News: Bass Guitars

Cort Introduces Action HH4 Bass Guitar With 2-Humbucker Configuration

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 22:41:47 +0000

Cort Introduces Action HH4 Bass Guitar with 2-Humbucker Configuration

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — Cort expands the versatility of its Action Series of bass guitars with the new Action HH4, which provides players a two-humbucker configuration capable of producing a variety of sounds. In a series known for its affordability as well as its high craftsmanship, the Action HH4 stands out for its unique wiring configuration and its active/passive switching option that expands the tonal palette. A choice of three pearloid colors—Blood Red Metallic, Tasman Light Blue, and Black—allows players to get the look they desire at a price point they can afford. Additionally, the 5-string Action HH5 is available to players who desire greater range.

The Action HH4 features a pair of new VTB-H humbucker pickups with Alnico V magnets for a smooth, musical sound, with a powerful yet articulate punch in the low-midrange and bass registers. This is where the specially wired 5-way switch offers a distinct advantage, giving players the ability to choose each pickup on its own or both, as well as two parallel modes with the two inside coils or two outside coils. The tone control has also been wired to be usable in the passive setting for even more tonal variety. Volume, bass and treble knobs complete the Action HH4’s electronic specs.

Excellent material choice and construction also factor into the Action HH4’s adaptability. The meranti body offers similar tonal characteristics to mahogany, with a strong low-midrange that can cut through the mix for rhythm and also provide sweet highs for singing leads. The Canadian hard maple neck provides power and stability as well as a warm, beefy and punchy tone with a strong upper midrange. This maple is dense and rigid, but has the right amount of tactile flexibility with the ability to respond sensitively to picking attack and slapping techniques with plenty of articulation and power. Assisting in the response is the jatoba fingerboard, which is dense and stiff, but can produce strong fundamentals and volume project with emphasis on the high-mids. Overall, the Action HH4’s bolt-on neck offers 24 frets at a 34-inch (864 mm) scale.

In designing the body of the Action HH4, Cort has taken both appearance and ergonomics into account. The elegantly contoured arm cut on the top of this guitar and others in the Action series has been carefully executed for maximum comfort without removing unnecessary amounts of wood. Rounding out the features are die-cast tuners, chrome hardware and an EB6 (4) bridge on the Action HH4 and EB6 (5) bridge on the Action HH5.

The Action HH4 bass guitar from Cort is available at MSRP U.S. $499.99, while the Action HH5 is available at MSRP U.S. $549.99. Learn more and get a closer look at www.cortguitars.com.

About Cort Guitars
Cort designs, manufactures and delivers some of the finest guitars and basses to musicians and music enthusiasts all around the world. Over the past 50 years, the company has worked with some of the largest and most well-recognized guitar companies in the industry, as well as artists of international recognition. Cort remains focused on providing instruments that will last generations with the best workmanship possible, the best materials and components, and the best service long after the instruments have been purchased. For more information, visit www.cortguitars.com.

New 2019 Caparison Dellinger Bass

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

NEW 2019 CAPARISON DELLINGER-BASS

Caparison Guitars is proud to announce the release of the new 2019 Dellinger-BASS, the first new regular model series Caparison bass in a decade. All available in Dark Blue Matt, Dark Black Matt or Dark Green Matt Finishes.

The 4 string Caparison Dellinger-BASS is priced at US$3,199 (Europe €3,339).

The new Caparison 2019 Dellinger-BASS is instantly familiar but at the same time much improved. Now complete with the revolutionary Fishman Fluence Multi-Voiced pickup system this means that as well as giving you the legendary and unsurpassed rock performance that the Dellinger is famous for, it can now also deliver genuine and effortless jazz and funk tones – plus any other mood or any other style that you care to dial in!

The Fishman Fluence Bass Soapbar pickup system produces multiple timbres and sounds, each untethered from the other. Original and totally re-imagined, Fluence Multi-Voice pickups for electric bass are free from the hum, noise and frustrating inductance issues that plague even the most coveted wire-wound pickups, revealing pure, uncorrupted bass tone. Fluence Bass Soapbar pickups can be split for single coil operation with a Jazz Bass string window. Also, the included Treble and Bass controls can be used to further expand the tonal palette. Voicings for the Fluence Bass pickups were created to offer players a wide palette of sounds that cover all playing styles. Plus, of course, Caparison has fitted the Fishman USB rechargeable battery pack as standard.

Added to this we have also included the option of through body or bridge stringing, and talking of bridges, the Dellinger Bass has an improved Gotoh 303SJ-4 fitted – to give more sustain and resonance to your sound.

The neck is faster and more playable than ever, the ebony fret board is sheer perfection and the action super, super low. The addition of titanium rods within the length of the neck ensures that the Dellinger Bass has a stability that can be relied upon night after night whatever the conditions.

The Dellinger Bass is the culmination of years of research, improvements and upgrades. The Caparison mantra of ultimate playability, functional simplicity and the quest for perfection are very self-evident in this new version of the classic Dellinger bass. It is so much more than the sum of its parts, it is built to inspire.

Caparison Guitars are pleased to present the new 2019 Caparison Dellinger-BASS 4 string bass. The first new regular series Caparison Bass in a decade. Available in Dark Blue Matt, Dark Black Matt & Dark Green Matt, the first will be available in early October.

Priced at MAP: $3,199 (USA), €3,339 (Europe) The 2019 Caparison Dellinger-BASS is available to order now. https://www.caparisonguitars.com/products/dellinger-bass/

Founded in 1995 Caparison Guitars are hand crafted boutique instruments made in Japan and to the highest quality and specification. Their aim is to make the highest possible quality and best sounding guitars that you will ever play.

Cort Introduces B4 Plus AS RM Bass Guitar With Roasted Maple Fingerboard

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort Introduces B4 Plus AS RM Bass Guitar with Roasted Maple Fingerboard

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — Cort continues its material innovation in the Artisan Series of electric bass guitars with the introduction of the B4 Plus AS RM. This new model combines four tonal woods—including an all-new roasted maple fingerboard treatment—in one balanced instrument.

The foundation of the B4-Plus AS RM is its swamp ash body, characterized by its scooped-mids sound with a bigger low-end and clear highs for a more balanced tone. The open-pore finish on this bass enhances the resonance even further. The wood’s natural light weight and appealing grain pattern are also desirable aspects of swamp ash.

To complement the brightness of the swamp ash body, the B4 Plus AS RM uses 5-piece panga panga and walnut for the neck, resulting in a tight and defined midrange. This combination creates an ideally balanced sound to round out the bass spectrum.

Cort’s latest material innovation in the Artisan Series is seen and heard though the “RM” roasted maple fingerboard on the B4-Plus AS RM. The maple has been treated in an oxygen-free oven at a high temperature, stabilizing the wood for a bigger, bolder tone while also developing its golden-brown look for vintage appeal.

The translation of the B4 Plus AS RM’s tone is reliant upon the instrument’s pickups, and the B4 Plus AS RM doesn’t disappoint in this regard. The Bartolini MK-1 pickups deliver plenty of punchy and warm mids as well as transparent and brilliant highs for a superbly balanced sound. Meanwhile, the Markbass MB-1 EQ provides a natural, transparent boost that doesn’t color the organic nature or resonance of the tonal woods.

The B4 Plus AS RM has a 24-fret, 34-inch scale, providing plenty of versatility, and the double cutaway design provides excellent access to the upper frets. Also improving playability are the Hipshot Ultralite Tuners, which provide tuning accuracy and stability.

The B4 Plus AS RM is available in three stunning finishes—Open Pore Aqua Blue (OPAB), Open Pore Trans Black (OPTB), and Open Pore Burgundy Red (OPBR)—each with black hardware and matching headstocks. Five-string models of these guitars are also available.

