Hollow Electric Thinbody Archtops From The Loar The new fully hollow LH-302 and LH-304 thinbody archtops from The Loar deliver vintage style and vintage tone in a classic single cutaway body design. These extremely lively single-cutaway archtops have 1-1/2" body depths and classic 16" lower bouts. The Florentine cutaway was a classic 1960 design element added to thinbody archtops, allowing greater access to the upper frets. The dual pickup design covers a full range of tones in either bridge or neck positions. Thanks to the 1-11/16" nut width and 24-3/4" scale, electric players will feel comfortable from the first note. Choose from dual P-90s (302) or dual humbuckers (304) for versatility, from clean and jazzy to crunchy and overdriven. The maple top, back, and sides, and comfortable C-shape mahogany neck provide the ideal foundation for great-sounding guitars that turn heads with tons of retro style. From smoother acoustic tones to aggressive power chords, these guitars deliver style, elegance, and power for players who want true vintage inspiration in an impressive package that also offers great margins for dealers. The LH-302 thinbody archtop with dual P-90s is available in vintage sunburst or cherryburst finishes. The LH-304 thinbody archtop with dual humbuckers is available in vintage sunburst or gloss black. Each has a MAP of $599.99. NAMM Booth 5476 www.theloar.com Audix Gives Rhythm Sections A New Arsenal With DP4 Instrument Pack Audix Microphones' new DP4 Instrument Pack, a combination of four essential mics for rhythm sections, sound engineers, and beyond, consists of the iconic Audix D6 microphone and three i5 microphones in a heavy-duty carrying case. The case also includes three DFLEX mic mounts and three additional cutouts for vocal microphones. The DP4 (MSRP $499) is a perfect complement of dynamic microphones for close miking of a variety of sources, on-stage or in the studio. Audix's best-selling instrument microphone, the i5 is ideal for percussion of all kinds, guitar cabinets, and horns, as well as a general catch-all mic for almost any application. Its smooth and uniform frequency response of 50 Hz-16 kHz and proprietary VLM capsule technology provide an uncolored natural sound, allowing every musical nuance to shine through. Able to handle sound pressure levels in excess of 140 dB, the i5 is a perfect fit for all genres of music. The iconic D6 is recognized as an industry standard for kick, bass cabs, and other low-frequency instruments. It has a tailored frequency response of 30 Hz-15 kHz, providing a ground-shaking low end, a defined mid-range, and exceptional clarity and attack. Audix's VLM technology ensures quick transient response that accurately captures natural sound and ensures that the attack is not lost. NAMM Booth 6390 www.audixusa.com New Purple Martin D-41 The largest North American swallow, the Purple Martin produces sounds that have been described as "throaty and rich," much like the new limited-edition D-41 Purple Martin Cocobolo guitar that bears its name.  A favorite theme of CEO and Chairman Chris Martin, this 2015 version is the second in a series of Purple Martin Limited Editions. Its black pickguard and ebony fingerboard and bridge are all inlaid with a dramatic Purple Martin motif. With no more than 50 produced, each D-41 Purple Martin will bear an interior label personally signed by C. F. Martin IV and numbered in sequence with the edition total. MSRP $12,499. NAMM Booth 5454  www.martinguitar.com Alfred Makes Creative Connections In The Classroom New from Alfred Music, Creative Connections is a general music classroom resource featuring specially crafted games, songs, and lesson plans to actively connect new material to prior knowledge. Fully reproducible and designed for K-6, the activities help students explore and master musical concepts through play. MSRP $24.99. NAMM Booth 4618 www.alfred.com High-Performance GT Speakers From LD Systems With their simple design, high-quality components, and sturdy wooden cabinets, the new GT series speakers from LD Systems are well suited for many p.a. and monitor applications. They combine high-quality audio, professional functionality, and durability at prices that are hard to beat. The active GT series includes three full-range models and two subwoofers. They feature class D power amplifiers with a peak performance of 1,600 watts. Other features include a solid radiator grille with hexagonal honeycomb pattern, a durable coating made of Dura-vinyl, combo jacks as well as a Dual-Tilt tripod flange. Inside are Celestion 10", 12", or 15" full-range speakers that achieve a frequency response up to 19 kHz. The built-in 54° monitor angle, line and microphone inputs, and a two-band EQ provide functional diversity. Where applications require a deep bass foundation, 15" and 18" subwoofers complete the series. All models are equipped with a 100 Hz satellite output and adjustable low-pass filter. NAMM Booth 4844 www.ld-systems.com/en/series/gt-series/ Vic Firth Offers Barrel Tips On Popular Models Vic Firth Co. now offers American Classic 5A and 5B model drumsticks with barrel-shaped tips. For over 35 years the American Classic 5A and 5B have been a popular choice for countless drummers. New barrel-shaped tips produce a focused, highly defined sound. MSRP $15.25 per pair. NAMM Booth 3040 www.vicfirth.com Cremona Artist Series SV-700 Violin The Cremona Artist Violin Series continues to receive high praise from educators, advanced students, and touring artists throughout the country who recognize the value of affordably priced, high-quality, and well-made string instruments. The new SV-700 Artist Violin Outfit features an instrument with a beautifully shaded orange lacquer finish that rivals that of today's typical master-made violins from the finest boutique luthiers. The premium-quality, even-grain solid spruce is hand-carved and graduated for the top, while exquisite, highly flamed maple forms the back, sides, neck, and scroll. The SV-700's tone is full, resonant and eminently suited to the needs of the most discerning soloist. All trimmings are of the finest ebony in the famous "Hill Style" with ivory-colored ornaments, and each instrument is set up to perfection and fitted with genuine Thomastik Dominant strings at Cremona's San Francisco facility. The outfit is completed by a stylish, lightweight oblong suspension case and a quality, full-mounted pernambuco bow strung with genuine unbleached horsehair. NAMM Booth 5760 www.sagamusic.com Epiphone Releases Blueshawk Deluxe Epiphone's Blueshawk Deluxe represents the long-awaited return of an original classic first introduced in the '90s that has been a connoisseur favorite ever since. The Blueshawk Deluxe features the upper bout curve and cutaway of a Les Paul but with the semi-hollowbody design and small f-holes of an archtop. The result is one of the most versatile and distinctive guitars anywhere. The Epiphone Blueshawk Deluxe also features new P-90 PRO Single Coil pickups plus a six-position rotary VariTone switch. NAMM Booth 300B www.epiphone.com New iOS App for PianoDisc ProRecord Simplifying operation and setup of ProRecord systems via iPhone or iPad, the new ProRecord iOS app from from PianoDisc allows users to easily select from a variety of sounds to play, adjust the type and amount of reverb added to the sound, add chorus or delay, and change the transposition of the sound. The onboard metronome can also be controlled by the ProRecord app, allowing adjustment of beats per measure, tempo, and volume of the click. The app makes recording and playback of performances easy and intuitive. Online demo songs can be selected and played from the ProRecord app. With the new user-friendy ProRecord iOS app, recording and hearing great music on your piano is now as easy as using an iPhone or iPad. www.pianodisc.com EarthQuaker Hummingbird Repeat Percussion Tremolo V3 The Hummingbird Repeat Percussion Tremolo V3 from EarthQuaker Devices is based on the company's classic Hummingbird, a slightly modified clone of the Vox Repeat Percussion tremolo--popular for its short, spikey tremolo bursts that have an almost delay-like quality to them. For this upgraded version Earthquaker has added a third speed to the mode switch, offering