Ibanez GRX70QA RG Gio Electric Guitar or Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21 Meter-? Which Ibanez Model to Buy
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This guide compares the ibanez grx70qa rg gio electric guitar vs rg mikro grgm21 meter. Both models share Ibanez’s RG heritage and use maple necks for stability. The main difference lies in their scale and size. The GRX70QA is a full-size instrument designed for standard playing. The RG MiKro is a mini guitar built for smaller hands or travel. You need to decide which physical form factor fits your playing style and physical needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Ibanez GIO GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle | Ibanez RG MiKro Mini Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Full-size (41.9 inches long) | Mini (36 inches long) |
| Body Material | Not listed | Basswood |
| Pickup Configuration | Infinity pickups | 2 Humbucking Pickups |
| Fretboard Material | Not listed | Maple |
| Weight | 10.4 pounds | 5.7 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Ibanez GIO GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle if
- You need a standard full-size scale length for traditional technique.
- You want a guitar that comes with a gig bag and accessories.
- You prefer the punchy sound profile of Infinity pickups.
Choose Ibanez RG MiKro Mini Electric Guitar if
- You have smaller hands or are a younger player.
- You want a lighter instrument that is easier to carry.
- You prefer a basswood body with a maple fretboard.
Verdict: Choose the GRX70QA if you require a standard full-size instrument for serious practice or performance. Select the RG MiKro if you need a portable, lightweight option suited for smaller hands. Both are solid choices depending on your physical requirements.
Size, Pickup, and Build Specs
Body size and weight
The Ibanez GRX70QA is a full-size instrument weighing 10.4 pounds, with dimensions of 41.9 inches in length and 17.7 inches in width. In contrast, the Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21 is a mini guitar that weighs just 5.7 pounds. Its length is 36 inches and its width is 11.1 inches. The MiKro is significantly lighter and more compact. This makes the GRGM21 easier to carry and handle for smaller players or those with limited space. The GRX70QA offers a standard feel for experienced players who prefer traditional proportions.
Pickup configuration
The Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21 comes equipped with two humbucking pickups. These are designed to deliver a thicker, warmer tone with reduced noise. The GRX70QA features Infinity pickups, which the data describes as providing accurate, punchy sound with excellent dynamics. While the GRX70QA maintains tonal clarity under heavy gain, the specific number of pickups is not explicitly stated in the provided specifications. The MiKro’s clear two-humbucker setup offers a distinct tonal character suitable for rock and metal styles.
Body material
The Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21 features a solidbody construction made from basswood. Basswood is known for its balanced tonal response and lightweight nature, which complements the guitar’s mini size. The GRX70QA’s body material is not specified in the provided data, though it is part of the RG series. The MiKro’s basswood body contributes to its overall light weight of 5.7 pounds. This material choice supports the instrument’s playability for younger players or beginners who may find heavier instruments cumbersome.
Fretboard material
Both guitars share a similar material for the fretboard and neck. The Ibanez GRX70QA features a maple neck, which is noted for providing structural stability and a bright tonal response. The Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21 also utilizes a maple neck and fretboard. This common material choice ensures a smooth playing surface and consistent feel across both models. The maple construction supports expressive playing and helps maintain tuning stability. This similarity means you will experience a comparable tactile response on the neck of either instrument.
Included accessories
The GRX70QA is available as a bundle that includes a gig bag, tuner, strap, instrument cable, instructional DVD, and polishing cloth. This comprehensive package provides everything needed to start playing immediately. The data for the Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21 does not list any included accessories or bundle options. It is sold as a standalone instrument. If you prefer a complete starter kit without additional purchases, the GRX70QA bundle offers more value. The MiKro requires you to source these items separately.
Tremolo bridge
The Ibanez GRX70QA is equipped with a T106 tremolo bridge. This feature allows for precise string height and intonation adjustments, offering personalized setup and tuning stability. The Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21’s bridge type is not specified in the provided data. The presence of a tremolo system on the GRX70QA adds versatility for pitch modulation effects. This component contributes to the guitar’s suitability for various genres. Without knowing the MiKro’s bridge details, the GRX70QA offers a clear advantage in terms of specified hardware features.
Which Ibanez RG model fits you
Beginner needing a full-size instrument
The GRX70QA offers a standard 41.9-inch length and 10.4-pound weight, providing a traditional playing experience. Its maple neck ensures structural stability, while the Infinity pickups deliver clear tone even with high gain. This bundle includes essential accessories like a gig bag and tuner, making it a complete package for new players ready for a full-sized electric guitar.
Player with small hands or children
The RG MiKro GRGM21 is a compact mini guitar measuring only 36 inches long and weighing 5.7 pounds. Its smaller 11.1-inch width and 2.13-inch height make it easier to handle. The basswood body and maple fingerboard provide a solid foundation for learning, offering a manageable scale length that reduces hand strain for younger players or those with smaller reaches.
Traveler seeking portability and stability
Portability is key with the RG MiKro, which weighs just 5.7 pounds and fits easily into smaller cases. Its compact 36-inch length allows for easy transport without sacrificing the core RG design. The solidbody construction and basswood material ensure durability during travel, while the humbucking pickups maintain tonal consistency, making it an ideal companion for musicians on the go.
