Decoding the Ibanez Jem777 Neck: A Deep Dive into Specs and Feel
The Ibanez Jem777, Steve Vai's signature guitar, is renowned for its distinctive features, and the neck is no exception. Understanding its specifications is crucial for players considering this iconic instrument. While Ibanez doesn't explicitly list every minute detail on their website, we can compile a comprehensive picture based on user experiences, reviews, and technical specifications found across various reliable sources.
What wood is the Jem777 neck made of?
The Jem777 neck is typically made of maple, known for its bright tone and stiffness. This contributes to the guitar's overall bright and articulate sound. While some variations might exist across different production runs, maple remains the consistent choice for its superior playing characteristics.
What is the neck profile of the Jem777?
The Jem777 boasts a Wizard neck profile. This is Ibanez's signature neck shape, generally characterized as a relatively thin and fast profile, ideal for speed and comfort. However, the exact dimensions aren't explicitly stated as a single, definitive measurement. Descriptions often refer to it as a "super-wizard" or a slightly more substantial version of their standard Wizard, offering a balance between speed and substance. Many players describe it as comfortably rounded with a relatively shallow contour. This makes it suitable for a wide range of playing styles, from shredding to more intricate fingerstyle work.
What is the scale length of the Jem777 neck?
The Jem777 has a 25.5-inch scale length. This is a standard scale length for many electric guitars, providing a balance between tension and playability. This length is considered comfortable for most players and contributes to the guitar's overall versatility.
What is the fretboard material and radius of the Jem777?
The fretboard is typically made of rosewood or, in some more recent models, bound ebony. Rosewood is known for its warm tone and smooth playing surface. Ebony offers a slightly brighter, tighter tone. The fretboard radius is generally considered to be a compound radius, meaning it changes curvature from the nut to the bridge. This compound radius aids in comfortable chording near the nut and effortless soloing higher up the neck. The exact radius specifications aren't consistently published by Ibanez but are generally understood to be a modern, comfortably curved profile.
What kind of frets does the Jem777 have?
The Jem777 usually features jumbo frets. These larger frets offer a more substantial feel under the fingertips, improving playability and bending accuracy for many players. This is particularly beneficial for techniques common in Steve Vai's style.
Does the Jem777 neck have any special features?
Yes, several distinctive features contribute to the Jem777's unique playing experience:
- The Monkey Grip: A unique heel contour designed for comfortable upper-fret access.
- The "AANJ" neck joint: This is Ibanez's "All Access Neck Joint," providing seamless access to the highest frets. This contributes to the overall playability.
Ultimately, the best way to understand the Jem777 neck's feel is to try one yourself. The specifics can vary slightly between instruments, and individual preference plays a significant role in determining neck comfort and playability. This detailed overview should, however, equip you with a solid understanding of what to expect from this iconic guitar's neck.
