Pricing and availability

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

Average Price: $400

Budget/Beginner

$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 S420 is a solid body electric guitar designed to deliver a seamless blend of comfort, speed, and versatility for players who demand both precision and power. Crafted with a lightweight and sleek arched-top mahogany body, this guitar provides a warm, resonant tone that sings with every strum. The Wizard III neck, a hallmark of Ibanez craftsmanship, is constructed from a 3-piece maple design, offering a flat, thin profile that allows your fingers to glide effortlessly across its 24 jumbo frets, perfect for fast-paced solos and complex chord progressions.

Equipped with INF passive humbuckers, the S420 boasts a wide tonal range that caters to multiple genres, from rock to metal and beyond. The INF1 neck pickup, with its ceramic magnet, delivers a classic, warm tone, while the INF2 bridge pickup enhances midrange output for a punchy, dynamic sound. The guitar's Zero Point System (ZPS) tremolo bridge ensures stability and precision, allowing for extreme bends without sacrificing tuning. This ball-bearing-based system provides a smooth and frictionless tremolo action that stands up to rigorous play, making it a favorite among shredders and tone chasers alike.

Whether you're performing intricate solos or laying down heavy riffs, the Ibanez S420 is engineered to keep up with every demand, delivering both style and substance in a package that feels as good as it sounds.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany arched-top body for a comfortable playing experience
  • Wizard III 3-piece maple neck with 24 jumbo frets for fast playability
  • INF1 and INF2 passive humbucking pickups for a versatile tonal range
  • ZR tremolo bridge with Zero Point System for enhanced tuning stability and smooth action

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model S420-BBS Standard, S420-BK Standard, S420-WK Standard
Finish Black, Blackberry Sunburst, Weathered Black
Year 2010 - 2013
Made In Indonesia
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Locking Tremolo Bridge
Color Family Black, Red
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss, Satin
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez S
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Ibanez Standard
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez S420?

The Ibanez S420 features a Wizard II neck profile, known for its slim and fast feel, making it ideal for players who favor speed and technical playability.

What kind of tones can I expect from the Ibanez S420's pickups?

The Ibanez S420 is equipped with Infinity 1 and 2 humbucking pickups, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for rock, metal, and other genres, providing both clarity and a powerful punch.

Is the Ibanez S420 suitable for beginners or advanced players?

The Ibanez S420 is well-suited for both beginners and advanced players due to its versatile tonal capabilities and comfortable playability, making it a great choice for those progressing in skill.

What type of bridge does the Ibanez S420 have?

The Ibanez S420 features a Zero Resistance (ZR) Double-locking tremolo bridge, which provides stable tuning and allows for expressive pitch bending.

Is the Ibanez S420 good for metal music?

Yes, the Ibanez S420 is well-suited for metal music, thanks to its fast neck, powerful humbucking pickups, and stable tremolo system that supports aggressive playing styles.

session

session

IBANEZ S420-BBS

Video thumbnail for IBANEZ S420-BBS by session

IBANEZ S420-BBS

session

session

Video thumbnail for Ibanez S420 Review by Robbie Sneddon

Ibanez S420 Review

Robbie Sneddon

Robbie Sneddon

Video thumbnail for New from NAMM 2011: Ibanez launches the S570BMG and the S420BBS. by Musician's Friend

New from NAMM 2011: Ibanez launches the S570BMG and the S420BBS.

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for Ibanez S420 - John Connearn by John Connearn

Ibanez S420 - John Connearn

John Connearn

John Connearn

Video thumbnail for IBANEZ S420 WK DRIVE SOUND by Ake-G43

IBANEZ S420 WK DRIVE SOUND

Ake-G43

Ake-G43

Video thumbnail for Unboxing my new Ibanez S420 by Robbie Sneddon

Unboxing my new Ibanez S420

Robbie Sneddon

Robbie Sneddon

Video thumbnail for Ibanez S420 electric guitar by Guitar Learner

Ibanez S420 electric guitar

Guitar Learner

Guitar Learner

Video thumbnail for Ibanez S420 review - used guitar review by Andrew Johnsen

Ibanez S420 review - used guitar review

Andrew Johnsen

Andrew Johnsen

Video thumbnail for Ibanez S420-BBS 2012 by Andrew-Kul's Guitars&Gear

Ibanez S420-BBS 2012

Andrew-Kul's Guitars&Gear

Andrew-Kul's Guitars&Gear

Video thumbnail for Ibanez S420, part I by JuKKa

Ibanez S420, part I

JuKKa

JuKKa

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez S420.

Setup and maintenance

  • Lubricate ZR tremolo ball bearings with PTFE lube; WD40 is commonly used. Regular maintenance keeps the tremolo smooth and stable.

    Source
  • Saddle wear on the ZR tremolo can be temporarily managed with pencil lead, extending usability before needing replacement.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • ZR tremolo's intonation tool and spring thumbwheel aid in easy setup, enhancing its durability against wear and tear.

    Source
  • ZR tremolo's stop bar on the underside can be removed for enhanced flutter effects, providing more dynamic tremolo capabilities.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report the Ibanez S420 stays in tune better than some fixed bridge guitars due to the ZR tremolo's design.

    Source
  • The Ibanez S420 is described as transformative, with one owner trading their first electric guitar for it, significantly impacting their playing journey.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users suggest loosening strings before adjusting the ZR tremolo bridge height, as it may be made from softer metal.

    Source
  • Weathered Black finish is visually appealing but prone to wear, especially around frequently touched areas, similar to the cosmo black hardware's wear pattern.

    Source

Critic Reviews

S420 Review: It's an Ibanez it's a metal guitar hombre. | Ibanez | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Ibanez S420 is a solid choice for metal enthusiasts, boasting a robust mahogany body that delivers a powerful, aggressive sound. While the guitar's reliability and durability receive high praise, its aesthetics—particularly the matte black paint job—leave much to be desired. The guitar offers excellent action and fit, although it might require some fretwork for personal setup preferences. The standard Infinity pickups may not impress without some EQ adjustments, but they suffice for the price point. Overall, the S420 is a dependable, value-for-money guitar, especially suitable for those seeking a reliable instrument that can handle the rigors of heavy riffs and metal soundscapes.

positive

S420 Review: I've been playing for over five years now and I have... | Ibanez | Electric Guitars | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Ibanez S420 impresses with its sleek design and versatile sound, particularly suiting metal and neoclassical genres. Its slim body, thin neck, and ZR tremolo system are standout features, providing excellent playability and stability. While the neck pickup can get muddy on lower tones, the bridge pickup offers clarity and a varied tonal range. The guitar's durability and solid hardware are commendable, though improvements in finish options and minor setup tweaks would enhance its appeal. Overall, it's a superb choice for those seeking a reliable, feature-rich guitar with a modern edge.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 10 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
tim_ricke

Modded

Had the fretboard polished, leveled and rounded off to play better. Replaced the stock pickups with Dimarzio Evolution pickups

More Ibanez Solid Body Electric Guitars

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides