What is the primary body material of the Ibanez GSR186-PW?

The body is constructed from okoume. This wood is chosen for its lightweight properties, which helps prevent fatigue during long playing sessions.

How many strings does this specific Ibanez model have?

The GSR186-PW is a 6-string electric bass. It typically includes the standard E-A-D-G strings along with a lower B string and a higher C string.

What type of pickups are installed in the GSR186-PW?

It is equipped with Dynamix H pickups. These are humbucking pickups designed to deliver a punchy and tight tone suitable for various styles.

What is the finish of this model?

This specific model comes in a Pearl White (PW) finish. It provides a sleek, modern look that complements the contoured SR body shape.

What wood is used for the fretboard?

The fretboard is made of purpleheart. This material is used for its durability and its ability to add a subtle richness to the instrument's tonal character.

Which bridge is used on the Ibanez GSR186-PW?

The instrument features a B10 bridge. This bridge is designed to ensure solid tuning stability and reliable intonation.

Is the neck design suitable for fast playing?

Yes, the maple neck is designed to be fast-playing. It follows the SR series philosophy of providing a slim and comfortable profile for easier navigation.

What is the typical price range for this bass in the UK?

The typical price range for the Ibanez GSR186-PW is approximately GBP 262. This makes it an entry-level option for the 6-string category.

Does this bass belong to a specific Ibanez product line?

Yes, it is part of the Ibanez Gio series. This series is known for offering the brand's iconic designs at more accessible price points.

What kind of tone can one expect from the GSR186-PW?

The bass delivers a tight, punchy, and smooth tone. The combination of the okoume body and Dynamix H pickups ensures clarity across its wide frequency range.

Is the GSR186-PW a heavy instrument?

No, it is designed to be lightweight. The use of okoume and the thin SR body profile are specifically intended to make it comfortable for extended playing sessions.

How does the GSR186-PW handle tuning stability?

Tuning stability is managed by the B10 bridge and standard Ibanez tuning machines. These components are selected to provide reliable performance for students and intermediate players.

Gear article

Ibanez GSR186-PW 6-String Electric Bass

The Ibanez GSR186-PW is a 6-string electric bass guitar from the Gio series, finished in a distinctive Pearl White. It is designed to provide the ergonomic 'Soundgear' (SR) experience, featuring a lightweight okoume body and a fast-playing maple neck at an accessible price point.

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Overview

The Ibanez GSR186-PW is part of the manufacturer's Gio range, which aims to deliver high-quality specifications for musicians on a budget. As a 6-string instrument, it expands the tonal range of the standard bass guitar, adding both a low B and a high C string. The instrument is characterised by its Pearl White finish and the classic, contoured SR body shape, which is known for its ergonomic comfort and reduced weight.

Design and Construction

The bass features a body crafted from okoume, a tonewood valued for being lightweight yet resonant. This is paired with a bolt-on maple neck, designed for speed and ease of movement across the wide 6-string fretboard. The fingerboard is made from purpleheart, a dense wood that provides structural integrity and a touch of aesthetic elegance. Hardware includes the Ibanez B10 bridge, which is engineered to provide solid tuning stability and efficient vibration transfer from the strings to the body.

Electronics and Sound

At the heart of the GSR186-PW are two Dynamix H pickups. These passive humbucking units are voiced to produce a tight, punchy tone that remains clear even when navigating the extended range of a 6-string instrument. The tonal character is described as smooth and sleek, matching the instrument's visual aesthetic while maintaining enough presence to cut through a mix in various musical genres.

Target Audience and Comparison

This model is primarily suited for bassists looking to transition into extended-range instruments without the significant financial investment typically required for 6-string models. Compared to premium SR series models, the GSR186-PW maintains the iconic 'SR feel'—characterised by thin necks and lightweight bodies—while utilising more cost-effective materials and electronics. It serves as a functional alternative for players who require the versatility of six strings for technical genres or soloing.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary body material of the Ibanez GSR186-PW?: The body is constructed from okoume. This wood is chosen for its lightweight properties, which helps prevent fatigue during long playing sessions.
How many strings does this specific Ibanez model have?: The GSR186-PW is a 6-string electric bass. It typically includes the standard E-A-D-G strings along with a lower B string and a higher C string.
What type of pickups are installed in the GSR186-PW?: It is equipped with Dynamix H pickups. These are humbucking pickups designed to deliver a punchy and tight tone suitable for various styles.
What is the finish of this model?: This specific model comes in a Pearl White (PW) finish. It provides a sleek, modern look that complements the contoured SR body shape.
What wood is used for the fretboard?: The fretboard is made of purpleheart. This material is used for its durability and its ability to add a subtle richness to the instrument's tonal character.
Which bridge is used on the Ibanez GSR186-PW?: The instrument features a B10 bridge. This bridge is designed to ensure solid tuning stability and reliable intonation.
Is the neck design suitable for fast playing?: Yes, the maple neck is designed to be fast-playing. It follows the SR series philosophy of providing a slim and comfortable profile for easier navigation.
What is the typical price range for this bass in the UK?: The typical price range for the Ibanez GSR186-PW is approximately GBP 262. This makes it an entry-level option for the 6-string category.
Does this bass belong to a specific Ibanez product line?: Yes, it is part of the Ibanez Gio series. This series is known for offering the brand's iconic designs at more accessible price points.
What kind of tone can one expect from the GSR186-PW?: The bass delivers a tight, punchy, and smooth tone. The combination of the okoume body and Dynamix H pickups ensures clarity across its wide frequency range.
Is the GSR186-PW a heavy instrument?: No, it is designed to be lightweight. The use of okoume and the thin SR body profile are specifically intended to make it comfortable for extended playing sessions.
How does the GSR186-PW handle tuning stability?: Tuning stability is managed by the B10 bridge and standard Ibanez tuning machines. These components are selected to provide reliable performance for students and intermediate players.