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Home » Review » Review Ibanez Gio – Our Unbiased Review (2025)

Ibanez Grg170Dx Gio, Black Night Review

Last updated December 14, 2024

Review Ibanez Gio – Our Unbiased Review (2025)

  • Proudly written by Pro-Guitarist,
  • Lewis Turner
  • 5 Comments
  • Electric Guitars | Guitars

Best Overall

Electric Guitar

Ibanez GIO GRGM21 MiKro Electric Guitar, White Big Sound in a Small Package!
  • Overall: 9/10
  • Best Feature: Excellent value for the price
  • TedScore™: 9/10
Click for Best Price

Best Budget

Electric Guitar

Ibanez GRX40 GIO, Black Night A Cheap Guitar Offering Versatile Performance
  • Overall: 8.5/10
  • Best Feature: Infinite tone possibilities
  • TedScore™: 8.5/10
Click for Best Price
Winner

Best High-End

Electric Guitar

Ibanez GRG121DX GIO, Metallic Grey Sunburst A Symphony in Metallic Grey Sunburst!
  • Overall: 8.5/10
  • Best Feature: Affordable, without and good quality
  • TedScore™: 8.5/10
Click for Best Price

Discovering the ideal electric guitar means striking the right balance among price, quality, and how easy it is to play.

Enter the Ibanez Gio series, a range of guitars designed to cater to beginners and budget-conscious players without compromising on sound or craftsmanship.

With their sleek designs, versatile tones, and reliable performance, the Ibanez Gio guitars have gained a reputation for offering exceptional value for money.

In this review Ibanez Gio, I’ll explore the key features, sound capabilities, and overall experience of the Ibanez Gio series, helping you make an informed decision about your next musical companion.

Table of Contents

A Review of the Ibanez Gio Guitar

The Ibanez Gio series is a range of budget electric guitars designed for those who want the Ibanez quality and style at a more affordable price point:

Materials and Craftsmanship

The Ibanez Gio series, known for its affordability, offers a surprisingly solid construction given its price point. Typically crafted from lighter woods like poplar or basswood, these guitars feature a quality that exceeds expectations in this cheap guitars category.

The finish is generally smooth and appealing, although it lacks the premium feel of Ibanez’s higher-end models. The craftsmanship is decent, but some inconsistencies in fretwork and joint finishes may be noticeable upon close inspection.

Electronics and Hardware

The Ibanez Gio series, known for its affordability, offers a surprisingly solid construction given its price point. Typically crafted from lighter woods like poplar or basswood, these guitars feature a quality that exceeds expectations in this cheap guitars category.

The finish is generally smooth and appealing, although it lacks the premium feel of Ibanez’s higher-end models. The craftsmanship is decent, but some inconsistencies in fretwork and joint finishes may be noticeable upon close inspection.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the Gio series is commendable for its price bracket. These guitars deliver a reasonably clear and balanced tone, with enough versatility to cover various music genres. However, they do not possess the depth and articulation of more expensive Ibanez models.

The sound is more than acceptable for practice and beginner performances, but advanced players might find it lacking in character and nuance.

Tone Shaping Capabilities

The Gio series offers decent tone shaping capabilities with its pickup configuration and controls. You can adjust the volume and tone of each pickup independently, allowing you to fine-tune your sound.

While it may not have the extensive tonal options of more expensive guitars, it provides enough versatility for most players to find their preferred settings.

Playability

Playability is one of the strong points of the Gio series. The necks are usually slim and comfortable, making them ideal for beginners or players with smaller hands.

The action is set at a comfortable height, reducing finger fatigue. However, some units might require a setup out of the box to optimize playability.

Value for Money

In terms of value for money, the Ibanez Gio series excels. These guitars offer a solid entry point for beginners or budget-conscious players, providing a satisfactory playing experience without a hefty price tag.

They strike a good balance between quality and affordability, making them an attractive option for those on a tight budget.

Price and Availability

The Gio series is widely available and competitively priced. Most models are very affordable, making them accessible to a wide range of players.

Prices vary slightly depending on the model and features, but they generally remain within an attractive range for budget-conscious buyers. Their widespread availability in music stores and online platforms makes them an easy option to consider.

Is the Ibanez Gio Good for Beginners?

Excellent Choice For Beginners

Absolutely, the Ibanez Gio is an excellent choice for beginners. Its combination of affordability, playability, and decent sound quality makes it a great starting instrument.

The simplicity of its electronics and hardware also serves as a gentle introduction to electric guitars for novices.

The Best Music Genre for Ibanez Gio Guitar

The Ibanez Gio series is versatile enough to accommodate various music genres, particularly rock, pop, and blues.

