Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (28)
$1,199.99 $1,149.99 $50.00 · All time low
Guitar Center
4.5 (15)
$1,199.99
Amazon
5.0 (7)
$1,149.99 New
$1,089.00 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (32)
$763.52 New
$719.99 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (7)
$1,199.99
zZounds
5.0 (22)
$1,199.99
Gear4Music
£850.00

Average Price: $1,055

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

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

* 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

Introducing the Ibanez RG550, an electric guitar that brings back the vibe of the good old days and the rock scene of the '80s. This instrument is a shredder’s dream and more than just a reissue of a classic, it's a modern reinterpretation that combines the daring spirit of the original with present-day innovations.

The Ibanez RG550 boasts a 5-piece maple/walnut Super Wizard neck, providing absolute rock-solid stability and an extra-smooth playing experience. Its lightweight basswood body resonates with a warm growl and enough midrange definition to cut through a dense mix.

This guitar features a versatile HSH pickup configuration, which includes the modern Ibanez V7, S1, V8 pickups, offering a wide range of sound and attack. A 5-way pickup switch allows players to find the sweet spot for any situation, providing both rich rhythm and full-bodied leads.

The RG550 also employs the Edge locking tremolo for dive-bombs and flutters, ensuring optimal tuning stability and intonation. The guitar comes in three eye-catching, original ’80s and ’90s RG colors, including Road Flare Red, Desert Sun Yellow, and Purple Neon.

Key Features:

  • Super Wizard 5-piece Maple/Walnut neck for absolute rock-solid stability
  • Lightweight basswood body resonating with a warm growl
  • Versatile HSH pickup configuration (Ibanez V7, S1, V8 pickups)
  • Edge locking tremolo for optimal tuning stability and intonation
  • Comes in three eye-catching, original ’80s and ’90s RG colors
  • Gotoh machine heads for incredible tuning stability
  • Contoured design for enhanced comfort
  • 24 jumbo frets for big note bends
  • Classic-style tilt neck joint with a stamped metal plate
  • Aggressive styling with black hardware

Product specs

Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Type Solidbody
Body Shape Genesis RG
Body Material Basswood
Body Finish Gloss Polyurethane
Neck Material 5-piece Maple/Walnut
Neck Shape Super Wizard
Neck Joint Bolt-on
Radius 16.9"
Fingerboard Inlay Black Dots
Number of Frets 24, Jumbo
Scale Length 25.5"
Nut Width 1.692"
Nut Material Locking
Bridge/Tailpiece Edge Locking Tremolo
Tuners Gotoh
Neck Pickup V7 Humbucker
Middle Pickup S1 Single-coil
Bridge Pickup V8 Humbucker
Controls 1 x master volume, 1 x master tone
Switching 5-way blade pickup switch
Strings D'Addario, .009-.042
Case/Gig Bag Sold Separately

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez RG550?

The Ibanez RG550 features a Super Wizard neck profile, known for its slim and fast design, making it ideal for shredding and technical playing styles.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Ibanez RG550 pickups?

The Ibanez RG550 is equipped with V7 and V8 humbuckers and an S1 single-coil. This combination offers a versatile tonal range, from crisp and articulate cleans to aggressive and powerful high-gain sounds, suitable for rock and metal genres.

Is the Ibanez RG550 suitable for advanced players?

Yes, the Ibanez RG550 is well-suited for advanced players due to its fast neck, versatile pickup configuration, and Edge locking tremolo system, which allows for expressive playing and stable tuning.

How does the Edge locking tremolo on the Ibanez RG550 perform?

The Edge locking tremolo on the Ibanez RG550 provides excellent tuning stability and allows for smooth and precise pitch modulation, making it perfect for dive-bombs and other tremolo techniques.

What is the body material of the Ibanez RG550, and how does it affect the sound?

The Ibanez RG550 features a basswood body, which contributes to a balanced tonal response with a slight emphasis on midrange frequencies, providing a warm and full sound suitable for various musical styles.

EytschPi42

EytschPi42

Ibanez RG550 Genesis Unboxing and 1st Impressions

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG550 Genesis Unboxing and 1st Impressions by EytschPi42

Ibanez RG550 Genesis Unboxing and 1st Impressions

EytschPi42

EytschPi42

Video thumbnail for Ibanez Genesis Series: RG550 Electric Guitar Demo | Reverb Demo Video by Reverb

Ibanez Genesis Series: RG550 Electric Guitar Demo | Reverb Demo Video

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for NEW Ibanez RG550 Genesis! by GAK

NEW Ibanez RG550 Genesis!

