Ibanez 2024 (5): AZ Series

The Ibanez critiques expressed their dismay with the absence of any Prestige / Japanese models in the 2024 lineup. There are at least Premium ones which represent a higher tier of craftsmanship so to speak. I pick this AZ24P1QM as the boldest representative in this release. That quilted maple cap top finished in this green-esque burst (Ibanez calls it the deep ocean blonde) does exude a degree of reverence. Anyway, I noticed the headstocks are now generic black so any neck will be deemed suitable for any body finish. Also, pundits are saying the AZ colours are now more outgoing & less reserved compared to the initial releases.

There's a 7-string in the lineup (AZ427P2QM) which means there's an established demand for 7-string AZs. I don't see too many AZ pros embracing a 7 (maybe Martin Miller is the most prominent amongst them). 

In any case, the Premium AZs are sporting ridiculous prices considering they are not Japanese. I'm not equating the Japenese pedigree to be the deserving criteria for inflated prices but the quality of these instruments might just justify the prices.