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Looking for your first semi-hollow? Save a HUGE $1,000 on this D’Angelico beauty at Sweetwater this Black Friday
We get it – it’s easy to get fatigued over Black Friday weekend. There are so many retailers and websites trying to get you to pay attention to them as they bid for your hard-earned cash, and it’s sometimes tempting just to turn off the internet for the weekend.
But before you do, I promise you’re gonna want to take note of this one… Over at Sweetwater, you can save an absolutely massive $1,000 – yep, a rack, a G, a band – on this D’Angelico Excel DC XT semi-hollow, bringing its price down from $1,999 to just $999.
[deals ids=”38HrscZuCw02h4d5xMssL1″]
But even with $1,000 off, why do you need this guitar? Well, designed for unparalleled comfort and playability – for long studio sessions, live shows or simply just noodling in front of the TV – the D’Angelico Excel DC XT certainly looks the part with its beautiful Vintage Natural Quilt finish, but its tones are top-tier, too, courtesy of a pair of Seymour Duncan ‘59 humbuckers.
We don’t expect this deal to last across the weekend owing mostly to the sheer sum knocked off its price tag.
Bear in mind, too, that Sweetwater offers up to 48-month Special Financing, so the Excel DC XT could be yours today for as low as $21 a month.
Learn more at Sweetwater.
The post Looking for your first semi-hollow? Save a HUGE $1,000 on this D’Angelico beauty at Sweetwater this Black Friday appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
It’s my go-to pedal for all-in-one heavy tones, and it’s $50 off this Black Friday
As much as I love analogue gear, the heart of my at-desk rig is actually a UAFX pedal – the Anti. It’s the line’s emulation of a Peavey 5150, and comes with a built-in gate and boost – therefore is perfect for all-in-one heavy tones, and right now it’s $50 off at Sweetwater. Check out the deal:
[deals ids=”4kEWxyU4upUk2l6l8YfKFc”]
- READ MORE: Black Friday Guitar Deals 2025: find the best deals and biggest savings with the help of our experts
The Anti is characteristically brilliant-sounding, as UA is a dab-hand at digitally emulating tube amps and real cabs. The 5150, of course, is the backbone of so many classic heavy tones – and so the Anti has been parked under my desk for the better part of a year now, as I’m desperately trying to learn more Gojira gallops so that I’m not just trapped playing the same four Black Sabbath riffs over and over again.
Like all of the other UAFX pedals, the Anti has just gotten a major upgrade, too, thanks to UAFX 2.0. This means four user presets at your feet, MIDI control, direct USB connection to your smartphone and a whole lot more. $350 for all of that ain’t bad!
Check out more places to save:
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post It’s my go-to pedal for all-in-one heavy tones, and it’s $50 off this Black Friday appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Larkin Poe’s Guitar Evolution | Axe Lords
Larkin Poe’s Rebecca and Megan Lovell join Axe Lords to talk guitars, their new album Bloom, their blood-harmony superpowers, and how building a recording studio with your spouse is a terrific way to test the structural integrity of a relationship—not to mention your credit card limit.
Rebecca walks us through how she became the reluctant lead singer, why she mostly relies on the bridge humbucker in her Strat, and how open tunings both elevate your riffs and ruin your life onstage. Meanwhile, Megan traces her lap-steel journey from a back-breaking vintage Rickenbacker to her signature model Electro-Liege. Warning: You may think you suck at music after she rips an improvised episode outro for us!
Axe Lords is presented in partnership with Premier Guitar. Hosted by Dave Hill, Cindy Hulej and Tom Beaujour. Produced by Studio Kairos. Executive Producer is Kirsten Cluthe. Edited by Justin Thomas at Revoice Media. Engineered by Patrick Samaha. Recorded at Kensaltown East. Artwork by Mark Dowd. Theme music by Valley Lodge.
Follow @axelordspod for updates, news, and cool stuff.
Follow Larkin Poe @larkinpoe
Fender’s Black Friday sale is now live – with up to 30% off Performer, Professional models plus entry-level Squiers
If you’re in the market for a new guitar, there’s no better time of year than Black Friday. And right now, Fender is hosting a huge sale on its online store, with up to 30% off a range of electric and acoustic guitars.
[deals ids=”2IbhDWYIu247npdzBy2vyS”]
Fender’s product lineup caters to pretty much every skill level and budget, and the company’s Black Friday sale is no different.
If you’re an entry level player looking for either your first guitar or another axe to add to the collection, there are a number of heavily discounted Squier models available. Take the Squier Sonic Mustang HH, for example – this double-humbucker electric is priced at just $161 down from $230.
Or there’s a number of guitars available from the Squier’s Paranormal Series, which essentially takes classic Fender designs and infuses them with a number of out-there appointments.
- READ MORE: Black Friday Guitar Deals 2025: find the best deals and biggest savings with the help of our experts
For example, you can grab the Soapbar single-coil-equipped Strat-O-Sonic for just $379 down from $472, the Custom Nashville Stratocaster – also at $379 down from $472 – and even the 12-string Jazzmaster XII at $362 down from $517.
Moving up the scale there’s a selection of American Performer electric guitars at the mid-price ~$1,000 mark, while if you’ve got a little more budget to play with but are still keen to grab a bargain, there’s top-shelf American Professional II Stratocasters, Telecasters and Jazzmasters all with hundreds knocked off their price tags.
The Fender Black Friday Sale is live over the weekend, but there’s no guarantee what you want won’t sell out. So if you like something you see, take advantage of these low prices right now…
Browse the full range of deals at Fender.
You can also check out more places to save below:
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post Fender’s Black Friday sale is now live – with up to 30% off Performer, Professional models plus entry-level Squiers appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
It’s my favourite thing Walrus Audio has ever made – and you can save big on it this Black Friday
What do you think of sonically when you think of Walrus Audio? Maybe the subtle wobble of the Julia, the considered amp emulation of the ACS1 or the textural pads of the Slo. The Silt, however, drives a truck through any expectations of boutique subtlety, and starts ripping a guitar-burning octave-fuzzed solo, standing windswept on the flaming wreckage, and it’s on sale right now for Black Friday at Sweetwater. Check out the deal:
[deals ids=”1cAegPitQcNLx8cWdQIOOv”]
- READ MORE: Black Friday Guitar Deals 2025: find the best deals and biggest savings with the help of our experts
When I got my hands on a Silt on release it blew both me and my amp away – this thing is gnarly, and definitely the heaviest, ugliest (in a good way) Walrus release I’ve ever played. At its core it’s a tube-driven fuzz, with an optional octave mode that adds an analogue upper-harmonic to the sound. This makes it awesome for anything from Black Keys-esqsue garage rock to downtuned drone doom.
And while tube-driven pedals don’t inherently add some magical element back into your sound, the Silt makes good use of the technology for a responsive playing feel and a uniquely saturated distortion character.
The stock Silt isn’t the cheapest pedal normally, but right now that saving of $60 makes it a total steal – check out the deal above, or more places to save below.
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post It’s my favourite thing Walrus Audio has ever made – and you can save big on it this Black Friday appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
“I have the best job in the world”: A wholesome start to your Friday – listen to James Hetfield speak about how much he loves his life
After nearly 45 years, you’d imagine a rockstar might have grown tired of a life on the road. James Hetfield, however, is still pinching himself; when he’s performing in front of his fans, the Metallica frontman is certain that he’s got the “best job in the world”.
