Ibanez Challengers

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Author Message   Christopher Scott Posted on Friday, October 08, 2004 - 11:03 am:    Ineed information on Challengers.I picked up a 78 that is the same as the Fender 70's reisues that are out now,natural alder body,bullet truss etc...One thing I haven't seen before is the two letter prefix before the serial number(CA780043)Is this a Challenger trait?I have several 70's Ibanez and the ones with numbers all have the standerd one letter prefix.Also does anyone know the years they were made and the different model and finish options?   Chris S Posted on Friday, October 08, 2004 - 11:03 am:    I'd like to start with a correction for the above.I meant natural ash body,not alder.That said I have some information to pass on thanks to the ultimate info guru Michael Wright.Challengers came in 4 models.The 2575ASH(the one I have)has a solid figured ash body.The 2575TS(tobacco sunburst)2575WH(white) and 2575BK(black)all have a solid katsura body.They all have one piece maple necks with maple boards.The other 2 models are basses,the 2565 and 2566,one P-bass and one jazz.The regular Fender copies had a birch top over a maple body and a laminated maple neck.As far as the years they were made he seems to think it was a '76-77' deal making mine,a '78,either one of the last ones made or one made for another market not affected buy the copy edict.Anyone with pictures of this short lived series,that means you Challenger,please post some.I'll get mine on soon and if you get a chance to play one do it,you won't be disapointed.   JohnS Posted on Friday, October 08, 2004 - 11:03 am:    Chris: Great info. What's Katsura? Can't wait to see some pics. JohnS   Challenger Posted on Friday, October 08, 2004 - 11:03 am:    Ok, Ok - I'll borrow a digital camera and get some pics cooking. I've got two of these guys and one of them was black (now sonic blue, courtesy of my brother), and a TS one in really good condition. Katsura, huh? I bet it tastes just like chicken...   Challenger Posted on Friday, October 08, 2004 - 11:03 am:    Just in case you haven't scoured the whole site yet... http://www.phoenix-creative.com/IbanezCollectors/Board/messages/13/26.html?MondayOctober3020000554am Scroll down to the pic (Thanks, JohnS).   Michael Wright Posted on Monday, June 25, 2001 - 9:11 am:    The Challengers never made it into the catalog. They first appeared in the July 1977 price list. They were gone by 1978. Michael Wright The Different Strummer   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Tuesday, July 31, 2001 - 5:42 pm:    Thanks to this thread someone emailed me about another challenger with the 2 letter(CA) prefix like mine and I have now become the proud owner of my second 1978 2575ASH Challenger.Oh the joy.John S,do you have a 1 or 2 letter on the white one you picked up?I noticed your name hasn't been up for over a week,I hope all is well.Also Challenger,whats the scoop on your numbers?The writing on the body is a autograph from Jeff Cook of Alabama from '97.I'm not a fan but I'm not sure if I should try to clean it off.   JohnS Posted on Tuesday, July 31, 2001 - 9:41 pm:    Chris: Your newest addition looks fantastic. Pretty much the same as my white Challenger. Only mine doesn't have the the bullet truss rod nut at the headstock. My serial number is CI770074. I'm still here, just tired from a horrendous work schedule. Thanks for asking.   chris s (Ccs) Posted on Thursday, August 02, 2001 - 4:48 pm:    Thanks for the number John.It looks like the first letter is the odd one with the second being the month.C for Challenger maybe?I find it strange that these were never a promoted guitar.I don't think they ever made it to a catalog,just a price list.Being from 1978 I think they must be the very last of the replicas and at that time of legal action it may have been best to be quiet about it.   Jhczar (Jhczar) Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2002 - 12:45 am:    I had one with a tobacco sunburst, but no bullet truss rod. It was far better made than the Strat I traded it in for, but the pickups were quite weak & had to be replaced with Dimarzio SDS-1's. I got it used, and I'm not sure if it had been customized before I got it, but it had a toggle to switch the pickup 1/2 and 2/3 combinations in and out of phase. Fretwork & fingerboard were flawless, but the intonation had minor problems above the 15th fret. Gotoh machines, and a cutaway on the back so deep you could slice cheese with it. I got it used in '80 & traded it in '83. I never took any detailed pics of this beauty. Whoops!   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Wednesday, February 06, 2002 - 5:50 pm:    Sunburst is one I have yet to see.You have to wonder where they all are.Challengers just don't pop up that often.Heres the twins together.   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Wednesday, March 13, 2002 - 10:23 pm:    I see the maniac grabed the 2575ts.When you get it please post some pics here.And John,add the white one too when you get a chance.Then we just need a black one,which I myself have yet to see.Also,has anyone ever seen one of the Challenger Tele's mentioned in VG?   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 12:38 am:    Ccs, Sorry man...I could not sit still with that Sunburst there. I would have liked to get it for less $$ but I just knew someone would grab it if I didn't & I did not want to wait another year to see one (or two) I was surprised that you didn't bite on it since you had a jump on it first. I was able to talk myself into it because of a few good weeks of selling off some stuff that was not getting used enough. Now, the trick is to smuggle it in the house.... Will send the pics as soon as it arrives. Still a maniac I'm afraid Mike G.   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 9:25 am:    Mike, Yeah,I had my finger on the trigger but backed away and hoped for the best.Just a little more than I have to spend right now.I made a couple after auction deals,including that metal logo 2020 that was on last week.I think the Challenger was a good deal though considering their almost non exsistant.At least it has a good home.As for the smuggling,I keep a reusable Redskins sticker on hand that I just put on any case I bring in the house.That way if there's any questions I just say "oh you know,it's that one" Works almost every time. Chris   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Friday, March 15, 2002 - 7:05 pm:    Chris, Thanks for the great tip on sneakin in some guitars ! My little brother is a die hard Skin's fan. Maybe I'll put my extra TONEZONE stickers to use. (Larry is another Ibanez good guy) I'm still kickin myself for selling John the nice Creamy white one..(but he's such a good guy,how could I not hook him up with a good one!) Just remember John, It's all your fault ! You created this maniac ! Chris, thanks for not being sore at me. Mike   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Friday, March 15, 2002 - 7:10 pm:    Oh, I almost forgot.. The neck plate serial number....F77 hmmm. June ? Maybe that explains the the lack of the 2 letters preceeding the numeric digits... Or was the neck plate changed ?? Man, I hope that Ibanez book comes soon !! Mike G.   