Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,607

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Discover the Ibanez BTB686SC, a 6-string electric bass designed for the discerning musician at an accessible price. This instrument is a testament to Ibanez's commitment to bridging the gap between boutique quality and affordability. With its Bartolini BH1 pickups and a versatile 3-band EQ, the BTB686SC ensures a dynamic range of tones, from warm lows to crisp highs, accommodating any genre or playing style.

The BTB686SC features a meticulously crafted 5-piece maple and bubinga neck, offering exceptional stability and playability. Its neck-through construction provides remarkable sustain and tonal clarity, allowing every note to resonate with precision. The light ash body is topped with rosewood, adding a touch of elegance and contributing to the bass's overall tonal richness.

What sets this bass apart is its innovative design including a Mono-Rail II bridge, which offers superior string isolation. This unique feature minimizes unwanted vibrations and maximizes clarity between strings, giving each note its own space to shine. Additionally, the Neutrik locking output jack ensures your cable stays securely connected during performances, eliminating the risk of accidental disconnections.

Whether you're laying down complex bass lines or exploring new sonic territories, the Ibanez BTB686SC is a versatile companion that won't compromise on quality or playability. It's a perfect blend of craftsmanship and functionality, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned bassists and those venturing into the world of 6-string bass.

Key Features:

  • 6-string electric bass with boutique quality at an affordable price
  • Bartolini BH1 pickups with 3-band EQ for versatile tone shaping
  • 5-piece maple/bubinga neck for stability and playability
  • Neck-through construction for enhanced sustain
  • Mono-Rail II bridge for superior string separation
  • Neutrik locking output jack for secure cable connection

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model BTB686SC-NTF Bass Workshop
Finish Natural Flat
Year 2014 - 2016
Made In Indonesia
Categories 5- and 6-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Ash
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Color Family Brown, Natural
Finish Style Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Ibanez BTB686SC best suited for?

The Ibanez BTB686SC, with its passive pickups and active preamp, is versatile and well-suited for genres like jazz, rock, and metal, offering a wide tonal range and clarity.

How does the single cutaway design of the Ibanez BTB686SC affect playability?

The single cutaway design of the BTB686SC provides easier access to higher frets, enhancing playability for intricate solos and advanced techniques.

What is the neck profile of the Ibanez BTB686SC like?

The Ibanez BTB686SC features a comfortable, slim neck profile, making it easier to navigate the 6-string setup, ideal for players who require speed and precision.

How does the ash body of the Ibanez BTB686SC influence its sound?

The ash body of the BTB686SC contributes to a balanced tone with clear highs and strong lows, making it suitable for various playing styles and tonal preferences.

Is the Ibanez BTB686SC suitable for beginner bass players?

The Ibanez BTB686SC is more suited for intermediate to advanced players due to its 6-string configuration and active preamp, which may be challenging for beginners.

What type of pickups does the Ibanez BTB686SC have?

The Ibanez BTB686SC is equipped with passive humbucking pickups, providing a warm and full-bodied sound with reduced noise.

Dean Murphy

Dean Murphy

Ibanez BTB 686SC Terra Firma Review - Dean Murphy

Video thumbnail for Ibanez BTB 686SC Terra Firma Review - Dean Murphy by Dean Murphy

Ibanez BTB 686SC Terra Firma Review - Dean Murphy

Dean Murphy

Dean Murphy

Video thumbnail for Ibanez BTB 686sc Demo - Dean Murphy - Well This is Awkward by Dean Murphy

Ibanez BTB 686sc Demo - Dean Murphy - Well This is Awkward

Dean Murphy

Dean Murphy

Video thumbnail for Ibanez BTB686SC Terra Firma Test Drive by Jesse Leonard

Ibanez BTB686SC Terra Firma Test Drive

Jesse Leonard

Jesse Leonard

Video thumbnail for Suona.net Ibanez Bass Workshop BTB686SC-NTF - Terra Firma - 6 corde - Natural Flat by suonatelevision

Suona.net Ibanez Bass Workshop BTB686SC-NTF - Terra Firma - 6 corde - Natural Flat

suonatelevision

suonatelevision

Video thumbnail for Ibanez BTB686SC Terra Firma by Tigran Zhamkochyan

Ibanez BTB686SC Terra Firma

Tigran Zhamkochyan

Tigran Zhamkochyan

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez BTB686SC.

Features and functionality

  • The fretboard is noted to be very wide and flat, which can feel cumbersome even for individuals with larger hands.

    Source
  • Users describe the tone as too dark, even with highs boosted, requiring external EQ adjustments for clarity.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Bartolini soapbar pickups are often considered subpar, with recommendations to swap them for Nordstrand pickups for improved tone.

    Source
  • Owners frequently replace stock BH1 pickups with Bartolini Classic soapbars, noting significant tone improvement.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners describe the bass as extremely comfortable and light, with a versatile range of tones.

    Source
  • Players appreciate the sustain and flexibility of six strings, suggesting a unique tonal experience.

    Source
  • The BTB686SC is celebrated for its remarkable feel and aesthetic appeal, especially among seasoned musicians.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A super low action setup is achievable, enhancing playability, though stock pickups may still underperform.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Some create specific patches in Helix units to compensate for the BTB686SC's darker tone, boosting upper mids and highs.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners note the BTB686SC stays in tune better and feels superior compared to the BTB1606EDTF.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some report initial quality control issues, like problematic necks, though replacements can become favorite instruments.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ibanez Workshop Bass BTB686SC {Review}

bassmusicianmagazine.com

The Ibanez BTB686SC shines with its impressive design and sound quality, making it a dream for 6-string bassists seeking comfort and versatility. Its wide fretboard and 17mm string spacing cater well to those moving from 5-string basses. The neck-through construction and single-cutaway body enhance sustain and playability, while Bartolini pickups and a 3-band EQ offer rich tonal options. Although its wide neck may not suit everyone, for the right player, this bass is a joy to play, effortlessly blending style and functionality. An overall positive addition to any bassist's collection.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
amaury_the_french

Great instrument !

Killer look, killer sound, enormous range of tone. You cannot go wrong with this bass !

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