Ibanez RG550 Electric Guitar User Manual

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the Ibanez RG550 Electric Guitar. This instrument is part of the Genesis Collection, known for its high-performance design and versatile sound capabilities. Featuring a basswood body, a maple/walnut neck, H-S-H pickup configuration, and an Edge tremolo system, the RG550 is engineered for precision and playability. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your guitar to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.

Setup

1. Unpacking and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove the guitar from its packaging. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Ensure all included accessories, such as the tremolo arm and adjustment wrenches, are present.

Figure 1: Front view of the Ibanez RG550 Electric Guitar. This image shows the full body, neck, headstock, pickups, and tremolo system.

2. Tuning and Tremolo System Adjustment

The RG550 features an Edge tremolo system, which requires specific tuning procedures.

• Unlock the string clamps at the nut using the provided hex wrench.
• Tune each string to the desired pitch using the tuning machines on the headstock.
• Once rough tuning is complete, lock the string clamps at the nut.
• Use the fine tuners on the tremolo bridge for precise pitch adjustments.
• Ensure the tremolo bridge is parallel to the guitar body for optimal performance. Adjust the tremolo springs in the back cavity if necessary.

Figure 2: Close-up of the Ibanez RG550 headstock, showing the tuning machines and the locking nut system.

3. Connecting to an Amplifier

Connect one end of a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable to the output jack on the guitar body and the other end to the input of your amplifier. Ensure your amplifier's volume is set to a low level before turning it on.

Operating

1. Controls Overview

The Ibanez RG550 features intuitive controls for shaping your sound.

Figure 3: Close-up of the guitar body, highlighting the volume and tone knobs, and the 5-way pickup selector switch.

• Volume Knob: Controls the overall output level of the guitar. Turn clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease.
• Tone Knob: Adjusts the treble response. Turn clockwise for brighter tones, counter-clockwise for warmer, darker tones.
• 5-Way Pickup Selector Switch: Selects different pickup combinations (Humbucker-Single-Humbucker).
  1. Position 1 (Bridge): Bridge Humbucker for powerful, bright tones.
  2. Position 2 (Bridge & Middle): Bridge Humbucker (split coil) and Middle Single-coil for a brighter, articulate sound.
  3. Position 3 (Middle): Middle Single-coil for clear, balanced tones.
  4. Position 4 (Middle & Neck): Middle Single-coil and Neck Humbucker (split coil) for a warm, articulate sound.
  5. Position 5 (Neck): Neck Humbucker for warm, full-bodied tones.

2. Using the Edge Tremolo System

The Edge tremolo system allows for expressive pitch bending and dive bombs. Insert the tremolo arm into its socket on the bridge. You can adjust the tension of the arm by tightening or loosening the collar.

Figure 4: Detailed view of the Edge tremolo bridge, showing the fine tuners and the tremolo arm socket.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

• Body: Wipe the body with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use to remove sweat and fingerprints. For deeper cleaning, use a guitar-specific polish.
• Neck and Fretboard: Clean the fretboard periodically with a dedicated fretboard cleaner and conditioner, especially if it's maple. Remove any grime buildup from the frets.
• Hardware: Use a dry cloth to wipe down the bridge, tuners, and other metal parts. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

2. String Replacement

Strings should be replaced regularly to maintain tone and playability. When replacing strings on an Edge tremolo system, it is recommended to replace them one at a time to maintain tension balance. Ensure you use strings of the same gauge to avoid significant tremolo adjustments.

3. Tremolo System Care

Periodically check the pivot posts and knife edges of the Edge tremolo for wear. Apply a small amount of lubricant (e.g., Vaseline or specialized tremolo lubricant) to the knife edges to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.

4. Storage

Store your guitar in a case when not in use to protect it from dust, humidity changes, and physical damage. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Key specifications for the Ibanez RG550 Electric Guitar:

Warranty and Support

For information regarding your product's warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Ibanez website. For technical support, service, or replacement parts, please contact Ibanez customer service directly.

Official Ibanez Website: www.ibanez.com