The Ibanez SRMS806 Brown Topaz Burst is a premium six-string multi-scale electric bass from the innovative Ibanez Bass Workshop range, designed for players who demand exceptional clarity, extended-range performance and precise tonal control. Combining an ergonomic Soundgear body with a distinctive fanned-fret fingerboard, Bartolini BH2 pickups and versatile active electronics, the SRMS806 is an excellent choice for modern bassists exploring progressive rock, metal, fusion, jazz and technically demanding musical styles.

At the heart of the SRMS806 is its 33.6–35.5-inch multi-scale design, which uses different scale lengths across the strings to optimise tension, articulation and playing comfort. The longer scale on the low B string provides a more controlled, defined bass response, while the shorter scale on the high C string maintains a comfortable feel for chords, melodic playing and upper-register techniques.

A beautiful poplar burl top provides distinctive natural figuring beneath the Brown Topaz Burst finish, while the five-piece jatoba/walnut neck and bound panga panga fingerboard give the instrument a refined, contemporary appearance.

Two Bartolini BH2 dual-coil pickups deliver powerful, balanced sound across all six strings, supported by an Ibanez Custom Electronics three-band EQ, an active/passive EQ bypass switch and a selectable midrange frequency control.

This particular Ibanez SRMS806 is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.7 lbs (approximately 4.40kg) and is supplied without a case or gig bag.

For experienced bassists seeking a distinctive six-string instrument with excellent low-frequency definition, sophisticated electronics and modern ergonomic design, the Ibanez SRMS806 offers an impressive combination of versatility and performance.

At A Glance

Pre-Owned Condition Report

Very Good Condition

This Ibanez SRMS806 Brown Topaz Burst is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

The guitar features the distinctive Brown Topaz Burst finish over an attractive poplar burl top, complemented by black hardware, a bound panga panga fingerboard and the striking fanned-fret layout.

Its sculpted Soundgear body provides a modern appearance and comfortable playing platform, while the unusual fingerboard design makes the instrument immediately recognisable.

Specific cosmetic scratches, marks, finish wear or hardware imperfections have not been individually documented. Please study the product photographs for a closer assessment of this particular bass.

Weight

This is a substantial but manageable weight for an extended-range six-string bass, particularly considering its multi-scale neck and full electronic specification.

Case Not Included

This Ibanez SRMS806 is supplied without a hardcase or gig bag.

A suitable six-string bass case or gig bag should be selected with the instrument's extended scale length and overall dimensions in mind.

Electronics & Hardware

The SRMS806's factory specification includes Bartolini BH2 pickups, a three-band active EQ, EQ bypass and a three-way mid-frequency selector.

The individual operation and originality of these components have not been separately documented. No modifications or previous repairs have been reported, but this does not independently establish that every component remains factory-original.

What's Included

- Ibanez SRMS806 Brown Topaz Burst Six-String Multi-Scale Electric Bass

Not Included: Hardcase or gig bag.

No additional accessories, original packaging or documentation have been confirmed.

Service & Setup

A six-string multi-scale bass requires careful attention to neck relief, string action, intonation and individual bridge saddle positioning. The SRMS806's MR5S bridge allows independent string adjustment, while the multi-scale layout requires appropriate strings that accommodate its extended low-B scale length. Routine checks should also include fret condition, tuning stability, pickup operation and active/passive electronics. Individual setup measurements, service history and operational test results have not been supplied for this instrument. Please note that bass guitar setups can naturally change due to fluctuations in humidity, temperature and environmental conditions, potentially affecting neck relief, string action and overall playability.

Key Features

• Six-String Multi-Scale Design: Extended low B to high C range for modern bass playing.

• 33.6"–35.5" Scale Lengths: Improved low-string definition alongside comfortable upper-register tension.

• Fanned-Fret Fingerboard: Ergonomic design with individually optimised string lengths.

• Poplar Burl Top: Attractive natural figuring beneath the Brown Topaz Burst finish.

• Five-Piece Jatoba/Walnut Neck: Reinforced multi-piece construction for stability.

• Bound Panga Panga Fingerboard: Distinctive appearance with a smooth playing surface.

• 24 Medium Frets: Two-octave range on every string.

• Dual Bartolini BH2 Pickups: Full, balanced sound with excellent note definition.

• Ibanez Custom Electronics Three-Band EQ: Independent Bass, Middle and Treble control.

• Active/Passive EQ Bypass: Additional tonal flexibility and simplified passive operation.

