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Christone "Kingfish" Ingram Announces New Album; Shares First Song
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram's highly-anticipated new album, Hard Road, is set to be released on September 26. The album will be available in various formats, including limited-edition vinyl. Kingfish will embark on a North American tour followed by shows in the EU and UK. Don't miss out on this epic "Hard Road Tour" experience!
Voodoo Charm - YouTube
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GRAMMY® Award-winning blues, rock ‘n’ roll, soul, and R&B musician Christone “Kingfish” Ingram has unveiled his much-anticipated new album, Hard Road, arriving via his own Red Zero Records on Friday, September 26. Pre-orders/pre-saves are available now. Hard Road will be offered in a wide range of formats, including digital, standard Green & White Swirl vinyl, and limited-edition of 500 Purple & Gold Swirl vinyl, available exclusively via the official Christone “Kingfish” Ingram webstore, 100 of these will include a special Golden Ticket insert that will give winners a pair of tickets to a Kingfish show of their choice.
Kingfish’s fourth collection and first new studio album since 2021’s GRAMMY® Award-winning 662, Hard Road is heralded by today’s premiere of the fiery first single, “Voodoo Charm,” available everywhere now.
“I’m definitely excited to drop the first track from Hard Road. ‘Voodoo Charm’ is a high-tempo one that I look forward to playing live, and I also think it will set the stage for what’s to come with my third studio album,” said Ingram. “I hope people dig it and have some real anticipation for what’s in store.”
Widely regarded as one of contemporary blues’ most dynamic live performers, Kingfish will celebrate Hard Road on an epic North American tour that includes headline dates, top-billed festival performances, and more with dates currently underway and then continuing through October. From there, Ingram will take “The Hard Road Tour” across the Atlantic for eagerly awaited shows in the EU and the UK, set to visit Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom through November. 2026 will then see Kingfish making headline appearances on both the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise #44: Eastern Caribbean (January 24-31, 2026) and Jam Cruise 22 (February 7-12, 2026). For complete details and ticket information, please visit www.christonekingfishingram.com/kingfish-tour.
A native son of Clarksdale, Mississippi — a city steeped in blues history — Christone “Kingfish” Ingram stands at the crossroads of legacy and innovation, channeling the spirit of the Delta while fearlessly reshaping its future. His mastery of the guitar, steeped in the tones of B.B. King, Albert King, and Buddy Guy, first turned heads when he was still a teenager. But what sets Ingram apart is how he’s expanded the form, blending in funk, soul, hip-hop, pop, and jazz to create a modern blues fusion that resonates across generations and genres. 2019’s debut album, Kingfish, topped Billboard’s “Blues Albums” for an incredible 91 weeks and earned him his first GRAMMY® Award nomination, plus three Blues Music Awards, including “Album of the Year.” Kingfish followed up with 2021’s 662, titled after his Mississippi area code, which won both the GRAMMY® Award and Blues Music Award for “Best Contemporary Blues Album.” In 2023, the incendiary Live In London received yet another GRAMMY® Award nomination as well as his second Blues Music Award for “Album of the Year” and third consecutive triumph in the “Best Contemporary Blues Album.”
Now, with Hard Road, Kingfish reflects on a journey that’s taken him from local prodigy to global torchbearer for a new era of blues. Executive Produced by Ingram and Ric Whitney for Red Zero Records with production support from Patrick “Guitar Boy” Hayes, Nick Goldston, and Tom Hambridge, the album marks Kingfish’s most introspective and ambitious project thus far, lyrically, emotionally, sonically, and thematically. Songs such as “Bad Like Me” and “Nothin’ But Your Love” explore love, loss, identity, perseverance, and personal growth, but with a harder, emotionally rich edge to Ingram’s signature sound. As always, Kingfish’s renowned guitar work is both explosive and tender, a fusion of rock and R&B sensibilities with vulnerable, honest, resilient blues at its heart. A true statement of purpose from an artist who has already made history and is only getting started, Hard Road is infused with the wisdom of someone who’s lived through transformation, seen the world, and returned home changed.
“This record comes from real-life reflection,” says Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. “I’ve been balancing fame, heartbreak, love, and relationships while trying to stay grounded, touring, creating, and maturing. These songs are about owning my story. They’re about learning to see myself clearly and seeing others with more compassion. That’s changed the way I write, the way I play, and the way I live.”
For more information, please visit christonekingfishingram.com.
Tour Dates
JUNE
28 – Aspen, CO – JAS Aspen June Experience at Wheeler Opera House †
29 – Winter Park, CO – Blues from the Top †
JULY
3 – Montreal, CA – Festival International de Jazz de Montreal †
5 - Sioux City, IA - Saturday in the Park
7 - Scottsdale, AZ - Talking Stick Casino & Resort
8 – Green Bay, WI – The EPIC Event Center
9 – Minneapolis, MN – Pantages Theatre
10 – Sioux Falls, SD – Icon Lounge
12 – Deadwood, SD – Deadwood Blues Festival †
19 – Ottawa, ON – Ottawa Bluesfest †
25 – Tucson, AZ – Rialto Theatre
27 - Salt Lake City, UT - Red Butte Garden
AUGUST
14 - Bloomington, IL - Castle Theatre
15 - 16 Evansville, IN - Mojo's
28 - Vancouver, BC - Commodore Ballroom
30 – Bremerton, WA – Kitsap Blues Music Festival †
SEPTEMBER
4 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Music Hall
5 – Carrboro, NC – Cat’s Cradle
6 – Charlotte, NC – Neighborhood Theatre
7 – Asheville, NC – Orange Peel
9 – Knoxville, TN – Bijou Theatre
12 – Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theater
13 – Birmingham, AL – Iron City Bham
14 - New Orleans, LA - House of Blues
16 – Kansas City, MO – Knuckleheads
17 – St. Louis, MO – The Factory
19 – Chicago, IL – Park West
20 – Detroit, MI – Saint Andrew’s Hall
21 - Pittsburgh, PA - Pittsburgh Int'l Jazz Fest
24 – Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Soundstage
25 – Philadelphia, PA – Union Transfer
27 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza
28 – Asbury Park, NJ – Stone Pony
OCTOBER
1 – Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club
2 – Burlington, VT – Higher Ground
3 – Montreal, QC – Theatre Beanfield
4 – Toronto, ON – Danforth Music Hall
8 – Cincinnati, OH – Taft Theatre
9 – Nashville, TN – Cannery Hall (Mainstage)
10 – Memphis, TN – Overton Park Shell
16 - Los Angeles, CA - TBD changed to The Ford
18 – San Francisco, CA – The Fillmore
19 – Napa, CA – Uptown Theatre
20 – Grass Valley, CA – Center for the Arts
24 – San Diego, CA – The Observatory North Park
25-11/1 – San Diego, CA – Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise #43: Sea of Cortez †
NOVEMBER
7 – Berlin, Germany – Columbia Theater
9 – Munich, Germany – Technikum
10 – Zurich, Switzerland – Kaufleuten
11 – Leverkusen, Germany – Leverkusener Jazztage
13 – Hamburg, Germany – Fabrik
14 – Amsterdam, NL – Melkweg
16 – Paris, France – La Cigale
18 – London, UK – O2 Forum Kentish Town
19 – Manchester, UK – Albert Hall
20 – Wolverhampton, UK – Wulfrun Hall
21 – Glasgow, UK – The Old Fruitmarket
23 – Leeds, UK – Stylus
DECEMBER
3 - Starksville, MS - Mississippi State University (Lyceum Series)
5 - Dallas, TX - Longhorn Ballroom
6 - Austin, TX - Paramount Theater
7 – Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall
JANUARY 2026
24-31 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise #44: Eastern Caribbean †
FEBRUARY 2026
7-12 – Port of Miami, FL – Jam Cruise 22 †
† FESTIVAL APPEARANCE
PRS Guitars Releases “Chleo” Limited Edition Herman Li’s Signature Model
Introducing the PRS Chleo Limited Edition, the signature model designed in collaboration with Herman Li. Featuring Fishman Fluence pickups, a sculpted body carve, and a Gotoh locking tremolo system, this guitar offers players versatility and precision craftsmanship. Only 200 pieces available in 2025.
Chleo Limited Edition | Herman Li Signature Model | PRS Guitars - YouTube
PRS Guitars today launched its first signature guitar with award-winning guitarist, songwriter, producer, and content creator Herman Li, best known for his work as one of the lead guitar players in the power metal band DragonForce. The model is called Chleo, named by Herman as a combination of the names of his children. Featuring several departures from traditional PRS designs, including Fishman Fluence powered pickups, a new sculpted body carve, and several other unique appointments, the Chleo Limited Edition exhibits PRS further spreading its wings. Available in Orchid Dusk and Charcoal Purple Burst, only 200 pieces will be made in 2025.
“With the PRS Chleo, I wanted to create a guitar that combined effortless playability, precision craftsmanship, and a versatile tonal range. It brings together modern innovation with timeless style, giving players the freedom to explore both classic sounds and new creative possibilities. The Chleo isn’t just a signature model — it’s a guitar built to inspire,” said Herman Li.
As a guitar player who is as dedicated to understanding his instrument as he is to continually refining his craft as a player, Li was a formidable partner in designing his signature PRS. At first glance, the Chleo is a seemingly dramatic departure from classic PRS design, but its craftsmanship and quality are wholly PRS. Featuring PRS’s tried-and-true combination of a mahogany back and figured maple top with a maple neck, the Chleo’s body shape and neck have been specially engineered for this model. The body has been modified in several ways from PRS’s traditional profile. Most notably, it is remarkably thin, making it light enough for high-energy stage performances and comfortable for longer gigs. The neck shape and neck joint were specially designed to be comfortable and fast, and with glow-in-the-dark side dots you’ll never lose your place. The neck is very thin front-to-back with a slightly taller playing surface and 20” fretboard radius, and the neck joint has added surface area to promote build integrity and tonal transfer. PRS’s trademark scoop has also been modified for ultimate access to the upper frets, and the last 4 frets are scalloped so players can dig into those notes with ease. If the Chleo wasn’t unmistakable already, its ebony fretboard features a unique “Eclipse Dragon” inlay pattern.
Li’s Signature Series Fishman Fluence pickups are at the heart of the PRS Chleo. These copper-free pickups use layered PCBs for consistent, noise-free performance. With three distinct voices and a versatile switching system, the guitar offers up to 13 unique tone combinations. From fat, aggressive rhythm tones to smooth, warm leads, soaring screams, and crystal-clear single-coil sounds, these pickups cover it all. The performance-friendly control layout makes it easy to switch between tones on the fly. Whether you’re using high-gain tube amps, solid-state rigs, modern amp modelers, or DAW plugins, the Chleo’s pickups are built to shine across any setup.
“This guitar represents a new evolution for PRS. We spent more than four years in research and development, working closely with Herman to get everything exactly right,” said PRS Guitars Director of New Products Engineering, Rob Carhart. “Partnering with Fishman for yet another project continues to be rewarding as well.”
Adding to the innovation is a Gotoh locking tremolo system, enhanced with a new custom PRS stabilizer. It delivers the expressive freedom of a fully floating tremolo, while offering the tuning stability that players love from fixed bridges, delivering confidence and control in any situation.
For more information, please visit prsguitars.com.
PRS Chleo Herman Li Signature Electric Guitar - Charcoal Purple Burst
PRS Guitars Releases “Chleo” Limited Edition Herman Li’s Signature Model
Introducing the PRS Chleo Limited Edition, the signature model designed in collaboration with Herman Li. Featuring Fishman Fluence pickups, a sculpted body carve, and a Gotoh locking tremolo system, this guitar offers players versatility and precision craftsmanship. Only 200 pieces available in 2025.
Chleo Limited Edition | Herman Li Signature Model | PRS Guitars - YouTube
PRS Guitars today launched its first signature guitar with award-winning guitarist, songwriter, producer, and content creator Herman Li, best known for his work as one of the lead guitar players in the power metal band DragonForce. The model is called Chleo, named by Herman as a combination of the names of his children. Featuring several departures from traditional PRS designs, including Fishman Fluence powered pickups, a new sculpted body carve, and several other unique appointments, the Chleo Limited Edition exhibits PRS further spreading its wings. Available in Orchid Dusk and Charcoal Purple Burst, only 200 pieces will be made in 2025.
