Ibanez 2026: Ice, ice, baby...

Interesting developments in the Iceman offerings this 2026. A maple fretboard version was added to the lineup. I like it a lot but that black headstock is a poor consideration in terms of aesthetics. Just me, I guess. Iceman basses are also back. The black version features Bartolini pickups while the flame maple counterpart has Nordstrands in there. All instruments are available at Swee Lee less the IC420MFM which is already out of stock. That was fast.

Pics: Ibanez

Ibanez: Fan fretting

Ever since Ibanez set up the Bass Workshop series, ideas have been bold & inviting. This fall, the SRF4405 gives us the wonderful fan fret design (the idea here is to keep intonation in check while having the longer scale option for you to consider those detuned stuff) while keeping good tones in tact (Nordstrand pickups). You'd say that this idea isn't new, the boutique basses have been there & done that but the boutique prices would dent your coffers. The SRFF4505 is from the Prestige range but it won't retail for more than a typical boutique bass albeit in the upper price bracket. Let's just hope it gets here, that's more important.