Recommended 2014 web by Intent Media (now Newbay Media Europe)

A round up of our recommended sections

2014

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RECOMMENDED COMMENT

Welcome to our Ë&#x2030;UVW HYHU 0, 3UR Recommended compendium. OVER THE past 12 months, MI Pro has been compiling a comprehensive assortment of some of the most prominent products on the market, covering everything from traditional folk lines to hightech DJ equipment. Now you can look back over each of the product categories highlighted throughout the year and the products featured therein. Enjoy.

Contents

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RECOMMENDED

FRET-KING CORONA JV Part of the firm’s Artist range, the Corona JV has been built to deliver a wealth of player-focused features.

ritish blues guitarist, John Verity, and allround guitar specialist Trev Wilkinson have specifically engineered the Fret-King Corona JV guitar to offer a variety of player-focussed features, including optimised tone and enhanced playability. Part of the firm’s line-up of Artist models, the Corona JV is ideally suited to a host of styles and applications. Its two-piece, centrejointed American alder body is complemented by a hard maple neck and matched maple fingerboard. Furthermore, the guitar comes complete with FretKing’s very own WVS60 single coils and hum cancelling single coil pickups, along with a Wilkinson WV2SB bridge.

Elsewhere, the Corona JV boasts two tone controls and a volume control, as well as a five-way lever pickup switch. According to Dennis Drumm, MD of Fret-King’s exclusive distributor, JHS, the Corona JV represents the values of the firm’s overall philosophy. “There are amazing guitar brands out there, which set the bar and created the benchmarks. Trouble is, so many of them now just regurgitate their history and back catalogue - very well in some cases. With Fret-King, we design in subtle player focused improvements to give more tone, more controllability, enhanced playability and an edge which moves design forward, but pays deferential homage to classic features.”

FACTS & FIGURES

INTERVIEW

Artist and product designer John Verity British blues guitarist John Verity discusses the philosophy behind the Fret-King Corona JV and working with guitar specialist Trev Wilkinson...

REVIEWS

4/5 ‘John Verity’s Corona JV is a classy toned vintage-style six-string that seems to have a little more of everything – it’s as though Wilkinson has discovered an extra gear on a favourite classic car’.

ARTIST MODELS FRET-KING CORONA DBR Danny Bryant FRET-KING CORONA GWR Greg Wright FRET-KING CORONA GW Geoff Whitehorn FRET-KING CORONA JV John Verity FRET-KING ECLAT DBC Dave ‘Bucket’ Colwell FRET-KING ELISE GG Gordon Giltrap FRET-KING JD DUNCAN Jerry Donahue - Natural FRET-KING JD Jerry Donahue - Natural FRET-KING JD Jerry Donahue - Orig. Classic Burst FRET-KING EXIGE PL Parker Lundgren

£649 £699 £629 £649 £599 £829 £899 £649 £649 £799

Price: £649 Colour Original Vintage Burst Body 2-piece centrejointed American alder Neck Hard maple Finger Board Maple Scale 25.5"/648mm Frets 22 Nut Width 1.67"/42.5mm nominal Tuners WJ07 EZ Lok Bridge Wilkinson WV2SB Pickups Fret-King WVS60 single coils and hum cancelling single coil Controls Volume and 2 tone, 5-way lever switch

Contacts Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd., Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, United Kingdom. Telephone: +44 (0) 1132 865 381 Email: webinfo@jhs.co.uk

“MY MAIN HOPES when Trev Wilkinson and I began to develop the guitar were that we would come up with an instrument that was better to play than its obvious influences, still with the full range of sounds that you would expect for three single-coil pickups, but without the noise problems. “I wanted a classic look – my favourite, going way back, has always been twocolour sunburst with a maple fret board and gold fittings. And, it also had to have a vibrato that allowed the guitar to stay in tune. “I selected my favourite neck profile and then Trev came up with a new slant on the offset body that remained comfortable, yet was able to provide much better access to the higher frets – I like to solo up at the ‘dusty end!’ “The three single coil pickups are vintage formula to retain that tone

faithfully, but an added Power-coil has taken care of the noise problems associated with single coil pickups without the loss of tone that can happen with ‘stacked’ pickups. “An added bonus of the Power-coil is that it thickens the sound, especially the bridge pickup, without removing any of the ‘sparkle’ that you would want to hear from this type of guitar. “I am essentially a blues player, and this guitar nails all of the sounds that I want there, but I also play a lot of sessions whereby a full range of sounds is required. “I must confess, I have far too many guitars at my disposal (and a lovely, forgiving wife) but these days, I tend to rely on my Corona JV most of the time, as it really is much more versatile than you could reasonably expect. I love it!”

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA PACIFICA 611 MI Pro takes takes a close look at one of the most popular guitars available on the mid-range market...

aunched back in 1990, Yamaha’s Pacifica Series was designed to provide guitarists with both optimised versatility and a high-end performance. Inspired by custom shop models of the time, the Yamaha Pacifica 611 (PAC611HFM) aimed to deliver all of the features and tonal qualities one associates with a high-end instrument at a mid-range price point. Featuring a bolt-on construction, the Pacifica 611 sports an alder body and maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard and comes with Grover locking tuners for stable tuning and ultra-fast string changes. It also comes with a Hardtail bridge with a Graph Tech String Saver saddle, which is engineered to significantly reduce string breakage, while minimising the dominant 2KHz tonal spike of metal saddles. Elsewhere, Yamaha has incorporated Seymour

Duncan SP90-1n and Custom 5 pick-ups with the Pacifica 611, in addition to a three-position pick-up switch lever, as well as controls for both master volume and master tone (push-pull coil split). Like a higher output version of the classic ’59 humbucker, the Seymour Duncan Custom 5 was developed in response to players customising their SH-5 Custom or SH-11 Custom pickups with Alnico 5 magnets for a more vintage, less distorted tone, whilst still retaining a deeper bottom end than the stock ’59. Meanwhile, wound with plain enamel wire on a 1950s Leesona winding machine, the SP90-1’s tone is a faithful reproduction of the original soapbar pickups. Short, wide bobbins are intended to give a higher output and more powerful midrange than conventional single-coils for a fat neck pick-up tone with clarity.

REVIEWS

4.5/5 “Yamaha's Pacificas have always ticked the value box, but this guitar adds an air of something more unique and desirable in the classic rock and blues cool of the 611: a good idea, well executed.”

ALSO IN THE RANGE: PACIFICA 311H: PACIFICA 510V: PACIFICA 611VFM:

FACTS & FIGURES

INTERVIEW

Martin Adam Product marketing manager Yamaha guitar product manager, Martin Adam, speaks to MI Pro about the design philosophy behind the firm’s Pacifica range...

RRP: £594 Construction: Bolt-On Scale Length: 25 1/2" (648mm) Fingerboard: Rosewood Radius: 13 3/4" (350mm) Body: Alder Neck: Maple Tuners: Grover Locking Tuner Bridge: Hardtail Bridge with Graph Tech String Saver Saddle Pickups: Seymour Duncan SP90-1n, Custom 5 Pickup Switch: 3 position lever Controls Master Volume, Master Tone

THE NEW Pacifica Custom series was launched at Musikmesse 2011. The design philosophy was to offer players a professionally specced guitar equipped with unique hardware combinations and genuine boutique custom shop design detail - we were not trying to replace anything that’s already out there, but rather offer players an original and affordable custom shop specced guitar, without the premium price-tag. Taking as the starting point our multi award winning standard Pacifica series, our aim was to make it stage-ready by subjecting it to a painstaking research and development programme. Our international guitar

development team enlisted the support of many highly respected professional players to assist us in the selection of the finest ‘tour tested’ custom components and pick-up combinations to make a truly outstanding all rounder. The Pacifica 611HFM is a highly versatile performer offering the player a rich palette of glassy shimmering clean, complex edgy crunch and modern rock tones - crucially delivering unique and creative sonic combinations not otherwise available. Since its entrance onto the world stage, the Pacifica611HFM has appeared on stage with artists as diverse as John Mayer, Glenn Hughes and Miley Cyrus.

£304 RRP / €362 £494 RRP / €597 £629 RRP / €760

Contacts Address: Yamaha Music Europe (UK), Sherbourne Drive, Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, MK7 8BL Telephone: 0844 811 1116 (UK) / 01526 2449 (Republic of Ireland) The 611 is the guitar of choice for a diverse array of artists.

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RECOMMENDED

PRS S2 SINGLECUT

An in-depth look at the latest addition to PRS Guitars Europe’s Made in Maryland S2 range of electric guitars...

he latest addition to PRS’s Made in Maryland S2 range is the Singlecut. Launched in 2013 and built at PRS Guitars’ Maryland facility, the S2 Series is considered one of the most significant product launches in the firm’s 29year history. The range premiered in July 2013 with three models: the S2 Custom 24 and the S2 Starla and S2 Mira, which offer a retro-inspired sound that has attracted musicians across many genres. S2 guitars, including the new-for-2014 S2 Singlecut and S2 Custom 22, share several key features, including Korean-made versions of PRS’s Phase II locking tuners, USdesigned, Korean-made pickups and either the USmade Stoptail bridge or Korean-made version of PRS’s original vibrato. All S2 models have the original PRS 635mm (25inch) scale length, three-

piece mahogany necks with the pattern regular profile and PRS bird inlays (with optional dot inlays on the Mira and Starla). The new S2 Custom 22 and S2 Singlecut introduce S2 versions of the PRS #7 humbuckers, first seen on the original PRS Singlecut, which offer a vintage tonality. The combination of individual pickup volume and tone controls, with push/pull partial coil splits, means the Singlecut is the most versatile S2 yet.

FACTS & FIGURES

The S2 Singlecut is built to offer maximum versatility.

REVIEWS

4.5/5 “The S2 Singlecut is a stark reminder of why some of us play PRS guitars: not because of the fancy maple tops or bird inlays, but because they are simply superb instruments.”

ALSO IN THE RANGE: S2 CUSTOM 22 S2 CUSTOM 24 S2 STARLA S2 MIRA

£1499 RRP £1499 RRP FROM £1199 RRP FROM £1199 RRP

RRP: £1,499 (with PRS gigbag) Neck: Mahogany Tuners: PRS S2 Locking Tuners Fingerboard: Rosewood w/bird inlays Scale length: 25” Frets: 22 frets Pick-ups: S2 #7 Treble and S2 #7 Bass pickups w/coil-splits Bridge: PRS S2 Stoptail Switch: 3-Way blade pickup switch Controls: Volume and push/pull tone control

Contacts Address: PRS Guitars Europe, D1 Button End, Industrial Estate, Harston, Cambridge, CB22 7GX Email: info@prsguitarseurope.com Telephone: 01223 874301

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RECOMMENDED

CASIO PRIVIA PX-5S This month, MI Pro takes a close look at some of the stage piano marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prominent modelsâ&#x20AC;Ś INTERVIEW

Andy Carvill EMI Sales Division Manager CASIOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ANDY CARVILL, speaks to MI Pro about why the new Privia PX-5S is designed with new thinking in mind.

he new Privia PX-5S from Casio has been engineered WR UHGHË&#x2039;QH WKH VWDJH piano category with optimised sound quality and performance features in a lightweight design that is highly portable. Featuring Hex-Layer technology, tone editing, insert effects, MIDI controller capabilities, an 88-key, tri-sensor scaled hammer action II keyboard

and weighing in at just 24 lbs, the Privia PX-5S is designed for onstage use. At the heart of the PX-5S is the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proprietary AiR sound source, which provides enhanced realism and has been expanded in order to provide players with RSWLPLVHG Ë&#x2039;GHOLW\ 7KH $L5 sound source also offers users complete control over other instrument tones and effects. The PX-5S is also a powerful four-zone

controller, complete with four knobs and six sliders, which are completely FRQË&#x2039;JXUDEOH WR FRQWURO internal sounds, effects parameters or send continuous controllers to other gear. Each zone on the PX-5S can control an internal sound, an external MIDI device or both . Class compliant USB MIDI also allows Privia digital pianos to be used with Mac or Windows and can be used as a controller for iPad with the use of Appleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

FACTS & RRP: ÂŁ999.99 Keys: 88 Tri-sensor Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II Sound Source: Multi-dimensional AIR Polyphony: 256 Note Tones: 370 Presets + 350 User

Stage Settings: 100 User / 4 zone FRQË&#x2030;JXUDWLRQ Control: 6 knobs, 6 sliders, pitch and mod wheel, 2 x pedal Effects: 4-band EQ & Compressor Weight: NJ

Contacts Address: Casio Electronics Co Ltd, Unit 6, 1000 North Circular Road, London, NW2 7JD. Telephone: 020 8208 7829 Email: emienquiries@casio.co.uk

THE PRIVIA PRO PX-5S represents a new breed of stage piano that combines a comprehensive arsenal of fully editable sounds, along with huge MIDI controller capabilities and an incredible 88-note scaled hammer action keyboard. The operation is centred DURXQG FRQË&#x2039;JXUDEOH stage settings, with stage settings allowing up to four zones at once, along with control of the sliders, knobs, wheels and pedals. Coupled with some seriously good Privia grand piano sounds, the PX-5S features all new vintage electric pianos which, when combined with the multiple zones of the PX-5S, means that players are able to easily combine different sounds together. The Hex-Layer sounds, which are derived from Casioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s XW Synth range, allow users to combine up to six components in one

single sound. Furthermore, the real-time control on the PX-5S enables users to manipulate each one of those layers in real-time. Adding to the sonic diversity of the PX-5S are four independent Arpeggiators - one for each zone. Or, perhaps you prefer the Phrase Sequencer, with 100 built-in patterns and room for 900 of your own? Either way the possibilities are incredible. When it comes to loading DQG VDYLQJ DXGLR Ë&#x2039;OHV WKHUH is easy USB drive access, plus, stereo audio can be recorded directly to disc. A downloadable data editor is available for both Mac and PC platforms. All of these amazing features, along with the clearly apparent style of the PX-5S, have been packed into an incredibly light 11.1kg. Quite simply, a stunningly portable and capable piano.

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA CLAVINOVA CLP-535

The latest addition to the firm’s Clavinova range comes packed with a wealth of new features and functions. he CLP-535 is the first Clavinova to feature sound samples from both the Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Grand Imperial pianos. In total, there are eight piano and 26 other instrument voices, all of which have been improved upon, compared to previous models. Together with 88-key sampling and 256-note polyphony, the 30W x 2 amplifier and speaker system has also been upgraded in order to deliver the dynamic sounds of the instrument in optimised quality. Touch and response has also been enhanced via the GH3X action with escapement feel and synthetic Ivory key tops. Furthermore, the user interface has been redesigned and is now both

INTERVIEW

Richard Ashby Marketing and product manager YAMAHA’S RICHARD ASHBY, speaks to MI Pro about the design philosophy behind the firm’s Clavinova CLP range.

easier to use and less intrusive. By placing all controls to the left of the keyboard and incorporating a backlit LCD screen, the instrument has been given a more sophisticated appearance, says the firm. There’s a 16-track sequencer and audio recording, while for

students, there is a new built-in lesson repertoire with over 300 songs. The piano can also interface with Yamaha’s NoteStar app for iPad, with optional wireless connectivity. There are six colours to choose from: Black Walnut, Dark Rosewood, Mahogany, White, Polished Ebony and White Ash.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: From £1,578 Width: 1461mm (571/2") (Polished finish: 1466mm (57-11/16")) Height: 927mm (361/2") (Polished finish: 930mm (36-5/8")) Depth: 459mm (18-1/16") (Polished

finish: 459mm (18-1/16")) Weight: 58.0kg (127lbs., 14oz) (Polished finish: 61.5kg (135lbs., 9oz)) Number of keys: 88 Number of pedals: 3 Display: Full dot LCD

ALSO IN THE RANGE: CLP-525: £1,257 CLP-535: £1,578

CLP-545: £2,035 CLP-575: £2,492

CLP-585: £3,453 CLP-565GP: £3,645

Contacts Address: Yamaha Music Europe (UK), Sherbourne Drive, Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, MK7 8BL Telephone: 0844 811 1116

SINCE ITS LAUNCH over 30 years ago, Clavinova has become the byword for digital pianos and the latest range looks set to continue its unrivalled success. Launched at Musikmesse 2014, the new CLP series is a major leap forward in specification and design. Of course, we were conscious of the risks of making major changes to a hugely popular range; yet the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive and clearly the reputation of Clavinova will be further enhanced by the new line-up. Perhaps the most exciting new feature is the fact that samples have been used from two of the world’s best grand pianos – the Yamaha CFX and the Bösendorfer Grand Imperial. Over the years, digital pianos have featured Piano1, Piano2 etc. and occasionally suggestions have been made

by manufacturers as to what instruments these voices have been sampled from. However, with the CLP-500 series, the names of CFX and Bösendorfer are displayed on the screen, giving players two wonderfully contrasting grand piano sounds to choose from, and the new ad campaign – ‘Two of the world’s finest grands…in one piano’ - will highlight this unique feature. There are a variety of additional voices, along with improved keyboard actions with escapement feel, new cabinet designs and several colour options. With the CLP-500 series, we are confident that many will continue to regard Clavinova as the best digital piano available and, for thousands of existing owners, offers many exciting reasons to justify upgrading their instrument.

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RECOMMENDED

BARNES & MULLINS BJ500M TROUBADOUR MI Pro plucks out some of the leading lines from across the vast and varied world of traditional instruments...

ith the Barnes & Mullins Company being founded in 1895 by one of the most celebrated Victorian era banjo duos

and makers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Messrs S. Bowley Barnes & Albert Mullins â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is only natural that traditional instruments remain an integral part of the product range today. Specially designed to deliver an authentic playing experience, the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s %- 0 7URXEDGRXU Ë&#x2039;YH string banjo serves as a tribute to the heyday of Barnes & Mullinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; performing heritage and comes fully equipped with D ZHDOWK RI KLJK HQG professional features. The instrumentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard maple neck has been satin Ë&#x2039;QLVKHG LQ RUGHU WR HQVXUH that the player can move around the rosewood Ë&#x2039;QJHUERDUG VPRRWKO\ DQG easily. Furthermore, the UHVRQDWRU LV Ë&#x2039;QLVKHG LQ D burled maple, while the hardware incorporated is antiqued gold. Additionally, the banjo comes complete with a rolled brass tone ring, which is not only included to add to the tone, but also frames the Remo Renaissance head. Elsewhere, the Troubadour BJ500M also comes equipped with geared machinheads along with a maple laminate rim. The Troubadour BJ500M banjo from Barnes & Mullins is available now at an RRP of ÂŁ639.

