"CALDERA"

With this design, the Japan Custom Shop wanted to create a contemporary, artistic take on the classic RG550, while still preserving the characteristics that make this model instantly identifiable, such as a HSH pickup configuration, top rout design with a pickguard, and a bolt-on neck joint. Several of the custom features include a beautiful Figured Koa top, hybrid mother of pearl/resin Tree of Life inlay, and a super-unique custom pickguard made from a combination of wood and resin. The dynamic of the earth tones of the Koa playing off of the blue resin of the pickguard creates an image reminiscent of the hot springs of a volcanic caldera, the natural phenomenon after which this guitar is named. The final result clearly and fully embodies the classic RG550, but does so with a specialized, custom take on the original design, while incorporating hand-applied modern details.

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ELEGANT EXOTIC FLARE

While many builds in collection are highlighted by heavily-figured top woods, the decision was made here to use an elegant-looking piece of Figured Koa. This wood offers a classic and understated look that allows the blue resin to act as the highlight of the guitar, while still providing some natural, exotic flare.

HYBRID FLORA

The use of resin on this guitar is not only limited to the pickguard. In order to distribute this unique characteristic across a wider portion of the instrument, resin was also used throughout the Tree of Life inlay on the fretboard. It contrasts brilliantly with the fretboard and effectively complements the resin in the pickguard.

THE HOT SPRING MEETS THE MOUNTAIN

A highlight unique to this build, the pickguard on this instrument features a blend of natural figured wood and a poured epoxy resin. The final result makes for a stunning accent and inspires vision of the ocean meeting the beach where the resin touches the wood.



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JPCS20 - "CALDERA" BUILD INFO:

  • Neck:  3pc Maple/Purpleheart
  • Neck Width: 43mm @ Nut, 58mm @ 24th Fret
  • Neck Thickness: 18.0mm @ 1st Fret, 20.0mm @ 12th Fret
  • Grip Shape: Wizard
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Fingerboard Radius: 16.9”
  • Inlays: Tree of Life
  • Side Dots: Luminlay
  • Scale Length: 25.5”
  • Neck Joint: Bolt-On
  • Body: Ash
  • Top: Figured Koa
  • Pickups: DiMarzio: Air Norton, True Velvet, Tone Zone
  • Tuners: Gotoh
  • Bridge: Lo-Pro Edge
  • Finish: Natural
  • Includes Hardshell Case & Certificate of Authenticity

BEHIND THE SCENES

A glimpse into the design and crafting of each spectacular Ibanez Custom Shop build.