Electric guitars for beginners IBANEZ
WHICH IBANEZ SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO START?
To choose an Ibanez as your first guitar, think first about the type of music you want to play and the pickup and bridge configuration you need. The brand offers entry-level models with quite different approaches: from GIO guitars derived from families like the RG and SA to the AZES, designed with features that are especially accessible for new guitarists.
IBANEZ GIO OR AZES: WHICH IS BETTER FOR YOU?
| Series | Focus | What you'll find | It might interest you if... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ibanez GIO | Access to different Ibanez designs | RG and SA models, HH, HSH, or HSS configurations, and fixed or tremolo bridge options | You are specifically looking for rock, metal, or a modern guitar aesthetic |
| Ibanez AZES | Comfort and variety of sounds | AZES31 SSS with fixed bridge and AZES40 HSS with tremolo, depending on the model | You want to learn various styles with a guitar that is less exclusively metal-oriented |
The GIO name encompasses different models, so not all GIOs have the same pickups, neck, or bridge. It is always important to compare the specs of the specific guitar.
WHICH IBANEZ TO CHOOSE BASED ON THE STYLE YOU WANT TO PLAY?
For pop, blues, funk, and rock
An AZES31 with an SSS configuration or an AZES40 HSS are especially interesting options if you want to work on clean, crunch, and rock sounds without focusing exclusively on high-gain styles.
For rock and metal
RG-inspired GIO models with HH or HSH configurations might fit better if your influences are in hard rock, metal, or modern styles, and you want to have humbuckers from your very first guitar.
To play a bit of everything
HSS and HSH configurations combine different types of pickups and can be useful when you don't have a defined style yet. The important thing is that the guitar feels comfortable and allows you to practice the sounds that motivate you the most.
WHY MIGHT IBANEZ AZES BE INTERESTING FOR BEGINNERS?
Ibanez developed the AZES series with several comfort-oriented details. AZES models use a 25-inch scale, slightly shorter than the standard 25.5 inches found on many electric guitars. Ibanez points out that this measurement makes playing easier for children and shorter guitarists without turning the instrument into an exclusively kids' guitar.
They also use a 250 mm fretboard radius and dyna-MIX switching systems that allow you to get several sound combinations. The AZES31 uses three single coils and a fixed bridge, while the AZES40 features an HSS configuration and a tremolo bridge.
FIXED BRIDGE OR TREMOLO ON YOUR FIRST IBANEZ?
A fixed bridge can be a simple option to start with because it eliminates the movement inherent to a tremolo system and makes some setup and string change operations easier. A tremolo allows you to use the whammy bar to modify the pitch of the notes and might interest you if that technique is part of the music you want to learn.
Among beginner Ibanez guitars, you will find both alternatives. For example, there are GIO models with a fixed bridge and others with a tremolo, while within the AZES line, the AZES31 uses a fixed bridge and the AZES40 includes a tremolo.
WHICH PICKUP CONFIGURATION TO CHOOSE ON AN IBANEZ?
Beginner Ibanez guitars let you choose between quite different configurations:
SSS
Three single coil pickups. This might interest you if you prioritize defined, clean, and dynamic sounds and styles like pop, funk, blues, or rock.
HSS / HSH
They combine single coils and humbuckers. They are an option to consider if you want to have different responses within the same guitar.
HH
Two humbuckers. This is a very common configuration in rock and metal-oriented models and works especially well when you are looking for body and clarity with distortion.
If you also want to compare specific models, in our guide to beginner electric guitars you will find, among other options, the Ibanez AZES31 and GRGR131EX.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BEGINNER IBANEZ GUITARS
Is an Ibanez GIO good for beginners?
Yes. The GIO range offers access to different Ibanez designs at beginner-friendly prices and provides very different pickup and bridge configurations. It can be especially interesting if you want to start playing rock, hard rock, or metal, although there are suitable models for highly varied styles.
What is the difference between Ibanez GIO and AZES?
GIO encompasses accessible models derived from different Ibanez families and offers configurations like HH, HSH, or HSS. AZES has its own approach focused on comfort and sonic variety, with a 25-inch scale and models like the AZES31 SSS and AZES40 HSS.
Which Ibanez is recommended for starting to play metal?
RG-inspired GIO models with HH or HSH pickups are especially interesting if you want to start playing metal, hard rock, or styles with plenty of distortion. The important thing is to choose a comfortable guitar and a pickup configuration that fits the sound you are looking for.
Is the Ibanez AZES good for a first guitar?
Yes. The AZES series incorporates features designed to make playing easier, such as a 25-inch scale and a 250 mm fretboard radius. Additionally, its switching systems allow you to explore different sound combinations from a single guitar.
Is a fixed bridge or tremolo better on a beginner Ibanez?
A fixed bridge is easy to maintain and can be a good choice if you don't need to use a whammy bar. A tremolo allows you to learn vibrato techniques using the arm. Both systems are valid for beginners, and the choice depends on the use you want to give it.