In a wholesome conversation with CBS Sunday Morning, Papa Het reflects on just how special the Metallica Family is to him. In his words, just locking eyes with a fan is enough to remind him all of his struggles up until now have been worth it. “It’s so easy… just looking into one set of eyes, that’s all it takes for me…” he says. “I’ll see the passion in them, and I’m full.”
- READ MORE: Black Friday Guitar Deals 2025: find the best deals and biggest savings with the help of our experts
The most important element of Metallica, for Hetfield, is how it also brings people together. “I get to see 3 generations of people hugging each other,” he smiles. “The last thing I would have wanted to do is go to a gig with my dad or my grandpa! But I see that happening out there.”
“There are little kids down in the front, old people down the front, people in wheelchairs down the front… it’s a mix match of backgrounds, stories, and people,” he adds. “We gather a lot of misfits around this planet, and we make a family out of them. We create some energy that helps us get through life.”
While Hetfield notes that he has “struggled hard” to “be in a band and make music”, it’s all paid off because his ‘job’ hardly feels like a typical 9-5. “I got the best job in the world – if you even want to call it a job!” he jokes. “I found my passion early on in life. I’m super grateful for that, and that I had parents that were supportive around that.”
The Metallica frontman has put the work in to help others who might be ‘struggling’, too. He references the band’s All Within My Hands project, a foundation formed in 2017 that raises funds to fight hunger, educate workforces and support critical local services. “With our foundation, hopefully we’re a little bit of a helping hand [for others to] get out of struggle,” he explains.
However, no matter what struggles you might be facing in your personal life, if you’re at a gig and lock eyes with Hetfield, you’re keeping the Metallica machine going strong. “[When I see the fans] my heart fills right up and I’m ready to just keep going and kicking ass, y’know?” the frontman says. “I am so blessed, I have the best seat in the house.”
The post “I have the best job in the world”: A wholesome start to your Friday – listen to James Hetfield speak about how much he loves his life appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
My PRS SE Silver Sky is the last Strat-style guitar I’ll ever need – and you can get one at nearly $200 off for Black Friday
The PRS SE Silver Sky is one of the world’s most popular electric guitars; it was the best-selling guitar on Reverb for two years in a row in 2022 and 2023, and we even scored it a coveted 9/10 in our review following its launch.
And as a proud owner of one myself, I fully understand the hype. Since getting mine a couple of years ago, it’s often the first I grab off the guitar rack, owing to both its effortless playability and top-tier tonal palette.
[deals ids=”7m4dStqQ8FcRymIG4mEP1I”]
And at Sweetwater this Black Friday, you can pick up your own SE Silver Sky at $170 off, meaning you pay just $679 as opposed to the usual $849.
The SE Silver Sky is essentially PRS’s budget-friendly take on John Mayer’s wildly popular signature model, which elevates the classic triple-single-coil solidbody guitar design loved by millions for decades in the Stratocaster.
Sure you could go for a Strat, but after the SE Silver Sky literally beat Stratocasters two years in a row in electric guitar best-sellers, perhaps the market is onto something…
- READ MORE: Black Friday Guitar Deals 2025: find the best deals and biggest savings with the help of our experts
The SE Silver Sky is loaded with a trio of 635JM “S” single-coil pickups for a broad palette of vintage-inspired tones, ranging from full, warm sounds with the neck pickup and crisp, twangy cleans in the bridge position, with a middle pickup there to bridge the gap.
Honestly, on numerous occasions I’ve sat down to play for 20 minutes and found myself two hours later still experimenting with the vast range of tonal options at my disposal. And you don’t need an expensive tube amp to get the best out of the SE Silver Sky, either; my practice amp is a Blackstar ID:CORE V4 – meaning the entire rig is sub-$1,000 – and I’m almost addicted to the sound (not to be dramatic).
Elsewhere, you’ve got an 8.5-inch-radius fingerboard – a slight deviation from the core model’s vintage-inspired 7.25-inch radius for a more modern and natural feel across the length of the guitar’s 22-fret board. There’s also a two-point tremolo system for those subtle pitch deviations that’ll bring your best Mayer-style licks and chord progressions to life.
There’s a number of colour options to choose from, too, including the Sweetwater-exclusive Platinum Spark, so you’ll find the perfect SE Silver Sky for your style.
Unfortunately there’s not an unlimited number of SE Silver Skys in stock, and we expect this to be one of Black Friday 2025’s hottest deals, so don’t hesitate. Whether you’re expanding your own collection or shopping for the guitar player in your life ahead of Christmas (trust me when I say you’ll be the hero), take advantage of this deal while it lasts.
Get yours at Sweetwater.
You can also check out more places to save below:
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post My PRS SE Silver Sky is the last Strat-style guitar I’ll ever need – and you can get one at nearly $200 off for Black Friday appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Boss XS-100 Poly Shifter review – even better than the squeal thing?
$349.99/£299, boss.info
It is possible to talk about the Boss XS-100 Poly Shifter without mentioning the ‘W’ word… but the elephant in the room would be so big it’d probably shatter the floorboards and fall into the cellar. Because this is Boss making a direct play for the market currently occupied almost exclusively by DigiTech and its Whammy range of foot-controlled pitch shifters.
Well, you don’t have to be the first to be the best, and Boss reckons its new offering – along with the compact XS-1 – has enough “groundbreaking technology” to make a real difference. So has the world’s most famous guitar pedal manufacturer found a new product category to dominate?
Image: Adam Gasson
Boss XS-100 – what is it?
Let’s pretend for a moment that we live in a universe where the Whammy doesn’t exist. Pretty dull universe, isn’t it? But Boss is here to liven things up with a polyphonic shifter that’s split into two parts: a treadle-operated pitch bender for Floyd Rose-style downward swoops and impossible upward screeches; and a footswitch-operated transposer for doomy down-tuning and ‘virtual capo’ effects.
Now, in the real universe we have the Whammy DT, which does pretty much the same thing. But as well as being slimmer and a whole lot more classy-looking, the XS-100 raises the stakes with a preposterously wide shifting range of eight octaves – four up and four down. And it does this using new algorithms that should, in theory, make it sound more natural and free of glitchy digital artefacts than anything that has come before.
As with the Whammy DT, there’s also a ‘detune’ setting for chorus sounds. But the Boss’s LCD screen allows for all sorts of deeper editing possibilities: you can tweak the response curve of the pedal, slow down its reaction for more gentle sweeps, blend in any amount of dry signal, and even store up to 30 user presets.
The pedal can be set to come on automatically with a firm toe-press, like a wah, and the back panel opens up the options further with MIDI in/out ports, an input for an assignable expression pedal, and a dry-through output for sending the untreated signal to a second amp. It all sounds very promising – so let’s get a shift on.
Image: Adam Gasson
Boss XS-100 – is it easy to use?
It’s a pedal with a screen, and that might already have you scrambling for the factory presets… but actually, the basic operation of the XS-100 is so simple that you can get on fine without them. That screen is titchy but it tells you all you need to know: the top half shows the shift interval for the pedal, the bottom half the one for the switch. Press the encoder knob to flip between the two, and turn it to change the value.
There are also two buttons for getting into the aforementioned deeper editing – and that’s where the limitations of the screen size really show. Boss has clearly struggled to get all the necessary information across with such a meagre allowance of pixels, and navigating this part of the XS-100 is no fun at all; but at least it’s responsive, applying changes as soon as you twist the encoder.
