Pricing and availability

Average Price: $1,033

High-end/Boutique

$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 Darkstone DN500 is a powerhouse within the world of solid body electric guitars, crafted for musicians who desire a guitar that marries robust construction with articulate sound. Designed with precision, the Tight-Tune bridge and tailpiece ensure unwavering stability, locking each saddle securely into the base plate. This engineering magic not only prevents any unwanted movement but also enhances the transfer of string vibrations, resulting in a guitar that sings with rich, resonant tones.

This guitar's dual PP1 humbuckers offer a dynamic range of soundscapes, characterized by quick response and sparkling clarity. The innovative coil tap push-pull switch brings versatility to your fingertips, allowing you to seamlessly switch between humbucker and single-coil tones for a diverse palette of sonic possibilities. The inset sapele neck and body are not just aesthetically pleasing but also contribute to the powerful sound and remarkable sustain that the DN500 is known for.

Built for both the stage and the studio, the Ibanez Darkstone DN500 is a testament to craftsmanship and innovation, ready to deliver soul-stirring performances every time you pick it up.

Key Features:

  • Tight-Tune bridge and tailpiece for enhanced stability and vibration transfer
  • Dual PP1 humbuckers with tube pole-piece construction
  • Coil tap push-pull switch for humbucker and single-coil versatility
  • Inset sapele neck and body for powerful sound and extended sustain

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model DN500-BK Darkstone, DN500-WH Darkstone
Finish Black, White
Year 2009 - 2012
Made In China
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Black, White
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez Darkstone
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Ibanez Darkstone DN500 pickups?

The DN500 features PP1-B bridge and PP1-N neck humbucker pickups, which provide a quick response and clarity. The coil tap switch allows for a wider tonal range, offering both humbucker warmth and single-coil brightness.

Is the Ibanez Darkstone DN500 suitable for heavy music genres?

Yes, the DN500's solid sapele body, set-neck construction, and humbucker pickups make it well-suited for heavy music genres, providing robust sustain and powerful sound.

How does the coil tap switch on the Ibanez Darkstone DN500 work?

The coil tap switch on the DN500 allows you to split the humbuckers into single-coil mode, giving you additional tonal versatility by switching between the full humbucker sound and a brighter, snappier single-coil tone.

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez Darkstone DN500?

The DN500 features a set-neck construction with a comfortable profile that is designed to facilitate smooth playability, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead guitar playing.

Does the Ibanez Darkstone DN500 have a stable tuning system?

Yes, the DN500 is equipped with an ultra-stable Tight-Tune bridge and tailpiece, which ensures consistent tuning stability and enhances sustain.

Andrew W

Andrew W

Ibanez DN500-BK "darkstone" demo - Ibanez Guutar Centre

Video thumbnail for Ibanez DN500-BK "darkstone"  demo - Ibanez Guutar Centre by Andrew W

Ibanez DN500-BK "darkstone" demo - Ibanez Guutar Centre

Andrew W

Andrew W

Video thumbnail for IBANEZ DN 500 BK DARKSTONE | REVIEW | JACKSON PASTANA by JACKSON PASTANA

IBANEZ DN 500 BK DARKSTONE | REVIEW | JACKSON PASTANA

JACKSON PASTANA

JACKSON PASTANA

Video thumbnail for Ibanez Darkstone Guitar Demo - Episode 44 - Quinton's Guitar Corner by Quinton Lucion

Ibanez Darkstone Guitar Demo - Episode 44 - Quinton's Guitar Corner

Quinton Lucion

Quinton Lucion

Video thumbnail for IBANEZ DARKSTONE DN 500  vs EPIPHONE BLACK BEAUTY vs TAGIMA TG 530 by Ricardo Polansk S.T

IBANEZ DARKSTONE DN 500 vs EPIPHONE BLACK BEAUTY vs TAGIMA TG 530

Ricardo Polansk S.T

Ricardo Polansk S.T

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez Darkstone DN500.

Features and functionality

  • The Darkstone DN500 features a Tight Tune bridge and tailpiece, which is rare outside of some custom shop Iceman models.

    Source
  • The guitar's body is made from Sapele, an African mahogany, contributing to its weight of approximately 4 kg (9 lbs).

    Source
  • Equipped with split coil tone knob for PP1 pickups, exclusive to this model.

