Hey there, bass enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the Ibanez Action DLX Plus bass guitar. If you're on the hunt for a reliable, versatile, and budget-friendly bass, then you've probably stumbled upon this model. Let's break down what makes the Action DLX Plus a popular choice for beginners and experienced players alike.

Overview of Ibanez Action DLX Plus Bass

First off, the Ibanez Action DLX Plus is a solid contender in the entry-to-mid-level bass guitar market. Ibanez is known for producing instruments that offer great value for money, and the Action DLX Plus is no exception. This bass is designed to provide a comfortable playing experience, a wide range of tones, and robust construction that can withstand the rigors of gigging and practice. The Action DLX Plus is celebrated for its blend of affordability, versatility, and playability. It typically features a sleek, ergonomic body shape that makes it comfortable to hold and play for extended periods. The neck profile is often slim and fast, catering to players who appreciate ease of movement across the fretboard. Tonally, the Action DLX Plus aims to deliver a versatile sound palette suitable for various music genres, thanks to its pickup configuration and onboard electronics. Visually, it often sports a modern aesthetic with eye-catching finishes and hardware. All these factors combine to make it a popular choice among beginner to intermediate bassists looking for a reliable and versatile instrument without breaking the bank. But, before purchasing any musical instrument, you should always consider your options.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's get into the nitty-gritty details of what the Ibanez Action DLX Plus bass brings to the table. We'll cover everything from its construction to its electronics, so you know exactly what you're getting.

Body and Construction

The body of the Action DLX Plus is typically made from agathis or mahogany, which are known for their balanced tonal properties. These woods provide a good mix of warmth and sustain, making them suitable for a variety of musical styles. The body shape is usually a sleek, double-cutaway design, which allows for easy access to the upper frets. The finish is often a glossy polyurethane, which not only looks great but also protects the wood from scratches and dings. The construction quality is generally very good for a bass in this price range, with tight neck joints and well-fitted hardware. The weight is manageable, making it comfortable to play for extended periods without causing strain. The overall design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, appealing to a wide range of players. These features combine to provide a solid foundation for the bass, ensuring it sounds good and feels comfortable to play, whether you're practicing at home or performing on stage. The careful selection of tonewoods and the ergonomic body shape contribute significantly to the instrument's overall playability and sound quality.

Neck and Fretboard

The neck is usually made from maple, which is a common choice for bass guitars due to its stability and bright tonal characteristics. The neck profile is typically slim and fast, making it easy to move around the fretboard. This is especially beneficial for beginners who are still developing their technique. The fretboard is often made from rosewood or jatoba, which provide a smooth and comfortable playing surface. The frets are usually medium-jumbo, which offer good grip and allow for easy bending of notes. The neck joint is typically a bolt-on design, which is sturdy and reliable. The scale length is usually 34 inches, which is standard for most bass guitars. Overall, the neck and fretboard are designed for comfort and playability, making it easy to learn and improve your bass playing skills. The smooth fretboard and well-shaped frets contribute to a comfortable playing experience, while the slim neck profile allows for quick and easy movement across the strings. Whether you're playing fast runs or holding down the groove, the neck and fretboard of the Action DLX Plus are designed to support your playing style.

Pickups and Electronics

The Action DLX Plus usually comes equipped with a pair of Ibanez DXC pickups, which are designed to deliver a versatile range of tones. These pickups are often a combination of a split-coil in the neck position and a single-coil in the bridge position. This configuration allows for both warm, round tones and bright, punchy sounds. The electronics typically include a 3-band EQ, which allows you to shape your tone to suit different musical styles. The controls usually consist of volume, balance, bass, middle, and treble knobs. The active electronics provide a significant boost in output, making the bass suitable for playing in a band setting. The sound is generally clear and articulate, with good definition in the low end. Whether you're playing rock, funk, or pop, the Action DLX Plus can deliver the tones you need. The flexibility of the pickup configuration and the powerful EQ controls make it a versatile choice for a wide range of musical genres. With the ability to dial in a variety of tones, the Action DLX Plus is well-suited for both practice and performance.

Hardware

The hardware on the Action DLX Plus is designed to be both functional and durable. The bridge is typically a standard Ibanez bridge, which provides good stability and sustain. The tuners are usually die-cast, which are reliable and hold their tuning well. The nut is often made from plastic, but it is well-cut and provides good string spacing. The hardware is usually finished in chrome or black, which complements the overall look of the bass. The controls are typically knurled metal, which are easy to grip and adjust. Overall, the hardware is of good quality for a bass in this price range. It is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and provide reliable performance. The sturdy bridge and reliable tuners ensure that the bass stays in tune and plays well, while the well-designed controls make it easy to adjust your sound on the fly. The combination of functional design and durable construction makes the hardware on the Action DLX Plus a solid choice for both beginners and experienced players.

