Everyone’s Dream Guitar!? Introducing Ibanez Signature Models!

Ibanez is a globally renowned guitar manufacturer, used by players of all ages and skill levels, from professionals to amateurs. As a result, many artists have their own signature models. In this article, I have gathered information on some of the guitarists and their signature models that personally caught my attention.

Ichika Nito

Ichika Nito is the first Japanese artist to have a signature model with Ibanez. Known for his innovative and technical playing style that heavily incorporates tapping.

He also collaborated with Tim Henson from Polyphia, whom I will introduce later!

Ichi 100

The Ichi 100 is a model based on Ibanez's classic Talman guitar, customized with Ichika's particular preferences. Notably, it features the original Ichi-S pickups developed specifically for this model. These pickups are characterized by their high output and bright sound, making them essential for achieving the Ichika sound. You can see this model in many of Ichika's videos on his YouTube channel.

Ichi 10

Incredibly, there is another model from Ichika— the Ichi 10. This one is based on Ibanez’s Q (QUEST) series. The ICHI10 is the only model from the Q series to feature three single-coil pickups, making it a relatively rare configuration.

Tim Henson/Polyphia

Polyphia is an instrumental progressive metal band formed in Texas, USA. Recently gaining attention in Japan, they performed alongside BabyMetal at the FOX_FEST held at Saitama Super Arena in May 2024. Tim Henson, the guitarist of Polyphia, is the focus of this introduction.

TOD10

What immediately catches the eye is the stunning inlay on the fretboard! This design, known as the Tree of Death, was conceived by Tim himself. It doesn't only appear on this guitar but also on the later-released elegant model TOD10N and the recently launched signature strap. The fretboard inlay is crafted from ebony, adding a touch of luxury to this high-end guitar.

TOD10N

GS100TOD Tim Henson(Polyphia) Signature Strap

Paul Gilbert

When it comes to Ibanez signature models, many people might immediately think of Paul Gilbert. Known for his work with Racer X and MR. BIG, Gilbert is also famous for his impressive drill technique. He has been using Ibanez guitars since the early stages of his career, and they have become his trademark.

When it comes to the drill technique, "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy" is the quintessential example!

PGM50BK

The PGM50 features a distinctive F-hole design painted on the body top. Not only does it look striking, but its performance is top-notch as well. The neck is crafted from a 5-piece combination of maple and walnut, enhancing its strength and durability. Instead of a tremolo bridge, it uses a fixed bridge, a personal preference of Paul Gilbert. He used to favor Floyd Rose-type bridges, but his tastes changed over time. He even went so far as to modify his guitars to fill in the cavity for a fixed bridge.
This guitar truly embodies Paul Gilbert's meticulous attention to detail.

Josh Smith

Josh Smith is a blues guitarist from Florida.
He began playing guitar at the age of six and started performing in blues clubs at twelve. By 2011, he had even shared the stage with Mick Jagger at the Grammy Awards. Smith is a prominent guitarist of the next generation in the blues world.

FLATV1-BK

The FLATV1-BK is designed with the base of the Ibanez AZS series, but it features a traditional TL-style body without contours or elbow cuts. However, it also incorporates AZS series elements like the curved control plate and the E-Spec-treated neck, showcasing Josh’s passion and attention to detail in every aspect of this guitar!

↑You can see Josh himself talking about and playing this guitar in the video linked above.

It's a dream come true to own the same guitar as your favorite artist. The guitar I have introduced here is just one example of Ibanez’s signature models. If you're interested, be sure to check out signature models for yourself!