Johns (Johns) Posted on Saturday, March 16, 2002 - 9:51 am:    Mike: Hey, what can I say? At least I didn't contribute to the delinquency of a minor. I just picked up the white Challenger...ahhh, 'scuze me while I kiss the sky. Chris here's my white Challenger:   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 12:42 am:    John, Now that's a "FOXY" guitar... Glad it's well loved ! Mike   Harry (Harry) Posted on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 4:49 am:    John! That reminds me.....I once read on a site about misunderstood lyrics that someone thought for a long time that Jimmy was singing:"'scuze me while I kiss this guy...." If you listen closely to the song the mistake really is understandable.... Cheers, Harry   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 11:58 am:    John, Thanks for the pics.Very nice.Whats your take on the katsura?Do you notice any difference,good or bad from traditional woods? Mike, I can't get mad at anybody with a Skins fan in the family   Johns (Johns) Posted on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 4:44 pm:    Chris: Katsura? I really never thought about it. I thought it was Ash. Somebody should tell us more about this wood. The guitar is light. I'm not complaining, tho. This is the only Strat type guitar I have owned, so I'm not the best person to try and compare. Sorry.   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 4:52 pm:    Name Katsura (Cercidiphyllum japonica) Type Hardwood. Other Names Also known as heart tree or cake tree. Sources Grows in Japan, China and Korea. Appearance Straight grained with fine, even texture and high luster. Light brown colored heartwood with darker brown growth rings. Physical Props Soft and light, with low stiffness and shock resistance, medium bending and crushing strength, moderate steam bending, low decay resistance, and very good stability in use. Working Props A joy to work with using either hand or machine tools. Nail and screw holding properties are poor but glues easily and polishes to a smooth, very nice finish. Uses Excellent wood for carving, wood sculpture, foundry patterns, mouldings, engravings, and drawing boards. Also valued for cabinetry, furniture, interior joinery, pencils, cigar boxes, Japanese shoes (geta), plywood, and decorative veneers   Johns (Johns) Posted on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 5:00 pm:    Wow, that was fast! Where'd you get all that from? Cake tree, huh? It does look good enough to eat. I'm going to take the trem cavity cover off and take a look inside. Maybe there's a creamy filling between the layers.   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 5:15 pm:    I had it saved from when I first heard about it from Miachel Wright.I got it from here: http://www.woodbin.com/ref/wood/index.htm Nice source of info on different woods. Now put that fork down!   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 9:09 pm:    Update on Challenger Strat: Chris, Don't fret too much about NOT geting that sunburst Challenger. Great condition ??? A little over a dozen scuffs,dings,dents and what looks like an icepick jab on the top of the body. About 1/8" deep.Oh yeah, 2 hairline finish cracks in the neck pocket too.... The good news is the neck is fantastic with very little signs of wear (unlike the body) and the guitar resonates very well with strong staggered pole pickups. No electrical issues. And IF the neck plate IS the orignal, this may be one of the first Challengers made (June of 77) The best news is that the seller is a very nice guy who not only apologized for the lack of a more accurate descripion but also is giving me a cash refund (offered to take it back for a full refund too)He also admitted that the neck pocket finish cracks were there before he sent it. He could have claimed that they were not there when he shipped it. Hats off to sellers like this, the ones who are still there AFTER they have your money.I'd buy from him again as a result. As for the J.O. who sold me the AS50 BOLT NECK KOREAN and had the listing showing a set neck titled AS50 made in Japan,AND THEN calls ME a scam artist, WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND BUTTHEAD ! What's that ? You got booted off EBay ? What a shame.We will miss you, NOT ! I promise. Maniac   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Tuesday, March 26, 2002 - 9:09 am:    Mike, Even with the damage I'm sure it's a nice addition to your monopoly,I mean collection of Ibanez.Nice early example in what seems to be a hard to find finish.As for the seller,very cool.I wish more were like that.I recently got a "all original,normal wear and tear for 30 yrs. old" 2354 SG with a missing Bigsby.I can understand not knowing a quick change tail isn't original but I thought six little plugged holes on the face deserved more than "Oh,I didnt know".It must be the rare connect the dots model.But considering I got a early model that plays very,very well for next to nothing I guess I shouldn't complain.   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Monday, December 02, 2002 - 12:38 am:    Hi Chris, (and all of you Ibanez lovers here) You asked about Challenger Tele's early this year ("Also,has anyone ever seen one of the Challenger Tele's mentioned in VG?") and I managed to get one. My question to all is, Does anyone have any info or catalog or price sheet scans and also how many of these were made ?? Jeff, Orval, Harry ? I hope someone can provide some info about this one for me. I now have 2 great playing Ibanez Tele's unlike my first few trys with these.BTW, I sold the Fender Japanese made '62 Tele double bound sunburst Vintage Reissue and the Challenger Tele has made me not miss the Fender... And Chris, the sunburst Challanger Strat is really working out well. Still I would be happier with the one I sold to John. (Just say the word John, I'll buy it back ;>) Happy Holidays to All, Mike   Johns (Johns) Posted on Monday, December 02, 2002 - 9:39 am:    Mike: Haven't heard much from you, lately. Thought you must be fishing. Let's do it! It appears that Jimi has left the house...mine, anyway. Email me and we'll set up a time. I'd like to get to see the rest of your collection, too. The ARs with the spruce top and Super 58 jazz pups have always intrigued me. And I know you have gobs more to salivate over.   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Tuesday, December 03, 2002 - 6:04 pm:    Hi John, Great ! I have always wanted that one back ! I have been super busy at work and at home (finally finishing the attic remodel that started last winter..) Fishing was great this year but there was not enough free time, as usual, to do as much as I wanted. I look forward to having you over again but we will need a full Sunday to be able to really cover the guitars you haven't seen yet...and with Christmas shopping happening on Sundays, I doubt we can do this until after the holidays. As for the Challenger Tele info, any help from anyone here would be really appreciated !   