access to the range that was in between the original modes 1 and 2. The Hummingbird can now go painfully slow to ring-mod fast and hit everything in between without skipping ranges. Also new is an expression control jack for the rate. The jacks have also been moved to the top of the enclosure to allow for more space on crowded pedal boards. MAP: $155. NAMM Booth 4296 www.earthquakerdevices.com Casio Debuts Trackformer DJ Products Series Casio's new Trackformer series DJ products enable individuals to create, mix, play, and produce their favorite tracks and join in the epic EDM movement. Casio's XW-DJ1 DJ Controller is designed with a large 7" platter that provides the feel of an analog turntable, filter controls, and cross fader to facilitate the popular scratching DJ style when mixing and creating tracks. Integration with Algoriddim's djay2 apps for iTunes provides direct controls for cue points, tempo sync, effects, looping, and more giving users a tactile experience for mixing and performing music. Users can also connect to Spotify, a leading commercial music streaming service, and mix along to their favorite songs. The compact, battery-powered XW-DJ1 is extremely portable and has a built-in-speaker. The XW-PD1 Groove Center is equipped with the sound engine from Casio's widely-popular XW series of synthesizers, which features preset patterns produced by professional beat makers that cover dance music genres like trap and EDM. Its 16 velocity-sensitive pads and four knobs facilitate fast, real-time music production. 16 buttons in the outer ring allow the user to check the current rhythm pattern at a glance. Users can create powerful rhythms and phrases with the pads and apply DSP effects such as roll, filter, bit crusher, break, and pitch shifter. Internal drum sounds suit a variety of styles such as hip hop, trap, and house The XW-PD1's synthesizer engine and variety of effects can manipulate various sounds. Pad tap sequences can also be recorded in real time. Also, sampled sounds from the mic or music player can easily be played on the pads. The audio output of the XW-DJ1 can be connected to the audio input of the XW-PD1 so the two units can be used in tandem for live remix performances. MSRPs are $299 for the XW-DJ1 and $399 for the XW-PD1. NAMM Booth 5900 www.casiomusicgear.com Washburn RO10E Travel Guitar New from Washburn's Rover line of acoustic travel guitars is the RO10E with a built-in microphone pickup. The mic is placed inside the body just under the bridge and is accessed via an endpin jack. For more than a decade, Rover has offered fine quality travel guitars with exceptional sound thanks to their solid spruce top and full 24" scale. The R010E includes a soft shell case with a shoulder strap as well as an instructional CD ROM, guitar strap, and three picks. NAMM Booth 5740 www.usmusiccorp.com Moses Graphite Speakers Moses Carbon Graphite will introduce the entirely new Sonusphere live performance loudspeakers at the Winter NAMM show. President Stephen Mosher has developed a unique speaker design that improves the amplified sound quality of both acoustic and electric instruments. The round Sonuspheres are optionally powered speakers that provide remarkably high-quality flat response and wide dispersion sound. The five flagship models for guitar, bass, and p.a., with MSRPs ranging from $600 to $2,000 USD, incorporate Eminence drivers and Ice Power amplification. Mosher contends that the hemispherical speaker enclosure exhibits the flattest response of all possible speaker enclosure geometries. NAMM Booth 5292 www.mosesgraphite.com Hohner's Rockwood Aimed At "Tween" Market Hohner's new Rockwood brand of guitar and drum products for the tween market includes a junior-sized drumset and 3/4-size electric and acoustic guitar packages that include an amp, tuner, strap, and stickers. All instruments are appropriately sized for the 8-14 year old with quality that encourages play and musical exploration. The Rockwood electric package retails for $225 and MAPs at $179.99. The acoustic guitar package retails for $150 and MAPs at $119.99. The drumset retails for $250 and MAPs at $199.99. NAMM Booth 3240 www.hohnerusa.com Alien Bass Station, Essential New Bass Tool The Alien Bass Station, or ABS for short, is a multi-effects pedal designed for bass players looking to shape and control their sound in either a live or studio environment. This one-of-a-kind pedal combines three essential effects: Limiter/Compressor, Amp Generator, and Gamma Fuzz. The Limiter/Comp section allows for control of dynamic range without adversely affecting tone. The Amp Generator delivers the warm tonality of a tube bass amp, mimicking the classic Ampeg B-15. The Gamma Fuzz is unique among fuzz pedals, delivering stronger and lower bass frequencies. The Alien Bass Station is not limited to bass guitar alone. Just as Fender's classic Bassman has become a favorite of guitar players, the ABS offers unique tonal possibilities for guitarists. Each ABS pedal is packaged with a custom cooler bag and external "One Spot" power supply. NAMM Booth 6897 www.analogalien.com New Blackbeard Resonator From Beard Guitars Beard Guitars' new Blackbeard resonator was created for Jerry Douglas, a 13-time Grammy winner who has endorsed the entire line of Beard resonator guitars. The Blackbeard derives its warm, clear tone from its all-mahogany construction. Major features include: translucent black finish; striking red bubinga fretboard; Classic Dot and Jerry Douglas's signature inlays; Beard Original #14 spider and Legend Cone configured with a Beard Bass Reflex baffle; Fishman Nashville pick-up; and Beard Chrome sound rings, tailpiece, and Spinning Palm coverplate. Each guitar is individually handcrafted in the USA and delivered in a deluxe hardshell case. NAMM Booth 1408 www.beardguitars.com Uebel's New "Superior" Clarinet The re-engineered F. Arthur Uebel "Superior" clarinet builds on nearly 80 years of woodwind making tradition. The revised Superior model features 18 keys, six rings, seasoned, carefully selected grenadilla wood, ergonomically optimized design, undercut tone holes, and an Eb lever. The clarinet is distinguished by its "Superior" bore and comes with two barrels, an adjustable thumb rest, deluxe leather pads, and beautiful silver-plated keywork. It comes standard with a Vandoren mouthpiece, Vandoren ligature, and a Pochette case. NAMM Booth 3028 www.uebel-klarinetten.de Italy's Proamp Bass Amps Make NAMM Debut Proamp professional bass amps, engineered and manufactured entirely in Italy, deliver a sound that's clear, defined, and very powerful. Light and compact, they feature a quality digital power amp, neodymium speakers, and range from 300 to 1,000 watts. They're available in a variety of cabinet configurations and combos. NAMM Booth 1276 www.proamp.it Loog Guitars To Launch New Three-String Electric Guitars At NAMM Loog Guitars, whose small, three-string guitars make it fun and easy for children to play music, will launch new electric models at the 2015 NAMM Show along with its classic acoustic guitars and an array of accessories. Electric Loog Guitars come in a vintage-y color palette and are equipped with a lipstick-style pickup. As with the acoustic Loog, the Electric Loog Guitars have only three strings, making it easier and faster for children and beginners to learn how to play. Also, many professional guitarists have also added a Loog to their collection, finding that having fewer strings triggers creativity and helps them discover new ways of playing. Both the acoustic and electric Loog Guitars come unassembled so that parents and kids can bond over (and with) the instrument before playing. All parts from both guitars are interchangeable and building them only takes 15 minutes and a Phillips screwdriver. NAMM Booth 4715 www.loogguitars.com Yamaha Pacifica Electric Guitars Now In The United States Yamaha is now marketing its entire Pacifica electric guitars line in the United States. Now joining the already available 012, 112 and 212 series, the 611, 510, and 311 series will extend the available Pacifica line price range from $179.99 to $929 MSRP. Pacifica guitars feature solid tonewood construction with alder bodies, rosewood fingerboards, and maple necks. Their versatility