To learn more about the B4 Plus AS RM and other guitars in Cort’s Artisan Series, visitwww.cortguitars.com

MSRP $749.99 USD

About Cort Guitars

Cort designs, manufactures and delivers some of the finest guitars and basses to musicians and music enthusiasts all around the world. Over the past 50 years, the company has worked with some of the largest and most well-recognized guitar companies in the industry, as well as artists of international recognition. Cort remains focused on providing instruments that will last generations with the best workmanship possible, the best materials and components, and the best service long after the instruments have been purchased. For more information, visit www.cortguitars.com.

Fender Celebrates Guns N' Roses Bassist Duff McKagan With Latest Artist Signature Bass

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

FENDER® CELEBRATES GUNS N’ ROSES BASSIST DUFF MCKAGAN WITH LATEST ARTIST SIGNATURE BASS COLLABORATION

Refreshed Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass® Adds Player-Friendly Features Such as Instant Drop D Tuning and Stylistic Touches With Guns N’ Roses Flair

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (March 26, 2019)— Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today released the Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass® the latest iteration of Fender’s collaboration with the Guns N’ Roses bassist and New York Times bestselling author. The newest model in Fender’s Artist Signature Series captures the true musical essence of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee McKagan. Best known for his work with Guns N' Roses and Velvet Revolver McKagan has had an epic music career, entertaining and inspiring countless fans. Now, with the Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass, he will continue influencing the industry with a bass guitar that epitomizes rock culture and caters to his unique, melodic playing style that’s impacted bass players and music-lovers everywhere.

“The Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass is a nice evolution of the original bass we released with him,” added Justin Norvell, EVP Fender Products. “While we were developing it, we worked closely with Duff and the first guitar tech for Guns N’ Roses – McBob – to give this bass even more versatility than ever. Duff played these basses on the latest Guns N’ Roses world tour and new features like instant Drop- D tuning with the Hipshot® Bass Xtender came in handy during those 30-song sets with 3 to 4 different tunings.”

Based on the Pearl White instrument McKagan used while recording Guns N' Roses’ debut album, “Appetite for Destruction,” the Duff McKagan Signature model is a distinctive, sleek and full-sounding reissue of his favorite '80s-era Jazz Bass® Special. The bass combines a Precision Bass body with a Jazz Bass neck, as well as pickups from both instruments. It also adds player-friendly features and stylistic touches that Duff demands in his playing. On the heels of the latest Guns N’ Roses album release, the bass truly reflects Duff’s love for punk, rock ‘n’ roll and an evolution of his original signature model.

“The original bass I bought was the only one I took at the road for the Appetite for Destruction tour,” McKagan said. “We had a backup bass, but we didn’t need it. At some point we went to get another bass, but we couldn’t find a Jazz Special, so we went to Fender. To flash forward, be a Fender artist and have my own signature bass with this company is incredible. Fender is James Jamerson, John Paul Jones and it’s the bass that all the greats played. I’m still kind of in awe, and I don’t take it for granted.”

New features inspired by the legendary bassist’s preferences, include: instant Drop-D tuning, tonal versatility from a TBXTM (Treble/Bass Expander) tone circuit and a sleek black-painted neck with pearloid block inlays and binding. The signature bass also features a Pure Vintage ‘70s bridge and, as a special touch, a neckplate adorned with Duff’s signature skull-and-crossbones artwork.

McKagan also recently announced the upcoming release of his much-anticipated solo album, Tenderness, which was produced by and features Grammy® award-winner Shooter Jennings, as a musical follow-up to 2015’s best-selling book, How To Be A Man (And Other Illusions). McKagan and Jennings began recording in March 2018, working out of Station House studios in Echo Park, Calif., where they wrote and recorded in-between McKagan’s tour with seminal rock band Guns N’ Roses and the release of Jennings’ eponymous album, Shooter. For a full list of upcoming shows click here.

In true tradition, the Fender’s Artist Signature Series honors popular and iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists. “It’s an honor to collaborate with such an esteemed and iconic bassist like Duff, who inspires musicians of all generations and continues to raise the bar through his recorded work and on stage in one of the world’s most iconic bands,” said Matt Watts, VP Artist & Integrated Marketing. “It’s signature artists like him that build on Fender’s tradition of bass excellence.”

in “Duff McKagan Plays His Fender Signature Deluxe Precision® Bass”. For additional information on new Fender products or to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.

ABOUT THE DUFF MCKAGAN DELUXE PRECISION BASS – $1,199.99

The Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass is based on the ‘80s Jazz Bass Special he used while recordingAppetite for Destruction. An evolution of his signature model, this bass adds all the features and stylistic touches that Duff loves. The black painted Modern “C”-shaped quartersawn maple neck has a “Deluxe Jazz Bass Special” headstock logo and rosewood fingerboard with pearloid block inlays, along with the number “12” at the twelfth fret. A must-have for live performance, the Hipshot® Bass Xtender allows instant Drop-D tuning with the flick of a lever. Duff’s signature sound comes from pairing a Fender vintage-style Precision Bass split-coil pickup with a Seymour Duncan® STKJ2B Jazz Bass single-coil bridge pickup. This thunderous tone can be shaped precisely by the Fender TBXTM (Treble/Bass Expander) tone circuit. Additional features include a Pure Vintage ‘70s bridge and a Duff skull-and-crossbones neck plate. A deluxe gig bag is also included.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:

Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), whose portfolio of brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH® and Charvel®, follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest quality instruments and musical solutions across genres. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of music through electric and acoustic guitars, amplifiers, pro audio, accessories and digital products that inspire and enable musical expression at every stage, from beginners to history-making legends.

Fender Adds Chris Stapleton And Duff McKagan To Artist Signature Series Lineup - NAMM 2019

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

FENDER® ADDS COUNTRY AND ROCK LEGENDS CHRIS STAPLETON AND DUFF MCKAGAN TO RENOWNED ARTIST SIGNATURE SERIES LINEUP

Refreshed Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass® and All-New ‘62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition Amp

Debut at Winter NAMM 2019

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (January 24, 2019)—Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today announced new additions to its artist signature bass and amp offerings at Winter NAMM 2019 in Anaheim, Calif. The Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass and Fender ‘62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition amplifier add performance-ready features and stylistic aesthetic touches from Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan and Grammy®-winning artist Chris Stapleton.

The new Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass is based on the ‘80s Jazz Bass® Special – the model McKagan used while recording Guns N' Roses’ debut album, Appetite for Destruction – with new features inspired by the legendary bassist’s preferences, including instant “Drop D” tuning, tonal versatility from a TBXTM (Treble/Bass Expander) tone circuit and a sleek black-painted neck with pearloid block inlays and binding.

The hand-wired Fender ’62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition boasts the classic Fender ’62 Princeton amp circuit and comes enhanced with Stapleton’s favorite features and personally-chosen artful finishes: Fender Vintage “Blue” tone caps, Schumacher™ transformers, an upgraded Eminence® 12” Special Design “CS” speaker, output tube-based tremolo circuit and engraved brass plate with Chris Stapleton signature.

“There’s magic in Chris Stapleton’s take on our iconic Princeton Reverb amplifier; it’s based on a truly special, rare vintage amp, and there was a lot of fine tuning throughout the development to get it just right,” said Justin Norvell, EVP Fender Products. “Chris had a very specific sound and performance he was looking for. With that said, we can’t wait to release it to the public and hear the reactions.”

“The Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass is an updated take on the original bass we released with him,” Norvell added. “It’s an honor to evolve with a musician like Duff over the past two decades as he continues to set the bar for bass players in one of the world’s top touring bands.”

