Purple Neon is the finish that launched a thousand bedroom shredders, and the Genesis Collection RG550 brings it back with all the quality of a modern MIJ instrument. The basswood body keeps things lightweight for long sessions, while the 5-piece maple/walnut Super Wizard neck delivers the impossibly flat, fast profile that put Ibanez on the map for lead guitarists.

The Edge double-locking tremolo is still one of the best floating bridges ever made -- smooth, responsive, and rock-solid stable. Paired with V7 and V8 humbuckers flanking an S1 single-coil, you get a versatile HSH configuration that handles everything from Yngwie-style neoclassical runs to chunky rhythm work. If you grew up watching '80s guitar heroes or you just want a no-compromise shred machine with serious vibe, this is the one.