• Three-Way Mid Frequency Selector: Tailor the response to different musical styles.

• MR5S Mono-Rail Bridge: Individual string adjustment and 16.5mm spacing.

• Ergonomic Soundgear Body: Comfortable construction for an extended-range bass.

• Black Hardware: Complements the Brown Topaz Burst finish.

• Very Good Pre-Owned Condition: An attractive opportunity to own a professional six-string Ibanez bass.

Why You'll Love It

The Ibanez SRMS806 offers a distinctive playing experience that combines the extended musical range of a six-string bass with the practical advantages of a multi-scale neck.

Traditional six-string basses use one scale length for every string, which can create a compromise between low-string tension and the feel of the higher strings. The SRMS806 addresses this by using a longer scale for the low B and progressively shorter scales towards the high C.

The result is a versatile instrument that supports tight, defined bass lines while retaining comfortable response for melodic playing, chords and advanced techniques.

Its Bartolini BH2 pickups and active three-band EQ provide further flexibility, making it easy to move between rounded, supportive bass sounds and bright, articulate tones suitable for complex arrangements.

The beautiful poplar burl top and Brown Topaz Burst finish also make the SRMS806 a particularly striking instrument, while the lightweight Soundgear-inspired body design helps balance the demands of its extended-range configuration.

Detailed Features & Benefits

Innovative Six-String Multi-Scale Construction

The SRMS806 features Ibanez's multi-scale design, using different scale lengths across its six strings to optimise tension and tonal response. The low B string measures 35.5 inches, providing additional tension and improved note definition, while the high C string has a shorter 33.6-inch scale designed for a more comfortable feel. The intermediate strings use progressively changing scale lengths, creating the distinctive fanned-fret arrangement. This allows the bass to deliver a more balanced response across its extended range than many conventional single-scale instruments, particularly when playing lower notes or technically demanding passages.

Stunning Poplar Burl Top & Brown Topaz Burst Finish

The Ibanez SRMS806 features an eye-catching poplar burl top, giving the instrument a distinctive appearance with naturally varied grain patterns and figuring. The Brown Topaz Burst finish emphasises these characteristics, combining warm brown shades with darker surrounding tones for a sophisticated look. Because burl figuring varies naturally from instrument to instrument, each bass has its own visual character. The top is complemented by the sleek Soundgear body shape, black hardware and elegant fingerboard appointments, creating a bass that combines contemporary design with the visual appeal of decorative tonewoods.

Ergonomic Ibanez Soundgear Body

The SRMS806 uses the familiar sculpted Soundgear body concept, offering a comfortable playing platform despite its extended-range configuration. The body shape features carefully contoured edges, a relatively compact overall outline and comfortable access to the upper frets. This is particularly valuable on a six-string instrument, where the additional neck width and extended scale length can make some traditional designs feel cumbersome. The SRMS806 balances these requirements through its ergonomic construction, making it suitable for extended rehearsals, recording sessions and technically demanding performances.

Five-Piece Jatoba/Walnut Neck

The multi-scale neck is constructed from five pieces of jatoba and walnut, combining contrasting woods in a reinforced design intended to support stability and comfortable playability. The multi-piece arrangement is especially appropriate for a six-string bass, where the wider fingerboard and greater combined string tension place additional demands on the neck. Its carefully shaped profile allows players to navigate the extended fingerboard with confidence, while the natural wood construction contributes to the instrument's sophisticated appearance.

Bound Panga Panga Fingerboard

The SRMS806 features a bound panga panga fingerboard with distinctive acrylic inlays and 24 medium frets. Panga panga is a dense hardwood valued for its attractive grain and durable playing surface, while the binding adds a refined finish to the instrument. The fanned-fret layout may initially appear unusual to players familiar with conventional basses, but its changing fret angles are designed to follow a more natural hand position across different areas of the neck. The two-octave range on every string makes the bass particularly attractive for melodic playing, extended chords and advanced solo techniques.

Bartolini BH2 Dual-Coil Pickups

The SRMS806 is fitted with two Bartolini BH2 dual-coil pickups, designed to provide a balanced response across all six strings. Their long blade-style sensing arrangement helps maintain consistent pickup response despite the varying string angles created by the multi-scale design. The pickups deliver a broad tonal range, with substantial low-frequency depth, articulate midrange and clear high-frequency detail. This makes them particularly effective for extended-range bass playing, where maintaining definition across the low B and high C strings is essential.

