AWB50CELG vs GSR200SMCNB-B5917 — Compare
Ibanez AWB50CE-LG Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Natural Low Gloss Finish vs Ibanez GSR200SM GIO Bass in Charcoal Brown Burst B-Stock 5917
The AWB50CE-LG is an acoustic-electric bass designed for warm, traditional tones in jazz and studio settings, while the GSR200SM is a solid-body electric bass built for rock, pop, and funk with modern tonal shaping. Choose the Ibanez Artwood if you want acoustic resonance and unplugged playability; choose the GIO if you need versatile electric tone and extended fretboard access.
No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.
Ibanez AWB50CE-LG Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Natural Low Gloss Finish
Ibanez GSR200SM GIO Bass in Charcoal Brown Burst B-Stock 5917
Specs side by side
| Ibanez AWB50CE-LG Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Natural Low Gloss Finish | Ibanez GSR200SM GIO Bass in Charcoal Brown Burst B-Stock 5917 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399.99 | $239.99 |
| Brand | Ibanez | Ibanez |
| Body | Other | — |
| Body Type | Hollow | — |
| Strings | 4 | 4 |
| Fretboard | Rosewood | — |
| Pickup Configuration | Under Saddle | — |
| Year | Unknown | Unknown |
| Condition | New | Refurbished |
Why choose Ibanez AWB50CE-LG Artwood Series Acoustic Electric Bass in Natural Low Gloss Finish
- ✓ Acoustic body provides natural resonance and warm, balanced tone ideal for jazz and folk
- ✓ Cutaway dreadnought design allows seated or standing play with upper-fret access
- ✓ Solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany construction deliver traditional tonal aesthetics
- ✓ Built-in tuner via SPT Shape Shifter preamp eliminates need for external device
Why choose Ibanez GSR200SM GIO Bass in Charcoal Brown Burst B-Stock 5917
- ✓ Double-cutaway solid-body design offers full fretboard access with 24 frets versus 20
- ✓ Phat II EQ with active bass boost provides modern tonal shaping for rock and funk
- ✓ Lightweight ergonomic construction reduces fatigue during extended practice sessions
- ✓ Passive dual-pickup configuration (Precision/Jazz) delivers clear articulation across genres
Frequently asked questions
Can I play either bass unplugged?
The AWB50CE-LG is an acoustic-electric with a resonant body designed for unplugged play; the GSR200SM is a solid-body electric that requires amplification to be heard at volume.
Which has more fretboard reach for solos and high-register work?
The GSR200SM offers 24 frets with a double-cutaway body for easier upper-register access, compared to the AWB50CE-LG's 20 frets and single cutaway.
Which bass is better for beginners learning jazz versus rock?
The AWB50CE-LG's warm, balanced tone and traditional construction suit jazz fundamentals; the GSR200SM's clear articulation, active EQ, and modern pickup configuration better serve rock and funk learners.
What is the difference between the pickup and amplification systems?
The AWB50CE-LG uses an under-saddle pickup with a preamp and tuner for acoustic amplification; the GSR200SM uses paired passive pickups with active Phat II EQ circuitry for electric tone shaping and bass boost.