Rock House Blog

NAMM 2012 - Parker Guitars New Maxx Fly Bass

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:38:00 PST

The new Maxx Fly Bass represents the culmination of Parker Guitars' finest work in a bass. Sacrificing nothing in terms of design and aesthetics, this bass is the ultimate in its class and is a powerhouse of features. It is a bass that a professional musician will turn to time and time again and will be debuted at Winter NAMM 2012 with a retail of $5,998.67.

The body is crafted of swamp ash and is backed with Parker's famous carbon glass epoxy wrap. It’s built to sound big, featuring an EMG® ‘P’ split-neck pickup, an EMG® ‘MMCS’ bridge pickup, and an EMG® piezo buffer. The Parker designed Hipshot® bridge also houses the Ghost® piezo saddles. It is available in a gloss finish, with colors including dusty black, 3-tone sunburst, and candy lemon yellow.

The neck is poplar with a carbon glass epoxy fretboard sporting 24 stainless steel frets and Hipshot® Ultra Light lollipop tuners. The entire bass weighs in at approximately 6 lbs. A fretless version is also available. The Parker Maxx Fly Bass represents a new standard in a premium, high-end performance bass.

Parker Guitars is owned by US Music Corp, located in Mundelein, IL. US Music Corp is an international music company that manufactures and distributes products worldwide under Washburn Guitars, Parker Guitars, Randall Amplifiers, Eden Electronics, Oscar Schmidt, Hagstrom, Jay Turser, Jay J, Warwick, Natal Drums, Phonic, Quik Lok, and Profile brand names. US Music Corp is a subsidiary of Jam Industries, Ltd.

For more information on Parker Guitars, visit www.parkerguitars.com

NAMM 2012 - Parker Guitars Debuts Their New 7-String Guitar

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:34:00 PST

The Parker Maxx Fly 7 string is the next step in making Parker Guitars the most versatile instruments on the market. With the same lightweight, modern design and top-of-the-line electronics that Parker is known for, it is the perfect example of versatility that progressive players look towards. The 7-string will be debuted at Winter NAMM 2012 and be available for $5,999.00.

The Maxx Fly 7 String features a mahogany body reinforced with carbon fiber glass epoxy with a Parker 7 string bridge, designed specifically for this instrument. It comes with a Seymour-Duncan Distortion® SH6N pickup in the neck position and a Seymour-Duncan® Distortion TB6 in the bridge position. Additionally, Ghost® piezo saddles with a MIDI preamp are featured in this guitar. The Maxx Fly 7 String is available in dusty black, galaxy grey, and metallic red, all in gloss finish.

The neck is mahogany with a carbon glass epoxy fingerboard and a 25.5” scale with 24 frets. Sperzel® Trim-Lok™ tuners are standard. For those who want the versatility that an extended range guitar can offer, the Maxx Fly 7 String is it.

For more information on Parker Guitars, visit www.parkerguitars.com

NAMM 2012 - VOX Shows New Products

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:31:00 PST

At this year’s NAMM show Vox continues to set the trend with some world-class new products

DELAYLAB PEDAL

Many classic delay units have played a prominent role in music through the years. The sounds of these sought-after units – as well as new delays are all included in the VOX DelayLab. In addition to 30 diverse delay effects, the DelayLab offers a stereo looper that can capture up to 28 seconds, 30 stage-ready programs, and a wealth of extras, all packed into a sturdy diecast body. With an expressly vintage vibe,the DelayLab delivers virtually infinite potential, befitting its status as the new standard for effect processors.

NEW AC4 IN BLUE AC4C1-BL

The legendary VOX AC30 Top-Boost sound is now in a compact, portable amplifier! The AC4C1-BL delivers this unbeatable sound with the captivating appearance of rich blue vinyl and Tygon fret cloth. Plus, bass and Treble tone controls, and a Master Volume allow any player to easily recreate the authentic VOX sound.

AC4 Handed-Wired

The new hand-wired AC4HW1 mini combo amp features an all-valve chassis using two 12AX7 valves and a single EL84 in the power stage, pumping out 4 Watts of power through a 12-inch Celestion G12M Greenback speaker. The HOT/COOL switch offers either the coveted VOX Top Boost tone, or a pure and rich gain that bypasses the tone circuit completely. For relaxed jamming at home, rehearsing, or performing on stage, the AC4HW1VOX Hand-Wired Series is all the amp you’ll ever need.

TONY BRUNO TB18C1

Tony Bruno is a highly respected and sought after boutique amp designer from the USA. He has hand-built over 1000 amplifiers during his career, which are regarded as some of the finest sounding amplifiers in the world. The 18-watt TB18C1 now joins the TB35C1 and TB35C2 in the VOX Bruno Series of amps, fusing classic american tone with Vox’ British pedigree sound.

AGA30 Acoustic Amp

Announcing the new AGA30. This mini combo amp joins the VOX AGA Series of acoustic instrument amplifiers. Enjoy the same rewarding sound on this compact 30 Watt acoustic amp as on the more powerful AGA Series models.

AGA4-AT Acoustic Amp

VOX AGA Series amps have become a favorite on the acoustic scene, thanks to their astounding sound. Created for the acoustic performer, the AGA4-AT builds on this solid design with a Class A all-tube chassis, a dynamic full-range speaker, and a smooth, deep Reverb to deliver serious acoustic sound – even at home!

AC30 & AC15 LIMITED EDITIONS IN BLUE

The acclaimed VOX AC15C1 and AC30C2 Custom Series amplifiers; now available in a Limited Edition featuring vintage 1963 Blue vinyl and classic Tygon fret cloth! An ultra-unique amp that fuses vintage and pop styling.

NAMM 2012 - Washburn's New Paul Stanley Guitar

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:28:00 PST

Paul Stanley of Kiss is legendary around the world, and he has partnered with Washburn Guitars to release the amazing PS21012 “Starfire” signature guitar.

The PS2012 features a carved “raised center” solid Mahogany body with chrome hardware, and has two Seymour-Duncan® SM-3 Mini Humbuckers, controlled by two volume knobs, two tone knobs, and a 3-way toggle switch. A custom Tone-Pros® Tune-O-Matic bridge and custom Paul Stanley tailpiece machined from solid aluminum completes this rocking body. This USA made guitar is available in Black and White.

The neck is also Mahogany and has a bound ebony fingerboard with 22 Jumbo frets and stunning “split” block inlays, with the top half being Pearl, and the bottom being Abalone. The PS2012 Starfire embodies rock and roll in a way only Paul Stanley and Washburn can. The retail price is $5,332.00.

Washburn Guitars is owned by US Music Corp, located in Mundelein, IL. US Music Corp is an international music company that manufactures and distributes products worldwide under Washburn Guitars, Parker Guitars, Randall Amplifiers, Eden Electronics, Oscar Schmidt, Hagstrom, Jay Turser, Jay J, Warwick, Natal Drums, Phonic, Quik Lok, and Profile brand names. US Music Corp is a subsidiary of Jam Industries, Ltd.

NAMM 2012 - Washburn's Vintage Hollowbody with a Modern Feel

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:25:00 PST

For those who want to feel what it’s like to play a well-aged guitar, this is your chance. Washburn is proud to release the HB36 hollowbody guitar. This instrument is packed with modern features, yet aged and coupled with distressed hardware to give musicians the feeling of playing a guitar that is broken in and well played.

The HB36 has flame maple back and sides, a spruce top, and features a hard maple neck with an ebony fingerboard and a stoptail bridge. The vintage model will also feature distressed gold hardware.

Paired with all of these features, the HB36 includes distressed dual humbucking pickups and a hard case. This model will be debuted at NAMM 2012 at a price of $1069.90.

