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Average Price: $418

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Description

The SZ520FM from the SZ series solid body electric guitar by Ibanez from 2006.

The SZ520FM features a flamed maple top on a mahogany body mated to a set-in mahogany neck with a 22-fret rosewood fretboard with binding and special EKG-style "heartbeat" position markers. Components include a pair of humbucking pickups made by Ibanez and designed by Seymour Duncan with individual volume controls, a Gibraltar III fixed bridge with staggered through-body stringing arrangement for superior tonal balance, Ibanez die-cast tuners and knurled control knobs.

Product specs

Brand Ibanez
Model SZ520FM-DAS Standard, SZ520FM-DRS Standard, SZ520FM-TKS Standard
Finish Dark Amber Sunburst, Dark Red Sunburst, Transparent Black Sunburst
Year 2006 - 2012
Made In Korea, Republic of
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape S-Style
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type String-Through
Color Family Brown, Grey, Red
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Ibanez S
Model Sub-Family Ibanez SZ
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.69"
Offset Body Non-Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Ibanez Standard
Top Material Maple
Wood Top Style Flamed

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Ibanez SZ520FM Electric Guitar?

The Ibanez SZ520FM features a set-neck construction with a comfortable mahogany neck, providing a smooth and fast playing experience ideal for various playing styles.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Ibanez SZ520FM?

The SZ520FM is equipped with a dual humbucker configuration, delivering versatile tones suitable for rock, blues, and metal, with a rich and full sound ideal for both rhythm and lead playing.

Is the Ibanez SZ520FM suitable for beginner guitarists?

While the Ibanez SZ520FM is well-suited for intermediate to advanced players due to its quality construction and versatile sound, beginners seeking a long-term investment will also find it a rewarding choice.

How does the string-through body design affect the Ibanez SZ520FM's sound?

The string-through body design of the SZ520FM enhances sustain and resonance, providing a more pronounced and enduring tone compared to traditional bridge designs.

What is the body material of the Ibanez SZ520FM, and how does it impact the sound?

The Ibanez SZ520FM features a mahogany body with a flamed maple top, offering a warm, rich tone with enhanced clarity and brightness from the maple top.

Davide Mostacci

Davide Mostacci

#Ibanez SZ520 FM - 2016 🧡#Heartbit #ibanezguitars #ibanezfamily #ibanezaz #guitarporn #guitar

Video thumbnail for #Ibanez SZ520 FM - 2016 🧡#Heartbit #ibanezguitars #ibanezfamily #ibanezaz #guitarporn #guitar by Davide Mostacci

#Ibanez SZ520 FM - 2016 🧡#Heartbit #ibanezguitars #ibanezfamily #ibanezaz #guitarporn #guitar

Davide Mostacci

Davide Mostacci

Video thumbnail for 2006 Ibanez  SZ520FM  - Flamed Maple Top - Ibanez PU's Designed by Seymour Duncan - HH Configuration by The Guitar Dude

2006 Ibanez SZ520FM - Flamed Maple Top - Ibanez PU's Designed by Seymour Duncan - HH Configuration

The Guitar Dude

The Guitar Dude

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ibanez SZ520FM.

Features and functionality

  • The EKG inlay design is a notable aesthetic feature that draws attention, with some users specifically clicking for its unique look.

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  • The guitar's coil-split functionality is achieved via a push-pull pot, allowing humbuckers to activate in the selector's middle position.

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  • The SZ520FM includes PAF Pro in the neck and ToneZone in the bridge, with coil split capability for versatile sound options.

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User experience

  • The inlay design, initially seen as cheesy, has grown on users over time, reflecting changing tastes.

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  • Some users note the stock SZ1 neck pickup, predating the Duncan/Ibanez versions, retains a good sound quality.

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  • Despite being an older model, the SZ520FM remains a sought-after guitar, with past owners eager to repurchase it.

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  • Owners appreciate the guitar's comfort and massive sound, with one user owning it as a favorite for over a decade.

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  • Multiple users appreciate the tuning stability and versatility for genres ranging from jazz to metal.

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Mods and upgrades

  • A DiMarzio Super Distortion pickup is suggested for the bridge position, with F-spaced versions preferred for better string alignment.

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  • Owners recommend Graphtech TUSQ XL as a suitable replacement nut for improved durability and sound.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The SZ520FM's scale length is 25.1", offering a comfortable playing experience between a Strat and Les Paul.

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  • String action is comparable to an ESP Horizon, with 1.25mm on the first string and 1.75mm on the sixth at the 12th fret.

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Comparisons

  • The guitar is likened to a PRS by some users, highlighting its aesthetic and potential tonal similarities.

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  • Compared to PRS SEs, the SZ520FM features a thicker body, contributing to its distinct tonal and physical characteristics.

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Build quality

  • The SZ520FM is described as "built like a brick," indicating a solid, durable construction that has held up over 15 years of use.

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  • The guitar is noted for its heavier weight, which adds to its robust build and sound resonance.

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Other

  • Aesthetic inlay design may feel dated to some, reminiscent of tribal tattoos, but does not impact playability.

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