez catalogue, the AZ24S1F sits as a feature-rich entry that offers boutique-style appointments, such as the roasted neck and stainless steel frets, at a competitive price point. While specialized instruments like the G4M Solus Electric Violin or Stentor Graduate violins cater to traditional orchestral players, the AZ24S1F is strictly a fretted electric guitar. Compared to other guitars in its price range, it distinguishes itself primarily through the advanced dyna-MIX10 electronics and the ergonomic neck joint design.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary body material of the Ibanez AZ24S1F?
- The guitar features an Alder body, which is a classic choice for balanced tone and sustain. This is topped with a Flamed Maple veneer for enhanced aesthetics and a touch of brightness.
- What are the benefits of the Roasted Maple neck?
- The roasting process increases the wood's stability and resistance to humidity changes. It also enhances the neck's durability, making it less prone to warping over time.
- How does the dyna-MIX10 switching system work?
- It uses a 5-way selector and an 'Alter Switch' to provide ten different pickup combinations. This allows for seamless blending between humbucking and single-coil sounds for maximum versatility.
- What type of frets are installed on the AZ24S1F?
- The guitar is equipped with jumbo stainless steel frets. These are known for their smooth feel during vibrato and their high resistance to wear compared to traditional nickel-silver frets.
- What is the purpose of the Super All Access Neck Joint?
- It is an ergonomic design that carves away the heel area where the neck meets the body. This provides the player with effortless access to the higher frets for soloing.
- What kind of fretboard wood is used?
- The AZ24S1F uses a Jatoba fretboard. Jatoba is a dense hardwood that contributes a rich midrange and crisp high-end response to the guitar's overall sound.
- Are the tuners on this model locking?
- Yes, the guitar comes equipped with locking machine heads. These improve tuning stability and make string changes faster and easier for the player.
- What genres is the AZ24S1F best suited for?
- Because of its versatile pickups and switching, it is suitable for everything from expressive blues to high-energy rock and metal. It is designed to be a 'do-it-all' instrument.
- What pickups are featured in this model?
- It is equipped with Ibanez Modern Custom pickups. These are designed to provide a balanced and clear tone that works well with the dyna-MIX10 system.
- What does the Violin Sunburst finish look like?
- It is a classic sunburst finish that highlights the grain of the flamed maple top. It gives the electric guitar an aesthetic similar to traditional orchestral string instruments.
- Does this guitar come with a case?
- Based on the manufacturer description provided, a case is not explicitly included in the standard package. Buyers should check with specific retailers for bundle options.
- How much does the Ibanez AZ24S1F typically cost?
- The typical price range for this model is approximately £449. This makes it a mid-range instrument offering several premium features like stainless steel frets.