Harry (Harry) Posted on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 4:16 am:    Hi Mike! I sure would love to provide you with tons of information about the Challenger Series Tele, because this would mean that I DO have info. But unfortunately: I don't. It's really frustrating that until now we have never managed to lay our hands on useful information / documents about Challenger and Silver series. It seems that it doesn't even excist. Everything Hasy and I know about it origins from various threads on this collectors' board. But anyway: I think you might consider yourself lucky having a Tele Challenger. Please tell us more: what colour? How does it play? Could you put on some pictures? Greetz, Harry   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 11:59 pm:    Mike, Leave it to you to find one of those Tele's.Was it in a collection or a closet and whats it like,finish,model copied from,etc...How is it different from the standard tele's they did earlier in the 70's?I look forward to hearing about it and would love to see a pic. I'm glad that whole Strat deal worked out well in the end.I was out of the loop for awhile but I haven't seen another one come up anywhere since that one.Actually,I haven't seen any Challengers at all.A lot of Silvers though.I would love to get a hold of those production numbers. Chris   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Saturday, December 07, 2002 - 10:36 pm:    Harry & Chris, Thank you for your responses to this. The Challenger Tele is natural finish . I still have not spent the time to get pics posted here. I'm thick about getting the under 50kb picture size thing working. I'll get it out tomorrow and give the details if time permits. I think I emailed John S. the pics but I can't remember since I have bombarded him from time to time with so many....sorry John Just saw a Challenger Strat that was butched with mods on Ebay. I was still tempted so I emailed the seller but did not get a response... Cheers, Mike   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Sunday, December 08, 2002 - 12:32 am:    Mike, I saw that too.It's a shame,all routed out,but I'd still take it if the price was a little better.The curse of the Floyd.... Chris   Bcalla (Bcalla) Posted on Monday, December 09, 2002 - 7:59 am:    There is a Tele copy currently for sale on Ebay. Is this what you are all looking for? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=929022208 Bob   Johns (Johns) Posted on Monday, December 09, 2002 - 9:44 am:    Here are some pictures of Mike's Ibanez Challenger Tele, serial number CA780286.   Johns (Johns) Posted on Monday, December 09, 2002 - 9:51 am:    More of the neck and headstock.   Harry (Harry) Posted on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 6:59 am:    Hi John, Mike, Bob Wowwwww!!!!! Mike you are a very lucky guy to own such a beauty. From every angle you look at this Tele: impressive!! That's what makes fanatic collectors like me just gaze...... Bob (and everyone else), about the link you gave to the Ibanez Tele thinline: according to me the guitar is not in it's original shape. I never saw this model with such a neck-pickup. There should be a typical Tele-style neck pickup there isn't it? Anybody knows if this type of neck pickup was stock during maybe one or a few years? Or is it just a replacement? Greetz, Harry   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 12:25 pm:    Harry, That looks like a VERY stock Tele neck pickup to me. If that thing said Fender on the headstock, I wouldn't argue with it! Maniac, Yet another incredible piece! I sometimes think, perhaps, I should hate you! Cheers Steve   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 12:30 pm:    Harry, I'm an idiot, sorry! I thought you were referring to Mikes Tele. I didn't look at the ebay link 'til too late... That one has a Strat looking neck pickup fer sure. Cheers Steve   Harry (Harry) Posted on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 3:05 pm:    Steve! Making a mistake doesn't make one an idiot....if this was true I should have been locked away years ago! Take care! Harry   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 4:59 pm:    LOL !! Point taken... Cheers Steve   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 9:22 pm:    Hi Steve, Thanks man. I know you can't hate me for loving Ibanez guitars. Thanks to the great job John did posting the pics for me, I realize that the string trees must be straightened out and the fuzz that fell of the case removed from where the bullet truss rod is. Of course, when I saw that guitar, I knew I'd have to resort to the smuggling game again to get it in the house Mike   Ccs (Ccs) Posted on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 11:16 pm:    Mike,very nice.Thanks for the pics.She sure would look nice between my two Strats Any luck on info?As for the smuggling, thats all my Redskins are good for anymore. Chris   Mr_Roadstar (Mr_Roadstar) Posted on Wednesday, December 11, 2002 - 2:25 pm:    Chris, I feel for you. I'm a Panthers fan... Mike, I couldn't harbor any ill will toward any Ibanez fan! I'm just a bit green with envy. Cheers Steve   Challenger (Challenger) Posted on Monday, January 06, 2003 - 1:25 pm:    Man, that Tele Challenger is way cool! And the white Strat Challenger is drool bait! I'm kind of glad they're not for sale - I'm moving and I need the money to get my current collection out to AZ. Guess I'm going to need a humidifier for the guitar room... Anybody know the cheapest way to ship a vanload of gear cross-country?   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Tuesday, February 04, 2003 - 5:51 am:    Challenger, I have managed to find yet aother Challenger Tele! As I mentioned in another thread, A big "Thank You" to all who were watching and resisted the temptation to bid on it. As for the move to AZ., Sounds like you should just rent a truck and drive yourself with everything you own in it. It's a great trip and very beautiful as long as you have time to do it. You did not mention what part of AZ. you were heading to. When I was there in 1998, we went from 102 degrees to 52 in the same day ! (Tempe to Flagstaff) Good luck with the move, Mike   Challenger (Challenger) Posted on Tuesday, February 04, 2003 - 10:28 pm:    I have a flight booked from Phoenix to Newark on July 31, so I may avoid some of the brutal heat here. I just picked up a magenta 540P (for all you Roadstar fans). It's way cool. Hope I can get pics out. I haven't seen many around so I snagged it. Check the link, quick. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=33043&item=935791875&rd=1 Just in case the little loser worm whom I outbid with 9 seconds and sent me all that delicious virus-ridden SPAM sees this, a)it's WAY better than it looks, b)I use a mac, so it doesn't affect me, and c)I traced your IP back to your HOUSE in Doylestown Ohio, you fool. Next time use your brain. If you hear some guy jamming when you pick up the phone, it'll be ME with the guitar you LOST!   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Sunday, March 14, 2004 - 3:51 pm:    Hey Challenger Fans, I'd like to start recording the Challenger Series Serial numbers since waiting on the Ibanez "Book" seems to be like waiting to hit the lottery jackpot. And, there is no info to assure that this book will have production numbers or start and end serial numbers on these either. I just drove to Princeton (I thought about you John) this morning to pick up another Challenger Strat with the natural ash body and "bullet" style truss rod. Not in the best condition but another great player just the same. I will get back later with all of my serial numbers and hope everyone else here that owns any will write with their serial numbers. Maybe we can figure out when they really began and ended production this way. This might also give us an idea of how many were produced since they all seem to have low serial numbers after the month & year dates. Oh yeah, a special "THANK YOU" to Winnie for the really nice semi-hollow in see-through red. I'm still playing it at least 4 hours a week. Maniac   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Sunday, March 14, 2004 - 11:08 pm:    Challenger Serial Numbers: F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss rod CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod Anyone have anything later than a CA? How about earlier than single letter F? Should