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Average Price: $349

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Description

Experience a harmonious blend of craftsmanship and modern innovation with the Ibanez Soundgear SR500. Designed for bassists who crave versatility and comfort, this electric bass guitar is a staple for both stage performances and studio recordings. Its sleek and ergonomic design ensures ease of playability, suitable for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

At the heart of the SR500's sonic excellence are the Bartolini MK1 pickups, renowned for their ability to deliver warm, punchy tones that cut through any mix. Paired with a 3-band EQ, this bass provides a broad tonal palette, allowing you to effortlessly tailor your sound to fit any genre or style. The combination of a Wenge/Bubinga neck with a Rosewood fretboard ensures a smooth playing experience, while the Mahogany body contributes to its rich, resonant tone.

Whether you’re laying down grooves in a jam session or recording your next hit, the Ibanez Soundgear SR500 offers the reliability and dynamic sound every musician desires. Its lightweight construction and contoured body make it comfortable for long gigs, while its elegant design ensures you always look as good as you sound.

Key Features:

  • Wenge/Bubinga neck with Rosewood fretboard
  • Mahogany body for rich and resonant tone
  • Bartolini MK1 pickups for warm, punchy sound
  • 3-band EQ for versatile tone control
  • Sleek, ergonomic design for comfortable playability

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model SR500-BBS Standard Soundgear Bass, SR500-BM Standard Soundgear Bass, SR500-LVF Standard Soundgear Bass, SR500-SBF Standard Soundgear Bass, SR500-TFS Standard Soundgear Bass, SR500-TKF Standard Soundgear Bass
Finish Blackberry Sunburst, Brown Mahogany, Light Violin Sunburst, Sapphire Blue Flat, Transparent Black Flat, Tri Fade Burst Flat
Year 2005 - 2018
Categories 4-String Basses, Active Bass Guitars
Active / Passive Pickups Passive Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Color Family Black, Blue, Brown, Red
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 4-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Series Ibanez Standard

FAQs

What type of neck does the Ibanez Soundgear SR500 have?

The Ibanez Soundgear SR500 features a thin, fast 5-piece SR4 neck made from jatoba and bubinga, designed for comfortable playability and quick action.

What pickups are used in the Ibanez SR500 bass?

The Ibanez SR500 is equipped with Bartolini MK1-4 neck and bridge pickups, providing a versatile range of tones suitable for various music styles.

How does the active preamp in the Ibanez SR500 enhance its sound?

The Ibanez SR500 includes a Bartolini MK1 active 3-band EQ, allowing players to boost or cut bass, mid, and treble frequencies for precise tonal shaping.

Is the Ibanez Soundgear SR500 suitable for beginners?

With its comfortable neck and versatile tone options, the Ibanez Soundgear SR500 is suitable for both beginners and experienced players looking for a high-quality 4-string bass.

What materials are used in the construction of the Ibanez SR500?

The Ibanez SR500 features a sculpted mahogany body, a rosewood fretboard with oval abalone markers, and black chrome hardware, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal.

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Reviews

PROS

  • Fast neck and slim profile make it highly playable and comfortable for extended sessions

  • Active EQ offers a wide range of tone options for versatile sound shaping

  • Very light, reducing strain during long performances

  • Modern sound suitable for various genres, from metal to folk

  • Attractive matte finish provides a mature and subtle appearance

  • Durable construction withstands heavy use over time

  • 24 frets with nice inlays allow for extended range and visual appeal

  • Easy to achieve great action with minimal effort

  • Angled jack input adds a unique touch to the design

CONS

  • Body wood scratches easily, requiring extra care

  • Pre-amp may not satisfy all tonal preferences, especially for those seeking warmer tones

  • Angled jack input limits cable options, not compatible with angled cords

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez Soundgear SR500.

Build quality

  • The SR500's finish is prone to easy wear and chipping, particularly when handled by others.

    Source
  • The truss rod on the SR500 is adjusted from the headstock, which some users find less convenient than heel adjustments.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The SR500 features a mid scoop, which can make it challenging to punch through a mix.

    Source
  • The SR500 has Bartolini pickups, which contribute to its distinct sound profile compared to other models in the range.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Regular maintenance involves a clean and polish with lemon oil every 6-8 months to maintain its appearance.

    Source
  • Adjusting pickup height and altering the EQ mid-frequency switch to 250hz can address tonal imbalances on the SR500.

    Source
  • Fresh strings, like D'Addario balanced tension sets, are recommended to even out tonal response across strings and reduce flubbiness on the E string.

    Source
  • Some owners report the need for frequent neck adjustments, potentially due to the thin neck design and environmental factors.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The SR500's comfort and lightweight design make it preferable over some heavier bass models, without sacrificing tonal brightness.

    Source
  • The Squier Jaguar PJ bass is mentioned as having a more balanced sound across strings compared to the SR500, using the same settings.

    Source
  • The SR500's wooden construction offers a different feel and perceived quality compared to the glossy or matte finishes of the SR300e.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the bass is particularly easy to play for those with smaller hands, enhancing maneuverability.

    Source
  • It's noted that the SR500's preamp may deliver a weaker sound, particularly noticeable in recording situations compared to live performances.

    Source
  • Experienced users note the SR500's ability to serve as a reliable workhorse, with its versatility accommodating various musical styles.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest replacing the preamp, with Aguilar OBP-3 being a popular choice for enhancing the SR500’s sound quality.

    Source
  • Some users suggest the VM3 pre-amp mod for increased functionality, though it requires ensuring switch compatibility.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ibanez SR500 Review - An Absolute Beast Without A Doubt | GuitarSquid

guitarsquid.com

The Ibanez SR500 is a formidable mid-range bass that balances weight and comfort, offering a warm mahogany body and a fast, smooth neck. Its standout Bartolini pickups deliver a thick, meaty sound perfect for modern genres, enhanced by an active EQ for tonal versatility. However, the hefty 11-pound design may challenge some players' endurance during long sessions. While it won't compete with premium models, its solid construction and impressive features make it a reliable choice for beginners and pros alike. Overall, this bass delivers much more than expected, making it a worthy consideration for any player.

positive

Rex and the Bass: Ibanez SR500 SR500BM Soundgear Bass Guitar Review

rexbass.com

The Ibanez SR500 Soundgear bass delivers impressive craftsmanship and versatility for its price point. With a lightweight design, fast neck, and quality Bartolini pickups, it excels in rock, jazz, and metal tones. However, while it offers great playability, some may find the lack of attention to upper fret accessibility a downside. Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable bass without breaking the bank.

positive

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