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: ÂŁ639 Type: 5 String Banjo â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Banjo Neck: Hard Maple Resonator: Burl Maple Fingerboard: Rosewood Rim: Maple Laminate Bracket: 24Pcs Flange: Flat Hardware: Antique Gold Head: Remo Renaissance Tone Ring: Rolled Brass Machineheads: Geared

Contacts Address: Unit 14, Mile Oak Ind Est, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 8GA, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1691 652449 Website: www.bandm.co.uk

ALSO IN THE RANGE: UBJ2 Banjo Ukulele Open Back UBJ1 Banjo Ukulele BJ300 Banjo â&#x20AC;&#x153;Perfectâ&#x20AC;? 5 String BJ304GT Banjo â&#x20AC;&#x153;Perfectâ&#x20AC;? Irish Gaelic 4 string BJ306 Banjo â&#x20AC;&#x153;Perfectâ&#x20AC;? Guitar Banjo. 6 Strings BJ304 Banjo â&#x20AC;&#x153;Perfectâ&#x20AC;? Tenor. 4 String BJ400 Banjo 5 String. Rathbone Model BJ400E Banjo 5 String Electro. Rathbone Model BJ500BW Empress BJ504BWGT Banjo Irish Gaelic Tenor Empress BJ500M Banjo Troubadour

ÂŁ199 ÂŁ239 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ399 ÂŁ469 ÂŁ519 ÂŁ519 ÂŁ639

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RECOMMENDED

STAGG UCX-ACA-S

The UCX-ACA-S ukulele is one of four ukuleles in a series of exotic wood instruments from the company...

FACTS & FIGURES

taggâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range of affordable, quality ukuleles have been at the forefront of its extensive catalogue for many years now, with both dealers and end users alike appreciating their blend of quality and value for money. Introduced back in 2012, the UCX-ACA-S ukulele from Stagg is placed at the higher end of the price scale. This is on account of its solid top and highquality workmanship. The UCX-ACA-S is one of four in a series of exotic wood ukuleles from the Ë&#x2039;UP LQFOXGLQJ $FDFLD (ACA), Spalted Maple (SPA), Zebrawood (ZEB) and Rosewood (ROS), which are available in Soprano and Concert sizes and come with or without electronics.

Among the most striking characteristic of the acoustic models in the range is the incorporation of a side-located sound hole, which is aimed at offering the player both natural tone and clarity. The instrument also features two front-facing F-holes that have been designed to deliver loud and clear projection. Elsewhere, the electro models come complete with a standard frontfacing sound hole, as well as a built-in B-Band U1.5T preamp with volume and bass controls. All exotic models come loaded with Aquila strings and feature high-quality, guitar-style geared machine heads, making the instruments simple to tune and play straight out of the box.

ALSO IN THE RANGE: UCX- ROS - S Rosewood UCX- SPA- S Spalted UCX- ZEB - S Zebrawood

ÂŁ124 ÂŁ136 ÂŁ118

RRP: ÂŁ153 Top: Solid Acacia Back & Sides: Acacia Neck & Head: Mahogany Fingerboard & Bridge: Rosewood Machine heads: Open-gear guitar-style, FKURPH Ë&#x2030;QLVK Scale length: 382mm

Contacts Address: EMD, Unit 1, South Lodge Court, Ironsbottom, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 8QG, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1293 862612 Email: info@emdmusic.com

ÂŁ199 ÂŁ239 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ399 ÂŁ469 ÂŁ519 ÂŁ519 ÂŁ639

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RECOMMENDED

PILGRIM VPB003

We take a close look at the Paul Tebbutt-designed VPB003 Shady Grove open back G banjo from Pilgrim...

he Pilgrim range dates back to the 1970s, when its designer, Paul Tebbutt, began small-scale production of high quality, contouredback electro acoustics at his premises in Leicestershire, England. Distributor JHS re-launched the brand in 2010 with the VPG001N/ TSB guitars under the guidance of Tebbutt himself and has gradually expanded the range to include a plethora of folk and traditional instruments, such as mandolins, mandolas and banjos, including the VPB003 Shady Grove open back G banjo Built to Tebbuttâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specs and design using high quality materials and hardware, such as a walnut shell, 24 bracket rolled brass tone ring and Remo Weathering Fibreskyn head, the VPB003 is a traditional open-back banjo, providing a classic feel and tone at reasonable prices. Furthermore, its walnut neck and scalloped Ë&#x2039;QJHUERDUG HQVXUH D EDQMR suitable for beginners to enjoy progressing with, yet still able to hold its own in the hands of an accomplished player. Č¤, VSHFLË&#x2039;FDOO\ designed this model to recreate the classic, old-time, clawhammer style banjo,â&#x20AC;? Tebbutt commented. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The VPB003 produces a deep warm tone with plenty of projection, and it is also ideal for accompaniment, as well as for playing traditional banjo tunes.â&#x20AC;? Whilst suited to folk, country and Americana, Pilgrim instruments have also found favour with rock and pop artists in all kinds of genres and are used live and in the studio by such artists as Lindisfarneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ray -DFNVRQ VNLIË&#x152;H UHYLYDOLVW Warren James and country artist Tim McKay.

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: ÂŁ419 Neck: Walnut Shell: Walnut Fingerboard: Rosewood, scalloped Head: Remo Weatherking Fibreskyn Brackets: 24 Tailpiece: Old-time style Tuners: Geared Tone ring: Rolled brass Traditonal open back

Contacts Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd, Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 113 2865 381 Website: www.jhs.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

CHORD SU26E We take a look at the new Sapele electro tenor ukulele from Chord…

FACTS & FIGURES

mong the new additions to Chord’s ukulele range is this SU26E electro tenor. The sapele body is designed to provide the instrument with a well-rounded tone and a bright response for such a small instrument, whilst also providing a strong and stable platform for the rosewood bridge. 7KH URVHZRRG ˋQJHUERDUG sits on the solid sapele neck and comes with 18 frets, offering users an extended playing range. Both body DQG QHFN DUH ˋQLVKHG LQ D smooth satin lacquer, which is aimed at enhancing the natural colour and grain of the sapele wood. Furthermore, the SU26E LV ˋWWHG ZLWK JHDUHG machineheads mounted onto a back angled

headstock for optimum tuning stability. Electrics are handled by a passive under-saddle piezo pickup with volume and tone rotary controls mounted on the top shoulder and output to a standard 6.3mm jack. The tenor ukulele is designed to serve as an ideal alternative for those looking for an instrument other than a standard budget model without moving into a much higher price bracket. The SU26E is part of the SU series electro ukuleles, which also features soprano and concert models.

ALSO IN THE RANGE: 175.527UK SU21E Electro Soprano Ukulele 175.528UK SU24E Electro Concert Ukulele 175.529UK SU26E Electro Tenor Ukulele

£59.99 £69.99 £79.99

RRP: £79.99 Body and neck: Sapele Fingerboard: Rosewood Pickup: Under saddle piezo Controls: Volume and tone sliders Tuning machine: Closed gear two-a-side Frets: 18 Bridge: Rosewood

Contacts Address: AVSL Group, Containerbase, Barton Dock Rd, Manchester, M41 7BQ, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 845 270 2411 Website: www.avslgroup.com

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RECOMMENDED

PONO ACACIA ACD

Manufactured by Hawaiian specialist, Koâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;olau, Ponoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest ukulele is aimed at the higher end of the market.

ono ukuleles are made by the Hawaiianbased company, Koâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;olau. The company produces handmade instruments on the island, as it has done for many years, under the Koâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;olau brand, but it also manufactures the Pono brand within itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s small factory in Indonesia. Pono has garnered a reputation for producing high-quality instruments and a consistent level of quality control. 7KH Ë&#x2039;UPČ˘V 3RQR $FDFLD $&' LV DQ DOO VROLG instrument that is aimed primarily at the playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market; for musicians looking to step up and play a well-made, optimum sounding ukulele. By combining Indonesian craftsmanship with Indonesian woods, Pono has taken careful steps to ensure professionalstandard performance. International pop star, Bruno Mars, was so impressed with the quality of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products that he had it commission one specially for him, . The full range extends IURP 6RSUDQR &RQFHUW Tenor and Baritone with VDWLQ DQG JORVV Ë&#x2039;QLVKHV LQ ERWK $FDFLD DQG 0DKRJDQ\

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: ÂŁ359 Materials: Solid Acacia top, back and sides Ebony faceplate, Ë&#x2030;QJHUERDUG DQG EULGJH Bone nut and saddle *ORVV Ë&#x2030;QLVK Total Length: 24â&#x20AC;? Body Length: 11-1/16â&#x20AC;? Body Width Upper Bout: 5-7/8â&#x20AC;? Lower Bout: 7-7/8â&#x20AC;? Body Depth Upper Bout: 2 1/4â&#x20AC;? Lower Bout: 2-3/4â&#x20AC;? Fingerboard Width at Nut: 1-3/8â&#x20AC;? Width at 12th Fret: 1-3/4â&#x20AC;? Soundhole Diameter: 2-1/16â&#x20AC;?

Contacts Address: Aria UK, Unit 2a Henley Business Park, Pirbright Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU3 2DX, UK Telephone: 01483 238720 Website: www.ariauk.com

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RECOMMENDED

OZARK 2141G FIVE-STRING BANJO

Though very well suited to bluegrass styles, the 2141G banjo is still built to serve as an ideal all-rounder...

zark banjos are engineered to provide users with a reliable instrument and great value. Over the SDVW \HDUV WKH Ë&#x2039;UP has become a universally recognised brand, offering high-quality instruments at affordable price points. While aimed principally at the bluegrass market, the Ozark 2141G still serves as an all-round banjo that can be put to use in both session or stage situations. Based on a classic design, it features a three-ply, maple ULP Ë&#x2039;WWHG ZLWK D EHOO EUDVV â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mastertoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; style tone ULQJ FDVW EUDVV Ë&#x152;DQJH DQG â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;clamshellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tailpiece. A Remo Weatherking head is Ë&#x2039;WWHG DV VWDQGDUG $OO RI WKLV is designed to deliver a fullbodied sound with plenty of sustain. The vintage style, genuine pearl inlays and FKRFRODWH EURZQ Ë&#x2039;QLVK DGG to the classic pre-war look. The banjo is also available LQ D QDWXUDO Ë&#x2039;QLVK The maple neck is accurately attached to the rim with double lag bolts and twin coordinating rim rods. The bound rosewood Ë&#x2039;QJHUERDUG LV Ë&#x2039;WWHG ZLWK 22 nickel silver frets, each accurately positioned, rounded and polished.

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: ÂŁ540 Tone ring: 24 tension brackets, double co-ordinator rods, plated cast tone ring Fingerboard: Inlaid, bound Resonator: Shaded, inlaid maple, bound Neck: Spliced, highquality tuners Head: Remo, coated Scale length: 670mm Width At Nut: 31.50mm

ALSO IN THE RANGE: 2141GN Natural Finish 2142G 2143G

RRP ÂŁ560 RRP ÂŁ785 RRP ÂŁ850

Contacts Address: Stentor Music, Albert Road North, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 9EZ, UK Telephone: +44 (0)1737 240226 Email: info@stentor-music.com

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA ABSOLUTE HYBRID MAPLE SET

MI Pro shines a spotlight on a selection of the drums and percussion sectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prominent products.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ2,539 Hoop material: Aluminium Hoop thickness: 3.0m Lugs: Hook lug Shell material: Maple-Wenge-Maple Hybrid Shell thickness: 8.0mm(BD), 6.2mm(TT, FT) Head top: Clear Emperor Head bottom: Clear Ambassador Head front: Smooth White PS3 with Yamaha logo Head batter: PS3 Clear (only 18â&#x20AC;?BD: Coated Ambassador)

amaha set out to pioneer the construction of hybrid acoustic drum shells when it introduced LWV Ë&#x152;DJVKLS 3+; 6HULHV As the name implies, the $EVROXWH +\EULG 0DSOH drum set combines a FRUH SO\ RI KDUGHU :HQJH wood with outer plies of 1RUWK $PHULFDQ PDSOH 7KLV XQLTXH FRQË&#x2039;JXUDWLRQ produces a drum with an expressive tone and a ZLGH G\QDPLF UDQJH WKDW LV GHVLJQHG WR UHSURGXFH HYHU\ nuance of a playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style DQG DSSURDFK $EVROXWH +\EULG 0DSOH GUXP VHWV IHDWXUH D KRRN OXJ RULJLQDOO\ GHVLJQHG IRU WKH 3+; 6HULHV ZKLFK EULQJV out the drumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural tone E\ FUHDWLQJ D VPDOO IRRWSULQW RQ WKH VKHOO ,Q DGGLWLRQ WR DOORZLQJ TXLFN DQG HDV\ KHDG FKDQJHV WKH OXJV SURYLGH SUHFLVLRQ WXQLQJ Other features in the series include a new piston-

GULYH VQDUH VWUDLQHU KLQJHG Ë&#x152;RRU WRP OHJ EUDFNHWV a low-mass bass drum bracket and the same style RI VSXUV Ë&#x2039;UVW LQWURGXFHG on the Live Custom drum VHW <DPDKDČ˘V H[FOXVLYH VWDJJHUHG GLDJRQDO VHDP DQG $LU 6HDO 6\VWHP VKHOO PDNLQJ SURFHVV LV DLPHG DW SURGXFLQJ VWURQJ FRQVLVWHQW VKHOOV â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new Absolute +\EULG KDV WDNHQ PDQ\ HOHPHQWV RI RXU )ODJVKLS 3+; VHULHV WR FUHDWH D WUXO\ DPD]LQJ LQVWUXPHQW ČĽ VDLG *DYLQ 7KRPDV 8. 3URGXFW 0DQDJHU <DPDKD 'UXPV â&#x20AC;&#x153;The aim was to develop a shell that has as wide and H[SUHVVLYH D VRQLF UDQJH as possible that responds accurately to differences in WKH ZD\ WKH GUXP LV SOD\HG The result has to be played DQG KHDUG WR EH EHOLHYHG This new series represent another step forward for <DPDKD LQ KLJK HQG GUXP production out of our ;LDRVKDQ IDFWRU\ ČĽ

Contacts Address: Yamaha Music Europe (UK), Sherbourne Drive, Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, MK7 8BL Telephone: 0844 811 1116 (UK) / 01526 2449 (ROI) Website: www.uk.yamaha.com

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RECOMMENDED

PROMARK SELECT BALANCE

0, 3UR GHOYHV LQWR WKH GUXPV DQG SHUFXVVLRQ PDUNHW WR WDNH D ORRN DW VRPH RI LWV WRS SURGXFWV DQG DFFHVVRULHV

romark by Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Addario claims to have changed the game with its Select Balance line of drumsticks, which allow drummers to choose forward or rebound balance IURP Ë&#x2039; YH GLDPHWHUV WR Ë&#x2039; W all playing styles. In order to create the Select Balance line, Promark went back to the drawing board and LGHQWLË&#x2039; HG WKH NH\ HOHPHQWV of drumsticks in order of priority: diameter, taper,

tip shape, and tip material. 7KH Ë&#x2039; UP WKHQ WRRN WKH Ë&#x2039; YH most popular diameters and made them the core of the Select Balance line, with ten SKUs currently available. Because drummers essentially prefer two types of stick balance - forward or rebound â&#x20AC;&#x201C; says the Ë&#x2039; UP WKH 6HOHFW %DODQFH line was designed to give players the option of both LQ Ë&#x2039; YH GLDPHWHUV ČĽ ČĽ ČĽ ČĽ ČĽ There are two tapers available. Forward balance

PRGHOV IHDWXUH D ~ČĽ taper for a front-heavy stick with a forward throwing feel. Rebound balance PRGHOV KDYH D ČĽ WDSHU IRU a back-heavy stick that is engineered to feel like itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s doing most of the work. The sticks are weightVRUWHG ZLWKLQ JUDPV IRU the closest possible weightmatching and are also tonesorted within six hertz for the closest tonal pairing. The sticks also utilise a PRGLË&#x2039; HG WHDU GURS WLS VKDSH for enhanced versatility.

Contacts Address: 'Č $GGDULR 8. *UHHQË&#x2030; QFK :D\ 1HZEXUQ 5LYHUVLGH 1HZFDVWOH XSRQ 7\QH 1( 1; Telephone: Website: ZZZ SURPDUN FRP

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ11.49 Material: Hickory Tip: 0RGLË&#x2030; HG WHDUGURS

ALSO IN THE RANGE: Forward Balance (2 1/4 â&#x20AC;&#x153;taper): FBH535TW FBH550TW FBH565TW FBH580TW FBH595TW Rebound Balance (3â&#x20AC;? taper): RBH535TW RBH550TW RBH656TW RBH580TW RBH595TW

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RECOMMENDED

EVANS HEAVYWEIGHT SNARE HEADS

A close-up look at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brand new, ultra-durable drum heads, which are aimed at hard-hitting sticksmen.

vans recently launched its most GXUDEOH Ë&#x2039;OP EDVHG drumhead to date, in the form of its new Heavyweight snare batter head. The Heavyweight Snare batter is made for the heaviest of hitters, featuring two identical plies of 10mm Ë&#x2039;OP SOXV D PP UHYHUVH dot for added durability and tonal focus, giving a WRWDO WKLFNQHVV RI PP LQ the playing area. The snare is also built to be highly dynamic and responsive with a wide tuning range, meaning that drummers can perform with as much force as needed without concern. Commenting on the new snare batter head, Evans artist, Kenny Aronoff (pictured), said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sonically, it sits perfectly in the track

when Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m recording; it can be heard, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own distinct voice and it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t FRQË&#x152;LFW ZLWK WKH EDVV guitars or the keyboards or the electric guitars or the vocals. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got a lot of lows, yet itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got a lot of highs. It has tones and it rings, but not too much. And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extremely durable.â&#x20AC;? Available in 12â&#x20AC;? and 14â&#x20AC;? option, the Evans Heavyweight snare batter heads retail for ÂŁ20. Meanwhile, Evans has also launched a new EMAD Heavyweight bass drum head, which it VD\V ČĄUHGHË&#x2039;QHV ORZ HQG responseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Two plies of PP Ë&#x2039;OP FRPELQHG with the EMAD system, aim to provide maximum punch without the need to DGGLWLRQDOO\ PXIË&#x152;H PLF EQ, compress or trigger.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ20 Two ply: (10mil+10mil FRDWHG Ë&#x2030;OP PLO reverse dot)

Contacts Address: 'Č $GGDULR 8. *UHHQË&#x2030;QFK :D\ 1HZEXUQ 5LYHUVLGH 1HZFDVWOH XSRQ 7\QH 1( 1; Telephone: Website: www.evansdrumheads.com

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RECOMMENDED

PREMIER MODERN CLASSIC DRUM SET

The all-new Modern Classic kit represents the latest addition to the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s British Collection drum sets.

andcrafted at Premierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Custom Works in the North of England, the Modern Classic sees the introduction of three models, which offer a retro look and clean tones with a modern build quality. The Concert Master 22 kit shares several key features across the range, including birch/mahogany shells; 4.5mm (8-ply) for the toms and 6mm (11-ply) for the bass drum, low-mass solid brass tube lugs, singleË&#x152;DQJH VROLG VWHHO KRRSV 30 degree bearing edges and Remo USA Coated Ambassador heads. Offered as a three-piece shell pack with a 22â&#x20AC;?x14â&#x20AC;? bass drum, 13â&#x20AC;?x8â&#x20AC;? rack

WRP DQG ČĽ[ ČĽ Ë&#x152;RRU tom, there is the option to expand the basic FRQË&#x2039;JXUDWLRQ ZLWK WZR matching snare drums â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 14â&#x20AC;?x4â&#x20AC;? and 14â&#x20AC;?x5.5â&#x20AC;? - along with a selection of loose drums available separately. The Concert Master 22 FRQË&#x2039;JXUDWLRQ VLWV DORQJVLGH two other models - the Bebop 18 and Bebop 20, comprising of a 12â&#x20AC;?x8â&#x20AC;? rack WRP ČĽ[ Ë&#x152;RRU WRP DQG 18â&#x20AC;?x14â&#x20AC;? or 20â&#x20AC;?x14â&#x20AC;? bass drum respectively. 3UHVHQWHG LQ WZR Ë&#x2039;QLVKHV (natural mahogany or birdseye maple), protected by a hand-applied satin oil and with contrasting wooden bass drum hoops, the range is produced in limited runs DQG LWV Ë&#x2039;QLVKHV FKDQJH seasonally in accordance with market trend.