Product Details:

Fender ‘62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition – $1,999.99 (Launching February 2019) The brown ’62 Princeton amp’s sensitivity and smooth organic tremolo made it a longtime studio favorite and the ideal partner for Grammy®-winning artist, Chris Stapleton. The hand-wired Fender ’62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition combines the classic 6G2 circuit with Stapleton’s favorite features and personally chosen aesthetic touches. This 12W combo features Fender Vintage “Blue” tone caps, Schumacher™ transformers, an upgraded Eminence® 12” Special Design “CS” speaker, and an output tube-biased tremolo circuit. The acoustically resonant solid pine cabinet wears rough brown textured vinyl covering, wheat grille cloth and thick dark brown leather handle, while the dark brown control panel sports dark brown “radio” knobs and the rear panel features an engraved brass plate with Chris Stapleton artwork. Includes 1-button switch for tremolo and retro-styled Filson™ Rugged Twill fabric cover.

The Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass – $1,199.99 (Launching March 2019) is based on the ‘80s Jazz Bass Special he used while recording Appetite for Destruction. An evolution of his signature model, this bass adds the player-friendly features and stylistic touches that Duff demands. The black painted “Modern C”-shaped quartersawn maple neck has a “Deluxe Jazz Bass Special” headstock logo and hosts a rosewood fingerboard with pearloid block inlays, along with the number “12” at the twelfth fret. A must-have for live performance, the Hipshot® Bass Xtender allows instant drop-tuning with the flick of a lever. Duff’s signature sound comes from pairing a Fender vintage-style Precision Bass split-coil pickup with a Seymour Duncan® STKJ2B Jazz Bass single-coil bridge pickup. This thunderous tone can be shaped precisely by the Fender TBXTM (Treble/Bass Expander) tone circuit. Additional features include a Pure Vintage ‘70s bridge and, as a special touch, a Duff skull n’ crossbones neck plate. Includes deluxe gig bag.

In true tradition, the Fender’s Artist Signature Series honors popular and iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists. To learn more about the Duff McKagan Deluxe Precision Bass, click here; and images can be found here. For product images of the Fender ’62 Princeton Chris Stapleton Edition, please click here. Detailed specs for the amplifier are here.

For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:

Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), whose portfolio of brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH® and Charvel®, follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest quality instruments and musical solutions across genres. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of music through electric and acoustic guitars, amplifiers, pro audio, accessories and digital products that inspire and enable musical expression at every stage, from beginners to history-making legends. Schumacher, Eminence, Filson, Hipshot & Seymour Dunacan are trademarks and registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Iconic Bassist Leland Sklar To Appear At GRAMMY Museum®, Thursday, November 8

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Iconic Bassist Leland Sklar to Appear at GRAMMY Museum®, Thursday, November 8, Presented by American Express

Los Angeles CA, October 26, 2018 — On the evening of Thursday, November 8, 2018, at 7:30 p.m. PST, “An Evening with Leland Sklar,” presented by American Express, will take place at the GRAMMY Museum®’s Clive Davis Theater (800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90015). The event will feature an intimate conversation on his illustrious career, moderated by GRAMMY Museum Artistic Director Scott Goldman, followed by a performance.

Leland Sklar has contributed as a session musician on roughly 2,600 albums by artists ranging from James Taylor to Alice Cooper, Billy Cobham to Barbra Streisand, BB King to Ray Charles and more. As a touring musician, Sklar has backed Jackson Browne, Carole King, Linda Ronstadt, Tracy Chapman, Véronique Sanson, Toto, Lyle Lovett, Phil Collins and more, touring every year since 1970. Sklar’s success began in the ‘60s as the bassist for James Taylor. The immense success of Taylor led to Sklar being called as a session player for other big albums. Collaborating with fellow session musicians along the way, Sklar was also a member of The Section, a staple group in the L.A. recording scene that included Sklar, Russ Kunkel, Danny Kortchmar and Craig Doerge. Currently, Sklar is touring with Phil Collins, Judith Owen, and his newest group, The Immediate Family, consisting of Sklar, Kunkel, Kortchmar, Waddy Wachtel and Steve Postell.

Leland Sklar

ABOUT THE GRAMMY MUSEUM®

Established in 2008 as a partnership between the Recording Academy™ and AEG, the GRAMMY Museum® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating a greater understanding of the history and significance of music. Paying tribute to our collective musical heritage, the Museum explores and celebrates all aspects of the art form—from the technology of the recording process to the legends who've made lasting marks on our cultural identity. In 2017, the Museum integrated with its sister organization, the GRAMMY Foundation®, to broaden the reach of its music education and preservation initiatives. As a unified organization, today, the GRAMMY Museum fulfills its mission of making music a valued and indelible part of our society through exhibits, education, grants, and public programming.

For more information, visit www.grammymuseum.org, "like" the GRAMMY Museum on Facebook, and follow @GRAMMYMuseum on Twitter and Instagram.

Cort Releases GB Series GB54P Vintage-Style Bass Guitar

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort Adds GB54P Vintage-Style Bass Guitar to GB Series

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — Whether a teacher wants to impart the fundamentals to a student or a gigging musician wants to add a workhorse, the new GB54P electric bass guitar from Cort delivers classic tone with high-quality materials, all at a superb value. Like other models in Cort’s GB Series, this homage to the classic P-style bass is an excellent choice for players who lean towards a more traditional look and feel but appreciate modern appointments and features that improve the overall performance of the instrument.

The vintage features of the GB54P begin with the alder body, one of the ideal tone woods for bass guitar. Used by many guitar makers since the 1950s, alder provides a perfectly balanced tone with a slight boost on the high midrange. The high-mids are further supported by the jatoba fingerboard, which has strong volume projection and is a very dense, stiff wood for good playability. The vintage-style 9.45” fingerboard radius on the 20-fret hard maple neck (34’’ scale) is a classic feature that’s ideal for both single-note playing or for chording. The 1.625” nut width provides easy fingering and tapers smoothly up the range of the fingerboard. These playability features are supported by Cort’s new ergonomic neck joint, which increases comfort while reducing tendon stress and awkward wrist and finger positions. Players can easily reach the highest notes with confidence, whether they’re a beginner or an experienced soloist.

The GB54P’s vintage-style VTB-P pickup produces the timeless P-style bass sound that launched a musical revolution. The resulting tone is warm and punchy, but also has the growl to suit almost any musical style. The pickup corresponds to a no-frills vintage-style bridge with ¾-inch string spacing.

The controls of the GB54P are simple, with one volume pot and one tone pot with output jack, allowing the player to focus on the music. Along with die-cast tuners, the chrome hardware on either a 2-Tone Sunburst or Sea Foam Pearl Green finish completes the look.

Learn more about the GB54P and other bass guitars in Cort’s GB Series at www.cortguitars.com.

Retail $379.00 USD

About Cort Guitars

Cort Adds GB54P Vintage-Style Bass Guitar To GB Series

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort Adds GB54P Vintage-Style Bass Guitar to GB Series

Learn more about the GB54P and other bass guitars in Cort’s GB Series at www.cortguitars.com.

Retail $379.00 USD

About Cort Guitars

A New Acoustic Bass From Ortega

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

ACOUSTIC BASSES

Item #: KT-WALKER-V2

Big Sound in a small package!

After a hugely successful but limited run in 2012 we are proudly bringing back an updated & upgraded version of the KT-WALKER Acoustic Bass - the KT-WALKER-V2!

Originaly designed for a MTV Unplugged recording and tour, the KT-WALKER-V2 is now available for everyone. Due to its „distressed“ finish every single instrument is slightly different and each has it‘s own unique vibe.

