Ibanez 2026: Why bother?

There were a few 'new' acoustic models in the Ibanez 2026 releases. These two are mentioned here because they are available in the stores already. Every year, we see Ibanez churn out non-solid top acoustics, the ALT & TCY models are examples. We can understand how the mere outline of these instruments would heighten the performer's presence & a solid top construction isn't something we can tell visually.

When you consider buying an acoustic guitar, what matters to you - tone, features, playability? When it comes to acoustic, more often than not, the tonal quality plays a very important part in making the guitar desirable. It's meant to be played unplugged & tone is everything. A gaudy finish, an outlandish outline & fancy fretboard inlays, among others, simply cannot save a bad acoustic tone. Yes, Ibanez has other acoustic models in its lineup that offer some immaculate tones this side of Martin & Taylor. However, those are touching the upper midrange price points, ofter beyond the reach of the average Joe. I guess this approach to acoustic guitar offerings work for Ibanez, otherwise they won't continue making visually attractive guitars that sound bland & get away with it.

Pics: Ibanez

ESP 2026: Maverick

I've always loved ESP's MV (Maverick) models for its offset design; yes, it's a subtle offset unlike Fender's Jaguar et al. This year, the ESP version features a control knob. If you wish for that traditional single knob affair, then the LTD version preserves this originality. The other differences we note in the LTD version:

• headstock binding
• SD Hot Rails neck pickup (EPS has the Cool Rails version)
• FR 1000 bridge (FRO for the ESP)
• 24.75" scale length (25.5" for ESP)

Pics: ESP 

ADP

Was trawling cyberspace for prog / fusion instrumentals. Somehow, the algorithms led me to this duo. Collectively, they are known as Angine De Poitrine, individually, they are Khn & Klek & we could somehow tell these are no their real names. K & K are heavily masked up, disguised & liberally esoteric to throw off any interests in getting to know them as human beings. They want you to focus on the music (& maybe showmanship).

This is just one tune from a handful of tunes in their album. Notice how loops were effectively used here & the drums are totally in sync from start to end. This is also an unofficial inspiration to actually use our toes to manipulate pedal knobs while performing live. I can't really categorize this kind of music but it definitely has an intense prog psyche; totally enjoyable regardless of the note / scale choices used. Performance extraordinaire to say the least. 

Pic: ADP

Addy @ Swee Lee

This happened on Saturday, 7 Feb @ Swee Lee (CQ). Prior to the Ibanez Connect event, Swee Lee officially announced the launch of the RG Visions Series which was demo'd by the formidable Addy Rasidi (left). While waiting for the official launch session to take place, Addy played his personal J-Custom guitar (right) & we talked about all things Ibanez. I must tell you that Addy is one of the most talented guitarist here & he's very humble & forthcoming, not the superstar snob with an Ibanez endorsement under his belt. 

Thank you Swee Lee & Yadni (CQ branch) for the invitation & apologies for not seeing through the entire Ibanez Connect event as my medication was due.

Ibanez 2026: SR280

This is new for 2026; it's the Ibanez SR280 bass. Nothing over-the-top, it's downright affordable too. In fact, it's the most affordable SR bass, anything more affordable than this, you have to embrace a GIO. Here's the catch - it's not offered in this country. If you wish for an affordable SR, you have to browse through the 3XX models which are of course, priced above the SR280. Gee, Ibanez...

Pics: Ibanez

What's the FUZZ about?

I'm not a fuzz fan. Don't see myself embracing 'em fuzz pedals & abandoning distortions & drives. Yes, I understand the fact that drives, distortion & fuzzes are the products of signal clipping. The music genre that I'm inclined to, renders some of these clippings unsuitable. So why the FZ-5?

Currently, I'm on a doom itch & nothing supplements doom better than the fuzz. In the mean time, I own fuzz pedals by EHX & Seymour Duncan but my current fav is the RAT pedal. Purists would argue that the RAT is a distortion that sounds fuzzy so it's not a bona fide fuzz unit. Whatever your perspective on the matter, I needed more tone references to finally decide what works best. I still believe BOSS is the standard to beat when it comes to drives, distortions & fuzzes hence the FZ-5 acquisition. Still testing it with some guitars in the mean time.