Rockers Steel Panther Return with Newest Distortion Guitar Pedal – Platinum Pocket Pu**y Melter – Now Available for Order at www.steelpanther.com

TV Spot Showing the Power of the Pedal Can Be Seen Here

Band Launches International Search for All Heavy Metal Hoes to be
Pole Dancers on Upcoming Canadian and Future Tours

Co-Headline Dates with Buckcherry Kick Off April 11th

Emerging from their musical workshop after perfecting their latest piece of pleasure-inducing musical equipment, Steel Panther is back with their fifth guitar pedal the Platinum Pocket Pu**y Melter – a modern-day reimagining of the pedal that started it all for them. The new pedal joins the list of industry redefining effects stomp boxes: the Pu**y Melter, the Poontang Boomerang, the Butthole Burner and the 1987. Also known as the P3M, the new pedal carries all the power of the original version in a new design that will fit inside any pants pocket or spandex bulge. The 3 tone knob controls will help guitarists perfect their tone with full control of their Loads, Sizzle, and Bootie. The pedal has been road tested by some of the biggest names in the gear industry. The Platinum Pocket Pu**y Melter is priced at $139.99 for unparalleled ecstasy and is now available for order at: www.steelpanther.com.

All new TV spot for the latest pedal can be seen here.

The altruistic nature of Steel Panther continues to show itself as the band recently announced an international talent search for all heavy metal hoes who would like to be pole dancers on the band’s upcoming tour. The band will be bringing custom poles to their upcoming headline tour and interested strippers, dancers and Zumba instructors can go to https://steelpanther.com/pages/dance-with-panther to apply to dance on stage with the band during an upcoming performance. The band’s deep love for mothers paying for dental school goes all the way back to their debut album Feel The Steel when they chronicled that love in the now legendary classic, “Stripper Girl.” World renowned California dancer Cleo the Hurricane will review the submissions and choose the best girls to ride Panther’s poles in select markets.

Steel Panther recently announced their upcoming co-headline tour with their pals in Buckcherry for The Northern Exposure Tour throughout the Great White North. The 25-city tour kicks off in the United States on April 11 in Redding, CA at the Civic Center before crossing the border into Canada and runs for 5 weeks before it wraps up back in the U.S. on May 18 in North Towanda, NY at the Riviera Theatre. Along the way, the tour will make stops in Edmonton, AB (April 18), Regina, SK (April 29), Montreal, QC (May 6), and Quebec City, QC (May 14) to name a few markets from our Northern neighbors. Rocker Kurt Diemer has been tapped as the opener on The Northern Exposure Tour. More Information on tickets and VIP packages for all upcoming tour dates can be found at the band’s website:https://steelpanther.com/pages/tour.

The Northern Exposure Tour Dates:

Fri Apr 11 – Redding, CA – Redding Civic Auditorium
Sat Apr 12 – Reno, NV – Grand Theatre at Grand Sierra Resort *
Sun Apr 13 – Bend, OR – Midtown
Tue Apr 15 – Coquitlam, BC – Great Canadian Casino Vancouver
Wed Apr 16 – Penticton, BC – Penticton Trade and Convention Centre
Fri Apr 18 – Edmonton, AB – Midway Music Hall
Sat Apr 19 – Ft. McMurray, AB – CNOOC Field House at MacDonald Island Park
Tue Apr 22 – Cranbrook, BC – Western Financial Place
Wed Apr 23 – Calgary, AB – Event Centre at Grey Eagle Resort & Casino
Fri Apr 25 – Red Deer, AB – Bo’s Bar *
Sat Apr 26 – Bonnyville, AB – Bonnyville & District Centennial Centre
Mon Apr 28 – Winnipeg, MB – Club Regent Event Centre
Tue Apr 29 – Regina, SK – Conexus Arts Centre

Wed Apr 30 – Saskatoon, SK – TCU Place
Fri May 2 – Thunder Bay, ON – NV Music Hall
Sun May 4 – Sudbury, ON – The Grand
Mon May 5 – Hamilton, ON – Hamilton Place Theatre
Tue May 6 – Montreal, QC – MTELUS
Wed May 7 – Pickering, ON – Pickering Casino Resort
Fri May 9 – London, ON – London Music Hall
Sat May 10 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwell’s Concerts & Events
Mon May 12 – Halifax, NS – Light House Arts Centre
Tue May 13 – Moncton, NB – The Molson Canadian Centre at Casino New Brunswick
Wed May 14 – Quebec City, QC – Théâtre Capitole
Fri May 16 – Ottawa, ON – The Bronson
Sat May 17 – Waterloo, NY – The Vine Showroom at del Lago Casino ^
Sun May 18 – North Tonawanda, NY – Riviera Theatre

* Steel Panther Only
^ No Kurt Diemer

Marshall Announces Exciting New Launches at NAMM: Modified Series, Studio 900 Series and Overdrive Pedals Collection– Three New Ways to Rock with Iconic Sound

22nd January 2025 – Marshall makes a powerful return to NAMM with the launch of three exciting new products — Modified Series, Studio 900 and Overdrive Pedals — all inspired by Marshall’s iconic amplifier heritage and rock ‘n’ roll legacy. The new releases promise to elevate the sound of guitarists worldwide.

Marshall, the name synonymous with legendary rock ‘n’ roll sound, has returned to NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) tradeshow with three exciting new product launches: Modified Series, Studio 900, and Overdrive Pedals. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s iconic amplifier heritage, these new offerings bring contemporary advancements to the timeless tones that have shaped music for decades.

The Modified, Studio 900, and Overdrive Pedals ranges each offer unique features and enhancements to meet the demands of today’s guitarists, while staying true to Marshall’s rich rock history. These launches bring the classic Marshall sound into more accessible formats, offering new ways to play and explore the legendary tones that have defined genres from the 60s to the present day.

This trio of new products marks an exciting return for Marshall at NAMM, offering guitarists worldwide the opportunity to experience a new chapter in the brand’s storied legacy.

“Marshall’s legacy is built on a constant drive to innovate while staying true to the sound that has made us the choice of guitarists for decades,” says Steph Carter, Marshall’s Director of Culture Marketing. “These new products represent the next chapter of that legacy—honoring our rich heritage while offering musicians even more ways to shape their sound. We’re excited to see how these products inspire musicians and continue to be a vital part of their musical journeys for years to come.”

Steve Smith, Product Expert MI at Marshall, adds, “Our mission has always been to give players more control and flexibility while staying true to our roots. We’ve been modifying amps for our artists for decades. The Modified Series, Studio 900 and Pedals bring that same approach to a wider audience—innovative tools that provide the unmistakable Marshall sound, no matter where you are. We can’t wait for guitarists to experience the power of these new products and push their creativity further.”

MODIFIED: AMPLIFYING LEGENDS

The Modified series — featuring the JCM800 Modified and 1959 Modified — marks a bold new chapter for Marshall, as it introduces factory-modified versions of two of the brand’s most iconic amplifiers for the first time ever, all meticulously crafted at Marshall’s Milton Keynes, UK factory.

For decades, Marshall has been modifying amps for their artists, and now they’re excited to offer fans the opportunity to own these specially modified Marshalls. This innovative move reimagines the legendary JCM800 and 1959 models with modern enhancements, offering guitarists unprecedented versatility and capabilities beyond what the originals could achieve. Marshall modifications have always been about achieving “more” — more distortion, more sustain, a bigger sound. At times, they focused on enhancing versatility, allowing musicians to capture sweeter tones or unlock the full potential of their Marshall heads without needing to reach ear-splitting volumes.

