Ibanez 2026: Ash gold

I'm still scrutinizing the 2026 Ibanez releases. This year an ash body, gold hardware AZ2204 was introduced. Ibanez continues to offer variations of its existing models, nothing really 'new'. Really unaware there's a strong demand for gold hardware but having an ash body variation is a good move. 

Ibanez should offer more models without the Alter switch option for those of us who are not looking to vary our tone too much. Some of us are content with the conventional tones on offer plus we have other guitars for specific tone manifestation. Anyway, the AZ2204AG is available at Swee Lee for the above listed price.

Pics: Ibanez

CNY deals @ SL

Those of us with bloated, hong bao-filled pockets - Swee Lee has some deals you might be interested in till 1 March.

Pic: SL online store

Minion Friday

Had been playing this for nearly a week. It's one of those scaled down guitars Jackson offers in its Minion Series. I'm not too keen when it comes to guitars of this dimension as they don't hold tuning well & intonation, for most models, are off. However, this Minion proved otherwise so it's something I am happy to own regardless of the numerous skeptical opinions out there.

The guitar was re-set up before play & I re-shimmed the neck pocket to raise things up a bit to address the high action at the upper frets. When it comes to playability, a good set up is everything.

My cousin bought this set of strings for me while he was in Japan. He knows I'm not one to refuse the more affordable end of guitar strings.

Ramadan 2026

Blessed Ramadan greetings to all Muslims friends & blog readers. You were chosen to see this through, it's not mere coincidence. God bless.

Random Anniversary

Loudness / Takasaki fans - this is the ESP 45th Anniversary commemorative Random Star model for your consideration. It looks very raw, almost project-like, especially that asymmetrical headstock outline. I just find the non-locking bridge + locking nut combo to be very eccentric & would only appeal to hardcore fans.

Pic: ESP Japan

Horse

Greetings everyone, the year of the Horse is upon us. Blessings & good health all round - huat ah!!

Come to think of it, every year is the year of the hoarse (in this country). People are slowly but surely getting trampled on by inflation, unaffordable housing (the authorities here now refers to this as attainable housing), immigrant influx & snobbish politicians among others. The economy is ailing but the government wants us to believe otherwise by announcing a budget surplus. Excess here does not translate into a good thing without considering other pertinent factors. Also, do note the pathetic performance of our SGD against the MYR which is a glaring indicator of economic asphyxiation. No offence to our Malaysian friends - we are still friends - just announcing the anxiety in this country which should be addressed (& fixed) but the authorities chose distraction instead. 

Oh well, the year turns regardless of the circumstances. We take care of ourselves first & foremost but don't blame us if we go after those who make our lives miserable.