Ibanez SRF705 Fretless 5-String Bass Guitar User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Ibanez SRF705 Fretless 5-String Bass Guitar. The SRF705 is designed to offer a unique playing experience with its fretless Panga Panga fingerboard, versatile Bartolini pickups, and integrated piezo pickup system, allowing for a wide range of tonal possibilities from traditional electric bass sounds to upright-like tones.

Figure 1: Front view of the Ibanez SRF705 Fretless 5-String Bass Guitar.

2. Setup

2.1 Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove the instrument from its packaging. Inspect the bass for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.

2.2 Connecting to an Amplifier

Connect a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable from the output jack on the bass to your amplifier's input. Ensure your amplifier is turned off or at a low volume before connecting or disconnecting the cable to prevent sudden loud noises.

2.3 Battery Installation/Check

The SRF705 features active electronics for its Bartolini pickups and piezo system, requiring a 9V battery. The battery compartment is located on the back of the instrument. Ensure a fresh 9V battery is installed with correct polarity. Replace the battery when the sound becomes weak or distorted.

2.4 Tuning

Tune the bass using an electronic tuner. The standard tuning for a 5-string bass is B-E-A-D-G (low to high). Due to the fretless nature of the instrument, precise intonation relies on finger placement. Utilize the side dot markers as a guide for pitch accuracy.

Figure 2: Bridge and control layout of the Ibanez SRF705.

3. Operating the Instrument

3.1 Controls Overview

The Ibanez SRF705 features a comprehensive control layout for shaping your tone:

• Volume Knobs: Individual volume controls for the magnetic Bartolini pickups (neck and bridge) and the piezo pickup system.
• Balance Knob: Blends the output between the neck and bridge magnetic pickups.
• 2-Band EQ: Controls for Bass and Treble frequencies, allowing for precise tonal adjustments.
• Piezo Tone Control: Adjusts the tone of the piezo pickup system.

3.2 Tonal Versatility

The combination of Bartolini magnetic pickups and the AeroSilk Piezo system offers extensive tonal options. You can use the magnetic pickups for traditional electric bass sounds, the piezo system for an acoustic, upright-like tone, or blend them to create unique hybrid sounds. Experiment with the individual volume controls and EQ to find your desired sound.

3.3 Fretless Playing Techniques

The fretless fingerboard allows for smooth glides and expressive vibrato. Achieving the characteristic