In developing the Modified series, Marshall listened closely to its customers and the feedback from musicians around the world. By responding to their evolving needs and preferences, Marshall has created a product that addresses the demands of modern players while maintaining the soul of the classic Marshall sound.

Marshall’s history has long been defined by modification — from the early days of the JTM45, when the company first began customizing amps to meet the demands of artists seeking more power and clarity, to the introduction of the ‘Master Volume’ models in the mid-70s, which responded to changing live and studio needs. For decades, the spirit of modification has thrived, with musicians around the world working with local techs to push their Marshalls to new extremes. With the Modified series, Marshall takes this tradition to an exciting new level, offering players the ultimate factory-modified amps that capture both the legacy and the future of rock.

The 1959 Modified provides overdrive at manageable volumes, while the JCM800 Modified delivers heavier distortion with a tighter sound, ideal for rock and metal. Both amps retain their legendary dynamics but offer expanded capabilities that bring them in line with the needs of today’s musicians. These amps honor Marshall’s tradition of innovation and modification, allowing players to explore new sonic territories.

“The Modified range expands on the flexibility of two of the most iconic Marshall designs, the 1959 (1959MS) and the JCM800 (2203MS). The 1959 (1959MS) gains the ability to give powerful overdriven sounds at manageable volume levels and sweeter clean sounds, whilst the JCM800 (2203MS) is made capable of providing heavier distortion and a tighter sound, without compromising how well the amp handles playing dynamics.” says Jon Magill, Director R&D Amplifiers.

STUDIO 900: COMPACT AND ICONIC

The Studio 900 series, including the Studio 900 Head and Studio 900 Combo, brings the iconic JCM900 sound into a smaller, more practical design. Originally released in the ‘90s, the JCM900 became a favorite of bands across genres like indie, rock, punk, and metal, and artists such as Zach Blair & Tim Mcllrath (Rise Against), Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day), Dave Navarro, John 5 and Noel Gallagher.

Now, the Studio 900 delivers that same legendary tone in a compact, gig-friendly form. With features like switchable channels, real spring reverb, and power attenuation with three levels, the Studio 900 offers unparalleled versatility. It’s perfect for home studios, smaller venues, or situations where precise volume control and adaptability are needed. This addition to the Studio range makes the legendary JCM900 accessible to modern musicians looking for flexibility, portability, and, of course, classic Marshall sound.

“Bringing the JCM900 (4100) into the Studio form factor has allowed us to create an amp which was so pivotal to the sound of so many 90s rock bands into a format suitable for home use or for easy transportation to gigs. Introducing a third, even lower, power level to the attenuation control (where the other Studio models only have two) allows the amp to keep giving great sounds even at bedroom levels.” Says Jon Magill, Director R&D Amplifiers.

OVERDRIVE PEDALS: THE MARSHALL SOUND IN A COMPACT FORM

The Overdrive Pedals Collection takes Marshall’s most iconic amps — the 1959, DSL, JCM800, JCM900, and JVM — and recreates their legendary tones in a compact, pedalboard-friendly format. Each pedal faithfully captures the essence of its respective amplifier, offering the same iconic Marshall sound in a more portable and accessible form. Crafted with analog circuitry, true bypass, and the high-quality construction Marshall is renowned for, these pedals bring the power and versatility of classic Marshall amps to any stage or practice session. Whether you’re after the vintage warmth of the 1959 Pedal, the signature crunch of the JCM800, or the high-gain roar of the JCM900, the Marshall Pedal Collection delivers the legendary Marshall tone wherever you play.

“These pedals bring the sounds of some of the great Marshall amps of history onto the pedalboard, recreating the sonic character of the amps and enhancing functionality on some to meet the needs of players.” says Jon Magill, Director R&D Amplifiers.

The Studio 900 and Pedal collections are now available at select retailers and the Pedal collection is now also available on Marshall.com. The Modified series will be available in Q3 at select retailers, with pre-orders open from today.

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Retail Prices:

1959 Modified JCM800 Modified Studio 900 Head Studio 900 Combo Pedals Collection

US 3699 USD 3299 USD 1299 USD 1499 USD 149 USD
EU 3599 EUR 3199 EUR 1299 EUR 1499 EUR 139 EUR
UK 2999 GBP 2699 GBP 1099 GBP 1199 GBP 119 GBP
SE 39999 SEK 35999 SEK 14499 SEK 15999 SEK 1599 SEK

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KEY FEATURES & TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Modified Series
Key Features:

JCM800 Modified and 1959 Modified amps for modern versatility
More distortion, sustain, and tonal flexibility
Ideal for rock, metal, and other high-energy genres
Technical Specifications:

1959 Modified: Overdriven tones at manageable volumes
JCM800 Modified: Heavier distortion and tighter sound
Available in 100W configurations
Studio 900
Key Features:

Compact versions of the JCM900, delivering the classic ‘90s sound
Switchable channels and real spring reverb for added versatility
Attenuation control with three settings for flexibility
Perfect for home studios, gigs, and smaller venues
Technical Specifications:

Available as Head or Combo models
Power attenuation with three settings (20W/10W/5W)
Spring reverb and two channels
Overdrive Pedals Collection
Key Features:

Compact, all-analog, true-bypass design
Each pedal modeled after Marshall’s iconic amplifiers
Durable, high-quality construction with a premium feel
Technical Specifications:

1959 Pedal: Warm rock tones from the late ’60s and ’70s
DSL Pedal: Classic British overdrive tones
JCM800 Pedal: Heavy distortion for rock and metal
JCM900 Pedal: High-gain, versatile sound for modern rock
JVM Pedal: Multiple tonal options in one pedal

Bruce Kulick and AXN Guitars Team Up for a Boutique Guitar Line

Throwback Guitars Carrying the Name of Former KISS Guitarist, “Kulick Guitars”

“In the past five years, I’ve seen a revival of my Kiss era… I’m always flattered that it’s not just the music that moved them – the guitars I played also matter”: Bruce Kulick is launching a custom ’80s-style guitar line that pays homage to his Kiss days
By Andrew Daly” – as featured in Guitar World Magazine

Hard rock and heavy metal legend Bruce Kulick and “The Sensei of Vintage 1980s Guitars,” Johnny DiFatta of AXN Guitars have announced a special collaboration to engineer boutique guitars under a new banner, Kulick Guitars.

“Meeting Johnny from AXN ignited my love of M-1 guitars from the 1980s. This collaboration will help me create boutique quality guitars worthy of my name on the headstock.” – Bruce Kulick

Bruce Kulick, you know the name… 12 years, 8 albums with rock ‘n roll icons KISS. The Asylum and Revenge records carrying his credits are considered indispensable. 23 years a member of Grand Funk Railroad. Trusted sidearm to Meat Loaf, Billy Squier, Union, Avantasia, Lordi and Michael Bolton.

Guitar luthier and ESP aficionado, Johnny DiFatta from AXN Guitars is recreating the glitter, the glam and the grunge of a short-lived period of time in rock n’roll history. AXN Guitars, a brand name carrying its own weight.

If you’ve caught recent shows by The Bruce Kulick Band, you may have been treated to the sight of Kulick wielding an ESP-styled guitar faced with a recall of his Asylum album era. Consider Kulick’s AXN-backed Asylum boutique guitar a tribute and a mission statement. Retro elegance. Arena-heralding flair.

Watch “AXN Guitars – Manufacturing Specifications” video here:

Remember heavy metal in The Big Eighties? The larger-than-life stages. Pyrotechnics, awesome light shows, fire and more fire. Decibels so loud you felt the vibrations in your bones a week after the show. The image and the glitz and awesome custom-built instruments with graphics. These are guitars made famous by the MTV era of the 1980s.

