Ibanez BTB746 6-String Electric Bass Guitar Review
When it comes to electric bass guitars, few brands have the reputation and history of Ibanez. Founded in 1957, Ibanez has established itself as a leader in the world of guitar manufacturing, consistently producing high-quality instruments designed for both professionals and amateurs alike. One of their latest offerings is the Ibanez BTB746 6-String Electric Bass Guitar, a sleek and powerful instrument that promises to deliver outstanding performance and versatility for any bassist.
In this review, we will delve deep into the features, specifications, and performance of the Ibanez BTB746, providing you with an in-depth analysis of this exceptional 6-string bass guitar.
Design and Construction
The first thing you’ll notice about the Ibanez BTB746 is its striking appearance. Featuring a beautiful, natural flat finish on a multi-layered ash and walnut body, this bass guitar is a visual work of art. The body’s unique shape and contouring provide not only an eye-catching aesthetic but also a comfortable playing experience.
The neck of the BTB746 is crafted from a 5-piece maple and walnut combination, which adds strength and stability while maintaining a smooth and fast playing surface. The neck is bolted onto the body using a Mono-rail V bridge, which enhances sustain and allows for easy intonation adjustments. The fingerboard is made of Jatoba, a dense and durable wood that contributes to the overall tone and feel of the instrument.
Electronics and Hardware
Ibanez has equipped the BTB746 with Bartolini BH2 pickups, which are known for their expansive tonal range and articulate response. These humbucking pickups provide a balanced and dynamic sound, with an emphasis on clarity and precision. The pickups are paired with an Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ, allowing you to fine-tune your tone to perfection. Additionally, the bass guitar features a mid-frequency switch that gives you even more control over your sound.
The hardware on the Ibanez BTB746 is designed to be reliable and long-lasting, with black matte tuning machines and a secure Mono-rail V bridge. The bridge not only enhances sustain but also allows for easy intonation adjustments, ensuring your bass stays in tune and performs at its best.
Playability and Performance
The BTB746’s neck is designed with playability in mind, featuring a smooth and fast playing surface that encourages precision and speed. The 5-piece maple and walnut construction adds strength and stability, while the 24 medium stainless steel frets provide a comfortable and responsive playing experience.
The extended upper horn of the BTB746 provides excellent balance, ensuring that the instrument sits comfortably on your body while playing. This ergonomic design, combined with the lightweight ash and walnut body, make the BTB746 an ideal choice for long practice sessions or gigs.
When it comes to performance, the Ibanez BTB746 truly shines. The Bartolini BH2 pickups deliver a balanced and dynamic sound, with impressive clarity and precision. The 3-band EQ offers a wide range of tonal possibilities, allowing you to shape your sound to suit any musical style or genre. The mid-frequency switch further expands your tonal options, providing additional control over your sound.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful and unique design, featuring a multi-layered ash and walnut body
- Comfortable and fast-playing 5-piece maple and walnut neck
- Bartolini BH2 pickups offer a balanced and dynamic sound
- Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ allows for precise tonal shaping
- High-quality hardware ensures reliability and longevity
Cons:
- The price may be prohibitive for some players, particularly beginners
- A 6-string bass may require an adjustment period for players used to 4 or 5-string instruments
Conclusion
The Ibanez BTB746 6-String Electric Bass Guitar is an outstanding instrument that combines stunning design, exceptional playability, and versatile performance. With its unique body shape, comfortable neck, and powerful electronics, the BTB746 offers bassists a truly inspiring playing experience.
While the price may be on the higher side, the quality and craftsmanship of the Ibanez BTB746 make it a worthwhile investment for serious bassists looking to expand their tonal capabilities and elevate their performance. Whether you’re a professional musician or an aspiring amateur, the Ibanez BTB746 6-String Electric Bass Guitar is a worthy addition to your collection.