As with all Ken Taylor Signature instruments the KT-WALKER-V2 is connected to charity projects. A percentage of each KT-WALKER-V2 bass sold will be donated to a charity chosen by Ken Taylor.

www.ortegaguitars.com

Squier Adds Four All-New Contemporary Series Guitar And Bass Models

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

FENDER® GROWS MODERN SQUIER® OFFERING WITH FOUR, ALL-NEW ‘CONTEMPORARY SERIES’ ELECTRIC GUITARS AND BASSES

Contemporary Series Jazz Bass® and Jazzmaster® Additions Boast Modern Design Aesthetics, Redesigned SQR™ Brand Active Pickups, Matte Finishes For Modern Takes on Classic Models

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. (June 29, 2018)—Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today announced the expansion of the Squier Contemporary Series with four models debuting at Summer NAMM in Nashville, Tenn.; they include all-new Jazz Bass and Jazzmaster models with an all-modern look, feel and aggressive tone at an accessible price. These additions mark the continued growth of modern Squier offerings to support today’s aspiring players.

“After introducing the Contemporary Series earlier this year, the demand for our modern Squier offering continues to grow to meet the evolving needs of today’s players,” said Billy Martinez, VP Category Manager of Acoustics and Squier Divisions. “Now we’re answering the call with new Jazz Bass models; and to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Jazzmaster in 2018, we’re introducing a contemporary twist on the model with redesigned Squier SQR active pickups - something that has never been done in the beginner line.”

The Contemporary Active Jazzmaster HH ST looks as sinister as it sounds, sporting a matching headstock for a sleek aesthetic and black chrome hardware for a stealthy vibe. Powered by an active 9-volt circuit, the dual SQR™ ceramic humbucking pickups produce high-output tone ideal for crunchy rhythms and screaming solos. With a fast playing “C”-shape neck and stopbar tailpiece for stable tuning, this trailblazing rendition of a Fender classic is packed with player-centric features.

The embodiment of bold, the new Contemporary Jazz Bass combines exciting new features with classic style for a beast of a bass that’s ready to rule the stage. Eye-catching appointments like a matching painted headstock for a cohesive aesthetic and brilliant chrome hardware are sure to command attention. Featuring two Squier ceramic single-coil pickups with a standard Jazz Bass control layout, the Contemporary Jazz Bass is primed to revolutionize.

Available in 4- and 5- string versions, the Contemporary Active Jazz Bass features all-new Matte Black and Matte White finishes and Squier SQR™ ceramic humbucking pickups that produce high fidelity tone great for any style. Further enhancing tone versatility is an active 9-volt preamp, offering intuitive controls for volume, pickup blend, traditional tone and stacked boost controls for bass and treble.

Trailblazing a truly timeless style, Squier Contemporary Series models offer a modern aesthetic, matching painted headstocks, ceramic pickups, 12”-radius fingerboards, premium finishes, and black chrome hardware on select models.

Models include:

Contemporary Active Jazzmaster® HH ST - $399.99
Contemporary Jazz Bass® - $349.99
Contemporary Active Jazz Bass® HH - $399.99
Contemporary Active Jazz Bass® HH V - $429.99

The Squier Contemporary Series features four new electric guitar and bass models available at local dealers and on www.Fender.comJuly 2018 and August 2018, respectively. To learn more about the Squier Contemporary Series and access detailed product/spec descriptions, click here. Product images can be accessed here. For program and lifestyle images of Fender Play, click here.

For beginning players, their first riff is only minutes away with digital learning app Fender Play, which teaches concepts through bite-sized video lessons using songs from their favorite artists. Also included in Fender Play are ukulele lessons, and later on, bass lessons. New players can sign up for a free 30-day trial at Play.Fender.com and subscribe for $9.99 a month thereafter, or take advantage of a year of unlimited lessons for only $89.99.

For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:

The Lowdown On Fret-King's New Basses

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Fret-King delivers the lowdown on brand new basses

New for 2018, Fret-King has announced the introduction of 10 new bass guitar colourways to its Black Label stable. Aimed at players who demand professional standards of playability at a price that doesn't leave a hole in the bank, the 2018 Black Label range expands on three designs that help bass players of all levels to cover a vast area of musical ground.

Black Label Esprit I Bass

Featuring a balanced, asymmetric drop top styling, distinctive 4-in-line tuning keys and signature pickguard, the Esprit I is both familiar and radical. Fitted with Fret-King's distinctive WJM double coil pickup, this Wilkinson masterpiece produces a powerful sound which holds its own in every musical style. Expertly wired to allow simple transition between tones, the Black Label Esprit I (RRP £629) takes you on a journey from jazz to punchy slaps and pops, exhibiting the depth, definition and power of an active system in a passive pickup. Available in Gloss Black, Candy Apple Blue, Metallic Deep Purple and Metallic Silver.

Perception 5 Bass

The Perception 5 (RRP £649) is a fabulously versatile workhorse bass guitar, equally at home on stage or in the studio. A sleek neck profile, full width fingerboard and enhanced upper fret access allow you to lay down a groove and venture to the far reaches of the instrument in pursuit of the perfect, show-stopping solo. Available in Candy Apple Blue, Original Classic Burst and Thru Red.

Perception Bass

Perception Basses are designed to respond fluidly to your individual playing style and simply demand to be played. Wilkinson WBBC pickups provide cut, clarity and classic vintage tone, allowing the Perception to turn its hand to a wide variety of musical scenarios. New for 2018, Fret-King are proud to introduce the Perception 4 Fretless Model in Original Classic Burst only (RRP £619). Experience the soulful slides and melodic facility afforded by a fretless bass guitar, at a price that all players can justify. Standard Perception 4 string models (RRP £619) available in Original Classic Burst, Candy Apple Blue and Thru Red.

Fret-King is distributed worldwide by JHS.

fret-king.com

jhs.co.uk/brands/fret-king

facebook.com/FretKing

instagram.com/fretking_guitars/

twitter.com/fretking

Fender Introduces New Player Series Electric Guitars And Basses

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

FENDER® INTRODUCES NEW PLAYER SERIES™ ELECTRIC GUITARS FOR ASPIRING ARTISTS, PLAYERS READY TO ELEVATE THEIR SOUND

New Electric Guitars, Basses Provide Official Entry Point for Artists, Players Ready To Commit With Often Imitated But Never Duplicated Fender Gear

HOLLYWOOD, CALIF. (June 19, 2018)—Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today released a new line of electric guitars and basses for aspiring players and artists who represent the future of guitar. Dubbed the “Player Series,” the line will establish a new level of excellence for players ready to take that next step in their musical journey with Fender’s iconic models–whether their dreams lie on a big stage or in a garage band and beyond.

The Player Series replaces the Standard Series and is the new foundational offering and first official step into Fender’s electric guitar product lines. Built for players who dream of taking their art to the next level, these guitars have a signature sound and classic look that only Fender’s iconic models can provide. The ultimate creative partner, Fender Player Series guitars and basses are the respected and legitimate choice, unlocking infinite creative opportunities for players who choose to pair their individual style with Fender’s often imitated, but never duplicated gear; and with every detail considered in the design process, these models are the best builds ever offered in the $649.99-$774.99 price range.

“As artists dig deep to find new sounds and means of expression, the guitar continues to be central to so much of this creativity that’s happening in music and culture,” said Justin Norvell, SVP Fender Products. “We hope to empower the next generation of artists and players by arming them with the best tools to help bring their craft to life. The Players Series guitars embody that coveted Fender sound and form that has made our guitars iconic with so many generations of creators.”