we assume that the 77's are w/o the "bullet" and the 78's are with it? All replies will be appreciated and hopefully together we can uncover some truth about these. Maniac   Winnie_Thomas (Winnie_Thomas) Posted on Thursday, March 18, 2004 - 10:11 pm:    Mike, That guitar is a beauty, I'm glad you're enjoying it. Winnie   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Wednesday, March 24, 2004 - 9:15 pm:    Challenger owners, please help us with those serial numbers. We can get a better idea of how many were made this way and when they started and ended. Maniac   Harry (Harry) Posted on Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 3:08 pm:    Mike! I have a strange one here: this wondered me ever since I got this baby. I own a Telecaster, natural ash, exactly the same as yours. No "pancacke" construction but "full thickness". Body is made out of one large peace and a smaller one (about three inch) glued to it in order to get enough width to make a body. Strings through body, three brass saddles, Gotoh (no "star")tuners. The frets go directly into the neck (no cap) and the back has a skunk stripe. Headstock has a brown "plug" and 2 string guides. The headstock only says "Ibanez" in black script in the style of the Silver Series logo, only there is no "Challenger" or "Silver Series" addition! I don't think this tele was ever fitted with a "normal" Ibanez tele neck by a previous owner; seems all original to me. BUT: it has a backplate with the serial number CK 770217. Now: "to challenger or not to challenger, that's the question". Any idea? Hybrid? Monday morning product? Give me your thoughts, please! Kind greetz, Harry   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Friday, March 26, 2004 - 10:06 pm:    Hi Harry, Hmm, Seems to be a Challenger to me.At least the neck plate and neck type appear to be correct. Could it be that the neck was refinished and they couldn't find the replacement Challenger decal? It(the logo)appears to be slightly higher on the headstock too.. How about a closeup of the headstock front & back. Thank you for the additional serial number to the list. At least we can still assume they did not switch to the "bullet" truss rods until January of '78. Nice one for sure, Mike   Doc (Doc) Posted on Sunday, April 18, 2004 - 6:28 pm:    Ok, I have a spinner to throw into the mix here. I don't have photos but I will get some soon. Here we go. I have a Silver Series strat, SR: B782514 I have NEVER found a silver Series that looks like it. Until now. Only that which looks like it is a Challeger ! It is identical to the blonde ash bodied Challenger in all but 2 respects. It has no bullet truss rod it is a skunk stripe neck with a filled hole (same wood as skunk strip) in the neck face plate. It has "Ibanez Silver Series" written in black script not gold like a challenger. All Silver Series I have seen have large "CBS" style headstocks. Mine has the small "L Series" style like a Challenger. Thr blonde finish ash body is so identical it looks like my guitar, again I haven't seen a Silver Series that looks so slose, but the Challenger body and finish, grain etc.. if I hadn't seen the logo script I'd have said it WAS my guitar. What's the answer guys ? I know mine is not refinished, I've had it since I bought it brand new in 1978.   Maniac (Maniac) Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2004 - 12:42 am:    Doc, I wonder if your guitar used a leftover Challenger headstock from 1977? All of my 1978 Challengers had the bullet truss rod and the last month of production I own are January of 1978. Perhaps Ibanez was using up all of the leftover "copy" headstocks in Feb. before ceasing to assemble any more "Lawsuit" type copies for the USA. Fender did similar things during the few months after CBS took over I think. Maniac   Doc (Doc) Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2004 - 9:07 pm:    I think that's the best explanation so far, Maniac. I had a "fender guy" actually tell me that mine was so identical to an L series strat it couldn't be told from a real one, in terms of the look and feel (the ash body is another matter B) ... right down to the screwhole placements on the pickguard. There was always, even when I knew nothing of Ibanez history ... this air of "lawsuit" surrounding this guitar when I took it anywhere among guitar heads. I think they built it as a Silver Series, and used a Challenger neck (with no bullet truss rod, ie a "skunk neck") and body, pickups and everything else (ie: it WAS a Challenger in fact) and branded it as a Silver Series because they shut down the Challenger line, which never made the catalogue I read here. That would make it ... like ... super rare wouldn't it ???   Doc (Doc) Posted on Tuesday, April 20, 2004 - 9:10 pm:    PS: Mine just happens to have a February 1978 build date, co-incidence that the last Challengers were January of the same year and mine seems to be a Challenger branded otherwise (as a Silver Series) ... maybe just so they could ship it to retail ?   Ted Username: Ted Registered: 05-2005 Posted on Monday, May 30, 2005 - 2:56 pm:    I have a black challenger Jazz bass, CK770161. I bought this around 94-95 in near mint condition with the original case. I removed the PUP covers and thumb rest (still have em) and played it as my main instrument for 8 years. Do all Challengers have a maple neck? seems to be the one contant in the model. Mine has maple neck, black block inlays, and a tortise shell pick gaurd. It a very good looking bass.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Monday, May 30, 2005 - 9:45 pm:    Ted,welcome and thanks for posting. Yes,from what I've seen they're all maple.If at all possible please post a photo or two.Strangely,it's the first bass that's made it on the list.I know I've seen a few others.Not many though.I wish I had some info and specs for you but it's still on a learn as we go basis. Chris Updated list: F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss rod CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod   Ted Username: Ted Registered: 05-2005 Posted on Monday, May 30, 2005 - 10:42 pm:    I don't have any hosting to post photos, but if someone gives me an email addy I have a few pics of the jazz bass. I'll see if it works:   Ted Username: Ted Registered: 05-2005 Posted on Monday, May 30, 2005 - 11:03 pm:    Don't know if it shows in that pic (man the bass didn't look so dirty!) but mine has black binding on the neck. It was damaged by an idiot who knocked it over moving gear onto a stage but repaired by Noel guitar. I am guilty of putting a LOT of wear on this bass. it was gigged regularly and got a little banged up.   Ted Username: Ted Registered: 05-2005 Posted on Monday, May 30, 2005 - 11:09 pm:    Oh yeah, my bass would be 'no bullet truss rod", it adjusts at the body and the skunk stripe plugs at the head.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Tuesday, May 31, 2005 - 9:06 am:    Thanks Ted.Very nice.I love the look of the black block markers on a maple board.That's a interesting choice for Ibanez to produce.It had been a Fender option since around 1966 but I think the only production maple board Jazz bass was the 1976 Natural finish model.   