Ibanez RBM400 Reb Beach Signature

This is the signature model Reb Beach (Dokken, Winger, Whitesnake). Japanese-made, such as RBM 1 & 2, the RBM 10 being manufactured in Korea.
I bought this guitar in 1995 at a price of 7500 francs rather than because I was a fan of Reb but because frankly the original look, inspired by Steinberger and because the RBM two days cost the NT 15 000 francs
This model differs from the RBM NT 2 by the absence of koa and EMG (replaced here by Ibanez). on the other hand, there is the unvarnished mahogany body, the neck and fingerboard with Pao Ferro (Bolivian Palissander, a very hard exotic wood), the floating tremolo LoPro Edge golden, 3 microphones in config. 2 singles + 1 double, one volume knob, a 5-way switch and a switch to split the double.
I quickly put together a kit EMG (89 + 2 SA). The volume knob has been replaced by a volume / push-pull (to split the 89) and the switch has been modified to be able to control on / off a booster medium EMG SPC.

UTILIZATION

The guitar is not too heavy, more on stage. The handle has a satin finish, is a bit rounder than the standard Ibanez but it's still not a tree trunk! The key has 22 jumbo boxes to shrink. The junction body / neck is rounded, easy access to acute.
For cons, the fact that the upper attachment strap is attached behind and not the end of the horn that the guitar tends to nose dive. In addition, we do not just go up to the end of the horn as it is called, as its lower homologues, beacoup thinner and indented on the RG models of the brand, so more fragile.Problème.

SOUNDS

This machine sends wholesale. The combination of EMG + mahogany because the sound is not cold. In this distortion deposit hairy, my JCM 900 sound limit trash! The 89 split single coil allows you to play it cool. The two SA can get great clean sounds. Add the chorus on it and it is exellent. In addition, there is no background noise (long live the active pickups).
In short, although this guitar has a Metal direction, it is rather versatile and can address a lot of different styles (rock, blues).

OVERALL OPINION

It's a pretty rare guitar to find, especially in the natural finish. It does not discounted over time, however. By doing some research on the net, I realized that was one of Ibanez who took the time value, ie € 2000 +.
But beware, some unscrupulous music stores (I know one in Strasbourg) may try to pass a Korean model (RBM 10) of OCCAZ high price (1000 €) under the pretext that it is a raretée. It does not apply, finish and equipment are not up to par. Aim for a Japanese model, it is more expensive but you will not be disappointed.
I do not regret my choice. It ages well, it sounds a hell, it made an impression, especially on stage. A very good Ibanez.
To see: www.ibanezregister.com