ALSO IN THE RANGE: Modern Classic Bebop 18 Modern Classic Bebop 20 Modern Classic Concert Master 22

ÂŁ1,980 RRP ÂŁ2,100 RRP ÂŁ2,220 RRP

Available to pre-order now, delivery from 1st July 2014

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ2,220 RRP Lugs: Low-mass solid brass tube Hoops: 6LQJOH Ë&#x160;DQJH solid steel Bearing edge: 30 degrees Shell: Birch/mahogany Locks: Lug locks

Contacts Address: Premier Music International Limited, Kibworth Business Park, Kibworth Harcourt, Leicestershire, LE8 0EX Telephone: 0116 279 1444 Email: info@premier-percussion.com

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RECOMMENDED

NATAL CAJON

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ith its founder, Alan Sharpe, having EXLOW Ë&#x2039;EHUJODVV FRQJDV in 1960s London, Natalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roots are steeped in SHUFXVVLRQ KHULWDJH 7KH Ë&#x2039;UPČ˘V LQQRYDWLYH FRQJD design found favour with a raft of leading artists at WKH WLPH LQFOXGLQJ WKH likes of Santana, Fleetwood 0DF DQG /HG =HSSHOLQ WR QDPH EXW D IHZ 6LQFH WKHQ 1DWDO KDV EHFRPH SDUW RI WKH 0DUVKDOO $PSOLË&#x2039;FDWLRQ group and has seen its

EDFNJURXQG LQ SHUFXVVLRQ FRPH WR WKH IRUH RQFH DJDLQ 7KH 1DWDO UDQJH RI WUDGLWLRQDO FDMRQV KDV EHHQ KDQGFUDIWHG WR IHDWXUH IXOO\ DGMXVWDEOH VQDUH ZLUHV KLJK JULS WRSV KHDY\ GXW\ UXEEHU IHHW DQG D VHOHFWLRQ RI IRXU %LUFK ZRRG IURQW SDQHO Ë&#x2039;QLVKHV LQ HLWKHU ODUJH [ [ FP RU H[WUD ODUJH VL]HV [ [ FP Designed to deliver an HQKDQFHG ORZ HQG D ZDUP sound and high levels of reverberation, the Natal line FDMRQV DUH HTXDOO\ VXLWHG WR KRPH VWXGLR RU OLYH DSSOLFDWLRQV

ALSO IN THE RANGE: CJAN - L- SW- RR CJAN - L- SW- BR CJAN - L- SW- BB CJAN - L- SW- BN CJAN -XL- SW- RR CJAN -XL- SW- BR CJAN -XL- SW- BB CJAN -XL- SW- BN

(Large Red/Red) (Large Red/Red) (Large Red/Red) (Large Red/Red) (Extra Large Red/Red) (Extra Large Red/Red) (Extra Large Red/Red) (Extra Large Red/Red)

ÂŁ111.55 RRP ÂŁ111.55 RRP ÂŁ111.55 RRP ÂŁ111.55 RRP ÂŁ121.30 RRP ÂŁ121.30 RRP ÂŁ121.30 RRP ÂŁ121.30 RRP

REVIEWS:

4/5 FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ111.55 - 121.30 Size: 30 x 30 x 48cm (Large), 36 x 30 x 48cm (Extra Large)

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Good size â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the overall vibe is quite bassy and warm, lending a touch of sophistication.â&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well, imagine a very nice Cajon but with an octave more bass beneath it. This one was just superb â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there was still great separation and roundness but the bottom end was just massive. I was so impressed that I subsequently bought an XL and have used it lots since. It mics easily, sounds great acoustically and is everything I was looking for in a Cajon. Simple!â&#x20AC;?

Contacts Address: Marshall Distribution UK, Denbigh Road, Blethcley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK1 1DQ Telephone: 01908 375411 Email: dealersales@marshallamps.com

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DIXON FUSE FOUR-PIECE FUSION KIT The manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinguished drum line has become a prominent model on the drums and percussion marketâ&#x20AC;Ś

ixon has long been known as a manufacturer of drum hardware, with a history of manufacturing for other well-known brands too. More recently, Dixon snare drums have come to the fore not only with their own Equator and Artisan models, but also with the Chris Brady designed Australian Rose Gum series. Using its experience of hardware, snares, hand percussion and OEM drum PDQXIDFWXULQJ WKH Ë&#x2039;UP is now strengthening its range of drum kit offerings. Unlike those which use a small selection of wood types for their drums, Dixon is offering a wide range of tone wood types in its kits, creating what it describes as a true â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sound choiceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. 7KH Ë&#x2039;UP KDV FUHDWHG WKH six ply FUSE series from Cherry and Mahogany (three ply each). The choice of tone wood is aimed at offering a tonal advantage to the FUSE kits, while the satin chrome hardware is designed to add to its appeal. This four-piece, cherry black burst fusion kit is built to serve as a powerful performer, with the tone wood lending its added punch to the smaller drum dimensions. Available in a four-piece fusion kit (pictured 16x18â&#x20AC;?, 9x12â&#x20AC;?, 13 x 14â&#x20AC;?, ; ČĽ RU D Ë&#x2039;YH SLHFH rock kit (18 x 22â&#x20AC;?, 8 x 10â&#x20AC;?, 9 x 12â&#x20AC;?, 14 x 16â&#x20AC;?, 6.5 x 14â&#x20AC;?), FUSE kits are available in a choice of two colour Ë&#x2039;QLVKHV &DQG\ 5HG 6DWLQ or Cherry Black Burst satin. The drum kits can be supplied with or without double braced hardware (straight cymbal, boom cymbal, snare, hihat and bass drum pedal).

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ965 (ÂŁ743 without hardware) Shells: 6 Ply Hybrid Shells (Cherry/Mahogany) Shell thickness: 7.3mm 'UXP Ë&#x2030;QLVK Satin Drum hardware: Satin chrome Lugs: Low-mass Tom holder: Ball & L-rod Sizes: Rock or fusion Hardware/Stands (when included): Double braced: Straight cymbal stand Boom cymbal stand Hihat stand

ALSO IN THE RANGE: PODFS418SSSCR PODFS418SSPKSCR PODFS522SSSCR PODFS522SSPKSCR PODFS418SSSBB PODFS418SSPKSBB PODFS522SSSBB PODFS522SSPKSBB

Dixon FUSE Dixon FUSE Dixon FUSE Dixon FUSE Dixon FUSE Dixon FUSE Dixon FUSE Dixon FUSE

4pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Candy Red (exc hardware) 4pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Candy Red (inc hardware) 5pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Candy Red (exc hardware) 5pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Candy Red (inc hardware) 4pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cherry Black Burst (exc hardware) 4pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cherry Black Burst (inc hardware) 5pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cherry Black Burst (exc hardware) 5pc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cherry Black Burst (inc hardware)

Contacts Address: Barnes & Mullins, Unit 14, Mile Oak Ind Est, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 8GA, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1691 652449 Website: www.bandm.co.uk

ÂŁ614 ÂŁ811 ÂŁ743 ÂŁ965 ÂŁ614 ÂŁ811 ÂŁ743 ÂŁ965

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RECOMMENDED

REMO CR-P780-00 BONGO DRUMS

Part of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crown Percussion line, these bongos are among Remoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular instrumentsâ&#x20AC;Ś

ith a vast array of percussion instruments in its portfolio, Remo has become one of the most recognisable brands in the market. Among its offering is a wide variety of percussion instruments suitable for both ends of the playing spectrum; from beginners to professionals. 7KH Ë&#x2039;UP UHFHQWO\ redesigned its Crown Percussion line, which includes an array of instruments designed to offer high sound quality and maximum durability. One of the most popular items in the range is the

CR-P780-00 bongo drums (RRP: ÂŁ167), which have been engineered to offer high quality construction DQG VRXQG IRU Ë&#x2039;UVW WLPH players and working professionals alike. The drums themselves have been designed using chrome hardware and Toon hardwood, creating a warm sound quality, whilst also producing both rich bass and crisp slap tones. The bongos also come equipped with Remoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s patented tucked Fibreskyn heads, allowing for a classic sound at an affordable price. Available in a high-gloss QDWXUDO ZRRG Ë&#x2039;QLVK LQ D 7â&#x20AC;? and 8.50â&#x20AC;? set.

Wood Conga Wood Conga Wood Conga Wood Conga

RRP: ÂŁ167 Wood: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Toonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hardwood Sizes: 7â&#x20AC;? and 8.50â&#x20AC;? Hardware: Chrome Finish: High-gloss natural

Contacts

ALSO IN THE RANGE: CROWN 10â&#x20AC;? CROWN 11â&#x20AC;? CROWN 11.75â&#x20AC;? CROWN 12.5â&#x20AC;?

FACTS & FIGURES

ÂŁ249 ÂŁ264 ÂŁ301 ÂŁ317

Address: EMD, Unit 1, South Lodge Court, Ironsbottom, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 8QG, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1293 862612 Email: info@emdmusic.com

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RECOMMENDED

RHYTHM TECH PRO TAMBOURINE

The redesigned PRO tambourine has been engineered to combine enhanced tonality with maximum comfort…

or over 30 years, musicians have used Rhythm Tech tambourines, from the smallest club gig to stadium and arena tours for the biggest names in the business, including Oasis, The Courteeners, Razorlight, Paul Rodgers, Keane and many more. The now iconic ‘halfmoon’ design is not only intended to be more comfortable and ergonomic than standard designs, but the added advantage of brass or nickel jingles offers a choice of sounds too. The PRO tambourine takes the design features of it predecessor and has ‘turbo-charged’ them. A more comfortable handle grip has been included to offer users greater control of the tambourine so that minimal effort is required, while an adjusted centre of gravity makes it lighter and more responsive. Another feature is the nickel steel jingles, which aim to improve sustain and remove unwanted overtones, whilst the new layout makes them react faster, delivering more sound with less effort.

Meanwhile, the PRO also incorporates an over moulded strip on each face to protect the players hands; inbuilt holes in the corners to attach it to the ProMount (RRP £18.19), making it ideal for drummers and percussionists to easily add it to their set-up via a standard 3/8” rod; and it comes complete with its very own protective moulded gig case. “The PRO tambourine allowed us to reinterpret the classic Rhythm Tech shape using state of the art design and manufacturing techniques,” explained Rhythm Tech president Richard Taninbaum. “We put a lot of thought and design into the new handle, studying the motions involved with playing and how they effect control. I still love the original model, but the PRO is a beautiful instrument that is extremely comfortable to play.” Available in Black, White or Red with either nickel steel or brass jingles, the Rhythm Tech PRO tambourine retails for £60.99.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: £60.99 &RORXU ˉQLVKHV Black, white, red -LQJOHV Nickel steel

REVIEWS:

4/5

“The stuff that jingle jangle dreams are made of.”

ALSO IN THE RANGE: RTT RT1210/RT1230 RT- CNB/CNR/CNG RT1412 RT2430 RTRC

(Rhythm Tech tambourine) RRP £40.99/£44.99 (with Brass Jingles) (Rhythm Tech Solo tambourine) RRP £24.29 (Rhythm Tech Canz Shakers) RRP £8.09 (Rhythm Tech stick jingler) RRP £23.99 (Rhythm Tech stickball) RRP £22.99 (Rhythm Tech ribbon crasher) RRP £49.99

Contacts Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd, Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 113 2865 381 Website: www.jhs.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

CARLSBRO VAC 15 CLASSIC

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arlsbroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest addition to its amp range is the limited edition VAC 15 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Greenbackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Classic vintage tube combo, aimed at representing the best of Carlsbroâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage as a British guitar amp manufacturer.

The VAC 15 Classic is a Class A, all-valve driven 15W guitar combo. Classic tones are produced by the 12â&#x20AC;? Celestion G12 M Greenback, which replaces the usual 8â&#x20AC;? speaker in the standard VAC 15. Classic vintage tonality is produced from a combination of the Greenback, and the

3 x 12AX7 preamp and 2 x EL84 power stage tubes. An enlarged cabinet from the standard unit accommodates the bigger speaker and the DPSOLË&#x2039;HU DQG DOVR IHDWXUHV enhanced, heavy duty input and output power supply transformers. The control set is comprehensive, featuring a spring reverb, a bright switch on the input, three-

band EQ and an effects loop. Meanwhile, the amp VSRUWV D SLDQR EODFN Ë&#x2039;QLVK RQ WKH IURQW EDIË&#x152;H DQG D JUH\ VLOYHU IUHW FORWK Ë&#x2039;QLVK combined with a leather and FKURPH HIIHFW KDQGOH Ë&#x2039;QLVK â&#x20AC;&#x153;In our opinion, anything comparable, in terms of sound and quality, will set you back at least twice the SULFH ČĽ VDLG WKH Ë&#x2039;UP

ALSO IN THE RANGE: VAC 15 VAC 30 VAC 60

15 Watt combo 30 Watt combo 60 Watt combo

RRP ÂŁ218.90 RRP ÂŁ284.90 RRP ÂŁ350.90

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ383.90 Model type: Combo $PSOLË&#x2030;HU W\SH All Valve Class A 3RZHU 15W 6SHDNHU Celestion G12 M Greenback Valves: 3 x 12AX7 & 2 x EL84 &RQWUROV Spring Reverb, Bright Switch, 3-band EQ, Effects Loop Finish: Piano black IURQW EDIË&#x160;H

Contacts Address: Unit 11, Torc:MK, Chippenham Drive, Milton Keynes, MK10 0BZ Telephone: 01908 281072 Email: info@carlsbro.com

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RECOMMENDED

AGUILAR TH500 AMP & SL112 CAB The Tone Hammer 500W amp and SL112 cab are designed to complement one another in every department.

FACTS & FIGURES TH500 AMP: RRP: ÂŁ749 Power Output: 500W into 4 ohms, 250W into 8 ohms Preamp Section: Solid State - Power Section: Class D Transformer: Switching mode power supply (SMPS) EQ Section: Bass: +/- 17 dB at 40 Hz Mid Level: +/- 16 dB Mid Frequency: 180 Hz â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 kHz -Treble: +/- 14 dB at 4 kHz Drive Control: Fully adjustable, featuring Aguilarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AGS circuit. Inputs: One 1/4â&#x20AC;? input jack Speaker Outputs: 2 Neutrik Speakon Balanced Output: XLR balanced output with pre/post EQ and ground lift switch Cooling: Two whisper fans Dimensions: 10.75â&#x20AC;?W x 8.5â&#x20AC;?D x 2.75â&#x20AC;?H

ommitted to employing optimum engineering processes in the design and manufacture of its range of heads, cabs, preamps, pickups and effects pedals, Aguilarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to contribute to every aspect of the sound of the bass. 2QH RI WKH Ë&#x2039;UPČ˘V cornerstone products is the TH500-Tonehammer : DPSOLË&#x2039;HU %DVHG RQ the Tone Hammer pedal, the bass head combines WKUHH EDQGV RI Ë&#x152;H[LEOH (4 D colourful Drive control, and 500W of power in a package that weighs just 4 lb. The Tone Hammer 500 is designed to deliver the Ë&#x2039;UPČ˘V VLJQDWXUH VRXQG ZKLOH VWLOO Ë&#x2039;WWLQJ LQWR WKH accessory pouch of most gig bags â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ideal for bass players on the go. Also worthy of note is Aguilarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s process of measuring output power. Unlike some others, Aguilarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quoted power output of 500W refers to continuous output power

rather than a peak power rating often quoted in relation to other products. Furthermore, to complement the lightweight portability of the TH500 head, the natural partner is the SL112 lightweight cabinet. At only 25 lbs, the SL112 represents a new path to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aguilar Soundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, featuring neodymnium drivers and custom crossovers.

ALSO IN THE RANGE: TH350

Tonehammer 350W head

ÂŁ529 RRP

SL112 CAB RRP: ÂŁ789 Woofer: One 12â&#x20AC;? cast frame, 7oz. neo magnet Tweeter: Phenolic with integral phase plug Power Handling: 250W RMS Frequency Response: 37 Hz - 16 kHz Sensitivity: 99.9 dB 1W 1M Impedance: 8 ohms Dimensions: 14 7/8â&#x20AC;? H x 19â&#x20AC;? W x 18â&#x20AC;? D Weight: 25 lbs

Contacts Address: Barnes & Mullins, Unit 14, Mile Oak Ind Est, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 8GA, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1691 652449 Website: www.bandm.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

MUSIC MAN 212 HD 130

7KH UH LVVXHG UDQJH PDUNV WKH Ë&#x2030;UPČ V Ë&#x2030;UVW DPSOLIHU UHOHDVH LQ \HDUV IHDWXULQJ WXEH DQG VROLG VWDWH FRPSRQHQWV

he last Music Man amps rolled out of the factory back in 1984, and it would be another 30 years before the Ë&#x2039;UP ZRXOG SXW LWV DPSV EDFN into production. Music Man CEO, Sterling Ball, had been approached on a number of occasions about the possibility of re-launching Music Man DPSOLË&#x2039;FDWLRQ EXW LW ZDVQČ˘W until close friend and Markbass founder, Marco de Virgiliis, sent him a chance e-mail, that things took a positive turn. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When my dear friend Marco sent me an early

morning email asking if I ZDV LQWHUHVWHG , VDLG OHWČ˘V GR it,â&#x20AC;? Ball explained: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had zero hesitation. I had found my perfect partner to put these great amps back into the market.â&#x20AC;? The Music Man re-issue amps are have been built with the greatest respect to

the original philosophy and design, featuring both tube and solid-state components. The 212 HD 130 combo features two solid-state channels with independent volume, treble, middle and bass controls, with reverb and tremolo controls on channel two, shared master, four EL34 power tubes and two DV Mark Neoclassic

12â&#x20AC;? custom designed ultralight speakers. The 212 HD 130 model is also a lightweight option, weighing in at just 19.2kg. 0XVLF 0DQ DPSOLË&#x2039;HUV will once again be available throughout the UK as of September this year. Exclusive UK distribution of the range will be through Strings and Things.

