Music is the universal language
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” - Luke 2:14
Norse Guitar Feeds
Why Jason Narducy and Michael Shannon Are Touring the Band’s Iconic Albums

When Jason Narducy met Michael Shannon in 2014, it was to celebrate the Lou Reed record The Blue Mask for a one-off performance in Chicago. Narducy, who plays guitar and bass with Superchunk, Bob Mould, and Sunny Day Real Estate among others, was familiar with Shannon’s work in films like Take Shelter and The Iceman—2014 was right around when Shannon became a bona fide Hollywood star. But he didn’t know that Shannon was also a lifelong musician. He sang in choirs and played in orchestras in school, and his indie-rock band, Corporal, put out their debut record in 2010, with Shannon as lead vocalist and guitarist. He portrayed George Jones in the 2022 miniseries George and Tammy, and handled all the musical performances himself.
When Narducy and Shannon realized they loved many of the same artists, they decided to produce more one-time-only shows honoring them: They played Neil Young’s Zuma, Bob Dylan’s Highway 61 Revisited, and joined tributes to T. Rex and the Cars. In 2023, they turned to R.E.M.’s debut Murmur, which was marking its 40th anniversary that year.
Narducy had worked with R.E.M. bassist Mike Mills before, so he invited him to the show at Chicago’s Metro, but it was anyone’s guess if he’d show. Backstage in the green room before the gig, the band was running through tunes with Scott Lucas of Chicago band Local H (named after two R.E.M. songs, “Oddfellows Local 151” and “Swan Swan H”) when someone knocked on the door. It was Mills, who introduced himself to every band member and shook their hands. Of course, Narducy suggested he join them onstage, but Mills politely demurred, insisting he didn’t want to steal the show.
Narducy remembers feeling confused when the crowd exploded during a random moment during the set. Neither he nor Shannon noticed, but Mills had crept onstage to sing backing vocals. He continued to make cameos throughout the set. At one point, he leaned in to then-bassist Nick Macri and yelled, “You’re fucking killing it!”

Since that show, Shannon and Narducy have undertaken R.E.M.’s Reckoning and Fables of the Reconstruction. When they began collaborating, the pair initially had a “strict code of ethos,” says Shannon. “We would pick a record, play it once, and that was it,” he explains. “Then people said, ‘You can’t just do that once. Do it again. You have to do it where we live.’” Narducy, a seasoned veteran of the road, wondered if Shannon would want to tour. Shannon remembers, “I said, ‘Well, I guess I’ve never been on a rock ’n’ roll tour before. I’ve heard so much about it. Let’s give it a shot.’”
They took Fables of the Reconstruction around the U.S. with a band assembled by Narducy: bassist John Stirratt, guitarist Dag Juhlin, drummer Jon Wurster, and keyboardist Vijay Tellis-Nayak. Narducy met with Julin before the tour to divvy up guitar parts, but otherwise, the band practiced just once together before hitting the road. “We do a lot of research on our own,” explains Narducy. “It does take a lot of homework to learn these songs.”
In February and March 2026, Michael Shannon & Jason Narducy And Friends—the outfit’s official name—are taking R.E.M.’s Lifes Rich Pageant on the road, celebrating the record’s 40th anniversary with 22 shows across the U.S. The run includes back-to-back shows in R.E.M.’s hometown of Athens, Georgia, where Mills, vocalist Michael Stipe, guitarist Peter Buck, and drummer Bill Berry reunited to perform “Pretty Persuasion” in February 2025 with Shannon & Narducy And Friends.
Plenty of artists of a certain caliber are precious about performing in cover projects, but neither Shannon nor Narducy feel an ounce of conflict about it. “A lot of these songs are canonical as far as I’m concerned,” says Shannon. “It’s not like you wouldn’t play Mozart because you didn’t write it.”
“Brilliant songs need to be played,” Narducy adds. “I hope that the audiences sense that we are celebrating just as much as they are. I think we consider ourselves a conduit of reinterpreting these songs. And when I say reinterpreting, not like a vast rearrangement. No one can play like those guys did. Plenty have tried.”

Narducy discovered R.E.M. in high school; decades later, as a professional musician, relearning the band’s catalog has felt like “taking a college course, one that I really enjoy and hopefully makes me a better musician and storyteller.” Narducy sneezes: “Sorry, talking about college makes me sneeze. It’s very rewarding, is what I mean to say.”
As it turns out, Peter Buck’s jangly, genre-defining playing left an unseen mark on Narducy’s own guitar work. “I’m realizing that Peter had a bigger influence on me than I even realized,” says Narducy. He often writes with chords like F# major with the B and E strings open—a “Peter Buck go-to chord.” Ditto A9, which appears in many early R.E.M. tunes. Buck, explains Narducy, would deconstruct Mike Mills’ cowboy-chord skeletons for songs, paring them back to “more of an arpeggiated, single-note approach. That’s obviously one of his signature sounds, and kind of created that jangle-rock thing.”
“Mills’ bass parts are so inventive,” Narducy adds. “You listen to a song like ‘Driver 8,’ that’s not the obvious bassline, especially if you just hear it isolated. It almost sounds like a different song, but married with Peter’s guitar part, it’s just magical, uplifting.”
To tackle Buck’s guitar parts, Narducy uses a Fender American Ultra Telecaster into a Fender Hot Rod III Deluxe—Juhlin plays a Rickenbacker like Buck did, and Narducy worried that two of them onstage wouldn’t jibe as well. A Strymon Mobius injects chorus when needed.
“A lot of these songs are canonical as far as I’m concerned. It’s not like you wouldn’t play Mozart because you didn’t write it.” —Michael Shannon
Stipe’s lyricism, too, is a point of creative fascination for both Shannon and Narducy. “Well, it’s certainly not head-on, you know?” says Shannon. “If he writes a song about love, he’s not writing a chorus like, ‘Baby, let me love you.’ It’s a lot more rooted in mystery. A lot of rock ’n’ roll seems to exist in order to give you an escape from real life and make you feel like you’re in some alternate universe where everything’s super exciting, but he’s like, ‘No, we don’t have to run away from real life when we’re singing our songs. Real life is pretty interesting if you look at it closely.’”
Shannon refers to “Kohoutek,” a track off of R.E.M.’s third record, Fables of the Reconstruction. (In early 2025, Narducy, Shannon, and the band performed that album’s “Driver 8” on Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.) Shannon explains it as a song about love between young people. “It doesn’t have the typical verbiage that you would associate with a love song,” he says. “It’s talking about sitting in the garden, standing on the porch, building a bridge. And yet, to me, it’s much more eloquent and moving, even though the language outside of the song is less ornamental, more matter-of-fact.
“No one can play like those guys did. Plenty have tried.” —Jason Narducy
“Michael Stipe is unique as a frontman because a lot of times, frontmen present themselves as on top of things, or like, ‘I’m a sexy alpha badass,’ and Michael Stipe is like, ‘Jesus Christ, life is overwhelming and confusing.’ He’s incredibly sexy and a badass and all those things, but he’s so vulnerable and ready to admit that he’s struggling just as much as anybody else. There’s a lineage of front people that have taken that and ran with it, but I think he was one of the first to introduce that point of view as a frontperson in a band.”
Even though Shannon and Narducy initially swore to only do one performance per album, the magic of these R.E.M. gigs hasn’t worn off as they’ve grown into a new tradition. “Even on the very last show of the last tour, there were moments throughout the show where I’m uncontrollably smiling at each member at some point throughout the show,” says Narducy. “It’s just like, ‘Here we are.’”
Jason Narducy’s Gear
Guitars
Two Fender American Ultra Telecasters
Amps
Fender Hot Rod III Deluxe
Effects
Keeley Compressor Pro
MXR Modified OD
Daredevil LED Clipper
Boss TU-3 Tuner
Strymon Mobius
Strymon TimeLine
Boss RV-3 Reverb
Touring pedalboard built by Johnny Wator, owner/operator of Daredevil Pedals
Picks
Tortex orange .60 mm picks
Kiesel Guitars Unveils the Aero
Kiesel Guitars has introduced the newest model in the company’s iconic line of custom-built instruments: the Aero now joins the lineup of Kiesel’s premium US-made instruments.

