Ibanez SR700 or Fender Jazz 24?

[Cygnus X-1]

Hey guys,

I am seeking some opinions on the Ibanez SR700 versus my Fender Jazz bass 24. I know I am suffering from a case of G.A.S., but there is something nice about the SR700. I got a chance to play one over at Dave Phillips in Allentown. and thought it was real nice. Now having said that, I wonder how it compares/differs to my J24?

http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend...17355&src=3WFRWXX&ZYXSEM=0&CAWELAID=153973476

G.A.S. - Never about need, but want

 

[Solarmist]

That's a real nice looking bass - you aren't going to part with it are you? If you want the SR700; a very nice bass indeed - get it too (as in also)

 

[PRUNEFACE]

If you like the neck, I say get it. It has a fantastic sound and is as versatile as it gets with its active 3 band EQ

 

[Cygnus X-1]

That's a real nice looking bass - you aren't going to part with it are you? If you want the SR700; a very nice bass indeed - get it too (as in also)

Thanks Solarmist. No, I don't have any intentions of letting that bass go. I learned a costly lesson the first time around. Actually, I've grown fond of my 24. I'm just trying to find out from those with better experience than I, how the 2 basses compare/contrast. I'm pretty content with my current fender line-up and am just experiencing a simple case of g.a.s.

I haven't had an Ibanez since I (stupidly) sold my sr400 a few years back. My wife bought it for me and I never heard the end of it. Even though the basses I currently own are much better IMO (read sig).

 

[pendergasta]

I've had the chance to play the SR700 in a few rehearsal situations. I've only played the Jazz 24 in GC. I can tell you that the SR700 can hold it's own in most situations. I almost bought one before I found my SR890. The only thing I'd be concerned about it that it would sound too 'modern' in some situations. Looking at your current lineup, it doesn't seem like getting a good fender tone is an issue for you anyway. I'd say get it.

 

[bassyboy]

maybe a 5 string Ibanez sr series

 

[Cygnus X-1]

*update- I got a chance to hit Dave Phillips today. Once gain I pull own the amber sr700 and give it a whirl. Admittedly, it is a very fine bass and the charcoal brown is much better looking in person, photos do not do it proper justice. As I started playing it, I finally dug in and felt a bit put off by the neck. Not for the thinness, or length, but just the overall feel. It did not sit 100% well for me. I guess I'm just used to the fender necks. Imo, they are just perfect.

Now, if I happen to run into a well maintained, used 700 sometime in the future, I may be inclined to pick it up. I think that I just don't want to spend "another $700" on a bass at this point in time. Now, $450 or under may sway me quite a bit. I still feel that it's a good bass and had I seen it before my J24 or deluxe P I might have gone for it.

Thanks for the input guys. As always, it was well appreciated.

 

[bassanddrums]

I vote get the SR, I've got an SR505 and it's amazing so I'm a firm believer in the Ibanez Soundgears

 

[Cygnus X-1]

I vote get the SR, I've got an SR505 and it's amazing so I'm a firm believer in the Ibanez Soundgears

I hear ya'. My first two basses were Ibanez, with my last being an sdgr400 (it was a mid-late 90's model). Seriously, with six basses covering vintage to modern sounds. I can't see getting the sr700 at the moment. But in all honesty, it's not without major, major gas pain that I turn it away. I honestly believe that my fender bassman 250/210 would really love the 700 playing through her

Who knows, I may have a change of heart after the new year. I have a Pt92 and Colt 1911XSE that I may decide to part with in order to get the sr700. But that's for a different kind of forum

 

[SteveD]

Cygnus X-1,

I'm thinking about getting a Jazz 24. I currently play a stock 65 Jazz and a MIM Jazz fretless. I want to retire the 65 from gig use. I've always thought the extra range would be useful and inspiring, have you found that to be true? How are the active electronics? How do you like it overall? Thanks in advance!

 

[Cygnus X-1]

Cygnus X-1,

I'm thinking about getting a Jazz 24. I currently play a stock 65 Jazz and a MIM Jazz fretless. I want to retire the 65 from gig use. I've always thought the extra range would be useful and inspiring, have you found that to be true? How are the active electronics? How do you like it overall? Thanks in advance!

Hey Steve,

Well, where to begin. The 24 is an interesting bass (as far as fenders go) . The neck reminds me of my old Ibanez (which is good thing). I like the fact that it has a string through option. The active electronic are very nice and quiet, but some will caution about earlier models having faulty pre-amps. That should not be a problem with newer models.

Range, This for me is the fun part. 24 frets and a plenty of tone to go around is what makes this bass fun for me. Slapping and plucking offers a crisp and punchy sound. Regular fingering is also smooth.

It's really hard for me to properly express the tones of the instrument due to my limited exposure. In all honestly, I think the 24 is a really nice bass for the money. The only gripe I had was that it doesn't include a case or gig bag. That for me was unacceptable.

here are some examples of the j24 sound

 

[SteveD]

Thanks for the input, Cyg, I'm going to try one. I've got an extra case so that's not a problem. The combination of 24 frets and active electronics at a reasonable price seems worthwhile. Plus I'm addicted to Jazz necks.