The wait is over, Ibanez fans: the legendary Power series has returned. The 540PIII, a Japanese-built, limited-edition stunner, resurrects one of the most sought-after late-’80s shred machines and brings it into the modern age with key upgrades in feel, playability, and sonic versatility.
Famously wielded by Alex Skolnick during his Testament prime, the Power series has long been a cult favorite among collectors and metal guitarists. Now, Ibanez has given players a chance to relive that era — with refinements that push it firmly into the present.
When the second-generation 540PII hit the scene in 1988, it represented the cutting edge of Ibanez design. The new 540PIII channels that same spirit with a radically sculpted reverse RG-style body, complete with the extended lower horn that made the original such a standout. But where the old model featured a one-piece Maple Wizard neck, the 540PIII levels up with a 5-piece Maple/Walnut Super Wizard neck, delivering enhanced stability and a lightning-fast playing surface.
Capping it all off is a bound 24-fret Rosewood fingerboard with jumbo frets and the series’ signature shark tooth inlays, offering a slick, vintage-correct vibe paired with modern playability. The reverse headstock seals the deal, making the guitar look as deadly as it sounds.
Electronics-wise, the 540PIII combines the best of the Power lineage. At the bridge sits an IBZ V8 humbucker, prized for its warmth, articulate leads, and sizzling high-end harmonic content. At the neck, Ibanez opted for an Infinity R rail-style humbucker, unlocking a surprising tonal range with everything from glassy cleans to chunky rhythms. A volume control and 5-way selector let you tap into a wide spread of shred-approved voices.
No Power series revival would be complete without an Edge double-locking tremolo. Beloved since its 1986 debut, the Edge remains one of the most reliable trems ever built, letting you dive-bomb, flutter, and squeal to your heart’s content — then snap back into tune with uncanny precision. Paired with Gotoh hardware, the 540PIII is rock-solid and road-ready.
By marrying late-’80s DNA with modern construction and performance tweaks, Ibanez has given shredders a guitar that feels both familiar and forward-thinking. Whether you’re chasing Testament-era Skolnick tones or carving your own path, the 540PIII delivers an electrifying flashback built for today’s stage.
Get the Ibanez Power Series 540PIII here for $1,399.99 here in Black, Desert Sun Yellow, and Purple Neon. Also, keep up with all our Ibanez coverage right here!