NAMM 2012 - Washburn Guitars Releases Stu Hamm’s Electic Bass Series

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:23:00 PST

Stu Hamm is known throughout the world for his prowess on the bass, and he has partnered with Washburn Guitars to present the Stu Hamm Electric Bass Series. The series includes three models, the SHB30, the SHB40, and the SHB60. Stu was hands on in the design and creation of these instruments, and Washburn Guitars are proud to offer them at economical prices from $533.90 to $1,069.90. They will debut at NAMM 2012.

The SHB30 features a basswood body with passive pickups and a rosewood fingerboard with dot inlays. The SHB40 has a mahogany body with active pickups and Stu Hamm’s signature yin-yang bass clef inlays. The SHB60 features an alder body, with active pickups and piezos, offering a full sonic palette of tones to choose from. All models come with bolt-on maple necks and black die-cast tuners.

The basses are also available in a wide range of finishes including silver sparkle and black for the SHB30, red sparkle and tangerine for the SH40, and natural matte and tobacco sunburst for the SHB60. These basses sound and play great, and look good at the same time.

Home > Instruments > Basses > Signature Series

Signature Series

SH B3

Stu Hamm Signature Model
Double cutaway electric bass
Alder body
Bolt on maple neck with Radial Neck Joint
Rosewood fingerboard
Exclusive EMG X series Stu Hamm pickups with piezo preamp
Volume, tone & piezo controls
Black Hipshot bass bridge with piezo pickups
Black Hipshot Lollipop style tuners with D-Tuner
Price:$3,139.90
Case: GCSH, Included
Color: Matte Tangerine, Natural Matt

SHB 60

Stu Hamm Signature Model
Double cutaway electric bass
Alder body
Bolt on maple neck
Rosewood fingerboard
Yin Yang/Bass Clef inlay
Active J & MM style pickups
individual Piezo bridge pickups
1 Volume, 1 blend, 1 tone & 1 Piezo volume control
Black hardware
Price:$1069.90
Case: GCSH (sold separately)
Color: Natural Matte, Tobacco Sunburst Sparkle

SHB 40

Stu Hamm Signature Model
Double cutaway electric bass
Mahogany body
Bolt on maple neck
Rosewood fingerboard
Yin Yang/Bass Clef inlay
Active J & MM style pickups
1 Volume, 1 blend, 1 bass boost/cut & 1 treble boost/cut control
Black hardware
Price:$712.90
Case: GCSH (sold separately)
Color: Red Sparkle, Tangerine

SHB 30

Stu Hamm Signature Model
Double cutaway electric bass
Basswood body
Bolt on maple neck
Rosewood fingerboard
Passive J style pickups
2 Volume, 2 tone controls
Black hardware
Price:$533.90
Case: GCSH (sold separately)
Color: Silver Sparkle, Black

AB 40SH Stu Hamm

Arched spruce top
Arched maple back
Maple sides
Mahogany neck
Rosewood fretboard
Custom Stu Hamm yin-yang bass clef inlays
Multi-lam binding
Intonatable monorail bridge
Grover tuners
Custom piezo electronics
Price: $1,515.90
Case: GC44, Included
Colors: Black Cherry Burst, Natural

More Info at http://www.washburn.com

NAMM 2012 - PRS SE Custom Gets a New Look and Enhanced Switching

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:13:00 PST

The PRS SE Custom will be updated for 2012 with a new body carve and pickup control configuration. Previously the SE Custom had a flat style body, but for 2012, the popular SE model will receive a beveled top carve, more reminiscent of PRS Guitars’ original Custom 24 model. The SE’s pickup control layout for 2012 will be one volume and one push/pull tone control paired with a 3-way blade switch. The addition of a coil tap on the tone control will give increased versatility, allowing guitarists to split the SE HFS and SE Vintage Bass pickups into singlecoils for the first time. The move from 3-way toggle to blade switch will provide more control and consistency with PRS’s Maryland made line.

“Our SE Custom is following the updates to our Maryland built Custom on an aggressive timeline. These updates provide an excellent instrument at an excellent price,” said Paul Reed Smith.

The updated SE body shape will also come standard on 2012 SE Paul Allender, SE Nick Catanese, and SE Orianthi models, with the SE Orianthi making the added change from a 3-way toggle to a 3-way blade switch. New for 2012, the SE Dave Navarro will receive the updated beveled top as well.

NAMM 2012 - New, Improved, and Limited Edition PRS Artist Model Guitars

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:11:00 PST

Signature Artists Include Dave Navarro, Orianthi, Nick Catanese, Chris Henderson, Neal Schon, and Cody Kilby

PRS Guitars’ family of signature artist guitars will see updates across the line in 2012. The SE line will add an SE Dave Navarro signature guitar and significantly update the SE Orianthi and SE Nick Catanese models. PRS’s Maryland-made Chris Henderson artist model is getting a classic makeover. The PRS Private Stock department will offer a Neal Schon Limited Run of no more than 60 guitars (the model will be available for order from January 19 – February 15, 2012). And in the acoustic product family, a Private Stock Cody Kilby model will be added.

Dave Navarro is only the third PRS artist to have both a Maryland-made and SE signature model (with Carlos Santana and Mark Tremonti coming before him). The Jane’s Addiction guitarist’s SE model will boast a beveled maple top, mahogany back, maple neck with rosewood fingerboard, and SE HFS and SE Vintage Bass pickups with a push-pull tone control and 3-way toggle. His SE model will also have his signature Jet White finish and gold hardware. Navarro’s Maryland-made signature model has been one of PRS’s most popular artist guitars. The addition of the SE Dave Navarro instrument will make this model accessible to more fans and musicians. “This is a way to make my guitar available to people who turn to music and art as a way of dealing with the world. It’s my act of gratitude to other musicians out there,” Navarro explains.

Also in the SE family, the SE Orianthi and SE Nick Catanese have new specs for 2012. The 2012 SE Orianthi will receive the new beveled SE carve and push/pull tone control with 3-way blade switch (previously a 3-way toggle with no coil tapping). The guitar goddess’s finish is also changing – from Red Sparkle to Scarlet Red. Additionally, Nick Catanese of Black Label Society has been working with PRS to renovate his signature SE. The 2012 model will have a straightforward, sleek look with a mahogany body with a flame maple veneer, ebony fingerboard with no inlays, and a Scarlet Red finish with black binding. The SE Nick Catanese will keep its distinguishing chrome EMG 81/85 pickups and Tone Pros adjustable stoptail.

Chris Henderson of 3 Doors Down has also revamped his Maryland-made signature model, shedding the middle pickup for a classic electronics configuration. The 2012 Chris Henderson will feature a PRS 250 treble pickup and #7 bass pickup with a volume and tone control for each and 3-way toggle on the upper bout. Other features include a maple top, mahogany back, mahogany neck, rosewood fingerboard, and adjustable stoptail. This guitar is a must see for 3 Doors fans and anyone lamenting the discontinuation of the PRS SC 250 model.

The PRS Private Stock department is offering a Neal Schon Limited Edition guitar. This Private Stock guitar is a wonderfully designed medium-thin archtop with a Floyd Rose system, curly maple top, back, and sides, and many of Neal’s personal design requests, including knob placement and pickups. The design is virtually identical to the instrument Neal has been playing on the most recent Journey tour. These instruments will be available for order from January 19 – February 15, 2012, but will be limited to a maximum of 60 guitars.

Bluegrass virtuoso Cody Kilby is joining Tony McManus and Martin Simpson as a PRS Private Stock signature acoustic artist. Kilby is best known for his work with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. His Private Stock signature model will feature a PRS Tonare Grand body perimeter with a shallower PRS Angelus depth and a “Traditional” inlay pattern (only available on the Cody Kilby model). Private Stock options available to customers include top, back and side, neck, and fingerboard wood from the famed Private Stock Vault.

