Ibanez has unveiled its latest innovation in bass guitar design for 2024, with the introduction of three new models in the BTB series, distinguished by their light multi-scale construction. This fresh lineup is designed to cater to bassists seeking the ergonomic advantages of multi-scale instruments while retaining the comfort and familiarity of traditional single-scale basses.
The newly introduced models include the BTB705LM, BTB605MLM, and the groundbreaking BTB7MS, which marks Ibanez’s first foray into 7-string multi-scale BTB basses. These models feature a less pronounced difference between the scale lengths of the lowest and highest strings compared to their predecessors. Specifically, the five-string models, such as the BTB705LM and BTB605MLM, boast a 34-inch scale length on the G string and a 35-inch scale on the B string. This design choice aims to provide optimal string tension across all strings, addressing a common dilemma bassists face when choosing between 34” and 35” scale instruments.
The BTB705LM model stands out with its Flamed Maple top, Ash/Okoume body, and a Rosewood fretboard, offering a visually striking appearance and a rich tonal palette. It also features Ibanez’s proprietary T1 pickups, a 5-piece Maple/Walnut neck-through construction with Graphite reinforcement rods, and Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ, among other high-end specifications.
In contrast, the BTB605MLM is characterized by its Okoume body, Flamed Maple fretboard with Abalone dot inlay, and a unique Pearl White Matte finish. Like the BTB705LM, it also incorporates Ibanez’s T1 pickups, a 5-piece Maple/Walnut neck-through construction, and the same electronic features, ensuring consistency in quality and performance across the series.
The BTB7MS expands the series’ boundaries by introducing a 7-string model, a first for the BTB line. It features a Bubinga top, Ash/Okoume body, and a 9-piece Maple/Panga Panga/Walnut neck-through construction. The scale length extends from 889mm/35″ at the 7th string to 852mm/33.5″ at the 1st string, accommodating the extended range of the instrument. This model also comes equipped with T1 pickups, Ibanez Custom Electronics 3-band EQ, and a unique Natural Mocha Low Gloss finish.
Price list ranges from $1,584.43 to $1,928.88, with estimated street prices from $1,149.99 to $1,399.99.