The products compared
Ibanez GIO GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle
Best for: beginners wanting a complete starter setup
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Color
- Sunburst
- Dimensions
- 41.9 × 17.7 × 3.35 inches
- Weight
- 10.4 pounds
View on Amazon: Ibanez GIO GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle Affiliate link
This Ibanez GRX70QA RG Gio electric guitar in Sunburst comes as a bundle with a gig bag, tuner, strap, cable, DVD, and cloth. It features a maple neck for stability and brightness, Infinity pickups for clear tone under gain, and a T106 tremolo bridge for setup precision. The mono-unit output jack ensures reliable connectivity. At 10.4 pounds, it offers a complete package for players seeking a practical, entry-level instrument with essential accessories included.
Pros
- Infinity pickups deliver punchy sound with tonal clarity
- Maple neck provides structural stability and bright response
- T106 tremolo bridge allows precise intonation adjustments
- Bundle includes gig bag, tuner, strap, and cable
Cons
- Heavier at 10.4 pounds compared to smaller models
- Pickup configuration details are not specified in data
- No mention of Bluetooth or wireless connectivity
Good fit if
- You want a complete starter package with accessories
- You prefer a brighter tone from a maple neck
- You need reliable tuning stability with a tremolo bridge
Skip if
- You need a lightweight travel guitar
- You require detailed pickup specifications
- You prefer a smaller scale length
Verdict: The Ibanez GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle is a practical choice for beginners who want a full setup with a stable maple neck and clear tone. It suits players who value included accessories and reliable hardware over compact size.
Ibanez RG MiKro Mini Electric Guitar
Best for: smaller hands and portable practice
- Body Material
- Basswood
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Maple
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 36 × 11.1 × 2.13 inches
View on Amazon: Ibanez RG MiKro Mini Electric Guitar Affiliate link
The Ibanez RG MiKro GRGM21 is a mini solidbody electric guitar built for smaller hands. It features a basswood body and a maple neck fingerboard. The instrument measures 36 inches in length and weighs 5.7 pounds. Two humbucking pickups provide tone options. This model suits beginners or players seeking a compact, lightweight instrument for practice or travel.
Pros
- Compact 36-inch length for easier handling
- Lightweight 5.7-pound basswood body
- Maple neck fingerboard for smooth playability
- Two humbucking pickups for versatile tone
Cons
- Mini size limits string scale length
- Basswood body may lack tonal depth
- Limited to standard three-position switching
Good fit if
- You have smaller hands or are a child
- You need a portable practice instrument
- You want a lightweight guitar for travel
Skip if
- You require a full-scale 25.5-inch neck
- You prefer heavier mahogany or ash bodies
- You need active electronics or advanced switching
Verdict: Ibanez RG MiKro Mini Electric Guitar is a practical choice for young players or those with smaller hands who need a compact, lightweight instrument. It delivers essential features in a portable package, making it ideal for practice rather than professional performance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Ibanez GIO GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle | Ibanez RG MiKro Mini Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Body Material | not stated | Basswood |
| Neck Material | Maple | Maple |
| Fretboard Material | not stated | Maple |
| Pickup Configuration | not stated | 2 Humbucking Pickups |
| Body Type | not stated | Solidbody |
| Color | Sunburst | Jewel Blue |
| Dimensions | 41.9 × 17.7 × 3.35 inches | 36 × 11.1 × 2.13 inches |
| Weight | 10.4 pounds | 5.7 pounds |
| Size | Bundle w/ Gig Bag | 22.2 inches |
| Model | GRX70QASB | GRGM21MJB |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ibanez GRX70QA suitable for beginners?
Yes. The GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle is designed for beginners who want a complete starter setup. It includes a gig bag and features a stable maple neck. This model provides reliable hardware and clear tone, making it a practical choice for new players starting their journey.
Which guitar is better for small hands?
The Ibanez RG MiKro is better for small hands. It is a mini guitar with a length of 36 inches and a width of 11.1 inches. Weighing only 5.7 pounds, it offers a compact and lightweight package ideal for practice and players with smaller reaches.
What is the weight difference between the two models?
The GRX70QA weighs 10.4 pounds, while the RG MiKro weighs 5.7 pounds. The full-size bundle is nearly twice as heavy as the mini version. This significant difference affects portability and comfort during long practice sessions or standing performances.
Does the GRX70QA come with accessories?
Yes. The GRX70QA Sunburst Bundle includes a gig bag. This makes it a practical choice for beginners who want a full setup. The bundle format ensures you have the necessary protection and carrying solution right from the start without purchasing extra items.
How do the dimensions compare?
The GRX70QA measures 41.9 inches in length and 17.7 inches in width. The RG MiKro is much smaller at 36 inches long and 11.1 inches wide. These dimensions highlight the standard scale of the GRX70QA versus the compact nature of the MiKro model.
Is the RG MiKro good for travel?
Yes. The RG MiKro is designed for portable practice. Its mini size and light weight of 5.7 pounds make it easy to transport. This compact instrument is ideal for players who need a lightweight option for practice sessions away from home.
Which model offers a traditional playing experience?
The GRX70QA offers a traditional playing experience. Its full-size dimensions and standard weight provide a familiar feel for most players. The stable maple neck and clear tone make it suitable for those who prefer standard instrument proportions over compact alternatives.