Just wanted to get everyones expert opinions. I am interested in the ibanez sr500 and sr700. The electronics neck body wood are the same its the same bass but the 700 has a figured maple top and a little more of a glossy finish. Just curious as to what the maple top would do to the tone? will it lower the tone raise the tone? thoughts opinions please
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maple top?
- Thread starter jay43
- Start date
Depends how thick the top is. If its at least 3/8 inches thick Id expect the bass to have a little more top end then one without a top. If its a thinner top Id expect it to have no noticeable impact on tone and to be purely cosmetic. However this type of tone tweak or add with 3/8 inch or thicker maple top will be most noticeable on dark toned wood body like mahogany. On brighter or more even toned woods the diff wont be as noticed and my not be heard at all if its a wood like alder which is pretty well balanced lows to highs.
Personally I'd go for the 700. The thin finish on the 500 wears too quickly. The maple top won't make any tonal difference. It's just for looks. However the thicker finish will resist scuffs and nicks a lot better.