Sound and Playability

Okay, let's talk about what really matters: how does the Ibanez Action DLX Plus bass sound and feel to play? These are crucial factors in determining whether a bass is right for you.

Tone Quality

The Action DLX Plus is known for its versatile tone, thanks to its combination of pickups and active electronics. The split-coil pickup in the neck position delivers a warm, round tone that is great for classic rock and blues. The single-coil pickup in the bridge position provides a bright, punchy sound that is perfect for funk and pop. The 3-band EQ allows you to shape your tone to suit different musical styles. You can boost the bass for a deep, thumping sound, or cut the mids for a scooped tone. The active electronics provide a significant boost in output, making the bass suitable for playing in a band setting. The sound is generally clear and articulate, with good definition in the low end. Whether you're playing fingerstyle, with a pick, or slapping, the Action DLX Plus can deliver the tones you need. The flexibility of the pickup configuration and the powerful EQ controls make it a versatile choice for a wide range of musical genres. With the ability to dial in a variety of tones, the Action DLX Plus is well-suited for both practice and performance. Its capacity to adapt to different genres and playing styles makes it a reliable choice for any bassist.

Playability and Comfort

The Action DLX Plus is designed for comfort and playability. The slim neck profile makes it easy to move around the fretboard, even for beginners. The smooth fretboard and well-shaped frets contribute to a comfortable playing experience. The lightweight body is comfortable to hold for extended periods. The controls are easy to reach and adjust, allowing you to tweak your sound on the fly. The overall balance of the bass is good, making it easy to play while standing or sitting. The Action DLX Plus is a great choice for players of all skill levels. Whether you're just starting out or you're an experienced bassist, you'll find the Action DLX Plus to be a comfortable and easy-to-play instrument. The thoughtful design and ergonomic features make it a joy to play, allowing you to focus on your music rather than struggling with the instrument. Its playability makes it an excellent choice for long practice sessions and live performances alike.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let's weigh the pros and cons of the Ibanez Action DLX Plus bass.

Pros

• Affordable Price: One of the biggest advantages of the Action DLX Plus is its price. It offers a lot of features and quality for a relatively low cost, making it accessible to beginners and budget-conscious players.
• Versatile Tone: The combination of pickups and active electronics provides a wide range of tones, suitable for various musical styles.
• Comfortable Playability: The slim neck profile and lightweight body make it comfortable to play for extended periods.
• Good Build Quality: The construction is generally very good for a bass in this price range, with tight neck joints and well-fitted hardware.

Cons

• Stock Pickups: While versatile, the stock pickups may not be as high-quality as those found in more expensive basses. Some players may eventually want to upgrade them.
• Hardware: The hardware is functional but not exceptional. Some players may find that the tuners and bridge could be improved.
• Finish: The finish is durable but may not be as visually appealing as some higher-end basses.

Who is This Bass For?

The Ibanez Action DLX Plus bass is an excellent choice for a variety of players:

• Beginners: Its affordability and playability make it a great starting point for those new to bass guitar.
• Intermediate Players: It offers enough versatility and quality to satisfy the needs of more experienced players who are looking for a reliable backup or practice bass.
• Budget-Conscious Musicians: It provides a lot of value for the price, making it a great choice for those who want a good-quality bass without breaking the bank.

Alternatives to Consider

If the Action DLX Plus isn't quite what you're looking for, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Yamaha TRBX174: A similar bass in terms of price and features, the Yamaha TRBX174 is known for its solid construction and versatile tone.
• Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass: Part of the Fender family, the Squier Affinity Series Jazz Bass offers classic Fender tone and styling at an affordable price.
• Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray4: A budget-friendly version of the iconic Music Man StingRay bass, the Ray4 delivers a powerful and punchy tone.

Final Verdict

The Ibanez Action DLX Plus bass guitar is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable, versatile, and playable instrument. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of a high-end bass, it offers excellent value for the price. Whether you're just starting out or you're an experienced player on a budget, the Action DLX Plus is definitely worth considering. Its blend of affordability, playability, and versatile tone make it a standout in its price range. So, if you're in the market for a reliable and budget-friendly bass, give the Action DLX Plus a try – you might be pleasantly surprised!