PRS Guitars considers its signature artists an essential part of the close-knit PRS family and is proud to continue to add new members to the fold and to continually refresh the offering of signature products.

NAMM 2012 - PRS Custom 24 Refined with Addition of New, Contoured Pickup Bobbins

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:08:00 PST

Paul Reed Smith Guitars’ Custom 24 model was updated in 2011 with new pickups and a redesigned 5-way blade switch, giving the flagship model a new voice and even more versatility. For 2012, its revered uncovered 59/09 pickups are being updated with new, contoured bobbins that arc with the strings for a more spread out, open tone. First seen on PRS Collection instruments, these bobbins are a continuation of Paul Reed Smith’s quest to continually tweak and refine the company’s instruments in subtle ways with the goal of culminating in a more musical instrument always in mind.

“Originally, humbucking pickups were covered to combat electrostatic and electromagnetic hum. As the years passed and the covers came off, there was a gap between the pickup and the pickup ring. These new bobbins not only provide extended low and high end, they look like they were meant to be uncovered and in a ring,” said Paul Reed Smith.

NAMM 2012 - PRS Guitars First Piezo-Equipped Solidbody Instrument – The P22

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:06:00 PST

Paul Reed Smith Guitars is proud to add the P22, the company’s first piezo-equipped solidbody guitar, to its 2012 lineup. The P22 comes standard with a figured maple top, mahogany back, mahogany neck with a 22 fret rosewood fingerboard, and a redesigned PRS/LR Baggs piezo system. PRS and LR Baggs partnered more than a decade ago to design the piezo system found in PRS’s popular hollowbody models. This new system retains the same circuit design as the original, giving the P22 the same tonal authenticity and real world practicality as PRS hollowbody guitars. The redesign of the board itself yielded a version that is more than 60% smaller than the original PRS/LR Baggs system, allowing it to comfortably inhabit a solidbody guitar. Uncovered 53/10 pickups round out this guitar’s specifications and help define the P22’s voice.

“I have recorded and mixed hundreds and hundreds of acoustic guitars, including mixing both live and studio cuts, and I have never heard a more musical, more natural sound from an acoustic pickup system. If that had been the only thing special about the guitar I would have been excited, but then to hear the electric tones it creates - I was blown away,” said Grammy Award-winning Producer and Engineer Don McCollister after a recording session with the P22.

Piezo systems have long allowed guitarists the versatility of wielding both acoustic and electric guitar tones in one instrument. The PRS Hollowbody II and Singlecut Hollowbody II both come standard with a PRS/LR Baggs piezo and have achieved a great level of popularity in PRS Guitars’ product line. The addition of a solidbody model will give musicians a new and unique tool to add to their own lineup.

“The ability to blend in an acoustic sound along with whatever electric tone you are recording would be a game changer in certain situations. I noticed that it really helped the notes ring clearly through the haze, which is a tough thing to accomplish in a complex mix sometimes. I could see it becoming my go-to session guitar, and I’ll be one of the first in line when it comes out!,” continued McCollister.

After nearly a year of work from concept to completion, the P22 guitar will begin shipping in the first quarter of 2012.

Native Instruments releases ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:02:00 PST

Enhanced DRUMMER versions of critically acclaimed ABBEY ROAD DRUMS for use in KONTAKT 5 and free KONTAKT 5 PLAYER

Berlin, January 18th, 2011 – Native Instruments today launched a comprehensive rework of their successful ABBEY ROAD DRUMS instruments: The ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series. These new instruments allow both experienced and hobbyist musicians and producers to create authentic acoustic drum tracks, combining meticulously-sampled drums,recorded at Abbey Road Studios, London, with a comprehensive Groove Library and a detailed Mixer Section with class-A studio effects. This ‘Drums,Studio, Drummer’ approach was pioneered recently in Native Instruments’STUDIO DRUMMER, and the new ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER instruments use the same technical framework, based on KONTAKT 5. The instruments run in the latest version of KONTAKT 5 or the free KONTAKT 5 PLAYER. Owners of existing ABBEY ROAD DRUMS products are entitled to a free upgrade to the new version of the instruments they own.

Each of the four ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER instruments includes a Groove Library with over 1,000 grooves, variations and fills. The grooves complement the sound of each instrument: ABBEY ROAD | 60s DRUMMER includes rhythms for rock’n’roll, blues, jazz, soul/motown and psychedelic rock, for example. Importantly, all grooves were played live by session drummers for a fluid, authentic feel. The grooves are provided as MIDI files, and can easily be transferred into a host sequencer via drag-and-drop for detailed editing and arrangement. For drummers, the software offers MIDI mapping templates for various electronic drum sets and third-party drum software, plus flexible custom mapping options.

The comprehensive mixer section of the ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series gives full control over mic levels on each drum, plus overheads, stereo room mics, snare bleed, and any other specialist mics used during the recording process. Carefully designed mix presets for each kit provide a selection of instantly usable templates based on well-known styles and techniques. Each drum has its own effect chain with a selection of routing options. The selection of effects includes a number of separately-available products, including a professional studio EQ, a studio compressor and TRANSIENT MASTER, plus tape saturation and a high-quality convolution reverb. The Mixer Section, combined with the powerful effects, and the expertly-recorded drum sounds, enables studio-grade sound processing with genuinely professional sound quality and flexibility.

The drum kits, recording techniques and equipment used for each instrument are typical of the period. ABBEY ROAD | 60s DRUMMER provides a Gretsch Round Badge kit from the early 60s and a late 60s

Ludwig Hollywood kit, for a warm, well-rounded room-sound. A Ludwig Vistalite Tequila Sunrise kit and a vintage Premier kit provide the basis of ABBEY ROAD | 70s DRUMMER, with sounds ranging from tight, funky and precise to bombastic heavy rock. ABBEY ROAD | 80s DRUMMER provides a Yamaha 9000 and a Slingerland Magnum kit – plus a full set of Octobans – for definitive 80s sounds, from edgy new wave to big-budget power metal.

ABBEY ROAD | MODERN DRUMMER delivers the sound of contemporaryrock and pop – well-rounded, with a crisp, top-end and plenty of sub-bass –from a Pearl Reference kit and a Drum Workshop Collector’s Series kit from the mid-90s.

Pricing and availability

The ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER Series is now available at the NI Online Shop on DVD and as a download for $119 / 99 € per instrument. All four instruments are also available as a bundle, for $349 / 299 €.

Detailed information on each ABBEY ROAD DRUMMER instrument: www.native instruments.com/abbeyroaddrummerseries

NAMM 2012 - Peavey AT-200 Guitar Featuring Auto-Tune For Guitar Technology

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:49:00 PST

Revolutionary Guitar Provides Perfect Pitch & Intonation,

Forever Changing the Way Guitars Are Played & Recorded

ANAHEIM, Calif. (NAMM Exhibit 5740, Hall B) — Music and audio innovator Peavey Electronics® has partnered with Antares Audio Technologies, the creator of world-renowned Auto-Tune® pitch-correction technology, to announce the dawn of the new guitar revolution: the Peavey AT-200™ guitar featuring Auto-Tune for Guitar, a new musical instrument that electronically self tunes and intonates continuously as you play.

With the simple push of a button on the Peavey AT-200, guitar players can now create music in perfect tune and pitch. The Peavey AT-200 utilizes Antares Auto-Tune for Guitar, a DSP technology that works behind the scenes to bring the clarity of perfect pitch to a quality instrument in an unobtrusive manner. No bulky, unattractive hardware weighs down the playing experience—the Peavey AT-200 looks, plays and sounds just like a conventional guitar, exactly the way it should.