Ted Username: Ted Registered: 05-2005 Posted on Tuesday, May 31, 2005 - 11:12 am:    Thanks chris. Geddy Lee Plays a black Jazz very similar to this challenger, but with a white pickgaurd. Fender currently reissues it as a MIJ signature. I personaly think the black blocks on a maple neck are the coolest looking finger board. On Nirvana's first album "bleach" Chris Noveselic is pictured playing a similar Ibanez jazz, but I think the model isn't a challenger. Back when Noel Guitars repaired the binding, we talked about replacing the pickgaurd and doing new pickups. It doesn't show in the pic, but the low E string doesn't quite line up with the PUP poles. At that time I felt like the bass was boomy on the E string (unbalanced) and weaker on the D and G, but I never notice it now. I had recently been reconsidering replacing the PUPS on this bass again, but will probably leave as is. Also, at some point one of the screws that adjusts the E string saddle backed out and was lost. I slid a locking cap from a floyd rose nut under there and forgot about it. So I have thought of 'upgrading' the bass to a Gotoh or baddass bridge, new pups, and to wire it for stereo like the Ric, but maybe I should get another bass for that kind of thing. The guy who sold me this bass explained the serial number ck770161 as ['challenger november 77 number 161) but from what you have here, it looks like the numbers apply to the total challenger units<all> per month or even for the whole years production numbered sequentialy up to december. It seems impossible that there could be so few.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Wednesday, June 01, 2005 - 9:57 am:    I checked out the Geddy Lee Fender a few months ago.Nothng I'd buy new but they're cool. As long as I can switch it back to original if needed I've never felt guilty about upgrading.I just don't go crazy and do something I can't change. I too am suprised at the small number of these that have turned up over the years I've been looking.I think i scored my first one 5 or 6 years ago.Considering these were being made after the copy problems and they never made it to the catalog or had any promotion I've always figured it was just a way to use up old stock and maybe "challange" the industry. Whatever the story may be it was a short run for these models.   Ibnzplyr Username: Ibnzplyr Registered: 03-2004 Posted on Thursday, June 02, 2005 - 12:19 am:    I have the same bass as the Challenger in the photo above, but it's sunburst and made the year before, so it says Silver Series. I would never part with this bass. It feels right and it sounds excellent. It has the maple neck with the black inlays, so it looks superb, as well. I have a Les Paul lawsuit 6-string that also has a cool maple neck with black inlays. Scott   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Sunday, July 17, 2005 - 3:45 pm:    Well,in a new twist a certain member of this forum scored a white Challenger with a rosewood board.Up until now it was thought all boards were maple.Surprise,surprise!I hope he'll post some pics and info soon. I also have info on a new white '77 to add to the list. F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770022 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss rod CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod }   Maniac Username: Maniac Registered: 12-2001 Posted on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 - 6:28 pm:    Hello again boys (and girls) Well,the the serial number on the "oddball" Challenger is CA780065. The first one I've seen with rosewood fretboard and it does appear to be legit. Notice no bullet truss rod...Just when I thought we had it all figured out. Picked it up in person from another good guy & Ibanez lover who bought my AM205 some years back. (yes he still has it) Thank you Bob,it was good to have a few beers with you. I'm also bidding on another with a late production number but who knows how much he is trying for... For those who were waiting for my sell list, I'm really very sorry. It has been a very rough year with the latest bad news being the death of my Ex-wife who lost a battle with brain cancer. We said our goodbyes right before the 4th of July weekend. Needless to say,my 23yr. old daughter is devastated and I'm trying to be there for her as much as possible while also being fill in dad for my 10 yr. old nephew who lost his dad a few months ago. I guess I needed a break from all of the pain life has thrown our way lately and that always was helped by looking for (and playing) the Ibanez guitars that I love.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Tuesday, July 19, 2005 - 11:50 pm:    Mike, My sincere condolences to you and your family.I hope you get through it all peacefully. It's funny how guitars and music can get us through so many different problems and painful situations.They've always been there for me.It really is a special gift,no matter what others may have to say. On the other side,congrats on the new Challenger and when you have a chance post a few pics.   Mr_roadstar Username: Mr_roadstar Registered: 06-2002 Posted on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 - 12:02 am:    Mike, I feel like I need to say something here, but fitting words just won't present themselves. Thanx for sharing your troubles with the ICW family. My thoughts are with you. Steve   Dave_g Username: Dave_g Registered: 01-2002 Posted on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 - 2:05 am:    Mike...Been thinking about ya over the past year or so had no idea the challenges that you had been thru-sorry to hear 'bout your troubles. Your a good dude, hang tough and be there for your family...we will be here when your ready   Ibanezfreak1960 Username: Ibanezfreak1960 Registered: 03-2004 Posted on Wednesday, July 20, 2005 - 7:26 am:    Mike, I've been going through a lot also. My wife has been ill for a few years now and I have not been able to work full time because of it. We have 3 young children that I have to be a mom and dad to. But I know what you mean about guitars being a great outlet for stress. Hang in there dude.   Punkisntdead Username: Punkisntdead Registered: 08-2005 Posted on Saturday, August 27, 2005 - 2:22 pm:    First of all let me say thank god for this site...I thought I would never find any info on my guitar. Anyway I have a Challenger but I can't find any serial numbers on it? also I haven't seen a picture of one like mine. I have no idea what has been done to it if anything. it has a few scatches and the paint cracked two or three spots but i still think it looks great. if anyone can help me out with any info, where serial #'s are, value, anything is appreciated. its kind of a yellowish color with a black pickguard and only has two knobs, volume and tone. other than that it looks just like the pictures above. i'll have to figure out how to post a picture.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Sunday, August 28, 2005 - 8:39 am:    Welcome.The serial should be on the neck plate.I have seen some guitars where the plate was turned around and the number was under.Why?Who knows.Trying to hide the MIJ?Anyway,you might want to check. A pic is worth a thousand words so if you can,post one up.If you need help just let us know. Sounds like a aftermarket pickguard and a paint job.Unless it's a white finish that's yellowing. Does the truss rod adjust from the headstock or the body?   