The Ibanez RGMS (RG Multi-Scale) is a modern, high-performance electric guitar designed primarily for metal and progressive music. It features a multi-scale (fanned fret) design, allowing for better string tension and intonation, making it an ideal instrument for extended-range tunings and fast, technical playing. Built with ergonomics, speed, and clarity in mind, the RGMS is a powerful tool for contemporary guitarists.
Origins and Development
The Ibanez RG Series
The RG series was first introduced in 1987 and has since become one of Ibanez’s most iconic and widely used models. Known for its thin Wizard necks, aggressive styling, and high-output pickups, the RG series has been favored by shredders, metal players, and progressive musicians for decades.
Introduction of Multi-Scale Models
With the increasing popularity of extended-range guitars (7, 8, and 9-string models) and lower tunings, Ibanez introduced the RGMS series as part of its multi-scale lineup. These guitars were designed to improve tuning stability, intonation, and playability, especially in lower registers.
The RGMS7 (7-string) and RGMS8 (8-string) models are among the most notable offerings, catering to djent, progressive metal, and technical players who require precise note definition in low tunings.
Construction and Features
Multi-Scale (Fanned Frets) Design
One of the key features of the RGMS series is its multi-scale fretboard, which enhances tuning stability and playability:
- Longer scale length on lower strings (27.2″) for better tension and less muddiness.
- Shorter scale length on higher strings (25.5″) for easier bending and articulation.
- Fanned fret arrangement follows the natural movement of the hand, improving ergonomics.
This design is especially beneficial for extended-range guitars, as it prevents the floppy low-string feel common in standard-scale instruments.
Body and Tonewoods
The RGMS models are built with lightweight and resonant materials, offering both comfort and tonal clarity.
- Body Material: Nyatoh – A tonewood similar to mahogany, providing warm lows and a balanced midrange.
- Shape: Classic RG double-cutaway, ensuring easy access to higher frets.
- Finish Options: Available in sleek, modern finishes like black satin and deep stained wood grains.
Neck and Fingerboard
Ibanez is known for its fast-playing necks, and the RGMS is no exception.
- Neck Material: 5-piece maple/walnut – Offers stability, strength, and a bright attack.
- Neck Profile: Wizard III Multi-Scale – Ultra-thin and fast, perfect for shredding.
- Fingerboard: Jatoba or Rosewood – Provides a smooth feel and warm tone.
- Fret Count: 24 jumbo frets – Ideal for technical playing and lead work.
- Fret Markers: Subtle dot inlays along the side of the neck for a clean and modern aesthetic.
Pickups and Electronics
The RGMS series comes equipped with high-output humbuckers, specifically designed for articulation and tightness in low tunings.
- Stock Pickups: Ibanez Array-8 MS (RGMS8) or Array-7 MS (RGMS7).
- Pickup Configuration: H-H (Humbucker-Humbucker).
- Tonal Characteristics:
- Bridge Pickup: Tight, aggressive, and articulate for chugging rhythms.
- Neck Pickup: Warmer, rounder tone for leads and cleans.
- Enhanced clarity in low tunings to avoid muddiness.
Controls
- 1 Volume, 1 Tone – Simple and effective layout.
- 3-Way Pickup Selector Switch – Allows for switching between rhythm, lead, and blended tones.
Bridge and Hardware
- Bridge: Mono-Rail Fixed Bridge – Enhances sustain and tuning stability.
- String-Through-Body Design: Improves resonance and string tension.
- Tuning Stability: The longer scale length on low strings keeps them tight and defined.
Unlike tremolo-equipped RG models, the RGMS is designed for stability—perfect for drop tunings and heavy riffing without worrying about tuning drift.
Sound and Tonal Characteristics
Clean Tones
- Bright and articulate highs for expressive leads.
- Full-bodied, rich midrange, great for jazzier or ambient clean playing.
- Piezo-like clarity when used with a compressor or chorus pedal.
Overdriven & Distorted Tones
- Tight, aggressive low-end response – Essential for metal and djent.
- Extended sustain, making lead lines sing with clarity.
- Excellent string separation, even in high-gain settings.
Multi-Scale Advantage in Sound
- Less muddiness in lower registers—ideal for drop tunings and extended-range playing.
- More natural attack and decay across the fretboard.
Notable Players and Influence
The RGMS series is popular among guitarists who require precision, speed, and extended-range versatility. Some notable artists who use multi-scale Ibanez guitars include:
- Mårten Hagström (Meshuggah) – Pioneer of low-tuned, extended-range metal.
- Fredrik Thordendal (Meshuggah) – Known for djent and complex rhythmic patterns.
- Josh Smith (Northlane) – Uses multi-scale guitars for progressive metal tones.
- Dino Cazares (Fear Factory) – Famous for tight, palm-muted riffs and low-tuned chugging.
While not all these players use the RGMS specifically, they popularized the need for multi-scale Ibanez guitars, influencing models like the RGMS7 and RGMS8.
Ibanez RGMS Variants
| Model | Strings | Scale Length | Pickups | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RGMS7 | 7 | 25.5″–27.2″ | Array-7 MS | Ideal for progressive metal |
| RGMS8 | 8 | 25.5″–27.2″ | Array-8 MS | Designed for extreme low tunings |
Why the Ibanez RGMS Stands Out
- Multi-Scale Fanned Frets – Improves tuning stability, playability, and intonation.
- Designed for Extended-Range Tunings – Perfect for progressive metal, djent, and technical playing.
- Ultra-Fast Wizard III Neck – Thin and smooth for high-speed lead work.
- High-Output Pickups – Ensure clarity, aggression, and articulation.
- Mono-Rail Bridge for Maximum Sustain – Individual saddles enhance note definition.