GAK

GAK

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 Genesis Review - The RG550 Story by IbanezGuy88

Ibanez Genesis Review - The RG550 Story

IbanezGuy88

IbanezGuy88

Video thumbnail for EXTREME 80s GUITAR! - Ibanez Genesis Collection RG550 Guitar Review - LongestSoloEver Reviews by longestsoloever

EXTREME 80s GUITAR! - Ibanez Genesis Collection RG550 Guitar Review - LongestSoloEver Reviews

longestsoloever

longestsoloever

Video thumbnail for Ibanez RG550-DY - Guitar Review - Not just a SHRED machine by TheGuitarGeek

Ibanez RG550-DY - Guitar Review - Not just a SHRED machine

TheGuitarGeek

TheGuitarGeek

Video thumbnail for Buy This NOT That | Ibanez Genesis RG550 vs. Jackson Pro Series Dinky DK2 by The Axe Guitar

Buy This NOT That | Ibanez Genesis RG550 vs. Jackson Pro Series Dinky DK2

The Axe Guitar

The Axe Guitar

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

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning finishes with rich colors that glow under stage lights

  • Action set very low with minimal fret buzz, immediate playability

  • Fast, thin Wizard neck allows for comfortable and quick playing

  • Tremolo system stays in tune even with heavy use

  • Exceptional build quality with 5-piece neck and rolled fretboard edges

  • Versatile sound, handles clean tones and high-gain shredding with ease

  • Pickups provide power and clarity, reducing muddiness in tones

  • Lightweight and well-balanced, ergonomic design

  • Excellent value for the price, often compared favorably to more expensive models

  • Made in Japan, maintains high craftsmanship standards

CONS

  • Some users find minimal tonal difference between neck and bridge pickups

  • Occasional minor cosmetic issues, such as fret sprout or paint cracks

  • Default pickups may not satisfy more specific tonal preferences, leading to upgrades

Owner Insights

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

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners often replace the V7/V8 pickups due to dissatisfaction with their tone, opting for alternatives like DiMarzio for a significant sound improvement.

    Source
  • For left-handed models, users recommend rewiring the volume and tone controls for better functionality.

    Source
  • Owners often replace stock pickups with Seymour Duncan SH-1 '59 or Dimebucker/Jazz combos for improved versatility and tonal richness.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Despite a reputation for shredding, the RG550's neck is praised for blues rock, although some find the heel joint uncomfortable for upper fret access.

    Source
  • Despite its shredder image, it's noted for excelling in blues rock due to its versatile HSH pickup configuration.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Left-handed models reportedly have reversed volume and tone wiring, which some users corrected for smoother operation.

    Source
  • The original Edge double locking tremolo ensures tuning stability, appreciated by those who utilize extensive tremolo use.

    Source
  • The Genesis RG550 retains the original tilt joint neck, which some players find comfortable for high fret access despite preference variances with the AANJ style.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users note a noticeable quality difference between the RG550 and Prestige models, with the latter offering better build and finish.

    Source
  • While appreciated, some users prefer the tighter fine tuners on older Edge trems compared to the wobblier ones on newer models.

    Source
  • The RG550 is likened to a 'Toyota Camry' of guitars for its reliability and versatility, especially in comparison to more expensive models.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some owners report the Genesis RG550's frets on maple necks can feel sharp, lacking the prestige edge treatment found on rosewood fretboards.

    Source
  • The Genesis series features a Wizard I neck known for its slim profile, praised for its playability and comfort by multiple owners.

    Source
  • The Genesis series includes a volute addition to the neck, enhancing durability and addressing previous neck cracking issues on older models.

    Source

User experience

  • Some players find the RG550 more suited for lead guitar work rather than rhythm, citing the feel of the maple neck as a potential factor.

    Source
  • The guitar's weight at 7 lbs. 12 oz. is praised for comfort during long sessions, highlighting its ergonomic advantages.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some Genesis RG550s are available as low as $450 used; an exceptional value considering new models are priced around $1,000.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Action set at ~0.9/1.4mm treble/bass at the 14th fret with minimal buzzing; a testament to its high-quality craftsmanship.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ibanez RG550 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Ibanez RG550 reissue is a triumphant nod to its storied past, embodying everything that made the original a legend in the shred and metal guitar world. With a versatile tonal range and an ultra-thin neck for speed, it's a masterclass in precision and craftsmanship. However, the bold finishes might not appeal to everyone. Despite stiff competition from brands like Schecter and ESP, the RG550's legacy and quality craftsmanship make it a standout choice for those looking to relive the glory days of shred.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 14 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
chizuru

Good guitar for the price of a great guitar

A guy I know gave me this guitar. He bought it for about $250 at the time. The quality didn't surprise me. It's a typical budget Ibanez guitar. The neck is comfortable. Now in my country this guitar costs more than 1000 dollars for used and it's crazy. I can find Ibanez Prestige for 1000$ and I'll get a much better guitar than rg550.

Genres:
cammojodragon

Brilliant guitar.

I should start by clarifying that I don't think mine represents a 'stock' RG500: the one I have is Emerald Green and from 1991, but the pickups are dedicedly low output compared to what is typical for these guitars, and there's even a dipswitch to coil split the bridge (I think it's meant to do both, but it only seems to effect the bridge).