is due in large part to top-notch pickup and hardware selections, helping guitarists create a diverse tonal palette. The flagship PAC611HFM model includes a gorgeous flamed maple top, Graph Tech String-Saver saddle, color-matched headstock, Grover locking tuners, and Seymour Duncan SP90-1 and Custom 5 with coil tap pickups. Featuring an alder body and maple neck, the PAC510V comes with one Seymour Duncan Trembucker P-Rails pickup that offers three distinct tonal setting options, including a full humbucker, a soapbar single coil, and a traditional single coil. It also includes a Wilkinson bridge. The PAC311H, also constructed with an alder body and maple neck, features custom-wound P90/AlnicoV and Humbucker/AlnicoV pickups along with Grover locking tuners. NAMM Marriot Ballroom http://4wrd.it/pacificausa Levy's California Collection Guitar Straps New from Levy's Leathers, the California Collection M17CC is made using a unique dying process of the "pull up" leather that allows the color to move beneath the surface, allowing the texture to change. These straps are available in grey (GRY), tan (TAN) and teal (TEL). NAMM Booth 4656 www.levysleathers.com Hal Leonard Presents New How To Series In How to Play Blues-Fusion Guitar from Hal Leonard's new How To series, Joe Charupakorn teaches the styles and techniques of Robben Ford, Joe Bonamassa, Larry Carlton, John Scofield, and Eric Johnson, examining how these and other master players achieve their unique sound. It includes access to audio for download or streaming, with loads of demonstrations, plus play-along tracks for practicing. How to Play Country Lead Guitar by Jeff Adams breaks down timeless techniques from Merle Travis, Chet Atkins, Albert Lee, Vince Gill, Brent Mason, and Brad Paisley. This book with online audio is ideal for intermediate jazz players who want to add chicken pickin' flavors to their lines, for rockers interested in dressing up their licks with chromatic sophistication, and for everyone in be-twang. How to Read Music by Mark Phillips is a superb primer for students of any instrument or style. He introduces readers to the basics then provides more advanced information. As a bonus, the book contains excerpts from three classical piano pieces by Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven. How to Record at Home on a Budget helps the growing legions of people recording music, whether they're using a laptop with a mic or a decked-out studio. Author Chad Johnson addresses all aspects of getting quality recordings from modest home studio rigs. The book includes many sample tracks accessible online. Other titles in the works in the Hal Leonard How To series include How to Improvise Over Chord Changes, How to Write Your First Song, How to Play Rock Drums, How to Play Boogie-Woogie Piano, and How to Play Blues Piano by Ear. NAMM Booth 5720 www.halleonard.com Teton Range 3/4-Size Guitar From Chesbro New from Teton Guitars is the Teton Range, the answer to dealers' requests for an affordable, great-sounding 3/4-size solid-top acoustic guitar. The Teton Range features a mini jumbo body for full sound, an arched back for projection, and solid spruce top for great tone, combining for a sound as big as the mountains it's named after. Also available with a solid cedar top, these guitars make easy sales and crowd-pleasing instruments. MSRP $399.99 for spruce top, $459.99 for cedar top. The Teton Range guitar will ship in late May-early June. Teton Guitars is owned and distributed only to independent dealers by Chesbro Music Company. NAMM Booth 4430 www.tetonguitars.com Gemini 2 Software Speaker Control System The Gemini 2 by Mission Engineering is a 2x12 full range digital amplified speaker cabinet with integrated studio quality USB audio interface for use with modelers and software-based guitar systems. Mission's "EmPower Technology" features multi-channel class D power amplifiers, active crossovers with variable EQ, and full-range co-axial drivers, all designed from the ground up to work together as the perfect amplification solution for modeling systems. The Gemini 2 features a 2 x 110-watt internal amplifier and two 12" low-frequency drivers, with 1" coaxial high frequency drivers for a stereo solution in a single cabinet. Gemini 2 works perfectly with guitar processors with stereo outputs. Pro-audio 1/4" jack and XLR connectors, high-speed USB, and optional Class 2 stereo Bluetooth wireless interfaces connect Gemini amps directly with software-based guitar systems on computers, tablets, and smartphones, as well as dedicated guitar processors. EmPower EQ control allows blending between a flat or a more traditional guitar cab frequency response. Gemini's sophisticated power system provides a number of benefits not found in traditional guitar amplifiers. 100-240 input voltage and 50/60 Hz compatibility means Gemini can be used almost anywhere in the world without requiring heavy transformers. Just connect directly to wall power with a suitable cable. Power-saving features such as a high-efficiency power supply and deep sleep modes for internal components mean Mission Geminis use a fraction of the power of a regular amp, costing less to run. The included V-Lock power cable ensures the power is correctly connected and protects against the cable being accidentally pulled out. Each cabinet is handmade from 3/4" void-free Baltic birch with a high-quality black Tolex covering, black basket-weave acoustic speaker covering, and chrome hardware. NAMM Booth 2793 www.missionengineering.com RDM Slipstop Enhances Performance Tired of lackluster performance or practice due to your musical instrument slipping? Worried about damaging a fine wooden floor when playing the cello, bass, or drums? RDM offers a solution with the new Slipstop "no slip" protective sponge rubber bottom for cello, bass, or drums. It includes a metal plate for extra durability and is available in eight colors, including stainless steel. NAMM Booth 2533 sales@rdment.com Pignose "Snakeskin" Finish Amp Pignose Industries' iconic 7100 backstage practice amp, which musicians use on streets, in studios, and in their bedrooms across the globe, has been offered in strange limited-edition finishes over the years, and those editions are now considered collector's items. Howard Chatt, the man behind Pignose Industries since 1985, is now introducing the Snakeskin Finish Legendary 7100. Of course the "skin" is a printed and embossed vinyl that only looks and feels like snakeskin. Players who've seen the Snakeskin prototypes are clamoring for this edition. www.pignoseamps.com New Solid-Bodies From Godin New Godin Guitars solid-body models include the Godin Session Custom 59, featuring a Seymour Duncan '59 humbucker in the neck, Godin Custom Cajun single-coil in the bridge, and a five-way switch for a versatile array of tones. The Godin Progression Plus features a new ergonomic, rounded contoured body and three single-coil pickups including two Godin GS-2 pickups in the neck and middle, along with a Seymour Duncan JB Jr. in the bridge. Both models feature the Godin High-Definition Revoicer system, Godin Tru-Loc Trem, and new five-ply pearloid and tortoise shell pickguards. Other new solid-body electric models include the Godin Core CT and Summit Classic, both featuring carved tops and P90 or humbucker pickups. Godin will also introduce the latest TRIC cases, Italian-made Godin Acoustic Solutions amplifiers, and SARGA Percussion instruments. NAMM Booth 211A www.godinguitars.com Roland Redefines Electronic Drumming With Portable TD-1K Kit Roland's new compact TD-1K V-Drum kit, aimed at beginning players, students, and everyone who wants to enjoy drumming at home, features the company's patented mesh drum heads and 15 "ready-to-go" drum kit presets for playing nearly any style of music. Every drum sound offers a wide dynamic range and natural tone, and the pads provide an organic response that fully supports authentic acoustic playing techniques. The TD-1K's crash and ride cymbals include bow/edge sounds and support for cymbal chokes, and have a natural swinging motion when played. The hi-hat provides organic sound variation from tightly closed to fully open, and users can play heel splashes and other traditional techniques as well. The TD-1 