Punkisntdead Username: Punkisntdead Registered: 08-2005 Posted on Sunday, August 28, 2005 - 1:58 pm:    there is no truss rod adjustment on the headstock so i suppose its on the body? the neck just screws right to the body...the plate on the back has the serial T-1363 on the back. here is a picture hope it works http://community.webshots.com/myphotos?action=showPhoto&albumID=435737967&photoI D=435756127&security=MDzstC i'll try to get some better ones soon   Punkisntdead Username: Punkisntdead Registered: 08-2005 Posted on Sunday, August 28, 2005 - 2:26 pm:    the truss rod isnt on the headstock, heres a link to some pictures http://community.webshots.com/user/punkisntdead   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Sunday, August 28, 2005 - 11:38 pm:    If you pull the pickguard the truss nut is at that end of the neck.The pickups and guard are all after market and the neck plate isn't original OR it's a Challenger neck on a different body. Do i see wood grain through the finish or is that the photo?How does it play?That's where the value is.Anything can happen on ebay but, as is and not being sure about the body I myself wouldn't go more that $200 without being able to put it on the bench.It's a shame about the neck plate,that serial # is an important factor for a collector.I myself tend to buy from a players perspective so if feels good I don't mind if it's a misfit.   Punkisntdead Username: Punkisntdead Registered: 08-2005 Posted on Monday, August 29, 2005 - 12:49 am:    yeah you can see the woodgrain through the finish. and I think it plays great, definately a step up from what I used to have (an old prestige something or another made in japan.) i may take it to a shop and just get everything checked out and in line. im pretty sure the body is a challenger also but then again i cant really say for sure since ive never even seen another one. thanks a lot for your help!   Michaelkaufman Username: Michaelkaufman Registered: 11-2002 Posted on Sunday, December 04, 2005 - 9:34 am:    How much would you pay for a '70's Challenger Strat? mk   Michaelkaufman Username: Michaelkaufman Registered: 11-2002 Posted on Sunday, December 04, 2005 - 5:29 pm:    I was tempted, however, I thought the price was high. Challenger owners: what do you think? http://www.qksrv.net/click-1802666-10381315?loc=http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI .dll%3FViewItem%26item%3D7370900697 mk   Kozyyik Username: Kozyyik Registered: 01-2005 Posted on Sunday, December 04, 2005 - 7:56 pm:    Way way high, what is up with that, I got mine less than half of that price...   Brentm Username: Brentm Registered: 03-2005 Posted on Sunday, December 04, 2005 - 8:23 pm:    I think sometimes a good eBay presentation is the difference. I'm always a firm believer in start low and let the market decide, but some of these folks that use eBay as a "price tag" [one bid, high dollar] auction seem to do OK.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Sunday, December 04, 2005 - 10:43 pm:    That one is a nice one though.Also the first burst with a bullet.I'd say $450 on average but I've paid more than I should for guitars just because I "had" to have it.As long as your happy with it it's worth what you pay. F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770022 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780076 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss rod CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod   Michaelkaufman Username: Michaelkaufman Registered: 11-2002 Posted on Sunday, December 04, 2005 - 11:18 pm:    Are these the only known Challenger serial numbers? Any idea what the letters/coding represent? tnx, mk   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Monday, December 05, 2005 - 11:31 am:    Mk, Yes,that's all the serials we have so far.It's slowly growing though. The C that seems to have been added in july of '77 I assume designates Challenger and the letter after that is the standard month format.   Kingd71 Username: Kingd71 Registered: 12-2005 Posted on Sunday, December 25, 2005 - 9:29 pm:    how's it going guys? i'm new to this forum and wondering if you could give me some help with my 1976 ibanez strat copy. i don't know if it's a silver series or a challenger. the serial # is K762376 on the neck plate on the back with made in japan below it. the color is a creamy white just like hendrix's with a white pickguard. the trusrod adjustment is under the pickguard at the bottom of the neck. the headstck is big like a 60's fender strat with just ibanez stamped on it. nothing else. i'll try to take some pics and post them. anyways this guitar is awesome! i paid this kid $20.00 for it a couple months ago and have fallen in love. it is by far the best guitar i've ever played. the sound is amazing!   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Monday, December 26, 2005 - 5:10 pm:    Sounds like a 2375W.A Strat copy in production prior to the Silver and Challenger series.Both of the latter will have their respected names under the logo.   Pitviper Username: Pitviper Registered: 08-2005 Posted on Tuesday, December 27, 2005 - 6:12 am:    If any of you spot one of these beautiful strat/tele/bass challengers in a lefty config...please let me know about it! pitvipermd@hotmail.com   Brentm Username: Brentm Registered: 03-2005 Posted on Tuesday, February 07, 2006 - 1:14 am:    http://www.qksrv.net/click-1802666-10381315?loc=http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI .dll%3FViewItem%26item%3D7388066380 I guess I have another family member. I have to sneak this one under the radar (intercept the CC bill). Wife has a bun in the oven so I'm sure to get heat for this... But that guitar looks so sweet, and with my other Strato, I need a backup right? Ah, I'll earmark this one for the baby. -Brent   Johns Username: Johns Registered: 02-2001 Posted on Tuesday, February 07, 2006 - 10:29 am:    Brent: Looks good! And congrats on the "bun"!   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Sunday, February 12, 2006 - 12:21 am:    Brent, Very cool,thanks for posting.Earliest serial yet and first natural with out the bullet.When you have a chance please post a photo to this thread. And yes...a big congrats on the "bun"....a wonderful thing   Brentm Username: Brentm Registered: 03-2005 Posted on Sunday, February 12, 2006 - 2:13 am:    Thank you, thank you. I thought the same (if it was all original [body, neck plate, neck]). Obviously the rest of it could be swapped out, but the 3 way switch I thought added to the authenticity of it... Anyway, we're very excited about the new one.. The little woman still doesn't know about this but she should by next week...   Brentm Username: Brentm Registered: 03-2005 Posted on Saturday, February 25, 2006 - 6:58 pm:    Not sure if these will fit either guitar (challenger or strato).... we'll see.. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7393785072   Brentm Username: Brentm Registered: 03-2005 Posted on Saturday, July 01, 2006 - 3:49 am:    That Silver Series pickguard didnt fit at all on my Challenger. I ended up replacing the pickups on the existing pickguard.... they were crap (not stock at all)... here she is..   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Tuesday, July 25, 2006 - 4:10 pm:    F770056 Natural Strat W/O Bullet Truss F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770022 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780076 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod   Doc Username: Doc Registered: 04-2004 Posted on Monday, September 25, 2006 - 12:29 am:    Ok, here it is. Build date February 1978, according to the vague response from the factory 2 Challengers were shipped to Australia branded as Silver Series. Or more correctly, were Silver Series with Challenger necks, bodies and pickups. Confusing semantics if you ask me. B]   Pitchpocket Username: Pitchpocket Registered: 12-2005 Posted on Friday, October 13, 2006 - 12:30 pm:    Here is a few photos of an Ibanez Challenger I picked up last night. It's been in a closet for 20 years unplayed and is in pretty good shape except for a couple of dings. I paid $350 for it so I didn't figure I could go wrong.   