Ibanez Collectors World: HOW TO READ A IBANEZ SERIAL NUMBER HOW TO READ A IBANEZ SERIAL NUMBER » » HOW TO READ A IBANEZ SERIAL NUMBER « » Closed: New threads not accepted on this page Thread Last Poster Posts Pages Last Post Closed: New threads not accepted on this page Author Message Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Saturday, December 04, 2004 - 6:12 am: Well gang here it is the ultimate list on serial numbers from today to yesterday. Now I know there are a few yawning out there but think of those who do not know how to read them. I hope this list will be a useful one to all at ICW. OK it goes like this.starting with Japanese built guitars: 1997 to Now F=Fujigen factory, 2nd & 3rd digit=year made(eg 04=2004) next 5 digits =month & build number Jan=5000 Feb=10000 Mar=15000 Apr=20000 May=25000 June=30000 July=35000 Aug=40000 Sept=45000 Oct=50000 Nov=55000 Dec=60000 So an example here is for a recent model with a Serial number F0330210 = Fujigen 2003 June 210th guitar built. 1984 to 1996 example serial number F232104 F=Fujigen 2=1992 as an example 3=March production So 1=Jan 12=Dec 2104 guitar built for that month 2104th made 1975 to 1983 Example serial number C800358 C=March So A=Jan M=Dec 80 = 1980 year of build 0358= 358th guitar built for that month. Sung Eum Factory Example serial number E9052345 E=Sung Eum 9=1999 05= May So 01=Jan 12=Dec 2345= 2345th guitar built for that month Korean Built Ibanez Cort Factory Acoustics and Electrics start with C eg C03071234 C=Factory 03=2003 07=July 1234=1234th guitar built for that month Saehan Factory: acoustics start with SQ, electrics start with S Sae-In Factory starts with A These other factories follow the same serial number pattern as the Cort Korean factory. Indonesian Made Ibanez These guitars start with the following I=Cort Indonesia factory K=KWO factory J=Sejung factory The example serial number is K031034335 K=KWO 03=2003 10=Oct.
So 01= Jan 12=Dec 34335 it is from the Acoustic range So 00001 to 49999 are Acoustic Guitars, 50000 to 99999 are electric guitars and electric basses All 3 factories use the same serial number system China Production W=World Factory Z=Yeou Chern Factory Example Serial Number WX32149 W=World Factory X=October.but wait it goes like this for the build months 1=Jan 2=Feb 3=Mar 4=Apr 5=May 6=Jun 7=July 8=Aug 9=Sep X=Oct Y=Nov Z=Dec 3=2003 2149= 2149th guitar built for that month. So there it is peeps, this brings you up to date,if there is other stuff I have left out which I'm sure I might have like the Artstar Jazz Boxes with the H starting serial number.Lt Commander Roadster please fill in the missing blanks here If you have anything else please put it here so we can keep a uniform thread to be used by all as good reference guide. I hope this is useful to all our new fellow Ibaneezer's who have joined the collective as of late. Captain Ibanez Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Saturday, December 04, 2004 - 9:45 am: Captain: Thanks VERY much for this info. It's the most concise I've ever seen.
In the Japanese built, 1984 to 1996 section, how would you distinquish an '84, '85 or '86 from a '94, '95 or '96 if only the last digit of the year is used. Or does it work that F4 = '84 and F94 = '94. Can you tell us about the Sung Eum Factory? This is a Japanese plant? Also, what kind of guitars were made there and what years? The example number looks like there would only be valid numbers from E0 (1990) thru E9 (1999). Is that a correct assumption?
Thanks once again for the great job you've done. Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Sunday, December 05, 2004 - 6:19 am: John, the 84 85 etc models etc where actually still the same system from prior to 1984, I strongly beleive that the newer serial number sytem did not take full effect until 1990 but that between you and me. The Sung Eum story will be revealed a bit later.have to do some home work, but I'm glad you find this info useful as I'm sure all at ICW will. The Artstar factory was the Tendura factory and I was hoping that Lt Commander Roadster was going to join the dots here.but he is probably busy in the engine room fiddling with the warp drive Captain Ibanez Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Sunday, December 05, 2004 - 12:38 pm: '1984 to 1996 example serial number F232104 F=Fujigen 2=1992 as an example 3=March production So 1=Jan 12=Dec 2104 guitar built for that month 2104th made 1975 to 1983 Example serial number C800358 C=March So A=Jan M=Dec 80 = 1980 year of build 0358= 358th guitar built for that month. ' These years should be 1987 to 1996 and 1975 to 1986. I didn't see any reference to a 'P' factory prefix.
I have seen several of these on Korean built models from 1987. Still don't know what the 'P' stands for! Steve Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Sunday, December 05, 2004 - 12:47 pm: Interesting diferences between my data and what the Cap'n has presented. These are the factory codes as I got them years ago from JD: Japan F = Fuji Gen Gakki H = Terada I = Iida Korea C = Cort P =??? S = Samick Maybe we can FINALLY sort out this mess! Steve Username: Ibnzplyr Registered: 03-2004 Posted on Monday, December 06, 2004 - 12:41 am: P = Pyongyang: ) Scott Username: Johnm Registered: 08-2001 Posted on Monday, December 06, 2004 - 7:45 am: Hello Captain, Here's one I'd like to have your opinion on: I800010 (Artfield AFD-25) 1988 the 10th guitar made?
In which month? In Indonesia or Iida? Username: Shawnnelson Registered: 12-2004 Posted on Wednesday, December 15, 2004 - 11:08 am: Hi guys first post here. I have question for the capt.
Since i am a little slow.lol This serial is off my destroyer 2, have no idea what year or anything it was made, can someone help me? 'B814869 made in japan' is what it says on the neck plate. Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Wednesday, December 15, 2004 - 11:23 am: Shawn: Good to have you with us! Your serial number is an easy one, so I'll jump in and help the Captain.
That would be a February 1981 build date. Username: Shawnnelson Registered: 12-2004 Posted on Wednesday, December 15, 2004 - 12:22 pm: Thanks Johns for warm welcome and the help. This looks like a great site with a good group of people.I am looking forward to learning more about my favorite guitars and plan to search this site indepth. Username: Jimdonahue Registered: 04-2004 Posted on Friday, January 14, 2005 - 9:24 pm: Serial numbers Here are the answers to your Questions F7 Means 1987 in 1997 they added F 97 and the CE designation. Sung-Eum is E because S was used by Samick. So S was samick in 1990 to 1995, S is now Sejan, Y is actually yoojin Korean Factory this was made in Korea (RG140,RG240,RG340) They also made the first Korean acoustic's. P Peerless factory in Pusan Korea, Owned and controlled by IIDA Gakki in Japan they made the Nomad series and AE and other acoustics like the Charleston.
I is Idda Gakki they made some AR300 models in the mid 1980's after Fuji stopped making set necks. H is the funniest H7 is Terrada a comapy in Nagoya Japan that makes mostly Gretsch guitars, This was a disaster and they made H7 for 3 years on the serial numbers, H must have ment for Hoshino. Acoustics with a 2 like 2940000 are Cort Taejan factory because they did not have a Letter on the stamp, I asked them to do that. The older acoustics were made by a Japanese company Called Kato they made the V300 series and a few other ones.
They use the year then month like 8204 (April 1982) W is world this is actually a Korean not Chinsese Company. There is also another Z that was on the Silver Cadet that was Woo-sin, that place burned down and so did the S&N factory. (I went to all of these places man I have stories.) Any other serial number questions, just ask I know them all. Jim Username: Fg100 Registered: 03-2004 Posted on Saturday, January 15, 2005 - 8:43 am: Hi Jim, what do you mean with the H7 part in our post? Does it mean that a guitar with H7 can't have the year determined prcisely? There was a guy selling an AF200 with H7 serial saying it was a 97, but I thought it would be 87. And what about H80xxxx for an AF200?
Is it right to say it is a Hoshino 1988? Thank you very much for all the info.
Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Saturday, January 15, 2005 - 1:15 pm: Jim: Thanks for that ton of information! This is a lot more complicated than I figured.
