What is the primary body material of the Ibanez GSR 5-string?

The body is constructed from okoume, a lightweight tonewood that helps reduce player fatigue during long sessions.

What type of pickups are installed on this model?

The bass is equipped with Dynamix H pickups, which are designed to provide a punchy and articulate sound across all five strings.

Does this bass have a specific finish name?

Yes, this specific model features a 'Jewel Blue' finish, which gives the instrument a bold and eye-catching appearance.

What material is used for the fretboard?

The fretboard is made from purpleheart, a wood chosen for its durability and its ability to enhance tonal clarity.

How many strings does this GSR model have?

This is a 5-string electric bass, featuring an additional low B string for an extended lower range.

What bridge is used on this Ibanez bass?

The instrument uses an Ibanez B10 bridge, which is intended to provide excellent tuning stability and solid intonation.

Is the neck design suitable for fast playing?

Yes, the maple neck is described as 'fast-playing' and follows Ibanez's tradition of slim, comfortable neck profiles.

What is the typical price range for this instrument?

The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 205, making it an affordable option for entry-level players.

What kind of tone can I expect from the GSR185-JB?

It delivers a punchy, articulate tone that is versatile enough for deep grooves or cutting lead lines.

Who is the Ibanez GSR Series 5-String designed for?

It is designed for players seeking bold low-end power in a comfortable, streamlined, and lightweight package.

How does the purpleheart fretboard affect the sound?

The purpleheart fretboard is intended to add elegance to the instrument while specifically enhancing clarity across the extended range.

Is the body design ergonomic?

Yes, the bass features a sleek, streamlined body design based on the SR series, which is known for its comfort and balance.

Gear article

Ibanez GSR Series 5-String Electric Bass

The Ibanez GSR Series 5-String Electric Bass is a versatile, entry-level instrument featuring an extended range and a sleek Jewel Blue finish. Part of the GIO series, it is designed to offer professional ergonomics and punchy low-end performance at an accessible price point.

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Overview

The Ibanez GSR series, specifically the 5-string model in Jewel Blue (GSR185-JB), is an instrument built for players requiring the extended range of a low B string. It follows the design philosophy of the Ibanez Soundgear (SR) line, prioritising a lightweight body and a slim neck profile. The instrument is finished in a high-gloss Jewel Blue, providing a striking aesthetic suited for various stage environments.

Design and Construction

The bass features a lightweight okoume body, which provides a balanced foundation for the instrument's tone without excessive weight. The neck is crafted from maple, known for its structural stability and fast-playing feel. This is paired with a purpleheart fretboard, a dense wood that adds both visual elegance and tonal clarity to the higher frequencies. The hardware includes a B10 bridge, designed to ensure tuning stability and efficient vibration transfer from the strings to the body.

Electronics and Sound

Equipped with dual Dynamix H pickups, the GSR 5-string delivers a punchy and articulate tone. These pickups are designed to handle the extended low-end frequencies of the fifth string without becoming muddy. The sonic character is versatile, capable of producing deep, foundational grooves as well as cutting lead lines for more technical playing styles.

Target Audience

This instrument is primarily suited for beginner to intermediate players who wish to transition from a four-string to a five-string bass. Its streamlined package and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for those who find traditional basses too heavy or bulky. It is equally appropriate for budget-conscious performers who require a dependable backup instrument for live use.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to traditional four-string models or orchestral string options like the Larsen Cello D or D'Addario Zyex Violin strings, the GSR 5-string offers a specific modern utility. While standard guitar sets like the Ernie Ball M-Steel focus on six-string electrics, this Ibanez model provides the necessary scale and electronics to support lower registers. It offers a more modern, 'sleek' alternative to vintage-style basses, focusing on playability and weight reduction.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary body material of the Ibanez GSR 5-string?: The body is constructed from okoume, a lightweight tonewood that helps reduce player fatigue during long sessions.
What type of pickups are installed on this model?: The bass is equipped with Dynamix H pickups, which are designed to provide a punchy and articulate sound across all five strings.
Does this bass have a specific finish name?: Yes, this specific model features a 'Jewel Blue' finish, which gives the instrument a bold and eye-catching appearance.
What material is used for the fretboard?: The fretboard is made from purpleheart, a wood chosen for its durability and its ability to enhance tonal clarity.
How many strings does this GSR model have?: This is a 5-string electric bass, featuring an additional low B string for an extended lower range.
What bridge is used on this Ibanez bass?: The instrument uses an Ibanez B10 bridge, which is intended to provide excellent tuning stability and solid intonation.
Is the neck design suitable for fast playing?: Yes, the maple neck is described as 'fast-playing' and follows Ibanez's tradition of slim, comfortable neck profiles.
What is the typical price range for this instrument?: The typical price for this model is approximately GBP 205, making it an affordable option for entry-level players.
What kind of tone can I expect from the GSR185-JB?: It delivers a punchy, articulate tone that is versatile enough for deep grooves or cutting lead lines.
Who is the Ibanez GSR Series 5-String designed for?: It is designed for players seeking bold low-end power in a comfortable, streamlined, and lightweight package.
How does the purpleheart fretboard affect the sound?: The purpleheart fretboard is intended to add elegance to the instrument while specifically enhancing clarity across the extended range.
Is the body design ergonomic?: Yes, the bass features a sleek, streamlined body design based on the SR series, which is known for its comfort and balance.