Ibanez Review: Iceman ICX120

History:

Purchase: I've been playing the same old Ibanez Roadstar 2 since 1984, and it was getting pretty tired, I definitely needed a new axe! The bewildering array of guitars available posed a bit of a challenge, but in the end, I went back to Ibanez because I love the quality, sound and ease of play. I found the ICX120 at Steve's Music, in Toronto, Canada at a great price, $335.00 Cdn. After I had had it in my hands for about 5 minutes, I decided it had to come home with me...it felt made for me.

What I Like About This Ibanez Iceman ICX120: The main points that decided me on this guitar were the looks, it is so distinctive, the build quality, and sound quality. This guitar sings, it sustains in a clear unwavering way that makes you think of guitars that cost twice as much or more. What a deal.

What I Do NOT Like About The Ibanez Iceman ICX120: There are a couple of very minor drawbacks, and they have to do with accessibility. The strap buttons are in a slightly odd configuration, but after a few minutes, you get used to it. The set screws on the bridge to set the intonation, are located right in front of the bridge pickup bezel, you'll need a 90 degree flathead screwdriver to reach in there. Speaking of pickup bezels, the chrome plating looks a little chintzy. Other than that, no complaints whatsoever.

Ibanez Iceman ICX120 Quality Rating: The pickups are very responsive and the controls very smooth and accurate. The neck, always a strong point with Ibanez guitars in general, is no exception. It is well finished, the frets are well set and the rosewood fingerboard is flawless as is the maple neck. The machine heads are high quality, and again, smooth as silk and accurate. They also don't slip...at all. I generally play in alternate tunings, like Modal D, so it's important that the action be responsive across the scale, and it is. The fixed bridge is solid, and the intonation is perfect. The Basswood body is medium weight and the finish is well applied as is the perfing around the edge which is of a nice ivory like colour. The bolt on neck fits like a glove and is immovable.

Review Summary: For the price, this guitar has few equals. In terms of overall quality of construction, looks, playability and sound, it has qualities you'd expect to find in much higher end instruments. I would recommend this guitar to young or old, beginner or seasoned pro, you can't go wrong. It's a winner.

Rating of this Ibanez product: 5

This Ibanez Iceman ICX120 Electric Guitars Review Submitted By: Phil Ogison

Review Date: 2005-03-23