sound module has a metronome for a timing reference, while the powerful "Coach" mode provides engaging exercises for building speed, stamina, and accuracy. A variety of internal audio songs allow users to enjoy playing along with a complete band, and they can also drum with favorite tunes by connecting a smartphone or music player to the Mix In jack. Pad configurations include a snare, three toms, crash and ride cymbals, and a hi-hat with an accompanying control pedal. The kick pedal's all-in-one, beater-free design provides far quieter performance in the playing room than a traditional pad/pedal combo, an important benefit when playing at home. The TD-1 sound module is very simple to operate with quick, intuitive access to all functions via the panel's LED display and uncomplicated layout. The large value buttons can even be pressed with drumsticks, allowing players to change drum kits and other parameters from a natural playing position. Stereo output jacks are provided for connecting to an external sound system for monitoring, and headphones can be plugged in for practicing without disturbing family members and neighbors. NAMM Booth 300A www.RolandUS.com Hohner Airboard Rasta High-Margin Accessory In response to the breakthrough success of the original AirBoard, Hohner is introducing the new AirBoard Rasta at the 2015 Winter NAMM Show. "The Rasta was designed for players of roots and dub reggae styles," said product manager Drew Lewis. "With Hohner's signature sound, a hot, new tri-color look, striking, padded travel bag and Blowflow mouthpiece, it's designed for a new generation of players who want to express themselves on a unique, stylish-looking instrument." To provide retail support for the new AirBoard Rasta, Hohner's has developed free, in-store wall and floor POP display demo stations. Each includes a demo AirBoard Rasta. Disposable mouthpieces for customer trials eliminate sanitary concerns. The AirBoard Rasta 32 key retails for $99 and MAPs at $79.99. The AirBoard Rasta 37 key retails for $119 and MAPs at $99.99. NAMM Booth 3240 www.playhohner.com Hal Leonard Demystifies Perfect Pitch The New Hal Leonard Perfect Pitch Method: A Musician's Guide to Recognizing Pitches by Ear comes with three CDs as well as access to online audio. Written by Adam Perlmutter, it features a series of 49 ear-training sessions, designed to be studied one per day for seven weeks using the included CDs or the online audio. Many of the lessons include three separate drills, which can be done one at a time to stretch the method out, or all three at once. The book is designed to help musicians start listening to music on a deeper level and getting more satisfaction from it. NAMM Booth 5720 www.halleonard.com New Seven-String Fishman Fluence Pickup Fishman has expanded its radical line of Fluence guitar pick-ups with a new seven-string humbucker model, available in alnico or ceramic models. The alnico model has all of the musicality, power, and explosiveness this type of pickup is known for. Voice 1 is the ideal alnico full, round sound with exceptional articulation and dynamics. Voice 2 delivers crisp, clean sounds never before heard in an active alnico humbucker. The ceramic model delivers a cutting attack with aggressive power. Voice 1 has the ideal ceramic humbucker tone for sharp-edged crunch with extra clarity and definition. Voice 2 produces high output ceramic tone and superlative distortion characteristics with Fluence dynamics and response. Fishman Fluence pick-ups are free from the hum, noise and frustrating inductance issues that plague even the most coveted wire-wound pickups, revealing pure, uncorrupted, and musical tone. Available in nickel, gold, black, and brushed stainless finishes, the new Fluence Modern 7-String Humbuckers can be powered by a 9-volt battery or Fishman's optional rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs, available in three models to easily and seamlessly fit most electric guitars. NAMM Booth 4340 www.fishman.com Italy's IQS Strings At NAMM Backed by years of research, Italy-based IQS strings are made to bring superior sound and accuracy to musicians in all genres. Expressive, soft, and comfortable, these strings are also extremely well balanced to offer outstanding sustain and sound definition. Harmonics are consistent and defined. With the right material and gauge, musicians will find IQS strings ideal for slapping, tapping, popping, picking, and fingering. Materials include nickel-plated, stainless steel, pure nickel, bronze, phosphor bronze, silver-plated, coated clear, and coated color. NAMM Booth 1276 www.iqsstrings.com Kenny G G-Series Saxophones The new G-Series saxophone line from Kenny G and Rheuben Allen is made by a Taiwanese company and features top-of-the-line professional instruments. Soprano models include lacquered finish (KGSSL-GIV) and a version with silver-plated main body and lacquered keys (KGSSLS-GIV). Altos and tenors include a lacquered model (KGASL-GIV & KGTSL-GIV) and a version featuring silver-plated bell section and neck with lacquered keys and main body (KGASLS-GV & KGTSLS-GIV). The new Low A Baritone (KGBSL-GIV) comes only in a lacquered finish. As of January 1, 2015, the E-Series Saxophone will no longer by manufactured by Kenny G or Rheuben Allen. Remaining models can only be purchased online or at an authorized dealer listed on the site. www.kennygsaxophones.com Kyser Humidifier And Uke Care Kit The new Kyser Lifeguard Humidifier for concert ukuleles prevents drying and cracking by maintaining a level of proper moisture within the wood of a ukulele. Simply immerse the unit in water, squeeze out excess, dry it off and then position it within the sound hole beneath the strings, and the humidifier takes care of the rest. It's made from a specially designed polymer that will not react to any polish or wood grain finishes on the ukulele's body, and it fits sound holes 1.88" to 2.25". Kyser is packaging the humidifier as part of a care kit including a 4oz bottle of String-Cleaning, a 4oz bottle of polish, a 4oz bottle of Lem-Oil, and three color-coded Ultra Opper Fiber cloths. MSRP: $19.95 USD each. NAMM Booth 5977 www.kysermusical.com Makala Waterman Series Ukuleles By Kala Makala Waterman Series ukuleles by Kala feature the latest water-resistant composite technology packaged with vintage design and sound. The Waterman Series is designed for playability, portability, and durability, making it the ultimate outdoor/travel uke. Makala Waterman ukuleles come in soprano size and include a logo backpack/carrying bag. They are made of high-grade polycarbonate ABS construction, which is durable as well as weather-resistant, and are complemented with nickel plated open gear tuners. Each model is strung with Aquila Super Nyglut Strings. Waterman "Colors" ukes feature six choices of vintage color tops with matching headstock and black satin back and sides. Waterman "Clear" ukes feature three see-through translucent colors. Waterman "Swirls" are a nod to popular vintage '50s and '60s ukulele styles with unique marbleized color back and sides and eggshell tops. NAMM Booth 5320 www.kalabrand.com New Pro Euphonium From Jupiter Jupiter's new JEP1100 compensating euphonium is the result of years of research aimed at creating a superior quality instrument with impeccable intonation that responds well in all registers with great tonal warmth and brilliance. It features a specially designed 12.2" yellow brass bell and rose brass mouthpipe made with a special manufacturing technique that ensures uniform thickness. Enhanced bracing is acoustically positioned throughout the instrument to increase tonal resonance and offer superior durability. Double lapped stainless steel piston valves ensure improved action and agility. This instrument produces a commanding tone with defined clarity perfect for the most demanding repertoire. "The tone quality is excellent with a full, resonant sound," said Brandon Jones, XO and Jupiter euphonium artist. "The response is quick with incredible intonation and slots extremely easily throughout its entire range." NAMM Booth 3220 www.jupitermusic.com Vandoren V21 Clarinet Reed Vandoren's new V21 clarinet reed, named after the century of its introduction, provides a new tonal option for