“With the PRS Chleo, I wanted to create a guitar that combined effortless playability, precision craftsmanship, and a versatile tonal range. It brings together modern innovation with timeless style, giving players the freedom to explore both classic sounds and new creative possibilities. The Chleo isn’t just a signature model — it’s a guitar built to inspire,” said Herman Li.
As a guitar player who is as dedicated to understanding his instrument as he is to continually refining his craft as a player, Li was a formidable partner in designing his signature PRS. At first glance, the Chleo is a seemingly dramatic departure from classic PRS design, but its craftsmanship and quality are wholly PRS. Featuring PRS’s tried-and-true combination of a mahogany back and figured maple top with a maple neck, the Chleo’s body shape and neck have been specially engineered for this model. The body has been modified in several ways from PRS’s traditional profile. Most notably, it is remarkably thin, making it light enough for high-energy stage performances and comfortable for longer gigs. The neck shape and neck joint were specially designed to be comfortable and fast, and with glow-in-the-dark side dots you’ll never lose your place. The neck is very thin front-to-back with a slightly taller playing surface and 20” fretboard radius, and the neck joint has added surface area to promote build integrity and tonal transfer. PRS’s trademark scoop has also been modified for ultimate access to the upper frets, and the last 4 frets are scalloped so players can dig into those notes with ease. If the Chleo wasn’t unmistakable already, its ebony fretboard features a unique “Eclipse Dragon” inlay pattern.
Li’s Signature Series Fishman Fluence pickups are at the heart of the PRS Chleo. These copper-free pickups use layered PCBs for consistent, noise-free performance. With three distinct voices and a versatile switching system, the guitar offers up to 13 unique tone combinations. From fat, aggressive rhythm tones to smooth, warm leads, soaring screams, and crystal-clear single-coil sounds, these pickups cover it all. The performance-friendly control layout makes it easy to switch between tones on the fly. Whether you’re using high-gain tube amps, solid-state rigs, modern amp modelers, or DAW plugins, the Chleo’s pickups are built to shine across any setup.
“This guitar represents a new evolution for PRS. We spent more than four years in research and development, working closely with Herman to get everything exactly right,” said PRS Guitars Director of New Products Engineering, Rob Carhart. “Partnering with Fishman for yet another project continues to be rewarding as well.”
Adding to the innovation is a Gotoh locking tremolo system, enhanced with a new custom PRS stabilizer. It delivers the expressive freedom of a fully floating tremolo, while offering the tuning stability that players love from fixed bridges, delivering confidence and control in any situation.
For more information, please visit prsguitars.com.
PRS Chleo Herman Li Signature Electric Guitar - Charcoal Purple Burst
Sol Philcox-Littlefield Rig Rundown Guitar Gear Tour
Vintage Fenders, Gibsons, and Gretsches get the job done for one of Nashville’s veteran studio players.
Trusted session guitarist Sol Philcox-Littlefield, known for his work with Luke Combs, Tim McGraw, Kelsea Ballerini, and Elle King, among many others, was at Nashville’s FrontStage Studios for some recording work recently, and he invited PG’s John Bohlinger to get a look at all the tools he uses to cut a stellar country record.
Brought to you by D’Addario.
Tax Treat
Philcox-Littlefield picked up this sweet 1967 Gibson ES-335 from Carter Vintage Guitars in Nashville as a treat when he got his end-of-year tax return.
Butcher’s Choice
This 1962 Gibson SG, which has been refinished and “butchered to some degree,” isn’t super comfortable, so it pushes Philcox-Littlefield into less usual, more creative playing.
Also in the studio stable are a Gretsch Chet Atkins Tennessean, another SG loaded with P-90s, a Gibson Les Paul Custom, a Jerry Jones baritone, a Silvertone semi-hollowbody, and a Fender Jazzmaster, Telecaster, and Stratocaster.
Headcount
Philcox-Littlefield’s studio setup includes a cabinet of tube-amp heads hooked up to a Kahayan amp switcher, including a Fender Bassman, Fender Bandmaster, Marshall JCM800, Guytron GT100 F/V, and a Matchless DC-30. Also on the shelf is a Roland Chorus Echo RE-501.
Sol Philcox-Littlefield’s Pedalboard
Philcox-Littlefield’s studio board is packed with goodies. Along with a TC Electronic PolyTune 2, Dunlop volume pedal, Barn3 OXU Three switch, and a Line 6 HX Effects, there’s a Dr. Scientist Bitquest, Analog Man King of Tone, Nordland ODR-C, Greer Lightspeed, Bogner Ecstasy, Way Huge Swollen Pickle, Bondi Effects Squish As, Eventide H90, Strymon El Capistan, Jackson Audio/Silvertone Twin Trem, Electro-Harmonix POG III, Boss CE-2, Boss DC-2, Strymon Deco, and Strymon Mobius.
Eventide H90 Harmonizer Multi-effects Pedal
Jackson Audio/Silvertone Twin Trem
Mick Ralphs of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople Dies at 81
Mick Ralphs’ burly guitar tone and arrangements made “Ready for Love,” “Can’t Get Enough,” “Bad Company,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and others part of the soundtrack of the ’70s.
English guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Mick Ralphs was among a select group of performers who achieved both consistent commercial success and artistic triumph throughout a career that extended from the mid-’60s until 2016, when a stroke led to his hospitalization and, eventually, retirement. Ralphs, who died on Monday, June 23, at age 81, was a founding member of two seminal British rock bands, Mott the Hoople and Bad Company. But he also had other collaborations and led groups that faithfully performed the other idiom he loved besides rock—the blues. Bad Company was recently voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with its induction ceremony scheduled for November. His co-founding Bad Company member Paul Rodgers issued a statement Monday on the group’s website shortly after the news broke.
“Our Mick has passed; my heart just hit the ground,” Rodgers said. “He has left us with exceptional songs and memories. He was my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humor. Our last conversation was a few days ago, we shared a laugh, but it won’t be our last. There are many memories of Mick that will create laughter. Condolences to everyone who loved him—especially his one true love, [Ralphs’ wife] Susie. I will see you in heaven.”
Ralphs was born in 1944 in the Western English county of Herefordshire, and began playing with blues bands in his teens. As a soloist, Ralphs could deliver either flashy, speedy licks or thoughtful, intricate riffs and phrases. His songwriting prowess reflected an ability to create catchy lyrics and pen engaging melodies that would hook audiences. His fame and recognition expanded during his tenure in Mott the Hoople. Initially known as the Doc Thomas Group, and later the Shakedown Sound and/or Silence, the band began in 1966 with Ralphs on guitar, vocalist Stan Tippis, and bassist Pete Overend Watts. Later they added drummer Dale “Buffin” Griffin and organist Verden Allen.
They changed their name to Mott the Hoople after signing with Island in 1969, doing so on a request from producer Guy Stevens. He’d read a novel by Willard Manus titled Mott the Hoople, about an eccentric working in a circus freak show. Before releasing their debut album, Ian Hunter was recruited as frontman. The band’s early records didn’t make much impact, but David Bowie was a fan of their sound. He penned their first huge hit, “All The Young Dudes,” and produced their breakout LP of the same name in 1972. The Bowie influence heavily shifted the band’s idiomatic focus to glam. Still, Ralphs had one of his first big hits as a songwriter, “Rock and Roll Queen,” while with them. He also wrote a tune that would become a much bigger hit later: “Ready For Love.”
Ralphs’ dynamic guitar style would be headlined on yet another Hoople hit, “Roll Away the Stone.” This came right before he departed the band in 1973, in large part due to tensions with Hunter. Their beef even reached the rock press, though Ralphs’ decision would lead to a different pathway and subsequently more personal success as an instrumentalist and songwriter. He’d developed a friendship with vocalist Paul Rodgers, who’d also recently left the band Free. What was first viewed as only a writing partnership blossomed into a recording session, and drummer Simon Kirke asked to sit in. They would recruit former King Crimson member Boz Burrell as the bassist, and Bad Company was born. The self-titled debut LP topped the charts, Ralphs’ tune “Can’t Get Enough” (also known as “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love”) reached number five on Billboard Hot 100, and the album was ultimately certified as a five-times-platinum seller.
Instantly identifiable power chords, crackling riffs, and engaging, entertaining lyrics were the assets of the best Bad Company singles and albums. Ralphs’ array of compositional gems also included “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad,” and a re-recorded, bigger hit version of “Ready for Love.” In addition, he co-wrote “Bad Company,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and many other staples of the classic-rock canon. Bad Company cut 12 albums in one incarnation or another between 1974 and 1996. Ralphs and Rodgers would maintain their friendship and work together periodically during Ralph’s later years. He’d also have reunions with his mates in Mott the Hoople (2009, 2013) and Bad Company (2008, 2010, 2016). He even toured with Hunter in 2002. One of his finest post-Hoople/Bad Company achievements was co-writing “Flying Hour” with George Harrison in 1988, plus he toured with David Gilmour in the mid-’80s, for Gilmour’s second solo album, About Face.
“Feel Like Makin’ Love” and “Ready for Love” might be the most familiar essays in Ralphs’ guitar style. He favored Marshall stacks and explored both their clear and overdriven characteristics. In “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” his blend of acoustic and electric guitar helped define that classic rock trope, and the crushing chords of the refrain are the stuff air-guitar fantasies are made of. Plus, his closing solo, a backdrop to Rodgers’ singing, is pure Les Paul and Marshall bluster. In the latter, his sweet-toned playing walks a line between blues and rock balladry, with a pre-chorus and chorus reinforced by his stinging chords. And while the solo is yielded to Rodgers’ piano, it’s Ralphs who creates the song’s spine. His usual tools: Gibson Les Paul Standards and Juniors, Firebirds, SGs, and a Flying V in the video for “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” as well as Fender Stratocasters, Telecasters, and Esquires.
Ralphs’ forays into solo albums wouldn’t prove quite as successful as his group projects. He cut Take This, his first, in 1984, and released It’s All Good in 2001, and That’s Life—Can’t Get Enough in 2003. None of those replicated the success of the Mott the Hoople or Bad Company releases, but in 2011 Ralphs would return to his early musical love. He formed the Mick Ralphs Blues Band. Though his final performing years weren’t marked with the big hits that characterized his greatest commercial period, Mick Ralphs had a lengthy and impressive career, and he’ll long be remembered for being a prime contributor to some of rock’s finest ensembles. His brawny guitar tones will remain a signature of classic-rock radio as long as the format exists. PG
Mike Ralphs of Bad Company and Mott the Hoople Dies at 81
Mick Ralphs’ burly guitar tone and arrangements made “Ready for Love,” “Can’t Get Enough,” “Bad Company,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and others part of the soundtrack of the ’70s.
English guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Mick Ralphs was among a select group of performers who achieved both consistent commercial success and artistic triumph throughout a career that extended from the mid-’60s until 2016, when a stroke led to his hospitalization and, eventually, retirement. Ralphs, who died on Monday, June 23, at age 81, was a founding member of two seminal British rock bands, Mott the Hoople and Bad Company. But he also had other collaborations and led groups that faithfully performed the other idiom he loved besides rock—the blues. Bad Company was recently voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with its induction ceremony scheduled for November. His co-founding Bad Company member Paul Rodgers issued a statement Monday on the group’s website shortly after the news broke.
“Our Mick has passed; my heart just hit the ground,” Rodgers said. “He has left us with exceptional songs and memories. He was my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humor. Our last conversation was a few days ago, we shared a laugh, but it won’t be our last. There are many memories of Mick that will create laughter. Condolences to everyone who loved him—especially his one true love, [Ralphs’ wife] Susie. I will see you in heaven.”