Designed to excel in a variety of musical styles, the versatile Aero is available in a 6-string configuration. Key features include:
- Body Woods: Alder, Black Limba, Mahogany, Swamp Ash, Walnut, 1-Piece Swamp Ash, Roasted 1-Piece Swamp Ash
- 24 fret neck, 25.5” scale length, available with these fretboard materials: Ziricote, Ebony, Royal Ebony, Richlite Black Diamond, Richlite Maple Valley, Zebrawood, Rosewood, Birdseye Maple, Flamed Maple, Maple, Roasted Birdseye Maple, Roasted Flamed Maple, Roasted Maple, Palemoon Ebony
- Electronics available in HH and HSS pickup configurations
- Aero headstock, slotted pickguard, double output jack configuration
See the Aero demo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ui3ZVtAsGMY
Like other Kiesel models, the new Aero is available in a wide range of options for unique customization. Players can select their favorite finish, tonewoods, electronics, and hardware to create the guitar of their dreams…expertly crafted in Kiesel’s Southern California custom shop.
Kiesel’s new Aero is available for street pricing starting at $1,849. For more information, visit kieselguitars.com.
Podcast 533: Shane Parish
Guitarist/composer/improviser Shane Parish is about to release a truly astounding project, Autechre Guitar. The Athens, Georgia-based guitarist has transcribed and recorded an entire album of acoustic guitar arrangements featuring the music of electronic music duo Autechre.
This is no small feat. Autechre’s atmospheric compositions were made with layered synths and drum machines. Shane has somehow distilled them to their essence and arranged them for solo guitar. Best of all, they sound great.
On the podcast, we hear all about this Mt. Everest of a project, the Taylor 214-GE he used for the task, Shane’s background as an arranger and so much more.
The full Autechre Guitar album comes out on February 27, 2026 via Bandcamp: https://shaneparish.bandcamp.com/album/autechre-guitar-2
Watch Shane play another classic electronica track, Aphex Twin’s “Avril 14,” below.
Our next Fretboard Summit takes place August 20-22, 2026, at the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago. https://fretboardsummit.org
Our 58th issue of the Fretboard Journal is now mailing. Subscribe here to get it.
We are brought to you by Peghead Nation: https://www.pegheadnation.com (Get your first month free or $20 off any annual subscription with the promo code FRETBOARD at checkout).
Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
Above photo: Rachel Orcutt
The post Podcast 533: Shane Parish first appeared on Fretboard Journal.
Robben Ford on Streaming, AI & the Death of Real Music
The versatile, venerable guitar star sits down with PG contributor Nikos Arvanitis to discuss his thoughts on why streaming is for kids, the impacts of AI on music, how home studios dilute albums, reducing the PRS McCarty to its core, and what's on the horizon.
Sponsored by StewMac: https://stewmac.sjv.io/APO2ED
Boss makes a splash ahead of NAMM with new GX-1 and GX-1B multi-effects units, plus a new busker-friendly Roland Cube Street amp

NAMM is nearly here, and Boss is already debuting a range of exciting new gear to make the occasion. Not only has the brand unveiled a pair of new additions, the GX-1 and GX-1B, to its staple GX multi-effects series, but Roland, Boss’s parent company has also announced the new Cube Street Mini, a new addition to its busker-friendly Cube Street line.
If you’re heading to this year’s NAMM, you can trial out the new gear at California’s Anaheim Convention Center – just visit Boss in Room 202, Level 2.
Boss GX-1 and GX-1B Multi-Effects Processors
Credit: Boss
Boss’s new GX models are designed to suit any calibre of player, whether you’re looking for a great entry-level processor or a new addition to an advanced set up. The GX-1 is designed for guitarists and the GX-1B is designed for bassists.
Both the GX-1 and GX-1B offer a wide variety of amps and effects which can be customised to suit your sound. And its easy to work your way through the vast selection, thanks to the clear hexagon-shaped panel buttons. You can also adjust the effect order, to make flicking through effects more intuitive to your personal preferences, with eight simultaneous blocks to utilise. Alongside that, there’s also a volume pedal and noise suppressor, to add that extra level of control – and you can also easily turn effects on/off with a single tap.
The processors has plenty of room for crafting custom setups and presets. Both come with 99 preloaded presets, while there’s also room for 99 of your own custom presets.
In terms of footswitches, both the GX-1 and GX-1B offer freely assignable footswitches, with wired and wireless options both compatible. Boss’ brand new FSC-10 Footswitch Cap is also a potential addition to your unit, designed to enhance the functionality of your pedals.
The GX-1 and GX-1B also offer Bluetooth and USB connectivity, as well as offering some ultra-travel-friendly power options (you can stick to an AC adaptor, but it can also be powered by batteries or USB).
Both the GX-1 and GX-1B are available for $229.99.
For more info, head to Boss.
Roland CUBE Street Mini Multi-Instrument Amplifier
Credit: Roland
Roland’s battery-powered Cube Street Mini shrinks down the power of the brand’s flagship Cube Street amp and transforms it into something super portable. Thanks to its size and nifty handle, it’s a great option for travelling musicians, street musicians, or for use in your own personal studios.
While its not designed for large-scale events, the Cube Street Mini is powerful for its size. It boats dual channels, plenty of built-in effects, and even an onboard tuner. The amp also supports Bluetooth, meaning you can even stream music via your smartphone without using up one of its two channels.
The main channel support inputs from guitar, microphone, and plenty of other stereo instruments. The second channel’s combo jack, on the other hand, is more suited to microphones.
With seven hours of battery life, it will also comfortably see you through the length of a full set time. And its water-resistant, just in case your on-street busking sees a heavy downpour.
The Cube Street Mini is available now for $199.99.
For more info, head to Roland.
The post Boss makes a splash ahead of NAMM with new GX-1 and GX-1B multi-effects units, plus a new busker-friendly Roland Cube Street amp appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Fender Play partners with Samsung TV to bring Fender Play to its biggest screens yet

Fender Play has come a long way since its 2017 launch; while it originally focused on beginner-friendly lessons, Fender’s learning platform now offers something for guitarists of all calibres. Last year, we awarded it 9/10 – and now, thanks to a collaboration with Samsung, you can enjoy the service in an entirely new way.
While the Fender Play experience has previously been limited to mobiles and computer browsers, it is now available on Samsung TVs, too. The new Samsung TV app allows users to access the platform’s huge library of technique guides, theory lessons and feedback modes, all on your TV.
“With video-based lessons on Samsung TVs, learning an instrument fits naturally into daily life and helps players reach goals faster,” Hun Lee, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics, explains.
“By bringing Fender Play to TVs for the first time, Samsung is turning the largest screen at home into a place to learn and play together,” he adds.
Alongside Fender Play’s extensive catalogue of lessons, spanning content for electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass or ukulele, the TV app allows a fresh way to experience the app’s Jam Mode.
While Jam Mode does what it says on the tin – allowing users to ‘jam’ out to their favourite tracks – the TV version of the mode feels more immersive. The move to a bigger screen essentially turns your TV “into a stage”, with a customisable background to make you really feel like a rockstar.
“We are thrilled to bring Fender Play’s immersive learning experience to Samsung TV users, helping guitar enthusiasts take their skills to the next level,” Cliff Kim, President of the Fender Play Foundation, notes.
“Our mission has always been to educate and inspire players globally, and this partnership allows music lovers to learn, practice, and play with Fender Play’s high-quality, interactive lessons directly on their Samsung TV.”
For those interested in exploring Fender Play, our 2025 review praised the app for its sheer mass of content. With its varied selection of instructors and presenters, impressive library of tracks, and helpful feedback modes, its a great whether you’re a newbie or an established guitarist wanting to fine-tune your skills.
The app is set to drop in the first half of 2026, and will be free to download. Of course, you’ll need a Fender Play subscription, which costs £19.49 a month or £144.99 annually.
This isn’t the only news coming from Fender at the moment. Elsewhere, the guitar giant has taken a dive into the DAW market, launching its own fully-fledged DAW, Fender Studio Pro. The development comes after the company took its first baby steps into DAWs with Fender Studio.
Fender Studio Pro is essentially building on the bones Studio One Pro, the DAW Fender bought in 2021. At the time, purchase hinted that Fender was interested in crafting its own advanced DAW – and it seems 2026 is the time for it.
The company has also just introduced a new CEO, Edward “Bud” Cole, who will be taking the reigns officially on 19 January.
For more information, head to Fender Play.
The post Fender Play partners with Samsung TV to bring Fender Play to its biggest screens yet appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
NAMM 2026: what to expect from the biggest music trade show in the world

