Ibanez RG2550Z

The RG-2550Z is the replacement of the RG-2550E. It's pretty much the same as the last model, but this model has the new Edge Zero trem installed. Just like the last one, this has a basswood body, maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, HSH configuration, 24 frets, volume knob, tone knob and 5 way switch. It also has the wedge sharktooth inlays and a pickguard installed.

UTILIZATION

Just like the last one, this model is well put together. The biggest difference would probably be the new Edge Zero tremolo. It features the same features that ZPS system which basically acts as a trem stopper. One problem some people have with floyds is that you can't easily downtune them. When the ZPS system is used, you can downtune to your hearts content without worrying about spending 30 minutes trying to adjust the claw just right. Also, when you break a string, it'll still stay in tune. That said, I prefer disabling this system as it feels somewhat unnatural when doing certain whammy bar techniques.

SOUNDS

The pickups in this model are the same as the last one, so they're somewhat bland sounding. Once you replace them, the guitar really comes to life. I'm a big fan of using DiMarzios in basswood bodies, so I generally choose something like the Breeds, Evo 2 or the such, depending on what tone I'm going for. For lead tones, basswood sounds great, and rhythm tones work out very nicely for progressive/fusion style music.

OVERALL OPINION

If you're looking for a new RG, this is a pretty good model. A lot of people will enjoy the Edge Zero with the ZPS, especially with its ability to easily intonate it. However, others seem to have problems with it, so I recommend trying it out in the store first. If you're not liking it, try disabling the ZPS system. That's how I recommend running these guitars. After a quick pickup swap, you're good to go.

The RG-2550Z is the replacement of the RG-2550E. It's pretty much the same as the last model, but this model has the new Edge Zero trem installed. Just like the last one, this has a basswood body, maple neck with a rosewood fretboard, HSH configuration, 24 frets, volume knob, tone knob and 5 way switch. It also has the wedge sharktooth inlays and a pickguard installed.

UTILIZATION

Just like the last one, this model is well put together. The biggest difference would probably be the new Edge Zero tremolo. It features the same features that ZPS system which basically acts as a trem stopper. One problem some people have with floyds is that you can't easily downtune them. When the ZPS system is used, you can downtune to your hearts content without worrying about spending 30 minutes trying to adjust the claw just right. Also, when you break a string, it'll still stay in tune. That said, I prefer disabling this system as it feels somewhat unnatural when doing certain whammy bar techniques.

SOUNDS

The pickups in this model are the same as the last one, so they're somewhat bland sounding. Once you replace them, the guitar really comes to life. I'm a big fan of using DiMarzios in basswood bodies, so I generally choose something like the Breeds, Evo 2 or the such, depending on what tone I'm going for. For lead tones, basswood sounds great, and rhythm tones work out very nicely for progressive/fusion style music.

OVERALL OPINION

If you're looking for a new RG, this is a pretty good model. A lot of people will enjoy the Edge Zero with the ZPS, especially with its ability to easily intonate it. However, others seem to have problems with it, so I recommend trying it out in the store first. If you're not liking it, try disabling the ZPS system. That's how I recommend running these guitars. After a quick pickup swap, you're good to go.

(Originally written by AlanDay/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
Assembled in Japan by the J.Craft Team. It has 24 jumbo frets, IBZ/Di Marzio HSH pickups (made by DiMarzio for Ibanez or made by Ibanez under DiMarzio license? I don't know...)

Great Edge Zero tremolo on knife edges with locking system that works like a Swiss clock. In the factory setting it's half-floating but you can adjust it so that it floats completely (remove the point zero system)...

Volume and tone controls plus 5-way toggle switch.

Extra flat and wide Wizard neck that feels nice. You'll get used to it after a few hours.

UTILIZATION

Very good access to the upper frets, it's an Ibanez!

Strat-type shape but with a more aggressive and sharper look. It weighs almost the same as a Fender Stratocaster. Well-balanced instrument, superb finish.

The sound is quite powerful. Once you adjusted the pickup height, you can play with the volume control for more sound versatility. The versatility is also enhanced by the 5-way toggle switch and the HSH pickup combination. You get a monster but accurate distortion. The clean sound is clear and well-balanced. The only problem is that the pickups tend to produce too present mids and highs.

SOUNDS

I bought it to play melodic heavy metal and it's great for that sort of music. But it also allows me to play jazz or blues stuff.

I tested it with a Fender Twin amp and a Peavey Triple XXX. The sound is always clear and precise (however a bit more crystal clear with the Fender)...

I like the fat distortion of the neck pickup, it reminds Vai, Satriani and Petrucci.

OVERALL OPINION

I bought it about one month ago. I had to bring it to a luthier because the tremolo generated too much vibration noise. He adjusted it properly and changed the strings. This problem seems to be quite rare on this guitars.

I've had plenty of guitars including an Ibanez Saber. When I tested the RG at the store, it was love at first sight.

The guitar is bit too expensive...

I don't know if I would buy it again because it's still too new for me.

Japan

zero edge

wizard

24 cases micro HSH Ibanez in collaboration with DiMarzio

a volume knob, one tone knob and 5 position

UTILIZATION

The handle is an autobahn without speed limit, true to his reputation, 5 plies maple / walnut rosewood fingerboard.

Perfect ergonomics, balanced, light, it does not move an inch, great.

Access to the last string is could not be more simple.

In terms of sound you get what you want! micro config is very balanced

SOUNDS

Yes, micro different configurations are really effective, you can do everything.

You can play metal rhythm "palm mute" etc ... no worries, but not that you'll be surprised sounds clear, crystalline solos, crunch or funk riffs played on this guitar, everything happens as a letter a post.

wah wah cry baby, and blackstar ht1 for now (apartment)

I love playing modern solos with just a hint of reverb, this guitar was born to shred!

OVERALL OPINION

I just have.

this is not my first RG

I love the neck pickups

The quality / price is right

I piles up again without worries