Ralphs was born in 1944 in the Western English county of Herefordshire, and began playing with blues bands in his teens. As a soloist, Ralphs could deliver either flashy, speedy licks or thoughtful, intricate riffs and phrases. His songwriting prowess reflected an ability to create catchy lyrics and pen engaging melodies that would hook audiences. His fame and recognition expanded during his tenure in Mott the Hoople. Initially known as the Doc Thomas Group, and later the Shakedown Sound and/or Silence, the band began in 1966 with Ralphs on guitar, vocalist Stan Tippis, and bassist Pete Overend Watts. Later they added drummer Dale “Buffin” Griffin and organist Verden Allen.
They changed their name to Mott the Hoople after signing with Island in 1969, doing so on a request from producer Guy Stevens. He’d read a novel by Willard Manus titled Mott the Hoople, about an eccentric working in a circus freak show. Before releasing their debut album, Ian Hunter was recruited as frontman. The band’s early records didn’t make much impact, but David Bowie was a fan of their sound. He penned their first huge hit, “All The Young Dudes,” and produced their breakout LP of the same name in 1972. The Bowie influence heavily shifted the band’s idiomatic focus to glam. Still, Ralphs had one of his first big hits as a songwriter, “Rock and Roll Queen,” while with them. He also wrote a tune that would become a much bigger hit later: “Ready For Love.”
Ralphs’ dynamic guitar style would be headlined on yet another Hoople hit, “Roll Away the Stone.” This came right before he departed the band in 1973, in large part due to tensions with Hunter. Their beef even reached the rock press, though Ralphs’ decision would lead to a different pathway and subsequently more personal success as an instrumentalist and songwriter. He’d developed a friendship with vocalist Paul Rodgers, who’d also recently left the band Free. What was first viewed as only a writing partnership blossomed into a recording session, and drummer Simon Kirke asked to sit in. They would recruit former King Crimson member Boz Burrell as the bassist, and Bad Company was born. The self-titled debut LP topped the charts, Ralphs’ tune “Can’t Get Enough” (also known as “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love”) reached number five on Billboard Hot 100, and the album was ultimately certified as a five-times-platinum seller.
Instantly identifiable power chords, crackling riffs, and engaging, entertaining lyrics were the assets of the best Bad Company singles and albums. Ralphs’ array of compositional gems also included “Good Lovin’ Gone Bad,” and a re-recorded, bigger hit version of “Ready for Love.” In addition, he co-wrote “Bad Company,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and many other staples of the classic-rock canon. Bad Company cut 12 albums in one incarnation or another between 1974 and 1996. Ralphs and Rodgers would maintain their friendship and work together periodically during Ralph’s later years. He’d also have reunions with his mates in Mott the Hoople (2009, 2013) and Bad Company (2008, 2010, 2016). He even toured with Hunter in 2002. One of his finest post-Hoople/Bad Company achievements was co-writing “Flying Hour” with George Harrison in 1988, plus he toured with David Gilmour in the mid-’80s, for Gilmour’s second solo album, About Face.
“Feel Like Makin’ Love” and “Ready for Love” might be the most familiar essays in Ralphs’ guitar style. He favored Marshall stacks and explored both their clear and overdriven characteristics. In “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” his blend of acoustic and electric guitar helped define that classic rock trope, and the crushing chords of the refrain are the stuff air-guitar fantasies are made of. Plus, his closing solo, a backdrop to Rodgers’ singing, is pure Les Paul and Marshall bluster. In the latter, his sweet-toned playing walks a line between blues and rock balladry, with a pre-chorus and chorus reinforced by his stinging chords. And while the solo is yielded to Rodgers’ piano, it’s Ralphs who creates the song’s spine. His usual tools: Gibson Les Paul Standards and Juniors, Firebirds, SGs, and a Flying V in the video for “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” as well as Fender Stratocasters, Telecasters, and Esquires.
Ralphs’ forays into solo albums wouldn’t prove quite as successful as his group projects. He cut Take This, his first, in 1984, and released It’s All Good in 2001, and That’s Life—Can’t Get Enough in 2003. None of those replicated the success of the Mott the Hoople or Bad Company releases, but in 2011 Ralphs would return to his early musical love. He formed the Mick Ralphs Blues Band. Though his final performing years weren’t marked with the big hits that characterized his greatest commercial period, Mick Ralphs had a lengthy and impressive career, and he’ll long be remembered for being a prime contributor to some of rock’s finest ensembles. His brawny guitar tones will remain a signature of classic-rock radio as long as the format exists. PG
4 Pedals For Pro Acoustic Tones
PG contributor Tom Butwin details four pedalboard options that can help your acoustic sound its best onstage or in the studio. From subtle enhancements to total tone control, these preamps and effects from Grace Design, LR Baggs, and Radial cover the needs of any serious acoustic player.
Grace Design MOXi Acoustic Instrument Preamp
Grace Design’s Moxi is a powerful dual-channel preamp and blender that offers studio-level control in a surprisingly compact footprint. With independent EQ and high-pass filtering on both channels, it’s perfect for managing multiple instruments or pickups—especially in live scenarios where switching between guitars can be a headache. What sets it apart is the ability to blend two sources (like mic + pickup) or quickly toggle between instruments with different EQ profiles. Whether you’re solo or managing your own sound, the Moxy keeps your setup flexible without sacrificing tone.
LR Baggs Align Session Acoustic Saturation/Compressor/EQ Pedal
The Session from LR Baggs is a smart, stage-ready pedal designed to give your acoustic guitar signal that final polish. Even if your pickup already sounds great, this pedal adds subtle compression and harmonic richness that really elevate your tone. With controls for volume, gain, saturation, and a simplified “comp EQ,” it's incredibly intuitive—especially for those of us who don't want to get lost in compressor settings. The goal here is to retain the natural sound of your acoustic while giving it a warm, studio-finished edge.
LR Baggs Align Chorus Acoustic Chorus Pedal
The Align Chorus by LR Baggs gives acoustic players a lush, musical modulation option without compromising their guitar’s natural tone. Instead of overwhelming your sound, the pedal preserves your guitar’s character while adding subtle to rich chorus textures. The tone knob only affects the chorus effect itself, not your dry signal, which is key if you love the core tone of your instrument. With intuitive controls for depth and size, it’s easy to dial in anything from a gentle shimmer to a more expansive chorus that still feels organic and usable.
Radial PZ-Pro 2-channel Acoustic Preamp Pedal
Radial’s PZ Pre is a tone-shaping Swiss Army knife for acoustic players. With two inputs, full EQ, a notch filter, effects loop, and multiple output options (pre- and post-EQ), this pedal is all about adaptability. It excels in complex stage setups where you might need different EQ profiles for monitors and front of house, or if you’re switching between instruments. The A/B toggle makes instrument changes seamless, and the boost function is perfect for stepping out during a solo. Whether you play acoustic guitar, upright bass, or even switch between them, the PZ Pre handles it all with pro-level control.
What's New: June 24th, 2025
The Rig Rundown Rig Rundown!
I've been lucky to serve as host, producer, and editor of the Rig Rundown for Premier Guitar for over a decade, and in this video, we'll walk through the cameras and audio gear we're currently using to bring you in-depth looks at your favorite artists' rigs. You'll see how Chris Kies and I have evolved our video and audio setup over the years and how a recent chance encounter led to a major upgrade with help and advice from our friends at Sweetwater.
John Fahey: The Black Flag of Solo Steel-String with Hayden Pedigo
You could call John Fahey the Johnny Appleseed of solo steel-string guitar playing, but Black Flag is probably a more appropriate reference. Like the punk progenitors would do many years later, Fahey not only crafted a uniquely rooted musical approach that would be adopted by legions of practitioners, he self-released his records on his Takoma Records label and hit the road, well before DIY was a common approach.
Transform Your Acoustic Tone with These 4 Pedals
PG contributor Tom Butwin details four pedalboard options that can help your acoustic sound its best onstage or in the studio. From subtle enhancements to total tone control, these preamps and effects from Grace Design, LR Baggs, and Radial cover the needs of any serious acoustic player.Martin D Jr E StreetLegend Review
In some ways, it’s hard to know whether to categorize the Martin D Jr E StreetLegend as a backpack or travel guitar. After all, Martin still maintains the LX Little Martin line, which is marketed in very specific terms as a travel instrument. And the D Jr E’s size, which isn’t a whole lot smaller than my Martin 00-15, stretches the boundaries of that classification. But Martin definitely leans into the go-anywhere appeal of the D Jr E and its brethren in the new revamped Junior Series. If the soft case fits, wear it. Assuming it lives, at least partly, in that category, it is among the best sounding travel guitars I’ve ever played. Thanks to the all-solid spruce and sapele body construction, it possesses a warm, woody, and organic voice that is likely made richer by the new, longer 24.9" scale.
Introducing the Marcus King ES-345
Guitars represent a rich musical legacy and hold a special place in our hearts. The new Marcus King ES-345 is a beautiful example of that tradition—a recreation inspired by his main guitar, “Big Red,” the 1962 ES-345 handed down from his grandfather to his father and finally to him.
Limitless Limitations: A Guide to Better Blues Solos
Improvisation is one of the great joys in music that celebrates spontaneity and self-expression. It gives us a chance to explore our instrument and what we naturally hear and feel in an open format. Limitations help challenge us to improvise inside specific parameters and, as a result, can break us out of our typical musical vocabulary.
Latest News
Jackson is launching the X Series Surfcaster & the JS Series Surfcaster
Fender Brings the Heat this Summer with a New Range of Innovative Products
Spector’s Doug Wimbish Euro 4 Signature Now Available
How to Custom Build A Tele from StewMac
Ever dreamed of building your own custom electric guitar from scratch? In this 8-part series, StewMac’s Brock Poling walks you through the entire process — no big workshop or expensive CNC machines required! You just need a little patience, imagination, and attention to detail to create a guitar you'll treasure for a lifetime.
T-Style Electric Guitar Kit
Episode #2 - Gluing up the foundation of your guitar
Now the real fun begins! In Episode 2, we’re making all the big decisions that will define your custom electric guitar. What body shape will you choose? What types of wood will bring out the tone you want? What style hardware will complete your vision? Join Brock as he walks through his own design process of crafting a stunning rosewood tele, and sharing expert tips along the way.
Tools and supplies featured in this video include:
Luthier’s Digital Caliper https://www.stewmac.com/item/0447
Stewmac Hygrometer/Thermometer https://www.stewmac.com/item/5814
Fret/Fingerboard Leveler https://www.stewmac.com/item/4579
StewMac Machinist Square Set https://www.stewmac.com/item/4950
Titebond Original https://www.stewmac.com/item/0622
Aluminum Bar Clamp https://www.stewmac.com/item/3714
Stewmac Ultimate Scraper https://www.stewmac.com/item/103469
Episode #3 - Cutting a tele build to its final shape
A great guitar starts with a rock-solid foundation! In Episode 3, Brock walks you through the crucial steps of prepping and gluing up your body blank. Learn how to avoid imperfections in the wood, line everything up perfectly, and clamp it all together for a super strong, stable body.
Episode #4 - Cutting a tele build to its final shape
In Episode 4, Brock walks you through the process of cutting and shaping your guitar body. You’ll learn how to accurately trace your body template, make a rough cut on the bandsaw, and then carefully route the blank to its final shape. By the end of this step, you’ll have a guitar body that looks and feels like the real deal—and you’ll be one step closer to playing your own custom build!
Tools and supplies featured in this video include:
Precision Straightedge https://www.stewmac.com/item/3849
Cam Clamp https://www.stewmac.com/item/3723
Titebond Original Glue https://www.stewmac.com/item/0662
Swivel Handle Clamp https://www.stewmac.com/item/3705
Routing Template for Vintage Tele https://www.stewmac.com/item/2376
Episode #5 - Picking hardware and routing the neck pocket
Now it’s time to gear up! In Episode 5, we’re going shopping for all the essential hardware that will bring your custom guitar to life—pickups, bridges, ferrules, knobs, jack plates, and more! Once the parts are picked, it’s back to the build. Brock shows you how to customize and use a neck pocket template to anticipate an oil finish, then carefully route the neck pocket for a perfect fit. To wrap things up, we true up the body sides using a variety of sanding cauls for a clean, pro-level result.