Its tonal qualities make it suitable for these styles, though it might not be the best fit for genres requiring a more nuanced or specific sound, like jazz or advanced metal.

For beginners exploring different genres, the Gio offers a flexible and forgiving platform.

Tonal Qualities

Disadvantages of the Ibanez Gio

The Ibanez Gio series, while a popular choice for budget-conscious guitarists, does present certain limitations and disadvantages that should be considered:

Component Quality

The Gio series, being an entry-level line, often uses less expensive hardware and electronics compared to higher-end Ibanez models. This can manifest in tuners that are less stable, pickups with lower tonal quality, and less durable switches and potentiometers.

Resale Value

As with many entry-level instruments, the Ibanez Gio guitars tend to depreciate more significantly in resale value. This is an important consideration for those who may wish to trade up in the future.

Playability Adjustments

Some players have reported the need for initial setup adjustments (such as action, intonation, and truss rod adjustments) to optimize playability. While common in many guitars, it can be a disadvantage for beginners who are not yet familiar with these adjustments.

Perceived Brand Value

Among seasoned guitarists, the Gio series may be perceived as inferior due to its association with the entry-level market. This perception can influence the satisfaction of some players, particularly in environments where brand and model prestige are valued.

Limited Longevity for Advancing Players

As players advance in skill, they may find the limitations of the Gio series more pronounced, particularly in terms of electronics and overall tonal quality. This may necessitate an upgrade to a higher-quality instrument sooner than with some other entry-level guitars.

Great Guitars from the Ibanez Gio Series

Ibanez GIO GRGM21 MiKro Electric Guitar, White

Ibanez Gio Grgm21 Mikro Electric Guitar, White
Big Sound in a Small Package!
PERFECT FOR: Beginner

FEATURES: .010/.013/.017/.026/.036/.046 string gauge

OTHER INFO:F106 bridge
Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • Easy to play, with a comfortable neck and setup.
  • Its small size makes it easy to handle and transport.
  • Warm, jazzy tones from the neck pickup; shreddy tone from the bridge.
  • Excellent value for the price.
CONS
  • Some reports of slightly sharp fret edges.
  • While generally good, the pickups may not satisfy all players.
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Ibanez GRG121DX GIO, Metallic Grey Sunburst

Ibanez Grg121Dx Gio, Metallic Grey Sunburst Review
A Symphony in Metallic Grey Sunburst!
PERFECT FOR: Beginner

FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5"

OTHER INFO:Versatile IBZ-6 Ceramic Humbucker Pickups
Check Price >
8.5/10
PROS
  • Affordable, without compromising on quality.
  • Dynamic and versatile, suitable for various playing styles.
  • Comfortable GRG maple neck and bound purpleheart fingerboard.
  • F106 bridge enhances resonance and maintains tuning.
  • 5-way blade switch allows for a wide range of tonal possibilities.
  • Powerful pickups ideal for rock and metal genres.
CONS
  • Limited Sound Variability
  • Frequent Hardware Tune-Ups Required
  • Absence of a Case in Standard Package
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 8.5/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Ibanez GRX40 GIO, Black Night

Ibanez Grx40 Gio, Black Night
A Cheap Guitar Offering Versatile Performance
PERFECT FOR: Beginner

FEATURES: Jatoba fretboard

OTHER INFO:Bridge humbucker, neck and middle single coils for a wide range of sounds
Check Price >
8.5/10
PROS
  • Infinite tone possibilities with three diverse pickups
  • Prime playability with a comfortable GRX maple neck
  • Superb tuning stability thanks to the T106 tremolo bridge
  • High-quality construction with poplar body and chrome hardware
  • Affordable yet offers features of more expensive models
CONS
  • Occasional static noise and a slightly abrasive fretboard.
  • Frequent use of the tremolo bar may result in tuning stability challenges.
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 8.5/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Ibanez GSA60QA GIO Series S Shape QM, Transparent Red Burst

Ibanez Gsa60Qa Gio Series, Transparent Red Burst Review 1
Affordable Excellence
PERFECT FOR: Beginner

FEATURES: Fingerboard: Purpleheart

OTHER INFO:.009/.011/.016/.024/.032/.042
Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • Versatile sound profile suitable for various music genres, from clean notes to harmonic tones.
  • Noise-free high output humbucker.
  • Easy tone control with 5-way selector.
  • Comfortable maple neck and purpleheart fretboard enhance playability.
  • Eye-catching Transparent Red Burst finish.
CONS
  • May need string gauge adjustment.
  • Passive pickups, less control than active.
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Ibanez GRX70QA GIO, Transparent Red Burst

Ibanez Grx70Qa Gio, Transparent Red Burst Review 1
A Flexible Entry-Level Electric Guitar
PERFECT FOR: Beginner

FEATURES: 22 Medium

OTHER INFO:Scale Length: 25.5’’
Check Price >
9/10
PROS
  • Fast, comfortable neck ideal for various playing styles.
  • Versatile HSH pickup configuration enhances musical range.
  • Attractive design with a shimmery quilted maple top.
  • Generally reliable hardware, excluding the tuners.
CONS
  • Pickups lack harmonic richness and character.
  • Midrange overly emphasized due to body and pickup materials.
What Retailer to Buy From?

