Ibanez GSR205 5-String Electric Bass Guitar - An In Depth Review

Even the most formative bass player is going to develop the itch. The itch for a big, rich bass sound that can be replicated through a quality amp. His or her sound eats up so much space in the music that there grows a real need for a quality instrument. Add budget concerns, however, and finding a bass that's going to cut it becomes more challenging.

An Ibanez GSR bass guitar is going to scratch that itch and then some. They bring all the sauciness of a standard Soundgear Bass but with a less-demanding price tag. They're also subject to the same rigorous engineering standards and inspection as more expensive Ibanez basses. Every burgeoning player outgrows their first instrument. If your cut-my-teeth 4-string has become beneath you, the Ibanez GSR is one you can afford. More importantly, it'll accompany you nicely on your way to becoming an intermediate player.

The Ibanez GSR features two standard coil pickups and a P-bass split style neck pickup. Both are designated as "high output" and the bass does have sufficient but not excellent versatility. Between the two there's a nice "standard" tone with some flexibility. The rosewood neck sports medium jumbo frets for player friendliness. The GSR's body is cut more aggressively to allow easier access to the higher frets. The bridge has a more forgiving nature to it as well to accommodate newer players.

Where this bass guitar makes a move is with it's ability to handle and clearly reproduce low-end power. Ibanez GSR bass guitars boast the PHAT II active bass boost system on all models. It makes them particularly appealing to rock and metal players as you can dip WAY down without concern. Another note worthy of mention is that the GSR basses are the only entry-level priced line that carries 5 and 6 string models.

Moving your way up to a better quality and more responsive instrument is enjoyable. The Ibanez GSR brings the same sleekness, comfort, tone and playability as the SDGR bass but won't ask as much of your wallet. They're worthy of your sitting down with one, that's for sure.