The ergonomics of the two bypass footswitches are interesting: they’re quite close together and vertically aligned, but the one for engaging the pedal is raised up by about 2cm. The result is that each one is easy to stomp on without snagging the other, but hitting both together to go in and out of presets mode can be a challenge unless you’ve got three legs.
Image: Adam Gasson
Boss XS-100 – what does it sound like?
Let’s go straight in with the most extreme test possible: setting the pedal to four octaves up and the footswitch to four octaves down, engaging them both together for a net-zero shift and seeing if what comes out still sounds like a guitar. And… it does! All that processing does inevitably add a small latency delay – which you’ll really notice if the attack of the strings is audible in the room – but it’s workable, and the body of the sound itself is impressively un-mangled.
Flip to something a little more useful in the real world – let’s say an octave up for ‘whammying’ and four semitones down for instant shifting – and the results are even better. The action of the treadle feels totally natural and it’ll sweep gleefully up and down with no distracting artefacts. The switch is just as good, enabling seamless transpositions in either direction.
Yes, chords do sound ever so slightly processed, and there’s always a sliver of latency that you can feel rather than hear, but all that becomes negligible once you run the XS-100 through some heavy distortion – which is surely how most people will use this unit. You might also detect a hint of background weirdness when it’s tracking big string bends, but I suspect that won’t detract from the good stuff for most people. It’ll even do a good ‘receding ambulance’ impression if you set the switch to three semitones down and tap it on and off while gradually pulling up on the treadle.
Is it worth delving into the screen menus to play with settings? Undoubtedly – if only to try the ‘detune’ effect, which feels a bit incongruous amid all these pitch leaps but is great for pure 80s chorus tones. You can tweak this by altering the wet/dry balance, which is also where you’ll open up harmony effects. These track extremely well… and with an up-octave sitting fairly low in the mix, you can even pretend (just about) that your BC Rich Warlock is a Rickenbacker 12-string.
Image: Adam Gasson
Boss XS-100 – should I buy it?
On paper, this thing has three advantages over any Whammy: more octaves, more options and more audio purity. The first one, while admittedly cool, is more about oneupmanship than adding anything genuinely useful – there simply is no use case for a four-octave shift, unless you want to confuse dogs. The second is more substantial, but it’s offset by the fact that these options are so fiddly to access.
So it largely comes down to the XS-100’s ability to change pitch without audible latency and without digital scratchiness. It’s not perfect on either count, but it does feel like a step forward from anything I’ve used before.
Boss XS-100 alternatives
The XS-100’s closest rival in terms of functionality is the DigiTech Whammy DT ($449/£249), but see also the DigiTech MonoNeon Whammy ($329/£269) with its three-octave shifting range. Or just buy an Electro-Harmonix Pitch Fork ($198/£169) and plug in an expression pedal.
The post Boss XS-100 Poly Shifter review – even better than the squeal thing? appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Black Friday’s in full swing, and this is the best acoustic deal I’ve seen all week
Across the whole event of Black Friday, there are some deals that just knock you flat on your back, and this is definitely one of those. At Thomann right now you can save well over a grand on one of the most interesting acoustics that’s ever graced our review bench.
At Thomann right now, the 514ce Urban Ironbark from Taylor Guitars is discounted down from £3,555 to £2,068 – a saving of almost £1,500, which is no small chunk of change, even for such an ultra-premium acoustic.
But what is Urban Ironbark? Well, the first part of the name refers to how it’s sustainably harvested – while the second part of the name refers to the wood’s dense bark that has a bit of a “melted metal” look to it. The wood, a member of the Eucalyptus family, is a very dense hardwood that sinks in water – and fittingly enough, the guitar’s bright, loud voice fits a bit of a harder playstyle. If that sounds up your street, check out the deal below:
[deals ids=”4oopfu9koU9QZllIlmznwN”]
Check out more deals here, and some more places to save below:
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post Black Friday’s in full swing, and this is the best acoustic deal I’ve seen all week appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
“Nobody wants to play those f**king Randy Rhoads solos!”: Nuno Bettencourt jokes that Wolfgang Van Halen was “smart” to drop out of Black Sabbath’s farewell concert
Unfortunately, scheduling conflicts led to Wolfgang Van Halen having to pull out of Black Sabbath’s historic farewell gig back in July. However, Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt thinks Wolfgang dodged a bullet, because the setlist was packed with some absolutely brutal guitar solos.
While the evening was branded as a Black Sabbath gig, the show ultimately honoured Ozzy Osbourne’s impact on heavy metal. As a result, that meant plenty of The Prince of Darkness’ solo tracks were on the setlist – and that meant tackling Randy Rhoads’ and Jake E. Lee’s intimidating solos.
“I got a call [saying] Wolfgang Van Halen just dropped out…” he explains on Steve and Rik’s POTcast. “I said ‘yeah, he’s dropping out because he’s smart! Nobody wants to play those fucking Randy Rhoads or Jake E. Lee solos!’”
It’s a pressure Bettencourt wouldn’t wish on anyone. “Nobody wants to fucking do it because if you go down in flames on that stage with Ozzy there and all your peers watching, your career is over!” he says.
While Bettencourt was originally only asked to perform two songs, he was happy to step up and cover for Wolfgang, taking on three more tracks. However, eventually, he was asked to do even more. “I ended up playing 12 fucking songs,” he explains, almost in disbelief.
Rather than crumbling under the pressure, Bettencourt committed himself to nailing every single track. “Instead of [just] learning them, I was like, ‘well, I’ve got to fucking own this shit!’” he says.
“I just wanted to respect the songs [and] fucking go all in…” he later adds. “I was in here for weeks for fucking like four or five hours a day standing up, performing the fuckers.”
Bettencourt’s commitment didn’t go unnoticed. In fact, Rick Beato rang him up after the show to congratulate him on a stand-out performance. “Rick Beato called me up [and] he goes, ‘everybody was raving about your performance!’” Bettencourt recalls.
“Then he goes, ‘one thing I noticed is that you didn’t just learn the stuff – you performed it. That’s what stuck out for you more than everybody else.’”
Despite rejecting an offer to join The Prince of Darkness’ band in the 1990s, Bettencourt’s 12-song run proved that the rejection wasn’t a reflection of his feelings towards the metal legend. In fact, it was proof of just how much he respected Ozzy and his work.
In an interview with Page Six on the red carpet at the VMAs, Bettencourt recalled his final exchange with Ozzy: “The last words we said to each other when we took the big group photo, I grabbed his hand, saying, ‘Thank you for everything, and thank you, Ozzy, for what you mean to me.’”
“Ozzy pulls me in by the hand, and he goes, ‘You were the only guitar player who said no to me.’ But he laughed! He goes, ‘I love you and thank you for being here.’”
The post “Nobody wants to play those f**king Randy Rhoads solos!”: Nuno Bettencourt jokes that Wolfgang Van Halen was “smart” to drop out of Black Sabbath’s farewell concert appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
This pedal lets you avoid the Fulltone baggage – and is on sale for Black Friday!
Say what you want about Warm Audio’s approach to pedal, er, ‘recreation,’ in the case of the ODD Box, it’s an interesting way to get a classic drive sound while steering clear of the drama – and, for Black Friday, is an even more affordable alternative.