Respecting Fender’s heritage while maintaining an innovative spirit, the Player Series blends authentic Fender tone, sound and style with a modern edge that’s versatile enough to handle any style of music. The series sets a new benchmark for quality and performance, with upgraded features, including Alnico pickups for all models, updated body radii, 22 fret necks, upgraded bridges, fresh, bold colors and a revised classic logo for a more traditional look. With 94 SKUs across 21 models and hero colors including Sage Green, Polar White, Tide Pool, Butter Cream, and Sonic Red, artists and players can express themselves in limitless ways.

The new line is already being used across genres including punk, jazz, country, rock and more by top artists, such as: Turnstile, Mattson 2, Whitey Morgan, Cherry Glazerr, Melanie Faye, Jeff Gilteman and Saya Gray – accompanying each on their musical journey toward exceptional artistry.

The Fender Player Series includes the following models:

· Player Stratocaster® Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Stratocaster® Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Stratocaster® Left-Handed, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Stratocaster® Left-Handed, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Stratocaster® HSS, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Stratocaster® HSS, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Stratocaster® HSH, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Stratocaster® HSH, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Stratocaster® Plus Top, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Stratocaster® HSS Plus Top, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Stratocaster® Floyd Rose®, Maple Fingerboard $749.99

· Player Stratocaster® Floyd Rose®, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $774.99

· Player Telecaster® Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Telecaster® Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Telecaster® Left-Handed, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Telecaster® Left-Handed, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Telecaster® HH, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Telecaster® HH, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Jaguar® Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Jaguar® Bass Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Jaguar® Bass Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Jazzmaster® Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Precision Bass® Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Precision Bass® Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99  

· Player Precision Bass® Left-Handed, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Precision Bass® Left-Handed, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Jazz Bass® Maple Fingerboard $649.99  

· Player Jazz Bass® Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99  

· Player Jazz Bass® Left-Handed, Maple Fingerboard $649.99

· Player Jazz Bass® Left-Handed, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Jazz Bass® Fretless, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $674.99

· Player Jazz Bass® V, Pau Ferro Fingerboard $774.99

To learn more about the Fender Player Series and the celebration of music, watch the launch video

. For a step-by-step breakdown and demo of the Player Series, click

For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:

This New Bass From Cort Will Have Lots Of Fans

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort Introduces Fanned-Fret Design in Latest Addition to Artisan Bass Collection

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (March 19, 2018) — Cort Guitars knows that sophisticated players are serious about their tone. With each addition to the Artisan line of electric bass guitars, Cort offers excellent workmanship and world-class materials to meet high expectations. Cort’s new five-string A5 Plus SCFF model follows this tradition by offering a new take on premium wood tones and a new-to-series multiscale fanned-fret design. The combination of these features, along with premium electronics and hardware, offers players a sleek bass guitar with excellent depth and range.

The A5 Plus SCFF’s fanned frets form the foundation of this 34’’ to 35.5’’multiscale instrument. This design modification and a corresponding single-string hardtail bridge improve tension and enhance the tonal response of each string. The A5 Plus SCFF also incorporates the series neck-thru-body construction that allows strings to vibrate across the neck and body in a coherent, linear manner, maximizing tightness of the low-end with rich mids and singing highs.

Tonal balance is also achieved with the A5 Plus SCFF’s high-quality materials. The lightweight yet solid Swamp Ash body with spalted Maple top provides a strong, fundamental low-end resonance and a clear high-end. This complements the high-midrange and treble of the 5-piece Maple and Panga Panga neck. The exotic Panga Panga is also used on the 24-fret fingerboard, and strong Walnut is used for binding. Cort allows these materials to shine both sonically and esthetically with OPN (open-pore natural) and OPTG (open-pore trans grey) finishes. Platinum hardware adds a rock-steady flair while Hipshot Ultralight Tuners result in 30% weight reduction over regular tuners and improved balance and tuning accuracy.

Like other Cort Artisan basses, the A5 Plus SCFF is equipped with Bartolini electronics. Bartolini MK-1 pickups deliver a superbly balanced sound, while the corresponding Bartolini MK-1 preamp provides a powerful yet transparent boost along with a trademark crisp high-end. The MK-1 transfers the bass’s natural liveliness through a flexible 3-band equalizer for a variety of applications ranging from studio recording to large concert halls. It also provides a switchable active/passive mode for a powerful, modern active sound or an organic, traditional passive sound.

Players who value excellent workmanship and reliability gig after gig will want to check out Cort’s A5 Plus SCFF. They’ll be able to protect their purchase, at $1499 USD, with an included hard case.

Learn more and get a closer look at Cort’s Artisan series of bass guitars at www.cortguitars.com.

About Cort Guitars

Sadowsky’s New Line of MetroExpress Basses to be Unveiled at 2018 NAMM Show

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort Introduces New Artisan Series 6-String Bass With Open Pore Finish

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort Introduces New 6-String Bass with Open-Pore Finish to Artisan Series

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — With the introduction of the B6 Plus AS electric bass guitar, Cort adds a new six-string, open-pore model to its Artisan Series. Featuring bolt-on construction and a warm open sound with excellent sonic dispersion, the B6 Plus AS is an instrument designed for discriminating musicians who seek high value through world-class materials and high-end components. Players will find that this extended-range bass offers modern upgrades while staying true to classic components and features in a design that represents the best of both worlds.

Like other bass guitars in Cort’s Artisan Series, the B6 Plus AS is built with Bartolini MK-1 pickups for superb sound quality. The MK-1 delivers the trademark Bartolini sound with plenty of punchy and warm mids along with transparent and brilliant highs for excellent balance. These pickups are paired with the Markbass MB-1 EQ, which combines crystal clarity and natural warmth to exude a passive feel with smooth lows, full-bodied mids and bell-like highs. The natural and transparent boost avoids coloring the organic nature or resonance of the instrument’s woods.

To properly balance the Markbass 3-Band EQ system, Cort’s designers chose a swamp ash body for its lively and resonant sound quality characterized by a scooped-mids sound with a bigger low-end and clear highs for balance. The Open Pore Natural finish enhances the resonance, lightens the weight and is even offered as a matching headstock.

On the B6 Plus AS, Cort diversifies the neck construction by using 5-piece panga panga reinforced with walnut topped with a panga panga fingerboard. Tonally, panga panga is similar to the wenge used on Cort’s five-string model. It offers a tight and defined midrange that complements the bright and expansive tonal nature of the swamp ash body for an ideally balanced sound that rounds out the bass spectrum.

The B6 Plus AS is further balanced by Hipshot Ultralite Tuners that offer 30% weight reduction over regular tuners and improved tuning accuracy. Black hardware offers a bold esthetic in combination with the double-cutaway and natural finish.

From its premium materials to enhanced tone, Cort’s B6 Plus AS bass is built for serious players. However, the MSRP of $899.99 puts this model within reach for hobby musicians looking for a professional-quality upgrade. Learn more and get a closer look at www.cortguitars.com.