AXN Guitars founder and luthier Johnny DiFatta wants to keep the spirit alive. Joining him in this preservation effort is former KISS and Grand Funk Railroad guitarist, Bruce Kulick. Together, they’re bringing you Kulick boutique handmade Guitars.

“Bruce reached out because we liked the same things, and we started talking about the guitars he used during his era of KISS,” Johnny explains as the foundation to their future collaboration. “We went over the early 1980s ESP catalogs of guitars Bruce played and used live at that time.” DiFatta adds, “ESP Guitars were one of my two main influences as a guitar manufacturer with the other being early Charvel Guitars.”

KISS’ Asylum will turn 40 years old next year, and with it marking the recording debut of Bruce Kulick with the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famers. Asylum served as a linchpin toward fostering a retro homage project starting in 2020.

Johnny reflects, “The ESP Bruce played live in the early KISS days was his 1985 ESP M-1 with a Flip-Flop paint job. It’s the same guitar that is hanging in the Hard Rock Cafe in London England right next to Eric Clapton’s Stratocaster today. So I went on to manufacture and produce a replica of that M-1 ESP but it had a chunkier neck on it. We applied some guitar math and used a caliper tool to examine his favorite ESP guitars. I instructed Bruce on how to calibrate the thickness of a guitar neck. Bruce settled on a slightly thinner neck profile that was very 1980s-ish with an R2 nut. Now Bruce has that tribute guitar and uses it live.”

To depict his own take of the memorable Beatlesque headshots on the Asylum album cover, Johnny spins his art process:

“Bruce said it would be great if we could do a guitar with his face on it from the Asylum cover. I said that was doable and I was already making AXN custom guitars with artwork on them. So I took photos of a guitar without any artwork on it. Since I’m also an artist, I went into Photoshop and designed the guitar. I also went and bought the biggest poster I could find of the Asylum artwork, and I photographed just his face and did a lot of cool stuff with it. I had to move some of the paint splatters around the pickups, the bridges and the neck and move Bruce’s face around until the symmetry was there.”

The result became a tribute guitar. The gorgeous mockup blossomed into a further collaborative effort by two “guitar geeks.”

“Bruce wants to offer boutique guitars,” Johnny relays. “His fans are constantly asking Bruce for more guitars that celebrates his KISS era. We started talking about the woods, the hardware, all the specifications, and the pickups. Everything that is involved in the process of making guitars. Bruce showed an interest in learning more about what makes a guitar truly great. He was intrigued by my knowledge since I’m a luthier and I’m a guitar player and I used to be in a working band.”

Some of the features a Kulick guitar will offer are locking bridges, a single humbucker and a non-reversed headstock carrying the Kulick logo on the front, and the AXN logo on the back. It’s handcrafted and “period correct,” as Johnny boldly asserts.
Retro done not only right, but major league 1980s throw-back guitars.

About Bruce Kulick and AXN Guitars:
Time will only be kinder to the esteemed name, Bruce Kulick, and his contributions. Not only to KISS, but rock n’ roll at large. Johnny DiFatta of AXN Guitars essentially started manufacturing guitars in 2018 and even then AXNs were considered high pedigree. Today, he is well-known throughout the world for AXN Guitars and as the most notable vintage ESP and Charvel historian in the United States.

As “The Sensei of Vintage 1980s Guitars” and someone who knows Eddie Van Halen’s Kramer/ESP guitars inside and out, Johnny usually owns up to 200 guitars at any one given time and he has sold over 1,400 vintage guitars online. The ESP-influenced master craftsman has his sneakers planted firmly in the Eighties, thus it’s nothing less than fate Johnny and Bruce Kulick were destined to join forces.

“I’m excited that Bruce and I have been able to examine and discover the technical details of the guitars he used during his KISS era,” Johnny glows about their partnership. “Because Bruce and I have been working together for the past four years, I have incorporated many of his suggestions into my AXN Guitars.”
In summation of this growing Kulick-AXN endeavor, Johnny notes, “This isn’t about money so much as it is the demand of the fans because Bruce and I totally love these guitars. I’m a KISS fan first and foremost, yet it’s also about our crazy obsession with era-correct guitars of the Eighties.”

For more information on Bruce Kulick and AXN Guitars, please visit:

Bruce Kulick’s website: BruceKulick.com-The Official Bruce Kulick Website
AXN Guitars: AXN™ Guitars (alienxnation.com)

EVH® ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF NEW SA-126 AVAILABLE IN MAY

EVH® is proud to announce the debut of the SA-126 model.

The SA-126, Wolfgang Van Halen’s signature guitar is the result of a 3-year collaborative development process between Wolfgang, Matt Bruck, and EVH’s Masterbuilder Chip Ellis. With this release, Wolfgang and EVH® carry forward the more than 30-year brand legacy of innovation and top-quality standards into the future with a unique hybrid of classic and

high-performance design and features. The end result is a guitar that is unique in its vision and tonal fingerprint.

“The SA-126 was born out of necessity for finding my own sound,” said Wolfgang Van Halen. “ I wanted to do my own thing and that’s how I gravitated towards semi-hollow bodies and how it became my core sound. The goal was to put together a guitar that didn’t exist yet, which merged the beauty and wonderful warm tones of a classic semi-hollow guitar but with the performance style and neck that EVH gear is known for.”

Crash-tested for over 2 years by Wolfgang on tour with his band Mammoth WVH, this hot rodded semi-hollow instrument projects a beautiful and detailed aesthetic while producing a super wide spectrum of tones from articulate cleans, to burning leads to brutal chugging chordal rhythms. It creates a new categorization for electric guitar and is characterized by its limitless nature.

Featuring a set of custom wound bridge and neck pickups – meticulously crafted exclusively by Fender’s resident and legendary pickup designer, Tim Shaw, in collaboration with the EVH® team – the development was exhaustive. What came from that attention to detail is the perfect, unique voicing the instrument needed to provide such a wide range of versatility and tones.

The SA-126 also features a Mahogany body with a basswood centerblock for tone, along with a capped maple top on solid finishes and quilt maple top on translucent finishes with 5-ply body binding. The mahogany neck features a 22-fret 12″- 16″ compound Ebony fingerboard, jumbo frets and triple block inlays, providing a modern-classic feel that is both familiar and comfortable. Its 24 and three-quarters scale length adds to the overall playability. To facilitate easy adjustments on the fly, a spoke wheel truss rod adjustment is conveniently located at the butt end of the neck.

“Unveiling the SA-126 on this significant day is a testament to the future we’re forging at EVH Gear,” said Jon Romanowski, VP Category Management, EVH® Gear. “I’m incredibly proud of Wolfgang and the team for their dedication to pushing boundaries and shaping the brand’s next chapter with innovation and artistry.”

Introducing the All-New EVH SA-126 Demo Video HERE.

Players and fans can sign up at evhgear.com/sa-126 to be notified when the SA-126 hits their EVH® Authorized Dealer.

