Five Strings, Zero Fuss
If you've been thinking about making the jump to a 5-string bass but don't want to spend a fortune finding out if it's the right move, the Ibanez GIO GSR105EX might be exactly what you've been looking for. It's a no-drama, plug-in-and-play bass that puts the low B string in your hands without a steep learning curve — or a steep price tag.
The GSR series has long been Ibanez's answer to the question: "Can I get Soundgear comfort and playability at an entry-level price?" Spoiler — yes. The GSR105EX carries the familiar SR silhouette and sleek double-cutaway body, making it feel instantly familiar if you've ever played an SR bass, and approachable if you haven't.
Whether you're rounding out a rehearsal band, exploring extended-range playing for the first time, or just want a reliable workhorse for regular gigs, this bass is built to get out of your way and let you play.
This item is a B-Stock guitar sourced directly from the manufacturer. It is new and has never been previously owned. The photos shown are of the exact instrument you will receive. Before shipment, our licensed technician will inspect and professionally set up the guitar to ensure it is playing its best. During our inspection, we noticed Buff through. (see pictures) Please note, these may not be the only cosmetic imperfections. As a B-Stock instrument, there may be additional minor blemishes that are small in nature and do not affect playability or performance.
Body and Feel
The GSR105EX is built around a solid poplar body — lightweight and comfortable for long practice sessions or extended performances. The double-cutaway design gives you clean access all the way up the neck without having to contort your fretting hand.
The GSR5 maple neck is a bolt-on, one-piece construction with a profile shaped specifically for the GSR series. It's slim and fast, measuring 21mm thick at the 1st fret and 22mm at the 12th — that's a notably thin feel for a 5-string. The 45mm nut width keeps string spacing manageable without cramping the low B, which is a common concern when stepping up from 4-string territory.
Fretboard and Playability
The jatoba fretboard has a reddish-brown tone and a 12" radius, giving it a slightly flatter feel that suits both chording and single-note runs across the neck. White dot inlays keep the aesthetics clean and classic. With 22 medium frets across a 34" standard scale, you get full bass range with the familiar feel of a traditional long-scale instrument.
For players worried about that 5th string feeling "off" or hard to manage, the 16.5mm string spacing at the B15 bridge is a thoughtful spec — tight enough to keep reach manageable, without strings feeling crammed together.
Electronics and Hardware
The GSR105EX keeps the signal path simple: a single PPD5 humbucking bridge pickup — passive — paired with one volume and one tone knob. No active preamp, no batteries to worry about, no complex wiring. The PPD5's side-by-side coil design gives it a punchy, focused output that sits well in a mix without being overly aggressive.
Hardware is chrome throughout, with a B15 bridge that provides solid intonation adjustment and tuning stability. The overall build is consistent with what you'd expect from Ibanez's GIO line — functional, reliable, and ready to play right out of the box.
Product Features:
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Body: Poplar, solid double-cutaway
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Neck: GSR5 one-piece maple, bolt-on
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Fretboard: Jatoba with white dot inlay, 12" radius
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Scale: 34" (864mm) standard scale
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Nut Width: 45mm
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Frets: 22 medium frets
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Pickup: PPD5 bridge pickup (passive humbucker)
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Controls: 1 volume, 1 tone
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Bridge: B15 with 16.5mm string spacing
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Hardware: Chrome
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Strings: 5-string, factory tuning B-E-A-D-G
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Finish: Black
Brand: Ibanez
Model: GSR105EX
SKU: GSR105EXBK-2ND|I250504030
Condition: B-Stock
Since 1872, C.A. House Music has been helping musicians across the Ohio Valley find the right gear -- with real advice from a team that actually plays. We're your authorized dealer of all the big names in guitars, keyboards, band instruments, drums, pro audio, and more. With four family-owned and operated locations in Ohio and West Virginia (plus a full online store), you don't have to go far for instruments, lessons, rentals, and repairs. No matter your musical needs, our team of musicians wants to help you Play Music for Life.