Tools and supplies featured in this video include:
TV Jones Classic Pickup https://www.stewmac.com/item/6536
Hipshot Hardtail Bridge https://www.stewmac.com/item/3550
Dome Knob https://www.stewmac.com/item/0169
Electrosocket Jack Mount https://www.stewmac.com/item/4284
Neck Mounting Plate https://www.stewmac.com/item/0131
Neck Pocket Routing Template for Fender https://www.stewmac.com/item/2276
Orange Multi-Purpose Tape https://www.stewmac.com/item/0678
Double-stick Tape https://www.stewmac.com/item/2711
Routing Template for Vintage Tele https://www.stewmac.com/item/2376
StewMac Machinist Square Set https://www.stewmac.com/item/4950
Bridge Spatula https://www.stewmac.com/item/4466
3M Stickit Gold Abrasives https://www.stewmac.com/item/5766
StewMac Shop Rule https://www.stewmac.com/item/4905
Episode #6 - How to get PERFECT bridge placement on your guitar
In Episode 6, we’re focusing on one of the most critical steps in your guitar build—precisely locating and mounting the bridge. A well-placed bridge is essential for great playability, intonation, and tuning stability, so getting this right is a must! Brock walks you through his method of using a surrogate guitar neck to dial in the exact bridge position. Then, we temporarily mount the bridge to the body to determine the perfect placement for the string ferrules—a step that can be tricky, but Brock shares a game-changing tip to get it right every time.
Tools and supplies featured in this video include:
Fender Roasted Maple Telecaster Neck https://www.stewmac.com/item/5839-M
StewMac Shop Rule https://www.stewmac.com/item/6246
Cam Clamp https://www.stewmac.com/item/3723
Hipshot Hardtail Bridge https://www.stewmac.com/item/3550
Double-stick Tape https://www.stewmac.com/item/2711
Inlay Tracing Scribe https://www.stewmac.com/item/1672
Bridge Spatula https://www.stewmac.com/item/4466
ColorTone Naphtha https://www.stewmac.com/item/0766
Flush-fit Guitar String Ferrules https://www.stewmac.com/item/0196
Episode #7 - Creative routing for pickup and control cavities
In Episode 7, Brock guides you through routing the pickup and control cavities using customized templates. He covers what to consider when positioning your pickups and explains why making your own jigs is an essential skill for any guitar builder. And if you make a mistake? No problem—Brock shows how to recover from a routing slip using rosewood dust and superglue.
Tools and supplies featured in this video include:
TV Jones Classic Pickup https://www.stewmac.com/item/6536
Double-stick Tape https://www.stewmac.com/item/2711
StewMac Shop Rule https://www.stewmac.com/item/4905
StewMac Pocket File https://www.stewmac.com/item/4160
10 Thin StewMac Super Glue https://www.stewmac.com/item/0010
Episode #8 - Drilling for electronics and prep sanding for finish!
We’ve made it to the final step! In Episode 8, Brock Poling walks you through the last crucial details—drilling holes for the electronic wires, locating and drilling the jack hole, and rounding over the edges for a smooth, comfortable feel. To wrap it all up, Brock carefully sands the entire body, getting it prepped and ready for an oil finish. After this step, your guitar will be fully shaped and ready for a neck!
Tools and supplies featured in this video include:
12” Aircraft Extension Drill Bit https://www.stewmac.com/item/4840
Inlay Tracing Scribe https://www.stewmac.com/item/1672
Orange Multi-Purpose Tape https://www.stewmac.com/item/0678
Cam Clamp https://www.stewmac.com/item/3723
StewMac Shop Rule https://www.stewmac.com/item/4905
Electrosocket Jack Mount https://www.stewmac.com/item/4284
3M Stickit Gold Abrasives https://www.stewmac.com/item/5766
Win a KERNOM MOHO Fuzz and Octave Pedal
We’re giving away a KERNOM MOHO, a wild and expressive fuzz-octave pedal that pushes analog tone into new territory. Don’t miss your chance to win!
Kernom MOHO Multi Fuzz
Kernom MOHO MultiFuzz
A New Era of Fuzz ExplorationMOHO is your fuzz time machine. Go from Hendrix’s 60s fuzz to Smashing Pumpkins’ wall of sound. Whether you crave the velcro-like bite of under-biased transistors, the roaring sustain of a Big Muff, or the unpredictable chaos of a ring modulator, MOHO morphs between legendary tones and new sonic territories.
- Seamless Morphing: Explore fuzz tones from vintage to modern with the MOOD knob
- Analog Warmth + Digital Precision: No emulation, just real analog fuzz circuits
- Built-in Octaver & Ring Modulator: Create wild, glitchy, and synth-like textures
- MIDI & Preset Control: Save and recall 128 presets for total control
- Expression Pedal Input: Morph between two fuzz settings in real time
Martin D Jr E StreetLegend Review
In some ways, it’s hard to know whether to categorize the Martin D Jr E StreetLegend as a backpack or travel guitar. After all, Martin still maintains the LX Little Martin line, which is marketed in very specific terms as a travel instrument. And the D Jr E’s size, which isn’t a whole lot smaller than my Martin 00-15, stretches the boundaries of that classification. But Martin definitely leans into the go-anywhere appeal of the D Jr E and its brethren in the new revamped Junior Series. If the soft case fits, wear it. Assuming it lives, at least partly, in that category, it is among the best sounding travel guitars I’ve ever played. Thanks to the all-solid spruce and sapele body construction, it possesses a warm, woody, and organic voice that is likely made richer by the new, longer 24.9" scale.
Stretching Travel Boundaries
Even apart from backpack-guitar-or-not classification questions, it must be a little tricky marketing the D Jr E StreetLegend. With its distressed finish, the StreetLegend version costs just less than 900 bucks, which, in inflationary times, might be a threshold that budget-conscious, small-guitar customers might be hard-pressed to cross. But if you broaden your expectations of what the D Jr E StreetLegend can be, the price looks less formidable, because it can definitely be a front-line, everyday instrument.
If you’ve spent any considerable time with Martins, the D Jr will feel familiar, and though its shrunken dreadnought body profile can be oddly disorienting, the longer, 24.9" scale (the previous Junior series guitars featured a 24" scale) is the same as full-sized Martin mainstays like the 000 and 00. At 1 3/4", the nut width matches the wider spec for the Martin OM, which lends the D Jr E fretboard a spacious, accommodating feel. I’d wager that more than a few players would identify the D Jr E as an instrument from Martin’s full-sized lines. Body aside, it just doesn’t feel small.
Like many guitars built in Martin’s Mexico factory, the D Jr E StreetLegend’s build quality is excellent. And though it doesn’t benefit from the nano-level attention to detail of an upmarket Nazareth-built guitar, you won’t see a trace of the hastily sanded bracing or sloppy fret dressing that mark many accessibly priced instruments. The rounded and beveled fretboard edges, which also highlight the very nice fretwork, give the D Jr E a comfortable, broken-in, and inviting feel. Our review guitar’s action was on the high side (though well within the bounds of acceptable), and though Martin didn’t include a hex wrench for adjusting the neck relief, there is room for adjustment there, as well as a break angle at the bridge that will permit shaving a few millimeters off if you want to adjust the action from that end of the string’s length.
“You won’t see a trace of the hastily sanded bracing or sloppy fret dressing that marks many accessibly priced instruments.”
It’s important to know that the D Jr E StreetLegend is not the only junior dreadnought in the line. And if you want to save 200 bucks you can opt for the natural finish D Jr E. That’s a good thing in more ways than one, because the distressed finish on the StreetLegend version is bound to be polarizing. Though the “wear” is patterned after instruments in Martin’s own museum, and identical to the pattern on the $2,500 D-18 StreetLegend, the effect is created on the D Jr E by dyeing the top and the almost uniform flatness in the distressed zone makes the faux finish damage less than convincing.
Boisterously Voiced
The D Jr E, like many small-body flattops, is strong in the midrange, which can generate brashness under really hard strumming, and if you use that technique exclusively, the bass can be a bit too boxy to offset the bright presence of the mids. If you suspect you have a heavy hand, it will pay to check how the guitar responds to your approach. A lighter touch definitely brings out the best in the D Jr E, and though there’s not much dynamic range in terms of headroom, it sounds awake and responsive to picking nuance.
The Martin E1 electronics and built-in tuner go a long way toward enhancing the utility of the D Jr E. The presence of any reasonably effective pickup and preamp would make the D Jr E very appealing to a gigging guitarist on the move. But the E-1 system is remarkably natural sounding for an affordable acoustic pickup and it can do a lot to round off sharp edges in the guitar’s treble spectrum when amplified and playing loud.
The Verdict
Though the effectiveness and appeal of the distressed StreetLegend finish will be a very personal matter, there is no denying the D Jr E’s strengths—most notably a great neck, solid woods, and responsiveness to a light touch. The extra 200 bucks you’ll pay for the StreetLegend finish makes the D Jr E seem more expensive than it should be, so it’s important to point out again that the more traditional natural finish model, at $699, will be much kinder to thy wallet and is priced more in line with comparable guitars in the liminal market space between travel, backpack, and merely small guitars. Given that, you should consider the value and design scores here on a sliding scale. But any small flattop that features all-solid-wood body construction, an OM’s wider nut width, a full scale, and fits in an overhead bin merits attention. Martin has, indeed, carved out a very interesting niche here.
Introducing the Marcus King ES-345
Guitars represent a rich musical legacy and hold a special place in our hearts. The new Marcus King ES-345 is a beautiful example of that tradition—a recreation inspired by his main guitar, “Big Red,” the 1962 ES-345 handed down from his grandfather to his father and finally to him.
This modern version captures the look and soul of the original, with only the features that Marcus finds essential, including mono wiring, a pair of Custombucker humbucking pickups, a fixed Vibrola tailpiece for improved tuning stability, and a stud anchor cover customized specifically for Marcus. All the hallmark features of the ES-345 are still here, just refined through the lens of a legacy that spans generations and stages around the world.
Gibson Marcus King ES-345 Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar - Sixties Cherry
Fender Brings the Heat this Summer with a New Range of Innovative Products
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is turning up the volume with the launch of its newest lineup—an electrifying new collection of world-class guitars, amps, and accessories. Fueled by a relentless passion for innovation and excellence, Fender® is once again redefining the sound of tomorrow, igniting the journey of the next generation of players across the globe.
Packed with innovation and the legendary craftsmanship that’s defined the brand for nearly 80 years, this latest rollout proves Fender isn’t just riding the momentum—it’s accelerating it. Key highlights include the Squier® Classic VibeTM, California Acoustics, expansion of Mustang® Series and new HammertoneTM Pedals amongst others.
“At Fender, we’re always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the world of instrumentation - for players at every level,” said Justin Norvell, Executive Vice President of Product and Sales at Fender. “This falls lineup reflects our commitment to innovation, craftsmanship and tone. From next-gen guitars to powerful new amps and performance-driven accessories, we’ve built this range to inspire creativity and elevate the playing experience in every genre. We’re proud to carry forward our legacy by continuing to shape the future of music whilst also paying homage to our heritage and the traditions that got us here in the first place.”
Classic Vibe™ ‘50s Stratocaster® HT ($449.99 USD, £439.99 GBP, €519 EUR, $849.00 AUD, ¥66,000 JPY) A tribute to the early days of the Stratocaster® in the 1950s, the Classic Vibe™ ‘50s Stratocaster® HT from Squier® delivers authentic vintage style and tone. Inspired by original 1950s-era Stratocaster models, this guitar features three Fender Designed™ alnico single-coil pickups that produce clear, articulate sound with classic character. The 6-saddle hardtail bridge—an option first introduced in 1955—offers excellent tuning stability and intonation. Its string-through-body design enhances sustain and resonance, adding depth to every note. Visually, this model channels the spirit of the decade with period-correct headstock markings, rich nickel-plated hardware, and a vintage-tinted gloss neck finish that adds to its old-school appeal. The result is a striking blend of classic Fender style and modern playability. Available in Shell Pink and Surf Green.