About Cort Guitars

Bass Player LIVE! 2017

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Red Hot Chili Peppers Bassist Flea, plus Jimmy Johnson and Donald “Duck” Dunn to be Honored at Bass Player LIVE! 2017 November 4-5 in Hollywood

Popular bass player event returns to Los Angeles with top bass luminaries, gear exhibits, entertainment, educational clinics and awards ceremonies

Bassist Flea to be Presented with Lifetime Achievement Award

(Photo credit: Carlos Delgado)

WHAT: Bass Player LIVE! 2017, the premier yearly event for bass players, offering attendees drool-worthy gear exhibits; clinics by world-class bassists; Lifetime Achievement Awards presentations; a Star-studded Concert by this year’s award recipients; an All-Star Jam

WHO: Awards presentation/All-Star Concert featuring Flea, Jimmy Johnson (James Taylor bassist), and Donald “Duck” Dunn (posthumous); educational clinics and appearances featuring bassists Bunny Brunel, Steve Bailey, Andrew Gouche, Lee Sklar, Alphonso Johnson, and more

WHEN: Saturday, November 4 - 11AM-9PM; Sunday, November 5 - 11AM-6PM

Highlights:

NOV 4, 12:00PM – Flea Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation & Performance

NOV 4, 7:00PM – Bass Player LIVE! 2017 Concert & Awards Show

NOV 5, 5:00PM - All-Star Jam – Led by Steve Bailey

WHERE: SIR Studios – 6465 Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood

TICKETS: Tickets are available to the general public via www.bassplayerlive.com

About Bass Player Magazine

Owned by NewBay Media, Bass Player Magazine is the deepest source of inspiration, information, and instruction for players seeking mastery of the low end. In print, online, and in person at Bass Player LIVE!, Bass Player is at the core of a dynamic and diverse musicians’ community. After more than two decades of delivering spot-on artist interviews, product reviews, and music transcriptions, Bass Player influences the musical growth and gear choices of more bassists than any other competing media network.

About NewBay

NewBay delivers educational, thought leadership and problem-solving business information and networking to some of the world’s most dynamic industries — Music, AV/Pro Audio, Consumer Electronics/Gaming, Video & Broadcast and Education. We provide more than 95 digital products, 50 live event experiences, 35 high-quality magazines, custom marketing and e-commerce environments. Our capabilities inform millions of professionals and connect them with providers of products and services to improve performance and seize new opportunities. Learn more at newbaymedia.com.

Can Blending The Past And Present Give You The Playability Of The Future?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort’s GB75JH Electric Bass Guitar Blends Past and Present for Playability of the Future

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (Sept. 18, 2017) - Balancing timeless design and modernized features, Cort introduces the GB75JH model of electric bass guitar. This new addition to the GB7 series meets 21st century demand by combining a proven body and bridge design with enhanced electronics, machine heads and more. Players will make a statement with a bass tone that lives up to this model’s bold esthetic.

The tone, feel and look of the GB75JH centers around its Swamp Ash body. As one of the most popular and widely used woods for solid-body electric basses, Swamp Ash is lightweight but offers a surprisingly tight and punchy sound with a strong high-midrange. Discriminating bassists will appreciate how the GB75JH’s strong, fundamental tone cuts through a mix. They’ll also be drawn to the natural beauty of Swamp Ash, with its distinctive grain patterns that are visible through the transparent finish and clear pickguard.

Beauty meets power with the GB75JH’s Canadian hard maple neck, which provides stability as well as a warm, beefy tone and reinforced upper midrange. It’s dense and rigid, yet it has just the right amount of tactile flexibility, allowing players to get a sensitive, articulate response from pick attacking and slapping techniques. Players will also find that the GB75JH’s ergonomic neck joint facilitates easy access to the upper register of the maple fingerboard, with dot inlays and 21 frets (47.5 mm scale). They’ll be able to solo away on the highest notes with comfort while reducing tendon stress and awkward positions. In addition, Hipshot Ultralite tuners significantly lighten the load on the neck for proper balance, whether the player is sitting down or standing

up with a strap.

Of course, response is also determined by electronics, and the GB75JH is bound to please in this area. This model is equipped with two-band EQ with passive-active push-pull. The new Tone Bass Humbucker pickup provides both power and sensitivity for a variety of playing techniques, and an Alnico V magnet with 41AWG wire maintains rumbling power and clarity. The humbucker is paired with a VTB-ST single coil pickup to cover virtually any bass tonal spectrum. String vibration is critically managed by the solid-steel Omega Bridge, which is machined to the highest level of precision for the utmost in functionality as well as sonic integrity.

Get a closer look at the GB75JH’s specs and the GB Series by visiting Cort’s website.

Street price $899 USD

About Cort Guitars

Cort designs, manufactures, and delivers some of the finest guitars and basses to musicians and music enthusiasts all around the world. Over the past 50 years, the company has worked with some of the largest and most well-recognized guitar companies in the industry, as well as artists of international recognition. Cort remains focused on providing instruments that will last generations with the best workmanship possible, the best materials and components, and the best service long after the instruments have been purchased. For more information, visit www.cortguitars.com.

Who Wouldn't Like To Have A Smaller Body And Better Playability?

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Yamaha BB Series Basses Celebrate 40 Years of Superb Sound with New Models Featuring Smaller Bodies and Better Playability

NASHVILLE (July 13, 2017) — Throughout their storied 40-year history, Yamaha BB series basses have been the workhorse for great bass players like Nathan East, Abe Laboriel, Jack Gibson (Exodus, Testament), Robby Takac (GooGoo Dolls), Tony Kanal (No Doubt, Dreamcar) and David Beste (Rival Sons).

Nine new models will make their debut at Summer NAMM 2017. The new models continue to deliver the superb, legendary tone and build quality for which they are known, yet in a smaller body with even better playability.

Built for the working bassist, the new models feature an Alder/Maple/Alder construction, sandwiching maple into the center of the body for quicker sound transmission from the strings.

A firmer 6-bolt miter neck joint that has won praise in the Billy Sheehan Signature/Attitude Limited III lineup not only improves stability, but also increases the efficiency of vibration transmission to the body for a more resonant, organic feel and tone.

Custom-wound pickups achieve higher output gain while retaining the classic BB voicing. The new models also feature standard sized pickups for the first time in a BB, for more convenient customization or replacement.

Being extremely careful not to mess with the success and proven design of the BB series, Yamaha has made practical and stylistic modifications, including subtle contour changes and body weight reduction, to increase playability and comfort, while still retaining the classic silhouette of the BB body/head design.

“For 40 years, Yamaha has collaborated with some of the most prolific bassists in the world, incorporating their real-world experience and sage advice to craft the pure bass guitar—one that allows musicians to build their own, signature sound,” said Dennis Webster, product marketing manager, Yamaha guitars and basses. “These new models continue this tradition of reliable excellence in superbly crafted, durable bass guitars that working musicians can depend on, providing the penetrating sound they need, yet in a smaller build that’s even easier to play.”

Pricing and Availability

The new Yamaha BB series bass lineup includes nine models, and will ship in July.

MODEL MSRP

BB234 $470

BB235 $550

BB434 $795

BB434M $856

BB435 $856

BB734A $1175

BB735A $1275

BBP34 $2475

BBP35 $2575

For more information, visit the Yamaha booth (643) in the Nashville Music City Center at the 2017 Summer NAMM Show July 13-15, or http://4wrd.it/BBSERIESBASSES

About Yamaha

Yamaha Corporation of America (YCA) is one of the largest subsidiaries of Yamaha Corporation, Japan and offers a full line of award-winning musical instruments, sound reinforcement, commercial installation and home entertainment products to the U.S. market. Products include: Yamaha acoustic, digital and hybrid pianos, portable keyboards, guitars, acoustic and electronic drums, band and orchestral instruments, marching percussion products, synthesizers, professional digital and analog audio equipment, Steinberg recording products and NEXO commercial audio products, as well as AV receivers, amplifiers, MusicCast wireless multiroom audio systems, Blu-ray/CD players, earphones, headphones, home-theater-in-a-box systems, sound bars and its exclusive line of Digital Sound Projectors. YCA markets innovative, finely crafted technology and entertainment products and musical instruments targeted to the hobbyist, education, worship, music, professional audio installation and consumer markets.