Ibanez Custom Electronics Three-Band EQ

The onboard Ibanez Custom Electronics preamp provides independent Bass, Middle and Treble adjustment, allowing players to tailor their sound to different instruments, amplifiers and musical environments. Bass can be used to add low-frequency weight or tighten the sound, while the Mid control helps determine how prominently the instrument sits within a band mix. Treble adjustment allows players to introduce additional attack and clarity for slap playing, tapping and more aggressive styles. The comprehensive EQ makes the SRMS806 particularly versatile for musicians working across different genres.

Active/Passive EQ Bypass

The SRMS806 features an EQ bypass switch that allows players to disengage the active equaliser and use the passive pickup signal. In this mode, the Treble control functions as a passive tone control, providing a familiar way to soften the instrument's brightness. This creates an additional level of flexibility, allowing musicians to switch between carefully shaped active tones and a more straightforward passive response. The feature is useful when changing between different amplifiers, recording arrangements or musical styles.

Three-Way Mid Frequency Selector

The three-way mid-frequency selector provides additional control over the active EQ, allowing players to choose the centre frequency affected by the Mid control. This makes it possible to emphasise lower-midrange body, shape the central midrange or introduce greater upper-midrange definition depending on the setting. For a six-string bass, this is particularly valuable because different playing techniques and musical arrangements require different frequency responses. The ability to tailor the midrange helps the SRMS806 remain clear in dense rock mixes while also offering warmer, more rounded sounds for jazz, soul and melodic playing.

Ibanez MR5S Mono-Rail Bridge

The SRMS806 features the Ibanez MR5S bridge, using independently adjustable saddles arranged to accommodate the instrument's multi-scale design. Each string has its own bridge unit, providing individual adjustment of action and intonation while maintaining the appropriate scale length. The 16.5mm string spacing helps balance the demands of six-string playing, offering enough room for expressive techniques while keeping the neck relatively manageable. The design is particularly useful for players who require precise setup adjustment across a wider range of string gauges and tunings.

Extended Range for Modern Bass Techniques

With six strings tuned from low B to high C, the SRMS806 offers a much broader musical range than a conventional four-string bass. The additional low string provides access to deeper notes without requiring frequent retuning, while the high C creates opportunities for melodic lead playing, extended chords, tapping and more complex arrangements. This expanded range is particularly useful in progressive rock, jazz fusion and contemporary bass music, where the instrument may take on both traditional bass duties and more melodic roles within an arrangement.

Who Is It For?

Progressive Rock & Metal Bassists: The extended low-B scale delivers strong definition for demanding rhythm parts and lower-register playing.

Jazz & Fusion Musicians: Six strings, 24 frets and versatile electronics provide considerable freedom for chords, melodies and improvisation.

Technical Bass Players: The multi-scale layout and extended range support tapping, sweeping and complex fingerstyle techniques.

Recording Musicians: Bartolini pickups and the comprehensive EQ provide an excellent selection of tones for studio applications.

Experienced Bassists: Particularly suited to musicians moving from four- or five-string instruments into extended-range playing.

Modern Session Players: A practical choice for performers who require a wide range of notes and tonal flexibility from one instrument.

Playing Styles & Applications

The Ibanez SRMS806 is particularly well suited to progressive rock, metal, jazz fusion, contemporary gospel, funk, soul, modern rock and instrumental bass music.

Its longer low-B scale helps maintain clarity during lower-register passages, while the high C string is useful for melodic lines, extended chords and advanced solo techniques.

The Bartolini pickups and active three-band EQ allow players to achieve everything from deep, rounded bass tones to bright, aggressive sounds with pronounced attack.

Its extended range also makes it especially useful in recording environments where a bassist may need to cover both conventional low-frequency support and more elaborate melodic arrangements.

How It Compares

Ibanez SRMS806 vs Ibanez SRMS805

The SRMS805 is the five-string counterpart to the SRMS806, sharing a similar design philosophy, Bartolini BH2 pickups and Ibanez Custom Electronics preamp. The principal difference is the SRMS806's additional high C string, which provides an extended melodic range and more opportunities for chordal playing. The six-string also features a wider neck and a different progression of scale lengths towards the high strings. Players primarily focused on conventional bass lines may prefer the five-string, while musicians exploring chords, tapping and melodic techniques may favour the SRMS806.