    Source
  • The guitar excels in hard rock and metal but offers versatile tonal options with its coil tap, providing pristine clean sounds not always expected from its design.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report the tailpiece has a narrow stud spacing, making replacements challenging due to nonstandard part measurements.

    Source
  • The tailpiece is prone to bending or snapping, affecting restringing ease.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners have replaced the problematic tailpiece with a TP-6 to resolve issues.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners liken the DN500 to a mix of Ibanez Iceman, shredder, and Les Paul, highlighting its unique blend of aggressive and classic styles.

    Source
  • Owners compare the DN500's aesthetic and feel to the Yamaha CV820WB, Wes Borland's signature guitar, noting its standout visual appeal.

    Source
  • Some owners reference newer Ibanez models as offering better value, but the DN500's design and feel provide a unique niche appeal.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite being the heaviest guitar some have played, the weight distribution is praised for eliminating neck dive, making it comfortable for extended play.

    Source
  • Despite considering selling, owners often rediscover their love for the DN500 after a break, highlighting its enduring appeal despite newer alternatives.

    Source
  • The unique inlays on the DN500 are frequently highlighted as a standout aesthetic feature, contributing to its distinct visual identity.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • A user reports transitioning from using an ESP for Drop D tuning to the DN500 as their primary Drop D guitar, indicating its suitability for alternate tunings.

    Source

Build quality

  • The chunky neck is praised for heavy riffing, offering a substantial feel that complements its overall solid construction.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Darkstone DN500 Review: I have been playing for 5 years and owned several guitars,... | Ibanez | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Ibanez Darkstone DN500 impresses with its versatility, delivering powerful and clear tones suitable for rock, metal, and beyond, thanks to its uniquely designed pickups. Users praise its robust construction, likening its quality to higher-end models like the Gibson Explorer, but at a more affordable price. The setup is precise, with a comfortable neck and reliable hardware, making it ideal for live performances. However, its substantial weight might not suit everyone, and the lack of a case or gigbag is a minor inconvenience. Overall, it's a high-quality mid-range guitar that offers exceptional value and sound versatility.

positive

Darkstone DN500 Review: I have been playing for three years now, though I started... | Ibanez | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Ibanez Darkstone DN500 is a rock and metal powerhouse, boasting a rich, dark sound with impressive sustain thanks to its Sapele wood construction. Its versatility shines through with a responsive tone knob and coil-tap feature, offering a range of tonal options from jazz to heavy rock. However, the guitar's stock tuners may require upgrading, and achieving a clean sound at high volumes can be challenging. Despite minor flaws, its robust build and appealing Les Paul-like neck make it a solid choice for live performances. Overall, this guitar is a commendable blend of style and substance for its price range.

positive

Ibanez DN500 Review | Chorder.com

chorder.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Cameron Liddell uses Ibanez Darkstone DN500

Cameron Liddell

Guitarist

Asking Alexandria

...
Verified via YouTube

This guitar is seen in the music video of Closure somewhere around the 0:04 mark

update: He uses a left-handed version of the guitar (because of his dexterity)

I

Isaac Delahaye

Guitarist

Epica

...
Verified via YouTube

In this rig rundown, Isaac says that he uses a 7 string Ibanez Darkstone custom made for him.

R

Rikard Sundén

Singer, Guitarist

Sabaton

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Black Year: 2010s

In the video titled "Sabaton - 40 to 1 - Live at Wacken Open Air 2019," at exactly 3:31, Rikard Sundén can be seen using the Ibanez Darkstone DN500 guitar, as documented by WackenTV.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ibanez Darkstone DN500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ibanez ART120
Ibanez ART120 Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Blackstar Series One 50
Blackstar Series One 50 Guitar Amplifier Heads
1
Ibanez Halberd
Ibanez Halberd Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
1
Blackstar Series One S1-412 A Cabinet
Blackstar Series One S1-412 A Cabinet Guitar Amplifier Cabinets
1
Seymour Duncan Blackouts Set
Seymour Duncan Blackouts Set Electric Guitar Pickups
1
Mesa/Boogie 4x12 Cabinet
Mesa/Boogie 4x12 Cabinet Guitar Amplifier Cabinets
1

Community setups

Show yours
gabriel_valentine

gabriel_valentine

Gear IQ 78

More Ibanez Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    cee
    cee

    Gear IQ 1385