Ibanez is officially bridging the gap between centuries-old tradition and modern extended-range innovation. The legendary guitar manufacturer has announced the expansion of its GA Series, introducing the GA3007CE-NT and GA3008CE-NT—two professional-grade, nylon-string acoustic-electric guitars featuring seven and eight strings, respectively.
For decades, extended-range instruments were almost exclusively the domain of heavy metal and progressive jazz. With this release, Ibanez brings that same harmonic freedom to the world of classical, flamenco, and fingerstyle performance.
The Ibanez GA3007CE-NT: A New Dimension for 7-String Players
The GA3007CE-NT is a stage-ready 7-string nylon guitar designed for players who need that extra low-B depth without sacrificing the delicate touch of a classical instrument.
Key Technical Specifications:
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Top Wood: Solid German Spruce for pristine clarity and dynamic response.
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Body: African Mahogany back and sides for a warm, full-bodied midrange.
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Electronics: Fishman S-Core pickup and Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp with onboard tuner.
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Playability: Okoume neck with a comfortable profile and an extended 20-fret Rosewood fingerboard.
The 7-string layout allows for deep pedal tones and lush, extended jazz voicings, making it an essential tool for modern composers and session musicians.
The Ibanez GA3008CE-NT: Ultimate Range for the Adventurous Composer
Stepping up to the GA3008CE-NT offers a full 8-string configuration. This model acts more like a “piano-in-your-lap,” offering a massive tonal palette that spans from supportive bass lines to intricate high-register counterpoint.
Like its 7-string sibling, the GA3008CE-NT features a Solid German Spruce top, which is critical for keeping the lowest strings articulate and free of “muddy” during complex arrangements. The inclusion of a Venetian Cutaway ensures that, despite the wider neck, upper-fret access remains effortless for lead passages.
Modern Performance Meets Timeless Craftsmanship
While the string counts are progressive, the build quality remains rooted in classical heritage. Both models feature:
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Bone Nut and Saddle: For superior tone transfer and sustain.
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Gold Classical Tuners: Providing precision tuning stability for the increased tension.
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Aesthetic Appointments: Mahogany binding and a Classical Mosaic rosette offer a refined, boutique look.
Built for the Stage and Studio
One of the most significant hurdles for nylon-string players is amplification. Ibanez has solved this by equipping the GA Series with the Fishman AEQ-SP2 system. This preamp is specifically voiced to translate the natural “thump” and “shimmer” of nylon strings through a PA or recording interface without the harshness often found in piezo systems.
“The GA Series lets you explore ideas that simply are not possible on a standard 6-string classical,” states Ibanez.
Protection Included
Recognizing that these are specialized instruments with unique dimensions, Ibanez includes a hardshell case with both the GA3007CE-NT and GA3008CE-NT. This ensures the solid spruce tops and extended-range necks are protected from the rigors of travel and humidity changes.
Whether you are a traditionalist looking to expand your repertoire or a modern fingerstyle player seeking new textures, the new Ibanez GA Series extended-range models are set to redefine what a classical guitar can do.
Pricing – GA3007CE-NT $999/£719/€849 and GA3008CE-NT $1099/£749/€899
Where To Buy
Andertons GA3007CE-NT and GA3008CE-NT
Sweetwater GA3007CE-NT and GA3008CE-NT
Thomann GA3007CE-NT and GA3008CE-NT
For more information, visit Ibanez.com.
#Ibanez #GA Series
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