Pricing and availability

Average Price: $485

Standard/Professional

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Ibanez BTB550MP Standard is a dynamic fusion of artistry and precision, making it an essential piece for bassists seeking a blend of playability and versatility. Crafted for discerning musicians, this electric bass showcases Ibanez's commitment to delivering high-quality instruments with an edge. Featuring a neck-through-body construction, the BTB550MP offers enhanced sustain and resonance, ensuring each note is clear and impactful. The bass is equipped with custom Bartolini pickups, renowned for their ability to produce a rich, deep tone while maintaining clarity across all frequencies.

The BTB550MP's 5-piece maple and bubinga neck provides stability and a smooth playing experience, allowing for fluid movement across the fretboard. The monorail bridge design further enhances the instrument's tuning stability and minimizes unwanted string vibrations, offering a precise and focused performance. With its 24 medium frets and a scale length that facilitates a wide range of playing styles, this bass is adaptable to various genres, from jazz to rock.

Whether you're laying down a groove in the studio or taking the stage for a live performance, the Ibanez BTB550MP Standard delivers a powerful and nuanced sound that meets the demands of modern bassists.

Key Features:

  • Neck-through-body construction for enhanced sustain
  • Custom Bartolini pickups for rich, clear tone
  • 5-piece maple and bubinga neck for stability
  • Monorail bridge design for improved tuning stability
  • 24 medium frets for versatile playing styles
  • Scale length conducive to various musical genres

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model BTB550MP-CNF Standard, BTB550MP-NTF Standard
Year 2005 - 2007
Made In Korea, Republic of
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Mahogany, Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Brown, Natural, Tan
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Maple, Walnut
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 4-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Series Ibanez Standard
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What kind of tone can I expect from the Ibanez BTB550MP's pickups?

The Ibanez BTB550MP features passive pickups with an active preamp, delivering a versatile tone suitable for various genres. The dual humbucker configuration provides a rich, full sound with enhanced clarity and articulation, ideal for both slap and fingerstyle techniques.

Is the Ibanez BTB550MP suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Ibanez BTB550MP is well-suited for advanced players due to its high-quality construction, versatile tonal options, and 24-fret neck, which allows for extended range and expression across different playing styles.

What is the neck profile of the Ibanez BTB550MP like?

The neck of the Ibanez BTB550MP is made from a combination of maple and walnut, offering a comfortable and smooth playing experience with a slim profile that facilitates fast playing and easy access to all 24 frets.

How does the mahogany and maple body influence the sound of the Ibanez BTB550MP?

The combination of mahogany and maple in the body of the Ibanez BTB550MP contributes to a warm, resonant tone with a balanced midrange and clear highs, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

Does the Ibanez BTB550MP have a double cutaway design, and what are its benefits?

Yes, the Ibanez BTB550MP features a double cutaway design, which provides easier access to the higher frets, making it ideal for solos and complex finger movements across the neck.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez BTB550MP Standard.

Features and functionality

  • The 35" scale and 19mm string spacing of the BTB series are praised for providing a comfortable playing experience and resolving tight spacing issues found in other models.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the BTB series offers a versatile tone palette, especially when using built-in controls, with a clear low end and reduced muddiness compared to other models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BTB series, especially the prestige line, is noted for superior electronics compared to the SR series, addressing issues like flubby low end and bad tension.

    Source
  • While some suggest alternative models like the Spector ReBop 5 or G&L L2500 Tribute, the BTB's unique specs and sound appeal to those seeking specific tonal and spacing improvements over the SR series.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users mention the BTB series as being slightly heavy, though the build quality, including the neck-through design with maple layers, adds clarity and bite.

    Source

Critic Reviews

BTB550MP Review: I play in three bands, two average rock and one folk... | Ibanez | Bass Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Ibanez BTB550MP is a standout midrange bass, drawing praise for its punchy sound and tonal versatility thanks to active electronics and Bartolini pickups. Its maple/mahogany construction provides warm and sustained tones, though the thin finish makes it prone to scratches. Players appreciate the solid reliability and durable build, making it gig-ready without a backup. The action and neck are highly praised, although there's a minor finishing flaw in the wood join. Weighing on the heavier side, it might not be comfortable for long sessions. Despite this, its features and sound quality make it a worthy addition to any bassist's collection.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Ibanez Electric Basses

Ibanez GSR200

$229.99 - $258.00

# 28

Rank

Mike Starr Adam Neely Roger Lima
14 artists using
Ibanez SR505

$777.00 - $845.85

# 46

Rank

Matt Kean Daniel Klossek Jen Majura
11 artists using
Ibanez SR300

$183.94 - $331.00

# 47

Rank

Paul Raven Katherine Cimorelli Arian Rashidi
4 artists using
Ibanez GSRM20

$192.00 - $200.00

# 77

Rank

cavetown Cole Alexander carter c
4 artists using
Ibanez GSR180

$177.25 - $190.00

# 90

Rank

Zubin Sedghi Maxime Solemn Plunkake
4 artists using
Ibanez SR500

$349.00 - $722.00

 
Alex Webster Wilbur Soot Mike D'Antonio
8 artists using
Ibanez SR506

$749.99 - $902.13

 
John Cooper Ivan Munguia Adrian Lambert
4 artists using
Ibanez SR405

$256.79 - $579.99

 
Clay Gober Johnny April Peter Spinazola
3 artists using
Ibanez SR500E

$635.00 - $1,101.48

 
Hettsu Ross Dolan Justin Rissmiller
3 artists using
Ibanez SRF705

$969.00 - $1,099.99

 
Just Leo
1 artist using

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides