Ibanez RG Gio 7-String Solidbody Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

Comparing Alternatives to the Ibanez RG Gio

Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit

The Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit targets right-handed beginners seeking a full starter package. It features an HSS pickup configuration, which combines a humbucker in the bridge position with two single-coil pickups. This layout offers more tonal versatility than the Ibanez RG Gio’s dual humbuckers, allowing for cleaner tones alongside heavier sounds. However, it is a standard six-string instrument, so it lacks the extended low-end range of a seven-string guitar. The kit includes an amplifier, making it a complete solution for new players who do not require the specific extended range capabilities of the Ibanez model. It is a solid choice for general learning rather than heavy metal or djent styles.

Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black

The Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar is a traditional six-string solidbody with an SSS pickup configuration. This setup includes three single-coil pickups, providing bright, clear tones suitable for rock, blues, and pop. Unlike the Ibanez RG Gio, which uses two humbuckers for higher output and thicker tones, this guitar offers a more classic sound profile. It is designed for beginners who do not need the extended low B string of a seven-string instrument. The body is a standard solidbody construction, similar in basic form to the Ibanez but without the specific quilted maple top or purpleheart fretboard. It is a practical option for players who want to master standard six-string techniques before moving to extended range guitars.

Ibanez Iron Label 7-String Black Electric Guitar

The Ibanez Iron Label 7-String Black Electric Guitar remains a seven-string instrument, matching the original in string count and right-handed orientation. It is built for players who prioritize brand recognition and extended range over lightweight portability. This model is heavier than the Ibanez RG Gio, weighing 8.82 pounds compared to the original's 11.2 pounds, though the original includes cases in its weight calculation. The Iron Label series typically features different hardware and pickup specifications tailored for heavy music. It lacks the included hard shell case and gig bag that come with the RG Gio, meaning you must purchase protection separately. It is a better choice for players who want a dedicated heavy instrument without the bundle accessories.

Grote LP Solid Body Electric Guitar with Gigbag

The Grote LP Solid Body Electric Guitar with Gigbag offers a traditional Les Paul-style design with a mahogany body and maple neck. It provides warm, rich tones characteristic of this classic format. Unlike the Ibanez RG Gio, which is a seven-string instrument, this is a standard six-string guitar. It includes a gig bag, offering some protection, but lacks the hard shell case included with the original. The Grote LP is ideal for players who value warm, sustain-heavy tones and traditional aesthetics over the extended range and modern features of the Ibanez. It is a practical choice for blues, rock, and classic metal players who do not need the extra low strings for modern heavy genres.

Leo Jaymz 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar

The Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Solid Body Electric Guitar features a poplar body and a laurel fretboard, offering a different tonal character than the Ibanez RG Gio. It is a standard six-string instrument, so it does not provide the extended low-end range of a seven-string guitar. The laurel fretboard provides a smooth playing surface, distinct from the purpleheart fretboard on the original. This guitar is designed for players who want a standard solidbody option without the complexity of seven strings. It lacks the included cases and accessories of the RG Gio, making it a more basic instrument. It is suitable for beginners or intermediate players who prefer the feel and tone of a laurel fretboard on a poplar body.

Ibanez GRG7221 7-String Solid-Body

The Ibanez GRG7221 7-String Solid-Body is a seven-string instrument similar to the original but features a white finish instead of black. It is right-handed and offers a solid build with a maple neck and high-output pickups for extended range playing. This model lacks the included hard shell case and gig bag that come with the RG Gio GRG7221QA, meaning you must source protection separately. The weight is 9.81 pounds, lighter than the original’s 11.2 pounds, which includes the cases. It is a practical option for players who prefer a white aesthetic or want a similar instrument without the bundle accessories. It maintains the seven-string configuration and Ibanez quality but sacrifices the convenience of the included case.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Ibanez RG Gio 7-String Solidbody

Best for: Complete seven-string setups with cases

Body Material

Poplar

Neck Material

Maple

Fretboard Material

Purpleheart

Pickup Configuration

Infinity R (H) neck and bridge pickups

Number of Strings

7

Hand Orientation

Right-Handed

View on Amazon: Ibanez RG Gio 7-String Solidbody Affiliate link

This Ibanez RG Gio model is a right-handed, seven-string solidbody electric guitar designed for players seeking extended range. It features a poplar body paired with a maple neck and a bound purpleheart fretboard. The Infinity R humbucker pickups provide a standard tonal profile. The package includes a hard shell case and gig bag, offering immediate protection. It suits those who want a complete setup for lower tuning styles without extra assembly.

