AZES31VM-B2484 vs S521OFM-B0346 — Compare
Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484 vs Ibanez S521 OFM S Standard Ocean Fade Metallic Electric Guitar B-Stock 0346
The Ibanez AZES31 is an offset-body single-coil guitar built for rock and pop versatility with eight pickup combinations, while the S521 is a thin-bodied humbucker machine designed for metal and hard rock aggression. Choose the AZES31 if you're exploring multiple genres as a beginner-to-intermediate player; pick the S521 if you're intermediate-plus and committed to heavy music with a fast-playing neck.
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Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484
Ibanez S521 OFM S Standard Ocean Fade Metallic Electric Guitar B-Stock 0346
Specs side by side
| Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484 | Ibanez S521 OFM S Standard Ocean Fade Metallic Electric Guitar B-Stock 0346 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $279.99 | $319.99 |
| Brand | Ibanez | Ibanez |
| Body | Stratocaster | Single Cutaway |
| Body Type | Solid | Solid |
| Scale | 25" Scale | 25.5" Scale |
| Strings | 6 | 6 |
| Frets | 22 Frets | 24 Frets |
| Fretboard | Jatoba | Jatoba |
| Neck | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Construction | Bolt-On | Bolt-On |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS | HH |
| Bridge | Fixed | Fixed |
| Year | 2025 | Unknown |
| Condition | Refurbished | Refurbished |
Why choose Ibanez AZES31 Guitar in Vermillion B-Stock 2484
- ✓ Eight pickup combinations via Dyna-MIX8 switching for broad tonal range
- ✓ All Access neck joint improves upper-fret access while maintaining comfort
- ✓ Versatile single-coil tone suits rock, pop, blues, and indie equally well
- ✓ B-stock pricing makes an offset-body platform more affordable to try
Why choose Ibanez S521 OFM S Standard Ocean Fade Metallic Electric Guitar B-Stock 0346
- ✓ Wizard III neck is thin and fast, optimized for lead work and speed
- ✓ Two humbuckers deliver thick, articulate distortion essential for metal
- ✓ 24 jumbo frets on 400mm radius enable smooth action across entire range
- ✓ Lightweight mahogany body and tight sustain suit djent and modern rock
Frequently asked questions
Which guitar is better for beginners?
The AZES31 is explicitly rated for beginners and intermediate players, with a comfortable All Access neck joint and versatile single-coil tone across multiple genres. The S521 is rated intermediate-to-professional and designed for players already committed to heavier styles.
Can either guitar do metal?
The S521 is purpose-built for metal with humbucking pickups and tight sustain. The AZES31 is explicitly listed as not ideal for metal, though its three single coils can handle crunchy mid-gain tones.
What's the main playability difference?
The AZES31 uses an All Access offset-body design for comfort and upper-fret access on a modern platform. The S521's Wizard III neck is thinner and faster, engineered for lead speed and responsiveness—a trade-off favoring players who prioritize shredding over body comfort.
How do the pickup systems compare?
The AZES31 offers eight distinct single-coil blends via the Dyna-MIX8 switching system, maximizing tonal variety from ceramic pickups. The S521's two humbuckers with five-way switching deliver fewer options but thicker, more distortion-friendly tones suited to high-gain playing.