Contacts Telephone: 01273 440442 Email: sales@stringsandthings.co.uk Website: www.stringsandthings.co.uk

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: TBC Channels: Two solid state channels with independent volume controls Power output: 130W Controls: Treble, middle and bass; reverb and tremolo on channel 2; shared master volume Valves: 4 x EL34 valves giving 130W tube power plus 1 x ECC83 (driver) Speakers: 2 x 12â&#x20AC;? DV Mark Neoclassic speakers Dual voltage: 120V/240V Weight: 19.2kg

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RECOMMENDED

HUGHES AND KETTNER GRANDMEISTER GM36H The Grandmeister 36 from Hughes & Kettner has been built to offer maximum versatility and optimised tone. REVIEWS:

GOLD STAR

he Hughes and Kettner Grandmeister 36 head is aimed at working guitarists that like to keep their rig simple, whilst maintaining the versatility RI PRGHUQ DPSOLË&#x2039;FDWLRQ ZLWKRXW VDFULË&#x2039;FLQJ WRQH The Grandmeister is an DOO YDOYH IRXU FKDQQHO DPS ZKLFK DOORZV WKH XVHU WR programme and store their IDYRXULWH SDWFK VHWWLQJV using an optional FSM432 IRRWVZLWFK RU DQ\ RWKHU MIDI pedalboard) or via the L3DG DSSOLFDWLRQ DOORZLQJ KH RU VKH WR FKDQJH WKH parameters in real time at WKH WRXFK RI D VFUHHQ ,Q DGGLWLRQ LW FRPHV FRPSOHWH ZLWK EXLOW LQ UHYHUE DQG IXOO\ FRQWUROODEOH

delay, plus pre-programmed RSWLRQDO FKRUXV Ë&#x152;DQJHU SKDVHU RU WUHPROR HIIHFWV ZKLFK FDQ DOVR EH SUHVHW WR WKH XVHUV RZQ SDWFKHV All of this is done via WKH IURQW SDQHO FRQWUROV ZKLFK XQOLNH VWDQGDUG potentiometers, are HDFK OLQNHG WR D VHULHV RI UHVLVWRUV WKDW DUH FDSDEOH RI PHPRULVLQJ HDFK SRVLWLRQ DQG VWRULQJ WKHP 1R GLJLWDO modelling is involved, while the sound is warm, natural DQG Č¤DOO YDOYH ČĽ Furthermore, the *UDQGPHLVWHU FRPHV ZLWK 76& 7XEH 6DIHW\ &RQWURO ZKLFK LQ DGGLWLRQ WR DXWR ELDVLQJ FRQVWDQWO\ DQDO\VHV WKH SHUIRUPDQFH RI HDFK RI WKH IRXU (/ SRZHU WXEHV Moreover, its inbuilt power VRDN LV FDSDEOH RI EHLQJ

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;stepped downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; from 36W to 18W, 5W, 1W or 0W LGHDO IRU SUDFWLVLQJ DW ORZ YROXPHV RU IRU UHFRUGLQJ DW KRPH Meanwhile, it also FRPHV ZLWK EXLOW LQ 5HG %R[ ', D GHGLFDWHG industry standard DI output that is used by studio and FOH engineers DFURVV WKH JOREH Elsewhere, the optional )60 Ë&#x152;RRUERDUG DOORZV you to use the Grandmeister in Stompbox mode to DFFHVV WKH IRXU FKDQQHOV DW WKH Ë&#x152;LFN RI D VZLWFK DORQJ ZLWK D WDS WHPSR IXQFWLRQ that lets users set the delay VSHHG DFFRUGLQJO\ The unit also features a built-in noise gate and FRPHV ZLWK D SURWHFWLYH FDUU\ FDVH

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: ÂŁ1,129 Channels: Four â&#x20AC;&#x201C; clean/crunch/lead/ultra Power: 36W (Switchable to 18, 5, 1 or 0) Reverb: Switchable Effects: Delay, Modulation, (Chrous/ Flanger/Phaser/Tremolo), Switchable Serial FX Loop Tubes: 3 x 12AX7, 4 x EL84 Dimensions: 171 x 446 x 152 mm Weight: 7.7 kg

STARS

4.5 5

STARS

ALSO IN THE RANGE: TM5H TM18H TM36H SWB100HT SWB100CT SWB50CT

Tubemeister Tubemeister Tubemeister Switchblade Switchblade Switchblade

ÂŁ199 ÂŁ539 ÂŁ849 ÂŁ1,299 ÂŁ1,499 ÂŁ1,049

Contacts Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd, Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 113 2865 381 Website: www.jhs.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

ORANGE DUAL DARK SERIES

2XU IRFXV RQ WKH DPSOLË&#x2030;HU PDUNHWČ V OHDGLQJ SURGXFWV FRQWLQXHV ZLWK 2UDQJHČ V EUDQG QHZ GXDO FKDQQHO PRGHOV

REVIEWS:

aunched at the Winter NAMM 2014 show, the Dual Dark Series from Orange is an all-new range of highend, dual channel amps. Designed to serve as an innovative option for JXLWDULVW WKH Ë&#x2039;UPČ˘V ODWHVW line aims to deliver what it calls â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;a new dimension RI VRXQGČ˘ WKDW SURYLGHV guitarists with optimised combinations of tone and the highest levels of gain ever offered by the brand. The new models come with an entirely new voicing for Channel A, which is both unique to the Orange amp range, yet retains all the hallmarks of its distinctly British heritage. Meanwhile, Channel B features the same voicing of the Orange Dark Terror tone. Both channels can go from clean through to crunch at

lower gain levels and offer four stages of gain. Available in 50W and 100W versions, both amps come with footswitchable attenuators, along with 2UDQJHČ˘V VLJQDWXUH ORZ impedance effects loop design. The Dual Dark 50 has an output that can be switched to 50W or 25W. Output on the Dual Dark 100 can be switched to 100, 70, 50 or 30W. Each amp comes with standard (/ V Ë&#x2039;WWHG DOWKRXJK RWKHU tetrode valves can be used when biased correctly by a technician.

FACTS & FIGURES

4.5/5 Č˘, GRQČ W EHOLHYH WKH Č&#x;SHUIHFWČ DPS H[LVWV EXW WKH 'XDO 'DUN FRPHV IULJKWHQLQJO\ FORVH ČŁ

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4/5

Contacts Address: 2UDQJH $PSOLË&#x2030;FDWLRQ 5LSSRQ :D\ %RUHKDPZRRG +HUWV :' -$ Telephone: Email: LQIR#RPHF FRP

DUAL DARK 50 RRP: ÂŁ1,479 Channels: 2 Output: 50/25 Watss RMS Valves: 2 x EL34 (power-amp),5 x 12AX7 (pre-amp, phase inverter), 1 x 12AT7 (effects loop) Speaker outs: 1 x 16 Ohm cabinet connected to the 16 Ohm output, 1 x 8 Ohm cabinet connected to one of the 8 Ohm outputs, 2 x 16 Ohm cabinets each connected to one of the 8 Ohm outputs DUAL DARK 100 RRP: ÂŁ1,579 Channels: 2 Output: 100/70/50/30 Watts RMS Valves: 4 x EL34 (power-amp), 5 x 12AX7 (pre-amp, phase inverter), 1 x 12AT7 (effects loop) Speaker outs: 1 x 16 Ohm cabinet connected to the 16 Ohm output, 1 x 8 Ohm cabinet connected to one of the 8 Ohm outputs, 2 x 16 Ohm cabinets each connected to one of the 8 Ohm outputs

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RECOMMENDED

STAGG UCX-ACA-S

The UCX-ACA-S ukulele is one of four ukuleles in a series of exotic wood instruments from the company...

FACTS & FIGURES

ALSO IN THE RANGE: UCX- ROS - S Rosewood UCX- SPA- S Spalted UCX- ZEB - S Zebrawood

ÂŁ124 ÂŁ136 ÂŁ118

RRP: ÂŁ153 Top: Solid Acacia Back & Sides: Acacia Neck & Head: Mahogany Fingerboard & Bridge: Rosewood Machine heads: Open-gear guitar-style, FKURPH Ë&#x2030;QLVK Scale length: 382mm

Contacts Address: EMD, Unit 1, South Lodge Court, Ironsbottom, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 8QG, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1293 862612 Email: info@emdmusic.com

ÂŁ199 ÂŁ239 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ249 ÂŁ399 ÂŁ469 ÂŁ519 ÂŁ519 ÂŁ639

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA THR10X

7KH 7+5 UDQJH RI SRUWDEOH JXLWDU DPSOLË&#x2030;HUV IURP <DPDKD LV DLPHG VSHFLË&#x2030;FDOO\ IRU XVH DZD\ IURP WKH OLYH VWDJH

FACTS & FIGURES

esigned from the ground up to serve as the ideal option for when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not playing live, the THR is at the forefront of what Yamaha describes as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Third Ampâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; revolution D QHZ FRQFHSW IURP WKH Ë&#x2039;UP aimed at guitarists who are serious about their off-stage sound and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always

have access to an elaborate studio or stage setup. 7KH Ë&#x2039;YH PRGHO VHULHV RI SRUWDEOH JXLWDU DPSOLË&#x2039;HUV utilises Yamahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Virtual Circuitry Technology to deliver authentic tube amp sound, realistic effects and KL Ë&#x2039; TXDOLW\ VWHUHR SOD\EDFN meaning that no location is too remote or elusive The THR10 X Extreme High-Gain amp is dedicated

ALSO IN THE RANGE: GTHR5UK GTHR5AUK GTHR10UK GTHR10CUK GTHR10XUK

RRP ÂŁ198 RRP ÂŁ199 RRP ÂŁ299 RRP ÂŁ299 RRP ÂŁ299

to guitarists that want more gain, more distortion and the response of a highRXWSXW VWDFN :LWK Ë&#x2039;YH different channels from three amps all delivering dynamic distortion, the THR10X is engineered to deliver the subtly different distortion characteristics of each amp or channel to provide a tone and response that is suited to everything

IURP FODVVLF URFN WR H[WUHPH metal. Furthermore, the THR10X offers a variety of different settings. Power I offers a crunch with a tone and presence aimed at ensuring the guitar sits perfectly in any mix, while Power II delivers more bass and gain than power, GHOLYHULQJ D WKLFNHU ULFKHU sound. Brown I provides a natural distortion that stays clean and clear even at the highest volumes, while Brown II serves up richer bass and stronger low-mid tones with added sustain. Southern Hi delivers an ultra high-gain preamp VHFWLRQ DQG IDVW WUDFNLQJ power-amp to give an intense, modern metal tone, while Clean is the same low-gain, natural amp as the THR10C Deluxe model.

RRP: ÂŁ299 Amp Type: Power I, Power II, Brown I, Brown II, Southern Hi, Clean, Bass, Flat Effects: Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Tremolo, Delay, Delay/Reverb, Spring Reverb, Hall Reverb, *Compressor, *Noise Gate (*only available in the THR Editor) Chromatic Tuner: Yes Switch: Amp, Gain, Master, Bass, Middle, Treble, Effect, Delay/ Reverb, Guitar Output, USB/AUX Output, User Memory Switch x 5, Tap/Tuner Switch Connections: Input, Phones, Aux In, USB Speakers: 8cm Full Range x 2 Rated Output: 10W (5W + 5W) Power Source: AC Adaptor - EADP-38EB A or UIB3451530 (included) * Depending upon usage and conditiowns Width: 360mm Height: 183.5mm Depth: 140mm Weight: 2.8kg

REVIEWS:

4.5/5

Contacts Address: <DPDKD 0XVLF (XURSH 8. 6KHUERXUQH 'ULYH 7LOEURRN 0LOWRQ .H\QHV 0. %/ Telephone: 8. 52,

Website ZZZ XN \DPDKD FRP

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RECOMMENDED

CHORD CVH-40 VALVE HYBRID

We take a close look at one of the company’s leading entry-level guitar amps, which is part valve, part solid state. REVIEW:

4.5/5

“Chord has plunged into a very competitive market and yet has come up with a great little amp that goes above and beyond what is expected at this price range.”

ince emerging back in 2010, the Chord brand has continued to develop and grow its presence in general music stores, catering for entrylevel musicians and aiming to offer consumers best possible value for money. The unique selling point of the CVH-40 is its hybrid element. The combo amp is part valve, part solid state

and is designed primarily for use in practice applications. A 12AX7HG valve drives the pre-amp through a solid state power section, offering a high gain lead channel with contour control. 3OD\HUV FDQ DOVR EHQHˋW from a warm valve tone,

crisp distortion throughout the gain range and switchable channels at a highly affordable price. In addition, the CVH-40 Valve Hybrid comes complete with an effects loop, auxiliary input

ALSO IN THE RANGE: CVH -80

12” 80W SSP

£249.99

Contacts Address: AVSL Group, Containerbase, Barton Dock Rd, Manchester, M41 7BQ, UK Telephone: +44 (0) 845 270 2411 Website: www.avslgroup.com

for playing along to backing tracks, headphone output, spring reverb and threeband EQ per channel.

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: £189.99 Power supply: 230Vac, 50Hz (IEC) Inputs: Guitar (jack), footswitch (jack), aux (stereo minijack) FX connections (6.3mm jack): Send, return Preamp: Hybrid solid state + 12AX7HG valve Output connections: Headphones Controls (clean channel): Bass, treble, volume Controls (drive channel): Gain, bass, treble, contour, volume Controls (master): Reverb Speaker: 10“ vintage voiced Output power: 40Wrms Dimensions: 405 x 375 x 210mm Weight: 10.1kg

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RECOMMENDED

ARIA 500 SERIES OM

MI Pro takes a look at the acoustic guitar marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading lines, including this recently launched model from Aria.

ria recently introduced its all-solid wood 500 Series range of acoustic guitars. Constructed from high quality tonewoods and featuring four models within OM and Dreadnought body sizes, the new range is manufactured in the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Indonesian factory.

Solid Sitka spruce is the tonewood choice for the soundboard with inlaid herringbone patterns for the soundhole design and ERG\ SXUË&#x152;LQJ ZKLOH VROLG Indonesian mahogany is employed for the VDWLQ Ë&#x2039;QLVKHG QHFN DQG silky smooth, 20-fret Ë&#x2039;QJHUERDUG ZKLFK LV LQODLG ZLWK VPDOO VQRZË&#x152;DNH position markers. Two OM size models are currently available with optional solid Indonesian mahogany or Rosewood for the back and sides with internal quarter-sawn nonscalloped X bracing. The woods have been selected to ensure that the 500 Series delivers sweet, mellow overtones with a range of dynamics and a sonic blend of trebles with a strong, focused bass response. Sustaining qualities are also enhanced by the Indonesian Rosewood bridge, bone saddle and precision cut bone nut. Hardware for both OM models includes open geared, vintage designed tuners. The 501 OM with Mahogany body comes complete with a hard shell case included as standard and is available ar a retail price of ÂŁ499, while the 505 OM with Rosewood body also comes with a hard shell case and comes with a retail price of ÂŁ539.

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: From ÂŁ499 Top: Solid Skita Spruce Back & Side: Solid Indonesian Mahogany Neck: Indonesian Mahogany Fingerboard: Indonesian Rosewood Number of Frets: 20 Headstock: Rosewood Ply Neck Joint: 14F Fingerboard Inlay: Small Snow Flake Nut Width: 44mm Nut: Bone Saddle: Bone Scale Length: 650mm Bridge: Indonesian Rosewood Bracing: Quartersawn Non-Scalopped X Brace Machine Head: Vintage Open Gear Type Strings: Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Addario EXP-16

Contacts Address: Aria UK, Unit 2a Henley Business Park, Pirbright Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU3 2DX, UK Telephone: 01483 238720 Website: www.ariauk.com

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RECOMMENDED

TANGLEWOOD TPE SFCE AS

Designed with Michael Sanden, this guitar is one of four new Super Folk Cutaways.

anglewood recently announced the launch of its Premier SE Series, designed in conjunction with master luthier Michael Sanden. The range incorporates new construction features aimed at strengthening the neck joints, bridge points and WRSV ZKLFK WKH Ë&#x2039;UP VD\V will be completely unique to its guitars. The TPE SFCE AS model is one of four Super Folk Cutaway electro acoustic models in the Premier SE line (two folk acoustic only models are also in the range), all of which feature an AAA Englemann Spruce top with an Abalone rosette. One-piece Mahogany necks are topped with a Rosewood Ë&#x2039;QJHUERDUG PDWFKLQJ the Rosewood bridge. 7KH Ë&#x2039;QJHUERDUGV DUH decorated with 3mm Mother of Pearl inlays. It also comes ZLWK H[RWLF Ë&#x2039;JXUHG $VK EDFN and sides.

Other models in the range feature Zebrano, Dao and Lacewood back and sides, while B-Band has developed a new sound hole EQ called Crescent 1 with a specially-designed cosmetic exclusively for Tanglewood, which features on all four Premier SE models. Each guitar sports a thin satin Ë&#x2039;QLVK DQG 7DQJOHZRRGČ˘V VOLP QHFN SURË&#x2039;OH Commenting on the range, Sanden said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new Premier SE has been designed from scratch, inside and out. I was asked to look into the guitars and redesign the things that I thought would improve the overall sound and FRQVWUXFWLRQ 7KH Ë&#x2039;UVW WKLQJ I changed was the bracing. Tanglewood sell guitars all over the world and the humidity changes from Norway to Africa could be quite dramatic. Therefore I wanted a very stable and responsive top. I chose to use tapered bracing instead of scalloped and behind the bridge I use two braces running parallel to the bridge plate. This creates a stable top and prevents the top bellying up behind the bridge. We also use a rock maple for our bridge plates for strength and sound. This gives the guitars a substantially better level of sustain. We call our new bracing pattern the Tanglewood Sanden Tapered Parallel bracing.â&#x20AC;? The TPE SFCE AS will retail in the UK for ÂŁ499.