Rejoice, gearheads, for the 2026 NAMM Show is right around the corner. It’s a landmark event in the calendar for the music industry, where thousands of brands launch new products and showcase all the exciting new gear they’ve been working on.
The Guitar.com team will be packing our bags and trading grey, old England for sunny Anaheim to bring you all the biggest updates from the show as they happen, but until then, here’s a little bit of info about the NAMM Show to get you up to speed.
When and where will the NAMM Show 2026 take place?
As always, this year’s NAMM Show is being held at the Anaheim Convention Center in California, a 1.8 million-square foot venue that’s just about big enough to host the hundreds of music brands across guitars, tech and beyond showcasing their latest innovations.
This year’s show will span across five days from Tuesday, 20 – Saturday 24 January, with early access to events and exhibits for NAMM members on the 20th, and the main floor opening to all visitors from Thursday the 22nd.
Which brands will be at the NAMM Show 2026?
While NAMM saw reduced footfall and presence from big brands in the years immediately following the Covid pandemic, the show feels back to its former glory, with some of the biggest players in the guitar world having a presence in one way or another.
Fender has a booth in which it’ll showcase its new Fender Studio Pro DAW – which was announced recently as a replacement to PreSonus Studio One – Gibson will have a presence alongside Epiphone, Kramer and Mesa/Boogie, (though their stall is invite-only this year and aimed at dealers only rather than the general public), and there’ll be a sizeable PRS booth, too.
Interestingly, Neural DSP has secured itself a large booth for this year’s show, which suggests something big might be coming from the amp and tone modelling giant… Nothing but a hunch at this stage, but we’ll keep you updated if we hear more.
There’s also set to be a strong turnout from the biggest brands in acoustic guitar, with both Taylor and Martin hosting booths, as well as Faith, Ibanez – showcasing its latest electric and acoustic models, naturally – and loads more.
What are organisers saying about the NAMM Show 2026?
Organisers say the 2026 NAMM show will see a “global audience” gather with “a powerful mix of retailers, distributors, corporate buyers, artists, influencers and media, educators and a range of other qualified attendees that deliver value to the 4,000-plus brands on display”.
“Each and every year, The NAMM Show delivers the most relevant and game-changing programming to help build a strong future for our music industry,” says NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak.
You can learn more about the NAMM Show 2026 at namm.org. The Guitar.com team will be on the ground in Anaheim next week bringing you all the latest action from the show floor, so stay tuned…
The post NAMM 2026: what to expect from the biggest music trade show in the world appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
VOX Introduces the VFZ-1 Fuzz Pedal

VOX announces the VFZ-1 Fuzz, a new compact effect pedal available now through retailers and online worldwide. Designed to deliver the unmistakable character of one of the most influential late-1960s two-transistor fuzz circuits, commonly associated with the celebrated Mk 1.5 design, the VFZ-1 answers today’s players’ need for expressive vintage tone while solving the noise, inconsistency, and temperature sensitivity that have long challenged traditional Germanium-based fuzz pedals. Through meticulous engineering and precise transistor biasing, VOX has created a modern Silicon-driven interpretation that preserves the warmth, harmonic richness, and musical responsiveness of classic fuzz, only now with exceptional reliability, stability, and ease of integration into contemporary pedalboards.
VOX engineers began by studying prized original examples, finding not only their tonal qualities but also the nuanced way their transistors interact. Instead of relying on Germanium, the VFZ-1 employs two carefully selected Silver Can BC108 Silicon transistors, each precisely biased to replicate the musical response of the originals while keeping consistent performance in any environment. This approach gives the VFZ-1 the smooth compression, organic breakup, and expressive sustain associated with overdriven vintage valve amplifiers, but with drastically reduced noise and a significantly wider sweet spot than vintage units traditionally allow.
A key breakthrough in the VFZ-1 is its unusually high input impedance for a vintage-style fuzz. The first transistor stage has been designed to preserve the natural harmonics of the guitar signal while staying fully compatible with buffered pedals and Wah effects—situations that would normally compromise classic fuzz behavior. This allows players to place the VFZ-1 anywhere in their signal chain without sacrificing tone, immediately eliminating one of the most persistent frustrations of earlier designs. The second transistor stage then shapes and refines the fuzz character, delivering an articulate yet saturated voice that responds dynamically to picking intensity and guitar volume, while staying controlled, musical, and remarkably quiet.
To support modern performance demands, VOX expanded the tonal versatility of the classic circuit rather than altering its fundamental character. The primary Fuzz control sets the core voice, after which the VFZ-1 provides added tonal refinement without straying from its authentic sonic foundation. A Bass Cut control allows players to manage how much low end enters the gain stages, making it ideal for balancing humbuckers, cleaning up neck pickup tones, or tightening rhythm textures. A Tone Cut control then shapes the high-frequency response at the output, allowing everything from smooth, violin-like sustain to brighter, cutting articulation while maintaining clarity and presence. For players who love the lower-gain character that vintage fuzzes produce when the guitar’s volume is rolled back, the VFZ-1 introduces a dedicated Crunch switch, instantly offering those expressive overdrive-like textures without requiring any change at the instrument itself.
The VFZ-1 embodies the spirit of early two-transistor fuzz pedals by capturing their mid-forward presence, liquid sustain, and touch sensitivity, but refines the experience with rock-solid stability, exceptionally low noise, and pedalboard-friendly modern power compatibility. Its rugged, compact enclosure reflects the toughness needed for contemporary gigs and studios while honoring the unmistakable aesthetic heritage associated with vintage fuzz.
By faithfully preserving the emotional impact, musical feel, and unmistakable character of late-60s fuzz while removing the inconsistency, fragility, and environmental unpredictability of original units, VOX has created a pedal that delivers legendary tone in a form that finally meets modern standards of performance and reliability. The VFZ-1 brings iconic fuzz within reach—consistent, expressive, and ready for any stage or studio.
For more information on the VOX VFZ-1 Fuzz and the full range of VOX products, please visit NAMM Booth #6802 or online at www.voxamps.com.
Street Price: $149.99 USD
Silvertone Announces the Return of the 1446

Silvertone has reintroduced the iconic 1446 semi-hollow electric – one of the most recognizable guitar models in rock history.

Played by artists Chris Isaak, Elvis Costello, Hubert Sumlin and more, the Silvertone 1446 is now available for the first time in decades, and that sound - and that guitar - can be yours.
Originally sold through the Sears catalog from 1961 to 1967, the Silvertone 1446 holds a special place in electric-guitar history. Over the last 60 years it has become one of the most sought-after models among recording artists and collectors.
Now Silvertone has reintroduced the 1446—meticulously recreated with modern performance features while honoring every detail that made the original a legend.
A Classic Reborn for the Modern Player
The new Silvertone 1446 delivers enhanced playability and tonal versatility while maintaining its iconic silhouette. The original “2×4 lumber” neck profile has been re-engineered into a comfortable modern-taper soft-C shape. A chambered center-block maple body improves sustain, reduces feedback, and opens up the guitar’s dynamic range—perfect for the demands of today’s stages and studios.
Two versions of the 1446 are available. The 1446V, available in Black finish, features a genuine Bigsby® B70 vibrato tailpiece that works seamlessly with a Tune-o-matic style bridge featuring roller saddles for exceptional tuning stability. The 1446T, available in Black or Tobacco Sunburst finish, features a ‘Trapeze’ tailpiece. The guitar’s 24 ¾” scale mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard feature state-of-the-art “Semi-Hemispherical” frets for an ultra-smooth playing feel.
Vintage Mojo, Recreated with Precision
One of the most revered elements of the original 1446 was its pickups—mini humbuckers designed by Seth Lover and manufactured exclusively for Silvertone. Known as the P19, these rare pickups had a unique 3+3 pole-piece design and a distinct, lower-wind voice.
To recreate this sonic magic, Silvertone collaborated with renowned designer Trev Wilkinson. His new Wilkinson “R Series” mini-humbuckers are exacting, era-specific recreations featuring custom tooling, period-correct Alnico V magnets, and carefully matched winding. The result: the unmistakable clarity and warmth that made the 1446 famous.
“When you pick up this guitar, you immediately understand why the original became such a cult classic” says Silvertone Product Manager, Rick Taylor. “We set out to deliver the soul of the ‘60s 1446, but with the playability and reliability modern musicians expect. The new 1446 gives you inspiration from the moment you plug in.”
The Silvertone 1446VBK with the Bigsby vibrato tailpiece carries a street price of $999. The two 1446T models with the Trapeze tailpiece are priced at $799.
For more information about Silvertone, please visit SilvertoneGuitars.com.
Fender Unveils 2026 Product Line As Landmark Anniversary Year Begins

