Well there are exceptions to all rules, and one of them is that the middle number for instance the "7" in an RG570 and the middle "5" in an RG550 actually represent how the guitar is routed. They are both H-S-H guitars, but the RG570 is rear routed (no pickguard), and the RG550 is front routed (has a pickguard). A lot of it has to do with the time period the guitar was made in.
Here are some easy pointers that are usually right. With Ibanez, there are exceptions to every rule.
RG Series:
3xx Lower level, non-Japanese made.
4xx In the "Golden Age" MIJ, now MII.
5xx Was the best value to feature ratio in "Golden Age", not it doesn't exist.
6xx Higher level than 5xx, usually had exotic woods.
7xx Far higher aesthetics, the highest in the RG series.
x2x Usually denotes an H-H pickup set-up. Always rear routed.
x5x Means top routed.
x6x Means H-S pickup combo.
x7x Means rear routed
xx1 Means fixed bridge, any type.
xx0 Means trem of any type.
RG Is the standard with regular headstock and bolt-on neck.
RGR Has a reverse headstock and bolt-on neck.
RGT Has a neck thru joint.
RGA Has an Arched top.
RGRT Is both reverse headstock and neck-thru.
x1x Denotes a "special model".
x8x Denotes a special or limited model as well.
That's all of the standard non-Prestige RG numbers.
Current "Heard":UV777PBK - UV7PWH - UV7BK "Green Dot" - UV7BK "Green Silver Dot" - RG7620VK - RG7420BK - RG1527RB
GUITAR SET-UP AND MAINTENANCEIbanez Catalogs---
Megatron's Trem GuideNeed replacement parts? Go here.Want to talk to Ibanez USA (Hoshino USA)? Then call this number (PA area code): (215)245-1648.OFFICIAL IBANEZ PARTS & APPAREL STORE!!!