Classic Vibe™ ‘70s Stratocaster® HT HSS ($449.99 USD, £439.99 GBP, €519 EUR, $849.00 AUD, ¥66,000 JPY) A tip of the hat to the large-headstock Strat® models produced during the 1970s, the Classic Vibe™ ‘70s Stratocaster® HT HSS delivers punchy tones courtesy of its Fender Designed™ alnico pickups in an HSS configuration, including a powerful humbucking bridge pickup. A popular feature during the ’70s, the hardtail bridge (HT) provides stable intonation, while its string-through-body design enhances overall body resonance. This throwback Squier® model also features 1970s-inspired headstock markings, a 6-saddle string-through-body hardtail bridge, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware, and a slick vintage-tinted gloss neck finish for an unmistakable old-school vibe. Available in Olympic White and Mocha.
Classic Vibe™ Custom Esquire® ($473.99 USD, £449.99 GBP, €539.00 EUR, $899.00 AUD, ¥66,000 JPY) A tribute to the double-bound body Esquire® models of the late ’50s and ’60s, the Classic Vibe™ Custom Esquire® delivers incredible tone courtesy of its Fender Designed alnico single-coil bridge pickup. An innovative feature from the era, the 3-position blade switch offers versatile tone options—including tone control bypass, variable tone control, and a pre-set tone capacitor for added bass-y warmth. This throwback Squier® model also features period-inspired headstock markings, a double-bound body, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware, and a slick vintage-tinted gloss neck finish for an unmistakable old-school vibe. Available in Candy Apple Red and Sherwood Green.
Classic Vibe™ Custom Telecaster® SH with Bigsby® ($524.99 USD, £479.99 GBP, €569.00 EUR, $999.00 AUD, ¥74,800 JPY) A tribute to the double-bound body Tele® models of the late ’50s and ’60s, the Classic Vibe™ Custom Telecaster® creates incredible tone courtesy of its Fender Designed™ alnico single-coil bridge and humbucking neck pickups (SH). Delivering expressive vibrato effects, the Bigsby® tailpiece features a string-through design for easy restringing and is complemented by a floating bridge with barrel saddles for optimal intonation stability. This throwback Squier® model also features a double-bound body, period-inspired headstock markings, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware, and a slick vintage-tinted gloss neck finish for an old-school vibe. Available in Lake Placid Blue and Aztec Gold.
Classic Vibe™ Duo-Sonic™ HS ($419.99 USD, £419.99 GBP, €499 EUR, $799.00 AUD, ¥66,000 JPY) With a comfortable compact body size and a short 24” scale length, the Classic Vibe™ Duo-Sonic™ HS punches above its weight with a Fender Designed™ alnico single-coil neck pickup and humbucking bridge pickup for superior tone. The vintage-style string-through-body hardtail bridge provides stable intonation and enhances body resonance for improved sustain. This throwback Squier® model also features period-inspired headstock markings, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware, and a slick vintage-tinted gloss neck finish for an old-school vibe. Available in Desert Sand and Lake Placid Blue.
Classic Vibe™ Telecaster® Bass ($473.99 USD, £419.99 GBP, €539 EUR, $899.00 AUD, ¥66,000 JPY) Blending styling cues from late-1960s and early-1970s Telecaster® models, the Classic Vibe™ Telecaster® Bass from Squier® reimagines the rare, humbucker-equipped design that defined an adventurous era in music. At its core is a Fender Designed alnico wide range humbucking pickup in the neck position, delivering a bold, thunderous tone that adapts effortlessly to a wide range of playing styles. This vintage-style bass features a Telecaster-inspired headstock and pickguard shape, paired with a contoured body that enhances playing comfort during long sessions. A 4-saddle bridge with slotted barrel saddles provides solid intonation and classic feel, while nickel-plated hardware adds a touch of visual richness. Completing the retro aesthetic is a vintage-tinted gloss neck finish, giving the instrument a warm, old-school vibe that looks as good as it sounds. Available in Mocha and Vintage White.
Classic Vibe™ Active ‘70s Jazz Bass® ($524.99 USD, £489.99 GBP, €579 EUR, $999.00 AUD, ¥81,400 JPY) The Classic Vibe™ Active ’70s Jazz Bass® draws inspiration from the iconic basses that shaped the funky tones of the 1970s, combining vintage aesthetics with modern performance through the addition of an onboard preamp. Powering this Squier® groove machine is a pair of Fender Designed alnico Noiseless™ Jazz Bass® pickups, delivering punchy, hum-free tone. The 9-volt preamp offers a full suite of controls, including volume, pickup blend, treble and bass boost, along with a toggle switch to move between active and passive operation for complete tone-shaping flexibility. Additional features include a HiMass™ bridge for enhanced sustain and resonance, a bound fingerboard with block inlays, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware, and a slick vintage-tinted gloss neck finish that adds to its unmistakable old-school vibe. Available in Mocha and Ocean Turquoise.
Classic Vibe™ Active ‘70s Jazz Bass® V ($556.99 USD, £509 GBP, €609 EUR, $999.00 AUD, ¥85,800 JPY) The Classic Vibe™ Active ’70s Jazz Bass® V draws its inspiration from the infamous basses that defined the funky tones of the 1970s, adding an onboard preamp for the ultimate combination of vintage looks and modern performance. Powering this Squier® 5-string groove machine is a pair of Fender Designed™ alnico Noiseless™ J Bass® pickups for punchy hum-free signal. The 9-volt preamp provides controls for volume, pickup blend, treble and bass boost, and a toggle to switch between active and passive for complete tone-shaping control. Other details include a HiMass™ bridge for optimal resonance, a striking bound fingerboard with block inlays, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware and a slick vintage-tinted gloss neck finish for an old-school vibe. Available in Sienna Sunburst and Ocean Turquoise.
Classic Vibe ‘60s Jazzmaster® ($449.99 USD, £449.99 GBP, €549 EUR, $XX AUD, ¥71,500 JPY) The Classic Vibe ‘60s Jazzmaster® is a faithful and striking homage to the iconic Fender favorite, producing undeniable Jazzmaster tone courtesy of its dual Fender Designed™ alnico single-coil pickups. Player-friendly features include a slim, comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile with an easy-playing 9.5”-radius fingerboard and narrow-tall frets, a vintage-style tremolo system for expressive string bending effects, and a floating bridge with barrel saddles for solid string stability. This throwback Squier model also features 1960s-inspired headstock markings, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware and a slick vintage-tint gloss neck finish for an old-school vibe. Available in Tahitian Coral.
Classic Vibe ‘60s Jazz Bass® ($473.99 USD, £449.99 GBP, €549 EUR, $899.00 AUD, ¥66,000 JPY) A tribute to the decade of its birth, the Classic Vibe™ ‘60s Jazz Bass® combines the luxurious playability that made the original famous with the versatility and massive tone of dual Fender Designed alnico single-coil pickups. Player-friendly features include a slim, comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile, an easy-playing 9.5”-radius fingerboard with narrow-tall frets, and a vintage-style bridge with threaded saddles for solid performance and classic feel. This throwback Squier® model also features 1960s-inspired headstock markings, rich-looking nickel-plated hardware, and a slick vintage-tinted gloss neck finish for an unmistakable old-school vibe. Available in Tahitian Coral.
CALIFORNIA STANDARD SERIES
Drawing from a storied legacy of reimagining the acoustic experience for daring and adventurous players, California Series acoustics stand out as authentically different, undeniably timeless, and quintessentially Fender®. The California Standard features a durable all-laminate construction that will endure the demands of any playing environment from the living room to the beach, the campfire to the garage jam session, all with timeless and undeniable Fender style at an attractive price.
California Standard Redondo™($241.99 USD, £169.99 GBP, €199.99 EUR, $419.00 AUD, ¥47,300 JPY) The dreadnought shape is beloved for its robust, deep tone and versatile personality, making it the go-to choice for any musical playing style from strumming to soloing. The California Standard Redondo™ features resilient laminate construction with a spruce top and sapele back and sides for impressive and satisfying tonal richness, while a 25 ½” scale neck with a slim “C”-shaped profile provides an inviting and effortless playing feel. Other noteworthy details include an oiled walnut fingerboard and bridge, sealed-gear tuning machines for smooth and accurate tuning action, and a sleek, long-lasting gloss finish. Available in Natural (including a left-handed model), 3-Color Sunburst and Black.
California Standard Redondo™ Pack ($262.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €229.99 EUR, $449.00 AUD) The California Standard Redondo Pack is a convenient collection of guitar essentials in one box, equipping players with a California Standard Redondo™ guitar in Natural, a gig bag, strap, picks, an extra set of strings and a 3-month subscription to Fender Play® – the easiest way to learn guitar.
California Standard Redondo™ CE ($262.99 USD, £209.99 GBP, €249.99 EUR, $449.00 AUD, ¥52,800 JPY) The dreadnought cut-away shape is beloved for its robust, deep tone and versatile personality, making it the go-to choice for any musical playing style from strumming to soloing. The California Standard Redondo™ CE features resilient laminate construction with a spruce top and sapele back and sides for impressive and satisfying tonal richness, while a 25 ½” scale neck with a slim “C”-shaped profile provides an inviting and effortless playing feel. The onboard Fender electronics provide high-quality output for live amplification, recording, and effects and a convenient onboard digital tuner. Other noteworthy details include an oiled walnut fingerboard and bridge, sealed gear tuning machines for smooth and accurate tuning action, and a sleek, long-lasting gloss finish. Available in Natural, 3-Color Sunburst, Black and Fiesta Red.
California Standard Monterey™ E ($262.99 USD, £209.99 GBP, €249.99 EUR, $449.00 AUD, ¥52,800 JPY) The orchestra shape is cherished for its comfortable mid-size body and detailed, balanced tone, making it an ideal choice for soloists and students alike. The California Standard Monterey™ E features resilient laminate construction with a spruce top and sapele back and sides for impressive and satisfying tonal character, while a 25 ½” scale neck with a slim “C”-shaped profile provides an inviting and effortless playing feel. The onboard Fender electronics provide high-quality output for live amplification, recording and effects, as well as a convenient onboard digital tuner. Other noteworthy details include an oiled walnut fingerboard and bridge, sealed gear tuning machines for smooth and accurate tuning. Available in Natural Sapele, 3-Color Sunburst and Surf Green.
California Standard Redondo™ Mini with Bag ($209.99 USD, £159.99 GBP, €189.99 EUR, $399.00 AUD, ¥34,650 JPY) The miniature dreadnought size is compact and approachable, a perfect option for travelers or smaller players at every stage of their musical journey. The California Standard Redondo™ Mini features resilient laminate construction with a spruce top and sapele back and sides for impressive and satisfying tonal character, while a short 22 ¾” scale neck with a slim “C”-shaped profile provides an inviting and effortless playing feel. Other noteworthy details include an oiled walnut fingerboard and bridge, sealed gear tuning machines for smooth and accurate tuning action, and a sleek, long-lasting gloss finish. Available in Fiesta Red, Surf Green, Black, 3-Color Sunburst and Natural Sapele.
FENDER AMPS
'62 Super™ Amplifier ($2499.99 USD, £2,439 GBP, €2,899 EUR, $4,599.00 AUD, ¥404,800 JPY) Considered hidden treasures from the early 1960s, Fender® “brown panel” amplifiers bridged the gap between the raw tone of ‘50s-era tweed amps and the sparkling clean tone of mid-’60s “black panel” amps. The ‘62 Super™ has an incredibly warm and woody sound when played clean, blooming into sweet overdrive when cranked. Along with its special phase-shifting harmonic tremolo, this amp dishes out phenomenal tone at any volume. With dual 6L6 power tubes pushing 40 watts through two 10” Celestion® Custom Design speakers, the ‘62 Super™ is ideal for recording and gigging. The ‘62 Super™ is the perfect addition to the American Vintage™ line — bound to be the next amp purchase for tone seekers, Fender® aficionados and collectors everywhere.