FACTS & FIGURES

RRP: ÂŁ499 Top: Spruce Neck: Mahogany Fingerboard: Rosewood Inlays: Mother of Pearl Back and side: Ash

ALSO IN THE RANGE: TPE SFCE LS TPE SFCE DS TPE SFCE ZS TPE F ZS TPE F LS

Lacewood Back & Sides Electro Acoustic Dao Back & Sides Electro Acoustic Zebrano Back & Sides Electro Acoustic Zebrano Back & Sides Acoustic Lacewood Back

ÂŁ499 ÂŁ499 ÂŁ499 ÂŁ399 ÂŁ399

Contacts Website: www.tanglewoodguitars.co.uk Email: CustomerService@tanglewoodguitarscompany.com

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RECOMMENDED

WOODSTOCK 41” FULL-SIZE DREADNOUGHT

This acoustic guitar aims to combine quality performance with value for money.

he Woodstock 41” full size Dreadnought acoustic guitar has ben designed from the ground up to deliver high levels of performance at a competitive price point. Manufactured in the Far East with a solid Sitka top, multi-layered ivory body binding and pinstripe detail, the guitar has been engineered to offer the feel and quality of an instrument with a much higher price tag. The guitar features a laminated Rosewood back and sides, as well as

rosewood binding on WKH ˋQJHUERDUG 2IIVHW 4mm pearl position markers and a 3mm maple back, bottom and heal, complete with pinstripe detail also feature, along with a wood inlay rosette, chrome Grover style machine heads, a double truss rod and tortoise shell pickguard. With prices for full size Woodstock guitars starting at £79.99, nylon string ranges (both ¾ and full size), entry level and premium ukuleles, electroacoustics and acoustic basses are also available, as are left handed and 12 string models.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: £249.99 Top: Solid Sitka Back and sides: Rosewood Machineheads: Chrome, Grover-style Fingerboard: Rosewood binding

ALSO IN THE RANGE: Concert ukulele Parlour guitar Dreadnought guitar (WHW41101)

RRP £154.99 RRP £244.99 RRP £79.99

Contacts Telephone: 01273 440442 Email: sales@stringsandthings.co.uk Website: www.stringsandthings.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

FAITH SIGNATURE MARS FSG-R-BOG 3DUW RI WKH Ë&#x2030;UPÈ V 6LJQDWXUH 6HULHV WKH JXLWDU IHDWXUHV UDUH %RJ 2DN WRQHZRRGV

lthough based in the UK, Faith Guitarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; workshops are based in West Java, Indonesia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an area renowned for its woodworking expertise. So FRQË&#x2039;GHQW LV WKH Ë&#x2039;UP LQ LWV workshopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handcrafting DELOLWLHV WKDW PRVW UHFHQWO\ D QXPEHU RI H[FOXVLYH 6LJQDWXUH PRGHOV KDYH EHHQ FRPPLVVLRQHG 'HVLJQHG DQG FRQFHLYHG LQ WKH 8. E\ 3DWULFN -DPHV (JJOH )DLWK 6LJQDWXUH PRGHOV FODLP WR PDNH DYDLODEOH YHU\ VSHFLDO and unusual tonewoods, one of which is British Fenland Bog Oak. $Q LQFUHGLEO\ UDUH WLPEHU %RJ 2DN LV IRXQG LQ 1RUIRON )HQODQG PRVW RIWHQ XQLQWHQWLRQDOO\ E\ IDUPHUV 7KH ZRRG FRPHV IURP IRUHVWV ZKLFK ZHUH VXEPHUJHG ZKHQ VHD OHYHOV

rose toward the end of the Neolithic era. Once sea levels dropped, the retreating salt water left peat bogs that concealed VXEPHUJHG WUXQNV VWLOO SHUIHFWO\ SUHVHUYHG GXH WR WKH R[\JHQ IUHH HQYLURQPHQW :KLOVW underwater, the oak logs reacted with iron salts, FUHDWLQJ %RJ 2DN WKH 8.È¢V RQO\ LQGLJHQRXV EODFNZRRG 3DLQVWDNLQJO\ GULHG RYHU PDQ\ PRQWKV %RJ 2DN is used on each of these guitars and has been carbon GDWHG WR \HDUV ROG 7KH VFDUFLW\ RI WKH ZRRG PHDQV RQO\ D KDQGIXO FDQ EH PDGH DYDLODEOH DW DQ\ RQH WLPH :KHQ PDWFKHG WR (QJHOPDQQ 6SUXFH %RJ 2DN has a distinct tone, which WKH Ë&#x2039;UP GHVFULEHV DV DOPRVW LQFRPSDUDEOH WR DQ\ XVXDOO\ referenced tonewood.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: Â£1,999 Top Wood: High-Grade Solid Engelmann Spruce Back & Side Wood: Solid British Fenland Bog Oak (dated 5,300 years old) Binding: Solid Macassan Figured Ebony Bracing: Quarter-Sawn, Piano-Grade Spruce Rosette: 5mm Green Abalone with Fibre Border Neck: Mahogany Neck Finish: Satin / Gloss on Bog Oak Fingerboard: Macassan Figured Ebony Fingerboard Inlays: Mother of Pearl â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at 12th Fret Machine Head: Grover Rotomatic 18:1 Nickel Case: Faith Hardcase

REVIEW: Acoustic Magazine: È¢7KH WRQH OHDQV WRZDUG .RD RU &RFREROR DW WLPHV 7KH VXVWDLQ LV H[FHOOHQW DQG WKH G\QDPLF UDQJH LV VXSHUE LQ WKDW \RX FDQ SOD\ UHDOO\ VRIWO\ ZLWKRXW ORVLQJ DQ\ WRQH 7KHUHÈ V D VXUSULVLQJ DPRXQW RI XVDEOH YROXPH RQ KDQG WRR 7KH EDVVHV DUH URXQGHG DQG VWURQJ ZLWKRXW EHLQJ GRPLQHHULQJ ZKLOH WKH WUHEOHV UHPDLQ VZHHW DQG IXOO $V DQ LQVWUXPHQW LW UHDOO\ LV Ë&#x2030;UVW FODVV DQG WKH VWRU\ LW KDV WR WHOO LV SULFHOHVV È£

ALSO IN THE RANGE: FSG-R-BOG43 FSG-N-HSY FSG-NC-LPT FSG-V-EBY

As above with 43mm nut and 14 fret join Faith Signature Neptune (Honeyed British Sycamore ) Faith Signature Neptune (Cutaway London Plane Tree) Faith Signature Venus Cutaway (Macassan Ebony)

Â£1,999 Â£1,499 Â£1,499 Â£1,899

Contacts Address: %DUQHV 0XOOLQV 8QLW 0LOH 2DN ,QG (VW 2VZHVWU\ 6KURSVKLUH 6< *$ 8QLWHG .LQJGRP Telephone: Website: ZZZ EDQGP FR XN

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RECOMMENDED

FAITH SIGNATURE MARS FSG-R-BOG 3DUW RI WKH Ë&#x2030;UPÈ V 6LJQDWXUH 6HULHV WKH JXLWDU IHDWXUHV UDUH %RJ 2DN WRQHZRRGV

ALSO IN THE RANGE: FSG-R-BOG43 FSG-N-HSY FSG-NC-LPT FSG-V-EBY

As above with 43mm nut and 14 fret join Faith Signature Neptune (Honeyed British Sycamore ) Faith Signature Neptune (Cutaway London Plane Tree) Faith Signature Venus Cutaway (Macassan Ebony)

Â£1,999 Â£1,499 Â£1,499 Â£1,899

Contacts Address: %DUQHV 0XOOLQV 8QLW 0LOH 2DN ,QG (VW 2VZHVWU\ 6KURSVKLUH 6< *$ 8QLWHG .LQJGRP Telephone: Website: ZZZ EDQGP FR XN

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RECOMMENDED

OZARK 3515BTE ‘BISCUIT’ RESONATOR This electro-acoustic model has been built to combine a rich tone with a classic Hawaiian-style aesthetic.

FACTS & FIGURES

esigned to a high standard, Ozark resonators are ideally suited to blues, rock, country or any combination of these styles. Optimised projection and authentic tone are at the heart of the engineering process, providing an equally striking sound whether played with a slide or as a regular guitar. The 3515BTE is a thin line resonator with a brass, nickel-plated body. The resonator plate is gold plated, as is the tailpiece and pickup

RRP: £570 Construction: Neck bolted through body Neck width: Nut- 43mm 12th Fret- 55mm Scale length: 24 ¾ ” Frets: 19 String Spacing: Nut - 3mm Bridge - 54.5mm Action as supplied: 12th fret treble - 2mm 12th fret bass - 2.5mm Fingerboard: Rosewood (with black inlays) Body: Brass (Nickel plated) Neck: Mahogany Hardware: Gold plated Pick-up: Lipstick x 1 Bridge: Biscuit Controls: Master volume, Master tone Weight: 3.7kg

cover, complimenting the nickel-plated body. The slim line body is built to offer versatility without compromising its unique tonal qualities. A ‘lipstick’ style pickup LV ˋWWHG WR UHSURGXFH WKH classic resonator sound, while its Hawaiian-style engraving has proved popular among pros such as Neil Taylor (Robbie Williams, Natalie Imbruglia, Tina Turner), who said: “I love the high quality of the Ozark resonator - there is obviously a lot of time dedicated to building these instruments.”

ALSO IN THE RANGE: 3515 3515E 3515N 3515DD 3515B 3515BE 3515BTEC 3615 3616

RRP £299 RRP £315 RRP £365 RRP £390 RRP £495 RRP £570 (also available in black RRP £525) RRP £650 RRP £395 RRP £735

Contacts Address: Stentor Music, Albert Road North, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 9EZ, UK Telephone: +44 (0)1737 240226 Email: info@stentor-music.com

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RECOMMENDED

VINTAGE VIATOR TRAVEL GUITAR

Built to deliver maximum versatility, this travel guitar is ideal for beginners and pros alike.

nspired by some of the most esoteric acoustic guitars of yesteryear, the Vintage Viator Travel Guitar (VTR800PB) is the latest addition to the Vintage Paul Brett signature range. Famed for his knowledge of vintage guitars, Brett is also an accomplished

player, having recorded and toured with The Strawbs, The Overlanders, The Crazy World of Arthur Brown, Elmer Gantry’s Velvet Opera, Al Stewart and Lonnie Donegan, as well as releasing a number of solo albums as Paul Brett Sage. As such, his expertise has been put to use designing a number of popular guitars for the Vintage range. “I am very proud of the Viator travel guitar,” said Brett. “This guitar will suit both beginners and professionals who want to have a great sounding and affordable guitar that they FDQ ˋW LQWR VPDOO VSDFHV IRU travelling convenience. My inspiration for this guitar came from the early 20th century style of guitars, and the sound the Viator SURGXFHV ERWK LQ ˋQJHUVW\OH and strumming modes is very much reminiscent of that era. I have tried most styles on it, from blues, jazz, plectrum and picking through to classical, folk and open tunings – and yes, with

ALSO IN THE RANGE: VE8000PB Six-string acoustic inc. case VE8000PB-12 12-string acoustic inc. case

RRP £469 RRP £519

lighter strings on it will play beautifully in Terz tuning.” The Viator has a solid Sitka Spruce top with Sapele back and sides and uses a Maple/Rosewood combination for the binding and rosette. The Graphtech Nubone nut and Tusq saddle provide tuning stability and intonation, and the customised V-shape Nato neck has a rosewood ˋQJHUERDUG ZLWK SHDUOHG inlays. It also comes with a Vintage Viator carry bag. “Vintage have once again done a fantastic job in reproducing my design” continued Brett. “The Viator is one little packet of dynamite!” Acoustic guitar maestro, Gordon Giltrap, who also has his very own own range of Vintage Signature models, was so impressed by the Viator travel guitar that he now uses one as a regular part of his live set. Brett’s other Vintage guitars are used by Billy Hawkins (Fishermans Friends) and John Verity.

FACTS & FIGURES

REVIEWS:

RRP: £229 (including case) Top: Solid Sitka Spruce Back: Sapele Sides: Sapele Binding: Maple/Rosewood Rosette: Maple/Rosewood Brace: Custom X-scalloped Neck: Nato, customised v-shape Headstock: Rosewood Fingerboard: Rosewood Inlays: Pearloid Bridge: Rosewood Nut: Graphtech NuBone Saddle: Graphtech TUSQ Scale: 546mm/21.49” Tuners: Grover open gear, chrome Strings: High quality USA made Carry Case: Black, heavily padded carry bag with shoulder straps

5/5

4/5 3.5/5

Contacts Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd, Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, UK Telephone: +44 (0) 113 2865 381 Website: www.jhs.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

JAMES NELIGAN DEVERON DEV-PFI

This parlour model from the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deveron Series is ideal for those in search of a small-bodied guitar.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ285 Model: DEV-PFI Top: Solid mahogany Back & Sides: Mahogany Neck: Mahogany Fingerboard: Rosewood with maple inlay Bridge: Rosewood Headstock: Mahogany with maple inlay Soundhole: Herringbone inlay Nut: Bone Machine heads: Diecast nickel with sating black tuning pegs Pre-amp: Fishman Isys201 w/ chromatic tuner Output: 1 x 1/4â&#x20AC;? jack Strings: Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;addario EXP Image: Richard Ecclestone - www.richardecclestone.com

ith the folkindie genre now more popular than ever, parlour guitars have found their way to a new audience of late. Designed to deliver optimal projection and a varied tonal palette, the shape of the James Neligan DEV-PFI provides users with a compressed sound without losing any of its volume, making it especially suitable for blues and roots folk styles. However, the guitar has also been engineered to offer durability and a highly dynamic, versatile sound, rendering it suitable for a wide range of other styles and genres. Its grained solid mahogany top is offset by mahogany back and sides and mahogany neck. The Rosewood Ë&#x2039;QJHUERDUG PHDQZKLOH comes complete with maple inlays and the herringbone sound hole inlay has been designed to add greater depth to the guitarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctive aesthetic. Elsewhere, the Fishman Isys-201 preamp is engineered to deliver an enhanced sound when plugged in, while the builtin chromatic tuner makes keeping the guitar in tune simple. Equipped with Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Addario EXP strings, the DEV-PFI is aimed at offering players a high-end option at a more affordable price point.

REVIEW: Acoustic Magazine: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Grown-up, professional design is mixed with a competitive spec, accomplished build quality and a charming, enjoyable tone that should have all but the pickiest of guitarists grinning from ear to ear.â&#x20AC;? Build quality 5/5; Sound quality 4/5; Value for money 4/5.

Contacts

ALSO IN THE RANGE: DEV-A DEV-ACFI DEV-D DEV-DCFI

Auditorium Auditorium Electro Dreadnought Dreadnought Electro

ÂŁ214 ÂŁ290 ÂŁ216 ÂŁ293

Address: EMD, Unit 1, South Lodge Court, Ironsbottom, Reigate, Surrey, RH2 8QG, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 1293 862612 Email: info@emdmusic.com

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA L SERIES LJ6 ARE

Launched earlier this year, the LJ6 ARE from Yamaha offers a powerful sound with optimised balance.

elebrating its 40th anniversary, the new 2014 Yamaha L-Series is built to offer a combination of traditional and modern - a warm WRQH WKDW Ë&#x2039; WV LQWR D VROR performance or mix, along with a timeless aesthetic. The Guitarist Gold Awardwinning model aims to provide maximum comfort and comes stage-ready with Yamahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Zero Impact pickup system. The LJ6 ARE builds RQ WKH Ë&#x2039; UPČ˘V KHULWDJH of acoustic instrument design. Featuring the classic hourglass shape of a jumbo but on smaller, more comfortable scale, the model has been designed to deliver a combination of well-rounded tone, playability and optimised dynamic range. For stage performances, the Zero Impact pickups aim to capture every nuance of the playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance. With D PRGLË&#x2039; HG EUDFLQJ GHVLJQ

the sound has become more powerful, whilst still maintaining optimum balance Furthermore, the QHZ Ë&#x2039; YH SLHFH 0DKRJDQ\ Rosewood neck has been UH SURË&#x2039; OHG DQG LV PP slimmer overall. The solid Engelmann Spruce top is treated with ARE (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) wood reforming technology. Within a short period, new wood matured with the technology produces a tonal richness like that of vintage instruments, using specialised equipment that controls temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure. And, as no chemicals are used, it has low environmental impact. Available in Rosewood DQG 0DKRJDQ\ EDFN DQG sides options, it comes in natural or brown sunburst Ë&#x2039; QLVKHV DQG LQFOXGHV D semi-rigid gigbag.

ALSO IN THE RANGE: GLL6ARE GLL6MARE GLL16ARE GLL16MARE GLL16DARE GLL1612ARE GLL16L2ARE GLL26AREII GLL56AREII GLS6ARE GLS6MARE

RRP ÂŁ513 RRP ÂŁ465 RRP ÂŁ804 RRP ÂŁ658 RRP ÂŁ852 RRP ÂŁ852 RRP ÂŁ804 RRP ÂŁ2,908 RRP ÂŁ5,333 RRP ÂŁ513 RRP ÂŁ465

GLS16II GLS16MARE GLS26ARE GLS36AREII GLS56AREII GLJ6ARE GLJ16ARE GLJ26AREII GLJ36AREIII GLJ56AREII

RRP ÂŁ804 RRP ÂŁ658 RRP ÂŁ2,908 RRP ÂŁ3,684 RRP ÂŁ5,333 RRP ÂŁ513 RRP ÂŁ804 RRP ÂŁ2,908 RRP ÂŁ3,684 RRP ÂŁ5,333

GOLD

AWARD

REVIEWS:

5/5

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ513 Top: Solid Engelmann Spruce ARE Back: Rosewood Side: Rosewood Neck: Mahogany and Rosewood 5 ply Fingerboard: Rosewood Body depth: 100-125mm Nut width: 44mm Body: Medium Jumbo Tuners: Die-cast gold (TM-29G) Bridge: Rosewood Pickups: SRT zero impact

Contacts Address: Yamaha Music Europe (UK), Sherbourne Drive, Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, MK7 8BL Telephone: 0844 811 1116 (UK) / 01526 2449 (ROI) Website: www.uk.yamaha.com

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RECOMMENDED

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ADDARIO NYXL

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brand new string line has been specially engineered to deliver a higher output than ever before.

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Addarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new range of NYXL electric guitar strings has been re-engineered from the ball-end up to offer never before seen levels of stability. Stronger than any of its predecessors, torture tests have proved that NYXL strings stay in tune up to 131 per cent more accurately than ever before, meaning that guitarists waste less time tuning up. Starting with the selection of new highcarbon steel alloys, Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Addario engineers have completely re-imagined the wire drawing process and optimised the corrosion-resistant tin coating application, resulting in enhanced strength and pitch stability. Furthermore, the new strings have also been designed to bend farther and sing louder than ever before, with the reformulated nickelplated steel alloy boosting amplitude in the 1 kHz to 3.5 kHz range, modernising overall tone without ever losing the nickel-plated steel feel. With six per cent more magnetic permeability for higher output, NXYL electric guitar strings aim to offer more punch, crunch, and bite. Available in six sets, the NYXL line is comprised of the most popular gauge combinations. Singles are also available: RRP ÂŁ3.29 for two-pack (Plain) and ÂŁ3.29-ÂŁ10.99 each (Wound).

ALSO IN THE RANGE: RRP: ÂŁ13.99-ÂŁ14.75 NYXL0838 NYXL0942 NYXL0946 NYXL1046 NYXL1052 NYXL1149

Extra Super Light, .008-.038 Super Light, .009-.042 Super Light Top/ Regular Bottom, .009-.046 Regular Light, .010-.046 Light Top/ Heavy Bottom, .010-.052 Medium, 0.11-.049

Contacts Address: 'Č $GGDULR 8. *UHHQË&#x2030; QFK :D\ 1HZEXUQ 5LYHUVLGH 1HZFDVWOH XSRQ 7\QH 1( 1; Telephone: Website: www.daddario.com

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RECOMMENDED

ELIXIR HD LIGHT STRINGS

The new range of acoustic guitar strings from Elixir have been engineered to suit any narrow body style guitar.

lixirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HD Light strings have been engineered to provide a new voice in Phosphor Bronze and add to its range of Acoustic Phosphor Bronze strings with Nanoweb coating. The strings are the result of a deepening collaboration with Taylor Guitars and, more VSHFLË&#x2039;FDOO\ PDVWHU OXWKLHU Andy Power, who wanted to create a custom string set that would bring a bolder, stronger high-end and fuller, warmer low-end to the guitar manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newly-redesigned Grand Concert and Grand Auditorium instruments.

