Gear article

Ibanez SR305EDX 5-String Bass Guitar

The Ibanez SR305EDX is a 5-string electric bass guitar from the Soundgear series, designed for modern players seeking versatility and ergonomics. It features a nyatoh body, a 5-piece maple/walnut neck, and specialized Ibanez Custom Electronics with PowerSpan Dual Coil pickups.

Ibanez SR305EDX 5 string Wine Red Frozen Matte
Ibanez SR305EDX 5 string Wine Red Frozen Matte
See live prices

Design and Construction

The Ibanez SR305EDX is built around the classic Soundgear (SR) silhouette, known for its sleek, contoured lines and lightweight profile. The body is crafted from nyatoh, a tonewood chosen for its resonance and manageable weight. A key feature of this model is the 5-piece maple and walnut neck, which provides enhanced stability compared to single-piece designs. This neck is topped with a jatoba fretboard and 24 medium frets, offering two full octaves of range per string.

The Wine Red Frozen Matte finish provides a modern, understated aesthetic, which is complemented by the striking gold hardware, including the Accu-cast B120 bridge. This bridge is designed with wide string slots to accommodate various gauges while maintaining tuning stability and intonation.

Electronics and Sound Character

The sonic capabilities of the SR305EDX are driven by a pair of PowerSpan Dual Coil pickups. These passive pickups are engineered with exposed pole pieces to produce a stronger signal and increased high-frequency response without sacrificing the low end.

To manage these pickups, the bass includes Ibanez Custom Electronics featuring a 3-band EQ. Unique to this system is the 3-way 'Power Tap' switch, which allows players to choose between three distinct tonal modes: * Tap Mode (Single Coil): Provides a punchy, dynamic sound with high clarity. * Series Mode (Humbucking): Delivers a full, warm tone. * Power Tap Mode: Combines the clarity of a single coil with the low-end grit of a humbucker.

Larsen Strings Larsen Cello D String 1/8 Size Medium
Larsen Strings Larsen Cello D String 1/8 Size Medium

Playability and Ergonomics

Consistent with the Ibanez SR series philosophy, the SR305EDX prioritizes player comfort. The slim neck profile and satin finish allow for fast movement across the fretboard, making it suitable for intricate technical styles. The lightweight body reduces physical strain during long performances or practice sessions. The 24-fret layout and deep cutaways ensure easy access to the higher register, supporting a wide variety of playing techniques from fingerstyle to aggressive picking.

Target Audience and Application

The SR305EDX is positioned as a versatile instrument suitable for intermediate to professional players. Its aesthetic and tonal flexibility make it particularly popular among musicians in the hard rock and metal genres. However, the 3-band EQ and Power Tap switch provide enough variety for the bass to function effectively in jazz, pop, and session work where a broad range of textures is required.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the body material of the SR305EDX?
The body is made from nyatoh, a lightweight wood that offers a balanced tonal foundation and increased comfort for long playing sessions.
What type of pickups does this bass use?
It is equipped with PowerSpan Dual Coil pickups, which feature exposed pole pieces for enhanced clarity and high-frequency response.
How many strings does the Ibanez SR305EDX have?
This specific model is a 5-string bass, providing an extended lower range compared to standard 4-string models.
What is the purpose of the 3-way Power Tap switch?
The switch allows you to toggle between Single Coil (Tap), Humbucking (Series), and a hybrid Power Tap mode for diverse tonal options.
What kind of bridge is installed on the SR305EDX?
It features an Accu-cast B120 bridge, which provides stability, easy string changes, and precise intonation adjustment.
What is the neck construction?
The neck is a 5-piece maple and walnut construction, designed for structural rigidity and a smooth playing feel.
How many frets are on the fretboard?
The bass has 24 medium frets, allowing for a full two-octave range on every string.
What is the finish of the hardware?
The SR305EDX features gold hardware, which contrasts with the Wine Red Frozen Matte body finish.
What electronics are included for tone shaping?
The bass includes Ibanez Custom Electronics with a 3-band EQ, allowing for independent control of treble, middle, and bass frequencies.
Is the neck finish glossy or satin?
The neck has a satin finish, which is designed to provide a smoother and faster playing experience by reducing friction.
What wood is used for the fretboard?
The fretboard is made from jatoba, a reddish-brown wood known for producing a rich mid-range and crisp high end.
What genres is this bass best suited for?
While versatile, its aggressive electronics and 5-string range make it particularly well-suited for hard rock and metal, though the EQ allows for use in many other styles.