What body material is used for the Ibanez SR305E?

The Ibanez SR305E features a body made of nyatoh. This wood choice is preferred for its lightweight characteristics and its ability to provide a balanced tonal foundation.

How many strings does this specific model have?

The SR305E is a 5-string bass guitar. The additional fifth string is typically tuned to a low B, providing an extended lower range compared to standard 4-string models.

What is the neck construction of the SR305E?

The neck is a 5-piece construction made of maple and walnut. This multi-ply design is used to increase structural rigidity and prevent warping over time.

What kind of pickups are installed on this bass?

The bass is equipped with PowerSpan Dual Coil (PDC) pickups. These pickups are designed to deliver a high-output signal with enhanced clarity and harmonic detail.

What functions does the 3-way power tap switch provide?

The 3-way switch allows the player to choose between Tap Mode (single coil), Series Mode (humbucking), and Power Tap Mode. Power Tap Mode blends the characteristics of both for a unique, thick yet articulated sound.

What type of bridge is used on the Ibanez SR305E?

This model utilizes the Accu-cast B120 bridge. It features extra-wide slots that can accommodate even heavy string gauges while maintaining tuning stability and intonation.

Does the SR305E have active or passive electronics?

The SR305E features active electronics, specifically the Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ. This system requires a 9V battery to power the onboard pre-amplifier and tone controls.

What is the fretboard material and fret count?

The fretboard is made of jatoba and features 24 medium frets. This combination offers two full octaves per string and a smooth surface for fast playing.

What finish is applied to the neck?

The neck features a satin finish. This provides a smooth, non-stick feel that allows for faster hand movement compared to glossy lacquer finishes.

What color is the hardware on the Deep Ocean Metallic model?

The hardware, including the bridge and tuners, is finished in 'Cosmo Black.' This dark metallic plating complements the Deep Ocean Metallic body color.

Is this bass suitable for metal and hard rock?

Yes, the combination of the PowerSpan pickups and the 3-band EQ makes it highly suitable for aggressive genres. The electronics allow for the mid-scooped or high-gain tones often required in metal and rock.

What is the typical price range for the Ibanez SR305E?

The typical price range for this model is approximately GBP 385. This makes it a competitive mid-range option for players seeking professional features at an accessible price.

Gear article

Ibanez SR305E 5-String Bass (Deep Ocean Metallic)

The Ibanez SR305E is a five-string electric bass guitar from the Soundgear series, designed for modern versatility and ergonomic playability. It features a lightweight nyatoh body, a distinctive five-piece maple and walnut neck, and an active electronics suite including PowerSpan Dual Coil pickups.

See live prices

Design and Build

The SR305E is constructed with a nyatoh body, chosen for its lightweight properties and resonant qualities. The Deep Ocean Metallic finish provides a professional aesthetic, complemented by cosmo black hardware. The instrument is engineered for comfort, featuring the signature slim SR neck profile composed of five pieces of maple and walnut. This multi-piece construction enhances stability while providing a smooth satin finish for rapid movement across the fretboard.

The neck is paired with a jatoba fretboard, which accommodates 24 medium-sized frets. This combination allows for precise intonation and a comfortable action suitable for both complex fingerstyle playing and aggressive picking techniques.

Electronics and Hardware

Central to the SR305E's performance are the PowerSpan Dual Coil (PDC) pickups. These pickups are designed to produce a stronger signal and increased response at higher frequencies without sacrificing the low end. The hardware is rounded out by the Accu-cast B120 bridge, which features extra-wide string slots to accommodate heavy gauges and provides stable tuning and intonation during intense use.

Tonal Control and Versatility

The bass utilizes the Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ, allowing players to sculpt their bass, mid, and treble frequencies independently. A unique feature of this model is the 3-way 'Power Tap' switch, which offers three distinct tonal characters:

Tap Mode (Single Coil): Delivers a punchy, dynamic sound with superior articulation.
Series Mode (Humbucking): Provides a full, warm tone ideal for classic rock or jazz.
Power Tap Mode: Combines the clarity of a single coil with the bottom end of a humbucker, creating a hybrid sound unique to Ibanez electronics.

Target Audience and Application

Due to its extended range and versatile electronics, the SR305E is particularly suited for genres requiring diverse textures, such as hard rock, metal, and fusion. The lightweight body makes it an ideal choice for musicians performing long sets or students who require a manageable five-string instrument. Its price point of approximately £385 positions it as a high-value option for intermediate players or professionals seeking a reliable backup bass.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What body material is used for the Ibanez SR305E?: The Ibanez SR305E features a body made of nyatoh. This wood choice is preferred for its lightweight characteristics and its ability to provide a balanced tonal foundation.
How many strings does this specific model have?: The SR305E is a 5-string bass guitar. The additional fifth string is typically tuned to a low B, providing an extended lower range compared to standard 4-string models.
What is the neck construction of the SR305E?: The neck is a 5-piece construction made of maple and walnut. This multi-ply design is used to increase structural rigidity and prevent warping over time.
What kind of pickups are installed on this bass?: The bass is equipped with PowerSpan Dual Coil (PDC) pickups. These pickups are designed to deliver a high-output signal with enhanced clarity and harmonic detail.
What functions does the 3-way power tap switch provide?: The 3-way switch allows the player to choose between Tap Mode (single coil), Series Mode (humbucking), and Power Tap Mode. Power Tap Mode blends the characteristics of both for a unique, thick yet articulated sound.
What type of bridge is used on the Ibanez SR305E?: This model utilizes the Accu-cast B120 bridge. It features extra-wide slots that can accommodate even heavy string gauges while maintaining tuning stability and intonation.
Does the SR305E have active or passive electronics?: The SR305E features active electronics, specifically the Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ. This system requires a 9V battery to power the onboard pre-amplifier and tone controls.
What is the fretboard material and fret count?: The fretboard is made of jatoba and features 24 medium frets. This combination offers two full octaves per string and a smooth surface for fast playing.
What finish is applied to the neck?: The neck features a satin finish. This provides a smooth, non-stick feel that allows for faster hand movement compared to glossy lacquer finishes.
What color is the hardware on the Deep Ocean Metallic model?: The hardware, including the bridge and tuners, is finished in 'Cosmo Black.' This dark metallic plating complements the Deep Ocean Metallic body color.
Is this bass suitable for metal and hard rock?: Yes, the combination of the PowerSpan pickups and the 3-band EQ makes it highly suitable for aggressive genres. The electronics allow for the mid-scooped or high-gain tones often required in metal and rock.
What is the typical price range for the Ibanez SR305E?: The typical price range for this model is approximately GBP 385. This makes it a competitive mid-range option for players seeking professional features at an accessible price.