Just as Auto-Tune changed how vocals are recorded, the Peavey AT-200 with Auto-Tune for Guitar will forever change the way guitars are played and recorded. Players won’t have to stop to retune during live performances. Producers and engineers will no longer waste precious time on tuning and intonation issues during recording sessions. With the AT-200 guitar, perfect pitch is the new standard.

The Peavey AT-200 is also the gateway to a growing collection of powerful new Auto-Tune for Guitar features. With its built-in software upgrade capability, new features from Antares can be easily loaded into the AT-200 and controlled by any MIDI source, from MIDI foot switch controllers to iPad or iPhone devices running dedicated Auto-Tune control software.

Combining Peavey’s 47-year legacy of innovation in music and audio with Antares’ history of creating game-changing audio technologies is a natural partnership, said Peavey Electronics founder and CEO Hartley Peavey.

“Peavey has always been a ‘different’ kind of company, one that is driven by the desire to innovate and advance the possibilities in music and audio, while serving players and professionals with attainable, quality products,” said Peavey. “Partnering with Antares to bring their revolutionary Auto-Tune technology to guitars is the gateway to the next generation of music creation. As always, we’re proud to be leading the way.”

As countless players and producers know, less-than-perfect intonation can seriously muddy a guitar's tone. The Peavey AT-200 guitar with the Antares Solid-Tune™ intonation system constantly monitors the precise pitch of each individual string and electronically makes any corrections necessary to ensure that every note of every chord and riff is always in tune, regardless of variables like finger position or pressure. The technology is even smart enough to know when players intend to manipulate pitch, so bends and vibrato sound as natural as they always have. As a result, listening to a guitar with Solid-Tune is a revelation, offering a purity of tone that has simply never before been possible.

“We knew that our Auto-Tune had the power to change the sound of guitars, creating sonority and clarity,” said Dr. Andy Hildebrand, founder of Antares Audio Technologies. “Partnering with a company revered for quality and reliability like Peavey was very important to this project. Peavey has been a leader in musical instruments for decades, and the AT-200 with Auto-Tune for Guitar is a high-quality guitar that any musician can appreciate.”

Peavey’s legacy of innovation includes pioneering the use of computers in guitar making and in creating the first digitally configured and controlled audio system. In addition, Peavey’s ReValver™ amplifier modeling software has changed the way musicians and producers think about recording guitar tone forever.

The Peavey AT-200 electric guitar will be available in July 2012 from authorized Peavey retailers. Please visit www.peavey.com/dealerlocator to find a dealer near you.

NAMM 2012 - Peavey Unveils All-New MAX Series Bass Combos

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:47:00 PST

ANAHEIM, Calif. (NAMM Exhibit 5740, Hall B) — Peavey® proudly announces the new MAX® Series of bass amplifiers, the redesigned lineup of bass combos from the innovation and reliability leader. With power ratings up to 300 watts of power with Peavey’s DDT™ speaker protection and exclusive tone enhancements, the Peavey MAX Series is designed for superior tone, performance and reliability in portable bass amplification.

The Peavey MAX 115, MAX 112 and MAX 110 bass combo amps deliver huge bass tone with exclusive Peavey designs, including unique psycho-acoustic low-end enhancement that adds bass without demanding anything extra from the speaker—a testament to Peavey's technology-driven reliability. The EQ section includes three-band EQ, a gain boost featuring Peavey’s patented TransTube® tube emulation circuitry, and switchable presets like Punch, Mid-Shift and Bright.

The MAX 115, MAX 112 and MAX 110 also feature a built-in chromatic tuner with mute, a tuned and ported enclosure, 1/8-inch headphone output and 1/8-inch auxiliary input. The MAX 115 and MAX 112 include an XLR direct output with ground lift, while the MAX 115 has a built-in tweeter that is bypassed when the TransTube® gain boost is engaged for a more authentic classic overdrive sound.

The MAX 158 and MAX 126 practice amps are loaded with features that make them ideal for small rehearsals, including TransTube® gain boost, multi-band EQ, exclusive DDT compression, headphone output and auxiliary input. The MAX 158 also includes psycho-acoustic low end enhancement and built-in chromatic tuner with mute.

The Peavey MAX® Series bass combos will be available in Q2 2012 from authorized Peavey retailers. Please visit www.peavey.com/dealerlocator to find a dealer near you.
MAX® 115

300 watts of power
15-inch premium Peavey speaker with high-end tweeter
DDT™ speaker protection
Pre-gain control with TransTube® gain boost which bypasses the tweeter for more authentic classic tone
Three-band EQ with Punch, Mid-Shift and Bright controls
Tuned, ported enclosure
Psycho-acoustic low-end enhancement
Built-in direct output with ground lift
1/8" aux input
1/8" phones output
Chromatic tuner with mute
U.S. MSRP $399.99

MAX® 112

200 watts of power
12-inch premium Peavey speaker
DDT™ speaker protection
Pre-gain control with TransTube® gain boost
Three-band EQ with Punch, Mid-Shift and Bright controls
Tuned, ported enclosure
Psycho-acoustic low-end enhancement
Built-in direct output with ground lift
1/8" aux input
1/8" phones output
Chromatic tuner with mute
U.S. MSRP $349.99

MAX® 110

100 watts of power
10-inch premium Peavey speaker
DDT™ speaker protection
Pre-gain control with TransTube® gain boost
Three-band EQ with Mid-Shift
Psycho-acoustic low-end enhancement
Tuned, ported enclosure
1/8" aux input
1/8" phones output
Chromatic tuner with mute
U.S. MSRP $299.99

MAX® 158

20 watts of power
8-inch premium Peavey speaker
Low, Mid, and High EQ controls
Volume control with TransTube® overdrive boost
Psycho-acoustic low-end enhancement
1/8-inch headphone output
1/8-inch input
Chromatic tuner with mute
U.S. MSRP $149.99

MAX® 126

10 watts of power
6.5-inch premium Peavey speaker
Low and High EQ controls
Volume control with TransTube® overdrive boost
1/4-inch input
Headphone output
DDT™ speaker protection
U.S. MSRP $99.99

Features, specifications and pricing are subject to change without notice.

©2009 - 2010 Fred Russell Publishing, All Rights Reserved. This article can not be used without permission from the Author. To Contact the Author email curt@RockHouseMethod.com

NAMM 2012 - Peavey Debuts Feature-Packed PVi 8500 & PVi 6500 Powered Mixers

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:45:00 PST

ANAHEIM, Calif. (NAMM Exhibit 5740, Hall B) — Peavey® set the standard for affordable, feature-packed powered P.A. solutions more than forty years ago. The new Peavey PVi™ 8500 and PVi 6500 powered mixers bring together decades of R&D and design experience to create the best portable, all-in-one audio solutions for musicians and audio professionals.

The Peavey PVi 8500 and PVi 6500 are 400-watt powered mixers that combine exclusive Peavey innovations, the Peavey legacy of quality and reliability, and modern amenities such as an input dock for iPhone® and iPod®. Eight combination XLR and 1/4" inputs (six on the PVi 6500) based on Peavey high-quality, low-noise Silencer® mic preamps provide versatility and clear audio reproduction, while Peavey’s proprietary Mid-Morph® EQ control improves the tone and clarity of vocals and complements the low and high EQ bands by boosting high-mids or cutting low-mids.

Both models feature a nine-band graphic EQ that is assignable to the main or monitor output and features Peavey’s patented FLS® Feedback Locating System, which makes accurate feedback elimination simple and intuitive. Exclusive Peavey Kosmos®-C technology provides spectrum enhancement to both the low and high end of the frequency range, while the footswitchable 24-bit digital effects section includes multiple varieties of rich, highly detailed reverb and delay.