Ibanez SRMS806 vs Conventional Six-String Bass

A conventional six-string bass generally uses the same scale length for every string, providing a familiar straight-fret playing experience. The SRMS806 instead uses a multi-scale design, giving its low B additional length and its high C a shorter scale. This offers potential benefits in string tension, low-frequency definition and playing comfort, although players accustomed to conventional frets may need a short adjustment period. The choice depends on whether the musician prioritises traditional familiarity or the advantages of individually optimised scale lengths.

Ibanez SRMS806 vs Ibanez BTB Multi-Scale Bass

Ibanez BTB multi-scale basses generally feature a larger body, different neck design and specifications aimed at players seeking an extended-range instrument with a more substantial physical platform. The SRMS806 retains the compact, contoured Soundgear approach, making it attractive to bassists who prefer a more streamlined instrument. Both designs offer modern multi-scale performance, but the playing feel, body dimensions and electronics can differ significantly between models.

Ibanez Bass Workshop Heritage

The Ibanez Bass Workshop range was developed to explore innovative bass guitar concepts beyond conventional production designs.

The series has included multi-scale instruments, extended-range models and unusual construction approaches, reflecting Ibanez's longstanding interest in combining modern ergonomics with contemporary playing requirements.

The SRMS806 demonstrates this approach through its six-string multi-scale fingerboard, carefully selected construction materials and versatile Bartolini electronics.

Its design reflects the increasing popularity of extended-range basses among progressive, fusion and technically focused musicians.

For players seeking a bass that combines modern innovation with the familiar comfort of Ibanez Soundgear instruments, the SRMS806 is one of the more distinctive options within the Bass Workshop family.

Technical Specifications

The SRMS806 has had some construction changes across production years. The confirmed model specification includes the poplar burl top, five-piece jatoba/walnut neck, panga panga fingerboard, Bartolini BH2 pickups and MR5S bridge. Early catalogues list a walnut/mahogany body, while later versions specify okoume, so the precise body construction of this example needs confirmation.

Power Requirements

The Ibanez SRMS806 features two passive Bartolini BH2 pickups combined with an active Ibanez Custom Electronics three-band preamp.

The active EQ is powered by a 9V battery, which provides the power needed for the onboard tone-shaping circuit.

The EQ bypass switch allows the bass to be operated with its passive pickup signal and passive tone control, providing additional flexibility.

The bass does not require an external mains adapter or pedalboard power supply.

The inclusion and remaining life of a battery have not been confirmed for this pre-owned example.

🎵 Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict ★★★★★

The Ibanez SRMS806 Brown Topaz Burst is a particularly impressive six-string bass that combines sophisticated multi-scale construction with the comfort and versatility associated with Ibanez Soundgear instruments.

Its 35.5-inch low-B scale provides excellent potential for clear, controlled low-register performance, while the shorter 33.6-inch high-C scale makes melodic playing and extended chord work more approachable.

The Bartolini BH2 pickups offer strong definition across all six strings, while the active three-band EQ, mid-frequency selector and passive bypass provide an extensive range of tonal options.

Its beautifully figured poplar burl top and Brown Topaz Burst finish also make it a striking instrument for players who appreciate modern bass design.

This particular example is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.7 lbs and is supplied without a case.

Best Suited For: Experienced six-string bassists, progressive rock and metal players, jazz fusion musicians and technically focused performers.

Customers Usually Upgrade From: Conventional Ibanez SR four- and five-string basses, standard-scale six-string basses and entry-level extended-range instruments.

Most Commonly Paired With: High-headroom bass amplifiers, professional DI boxes, bass compressors, extended-range bass strings and suitable multi-scale bass cases.

Our Tip: Start with the active EQ controls near their neutral positions and use the pickup balance control to explore the natural sound of the Bartolini BH2 pickups. Then experiment with the three-way mid-frequency selector to find the best response for your amplifier and musical style.

Showroom Advice: The fanned frets may look unusual initially, but many players find that their hands adapt surprisingly quickly. Pay particular attention to the comfortable neck position and the low-B response when trying a multi-scale bass for the first time.

Why Buy Pre-Owned From Fair Deal Music?

Buying a pre-owned Ibanez SRMS806 from Fair Deal Music offers an opportunity to own a versatile, professional six-string multi-scale bass at an attractive alternative to purchasing new.

Our experienced team understands the importance of accurate condition descriptions, clear specifications and honest information about the accessories supplied with each instrument.

This particular SRMS806 is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, weighs 9.7 lbs and comes without a case.

