Here is something of a rarity. In the early 1990s, Ibanez launched Starfield - something of a prestige brand through which Ibanez would market some well-equipped and nicely built instruments. Some were built in the USA, but this one was made in the FujiGen factory in Japan. The venture only survived for a couple of years, so today these instruments are uncommon. However the quality still comes through, and we are pleased to be able to offer one of these almost forgotten models.
This example is an Altair SJ Trad. It comes with many professional-specification features.
The tremolo bridge has a heavy block, helping the guitar to sustain better than most instruments equipped with tremolos. There is sufficient movement to allow the player to 'dive-bomb', although the absence of a locking nut means that this is not advisable as it does not always come back to pitch. Less aggressive use of the tremolo presents no tuning issues. The tremolo arm pushes in, and a grub screw on the bridge allows the player to set how rigidly the arm is held in place
The positioning of the tuners allows the strings to pass straight over the nut, making tuning more reliable. The tuners are Gotoh Magnum locking tuners, and are possibly the fastest locking tuners you will ever use. Both locking and tuning is conducted by the same knob - so there is no risk of losing thumbscrews or locking nuts.
The neck is a joy to play. It has a smooth satin finish on the back, so no stickiness, and the great condition of the frets has allowed us to set this guitar up with a factory specification action with room to go lower if required.
The electronic controls operate smoothly and silently.
The body shows several shallow dents and chips, but there is nothing here to suggest that the instrument has been abused.
The guitar comes with a black hard case which is secure but possibly as old as the guitar and now has a number of cosmetic marks.Almost 30 years on, this guitar would still provide a reliable option for a professional musician, or an opportunity to own a rare product from a major manufacturer. This guitar reminds all of us what quality Japanese manufacturing can deliver.
Listed | 4 years ago |
Condition | Good (Used) Good condition items function properly but may exhibit some wear and tear.Learn more |
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