Two questions: 1. I had the same thoughts about the H7 designation. I have an AF200 with the serial number H803325. It matches the description of the '88 AF200, with the narrow Artstar headstock. The '98 catalog doesn't list the AF200 at all, and those Artstars all had the wide, tulip style headstock.
Can you talk more about why the Terrada factory was a disaster? Was it stupid administrative/business problems or was the quality of the guitars affected? Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Saturday, January 15, 2005 - 1:39 pm: Remember, '97 and later models will have the 'CE' (Consultants Europe) logo on them. While not part of the serial number, it is a dead give away as to the decade of manufacture. Steve Username: Stevo Registered: 06-2001 Posted on Sunday, January 16, 2005 - 9:55 am: OK here is another different one JS1-serial# J000036, when was this one made?
My assumption is that this is the 36th JS1 made but the rest dosn't match any of the other examples. Sincerely Stefano Username: Stevo Registered: 06-2001 Posted on Tuesday, February 01, 2005 - 8:29 pm: bump Captain are you there? Stefano Username: Stevo Registered: 06-2001 Posted on Sunday, February 06, 2005 - 4:46 pm: Let's try again?
Maybe I'll be more fortunate. Stefano Username: Winniethomas Registered: 02-2002 Posted on Wednesday, February 09, 2005 - 11:58 pm: Okay, now that I am thoroughly confused, some one tell me what this means: My Japanese made AS 80 has 'Artist' on the truss rod cover and the Artist headstock. The serial number is H701168.
Winnie Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Thursday, February 10, 2005 - 12:32 am: Winnie: I'd say it was an '87. Username: Stevo Registered: 06-2001 Posted on Thursday, February 10, 2005 - 11:18 am: Still nobody has a clue on the JS? Stefano Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Thursday, February 10, 2005 - 12:56 pm: Stevo: The Captain's first message says: J=Sejung factory I don't know that much about them, but does it sound right that your JS-1 is an Indonesian made guitar from 2000? Username: Stevo Registered: 06-2001 Posted on Thursday, February 10, 2005 - 3:15 pm: I don't think any JS1 were ever made in Indonesia, for some kind of twist all Satriani's serial numbers differ from the standard Ibanez, this is why I was asking.
Maybe Jim can clear this up a little. Cheers Stefano Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Friday, February 11, 2005 - 6:07 am: Mr Shanley, The Captain can only work on the info I recieve from Nagoya.please be gentle.or else I will set my phasers and proton missles to stun.can't nuke the keeper Captain Ibanez ps for any of the faithfull out there who wish to crittersize. I respect the quality input.cause remember I may not be as alert as I used to be sometimes.I try.only for all and sundry on this website.
Now you thought that you had to be kind for the thread for Ibanez.The Untold Story writers.and yes thats my old mate JD! Sorry taxdodgers.if I'm out of school for all the wealth of collective knowledge out there,sometimes, give me a break, cause I'm not on the soapbox here, I do what I do for you guys.3 weeks until the Aussie release of the 2005 Ibanez range.then I will get our cleaners to get Spiro's dribble off the glass at the office. Lmao So, as I said in a much early thread.about 2 years ago.when are you freaks.coming too Australia for the 1st ever Ibanez forum? I would love to put you all up at my place by the beach here.but my invalid mum might get the shits.big time with the greetings.and now your here.where's my cofee and a biscuit.go on I dare ya to say I take care of a 76 year old Parrot Come on ya bastards, get ya rear into gear can we do this next year at Australis Music in 2006, the 30th anniversary of the end of the Law Suite Era?
Captain Ibanez Username: Winniethomas Registered: 02-2002 Posted on Saturday, February 12, 2005 - 9:23 pm: Johns, Thanks, that's what I was assuming but wasn't sure. It's a great guitar, I bought it from Harold (bluesfingers) about 7 years ago. Winnie Username: Stevo Registered: 06-2001 Posted on Sunday, February 13, 2005 - 9:16 am: Got an answer from Rich harris at Ibanezrules.com, he says that my JS1 is from 1990 and that the J means Japan, od but since he is the major expert on Satriani's on the planet I'll stick with his judgement and we can ad a new line to the already( confusing and)growing topic of Ibanez serial #'s. Cheers Stefano Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Sunday, February 13, 2005 - 10:23 am: Stevo: Thanks for sharing this info. I guess this is the price you pay for sourcing guitars from various factories all over the world.
Username: Mbg1002 Registered: 01-2005 Posted on Thursday, April 07, 2005 - 3:39 am: Hi I have an Ibanez RG 470 CA, w/ EDGE Pro Trem. It has SN:F0409608. This 2004 ryt? Wat are the rest of info? Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Thursday, April 07, 2005 - 6:15 am: Mbg1002, F=Fujigen.Japan. 04= 2004 09=September 608= 608th guitar built for that month Captain Ibanez p.s CA=Candy Apple (Red) Username: Mbg1002 Registered: 01-2005 Posted on Thursday, April 07, 2005 - 11:22 pm: Really? But wait.I bought that guitar in the store last June 2004 only.
Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Friday, April 08, 2005 - 8:00 am: HAVE YOU NOT HEARD OF FORWARD PRODUCTION? CAPPY Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Friday, April 08, 2005 - 8:17 am: jUST JOKING BUT THIS IS WHAT CAN HAPPEN Username: Rakumaniac Registered: 03-2005 Posted on Tuesday, April 12, 2005 - 11:30 pm: How about W530961 is it a W= Korea 5=2005 3=march and 0961 =the Nine hundred and sixety one built or am I reading these posts wrong? Username: Spiro Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Wednesday, April 13, 2005 - 1:34 am: the above is correct rakumaniac Username: Partsman Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Thursday, August 04, 2005 - 1:18 am: ok, i've got one here, it's an AS120 Artstar made in korea the serial # is 9129422 no letter prefix, is this a 91?
Thanks, Mark Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Thursday, August 04, 2005 - 2:39 am: Partsman, 91= 1991 2= Feb 9422=9,422th guitar built for that month. This would be total units for that month across the entire range not just one model. Captain Ibanez Username: Partsman Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Thursday, August 04, 2005 - 8:48 am: cool, thanks Capn' Mark Username: Daveh Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Thursday, August 04, 2005 - 2:09 pm: Hi Cap'n, long time reader, first time poster here. I have an AS193, built 2003 according to your charts, and from what I have read here, the Artcore bodies were built in China, then shipped to Japan for necks and finish.
This is where I am confused, because my 193 has 'Made In Japan' on the back of the head stock, and the sticker inside the body says 'Made In Japan', also. As you know, this is the 'high rent' Artcore semi-hollow DC.
Please enlighten me, if possible. Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Friday, August 05, 2005 - 9:03 am: Dave, a couple of pictures in the daylight would be nice,as well as the serial number, for ya O'l Cappy to give you the truth. Look forward to the pics.etc Captain Ibanez Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Friday, August 05, 2005 - 9:05 am: p.s. Artcore range was never built in Japan. These modern day classic axes wereonly ever built in China Cappy Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Friday, August 05, 2005 - 9:10 am: ooops sorry to say that they use the old school Fujigen building techniques.if there is a fault.destroy it and start again. This is the masters method.don't even begin to ask why.!
This is why you have so many classic guitars in your collection these days. For those who wish to ask further.just ask me! Cappy Username: Daveh Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Monday, August 08, 2005 - 1:22 pm: OK, Cap'n, here are a couple pics with the pertinent info. It may come in two posts, though.
Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Tuesday, August 09, 2005 - 2:07 pm: The top one is a Fuji built 2003. On the lower one I don't see anything that looks like a serial number. The model number (AS193) is visible.
Are these both from the same guitar? Steve Username: Ibanezfreak1960 Registered: 03-2004 Posted on Tuesday, August 09, 2005 - 2:49 pm: It looks like the date is stamped underneath Japan Jun96021.
But could that be a printing date for the label? Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Tuesday, August 09, 2005 - 3:35 pm: Steve: Earlier in the thread Daveh said that he had an AS193 that had a Japan serial number.
Yet, this model was supposed to be Korean. The pictures show that not only does the serial number indicte the Japanese ancestry, but the label inside says so, too. Username: Daveh Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Tuesday, August 09, 2005 - 6:02 pm: Yes, the ser.# and label are from the same axe.