MUSTANG® LTX SERIES
Mustang® LTX50 & Mustang® LTX100 ($299.99-$399.99 USD, £329-£419 GBP, €399-€499 EUR, $649.00-$849.00 AUD, ¥49,500-¥66,000 JPY) The Mustang® LTX amplifiers stand as the latest addition to the world’s most popular guitar amplifier line. Merging advanced technology with classic Fender® design, it suits players at every level. It offers an intuitive user interface, 50 amp and effect models for any genre, 100 preset slots, a configurable signal path, and an integrated color display with an on-board tuner. Available in both 50- and 100-watt models, the Mustang® LTX is ideal for both practice and performance. It features a 12” Fender® special design speaker and supports an optional gig-ready 5-button footswitch. Built-in Bluetooth® lets players jam along with their favorite tracks and seamlessly create, edit, download, and share presets through the Fender TONE® app.
LTX-5 Footswitch ($129.99 USD, £99.99 GBP, €119.99 EUR, $210.00 AUD, ¥22,000 JPY ) Take command of your tone with the professional grade LTX-5 Footswitch, your direct link to the full potential of the Mustang® LTX 50 and 100 watt amplifiers. This 5-button footswitch delivers intuitive control and instant access to your favorite presets and effects, all in a road-ready design that’s built for the stage. Instantly recall your favorite tones with easy bank navigation and direct preset access in Preset Mode. Effects Mode allows you to take control of your effect chains with dedicated switches for Stomp, Modulation, Delay, and Reverb. Instantly engage or bypass effects for real-time tone shaping. Tap Tempo is available in Preset mode and an onboard tuner can be accessed with the Mode switch that mutes the signal and displays the tuning on the LCD display.
TONE MASTER® FR-12 TWEED
Tone Master® FR-12 Tweed ($649.99 USD, £579 GBP, €689 EUR, $1,249.00 AUD, ¥108,900 JPY)
The Tone Master® FR-12 Tweed is a full-range, flat-response powered speaker designed for today’s digital guitar amp modelers and profilers. Wrapped in classic '50s-era tweed covering with a brown striped grille cloth, it faithfully replicates every nuance of amp simulations, making it the ideal solution for players using modelers at home or on stage. Equipped with a powerful 1,000-watt integrated amplifier, the FR-12 Tweed delivers the volume and headroom required for demanding studio sessions or live performances. It also features a 3-band active EQ and a high-frequency cut control, allowing players to fine-tune their onstage sound without affecting the line out signal sent to the PA system. With an industrial design that’s 100% Fender®, the FR-12 Tweed brings an authentic backline aesthetic to modern modeling setups.
FENDER PEDALS
Hammertone™ Breakup Drive ($99.99 USD, £75.99 GBP, €89.99 EUR, $159.00 AUD)
The Hammertone™ Breakup Drive delivers responsive, tube-like overdrive tones in a compact, format. Built around a JFET-based circuit, it’s designed to replicate the dynamic feel of hot tubes pushed to the edge of saturation. Two selectable clipping modes let players dial in anything from light breakup to low-gain overdrive, each offering expressive responsiveness that cleans up with lighter picking and intensifies with more aggressive playing. An expansive tone control and a switchable pre-gain mid boost provide flexible frequency shaping to craft the perfect sound. Whether adding character to a clean tone or delivering touch-sensitive overdrive, the Hammertone Breakup Drive offers versatile performance for players who crave feel and nuance.
Hammertone™ Boost ($99.99 USD, £75.99 GBP, €89.99 EU, $159.00 AUD)
The Hammertone™ Boost elevates any rig with two distinct boost circuits housed in a single enclosure. Its Type switch allows players to choose between a clean, op amp-based boost for transparent volume enhancement and a JFET-based boost that adds warmth and harmonic richness, reminiscent of vintage tape unit preamps. With center-detented Treble and Bass controls, the EQ section offers easy access to a completely flat boost or precise tonal shaping—cutting or enhancing frequencies as needed. Whether used to cleanly boost solos, push an amp into breakup, or add subtle sweetness to a core tone, the Hammertone Boost delivers exceptional flexibility and performance.
STROBO-SONIC PRO™ TUNER PEDAL
Strobo-Sonic Pro™ Tuner Pedal ($99.99 USD, £95 GBP, €115 EUR, $189.00 AUD, ¥14,300 JPY)
Strobo-Sonic Pro is an 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 that provides 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
Troubadour™ Gig Bags ($199.99 USD, £189.99 GBP, €229.99 EUR, $399.00 AUD, ¥33,000 JPY) The Troubadour™ Gig Bag was made with the on-the-go musician in mind—designed by players, for players. Featuring a weather-resistant, waxed canvas exterior, it offers exceptional protection while maintaining a sleek, premium aesthetic. With 25mm of thick padding and a soft-touch microfiber lining, it provides ample cushioning to keep instruments safe and sound during travel. Thoughtfully designed details—including ergonomic backpack straps, a dedicated water bottle pocket, and exterior compartments for laptops and accessories—ensure gear remains organized and protected on the move. Built to go the distance, the Troubadour Gig Bag isas reliable as it is visually striking—an ideal companion for musicians who demand both function and style. Available in Olive, Navy and Butterscotch.
Essentials Wall Hangers ($26.99 USD, £12.99 GBP, €14.99 EUR, $30.00 AUD, ¥2,200 JPY) The Fender Essentials Guitar Wall Hanger was designed to showcase prized guitars with style and security. Built from durable hardwood and featuring a reinforced steel yoke, it offered a reliable hold, while the pivoting, EVA foam-padded yoke adjusts to fit most headstock shapes for a straight, balanced hang. Complete with a laser-engraved Fender logo and included mounting hardware, the Essentials Wall Hanger keeps a go-to guitar ready to play while adding a subtle touch of Fender flair to any space.
Player II Guitar Necks ($314.99 USD, £339.99 GBP, €399.99 EUR, $599.00 AUD) The story of Fender’s modular design began in 1946, and guitarists have been writing their own chapters ever since. The 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 at Fender’s Ensenada, Mexico manufacturing facility, Fender® Player II Series guitar necks are designed for supremely comfortable performance, featuring a silky-smooth satin urethane back finish and a Modern “C” profile that suits almost any playing style. The 9.5”-radius fingerboard and medium jumbo frets allow for fluid leads and choke-free bends, while hand-rolled fingerboard edges provide a slightly broken-in, inviting feel. The nut is pre-slotted with “pilot” string location grooves to simplify string spacing during final slot filing. For true Fender authenticity, each neck is serialized and laser-engraved with the “Genuine Fender Parts” logo on the heel. This replacement neck is intended for Fender® or Squier® by Fender guitars.
Quadra Tap Pre-Wired Pickguards - HH & HSS ($499.99-549.99 USD, £479.99 GBP, €569.99 EUR, $899.00-$979.00 AUD, ¥77,000-¥88,000 JPY) The voice of a Stratocaster® is easily transformed with a genuine Fender® Pre-Wired Pickguard Assembly. Crafted with premium components in the same factory as Fender’s iconic guitars, this complete drop-in solution delivers authentic tone with hassle-free installation. With no complicated wiring required, upgrading is simple—just remove the existing pickguard, connect two wires, mount the new assembly, and unlock a whole new tonal palette in minutes. It’s the fastest way to enhance a Strat® with time-tested electronics and craftsmanship.
Equipped with Quadra Tap™ 1 Humbucker and 70th Anniversary Ultra Noiseless™ Strat® pickups, this loaded pickguard offers an incredibly versatile range of HH and HSS tones. The Ultra Noiseless single-coil pickups provide pristine, vintage-inspired Fender tones without the hum, while the Quadra Tap™ 1 humbucker delivers four distinct voices ranging from smooth warmth to high-output power. The volume knob’s S-1™ switch splits the humbucker into a dynamic single-coil, and the S-1™ switch on the first tone knob activates the hot voicing in both humbucking and split modes. A treble bleed circuit is also included to maintain clarity and high-end definition at any volume.
Powered by an alnico 2 bar magnet, the passive Quadra Tap™ humbucker stands out as a tone-shaping powerhouse, offering an expansive voice that captures the spirit of vintage tones while embracing the demands of modern performance.
FENDER CUSTOM SHOP
Custom Shop ‘50/’51 Blackguard Telecaster® Pickup Set ($314.99 USD, £289.99 GBP, €339.99 EUR, $539.00 AUD, ¥38,500 JPY) For fans of the unmistakable tone of a Blackguard Tele® - punchy lows, fat mids and crisp, twangy highs - the Custom Shop ‘50-’51 Blackguard Telecaster® pickups are faithful recreations of the originals. Crafted with large-diameter, unbeveled alnico 3 magnets in the bridge pickup and alnico 5 in the neck, they’re wound using 43-gauge Enamel wire for authentic performance and sound. Packed with open, lively, full-bodied tone, these pickups host a rare collection of features from the earliest versions of the 1950 Blackguard Tele® in existence.
Custom Shop Ancho Poblano Stratocaster® Pickup Set ($335.99 USD, £299.99 GBP, €359.99 EUR, $579.00 AUD, ¥44,000 JPY)With tone as big as Texas, the Fender® Custom Shop Ancho Poblano Stratocaster® Pickups deliver giant sound for the player that likes everything bigger. Crafted using ingredients according to our own secret recipe, these spicy single-coil calibrated pickups crank out fat, high-output tone with plenty of sonic flexibility. With hotter output from the neck pickup to the bridge pickup, these pickups have all the vintage-style tone and dynamic response that made Fender a legend - just more of it. Uniquely overwound for a wide range of high-output tones—from blistering-hot output to sizzling vintage warmth—with plenty of tonal flexibility.
Custom Shop Dual Mag II Stratocaster® Pickup Set ($335.99 USD, £339.99 GBP, €399.99 EUR, $579.00 AUD, ¥44,000 JPY) Fender® Custom Shop Dual-Mag II Stratocaster® pickups deliver a well-balanced tone with shimmering, clear highs and rich, full lows—thanks to a unique blend of alnico magnets. They feature unbeveled alnico 5 magnets for the low E through G strings and hand-beveled alnico 2 magnets for the B and high E strings, offering exceptional clarity and warmth across the tonal range. Each pickup is wrapped with copper shielding tape to reduce noise and includes a custom stagger with a “low G” magnet for a smooth transition from wound to plain strings. The alnico 5 under the G string helps it "sing" just right, while the slightly taller-than-vintage alnico 2 B and E magnets ensure optimal string-to-string balance. True to their name, Dual-Mag II Strat® pickups provide one of the clearest, most balanced Stratocaster tones available—designed for players who demand nuance, precision, and musicality.
Custom Shop ‘55/’56 Whiteguard Telecaster® Pickup Set ($314.99 USD, £289.99 GBP, €339.99 EUR, $539.00 AUD, ¥38,500 JPY) An essential part of the recipe from the Whiteguard era, the Fender® Custom Shop ’55-’56 Telecaster® pickups are an accurate 1:1 recreation of the pickups used in those instruments. These pickups have all the grunt and snarl of the originals, thanks to the hand-beveled, staggered alnico 5 magnets in the bridge pickup. The neck pickup uses alnico 3 magnets for sweet midrange and tight bass. Most Whiteguards had transitioned from alnico 3 to the higher output alnico 5 magnets and featured staggered bridge pickup magnets. This stagger creates more string-to-string articulation and a balanced output. These updates—along with steel bridge saddles—created more high-end twang with a faster attack. From chicken pickin’ to raw rock, experience the authentic vintage Tele® tone that launched countless hits.
For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender on all social platforms.
John Fahey: The Black Flag of Solo Steel-String with Hayden Pedigo
You could call John Fahey the Johnny Appleseed of solo steel-string guitar playing, but Black Flag is probably a more appropriate reference. Like the punk progenitors would do many years later, Fahey not only crafted a uniquely rooted musical approach that would be adopted by legions of practitioners, he self-released his records on his Takoma Records label and hit the road, well before DIY was a common approach.
Joining us to talk Fahey is solo guitarist Hayden Pedigo, whose warmly sincere instrumentals balance the “trickster manifestations” that have led him to walk in a Gucci show and found him the subject of the 2021 documentary, Kid Candidate. His latest, I’ll Be Waiting As You Drive Away, was released this month on Mexican Summer.