When we reviewed the ODD Box we found that it pretty much nailed the sound of a v1.7 OCD in both US and UK modes. We said: “The OCD became a legend thanks to its ability to replicate that most enduring of guitar lingo cliches, the ‘cranked amp tone’ in pedal format, and if you want various flavours of cooking amp-like overdrive at your feet, the ODD doesn’t disappoint.”
When the ODD Box was originally released, the guitar world had maybe assumed Fulltone as an enterprise had ended, after a rather inauspicious 2020. But in 2024, in partnership with Jackson Audio, the brand relocated to Nashville and resumed operation. Although with the return of Fulltone came the return of the controversy. In December last year the official Fulltone account – one seemingly run personally by founder Mike Fuller – got the brand into hot water. If you like the sound of the pedal, but don’t really like the sound of that, the ODD Box remains an interesting workaround.
At zZounds right now, the ODD Box is discounted down to just $99 – check out the deal below.
[deals ids=”33wBwGEVcUAKjitVRanFv3″]
Check out more deals here, and some more places to save below:
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post This pedal lets you avoid the Fulltone baggage – and is on sale for Black Friday! appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
It’s the distortion pedal I think everyone needs – and it’s on sale right now
It’s no secret that I love the Pro Co RAT. It’s the foundational sound of so much of the music I love, and the foundational circuit of what I think are two of the best boutique distortions out there – the EQD x Sunn O))) Life Pedal and the Black Mass 1312. But I’d always recommend everyone starts off with the affordable, reliable original – and right now, it’s at a great price at Sweetwater.
Amongst all of the big-ticket Black Friday deals with hundreds to be saved on guitars worth thousands, it’s important to remember that the event can be a great chance to grab some more affordable essentials at great prices. And honestly, I would call the Pro Co RAT an essential step in the journey of any guitarist who’s interested in analogue distortion boxes at all.
But while the RAT is perhaps more versatile than people give it credit for, I think it excels best when pushed into a cranked tube amp, with your guitar tuned down to at least C standard. Some of the best guitar tones ever recorded have been the humble RAT into Sunns and Oranges.
Right now, the RAT is discounted by over $30 over at Sweetwater – check out the deal below.
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Check out more deals here, and some more places to save below:
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post It’s the distortion pedal I think everyone needs – and it’s on sale right now appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Arch Enemy frontwoman Alissa White-Gluz has stepped down – but she’s already dropped her debut solo single, and it’s certainly guitar-heavy
A year after the departure of guitarist Jeff Loomis, Arch Enemy is parting ways with frontwoman Alissa White-Gluz.
White-Gluz has fronted the Swedish metal unit since 2014, taking over the reins from previous vocalist Angela Gossow. For nearly 12 years she’s carved out her own sound as Arch Enemy’s vocalist, but now she’s decided it’s time to move on.
But she won’t be joining another band; White-Gluz instead plans to pursue a solo career. “I can’t wait to share what I have been working on with you all,” she announces in an Instagram post. “Stay tuned for big news in 2026. See you very soon.”
And when she says ‘soon’, she meant it – her debut solo single as ALISSA has already dropped. The Room Where She Died showcases a softer, dreamier tone from the ex-Arch Enemy wailer, balanced out by her signature gutturals.
Speaking on the track, White-Gluz explains: “The Room Where She Died is a song that feels truly satisfying to me; like I get to express myself in so many ways that have been dormant for years.”
She also teases that there’s a full solo album on the way, which is set to be even more “diverse” and dig into other sounds that have laid “dormant” for quite some time.
However, she’s not forgotten her past. The video sees her honouring her Arch Enemy roots, using guitarist Michael Amott’s Tyrant signature axe throughout.
While White-Gluz’s nod to Amott shows there’s no bad blood, Arch Enemy have also released a statement waving off their ex-vocalist. “We’re thankful for the time and music that we’ve shared and wish her all the best,” the band writes on Instagram.
The statement also seems to confirm that Arch Enemy will continue without White-Gluz. “Wherever there is an end, there is also a beginning,” the post teases. “See you in 2026.”
Some fans have been conspiring that the Swedish metallers may reunite with the band’s very first vocalist, Johan Liiva, due to Liiva’s continued support of the band throughout the years. Liiva fronted the band at from 1995 until 2000, working on three of the band’s records (1996’s Black Earth, 1998’s Stigmata and 1999’s Burning Bridges), and it seems people would be happy for him to return.
One fan in particular actually asked the ex-vocalist whether he’d be rejoining the band on Facebook, but it looks like a firm no.
“No, I am not,” he answered in a comment. “I am just as surprised as all of you. I think Alissa was perfect for AE. The mystery goes on…”
The post Arch Enemy frontwoman Alissa White-Gluz has stepped down – but she’s already dropped her debut solo single, and it’s certainly guitar-heavy appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
This affordable Martin was the best budget acoustic I’ve played this year, and you can save $200 in Sweetwater’s Black Friday sale
Budget acoustic guitars have come an awful long way in recent years, and one of the things I’m always struck by when reviewing new entry-level acoustics is how much bang you get for your buck these days in terms of looks, materials and sounds.
- MORE BLACK FRIDAY DEALS: The Ultimate Guitarist’s Holiday Gift Guide – brought to you by Sweetwater
I’ve reviewed a bunch of affordable acoustics over the last year or so, but a real standout for me has been the Martin 000 Jr Sapele. Martin’s affordable Mexico-made guitars aren’t the cheapest out there, but the Junior series really hits the sweet spot in terms of affordability and quality.
For starters, it’s an all-solid wood instrument. Solid wood guitars tend to age a lot better than laminate ones, as the wood dries out naturally over time, making it sound and feel better. It’s a big part of why I said in my review that the 000 Jr could be a guitar for life.
I loved it so much that it’s become a daily desk guitar for me in the few months I’ve had it, and I’ve really bonded with the guitar. So much so that I was pretty disappointed this week when Martin sent over the returns label for me to send it back – but it turns out Black Friday might have saved me.
I thought the 000 Jr Sapele was a steal at full-price, but Sweetwater have a killer deal on the guitar for Black Friday that takes an incredible $200 off the base price of the guitar, making it just $549.
Now, this is the previous generation 000 Jr Sapele, which means that it has a slightly shorter scale length than the guitar I reviewed, but on the flipside the Special version on sale here has a lovely hand-rubbed finish, and comes with an impressive Fishman Presys VT pickup system, and a premium TUSQ nut.
What’s more, if you’re a new guitar player who wants everything you need out of the gate – or if you’re buying it for someone else and want to give them everything they need – Sweetwater are also offering a package deal where you get a free stand, strap, Martin capo, Martin clip-on tuner… for the same price.
It’s one of the very best Black Friday deals on a guitar that could take you from your bedroom to the stage and beyond – and you really don’t want to miss it.
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The post This affordable Martin was the best budget acoustic I’ve played this year, and you can save $200 in Sweetwater’s Black Friday sale appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
The history of Tech 21 and the SansAmp: how a hobbyist engineer changed guitar pedals forever
Back in the late 80s and early 90s, guitar players were faced with an uncomfortable dilemma. Digital and solid-state guitar technology was moving forward apace, but gigging players were still stuck between the inherent hassle of traditional valve amps, and somewhat sterile and uninspiring sound offered by newfangled digital options.
The popularity of Tom Schulz’s Rockman and the family of amps it spawned had proved a huge step forward in sounding good without needing to blow your head off, but the Rockman’s sound was still rather niche and didn’t really cater to the needs of players as the 80s turned into the 90s.