Spector Honors Their 40th Anniversary With New Tribute

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Spector Releases Tribute Bass to Honor 40th Anniversary

Melville, NY – July 13th, 2017 – Spector, known for its beautifully hand-crafted, custom made basses, has just launched the Euro4LE1977, a new addition to the boutique line. Precision crafted in the Czech Republic, the Euro4 1977 shares the same construction as the original "Brooklyn bass" crafted by Stuart Spector 40 years ago, including solid American Walnut body wings, a three-piece Maple neck, Rosewood fingerboard, and the classic DiMarzio Model P pickup. Available in limited quantities throughout 2017 only, the Euro4 1977 is the ultimate tribute to Stuart Spector's legendary craftsmanship.

“Spector is a legendary brand whose designs have revolutionized the bass world,” says John Stippell, Product Manager for Guitar Brands at Korg USA. “40 years later, the impact of Stuart Spector’s forward-thinking design can be seen throughout the industry. It is an honor and privilege to Spector on reintroducing this original design to a whole new generation of players,” Stippell conludes.

The Euro4LE1977 will be available in July 2017 for $2499.99 and will be showcased at Summer NAMM’17 at the Korg USA booth #953. For more information, visit http://www.spectorbass.com/.

Supro Launches The Huntington Bass At Summer NAMM

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Supro launches the Huntington bass

at Summer NAMM

July 13, 2017 (Nashville, TN) - Supro has arrived in Nashville set to launch the Huntington family of bass guitars. This newly-designed, short-scale bass combines the classic body shape of the early 60's Ozark model with vintage-correct passive electronics and sonic inspiration from the Supro Pocket Bass of the same era. The unique Gold Foil pickups found in the Huntington bass are authentic replicas of the original "Clear-Tone" pickups found in the vintage Supro Violin, Taurus and Pocket Bass models. These high-output single coils deliver legendary, deep low-end, with very low noise and a massive, broadband sound that stays warm and balanced across the entire range of the instrument.

Click on image above to view the Supro Huntington Bass product page

The Supro Huntington bass is available in single, double and triple-pickup configurations with an optional piezo bridge and a variety of unique metallic and transparent colors over a choice of mahogany, swamp ash or alder tonewood for the body. The Huntington's maple neck has a smooth, black satin finish and 30" short-scale length, with a glued-in, set-neck joint that provides ergonomic access to the entire rosewood fretboard. The set-neck design, premium woods and high-end hardware along with the unique, vintage-correct Supro pickups make the Huntington both a world-class recording bass and gigging workhorse instrument that is incredibly easy to play---especially for musicians accustomed to the shorter neck of a 6-string guitar.

Chris Chaney and Tim Lefebvre bass duo: Led Zeppelin's "Out on the Tiles"

Although its scale is short, the sound of the Huntington bass is astoundingly large---boasting a tight, confident, buttery low end, articulate midrange and crisp highs. The single-pickup Huntington I model projects a warm, balanced sound with a passive tone control that acts as an "old-school" knob, taming the highs and drawing the bass deeper back into the mix. A piezo-equipped bridge option adds in an acoustic bass sound via toggle switch. When the piezo pickups are activated, the tone knob functions as a blender, allowing the player to mix in the acoustic sound to taste.

The dual-pickup Huntington II model adds a second magnetic pickup in the neck position for ultra-deep bass and huge reggae tones. The neck pickup is reverse-wound for complete hum rejection when both pickups are used together. The Huntington II features individual volume knobs for each pickup with the piezo option activated by a push/pull switch on the tone knob. The Huntington II is also offered as a piezo-equipped fretless.

Supro Huntington III demo featuring Doug Wimbish of Living Colour

The three-pickup Huntington III model pulls out all the stops, with a trio of full-sized Gold Foil pickups and a piezo bridge as stock hardware. The magnetic pickups in the Huntington III are wired with individual volume controls, allowing the player to dial in a tremendous range of tones, from vintage to modern and all points in between. A push/pull switch on the tone control activates the piezo pickups, which are located in the bridge saddles. With the piezo activated, the tone control functions as a blender for "acoustic" sounds or enhanced attack (especially effective for pick and slap techniques), unleashing an unprecedented range of sounds from this passive, short-scale bass.

Huntington I basses start at $999 USD.

Huntington II basses start at $1,099 USD.

Huntington III basses are $1,299 USD.

Contact your Supro dealer to preorder the Huntington for delivery in Fall 2017.

https://suprousa.com/official-dealers

Supro Huntington bass official product page: https://suprousa.com/huntington-bass

Sandberg Gets Steamed

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

June 15th - 2017 Sandberg Guitars innovates new Steamed Oak fingerboard

Due to new regulations in January 2017 pertaining to the import of rosewood, string instrument manufacturers worldwide are forced to adapt and move away from rosewood fingerboards. Sandberg Guitars has responded with an innovative new Steamed Oak fingerboard option for their basses which will become their standard dark colored fingerboard wood. Oak is a very eco-friendly and sustainable wood with very desirable sonic qualities and dynamic response.

Sandberg has adopted a process which changes the chemistry of the wood’s pigments and oxidizes the naturally occurring tannins in the wood. Oak is loaded with tannins so the final ‘steamed’ result is a permanently deep and warm dark wood with accentuated grain patterns that will look familiar to those who favor rosewood.

Once steamed, it has the warmth of rosewood yet gives the player improved right hand dynamic response similar to maple and a sharper attack like ebony. The final results are permanent and easy to maintain.

“We are very pleased with this new fingerboard option, it’s so nice to play, the dynamics and attack are wonderful and it looks great” - Holger Stonjek, founder and president of Sandberg Guitars.

The product was previewed at the 2017 Winter NAMM show and was well received by dealers, artists and even multiplatinum producers. Many didn’t know that they were playing a new type of fingerboard until they had fallen in love with the bass; a California VM4 in our new Black Matte finish with European Ash body, Canadian Rock Maple neck and Steamed Oak fingerboard. There was almost a bidding war!

While the stringed instrument industry is being forced to adapt to new regulations, Sandberg’s steamed oak is a friendly and innovative eco-friendly solution to the challenge. It also just happens to sound and feel amazing!

Availability - Sandberg Basses with steamed oak fingerboards are shipping now and will be soon added to the handy Sandberg online configuration utility http://www.configurator.sandberg-guitars.de

Diffusion Audio is the North American distributor of Sandberg Guitars.

Please visit us at http://www.diffusion-audio.com.

Cort Doubles Down On Jazz Pickups In Latest GB7 Electric Bass

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Cort Doubles Down on Jazz Pickups in Latest GB7 Electric Bass

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (June 13, 2017) — Raising the bar on instrument design often means incorporating cutting-edge features on a time-proven model. That’s what Cort set out to accomplish with its GB Series of electric bass guitars. Within this series, the GB7 models combine a proven body and bridge design with enhanced electronics, machine heads, and more for the best of the past and future. The newest addition to the GB7 line—the 4-string GB74JJ with double jazz pickups—continues the seamless integration of classic and modern in one stunning instrument.

The GB74JJ’s two VTB-ST pickups were carefully chosen with consideration to this instrument’s swamp ash body, and are voiced to deliver a legendary jazz tone. Crafted with winding materials that maximize high and low frequencies, the refined design of these pickups provides a unique noiseless performance. The electronics are also specially engineered, providing for two bands of tone control as well as master volume and pickup blend controls, with the ability to switch from active to passive thanks to a provided push-pull pot.

Players will also note the GB74JJ’s solid construction, starting with the Omega Bridge, an important sonic enhancement made from high-density die-cast Zinc that’s rock solid, yet fully adjustable. The countered neck joint on this model provides better fret access and comfort with a sleek look. Both the neck and fingerboard (21-fret, 34’’ scale) are satin maple. Gig ready, the GB74JJ has a trim neckjoint, slimmed-down neckplate and Hipshot Ultralite™ tuners with a 20:1 gear ratio that makes tuning easy and precise. The tuners’ lightweight construction also helps avoid neck-dive and adds to overall comfort.

