Ibanez RGRT420-WK vs Jackson JS32 DKA-M Dinky SW
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right ST Style Guitars for your music.
Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
Ibanez RGRT420-WK
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
This RGRT420-WK is a solid choice for players wanting a shred-ready instrument without the premium price tag. The thin neck and hot pickups make it a beast for rock and metal, while the tremolo adds some versatility. It's a great gateway into Ibanez’s more aggressive designs.
$648
Jackson JS32 DKA-M Dinky SW
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
This Dinky is a solid entry point into the Jackson world, especially for players who like a bit of edge. The neck profile is comfortable, the pickups are hot for rock and metal, and the tremolo system lets you get a little wild. It's a fantastic option for younger players or those on a budget looking for a shred-ready guitar.
$351
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Ibanez RGRT420-WK | Jackson JS32 DKA-M Dinky SW |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Ibanez | Jackson |
| Model | RGRT420-WK | JS32 DKA-M Dinky SW |
| Price | $647 | $350 |
| Expert Rating | ⭐ 4.6/5 | ⭐ 4.4/5 |
| Body Material | Nyatoh | Basswood |
| Neck Material | Maple/Walnut 5-Piece | Maple with Graphite Reinforcement |
| Fingerboard | Jatoba | Maple |
| Pickups | 2 Quantum Humbuckers | Jackson High Output Humbuckers |
| Scale Length | 648 mm (25.5") | 648 mm (25.5 in) |
| Frets | 24 Jumbo | 24 Jumbo |
| Bridge | Edge-Zero Tremolo | Jackson Licensed Double Locking Tremolo |
| Weight | Approximately 8.2 lbs (3.7 kg) | Approximately 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg) |
| Pros | + Nyatoh body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation. | + Basswood body delivers surprisingly resonant and punchy low-end |
| Pros | + Wizard III neck profile offers exceptionally fast and comfortable playability. | + Graphite reinforcement prevents neck warp, a nice touch at this price |
| Pros | + Quantum humbuckers deliver high-output, articulate tones suitable for modern genres. | + High-output Jackson pickups provide aggressive, modern distortion tones |
| Pros | + Edge-Zero tremolo system allows for smooth, stable tremolo dives and returns. | + Double-locking tremolo allows for dive bombs without tuning instability |
| Cons | - Nyatoh body, while good, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or alder. | - Basswood body can feel a bit 'soft' and lacks high-end clarity |
| Cons | - Jatoba fretboard can feel slightly harder than rosewood or ebony. | - Stock hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and could be upgraded |
| Cons | - Weathered Black finish, while aesthetically pleasing, might show wear more easily. | - Shorter scale length limits extended range playing and low-end tightness |
| Category | ST Style Guitars | ST Style Guitars |
| Article Number | 607008 | 330584 |
| Check Price | Check Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a more refined version of the Edge, offering better tuning stability and a smoother feel, designed for more extreme playing.
Jatoba is harder than rosewood, so it can be slightly more susceptible to changes in humidity, but regular maintenance with a fretboard conditioner will prevent issues.
They’re known for their clarity and articulation, avoiding the muddy sound sometimes associated with high-output pickups; they’re more focused and precise.
It’s a comfortable ‘C’ shape, slightly thinner than some of their vintage-inspired necks, making it quite accessible for faster playing.
It’s a budget-friendly trem, so expect some tuning instability with heavy use; however, the double-locking design helps mitigate this compared to vintage trem systems.
While the pickups lean towards heavier sounds, you can dial back the gain and get usable clean tones, but it's definitely geared towards higher-gain applications.