clarinetists seeking to personalize their sound. A thick-blank, American-cut reed, the V21 allows the clarinetist to play with amazing presence and immediate response. Available for B-flat clarinet only, it comes in sizes 2-1/2, 3, 3-1/2, 3-1/2+, 4, 4-1/2, and 5. "The V21 has a beautiful, singing quality," said DANSR Vice President of Sales & Marketing and clarinetist Gary Winder. "Its flexibility will make it popular with clarinetists at all levels: students through top professionals." Early artist trials have elicited rave reviews from top players worldwide such as John Bruce Yeh of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and popular international soloist Martin Fröst. NAMM Booth 3112 www.dansr.com Mi-Si Debuts Condenser Under-Saddle Pickup Mi-Si, a pioneer of battery-free active amplification and inventor of a wirelessly controlled preamp (Cutless) and planar coil magnetic pick-ups for acoustic guitars (Duo and Magpie), has also introduced Motif, the industry's first condenser under-saddle pickup system with the extraordinary properties of a condenser microphone. Motif is the first capacitive active under-saddle pickup to eliminate the age-old problem of piezo sensor "quack," the distortions produced by conventional pick-up systems. Motif's design is similar in principle to the design of the best-performing condenser microphones. The Motif is only 1mm thick and is connected to a state-of-the-art, extremely low-noise class A discrete preamplifier mounted on the endpin jack. The pickup's mechanical structure provides excellent contact between saddle and bridge. Like every other Mi-Si product, Motif operates battery-free. A 60-second charge will provide up to six hours of playing time. NAMM Booth 3535 www.mi-si.com Mike Balter Titanium Mallets Leading mallet manufacturer Mike Balter continues to push the technological envelope with the introduction of the new Titanium Series mallets. This unique design is well suited for both vibes and marimba, and produces great overtones, allowing the player to switch between instruments without changing mallets or sacrificing sound quality. Available in satin birch or rattan handles. Birch handles retail for $52 per pair and rattan handles retail for $66 per pair. www.mikebalter.com Silvertone's Groovy New Finishes The Silvertone 1423, one of the most popular Silvertone guitars from the 1960s, was reissued in 2014 with all the style and tone of the original, plus improvements in playability, hardware, and construction. The model now has an all-new red finish, debuting at the NAMM show. Originally offered from 1959 through 1962, the Silvertone 1423 "Jupiter" is a collector's favorite. Its unique new blend knob that, in addition to the separate volume and tone controls for each pickup, alters the balance between the two pickups when the selector switch is in the middle position. Twisting this knob creates a sound similar to a wah pedal. Other features include height-adjustable Duncan Design pickups, an intonatable bridge, and a modern profile mahogany neck with dual expanding truss rod. Designed in the USA and manufactured in Samick's factory, this guitar produces unique sound that inspires creative playing. NAMM Booth 4621 www.smcmusic.com Peavey's All-New Dark Matter Enclosures Peavey Electronics' newly introduced Dark Matter speaker enclosures produce crystal clear professional audio for band, DJ, or other musical applications. The series' four models--the DM 112, DM 115, DM 118 Subwoofer, and DM 115 subwoofer all feature performance-enhancing onboard DSP. The Dark Matter LCD display and associated selector knob allow users to choose various parameters of operation for the DSP-based EQ. This includes bass and treble control access as well as EQ presets for different applications or speaker positions and locations. These presets provide users with a highly flexible method of configuring the powered speaker system for a specific use with minimal time and effort. Fan-cooled for maximum reliability, the DM 112 and DM 115 feature Peavey's exclusive Quadratic Throat Waveguide technology to help deliver pristine, precise sound. The DM 118 and DM 115 Subwoofers provide powerful low end with fully adjustable KOSMOS for increased bass impact, and feature forced air-cooled power amps for optimum reliability. The ultra-reliable Dark Matter series enclosures are built tough with steel grilles and rugged injection-molded cabinets. Their convenient design allows for use as floor monitors or pole-mounted speakers. NAMM Booth 201AB www.peavey.com IK Multimedia Presents iRig Mic Field The iRig Mic Field from IK Multimedia is billed as the only mobile digital microphone designed to be used for both video and audio projects. This mic delivers superb stereo sound for both formats by connecting directly via its Lightning connector to the digital input of an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch. Its two high-quality cardioid electret condenser capsules, 24-bit audiophile-grade A/D converter (with 44.1/48kHz sample rate), 115 dB maximum SPL rating, and built-in low-noise, high-definition preamp allow for pristine sound capture quality at rehearsals, concerts, lectures, speeches, music practice, and more. Ideal for projects from sound field recording to on-the-move videography, iRig Mic Field can create faithful field recordings in nearly any context. Retail price $99.99/€79.99. NAMM Booth 6520  www.irigmicfield.com SimS Super-Quad Bass Pickup System The unique SimS Super-Quad Pickup System offers a staggering 15 pickup options when two pickups are fitted to one instrument. This highly novel concept utilizes multiple coils in such a way that each pickup can be switched to a split coil, single coil, and humbucking coils. Any of the three classic bass sounds can be achieved in just one instrument, as well as many more new contemporary sounds, with just a simple flick of the patented Tri-logic switching system. Tri-color LEDs installed in each pickup aid the quick and easy recognition of each pickup mode that is chosen. Super-Quad Pickup Systems are manufactured in the U.K. and are available to bass manufacturers, retail shops, and repairers to offer to their customers. "Our new Super-Quads offer something that no other pickup can," said company founder Martin Sims. "Designed with simplicity in mind, our pickups can be fitted by any luthier with standard luthier skills, as all the hard work is already done--leaving just simple press-together connections." NAMM Booth 2896 www.simscustom.com/pickups  Swiss Startup Debuts "Electric Guitar Of The Future" Relish Guitars Switzerland has introduced "Jane," a new guitar featuring a patented sandwich construction with an aluminum frame between molded wood veneers designed to deliver more sustain and better sound development. Jane's revolutionary design spreads the vibration of strings directly through the whole frame. The two layers of molded wood contain this effect so the vibration of the sound can be felt on the surface as it produces a wide, warm sound with huge sustain. All Relish Guitars are designed, manufactured, and assembled in the company's own workshop in Lucerne, Switzerland. For selecting between the pick-ups, Jane features a smooth touch-sensor-system hidden below the wood that allows the player to mute the guitar without turning off the volume control. LED lights show if the pickup is switched on or off. Electronics can be accessed through a back panel, secured by magnets, which can be opened with a guitar pick. This access enables the user to easily change out the pick-ups, which have plug-and-screw RF connectors for a completely shielded signal. "Jane's" design has already won accolades from players including Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, and John Frusciante as well as representatives of some of the industry's top manufacturers. NAMM Booth 1176 www.relishguitars.ch Yamaha Upgrades Top-Selling P-Series Portable Pianos Yamaha's new P-Series portable digital pianos represent the next generation of the company's popular line. The P-115, which replaces the P-105, delivers Yamaha's unmistakable piano touch and tone in a compact design and at an affordable price. Its Pure CF Sound Engine faithfully reproduces the sound of Yamaha's renowned