I think it has a lot to do with the fact that they have (mostly) avoided traditional designs for a couple decades or more. Think about it. Likely 9 out of 10 endorsed bass players play some sort of Fender, a Fender clone, or a bass that is clearly influenced by Fender designs (which includes most Lakland, Sadowsky, Lull, Ernie Ball, etc. basses). A good portion of the rest are divided by Rics, Hofners, and other traditional designs.
As for the body style of most Soundgear basses, Warwick and Spector occupy that same space. Sure, there are differences. But there are more similarities than differences. And if you're famous enough that endorsements are even an option, and Spector and/or Warwick are knocking on your door, Ibanez won't win that battle. For some reason, there's more status attached to those two companies.
Think about those who have bounced around from company to company. Steve Baily got Aria early on (when he was only known to true bass dorks like me), then Fender, then Warwick. Would Ibanez have made him a bass? Absolutely! But Fender and Warwick have more status attached to them.
Stu Hamm was probably a great fit for Ibanez. But he went with Fender (until his popularity dried up and then it was Washburn, if I recall). Now Warwick, for some reason. I feel like that was an emotional decision rather than business.
Lastly, for so long, Ibanez positioned itself as a "rock guitar company". During the 80s, they very much went after rock and metal guitarists and bassists. So, for many, that's their market positioning. (Yes, I realize they had Gerald Veasley and have had Gary Willis forever. But those are two bass dork exceptions.) And "guitar rock" just isn't as popular as it used to be.
Could Ibanez have made Bootsy a Star bass? Sure! But Warwick was interested.
Could Ibanez have made a superb bass for Otiel or Christian McBride? Of course. But Fodera was interested.
Short version: For some reason there's just not as much "street cred" for bass endorsements and Ibanez. If Fender, Warwick, Spector, Sadowsky, Lull, or any number of other high-end companies are in the running, Ibanez will get edged out almost every time.
So I'll put it back to you, @jonnybass1 … What pro jumps out at you as one who would be a perfect fit for some model of Ibanez bass? What artist jumps out at you as "Why doesn't this guy/gal play a (enter Ibanez model here)? It would be perfect for him/her! It's just silly for them to be playing a (enter company that actually endorses them here)."
Before the flame throwers come out.... I have no problem with Ibanez basses. I did (literally) thousands of gigs on a BTB 5. My current main player borrows several aspects of the BTB in its design. I currently own an early 90s magenta Ibanez pointy bass that I whip out for a few 80s rock songs tuned down to Eb in our set. I'm not saying that I HAVE a problem with Ibanez. I'm just trying to step back and look at the market as a whole.
