Ibanez JEM7V Steve Vai Signature White 2010
Ibanez JEM7V, crispy white, made in Japan 2010. Few guitar players have managed to change the way we see the instrument as much as Steve Vai. After rising to prominence playing for none other than Frank Zappa, Vai has worked with everyone from Motorhead to Mary J Blige to Polyphia, as well as delivering a stack of mind-melting solo albums that pushed guitar playing past perceived limits at the time. The JEM is his signature guitar, and one particular version was in continuous production for twenty six years: the JEM7V. This example dates to 2010 and was made at the iconic Fujigen factory. It's everything a shredstick should be: stupidly playable, very slick, and a whisker obnoxious. The vibrant white finish, tree of life inlay, gold hardware, pearloid plastics and quirky monkey grip make this instantly recognisable even at a distance. The Dimarzio Evolution pickups are a Steve move too, and they work a treat: singing sustain, great balance and detail across the whole frequency range and a certain smoothness that brings leads to life. The neck is a marvel too, it's super fast and feels a bit like it plays itself, and the scalloping on the top three frets means all the notes are clear all the way from bottom to top. Needless to say, this isn't for everyone, but if you're after a JEM in near showroom shape, this one is a real... gem.
Model: Ibanez JEM7V Steve Vai Signature
Made: Japan, 2010, Fujigen Gakki plant
Serial: F1004522
Finish: white, gloss poly
Body: solid alder, basswood veneers
Neck: JEM Prestige 5-piece maple/walnut, rosewood fretboard, scalloped frets 21-24, 16" radius
Weight: 3.6kg approx
Mods: none
Pickups: Dimarzio Evolution humbucker x2, single coil
Accessories: original case, docs, trem arm and multi-tool
Cosmetic condition notes: very minor finish wear. The headstock has some dimples on the end. The neck is clean and smooth in the hands, minor rub wear on the back only. The back has very light rub wear on the the belly carve and elbow area. The sides have minor scuffs near the jack and elbow area. The front has some minor rub wear in the elbow area and play wear on the horns. Note the plastic film is still on the guard and trem cavity cover.
Overall: excellent condition (9/10)
Playing Condition Notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. Wearing fresh 9/42 Moonshiners strings.
Fret Life: 9/10, negligible fret wear