Inexpensive Ibanez 7-String

[Mr. Moon]

A quick "happy" note:

I just picked up a new Ibanez AX7221-GP 7-string guitar for recording, for only $200.00 + $15.00 shipping. I cannot believe the high-quality of this thing for the money!!

I have been playing guitar for over 20 years, so I'm not hot over my first guitar or anything like that. The action is fantastic and even though it's the first 7-string I've ever owned, it's very easy to play. I've spent the last day working the new scales and putting together some new riffs, ...very nice!

Let's face it, there are better high-end big-buck 7-strings out there, but for the money this thing is great!!

AX7221-GP:
http://www.ibanez.com/guitars/guitar.asp?model=AX7221

I picked up the guitar from here: www.guitarzip.com
They don't have it listed on their web site, but just call them about it. I saw an ad they had on ebay, but I hate ebay so I called them directly. The guitar retails for $499.99 (US) and is currently on sale at Guitar Center (locally, anyways) for $339.00 + tax.

*Note: I do not, have not, and probably will never work for either Ibanez or the guitar shop I got the guitar from. I just want to help fellow musicians find a good deal, 'cuz face it; music gear costs too much!!

Hope this helps!

-Mr. Moon

 

[Cast of Shadows]

Congrats on the new guitar! Welcome to the world of 7 string. One question, are you a player that wanted the 7 string just to go lower, or did you buy it for the extended range (i.e. being able to play music spanning all 7 strings)? I ask because most people I see buying 7 strings are doing more of the Korn thing with them, basically just playing the bottom end. I'm more of a Dream Theater / Steve Vai - type of player and I personally LOVE the extended range my 7 string gives.

Ibanez makes the best. I used to have an Ibanez 7 string RG Prestige guitar but had to sell it for $$ about a year ago. Now I play a sweet Ibanez RG, basically the same guitar, but not the "Prestige" model. Funny thing is, for half the price my new RG is 10 times better than my old Prestige! Go figure!

Once again, congrats on the guitar! Have fun!

Vince LuPone
Guitarist / Songwriter
http://www.castofshadows.com

 

[Mr. Moon]

COS,

Hey! To answer your main question: I guess I got the guitar for both reasons; extended range and for the low-end growl. Ever since I was a young kid cranking up KISS's "Hotter Than Hell" album with the bass cranked up, I've been a lover of the low-end guitar sound and bass (think: Watchin' You!).

I am used to playing in bands/projects as the only guitar player, so I have had to develop my style to cover rhythm and leads, while maitaining a coherent melody during lead breaks... Stylistically speaking, think Tony Iomi vs. Jerry Cantrell, with a smidgen of Ace Frehley thrown in, topped off by the dude from Stone Temple Pilots, whoever he is... Maybe a bit of the Tool guitarist as well... Definitely not too much Brian Johnson or Satch.., I'm into a bit of the minor modes (Ioninan, Phrygian, etc.) but not a super-shred-master like Ingve or anything...

Here is a link to a demo tune I have up now, it's dated but should give you an idea, (war11 has no vocals, war13 does): http://www.soundclick.com/bands/9/mrmoonmusic.htm

I have an old Black 1988 Ibanez Saber (split into S-series and Satch models later due to trademark name issues...) with dual humbuckers, Floyd Rose, etc... Love that guitar!! I've had it since 1988 and I dare say it's not only my FAV, but that I'll probably never get rid of it!!! I've had other Ibanez guitars since then, sold all of them, but I really think Ibanez has one h3ll of a good product.

This 7-string is a lot better than I thought it would be for the money. Neck is good, action good, and it even sounds good. The pickups are kinda hot, but not so hot that the low end gets muddy. I may even keep them!

I s'pose I should get to work now. Peace!

-Mr. Moon