One time when I was shopping, I found this guitar on the Ibanez site, in the Artcore catagory. Listed as Japanese origin, with Super '58 pickups in wood rings, Gibralta III bridge, block inlays,etc.
I think it listed around 1200USD. It does not say Artcore anywhere on the guitar. Image image Username: Daveh Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Tuesday, August 09, 2005 - 6:08 pm: Here's the two pics I forgot to post.: Username: Daveh Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Monday, August 29, 2005 - 7:17 pm: Bump, anyone with a little info on the AS193?
Username: Simbob30 Registered: 09-2005 Posted on Sunday, September 04, 2005 - 3:14 pm: Here's one I couldn't find any reference for. I'm trying to determine which model I have but there is no model name on the head stock and only one serial number (that I could find) on the neck plate. The number is 8913872. I assume it was the 3872 guitar produced in Jan 1989. I believe it's an RG series and I think either a 650 or 750.
Has D-S-D pickup configuration, a 5 way switch, 1 volume, 1 tone, and a Floyd Rose. Has a Wizard neck. Does not have shark tooth inlay but just a triangle. Anyone know what this might be? It was my first 'real' guitar purchase and I love this guitar! I'm the original owner and would like to find another one just like her.
I can add photos if needed. Username: Funkle Registered: 12-2001 Posted on Monday, September 05, 2005 - 1:39 am: Daveh, What you have is part of the Artcore United series. Made only in '03. Wood PU surrounds, figured tops, Japanese Super 58s, Beautifully crafted necks. As you noted, the bodies were made in China, then shipped to FujiGen in Japan where the neck was added, and finish applied.
I have an AG195, and spent quite a bit of time with the AF195, all part of the United series. They play and sound fantastic. I am very impressed with the quality, and have considered seeking out an AS193. They can definitely hang with the Prestige and Signature models. I'm surprised that even the captain missed that this guitar is an Artcore United. It bears the made in Japan marking because that was the country of final assembly, and therefor the country of origin. Here is an article announcing the United Line: banez Debuts Artcore United Guitars at NAMM New Full and Semi-Acoustics Combine Artcore With Japanese Ibanez Necks January 15, 2004 Ibanez is taking their Artcore full and semi-acoustic guitars into a new arena.
'The new Ibanez Artcore United models 'unite' our resonant Artcore bodies with impeccable Japanese craftsmanship and finishing and the famous playability of Japanese Ibanez necks,' said Paul Specht of Ibanez Communications. 'The guitars begin as Artcore flamed maple bodies in China and then travel to Japan for fitting with 3pc maple/mahogany Ibanez necks and Super 58 humbuckers and then finished. Then they're shipped to the states where they're inspected and set-up by Ibanez USA quality control in Bensalem, Pennsylvania and Idaho Falls, Idaho.
The result is pro playability and tone in the $1300 range, which in full and semi-acoustics is an achievement we are very proud of.' Three different Artcore United models will be offered.
The traditional-sized AF195 and the slightly smaller AG195 are true full-hollow bodies, which list for $1329.00. The AS193 semi-acoustic lists for $1229. Model AF195 List $1329.99 Available Finish AV Antique Violin Body Material Flame Maple Back Sides, and Top Neck Material 3pc Maple/Mahogany Set-in Neck Scale 24 3/4' No. Frets/Type 22/Medium Fingerboard Bound Rosewood Inlay Artist Block Bridge Rosewood H/W Color Chrome Neck Pickup Super 58 Bridge Pickup Super 58 Controls Two volume, Two Tone Other Special Features '70s-style decorated tailpiece Case AF200C Case List $169.99 Advertisement Model AG195 List $1329.99 Available Finish AV Antique Violin Body Material Flame Maple Back Sides, and Top Neck Material 3pc Maple/Mahogany Set-in Neck Scale 24 3/4' No. Frets/Type 22/Medium Fingerboard Bound Rosewood Inlay Artist Block Bridge Rosewood H/W Color Chrome Neck Pickup Super 58 Bridge Pickup Super 58 Controls Two volume, Two Tone Other Special Features '70s-style decorated tailpiece Case AG100C Case List $169.99 Model AS193 List $1229.99 Available Finish AV Antique Violin Body Material Flame Maple Back Sides, and Top Neck Material 3pc Maple/Mahogany Set-in Neck Scale 24 3/4' No. Frets/Type 22/Medium Fingerboard Bound Rosewood Inlay Artist Block Bridge Rosewood H/W Color Chrome Neck Pickup Super 58 Bridge Pickup Super 58 Controls Two volume, Two Tone Other Special Features Case AS200C Case List $169.99 From the 2004 catalog Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Monday, September 05, 2005 - 3:10 pm: Simbob, You have a 1989 EX Series made in Korea.
The serial number format for the early Korean built stuff was different. My '91 EXB404 bass has a similar serial number. Steve Username: Daveh Registered: 07-2005 Posted on Tuesday, September 06, 2005 - 10:36 am: Funkle- Thanks for the info. If you can find one of these, I say grab it, because from what I've seen, they are almost as rare as hen's teeth. I've only seen one come up on the 'bay, earlier this year.
It's a great playing and sounding guitar, I get compliments on the sound of it, everywhere I play. The only thing about it is that the ad says flame top/sides/back, but mine is only the top which is flame. Doesn't affect the sound though.:^ Thanks for your effort. Username: Funkle Registered: 12-2001 Posted on Tuesday, September 06, 2005 - 12:23 pm: Dave, there are still some new ones floating around if you search the online dealers.
I got my '03 AG195 new this year from a local dealer.Sven Username: Theletterq Registered: 08-2005 Posted on Monday, October 10, 2005 - 12:40 pm: How many guitars did Ibanez make a month? I have an AW60 with the following serial #: E02072795 If I read the above correctly it would read: E=Sung Eum 0=1980 2=Feb 72,795th built? Thanks for any help! Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Monday, October 10, 2005 - 5:06 pm: Theletterq: I think it would translate as: E=Sung Eum 02=2002 07=July 2795th unit built Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Monday, October 10, 2005 - 11:41 pm: And Mr Shanley shoots.he scores.Translation correct John. Captain Ibanez Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Tuesday, October 11, 2005 - 12:17 am: Hey, what do I win?
Ever since his new job, we don't get to see him much. Username: Theletterq Registered: 08-2005 Posted on Tuesday, October 11, 2005 - 11:23 am: Great, thank you. No wonder it is in such great shape! I haven't done that much research, but I didn't know AW60's were built that recently?
Or was this one not available in the US? Thanks again. Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Tuesday, October 11, 2005 - 10:23 pm: John, he's going ok. We have both been pretty busy. I haven't sat down for a chat and a Jack Daniels with Spiro for nearly 3 weeks We talk petty much everday, he's always got some Ibanez part (s) he is after for his customers.After all he would have the biggest Ibanez display in Sydney in his store. Username: Mrblanche Registered: 01-2006 Posted on Saturday, January 14, 2006 - 1:28 pm: OK, I've gone through this thread, and I'm as puzzled as ever. My new (used) SA160QMAM has the serial # W921470.
Up above it seems to indicate that is Chinese-made, but it's very clearly stamped 'Made in Korea.' Username: Captainibanez Registered: 01-2004 Posted on Saturday, January 14, 2006 - 10:40 pm: Mrblanche, your SA160QMAM was built at the World factory in Korea in Sept.2002 and was the 1,470th guitar built for that month (overall production) not just that model.
So for those who want to work out how to read the World factory serial numbers it goes like this and we will use Mrblanche's serial number for this example. W921470 W = WORLD FACTORY 9 = SEPTEMBER 2 = 2002 1470 = PRODUCTION NUMBER Hope this helps all out there in ICW land Captain Ibanez Username: Dbraman Registered: 02-2006 Posted on Wednesday, February 01, 2006 - 2:50 pm: What does 'L' stand for? Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Wednesday, February 01, 2006 - 6:58 pm: Dbraman: When it comes to serial numbers, context is everything. I assume that the L is the first character? What's the rest of the serial number?
