based on my favorite aspects of some of the then followed that up with a less expensive
basses I had come to really love over the years. production line version about a year later.
The first of those instruments was my main
blue 6-string bass. At the time, there was no Fast-forward to the present, and I couldn’t talk or expectation of developing a signature be any more excited because my custom red model, and I was more than happy already 5-string Ibanez bass is also going to be released just getting to play bespoke instruments that fit as an official production model in January. me so well. However, over time, as more and The official unveiling will be at the Winter Adam Nitti and his Ibanez Signature Basses
more players saw my 6-string bass online in NAMM show in Anaheim. My 5-string bass is [WM] For amps you endorse Aguilar. Why are
pictures and at bass clinics and shows, there modeled after the sound of a mid-70s Jazz you sold on that particular brand?
seemed to be a fascination with it from 6-string bass, but further enhanced by a full custom bass fans who learned that the specs of mine Bartolini electronics package with passive [Adam] In my opinion, Aguilar provides the
were different from any other model that Ibanez buffer control, 24 frets, and the workmanship perfect blend that combines the most pleasing
was offering at the time. There were a few key and playability that has come to be historically and practical aspects of old-school and
features that seemed to create more of a buzz associated with premium Ibanez basses. This modern bass tones. They have really done an
about it, including a wider string spacing, the model will replace the more expensive hand- amazing job of being able to cater to almost
ergonomics of greater access to the highest built 6-string model, so there will ultimately be every type of player out there. The gear is
frets, the custom Bartolini electronics, and even production line versions of both of my main tough as nails, reliable, and of course sounds
the color of the bass. As Ibanez started to field 5 and 6-string basses. It is also worth noting great. I’m also a huge fan of their lightweight
more and more questions about the instrument, that the production models are so good and SL series cabinets and lightweight bass amps.
they began to realize that it might make sense so identical in sound and feel to the hand- It used to be that you really had to compromise
to offer the model for sale. Following Ibanez’ built customs, that I am exclusively playing the tone if you wanted to carry a lightweight bass
signature model release tradition, they first production models now as my main basses. I amp. But now the technology has advanced
released the premium hand-built version, and couldn’t be happier with them. to a point where these newer components
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November 2018
WorshipMusician.com