Ibanez K5 2004 - First generation Korean model

The pinnacle of the K5 series.

Built in Korea during what many consider the factory’s golden era, this 2004 example represents the original specification before later cost-reduced revisions changed the construction, woods, neck design and overall character of the instrument.

Unlike later K5 models, this bass features the premium Padauk/Mahogany/Padauk body, a five-piece Wenge/Walnut neck, the original Vari-Mid III preamp and the first-generation IBZ ADX pickups. These are the specifications that established the K5’s reputation and continue to make the early Korean models the most sought-after version among players and collectors, and it only weighs 3.7kg!

The combination of dense Padauk tonewood and the incredibly stable Wenge/Walnut neck delivers a sound that is both aggressive and articulate, with exceptional sustain, tight low end and outstanding note definition. While famously associated with Fieldy and Korn, this bass is far more versatile than its reputation suggests. It excels in rock, metal, funk, fusion and modern studio work thanks to its powerful active electronics and highly flexible Vari-Mid III EQ.

The slim Soundgear neck makes it remarkably fast and comfortable, while the premium Korean craftsmanship from this period rivals many Japanese and American instruments from the same era.

Finding an original first-generation K5 has become increasingly difficult. Many have been modified over the years.

Specifications

Padauk / Mahogany / Padauk body

Five-piece Wenge/Walnut neck

Rosewood fingerboard

24 medium frets

34” scale

Original IBZ ADX neck and bridge pickups

Original Vari-Mid III active preamp

Gold hardware

Everything functions exactly as it should. The electronics are quiet, the neck is straight, the truss rod operates correctly and the instrument plays effortlessly across the entire fingerboard.

Why the First Generation Matters

The original Korean K5 was built before later production changes introduced different woods, revised neck construction and updated specifications.

For that reason, the 2002–2005 models have earned a reputation as the most desirable version of the K5. Their premium materials, original electronics and exceptional build quality have made them increasingly sought after by musicians, collectors and Ibanez enthusiasts worldwide.

This isn’t simply a Fieldy signature bass, it is one of the finest Korean-made Soundgear instruments Ibanez ever produced.