Ibanez Standard RG421PB Caribbean Shoreline Flat
The Ibanez Standard RG421PB in Caribbean Shoreline Flat is an excellent entry to intermediate level electric guitar.
I recently reviewed an Ibanez GRGR131EXBKF GIO RG in Black Flat. Since I was so impressed with the quality of their entry level model I wanted to get the next level up.
I really like the finish and wood grain on this particular example. These tops are a bit like Rorschach tests to me. But I think they look cool.
Most people want to know two things about entry level guitars. One, “How does it play and two, “How does it sound?” In other words what’s the difference? Is there any?
Well, yes of course there is a difference between the Standard RG and the Prestige RG. That being said the real question is, “how much does it matter and in what context?”
If you are a beginner then it doesn’t matter enough to justify the extra cost. Unless, of course, you happen to have $3000 you are willing to spend on an instrument. There’s nothing wrong with that. I’m simply saying it isn’t necessary by any means.
So getting to the differences. First, there will be slight differences in “fit and finish.” One small detail you’ll notice on a cheaper guitar like this is the bridge saddle screws that are too long.
While this issue is easily remedied with a Dremel with a grinder attachment it is one of those little things that make a guitar feel better or worse. Having those screws grinding on your palm can be a little annoying at best.
Second, there will be slight differences in tone. Higher end pickups have a wider range and less noise. They simply have more clarity, responsiveness, and character than less expensive pickups. But is this a deal breaker? No. Most beginning players won’t notice the difference. Besides the differences are subtle. What I notice with the less expensive pickups when using distortion is a bit more “noise” in the tone. I suppose it’s a bit like static. However, it can be controlled to a degree by using a little less gain and playing very cleanly.
Quality Straight Out of The Box
This example was ready to go. The action was acceptable. Also, the string height at the nut was good. Guitar companies have improved the out of the box set up specs over the years. The finish of the body and neck were both great. I didn’t find and blemishes. All the electronics functioned properly. The knobs and the 5-way switch all worked smoothly.
Ibanez Standard RG421PB Specs
The guitar features a Poplar Burl Top, Meranti Body, Maple Neck, Jatoba Fingerboard, and 2 Ibanez Quantum Humbucking Pickups. It has a satin finish on the body and neck.
The neck sports 24 Jumbo frets. The scale length is 25.5.”
Conclusion
The guitar played great. It only needed a fret polish, fingerboard conditioning, and a fresh set of strings. Once I did that work the feel improved significantly. Keep in mind that the strings begin to corrode and tarnish while these guitars are in transit. On low end guitars using less expensive strings is one way the companies save money. Changing strings is something to be expected no matter what anyway. Especially for someone like myself who destroys standard nickel plated strings in a couple days. I have to put a new set of Elixir Optiweb coated strings on every guitar I buy.
Make sure to watch the video at the beginning of the article. The guitar parts in the intro background music in addition to the tone review were all played on this RG421PB.
Bottom line: If you want an affordable guitar that is ready to rock (with some minor routine maintenance work) then the Ibanez Standard range is a great option.
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