The first time I strummed the Yamaha FD01S, I was transported back to my early days as a budding guitarist. The familiar dreadnought shape felt like an old friend, but there was something different about this instrument. As I explored its tones and playability, I couldn’t help but wonder: could this be the perfect gateway … Read more
The first time I heard a guitar tuned so low it rumbled like distant thunder, I knew I had to explore this sonic frontier. As a seasoned guitarist and editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine, I’ve witnessed countless players push the boundaries of their instruments. But nothing quite compares to the primal power of the lowest … Read more
The first time I strummed a Yamaha 12-string guitar, I was transported to a world of rich, shimmering harmonies I’d never experienced before. As the editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine since 2014, I’ve played countless instruments, but nothing quite captures the magic of a well-crafted 12-string. What makes Yamaha’s offerings stand out in this crowded … Read more
The first time I strummed a single pickup guitar, I was struck by its raw, unadulterated tone. It was like hearing the essence of rock ‘n’ roll distilled into six strings. As the editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine, I’ve explored countless guitar configurations, but single pickup guitars have always fascinated me with their simplicity and … Read more
I never thought a simple skull guitar knob could change my entire perspective on instrument design. As I held that intricately crafted piece of metal in my hand, I realized I was witnessing the perfect marriage of form and function. These small components aren’t just decorative; they’re a testament to the evolving artistry in guitar … Read more
I watched in horror as my friend’s beloved classical guitar buckled under the tension of steel strings. The bridge lifted, the neck warped, and the once-beautiful instrument lay in ruins. This devastating moment sparked my lifelong quest to understand the intricacies of guitar construction and string selection. As a luthier with decades of experience, I’ve … Read more
As I held my first JB Player guitar, I couldn’t help but wonder: how had this brand managed to fly under the radar for so long? The sleek curves, the surprisingly rich tone – it was a revelation. But little did I know, this was just the beginning of a journey that would reshape my … Read more
As I sat in my studio, a student’s frustrated sigh caught my attention. “I just can’t get this pull-off to sound right!” he exclaimed, his fingers fumbling over the fretboard. It was a moment that took me back to my own journey, reminding me why I wrote ‘Guitar Aerobics‘ and dedicated my career to demystifying … Read more
The moment I first laid hands on a Reverend bass guitar, I knew I was experiencing something extraordinary. As a seasoned bassist and former Editor in Chief of Guitar Player magazine, I’ve encountered countless instruments, but Reverend’s basses possess a unique allure that sets them apart. What makes these instruments so captivating? Is it their … Read more
As I settled onto my Martin guitar stool for the first time, I felt a sudden shift in my playing. The comfort was undeniable, but it was the unexpected improvement in my technique that truly astounded me. Could a simple seat really make such a profound difference? This revelation sparked a years-long journey into the … Read more