What kind of guitar? For instance, if the guitar was from the mid 70s to mid 80s the L would mean December. The next two characters should be digits.
They would represent the year. For example, L78 would mean Dec 1978. Username: Dbraman Registered: 02-2006 Posted on Thursday, February 02, 2006 - 2:45 pm: It's a PL177OCM. Serial number: L851053. Made in Japan. Thanks Username: Daneel Registered: 02-2006 Posted on Sunday, February 05, 2006 - 8:42 am: I have an Artist AR500 L805338, so made in december 1980, you could see. I would like to know how many AR500 were build per year, how many from this catch de tiger serie, and which is the last catalogue where we can see this model?
Thanks for your help. Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Sunday, February 05, 2006 - 12:03 pm: Daneel: Welcome and thanks for sharing your beautiful AR500 with us! Your's is the second one to show up on the board this week. You're making us jealous. According to Jim Donahue's sitethe AR500 was produced between 1979 and 1982. I can't help with the production numbers.
Maybe Jim can? Leave a message for him in the section named: 'Jim Donahue Answers Your Questions'. He's pretty busy, so don't be surprised if he doesn't get back to you.
Username: Richie1967 Registered: 03-2006 Posted on Sunday, March 05, 2006 - 7:22 pm: John, You might be able to shed some light on my Bass. I bought it 'New' in October of 1989. I believe it is and Ex model, although there are no markings. No active pickups.
It's Electric Yellow and the body style and head stock is similar to a Steve Vai Ibanez Guitar. The serial number is F753519.
Doesn't make sense with you earlier postings. Username: Hasenobu Registered: 01-2006 Posted on Wednesday, March 08, 2006 - 8:41 pm: Richie1967, I think John's first posting gives you a correct answer. Considering the year you bought the bass new, its serial number should be read as follows: F=Fujigen (Japan) 7=1987 5=May 3519=3519th production Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Wednesday, March 08, 2006 - 9:45 pm: Richie: What Hasenobu said! However, there are no EX basses shown in the 1987 catalog (which is really the '88 catalog). They (the EX404 and EX405) first show up in the 1989 catalog, but only in Black and Red, not Yellow. You can see them here: Username: Richie1967 Registered: 03-2006 Posted on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 - 9:43 pm: oH, YOU HAVE NO IDEA!!!! I HAVE THE EX404.1989.THANKS!!!!!
NOW I WHAT I HAVE. ALL THIS TIME IT HAS BEEN DRIVINT ME CRAZY!!!! THNAKS Username: Walt Registered: 04-2006 Posted on Sunday, April 09, 2006 - 12:38 am: I'm assuming my Roadstar 2 RB950 Bass was still under the '83 and earlier system. G844379 G=July 84=1984 Production#4379 Seems to make the most sense. Username: Nounouk Registered: 04-2006 Posted on Thursday, April 20, 2006 - 4:06 pm: hi, my ATK305 has an unusual FC5100121 serial. I saw in another thread a guitar with a FC prefix too, and a 'MIJ' sticker. My bass seems to have had a sticker too, there is a lilbit of glue under the serial.
I searched a lot on the web but found no information about this prefix. Could it be, japan, march 1995? Does anybody know about it? Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 12:58 am: I just picked up an RG321MH with CP04. serial. It's Korean made, 2004.
The double letter prefixes seem to be a new development. Gonna hafta ask the Cap'n. Respectfully, Lt Cmd Roadstar Username: Nounouk Registered: 04-2006 Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 3:29 am: I saw 3 'FC' serials in others guitar pics, so C shouldn't stand for March. May be 1995, october, 121st made. No idea for the C. Username: Ibanezfreak1960 Registered: 03-2004 Posted on Friday, April 21, 2006 - 8:16 am: Cort factory?
Username: Joepasswannabe Registered: 05-2006 Posted on Wednesday, May 10, 2006 - 9:44 pm: Hello, I've been researching Ibanez serial numbers for my website 'The guitar Dater Project' and this thread has been the single most useful source I've found so far. I've written up an app based on the info and I would appreciate it if you checked it out and gave me your input. You can check out the beta version of the app here: Below you will see the assumptions I made when writing the code, which are in large part simply restatement of Captain Ibanez's initial post combined with some amendments from subsequent ones.
Japanese built guitars: 8 CHARACTERS 1997 to Now F = Fuji Gen Gakki H = Terada I = Iida 2nd & 3rd digit=year made(eg 04=2004) next 5 digits =month & build number So an example here is for a recent model with a Serial number F0330210 = Fujigen 2003 June 210th guitar built. 7 CHARACTERS 1987 to 1996 example serial number F232104 F=Fujigen 2=1992 as an example 3=March production So 1=Jan 12=Dec 2104 guitar built for that month 2104th made 1975 to 1987 Example serial number C800358 C=March So A=Jan M=Dec 80 = 1980 year of build 0358= 358th guitar built for that month. Korean built guitars: 8 CHARACTERS Sung Eum Factory Example serial number E9052345 E=Sung Eum 9=1999 05= May So 01=Jan 12=Dec 2345= 2345th guitar built for that month 9 CHARACTERS Cort Factory Acoustics and Electrics start with C eg C03071234 C=Factory 03=2003 07=July 1234=1234th guitar built for that month Saehan Factory: acoustics start with SQ, electrics start with S A = Sae-In C = Cort P = Peerless S = Samick 90 - 95, Sejan 91 - present Y = Yoojin These other factories follow the same serial number pattern as the Cort Korean factory. Indonesian built guitars: These guitars start with the following I=Cort Indonesia factory K=KWO factory I found a site but they only make acoustic guitars J=Sejung factory 10 CHARACTERS The example serial number is K031034335 K=KWO 03=2003 10=Oct. So 01= Jan 12=Dec 34335 it is from the Acoustic range So 00001 to 49999 are Acoustic Guitars, 50000 to 99999 are electric guitars and electric basses All 3 factories use the same serial number system China built guitars: 7 CHARACTERS W=World Factory Z=Yeou Chern Factory Example Serial Number WX32149 W=World Factory X=October.but wait it goes like this for the build months 1=Jan 2=Feb 3=Mar 4=Apr 5=May 6=Jun 7=July 8=Aug 9=Sep X=Oct Y=Nov Z=Dec 3=2003 2149= 2149th guitar built for that month. Username: Ibanezfreak1960 Registered: 03-2004 Posted on Thursday, May 11, 2006 - 1:48 am: joe pass, I had some samples from hoshinoUSA a few years ago.
One was a bass with the J and D logo another was a Crafter that was Identical to the AEF18 model Ibanez acoustic that are still in production and a few Cort basses that are exactly like the low end soundgear models. It is interesting to see all this compiled together, great job!
Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Thursday, May 11, 2006 - 2:59 am: What about late 80's early 90's Korean built without a letter prefix? Or 6 and 7 digit Korean with a letter prefix? Or this morphodite.
Steve Username: Joepasswannabe Registered: 05-2006 Posted on Thursday, May 11, 2006 - 11:48 am: Thanks Ibanezfreak1960 Mrroadstar all that I know is contained in that post. Teach me, I'm here to learn. Username: Mrroadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Friday, May 12, 2006 - 2:17 am: If you read this entire thread carefully the omissions I pointed out are referred to.
Do some searching on this site as there are many serial number related posts. Steve Username: Joepasswannabe Registered: 05-2006 Posted on Friday, May 12, 2006 - 8:54 am: Ok I found two examples of late 80's early 90's Korean built without a letter prefix in this thread 7 Digits First 2 digits represent the year I'm just not clear about whether the third digit represents the month and what happens when its double digit month 8913872 = 19 = 1991 I'll search around some more in the other threads for more info. Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Friday, May 12, 2006 - 9:18 am: Joepasswannabe: I applaud your ambitious project.
Compiling a definitive guide to Ibanez's serial number system was a goal I had for this site. But it has proved to be more problematic because of exceptions and duplications. Contact me via email (click on my username to the left) and I can help you find what's needed to fill in the gaps. JohnS Sysop Username: Nounouk Registered: 04-2006 Posted on Monday, May 15, 2006 - 4:15 pm: Nice project. But still no way to found information about FC prefixed serials on the web. All I found: FC serials in ebay 'ibanez auctions'. Sellers always say 'made in japan' in that case.
