Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (32)
$1,199.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (15)
$1,199.99
Amazon
4.2 (16)
$1,134.86 New
$949.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (32)
$763.52 New
$719.99 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (7)
$1,199.99
Thomann
4.8 (27)
$925.00 $922.00 $3.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,020

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

A tribute to the golden era of rock and metal, the Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection is a modern reimagining of an iconic classic. Designed for speed and versatility, this electric guitar is a shredder’s paradise. The lightweight basswood body offers a punchy, defined tone, perfect for cutting through high-gain mixes, while its ergonomic contours provide comfort for hours of play. At the heart of the RG550 is the Super Wizard 5-piece maple/walnut neck, known for its ultra-thin D-shape that caters to high-speed riffing and technical solos. Paired with a maple fingerboard featuring 24 jumbo frets, your fingers will fly effortlessly across the fretboard.

The RG550's tonal versatility is unmatched, thanks to its HSH pickup configuration. The Ibanez V7 neck humbucker delivers tight, warm tones; the S1 single-coil in the middle position adds a classic twang; and the V8 bridge humbucker offers searing, high-output leads. A 5-way pickup selector enables you to explore a wide range of sonic possibilities, from aggressive metal riffs to soulful blues.

Equipped with an Edge tremolo system, the RG550 allows for extreme pitch manipulation while maintaining tuning stability. The double-locking system ensures your riffs stay in tune, no matter how aggressive your playing gets. With Gotoh tuners and black hardware, this guitar doesn't just sound amazing—it looks the part, too. Whether you're a seasoned rocker or an aspiring shredder, the Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection is your ticket to stellar performance.

Key Features:

  • Basswood body for punchy, defined tone
  • Super Wizard 5-piece maple/walnut neck with maple fingerboard
  • 24 jumbo frets for effortless playability
  • Ibanez V7 humbucker (neck), S1 single-coil (middle), V8 humbucker (bridge)
  • 5-way pickup selector for versatile tonal options
  • Edge tremolo system for stable pitch manipulation
  • Gotoh tuners and black hardware
  • Made in Japan

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model RG550 Genesis Collection
Finish Black, Desert Yellow, Electric Blue, Purple Neon, Road Flare Red, Violet Chameleon, White
Year 2013 - 2025
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Basswood
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Blue, Purple, Red, White, Yellow
Finish Features Matching Headstock
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Maple
Frets Medium Jumbo
Model Family Ibanez RG
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple, Walnut
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HSH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Ibanez Genesis Collection
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What type of pickups does the Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection use?

The Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection is equipped with an HSH pickup configuration, featuring Ibanez V7 (neck), S1 (middle), and V8 (bridge) pickups. This setup provides a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres, especially heavier styles.

Is the Ibanez RG550 Genesis suitable for fast playing styles?

Yes, the Ibanez RG550 Genesis is designed for speed and precision, featuring a slim Super Wizard neck profile and 24 medium jumbo frets, making it ideal for fast playing and technical styles.

What is the neck construction of the Ibanez RG550 Genesis?

The Ibanez RG550 Genesis features a bolt-on neck construction with a combination of maple and walnut, providing stability and a bright tonal response.

Does the Ibanez RG550 Genesis have a locking tremolo system?

Yes, the Ibanez RG550 Genesis is equipped with a locking tremolo bridge, allowing for stable tuning even with extensive whammy bar use.

What is the body material of the Ibanez RG550 Genesis?

The body of the Ibanez RG550 Genesis is made from basswood, which contributes to its balanced tone and lightweight feel.

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Ibanez RG550 - We Heard You Like The 80's, WE DO TOO! - Ibanez Genesis Collection

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG550 - We Heard You Like The 80's, WE DO TOO! - Ibanez Genesis Collection by PMTVUK

Ibanez RG550 - We Heard You Like The 80's, WE DO TOO! - Ibanez Genesis Collection

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG550 Purple Neon Genesis Collection - KNOW no Boundaries by X9 Eric

Ibanez RG550 Purple Neon Genesis Collection - KNOW no Boundaries

X9 Eric

X9 Eric

Video thumbnail for Unboxing Ibanez Genesis RG550 Purple Neon by Levytukku

Unboxing Ibanez Genesis RG550 Purple Neon

Levytukku

Levytukku

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG550 Genesis - Purple Neon | Demo And Review by JL Fulks

Ibanez RG550 Genesis - Purple Neon | Demo And Review

JL Fulks

JL Fulks

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG550 Genesis - Full Review & Demo - Neon Purple by Ben Powers Guitar

Ibanez RG550 Genesis - Full Review & Demo - Neon Purple

Ben Powers Guitar

Ben Powers Guitar

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG550 Purple Neon Genesis Collection - shred. by X9 Eric

Ibanez RG550 Purple Neon Genesis Collection - shred.