Pros

• Seven-string configuration for extended low-end range
• Infinity R humbucker pickups in neck and bridge positions
• Includes M300C hard shell case and gig bag
• Maple neck with bound purpleheart fretboard

Cons

• Only available in right-handed orientation
• Poplar body may be lighter than premium tonewoods
• Standard Infinity R pickups lack active switching options

Good fit if

• You want a complete package with protective cases included
• You need a seven-string guitar for drop tunings
• You prefer a right-handed instrument with a maple neck

Skip if

• You require a left-handed configuration
• You need active pickups for high-gain clarity
• You are looking for a six-string standard setup

Verdict: Ibanez RG Gio GRG7221QA 7-String Electric Guitar fits players who need a ready-to-play seven-string instrument with included protection. It is ideal for those starting with extended range guitars who want a complete kit without buying cases separately.

2 Best hss

Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit

Best for: right-handed beginners wanting a full kit

Body Material

solid wood

Neck Material

Canadian maple

Fretboard Material

Rosewood

Pickup Configuration

HSS

Hand Orientation

right-handed

Body Type

solid body

View on Amazon: Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Electric Guitar Kit Affiliate link

This Soumate solid body electric guitar features an HSS pickup configuration with two single-coils and one humbucker. It includes a Canadian maple neck and rosewood fingerboard for comfortable playability. The set comes with a 15w amplifier, bag, strap, and other accessories. It is designed for right-handed beginners and intermediate players seeking a complete starter kit.

Pros

• HSS pickup configuration for versatile tone switching
• Canadian maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
• Includes 15w amplifier and complete accessory kit
• Tremolo bridge system with removable whammy bar

Cons

• Only available in right-handed orientation
• Solid wood body material is unspecified
• Lacks detailed scale length specification

Good fit if

• You want a complete kit with an amplifier
• You prefer HSS pickup versatility
• You are a right-handed beginner

Skip if

• You require left-handed models
• You need a 7-string guitar
• You want specific wood tonewoods

Verdict: Soulmate 39 Inch HSS Solid Body Electric Guitar suits right-handed beginners who want a full starter package with an amp. It offers HSS versatility but lacks the 7-string setup you need for heavier genres.

3 Best budget

Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black

Best for: Standard six-string beginners

Neck Material

maple

Pickup Configuration

SSS

Number of Strings

6

Hand Orientation

right-handed

Body Type

solid

Number of Frets

22

View on Amazon: Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black Affiliate link

The Monoprice Cali Classic is a full-size, right-handed solidbody electric guitar with a black finish. It features a maple neck and rosewood fretboard. The SSS pickup configuration uses three single-coil pickups. It has 22 frets and a 25.5-inch scale length. This instrument suits beginners and experienced players seeking an affordable, no-frills option.

Pros

• Solid body construction for stability
• Maple neck with rosewood fretboard
• SSS pickup configuration with three single-coils
• 22-fret access on a 25.5-inch scale

Cons

• Six strings instead of seven
• Single-coil pickups only
• No included hardware listed

Good fit if

• You want a standard six-string setup
• You prefer single-coil tone characteristics
• You need a right-handed instrument

Skip if

• You require seven-string range
• You need humbucker pickups
• You play left-handed

Verdict: Monoprice Cali Classic 6-String Solidbody offers a traditional SSS layout for players who do not need extended low-end range. It fits those who want a standard six-string solidbody without extra features.

4 Best premium

Ibanez Iron Label 7-String Black Electric Guitar

Best for: Right-handed players needing 7 strings

Body Material

Nyatoh

Neck Material

Roasted Maple

Fretboard Material

Ebony

Number of Strings

7

Hand Orientation

Right Handed

Color

Black

View on Amazon: Ibanez Iron Label 7-String Black Electric Guitar Affiliate link

This Ibanez RGDRB71 is a right-handed 7-string solidbody electric guitar. It measures 44.1 inches in length and weighs 8.82 pounds. The black finish and specific dimensions define its physical profile. You should consider this model if you need a dedicated 7-string instrument from a known brand. The weight and size suggest a substantial build suitable for standard playing positions.

Pros

• 7-string configuration for extended range
• Right-handed orientation
• Black color finish

Cons

• Weighs 8.82 pounds, which is heavier than many competitors
• Length of 44.1 inches may not fit smaller cases
• No additional features like active electronics listed in data

Good fit if

• You need a right-handed 7-string guitar
• You prefer a black finish
• You are comfortable with a heavier instrument

Skip if

• You require a left-handed model
• You need a lighter guitar under 8 pounds
• You prefer a 6-string instrument

Verdict: Ibanez RGDRB71 Iron Label 7-String is a heavy, right-handed 7-string guitar for players who prioritize brand recognition and extended range over lightweight portability.