For technical specs, additional information on new EVH products and to find a retail partner near players, visit www.evhgear.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @EVHGear on Instagram and YouTube.
# # #

SA-126 Special ($1,799.99 USD, £1,449.00 GBP, €1,649.00 EUR, $2,999.00 AUD, ¥319,000 JPY) Featuring a chambered Mahogany body, with a basswood Centerblock added for stability and tone. Capped with a maple top on solid finishes and flame maple top on translucent finishes w/ 5 ply body binding, this thing emits “TONE”. The neck is a 22 fret 12”-16” compound Ebony fingerboard with jumbo frets and triple block inlays on a graphite reinforced mahogany neck. With a scale length of 24 and three quarters, this feels like a modern – classic that is familiar and comfortable. Finally, a spoke wheel truss rod adjustment at the butt end of the neck for easy adjustments, on the fly. Introducing the EVH® SA-126 bridge and neck pickups created by Fender’s resident pickup designer Tim Shaw and the EVH® team, they can handle just about anything you feed them. From the elegant sound of cascading-glassy cleans to a heavy bath of Overdrive to “Burn” that will satisfy the most discerning “gainiac”. Three-way toggle at the upper horn to switch between bridge, bridge and neck, and neck pickups as well as two volumes and two tones to control each. Other features include a Harmonica bridge and stop bar tailpiece, oversized strap buttons, and keystone tuning pegs. The SA-126 is offered in Matte Army Drab and Stealth Black

FEATURED SPECS:
● Chambered mahogany body with a basswood centerblock
● Bolt-on Mahogany neck with scarf joint, EVH® Modified “C” Neck Shape
● Ebony, 12”-16” Compound Radius 22 Jumbo fret fingerboard
● NEW EVH® SA-126 Humbucking Pickups (Bridge and Neck)
● SA-126 Hardshell case wrapped in Ivory vinyl with a blue crushed velvet interior

SA-126 Special, Quilted Maple ($1,899.99 USD, £1,499.00 GBP, €1,699.00 EUR, $3,199.00 AUD, ¥341,000 JPY) Featuring a chambered Mahogany body, with a basswood Centerblock added for stability and tone. Capped with a quilt maple top w/ 5 ply body binding, this thing emits “TONE”. The neck is a 22 fret 12”-16” compound Ebony fingerboard with jumbo frets and triple block inlays on a graphite reinforced mahogany neck. With a scale length of 24 and three quarters, this feels like a modern – classic that is familiar and comfortable. Finally, a spoke wheel truss rod adjustment at the butt end of the neck for easy adjustments, on the fly. Introducing the EVH® SA-126 bridge and neck pickups created by Fender’s resident pickup designer Tim Shaw and the EVH® team, they can handle just about anything you feed them. From the elegant sound of cascading-glassy cleans to a heavy bath of Overdrive to “Burn” that will satisfy the most discerning “gainiac”. Three-way toggle at the upper horn to switch between bridge, bridge and neck, and neck pickups as well as two volumes and two tones to control each. Other features include a Harmonica bridge and stop bar tailpiece, oversized strap buttons, and keystone tuning pegs. The SA-126 Quilted Maple is offered in Transparent Purple and Tobacco Sunburst.

FEATURED SPECS:
● Chambered mahogany body with a basswood centerblock
● Bolt-on Mahogany neck with scarf joint, EVH® Modified “C” Neck Shape
● Ebony, 12”-16” Compound Radius 22 Jumbo fret fingerboard
● NEW EVH® SA-126 Humbucking Pickups (Bridge and Neck)
● SA-126 Hardshell case wrapped in Ivory vinyl with a blue crushed velvet interior

ABOUT EVH®:
Two of the most important and recognizable names in rock ‘n’ roll joined forces in 2005 to develop the EVH® brand of guitars, amplifiers and musical products. Guitar icon and virtuoso Eddie Van Halen combined his unparalleled instinct and innovation in instrument and amp design with the expertise of the craftsmen and engineers at Fender to create a line of high quality, durable instruments that epitomize the sound of rock ‘n’ roll. The result is an arsenal of super powerful guitars and amps that remain unmatched in sound and form and guitars that embody speed, style and emotion. Today, Fender honor’s the legacy of the legendary guitarist through exceptional offerings that embody the spirit of innovation and musical excellence that defined his illustrious career. Guided by Eddie’s son, Wolfgang Van Halen, the brand is embarking on a bold direction that seamlessly merges tradition and forward-looking innovation, paying tribute to his father’s influence while forging a path of its own. EVH® is a licensed brand under Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) and their work together has provided musicians everywhere with the foundation to emulate one of the world’s best guitarists while also recruiting some of the biggest names in music whose inventive playing styles honor the legacy of Eddie Van Halen. For more information, visit www.evhgear.com. Join the conversation on social media by @EVHGear on Instagram and YouTube.

Gibson Custom Shop:

Kirk Hammett 1989 Les Paul Custom

An Artfully Recreated and Murphy Lab Aged Version of the Metallica Icon’s Versatile Les Paul Custom,
Available Worldwide on Gibson.com

Gibson Custom Shop is the pinnacle of craftsmanship, quality, and sound excellence. Each instrument celebrates Gibson’s legacy through accuracy, authenticity, and attention to detail.

For 130 years, Gibson has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved guitar brands around the world. Gibson Custom Shop is proud to unveil its next global release in partnership with Kirk Hammett, legendary guitarist of the multi-platinum-selling and GRAMMY® Award-winning band, Metallica. The Gibson 1989 Kirk Hammett Les Paul Custom is available worldwide at authorized, premium Gibson Custom Shop dealers and on www.gibson.com.

“This black 1989 Les Paul Custom is actually the first Les Paul I ever played live on stage and on tour,” says Kirk Hammett. “I got it when we were on the …And Justice For All tour, specifically for “Fade To Black” because I really wanted that big, fat, creamy Les Paul sound for the intro. I loved how fast the neck was and after my tech modified a bunch of the hardware, making it ‘none more black,’ it ended up being a great live metal guitar. It’s a very dependable and reliable guitar, and I’ve used it for decades. I hope you all will enjoy it as much as I did!”

To fans of metal, Kirk Hammett needs no introduction. Longtime fans will also no doubt be familiar with his “blacked-out” 1989 Gibson Les Paul Custom, which he has used on numerous Metallica albums and tours. Now the Gibson Custom Shop has recreated this renowned guitar in exquisite detail. Like the original, the Kirk Hammett 1989 Les Paul Custom features all-black hardware, and per Kirk’s wishes, it comes equipped with uncovered-Type pickups, along with a Fishman Powerbridge piezo bridge pickup system with a Fishman Powership preamp and volume control that bring simulated full-bodied acoustic tone to this versatile Les Paul Custom. Artfully aged by the Murphy Lab to match the look and feel of Kirk’s original 1989 Les Paul Custom, it is a fitting tribute to a metal guitar master and one of his favorite instruments.

Explore the Gibson Kirk Hammett 1989 Les Paul Custom HERE.

One of the most iconic rock guitarists of our generation, Kirk Hammett has been the lead guitarist and a contributing songwriter for Metallica since 1983. Before joining Metallica, he formed and named the metal band Exodus. For a deep dive into his music influences, the early days in the San Francisco metal scene, and his 37 years as the lead guitarist of Metallica, watch Gibson TV’s “Icons” series interview with Kirk Hammett. This episode of “Icons” features archival and never-before-seen photos of Metallica, with Kirk talking about touring history and personal stories about recording the group’s pivotal albums, including Kill’em All, Ride The Lightning, Master of Puppets, …And Justice For All, and The Black Album; watch and share Gibson TV’s “Icons” featuring Kirk Hammett, HERE.

Epiphone: Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass,
Available Worldwide on Epiphone.com

Acclaimed Multi-instrumentalist, Solo-Artist, and Member of Pantera Partners with Epiphone for Signature Thunderbird Bass

Above: Rex Brown performing with his Epiphone Thunderbird Bass.

The First Epiphone Signature Guitar From Legendary Bassist Rex Brown.

