Description

Shift into gear! 90s MIJ Ibanez Soundgear SDGR 800LE, $549!

The Ibanez Soundgear SDGR 800LE is a high-quality bass guitar from the Soundgear (SDGR) series, which Ibanez introduced in the late 1980s. The Soundgear series quickly gained a reputation for its sleek, lightweight designs, thin neck profiles, and modern tonal flexibility, making it a favorite for a wide range of musical genres.

Key Features:

  • Body Type: The SDGR 800LE typically features a sleek, contoured body made from lightweight tonewoods such as basswood or mahogany, providing a comfortable playing experience and resonant sound.
  • Neck: Known for its slim and fast neck, the 800LE is designed with a five-piece maple and walnut construction. This offers both durability and smooth playability, particularly suitable for fast-playing bassists.
  • Fretboard: Rosewood, providing a smooth surface for easy finger movement and adding warmth to the overall tone.
  • Pickups: The bass is typically equipped with Ibanez’s proprietary active pickups, often in the form of P/J (precision/jazz) configuration or soapbar pickups, offering a wide range of tonal options. These pickups are designed to deliver a clean, punchy sound with excellent clarity across the frequency spectrum.
  • Electronics: Active electronics with a three-band EQ give players detailed control over their tone. The ability to adjust bass, mids, and treble makes the 800LE highly versatile, suitable for various musical styles from rock and jazz to funk and metal.
  • Bridge: Equipped with a sturdy bridge for excellent sustain and tuning stability, usually a high-mass design that enhances the instrument’s resonance.

Sound Characteristics:

The Ibanez SDGR 800LE offers a modern, articulate sound. Thanks to the active pickups and 3-band EQ, the bass can produce everything from deep, rumbling lows to snappy, defined highs. This makes the bass highly versatile, capable of handling aggressive slap techniques, smooth fingerstyle playing, and even fast pick-driven performances.

The slim neck and lightweight body contribute to a very playable instrument, particularly for bassists who require fast neck action and comfort over long periods of playing.

Build Quality:

Ibanez is known for its consistent quality across all price ranges, and the SDGR 800LE is no exception. The combination of solid tonewoods, a stable neck, and advanced electronics ensures that the bass performs well in both live and studio settings. The lightweight body design also makes it appealing to players who prefer an instrument that doesn’t feel too heavy during long sets.

Country of Manufacture:

The Ibanez SDGR 800LE is manufactured in Japan. Japanese models are known for their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.