Ex: several FC5090xxx, a FC6010xxx, mine FC5100xxx. They seem to be 1995 & 1996 made.
Username: Telstar Registered: 04-2006 Posted on Friday, July 07, 2006 - 2:22 am: Thanks to Joe Pass and all others, trying to shed some light on the serial number dark spots. How about this one: I051218346. According to Joe's listing this would be a dec. 2005 Indonesean built acoustic. Happens to be an electric, though. Guess there will always be some black sheep, serialnumber-wise. Username: Gemberbier Registered: 05-2006 Posted on Saturday, July 15, 2006 - 8:14 am: Sorry Cappy, But your 'ultimate list' doesn't cover this: An excerpt: Posted on Sunday, December 04, 2005 - 10:43 pm: That one is a nice one though.
Also the first burst with a bullet. I'd say $450 on average but I've paid more than I should for guitars just because I 'had' to have it. As long as your happy with it, it's worth what you pay. F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770022 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780076 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss rod CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod Five questions: 1) Does the C stand for Challenger? 2) Do the last 4 digits form the month production number for this particular model only? 3) Is this so four every model?
4) Albert Andrade wrote on October 08, 2004 - 11:07 in the thread Ibanez ES-175 Version '77' Vintage What's it worth'? (about his 2616): 'The s/n is K776985.' Does this, in your opinion, mean they produced at least 6985 Arist 2616 jazz boxes in October 1977? Or is 6985 an overall production number for all models together in October 1977? 5) If the latter is the case, was the overall month production of Ibanez Japan always below 9999?
Couldn't formulate this any shorter. But at least it's shorter than my 'thinking aloud' which John understandably removed. I'll do that in my text processor next time, then I won't loose the logical steps for my hypotheses. Greetz, Ginger Ale Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Saturday, July 15, 2006 - 10:12 am: Ginger: I didn't remove you message. There were problems with the web hosting company yesterday. Please see the 'Technical Difficulties.'
Thread I left in the Miscellaneous section, for a fuller explanation and apology: Username: Gemberbier Registered: 05-2006 Posted on Saturday, July 15, 2006 - 3:43 pm: Oh sorry, I didn't read it, because I was too eager to know Cappy's answer. I had a whole argumentation about why I think the last four digits normally must indicate the overall month production of Ibanez at the moment the guitar gets its stamp (hereunder called HYPOTHESIS 4 ).
To go short: Gibson uses only 3 digits to indicate a day's production, so: 000 and dig a bit deeper in these threads. Look what you find, when you type in the Search field: H0 and dig a bit deeper in these threads. (You can do the same with H8 and you find that at least some Terada made Ibanez guitars were numbered according to the system, and there is no hard evidence for the administrative chaos.
And another thing: all of the owners of Terada made Ibanez hollow body and semi-hollow body guitars who post here are very enthusiastic about the quality of their guitars.) Ginger Username: Guidothepimp Registered: 9-2005 Posted on Thursday, February 22, 2007 - 7:08 am: HEllo All, Captain Ibanez, I quoted your info on serial numbers onthe Ibanez site and referenced your thread on the matter. The lads over there really struggle with serial numbers and i thought it would be helpful. I hope you dont mind. IF its a problem just PM me and i will remove it. Regards Username: Texasbob Registered: 11-2006 Posted on Thursday, March 22, 2007 - 10:03 pm: ok guys my af105f serial number is # S 06042323 all i know is it was made in china. But what factory and year, etc. Help please if you can Username: Emzc Registered: 9-2004 Posted on Friday, March 23, 2007 - 10:07 am: 06 surely means year 2006, but I'm not sure that 04 means april.
Mine is 0503XXXX. I don't know which factory in China. Username: Emzc Registered: 9-2004 Posted on Friday, March 23, 2007 - 10:43 am: Response here: Username: Captainibanez Registered: 1-2004 Posted on Saturday, March 24, 2007 - 4:10 am: Texasbob, your guitar was built in April 2006 Username: Icedb Registered: 3-2007 Posted on Friday, March 30, 2007 - 8:15 pm: Hi, Just wondering about a guitar i purchased this week.
Could you tell me what year it was made etc. The code is: F404266, i'm slightly confused by the fact the second number is a zero. Username: Chazmo Registered: 3-2007 Posted on Saturday, March 31, 2007 - 10:18 am: Hi folks, I was just taking issue with the following, as it appears to be slightly incomplete. I believe that a leading zero can also be found in place of the month letter, although I don't know what that means (early production, maybe, or possibly 12-string?).: 1975 to 1987 Example serial number C800358 C=March So A=Jan M=Dec 80 = 1980 year of build 0358= 358th guitar built for that month. My 1981 Artwood AW-75 acoustic 12-string has '0810098' on the headstock with 'AW-75' beneath it branded into the wood.
I bought this guitar new, so it's authentic and I know that the headstock hasn't been replaced. This guitar was built in Owari Asahi Japan, by the way, according to the Ibanez signature paper under the soundhole. Username: Johns Registered: 2-2001 Posted on Saturday, March 31, 2007 - 5:04 pm: Chazmo: The serial number info mentioned above applies to electrics made in the Fujigen factory. Acoustics are a different animal. You'll find that there were several different serial number schemes for those. Username: Chazmo Registered: 3-2007 Posted on Sunday, April 01, 2007 - 9:48 am: Ah, sorry. I must've misinterpreted the original post, John!
However, after scanning the web for a while, I found no explanation for my 'leading 0' serial number on my acoustic. All the sites I found basically agreed with the original claim that the first letter/digit should be the month.
(not that it matters! ) Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Sunday, April 01, 2007 - 3:24 pm: The numbering is FACTORY SPECIFIC. You can see this the very moment the hollow and semi-hollow body production moves from Fuji Gen Gakki (a factory which uses the letters A-L for the months) to Terada.
Serial Number Search
Terada needed a character to show that the product was made for Hoshino (because they also built for other brands), so they used the H. But other manufacturers, who made cheaper models or solid bodies used a letter to say: 'Hey, WE made this guitar!' Owari Asahi seems to be such a manufacturer. The O just says: 'Hey, Owari Asahi made this guitar' They didn't seem to bother about the month of production. An example that proves that before 1987 letters were NOT used (or at least not used in all factories) to express what month the guitar was built: 83061540H was used for a V-310 from one of our members. It is possible that 06 means June here.
Don't know about the H. Could be herringbone. There's lots of evidence that serial numbering is a factory matter. Take Samick for instance.
They still use the same system for new Epiphones and Arias. Saw one three weeks ago: S03xxxxxx on an Aria.
Ginger Username: Chazmo Registered: 3-2007 Posted on Sunday, April 01, 2007 - 7:32 pm: Gemberbier, I believe Owari Asahi is a region (prefecture) in Japan, but apparently one of Ibanez's manufacturers is/was located there when my guitar was built. I agree with you, and it seems likely that the zero could be a letter O to represent the location of the factory. That seems to make the most sense.
That said, we may be barking up the wrong tree. I saw a post on a different forum about someone looking for info on an AW-60 with 0608045 as the serial number. So clearly the 60 isn't the year (even though 81.is.
the year with mine). And this is from the same factory (his post said so)! Username: Chazmo Registered: 3-2007 Posted on Sunday, April 01, 2007 - 7:40 pm: Sorry, I got it wrong.
Owari Asahi is a city in the prefecture of Aichi. It turns out that Nagoya, the home of Ibanez is the capital of Aichi. Just wanted to clarify. Wish I could edit my posts!
Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Sunday, April 01, 2007 - 10:44 pm: I think an AW-60 with 0608045 is from 2006. But the main point is, just as JohnS explained, that the serial numbers of acoustics don't follow the same system as the electrics. Probably because other manufacturers were involved. It is possible that the H in my example was used as a HOSHINO suffix by Terada before 1987, after which they started to use it as a prefix. Jim Donahue perhaps? Ginger Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Monday, April 02, 2007 - 7:18 am: Now, talking about editing our postings: herringbone in a serial number is of course nonsense. A serial number is not a type number.