Available in two, high-gloss color finishes—AM 4-String Amber and AB 4-String Aqua Blue—the GB74JJ respects the past while representing the future. Get a closer look at the GB74JJ and Cort’s GB7 Series by clicking here.

MSRP $749 USD

About Cort Guitars

Epiphone Presents The Ltd. Ed. 20th Anniversary Jack Casady Signature Bass

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Epiphone Presents the Ltd. Ed. 20th Anniversary Jack Casady Signature Bass

Celebrating 20 years of our #1 best-selling electric archtop bass

(May 4, 2017 Nashville, TN) Epiphone presents the new Premier Artist Signature Series and the debut of the Ltd. Ed. 20th Anniversary Jack Casady Signature Bass celebrating two decades of perhaps the best-selling archtop electric bass of all time. Featuring a beautiful Flame Maple Veneer top finished in Wine Red, Casady’s custom-wound black JCB-1™ Humbucker, and a 3-Position VariGain™ Switch; 50, 250, 500 ohms. Plus, a custom 20th Anniversary gig bag, deluxe leather strap, and certificate of authenticity hand signed by Jack Casady.

Jack Casady is one of the of the most influential bassists of his generation and a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for his work in the Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna. Casady ranks among the Top 25 Bassists of all time in Bass Player magazine and today his bass can be heard on tour with Paul McCartney, Jack White, the Stone Roses, and many others.

“Jack Casady has not only been a great friend to Epiphone but he embodies what we strive to do everyday,” said Epiphone President, Jim Rosenberg. “Jack is an innovator, a maverick and totally unique. He never stops trying to improve. And he has a great time on stage, too!”

When Epiphone and Jack Casady first released Jack’s signature bass in 1997, it was the culmination of years of experimentation by the innovative bassist to create an instrument that had superb electric tone but also had the response of an acoustic bass.

“I just can't believe it's been 20 years now since my lovely late wife Diana and I worked on these basses, getting the tone right on it, and that it's still out there,” Casady told Epiphone.com. “The workmanship that’s coming in on these instruments is just super. Every year I get two new instruments that I take out on the road. No ringers. I have none that are set up a special way or anything like that and they are great.”

Visit Epiphone.com to learn more about the history of the Jack Casady Signature Bass and read our exclusive interview with Jack Casady as well as interviews with from Paul McCartney’s touring band, and longtime Jack White and Third Man Records bassist, Dominic Davis.

Epiphone Jack Casady 20th Anniversary Signature Bass

http://www.epiphone.com/News/Features/2017/Ltd-Ed-20th-Anniversary-Jack-Casady-Bass-Outfit.aspx

Jack Casady: The Epiphone Interview:

http://www.epiphone.com/News/Features/Features/2017/Jack-Casady-The-Epiphone-Interview.aspx

Dominic Davis (Jack White) Interview:

http://www.epiphone.com/News/Features/2014/Dominic-Davis-The-Epiphone-Interview.aspx

Brian Ray (Paul McCartney) Interview:

http://www.epiphone.com/News/Features/2013/Brian-Ray-The-Epiphone-Interview.aspx

About Epiphone:

For over 140 years, Epiphone has been a leading innovator in musical instrument design with historic models like the Casino, the Texan, and the new Masterbilt Century Archtop Collection. Epiphone is also home to the PRO-1 Collection and is the official instrument of Rocksmith® Remastered, the acclaimed video experience that’s teaching millions around the world how to play guitar and bass. Epiphone began as the “House of Stathopoulo” family business in Sparta in the 1870s, rose to fame in Manhattan, and continues to make history today from its headquarters in Nashville, TN as part of the Gibson Family of Instruments. Epiphones have powered classic recordings by Les Paul, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones along with today’s top artists like Gary Clark Jr., Jack Casady, Tommy Thayer of KISS, and Brent Hinds. As part of Gibson Brands, Epiphone offers innovation, history, and a lifetime guarantee. Epiphone is still the House of Stathopoulo: We're designers. We're players. We're mavericks. And, we're passionate about everything we do.

Fender Mod Shop Expands Palette Of Offerings

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Fender Mod Shop expands palette of offerings Spring/Summer 2017

Check out the new palette of offerings Fender Mod Shop is introducing spring/summer 2017 to satisfy even more players’ tastes, including: new body/pickguard colors, neck shapes, pickups and models, like American Professional and Jazzmasters.

Spring:

Colors: Desert Sand, Natural, Amber

Pickguard Colors: Green Pearl, Brown Anodized

Neck Shapes: ’57 Soft V Strat, ’74 Jazz Bass

Pickups: ‘57/62, ’74 Jazz Bass

Other: Custom Made, Exclusive Mod Shop Neck C-to-D 9.5” Radius

Summer:

Colors: Aged Cherry Sunburst, Skyburst Metallic, Ocean Turquoise

Neck Shapes: Reverse Headstock Strat®, ’64 Tele®, Inlaid Rosewood Neck

Pickups: Custom Shop ’69, ’64 Tele®, Texas Special Strat®

New Models: American Professional, Jazzmaster®

Since its inception in June 2016, the Fender Mod Shop has given players the opportunity to create their own versions of their favorite guitars via an online digital design studio. Choose from four classic Fender models: the Telecaster®, Stratocaster®, Precision Bass® and Jazz Bass®. After choosing a model, designers can decide everything from the body color, pickguard material and pickups to the hardware color and strings.

Mitchell's TB500 Traditional Bass Is A Modern Classic

Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Mitchell's TB500 Traditional Bass is a Modern Classic

Thousand Oaks, CA - March 2017... With its traditional looks and tone, Mitchell's new TB500 electric bass is a true rock, blues, and pop workhorse. Bassists will immediately appreciate its traditional-style, custom-contoured alder body; one-piece, 34-inch-scale maple neck; and smooth Indian rosewood fretboard with 20 jumbo frets. High-tensile-strength fretwire provides durability and a smooth playing experience.

Standard split-single and single-coil, paraffin-dipped alnico-V pickups let you switch instantly from blues to classic to modern rock, while mitigating microphonics and feedback. Separate volume controls for each pickup and a master tone control enable extensive sound sculpting. As a result, you can quickly and easily adjust your sound for a wide variety of musical genres.

The TB500's high-mass, adjustable bridge ensures a robust tone, smooth sustain for days, and solid intonation. A Graph Tech™ TUSQ XL™ friction-reducing nut and high-ratio, Y-type tuning machines enhance tuning stability and make precision tuning easy.

"The TB500 is an outstanding bass that looks and sounds like a classic instrument yet takes advantage of modern design and manufacturing techniques," explains Mitchell VP John Larabee. "We used superior materials and worked hard to get every detail right so the TB500 plays and feels as comfortable on stage as it does in the studio."

The Mitchell TB500 Series basses come in four-string and five-string versions and is available in black with white pearloid pickguard as well as transparent white blonde with tortoiseshell pickguard. Attractive nickel hardware further adds to the instrument's classic look.

Get your hands on the new Mitchell TB500 at Guitar Center or Musician's Friend or visit www.mitchellelectricguitars.com for more information.

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About Mitchell Guitars

For more than 30 years, Mitchell has been a long-standing favorite in high-value steel-string acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars. Now the Mitchell electric guitars expand on this legacy and further emphasize the brand's commitment to discerning players at all levels, across all styles and genres. Performance-focused features, impressive aesthetics and solid construction have made them the go-to instruments for guitar players everywhere. You can learn more about the complete line of Mitchell Guitars at www.mitchellguitars.com.

For more information contact: Mitchell Guitars, P.O. Box 5111, Thousand Oaks, CA 91359.