CFIIIS 9-foot concert grand piano. Other key additions to the P-115 include a controller app for iOS, expanded polyphony (192 notes) and more drum rhythms (14). The Aux outputs and USB port enhance the model's versatility and connectivity while the optional furniture stand and piano-style pedal unit give the P-115 an appearance better suited for the home. The new model P-45 is an ideal digital piano for beginning piano students. This lowest-priced, 88-note weighted model offers an authentic acoustic piano feel with heavier touch for the low notes and lighter touch on the high end. The P-45 also features Advanced Wave Memory (AWM) stereo sampling, which uses digital technology to better emulate an acoustic piano's sound. Using two microphones to record the samples ensures a deeper, richer, and more spacious sound at players' fingertips. AWM stereo sampling also allows the P-45 to play one sample per key at varying levels of volume and timbre. Another prime upgrade over the previous model is 64-note polyphony. NAMM Booth 100 http://4wrd.it/usayamaha Timber Tones Planet Tones Picks Timber Tones' already enormous range of luxury guitar picks just got a little larger with the beautiful new Planet Tones, which are precision-CNC milled from the finest quality ebony to a shape that has been honed over the last ten years. They then have a beautiful disc inserted in the top left corner, like a planet in the night sky. There are four picks available in this range: Paua Abalone, Gold Mother of Pearl, Greenlip Abalone, and Black Mother of Pearl. NAMM Booth 4609 www.timber-tones.com Dobro Hound Dog M14 Metalbody The Dobro Hound Dog M-14 Metalbody guitar, available through Epiphone, has an easy-to-play round neck and features the renowned resonator style and sound that has been dazzling and inspiring Dobro fans since the late 1920s. The body of the Dobro Hound Dog M-14 is made from bell brass with nickel plating and features a SlimTaper D-profile mahogany neck for a rich and full tone that makes both finger picking and slide smooth and easy in all registers. Unlike hard-to-play vintage models, the new Dobro Hound Dog M-14 Metalbody features a dual-action truss rod for quick and reliable intonation. NAMM Booth 300B www.epiphone.com DSM02 Character Module From Dave Smith Dave Smith Instruments' DSM02 Character module provides an eclectic assortment of five digital effects ranging from subtle to aggressive for shaping, twisting, and mangling sound. These effects--Girth, Air, Decimate, Hack, and Drive--form a significant and celebrated component in Smith's acclaimed Prophet 12 and Pro 2 synthesizers. The 14HP-wide, Eurorack-format DSM02 makes it easy and affordable for modular users to inject some of these classic synths' character into their rigs. Girth and Air provide sophisticated low- and high-frequency harmonic enhancement, respectively, for polishing and refining a sound. Decimate performs sample rate reduction for adding lo-fi grunge. Hack is a bit crusher capable of trashing an otherwise clean signal nearly beyond recognition. Drive adds overdrive and saturation, with warmth at one end of the knob and intense harmonic overload at the other. Using 3.5mm phone jacks, the DSM02's carefully designed set of inputs allow individual voltage control of effect levels. This module provides two independent audio inputs and two independent audio outputs with shared control, allowing for either mono or stereo operation. The digital signal path provides full 24-bit, 96 kHz resolution for superior audio fidelity. NAMM Booth 5400 www.davesmithinstruments.com K-Line Guitars Custom Shop Quality K-Line Guitars offers vintage-inspired solid body electric guitars that combine classic styling, boutique pick-ups, modern hardware, and second-to-none nitrocellulose finishes that are sure to please vintage guitar enthusiasts and today's demanding modern players alike. Some K-Line guitars undergo a proprietary process to apply a light to moderate aging to the finish. Others are given the "Time Kapsule" treatment, creating the appearance of a guitar that left the showroom 50 years ago and was stored in its case in a closet ever since. K-Line's bolt-on series includes the double cutaway Springfield, single cutaway Truxton, and two offset models--the classic single-coil-inspired Texola and the stop-tail San Bernardino. Its set-neck series includes single- and double-cutaway models with P-90 pickups. K-Line also builds bass guitars. K-Line Guitars retail through dealers in the U.S., Europe and Asia. List price in the U.S. ranges from $2,199 to $2,499 depending on the model. Every K-Line guitar is hand-built by Chris Kroenlein at his workshop in suburban St. Louis, Missouri. NAMM Booth 1485 www.k-lineguitars.com Galaxy Audio Traveler Receiver Galaxy Audio's new dual-channel receiver for its Traveler Portable PA Systems allows for the use of two wireless microphones with one receiver card. The TV-DREC is an easy aftermarket installation and now makes it possible to have up to four UHF wireless microphones operating at once in a Traveler Portable PA System. Each receiver features two volume controls (one for each receiver) and 96 selectable frequencies. NAMM Booth 6200 www.galaxyaudio.com New Carl Martin Dual Injection Pedal With its new Dual Injection pedal, Carl Martin addresses some common guitar-playing dilemmas: "How to remain analog while using digital effects?" "How to boost tone without changing the quality?" And, "What happens if you boost the signal in front of the drive effect to increase sustain?" The Dual Injection provides answers, combining the high-quality, transparent boost of two Carl Martin Hot Drive'n Boosts in a single pedal. Each has its own level control and true bypass switch, as well as another toggle that switches between Serial and Parallel modes. In Serial mode, players can use the Input/Output 1 on the back of the pedal and place the boost wherever they want in the signal chain. In Parallel mode, connect the Output 1 before the drive or preamp, and then use the Input/Output 2 on the side of the pedal to connect to the effects loop on the amp. With this flexibility, the Dual Injection provides four different boost settings. The Dual Injection can be powered by 9V battery or with the correct power transformer. It is housed in a die-cast case with custom paint. www.carlmartin.com Gnarly Knobs Tuning Peg Covers Gnarly Knobs has created new designs and colors for its silicone custom tuning peg covers. These custom sleeves allow anyone to quickly and inexpensively create a whole new look and feel for their guitar or ukulele. Players can choose one design in one color for all six pegs or mix and match designs and colors to create their own unique looks. The company's Kanji symbols will inspire the player, say something to the audience, or both. For bands, dealers, and manufacturers, Gnarly Knobs can print custom logos/artwork on any color sleeve they choose to be resold in retail outlets and concerts, or as product accessories. The custom logos present a wonderful branding opportunity for artists and manufacturers who want to increase their exposure to the public. They also make great gift items for musicians. NAMM Booth 1634 www.gnarlyknobs.com New BAE Preamp Offers Modified Gain Structure British Audio Engineering (BAE) has introduced a new 500 series preamp module, the 312B. Based on the popular 312A model, it delivers the same excellent dynamic range, frequency response, and noise performance the BAE 312 series is known for, but its lower-gain Jensen input transformer delivers a modified gain structure designed to complement louder sources such as a hot microphone on drums before needing to implement the pad. This allows engineers the option of owning the 312A as a preamp geared toward higher gain and the 312B for lower gain. Just like the 312A, the 312B features the Avedis 1122 Discrete Op-Amp and Jensen input and output transformers, which use direct-coupled circuitry with no capacitors in the signal path. The input impedance of the 312B is designed to remain consistent even after the pad is engaged, providing a steady load to the microphone. Offering excellent dynamic range, great frequency response, high headroom, and superb noise performance for a punchy sound