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Description

The Ibanez S540LTD Standard is a sleek and versatile solid body electric guitar that exemplifies the craftsmanship and innovation Ibanez is known for. A favorite among musicians who crave both style and substance, this guitar combines a smooth, comfortable body shape with a lightning-fast fretboard for an unparalleled playing experience. The S540LTD Standard is crafted to suit a variety of musical genres, making it an ideal choice for both stage performances and studio recordings.

This model features a double-locking tremolo system, allowing for expressive dive-bombs and pitch shifts without compromising tuning stability. The HSH pickup configuration makes it incredibly versatile, providing a wide range of tonal options from warm, vintage vibes to modern, high-gain tones. The guitar's neck is designed for speed and comfort, with a thin, flat profile that facilitates fast playing and complex chord progressions with ease.

Whether you're shredding solos, laying down complex chords, or exploring intricate melodies, the Ibanez S540LTD Standard is engineered to perform at the highest level. It's a testament to Ibanez's commitment to quality, durability, and innovation, making it a worthy addition to any guitarist's collection.

Key Features:

  • Solid body electric guitar with a comfortable and sleek design
  • Double-locking tremolo system for stability during pitch shifts
  • HSH pickup configuration for a variety of tonal options
  • Fast, thin neck profile for enhanced playability
  • Suitable for a wide range of musical styles and genres

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model S540LTD-BK Standard, S540LTD-DAB Standard, S540LTD-EG Standard, S540LTD-JB Standard, S540LTD-LR Standard, S540LTD-SOL Standard
Year 1993 - 1999
Made In Japan
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, Blue, Green, Natural, Red
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez S
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HSH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 25.5"
Series Ibanez Standard
Wood Top Style Opaque

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Ibanez S540LTD Standard best suited for?

The Ibanez S540LTD Standard, with its HSH pickup configuration and mahogany body, is versatile and well-suited for rock, metal, and fusion genres, offering a wide range of tones from warm, rich sounds to sharp, articulate leads.

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez S540LTD Standard?

The Ibanez S540LTD Standard features a slim, fast-playing neck profile, ideal for shredding and technical playing styles, making it comfortable for both beginners and advanced players who prefer speed and precision.

Does the Ibanez S540LTD Standard come with a locking tremolo bridge?

Yes, the Ibanez S540LTD Standard is equipped with a locking tremolo bridge, allowing for stable tuning even with extensive whammy bar use, perfect for dive bombs and other expressive playing techniques.

How does the mahogany body of the Ibanez S540LTD Standard affect its sound?

The mahogany body of the Ibanez S540LTD Standard provides a warm, full-bodied tone with excellent sustain, contributing to its suitability for heavier music styles that require depth and resonance.

Is the Ibanez S540LTD Standard suitable for a beginner guitarist?

While the Ibanez S540LTD Standard is designed with advanced features appealing to experienced players, its comfortable neck and versatile sound make it accessible for dedicated beginners looking to invest in a quality instrument.

Marco Andriolli

Marco Andriolli

Prova Ibanez S540LTD DY 1990 e Kemper

Video thumbnail for Prova Ibanez S540LTD DY 1990 e Kemper by Marco Andriolli

Prova Ibanez S540LTD DY 1990 e Kemper

Marco Andriolli

Marco Andriolli

Video thumbnail for 1994 Ibanez S540LTD - How Much Did it Cost When New? by rmp5s

1994 Ibanez S540LTD - How Much Did it Cost When New?

rmp5s

rmp5s

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez S540LTD Standard.

Setup and maintenance

  • For a DIY approach, back cover plates can be made from thin marine plywood and painted to match.

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  • A 2019 RG550 allows for action setup under 1mm without choking notes, though frets aren't rounded like Prestige models, especially on maple fretboards.

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  • The VLX91 OTAX switch fits the Sabre cavity route but may be challenging for those inexperienced with electronics.

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  • The S521's bridge may cause intonation issues due to its distance, impacting tuning stability.

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Value and pricing

  • The RG550 is recognized for maintaining a strong price-to-performance ratio, staying under $1,000 while competitors frequently increase prices.

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  • The original Edge tremolo system can range from $100-$400, making it a costly but worthwhile investment for quality.

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User experience

  • Long-term owners highlight that older models like the 1993 S540LTD continue to perform reliably, with no noticeable decline in quality compared to newer models.

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  • Owners of Japanese Ibanez models note increasing prices, advising patience to find parts without overspending.

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  • The S series is favored by those who prefer thinner, lightweight bodies, ideal for extended play without fatigue.

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Mods and upgrades

  • The Edge Pro tremolo, used in some Ibanez models, is criticized for lacking locking posts, which impacts stability during string changes.

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  • Guitar heads pickups, like the Gold Rush model, are suggested for budget-friendly upgrades without focusing on brand names.

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  • Gotoh GE-1996T licensed Floyd Rose tremolo is a recommended replacement for the original Edge, available in various finishes like chrome and cosmo black.

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Features and functionality

  • It is noted that the RG550's neck joint is an older style, preferred by some for aesthetic reasons but not as modern or ergonomic as the AANJ.

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  • Positions 2 and 4 on HSH configurations split coils, producing a "quacky" tone similar to Strat or Telecaster middle positions.

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Comparisons

  • A 1989 RG570 is praised for its exceptional quality, even compared to modern high-end models, suggesting older Fujigen builds still hold up remarkably well.

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  • The S470's stock pickups are criticized for low quality; the S671alb with Fishman pickups offers superior sound.

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Build quality

  • Several owners report that newer Indonesian models often suffer from sharp fret edges and uneven frets, possibly due to less seasoned wood being used compared to older models.

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  • The S540LTD features MIJ quality with Edge/Lo-Pro Edge floating bridge, known for durability and precision.

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