Dual power amplifiers provide 400 watts total, with independent level control and parallel (main and monitor outputs) or stereo (both amps on main output) operation. Users can connect virtually any audio device to this versatile mixer via the onboard 1/4", RCA and 1/8" mini jacks.

The Peavey PVi 8500 and PVi 6500 will be available in Q3 2012 from authorized Peavey retailers. Please visit www.peavey.com/dealerlocator to find a dealer near you.

PVi 8500 and PVi 6500

400 watts (dual 200W power sections, assignable with independent control)
Eight input channels (PVi 8500) or six input channels (PVi 6500)
Patented FLS® Feedback Locating System
Exclusive Mid-Morph® EQ
Onboard 24-bit digital effects
Combination XLR and 1/4" input jacks
Selectable 9-Band Graphic EQ for Mains or Monitors
Patented Kosmos®-C low frequency and spectrum enhancement system
Master Mute
Phantom Power
Footswitchable effects defeat and Master Mute
Input dock for iPod® and iPhone® devices
RCA and 1/8" media input
RCA record output
LED Meter bridge
Power amp subsonic filtering
25 lbs. (11 kg) for both models
U.S. MSRP $399.99 (PVi 8500); $329.99 (PVi 6500)

Features, specifications and pricing are subject to change without notice. iPad®, iPhone® and iPod® are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

NAMM 2012 - TASCAM UNVEILS DP-24-TRACK DIGITAL PORTASTUDIO

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:40:00 PST

Anaheim, CA – NAMM Booth# 6491 (January 19, 2012) – TASCAM, a well known veteran for creating home recording devices, today announced the TASCAM DP-24, a 24-track Digital Portastudio with solid-state recording, a color LCD and channel strip controls to make recording simple so you stay creative. Up to eight tracks can be recorded at a time through its combination XLR and ¼” combo jacks. Input processing like compression and limiting are available during recording, as well as guitar amp simulation and multi-effects for use with the instrument-level input.

Once recorded, tracks can be viewed and mixed on the large color LCD and dedicated mixing controls like nineteen linear faders and a dozen channel strip encoders. Two Mixdown effects including reverb and chorus are also available, as well as a mastering effect. Once finished, songs can be transferred to computer over USB or written to CD with the built-in CD-RW drive.
With its great sound, powerful features and easy operation, the DP-24 is TASCAM’s best Portastudio yet.

Features:

24-track digital Portastudio
Color LCD display and 12-encoder channel strip for simple operation
Eight microphone inputs on combo XLR-1/4” jacks with phantom power
Up to eight-track simultaneous recording at 48kHz/24-bit audio resolution
Solid-state recording to SD Card media for better shock resistance than hard drive recording
Instrument-level input for direct recording of guitar or bass
Dedicated controls for EQ, pan and effect sends
Multiple effects processors for input processing, guitar amp simulation and mastering
Virtual tracks for alternate takes and undo
CD-RW drive for mixdown and backup
Built-in chromatic tuner and metronome
MIDI input and output for clocking and control
¼” monitor outputs, effect send outs and headphone output

More info at http://tascam.com

©2009 - 2010 Fred Russell Publishing, All Rights Reserved. This article can not be used without permission from the Author. To Contact the Author email curt@RockHouseMethod.com

NAMM 2012 - TASCAM INTRODUCES IU2 AUDIO INTERFACE FOR MAC, WINDOWS AND iOS

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:36:00 PST

Anaheim, CA – NAMM Booth# 6491 (January 19, 2012) – TASCAM, a well-known veteran for creating home recording devices, today announced the iU2. TASCAM’s iU2 is a premium sound quality audio interface for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. It includes all of the features of TASCAM’s best-selling USB audio interfaces, including a pair of great-sounding microphone inputs. The XLR inputs have phantom power for use with high-quality condenser microphones. These feed an onboard microphone preamp and A/D converter for better sound performance than those built into iPhone and iPad – true stereo recording with low noise and less tendency to distort. The inputs also accept line-level signals or you can plug a guitar or bass directly into your device.

In addition to compatibility with iOS devices, the iU2 also works with Mac and Windows computers. A zero-latency monitoring path allows musicians to hear themselves directly through the unit, without any distracting delay. MIDI in and out are provided to interface with synths and drum machines, and a digital output connects to digital mixers or recorders.

Features:

Audio/MIDI Interface for Mac, Windows and iOS devices
Compatible with iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
Two XLR mic inputs with phantom power
Two balanced line inputs
Instrument-level input for guitar or bass
MIDI in and out
Onboard A/D conversion for low-noise and distortion when recording with iOS devices
Zero-latency direct monitoring
S/PDIF Digital Output
Includes USB cable, iOS dock connection cable, XLR to ¼” conversion cables

NAMM 2012 - Line 6 Launches StageScape™ M20d, the World’s First Smart Mixer for Live Sound

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:31:00 PST

— StageScape M20d is an integrated live sound solution that delivers touchscreen based visual mixing, comprehensive audio processing, multi-track recording, and remote control via iPad® to explode the traditional mixer paradigm.—

ANAHEIM, Calif.—January 19, 2012—Line 6, Inc. (NAMM room 212A/B) introduces StageScape™ M20d, the world’s first smart mixer for live sound.

Featuring a groundbreaking touchscreen visual mixing environment, StageScape M20d streamlines and accelerates the process of getting great live sound in an intuitive, complete solution that inspires great performances. Massive DSP power delivers comprehensive professional audio processing on every channel including multi-band feedback suppression. Multi-channel recording, remote control capabilities via one or more iPad® devices and pristine audio quality make the StageScape M20d an ideal mixing solution for a wide variety of live sound applications.

“For musicians who take care of their own live sound, getting great results consistently can be a time-consuming and frustrating experience – particularly when they want to be focused on performing,” said Simon Jones, vice president of new market development at Line 6. “StageScape M20d answers those challenges by reinventing mixer workflow to better empower musicians to dial in a great mix with speed and ease. With a smart design to dramatically reduce setup time, intuitive touchscreen control that simplifies complex mixing tasks, and premium mic pre’s and effects to ensure the best sound quality, StageScape M20d will deliver great sound in a range of situations.”

A groundbreaking visual mixing system replaces the traditional mixer channel strip with intuitive touchscreen control. In Perform Mode, a graphic display of the stage setup uses icons to represent each performer or input. Color-coded encoders provide immediate access to level control. A single touch on a performer’s icon gives access to all parameters relating to that channel, from basic tweaks through deep effects editing.

The audio signal chain can be controlled via an innovative X-Y tweak pad. Drag a finger toward common sound descriptors like “bright” or “dark” and multiple parameters adjust simultaneously to achieve that sound. Deep Edit mode gives more experienced operators access to every effect parameter via a familiar plug-in style interface.

StageScape M20d streamlines setup with auto-sensing mic and line inputs and outputs that can detect when a connection is made and automatically configure the channel gain, EQ, effects and routing.

A host of recording options are also available. StageScape M20d provides multi-channel recording in high-resolution, 24-bit WAV files to SD card, USB drive or direct to computer, enabling musicians to easily capture every rehearsal and performance.

Taking full advantage of Line 6 audio processing expertise, StageScape M20d features professional-grade effects on every channel, including fully parametric EQs, multi-band compressors, feedback suppression, and more. In addition, four master stereo effects engines are available, comprising studio quality reverbs, delays and a vocal doubler. A wide range of channel presets covering everything from individual drum settings to lead vocals allow musicians to configure appropriate channel effects quickly.