Brentm Username: Brentm Registered: 03-2005 Posted on Friday, October 13, 2006 - 7:40 pm:    Nice catch! My challenger still has the lowest serial number, but your and my guitars are only 12 numbers away. How do the stock pickups sound? How do you like the neck? Did it come with a case?   Pitchpocket Username: Pitchpocket Registered: 12-2005 Posted on Friday, October 13, 2006 - 8:19 pm:    So far so good. I really like the bite of the maple neck. I've got a 60's custom shop strat with rosewood fretboard. The difference is remarkable, but I'm not sure I can compare them apples to apples. Cranked it up last night and it had that very distinctive strat sound. The neck is very nice. I've got to put some new strings on it and try it again. The strings are "vintage". There's a pop in the input jack and dirty pots that I'm going to get into soon. The case is what appears to be an original padded gig bag. Naugahyde with a zipper pouch.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Friday, October 13, 2006 - 11:32 pm:    Awesome score!! Thanks for posting it   Michaelkaufman Username: Michaelkaufman Registered: 11-2002 Posted on Saturday, October 14, 2006 - 8:36 am:    Can anyone who's had them compare the Challenger vs. Roadtser (not Roadstar II) vs Blazer? tnx, mk   Pitchpocket Username: Pitchpocket Registered: 12-2005 Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006 - 10:08 am:    After playing this guitar for a couple of days I have to say that I am impressed. I like it more than my Custom shop strat. I feel really lucky to have found it. Does anyone know which year strat the '77 Challenger is copying?   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 03-2001 Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006 - 9:10 pm:    Well,I'm not a strat expert but I'd guess yours is based on a 50's model due to the maple board and truss access at the bottom. Mine both have the maple board but they have the bullet truss at the head,which is a 70's model trait.The few out there with a rosewood board I'd say are after a 60's issue.   Gemberbier Username: Gemberbier Registered: 05-2006 Posted on Monday, October 16, 2006 - 9:15 pm:    I'd say a '57 strat, because of the small headstock and the 21 fret maple neck but with a lacking ashtrey a '57 strat because the didn't start with custom colours in '54. Ginger   Doc Username: Doc Registered: 04-2004 Posted on Saturday, November 04, 2006 - 7:26 am:    Yeah, the Challengers (and the weird hybrid 78 blonde "Challenger as Silver Series" I have) are perfect copies of the 56/57/58 L Series Stratocaster. All the parts, right down to the screw holes and pickguard laminations are identical/interchangable.   Gemberbier Username: Gemberbier Registered: 05-2006 Posted on Saturday, November 04, 2006 - 7:57 am:    Does that go for the pickup screw holes and the pickup selector slot as well? (Don't step into the pitfall to compare them with MIJ Strats, but compare them with USA Strats. Because THEIR parts are NOT interchangeable). Ginger   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Friday, May 18, 2007 - 11:47 pm:    I just realized one of mine is missing from the serial list so I guess now's a good time to add it,along with pitchpockets '77 and Mikes '78 oddball.Being the only 78 without a bullet always made me wonder.... F770056 Natural Strat W/O Bullet Truss F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770068 White Strat W/O Bullet F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770022 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780065 White Strat W/O Bullet CA780076 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet CA780084 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod   Gemberbier Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 3:04 am:    You mean the CA780065 made you wonder? That's the one on eBay. It has a rosewood fretboard. So in fact it is sort of a 1962 model. And 1962 models didn't have bullets. So, if you own the CA780084, and it is in near mint condition, then the value of yours is equal to the CA780085 that was sold by Redscuderi, whatever that value may be, because we have the THIRD documented natural strat now. And with each documented natural strat the "value" will decrease, until everyone is back with both feet on earth again.... Ginger   Michaelkaufman Username: Michaelkaufman Registered: 11-2002 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 10:48 am:    btw...do any of these Challengers have 5-way switches or are they all 3-way? tnx, mk   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 10:59 am:    My 78's are 5-way   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 4:33 pm:    Ginger, What I found odd was that it was,and still is,the only '78 known without a bullet.The pattern seemed to be the 77's without,the 78's with. Ebay is an alternate reality.I don't remember wich one it was,but one on the list looked like it had been dragged behind the bus,several times,and it still sold for a little over $600. I've seen great pieces go way under value and some way way over. I scored a very clean Phil Collen DT555 with OHC for $240 a little while back.I couldn't believe it.Where was everybody?I sold it two days after I recieved it for $725.I didn't plan on selling it but someone who came in for a setup saw it,had to have it and made me an offer.   Talajuha Username: Talajuha Registered: 11-2006 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 5:48 pm:    Ibanez Silver Series was mentioned here a couple of times. How is Silver Series strato related to Challenger and other Ibanez strato copies. Is Silver Series just an other sub brand? Prices? Seems hard to find info of Silver Series. Juha   Gemberbier Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 8:00 pm:    The Challenger series seem to have stopped in January 1978 (CA78xxxx). The first Silver Series started right after that (B78xxxx). This is a copy of a part of the 1977 pricelist from Jim Donahue's website: 2375 Strat Maple Board ------>$285.00 2375l Left Hand Strat Model, Non Trem ------>$310.00 2375Ash Strat Model, Ash Body ------>$380.00 2375N Strat Model Natural Finish ------>$330.00 On the same pricelist is the 2355 for $360 and the 2355M for $385.- These jazz boxes go for about $1250.- sometimes about $1500.- But if you look at the list, you see that there was a NATURAL (without mentioning the wood)) for $330.- and an ASH (without mentioning the colour) for $380.- The best way to show what wood was used, is clearcoat, but it is NOT mentioned what finish was applied on them. A sunburst was mentioned before, so perhaps that's the colour of the real ASH. The other 2375 strats were $95.- cheaper, which was quite a big difference in those days: $285 vs $380. I don't expect big differences between Challenger and Silver series. They're practically the same guitars. But I have no 1978 pricelist that mentions them. Ginger   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 8:22 pm:    That's interesting.We missed that the first time around.I hope Mike stops by to see this. I would guess the Katsura in the painted models was the reason for the difference in price. This is the interesting part: 2375Ash Strat Model, Ash Body ------>$380.00 2375N Strat Model Natural Finish ------>$330.00 I would think the $380 is for the burst and the $330 is natural,which IMO is also ash. Was there any mention of the bass or Tele models?   