John Scofield Ibanez JSM-100

As part of our July cover story, Jazz Guitar Today takes a look at the Ibanez John Scofield Series.

The Ibanez JSM series is comprised of three different models. The JSM100 is the top of the line and is manufactured in Japan. This guitar features carefully selected tonewoods such as an African Mahogany neck, an Ebony fingerboard, and Figured Anigre for the top, back, and sides. There are also a lot of special details that you might not immediately notice unless examining the instrument closely. One of the most unique features is the compound radius of the fingerboard. The bass side starts out with a rounder 7.25” radius and gradually flattens to a 9.5” radius on the treble side. Other distinctive elements include a combination bone/brass nut, Prestige fret edge treatment, Super 58 pickups, and a gold truss rod cover with John’s signature etched in. The JSM100 is a truly stunning instrument, and it incorporates the same degree of premier craftsmanship seen on all of the Ibanez Japanese-made guitars.

Ibanez John Scofield JSM100

Neck: JSM African Mahogany set neck

Top/Back/Sides: Figured Anigre

Nut: Half-Bone/Half-Brass nut

Fingerboard: Bound Ebony 

Inlay: Acrylic / Abalone block  

Frets: Jumbo frets w/ Prestige fret edge treatment

Neck pickup: Super 58 (H) neck pickup (Passive/Alnico)

Bridge pickup: Super 58 (H) bridge pickup (Passive/Alnico)

Bridge: Gotoh® 510BN bridge

Tail piece: Gotoh® GE101A tailpiece

Hardware: Gold

Finish: Vintage Sunburst

The JSM10 and JSM20 are the other two guitars in John’s signature line and are both priced right around $1000. Since they were created with a focus on better accessibility, some design changes were made. However, both guitars still preserve the essence and musicality of the original. The JSM10 is just about as close to the Prestige model as one can possibly get, without the additional cost. The Mahogany neck is swapped out for Nyatoh, and the bridge and tailpiece are proprietary designs rather than Gotoh hardware. However, the JSM10 still has an Ebony fingerboard and Super 58 pickups. Additionally, the Flame Maple top, back, and sides offer the same visual aesthetic as the JSM100.  The JSM20 is the most recent addition to the collection and features the same tonewoods and electronics as the JSM10, but it’s finished in a low gloss black which injects a well-played, vintage vibe. Both instruments do a remarkable job delivering outstanding quality and playability, as well as John’s quintessential, signature tone.  

MORE ON JOHN SCOFIELD AND ‘SWALLOW TALES’

For more on the Ibanez Scofield models

John Scofield Makes ECM Debut with Longtime Friend and Mentor Steve Swallow on ‘Swallow Tales’, Available Now!