Guitarist Andrew Barta was very much aware of this – as a guitarist himself, he knew firsthand how fed up guitarists and bassists were with lugging around cumbersome and often temperamental amps all the time.
“In the 80s, tube amps ruled – and with good reason,” he explains. “But it’s time consuming to find their sweet spot, and they’re expensive to maintain.”
Even as solutions to making amps sound good at lower volumes emerged – such as H&K’s Red Box or Groove Tubes’ speaker emulators – they still required the presence of an amplifier to work, which didn’t exactly remove any real hassle from load ins at gigs or in the studio.
“It was also about the frustration factor of spending the majority of time – and money – in the studio getting the right sound and then having little time left over to actually record,” Barta reflects.
Frustrated then, he decided to take it upon himself to solve that problem: “It was a situation of necessity being the mother of invention,” he reflects. “I made it a personal mission to find a way to replicate the tones of tube amps and not have to deal with the headaches”.
The 1981 SansAmp Classic. Image: Press
From Hobby to Revolution
Crucially, aside from being a guitarist himself, Barta was also an electronics engineer. During his off-hours from working in music stores performing modifications, customizations, and repairs he used his formal electronics education and hands-on experience to begin designing something revolutionary.
Rather than the cumbersome and temperamental nature of a tube amp, or some lifeless digital recreation, Barta’s vision was to create an all-analogue guitar pedal circuit that could emulate the natural sound, behavior, and response of tube amplifiers.
Barta pitched his idea to some of the big hitters in the guitar pedal industry, but got shut down pretty quickly. “It was all negative!” he reflects. “They couldn’t get past their own tube amp snobbery to see the potential.”
Barta believed in the idea, and so did other guitarists and friends who tried his invention. At the urging of his friend Dale Krevens, Barta decided to set up a company to build and sell the product himself.
“I had no intention of becoming a manufacturer,” Barta admits.”But it was a blessing in disguise.”
Krevens’ advice would pay off – he’d go on to become the VP of the company that Barta would found. Tech 21 had arrived.
The SansAmp Classic 20th Anniversary. Image: Press
Sans Speakers, Plenty of Amp
Barta named his new product, succinctly and appropriately, the SansAmp – and it more than lived up to expectations. This was a rugged and reliable unit that recreated much of the tone, character and response of a tube amp, but it could fit onto a pedalboard, or even slot into the pocket of a gigbag.
Nowadays in this world of Helixes, Quad Cortexes, Milkman Amps and endless floor-based analogue and digital amp pedals, that might not seem like a big deal – but in the early 90s it was positively revolutionary.
Foreigner’s Mick Jones was an early adopter and evangelized its tone and efficiency through word-of-mouth. Eventually retail giant Sam Ash agreed to sell one on consignment, despite their perception that it was “just another distortion box” and were soon convinced of the potential of something that was far more than that.
Bulk manufacturing of the SansAmp began out of a back office in New York City. Tech 21 soon relocated to a facility in midtown Manhattan with double the space to accommodate the company’s growth and an expanding product line.
In truth, it wasn’t just the convenience factor that makes the SansAmp so appealing. The reason it remains a popular and beloved pedal to this day is because while it was trying to emulate the sound of amplifiers, it has a sound all of its own – one that many players still love and rely on over 30 years later.
Testing Classics in the 1990s. Image: Press
Analogue Spirit
Nowadays players gravitate to the idea of the SansAmp because of its analogue nature, but Barta reveals that it wasn’t any kind of purist streak that led him down that path – he simply found that digital technology was not mature enough to do the job at that time.
“Latency and resolution were major issues,” he explains. “Eight-bit converters weren’t suitable for quality sound processing and couldn’t deliver the warmth and responsiveness of analogue.”
The original SansAmp (now known as the Classic) offers a three way switch that models the sound of Marshall, Mesa/Boogie and Fender-style preamps, but the real magic lies in the eight DIP switches in the character section.
Long before Chase Bliss opened up a world of tweakability by adding banks of DIP switches to the outside of their pedals, Barta was using the small bank on the SansAmp to let you tweak things like midrange boost, brightness and even speaker micing simulation. It added a level of on the fly customisability that made the SansAmp even more versatile and useful for gigging and recording guitarists.
Interestingly, the DIP switches weren’t actually meant to be a part of the final product. Barta included them in the prototype, and after he settled on the settings, his intention was to remove them. However, Mick Jones advised him to keep them, as he felt they made the circuit even more unique – the rest is history!
Bassist Doug Wimbish on an ad for the SansAmp in 1991. Image: Press
Tube Tone Sans Tubes
Exactly how the SansAmp does what it does is a well kept trade secret. But it nails the sound, feel, and dynamics of a tube amp from preamp to power section. Onboard speaker simulation is crafted to replicate the even response of multiple microphones on a cabinet.
This eliminates the uneven frequency response of using only a single microphone. External impulse responses can be inserted after the pedal, which opens up tone options significantly.
The SansAmp product line has expanded quite a bit over the years to include the GT2 with simplified controls, rackmount and bass guitar versions, and the Character series, each model dedicated to emulating specific amps.
Tech 21 even incorporated the technology into a similarly influential tour-friendly multi-effects unit. The FlyRig series features options for electric and acoustic guitar, bass, and signature models – they’re still all analog.
As the SansAmp has become part of a much more crowded marketplace of pedal-based amp solutions – especially since the explosion of digital emulation since the turn of the Millennium – the focus has been on emphasising the unique sonic character of the SansAmp.
In no way has this been more exemplified than when Tech 21 partnered with Bomb Factory to create the PSA-1 plugin, bringing the sound of the SansAmp into the box. The plugin soon became so popular it was even bundled with Pro Tools.
The first SansAmp ad in 1991. Image: Press
Blueprint for the future
When the SansAmp first released in 1989 it showed the world how guitar technology was changing and revolutionised what direct recording could be for guitars. Even today, Barta feels analogue topology offers a response to playing articulation and dynamics that modern digital amp emulators haven’t completely nailed yet.
Three and a half decades later, it’s what keeps the SansAmp relevant to this day, and continues to drive Barta to evolve the product – he simply wants to keep making things he’d like to use.
“Pride and ethics,” Barta explains of his guiding principles. “It’s more important and rewarding for me to design what I believe in versus compromising just to make a profit. There’s no personal joy in being a copycat.”
Find out more at tech21nyc.com
The post The history of Tech 21 and the SansAmp: how a hobbyist engineer changed guitar pedals forever appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers Rig Rundown
Bill Murray might be most famous for his acting in classics like Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, and Groundhog Day, but he’s also a bona fide belter and has performed as a singer on stages big and small over the years. A while back, he linked up with guitarists Mike Zito, Albert Castiglia, and Jimmy Vivino to form Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers, a blues-rock outfit.
Ahead of their performance at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, Zito, Castiglia, and Vivino gave PG’s John Bohlinger a look at the Deluxe-led rigs they use with Murray.
Brought to you by D’Addario.
Modless Mayer
This PRS John Mayer Silver Sky was sent to Zito by Rich Hannon at Paul Reed Smith. No mods—it’s the same as when it came out of the box. “It’s perfect,” says Zito.
Start Your Engines
Zito’s fiancée bought this from the Gibson Garage the day of this Rundown. It’s a Murphy Lab Les Paul in British racing green, with custom unpotted humbuckers.