that works well with many microphones, the 312B is available as a single 500 Series module and as a fully loaded six-space lunchbox. It includes a DI for instruments, a Phase Reverse switch, 48V for phantom power, and a PAD switch. NAMM Booth 6290 www.baeaudio.com Vintage Vinyl Guitar Straps From D'Andrea New Ace Vintage Vinyl Guitar Straps from D'Andrea USA offer retro looks and unique Pearl, Glass Glitter, and Oyster finishes from D'Andrea's vault of proprietary Delmar materials. Ace Vintage Vinyl Straps are all 2" wide and adjustable to 53" in length. Patented Ace-Locks offer superior security. Models include Pink, Silver, and Moody Blue Glass Glitter; Rustic and Blue Swirl Pearl; White Strata; Onyx Marble; and Bronze Oyster. NAMM Booth 4850 www.dandreausa.com New CADLive Vocal And Instrument Mics CAD Audio's new CADLive D32 is a supercardioid dynamic handheld vocal mic with a proprietary "QuietTouch" on/off switch. Its neodymium capsule design delivers a powerful signal in different live sound applications as well as exceptional sound quality and durable all-metal construction. The three-pack D32X3 is outfitted with carry case and mic clips. The D38 CADLive supercardioid dynamic handheld mic includes a high-performance neodymium capsule for exceptional accuracy and sound quality. Clear and articulate with an extended frequency response, the D38 overachieves in virtually any live sound application from lead vocals to spoken word announcements. The three-pack D38X3 is outfitted with carry case and mic clips. The CADLive D89 Supercardioid dynamic instrument mic and D90 Supercardioid dynamic vocal mic are each equipped with a "Trueflex" diaphragm and "PowerGap" high-gauss neodymium magnet. Designed to produce a powerful, articulate response in live sound miking situations, the D89 is an ideal choice for miking electric instruments, drums, guitar cabinets, brass, and strings. The D90 is engineered to produce a powerful, smooth, and detailed performance in a variety of high SPL live situations. The D90 features a durable and road-ready case for maximum protection and survival on the road. NAMM Booth 6531 www.cadaudio.com OnBoard Tuners Now Feature Clock OnBoard Resarch, a pioneer in the development of the clip-on headstock tuner, now offers a unique new high-quality chromatic tuner. While Intellitouch Tuners have always been known for their tuning precision, OnBoard Research has added an extra dimension with a precision digital clock incorporated into the new PT10C Tuner. This feature allows a musician to discreetly check the time during a gig without having to look down at their watch or mobile phone. The clock will keep music instructors aware of their class time with just a subtle glance at their headstock. In addition, enhanced mechanical properties yield a truly rugged instrument tuner suitable for all occasions. NAMM Booth 4131 www.OnBoardResearch.com Amptweaker BluesFuzz Limited Edition The inspiration for the new Amptweaker BluesFuzz came from a session at NAMM where some players expressed a preference for lower output germanium transistors. In response to this preference, Amptweaker will offer a limited run of 49 pedals using these transistors. It excels in producing cleaner tones, thanks to the auto-bias built into the Fuzz control, and it also includes the popular Boost Switch MOD, which boosts the gain about 10dB, to deliver more fuzz or help compensate for lower output vintage pickups. NAMM Booth 5299  www.amptweaker.com Alfred Integrates Whiteboard Technology In New Classroom Method Alfred Music's Everyday Improvisation addresses the National Standards for Music Education while utilizing technology and integrating an interactive whiteboard into the classroom. Well-constructed, interactive lessons provide a smooth and easy way to teach improvisation and composition to elementary students (grades 1-4). MSRP $34.99. NAMM Booth 4618 www.alfred.com New Custom77 Line Part Of U.S. Strategy Custom77 Guitars of Lyon, France is now translating its flagship Deluxe series into a lower-cost line of between $549 and $869. This line, part of a globalization strategy and plan to expand in the U.S. market, was developed through carefully chosen factory partnerships to ensure a high level of manufacturing. After a 20% Q3 increase in sales to the U.S., Custom77 is now seeking a U.S. distributor and dealer network. The new line will offer attractive margins for both. "We've established a strong brand identity through the past seven years," said Custom77 co-founder JB Debiais. "Our objective is to create legendary instruments that will be played by the biggest names and by everyday players." NAMM Booth 1683 www.custom77.com Mad Professor RED Cables The new Mad Professor RED cable represents the latest in cable technology. This special nano-technology cable will not replace current cables; instead, the player simply inserts a current cable into the female-to-male plugged Mad Professor RED cable to produce a stronger signal with faster transients and much better balance. The most important benefit, however, is that the upgraded playability and faster signal flow make the player feel more in control of his tone. Mad Professor's "SpinX" Technology (patent pending) and a quantum-level nano treatment line up the RED cable's electrodes, reducing signal loss and accelerating signal speed compared with any conventional cable. The electrode linearity continues after the RED cable, so pedals and the amplifier also work more efficiently. The effect is achieved through nanotechnology's magnetic field, which doesn't require any other kind of power. NAMM Booth 4176 www.mpamp.com North Bridge Guide For Aspiring Flutists North Bridge Winds is now shipping Flute Essentials, an informational six-page brochure designed to help young students, band directors, and parents navigate the process of purchasing a step-up flute. The free brochure is full of close-up flute photos and covers topics such as choosing flute materials, headjoints, pointed arms vs. Y-arms, pivot screws and adjustment screws, cork and crown assemblies, open vs. closed holes, the Split E and C# trill, wall thickness, gizmos, tone holes, and much more. Aside from the front and back covers, North Bridge is purposely not mentioned in the brochure so retailers can use the flyer to educate consumers to choose the best flute for their needs, regardless of brand. All North Bridge flutes feature a sterling silver headjoint that is handmade in the USA by flute artisan Chris McKenna. www.northbridgewinds.com New Jensen Bass Speakers Jensen Musical Instrument Speakers has added a new offering of bass speakers to its renowned line. Punch Sound series speakers are equipped with ceramic magnets and steel baskets for a more classic tone and look, and deliver great dynamics and super fast response. Those looking for a cleaner sound with more headroom will select the new Smooth Sound, which feature neodymium magnets and aluminum baskets for a more modern tone and look. In addition to delivering great tone, Smooth Sound speakers are 50% lighter than their ceramic cousins. New Jensen bass series speakers are available in a variety of sizes and wattages for any application. NAMM Booth 4893 www.jensentone.com Nebelung Guitars From Norway Nebelung Guitars is a Norway-based guitar company established in 2002 by designer and builder Ronnie Nebelung. Much time has been spent developing original instruments that have a strong personal identity yet are affordable to working musicians. The lineup consists of five different models, each with its own unique personality. All Nebelung models feature the much-prized korina tone wood, Wilkinson hardware, and great-sounding pick-ups. Priced at $895, these guitars are within reach for a wide range of players. Nebelung guitars are now in the hands of some of the greatest touring rock 'n' roll bands in Norway. NAMM Booth 1488 www.nebelungguitars.com New Spartan Interface From Audioprobe Audioprobe's new Spartan A is a 2-in/2-out USB audio/MIDI interface, designed for an excellent recording experience. Compatible with OS X and Windows systems, it operates on an asynchronous clock system that delivers up to 192kHz/24-bit audio with the lowest jitter performance. Its low-noise analog circuitry also offers 