Ginger Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Monday, April 02, 2007 - 7:34 am: Couldn't find the AW-60 in 2006 either. Are you positive that it was an AW-60? Not a 40 or 90? I'll do an ICW search for that serial number. Ginger Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Monday, April 02, 2007 - 7:47 am: Oh, I made an effort to solve that problem. I was as stuck then as I'm right now, except for the possibility that the 0 might be an O and the 6 might be an 8 that wasn't properly closed. That would make it an 1980, which is possible.
Wish there had been a little more uniformity back then, and that I would have some (GOOD) pics of the back of that headstock and the label. Ginger Username: Chazmo Registered: 3-2007 Posted on Monday, April 02, 2007 - 8:22 am: Hi Ginger, Thanks for thinking about this with me. In case you're interested, the post I was referring to is here; it was posted last summer so I doubt the originator is still active: I don't know if the poster's info is valid, but there definitely was an AW-60 that ran for a few years from 1978 probably through 1981/82. Indeed, the '6' in his post could be an '8' and then it would make sense and be consistent with mine. I think that's a good guess, and yeah I wish we had a picture of the headstock. The label on his axe is probably the same as mine, so for the record. Username: Beedeepotter Registered: 4-2007 Posted on Saturday, April 07, 2007 - 12:27 am: Ok folks, I got one for you.
I read as much as i could stand but found nothing to explain this. Have asked many people and have heard many explanations. Still not satisfied.
Serial # on my axe is F907303, on back of headstock and printed with a dot matrix printer onto a label stuck on my original warranty card that came with guitar. The model number is written on the card RG565IJRR.Here's the question. If there is a month number in the serial number.is the 0 in front of my seven acting as a place holder because my guitar was only the 303rd made in June, 1989? Seems like the zero place holder would be in front of the production number, not the month. Secondly, following all the color codes I've found everywhere, mine doesn't make sense. What color is IJRR?
JR is jewel red (mine could be) RR is ruby red (mine could be). Could the 'I' indicate some type of blend of the two colors or what?
Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Saturday, April 07, 2007 - 5:38 pm: Your guitar's serial number contains 7 characters. And it's an F (Fuji Gen Gakki) serial number from the 1987-1996 era This was written about it: ' 7 CHARACTERS 1987 to 1996 example serial number F232104 F=Fujigen 2=1992 as an example 3=March production So 1=Jan 12=Dec 2104 guitar built for that month 2104th made ' So, I'm gonna ask some what-if-questions about this hypothetical example. What if this guitar 2104 would have been made in December? Would the serial number have been extended to 8 characters? Or would they have used different characters for the months October, November and December like they did in China? If so, would these characters have been X, Y and Z? What if the month was no part of the serial number at all?
Then your guitar would be nr 7303 within the whole year production. But I've never seen examples where Ibanez or it's manufacturers let go of the principle of integrating the production month in the serial number. So, that would mean your guitar is indeed nr. 303 made in JULY btw, NOT June 1989. A limited production of 999 Ibanez guitars per month in 1989 by Fuji Gen Gakki can be explained by the increased production of Japanese Fender stratocasters by Fuji Gen Gakki in that era. (I bought mine in 1988).
But I'm still wondering how a serial number for October, November or December would have looked like. Ginger Username: Beedeepotter Registered: 4-2007 Posted on Sunday, April 08, 2007 - 3:20 am: Ok, sorry, I realized after getting off here last night that the 7th month is July not June.oops. Honestly, I don't think anybody really knows what the numbers mean. Some say there is no month code whatsoever. Others (as above) say that there is a month code.
Some say that the first two numbers are the year, others say one. Someone told me my guitar was made in 1990 because first 2 digits are 90.
I have also heard the first digit only, therefore 1989. I remember getting that guitar for Xmas 1989, so it couldn't have been 1990, but then the month code couldn't be right. Nobody really knows.do they? Username: Chazmo Registered: 3-2007 Posted on Sunday, April 08, 2007 - 9:59 am: Beedeepotter, I agree there's confusion in the serial number, but it does seem likely (as Ginger said) that 07 is July (rather than 7303).
Why they would have used the zero is confusing, and why they would've put it in front of the month rather than the number is unknown, and does violate the rule. As for your question about the model name. I looked at the 1991 color chart on jemsite, there is indeed a ruby red (RR), but no jewel red.
There was a jewel blue (JB) though. So, even though the catalog year is more recent, I think it likely that 'RR' stands for ruby red on your axe.
I have no idea what the 'IJ' stands for though. Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Sunday, April 08, 2007 - 7:50 pm: If they did not use alternative characters for the last 3 months of the year, like the Chinese factories use X, Y and Z, you need two spaces for the months, so you get: 01-09, 10, 11 and 12, that's not so difficult. And if you take the MIJ Fender production at Fuji Gen Gakki + Ibanez production at several other Japanese factories like Iida and Terada for a reasonable explanation, only 999 Fuji Gen Ibanezzes a month (3-4 a day) is a possibility, if they only built high end models at Fuji Gen.
Area served Worldwide Products, & guitars & basses Website Ibanez ( アイバニーズ, Aibanīzu) is a Japanese brand owned. Based in, Japan, Hoshino Gakki were one of the first Japanese musical instrument companies to gain a significant foothold in import guitar sales in the United States and Europe, as well as the first brand of guitars to mass-produce the and.
Ibanez manufactures effects, accessories, amps, and instruments in Japan, China, Indonesia and in the United States (at a Los Angeles-based custom shop). Currently, there are nearly 165 models of bass guitar, 130 acoustic guitars, and more than 300 electric guitars. In the 1960s, Japanese guitar makers started to mainly copy American guitar designs, and Ibanez-branded copies of, and models started to appear.
This resulted in the so-called period. During this period, Ibanez produced guitars under the Mann name to avoid authorities in the United States and Canada.
Hoshino Gakki introduced Ibanez models that were definitely not copies of the Gibson or Fender designs, such as the and the Roadstar series. The company has produced its own guitar designs ever since. The late 1980s and early 1990s were an important period for the Ibanez brand. Hoshino Gakki's relationship with guitarist resulted in the introduction of the and the models; after the earlier successes of the Roadstar and Iceman models in the late 1970s/early 1980s, Hoshino Gakki entered the market with the, a lower-priced version of their JEM series. Hoshino Gakki also had semi-acoustic, nylon- and steel-stringed acoustic guitars manufactured under the Ibanez name.
Most Ibanez guitars were made by the FujiGen guitar factory in Japan up until the mid- to late 1980s, and from then on Ibanez guitars have also been made in other Asian countries such as Korea, China, and Indonesia. During the early 1980s, the FujiGen guitar factory also produced most of the, including the -style Roland G-505, the twin-humbucker Roland G-202 (endorsed by, Yannis Spathas, Christoforos Krokidis, and ) and the Ibanez X-ING IMG-2010. And Starfield were guitar and bass brands owned by Hoshino Gakki. In the 1970s, Hoshino Gakki and Kanda Shokai shared some guitar designs, and so some Ibanez and have the same features. The Greco versions were sold in Japan and the Ibanez versions were sold outside Japan. From 1982, Ibanez guitars have also been sold in Japan as well. Guitar brands such as and Mann shared some Ibanez guitar designs.
The Antoria guitar brand was managed by JT Coppock Leeds Ltd England. CSL was a brand name managed by Charles Summerfield Ltd England. Maurice Summerfield of the Charles Summerfield Ltd company contributed some design ideas to Hoshino Gakki and also imported Ibanez and CSL guitars into the from 1964 to 1987. The Maxxas brand name came about because Hoshino Gakki thought that the guitar did not fit in with the Ibanez model range and was therefore named Maxxas by Rich Lasner from Hoshino USA.
The 'lawsuit' guitars. Mid-1970's 'Lawsuit Era' solid body, Set neck, Mann/Ibanez electric guitar Harry Rosenbloom, founder of the (now-closed) Medley Music of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, was manufacturing handmade guitars under the name 'Elger.' By 1965, Rosenbloom had decided to stop manufacturing guitars and chose to become the exclusive North American distributor for Ibanez guitars.
