Ibanez April 2026: RGR431

The thing about Ibanez, it does not neglect the more affordable range for the masses. This RGR431 here lists for $629 (in stock at Swee Lee). There's nothing really special about a fixed, bridge RG with a reverse headstock but a closer look reveals a matching poplar burl top for both the body & headstock. Just wish that the finish of this guitar was not black (Ibanez calls it charcoal gray) as this failed to accentuate the burl top. 

Pic: Ibanez

Misha's baritone

This ragged Jackson guitar is a signature baritone for guitarist Misha Mansoor (Periphery). It's referred to as a Surfcaster but we know that's not how a Surfcaster headstock looks like. But it doesn't matter, a signature interpretation lets the endorser dictates how his instrument should look like. If you like the guitar, you just buy it. This one's listed for USD8,999...

Pic: Jackson

SOLAR: S1.6H-RSO

The new SOLAR S1.6H is not just a neck-through model; the neck rear had been satin-ized as depicted above. There are players here who prefer a glossed over body but not the neck. They want the neck to retain the matching hue but dislike that lacquer overcoat as it makes the surface sticky when the fretting hand gets sweaty. Love the fact that the SOLAR fretboard inlay had been darkened to blend into the ebony.

Pic: SOLAR

Mango

PRS is currently doing a limited run of instruments featuring a mango wood top. Mr PRS himself, in a recent dialogue at the launch of this lineup, did not mention any tone-related benefits of this wood type save for the fact that they look good as guitar tops. Waiting for any coconut, durian & perhaps a jackfruit top in time to come should they decide to extend this oriental wood interest.

Pic: PRS

Black Crane

Belated congratulations to Ms Janet & Davis GMC on their official launch of Black Crane guitar store. This unit is located at Level 2, Peninsula Shopping Center, just next to the escalator (Lavanita used to be here).

BC's focus is the offering of boutique Japanese guitars; ESP, Momose & Headway are currently on the list. There will be a selection of pre-loved instruments in the near future. Please visit their webstore: CLICK.

Incantation @ SG

If you enjoyed their 2018 performance & would want to re-live another crushing episode, they will be here mid-year (June). At the time of this posting, tickets are not on sale yet. Updates soon.

Pic: Vent Box