Ibanez RG Series RG7421PB Electric Guitar Review
The Ibanez RG series has been a staple in the guitar world since its introduction in 1987, known for its sleek design, playability, and versatile sound. The RG7421PB is a 7-string model from this iconic lineup, offering extended range capabilities, stunning looks, and top-notch performance at an affordable price. In this review, we will take an in-depth look at the features, sound, and overall value of the Ibanez RG7421PB electric guitar.
Design and Aesthetics
The RG7421PB sports the classic Ibanez RG body shape, with its distinctive double-cutaway design, sharp edges, and slim profile. It features a poplar burl top with a beautiful Sapphire Blue Flat finish, giving the guitar a striking appearance that is sure to catch the eye. The body is made of mahogany, providing a warm and resonant tone.
The guitar’s 3-piece maple neck is slim and fast, with a Wizard II-7 profile that is designed for comfort and speed. The neck is bolted on to the body with a solid All Access Neck Joint (AANJ), which allows for easy access to all 24 jumbo frets on the rosewood fingerboard. The frets are well-dressed and feel smooth, ensuring a comfortable playing experience with minimal buzz or dead spots.
The hardware on the RG7421PB is finished in black, adding to the guitar’s sleek aesthetic. It features a fixed Gibraltar Standard II-7 bridge, which offers excellent tuning stability and sustain. The guitar also comes equipped with Ibanez die-cast tuners, which are reliable and precise.
Pickups and Electronics
The RG7421PB comes loaded with a pair of Quantum 7 humbucking pickups, specifically designed by Ibanez to deliver a high-output, aggressive sound that is perfect for modern metal and rock styles. The bridge pickup provides a tight low end with plenty of punch and clarity, while the neck pickup offers a smooth and warm tone that is ideal for lead playing and clean passages.
The guitar’s simple control layout includes a 5-way pickup selector switch, a master volume knob, and a master tone knob. This setup allows for a wide range of tonal options, from searing lead tones to sparkling cleans.
Sound and Performance
The Ibanez RG7421PB is a versatile instrument that can handle a variety of musical styles, but it truly shines in heavier genres such as metal, djent, and progressive rock. The extended range provided by the seventh string allows players to explore lower tunings and create thick, powerful riffs that are not possible on a standard 6-string guitar.
The Quantum 7 pickups deliver a high-output, aggressive sound that can cut through dense mixes with ease. The bridge pickup provides a tight low end and plenty of bite, making it perfect for palm-muted chugging and fast, articulate picking. The neck pickup offers a smoother, warmer tone that is great for fluid lead lines and clean arpeggios. With the 5-way selector switch, players can also experiment with coil-tapping and parallel wiring options, adding even more versatility to the guitar’s sonic capabilities.
The Wizard II-7 neck is slim and comfortable, allowing for fast playing and effortless fretting. The All Access Neck Joint ensures that the higher frets are easily reachable, making this guitar a great choice for shredders and technical players. The jumbo frets also make bending and vibrato a breeze, adding to the overall playability of the instrument.
Value for Money
The Ibanez RG7421PB offers excellent value for its price point. It combines a stunning appearance, solid construction, and versatile sound, making it a great choice for players looking to dive into the world of 7-string guitars without breaking the bank. While there are more expensive models on the market with higher-end features, the RG7421PB provides a fantastic balance of quality and affordability that makes it an attractive option for both beginners and seasoned players.
Final Thoughts
The Ibanez RG7421PB is a powerful and versatile 7-string guitar that delivers top-notch performance at an affordable price. With its striking looks, comfortable neck, and aggressive sound, it is an ideal choice for players looking to explore the extended range capabilities of a 7-string instrument.
Whether you’re a metalhead looking to add some extra low-end growl to your riffs or a progressive rock player searching for new sonic possibilities, the RG7421PB is a fantastic option that is sure to impress. Its combination of quality, playability, and value make it a standout choice in the world of 7-string guitars.