Using one or more iPad® devices with StageScape M20d gives musicians control of the mixer from any location. This makes it possible to set individual monitor mixes from the stage or adjust the front-of-house mix from any location inside the venue.

Equipped with the L6 LINK™ digital networking protocol, StageScape M20d allows complete PA systems of any scale to be easily configured and controlled. Connect StageScape M20d to L6 LINK enabled StageSource speakers and the system automatically configures stereo signals and effects, sets individual component levels and adjusts individual speaker performance.

When connected via L6 LINK, StageScape M20d and StageSource speakers are capable of unparalleled power and flexibility. Together they redefine the typical mixer-speaker paradigm to introduce a smarter live sound experience in which the live rig is a complete, intelligent eco-system rather than merely a linear combination of components.

Intelligence is built into every aspect of StageScape M20d. From auto-sensing inputs that configure channel DSP processing strips, to professionally crafted audio processing presets, to innovative touchscreen-based multi-parameter effects control, StageScape M20d provides the fastest path to great live sound. StageScape is ideal for a wide range of live sound applications from performing musicians and bands, through to fixed installation in clubs, houses of worship or corporate event venues.

Inputs/Outputs

12 high-performance, digitally controlled, auto-sensing mic/line inputs

4 additional auto-sensing line inputs

2 digital streaming inputs direct from computer, USB drive or SD card

Stereo line inputs for integrating MP3 players or other sound sources

4 auto-sensing monitor outputs on balanced XLR connectors

2 auto-sensing main outputs on balanced XLR connectors

L6 LINK multi-channel digital networking for integrating L6 LINK enabled speaker systems

Control

7-inch full-color touchscreen visual mixing environment

Remote control capability via one or more iPad® or iPad® 2 devices via an optional USB WiFi adapter

Recording

Multi-channel recording to computer, USB drive or SD card

Quick-capture recording to internal memory for sound check

Processing

Internal 32-bit floating point audio processing

Massive DSP power provides parametric EQs, dynamic EQs, compressors, multi-band compressors, gates, delays, limiters and more

Multi-band feedback suppression on every mic input

4 stereo master effects engines including reverbs, delays and vocal doubler

Virtually unlimited I/O setups, scenes, and channel processing presets.

Learn more at http://line6.com/stagescape.

NAMM 2012 - Line 6 DT25™ Guitar Amplifiers Combine Boutique Tube Design with HD Modeling

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:26:00 PST

--New more portable and affordable family of tube amps from Line 6 and tube-amp legend Reinhold Bogner combine reconfigurable analog components and HD modeling technology to deliver boutique tone, feel and touch response, and multiple amplifier voicings--

ANAHEIM, Calif. – January 19, 2012 – Line 6 (room 212A/B) is showing the DT25 family of amplifiers at Winter NAMM 2012. The portable, new 25W/10W tube amps, which include DT25 112 Combo, DT25 Head, and DT25 112 Extension Cab, deliver boutique sound and performance via a uniquely versatile design by renowned amp designer Reinhold Bogner and advanced HD modeling technology from Line 6.

“DT25 is like four boutique tube amps in one,” remarked Elliot Chenault, Line 6 Product Manager. “Bogner’s innovative design applies reconfigurable analog components to provide incredible sonic flexibility and the rich tone, feel and touch response his amps are known for.”

The new amplifiers provide guitarists with four guitar amp voicings, or sonic signatures: American clean, British crunch, Class A chime and modern high-gain. Each voicing is the perfect combination of negative feedback loop topology and HD preamp and tone stack modeling. Add to that the reconfigurable operating class (Class AB/25 Watts/Fixed Bias or Class A/10 Watts/Cathode Biased) and power tube mode (Pentode or Triode) and guitarists can dial in classic vintage tones or highly customized originals of their own creation.

The simple, two-channel design provides uncommon flexibility. Each channel is independent – not “clean” or “dirty” – and any configuration of voicing, operating class and power tube mode can be dialed in to either channel. A flick of the A/B switch (or a tap of a latching footswitch) is capable of causing a full analog and digital transformation.

DT25 amplifiers feature L6 LINK™ jacks for connection to new Line 6 POD® HD multi-effect processors. When connected, the POD HD adds effects, additional amp voicings, foot control and instant scalability (including stereo operation with multiple DT25 amplifiers). The amplifiers’ back panels also feature MIDI I/O, a serial effect loop, multiple speaker outs and a direct out with cabinet simulation, which provides the rich DT25 tone without having to mic the speaker.

DT25 amplifiers feature one 12AX7 and two EL84 tubes, custom-voiced Celestion® G12H90 speakers, and modeled spring reverb with individual level control per channel.

For more information, please visit http://line6.com/dt25

NAMM 2012 - Epiphone's Jack Casady Bass - SB

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:16:00 PST

The Jack Casady Signature Bass was designed by Casady in collaboration with Epiphone and is the culmination of years of experimentation by the Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna bassist to find an instrument with superb, balanced electric tone and the response of an acoustic bass.

Casady is one of the rare rock bassists known by both fans and players for his signature tone. And like The Beach Boys' Brian Wilson and The Beatles' Paul McCartney, Casady became a bass player after years of study on other instruments. "My first teacher was a big band guitarist named Harry Vorhees. Later on I took from a number of guitarists; one was Bill Harris who was the guitarist for the Clovers," Casady told Epiphone.com. "He had studied with a guy who studied with Andres Segovia."

Looking for the Holy Grail of Bass Tone

"When I first started playing, I ran across a short scale semi-hollow bass," said Casady "Despite lacking some low end, I really enjoyed the semi-hollow nature of that bass and over the years tried to capture that characteristic." Casady did find a rare Les Paul bass that came close to the sound he was seeking. "In 1985, I was living in New York and happened to stop in a music store one day and saw a goldtop, full scale semi-hollow Les Paul bass," Casady recalled. "I loved the bass but found the pickup to be deficient."

Casady approached Epiphone with his ideas and with help from our Epiphone luthiers, Casady fulfilled a life-long dream by designing the perfect electric bass.

Like all Epiphone’s, the Jack Casady is covered by our Limited Lifetime Warranty and Gibson 24/7/365 Customer Service. It’s your music and you deserve the best. Visit your Authorized Epiphone dealer today and pick up the Jack Casady signature bass.

More info at http://www.epiphone.com

©2009 - 2010 Fred Russell Publishing, All Rights Reserved. This article can not be used without permission from the Author. To Contact the Author email curt@RockHouseMethod.com

NAMM 2012 - Epiphone Announces The Ace Frehley "Budokan" Les Paul Custom

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:10:00 PST

Epiphone is proud to announce our tribute to Ace Frehley, one of rock’s most influential guitarists, with the Epiphone Limited Edition Ace Frehley “Budokan” Les Paul Custom Outfit. As the lead guitarist for KISS (and the original designer of the famous KISS logo), Ace Frehley is renown around the world as one of the Les Paul guitar’s most exciting ambassadors as well as one of rock’s greatest showman. Ace single handedly inspired a generation of guitarists to pick up rock and roll’s most powerful axe. Now, Epiphone makes this iconic guitar available to players everywhere.

The Budokan Les Paul: Ace’s original “Budokan” Les Paul made its stage debut in 1977 during KISS’s “Rock and Roll Over” world tour, which helped establish KISS as the #1 live act on the planet. Ace made the “Budokan” Les Paul his main axe at the very time KISS’s fame was exploding around the world thanks to prime time television appearances, a sold out debut at Madison Square Garden and the release of their classic album, Love Gun, which included Ace’s signature hit, “Shock Me,” and ranked #50 in Guitar World's "100 Greatest Guitar Solos" ever. But 1977 is most remembered as the year KISS sold out four nights at the Budokan Theater in Tokyo, Japan, breaking the record previously held by The Beatles since 1966. Ace returned to Japan with his “Budokan” Les Paul the following year for the Alive II tour where KISS broke the record again with a sold out five night stand. Recreating A Historic Classic: KISS’s Budokan appearances helped make Ace’s “Budokan” Les Paul his trademark guitar. Now, Epiphone’s signature luthiers who helped create collectable artist models for Slash, Tak Matsumoto and Joe Bonamassa, present perhaps the most talked about signature model yet, the Epiphone Limited Edition Ace Frehley “Budokan” Les Paul Custom Outfit.