X9 Eric

X9 Eric

Video thumbnail for Unboxing My New Ibanez RG550 Genesis In Purple Neon!! by JL Fulks

Unboxing My New Ibanez RG550 Genesis In Purple Neon!!

JL Fulks

JL Fulks

Reviews

PROS

  • Built in Japan, reminiscent of classic RG550s with modern improvements

  • Thin, flat Wizard neck ideal for fast playing

  • Beautiful, vibrant finishes like Purple Neon

  • Excellent setup out of the box with low action

  • Tremolo bar stays in place, enhancing playability

  • Lightweight and perfectly balanced for comfortable playing

  • Versatile sound, great for both clean and distorted tones

  • Quiet pickups with good clarity and power

  • Ergonomic design prevents accidental knob adjustments

  • Affordable yet high-quality, delivering great value

CONS

  • Some users find pickups tonally similar, might need upgrades

  • Rare quality control issues, like blemishes on the headstock

  • Fret sprout noted by some users, requiring minor adjustments

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection.

Build quality

  • The original Edge double locking tremolo is praised for maintaining tuning stability even with extensive use.

    Source
  • Genesis line made by Prestige people but lacks Prestige label since 2014, indicating high craftsmanship.

    Source
  • Left-handed models have reversed wiring and tapered knobs designed for right-handed use, impacting playability until modified.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • An action setup of ~0.9/1.4mm treble/bass at the 14th fret results in minimal buzzing.

    Source
  • The Genesis model has different fret finishing on maple fretboards compared to rosewood, potentially leading to sharper fret edges on maple.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Installation of a Dimebucker in the bridge and Jazz in the neck is a popular mod, despite the Jazz not aligning perfectly with the strings.

    Source
  • Owners report that adjusting pickup height on V7/V8 pickups can significantly change tone, more so than replacing them.

    Source
  • Some left-handed owners had to rewire volume/tone controls for better functionality and smoother roll-off.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The RG550 is compared to a Toyota Camry, indicating reliability and versatility.

    Source
  • The RG550 Genesis is described as lighter and faster than the original 1987 RG550, suggesting improved playability and comfort.

    Source
  • The Ibanez RG1550M Prestige is recommended for those seeking more modern features, like oiled necks and comfort cut heels, when upgrading from the RG550.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The HSH pickup configuration is noted for its tonal versatility, enabling a wide range of musical styles.

    Source
  • The neck heel on the RG550 Genesis is less comfortable than the AANJ Ibanez necks, impacting higher fret accessibility.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners prefer the Genesis over the Premium for feel and build, despite retaining the vintage-style neck joint.

    Source
  • Some users find the RG550 Genesis to feel less refined and lighter than expected, impacting their perception of build quality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Genesis is seen as a cost-effective Japanese-made guitar with a premium double-locking tremolo, offering great value compared to the Prestige line.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ibanez RG550 Guitar - Genesis Collection - Darth Phineas

darthphineas.com

The Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection in Purple Neon delivers a fantastic blend of classic design and modern playability. With its solid Japanese craftsmanship, stable Super Wizard neck, and surprisingly good stock pickups, this guitar is ready to rock right out of the box. While some may feel tempted to upgrade components for a more personalized sound, the RG550 stands strong as a dependable workhorse. However, it may not cater to those seeking the more intricate features of higher-end models. Overall, this guitar offers an excellent value for anyone wanting an homage to the 80s shred era without breaking the bank.

positive

Ibanez RG550 Review (Genesis Collection)

cigilovic.com

This review of the Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection in Purple Neon highlights its striking aesthetics and superb playability, particularly the comfortable Super Wizard neck and versatile H/S/H pickup configuration. However, it can't overlook notable flaws, including sharp fret edges and inconsistent tremolo performance, which detract from the overall experience. Despite these concerns, the reviewer appreciates the RG550's rich tonal range and competitive pricing. Ultimately, while the RG550 is celebrated as a classic, the quality control issues may leave some players hesitant, especially at this price point.

negative

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
immortemjack

Outstanding Quality

MiJ quality for around $1000, this guitar is fantastic in just about every way.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Chris Brooks uses Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection

Chris Brooks

Guitarist

...
Verified via Instagram
Color/Finish: Purple Neon

In an Instagram video posted by Chris Brooks (@chrisbrooksguitarist), he is seen playing an Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection guitar.

See how Edoardo Taddei uses Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection

Edoardo Taddei

Guitarist

MASTER BOOT RECORD

...
Verified via YouTube
Color/Finish: Desert Yellow

In the video titled "Rig RunDown | Guitars | Edoardo Taddei," at the timestamp 14:22, Edoardo Taddei states that he uses an Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection guitar.

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

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