Gemberbier Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2007 - 8:47 pm:    Surprise! in the same list: 2334 Strat, Sunburst, Maple neck ------>$285.00 2352 Tele,Blond,Maple Fboard ------>$230.00 2352CT Tele Cust,Bk, Hum In Bridge ------>$265.00 2352DX Tele Deluxe, Walnut,2 Hums, ------>$285.00 2368 Tele Thinline ------>$260.00 next to what we allready had: 2375 Strat Maple Board ------>$285.00 2375l Left Hand Strat Model, Non Trem ------>$310.00 2375Ash Strat Model, Ash Body ------>$380.00 2375N Strat Model Natural Finish ------>$330.00 and the basses: 2353L-DX Telly Bass------>$250.00 2365B Jazz Bass, 2 pickups------>$270.00 2365BL Jazz Bass Left Hand------>$295.00 2365B/ASH Jazz Bass, Ash Body, Maple Fretboard------>$360.00 2365BN Jazz Bass, Nat Finish, ------>$310.00 2366B P Bass ------>$260.00 2366B/Ash P Bass, Ash, Maple neck------>$360.00 2367 P Bass, Fretless, ------>$260.00 2376 Jazz Model, Mohagany Finish, ------>$320.00 2609B Black Eagle Bass, Pearl Eagle on Pickguard------>$350.00 (I don't know what JD means by "Jazz model". Could also be a semi with f-holes). I also think that the 2352CT description is not typical for a Custom. I think it should say Hum in the NECK! (not in the bridge) Ginger   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Sunday, May 20, 2007 - 10:39 pm:    Cool,thanks! Something I'm curious about. My naturals weigh in at 7.3 and 7.5. Can someone here please weigh their painted models and post the results?   Tbplayer Username: Tbplayer Registered: 4-2007 Posted on Monday, May 21, 2007 - 9:16 am:    one addition to the list. 2575R. according to the ibanez: untold story. the R stands for rosewood fingerboard. there is one on ebay now. my black '77 weighs about 7.5 or so.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Wednesday, May 23, 2007 - 11:10 am:    Something I just realized,the pricelist models all start with 23xx.Challengers start with 25. So those are the standard Strat copys,with the burst and painted models being birch tops. Are the 2565,2566,2575 or any other 25xx models on anybodys list?I'd like to see the difference in price since they were all available at the same time.   Chucke99 Username: Chucke99 Registered: 2-2007 Posted on Wednesday, May 23, 2007 - 12:06 pm:    Ebay Item #220114945800 Another '78 Sunburst w/Bullet. Listing says serial is CD7801xx, which would blow the theory of the last Challengers being from January of 1978. Maybe it's a typo on the lister's part?   Tbplayer Username: Tbplayer Registered: 4-2007 Posted on Wednesday, May 23, 2007 - 12:06 pm:    i have one of each. both '77's the only difference i've found is, the silver series has a big headstock and the challenger the small one. interestingly though, while the challenger has a skunk stripe w\o a bullet. the silver seris does not. nor does it have a bullet. plus the neck has a fretboard. the challenger's frets are set directly into the neck. hope that helps   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Friday, May 25, 2007 - 12:49 am:    The seller did verify it to be CDxxxxxx. Which is really out there.My guess is maybe it was a late order from a dealer?Three months after the run "ended".   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Friday, May 25, 2007 - 2:41 pm:    F770056 Natural Strat W/O Bullet Truss F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770068 White Strat W/O Bullet F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770022 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780065 White Strat W/O Bullet CA780076 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet CA780084 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod CD780103 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet   Gemberbier Username: Gemberbier Registered: 5-2006 Posted on Friday, May 25, 2007 - 7:02 pm:    Ccs, how do you know the last two digits. Did he send you a pic of the neckplate? Ginger   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Friday, May 25, 2007 - 7:37 pm:    No,I'm going by the honor system The full number was with the reply.   Ccs Username: Ccs Registered: 3-2001 Posted on Tuesday, May 29, 2007 - 12:33 am:    A little trivia I've kind of wondered why they seemed to start in June.It seemed like a strange production start.I've always been waiting for some earlier ones to pop up. Well I just found out that June of 1977 was the Chicago Summer NAMM and the GB10 signature model debuted there as well. Some of you guys probably knew that but it was new to me and I found it rather interesting.   Doubtful Username: Doubtful Registered: 9-2007 Posted on Saturday, September 08, 2007 - 11:24 am:    This is my first pst to this forum although I've looked here a few times beforebecause I do like my Ibanez guitars. I thought it would be fun to add my Challenger Strat's serial number to your list because it's consecutive to one already listed. Mine is CG770023, a black no-bullet truss rod model. I bought it new from the Sound Chamber in Pasadena (sticker still on the back of the head stock) during a visit to L.A. Thanksgiving weekend of 1977. It cost $175, but the salesman knocked off $5 because it had a tiny paint chip under the forward strap button. I compared it carefully to real Fenders in the shop at the time, and concluded that it was a better made guitar (fit and finish of wooden parts, anyway) which was nice because as a college freshman I sure couldn't afford a Fender. I've played the heck out of this guitar for almost 30 years now and hauled it all over the western US, even flew back to New York once or twice with it as checked baggage, and it still looks and plays great. Never had to mess with the neck at all, it's always been rock solid. I moved the action up and down a little at times, when I had it set up with heavy strings for slide work, but it's back down now for regular finger work. It's got a few little nicks and dings, but nothing serious considering its age. The most annoying blemish is the chrome on the neck plate rusted off one corner years ago from living in western Oregon for so long. And a few years ago the bridge PU just stopped working (anyone have a clue to that problem?), but I've always tended to use the forward two PUs anyway. All in all, it is a great guitar and probably the best $170 I ever spent. I still have the original hard shell case, and it's also in remarkably good condition. In the early 1990s I bought a 1980 Ibanez Blazer Bass, again by luck because it was what I could afford, and it has also proven to be a great musical instrument. I certainly have no complaints regarding Ibanez!   Chucke99 Username: Chucke99 Registered: 2-2007 Posted on Saturday, September 08, 2007 - 11:39 am:    Thanks for adding it! Send pictures. We love pictures. F770056 Natural Strat W/O Bullet Truss F770064 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod F770068 White Strat W/O Bullet F770091 Sunburst Strat W/O Bullet truss CG770020 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CG770023 Black Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770022 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CI770074 White Strat W/O Bullet truss rod CK770161 Black Jazz Bass CK770217 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CL770018 Natural Tele W/O Bullet truss rod CA780043 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780065 White Strat W/O Bullet CA780076 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet CA780084 Natural Strat WITH Bullet CA780085 Natural Strat WITH Bullet truss CA780286 Natural Tele WITH Bullet truss rod CD780103 Sunburst Strat WITH bullet

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