Mike Zito’s Pedalboard
Zito has a Boss TU-3, Brown Amplification SSHAC and Protein, and Custom Tones Ethos Clean Fusion Deluxe, which runs direct to front-of-house. There are also two utility boxes: a Walrus Canvas and JHS Buffered Splitter.
Bloody Good Gibson
Gibson sent over this Les Paul Standard in “Blood Brother red,” quips Castiglia. He uses bass picks, which he purchases from Pick World in New Castle, Delaware, and plays Ernie Ball Hybrid Slinky strings.
Albert Castiglia’s Pedalboard
Castiglia’s simple pedalboard carries a G-Lab MIDI Wowee Wah MWW-1, JHS AT+, and a Catalinbread Topanga, plus a Walrus Canvas and Radial JDI Passive DI Box. A UAFX Lion runs right to front-of-house.
It’s a Wonderful Day for Pie
Vivino calls this Gibson Standard Les Paul “Cherry Pie.” It’s loaded with Seymour Duncan Custom Shop Queen Buckers. He’s not a pedal player—he rides his volume and tone controls to get what he needs.
Jimmy Vivino’s Amp and Pedalboard
Vivino brings just one pedal: a Way Huge Deep State, built for him by Jeorge Tripps. It runs into a Fender Deluxe Reverb. “Any Deluxe will do,” he says.
One of our favourite Klones is only $99 this Black Friday – almost 50% off!
There are a lot of pedals that take sonic inspiration from the original Klon, because not everyone has the price of a used Nissan Micra to drop on an overdrive pedal. But not all of them go so far as to recreate the unique enclosure – Warm Audio’s Centavo does, though, and for Black Friday the pedal is an absolute steal right now.
The Centavo comes with its own take on the classic graphic and enclosure, while also adding a ‘mod’ switch to change up the bass response – a feature rarely seen on Klones. And while the big enclosure is, well, big, its touch-responsive tones – from the grit of its full-gain mode to its clear clean boost – may make that pedalboard real estate worth it.
The ‘real deal’, as they say, is pretty hard to come by – rarely on sale new, and used it can easily climb to a five-figure sum. Despite this, we got the chance to shoot the Centavo against a real example when we reviewed it, and the results were good. We said at the time: “does the Centavo sound like a real deal Klon for less than a 20th of the price of a used original? The short answer: yes.”
With Black Friday in full swing, zZounds has discounted the Centavo all the way down to $99 – a miniscule fraction of what you could pay for this sound and look. Check the deal out below:
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Looking to avoid the Klone Wars? Check out more deals here, and some more places to save below:
| UK/EU Deals | US Deals |
| Thomann Save up to 70% | Reverb Up to 80% off |
| Reverb UK Up to 80% off | zZounds Black Friday savings |
| Positive Grid Up to 50% off | Sweetwater Up to 80% off |
| Gear4Music Black Friday deals | Positive Grid Up to 50% off |
| PMT Up to 70% off | Guitar Center Save up to 50% |
| Amazon UK Big savings | Amazon Black Friday deals |
| Guitar Tricks 20% off monthly sub | Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial |
| Tim Pierce Masterclass Free trial | Guitar Tricks 20% off annual sub |
| Ultimate Ears EU Shop savings | Music & Arts 20% savings |
The post One of our favourite Klones is only $99 this Black Friday – almost 50% off! appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
“There are just so many problems with the electric guitar”: Robben Ford explains why the guitar is the “most difficult instrument to play”
Though by many metrics the most popular instrument in the world, the guitar is one which takes many years to master. Robben Ford would even go as far as to say it’s the “most difficult instrument to play”.
The 73-year-old blues ace has had quite the storied career and certainly knows his way around the fretboard, but as he acknowledges in a new interview with Guitar World [via Ultimate Guitar], the guitar isn’t the easiest instrument to play.
- READ MORE: Black Friday Guitar Deals 2025: find the best deals and biggest savings with the help of our experts
Learning the guitar is a journey with no real end, and as Ford explains, he’s been focusing on his picking technique as of late.
“It’s something I never really worked on, which is why over the last couple of years I’ve started working on that more than anything else,” he says.
“I sort of decided on an approach and ran with it a long time ago. The guitar is a really hard instrument, the most difficult instrument to play. Trumpet players might argue with me, but the thing about the guitar is that you can play the same note in four different positions.”
He goes on: “And because the guitar is tuned in fourths, except between the G and the B string, there’s already a really different thing happening right there. So your picking techniques all have to be worked out.
“Sonically, electric guitars are a bitch. There are all kinds of difficulties with being too loud – and shitty amplifiers. There are just so many problems with the electric guitar.”
While Ford is certainly right that his assertion that the guitar is the hardest instrument to play will likely draw some debate from other instrumentalists, it’s an interesting perspective, and one which many guitarists might resonate with.
“I feel good about my background and the choices I made because of my love for the blues,” Ford continues. “It’s just a fantastic grounding for learning the guitar and chords. I wanted to learn chords and understand harmony, so that’s really been a good foundation. But the picking and fingering? I just didn’t focus enough on it.”
The post “There are just so many problems with the electric guitar”: Robben Ford explains why the guitar is the “most difficult instrument to play” appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Holiday Gift Guide 2025
This year’s Holiday Gift Guide isn’t just a list; it’s a solution for every gap in your rig. We’ve rounded up the year's most talked-about gear, catering to the bedroom player, the touring pro, and the studio tinkerer.
Attune™ strings
Introducing Elixir® Attune™ Strings — a breakthrough in tone and feel that gives your guitar a voice you’ve never heard before. With its natural touch and crisp, longest-lasting tone, Attune brings out the sound that keeps you playing for hours.
Powered by a revolutionary technology that delivers a difference you can hardly feel, but you can clearly hear, Attune lets your guitar speak more than ever before.
- Crisp & clear tone
- Natural feel
- Firm grip puts you in control of bend and vibrato
- Most durable yet withstanding even the most hard-hitting attacks
- Longest-lasting tone of any string today
Pulze Mini
Pulze Mini: Big Sound, Zero Clutter.
Pulze Mini is an ultra-portable modeling amp that packs flagship CDCM HD & F.I.R.E. technology into a palm-sized body. With 52 amp models, 48 cab sims (including official Celestion® IRs), 100+ premium effects, and 20 user IR slots, it delivers rich, realistic tone wherever you play.
A custom 2" full-range speaker and finely tuned cabinet ensure surprisingly powerful sound. Control everything wirelessly through the Pulze Editor app—edit effects, swap presets, access cloud tones, and stream backing tracks with ease.
Featuring a built-in rechargeable battery (up to 11.5 hours), USB audio interface, Bluetooth audio, and quiet-practice headphone mode, Pulze Mini adapts to practice, recording, outdoor jams, or everyday listening.
Rechargeable Clip-On Headstock Tuner
PRS Guitars’ Rechargeable Clip-On Tuner is easy to use, stunningly accurate, and wholly reliable. A single charge on this tuner will last weeks, and, with the provided USB cable, recharging is simple without the need for batteries. The no-slip clip anchors a 360° rotating arm for guaranteed readability. And, best of all, the PRS Rechargeable Clip-On Tuner proudly stands with the most accurate tuners in the market with .5cent accuracy in strobe mode.
SE CE 24 Stoptail
The SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail Satin brings the snap and response of a bolt-on guitar into an all-mahogany body for a warm, focused tone, now paired with the rock-solid stability of a stoptail bridge. The mahogany body features a thin satin finish that results in a highly resonant instrument, and the maple neck’s semi-gloss finish provides a smooth playing feel.
