I’m beyond excited to introduce you to my new pride and joy — the Ibanez SR305E in a stunning Metallic Sunburst Gray. This birthday gift is beautiful and packed with features that make it a dream to play. Let me share why I chose this model and what makes it so special.
Why the Ibanez SR305E?
Ibanez has been my go-to brand for years. Their instruments strike the perfect balance between quality and affordability, and their reliability is unmatched. In fact, I’ve been rocking an Ibanez GSR205 in black for nearly two decades! If you’ve seen me perform live with When Legions Fall or caught a video of me jamming, you’ve likely seen it in action. That bass has stood the test of time, proving the brand’s longevity.
When it was time to upgrade, I wanted something with similar comfort and playability but with a fresh, modern touch. The SR305E checked all the boxes: affordable, durable, and in line with my preference for 5-string basses.
Features and Build
This bass is as much a work of art as it is an instrument. Its neck is crafted from a combination of maple and rosewood, providing a smooth, sturdy feel perfect for extended playing sessions. The body features three types of wood — rosewood, maple, and mahogany — adding depth to its tonal richness.
The finish is what caught my eye first: a gorgeous Metallic Sunburst Gray that transitions elegantly between shades of gray and black. It’s heavier than my old GSR205, but the quality and sound make the extra weight more than worth it.
Versatile Sound for Every Style
One of the standout features is the 3-band EQ switch, which allows for easy adjustments to suit various playing environments. Whether you’re going for a punchy rock tone or a smooth, mellow vibe, this bass has you covered.
The pickups are passive, delivering a clear, punchy sound perfect for a range of genres. And let’s not forget the Accu-cast B125 bridge, with its 16.5mm string spacing, designed for strong sustain and effortless adjustability.
Small Details, Big Impact
The back of the bass is made with rosewood and another solid wood type, keeping it clean and simple. Since it’s a passive bass, it requires a 9V battery, which is easy to install.
A notable design improvement is the placement of the output jack. Instead of being underneath the bass like my GSR205, it’s located on the front, making it much easier to access. This thoughtful feature also prevents the jack from loosening over time — a win for any bassist who’s always on the go.
Final Thoughts
The Ibanez SR305E is everything I wanted in a new bass: visually stunning, sonically versatile, and built to last. It’s a perfect companion for live gigs, studio sessions, and everything in between.
If you’re in the market for a reliable 5-string bass that won’t break the bank, I highly recommend checking out the SR305E.
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