2026 is set to be a pivotal year for Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) as it gears up to celebrate the brand’s 80th anniversary as well as 75th anniversary of the Telecaster and Precision Bass. With innovation, quality, and the brand’s renowned craftsmanship firmly at the forefront, Fender is kicking off the year by unveiling a new range of instruments, amps, and accessories.
Putting the evolving needs of today’s genre-spanning players at the heart of the latest lineup, notable highlights include a stunning new 30th anniversary edition of Fender’s legendary Hot Rod amp, new Squier Sonic and Minis, alongside new pedals and an array of accessories.
“Our 2026 product line showcases how Fender continues to evolve with today’s players while staying true to Fender’s legacy of craftsmanship,” said Max Gutnik, Chief Product Officer at Fender. “As we celebrate the brand’s 80th anniversary alongside 75 years of the Telecaster and Precision Bass, this new range from Squier to updated amps, underscores how we’re continuing to innovate with the same craftsmanship and player-centric focus that shaped these classics. This launch marks just the beginning of a full year of new products and announcements celebrating these milestones.”
SQUIER

Mini Stratocaster® ($199.99 USD, £179.99 GBP, €209.99 EUR, $369 AUD, ¥39,600 JPY) The Squier Mini Stratocaster® is the perfect companion for players seeking a reduced-size instrument with classic styling and familiar Fender® tone. Highlights include a thin and lightweight body, an easy-to-play “C”-shaped neck profile, a trio of Squier single-coil pickups with 5-way switching for sonic variety, and a hardtail bridge for solid tuning stability. Finish options include California Blue with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard,Sea Foam Green with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Black with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Dakota Red with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard,Shell Pink with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard,Torino Red with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Pink with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Mini Precision Bass® ($209.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥39,600 JPY) The Squier Mini Precision Bass® is the perfect companion for players seeking a reduced-size instrument with classic styling and familiar Fender® tone. Highlights include a thin and lightweight body, a short-scale neck with an easy-to-play “C”-shaped profile, a Squier split single-coil pickup with volume and tone controls for sonic variety, and a hardtail bridge for solid tuning stability. Finish options include2-Color Sunburst with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Black with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Dakota Red with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Strat® sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a trio of Squier® single-coil pickups chime with crystal clarity for a wide variety of versatile tones. Further details of this model include a tremolo bridge for expressive vibrato effects, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Sienna Sunburst with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Ultraviolet with Laurel Fingerboard, White Pickguard, California Blue with Laurel Fingerboard and Black Pickguard, 2-Color Sunburst withMaple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, and Black with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® HSS ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.19 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® HSS is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Strat® sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort. The HSS pickup configuration denotes a humbucking (H) bridge pickup for substantial, high-output tone, complimenting the single-coil (S) neck and middle pickups that chime with crystal clarity. Further details of this model include a tremolo bridge for expressive vibrato effects, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Midnight Blue with Maple Fingerboard and Black Pickguard, Tahitian Coral with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Black with Maple Fingerboard and Black Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® HT ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® HT is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Strat® sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a trio of Squier® single-coil pickups chime with crystal clarity for a wide variety of versatile tones. Further details of this model include a 6-saddle hardtail bridge (HT) for reliable intonation, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Sea Foam Green with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Torino Red with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Arctic White with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® HT H ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Stratocaster® HT H is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Strat® sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a Squier® humbucking (H) bridge pickup delivers substantial, high-output tone. Further details of this model include a 6-saddle hardtail bridge (HT) for reliable intonation, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Sonic Blue with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Black with Laurel Fingerboard and Black Pickguard, Flash Pink with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Telecaster® ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Telecaster® is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Tele® sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a pair of Squier® single-coil pickups chime with crystal clarity for a wide variety of versatile tones. Further details of this model include a 6-saddle hardtail bridge for reliable intonation, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Canary Yellow with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, California Blue with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard,Torino Red with Laurel Fingerboard and Black Pickguard, Black with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Butterscotch Blonde with Maple Fingerboard and Black Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Esquire® H ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Esquire® H is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Esquire sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a Squier® humbucking (H) bridge pickup delivers substantial, high-output tone. Further details of this model include a 6-saddle hardtail bridge for reliable intonation, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Olive with Laurel Fingerboard and Black Pickguard,Ultraviolet with Laurel Fingerboard and Black Pickguard,Arctic White with Maple Fingerboard and Black Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Mustang® ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Mustang® is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Mustang sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a pair of Squier® single-coil pickups chime with crystal clarity for a wide variety of versatile tones. Further details of this model include a short 24” scale length, 6-saddle hardtail bridge for reliable intonation, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Daphne Blue in Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, 2-Color Sunburst in Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Torino Red in Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Mustang® HH ($249.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €219.99 EUR, $429 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Mustang® HH is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Mustang sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a pair of Squier® humbucking pickups (HH) serve up substantial, high-output tone. Further details of this model include a short 24” scale length, 6-saddle hardtail bridge for reliable intonation, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Black with Laurel Fingerboard and Black Pickguard, California Blue with Laurel Fingerboard and Black Pickguard, Flash Pink with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Bronco® Bass ($259.99 USD, £209.99 GBP, €249.99 EUR, $479 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Bronco® Bass is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This Bronco Bass sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile with a narrow 1.5” nut width and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a Squier® single-coil pickup delivers punchy bass tone. Further details of this model include a short 30” scale length, 4-saddle hardtail bridge for precise intonation adjustment, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options includeDaphne Blue with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Black with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Tahitian Coral with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Arctic White with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard.

Squier Sonic® Precision Bass® ($269.99 USD, £209.99 GBP, €249.99 EUR, $499 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) The Squier Sonic® Precision Bass® is ready to launch any musical adventure into warp speed, offering iconic Fender® style and inspiring tone for players at any stage. This P Bass® sports a slim and inviting “C”-shaped neck profile with a narrow 1.5” nut width and a thin, lightweight body for optimal playing comfort while a Squier® split single-coil pickup delivers punchy bass tone. Further details of this model include a 4-saddle hardtail bridge for precise intonation adjustment, open-gear tuning machines for smooth, accurate tuning and durable chrome-plated hardware that is sure to catch the spotlight. Finish options include Midnight Blue with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, Black with Laurel Fingerboard and White Pickguard, 2-Color Sunburst with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard, California Blue with Maple Fingerboard and White Pickguard.
FENDER AMPS

Hot Rod Deluxe™ 30th Anniversary ($1,299.99 USD, £1,269 GBP, €1,489 EUR, $2299 AUD, ¥203,500 JPY) For the past 30 years the Fender® Hot Rod Deluxe™ has been the quintessential backline amplifier on stages and in studios around the world. It’s perfect for players that need classic Fender cleans, a separate overdrive channel or just the perfect pedal platform. The Hot Rod Deluxe™ 30th Anniversary amplifier celebrates the legacy of this modern classic with a Limited-Edition version of the 40-watt road warrior that looks as incredible as it sounds. Features include: 40 watts; Normal, Drive, and More Drive channels Commemorative Black Western covering and vintage ‘50s brown and gold grille cloth, Celestion 12” G12M-65 Creamback Speaker, Polished stainless steel faceplate with Black chickenhead knobs, Leather handle, Modified preamp circuitry for increased overdriven note definition and Spring reverb modified for improved smoothness. The lightweight pine cabinet Includes 2-button footswitch and cover. Included is a certificate of authenticity.
Fender Mustang® Micro Plus Bass Expansion Update (NO ADDITIONAL COST) Get ready to drop the hammer on the low end. Fender is launching a massive bass firmware update for the Mustang Micro Plus. This isn’t just bass capability… It's a full-blown bass rig revolution in headphones, turning the Micro Plus into the ultimate silent-practice accessory for both guitarists and bassists. Unlock ten iconic bass tones that defined eras. Feel the thunder of the Super Bassman®, the modern punch of the Rumble V2/V3, the vintage snarl of the Bassman TV, and the huge headroom of the Dual Showman. Then dive into studio-ready warmth with the SWR® Redhead™, rock-solid grit from the Rockin' Peg, classic thump from the Flip Top, and sheer force from the KGB 800 and Monster. Every amp is meticulously crafted to sound so real, often forgetting practice is happening in silence. And for players with hot pickups or active electronics, we’ve added a Switchable Input Pad to keep everything clean, controlled, and pro-level.
FENDER PEDALS
Strobo-Sonic Pro™ Tuner Pedal ($129.99 USD, £95.00 GBP, €115.00 EUR, $189.00 AUD, ¥14,300 JPY) Strobo-Sonic Pro is ultra precise strobe tuner anyone can use, featuring an astonishing ±0.01 cent tuning accuracy in an incredibly pedalboard- friendly package. Designed with on-stage tuning in mind, the Strobo-Sonic Pro™ features a large, high-visibility LED display, auto brightness dimming and two easily trackable tuning display modes to provide effortless tuning for any player. Strobe display mode delivers hyper-sensitive accuracy that even the most discerning guitar tech will appreciate, while needle display mode provides a familiar tuning experience for any situation. Conveniently accessible side switches offer deeper control of the reference pitch and three bypass modes including true bypass, buffered bypass and buffered always-on modes.
FENDER ACCESSORIES