The resulting set of Phosphor Bronze strings with Nanoweb coating - known as HD Light delivers a bolder high-end and fuller low-end, with a balanced voice across all the VWULQJV 7KH Ë&#x2039;UP DFKLHYHG this by blending the plain steel strings of a medium gauge set with the wound strings of a light gauge set, bridged by a custom .025 third string. The increased tension of the treble strings is designed to improve articulation, while the interaction of the tension SURË&#x2039;OH ZLWK WKH VRXQGERDUG adds to the harmonic content of the bass strings. Though the new HD Light sets were custom designed for the Taylor Grand Concert and Grand Auditorium, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the new sets are perfect for any narrow body style guitar,â&#x20AC;? according to Powers. Offered in both Phosphor Bronze and 80/20 versions, Elixirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HD Light sets are now available for any acoustic guitar and are priced in line with current Phosphor Bronze and 80/20 sets in the market.

REVIEWS: Acoustic Magazine: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Powering up the new (OL[LU +' /LJKWV WKHUHČ V D GHË&#x2030;QLWH VKLIW towards a more dynamic treble response and the basses have warmed up nicely. 7KH VHW LV Ë&#x2030;QHO\ EDODQFHG Č? HYHQ ZLWK VRPH GURSSHG WXQLQJV Č? DQG VLWV FRPIRUWDEO\ under the hand.â&#x20AC;?

Contacts Strings and Things Tel: 01273 400 442 Web: www.stringsandthings.co.uk

Guitarist: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have always found that a traditional light set can sound a bit thin on the top end and a medium set can feel a bit heavy to play. Elixir HD Light Strings have addressed this with a hybrid set that comfortably balances medium gauge plain steel strings and light gauge wound strings.â&#x20AC;?

Westside Distribution Tel: 0844 326 2000 Web: www.westsidedistribution.com Keynote Tel: +3531 456 9533 Web: www.keynotemusic.ie

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RECOMMENDED

ERNIE BALL REGULAR SLINKY

Played by some of the world’s top guitar players, these strings are one of the market’s most popular choices.

aunched in 1962, Ernie Ball Regular Slinkys are the world’s bestselling string set and are regularly used by the likes of Eric Clapton, John Mayer, Slash, Jimmy Page, Steve Vai and a host of guitarists worldwide. 7KH ˋ UPȢV 6OLQN\ VWULQJV are precision manufactured to the highest standards and PRVW H[DFWLQJ VSHFLˋ FDWLRQV to ensure consistency, optimum performance, and longevity. Regular Slinky wound strings are made from nickel-plated steel wire wrapped around a hex shaped steel core wire. The plain strings are made from specially tempered tin plated high carbon steel, producing a well-balanced tone. Regular Slinky Gauges are .010 .013 .017 .026 .036 .046 Alternative Regular Slinky sets are also available. Classic Regular Slinkys are based on the original 1960s pure nickel set, while Cobalt Regular Slinkys, launched in 2012, are designed to provide a stronger magnetic relationship between string and pick-up. More recently, at this year’s Winter NAMM, the company revealed its new M-Steel Regular Slinky. M-Steel, short for Maraging Steel, is a super-alloy used in high stress applications. The wound strings are comprised of a patented Super Cobalt alloy wrapped around a Maraging steel hex core wire to produce a richer and fuller tone with powerful low-end response.

Contacts

ALSO IN THE RANGE: Regular Slinky Cobalt Regular Slinky M-Steel Regular Slinky

£7.25 RRP £13.95 RRP £16.95 RRP

Telephone: 01273 440442 Email: sales@stringsandthings.co.uk Website: www.stringsandthings.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

ROTOSOUND SWING BASS RS66

Introduced some 50 years ago, these strings have been used by some of the very best bassists in the business.

eveloped at the Request of The Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s John Entwistle 50 years ago, Rotosoundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s RS66LD bass strings have been played by a plethora of high SURË&#x2039;OH QDPHV IURP WKH EDVV SOD\LQJ FRPPXQLW\ including the likes of Duff McKagan, Geddy Lee, Chris Squire, Billy Sheehan, Krist Novoselic and Noel 5HGGLQJ WR QDPH EXW D IHZ 5RWRVRXQG ZDV WKH Ë&#x2039;UVW PDQXIDFWXUHU WR SURGXFH this type of string, and they are still produced

WRGD\ XVLQJ WKH VDPH highly secretive processes DQG D IRUP RI VWHHO WKDW LV XQLTXH WR WKHVH VWULQJV /HG Zeppelin bassist, John Paul -RQHV VDLG RI WKHP Č¤7KH\ are so good â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I use twelve at D WLPH ČĽ Rotosound Swing Bass strings are available in all popular gauges and scale OHQJWKV LQFOXGLQJ IRXU Ë&#x2039;YH VL[ DQG HLJKW VWULQJV VHWV Double ball end options are DYDLODEOH LQ WKH IRXU DQG Ë&#x2039;YH VWULQJ VHWV SOXV FXVWRPHUV FDQ SXUFKDVH FXVWRP ER[ single strings and a Nickel VWULQJ RSWLRQ

ALSO IN THE RANGE: Four String Sets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stainless Steel Five String Sets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stainless Steel Six String Sets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stainless Steel Eight String Set â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stainless Steel Double Ball End Four and Five String Sets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Stainless Steel Four and Five String Sets â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nickel

(ÂŁ23.95 RRP INC VAT) (ÂŁ29.95 RRP INC VAT) (ÂŁ34.95 RRP INC VAT) (ÂŁ43.95 RRP INC VAT) (FROM ÂŁ35.99 RRP INC VAT) (FROM ÂŁ23.99 RRP INC VAT)

Contacts Address: Rotosound Manufacturing Limited Unit 3B, Morewood Close, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2HU Telephone: 01732 450838 Email: jason@rotosound.com

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RECOMMENDED

HK AUDIO LUCAS NANO 300 Suitable for a range of applications, the Lucas Nano 300 is ideal for gigging DJs.

K Audio’s Lucas Nano 300 is among the most prominent lines in the Lucas range. Weighing 10.3kg and with a section for housing the satellite speakers when not in use, users can carry their PA with just one hand. The Class D onboard power amp, which powers the 8” sub and satellites, provides 230W using line-array technology for optimum sound reproduction. With a full onboard preamp/mixer section, it can be used for a variety of applications, from standard vocal PA, DJ system, keyboard or electric kit monitor, to presentations, desktop recording or even as a home cinema. The TRS inputs on Channels 1 and 2 allow users to use standard 1/4 jacks or XLRs for instrument or mics, while Channel 3 is a dedicated input for CDs, MP3/media players or computer playback via mini jack or phono inputs. Each Channel features separate volume and tone controls, while Channel 2 can double as a dedicated input for a mixing desk. A dedicated control lets users set the balance between sub unit and the satellites. Users can also take a stereo line out for recording via the L/R outputs, and the Link in/ out feature offers the option of running two Nano 300 systems in tandem. The satellites can be mounted on stands via the

optional AP1-NANO1 (RRP £99) add-on package, which includes cables and carry bag, or attached wirelessly directly to the main unit with the Easy-Click system. Other extras include the AP-NANO2 (RRP £59.99) dual purpose table top tripods/wall mounts and the RB-NANO (RRP £89.99) Roller Bag.

REVIEWS:

RRP: £599 Satellite: Double Max SPL peak: 120 dB Mid/high unit dispersion pattern, horizontal/ vertical: 60° x 40° Output power system: 70 W @ 4 Ohm Frequency response: 190 Hz – 20 kHz Maximum SPL, @ 10% THD: 116 dB Dimensions (WxHxD): 13 x 26 x 11,5 cm Weight: 2 kg Subwoofer Max SPL peak: 118 dB Output power system: 160 W @ 2 Ohm Frequency response: 44 Hz – fx Maximum SPL, @ 10% TH: 116 dB Dimensions (WxHxD): 30 x 39 x 42 cm Weight: 8.3 kg

4/5 4/5

A host of add-on packages are available for the Nano 300.

Contacts

ALSO IN THE RANGE: Lucas Nano 600 Lucas Smart Lucas Performer Lucas Impact

FACTS & FIGURES

£999 RRP £1,119 RRP £1,799 RRP £2,499 RRP

Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd, Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, UK Telephone: +44 (0) 113 2865 381 Website: www.jhs.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA STAGEPAS

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portable PA system has been built for use across a diverse array of live audio and DJ applications.

amahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STAGEPAS Portable PA Systems have gained a solid reputation in the DJ and pro audio world and are considered by many to be the standard for musicians and other PA users on the go. Designed to combine high-performance power and accurate sound reproduction, the range aims to deliver enhanced versatility and reliability in a portable package. The STAGEPAS600i replacing the STAGEPAS 500 - features two newly designed, lightweight speakers and a detachable powered mixer, along with one pair of speaker cables and a power cord, providing users with a complete, portable sound solution that can be set up quickly and easily in a variety RI FRQË&#x2039;JXUDWLRQV DQG environments. Elsewhere, by combining

KLJK HIË&#x2039;FLHQF\ DPSOLË&#x2039;HUV newly designed speakers, and high performance DSP, the STAGEPAS range has been specially engineered to deliver a substantial increase in power output (680W for the 600i) as well DV VLJQLË&#x2039;FDQW LPSURYHPHQWV in both sound quality and all-round reliability. Complementing the boost in performance, the addition of iPod/ iPhone connectivity, as well as SPX digital reverbs, an onboard feedback suppressor and more versatile EQ, is aimed at boosting functionality and ease of use, allowing STAGEPAS to meet the demands of a wider range of applications and users. Furthermore, for those wanting to add a little more bottom end to their system, the Yamaha STAGEPAS600i also comes complete with a dedicated subwoofer output for connecting a powered sub, such as the Yamaha DXS12 or DXS15.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ915 Power: 680W (340W + 340W) power output Speakers: LF:10â&#x20AC;? woofer/ HF:1.4â&#x20AC;? voice coil compression driver Mixer: 10-channel EQ: One-knob master EQ with virtual bass boost; 3-band channel EQ Outputs: Monitor and Subwoofer Inputs: Switchable stereo/ mono; Hi-Z (high impedance) inputs Footswitch: Optional reverb footswitch

ALSO IN THE RANGE: STAGEPAS400I

ÂŁ610 RRP

Contacts Address: Yamaha Music Europe (UK), Sherbourne Drive, Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, MK7 8BL Telephone: 0844 811 1116 (UK) / 01526 2449 (ROI) Website: www.uk.yamaha.com

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RECOMMENDED

STUDIOMASTER FUSION+

The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fusion+ console is engineered to cater for a wide range of DJ and live audio applications.

tudiomasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fusion+ has been built to serve as a complete entertainment console for DJ, karaoke, clubs, solo performers, duos and sound installations. The unit offers three mic channels with combination XLR/jack inputs, three-band EQ with sweep mid, 80Hz KLJK SDVV Ë&#x2039;OWHUV DQG PP faders, providing users with everything they need for professional quality sound. These channels are complemented by a high-quality DSP effects section, delivering effects quickly and easily. The four stereo channels have three-band EQ with D VWHHS G% FXW PP long life-assignable cross fader and MPX switching for karaoke. The output section features professional facilities; such as individual LED level indicators for output and cue signals, a Mic Cut switch and adjustable cross fade tapers. Main outputs are featured on professional XLRs for connecting to compact powered speakers or large club installations. The Fusion+ is engineered for maximum durability, with every FRQWURO VHFXUHO\ Ë&#x2039;[HG WR the front panel and all connectors screwed directly on the chassis.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ273.90 Channels: 3 mic/4 stereo Effects processor: High-quality DSP

Contacts Address: Studiomaster, Unit 11, Torc:MK, Chippenham Drive, Milton Keynes, MK10 0BZ Telephone: 01908 281072 Website: www.studiomaster.com

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RECOMMENDED

STUDIOMASTER STARLIGHT

7KH 6WDUOLJKW LV 6WXGLRPDVWHUȠV ˉUVW 3$ FDELQHW WR LQFRUSRUDWH OLJKWLQJ FDSDELOLWLHV DQG D PRQLWRULQJ V\VWHP

esigned for use by DJs, solo artists and bands, Studiomaster recently introduced LWV ˋUVW 3$ FDELQHWV WR integrate both lighting and a monitoring system. The angled cabinet has a recessed slot on one side that contains six highpower LEDs with dispersion lenses, while the in-built controller features 13 programmes, including seven static colours, fade to colour change and sound to colour change. Brightness and speed are also adjustable.

The units are supplied in pairs so that the LEDs and monitors are angled inward to the DJ/performer. When placed on speaker stands, the vertical LED strips project the colour wash evenly across the stage. The 4” 50W monitor speaker is positioned at ear height in order to provide directional monitoring to the DJ/performer without the need for excessive volume levels. 7KH 3$ VHFWLRQV IHDWXUH D : DPSOLˋHU DQG D WZR channel mixer with threeband EQ. The 1” throat, 60 x 90 degree high frequency driver is paired to a heavy-duty bass unit.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: £481.80 (per pair) Power: 12” 250W/50W active LEDs: Six high-power LEDs with dispersion lenses Monitor speaker: 50W Mixer: Two-channel with three-band EQ Controller: Built-in with 13 programmes, including seven static colours, fade to colour change and sound to colour change

ALSO IN THE RANGE: STARLIGHT 15ML 15” 250W/50W ACTIVE

£569.80 RRP (PER PAIR)

Contacts Address: Studiomaster, Unit 11, Torc:MK, Chippenham Drive, Milton Keynes, MK10 0BZ Telephone: 01908 281072 Website: www.studiomaster.com

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RECOMMENDED

ALLEN & HEATH XONE: 23C

Designed to combine digital DJing and conventional mixing, the Xone:23C is one of the marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading lines.

he Xone:23C DJ mixer comes equipped with a premium quality, four stereo channel 96kHz/24bit internal soundcard and offers plug and play connection via X:LINK to Allen & Heathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Xone:K controllers. It includes an enhanced version of the ;RQH Ë&#x2039;OWHU ZLWK UHVRQDQFH control, VCA faders, three-band total kill EQ, illuminated switches and crossfader curve selector. At its core is the analogue Voltage Control Filter (VCF) system, offering Low-Pass DQG +LJK 3DVV Ë&#x2039;OWHUV frequency sweep and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mild to wildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; resonance control. An FX loop connects to third party FX units, which route EDFN LQ YLD WKH Ë&#x2039;OWHU V\VWHP It also features 2+2 stereo channels with dual levels for phono and line inputs. The main mix output and mic input are on professional standard balanced XLRs, while there is a dedicated record output. Full monitoring facilities, including a dedicated booth output with volume control, a cue mix control, and signal levels displayed on the nine segment peak hold meters, also feature. Styled on the Xone:DB4, the Xone:23C includes soft touch, backlit controls, lightpiped metres and a newlyshaped steel faceplate.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ383 Inputs: Dual line/phono inputs (x2), XLR mic input (with 2-band EQ) Outputs: Balanced XLR output, dedicated record output, independent booth output Other Features: USB connectivity, Innofader compatibility, 20dB pro standard headroom, resonance control, three-band total kill EQ, FX loop

Resident advisor:

4/5

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Xone:23C has little competition in its class. For a small rig or cramped booth, this is perfect for anyone who wants to add analogue quality without breaking the bank.â&#x20AC;?

ALSO IN THE RANGE: XONE:DB4 XONE:DB2 XONE:464 XONE:92 XONE:62 XONE:42 XONE:22

REVIEWS:

ÂŁ2,158 RRP ÂŁ1,078 RRP ÂŁ1,522 RRP ÂŁ1,402 RRP ÂŁ994 RRP ÂŁ778 RRP ÂŁ298 RRP

Contacts Address: Audio-Technica Limited (UK), Unit 5, Millennium Way, Leeds, LS11 5AL Telephone: +44 (0) 113 277 1441 Email: sales@audio-technica.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA PSR F-50

%DVHG RQ D VLPSOH FRQFHSW WKH ) NH\ERDUG IURP <DPDKD KDV EHHQ RQH RI WKH Ë&#x2030;UPČ V NH\ UHOHDVHV LQ UHFHQW \HDUV

amahaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s F-50 keyboard has been designed to offer entrylevel players a high-quality option at an affordable price point. 7KH Ë&#x2039;UP VD\V WKH GHVLJQ concept was simple; build a starter keyboard that is easy to use, ideal for learning and inspiring to SOD\ $ Ë&#x2039;YH RFWDYH IXOO VL]H keyboard was essential, as was the instrumentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to capture the playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s imagination. With 114 backing tracks based on music from all over the world, the F-50 aims to provide players with a plethora of genres and musical styles to discover and get to grips with. Furthermore, its 120 VDPSOHG VRXQGV EHQHË&#x2039;W from technology utilised in larger Yamaha instruments, as does Duo Mode, which creates two identical keyboards side by side for play and copy teaching scenarios. With an RRP of less than ÂŁ95, the Yamaha F-50 is ZHOO VXLWHG WR Ë&#x2039;UVW WLPH players looking for an instrument packed with powerful features at a competitive price.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ93.60 Keyboard: 61-note, full-size Display: LED Sounds: 120 sounds with AWM Stereo Sampling Backing styles: 114 Preset: Reverb and chorus Number of songs: 30 Features: Duo Mode, Transpose, Tuning Power: Mains adaptor included (also operates on batteries) Output: Headphones

ALSO IN THE RANGE: PSR- E243 PSR- E343 PSR- E443 EZ-220 PSR- A300

Contacts ÂŁ137 ÂŁ183 ÂŁ274 ÂŁ186 ÂŁ305

Address: Yamaha Music Europe (UK), Sherbourne Drive, Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, MK7 8BL Telephone: 0844 811 1116 (UK) / 01526 2449 (ROI) Website: www.uk.yamaha.com

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RECOMMENDED

KORG PA3X LE

7KH QHZ NH\ERDUG PDUNV WKH ODWHVW DGGLWLRQ WR WKH Ë&#x2030;UPČ V 3D 6HULHV DQG ERDVWV D UDIW RI RQ ERDUG IHDWXUHV

he new Pa3X Le keyboard from Korg boasts a substantial collection of onboard sounds, whilst also providing a generous 192MB of space for either the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own samples or a variety of widely available add-ons. With more than 410 builtin styles (and room for 1,200 in total), users can cover almost any musical style. The Pa3X Leâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feature set includes a TC Helicon Vocal Harmoniser, a dual MP3 player and recorder, a powerful Dual Crossfade Sequencer and much more. The user interface is driven by a large colour TouchView Widescreen TFT display, which has been specially designed to provide the player with Ë&#x2039;QJHUWLS FRQWURO Users can utilise the video output to display lyrics or score on an external monitor, rendering it ideal for karaoke or band leading. On-stage, the Pa3X Le has been engineered to provide a professional

aesthetic with a sturdy black aluminium case and wooden side panels. Meanwhile, for keyboard players that would like to take full advantage of the optional PaAS speaker system for the Pa3X Le, this can be attached to the rear of the cabinet in order to provide a cable-less connection via the unique locking system. The PaAS from Korg IHDWXUHV Ë&#x2039;YH VSHDNHUV two HF drivers, two mid range and dual coil sub woofer, delivering a more than ample 80W of power (2x40W, 1x40W). Elsewhere, Korg also offers a number of additional models in the range to suit varying styles and budgets. These range from the entry level Pa300 system at ÂŁ649.99, to the mid range Pa600 (ÂŁ849.99) and Pa900 (ÂŁ1,579), right up to the Ë&#x152;DJVKLS 3D [ ZKLFK LV currently available in 61 RU NH\ FRQË&#x2039;JXUDWLRQV (ÂŁ2,999.99 and ÂŁ3199.99 respectively).