SE Silver Sky
The SE Silver Sky is a familiar iteration of the original Silver Sky model that was first introduced with John Mayer in 2018. This workhorse guitar provides ample tone and playability in four distinct colors, delivering looks, feel, and sound, starting with a poplar body, bolt-on maple neck, and rosewood fretboard with PRS trademark bird inlays. The 22-fret, 25.5” scale length neck features the original 635JM carve and an 8.5” fretboard radius.
MT15
The MT 15 is a commanding two channel amp with balanced aggression and articulation. The MT 15 punches above its weight class with a large, bold sound, so you can dig in heavy with rhythms but also get singing lead tones out of one amp. Whether recording, practicing, writing, or playing a small room, this amp has everything you need.
Yellow Submarine 3-Pack Wrapping Paper Bundle
Submerge yourself in the surreal and psychedelic world of Yellow Submarine with this 3-pack wrapping paper roll bundle. Featured in three unique colorways and inspired by The Beatles' iconic animated film “Yellow Submarine,” each roll measures 24" x 118" and opens with a paper pull tab. There's zero plastic in this fully recyclable bundle. 15% Off on daddario.com through 1/4/26!
Pick Holder 360
The D'Addario Pick Holder 360 organizes 12 of your favorite picks so they are always visible and within reach. The rotating platform makes it easy to find the perfect pick quickly, while the clear lid also doubles as a stand and extra pick storage space. For single handed pick removal, place your index finger on the center hub and remove the pick with your thumb and middle finger. Also great for displaying collectable picks!
The Overhead Series
Never leave your music behind again with full-size, great-sounding guitars that quickly and easily break down into a carry-on sized case for super-duper easy traveling and storage.
The Comfort Series
Love the volume and tone of large-body guitars like Dreadnoughts and Grand Auditoriums but have issues with just how big they are? Do you struggle with wrist or shoulder pain when you play? Well, we made the Comfort Series just for you. With its sleek arm-rest bevel and wedge body shape, we guarantee you've never played a guitar this comfortable before.
Tune Up Set
Every guitarist needs more than just talent—a well set up instrument makes all the difference. This approachable tool kit takes the guesswork out of guitar maintenance, giving players the power to fine-tune their own gear with confidence. The included Guitar Tech Screwdriver Set is a compact, versatile set made for guitar hardware, allowing you to swap tuners, adjust pickguards, and fine-tune screws with ease. The ESP Multi-Spanner is a pocket-size wrench that fits almost every nut on your guitar, perfect for tightening pots, jacks, and tuner bushings. Understring Radius Gauges allow you to quickly match your string radius to the fretboard for smoother play and better action without removing strings. Finally, the String Action Gauge is essential for measuring your string height and bridge saddle.
Spark 2
Take your guitar experience to the next level with the 50W Spark 2 smart guitar practice amp. Get ready for jaw-dropping sound, new HD amp models and smart features that make guitar time addictive. Use the built-in looper to turn riffs into songs, or explore endless tone options with Spark AI. Optional battery power (sold separately). Free carry bag with purchase -- Limited Time Offer!
MOXi
MOXi is our new high-quality 2 channel acoustic instrument preamp, EQ and DI. Claiming the sweetspot of our acoustic pedal lineup, MOXi delivers all of the legendary audio performance as its big brother FELiX, but with a more approachable feature set similar to the BiX. For players who need 2 channels of incredible sounding preamp and EQ, but maybe not quite the kitchen sink, MOXi is just right.
AG Preamp Pedal
The AG Preamp/DI is a powerful tone-shaping tool for bassists who demand clarity, control, and versatility. Revered for its fast response and wide tonal range, it features a 4-band EQ with footswitchable “Deep” and “Bright” switches for added punch and presence. 18V operation ensures pristine headroom, while the balanced DI includes pre/post and ground lift options for seamless stage or studio integration. Practice silently with the built-in headphone amp and aux-in. Compact yet loaded with features, the AG Preamp is perfect for players seeking a clean, transparent tone with professional-grade flexibility.
AirLock Wireless GT
Cut the cord and keep your tone with Fishman’s AirLock Wireless GT. Now you can free yourself from cables and clutter in a road-worthy, lightweight package that offers best-in-class reliability. Get pro studio sound thanks to Fishman’s incredibly low-noise digital design. No more unmanageable dangly wires, signal dropouts, or worrying about confusing radio channels.
Unmatched interference handling allows you to overcome dense Wi-Fi situations with incredibly low latency yet still achieve audio quality as good as a standard instrument cable. Featuring class-leading 150’ range, 9+ hour rechargeable battery life, and up to 8 simultaneous pairs.
And with our easily-replaceable battery kit, your wireless set will provide you with years of trouble-free operation without needing to be thrown in the bin in 4 or 5 years.
amPlug3 Tone Hammer
Aguilar tone, anytime inspiration strikes. Inspired by its iconic namesake, the Aguilar amPlug3 Tone Hammer captures the warm, rich, and dynamic sound of Aguilar’s legendary Tone Hammer amplifier in a compact, portable format. Perfect for dialing in authentic Aguilar tone on-the-go, the amPlug3 Tone Hammer’s analog circuitry delivers true amp-like feel with dual channels—Clean and Drive—plus three onboard effects and built-in rhythm functionality to keep your practice sessions fresh and inspired.
KAAMOS
Unleash sonic mayhem with KAAMOS. Designed in collaboration with Amos Heller, this powerhouse pedal combines the aggressive distortion of the Alpha Omicron with a thunderous octave-down effect, delivering massive low-end punch and gritty character. With a dedicated sub-octave output, flexible series or parallel signal path options, and a movable effects loop that can be placed in six different positions, KAAMOS offers unmatched tonal control and creative freedom. Whether you're crafting studio tones or shaking the stage, this pedal is built to inspire.
ID:X
ID:X is a cut above the rest. Taking everything you love about classic amp tone and combining it with the flexibility today’s players need. Built for stage, studio and everything in between, these next-gen DSP modeling amps delivers powerful tone, hands-on control, and deep connectivity without slowing you down. With six exceptional voices from crystal cleans to Blackstar’s signature high-gain — this is the most natural-sounding modelling amp on the market today. A three-band EQ coupled with our patented ISF lets you dial your tone from British crunch to American punch. Available in 50W and 100W 1×12" combo amplifiers.
Polar GO
Pocket-sized but powerful, Polar Go is the all-in-one audio interface for musicians and creators on the move. Featuring ProCapture™ stereo mics, XLR/instrument input, dual USB-C, and 6-hour internal battery life, it delivers instant studio quality sound for music, podcasts, or livestreams on the GO.
BEAM SOLO
BEAM SOLO is the ultimate guitar headphone amp. Unlock an expanding world of amplifiers, cabinets, mics and pedals within the app, offering endless tonal possibilities. Fine-tune your sound with our patented ISF (Infinite Shape Feature) control, taking you from classic American to modern British tones and all points in-between. The SpeedDial and light BEAM display let you quickly refine your tones without needing the app, perfect for when inspiration strikes, or time is short. Ready to deep dive? Seamlessly switch over to the app to explore more.