American Professional Classic Necks ($619.99 USD, £589 GBP, €699 EUR, 1199 AUD, ¥90,200 JPY)
The story of Fender’s modular design began in 1946, and guitarists have been writing their own chapters ever since. Fender’s pioneering bolt-on neck construction wasn’t just about making guitars easier to service—it was about giving players the power to shape their sound. Today, every genuine Fender replacement neck carries that legacy forward, offering endless possibilities for customization, restoration, and reinvention.
Crafted in the same facility as U.S.-made instruments, the American Professional Classic necks work well with almost any playing style. Features include our comfortable “Modern C” neck profile with a satin urethane finish that gives it a smooth, fast playing feel. The 9.5”-radius fingerboard with medium jumbo frets provides fast fretting and easy playability, while the hand-rolled fingerboard edges provide a slightly broken-in feel. The synthetic bone nut is pre-slotted with “pilot” string location grooves to make spacing a breeze when performing the final string slot filing. For true Fender authenticity, it’s also serialized and laser engraved with our “Genuine Fender Parts” logo on the heel. Model options include:
- American Professional Classic Stratocaster® Neck in Rosewood and Maple
- American Professional Classic Telecaster® Neck in Rosewood and Maple
- American Professional Classic Jazzmaster® Neck in Rosewood
- American Professional Classic Jaguar® Neck in Rosewood

Deluxe Wooden 2-Tier Multi Stand ($99.99 USD, £91.99 GBP, €109 EUR, $159 AUD, ¥16,500 JPY) Introducing Fender’s innovative line of Gear Furniture, featuring beautifully crafted, upscale stand solutions to serve players and collectors alike. Expertly designed with durable materials, this collection provides a stylish and functional way for players to proudly display gear. Elevate a music space with the Fender® 2-Tier Wooden Guitar Stand. Designed to hold an acoustic and an electric guitar, it features solid, sturdy construction, soft foam padding, and a rich walnut veneer finish that complements any room. Complete with a laser-etched Fender logo, it’s the perfect blend of form, function, and Fender legacy.

Deluxe Wooden Wall-Mounted Pedal Shelf ($79.99 USD, £74.99 GBP, €89 EUR, $139 AUD, ¥13,200 JPY) Transform effects pedals into a centerpiece with the Deluxe Wooden Pedal Shelf. This 24” angled shelf puts multiple pedals within easy reach while instantly enhancing a space. Made from durable plywood with a rich walnut veneer and a laser-etched Fender logo, this wall mounted shelf offers both a stylish display and convenient storage. Hardware and instructions are included—combine multiple shelves to create an expanded, custom pedal display.
2” Galaxy Strap ($31.99 USD, £28.99 GBP, €34.99 EUR, $49 AUD, ¥3,850 JPY) Turn heads with every chord. The Fender Galaxy Strap combines bold iridescent design with shimmering style and stage-ready durability, giving guitars a look that stands out from every angle. Reinforced Fender “F” leather cone ends keep instruments secure while playing. Durable, eye-catching, and built to perform—this strap adds a touch of cosmic flair to any musician's setup.
Classic Series Strat®/Tele® Galaxy Wood Case ($299.99 USD, £249 GBP, €299 EUR, $399 AUD, ¥35,200 JPY) Turn heads before even hitting the stage. The Classic Series Galaxy Case puts a modern spin on Fender’s iconic style with an iridescent Tolex exterior that shimmers from every angle. Plush cream acrylic lining keeps Stratocaster or Telecaster guitars secure, while durable construction ensures lasting reliability—where classic design meets cosmic flair.
Contour™ Galaxy Instrument Cable ($44.99 USD, £33.99 GBP, €39.99 EUR, $55 AUD, ¥4,400 JPY) Add some shimmer to the signal chain. The Fender Galaxy Cable brings stage-ready tone and striking style together in one premium design. Wrapped in iridescent faux leather that catches the light from every angle, it combines solid construction with 90% oxygen-free copper spiral shielding and durable nickel-plated connectors for crystal-clear sound players can rely on. Built to perform and built to last, this cable delivers durability, clarity, and unmistakable Fender attitude.
Professional Hi-Fi Ear Plugs* ($29.99 USD, £27.99 GBP, €32.99 EUR, $45 AUD, ¥3,850 JPY) Experience crystal-clear sound reduction with the Fender Professional Hi-Fi Plugs – advanced ear protection that maintains audio fidelity while protecting the user’s hearing. The high-level 20dB filters deliver consistent attenuation across frequencies, ensuring music sounds natural and balanced at safer volumes. Complete with both small and standard ear plug sizes plus a convenient mini aluminum case with clip, these ear plugs are perfect for musicians and music lovers who demand premium-quality hearing protection.

Deluxe Hi-Fi Ear Plugs* ($44.99 USD, £41.99 GBP, €49.99 EUR, $65 AUD, ¥5,280 JPY)Enjoy superior sound quality and protection with Deluxe Hi-Fi Plugs, featuring three interchangeable filter levels to customize protection. Whether consumers need medium protection for practice sessions, high attenuation for loud venues, or maximum reduction for extreme environments, these Deluxe Hi-Fi Plugs deliver exceptional sound quality at every level. The premium package includes multiple ear plug sizes, a connector cord to prevent loss, and a sophisticated dual-chamber aluminum case with clip for organized, portable storage.
Concert Foam Ear Plugs - 10 Pairs* ($14.99 USD, £13.99 GBP, €16.99 EUR, $25 AUD, ¥2,200 JPY) Keep the music loud and clear—without the ringing ears. Concert Foam Ear Plugs are made from soft, lightweight red foam that seals comfortably while cutting down harmful noise levels. With 10 pairs in every pack, players always have reliable protection on hand for shows, rehearsals, and jam sessions.

Tex-Mex™ Hot Stratocaster® Pickups Set ($99.99 USD, £99.99 GBP, €119 EUR, $199 AUD, ¥17,600 JPY)Building on the classic sparkle and bite of Tex-Mex™ Strat® pickups, this overwound set adds just the right amount of extra spice to a sound. With a slight increase in the number of turns, players get more output, extra punch in the mids, and a touch more growl—without losing the clarity that makes Tex-Mex™ pickups a player favorite. Perfect for pushing an amp into overdrive while still keeping that unmistakable Stratocaster®.