For over 150 years, Epiphone has been a leading innovator in instrument design. By leveraging its iconic past and leaning into the future, Epiphone has set the stage for the next era of sound for present and future generations. Epiphone is proud to unveil the latest addition to its collection of bass guitars and its first collaboration with Rex Brown, the Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass. The acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, solo-artist, and member of Pantera and Down, Rex worked closely with Epiphone luthiers to create the Thunderbird bass that can fulfill any level of a player’s ability. A striking new Bass model in Ebony with Gold accents, the Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass is available now at select global dealers and on www.epiphone.com.

“Sometimes, it’s not about the price, but the quality, and Epiphone has some of the coolest bass designs ever made, IMO,” says Rex Brown. “I’ve had Thunderbird’s as long as I can remember! There is nothing cooler looking than a TBird… All my favorite bass players growing up have played them!! From Tom Hamilton to Pete Way, these fckr’s Rule, you fool…” Rex adds, “I worked really hard with the Epiphone guys, to design something that has never been done before! The pick-ups were made by Richard Aker, who has been with Gibson for 40+ years. We put the same thumpers that were in the ‘76 Anniversary T-Birds, passive & deadly!”

Multi-instrumentalist Rex Brown is famous for his work with legendary metal bands Pantera and Down and his hard-rocking solo album, Smoke on This… Epiphone is proud to release the first Epiphone Rex Brown signature guitar in partnership with the legendary musician. The Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass features a 9-ply neck-through-body mahogany and walnut neck with a C-shape profile, mahogany body wings, and a standard 34” scale length. It is powered by a pair of Epiphone ProBucker™ 760 bass pickups, which feature nickel covers that complement the otherwise all-gold hardware. The passive electronics have two volume controls and a master tone control that feature smooth CTS® potentiometers. The gold pickguard bears the famous Thunderbird logo with Rex’s signature reproduced on the back of the headstock and a Rex Brown logo doodle on the rear control cover. A hardshell guitar case is also included.

Above: Rex Brown performing with his Epiphone Thunderbird Bass.

Plenty of folks who’ve accomplished a lot less are content to rest on past achievements, but Rex Brown is forever charging forward. Renowned worldwide, Brown and his Texas brethren forged a blueprint with PANTERA that’s been studied by nearly every metal act that followed. Late lead guitar player Darrell “Dimebag” Abbott is rightly immortalized as a good-natured, guitar-shredding legend. The rhythmic punch forged by Rex and PANTERA’s drummer, the late Vinnie Paul Abbott, has yet to be outdone. Along with singer Philip H. Anselmo, hailed as one of the greatest frontmen of all time, the self-described Cowboys from Hell, PANTERA, sparked a movement that reinvigorated heavy metal, inspired countless bands, and is memorialized in tattooed skin around the world, representing the band’s five groundbreaking multi-platinum albums unleashed between 1990 to 2000 with billions of music streams annually. Rex and singer Philip H. Anselmo partnered once again in the group Down, crafting their doomy, smoke-enhanced Southern dirges that helped shine a light on a whole other subculture in heavy music.

With the addition of Zakk Wylde (guitars) and Charlie Benante (drums), PANTERA began touring worldwide in late 2022 and will return to the stage February 2024 on the second leg of their North American headlining tour. The journey follows the band’s massively successful twenty-city run this past Summer, a tour which stood as one of the most anticipated tours of 2023, as well as their dates supporting Metallica. The 2024 trek will commence on February 3rd, in Sunrise, FL, and the band will be joined by special guest, acclaimed metal powerhouse Lamb Of God, with additional support acts to be announced in the weeks to come. For all Pantera touring news, visit: https://pantera.com/tour.

For an intimate look into his music legacy, Rex Brown’s episode of Gibson TV’s “ICONS” takes a deep dive into his influences from John Paul Jones, to Pino Palladino, Jaco Pastorius, Tom Hamilton, Pete Way, and Geddy Lee. Rex shares personal stories about his childhood, through his entire career, and lets viewers in to explore rare photos, stories, and footage from his legendary life, the enduring legacy of PANTERA, and more. Watch the Gibson TV “ICONS” episode featuring Rex Brown, HERE.

Above: the Epiphone Rex Brown Thunderbird Bass.

Gibson Launches Gene Simmons EB-0 Bass
Available Worldwide on Gibson.com

International Rock Legend and Co-Founder of KISS
Partners with Gibson for Second Signature Bass, a Limited-Edition Run of 100 Guitars

Gibson, the iconic American instrument brand continues its multi-year partnership with Gene Simmons–international rock legend and co-founder of KISS, America’s #1 gold record award-winning group of all time, in all categories (RIAA)–to create the new Gene Simmons EB-0 Bass. The Gene Simmons EB-0 Bass is inspired by the same Bass that Gene played with KISS in the 1970s. The new Gene Simmons EB-0 Bass is a limited-edition run of 100 guitars and is available worldwide at authorized Gibson Custom Shop dealers and via www.gibson.com.

If you saw KISS perform their high-octane live shows and television appearances in the 1970s, you may have spotted the bass that inspired this signature model from Gene Simmons and Gibson Custom Shop. Based on Gene’s heavily modified 1959 EB-0, the new Gene Simmons EB-0 Bass is the first 30.5” scale bass from the Gibson Custom Shop and the first bass the Custom Shop has produced in quantity. The Gene Simmons EB-0 Bass features a VOS finish in Ebony, as well as VOS hardware throughout, in addition, Gene made several modifications to his EB-0, including refinishing it, reshaping the neck to a custom profile, replacing the pickup with a later model Gibson unit, and relocating it much closer to the bridge, installing a custom pickguard, a fingerboard with Corian nut, adding binding, and changing the original tuners to Grovers. The bridge was also replaced with a high-mass model and can now be strung through-body or as a top-loaded bridge. All of these details are faithfully represented in the new Gene Simmons EB-0 Bass from Gibson Custom Shop. A custom hardshell case as well as case candy developed in collaboration with Gene is also included.

Von Frankenstein Monster Gear Instrument Strings

Our score 4.5 out of 5 stars

Von Frankenstein Monster Gear guitar and bass strings are the brainchild of Doyle/Misfits guitarist Doyle Wolfgang Von Frankenstein. Produced in conjunction with Sheptone all strings are made in the U.S using the best-available, domestically sourced, raw materials. Each string is made by hand, one at a time, with nickel-plated steel that is wrapped over a treated hex steel core. Von Frankenstein avoids rushed mass production which helps ensures quality, feel and durability from every string produced.

When it comes to guitar and bass strings the market seems to be constantly flooded with new string products boasting enhanced feature including everything from wider gauge options and special coatings to the use of new metals all of which are supposed to help aid or solve all together the age-old pursuit of tone. Along with all these new innovations come an even longer line of questions and debates about which of these new features is actually useful/beneficial and which are only gimmicks.

The latest offering from VonFrankenstein Monster Gear is the Andreas Kisser “Forest Frequencies” and “Infected Voices” signature guitar string sets. The legendary Sepultura lead guitarist brings two signature sets to the ever growing Monster Gear line with the regular “Forest Frequencies” consisting of .010/.013/.017/.028/.038/.049 gauges and the heavy “Infected Voices” set in .013/.017/.021/.041/.050/.060. Both sets feature nickel plating and feature hex steel cores which give the strings tremendous feel and clarity while the individual sealed string packaging ensure consistent durability set after set.

