The Ibanez Iceman was the iconic model for the manufacturer in the mid '70s. It's a clever embodiment of the Les Paul (no hiding this) in a more unrestrained outline. This 2024, the Iceman returns in its 'standard' incarnation as the IC420.
Likes
- playability
- tone (Super 80 pickups are awesome)
- electronics
- overall feel / handling
- price
Dislikes
- unslotted bridge string saddles
- no elbow relief
This IC420 is a likeable guitar from the start. The Chinese craftsmanship is above expectations; no visible flaws except for a minor binding lifting mark at the neck heel (bass side) which is unnoticeable lest you scrutinize the craftsmanship excessively. Every functional feature here works fine; from the tuners to the electronics underlining some standard of dedication at the factory. Two things that makes this Iceman stand out in terms of value-for-money: 1) Playability. One of the best finished necks I've come across, suitable for all manner of playing - chords, taps, legatos. 2) Pickups. The Super 80 is ceramic-based but vintage voiced. This is basically a charged up PAF which conforms to your needs regardless of the genre. On that note, some shredders / metal heads out there might not fancy the rounded neck tone (aka Les Paul woman tone) but it's something an EQ / treble boost unit might cure.
My only beef with the instrument - the bridge saddles are not slotted so if you detune & do not compensate the tension (with thicker gauged strings), intense bends would displace strings. Do not despair, saddle slotting is a user-friendly affair with the proper tools, of course.
Ibanez: Iceman IC420 (bag included)
Availability: Swee Lee Co.
Price: $899
Pic: Ibanez
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