Tex-Mex™ Hot Telecaster® Pickups Set ($79.99 USD, £82.99 GBP, €99 EUR, $159 AUD, ¥14,300 JPY)
Building on the classic twang and bite of Tex-Mex™ Tele® pickups, this overwound set adds just the right amount of extra spice to a sound. With a slight increase in the number of turns, players get more output, extra punch in the mids, and a touch more growl—without losing the clarity that makes Tex-Mex™ pickups a player favorite. Perfect for pushing an amp into overdrive while still keeping that unmistakable Telecaster® bite.
Gear Radar: 7 Fresh Finds for Your Rig

Huge tube heads, mini modulation, and the return of a Peavey cult classic. Dive into this month's top gear picks for January 2026.
Godin ACS Steve Stevens Signature
The 2026 Godin ACS Steve Stevens Signature delivers a quilted maple top, unique purple finish, gloss neck, raygun logo, and his signature. “Godin Guitars are such a big part of my shows with Billy Idol,” says Steve Stevens. Includes premium hard shell case and extras
MOD-mini
Dial up the vintage vibe with Nobels MOD-mini, a compact powerhouse packed with lush modulation effects! Crafted to create epic sounds, the MOD-mini delivers a kaleidoscope of stereo tones. From the pulsating tremolo, to the funky phaser, to U-Vibe grooves, the MOD-mini takes you into a sonic time time warp!
Peavey Joshua Homme Decade Too™ Guitar Amp Combo
The Peavey Joshua Homme Decade™ Too captures the Queens of the Stone Age frontman's iconic tone. Featuring the unique Saturation™ switch for tube-like sustain, enhanced 3-band EQ with exclusive Bass and Top boosts, and 10-watts of solid-state power, this portable amp is perfect for home, rehearsal, or in the studio.
StroboVUE
Building on the legacy of StroboStomp HD, the view-only StroboVUE delivers Peterson’s renowned strobe accuracy in an always-on pedalboard format. Its angled, high-visibility display and fully top-mounted jacks keep setups clean. With no mute switch, pure buffered output, and continuous tuning feedback, StroboVUE is built for players who demand precision.
The BEAST
The BEAST is a 65W two-channel, cathode bias boutique tube guitar amplifier head. It features a clean channel with reverb and an overdrive channel, both with individual EQ controls. RC Davis amps are hand-wired point-to-point and have a unique 30dB tone stack.
Slash 3.0 Humbucker Set
A new addition to Slash’s signature sound arsenal, 3.0 adds more punch and aggression while retaining clarity. Built with rough cast Alnico 5 magnets and vintage-inspired construction, it’s a powerful new option for players seeking extra cut without compromise.
50th Anniversary Limited Edition JB / Jazz Humbuckers
Experience the true origin of the hot-rodded humbucker with the 50th Anniversary Limited Edition JB / Jazz Set. Built with historically accurate parts, including butyrate bobbins and rough-cast magnets, this set faithfully replicates the earliest production models. Presented in retro silver packaging and limited to 2026 production only.
“It looks like someone had a Fender Stratocaster described to them and then built their own version”: From Denmark Street to the TARDIS – Peter Capaldi reveals the story behind Doctor Who’s “junk shop” guitar

Peter Capaldi has shared the backstory behind one of Doctor Who’s most curious props: the electric guitar played by the Twelfth Doctor – and why its origins were far more deliberate (and guitar-nerdy) than fans might expect.
In a recent Instagram post, Capaldi – whose tenure as the Doctor lasted between 2014 and 2017 – recalls pitching the idea to the sci-fi show’s production team.
“I’d suggested that it might be fun if Dr Who played the electric guitar. I imagined he could plug it into the Tardis console and play very loudly and badly like a teenager,” he writes.
That search for the right instrument led Capaldi, director Daniel O’Hara and producer Derek Ritchie to Denmark Street on 17 December 2014. Often dubbed London’s Tin Pan Alley, the historic strip has long been a hub for songwriters, studios and guitar shops.
While a Telecaster initially seemed like a possible choice, Capaldi quickly ruled it out: “I had cited an old Telecaster as the most likely candidate, but they rarely come with tremolos,” he explains. “The Doctor needs a tremolo arm. And their classic shape produces a sort of ‘get me I’m a rock star’ look, which I didn’t fancy.”
Eventually, the team stumbled upon a guitar at the iconic Hanks Guitar shop that ticked all the boxes.
“It has a whammy bar, mock pearl scratch plate, and funny switches, all of which conspire to give it a junk shop aura. It is, for the guitar geeks out there, a Yamaha SVG 300 guitar,” Capaldi recalls. “I liked it because it looks like someone has had a Fender Stratocaster described to them and then gone off and built their own version. Perfect. And it had a tremolo arm. I loved it.”
The actor would go on to play the SVG 300 across seasons nine and ten of Doctor Who. Then, just as quietly as it arrived, the guitar vanished.
“I used it for two seasons of Dr Who and then, it disappeared,” says Capaldi. “I don’t know where it went. Vanished in time and space…”
The post “It looks like someone had a Fender Stratocaster described to them and then built their own version”: From Denmark Street to the TARDIS – Peter Capaldi reveals the story behind Doctor Who’s “junk shop” guitar appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Paul McCartney reveals he nearly played on a Bob Weir record before his death: “Unfortunately it never came to pass”

Paul McCartney has paid tribute to the late Grateful Dead co-founder and guitarist Bob Weir, remembering him as a “great musician who inspired many people of many generations”.
Earlier this week, it was announced that the 78-year-old musician had passed away following treatment for cancer since last year, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the music world.
McCartney was among those reflecting on Weir’s life and legacy, posting a heartfelt message on Instagram recalling the last time the two met.
“I last saw Bob when we went to the Sphere in Las Vegas to watch Dead and Co,” Macca writes. “He was very welcoming and during the interval in the show he invited us into his trailer, and it was a special moment to meet his family and friends. Bob showed me the recording set up that he had in the back of the bus so even though he was on tour he could make and record music.”
The former Beatle also reveals that the pair once came close to collaborating on new music together: “I offered to play the bass on one of the tracks he played me,” says McCartney, “but unfortunately that never came to pass.”
“His humour, friendship and musicianship inspired me and will inspire many people into the future,” McCartney continues. “Our family’s thoughts go out to Bob’s family at this time of loss, and I know they will remain as strong as he would wish them to be. God bless you Bob. See you down the road. Love Paul.”
As a founding member of the Grateful Dead, Bob Weir played a pivotal role in shaping one of the most influential and unconventional bands in rock history. Known for his distinctive rhythm guitar style and adventurous approach to harmony, Weir helped define the Dead’s eclectic sound – a fusion of rock, folk, blues, jazz and psychedelia that continues to influence generations of musicians.
The post Paul McCartney reveals he nearly played on a Bob Weir record before his death: “Unfortunately it never came to pass” appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville review – “it’s an exhilarating ride but not for the fainthearted”