In September 1972, Hoshino began a partnership with Elger Guitars to import guitars from. In September 1981, Elger was renamed 'Hoshino U.S.A.'
, retaining the company headquarters in as a distribution and quality-control center. On June 28, 1977, in the, a lawsuit was filed by the, the parent company of, against Elger/Hoshino U.S.A.' S use of the Gibson design and logo. Hoshino settled out of court in early 1978 and the case was officially closed on February 2, 1978. After the lawsuit, Hoshino Gakki abandoned the strategy of copying 'classic' electric guitar designs, having already introduced a plethora of original designs.
Hoshino was producing their original Artist models from 1974, introducing a set-neck model in 1975. In 1977, they upgraded and extended their Artist range and introduced a number of other top-quality original designs made to match or surpass famous American brands: the Performer and short-lived Concert ranges which competed with the Les Paul; through-neck Musicians; Studios in fixed- and through-neck construction; the radically shaped Iceman; and the Roadster which morphed into the Roadstar range, precursor to the popular era in the mid-1980s.
The newer Ibanez models began incorporating more modern elements into their design such as radical body shapes, slimmer necks, 2-octave fingerboards, slim pointed headstocks, higher-output electronics, humbucker/single-coil/humbucker (H/S/H) pickup configurations, locking tremolo bridges and different finishes. Guitars Sub-brands Ibanez J. Custom The J. Custom series are the most exclusive and high-end custom shop guitars Ibanez offers. They are 'Envisioned to be the finest Japanese-made guitar in history'. Built by some of the most skilled luthiers Ibanez has to offer, they 'represent every advance in design and technology Ibanez has developed over the last 20 years'.
They feature aftermarket pickups (Seymour Duncan Jazz & Custom 5 in the 6 string model and DiMarzio PAF-7 pickups in the 7 string model,) 5 piece maple/wenge necks with Titanium reinforcement rods, a rosewood fingerboard with a tree of life fret board inlay, and Edge Zero tremolo systems. Ibanez Prestige The Prestige guitars are Ibanez's top of the line models that are built in Japan. They feature higher quality materials, high craftsmanship, and higher quality bridges compared to other models. Ibanez Premium The Premium guitars are similar to other models but are built in Ibanez's Indonesian premium factory to premium quality standards.
The Ibanez Gio are Ibanez' budget guitars, designed for high playability at low costs. Many high end Ibanez guitars are recreated in the more affordable Gio form, such as the RGA and ART models. Custom USA custom range. Late 1980s to mid-1990s. Also known as Ibanez LACS ( Custom Shop), services only their endorsed artists today. Solid body electric guitars. A 2012 Ibanez RG3250MZ The main characteristics that are common among all Ibanez RG guitars (RG stands for Roadstar Guitar ) are that they feature 24 frets and use thin necks, known as 'Wizard', which allows for faster playing.
The RG features a line up of guitars with both floating tremolo systems and fixed bridge systems. Ibanez RGA The Ibanez RGA was introduced at a time when the Ibanez RG series only had tremolo bridges. Since then, the RG series has introduced fixed bridge models, but Ibanez still produces the RGA series with an arched top to differentiate from the RG series. The arched top allows for added comfort while playing the guitar. Ibanez RGD The Ibanez RGD guitar was developed for heavy metal guitar players. The RGD features a 26.5' scale which allows for lower than standard guitar tuning while retaining standard string tension without use of thicker gauge strings.
It also features an extra deep scoop cut on the lower horn for easy high fret access. Ibanez currently makes two Ibanez RGD Prestige models. Custom modified 2005 S470 The Ibanez S (Saber ) guitar has an extremely thin body made out of mahogany, and is available in 6, 7 and 8-string models. They may come with either 22 or 24 frets, depending on year of manufacture. The standard line currently have Wizard III necks that are slightly wider and thicker than the original Wizard. All S models have bodies that are thicker in the middle where the pickups are, and taper off towards the outer edges.
The guitars use ZR (Zero Resistance), Lo-TRS, and variants of the Edge bridge system as well as fixed bridges. Ibanez currently makes 8 Prestige S-Series guitars. Ibanez DN The Ibanez DN guitar (DN stands for Darkstone ) was developed for heavy metal guitar players. The main features of the DN are that it has a set-in neck for speed and playing comfort, medium frets, and coil tapped pickups. This guitar is currently discontinued. Ibanez X The Ibanez X guitars are Ibanez guitars that feature unconventional and unique body designs. An example would be the Ibanez Xiphos, which is stylized to look like the letter X.
For all X guitars currently available and for more information, check the. (as of 2013, variations may be: and, 100, MTM10) Ibanez Artist (AR) The Ibanez Artist guitars were designed for heavy playing such as for heavy metal or traditional rock.
The Artist ARZ is a single cutaway, 24 fret, 25' scale guitar that features a wide variety of bridges and pickups depending on the specific models. The Artist ART is a single cutaway, 22 fret, 24.75' scale guitar that features a hard tail bridge.
The Ibanez AR is a reissued series originating from the 70s. The AR series features a set-in neck, double cutaway, with 22 frets on a 24.75' scale. Ibanez FR The Ibanez FR is a simple body type guitar that is designed to be played in many genres. Ibanez Mikro The Ibanez Mikro series are small form factor guitars designed for children, beginners, or guitar players looking for a guitar that is easy to transport. Hollow body electric guitars The first Ibanez Artcore models were released in mid-2002 whose goal was to offer an affordable range of full-hollow and semi-hollow body guitars that appealed to entry level guitarists who were unable or unwilling to pay big money on high-priced guitars. Ibanez Artcore Custom. Headstock from an ARTCORE series guitar The Artcore Custom is Ibanez's flagship model for the Artcore series.
The bodies of the guitars are made of maple, the neck has a set-in construction type, and features wood control knobs and hand rolled frets. Ibanez AK The Ibanez AK is a guitar designed for jazz and blues type playing. It features a slim set-in neck with a body designed to easily access the higher frets. The AK is easily distinguishable by its sharper lower body horn (Florentine?) that other Artcore guitars do not have. Production signature guitars. Ibanez R series, also known as the Radius series, are famous for having lightweight aerofoil-profiled bodies. The main endorser was before he was given his own Signature JS series.
The Radius series is now discontinued. RT series – Superstrat design with 24 frets. Discontinued in 1994.
RX series – Superstrat design but with 22 frets instead. Discontinued in 1998, and currently only exists as GRX (budget model of RX series). AX series – Extreme version of the artist model, aimed towards metal players – currently only exist as GAX model and Guitar Center exclusive model. Axstar (a.k.a. Axstar by Ibanez) – discontinued. – Ergodyne series – discontinued. MC – Musician series – Discontinued – Neck-through construction (except for MC-100, which has a bolt-on neck), with 24 frets (two octaves) – As with the Artist models of the late 1970s, some of these guitars were equipped with trisound switches, and some models (MC 400 and MC 500) were equipped with active electronics.
ST – Studio series 1977–82 offset double cutaway ranging from bolt on to fixed and through necks with pairs of V2 distortion humbuckers. 24 frets and 25.5' scale. CN – Concert range 1977–79 like a bolt on neck Artist with slightly offset cutaways. IC – Iceman a radical shape endorsed and used by Paul Stanley, Various pickup combinations.
BL – Blazer series 1980–82 – fixed bridge strat-like with maple necks and mahogany or ash bodies sporting 3 single coil pickups (Super 6 or BL) or 2 Super 70 humbuckers. ARC-100/300 (Retro Series). ARX-100/300 (Retro Series). AR-100/200 (black vintage top). V Series – Flying V's – discontinued. – Ibanez's full and semi-hollow guitar line, with some models discontinued since their debut in 2002.
and – A modern remake of the Ibanez Rhythm maker, vintage looking and sounding guitars. Radius series – discontinued, a modified version is now taken over by the signature series which features a multi-radius neck. EX Series – Manufactured in Korea and Japan (rare). PL –. RR – Rocket Roll. DT –.
IC –. Series – discontinued. CN Concert Series – This was a short lived series produced in 1978 then discontinued soon afterwards.