Epiphone worked closely with Ace and his original “Budokan” Les Paul to create a faithful reproduction of his favorite Les Paul as it stands today, including period correct 3-piece hard Maple top, 3-piece Mahogany neck with volute, Grover™ tuners with pearloid buttons and the famous “Eagle” sticker. Unlike Ace’s original however, all three humbuckers on Epiphone’s Ltd. Edition “Budokan” Les Paul are wired and ready to go. We’ll leave the explosive power all to you!

Epiphone Limited Edition Ace Frehley “Budokan” Les Paul Custom Outfit: Like all Les Paul’s, Ace’s “Budokan” axe features a mahogany body with the same classic lines of the original and with Les Paul Custom style multi-binding both on the top and back. And like Ace’s original, the Epiphone Ltd. Edition “Budokan” is made with a 3-piece hard maple cap. We’ve also stayed true to the Kalamazoo factory’s 70s-era 3-piece mahogany neck with a SlimTaperTM “C”-profile with a volute at the zero fret. The neck is glued-in and hand set with a deep-set neck joint. The 24.75” scale length is also exact to the original’s specifications. The bound Ebony fingerboard has 22 medium jumbo frets, a 14” radius and 1.68” bone-style nut. The beautiful faded Cherry Sunburst color finish will make you think you’ve found a vintage classic. And, we’ve also included an exact replica of Ace’s “Eagle” sticker that you can attach if you want to be just like Ace! The Epiphone Ltd. Edition “Budokan” Les Paul also features the same inlay found on Ace’s vintage “Budokan” Les Paul with the classic mother-of-pearl LP Custom split diamond inlay on the headstock, mother-of-pearl LP Custom blocks on frets 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 15, 17, 19 and 21 and to top it all off, a mother-of-pearl Epiphone logo on our classic clipped dovewing headstock.

The iconic bell-shaped truss rod cover found on all Les Pauls has “Ace Frehley Budokan” printed in white silkscreen. Les Paul and DiMarzioTM Pickups: As you would expect, Epiphone and Ace took great care to recreate the power of Ace’s original Budokan Les Paul. Though Ace’s original had only the bridge pickup connected, the Epiphone Ltd. Ace Frehley “Budokan” Les Paul Custom is all wired up and ready to rock with three DiMarzioTM pickups; a DiMarzioTM PAF style pickup in the neck and middle positions and a DiMarzioTM “Super Distortion” in the bridge position to draw out the stage rattling tone of the mahogany body. We’ve also recreated the “Budokan’s vintage controls featuring gold SpeedKnobTM knobs for bridge volume, middle volume, neck volume and a master tone control. Epiphone Guaranteed Hardware: Epiphone’s solid hardware is built to last a lifetime and the Ltd. Edition “Budokan” features our very best including Epiphone’s LockTone™ Tune-o-matic bridge, a LockTone™ Stopbar tailpiece, Epiphone’s exclusive non-rotating heavy duty output jack, and an Epiphone all-metal 3-waypickup selector. And like Ace’s original, Epiphone’s Ltd. Edition “Budokan” comes with vintage style Grover® machine heads with a 14:1 ratio and pearloid buttons.

Les Paul for the Ages: Each Epiphone Ltd. Edition Ace Frehley “Budokan” Les Paul Custom Outfit comes with a custom hard case with “Budokan” in white stencil, a numbered certificate, an unattached “Eagle” sticker, and presentation binder which also includes a photograph of Ace with his Epiphone “Budokan” Les Paul. As with all Epiphones, the Ltd. Edition Ace Frehley “Budokan” comes with our Limited Lifetime Guarantee and Gibson’s 24/7/365 customer service.

There is no other rock and roll guitar like the “Budokan” and only 1,000 guitars will be produced. Get yours today!

More info at http://www2.epiphone.com

Breedlove - New Limited Edition Guitar Models Announced

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:59:00 PST

The Winter 2012 C25 is an original Breedlove Concert Body guitar with Soft cutaway. Built with a Sitka Spruce top and solid Koa back and sides, this guitar produces textured tones with a clear treble resonance. These woods are highlighted by a Gloss Tea Burst and accentuated with a Tortoise binding. The neck features a Hawaiian Fishhook design cut out of Green Abalone and positioned at the 12th fret. The Koa motif is reflected in the Koa peghead overlay with a Paua Breedlove ‘B.’ Ten guitars will be built in January, February and March.

Breedlove Guitars introduces the Breedlove Limited Edition Models for 2012. Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. During each season, we will be building 2 Limited Edition models featuring exotic woods, custom inlays and other custom features designed by highly skilled luthiers and artisans at Breedlove Guitars. Dependent on the materials, 5-20 instruments will be built for each Limited Edition model. The exotic wood list includes Sinker Redwood, Port Orford White Cedar, African Blackwood, Bubinga, Cocobolo, Koa, Myrtlewood, Brazilian Rosewood, Striped Ebony, Figured Walnut, and Ziricote.

The Winter 2012 OM introduces a fresh approach to a classic guitar style. Built with a solid Adirondack top with Adirondack bracing and solid exotic Striped Ebony back and sides, this guitar creates powerful voice unexpected out of a smaller bodied guitar. The guitar is further complimented with a Koa binding and a Mosaic Pins inlay. The peghead features a Striped Ebony overlay with a Mother-of-Pearl Breedlove ‘B.’ Ten Winter 2012 OM guitars will be built from January to March.

For more info visit http://breedlovemusic.com

©2009 - 2010 Fred Russell Publishing, All Rights Reserved. This article can not be used without permission from the Author. To Contact the Author email curt@RockHouseMethod.com

NAMM 2012 - BOSS ANNOUNCES GT-100 AMP EFFECTS PROCESSOR

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:51:00 PST

BOSS is proud to introduce the GT-100 Amp Effects Processor, the latest addition to the popular GT-series lineup of floor-based multi-effects units for guitarists. Driven by a powerful new BOSS DSP engine, the GT-100 is the most advanced GT ever, loaded with newly developed, ultra-responsive COSM® amps, updated effects with enhanced real-time control options, dual displays for easy sound programming, and more.

BOSS has completely remodeled all of the COSM amps in the GT-100, distilling decades of sound research to create the best-sounding guitar processor the company has produced to date. Reaching far beyond conventional vintage amp modeling, the GT-100 includes a host of all-new amps that deliver amazingly transparent clean tones to ultra-high gain modern sounds and everything in between.

At the core of the GT-100 is BOSS’ new proprietary DSP chip, a blazing-fast processor that provides unparalleled muscle for COSM amps and effects. Thanks to this powerful new chip, the GT-100’s COSM amps sound better than ever before, with a dynamic touch and response that truly captures the feel and expressiveness of the world’s finest tube-based amplifiers.

The GT-100 is also a powerful multi-effects processor packed with a huge array of effects, including overdrives, distortions, delays, pitch shifters, modulation, reverb, and many more. The newly developed ACCEL pedal lets players creative explosive effects in live performance by adjusting multiple effects parameters in real time with one simple foot press.