The Schaffer Replica: EX Tower
The EX Tower by SoloDallas is unique combination of limiter, compressor, expander, overdrive, boost and EQ enhancer everyone is talking about! Derived from the 1970s SVDS wireless unit used by Angus Young, David Gilmour, EVH and over 30 major bands, there’s a good reason modern artists like Kirk Hammet, Joe Bonamassa and Bethel Worship call this sonic beast their “Secret Weapon” for percussive attack, copious harmonics and singing sustain.
M-50 Standard
The concert-sized Guild® M-50 Standard Natural acoustic guitar is meticulously crafted in the USA. Its solid Indian rosewood back and sides provide a full and rich tone, while its solid Sitka spruce top adds brightness and a lively response, making it a superb choice for singer-songwriters and fingerstyle guitarists. The smaller body shape, wider nut width, and comfortable C shape neck also make it exceptionally easy to play. A natural Vintage Gloss finish, complemented by a tortoiseshell pickguard, white binding, a Guild Peak headstock inlay, and open-gear tuners with cream buttons, give the M-50 Standard Natural a timeless look. A Deluxe hardshell case is included.
Dave’s Guitar Shop is a bustling retail hub, staffed with over a dozen dedicated employees, technicians and sales consultants. Ever present within the walls is Dave himself, the life and blood of the shop, always willing to talk guitars and say thanks to a customer. It was his vision and passion for guitars that brought DGS to the present and it’s his vision that will see it through the next twenty-five years. Dave’s Guitar Shop invites you to come and see…and be…part of its history.
ProRak Guitar Studio Racking System - X4
ProRak GSRS X4: Guitar studio racking system with a 3U rack, cable cubby, 3 amp head decks, & integrated cable management.
H90 Harmonizer®
Eventide’s H90 Harmonizer is a powerhouse multi-effects pedal shaped by over 50 years of audio innovation. It delivers 70 effect algorithms, including reverb, delay, pitch shifting, modulation, distortion, and vocal effects. You also get hundreds of curated programs designed for a variety of genres. With comprehensive I/O and flexible routing, the H90 is built to be the heart of your rig on stage or in the studio.
ToneRite
The ToneRite accelerates the playing-in process by using sub-sonic frequencies to simulate the same physics as long-term playing. Simply attach the ToneRite whenever you are not playing and hear a dramatic increase in resonance, balance and response.
Limited time $20 off Coupon www.ToneRite.com
StroboStomp HD
From the most trusted name in tuning, Peterson’s best-selling pedal tuner, the StroboStomp HD, features our largest and most vibrant display yet, with a high-definition LCD and user-selectable LED backlight colors for instant visibility on any stage. Assign colors to presets for faster navigation and confident tuning at a glance. With 0.1-cent accuracy, it upholds the standard that has made Peterson the world leader in tuning.
Tone purists will appreciate its 100% silent true-bypass mode, using timed dual relays to eliminate pops and protect your signal, while a switchable buffered output preserves clarity across long cable runs or pedal-heavy setups.
With over 100 exclusive Sweetened Tunings, the StroboStomp HD keeps your instrument performing at its best.
Sol Drive
AmpMojo’s Sol Drive brings the feel and harmonic richness of classic tube amps to any guitarist’s setup. Powered by a real Tung-Sol 12AX7 preamp tube, it delivers the dynamic touch response, warmth, and musical overdrive players expect from boutique gear. The circuit also accepts 7025, 12AT7, 5751, and similar tubes, giving you multiple tonal colors to explore. Whether you’re running it with modeling amps, a house PA, your favorite combo, or straight into a recording interface, the Sol Drive’s character consistently shines through and adds depth to any rig. Its Voice and Tone controls make it easy to shape the pedal to the moment—offering everything from smooth, creamy sustain to articulate, touch-sensitive breakup. A versatile, tube-driven standout for any holiday wish list.
SideKick DIB-445 Active Direct Box
Give the gift of pristine audio quality with the Hosa SideKick DIB-445 Active Direct (DI) Box! Perfect for guitarists, bassists, and keyboardists, this value-priced unit is essential for both live sound and studio recording.
The active design converts high-impedance instrument signals into a low-impedance, balanced output, allowing for longer cable runs without noise or hum. It operates conveniently with 48V phantom power.
Its robust, all-metal housing is built for the road. With a flat 20Hz-20kHz frequency response (+/- 0.2dB) and ultra-low distortion (THD+N < 0.005%), the DIB-445 delivers professional results. Key features include a Pad switch (0dB, -15dB, -30dB), Ground Lift, and Polarity Flip to ensure clean, phase-correct sound every time. A premium performer at an exceptional price.
Contourstrap
Introducing ContourStrap, a premium hand-crafted leather guitar strap designed to reduce shoulder, neck, and hand strain. Its patented ergonomic contour redistributes weight to make heavier instruments far more comfortable during long sets. It eliminates neck dive on Gibson SGs and makes Les Pauls feel noticeably lighter, while improving balance on P-Basses, StingRays, and more. Durable and stylish, this chiropractor-approved strap relieves nerve pressure so you can play longer, pain-free, and with confidence.
The Best Damn Instrument Cable
Ultra-durable, low-capacitance, color customizable and hand built in the U.S.A. with a lifetime warranty. What more could you ask out of an instrument cable? Backed by players such as Dave Rude of Tesla and Danny Miranda of Blue Öyster Cult, Best Damn Cable Co. is redefining what tour-proven cables are capable of. Up your cable game and grab yours!
Hum Extractor Pedal
The Hum Extractor Pedal uses ISP’s patented adaptive dynamic hum-extractor algorithm to remove 50Hz/60Hz hum and harmonic noise with complete transparency. It eliminates hum without altering your instrument’s tone. A powerful, studio-quality solution in a compact pedal, it also incorporates the Decimator noise-reduction system with both downward expansion and dynamic low-pass filtering to suppress high-gain noise. Together, these technologies create the ultimate, truly transparent noise-reduction system for demanding musicians. Made in the USA
Former Gamechanger Audio staff start their own company – meet its first product the Monk Echo, a unique reverb and delay pedal
Mentha Works – a new music gear brand from Latvia formed by former Gamechanger Audio staff – has unveiled its first product, the Monk Echo.
A unique reverb and delay pedal, the Monk Echo is inspired by the human voice, and is designed to sound like “a choir of monks echoing through stone walls”.
After helping build and shape Gamechanger Audio, musicians and sound designers Toms Lazdovskis and Matiss Tazans are now designing their own line of expressive instruments for pedalboard and desktop use. The brand’s core team consists of talent with experience at companies such as Neural DSP, Darkglass, and Marshall.
Drawing inspiration from Baltic choral traditions and mythical acoustic architecture, Monk Echo processes the reverb and delay signal through morphing formant filters tuned to human vocal resonances.
Users can select the vowel that the pedal “sings”, glide continuously between vowel shapes, or enable automatic vowel expression that responds to playing dynamics. You can even switch between voice characters, with a choice of male, female, or children’s choir timbres.
As the pedal is designed to “sing with you” and is not based on static algorithms, it reacts to your performance. Its sound shaping tools let you blend between the reverb and delay, experiment with delay time and feedback, and even play around with Reverb Pitch Grains that offer granular pitch “shimmer and motion”.
It has a Macro Control system so you can link multiple parameters to a single control source, which can be operated via the dedicated knob, an expression pedal, or the built-in footswitch. To provide visual feedback, every parameter movement is also displayed on an 8×8 Dot Display.
Hear it in-play in the video below:
Monk Echo is priced at $380/€380 for a limited time. You can find out more and view full specifications over at Mentha Works.
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