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Average Price: $900

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$400

$1001+

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Description

The IBANEZ 540R is a quintessential choice for guitarists seeking a blend of classic design and modern performance. This solid body electric guitar is a part of Ibanez's storied line of instruments, known for their sleek aesthetics and versatile sound. Crafted with precision, the 540R offers an ergonomic design that caters to both comfort and playability, making it ideal for both stage and studio settings.

Equipped with IBZ pickups, this guitar delivers a rich tonal palette, perfect for a variety of musical styles, from rock to jazz. The Edge tremolo system ensures smooth and precise pitch modulation, allowing guitarists to experiment with creative expressions without compromising tuning stability. The neck's thin profile supports fast playing techniques, making it a favorite among shredders and soloists.

Whether you're diving into intricate solos or providing rhythmic support, the IBANEZ 540R provides a responsive and dynamic playing experience. Its durable build and quality components mean it's ready to withstand the rigors of both practice and performance sessions.

Key Features:

  • Solid body design for robust sound and durability
  • IBZ pickups for a versatile tonal range
  • Edge tremolo system for precise pitch modulation
  • Thin neck profile for enhanced playability
  • Suitable for a variety of musical styles
  • Ideal for both beginners and seasoned musicians

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model 540R-BB Radius, 540R-BK Radius, 540R-BR Radius, 540R-CA Radius, 540R-CM Radius, 540R-CP Radius, 540R-FB Radius, 540R-JB Radius, 540R-JR Radius, 540R-JW Radius, 540R-PW Radius, 540R-RR Radius, 540R-SK Radius, 540R-WH Radius
Finish Black, Blue Red Burst, Bright Blue Burst, Candy Apple, Coral Mist Metallic, Crystal Pearl, Fountain Blue, Jewel Blue, Jewel Red, Jewel White, Pearl White, Ruby Red, Shocking Pink, White
Year 1987 - 1994
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Blue, Pink, Red, White
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Metallic
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez Radius
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HSS
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez 540R?

The Ibanez 540R features a slim and fast neck profile, making it ideal for players who prefer quick and comfortable access across the fretboard, which is typical of Ibanez's design for shredding and technical playing.

What kind of tones can I expect from the HSS pickup configuration on the Ibanez 540R?

The HSS configuration provides a versatile range of tones, with the humbucker offering powerful and full sounds for rock and metal, while the single-coil pickups deliver crisp and clear tones suitable for blues and funk.

Is the Ibanez 540R suitable for beginners or advanced players?

The Ibanez 540R is well-suited for advanced players due to its high-quality construction, fast neck, and versatile pickup configuration, but it can also be a great choice for beginners seeking a long-term investment in a quality instrument.

How does the tremolo bridge on the Ibanez 540R affect playability?

The tremolo bridge on the Ibanez 540R allows for expressive pitch modulation and dive-bomb effects, enhancing playability for those who enjoy dynamic playing styles and want to experiment with different sounds.

What is the body material of the Ibanez 540R, and how does it affect the sound?

The Ibanez 540R is made from basswood, which is known for its balanced tonal qualities, providing a warm and resonant sound with excellent midrange response, making it versatile for various music genres.

Steve from Boston

Steve from Boston

1988 Ibanez 540R Radius

Video thumbnail for 1988 Ibanez 540R Radius by Steve from Boston

1988 Ibanez 540R Radius

Steve from Boston

Steve from Boston

Video thumbnail for Sunny Baltzi & Santa Fila - Σαν Τα Φύλλα by Sunny Baltzi Fanclub

Sunny Baltzi & Santa Fila - Σαν Τα Φύλλα

Sunny Baltzi Fanclub

Sunny Baltzi Fanclub

Video thumbnail for Ibanez 540R by Yevgeniy Ovod

Ibanez 540R

Yevgeniy Ovod

Yevgeniy Ovod

Video thumbnail for (SOLD) Classic Ibanez 540R demo also known as the 540 Radius by Jason McNamara - JasonVideoMusicTokyo

(SOLD) Classic Ibanez 540R demo also known as the 540 Radius

Jason McNamara - JasonVideoMusicTokyo

Jason McNamara - JasonVideoMusicTokyo

Video thumbnail for SSJ - Evolution of the Ibanez JS (Joe Satriani) Series guitars (540r, JS1, JS900) - Tech Talk/Gear by Six String Joy

SSJ - Evolution of the Ibanez JS (Joe Satriani) Series guitars (540r, JS1, JS900) - Tech Talk/Gear

Six String Joy

Six String Joy

Video thumbnail for Ibanez 540 R In Guitarcollectors by Guitarcollectors

Ibanez 540 R In Guitarcollectors

Guitarcollectors

Guitarcollectors

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about IBANEZ 540R.

Build quality

  • Stock beehive knobs are prone to wear, particularly their rubber rings, affecting durability.

    Source
  • The original Edge tremolo and Dunlop 6505 medium-jumbo frets are standard on the 540R, ensuring high performance and durability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The neck is sensitive to temperature changes, requiring regular checks for neck bow.

    Source
  • A user reported the pickup switch as fragile but easily fixed with rewiring.

    Source

User experience

  • After 3 years of non-use, the guitar only went 10 cents out of tune on each string.

    Source
  • Enthusiasts appreciate the 540R's balance between a modern and understated aesthetic, with many praising its comfortable design free of hard edges.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The "Custom Made" inscription is noted on 1990-1992 models on the 22nd fret.

    Source
  • The 540R features an aerofoil-shaped body, offering a slimmer profile than the RG and a more robust feel than the S series, enhancing comfort and playability.

    Source
  • The 540R's sculpted lower horn and tilted neck joint provide exceptional upper fret access, surpassing many other models in the Ibanez lineup.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A user found the guitar priced between 700-900 USD in good condition, highlighting its value range.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners have replaced the tremolo system with a Tremol-No to improve tuning stability, especially when the original trem shows signs of wear on the knife edges or posts.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Ultra neck on the 540R is slightly thicker than a Wizard neck but thinner than a "Modern C" Strat, offering a unique feel similar to a Charvel neck.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
elias_raptis

IBANEZ 540R

Late 80s, Japan model, with Dimarzio Super Distortion,bridge and FRED neck.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul Gilbert uses IBANEZ 540R

Paul Gilbert

Guitarist

Mr. Big

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Paul Gilbert is seen using an early Ibanez 540R, with individual pickup toggle switches rather than a blade switch.

See how Larry Mitchell uses IBANEZ 540R

Larry Mitchell

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Dreamtheaterforums

Larry Mitchell is pictured playing an Ibanez 540R Radius in an advertisement, as discussed on Dreamtheaterforums.

C

Carla Gillis

Guitarist

Plumtree

...
Verified via YouTube

In clips from this interview Gillis can be seen playing a blue Ibanez 540R. Based on the block inlay on the 21st fret it was most likely made in the early 90s.

See how Raptis Elias uses IBANEZ 540R

Raptis Elias

...
Verified via YouTube

Raptis Elias used the IBANEZ 540R as his main guitar for the band Santa Fila in the mid-1990s, as seen in the video by Sunny Baltzi Fanclub.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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