In the early ‘90s I was lucky enough to come across this ’85 Ibanez Roadstar II (A852017). While I was not a big fan of the Roadstar, this guitar was in very good shape and I liked the versatility of push-push coil taps. After owning it for better than 17 years, I have to say I would buy another. Roadstars come and go on e-bay quite often, but all too often they have not been taken care of like this beauty. This guitar has a full 24 fret painted neck, a Pro-Rock’r tremolo bridge, and dual humbuckers with coil tapping. While the pickups are a bit on the weak side, it is still a very versatile guitar. Whenever anyone asks about a decent guitar at an affordable price I mention my vintage Ibanez Roadstar II. These guitars can be had at $250 and up, depending on the condition. I would take an Ibanez Roadstar over a Squire any day of the week. I am looking for another but will probably go with a transparent finish as those really look sharp too.
The headstock displays "The Ultimate Expression Of Craftsmanship". While this is no Gibson or Paul Reed Smith, its a great guitar for the money. Its even better if you can find one in great shape like this one. There is also a matching bass model with the same double red pin stripe. I almost bought one for my wife, but it was "too bland" for her. Beauty IS in the eye of the beholder I guess, because I think this guitar looks great and plays even better!
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Jay
0
Man! I love these old Roadstars! For the money these are the guitars to have! I have the RG440
I have threatened to sell mine for years. I purchased it new in 1984 as a recording guitar. It was the quietest guitar under 0 dollars in the store. BTW- the same day purchased a Rhandy Rhodes RR1. No Whammy- THe road star was perfect for expression and dynamics. I plaed R&b along with slow gut bucket blues and the pickups allowed me range that hot pickups hinder. I never liked the C- back neck width as sometimes I had to look at what I was playing. THe guitar has survived many others I've purchased to replace it. I still used it to record until I bought a Fender American Deluxe 2 years ago. Now they split time. The RS11 matched with a Sans amp and Chorus is excellant.
Comments
Good Luck!