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Description

Experience a perfect blend of comfort and versatility with the Ibanez SR505M Standard Soundgear Bass. This 5-string electric bass is designed for musicians who demand both performance and style. The standout feature of the SR505M is its 5-piece jatoba and bubinga neck, which offers an exceptionally smooth playing experience, allowing for nimble runs and effortless transitions. With a scale length of 34 inches, this neck is thinner than most, ensuring a comfortable grip and easy access to the upper frets.

The SR505M boasts a contoured mahogany body, renowned for its warm, resonant tones that sustain beautifully. Whether you're laying down deep, earthshaking lows or shimmering highs, the SR505M has you covered with its Bartolini MK-1 pickups and EQB-IIIS 3-band EQ. This powerful combination gives you the flexibility to dial in your perfect sound, making it an ideal choice for genre-hopping bassists.

Completing the package is the Accu-cast B300 bridge, which provides rock-solid stability and quick string changes, so you can focus on your performance without missing a beat. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Ibanez SR505M is built to inspire and elevate your playing to new heights.

Key Features:

  • 5-string electric bass designed for comfort and versatility
  • 5-piece Jatoba/Bubinga neck for smooth playability
  • Bartolini MK-1 pickups and EQB-IIIS preamp for wide tonal control
  • Contoured mahogany body for warm, resonant tones
  • Accu-cast B300 bridge for stability and quick string changes
  • 34" scale neck with easy access to upper frets

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model SR505M-BM Standard Soundgear Bass
Year 2011 - 2012
Made In Indonesia
Categories 5- and 6-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 5-String
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 34"
Series Ibanez Standard

FAQs

What kind of tones can I expect from the Ibanez SR505M's Bartolini MK1 pickups?

The Bartolini MK1 pickups on the Ibanez SR505M provide a versatile tonal range, offering warm, punchy lows and clear highs, making it suitable for various musical genres including rock, jazz, and funk.

Is the Ibanez SR505M suitable for beginners?

The Ibanez SR505M, with its lightweight mahogany body and comfortable neck, is user-friendly and suitable for both beginners and more advanced players looking for an affordable yet high-quality 5-string bass.

How does the active preamp on the Ibanez SR505M enhance its sound?

The active preamp on the Ibanez SR505M features a 3-band EQ, allowing for precise tonal adjustments and a wide range of sound shaping options, which enhances the bass’s versatility in different performance settings.

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez SR505M?

The Ibanez SR505M features a slim, fast-playing 5-piece jatoba/bubinga neck, which is designed for comfort and ease of play, making it ideal for quick finger movements and complex bass lines.

Does the Ibanez SR505M come with a case?

The Ibanez SR505M does not come with a case; it is sold separately, allowing you to choose a case that best suits your protection and transport needs.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez SR505M Standard Soundgear Bass.

User experience

  • A user highlighted the convenience of the SR505's battery compartment, which allows quick changes without tools.

    Source
  • Some users find the SR505's low B string requires careful playing to avoid a weak or hollow sound, especially when played open.

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Comparisons

  • The SR505's pickups are described as providing better presence for the low B string compared to the SR305, which some find lacking in definition.

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  • The SR505 pickups are Bartolini licensed but not manufactured by Bartolini, which may affect expectations for those familiar with the brand.

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  • The SR505 is described as more comfortable than Spector basses, thanks to its light weight and thin neck.

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Use cases and applications

  • The SR505 is noted for its sweet, mellow tone, making it suitable for genres like reggae, soul, R&B, and symphonic metal.

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  • The SR505's tone is praised for its top-end, receiving compliments during performances; it fits well in country and classic rock bands.

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  • The SR505 is considered versatile, fitting well in both jazz and death metal performances.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Owners report that adding a Bartolini preamp can significantly enhance the SR505's sound quality.

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  • An owner addressed battery consumption issues by ensuring correct wiring of pickups, significantly extending battery life.

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Features and functionality

  • The recent SR505 models include an active/passive switch, enhancing tonal flexibility for different playing styles.

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  • The Bartolini electronics on the SR505 are praised for their musicality and effectiveness, offering good tones across all pickup positions.

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  • Users appreciate the SR505's active electronics for eliminating the need for a compressor, adding versatility for heavy metal and blues.

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Build quality

  • Some owners noted that the SR505 is heavier compared to certain 4-string basses, but still manageable for long gigs.

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Setup and maintenance

  • One owner reported changing the battery once in 3 years, but another mentioned replacing it 5-6 times in two years due to frequent gigs and rehearsals.

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  • One user finds the B string lifeless and lacking character, despite trying different gauges and action adjustments.

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Value and pricing

  • Owners suggest that finding an SR505 for under $400 offers excellent value for the features and build quality provided.

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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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