UCEWQMTP

Quilted Maple, Transparent Purple

Details & History

Don't for get to check out Oli's website, great site. Thanks Oli.

This is without doubt a real highlight of my collection, a Ibanez USA Custom UCEWQMTP, bought in fall 1998 from a classified ad. The model name tells the guitar's woods and colours, that's quilted maple (on mahogany), finished transparent purple: USA Custom Exotic Wood Quilted Maple Transparent Purple.

The serial number is 92382; it was made in 1992.

In the early 90s, Ibanez USA Custom Exotic Wood guitars were assembled in low production numbers in the North Hollywood custom shop from hand built parts by Hosono (founder ESP guitars). Only very few of these instruments were shipped overseas. Originally the customers were able to choose options like neck shapes or pickups from a long list but the bodies were always made to RG specs. Later on, the customisation options were cut down even more. In 1994 to 1996 the USA Custom USRG models came with the so-called "tension free neck" made by PBC guitars (today Bunker guitars). The pre-owner of my guitar assures that it appeared as a show guitar at the Frankfurt music fair in 1992. The top is exceptionally nice figured; no wonder it was chosen to be an exhibition piece.

The USA Custom guitars were discontinued after 1996; but the J-Custom models have taken their place, which are produced in a designated small workshop near the Japanese plant. Also the RG Prestige series carry on the looks and some construction details like direct-mounted pickups.

This guitar is not just eye candy, the playability and versatility makes it a great all-round guitar that is fun to play. Recently, I have replaced the original bridge PAF Pro with an Evolution to have a more aggressive lead sound.

The catalogue shot shows the same colour over a flame maple top. Thanks to Marcus for this scan.

Great comments. Thanks again Oli.