5 Also great

Grote LP Solid Body Electric Guitar with Gigbag

Best for: Players seeking warm tones in a traditional LP style

Body Material

Mahogany

Neck Material

Mahogany

Fretboard Material

Rosewood

Pickup Configuration

Humbucker

Body Type

Solid body

Color

Black

View on Amazon: Grote LP Solid Body Electric Guitar with Gigbag Affiliate link

This Grote LPYS-006 is a solid-body electric guitar with a mahogany body and neck. It features a rosewood fingerboard and stainless steel frets. The humbucker pickup offers versatile tones for various genres. It comes with a gig bag for portability. This instrument suits players seeking a traditional LP-style feel and sound without the premium price tag of high-end models.

Pros

• Solid mahogany body and neck construction
• Rosewood fingerboard with stainless steel frets
• Humbucker pickup with 3-way switch
• Includes gig bag for transport

Cons

• Single humbucker limits tonal variety compared to HSS or dual-humbucker setups
• Maple neck feature in description conflicts with mahogany neck in specs
• Veneer finish may not appeal to players seeking solid wood aesthetics

Good fit if

• You want a traditional LP-style guitar with a warm tone
• You need a durable instrument with stainless steel frets
• You prefer a package that includes a gig bag

Skip if

• You require a 7-string configuration for extended range playing
• You need multiple pickups for diverse tonal options
• You prefer a maple neck over mahogany

Verdict: Grote LPYS-006 Mahogany Solidbody is a practical choice for players who value warm, rich tones and durability in a traditional format. It fits those who want a complete starter package with a gig bag and don't need the extended range of a 7-string guitar.

6 Best laurel

Leo Jaymz 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar

Best for: players seeking a laurel fretboard

Body Material

poplar wood

Neck Material

maple

Fretboard Material

laurel wood

Number of Frets

22

Scale Length

24.75 inch

Body Type

Solid Body

View on Amazon: Leo Jaymz 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar Affiliate link

This Leo Jaymz solid body electric guitar features a poplar wood body and a maple neck. It includes a laurel wood fretboard with 22 frets. The scale length is 24.75 inches with a 14-inch radius. It is available in black. This instrument suits players looking for a standard configuration. The laurel fretboard offers a familiar feel. It is a practical option for general use.

Pros

• Laurel wood fretboard
• Poplar wood body
• Maple neck construction
• 22 frets available

Cons

• Limited to 22 frets
• Shorter 24.75 inch scale length
• Narrow 14 inch fretboard radius

Good fit if

• You prefer a laurel fretboard
• You want a poplar wood body
• You like a maple neck

Skip if

• You need a 7-string setup
• You require a longer scale
• You want a wider radius

Verdict: Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Poplar Electric Guitar is a standard solid body option. It fits players who want a laurel fretboard and a poplar body. It does not suit those needing a 7-string configuration.

7 Best white

Ibanez GRG7221 7-String Solid-Body

Best for: right-handed players wanting a white finish

Body Material

Poplar

Neck Material

Maple

Fretboard Material

New Zealand Pine

Number of Strings

7

Hand Orientation

Right

Body Type

Solid-Body

View on Amazon: Ibanez GRG7221 7-String Solid-Body Affiliate link

This Ibanez GRG7221WH is a full-size, right-handed solid-body electric guitar finished in white. It features a poplar body bolted to a maple neck and a New Zealand Pine fingerboard. High-output Infinity R pickups provide the sound profile. The instrument measures 45.8 inches in length and weighs 9.81 pounds. It is designed for beginners and intermediate players seeking a comfortable 7-string setup.

Pros

• Seven strings for extended range
• Poplar body with maple neck
• High output Infinity R pickups
• New Zealand Pine fingerboard

Cons

• Heavier at 9.81 pounds
• Longer 45.8-inch length
• Limited to right-handed orientation

Good fit if

• You want a white finish
• You need a right-handed 7-string
• You prefer a solid body design

Skip if

• You play left-handed
• You want a 6-string guitar
• You prefer a lighter instrument

Verdict: Ibanez GRG 7-String Electric Guitar White is a practical option for right-handed players who want a white finish. It offers a solid build with a maple neck and high-output pickups for extended range playing.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• vonci 7 3qt alternatives
• mr heater 7 alternatives