Ibanez RG550-BKF Limited Edition

The Japanese shred classic that laid the foundation for Steve Vai's JEM

The Ibanez RG550-BKF Genesis Collection is not just a reissue — it's an accurate reconstruction of the original 1987 RG550, built in the FujiGen factory in Japan. Available in limited quantities and finished in Black Flat, this is the guitar for those who want to grasp the roots of the modern shred guitar. The RG550 formed the direct basis for the JEM, Steve Vai's iconic signature model, and you can feel that heritage in every note.

The five-piece maple and walnut Super Wizard neck is incredibly slim and offers a playability that few guitars can match. The maple fretboard with 24 jumbo frets and a 430 mm (16.9") radius invites fast runs and smooth bends. The original Ibanez Edge double-locking tremolo ensures excellent tuning stability for the most extreme dive bombs and vibratos — just like in 1987.

The HSH pickup configuration consists of a V7 humbucker at the neck, an S1 single coil in the middle, and a V8 humbucker at the bridge. Five tonal options are available via the 5-way switch, from full humbucker power to bright single-coil sounds. The hardware is entirely black, including Gotoh tuners. A basswood body, bolt-on neck joint, and a locking nut complete the classic RG formula.

The RG550-BKF is a guitar you won't find on every street corner — seize your chance while supplies last.