Ibanez guitars go way back to the 1800s (90 years ago) when Hoshino Gakki, who distributed a variety of musical instruments in Nagoya, Japan, started the Hoshino Gakki Group, the makers of Ibanez guitars. The makers of Ibanez guitars have a unique beginning in comparison to their top competitors in that the company's roots are in Nagoya, Japan. By the time the company made its way to the United States, they were in the business of duplicating well-known rock and jazz guitars, as were many guitar makers in the 1970s. Partly to follow the tradition of other top guitar makers and mostly by force of an impending lawsuit in the 1980s, the company teamed up with celebrity guitarists to design the famous S, RG, JS, JEM guitars. These models were part of their signature line of electric guitars. The company also expanded its line of jazz guitars to include George Benson and Pat Metheny models and its acoustic-electric to include John Scofield models.

While Ibanez is famous for its electric, acoustic, and acoustic-electric guitars, the company has also broken significant ground in providing guitars that appeal to not only the classical and rock market, but also to the jazz market. Thirty years ago, jazz guitarist George Benson teamed up with the Hoshino Gakki Group and shared his idea for a jazz guitar that didn't squeal in amplification. The Ibanez GB10 continues to be one of the most popular Ibanez guitars that you can buy.

The loyalty that guitarists have with the Ibanez goes beyond its celebrity association. The following are some of the reasons for its popularity:

* Virtually no feedback

* Quality craftsmanship

* Clear tone

While you should focus on features more than the beauty of your guitar, with Ibanez guitars it's easy to enjoy the best of both worlds. In addition to the features listed previously, Ibanez guitars are well known for their beautiful appearance. Take the Ibanez Jem 777, for example. Like other Ibanez guitars, this guitar is made of high-quality wood and has a resonance that is sweet to the ears. The Jem 777 is one of the most recent guitar designs offered by Ibanez. The Ibanez RG350DX electric guitar was introduced two years ago and has earned the affection of many electric guitarists who like their electric guitar heavy and loud. Not all Ibanez electric guitars are designed for the rougher crowd. The Ibanez SZ720FM offers a design that is lighter and more appealing to those who treasure the simple life.

Price is a huge consideration for guitarists. Guitars are made of high-quality wood and manufacturing them takes time. Many guitar manufacturers that compete with Ibanez guitars offer their guitars at price well over $3,000. While you can find Ibanez guitars in this price range, Ibanez guitars with such a price tag are often replicas of celebrity guitars or limited edition guitars. One reason that many people choose Ibanez is the price. This is especially true of individuals just learning to play the guitar. Coupled with variety, expert craftsmanship, and tone, you can lose by purchasing an Ibanez guitar.