4 Best Ibanez Guitars for Shredding (our top picks)

Whenever I think of shredding I think of Ibanez guitars, and whenever I think of Ibanez guitars, I know we're getting a Wizard neck and likely DiMarzio or Fishman Fluence pickups. Throw in an Edge Zero or Lo Pro locking tremolo system, and you have some of the most shred-ready guitars on the market. I typically focus on the Prestige series, though your price point will need to be considered. The ARG652AHM is roughly in the middle of a typical electric guitar price range, perhaps leaning to the more expensive side. But, we'll add a few other recommendations too.

Abridged Video Version of the Roundup

4 Best Ibanez Electrics for Shredding (our top picks)

What features should I be paying attention to?

I've touched on a lot of the Ibanez features already, but I'll summarize them here. Keep in mind, the Ibanez brand at large is known for speed guitars, so you don't have to overthink it too much. I'd probably avoid their semi-hollow models like the Artcore series and the super-cheap Gios and GRG electrics. But in general, you have a lot to work with. Here are the features to pay attention to:

• Pickups: Look for an HSH (humbucker, single coil, humbucker) configuration, or at least HH, and try to find DiMarzio or Fishman Fluence on the specs sheet.
• Bridge Hardware: Edge Zero or Lo Pro bridges are great for fast lead guitar styles.
• Neck: Most of these guitars have the Ibanez Wizard neck which is known for its fast playability and feel. I'd also like to see a neck made from multiple pieces of wood, usually found in the nicer Ibanez models from the Prestige and Premium series.
• Body depth and shape: Most Ibanez guitars are somewhat thin, light, and easy to handle. See if you can spot a side view of whatever guitar you're considering.

What about 7 and 8-string Ibanez guitars?

A lot of the 7 and 8-string models have slanted frets and Fishman Fluence pickups, which are both fantastic shredding features. Look at the Axion Label models to start, and maybe even the QX54QM. I didn't address them in this list because 7 and 8-string guitars are sort of a separate category, but they're definitely a shred-friendly option, if you're okay with the bigger fretboard and additional string(s).

Do I need the locking tremolo system?

For shred styles, I'd want something to help keep your guitar in tune, even if you don't plan to use the whammy bar a lot, though most shredding styles do. An alternative is the EverTune bridge. This Ibanez Prestige model comes with one, though it's on the expensive side.

Conclusion and Questions

If you're into shredding and you've settled on Ibanez, this is the best I can do for ya. Keep in mind, this is my opinion and the term "best" is always going to be somewhat subjective.

But based on my own experience, these are the models I would bet on. 

Hit up the comments section below if you have questions about them. I also have a live price guide here if you want some updated numbers.

Price Guide for Each Ibanez Guitar

Prices updated Fri, August 21st, 2026.

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