Ibanez LGB30 Electric Guitar Review
The Ibanez LGB30 is a stunning hollow body electric guitar that has managed to garner a lot of attention among musicians and guitar enthusiasts. This gorgeous instrument is part of the Ibanez Artist Signature series, designed in collaboration with the legendary jazz guitarist George Benson. In this detailed review, we will explore the key features, design, sound quality, and overall performance of the Ibanez LGB30 electric guitar.
Design and Construction
The Ibanez LGB30 boasts a beautiful vintage-style design that pays homage to the classic hollow body guitars of the past. The body is made from high-quality maple, providing a bright and resonant tone. The top, back, and sides feature a stunning flamed maple veneer, which not only adds to the visual appeal but also contributes to the overall tonal characteristics of the instrument.
The guitar features a set-in 3-piece Mahogany/Maple neck with a comfortable profile, making it easy to play for extended periods. The fingerboard is made of bound ebony, adorned with attractive acrylic and abalone block inlays. With 20 medium frets, the LGB30 provides a smooth and effortless playing experience.
The Ibanez LGB30 comes equipped with gold hardware, adding a touch of elegance to its appearance. The ART-1 bridge and Quik Change III tailpiece provide excellent tuning stability and intonation, while the bone nut and Grover tuners ensure precise tuning adjustments.
Electronics and Sound Quality
The heart of the Ibanez LGB30 lies in its electronics. The guitar features two Super 58 Custom humbucking pickups, which are known for their warm, balanced, and articulate sound. These versatile pickups can handle a wide range of musical styles, from jazz and blues to rock and pop.
The controls on the LGB30 are simple yet effective. There are two volume knobs, two tone knobs, and a 3-way pickup selector switch. This setup allows for precise control over the guitar’s tonal characteristics, making it easy to dial in your desired sound.
One of the most notable aspects of the Ibanez LGB30 is its impressive sustain and resonance. The hollow body construction, paired with the high-quality tonewoods, results in a rich and full-bodied tone that can easily fill a room. The guitar also has excellent projection, making it suitable for both live performances and studio recordings.
Playability
The Ibanez LGB30 offers an incredibly comfortable playing experience, thanks to its expertly crafted neck and fingerboard. The slim neck profile and medium frets make it easy to navigate the fretboard, while the set-in neck construction ensures a smooth transition between the neck and body.
The guitar’s action is set low out of the box, making it easy to achieve fast and fluid playing. However, it can be adjusted to suit individual preferences without any issues. The LGB30’s hollow body construction also makes it relatively lightweight, reducing strain on the player’s shoulders and back during long performances.
Versatility
The Ibanez LGB30 is a versatile instrument that can cater to a wide range of musical styles. While it was designed with jazz in mind, it can easily handle blues, rock, pop, and even some heavier genres, thanks to its powerful Super 58 Custom humbuckers. The guitar’s tonal range, combined with its exceptional playability, makes it a popular choice among both amateur and professional musicians.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful vintage-style design
- High-quality tonewoods and construction
- Super 58 Custom humbucking pickups provide a warm and versatile sound
- Excellent playability and comfort
- Suitable for various music genres
Cons:
- Some players may prefer a more modern design
- The price point may be prohibitive for some musicians
Conclusion
The Ibanez LGB30 is a fantastic electric guitar that combines stunning aesthetics with top-notch performance. Its vintage-inspired design, high-quality tonewoods, and versatile electronics make it an excellent choice for musicians of all skill levels and musical styles.
While the price point may be a bit steep for some, the LGB30’s exceptional craftsmanship and sound quality justify the investment. If you’re in the market for a versatile and beautiful hollow body electric guitar, the Ibanez LGB30 is definitely worth considering.
