Article By A. Hunter
The Ibanez SR300EB is one of the most talked about basses on the planet at the moment. This is a bass that is built very well, that has an entry/intermediate level price point and as you can tell by the video linked below, sounds killer.
TJ bought the bass In Liverpool a few years ago, he wanted a bass for Short Lane Studios so that if I or any other bassist happened to be visiting we could lay down a groove. I accompanied TJ that day, he wanted me to try the bass out and see if it would be a good fit for the studio.
And let me tell you, when the store assistant plugged the bass in and handed it to me my jaw hit the floor. I could not, and still can not believe how good this bass is for the price paid. A few years ago TJ paid around £250 and I still do not understand how Ibanez can produce a profit selling them this cheap.
The Ibanez SR300EB has active electronics with a clean sounding preamp and lovely sounding pickups that give the player a huge scope to achieve a plethora of tones. The build quality is solid, there are no sharp edges on the frets, the body is nice and light which will suit beginners or guitarists that are looking to play bass.
Ok, so without getting too carried away, this bass is excellent for the price. I don’t think there is a bass on the market that can compete at this price point in terms of build quality, looks and playability. However, if you are used to higher end or boutique instruments then you will note that the bass isn’t special. Yeah it’s comfortable, it’s easy to play, looks and sounds great but I don’t want to say that this is the greatest bass of all time, because it isn’t.
Would I get one myself? Absolutely. I have been toying with the idea of getting myself an Ibanez SR300EB and having one as my travel bass. As I don’t drive, I use public transport, and a bass like this, that is cheap, that plays and sounds this good would be great to travel with on a train and bus and not worry about getting damaged.
I have been playing bass since 2001, I have played many cheaper basses, many expensive basses, and in my humble opinion I have not played a bass at this price point that is as well made, looks as good and more importantly sounds as good as the Ibanez SR300EB. If you’re in the market for a bass go give this a try.
* Adam is not endorsed by Ibanez… If Ibanez would like to give Adam some money or free gear he would welcome it.
** That goes for TJ too . . . . . . .
shortlanestudios.com 