That being said, what an incredible guitar. Easily the most comfortable neck I've ever played, and no other Floyd-loaded I've tried guitar even compares to the reliability of the one that's on mine.

These are certainly no one-trick pony. Sure, these types of guitars have a certain reputation for shreddy stuff, hair metal, and the like, but I've used this for everything from ambient to jazzy stuff to metal to Pink Floyd to post rock and I've yet to encounter a scenario where it won't do what I ask of it (not saying there aren't other guitars I'd prefer for such applications, but if it were my only option I'd have no qualms about it).

The old models are well worth tracking down, and I have to say I paid an incredibly reasonable price for mine. Highly recommended.

sixstring_stew

Pointy shred machine that can do far more than you'd think.

The RG550 has been reissued a few times since the first version. It certainly handles rock and metal duties well but as its aged the pickups have taken on a more mellow tone.My RG550 is now over 25 years old and was my first serious working guitar.

The guitar tone cuts through the mix as it has quite a nasal tone - like most guitars of this type - when compared to the fat sounds of a Les Paul or the bright thinner sound of a strat. This is not a bad thing especially when playing lead guitar with a band. I don't play mine so much live anymore but it certainly comes in handy in the studio from time to time.

elad
elad

137

shredtastic

I purchased this 1987 rg550 from a friend of a friend, when i received it the pickups had already been swapped out with two seymour duncan invader pickups so this think was ready to shred to hell and back. Even though it's a basswood body it still had a very comfortable feeling weight to it, doesn't feel too light. The maple neck is still smooth even considering its almost 30 years old.

winnie_choy

Great all-arounder

Great all-arounder. My RG550 was bought in Guitar Center Sherman Oaks LA and was Japanese-made by Hoshino (back then, superior to the Indonesian or Korean). Purple finish changed to sparkling blue in the light.

gary_x_wei

I have two of these—they're great!

I've got a 1991 RG550 in Laser Blue with stock everything, and it looks as good as it sounds—and it looks pretty damn awesome. I've also got a white 1987 RG550 with DiMarzio PAF and X2N pups, with a LoPro edge replacing its stock Edge. They're both great workhorses, and my 1987's also one of only two I've ever seen!

tacohellion

Had 5 of these on the road for 4 years.

And you know what they are, a classic tough little axe.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nick Gauthier uses Ibanez RG550

Nick Gauthier

Guitarist

Harm’s Way

...
Verified via Photo

In this post nick shows off the ibanez rg550 he was sent by ibanez. His guitar has a set of fishman fluence pickups in it

See how Levi Seacer, Jr. uses Ibanez RG550

Levi Seacer, Jr.

Guitarist

The New Power Generation

...
Verified via Guitarcloud

Levi used an Ibanez RG550 with Prince in the early 1990s.

See how Kristian Niemann uses Ibanez RG550

Kristian Niemann

Guitarist

Therion

...
Verified via Photo

As seen in Kristian's Instagram photo.

See how Kasperi Heikkinen uses Ibanez RG550

Kasperi Heikkinen

Guitarist

Beast in Black

...
Verified

In an Instagram post, Kasperi Heikkinen showcases his collection of Ibanez guitars, including the Ibanez RG550.

See how Josh Baines uses Ibanez RG550

Josh Baines

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via Ibanez Wiki

In a YouTube video, at the 6:10 : https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=pTQ-jvtUQ2M, Josh Baines discusses his Ibanez RG550, confirming his use of this specific gear.

See how Graeme Nicholls uses Ibanez RG550

Graeme Nicholls

Guitarist

We Be The Echo

...
Verified via Graeme Nicholls - guitar abuse

Equipment used during recording:

  • Squier Tele beater
  • Ibanez RG 550
  • Carvin Legacy
See how Samuel Penner uses Ibanez RG550

Samuel Penner

Guitarist

Memphis May Fire

...
Verified via Photo

In a documented photograph, guitarist Samuel Penner is observed playing an Ibanez RG550, confirming his use of this specific model of solid body electric guitar.

See how Ari Tri Sosianto uses Ibanez RG550

Ari Tri Sosianto

Guitarist

Padi

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video Ari Tri Sosianto is seen using an Ibanez RG550.

Used With

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

Ibanez RG570
Ibanez RG570 Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Boss RC-2 Loop Station
Boss RC-2 Loop Station Looper Effects Pedals
1
fender telecaster vintage 52 roasted ash
fender telecaster vintage 52 roasted ash Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Fender Stratocaster Custom Shop
Fender Stratocaster Custom Shop Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Gibson ES-333
Gibson ES-333 Semi-Hollowbody Electric Guitars
1
Orange Rocker 15
Orange Rocker 15 Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1
Ibanez RG655 Prestige RG Series
Ibanez RG655 Prestige RG Series Solid Body Electric Guitars
1

1 alternative for Ibanez RG550, curated by the Equipboard community.

More Ibanez Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Gear Guides