Shop

The Ibanez GSR206 in Walnut Flat brings professional-grade six-string bass capabilities to an impressively accessible price point. This instrument delivers the renowned comfort and playability of Ibanez's Soundgear series while expanding sonic possibilities with its extended range and versatile electronics.

The sleek, lightweight mahogany body features the ergonomic contours that have made the Soundgear series a favorite among bassists, allowing for hours of comfortable playing whether seated or standing. The slim GSR6 maple neck with jatoba fingerboard strikes an ideal balance between stability and speed, featuring a moderate 400mm radius that accommodates various playing techniques from slap to fingerstyle to pick playing.

At the heart of this bass are the Dynamix DXH-6 pickups, designed specifically for six-string applications, capturing both the deep lows of the low B string and the articulate highs of the high C with remarkable clarity. The onboard Phat II active EQ circuit provides powerful tone shaping capabilities, with a dedicated bass boost function that adds substantial low-end punch with a simple twist of the dial—perfect for genres requiring pronounced bottom end.

The handsome Walnut Flat finish presents a sophisticated, understated aesthetic that showcases the natural wood grain while providing a neutral backdrop that works well in any performance setting. Practical features including a durable B16 bridge with individual string height and intonation adjustment, chrome hardware, and efficient tuners complete this workhorse instrument.

For players looking to explore the extended range of a six-string bass without breaking the bank, the GSR206 represents an exceptional value, delivering professional features at an entry-level price.

Guitar Specs

The Soundgear Advantage

The GSR206 belongs to Ibanez's renowned Soundgear (SR) series, which has been redefining bass comfort and playability for over 25 years. Key advantages of the Soundgear design include:

• Ergonomic Body Contours: The sculpted body with strategic comfort cuts reduces weight while enhancing playing comfort whether seated or standing
• Slim Neck Profile: The GSR6 neck offers exceptional playability despite accommodating six strings, making complex techniques more accessible
• Balanced Weight Distribution: The body design minimizes neck dive, a common issue with extended-range basses
• Versatile Electronics: The Phat II active EQ provides powerful tone-shaping capabilities normally found on much more expensive instruments

Key Features Explained

• Six-String Configuration: The extended range (typically B-E-A-D-G-C) offers additional low end for modern musical styles and expanded melodic possibilities in the higher register
• Dynamix DXH-6 Pickups: Specifically designed for six-string applications, these pickups provide clear definition across all strings, maintaining clarity even on the low B
• Phat II Active EQ: This active circuit features a dedicated bass boost function that significantly enhances low-end presence without muddying the overall tone
• Jatoba Fingerboard: This sustainable tonewood offers similar characteristics to rosewood, with excellent durability and a balanced tonal response
• B16 Bridge: Individual saddle adjustment for both height and intonation ensures precise setup across all six strings

Perfect For:

The Ibanez GSR206 serves multiple musical contexts with excellence:

• Beginners Seeking Room to Grow: The accessible price makes this an ideal first six-string bass that won't be quickly outgrown
• Extended Range Explorers: For bassists curious about six-string possibilities without a major investment
• Modern Metal/Djent Players: The extended low range and active electronics suit contemporary heavy styles
• Jazz Fusion Musicians: The expanded upper register facilitates melodic playing and chordal work
• Recording Bassists: The versatile tonal palette makes this an excellent studio tool across various musical contexts

Unlike other budget-focused six-string basses that often compromise on playability or electronics, the GSR206 maintains the core Soundgear ergonomics and includes a genuinely useful active circuit. This makes it not merely an affordable option but a legitimately professional-grade instrument that happens to be available at an entry-level price point.