Ibanez SR530

I bought this Ibanez SR530 in order to have a bass with a wider tonal palette, including more modern sounds. The Bartolini pickups and electronics cover a surprising range of tones when used judiciously.

This is the first bass I have ever bought for myself. I spent quite a long time playing basses in the under-$1,000 price range before deciding on this one. The fit and finish is excellent. Unlike many manufacturers offering basses in this price range, Ibanez uses traditional tonewoods: mahogany for the body and maple for the neck.