It features an double cutaway body with two humbuckers, a hard tail bridge and a bolt on neck. The top end model (the CN250) was one of the earliest guitars to feature 'half vine' fingerboard inlays. Power II series (540PII) - extended length lower cutaway, wide (1 3/4')nut,available in H-H or H-S with edge trem. Often erroneously assumed to be an Alex Skolnick signature model due to his picture in the 88-89 catalogue with a 540PII. Primarily released for the Japanese market, although it has the Bensalem Penn.
AFD – Artfield. GR –, arched-top double cutaway design. 24 3⁄ 4' scale length. Most notably played.
ICJ100WZ – Signature. – Signature. Signature.
AH10 – Signature. LR10 – Signature.
JP20 – Signature. MFM – Signature. VM1 – Signature. FGM – Signature. JPM – Signature.
RBM2NT – Signature. DMM1 – Signature.
MMM – Signature. RS1010SL – Signature. STM1 – Signature. and – Signature Bass guitar models SR (Soundgear) Series Middle-class model range in the new millennium, though it included expensive high-end and top-of-the-line Japanese models in the late 1980s and 1990s. Later top offerings were branded as Signature and SR Prestige models for clearer segmentation, and all non-Prestige model production moved outside Japan.
Current models from the SR250 and up feature soapbar-style humbuckers with active EQ. SR Prestige High-end versions of the Ibanez Soundgear (SR-5004/5/6 & SR-4004/5/6) Bass Guitars made in Japan using exotic woods and high-quality custom pickups & new 'PWC-III' Power Curve III 3-band EQ with EQ bypass switch to bypass the electronics and take the bass signal directly from the pickups to the output jack. All Japanese-built current production models are in the Prestige series. SR Premium Nordstrand pickups. ARTCORE Series- Archtop Basses.
AFB200 – Hollow-body bass guitar. AGB200 – Semihollow-body bass guitar. ATK Series.
ATK 300 4 string model. ATK 305 5 string model. ATK 1200, the Prestige version of the standard ATK, has extra neck pickup. ATK 800E, to be released in 2012, a Premium version of the standard ATK. Has extra neck pickup. ATK 805E, to be released in 2012, a Premium version of the standard ATK.
Has extra neck pickup, 5-string model. Blazer. BTB (Boutique Bass) Series.
BTB 400QM (discontinued). BTB 406QM (Special Edition 6 String Model). BTB Prestige – High-end range which are made in. Series - Bodies made from polymer. EDA Series. EDB Series.
EDC Series. EWB Series. GARTB 20.
GATK 20 – More affordable version of the ATK. GAXB Series (discontinued). GSR Series- A lower-cost version of the Soundgear Series. GSR 100 – The original GSR bass guitar (Discontinued). GSR 100 EX. GSR 105 EX. GSR 180.
GSRM 20. GSR 250 M. GSR 200. GSR 200 FM – The GSR but with different color designs such as sunburst. GSR 205 – Nominated for Ibanez's 'Best of Model' award. GSR 205 FM.
ICB (Iceman) Series. JTK (Jet King) Series. JUMPSTART Series- Similar to the GSR Series, named for the Jumpstart Pack which comes with amp and other accessories. Musician Series. ROADGEAR Series. SRX (Soundgear) Series.
EX series. Roadstar Series. S series. TR Series Signature basses A custom 5-string Soundgear design w/ 'K5' Inlay centered on 12th fret.
It was based around a late-1990s then-top-of-the-line Soundgear SR885 owned by the artist, retaining the shape and electronics, but with different colour options and a change of woods to suit his preferences. Early models were Japanese-built, but production later moved to other Asian countries, around the same time Japanese models were rebranded with the Prestige moniker and positioned as the absolute top of the line. Main article: Serial numbers Serial numbers Ibanez Serial Numbers (non Acoustic) Japanese Ibanez Serial Numbers 1997 and after (CE logo designation).
F =. YYXXXXX format. YY = year (98=1998). XXXXX = production number 1987-1997. F = FujiGen. H = Terada. I = Ida Gakki (Iida).
YXXXXX format. Y = year (2=1992). XXXXX = production number 1975-1986. MYYXXXX format. M = Month (A = January to L = December).
YY = year (82=1982). XXXX = production number Most Ibanez models with this serial number format were made by FujiGen Gakki. Exceptions are the Ibanez Blazer models which were made by Dyna Gakki and the Axstar by Ibanez models AX40, AX45, AX48, AXB50, AXB60, AXB65, AX70, AX75 which were made by Chushin Gakki. The Ibanez Axstar AXB1000 model was made by FujiGen Gakki. Korean Ibanez Serial Numbers C =, S = (1990–1995), S/SQ =, P = Peerless (Iida), Y = Yoojin, A = Sae-In. LTD., HOSHINO GAKKI CO. Retrieved 2017-05-17.
American Musical Supply. Retrieved 2017-06-20. Retrieved 2012-01-12. FujiGen and Ibanez. Matsumoto GUITARS Guitar manufacturers in Matsumoto City (in Japanese).: Junk Guitar Museum. Rainer Daeschler. Retrieved 2012-01-12.
(based on ); Originally published as 'Fujigen vom Kuhstall zur Weltspitze'. Fachblatt Musikmagazin. (interview), Nuno - The Ibanez Interviews, IbanezRegister.com (1984-12-04). Archived from on 2012-03-09. Retrieved 2012-01-12. Fjestad (2008). Blue Book of Acoustic Guitars.
Alfred Music Publishing. Retrieved 2017-05-17. Retrieved 17 March 2018.
Retrieved 2017-08-07., Japan: Hoshino Gakki Ten, Inc., 1950s. Note: the wide variety sorts of musical instruments seen on this catalog reflect their full-time exporter business at that era. Especially, the and instruments suggest the involvements of in and its brother factory, Kiso Suzuki Violin in. Additionally, their third brother in, is known as a founder of the, and their cultural activities significantly influenced on the establishment of in Matsumoto, according to a co-founder of FujiGen,.
(Models: EG 80, EG 80-B, EG 80-H, EG 90)., p., (Models: No.1830 (2pu), No.1850 (3pu), No.1860 (2pu with ), No.1880 (3pu with tremolo), No.1950 ). Archived from on 2013-08-01. For the ultimate in playability we took our legendary super-thin, ultra-playable Wizard neck, and upped the ante to Nitro Wizard - as fast and comfortable but with added road-tested durability.
Archived from on 2013-06-03. Add 3-D curves to the concept of the RG and you've got the RGA.those curves enhance playability.
The RGD is Ibanez's ultimate metal machine. Archived from on 2013-08-12. The 24 fret, two-octave fretboard of the ARZ surpasses the boundaries of traditional single-cutaway guitars. Scale: 638mm/25.1'. Archived from on 2013-07-04. The AR is a classic among Ibanez guitars.
It was one of the first original designs produced by Ibanez and continues to be a sought after guitar. The AR series continues that legacy with pride.
Set-in neck: AR720FM features smooth heel for superb playability. Scale: 628mm/24.75'.
FR Standard - With its simple, refined body shape, the FR is a chameleon when it comes to musical genres. The Ibanez CCR pickups bring more punch to the midrange tones while the Tight-End bridge provides maximum sustain and playing comfort. GRG miKro puts out sound way beyond its size. Perfect for young rockers on the way up or seasoned road warriors on the tour bus. Scale: 564mm/22.2'. Archived from on 2013-01-19.
The Artcore Custom is the flagship of the Artcore series, featuring beautiful maple bodies and maple/walnut set-in neck construction, producing a warm yet punchy tone. Wood control knobs and matching pickguard enhance the exquisite appearance of the Artcore Custom. Hand-rolled frets for ultimate playablity.
Archived from on 2012-10-22. Jazz and blues history is filled with the warm tones of full-hollow body guitars. The AK is the answer to those who loves traditional sweet tones and easy accessibility to higher frets. Slim & comfortable 3-pc Artocre set-in neck Bibliography. (catalog archive), Ibanez.co.jp. Search Catalogs:,. Paul Specht; Michael Wright; Jim Donahue (2005).
Ibanez: The Untold Story. Hoshino (U.S.A.) Inc. External links Wikimedia Commons has media related to.