Ibanez RGD61ALETMGM RGD Axion Label Electric Guitar, Macassar Ebony Fretboard, Metallic Gray Matte

Player's Perspective

The legendary Ibanez RG has had many different variants and spin-off models over the years, but none have leaned into its "metal" reputation as much as the RGD series. And this particular example in a sleek Metallic Gray finish and blacked-out hardware is particularly in that vein - make no mistake, the RGD61ALET is a metal axe through and through. The 26.5" scale length is designed for drop tunings and keeps the tension just right for heavy distorted riffage, and the electronics simplify the controls down to just a volume pot and 3-way pickup selector with toggles for coil-splitting and voicing changes on the powerful Fishman Fluence pickups. The venerable Evertune bridge, which is growing in popularity in the metal sphere, is a revolutionary piece of hardware that keeps the guitar in tune no matter what, so once you have your desired drop tuning locked in, you can chug away for days. And speaking of chug, the Fluence Modern humbuckers stay tight no matter the amount of gain you throw at it, and the acoustic tone, snap, and resonance of the Ebony fretboard and Panga Panga neck add to the extremely focused sound.

Ibanez spec'd this guitar out in such a way that makes it a competitor against the boutique European builders who became known for guitars of this archetype, and we truly believe it stacks up quite well against those especially at the price point.

Item Specifics

Featuring a Nyatoh body in stylish Metallic Gray Matte finish, the RGD61ALET represents a new level for the modern guitarist. The Macassar Ebony fretboard provides a tight low end with a quick response and the extremely rigid, super-thin and ultra-playable Nitro Wizard 5-piece Panga Panga/Walnut neck substantially increases sustain. The Sub Zero treated frets can stand up against the hardest riffing and string-bending. The luminescent side dot inlays make it easy for players to perform on dark stages and match the dazzling luminescent Ibanez headstock logo. The Fishman Fluence Modern Humbucker pickups in the neck and bridge positions provide an aggressive tone and a powerful attack without excess noise. The Voicing switch allows the pickups to switch from a modern, active high output sound to a crisp, clean and fluid sound. The Ever Tune bridge promises ultimate tuning stability. The Gotoh® locking tuners provide tuning accuracy and allow for quick, efficient string changing. The Schaller S-Lock strap lock pins hold a strap securely but make it easy to put the strap on and take off quickly.