Ibanez SR405EQM Bass Guitar Review - Exceeding The Expectations
- Ibanez
- Archive review
From our archive. This review was published on GuitarFella and has not been re-tested. Specifications describe the model as it shipped then — check what Ibanez makes now before you buy.
Ibanez is a brand that holds massive authority in the world of bass guitars. They might not be considered elite by some, but no one can dispute the fact that Ibanez alone provides some of the best models in all segments of the market. Just how much value they offer on average can be see using Ibanez SR405EQM. This bass looks like something that costs twice as much, and sounds pretty excellent as well. In simple terms, It's a mighty bass guitar with a rather neutral character, which makes it perfect for a variety of applications. Versatility plus style is exactly why this bass belongs on our shortlist of top choices in the 5 string segment of the market.
Body & Neck
The body shape is of Ibanez SR405EQM is a design that has been around for a long time in one form or another. It's a platform that most of SR models share. Tonewood of choice came down to mahogany that is complimented by a quilted maple top. Finish on these basses is pure perfection. Aesthetically, Ibanez SR405EQM is among the best looking bass guitars, period. Neck is an SR5 five piece maple and rosewood piece that comes with a rosewood fretboard. When it comes to build quality and construction, this Ibanez up there with the best.Hardware
Hardware is another segment where Ibanez SR405EQM excels. The bridge is an Accu Cast B305 unit that features a set of fully adjustable saddles. Compared to your standard vintage bridge, this one isn't too different but it handles sustain a lot better. Tuning machines are quality made standard units which work more than well under normal conditions. That low B string is not putting the bridge under loads it can't sustain, so don't worry about going too hard on this guitar.Electronics
Ibanez SR405EQM comes packing a set of PowerSpan dual coil pickups - one at the bridge and one at the neck position. These are wired to a complex circuitry that includes a three band EQ and something called a Power Tap switch. This switch allows you to choose between two types of tap options and a standard series setting. With all of its controls combined, you have a lot of maneuvering space in terms of tone shaping.