Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $1,930

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 IC500 is not just an electric guitar; it's a bold statement of style and sound that demands attention on any stage. With its iconic Iceman shape, this solid body electric guitar combines aggressive aesthetics with top-notch performance. The DiMarzio D Activator pickups are a standout feature, offering the power and punch of active pickups without the need for batteries. This means you get a robust and dynamic tonal range, perfect for both crushing riffs and soaring solos.

The three-piece mahogany/maple neck is designed for those who demand both strength and precision, providing a balance of clarity and warmth that complements the richness of its mahogany body. Set-neck construction ensures remarkable sustain, making each note resonate with unwavering clarity. The fixed Gibraltar bridge enhances tuning stability, allowing you to push your playing to the limits without the worry of slipping out of tune, even during intense performances.

Whether you're diving into heavy metal mayhem or exploring intricate soundscapes, the Ibanez IC500 is a faithful companion that delivers every time. It’s a blend of innovation and tradition, making it a must-have for guitarists who crave both style and substance in their gear.

Key Features:

  • Iconic Iceman body shape
  • 3-piece mahogany/maple neck for durability and precision
  • Set-neck construction for extended sustain
  • DiMarzio D Activator pickups for powerful, battery-free active tones
  • Fixed Gibraltar bridge for superior tuning stability
  • Stoptail bridge with string-through-body design

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model IC500-BK Iceman Reissue
Finish Black
Year 2013
Made In China
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Top-Load
Color Family Black
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez Iceman
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Ibanez IC500 suitable for?

The Ibanez IC500, with its HH pickup configuration and mahogany body, is well-suited for rock and metal genres, offering a powerful and full-bodied tone ideal for high-gain settings.

How does the neck profile of the Ibanez IC500 feel?

The Ibanez IC500 features a set-neck construction with a mahogany neck, providing a smooth, comfortable feel that is ideal for fast playing and easy access to higher frets.

What are the tonal characteristics of the Ibanez IC500's pickups?

The Ibanez IC500 is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, delivering a thick, warm tone with plenty of sustain, making it excellent for heavy riffs and lead solos.

Is the Ibanez IC500 suitable for beginners?

While the Ibanez IC500 offers professional features appealing to advanced players, its comfortable neck and versatile tone make it a viable option for dedicated beginners willing to invest in a quality instrument.

Does the Ibanez IC500 have a unique body shape?

Yes, the Ibanez IC500 features the iconic Iceman single cutaway design, known for its distinctive and aggressive look, making it a standout choice for performers looking to make a visual impact.

Earl Kayoss

Earl Kayoss

1994 ibanez ic500 iceman

Video thumbnail for 1994 ibanez ic500 iceman by Earl Kayoss

1994 ibanez ic500 iceman

Earl Kayoss

Earl Kayoss

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez IC500.

Build quality

  • The IC400 is noted for its Korean build quality from 2006, which some owners find superior to the IC500's Chinese manufacturing.

    Source
  • Some users note issues with the tremolo bridge on other models, highlighting the importance of a stable setup for maintaining tuning.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The IC500 includes 24 frets, offering extended range, which can be a deciding factor for players interested in more technical playstyles.

    Source
  • The D Activator pickups are praised for their versatility, providing a clear and strong tone suitable for various styles beyond metal.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The IC400's stock pickups have been upgraded to DiMarzio Super Distortion in the bridge, praised for their robust tone, suitable for heavier genres.

    Source
  • Owners recommend swapping the stock bridge for a Hipshot model with offset intonation screws for improved palm muting comfort and tuning stability.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite the IC500's higher price, it's largely attributed to the inclusion of DiMarzio D-Activators, which may not significantly outperform the IC400's upgraded pickups.

    Source

User experience

  • The IC500 is reported to be neck-heavy, and a thick leather strap is suggested to counterbalance the neck dive when playing standing up.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The STM's Evolution pickups offer a strong lead tone but lack the versatility and heft for heavier music styles compared to the IC500's D Activators.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • While the IC500 is enjoyable to play, it's not recommended for slow sludge or grind genres without pickup modifications.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tim Smith (Cardiacs) uses Ibanez IC500

Tim Smith (Cardiacs)

Singer, Guitarist

Cardiacs

...
Verified via the Guardian

Tim Smith can be seen playing the Iceman in several crowd-shot Cardiacs concerts from around 2000 onwards, as can be seen on YouTube.

Eg:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8SqGiJN2x4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESC8CLXzjf4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vP1r1DCz6w

Genre Usage

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

More Ibanez Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    brylock
    brylock

    Gear IQ 156