AZES31VM-B2484 vs RGA42EXBAM-B9600 — Compare
Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484 vs Ibanez RGA42EX BAM Black Aurora Burst Matte Guitar B-Stock
The AZES31 is a versatile offset-body guitar built for rock, pop, and blues with accessible playability and a bright, balanced tone, while the RGA42EX is a speed-focused shredder designed for metal and hard rock with aggressive voicing and advanced features. Choose the AZES31 if you're transitioning between genres or value comfort during longer sessions; pick the RGA42EX if you prioritize fast lead work, drop tunings, and a tighter, heavier tone.
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Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484
Ibanez RGA42EX BAM Black Aurora Burst Matte Guitar B-Stock
Specs side by side
| Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484 | Ibanez RGA42EX BAM Black Aurora Burst Matte Guitar B-Stock | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $279.99 | $389.00 |
| Brand | Ibanez | Ibanez |
| Body | Stratocaster | Other |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 25" Scale | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Jatoba | Jatoba |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | — |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS | — |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2025 | 2024 |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484
- ✓ All Access neck joint provides excellent upper-fret access without sacrificing comfort
- ✓ Dyna-MIX8 switching system offers eight distinct tonal combinations versus standard three-way switches
- ✓ Well-balanced poplar body tone suits clean, crunchy, and lead playing across multiple genres
- ✓ More affordable entry point into electric guitar playing
Why choose Ibanez RGA42EX BAM Black Aurora Burst Matte Guitar B-Stock
- ✓ Wizard III neck geometry optimized for speed and extended techniques across 24 jumbo frets
- ✓ Dual Quantum humbuckers deliver tight lows and aggressive tone ideal for metal and drop tunings
- ✓ Fixed bridge with rock-solid tuning stability and sustain for demanding playing styles
- ✓ Professional-grade specifications and playability for intermediate-to-advanced players
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for metal?
The RGA42EX is purpose-built for metal with dual Quantum humbuckers, tight low-end response, and a 24-fret Wizard III neck designed for drop tunings and fast lead work. The AZES31, with its single-coils and balanced tone, is not recommended for metal.
What's the key playability difference?
The AZES31 features a 25-inch scale with 22 medium frets and an All Access neck joint optimized for comfort during extended play. The RGA42EX uses a 25.5-inch scale with 24 jumbo frets and a Wizard III neck geometry designed specifically for speed and precision across the entire fingerboard.
Are these B-stock units worth considering?
Yes. The AZES31 B-stock offers solid value at budget tier with no noted defects. The RGA42EX has a hairline finish crack from bridge to lower bout but is mechanically unplayed and excellent, providing significant savings for players prioritizing function over cosmetics.
Which offers more tonal versatility?
The AZES31 covers rock, pop, indie, and blues with its three single-coil pickups and eight switching combinations. The RGA42EX is specialized for metal and hard rock; its dual humbuckers and scooped-mid voicing suit aggressive styles but lack the genre flexibility of the AZES31.