ALSO IN THE RANGE: PA300 PA600 PA900 PA3X (61 KEY ) PA3X (76 KEY )

RRP ÂŁ649.99 RRP ÂŁ849.99 RRP ÂŁ1,579 RRP ÂŁ2,999.99 RRP ÂŁ3199.99

FACTS & FIGURES Keyboard: 76 key (E1 G7) semi-weighted System: Upgradable Operating System; RX (Real eXperience); DNC 'HË&#x2030;QHG 1XDQFH &RQWURO 0XOWLWDVNLQJ ORDG ZKLOH SOD\ IHDWXUH Tone generator: .RUJ ('6 (QKDQFHG 'HË&#x2030;QLWLRQ 6\QWKHVLV VRXQG JHQHUDWRU Ë&#x2030;OWHUV ZLWK UHVRQDQFH WKUHH EDQG (4 IRU HDFK WUDFN PD[LPXP SRO\SKRQ\ YRLFHV RVFLOODWRUV Effects: 8S WR VWHUHR GLJLWDO PXOWL HIIHFW EORFN V\VWHPV PDVWHU HIIHFW W\SHV DQG JOREDO effects; YRLFH SURFHVVRU WHFKQRORJ\ E\ 7& +HOLFRQ 5 ZLWK HIIHFWV WKUHH SDUW KDUPRQLVHU UHYHUE GHOD\ FRPSUHVVRU (4 Styles: 2YHU SUHORDGHG VW\OHV PXOWL SDG DVVLJQDEOH SDGV VWRS EXWWRQ SDG UHFRUG IXQFWLRQ General controls: 0DVWHU YROXPH IDGH LQ RXW HQVHPEOH RFWDYH WUDQVSRVH PDVWHU WUDQVSRVH VW\OH FKDQJH TXDUWHU WRQH DQG $UDELF VFDOH PHPRULVHG LQVLGH SHUIRUPDQFH 676 UHDO WLPH FRQWUROOHUV MR\VWLFN SLWFK PRGXODWLRQ PLF YROXPH ); YROXPH PLF RQ RII PLF SUHVHW KDUPRQ\ RQ RII Assignable Switches

Contacts Address: 1 Harrison Close, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK5 8PA Telephone: 01908 304601

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RECOMMENDED

TC-HELICON VOICESOLO FX150 A personal PA and vocal processor designed for use in a variety of live settings.

ith the VoiceSolo FX150, TC-Helicon has created a multi-purpose system engineered to solve two of the most common problems for musicians: hearing themselves properly on stage and having a monitor that meets personal performance needs by giving direct control. Featuring a custom designed 6.5” two-way coaxial driver from sister company Tannoy, VoiceSolo FX150 is built to deliver enhanced volume, musical clarity and premium full range punch, without losing any of its dynamics. Vocalists will appreciate the addition of VocalTone, TC-Helicon’s proprietary technology that automatically adapts to the singer’s voice. This adds automatic EQ, compression, de-essing and gating to vocals for a professional

sound. Nine reverb effects - taken from the company’s VoiceLive 3 processor – are also included. Guitarists and other instrumentalists are covered too. Not only does VoiceSolo FX150 provide the Full Range Flat Response (FRFR) system for guitar, it also delivers deep bass, while users can assign independent reverb and EQ. A one-button Edit control of all levels and parameters is incorporated, making dialing-in a personal mix simple. The Easy Grip mic-stand mounting system allows users to set up in seconds, with no additional attachments required. Coupled with extensive I/O options and a true stage monitor passthru, VoiceSolo FX150 provides a system suitable to a host of applications, from professional stage monitoring, to home practice whilst doubling as a full range music system too.

FACTS & FIGURES UK SSP: £195 Speaker: 6.5” 2-way coaxial Tannoy speaker (150W) Mixer: 3-channel digital mixer with TC-Helicon vocal processing, including reverb, intelligent EQ and compression Mounting: Instant mic stand mounting with oneclick Easy Grip system

REVIEWS: Sound On Sound: “The sound quality doesn’t disappoint, with both clarity and level living up to expectations” (...) “TC-Helicon have taken an existing concept, interpreted very well, and then added the sort of functionality that you might not expect, such as reverb, centre cancelling on the aux input and the ability to control the reverb remotely from a compatible microphone with Mic Control” (...) “the FX150 is a very effective, cleverly conceived little monitor with a number of useful applications.” - Published September 2014.

Contacts Address: Sindalsvej 34, DK-8240 Risskov, Denmark Tel (UK): 0800 917 8926 Email: tcuk@tcgroup.tc

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RECOMMENDED

CITRONIC CXV2.1

We focus on some of the foremost products on the portable PA market.

art of the AVSL Group, Citronic is well known historically within the DJ market. However, in recent years, the brand has branched out with a wide range of pro audio PA systems and related accessories at affordable prices. The CV series is engineered to deliver high power output, fullrange active or passive speakers with high impact polypropylene enclosures. The precision-moulded housing is shaped for use in stacks, arrays or as wedge monitors. According to the company, the unique selling points of the CXV2.1 system are portability and convenience. Two lightweight passive 8â&#x20AC;? tops on stands are included for easy setup alongside an active sub, generating a powerful and full sound

from such a portable system. Stereo combo and RCA inputs on the sub control panel are routed to the DPSOLË&#x2039;HU VHFWLRQ SURYLGLQJ a combined power of 500Wrms. Mounting one speaker on a pole is an option for very small venues, while two further satellite speakers can be added for larger set-ups. The sub can be forward IDFLQJ RU Ë&#x152;RRU IDFLQJ IRU an even smaller footprint and the kit includes a bag for the PA stands and cables making it easy for the user to transport the whole setup in two journeys from car to stage. The kit includes: CXB10A active sub cabinet; 2 x CV8 satellite cabinets; 2 x Compact speaker stands; 2 x Speakon leads; and a zip up stand and cable bag.

ALSO IN THE RANGE:

FACTS & FIGURES SSP ÂŁ549 Power supply: 220-240Vac, 50/60Hz (IEC) Inputs: L+R Combo (Jack/XLR), L+R RCA Outputs: L+R SPK connectors Controls: Bass, Treble, Sub Volume, Master Crossover frequency: 150Hz (sub) Sub driver: 250mmĂ&#x2DC; (10â&#x20AC;&#x153;) Satellite drivers: 200mmĂ&#x2DC; (8â&#x20AC;&#x153;) + 38mmĂ&#x2DC; (1.5â&#x20AC;&#x153;) Ti diaphragm

Power (subwoofer): 250Wrms Power (satellites 8 Ohms): 2 x 125Wrms Stands: 2 x 35mmĂ&#x2DC; with tripod, 1.4m max. Lead length: 5m (each) Sub cabinet dimensions: 340 x 340 x 570mm Sub cabinet weight: 16.8kg Satellite dimensions: 415 x 285 x 265mm (each) Satellite weight: 9.5kg (each)

CXB10A ACTIVE SUB (178.274UK ) CV8 MOULDED SPEAKER CABINET 8â&#x20AC;? CV10 MOULDED SPEAKER CABINET 10â&#x20AC;? CV12 MOULDED SPEAKER CABINET 12â&#x20AC;? CV15 MOULDED SPEAKER CABINET 15â&#x20AC;? CV8A ACTIVE SPEAKER CABINET 8â&#x20AC;? CV10A ACTIVE SPEAKER CABINET 10â&#x20AC;? CV12A ACTIVE SPEAKER CABINET 12â&#x20AC;? CV15A ACTIVE SPEAKER CABINET 15â&#x20AC;?

SSP ÂŁ289.00 (178.139UK) SSP ÂŁ74.99 (178.142UK) SSP ÂŁ119.99 (178.145UK) SSP ÂŁ159.99 (178.148UK) SSP ÂŁ199.99 (178.154UK) SSP ÂŁ119.99 (178.157UK) SSP ÂŁ179.99 (178.160UK) SSP ÂŁ259.99 (178.163UK) SSP ÂŁ319.99

Contacts Address: AVSL Group Ltd, Containerbase, Barton Dock Rd, Manchester, M41 7BQ, UK Tel: 0845 270 2411 Email: sales@avslgroup.com Web: avsl.com

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RECOMMENDED

IMG STAGE LINE C-RAY/8

The company’s DSP-powered solution is suitable for use across a wide range of applications.

he C-RAY/8 is, in essence, an allin-one, compact active PA speaker system. Its onboard two-channel Class ' DPSOLˋHU SRZHUV D WZLQ 8” bass speaker topped with two column modules, housing a total of 12 3” fullrange speakers and two 1” tweeters. The integrated DSP allows for the sound characteristics of the speaker to be manipulated to the user’s demands, while the addition of the integrated fourchannel mixer renders the C-RAY/8 a truly complete PA system. The system can be broken down into a lightweight transport bag within just a few minutes by means of a unique ‘twist and lock’ mechanism, which connects the two columns and bass unit. The option of an additional ‘dummy’ column also allows for the height of the column array to be adjusted, giving optimum performance in differing room sizes. The C-RAY/8 can be used in a variety of different ways; either as a standalone single unit, or as part of a stereo speaker set-up. Suited to events for up to 100 people, the C-RAY/8 is at home with solo entertainers, duos or small bands, but is equally usable as a stereo PA system for hotels and conference centres. The system is available at a retail price of £599 including VAT.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: £599 inc VAT Power: 800W Peak, DSP controlled, 400W RMS Max rated SPL: 122dB peak Frequency Range: 50-20,000 Hz Inputs: 1 x Line L/R (bal XLR or 6.3mm), 1 x Mic (bal XLR or 6.3mm), 1 x Combi (bal XLR or 6.3mm), 1 x Aux (RCA or 3.5mm) Outputs: 1 x Line Out (XLR), 1 x Rec Out (RCA), 1 x Mix Out (XLR)

Contacts

ALSO IN THE RANGE: C-RAY/8EXT EXTENSION ‘DUMMY’ COLUMN C- RAY/8BAG TRANSPORT BAG

RRP £49.95 RRP £99.95

Address: Monacor UK, Unit 8 Plover Close, Interchange Park, Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, MK16 9PS Email: info@monacor.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

WHARFEDALE PRO TITAN 12D

We take a close look at one of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most state-of-the-art portable sound reinforcement solutions.

sing state of the art gas assisted moulding technology and a XQLTXH ODPLQDU ULE Ë&#x152;RZ structure, the Titan 12D cabinet is designed QRW RQO\ WR ZLWKVWDQG the rigours of portable performance, but is also H[WUHPHO\ OLJKWZHLJKW :LWK rigging points, a 35mm pole socket and a trapezoid VKDSH WKDW FDQ ZRUN DV D Ë&#x152;RRU PRQLWRU ZHGJH WRR the loudspeaker has been built to offer maximum GXUDELOLW\ The latest model LQFRUSRUDWHV :KDUIHGDOH Proâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Qubit DSP technology WKH ODWHVW LQ ELW N+] '63 SURFHVVLQJ :LWK DGYDQFHG DGDSWLYH PXOWL EDQG G\QDPLF processing, a natural and open sound can be DFKLHYHG ZLWK OLPLWLQJ to protect the HF and LF GULYHUV 'LJLWDO DPSOLË&#x2039;FDWLRQ LV another contributing factor WR LWV ORZ ZHLJKW NJ SURMHFWLQJ : WUXH 506 Furthermore, the Titan 12D can be integrated into WKH H[WHQVLYH 7LWDQ UDQJH FRXSOHG ZLWK WKH 7LWDQ 6XE

$ 0.,, IRU ODUJHU HYHQWV For smaller scale applications, such as FRUSRUDWH HYHQWV XVHUV can simply connect the microphone straight into WKH RQERDUG PL[HU Ë&#x2039;QH WXQH ZLWK WKH +L /RZ (4 controls and project their YRLFH ZLWK FODULW\ Though already installed ZLWK D PRLVWXUH SURRI ZRRIHU IRU RXWGRRU XVH the optional Titan Tourbag SURYLGHV XVHUV ZLWK H[WUD protection in the form of D UHPRYDEOH IURQW SDQHO NHHSLQJ WKH VSHDNHU FRYHUHG HYHQ GXULQJ SHUIRUPDQFH

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ295.90 including VAT Model: Titan 12D SSP: 224.50 each inc VAT &RQË&#x2030;JXUDWLRQ 2-way %L $PSOLË&#x2030;HG :RRIHU 12â&#x20AC;? 7ZHHWHU 1â&#x20AC;? Titanium )UHTXHQF\ 5HVSRQVH 55-20kHz 506 3HDN 300W / 600W EQ: High / Low Shelving 0D[ 63/ 127dB 1RPLQDO &RYHUDJH (Hx V) 90Â° x 60Â°

(QFORVXUH )LQLVK Injection Moulded Polypropylene 3ROH 0RXQW 7\SH 35mm insert 5LJJLQJ: 10 x M8 / Optional Bracket ,QSXW XLR/Jack Combi, RCA Phono 2XWSXW XLR 1HW :HLJKW 12.4kg / 27.28lbs *URVV :HLJKW 15.5kg / 34.1lbs 'LPHQVLRQV + [ : [ ' 556mm x 384mm x 312mm

ALSO IN THE RANGE: TITAN TITAN TITAN TITAN

8 ACTIVE 15D 12ASUB 15ASUBMKII

ÂŁ199 ÂŁ274.50 ÂŁ274.50 ÂŁ324.50

Contacts Address: IAG UK , IAG House, 13/14 Glebe Road,Huntingdon. Cambs, PE29 7DL Tel: 01480 447700 Email: chris@iaguk.com Web: www.wharfedalepro.com

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RECOMMENDED

MACKIE SRM450

We take a close look at some of the most prominent PA systems on the market.

he all-new SRM450 portable PA from Mackie has been engineered for use across a wide range of high-output applications, offering professionalquality audio in a highly compact package. Boasting a powerful new 1,000W amp platform, the system comes complete with Mackie HD Audio Processing, which is designed to deliver optimised audio quality. The SRM450 also features a wide range of modern, professional tools, such as DSSOLFDWLRQ VSHFLˋF VSHDNHU

modes and an automatic feedback destroyer, each with a single-button interface. Furthermore, with the system’s integrated twochannel mixer, users can easily mix multiple sources. Furthermore, the V\VWHPȢV PRQLWRU VSHFLˋF angle and voicing mode has been specially

engineered to ensure that the user’s sound is able to cut through VXIˋFLHQWO\ GXULQJ RQ VWDJH performance, while stereo RCA inputs are also included to offer quick and easy connection to the music source. The SRM450 portable PA retails for RRP £399.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: £399 inc VAT Power: 1,000W Drivers: 12” high-output LF driver / 1.4” titanium dome compression driver Mixer: Integrated two-channel mixer, featuring dual Mackie Wide-Z inputs Weight: 16.8kg Processing: +LJK GHˉQLWLRQ audio processing with patented acoustic correction developed with EAW; precision two-way crossover; and driver time alignment and phase correction

ALSO IN THE RANGE: SRM350

RRP £290.84

Contacts Address: Polar Audio, Unit 1, 17 Albert Dr, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 9TN Tel: 01444 258258 Web: www.polaraudio.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

SAMSON EXPEDITION XP106X

7KH Ë&#x2030;UPČ V SRUWDEOH 3$ V\VWHP LV GHLVJQHG WR RIIHU XVHUV RSWLPLXP SHUIRUPDQFH DQG PD[LPXP Ë&#x160;H[LELOLW\

amsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Expedition XP106w Portable PA extends the Ë&#x2039;UPČ˘V DZDUG winning range of portable PA products available in the UK. Launched this year, the unit is packed with features, including Bluetooth connectivity and a USB digital wireless system. The Expedition range was designed with Ë&#x152;H[LELOLW\ LQ PLQG DOORZLQJ retailers to make the most of the multiple selling opportunities encountered in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketplace. The XP106w features a 6â&#x20AC;? woofer and a 1â&#x20AC;? high frequency driver. A : &ODVV ' DPSOLË&#x2039;HU matched to its drivers for KLJK HIË&#x2039;FLHQF\ DQG ORZ current draw, powers the ;3 Z $V WKH DPSOLË&#x2039;HU is extremely lightweight, with up to 20 hours of use, it enhances the portability DQG Ë&#x152;H[LELOLW\ RI WKH V\VWHP It is also Bluetooth-

enabled, so it can be can paired with smartphones, laptops or tablets and play music without any need for cables. To expand the sound, the XP106 has a link output to cascade multiple systems together. The XP106w also has a dedicated wireless channel for integrating the included Stage XPD1 USB Digital Wireless System. The 2.4GHz system features a wireless receiver built into a USB stick and a handheld dynamic microphone transmitter. With a 30-foot operating range, the Stage XPD1 is designed to free presenters and performers from the constraints of cables when using the XP106w. High-quality components, professional features and convenient portability make Samsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Expedition XP106w a single system solution suitable for a wide range of PA applications.