When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.

They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.

The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Review Ibanez Gio
Summary

The Ibanez Gio series stands out as an exceptional choice among budget guitars.

It offers a blend of affordability and quality, making it a highly attractive option for both beginners and seasoned players on a budget.

The Gio series, known for its clear, resonant, and ‘sounding’ guitar tones, competes favorably with other guitars in its price range. While it may not match the intricacies of higher-end models, it certainly exceeds expectations for an entry-level instrument.

I think its performance and value proposition place it high on the list for anyone seeking a reliable, budget guitar. And I quite often recommend it to students who are just starting out…

I’m interested in your perspective on the Ibanez Gio. How does it compare, in your view, to other budget guitars? Your insights and personal experiences would be greatly valued.

And if you love Ibanez as a brand, click now to read The Ultimate Ibanez Brand Review.

FAQ's

What does GIO mean in Ibanez?

The GIO series in the Ibanez guitar lineup represents their budget-friendly range. Aimed at delivering the quality and style Ibanez is known for, but at a more affordable price point, GIO models are an excellent choice for players looking for a decent guitar without a hefty price tag.

This makes them an ideal option for those exploring the world of electric guitars without committing to a high-end investment.

Are Ibanez Gio good for beginners?

Absolutely! Ibanez GIO guitars are often recommended for beginners due to their balance of affordability, playability, and quality. These guitars are designed to be user-friendly, making them a great guitar choice for novice players.

The comfortable neck profiles and lighter bodies contribute to easier playing, aiding beginners in mastering the basics of playing guitar efficiently.

Is the Ibanez Gio good for rock?

Ibanez GIO guitars are indeed suitable for rock music. Known for their versatile sound range, these guitars can handle various music styles, including rock. Many Ibanez guitars model come equipped with robust pickups that deliver a punchy, clear tone, perfect for rock riffs and solos.

Whether you’re practicing at home or jamming with a band, the Ibanez GIO can be a reliable and cheaper guitar option for rock enthusiasts.

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  • Lewis Turner Guitar
    Lewis Turner

    Lewis is a professional guitarist based in London, UK. Over the years he has built up a diverse career, including playing on West End shows such as The Lion King, Mamma Mia, Man of La Mancha, Bat Out Of Hell, Strictly Ballroom, The Band, The Last Tango, Jersey Boys, Jackie The Musical, Exposure, Beyond The Fence, Adrian Mole, WAGGS, Momentous Musicals, The Addams Family (UK Premier), Legally Blonde, Fame, Hairspray, Grease, The Wedding Singer and many more. He has been fortunate to work with some fantastic musicians over the years including Mark Knopfler and Guy Fletcher (Dire Straits). All in all, Lewis is just a phenomenally talented guitarist who is also a really nice chap! See him in action on the Ted's List YouTube channel under the playlist guitars section.

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↓ Click here to leave a comment ↓
  1. 77VintageQueen says:
    October 12, 2024 at 4:30 am

    Was curious about the electronics and hardware part. Guess for the price, it’s decent enough. Anyone tried upgrading?

    Reply
  2. FretMasterJ says:
    September 17, 2024 at 10:15 pm

    The value for money section caught my eye. It’s rare to find affordable guitars that don’t compromise much on quality. From my experience, Ibanez Gios are indeed great for beginners and intermediate players. However, serious players might look for something more advanced, where the Gio series might fall short. Nonetheless, for its price, it’s a worthy investment.

    Reply
    • stringslayer101 says:
      October 23, 2024 at 11:54 am

      totally agree, great bang for ur buck

      Reply
  3. electroguitar_89 says:
    August 10, 2024 at 3:52 am

    hey, does the Gio handle metal genres well? kinda curious since I’m on a budget but wanna play some heavy tunes.

    Reply
  4. MaxineSilver says:
    July 19, 2024 at 9:46 pm

    I found the section on playability quite enlightening. It’s refreshing to see that the Ibanez Gio series offers such a comfortable experience for both beginners and seasoned players. This will definitely be a recommendation to my students. Great review, Lewis Turner!

    Reply

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