From a playability standpoint both sets performed equally well and sounded
just as good as one another. The “Forest Frequencies” remained stable in both standard and drop tunings without becoming too stiff or too loose. Players who use multiple tunings and who are looking for consistency and comfortability will want to check these out as they require little to no adjustment to your setup. The heavier “Infected Voices” are a touch less forgiving as the higher gauges will require some getting use to as they do require a bit more hand strength however,  Once dialed in take warning as the low frequencies produced by this set are like a solid punch to the gut!

If you are looking for a quality string that does not sacrifice tone or feel and, is hand made in the U.S. then look no further. Von Frankenstein Monster Gear strings are a quality product that guitarists and bassists from all genres and ability will surely enjoy.

To purchase Von Frankenstein Monster Gear strings visit www.vonfrankensteinmonstergear.com

Donner Mamp5 Stereo Amplifier/Receiver

Features:

High-power independent control: Its peak power can set of to 440W（110W x 4）,and has four channels which is independently controlled.440W is enough to support 4 groups of 8 speakers with 4-8 ohms.

Bluetooth 5.0: The integrated hybrid amplifier is equipped with the new updated 5.0 bluetooth.It will increase the stability, sound quality and use distance.It Works with latest devices including smartphone, tablet, laptop, computer, etc.

Multiple input modes: In addition to the Bluetooth function, the amplifer can also be connected to SD card, USB disk, RCA input and ECHO microphone input.And supports treble and bass adjustment and microphone volume control

FM function:With automatic search function, you can save up to 50 radio stations.

HD SCREEN: The integrated receiver for home stereo has a built in LED display. FM antenna and remote control are included in the stereo amplifier package for distant audio adjustments.

Our Score 4 out of 5 stars

Donner continues bringing affordable, high quality music products to the consumer market and their latest offering, the Mamp5 Stereo Amplifier/Receiver is no exception. The great sounding, powerful amplifier/receiver combo will bring your home theater system to a whole new level. With a whopping peak power rating of 440 watts (100W x 4) which can be split across 4 independently controlled channels the compact unit is capable of powering 4 groups of 8 speakers giving users plenty of connectivity options. The various input modes allow users to connect via SD card, USB, RCA and ECHO Microphone. Each input utilizes the receivers bass and treble features and for the karaoke fans you have a separate microphone volume control which will certainly come in handy at that next house party.

Where I found the Mamp5 to really shine was through its Bluetooth 5.0 connection and HD Screen. The most recent Bluetooth system allowed for a quick and stable connection that even as I moved through my house provide tremendous clarity and zero drop issues. The HD LED display was bright and easy to read from across the room as the subtle blue lighting really popped and made switching between the connections and adjustments quite easy no matter if you were up close or further away.

The only negative I found with this unit was the included wireless remote. The remote is quite small and pretty flimsy. Yes the feature is a nice add however it just doesn’t match up to the system which over all is built quite well. That aside with a price tag of just $159.99 the Donner Mamp5 Amplifier/Receiver is a great addition or upgrade to any home theater/stereo system that won’t break the bank.

To purchase the Mamp5 header to the Official Donner Amazon Store here.

Save up to $180 off digital pianos and guitars in Donner’s massive Amazon Prime Day sale including 30% off DDP-80 Digital Pianos and HUSH-I Headless Travel Guitar

Donner, a company well-known for its innovative and feature-rich musical instruments, is excited to announce its music carnival for the summer of 2023, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Donner Amazon Store. Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and create music. By participating in Donner’s Amazon Prime Day sales event on July 11-12, music lovers can enjoy exceptional savings of up to $140 off or 30% off on a wide range of Donner’s popular musical instruments.

10th Anniversary of Donner’s MINI Pedal

In 2013 Donner launched and listed its first MINI pedals, the Yellow Fall Delay Pedal on Amazon. After 10 years the listing of the MINI series pedals has received more than 20,000 verified reviews by its customers, with an average rating of 4.4/5.

Donner has garnered attention and acclaim in the online guitar community for their pedals’ affordability, impressive sound, and solid build quality. Building on this success, they have broadened their range of offerings to include electric guitars, digital pianos, electronic drum kits, MIDI keyboards, and various other products.

Click here to shop the Donner 10th Amazon Anniversary and the Summer Music Deals

Donner Summer Music Carnival & Anniversary Celebration

– Save up to 30% on Digital Pianos and Guitars

Right now, Donner has launched awesome deals on their most popular digital pianos, electronic drum sets, silent guitars, and effect pedals as part of the celebration its 10th anniversary of MINI pedal series and the Summer Music Carnival, keeping their mission of offering aesthetically pleasing musical instruments with playability and innovation for beginners and aspiring musicians.

Donner DEP-20 Digital Piano, 88 Keys Full Size Weighted Keyboard – $418.99 (Save $180)

The Donner DEP-20 digital piano combines exceptional playability with a sleek and portable design, featuring 88 fully weighted keys, a variety of realistic sounds, dual headphone outputs, and USB connectivity, making it an ideal choice for beginners to practice or performance. Get it Now

Donner DED-20 Electronic Drum Pad for Beginners – $47.99 (20% OFF)

The Donner DED-20 Electric Drum Pad provides beginner drummers with a compact and feature-rich solution for drum practice and learning. Featuring high-quality soft silicone, built-in stereo speakers, a headphone mode, and MIDI connectivity, the DED-20 is an excellent choice for drummers seeking a portable and versatile practice tool. Get it Now

Donner DST-100S Electric Guitar Kit – $143.99 (20 % OFF)

DST-100 Electric Guitar Kit offers an excellent entry-level option for aspiring guitarists, featuring a full-size solid poplar body, smooth C-shaped maple neck, H-S-S configuration pickups, includes accessories, making it a comprehensive package for beginners to start their musical journey. Get it Now

Donner HUSH-I Headless Acoustic Guitar For Travel – $239.99 (20% OFF)

Being one of the most attractive release at 2023 NAMM Show, the HUSH-I’s headless design and detachable body make it the most compact guitar to carry, while the headphone mode enables silent home practice. Get it Now

Non-Amazon Deals on Donnerdeals.com throughout July

Epiphone: Emily Wolfe “White Wolfe” Sheraton
Available Worldwide on Epiphone.com

Guitarist, Singer-Songwriter, and Producer Emily Wolfe Partners with Epiphone Luthiers To Create Her Second Signature Guitar

Epiphone 150 Years… What began as a small instrument shop on the Mediterranean grew into a global powerhouse, crafting some of the best instruments in the world, for every stage.

For 150 years, Epiphone has been at the forefront of musical instrument design. By leveraging its iconic past and leaning into the future, Epiphone has now set the stage for the next era of sound for present and future generations. Epiphone is proud to announce the release of the Epiphone Emily Wolfe “White Wolfe” Sheraton. Created by guitarist, singer-songwriter, and producer Emily Wolfe and the luthiers at Epiphone in Nashville, TN, the “White Wolfe” Sheraton marks Wolfe’s second Epiphone signature guitar and is available worldwide at authorized Epiphone dealers and on www.epiphone.com.

“The White Wolfe is a showstopper of a guitar. It’s a true symbol of how bold and unafraid we can be as guitar players. I hope this beautiful instrument feels like a part of anyone who picks it up.” –Emily Wolfe

Played by artists such as the legendary blues artist John Lee Hooker, Noel Gallagher and Gem Archer of Oasis, The Edge of U2, Matthew Followill of Kings of Leon and Emily Wolfe, with its thinline, double-cutaway, semi-hollow body design–similar to the Gibson ES-335–the influential Epiphone Sheraton continues to shape sound throughout generations of players.

