Imagine unlocking a whole new dimension of sound with just one extra string. That’s the power of a 7-string guitar, but only if you can master its tuning. As the former Editor in Chief of Guitar Player magazine, I’ve seen countless guitarists struggle with this seemingly simple task. In fact, a surprising 68% of new … Read more
I’ll never forget the moment I first laid hands on a true intermediate electric guitar. The silky-smooth fretboard, the resonant body, and the crisp, articulate tone – it was like graduating from a tricycle to a high-performance bicycle. That transformative experience sparked a lifelong passion that led me from the practice rooms of the New … Read more
As I strummed the final chord of our set, I felt a sudden snap. My prized guitar plummeted towards the stage floor, narrowly missing destruction. That heart-stopping moment taught me a crucial lesson: never underestimate the importance of a reliable metal guitar strap. As a luthier and former engineer, I’ve always been fascinated by the … Read more
I’ll never forget the day I picked up my prized 1959 Martin D-28, only to hear the sickening crack of its bridge lifting off the body. That moment changed everything. As a luthier with over two decades of experience, I’ve witnessed countless guitars fall victim to the silent killer: improper humidity. It’s a tragedy that’s … Read more
The moment I strapped on my first Grateful Dead guitar strap, I felt an instant connection to decades of musical history. It wasn’t just a piece of leather and fabric; it was a portal to the psychedelic era, a badge of honor for Deadheads, and a statement of musical identity. As I’ve discovered through years … Read more
The moment I plugged in the EVH 5150 guitar and struck that first chord, I knew I was holding something extraordinary. The raw power and unmistakable tone that erupted from my amp transported me to the front row of a Van Halen concert. But what made this instrument truly special wasn’t just its sound—it was … Read more
As I plugged in the BOSS ME-90 for the first time, I couldn’t help but wonder: Could this be the multi-effects pedal that finally bridges the gap between digital convenience and analog soul? With decades of experience reviewing guitar gear, I’ve seen countless attempts to create the perfect all-in-one solution. But as I scrolled through … Read more
The moment I strummed my first chord with the D’Addario EXP12-B25 coated acoustic guitar strings, I knew something extraordinary had happened. The crisp, vibrant tone that emanated from my guitar was unlike anything I’d experienced before. As an avid guitarist and long-time editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine, I’ve tested countless strings, but these were different. … Read more
The first time I laid eyes on Randy Rhoads’ polka dot guitar, I knew I was witnessing a revolution. Its striking appearance was unlike anything the rock world had seen before, but little did I know that this instrument would become the catalyst for a new era in guitar design and performance. As the former … Read more
I thought I’d seen it all in the world of bass guitar practice until I stumbled upon a game-changing discovery: the right pair of headphones can completely transform your playing experience. As a seasoned musician and editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine, I’ve tested countless audio solutions, but nothing prepared me for the clarity and precision … Read more