Moth Electric C. Regalis Review
Moths and butterflies are admirably, amazingly adaptable in flight. I mean, imagine you weigh mere milligrams. You’re trucking along, minding your own business, and a 45 mph gust blows you straight into the path of a garbage truck. As a moth, you have to be ready for anything. I’ve been in a lot of jams like that. The Moth Electric C. Regalis would have been a perfect companion.
The C. Regalis (the name honors the largest moth, by mass, found north of Mexico, making the moth in my earlier metaphor seem pretty lame) derives its own adaptability from blendable drive and clean tones. There’s nothing revolutionary about that idea. But the C. Regalis has a drive section that sounds great and is very versatile by itself and makes the whole very special. It has a flexible +/-15dB treble-and-bass EQ and a smooth/crunch switch that functions, more or less, exactly as advertised by adding even-order harmonics. The many possible tones from the drive section can, in turn, be compounded exponentially with the dirty/clean blend. All this room to roam in the controls means C. Regalis isn’t encumbered by a rigid agenda. It cares little about whether you use a Jaguar or an SG, a Fender Deluxe Reverb or a Marshall. The C. Regalis is eager to please. And it’s hard to imagine a player that couldn’t find a sound, or 30, to love in this pedal.
Master of Metamorphosis
Overdrive pedals, even lovable, essential, invaluable ones, can be pretty boring. And I can’t remember the last time I thought of an overdrive as a songwriting machine. But the C. Regalis is varied, forgiving, and intuitive in ways that facilitate fast movement between tones and make morphing between mere sounds and more concrete musical ideas fluid and effortless. There are many springboards and templates to work from too: Randomly choosing pedal settings, I bounced between sweet, toppy clean boost, hot treble-boosted tones, tweed Deluxe haze, Stonesy grime (’60s and ’70s versions), Dinosaur Jr. grind, and Sabbath sludge—and that was with a single guitar and amp.
Not surprisingly, for an overdrive and distortion with a clean blend control, there are strong hints of Klon, and I found many comparable tones in the C. Regalis and my fave klone at many settings. But the C. Regalis is also generally airer and less compressed than the klone, which translates to a lot of headroom and range. That range can reveal potential in the amps and guitars you already have. A few examples: I turned a raspy P-90 and Marshall combination into deep, pillowy Kevin Shields smoke. A Telecaster and vintage Vibrolux bellowed like a plexi, then ripped lines of treble-boosted acid twang. Curtis Novak Wide Range pickups in a Telecaster Deluxe plus the Moth sounded good with … everything. And I don’t remember encountering undesirable combinations that couldn’t be fixed with a simple, quick adjustment to the pedal or guitar controls (the C. Regalis is also highly responsive to guitar volume and tone attenuation).
The Verdict
Moth Electric’s C. Regalis is a really lovely, thoughtfully designed drive unit. At $179, it’s also a deal. The controls are smooth, precise, and situated in a clean, clear, and straightforward layout. And the simple, spacious design makes it easy to move between drastically different tones, mid-performance, without feet or presets. (Yes, bending over mid-jam kinda sucks, but if you don’t have enough time to pull this off, you’re probably playing too many notes.)
There are, of course, specific drive sounds that the C. Regalis can’t recreate. But it was hard to find any sizable holes in its performance envelope. And it can convincingly approximate almost any pedal, and many amps, at anywhere along the clean-boost to mid-gain distortion spectrum. If you chase specific pedal tones at super-granular levels, the C. Regalis might not always hit the mark. But if you’re out to craft a tone of your own that’s rooted in the organic, analog, vintage realm, C. Regalis has a very high likelihood of delivering.
Fender Khruangbin Collections: Mark Speer Stratocaster & Laura Lee Jazz Bass
Distinctive signature versions of the Stratocaster and Jazz Bass are as vibey as Khruangbin’s jams.
Acoustic Gear Showcase 2025
From cutting-edge pickups to museum-worthy display cases, this Acoustic Gear Showcase is packed with tools to elevate your tone—and your space. Whether you're chasing pristine plugged-in sound, ergonomic performance upgrades, or just a serious vibe boost, these six standouts from Godin, Walden, Mojotone, LAG, and more deliver the goods.
Nashville Guitar Habitat
A wall-mounted showcase designed for your most prized instrument. The Nashville safely hangs and displays a variety of guitar bodies in a solid wood and tempered glass case. Includes a locking door, adjustable LED lighting, and your choice of Boveda passive humidification or AMF's 1.5q Active humidification system.
Godin Multiac Nylon Opalburst / Oceanburst
The Godin Multiac Nylon Opal Burst and Ocean Burst, inspired by Godin artists Opal Ocean, feature stunning flame tops and matching headstocks. Made in Canada, they deliver the exceptional tone and playability that have made the Multiac the gold standard for plugged-in nylon-string guitars.
Quiet Coil NC-2 Mic/Blend Acoustic Guitar Soundhole Pickup
The Mojotone Quiet Coil NC-2 is equipped with new, groundbreaking mic technology that puts this acoustic soundhole pickup into a league of its own when it comes to pure and natural acoustic guitar sound. Our mission was to combine our incredibly natural sounding “mic-voiced” and noise-canceling NC-1 magnetic pickup.
Peter Stroud Signature Slides
Designed by Peter Stroud (Sheryl Crow and Close Enemies) to help create the tones in his head and heart. Peter has been a big fan of RMSC and we are thrilled to be able to offer a real "official" tone tool just for him. It’s made out of FireCracker Aluminum for speed and tone.
HyVibe Series
Unlock your creativity! The new LAG HyVibe H2 Series blends craftsmanship with technology, offering built-in effects, looping, and Bluetooth. Pair with the optional HyVibe FS-2 or FS-4 pedal for expanded control of effects and looper functions. No amp required, just pure inspiration.
Walden Natura G633RCE-G
Get the best sound out of every strum with Walden’s low-mass scalloped-X bracing and glass-fibre reinforced neck. This Grand Auditorium cutaway-electric features an ergonomic armrest—usually found on pricier instruments. A warm, resonant solid Cedar soundboard, paired with African Ovangkol, accentuated by a UV-cured gloss finish and offset position markers.
The Rig Rundown Rig Rundown!
I've been lucky to serve as host, producer, and editor of the Rig Rundown for Premier Guitar for over a decade, and in this video, we'll walk through the cameras and audio gear we're currently using to bring you in-depth looks at your favorite artists' rigs. You'll see how Chris Kies and I have evolved our video and audio setup over the years and how a recent chance encounter led to a major upgrade with help and advice from our friends at Sweetwater.
Rig Rundown cameras and microphones have had many iterations since the series launched in 2007
Rig Rundown Gear Through The Years
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro (Body Only)
The Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro offers the robust video, audio, and connectivity of Blackmagic’s Pocket Cinema 6KG2 camera but with some added features geared toward professionals. With sky-high UHD definition, the Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro is easily one of the most powerful compact videography tools sold today! The camera itself is solid, light, and easy to manage during extended shoots. A high-strength carbon composite body reinforced with carbon fibers gives the body rigidity and shock resistance without adding bulk, so you can safely take it anywhere without fear. A full-size Super 35 HDR sensor captures 6K images at up to 60 fps, while a 5-inch tilting touchscreen with touch focus tools and advanced overlay monitoring handles controls and monitoring. The 6K Pro’s screen also features an enhanced 1500-nit display that performs better in harsh light than other Pocket Cinema cameras. The Pro model offers switchable ND filters for bright daytime shoots with clear, 2, 4, and 6-stop options. Low light performance is equally stunning with enhanced dual native ISO with 13 stops and a massive 25,600 ISO ceiling to ensure clarity with minimal noise. And when it comes to audio, this camera is practically a full mobile studio with four built-in mics and plenty of additional inputs for external mics via 3.5mm and mini-XLR connectors. Optimized for demanding professionals, both aspiring and established, this is a truly expansive high-end camera that delivers high-quality footage anytime, anywhere.
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro Features:
- Premium Super 35 sensor (23.10mm x 12.99m) with stunning 6144 x 3456 native resolution
- Wide selection of frame rate and definition options, including 6K 60 fps and 2.8K 120 fps
- Dual native ISO with 13 stops and massive 25,600 ISO ceiling — incredible range with excellent low-light performance!
- Multifunction grip with quick access to recording, still photos, ISO, shutter, aperture, white balance, power, and more
- Enhanced 5-inch touchscreen with tilt, touch focus, and premium 1500-nit brightness for outdoor shoots
- 4 infrared ND filter options for navigating difficult lighting (clear, 2-,4,-, and 6-stop)
- Compatible with active Canon EF lenses (sold separately) with additional grip controls and automatic metadata population on supported lenses
- 21.2MP still image shooting, saved as fully uncompressed DNG frames — perfect for making professional prints!
- Built-in SD UHS-II and CFast card slots
- USB-C Expansion Port — record straight to an external disk like a hard drive or flash drive
- Full-size HDMI output for monitoring
- Built-in speaker for field playback
- 4 built-in microphones, 3.5mm stereo jack, 3.5mm headphone jack, and 2 mini XLR audio inputs with phantom power and line level +14dBu options
- Built-in timecode generator for streamlined multi-cam shoots
- Full Bluetooth camera control with 30-foot wireless range
- Accessory kit includes camera strap, 30W power supply with international adapters, lens turret dust cap, battery, charger, and DaVinci Resolve Studio activation key
- 12-month limited manufacturer warranty from Blackmagic Design
Kondor Blue Blackmagic Pocket 6K Pro Base Rig - Black
Maximize the potential of your Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K with the Pocket 6K Pro Base Rig from Kondor Blue. Complete with a BMPCC 6K Pro Cage with a top handle, an ARRI bridge plate, included PPSH rods, and an EF Cine CAP, you'll have more than enough possibilities to build the perfect rig for your camera. The top plate and side plates both feature NATO railing for exclusive accessory options. Likewise, built-in HDMI and USB-C cable clamps facilitate a tangle-free setup when dealing with external gear. Sweetwater cinematographers specifically appreciate the rig's built-in grip design, which keeps long-term filming sessions comfortable and steady in any environment. Whether you're looking to build up an entirely new rig or integrate your device into a pre-existing setup, the Pocket 6K Pro Base Rig from Kondor Blue is an opportunity that can't be passed up.
SanDisk Professional Pro-Blade 2TB SSD MAG
Kondor Blue Pro-Blade SSD Handle
The entrusted Pro-Blade SSD system meets versatile videography with this top mount from Kondor Blue. Compatible with several modern camera models, the Pro-Blade SSD handle provides a simple solution to mobile storage space. Sweetwater videographers have found that the handle’s versatile mounting system allows it to be used as either a top or side handle, depending on your filming situation. Additionally, an onboard cold shoe, safety stop, 1/4-inch-20 ARRI-style mount, and NATO rails ensure solid integration into your rig of choice. Complete with a protected USB-C connection cable, there’s no better way to haul video storage when you’re on the go.
With Pro-Blade SSD mags, storage has never been simpler. When used with compatible Pro-Blade Transport and Station units, you’ll be able to pop in 1TB to 4TB of storage into any connected device. At only 0.10 pounds, you’ll be able to carry a bundle of mags with you when you’re on the go, providing endless storage opportunities at any time. Sweetwater photographers and videographers are always on the move, and the Pro-Blade storage system has proven to be quite the lifesaver.
Shure ADX5D Axient Digital Dual-channel Portable Wireless Receiver
When you need maximum wireless performance and reliability — we're talking televised live performances, secure government installations, and similar mission-critical applications — you need Shure's Axient wireless technology. The Shure ADX5D Axient Digital Dual-channel portable wireless receiver delivers the top-tier reliability and spectral efficiency that have made Axient wireless a leading solution around the world. Thanks to its slot-in receiver form factor, the ADX5D can be configured for direct connection to professional video cameras, or equipped with a battery sled for truly portable operation. And with Frequency Diversity mode enabled, your Shure ADX5D Axient Digital wireless receiver shrugs off RF interference that can cause audio interruptions in less sophisticated systems.
