Ibanez RG350DX Vs RG350DXZ [Which is Right for You]

In this article, we will compare the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars to help you make an informed decision. We will examine their playability, sound quality, build quality, and value. By the end of this comparison, you will have a better understanding of which guitar is the right choice for you.

Ibanez RG350DX Vs RG350DXZ – Which is Right for You?

1. Playability:

The Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars both offer exceptional playability for guitarists of all skill levels. With their Wizard III bolt-on necks and 24 jumbo frets, these guitars provide a comfortable and effortless playing experience. The neck thickness at the 1st fret is 0.75” (19.1mm), and at the 12th fret is 0.83” (21.1mm), allowing for easy navigation across the fretboard. The scale length of 25.5” (647.7mm) and fretboard radius of 16” (406.4mm) further enhance the playability by providing ample space and a comfortable hand position.

The Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ feature a nut width of 1.693” (43mm), allowing for adequate string separation and facilitating precise fretting. Whether you’re a shredder, a rhythm player, or somewhere in between, these guitars offer excellent playability to accommodate your playing style.

Table: Ibanez RG350DX vs RG350DXZ Playability Comparison

As shown in the table above, the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ share similar playability features, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience.

2. Sound Quality:

When it comes to sound quality, the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars deliver impressive performance. Both models feature HSH pickup configurations, ensuring a versatile range of tones. The RG350DXZ stands out with its additional middle single-coil pickup, providing even more tonal options. These guitars are equipped with Quantum pickups, known for their high-output capabilities, delivering a powerful and dynamic sound.

The bright and lively sound of these guitars can be attributed to their basswood bodies. Basswood is a popular tonewood choice for electric guitars, known for its balanced tone with good sustain. This tonewood helps to produce a rich and clear sound across the frequency spectrum, making it suitable for various music genres.

Whether you prefer the combination of two humbuckers and a single-coil pickup in the RG350DX or the expanded tonal possibilities of the RG350DXZ, both guitars offer exceptional sound quality that will satisfy the demands of discerning musicians.

3. Build Quality:

When comparing the build quality of the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars, both models are made in Indonesia and feature solid construction. These guitars are crafted with a Meranti body, a maple neck, and a bound jatoba fretboard. The use of these materials ensures durability and longevity.

In terms of hardware, both the RG350DX and RG350DXZ have black hardware, offering a sleek and stylish look. They both feature a 5-way switch, one volume knob, and one tone knob, providing control over various tonal possibilities.

One notable difference between the two models is the tremolo bridge. The RG350DXZ has the Edge Zero II tremolo bridge, which features the ZPS3Fe system. This system helps with tuning stability and allows for precise adjustments. The RG350DX has the Edge Zero II tremolo bridge, offering similar tuning stability without the ZPS3Fe system.

In conclusion, when it comes to building quality, both the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ offer solid construction with high-quality materials. The choice between the two models ultimately comes down to personal preference and whether the additional features of the RG350DXZ, such as the ZPS3Fe system, are important to you.

4. Value –

In this section, we will discuss the value offered by the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars. When considering the value of a guitar, it’s important to look at the price of the features and overall quality it provides. Let’s compare the prices of these two models.

The Ibanez RG350DX is priced at $799, while the RG350DXZ is priced at $699. This makes the RG350DXZ a more affordable option for those on a budget. However, it’s important to note that the RG350DX offers some additional features, such as the Edge Zero II tremolo bridge.

Your choice between the two guitars will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality, the RG350DXZ is a great choice. On the other hand, if you value the additional features and are willing to invest a bit more, the RG350DX may be the better option for you.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and requirements. It’s recommended to try out both guitars, if possible, to determine which one feels and sounds better to you. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and choose the guitar that offers the best value for your money.

Which One is Better?

a) Playability:

Both the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars offer a similar level of playability. They have comfortable Wizard III bolt-on necks with 24 jumbo frets, providing a smooth and effortless playing experience. The neck thickness and fretboard radius are identical, ensuring consistency in feel and ease of playing. With a scale length of 25.5” and a nut width of 1.693”, both guitars offer ample space for finger placement. You can expect excellent playability from either guitar, regardless of your skill level.

b) Sound Quality:

When it comes to sound quality, the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ both excel. They feature the same HSH pickup configuration, with the RG350DXZ having the added advantage of a middle single-coil pickup. Both guitars are equipped with Quantum pickups, which offer a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres. The basswood body of both guitars adds brightness to the sound and contributes to their overall sonic performance. Whether you choose the RG350DX or the RG350DXZ, you can expect high-quality sound.

c) Build Quality:

The build quality of both the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ is excellent. Made in Indonesia, these guitars feature a meranti body, a maple neck, and a bound jatoba fretboard. Their black hardware and 5-way switch, volume knob, and tone knob provide a sleek and functional design. The RG350DXZ includes the Edge Zero II tremolo bridge with the ZPS3Fe system, offering additional stability during tremolo use. However, the standard RG350DX with its Edge Zero II tremolo bridge also provides exceptional tuning stability. Both guitars are solidly constructed and built to last.

Table: A comparison of key features between the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars.

Given the similarities in playability, sound quality, and build quality, the decision between the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. If you value the additional middle single-coil pickup and the enhanced stability of the tremolo bridge, the RG350DXZ may be the better choice for you. However, if these features are not essential, the RG350DX still offers exceptional performance at a lower price point. It is recommended to try out both guitars, if possible, to determine which one feels and sounds better for your playing style and musical preferences.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, after comparing the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ guitars, you now have a better understanding of their features and differences. Both guitars offer excellent playability with their comfortable necks and jumbo frets. When it comes to sound quality, both models deliver versatile tones suitable for various music genres.

The build quality of the RG350DX and RG350DXZ is solid, with a Meranti body, maple neck, and bound jatoba fretboard. The RG350DXZ has the added feature of an Edge Zero II tremolo bridge with the ZPS3Fe system, while the RG350DX has the Edge Zero II tremolo bridge. When considering value, the RG350DXZ generally has a lower price point, making it a better choice for those on a budget.

In the end, the choice between the Ibanez RG350DX and RG350DXZ comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and playing style. Both guitars are reliable and versatile instruments that will provide years of enjoyment. Take the time to try out both models to determine which one feels and sounds better for you. Whether you choose the RG350DX or the RG350DXZ, you can be confident in your decision.

Last Updated on December 12, 2023 by Perry Garner