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Description

Step into the world of bass mastery with the Ibanez SR500M Standard Soundgear Bass, where sleek design meets versatile performance. This electric bass is your gateway to both classic style and modern sound innovation, making it a top pick for both seasoned musicians and enthusiastic beginners. With its 5-piece maple and rosewood neck, this instrument offers a remarkably thin and fast profile, designed for effortless playability and extended comfort during long sessions.

The SR500M is equipped with dual Bartolini MK1-4 pickups and a 3-band EQ system, providing you with a wide tonal range. Whether you're laying down a funky groove or exploring complex jazz lines, this bass adapts seamlessly to your style. Its contoured mahogany body ensures a lightweight yet robust build that resonates with warm, rich tones, allowing you to express every nuance of your music with clarity and power.

Beyond its performance, the SR500M's aesthetic doesn't go unnoticed. The smooth maple fingerboard with abalone oval inlays adds a touch of elegance, while the Accu-Cast B20 bridge provides rock-solid tuning stability. This bass is not just an instrument—it's an extension of your musical voice.

Key Features:

  • 4-string electric bass guitar
  • Mahogany body for rich, warm tones
  • 5-piece maple/rosewood neck for speed and comfort
  • 24 medium frets on a maple fingerboard
  • Dual Bartolini MK1-4 pickups with 3-band EQ for versatile sound shaping
  • Accu-Cast B20 bridge for stable tuning and intonation

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model SR500M-BM Standard Soundgear Bass
Year 2011 - 2012
Made In Japan
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 Brown
Fretboard Material Maple
Neck Material Maple, Rosewood
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 pickups does the Ibanez SR500M Standard Soundgear Bass have?

The Ibanez SR500M features passive pickups with an active preamp, offering a versatile range of tones suitable for various music styles.

Is the Ibanez SR500M suitable for slap bass techniques?

Yes, the Ibanez SR500M's double cutaway design and 24-fret maple fretboard provide excellent access and playability for slap bass techniques.

What is the neck profile of the Ibanez SR500M Standard Soundgear Bass?

The Ibanez SR500M has a slim and comfortable neck profile made of maple and rosewood, designed for fast and smooth playability.

How would you describe the tonal characteristics of the Ibanez SR500M?

The mahogany body of the Ibanez SR500M delivers a warm and rich tone, while the active preamp and pickup configuration allow for a wide tonal range suitable for various genres.

Is the Ibanez SR500M suitable for beginner bass players?

The Ibanez SR500M is a versatile and high-quality instrument that can be suitable for beginners who are serious about developing their skills, thanks to its comfortable neck and rich tonal options.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez SR500M Standard Soundgear Bass.

User experience

  • Transitioning from a 5-string to the SR500 can give the neck a "teeny tiny" feel, which may or may not suit players accustomed to wider necks.

    Source
  • Some users report needing to adjust the neck more often, possibly due to the thin neck design and environmental conditions.

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  • The SR500's thin neck can feel uncomfortable when sitting, digging into the leg, prompting some to prefer standing while playing.

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  • The SR500 is praised for its lightweight and slim design, making it comfortable for extended play and suitable for players with smaller hands.

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Value and pricing

  • Resale value for Ibanez basses tends to be poor, making them attractive for budget-conscious buyers seeking a bargain.

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  • A used SR500, even with minor cosmetic flaws, is priced around 2900 DKK, which is 40% below the new price, representing a potential bargain for budget-conscious buyers.

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Features and functionality

  • The SR500 has a two mid-band preamp in models around 2010, lacking an active/passive switch found in newer iterations.

    Source
  • Newer SR500 models include Bartolini pickups and improved electronics with an active/passive option and mid-frequency selection, enhancing tonal flexibility.

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  • The SR500 relies on Bartolini pickups that are appreciated for their sound quality, contributing to its tonal versatility.

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  • The SR500 features a mid scoop, which can make it challenging to punch through a mix without proper EQ adjustments.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Owners note potential fret buzz, especially around frets 17-21, suggesting a neck adjustment might be needed out of the box.

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  • Regular maintenance includes cleaning and polishing with lemon oil every 6-8 months to maintain the neck and body appearance.

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Build quality

  • The truss rod on the SR500 is adjusted from the headstock, which some prefer to have on the heel for easier access.

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  • The SR500's finish is prone to chipping, particularly when loaned to others, but careful handling can prevent this issue.

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  • The SR500's neck has been described as somewhat unstable, and the bridge as flimsy, which might affect tuning stability and action.

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Use cases and applications

  • The SR500's lightweight and slim design makes it particularly suitable for younger players or those with smaller hands seeking comfort during extended sessions.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The SR800 offers a superior preamp, lighter body, and better hardware compared to the SR500, making it more desirable for some players.

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  • The SR500 series is noted for its versatility, with some users preferring the SR300 or SR600 for different price points and features.

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