• Next-gen digital radio for maximum stability
• 184MHz tuning range across all receivers and transmitters
• Up to 47 active transmitters per 6MHz TV channel
• Frequency Diversity plus advanced interference detection and avoidance
Shure ADX1 Wireless Bodypack Transmitter with TA4 Connector
Shure WL185m Cardioid Lavalier Microphone with TA4F Connector - Black
As part of Shure's Axient Digital wireless series, the ADX1 wireless bodypack transmitter packs industry-leading digital wireless technology into a compact bodypack solution. All ADX transmitters push the limits of wireless to offer up to 184MHz tuning range, interference protection, advanced recharging options, and wireless control via ShowLink. And the ADX1's advanced control menu offers comprehensive access to all transmitter parameters. To get the most out of your Axient wireless system, Sweetwater recommends the Shure ADX1 wireless bodypack transmitter.
- Wireless bodypack transmitter for Axient digital wireless systems
- TA4 connector
- Advanced control menu for access to all parameters
- Compatible with ShowLink for remote control capabilities
- Durable, moisture-resistant construction
- Up to 10 hours of operation with SB910 rechargeable batteries
- Includes detachable belt clip, threaded TA4F adapter, zipper bag, and detachable antenna
With the WL185m, you’re setting yourself up for sonic success. This lavalier microphone delivers professional sound in a more compact chassis than ever. Compared to the standard WL185, this microphone’s body measures 8mm shorter in length, which helps it blend in and disappear onstage and on camera. Shure tells Sweetwater that the new WL185m includes other improvements, such as greater SPL handling, lower self-noise, and upgraded sound quality. Meanwhile, the cardioid polar pattern helps focus on the wearer’s voice and prevents off-axis noise from entering the signal. Finally, your new WL185m lavalier microphone includes a redesigned tie clip, which offers a rotatable design for improved positioning. Tailor-made for presenters, the Shure WL185m lavalier microphone captures natural, lifelike tones every time.
Shure ADX5-Mount Mounting Plate with Cold Shoe for ADX5D
Attach the Shure ADX5-Mount mounting plate to your ADX5 wireless receiver, and you're ready to mount it directly to the cold shoe on your camera (or tripod, light stand, or other cold shoe). Mounting directly to your camera is the most convenient and efficient way to manage your wireless receiver, and for that, Sweetwater recommends the Shure ADX5-Mount mounting plate.
Shure ADX5BP-TA3 Dual TA3 Back Plate for ADX5D
Shure ADX5BS-L L-Type Battery Sled for ADX5D
The Shure ADX5BP-TA3 Back Plate attaches easily to your ADX5D Axient Digital wireless receiver, adding big functionality. It simultaneously accommodates power input from an external source, audio output from the ADX5D receiver, and optional interfacing for battery sleds. Sweetwater is pleased to report that this back plate features captive screws so you can mount/unmount the plate without worrying about losing screws.
Attach the Shure ADX5BS-L Battery Sled to your Shure ADX5D Axient Digital wireless receiver for truly portable operation. The ADX5BS-L Battery Sled allows two L-type batteries to be installed — and because the ADX5D is powered by a single battery, this enables you to replace batteries as they run down without interrupting operation. Sweetwater is pleased to report that the ADX5BS-L screws in securely to your receiver, eliminating the possibility of the sled falling off or being erroneously removed.
Shure SBC240 2-Bay Networked Docking Charger with Power Supply
Shure SB910 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
The Shure SBC240 is a dual docking charger for the Shure SB910 and SB920 lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, as well as the Shure ADX1, ADX2, and ADX2FD digital wireless transmitters. And because the SBC240 is network enabled, you’ll be able to monitor battery status remotely via Shure Wireless Workbench software. You can even connect up to four SBC240 chargers together, sharing power and network connectivity. If you’ve got a Shure digital wireless system, Sweetwater highly recommends the Shure SBC240 Ethernet charger.
If you use your Shure wireless system on a regular basis, then you can enhance its performance and save yourself money at the same time with the Shure SB910 rechargeable battery. Made for the Shure ADX1 bodypack transmitter, the SB910 rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives you up to 10 hours of continuous use. Don’t waste money on disposable batteries — get Shure’s SB910 rechargeable battery from Sweetwater today!
Godin Connaisseur MJ Review
A Canada-built, tastefully styled mini jumbo serves up comfort, a unique and expansive tone profile, and addictive playability.
Godin may be a Canadian company that skews modern in its design approach. But staring across the room at the new Godin Connaisseur MJ, glowing in soft spring sunlight, I kept thinking about two very classic American guitar companies. Martin and Rickenbacker are famous for very different things, and one of them rarely made acoustic instruments. But check out the Godin’s sunburst finish—it sure reminds me of Rickenbacker fireglo. The herringbone-patterned purling evokes that found on a D-28 as well as Rickenbacker’s checkerboard binding. The split-hexagon fretboard inlay? It conjures thoughts of a D-45, and Rickenbacker’s shark-fins. There are practical reasons that this Godin feels like an alternate-universe offspring from the two American companies—most notably the super-satisfying playability. Hermann Rorschach might have told me I’m more inclined to see and feel these likenesses in the Connaisseur MJ (I’m genuinely captivated by the beauty of Rickenbackers and Martins). But style is a big part of what sets the Connaisseur MJ apart, and you don’t need an inkblot test to know that the Godin Connaisseur MJ is a handsome, well-built, and fine-playing flattop. It’s a guitar that reveals its virtues quickly and easily.
Maple Leaf Rag
Consider another unorthodox melding of concepts: “mini” and “jumbo.” Obviously, they are a contradiction in terms. But as an acoustic guitar design guideline, the combination can yield pure gold. The jumbo in mini jumbo (MJ in Godin nomenclature) alludes to the body’s basic shape which, in its fluid curvaceousness, echoes Gibson’s SJ-200. But while the Connaisseur MJ isn’t a behemoth like the SJ-200, it’s not exactly mini either, and feels much more like a shapelier Martin OM. It’s a very comfortable profile that does much to alleviate the arm fatigue that can come from wrestling a dreadnought or genuinely jumbo jumbo.
At $2,499 the Canada-built Connaisseur MJ is Godin’s most expensive flattop by several hundred dollars. And at that price it has to tussle with giants like Martin, Gibson, and Taylor—all of whom sell very established and well-known models in a crowded market segment that most of us could call “getting expensive enough to hurt.” So, what distinguishes the Godin in a densely populated field? Well, it’s certainly pretty, and the melding of classic flattop design touchstones and contemporary styling moves achieves a unique, attractive result rather than an uncomfortable, incohesive mash up of influences.
Golden Glow
In the sonic sphere, the Connaisseur MJ exhibits many classic spruce-and-mahogany characteristics. The warm, concise fundamentals, sunset-hued, softly decaying overtones, and lack of brashness are all hallmarks of this tonewood combination. But the Godin definitely doesn’t live on the dusty, dry, and antique end of the mahogany-and-spruce spectrum. It’s alive and dynamic and responsive in ways you might even categorize as “modern,” and has ample headroom that leaves space for shifts in mood and intensity without shedding its essential voice. It’s easy to be struck by the Connaisseur MJ’s sparkle, especially when you use a light fingerstyle touch. But as I got to know the guitar, I grew to love the balance and resonance in the low end. I suspect that the mini jumbo body, and perhaps the 25.5" scale, have a lot to do with the Godin’s even, inviting voice and range. There is a beautiful combination of energy and air, even in the most softly plucked notes, and it’s easy to see how the extra expanse of spruce aft of the bridge might have a lot to do with how lively and rich the Godin sounds.
“The Godin definitely doesn’t live on the dusty, dry, antique end of the mahogany-and-spruce spectrum. It’s alive and dynamic and responsive in ways you might even categorize as ‘modern.’”
All the tone in the world doesn’t mean much if a guitar plays like a log. But the Connaisseur MJ shines in the playability realm. A few less-than-perfectly-dressed fret ends aside, the neck is addictively comfortable. If there’s a lot of Richard Thompson hammer-ons and pull-offs in your own playing vernacular, you’ll love the snappy touch responsiveness.
The Verdict
The biggest compliment I can offer the Connaisseur MJ is the considerable time I spent with it in a meditative musical state—thinking not about a review, just basking in its warm, sprightly resonance and inviting touch response. At $2,499, the Godin arguably offers more personality than a satin-finished instrument at the same price with a more famous name. It’s well built and feels like a guitar that’s in it for the long haul. And when it comes to tone and a pure playing experience, the Connaisseur MJ shines.
Gretsch Lauches Broadkaster LX Center Block & Jr. LX Center Block
Gretsch is launching the Broadkaster LX Center Block with String-Thru Bigsby and gold hardware and Broadkaster Jr. LX Center Block with String-Thru Bigsby and gold hardware providing modern tone with exceptional performance.
With features including Pro Twin Six humbucking pickups, String-thru Bigsby B7GP vibrato tailpiece, and Adjusto-Matic bridge. The Broadkaster LX Center Block with String-Thru Bigsby and Gold Hardware (24.6” scale length) is available in Cadillac Green and Black. Additionally, the Broadkaster Jr. LX Center Block with String-Thru Bigsby and Gold Hardware (25.5” scale length) is available in midnight sapphire and blackberry.
Professional Collection Broadkaster® LX Center Block guitars provide modern Gretsch tone with exceptional performance. Featuring the powerful Pro Twin Six™ humbucking pickups, a redesigned Channel Core™ center block, and deeper cutaways for improved upper fret access, the Broadkaster® LX guitars are designed for full-spectrum sound at high volume, providing the flexibility and control you need to explore new sonic territories.FEATURES:
- Refined body design with deeper cutaways for improved access to the upper frets
- Redesigned Channel Core™ center block features a combination of maple and spruce for faster attack and enhanced midrange punch
- Standard "U"-shaped maple neck with 24.6" scale length
- 12"-radius ebony fingerboard with rolled edges, 22 medium jumbo frets, pearloid Neo-Classic™ thumbnail inlays and Luminlay® side dots
- Pro Twin Six™ humbucking pickups
- Three-position pickup toggle switch, individual volume controls for neck and bridge pickups, master volume control with treble bleed circuit and master no-load tone control with "Squeezebox" capacitor
- String-thru Bigsby® B7GP vibrato tailpiece
- Adjusto-Matic™ bridge
- Graph Tech® TUSQ® XL nut
- Gotoh® locking tuners
- Grover® strap locks
- Gold hardware
- G6267 Gretsch® deluxe hardshell case included
- Available in Cadillac Green and Black
Redesigned Channel Core™ Center Block
Combining a maple top layer and spruce bottom layer with a more focused chambering design, the redesigned Channel Core™ center block provides faster note attack and enhanced midrange punch that takes the Broadkaster LX guitars to a whole new level.
Refined Body Design with Deeper Cutaways
The Broadkaster LX features a refined body design with deeper cutaways that greatly improves access to the upper frets resulting in better playability and a more effortless experience.
Pro Twin Six™ Pickups
The Pro Twin Six™ pickups are some of our most modern and powerful pickups to date. The Neck pickup features an Alnico 5 magnet with a DCR rating around 5.5k and provides a tone that is warm, clear, and throaty without being muddy or overly compressed. The Bridge pickup features an Alnico 4 magnet with a DCR rating around 12k and provides a tone that is bright and clear, with enhanced midrange punch, tight focused lows, and sparkling highs that never get spiky or shrill.
Together these pickups provide exceptional power, fidelity, and versatility that allows you to explore new sonic territories.
Maple Neck with Rolled Fingerboard
A 12"-radius ebony fingerboard with rolled edges and 22 medium jumbo frets tops a 24.6"-scale maple neck with a comfortably familiar standard "U"-shaped profile for smooth playability, while the glow in the dark Luminlay® side dots offer precision fretting in low-light settings.
Gretsch Guitars Broadkaster LX Center Block With String-Thru Bigsby and Gold Hardware Electric Guitar Black