$1,259/£1,149, gretschguitars.com
How close should a budget copy come to the original design? Not too long ago you could rely on some sort of tell to give the game away – a slightly off headstock, obviously cheaper hardware or even a sub-brand label and logo. Less so now.
Gretsch has traditionally been happy to use the company’s name at a variety of price points, and relied on line extension to differentiate the various different strands of the family tree. Some models have, however, been reserved for the pricey stuff – until now.
Hot on the heels of the Synchromatic Falcon comes the Nashville – another entry into the Synchromatic series, which bridges the gap between the brand’s Indonesian and Korean-made Electromatics, and the Japanese Professional series.
Image: Adam Gasson
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville – what is it?
To give it the typically over-verbose full name, the Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville Hollow Body with Bigsby is based squarely on the company’s original 6120 model. It was perhaps the most unapologetically orange guitar of the 1950s electric pantheon, and an iconic voice originally designed for Chet Atkins, subsequently seen in the hands of Duane Eddy and Brian Setzer, who also had signature versions of the design over the years.
This looks at first glance, if not like a vintage original, then very much like a Japanese-made one. We’ve got a deep orange stain finish on the all-maple body and the whole guitar is festooned with gold hardware from the Bigsby licensed B60 vibrato to the open back machine heads. There’s a pair of Hi-Fidelity Filter’Tron pickups and an Adjusto-Matic bridge with a pinned ebony base, too.
Controls-wise this is standard fare for a Gretsch with a treble bleed master volume knob, individual volumes for each pickup and a master tone. The shoulder-mounted three-way selector switcheroo feels positive and engaging. Did I mention this looks legit? The scratchplate even says Nashville on it.
There are some interesting things going on under the hood too. First we have the 24.6” scale length, which, while entirely appropriate for this model is considerably shorter than a Tele or Strat and a smidge less than you’d expect on a Les Paul or SG.
Also, while this is indeed a full-fat 2.5” depth hollow body guitar, there is some joined-up thinking going on with the inner architecture in the form of the Semi-Arc bracing – a modified take on trestle bracing with two ‘feet’ under the bridge but no need for the neck block feet seen in the traditional approach. The maple neck is carved to a soft C shape and features a genuine ebony fingerboard housing 22 frets. It feels immediately familiar and comfortable, now let’s plug in.
Image: Adam Gasson
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville – playability and sounds
Pulling the guitar out of its included heavyweight hard case, and I’m instantly perturbed as to why the bridge is set quite as high as it has been – it’s a very quick and easy job to fettle it down to an acceptable height for comfortable playing, but still, odd.
That minor hiccup dealt with, and it’s onto the fun stuff. Few guitars respond to a straight into the amp approach like a Gretsch and I start by plugging directly into an old Cornford Hurricane with a curly lead. With all dials set at noon and the neck pickup engaged, a very convincing on-edge clean sound fills my studio.
On vintage models – often with heavy flat-wound strings – this evocative texture can easily get indistinct and woofy, but here we have much of the girth with none of the mud. Dial up the reverb and slide a tremolo in there somewhere and you are most of the way towards a very nice time indeed.
The middle position on any guitar is there for much more than funk and Hendrix-style double stops. That said, you can thoroughly enjoy both approaches here. It’s an exceedingly pleasurable in-between sound with enough poke to get through a mix while picking up the pieces or line dancing in a burning room.
It’s also the place to be when it comes to blending the pickup volumes to find new and delicious textures. Options are limited by the single tone control, but the guitar still responds well to changes in pick attack and hand position – you will get by, believe me.
The bridge ‘Tron on a Gretsch hollowbody is an iconic voice and this golden beauty gets us from Duane Eddy twang to Spaghetti Western in a heartbeat. This is très bon and encourages the player to unleash their inner Vic Flick. You can also get some very convincing Velvet Underground textures out of it which may well appeal to players who favour indoor sunglasses.
Aficionados may miss the “mud switch” tone control common to some models of the 6120 and there may also be those who would prefer nickel hardware to the spangly gold. A classic case of de gustibus etc. Nevertheless, this is very strong stuff indeed when played clean – time to filth it right up with a Crowther Hot Cake.
A sly helping of classic rage is all it takes for the Nashville Hollowbody to start grunting very nicely. There’s a sweet spot with big hollowbody guitars when it comes to dirt – less is more as everyone from Billy Duffy to Sylvain Sylvain and Richard Fortus will attest. The way a larger instrument vibrates encourages all sorts of belligerent whoops and howls that you just don’t get with a solid body – it’s an exhilarating ride but not for the fainthearted.
Back to the neck pickup and yes, things do get a bit mushy when we swap out the Hot Cake for a Bigfoot Engineering King Fuzz in search of saw-toothed glories. Engaging the bridge pickup, however, gives me an immediate shot of trouser-flapping violence that makes it all worthwhile. You can wreak havoc behind the bridge, you can Bigsby it to within an inch of its life and it will come up smiling every time.
In all the fun I realise I haven’t even fed it any Chet Atkins – I can confirm that it loves a thumbpick-driven Taste Of Honey.
Image: Adam Gasson
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville – should I buy one?
Not long ago the idea of a Chinese-made instrument commanding a four-figure price tag would have raised eyebrows. While there remains a palpable difference between this and the Professional series, there is a strong argument that the Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville Hollowbody represents extremely good value for money, regardless of the country of origin.
Image: Adam Gasson
Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville – alternatives
Another Asian-made guitar with real big brand pedigree is the Epiphone Swingster ($799/£799), while Eastwood’s Bill Nelson Astroluxe Cadet DLX ($1,599) is a fine example of relatively affordable rockabilly fun. Another brand that has its roots in the big-bodied jazz guitars of ol’ New York is the D’Angelico Excel 59 ($1,999).
The post Gretsch Synchromatic Nashville review – “it’s an exhilarating ride but not for the fainthearted” appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
New BOSS Multi-Effects Processors
BOSS Announces GX-1 and GX-1B Multi-Effects Processors and FSC-10 Footswitch Cap

BOSS announces the GX-1 and GX-1B, two entry-level additions to the popular GX multi-effects series. The GX-1 is designed for guitarists, while the GX-1B is tailored for bassists. BOSS also expands its accessories lineup with the FSC-10 Footswitch Cap, a high-quality solution that makes standard metal footswitches easier to press while performing.
GX-1 and GX-1B

The GX-1 and GX-1B deliver pro-grade sound in ultra-portable platforms for practice, recording, and performance. Authentic GX series amp and effect algorithms supply endless creative fuel, while high-res color displays, intuitive effect buttons, and Gear Suite tools make sound creation a snap. Beyond the internal sounds and chassis colors, each product offers identical features.
The GX-1 and GX-1B make premium sound accessible to every player, from beginners and home enthusiasts to touring pros seeking an all-in-one travel solution. With a vast selection of amps and effects, adjustable effect order, and eight simultaneous blocks plus a volume pedal and noise suppressor, users can easily craft custom setups for playing different music styles and performing specific songs on stage.
Whether editing presets or building sounds from scratch, the GX-1 and GX-1B are designed for frustration-free creation. Hexagon-shaped panel buttons provide a visual representation of the effect categories, and it’s possible to turn effects on/off with a tap or access detailed parameters with a long press. There are 99 memories loaded with ready-to-play presets, plus 99 user memories for storing custom sound creations.
The GX-1 and GX-1B introduce Gear Suite, a powerful new feature that enables quick setup of amps and effects. Each type includes professionally tuned Gear Suite settings, and players can save favorites in user locations for instant access to personalized parameters.
The GX-1 and GX-1B each offer freely assignable footswitches and an expression pedal that support control of everything from basic effects on/off to multiple parameter targets. Going further, wired and wireless options are available for external control. Each unit offers three versatile power options (batteries, AC adaptor, or USB), allowing users to practice and perform anywhere.
In addition to their sounds and performance features, the GX-1 and GX-1B include Bluetooth® and USB connectivity to elevate practice and recording sessions. The BOSS Tone Studio app further enhances the user experience with YouTube integration, built-in rhythms, editing features, and pro sounds on BOSS Tone Exchange.
FSC-10 Footswitch Cap

Footswitch caps are an affordable way to enhance the functionality of traditional pedal switches, making them more visible on stage and easier to press. Molded from rugged, transparent polycarbonate that allows LEDs to shine through, the FSC-10 is a high-quality solution that works with a growing range of BOSS gear.
The FSC-10 is fully compatible with BOSS products that have metal footswitches, including multi-effects such as the GX-1 and GX-1B, select pedal effects, and Loop Stations. Each FSC-10 package includes 10 units.

Availability & Pricing
The GX-1 and GX-1B are available now for $229.99. The FSC-10 is also available now for $14.99.
To learn more about the GX-1, GX-1B, and FSC-10, visit www.boss.info.
Roland Announces CUBE Street Mini Multi-Instrument Amplifier

Roland announces CUBE Street Mini, the latest member of the CUBE Street family of battery-powered PA solutions for gigging musicians and street performers. CUBE Street Mini builds on the trusted CUBE Street legacy, delivering exceptional sound quality and features in an ultra-compact PA for cafés, small-scale events, and personal studios. It’s packed with class-leading tools to elevate solo and duo performances, including dual channels, built-in effects, Bluetooth® audio, and more.

With its convenient size and onboard battery power, CUBE Street Mini provides a great-sounding, all-in-one PA wherever users want to perform or practice. Setup is quick and hassle-free, with intuitive panel controls that are simple to operate. The integrated handle makes carrying easy, and the rechargeable battery provides up to seven hours of continuous power for long sessions and travel. An onboard tuner is also available for easy guitar tuning.
CUBE Street Mini features two flexible channels to support a variety of solo and duo scenarios. Users can perform with a guitar, keyboard, or Aerophone and a vocal mic, or connect mics to both channels for dual vocal performances. With onboard Bluetooth audio, it’s possible to stream music from a smartphone or tablet without using up a channel.
The main channel on CUBE Street Mini features inputs for a guitar, microphone, or stereo instrument, along with a panel selector that optimizes the sound for the current input type. The second channel has a versatile combo jack that supports a dynamic microphone via an XLR or TRS connection. Each channel includes a tone control, along with independent processing to color the sound with high-quality effects.
CUBE Street Mini produces clear, full sound with wide projection, thanks to its high-headroom dual amplifier and 2.1 design with two tweeters and a five-inch speaker. There’s also an integrated tilt-back stand and a mount for a mic stand, providing enhanced sound coverage for different performance needs.
The optional CB-MBC1 carrying case helps protect CUBE Street Mini while on the move. It’s made of strong, water-resistant material and features a shoulder strap and mesh pocket for stowing personal items or small accessories.
Availability & Pricing
The Roland CUBE Street Mini is available now for $199.99.
For the full press kit (available in several languages), including hi-res images, specs, and more, click here.
To learn more about CUBE Street Mini, visit Roland.com.
Ibanez Introduces New Alpha Series Electric Guitars for 2026