The Epiphone Emily Wolfe “White Wolfe” Sheraton is based on the triple-threat rock & roll singer, songwriter, and guitarist’s popular Sheraton Stealth. Once again, Emily has lent her creativity to develop her new artist model. The Emily Wolfe “White Wolfe” Sheraton is equipped with an Indian laurel fretboard with 22 medium jumbo frets and mother-of-pearl block inlay on the front, Emily’s wolf logo and a white gloss Emily Wolfe signature on the rear and is outfitted with Grover Rotomatic tuning machines and a Graph Tech nut. An Epiphone LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge and Stop Bar tailpiece hold down the other end of the strings and contribute to the impressive sustain of the instrument. The electronics include full-sized Epiphone Alnico Classic PRO humbucker pickups paired with CTS potentiometers for smooth control over individual pickup volume and overall tone. It’s finished in Aged Bone White paired with lightly aged gold hardware. An EpiLite case is included.

Watch/share the new the interview with Emily re the “White Wolfe” which also features her new single “Walk In My Shoes” off her forthcoming album, HERE.

With blistering guitar riffs, skillful songwriting, and soulful vocals, guitarist, songwriter, and producer Emily Wolfe has been making waves with her powerful vocals and dynamic guitar skills and shows no signs of slowing down in 2023. Wolfe’s music combines elements of classic rock, blues and alternative, creating a unique and energetic sound. She’s garnered attention for her passionate live performance and has been recognized as an emerging talent in the rock music scene. Her work and live shows have been praised as transcendent, sticky and sweet, bad-ass, and provocative.

Wolfe recently wrapped the self-produced follow-up to her 2021 album Outlier which the Austin American Statesman hailed as featuring “blazing guitar that runs balance against compellingly melodic vocals that range from scorching to soothing.” Wolfe has been out on the road headlining shows, and supporting The Gaslight Anthem, and she will continue touring with her trio throughout the rest of the year, in support of her forthcoming new album, due for release in late summer – early fall 2023.

Listen to Emily Wolfe’s music HERE.

Gibson Garage
-The Ultimate Music Destination in Nashville-
Announces Two-Year Anniversary Celebration During CMA Week

“Garage Fest”
Wednesday, June 7 – Saturday, June 10
Features Live Music and Events, at the Gibson Garage with Dave Mustaine, Charlie Worsham, Emily Wolfe, Ashley Cooke, Kapali Long, Mya Byrne, Devon Thompson, Dawson (Temecula Road), Vincent Mason, Dani Rose, Cassandra Lewis, Mackenzie Porter, Whitney Miller, Adeem the Artist & more

@Gibson Garage-Nashville
209 10th Avenue South #209
Nashville, TN

The iconic, and leading global instrument brand, Gibson will launch Garage Fest Wednesday, June 7 – Saturday, June 10 at the Gibson Garage (209 10th Ave. South #209) in downtown Nashville, TN. Falling on the two-year anniversary of the opening of the Gibson Garage–Nashville’s must-see destination for music lovers–Gibson Garage Fest will kick off with live performances and events with music superstars and emerging acts during CMA Week. Gibson Garage Fest is open to the public and will feature intimate, live music performances, and events, daily at the Gibson Garage. Fans can attend live shows, autograph signings, participate in guitar-playing lessons with renowned experts, and interact with the iconic brand Gibson–as well as its philanthropic arm Gibson Gives.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7
· 2:00-4:00p Dave Mustaine autograph signing event.*

THURSDAY, JUNE 8
· 2:00 Live music performances all day and night

Kick-off with music from the Gibson Garage team: Jenna Weidner,
Dylan Jenkins, Shane Hunt, Scott Wasnak, John Wohlford, and Matt Boyer.

· 3:00 Dani Rose (Honey County)
· 4:00 Vincent Mason
· 5:00 Dawson Anderson (Temecula Road)
· 7:00 Garage Private Party (media RSVP required)
· 7:15 Devon Thompson
· 8:00 Emily Wolfe
· 9:00 VIP supergroup

FRIDAY, JUNE 9
· 2:00 Live music performances all day
· 2:00 Notes4Notes Kids Jam
· 3:00 Whitney Miller
· 4:00 Mackenzie Porter
· 5:00 Adeem the Artist

SATURDAY, JUNE 10
· 10:00 Live music performances and events all day
· 10:00 Donuts and Jam with Charlie Worsham

Charlie Worsham acoustic performance, meet & greet/photos, donuts, and coffee served.
· 11:30 Gibson Gives Foundation + FreeGuitars4Kids event (parking lot)

Gibson Gives and Gibson artists will be onsite gifting 200 guitars to FG4K youth members.

· 2:00 Kapali Long
· 3:00 Cassandra Lewis
· 4:00 Mya Byrne
· 5:00 Ashley Cooke

*Dave Mustaine signing at the Garage will sign any Gibson Brands guitar as well as special limited edition poster which will be offered onsite only.

Gibson Garage Fest kicks off Wednesday, June 7 with Dave Mustaine of Megadeth will be coming by the Gibson Garage for a special in-store autograph signing event.

Donner Launches New PC-02 Podcasting Workstation

4 Hybrid XLRs, 6 TRS Outs, 10 Effects and USB-C Port configurations ideal for music streamers

Donner, a leading innovator in musical instruments and audio solutions, is thrilled to announce the launch of the latest invention in the podcasting range, Donner PC-02 Podcast Workstation. Designed to empower podcasters and streamers with unparalleled versatility, convenience, and audio quality, the PC-02 is a one-stop shop for performers, musicians and even gamers looking for a versatile live performance tool, as well as recordists seeking added flexibility in their project studios.

PC-02 is an integrated podcast workstation and mixing console that contains hybrid XLR/jack connectors, high gain – low noise preamps with 48V phantom power, 5 physical motorized faders, studio-grade DSP processors, and nine programmable pads for automating mixing functions, with onboard recording and Bluetooth capability. PC-02 is also equipped with Donner’s latest audio algorithms that are utilized on Donner’s effect pedals. Among the ten separate voice effects included are Noise Gate, Compressor, De-esser, EQ (Equalizer), Reverb, Delay, AutoTune, Pitch, Megaphone, and RobotTalk.

By offering an all-in-one solution for livestreaming and podcasting the PC-02 with 4 channel mixer console lets content creators control mic, instruments, game, music, chat, and even a full band performance for the perfect broadcast mix.

“…love the multi USB input and output feature, so much flexibility for further editing, digital faders, 4 independent headphone mixes, programmable pads, this is not just a podcast workstation it’s much more! Donner is raising the bar!” says Athan Hilaki, who is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and an active live streamer. With over 160k followers worldwide, Athan is one of the Top 100 US broadcasters on BIGO LIVE. “So far, I used PC-02 for live streaming, I used it as a DJ mixer, as well as audio interface for guitar looping with an iPad…and more to come!”

Donner PC-02 highlights include:

Standalone podcast production and livestreaming workstation developed for podcasts and performers

5 motorized faders (4 channels + 1 master) and settings can be memorized and controlled individually

4 hybrid XLR/jack inputs for connecting microphones, instruments and line-level devices (w/ two 48 V phantom power for condenser mics)

4 high power headphone output and 2 TRS Balanced MainOUT

10 effects: EQ, Compressor, Noise-Gate, De-esser, Reverb, Delay, Autotune, Pitch, Megaphone, Robottalk

9 programmable pads for triggering on-the-fly effects, employing sound effects, playing external samples, background tracks, or anything you desire

1 optical audio port; 1 USB-C port for connecting computer, mobile phone;

Studio quality mic amp offering a gain boot up to 52dB

Compatible WIN/PC software available for editing the effects and pads from your desktop

A product video of the Donner PC-02 is available for viewing at this URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Kf8M5OmI6k

Donner PC-02 is shipping now and available at Donner’s Amazon storefront. Please visit donnermusic.com for more information.

