Chrome & Ice

In addition to Martin Miller, Tom Quayle & Nita Straus getting themselves onto the Ibanez endorsers roster, Ibanez has 2 commemorative signature models this 2018. The highly reflective model you see here is the JS1CR30, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Chrome Boy. The chrome plating was a nightmare to produce with the previous versions (eventual flaking was the bane) but they got it right this time & we know a certain Mr. Satriani is currently very happy with the end product.

Paul Stanley's Iceman is seeing a 40th anniversary incarnation with the PS1DM here- behold the bling. I don't mean to be the party pooper but Mr. Stanley parted ways with the manufacturer along the way so I question the legitimacy of this commemoration (unlike Satch who stayed true to form in terms of endorsement). 

By the time you read this, NAMM 2018 is over & we know that whatever commemorative models Ibanez churned out this year, they were over-shadow by the AZ series debut, backed by the Quayle & Miller show. Heads up, people, it's already Tuesday. 

Black D

I own the standard BOSS DS-1. Yes, that orange pedal that says distortion but not as angry as you'd expect it to be. This black commemorative version is every bit that orange version (still made in Taiwan contrary to popular belief) less the colour difference. I don't hear a difference (tone-wise) between them as some have claimed to have (maybe my hearing is going south due to age). You're paying about $30+/- more for a commemorative colour difference. Done. 😑

P&W anniversary

Guitar dweebs would know this one- Steve Vai's Pasion & Warfare album, one of the landmark releases on planet guitar instrumental.

The Ibanez Universe models you see above are commemorative manifestations marking the album's 25th anniversary. If you missed it, note how the album cover was edited to incorporate one of the guitar's new finish.