Ibanez GSR200BL Left-Handed Electric Bass Review
As a left-handed bass player, finding the perfect instrument can sometimes be a challenge. With fewer options available compared to right-handed models, it’s essential to find a high-quality and reliable bass that meets your needs. One such instrument is the Ibanez GSR200BL left-handed electric bass. This review will delve into the features, design, playability, and sound of this exceptional bass guitar to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Overview
The Ibanez GSR200BL is part of the brand’s popular Soundgear (SR) series, a line of bass guitars known for their sleek design, comfortable playability, and versatile sound. The GSR200BL is designed specifically for left-handed players and offers an affordable option for beginners and intermediate musicians alike. With its stunning design, high-quality components, and impressive tonal range, the GSR200BL has a lot to offer.
Design and Build Quality
The Ibanez GSR200BL features a solid agathis body, which is a lightweight yet durable wood that provides a well-balanced tone. The body showcases a double-cutaway design, allowing for easy access to the higher frets. This feature is particularly beneficial for left-handed players, as it can be more challenging to reach these frets on a traditional bass guitar.
The neck is made from maple, a popular choice for bass guitars due to its bright tonal qualities and excellent sustain. The GSR200BL features a 34-inch scale length, which is standard for bass guitars, providing a comfortable playing experience and accurate intonation. The fingerboard is made from treated New Zealand pine, offering a smooth and responsive surface for your fingers to glide across.
The GSR200BL is equipped with two pickups: a Dynamix P split-coil pickup in the neck position and a Dynamix J single-coil pickup in the bridge position. This combination provides a wide range of tonal options, allowing you to achieve various sounds across different music genres. The bass also features an Ibanez Custom Electronics 2-band EQ, giving you even more control over your tone.
The hardware on the GSR200BL is finished in chrome, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design. The tuners are smooth and reliable, ensuring your bass stays in tune throughout your playing sessions. The bridge is an Ibanez B10 unit, which offers stability and easy adjustability for optimal action and intonation.
Playability
One of the standout features of the Ibanez GSR200BL is its playability. The slim and fast neck profile allows for comfortable and effortless playing, even for those with smaller hands. The double-cutaway body design ensures easy access to the higher frets, which can be particularly beneficial for left-handed players.
The 34-inch scale length provides a familiar and comfortable playing experience, while the treated New Zealand pine fingerboard offers a smooth and responsive surface for your fingers. The medium-sized frets are well-dressed and evenly spaced, ensuring accurate intonation and minimizing the risk of fret buzz.
The GSR200BL is relatively lightweight, making it an excellent choice for extended playing sessions or live performances. The strap buttons are solid and secure, ensuring your bass stays in place as you play.
Sound
The Ibanez GSR200BL delivers a versatile and powerful sound, thanks to its combination of high-quality components and thoughtful design. The agathis body provides a well-balanced tone, while the maple neck and treated New Zealand pine fingerboard contribute brightness and sustain.
The Dynamix P and J pickups offer a wide range of tonal options, from deep and warm lows to bright and punchy highs. The 2-band EQ allows you to further shape your sound, making the GSR200BL suitable for various music genres, from jazz and blues to rock and metal.
The pickups are also relatively quiet, minimizing any unwanted hum or noise. This feature is particularly useful when recording or playing at higher volumes.
Conclusion
The Ibanez GSR200BL left-handed electric bass is an excellent choice for left-handed players seeking a versatile, comfortable, and affordable instrument. With its sleek design, high-quality components, and impressive tonal range, the GSR200BL delivers exceptional value for money.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first bass guitar or an intermediate player seeking an upgrade, the Ibanez GSR200BL is a fantastic option. Its playability, sound, and stunning design make it a standout choice in the world of left-handed bass guitars.