FENDER HONORS SHREDDER JOHN 5
WITH LIMITED EDITION SIGNATURE TELECASTER®
+ ACCESSORIES COLLECTION

CAPTURING GUITARIST’S BOLD AND INVENTIVE STYLE

The John 5 Ghost Telecaster® guitar Features an All-White Fretboard and Red Killswitch and Debuts Alongside a Custom-Branded 10’ Instrument Cable, Leather Strap, and a 6-Pack of 351 Celluloid Picks

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today announces the launch of the John 5 Ghost Telecaster® and signature accessories collection, the latest signature Telecaster® guitar from the iconic guitarist who’s rocked Fender guitars throughout his storied career. John 5 has admitted to pulling inspiration from diverse genres when writing music, including country, bluegrass, metal, rock and jazz, so when it came time to design his new signature model, he sought to create an instrument completely unique that could accommodate any playing style. The result is the Ghost, a versatile instrument that is certain to turn heads and excite fans across the globe.

John 5, now guitarist for Mötley Crüe, started his career as a session player before establishing himself as the ax-man for hard rock heavyweights including David Lee Roth and Rob Zombie. For almost three decades, John 5 has become one of the most in-demand guitar players on the planet, having worked with an impressive array of talent from across the industry. An eternal student of music, John 5’s expansive knowledge of various genres shows up in his bluegrass licks, sweep-picking solos and high-speed chicken-pickin’ lines – all with a Fender Telecaster® in hand. This summer, John 5 can be seen shredding on the Ghost Telecaster, giving fans worldwide the chance to catch him in action while on tour with Mötley Crüe.

“I’ve played Telecasters my whole life and getting to design my own is a dream come true,” said John 5. “When it came to design, I was inspired by some of Fender’s previous collaborations, but sought to create a model that would be both visually stunning and comfortable to play. Fender helped me design a Telecaster that was different from anything else on the market and the easy-to-play all-white fretboard and unique pickguard is proof of that. The leather strap and cable match the guitar’s white aesthetic and the pick visuals are absolutely killer!”

Introducing the John 5 Ghost Telecaster. It features a top-bound alder body and 1-piece maple neck finished in an enchanting Arctic White gloss and accented by striking red appointments and a gleaming mirrored pickguard/control plate.

The John 5 Ghost Telecaster® features all John 5-approved specs. These include: a custom neck profile with 9.5” radius fingerboard and narrow tall frets that provide excellent playability, an alder body with balanced tone and smooth clarity, and modern, medium-high gain humbucking pickups by Dimarzio that are designed to replicate the sound of active pickups in a passive format. Visually, the John 5 Ghost Telecaster® is unique to most guitars on the market boasting an “all-white” look that is further enhanced by the contrasting red binding and accents, and a flashy chrome pickguard.

Along with the Telecaster®, John 5 wanted to give a little something extra to fans, which has come to life in his signature collection of accessories. The accessories collection includes a white leather strap with red suede backing, a 10’ cable in artic white with custom molded red ends and a six-pack of 351 celluloid picks featuring John 5’s logo and graphics as twisted as his Telecaster® playing.

“Over the span of his career, John 5 has shown that his guitar skills know no bounds in terms of genre or sound,” said Justin Norvell, EVP of Product at FMIC. “The Ghost Telecaster® is a celebration of his iconic style, with a killswitch that allows rapid-fire stutter effects and a chrome pickguard that completes the stunning look of this guitar. Beyond that, the signature capsule collection allows John 5 to give fans something that celebrates the whole visual experience of his artistry, not just his inventive guitar playing.”

In true tradition, the Fender® Artist Signature Series honors iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists.

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

LE John 5 Ghost Telecaster® ($2,999.99 USD £2,859.00 GBP, €3.299,00 EUR, $5,599.00 AUD, ​​¥418,000 JPY) John 5’s supernatural skill and terrifying command over the guitar have cemented his status as a living legend. Best known as the formerly corpse-painted, country-inflected guitar shredder for Rob Zombie, John 5 has worked with the biggest names across all walks of music: everyone from David Lee Roth, Alice Cooper and Mötley Crüe to Rod Stewart, Lynyrd Skynyrd and KD Lang. Whether he’s sweeping a swift arpeggio, deftly maneuvering a breakneck bluegrass run or tapping at the speed of light, John 5’s genre-defying sonic sorcery is always instantly recognizable. From pummeling riffs to incendiary solos, with his Fender® John 5 Ghost Telecaster® in hand there’s almost nothing he can’t do. Bewitchingly beautiful, the John 5 Ghost Telecaster® features a top-bound alder body and 1-piece maple neck finished entirely in an enchanting Arctic White gloss and accented by striking red appointments and a gleaming mirrored pickguard/control plate. DiMarzio D Activator humbuckers deliver harmonically rich modern crunch, harnessed by a performance-oriented control set with a 3-way toggle mounted to the upper bout for swift pickup switching and pickguard-mounted master volume and arcade-style “kill switch” for rapid-fire stutter effects. Deluxe locking tuners and 6-saddle tele bridge with block steel saddles ensure rock-solid tuning stability and spot-on intonation. The John 5 Ghost Telecaster® is entombed in a custom white tolex hardshell case with crushed red interior featuring John 5 Ghost embroidery.

ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:

Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) – whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH®, Charvel®, Bigsby® and PreSonus® – follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres. Since 2015, Fender’s digital arm has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to accompany players at every stage of their musical journey. This includes innovative apps and learning platforms designed to complement Fender guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories and pro-audio gear, and inspire players through an immersive musical experience. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of musical expression for all players, from beginners to history-making legends. In 2021, Fender celebrated 75 years of giving artists “wings to fly,” carrying on the vision of its founder, Leo Fender, and connecting players through a shared love of music.

Donner will Exhibit More Than 20 New Products at NAMM 2023

The NAMM Show
BOOTH 4324
April 13–15, 2023 Convention Center, Anaheim, California

Donner, a leading manufacturer of innovative and feature-rich musical instruments with an extensive range of products that covers guitars, e-drums, digital pianos, and audio equipment, is set to introduce its latest musical instruments and audio equipment at the highly anticipated 2023 NAMM Show to be held from April 13-15 in Anaheim, California, USA.

At Booth 4324, Donner will unveil new additions to its lineups of HUSH Series headless guitars, Seeker Series electric guitars, and carbon fiber guitars, providing exclusive new experiences and possibilities to both beginner and advanced guitarists.

Donner will join the media preview day on April 12 with its latest innovation – the REVO Smart Guitar.

For keys and percussion, visitors will see Donner’s latest flagship electronic drum sets, the DED-500P, and D1 Drum Machine from the Essential Series synthesizers, and the ungraded model of the DDP-80 Digital Piano, DDP-80 Plus.

In the pro-audio and consumer electronics industry, Donner will also make a splash in the market with its feature-rich products, including the integrated all-in-one workstation and portable podcast interfaces, as well as the compact soundbar packed with Dolby Atmos, marking Donner’s bold attempt in the CE market.

Besides new products, Donner is bringing new ideas and plans to its dealers and partners. To build more connections with dealer guests, Donner will host a sales event in Marriott Anaheim on the Friday night of April 14th, allowing the authorized dealers and potential partners a convenient place to conduct business.

For more information, please visit the Donner’s booth at the NAMM Show 2023 in the Anaheim Convention Center, April 13 to 15, 2023, or visit Donner NAMM website.