Choosing pre-owned equipment can provide excellent value while extending the useful life of quality musical instruments.

Warranty, Returns & Delivery

This Ibanez SRMS806 is a pre-owned bass guitar, with its condition and included accessories detailed above.

Applicable warranty and returns arrangements are governed by Fair Deal Music's current terms, while available delivery and collection options can be viewed during checkout.

As this bass is supplied without a case, suitable protective packaging and careful transportation are especially important.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

As Birmingham's largest independent music store, we specialise in new, used, vintage and collectable guitars, basses, amplifiers, effects pedals and professional audio equipment.

Our knowledgeable team of musicians provides friendly, practical advice to help customers choose instruments suited to their playing styles and requirements.

Customers benefit from competitive pricing, secure online ordering, UK delivery options, our Birmingham showroom and part-exchange services.

Part Exchange – Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of musical equipment, including four-, five- and six-string bass guitars, electric guitars, acoustic instruments, amplifiers, effects pedals and keyboards.

Your existing instrument could help towards the cost of this Ibanez SRMS806.

Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What condition is this Ibanez SRMS806 in?

This bass is presented in Very Good Pre-Owned Condition, indicating some cosmetic wear consistent with careful previous ownership.

Does the bass come with a case?

No. This example is supplied without a hardcase or gig bag.

How much does this bass weigh?

It weighs 9.7 lbs, approximately 4.40kg.

What colour is this Ibanez SRMS806?

It is finished in Brown Topaz Burst, often abbreviated to BTT.

Is the Ibanez SRMS806 a six-string bass?

Yes. The SRMS806 is a six-string electric bass with a multi-scale neck.

What is a multi-scale bass?

A multi-scale bass uses different scale lengths for different strings, creating a fanned-fret layout designed to balance string tension and playing feel.

What are the scale lengths of the SRMS806?

The low B string has a 35.5-inch scale, while the high C string has a 33.6-inch scale.

Is a multi-scale bass difficult to play?

It can take a little adjustment for players accustomed to straight frets, but many find the angled layout comfortable after becoming familiar with it.

What is the standard tuning?

The factory tuning is B–E–A–D–G–C, from lowest to highest string.

What pickups does it have?

The original specification includes two Bartolini BH2 dual-coil pickups.

Are the Bartolini BH2 pickups active?

The pickups themselves are passive, while the bass features an active onboard EQ.

Does the SRMS806 have a three-band EQ?

Yes. It features adjustable Bass, Middle and Treble controls.

What does the mid-frequency switch do?

It changes the centre frequency affected by the Mid EQ control, providing additional tonal shaping options.

Can the bass be used in passive mode?

Yes. Its EQ bypass switch provides passive operation, with the Treble control functioning as a passive tone control.

Does the bass require a battery?

A 9V battery powers the active preamp. Passive operation is also supported.

What wood is the top made from?

The SRMS806 features a poplar burl top.

What wood is the body made from?

Earlier SRMS806 catalogues specify a walnut/mahogany construction beneath the poplar burl top, while later versions specify okoume. The exact version of this bass has not been confirmed.

What wood is the neck made from?

It has a five-piece jatoba/walnut neck.

What fingerboard does it have?

The SRMS806 features a bound panga panga fingerboard.

How many frets does it have?

It features 24 medium frets.

What bridge is fitted?

The factory specification includes an Ibanez MR5S bridge.

What is the string spacing?

The string spacing is 16.5mm.

Is the Ibanez SRMS806 suitable for metal?

Yes. Its multi-scale design, extended low-B scale and articulate pickups make it particularly suitable for progressive metal and other low-register musical styles.

Is it suitable for jazz or fusion?

Yes. The six-string range, active EQ and high-C string provide excellent flexibility for melodic playing, chord work and improvisation.

Can it be used for slap bass?

Yes. Its 16.5mm string spacing is relatively compact, so players accustomed to wider-spaced four-string basses may need some adjustment.

Can I tune it lower than standard?

Alternative tunings are possible, but string selection, tension, nut compatibility and setup must be considered carefully.

What strings should I use?

Choose a compatible six-string set that accommodates the 35.5-inch low-B scale and the instrument's bridge configuration.

Where is the Ibanez SRMS806 manufactured?

This model was manufactured in Indonesia.

Can I part-exchange another bass towards this Ibanez SRMS806?

Yes. Fair Deal Music considers bass guitars and other musical equipment for part exchange.