Ibanez Paul Stanley Signature PS120SP Electric Guitar Review

The Ibanez Paul Stanley Signature PS120SP electric guitar is a stunning instrument that combines style, playability, and versatility to deliver an exceptional playing experience. Designed in collaboration with the legendary KISS guitarist and frontman, this guitar boasts a unique look and sound that is unmistakably Paul Stanley. In this in-depth review, we will explore the features, specifications, and overall performance of the PS120SP, giving you all the information you need to decide if this is the right guitar for you.

Design and Aesthetics

The first thing you will notice about the Ibanez PS120SP is its striking appearance. The guitar features a sleek, single-cutaway body that is reminiscent of the classic Les Paul shape. The body is made from mahogany, providing a warm and resonant tone, while the top is crafted from maple, adding brightness and clarity to the overall sound. The guitar’s standout feature is its stunning Silver Sparkle finish, which is sure to turn heads and make a statement on stage.

The PS120SP also boasts a set-in, three-piece mahogany and maple neck, designed for optimal stability and sustain. The neck is topped with a bound ebony fretboard, adorned with 22 medium frets and Paul Stanley’s iconic split-block inlays. The inlays are made from acrylic and abalone, creating a beautiful contrast against the dark ebony fretboard.

The headstock of the PS120SP features the classic Ibanez design, complete with a silver sparkle finish and a distinctive Paul Stanley mirror logo. The guitar is equipped with chrome hardware, including die-cast tuners and a Full Tune III bridge and tailpiece, ensuring tuning stability and precise intonation.

Electronics and Sound

When it comes to electronics, the Ibanez PS120SP doesn’t disappoint. The guitar is loaded with a pair of Seymour Duncan pickups – a Custom 5 at the bridge and a ’59 model at the neck. These pickups offer a versatile range of tones, from smooth, warm cleans to aggressive, high-gain distortion.

The Custom 5 bridge pickup is known for its powerful midrange and tight low end, making it perfect for hard rock and heavy metal styles. The ’59 neck pickup, on the other hand, delivers a more vintage sound, with a warm, full tone that’s ideal for blues and classic rock. The combination of these two pickups allows the PS120SP to cover a wide range of musical genres with ease.

The guitar’s controls are simple yet effective, featuring a three-way pickup selector switch, a master volume control, and a master tone control. The volume and tone knobs are finished in chrome, adding an extra touch of elegance to the instrument’s overall design.

Playability

In terms of playability, the Ibanez PS120SP is designed with the performing guitarist in mind. The set-in neck construction provides a comfortable feel and excellent access to the upper frets, while the smooth ebony fretboard facilitates fast and effortless playing.

The medium frets are well-dressed and evenly spaced, ensuring accurate intonation and allowing for easy string bending and vibrato. The guitar’s slim neck profile is comfortable for players of all hand sizes, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced players alike.

The Full Tune III bridge and tailpiece provide excellent tuning stability and allow for easy adjustments to suit your preferred string action and intonation. The die-cast tuners are smooth and precise, ensuring that your guitar stays in tune throughout your performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Unique and eye-catching design
Versatile range of tones thanks to the Seymour Duncan pickups
Excellent playability and comfort
Quality construction and materials
Good value for money

Cons:

Silver sparkle finish may not appeal to everyone
Some players may prefer a more traditional Les Paul-style control layout

Conclusion

The Ibanez Paul Stanley Signature PS120SP electric guitar is an impressive instrument that offers a unique design, versatile sound, and excellent playability. Its combination of quality materials, top-notch construction, and attention to detail make it a great investment for guitarists of all skill levels.

Whether you’re a fan of Paul Stanley and KISS or simply looking for a reliable and stylish electric guitar, the PS120SP is definitely worth considering. With its exceptional performance and striking appearance, this guitar is sure to make a lasting impression on stage and in the studio.