New for 2026, Ibanez has announced the debut of the Alpha series electric guitars, a line engineered from the ground up to meet the demands of the modern, performance-focused musician.
The Alpha models blend cutting-edge features with thoughtful ergonomics, leaning heavily into concepts that optimize tone and playability. Key specifications include multi-scale construction for enhanced clarity and intonation across extended ranges, and Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers, providing versatile, noise-free, and aggressive tonal options.
The highly sculpted, ergonomic body design is central to the Alpha series, engineered for extreme comfort whether standing or seated. The lightweight body features a deep, comfortable forearm cut and an innovative lower body carve that facilitates both conventional and classical-style seated playing positions.
Some of the unique design innovations include a rear-mounted input jack for a cleaner stage profile, and an innovative three-bolt neck joint design. This system utilizes two screws mounted within an oval-shaped stainless-steel plate, complemented by a third screw driven directly from the body into the neck. This distinctive construction not only ensures robust joint strength but also significantly improves access to the high frets and enhances overall playability.
The Alpha series is offered in both 7- and 8-string configurations. Each model features one of three contemporary metallic finishes: Iron Pewter, Nebula Shift, and Coral Mirage.
Features
A527
- Parallel Wizard AS 5pc Maple/Walnut neck
- 691mm/27.2” scale at 7th string, 648mm/25.5” scale at 1st string
- American Basswood body
- Ebony fretboard w/Mother of Pearl Step off-set dot inlay
- Jumbo Stainless Steel frets
- Fishman® Fluence™ Modern Humbucker Alnico 8 (H) neck pickup
- Fishman® Fluence™ Modern Humbucker Ceramic 8 (H) bridge pickup
- Fishman® Fluence™ Voicing switch
- Mono-rail G2 bridge
- Black hardware
- Gotoh® MG-T locking machine heads
- Luminescent side dot inlays
- Gig bag included
- Finishes: Iron Pewter, Nebula Shift
LIST PRICE: $2,533.32
ESTIMATED STREET PRICE: $1.899.99
A528
- Parallel Wizard AS 5pc Maple/Walnut neck
- 698mm/27.5” scale at 8th string, 648mm/25.5” scale at 1st string
- American Basswood body
- Ebony fretboard w/Mother of Pearl Step off-set dot inlay
- Jumbo Stainless Steel frets
- Fishman® Fluence™ Modern Humbucker Alnico 9 (H) neck pickup
- Fishman® Fluence™ Modern Humbucker Ceramic 9 (H) bridge pickup
- Fishman® Fluence™ Voicing switch
- Mono-rail G2 bridge
- Black hardware
- Gotoh® MG-T locking machine heads
- Luminescent side dot inlays
- Gig bag included
- Finishes: Iron Pewter, Coral Mirage
LIST PRICE: $2,666.65
ESTIMATED STREET PRICE: $1.999.99
3rd Power's All-New Highline Series: Behind The Curtain With Builder Dylana Nova Scott!
PG contributor Tom Butwin sits down with Dylana Nova Scott, president and amp designer at Third Power Amplification, to explore the all-new Highline series -- a flexible set of vertical combo configurations for 3rd Power's wide-ranging amplifier offerings. Dylana breaks down the design philosophy of the Highline Series, plus the innovative features and tonal possibilities of her hand-wired amps built for players who demand both classic voice and modern flexibility.
Highline Series
When the amp stands taller, the sound meets you halfway. The HIGHLINE Series is a reimagining of how a guitar amplifier occupies space - visually, physically, and sonically. Inspired by the tall "player-facing" combos of the early 1970s, this vertically oriented enclosure lifts the sound field off the floor and places it where it belongs: directly in front of the player, with the controls at natural standing height. The result is a commanding, immersive wall of sound that feels bigger, clearer, and more immediate - and much easier to use. With flexible speaker configurations including dual 12", triple 10, or a 15"/10" pairing, the HIGHLINESERIES delivers classic authority with modern versatility, wrapped in timeless design. This is not a new amplifier - it's a new way to experience one.
The Shred Decoder: Expand Your Melodic and Rhythmic Control

In my experience, constructing lines has always been about texture and structure. Developing ideas for soloing and writing melodies takes a keen sense of harmonic and rhythmic context. It’s about seducing the listener and delivering a ride that’s hard to forget—a ride that caters to the listener. Of course, it’s important to write for yourself and from the heart, but also remember that if your heart’s intent is to inspire others, then you’re on the right track for the long haul. And this is where melody comes in.
Melody deserves a certain level of priority in relation to harmony and rhythm. In this lesson, I’m going to show you a quick way to start improving your lines. The good news is music knows no bounds and music doesn’t care what level you’re at. Harmony and rhythm need to help each other tell your story.
In Ex. 1 we’ll be playing the Em7 arpeggio (E–G–B–D) in two positions. Don’t worry, we won’t get into too much theory, just remember these shapes can be transposed into any key. The top one starts in 10th position and shifts up the neck, while the bottom one starts in 5th position. Getting these under your fingers will help map out quite a bit of the fretboard. I try to only visualize one octave at a time, and then take that shape and move it wherever I need to chase the melodic and rhythmic ideas that inspire me.

Ex. 2 follows the same idea, but this time using a Gmaj7 arpeggio (G–B–D–F#). I’ve chosen E minor and G major because they are closely related key centers. When learning these arpeggios, focus on the string pairs that occur in each octave. In the extended arpeggio that ascends from the 2nd fret, notice how the patterns recur in each octave. That’s not always the case, as you’ll see in the second arpeggio that ascends from the 9th fret.

Next, we’re going to use the first Gmaj7 arpeggio—the one with the recurring pattern—to practice running through a sequence. Think of Ex. 3 in groups of five. When practicing such lines, I like to use drum grooves instead of a metronome. Now here’s the twist: To progressively challenge my technique, I keep changing the subdivision of the meter I’m using. For example, we’re in 4/4 time here. As I develop the sequence, I’ll increase the subdivision from quarter-notes, to quarter-note triplets, to eighth-notes, to eighth-note triplets, then 16th-notes, and finally 16th-note triplets. That not only increases my speed but it also forces me to be rhythmically aware, thus giving me both speed and accuracy. It gives me full control. Take your time with this example because we’ll apply the same shifting-subdivision concept to the next one.
We revisit the Em7 arpeggio pattern at the 12th fret for Ex. 4. Let’s take a moment to talk about picking. Please use whatever technique you feel most comfortable with, but if you must know, in the corresponding audio clip I’m using as much legato technique as I can. For those not familiar with this term, it means I’m using hammer-ons and pull-offs to sound many of the notes, as indicated in the notation and tab. But there’s no need to get hung up in the picking technique. If you want to pick every note using alternate or economy picking, then do so with style. If you want to hybrid pick, go for it. The point is to increase your rhythmic knowledge and execute some creative ideas.
Now it’s time to step up the subdivisions. In Ex. 5 and Ex. 6, we’re using the same arpeggios we mapped out earlier, only this time we’re playing 16th-notes. If this is something you haven’t done before, don’t be alarmed. Just think of it as a slight increase in speed. Learning to shift subdivisions with seamless control is a great way to expand your ability to develop lines.
Enough with the exercises—let’s make some music. Ex. 7 starts out by traversing the Em7 arpeggio with 16th-notes, then transitions into the next octave using 16th-note triplets. Then for variety, we mix in some pentatonic lyricism. That brings me to a side note: Always step away for a moment from using only arpeggios by mixing in some pentatonic or scalar lyricism to your lines. A line composed of only arpeggios can sound stiff and redundant. One way to avoid this is to sprinkle some scale tones into the phrase.
In Ex. 8, we’re using Em7 arpeggios again, but the position conveniently gives us a full three octaves to work with. Instead of sticking exclusively to the basic shape, I also included some pentatonic moves. Notice how mixing 16th-notes and 16th-note triplets add color to the line. The key to sounding like a professional player is to make sure your playing offers the listener variety in rhythm and note choice.
We head back to the Gmaj7 shape for Ex. 9. It starts out in the lowest octave, which is at the 2nd fret, and once again mixes in that good ol’ E minor pentatonic (E–G–A–B–D) tonality. We repeat the same thing an octave higher, but because we run out of real estate, we need to slide up before finishing off the line in a G major tonality.
In our final example (Ex. 10), we return to the Gmaj7 arpeggio in its higher position, though we’re treating it a bit more lyrically this time around. No sequences, just playing bits and pieces of the arpeggio.