FACTS & FIGURES Power Output: 100W Frequency Response: 75 Hz to 15kHz +/-3dB Mic/Instrument Input: XLR / Âźâ&#x20AC;? combo connector Line Input: Âźâ&#x20AC;? Aux Input: 8â&#x20AC;? Wireless Input USB Level Controls: Mic/Inst, Line/ Aux, Wireless, Blutooth Tone Control Speech/Music switch: Line Input/Output: Âźâ&#x20AC;? TS Bluetooth: Bluetooth 3.0, A2DP Speakers: 6â&#x20AC;? Woofer + 1â&#x20AC;? HF Driver Built-in Battery: 12V / 8AH,

Rechargeable & Sealed Operation: Up to 20 hours, subject to operating conditions Battery Charging: Approx. 4-8 hours for a single charge AC/DC Adapter: SMPS AC100~240V, 50~60Hz/ DC18V-1.5A Construction: Polypropylene, internally ribbed Grill: Perforated Steel Grill, powder coated Mounting: Integral 1 3/8-inch Pole Mount Receptacle Dimensions (LxDxH): 9.5â&#x20AC;? x 9â&#x20AC;? x 14.2â&#x20AC;? 240 mm x 230 mm x 360 mm Weight: 16.3 lb 7.4 kg

ALSO IN THE RANGE: BATTERY/MAINS POWERED XP106 AS ABOVE EXCLUDING DIGITAL WIRELESS XP360B 30W EXPEDITION EXPRESS INC BLUETOOTH XP58 15W EXPEDITION ESCAPE INC BLUETOOTH

RRP ÂŁ251.99 INC VAT RRP ÂŁ203.99 INC VAT RRP ÂŁ131.99 INC VAT

MAINS POWERED XP150 150W PORTABLE PA XP308I 300W PORTABLE PA WITH I-DOCK XP1000B 1000W PORTABLE PA SYSTEM WITH BLUETOOTH

RRP: ÂŁ287.99 INC VAT RRP ÂŁ499.99 INC VAT RRP ÂŁ815.99 INC VAT

Contacts Address: 1 Harrison Close, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, MK5 8PA Tel: 01908 304600

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RECOMMENDED

HK AUDIO LUCAS NANO 600

7KH ZRUOGČ V Ë&#x2030;UVW FURVVRYHU 3$ WKH V\VWHP FDQ EH GHSOR\HG DV ERWK D PRQR FROXPQ RU D VWHUHR VROXWLRQ

range cabinets and columnar speaker systems for many applications. Packed with breakthrough technologies, the PA is built to deliver optimum audio performance. Its MultiCell Transformer KHOSV PD[LPLVH VRXQG pressure gain, improve directivity and minimise high-frequency distortion. Featuring sophisticated simulation technology, the engineers at HK Audio were able to construct a lightweight subwoofer housing with the bass response of a heavy wood enclosure. The 10â&#x20AC;? subwoofer is capable of delivering 300W via the LQWHUQDO DPSOLË&#x2039;HU ZLWK

ot on the heels of its little brother, the NANO 300, the HK Audio NANO 600 (RRP ÂŁ999) is engineered to offer the same ultra-compact design and sound reproduction with increased headroom and performance for larger venues. 7KH ZRUOGČ˘V Ë&#x2039;UVW crossover PA, the NANO 600 can be deployed either as a space-saving mono column or as a stereo system with detailed spatial resolution. Two NANO 600s can be paired to create a more powerful PA, RIIHULQJ JUHDWHU Ë&#x152;H[LELOLW\ than conventional full

FACTS & FIGURES

Model: Twin Max SPL peak: 130 dB Mid/high unit dispersion pattern: Horizontal/vertical 90Â° x 60Â° Output power system: 160W at 4 ohms Frequency response: 175 Hz â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 19 kHz LF Speaker: 1 x 10â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Low/ Mid Speaker: 2 x 4.5â&#x20AC;? Mid/High Speaker: 2 x 1â&#x20AC;? Dimensions: (WxHxD) 14.5 x 28 x 13.5 cm Weight: 2.4 kg

RRP: ÂŁ999 Model: Subwoofer Max SPL peak: 123 dB Output power system: 300W at 8 ohms / 2x 80W at 8 ohms Frequency response: 43 Hz â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fx LF Speaker: 1 x 10â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Dimensions: (WxHxD) 35 x 49 x 47 cm Weight: 13.9 kg

ALSO IN THE RANGE: HK AUDIO LUCAS NANO3 HK AUDIO LUCAS SMART

RRP ÂŁ599 RRP ÂŁ1119

Contacts Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd, Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, UK Telephone: +44 (0) 113 2865 381 Website: www.jhs.co.uk

the two compact mid/ high satellites handling 80W each at 8 ohms. A comprehensive in-built PL[HU VHFWLRQ SURYLGHV inputs for a variety of uses, such as vocals, guitar, keyboards, DJ or alternatively connect D PL[LQJ GHVN IRU PRUH applications. Dedicated CD and MP3 player inputs are incorporated for background music. Meanwhile, the system can be set up a number of different ways, with the satellite speakers either attached directly to the subwoofer, or in mono or stereo columns with the optional AP-STEREO and AP-MONO add-on packs.

Model: Single Max SPL peak:124 dB Mid/high unit dispersion pattern: Horizontal/vertical 90Â° x +10Â°/-45Â° Output power system: 80 watts at 8 ohms Frequency response: 175 Hz â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22 kHz Low/ Mid Speaker: 1 x 4.5â&#x20AC;? Mid/High Speaker: 1 x 1â&#x20AC;? Dimensions: (WxHxD) 14.5 x 14.5 x 13.5 cm Weight: 1.2 kg

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RECOMMENDED

STUDIOMASTER WALKABOUT S

The company’s all-in-one PA system comes complete with a portable wheeled case for maximum portability.

any solo performers, conference or corporate

presentations, dance classes or school events require a portable, affordable, yet feature-rich and powerful PA system to make themselves heard. The Walkabout S, portable PA is designed to meet those precise requirements. With 300W (2x150w) of power and two 10” speaker cabinets, the system aims to offer maximum volume and optimum audio quality. This is complemented by a comprehensive mixing console with four microphone channels and two stereo inputs, allowing users to connect multiple microphones, instruments or backing tracks. The mixer also features two-band EQ, 60mm faders, as well as a built-in digital effects processor available for all channels. There is also a ˋYH EDQG JUDSKLF (4 ZLWK peak/feedback indication on the output. The Walkabout S also comes with a built-in MP3 player, which will play media from either USB memory sticks or SD Card. Meanwhile, the carry case for the system features integrated wheels and extendable carry handle. There is space within the case for leads, microphones and speaker stands, while the speakers clip securely into the case.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: £295.90 including VAT Model name: Walkabout S Model type: All in one portable PA solution Power: 2 x 150W with 2 x 10” speaker cabinets Main features: 4 x microphone inputs; 2 x stereo inputs; 2 x 150W DPSOLˉHU [ ȣ VSHDNHU FDELQHWV EXLOW LQ GLJLWDO HIIHFWV EXLOW LQ MP3 player with USB/SD card connectivity

Contacts

Address: Studiomaster, Unit 11, Torc:MK, Chippenham Drive, Milton Keynes, MK10 0BZ Tel: 01908 281072 Email: enquiries@studiomaster.com Web: www.studiomaster.com

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RECOMMENDED

YAMAHA DBR10

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he DBR Series, launched in September 2014 is the follow-up to the acclaimed DSR and DXR Series and the most portable powered speaker that Yamaha offers. The range is comprised of three new models, the DBR15, DBR12 and the focus of this article, the ultra-compact DBR10, which, in keeping with the rest of the line, weighs in at just 10.5kg and features DSP technology inherited from its predecessors. This ensures optimal performance and reliable operation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all backed up with a four-year warranty. The DBR10â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Class-D DPSOLË&#x2039;HUV GHOLYHU XS WR : RI SRZHU DFKLHYLQJ an SPL of up to 129dB. 7KH WUDQVGXFHUV KDYH EHHQ carefully selected and customised to perfectly PDWFK WKH DPSOLË&#x2039;HUČ˘V SURSHUWLHV DQG GHOLYHU KLJK output power with minimal distortion. Combined with an extremely accurate wide dispersion constantGLUHFWLYLW\ KRUQ WKH '%5 HYHQO\ SURMHFWV wide frequency sound to the outer-most edges of a FRYHUDJH DUHD Designed with portability DQG YHUVDWLOLW\ LQ PLQG WKH DBR10â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rugged, compact and lightweight plastic HQFORVXUH FRPHV Ë&#x2039;WWHG ZLWK

a steel grille and ergonomic handles, allowing for safe and easy transportation and setup. In addition, the DBR10 also features an optimised 50Â° wedge angle, making it particularly suitable for XVH DV D Ë&#x152;RRU PRQLWRU ,W also comes equipped with rigging points for installed applications. On the back of the speaker is an easy-to-use two-channel onboard mixer with a selection of input/ output options to further PD[LPLVH LWV YHUVDWLOLW\ 7KH '%5 LV DYDLODEOH now at a recommended retail price of ÂŁ372.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ372 Speaker: Two-way bi-amp SRZHUHG VSHDNHU EDVV UHË&#x160;H[ type Frequency range: 55Hz-20kHz Finish: Black Cabinet material: Plastic Processors: D-Contour, FOH/ Main, Monitor, Off Maximum output level (1m on axis): 129dB SPL Heat dissipation: Fan cooling, four speeds Flying and mounting hardware: %RWWRP [ )LW IRU 0 [ PP H\HEROWV

ALSO IN THE RANGE: DBR12 DBR15

RRP ÂŁ457 RRP ÂŁ563

Contacts Address: Yamaha Music Europe GmbH (UK) Sherbourne Drive, Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK7 8BL Tel: 01908 366700

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RECOMMENDED

ENCORE E99

The Encore range has become one of the most popular options for beginners.

he Encore range has become one of the most popular options for beginners. Encore is currently celebrating its 30th birthday as one of the starter marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prominent brands. The new range is designed to show just how impressive entrylevel guitars can be, with Fret-King and Vintage designer, Trev Wilkinson, incorporating a variety of SURIHVVLRQDO VSHFLË&#x2039;FDWLRQV features and attributes. The E99 is suitable for just about any genre of music, although its familiar styling lends itself to rock and blues styles. Constructed from traditional tonewoods, and with quality Guitar Tech hardware and pickups, the E99 has been engineered with ease-of-use in mind. Boasting solid tuning and features more commonly found on much more expensive instruments, it comes with an offset, high access heel joint and set-in maple neck. Available in Cherry Sunburst and Black, (Black Left-Handed option also available) the E99 can also be purchased as an Encore â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Play Nowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Blaster Pack (ÂŁ189/ÂŁ199) which comprises a 10W practice amp, electronic tuner, strap, lead, plectrum, spare strings, stand, carry bag and tutorial DVD, all packaged in a full-colour display box

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: (ÂŁ129) Body: Fully radiused, arch top single cutaway, contoured body Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with adjustable saddles Fingerboard: Gently radiused to suit all playing styles Frets: 22; graphite top nut, 630mm scale length Pickups: Two Guitar Tech open double coil pickups; three-way pickup selector switch Tuners: Enclosed die-cast machine heads Controls: 2 x volume, 2 x controls

ALSO IN THE RANGE: E6 SERIES

ÂŁ89.99

(ÂŁ94.99 FOR SUNBURST FINISH ÂŁ119 FOR LEFT- HANDED )

E69 SERIES RRP E89 SERIES RRP E2 SERIES RRP E375 SERIES RRP (3/4 SIZE )

ÂŁ119 ÂŁ129 ÂŁ89.99 ÂŁ89.99

Contacts Address: John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd, Salem House, Parkinson Approach, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2HR, UK Email: info@jhs.co.uk Website: www.jhs.co.uk

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RECOMMENDED

LEE OSKAR QUICK START KIT

$ FRPSUHKHQVLYH NLW WKDW FRPHV ZLWK D KRVW RI DFFHVVRULHV DQG LV ZHOO VXLWHG WR Ë&#x2030; UVW WLPH KDUPRQLFD SOD\HUV

ee Oskar, who has been described as one of the all-time best rock-blues-soul harmonica players, was a founding member and former lead harmonica player of the pioneer funk-jazz group, War. This won him international renown for more than two and a half decades (1969â&#x20AC;&#x201C;1993), thanks to his signature solos, which KHOSHG GHË&#x2039; QH WKH :DU sound from the bandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beginning. Billed as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the perfect gift for the guitarist or ukulele playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, the Lee Oskar Quick Start Kit is equipped with four distinctly different harmonica tunings, all GHVLJQHG WR DGG Ë&#x152; DYRXU DQG depth to any style of music. In addition, the Lee Oskar Quick Start Kit comes complete with a specially designed harmonica holder, a soft carry case and a 16-page â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Quick Guideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; booklet, offering chord and note layouts for all the included harmonicas. The booklet is complemented by a fully featured â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Quick Guideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; website located at www. leeoskarquickguide.com. This online resource SURYLGHV DOO WKH LQIR beginners will need to get started and progress quickly, no matter which musical style they play. The kit also makes for a suitable Christmas gift for

WKH JXLWDULVW DQG VHUYHV DV an ideal way for a guitarist or ukulele player to broaden their musical horizons. $YDLODEOH LQ WKH 8. IRU a strictly limited time, the Lee Oskar Quick Start Kit has a retail price of only ÂŁ99 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and yet to separately buy four Lee Oskar harmonicas, a harmonica holder and a carry case would cost well RYHU e

ALSO IN THE RANGE:

FACTS & FIGURES 1 x Major Diatonic C 1 x Melody Maker G 1 x Natural Minor Am 1 x Harmonic Minor Am 1 x Traditional Harmonica Holder/Brace

1 x Exclusive Lee Oskar Carry case for 4 harps 1 x 16 Page quick start booklet.

MAJOR DIATONIC, MELODY MAKER, NATURAL MINOR AND HARMONIC MINOR HARMONICAS AVAILABLE IN ALL KEYS

RRP ÂŁ34.99

REPLACEMENT REEDS FOR ALL HARMONICAS ABOVE

RRP ÂŁ20.95

Contacts Address: Grays Inn House, Unit 14, Mile Oak Industrial Estate, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY10 8GA Tel: 01691 652449 Web: http://bandm.co.uk/

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RECOMMENDED

WOODSTOCK 41” FULL-SIZE DREADNOUGHT

This acoustic guitar aims to combine quality performance with value for money.

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: £249.99 Top: Solid Sitka Back and sides: Rosewood Machineheads: Chrome, Grover-style Fingerboard: Rosewood binding

ALSO IN THE RANGE: Concert ukulele Parlour guitar Dreadnought guitar (WHW41101)

RRP £154.99 RRP £244.99 RRP £79.99

Contacts Telephone: 01273 440442 Email: sales@stringsandthings.co.uk Website: www.stringsandthings.co.uk

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BEGINNERS

RECOMMENDED RECOMMENDED

CARLSBRO CSD525 DIGITAL DRUM KIT The manufacturer’s latest kit is amongst its most in demand products this Christmas.

Last year saw Carlsbro launch its ADD501 digital drum kit, which proved to be a great source of success IRU WKH ˋUP DQG EHFDPH D IHDWXUH RQ PDQ\ VKRS ˌRRUV right across the country. Keen to capitalise on its success, and after a sneak preview at the annual MIRC show this summer, Carlsbro has now added another GUXP NLW WR LWV ˌHGJOLQJ drum range - the CSD525. The new model is a smaller kit than the renamed CSD501, which is still intended to remain in production, and comes with a reccomended retail price of £273.90, which the company says will ensure that it is a popular choice

among customers this December. Meanwhile, in addition to the product’s attractive price point, the CSD525 is a space saving, portable kit that has been engineered to fold down and take up a minimal amount of room when not in use and when space is at a premium. Key features include a sound module that contains 20 pre-set kits with empty EDQNV IRU WHQ XVHU GHˋQHG drum kits to be compiled from the 250 on board percussion voices. Elsewhere, the user can add reverb, adjust sensitivity and cross talk, as well as play along with either the 20 contained

FACTS & FIGURES • 1 x 7.5”Dual-zone snare pad. • 3 x 7.5” single-zone tom pads. • 1 x 10”single-zone hi-hat cymbal pad. • 1x10” single-zone crash cymbal pad with choke. • 1 x 10” single-zone ride cymbal pad with choke. • 1 x hi-hat controller pedal

RRP: £273.90 inc VAT Model Name: CSD525 Model Type: Digital Drum Kit Main Features: • Compact kit. Portable space saving kit when in storage mode comprising of foldable 3-legged drum rack. • Comprehensive Sound Module. • 1 x 2”bass pad with bass kick pedal.

ALSO IN THE RANGE: CSD501 : FULL SIZE DIGITAL DRUM KIT RRP: £361.90 INC VAT

Contacts Address: Studiomaster, Unit 11, Torc: MK, Chippenham Drive, Milton Keynes, MK10 0BZ Telephone: 01908 281072 Email: 01908 281072 Website: www.studiomaster.com

demo songs. The kit also allows players to connect an MP3/CD player and play along with their favourite tracks.

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RECOMMENDED

STAGG SA30A

We take a look at some of the most prominent instruments for beginners available on the market.

The latest addition to the Stagg guitar range, the SA30A is an affordable auditorium size acoustic guitar designed to deliver a great blend of quality and comfort to beginners. Auditorium-size guitars aim to offer a more comfortable playing position to their dreadnought brothers, without imposing on the projection and tone. The SA30A-N features a laminate Linden top, which is a strong material that is suited to acoustic guitars due to itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sound, robust build qualities and uncomplicated aesthetics. The back, sides and neck are all made from Catalpa wood, painted black with a white binding, offering a simple yet striking visual contract to the light wood of the natural top. The oval â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122; shape of the neck, paired with the rosewood Ë&#x2039; QJHUERDUG LV GHVLJQHG to add an extra level of comfort to your playing. The headstock features die-cast nickel geared machines, while a pick guard with an adhesive backing is also supplied with the guitar for optional Ë&#x2039; WWLQJ DIWHU SXUFKDVH Alongside the natural Ë&#x2039; QLVK WKLV JXLWDU LV DOVR available in black and brownburst, with electroacoustic versions also available in all colour options. A left-handed model is also available in black.

FACTS & FIGURES Top: Linden (laminate) Back & Sides: Catalpa Neck: Catalpa, oval â&#x20AC;&#x153;Câ&#x20AC;? shape %ULGJH Ë&#x2030; QJHUERDUG Rosewood %RG\ ELQGLQJ White Pickguard: Optional (supplied) 0DFKLQH KHDGV Die-cast nickel, geared

ALSO IN THE RANGE: SA30A-BK SA30A-BS SA30A-BK LH SA30ACE-N SA30ACE-BK SA30ACE-BS SA30ACE-BK LH

Contacts

Tel: 01293 862 612 Web: http://www.emdmusic.com/

RRPÂŁ113 RRP ÂŁ110 RRP ÂŁ116 RRP ÂŁ170 RRP ÂŁ170 RRP ÂŁ170 RRP ÂŁ178

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RECOMMENDED

ORANGE GUITAR PACK

7KH DPSOLË&#x2030;FDWLRQ JLDQW UHFHQWO\ PDGH LWV Ë&#x2030;UVW IRUD\ LQWR WKH ZRUOG RI JXLWDU VWDUWHU SDFNV

he new Orange $PSOLË&#x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Ë&#x2039;WWHG ZLWK PHGLXP KLJK RXWSXW KXPEXFNHUV JLYLQJ D ZLGH UDQJH RI FODVVLF DQG PRGHUQ WRQHV 7KH JXLWDUČ˘V KLJK JORVV Ë&#x2039;QLVK LV DYDLODEOH LQ WKUHH FRORXUV WKH FRPSDQ\Č˘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

FACTS & FIGURES RRP: ÂŁ229 inc vat Body: Nato wood Neck: Maple, Dual Direction Truss Rod, Bolt on Construction Fretboard: Rosewood Frets: 22 (full size guitar ) Controls: 3 way pickup selector switch, 2 tone controls, 2 volume controls Finish: High Gloss body available in three colours: The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature bright orange, timeless black and pristine white plus there is chrome hardware with Orange branded machine heads and Tune-O-Matic bridge. Pickups: Medium-High Output Humbuckers Strings: .010 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; .046 (full pare set included)

REVIEWS: Total Guitar December 14 issue:

4/5

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Orange Guitar Pack is about providing the ideal platform for learning to play.â&#x20AC;?

Contacts Tel: 0208 905 2828 Email: info@omec.com www.orangeamps.com / www.facebook.com / OrangeAmps twitter.com/OrangeAmps