The GT-100’s user interface has been completely redesigned as well, offering easy, intuitive operation that greatly improves on previous designs. Dual displays make navigation simple while programming tones, with intuitive parameter adjustment via easy-to-grab knobs. The GT-100 also includes the acclaimed EZ TONE, which gives everyone from beginners to pros the ability to dial up world-class tones with just a few tweaks. AMP CUSTOMIZE and OD/DS CUSTOMIZE functions, which enable to create original amps and OD/DS, are newly added to EZ TONE.

Housed in a road-tested, all-metal GT chassis with a sleek black finish, the GT-100 is ready for action on stage and in the studio. Eight onboard foot switches provide control over patch selection, as well as immediate access to the built-in Phrase Looper and ACCEL functions. The integrated heavy-duty expression pedal offers foot control over volume, wah, pitch effects, and more. Additionally, the new quick-access Manual mode instantly transforms the GT-100 from a patch-based multi-effects unit to a pedalboard full of legendary stomps with individual on/off control.

The GT-100 will be available in February 2012. For more information, visit www.RolandConnect.com.

NAMM 2012 - BOSS ANNOUNCES TU-10 CLIP-ON TUNER

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:48:00 PST

BOSS is pleased to announce the TU-10 Clip-On Chromatic Tuner for guitars and basses, the first of its type available from the industry leader in electronic tuners. A number of unique and useful features, along with legendary BOSS accuracy and reliability, make the TU-10 a true standout among clip-on style tuners.

With its ultra-precise tuning accuracy and stylish, compact, and durable design, the TU-10 is a must-have addition to any case or gig bag. The impressive true color LCD dramatically improves visibility even in any lighting condition, and makes tuning simple, with the current pitch shown simultaneously via a streaming meter display, flat/sharp arrow indicators, and a note-name readout.

The TU-10 also has a monochromatic mode, which turns off the backlight and provides double the battery life. To help users tune even more quickly, the TU-10 incorporates BOSS’ proprietary Accu-Pitch® function, which displays a positive visual confirmation when the correct pitch is attained.

With many clip-on tuners, the joint between the meter and the clip is the most fragile part of the tuner. On the TU-10, there is no joint: the meter and clip are one solid piece, for superior strength and reliability.

The TU-10 also supports flat tuning up to five semitones down, a feature rarely available in clip-on designs. Flat tuning is particularly desirable for guitarists and bassists that play heavy rock and metal styles.

The TU-10 will be available in April 2012. For more information, visit www.RolandConnect.com.

©2009 - 2010 Fred Russell Publishing, All Rights Reserved. This article can not be used without permission from the Author. To Contact the Author email curt@RockHouseMethod.com

NAMM 2012 - Veillette Guitars Presents the Flyer Acoustic Guitar

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:58:00 PST

Recognized throughout the industry for original and useful new guitar concepts, Veillette Guitars is proud to present its latest innovation, the Flyer - a truly unique take on the acoustic guitar, with a sound much bigger than its size.

The Flyer’s tone is bursting with personality - an intriguing blend of acoustic flavors, combining flattop, jazz archtop, resonator, and Macaferri-style elements. Echoes of vintage Stellas and classic blues sounds mix beautifully with the chop and responsiveness of a jazz box. The midrange is lively, open, and very vocal – incredible for slide playing and excellent for complex fingerstyle where note definition is essential.

The solid Sitka Spruce top is curved into a “radiused” arc shape, yielding a stiff but lightweight face that responds very differently from your average flattop guitar. The Flyer’s solid maple back and extra-thick bent sides are designed and built to withstand the rigors of travel far better than traditional acoustics – making this the perfect traveling companion or touring guitar. The full-scale (25”) 22-fret neck and compact body result in a very satisfying full-sounding guitar.

Unplugged, the Flyer has much more volume and “cut” than its small size suggests, with projection that rivals many larger guitars. Plugged in, the Flyer’s distinctive personality shines through the high-fidelity onboard electronics, resulting in an incredibly playable and comfortable stage acoustic with a look and sound that really stand out.

Veillette players include Dave Matthews, Kaki King, Mike McCready, James Taylor, John Mayer, David Torn, Neal Schon, Colin Hay, Keller Williams, and many more.

Veillette Guitars are handmade in Woodstock, NY. With full custom-shop flexibility, almost any special request can be accommodated.

MSRP: $3150 including D-Tar Wavelength piezo/preamp system and case.

http://www.veilletteguitars.com

NAMM 2012 - The Producer from 65amps

noreply@blogger.com (Sarge) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:53:00 PST

65amps introduces their newest guitar amplifier, The Producer. This innovative 28-Watt amplifier utilizes a unique tube circuit that addresses the characteristics of modern tubes in a new way.

65amps’ Dan Boul says, “Copying old circuits is becoming more and more dangerous due to the fact that old circuits were designed around tubes that could take high voltage, and modern tubes just can't.” 65amps has created The Producer as their own, unique solution to coaxing consistent and reliable classic tube warmth from modern tubes.

The Producer runs its pair of EL34s in an extremely safe and unconventional way. With help from Mercury Magnetics, 65amps developed a unique transformer and circuitry that allows EL34s to produce great tone in such a way that they last for an extremely long time – we’re talking decades. Aside from eliminating costly re-tubing, this new approach simply delivers both an outstanding classic distortion, and a fantastic clean tone.

Many players find EL34 amps too loud for their liking, and are forced to use attenuators or master volumes to compensate. The 28-Watt Producer takes advantage of 65amps’ proprietary Master Voltage circuit to deliver tone-rich distortions and cleans at reasonable volumes.

The Producer has two channels, each with an independent 65amps Bump control, which allows for four distinct voices – all accessible through a standard 2-button foot-switch. With 65amps legendary build quality and style, the Producer solidly delivers versatile, luscious tone.

Find out more at www.65amps.com

©2009 - 2010 Fred Russell Publishing, All Rights Reserved. This article can not be used without permission from the Author. To Contact the Author email curt@RockHouseMethod.com

Links for 2009-06-10 [del.icio.us]

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Review - The Super-Vee Locking Tremolo System
This month I am happy to review the Super-Vee locking tremolo system.

Links for 2009-06-09 [del.icio.us]

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 PDT

ReValver MK III - Interview with Peavey Electronics Scott Mire
I recently had the opportunity to have a sit down conversation with Scott Mire who is the Creative Marketing Director of Peavey Electronics and get into some of the aspects of their amplifier software, The ReValver MKIII.

Links for 2009-05-14 [del.icio.us]

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 PDT

The Rock House Blog: Guitar Lesson- Circle of Fourths Chord Progressions
Chord progressions using the circle of fourths are popular in all musical styles.

Links for 2009-05-13 [del.icio.us]

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Upgrading Your Electric Guitar Gear
Now it's time to lay your $100 electric guitar that came with a two-watt amp to rest and get some new gear that will help you further impress people.

Links for 2009-05-09 [del.icio.us]

Sun, 10 May 2009 00:00:00 PDT

The Rock House Blog: The Weekend Read of Guitar Blogs - May 3rd through May 9th
Some cool reads from The Rock House Blog list of "Other Cool Sites". Check 'em all out on the left side.

Links for 2009-05-07 [del.icio.us]

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Rhythm Guitar Syncopation Studies - Guitar Lesson
In this lesson I am going to show how to develop a strong sense of rhythmic playing.

Links for 2009-05-06 [del.icio.us]

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 PDT

The Rock House Blog: Guitar Teacher Certification From National Guitar Workshop
We are considering having a special seminar during our first week in Purchase, NY (July 19-26) that focuses on all the elements of being a successful guitar instructor including:
Free eBook on Music Theory
a cool free download of an E Book that he shared with everyone on the Rock House Forums and I thought I would pass it on to the blog readers.