The Ibanez JIVA Jr emerges as a compelling option for guitarists seeking a signature instrument without the premium price tag. Positioned as the more accessible counterpart to Nita Strauss’s acclaimed JIVA, this guitar, retailing around $1119.99 CAD MAP, represents a significant leap in quality and features compared to models like the RG 470DX. Drawing heavily from Ibanez’s revered S series body design, the JIVA Jr boasts enhanced contours, a smoother feel, and a neck profile that many players, including myself, find exceptionally comfortable.
Before delving into the specifics of this guitar, it’s essential to address a pervasive and outdated viewpoint that unfortunately still lingers within the guitar community. During a recent visit to The Arts Music Store, I overheard someone dismissively labeling the JIVA as a “chick’s guitar.” Such remarks, rooted in misogyny, are not only disrespectful but also fundamentally misunderstand the nature of musical talent and instrument design. Nita Strauss, the artist behind the JIVA, is a phenomenal guitarist who has shared stages with luminaries like Alice Cooper and Demi Lovato, showcasing her mastery across diverse genres while maintaining a distinctive personal style. Her skill and artistry transcend gender, and any attempt to diminish her achievements based on it reveals a regrettable prejudice.
The JIVA Jr: A Signature of Performance and Playability
The Ibanez JIVA series firmly establishes Nita Strauss among the elite ranks of Ibanez signature artists, joining guitar icons such as Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, and Pat Metheny. Unlike some signature models that merely involve cosmetic alterations to existing designs, the JIVA and JIVA Jr are the product of a genuine collaboration between Nita Strauss and Ibanez over an extended period. Built upon the foundation of Ibanez’s celebrated S series framework, the JIVA Jr inherits the ergonomic comfort and sleek aesthetics that define this line.
This model features Ibanez’s own floating tremolo system, incorporating the advanced Edge Zero II bridge design. A key innovation of the Edge Zero II is the placement of micro tuners in a recessed position, effectively minimizing their interference with the player’s picking hand. Complementing the bridge is a locking nut system utilizing three independent plates, ensuring rock-solid tuning stability even under aggressive whammy bar use.
The JIVA Jr is equipped with an HSH pickup configuration, featuring Ibanez Quantum pickups controlled by a versatile 5-way switch, along with single volume and tone knobs. The absence of push-pull pots contributes to the guitar’s straightforward and intuitive operation, making it exceptionally player-friendly with a minimal learning curve.
Specifications at a Glance
Ibanez is known for providing readily accessible and comprehensive specifications for their instruments. For detailed specifications, refer to the official Ibanez website or product documentation.
In conclusion, the Ibanez JIVA Jr stands as a testament to Ibanez’s commitment to quality and innovation, offering a signature guitar experience that is both inspiring and accessible. It’s a guitar built for serious players who appreciate comfort, performance, and a touch of signature flair, regardless of genre or background.
