Absolutely stunning in both rarity and craftsmanship, this limited-run Ibanez AZ2204N Prestige with a Japanese Ash top is one of only 15 available in North America. Built in Japan with exacting attention to detail, it's a collector-grade instrument that doesn't just look the part; it delivers an elite playing experience that lives up to the Ibanez legacy. If you've been waiting for an AZ that stands out from the pack with unique tonewood, striking visuals, and no-compromise performance features, this is the one to chase.
A 4mm carved Japanese Ash top brings out a bold grain pattern beneath the clear pickguard, adding organic depth to the Tobacco Sunburst finish. The oil-finished S-TECH Roasted Maple neck feels smooth and comfortable to play for long periods of time. Its AZ Oval C profile strikes a familiar yet refined balance for everything from bluesy bends to fast, articulate runs. Combined with the rosewood fretboard, abalone dot inlays, and compound radius (228mm to 305mm), this neck was made to disappear in your hands.
Stainless steel jumbo frets with Prestige fret edge treatment ensure effortless string bending and long-lasting precision. The Super All Access Neck Joint and ergonomic body contours provide comfort whether you're tracking in the studio or holding down a three-set gig. Five tremolo springs anchor the Gotoh T1702B non-recessed bridge, giving you excellent dynamic response and resonance transfer without sacrificing tuning stability. Add the Gotoh Magnum Lock tuners with Height Adjustable Posts, and you've got a rock-solid setup that stays in tune with a good break angle at the nut.
The HSS Seymour Duncan Fortuna pickups offer clean, transparent voicing with a moderate output, making them incredibly versatile across genres. From ambient clean tones to tight, articulate gain, the Fortunas stay focused and musical across every pickup position. With the dyna-MIX9 switching system and Alter Switch, you can easily access nine pickup combinations, including simulated humbucker tones from dual single-coil mode. While these are an Ibanez Exclusive pickup set, they're some more of the more impressive sounding stock pickups you can have.
This particular model includes a clear pickguard, giving full visual access to the Ash top while protecting the finish in all the right places. It's a subtle touch that showcases the wood's natural beauty without distraction, making this AZ visually striking while staying sleek and professional.
Every day we handle many high-end instruments at Cream City Music, but this limited run Ibby is something truly exceptional. They took their production line flagship AZ and made something undeniably refined. Beware- if you pick this up, it's a lifelong instrument, because there's no going back from a Made In Japan Ibanez Prestige this perfect.
        
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