110dBA dynamic range, +14dBu fully balanced line output and two +13dBu high-power stereo headphone outputs. Its low-noise mic preamp and instrument preamp are designed for musicians who want to capture the inspiration anywhere without sacrificing audio quality. Separate hardware volume controls for both line output and two headphone amps provide a highly flexible monitoring environment, allowing users to easily switch between headphones and speakers or listen to both simultaneously. Direct Monitor is also available for zero latency monitoring. All I/O channels are equipped with light level indicators for easy signal level monitoring. Audioprobe's trademark Capture Probe technology provides a loopback solution for ASIO-based professional applications and WDM-based playback applications. Users can easily mix and re-route signals between both ASIO and WDM applications for professional recording or internet broadcasting. Spartan A is housed in a sleek, heavy-duty aluminum housing and is available in Silver, Red Wind, and Sky Blue. MSRP $169. NAMM Booth 3190 www.audio-probe.com High-Style Gigbags From Refract Refract Bags bring style to the gig bag market, while offering great protection, smart pocket configurations, and designs for every taste and personality. There is even a variety of designs provided to match different outfits and moods. www.refractbags.com SKY To Distribute New Handbell Line Music education company SKY Edutainment Group LLC's Uchida music handbells line includes the Color-Coded Series, Silver Series, Gold Series, and the Excellent Silver Series. Crafted by manufacturing industry giant Uchida, which is renowned for its superb workmanship, these handbells are the top-selling music bells in Japan. Furthermore, their durability and popularity have led to their use in elementary music education programs in Japan, Singapore, and Indonesia. "As the exclusive U.S. distributor of Uchida music handbells, we're thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase these fantastic, affordable music bells at our booth for the NAMM audience," said SKY President Shiho Yamamoto. "Attendees will be delighted with the aural appeal and versatility of these high-quality bells." The SKY Edutainment Group booth will feature live performances and demonstrations by a handbell musician each day. NAMM Booth 1247 www.skyetg.com Guitar Upgrades From Backbone Innovative T-Bone and Stratobone models from Backbone Guitar Products are direct bolt-on replacements for the stock neck plate on Telecasters, Stratocasters, and copies. Designed to unlock tone, increase sustain, and enhance resonance, they offer a cost-effective way to upgrade performance without modifying the guitar. Simply change the neck mounting plate and restring on T-Bone models. The Stratobone attaches to the tremolo claw, providing adjustment with new stainless machine screws. Current models include the T-Bone Standard, T-Bone Studio, T-Bone Bilet, and Stratobone. NAMM Booth 1179 www.get-a-backbone.com IceCube Line Isolator Eliminates Buzz Radial Engineering's new IceCube IC-1 is an ultra-compact balanced line isolator made to fit inside a technician's tool kit to eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops in audio systems. Unlike similar products using dated technology, the IC-1 is designed to work with state-of-the-art audio systems' signal-to-noise levels, dynamic handling, and sound quality, eliminating hum and buzz without compromising signal quality. Measuring less than 4" x 1-1/2" x 1-1/2", it features an XLR-F input at one end and an XLR-M output at the other with solid 16-gauge steel construction and durable powder coat finish. The steel outer shell provides excellent shielding against electromagnetic fields generated by power cables, dimmers, motors, and power supplies while being significantly more rugged. It connects via standard three-pin XLR cables and is equipped with a ground lift switch to further assist in reducing noise. The IceCube's plug-and-play setup makes it easy to use. Estimated MSRP $69.99 USD. NAMM Booth 6959 www.radialeng.com Alfred Spotlights Gracie, "Rock & Roll's Hidden Giant" Rock & Roll's Hidden Giant--The Story Of Rock Pioneer Charlie Gracie from Alfred Music captures Gracie's rise to the top of the charts and subsequent fall from fame--thanks to the "chew 'em up, spit 'em out" cutthroat world of American pop music. Gracie was part of the birth of rock 'n' roll, and his unique style influenced some of the most important artists in rock history. MSRP $19.99. NAMM Booth 4618 www.alfred.com Versatile Ansmann Battery Chargers From desktop chargers to full-blown "production systems," Ansmann and Fischer Amps' pro-grade rechargeables are perfect for wireless mics, in-ear monitors, and any other audio gear requiring batteries. The chargers are so effective, they have been embraced by top acts including Cirque du Soleil, Katy Perry, and thousands of schools, theaters, and churches. NAMM Booth 1173 www.ansmann.net Mack's High Fidelity Ear Plugs The unique open-air membrane filter technology used to create Mack's "Hear Plugs" high fidelity musician's ear plugs ensures natural sound and comfort while reducing harmful noise. A super-low profile design allows for inconspicuous wear, while soft flanges ensure maximum comfort for the musician. Each package includes two sizes of comfort tips and one set of filters. Offering a noise reduction rating of 12 decibels, Hear Plugs provide hearing protection while minimizing the muffled sound often experienced with traditional earplugs. They are washable and reusable, and include a convenient aluminum keychain carrying case. Mack's Hear Plugs are great for musicians and concertgoers alike. Mack's Earplugs has been a leader in ear care since 1962. www.macksearplugs.com ReedGeek Universal Reed Tool The ReedGeek "Universal" Tool is designed to help all woodwind players achieve better reed performance quickly and accurately. With its compact, portable design and proprietary true-edge retention technology, the ReedGeek rivals the most expensive reed knives sold, but needs no sharpening, is safe for school band, and has no sharp edges to slice delicate fingertips. Within ten minutes of training, players using the ReedGeek will notice a dramatic improvement in efficiency, sonic quality, and responsiveness of their reeds. Users will find more "good" reeds in a box so the ReedGeek pays for itself in a short period of time. Manufactured 100% in the USA, the ReedGeek has quickly become an industry leader used by top woodwind professionals including David Sanborn, Eddie Daniels, Dave Liebman, Bob Mintzer, Greg Osby, Tower of Power, and others. NAMM Booth 2522 www.reedgeek.com Na Leo Ukuleles From Hawaii Na Leo Ukulele, founded in 2013 and based in Honolulu, Hawaii, realizes Na Leo's vision to bring affordable acacia koa ukuleles to the market. The KUMA series, debuting at NAMM, are imported from Asia and built with acacia Koa harvested locally on the Big Island of Hawaii. The KUMA series will be available in longneck soprano, concert, and tenor sizes. It will also be offered as part of Na Leo's Feather Line in concert and tenor. These ukuleles are made with a narrow profile to help players who need assistance in holding and gripping the ukulele. The sleek design also lightens the weight of the ukulele, bringing balance to the overall feel of the instrument. NAMM Booth 1210 www.leolani-ukulele.com LP Cajon "Hats" Versatile Accessory LP's Cajon Hats introduce the familiar hi-hat sound in the form of a compact, portable cajon add-on. This versatile, one-of-a-kind, patent-pending cajon accessory allows players to more fully express themselves sonically. Mounting LP's Cajon Hats to a cajon enables musicians to gain an essential cymbal sound without the fuss of heavy cymbals and a stand. Manufactured from premium B20 bronze, the 9" Cajon Hats are extremely durable. Additionally, the specially designed striker allows for stick-free playing. When finished, the Cajon Hats can be quickly removed for easy transport. MSRP $154. www.kmcmusic.com Crossrock Hybrid Ukulele Case New from Crossrock, durable, portable and fashionable ukulele cases are available in nine rich colors. Instead of a traditional aluminum alloy valance, the Crossrock CRA400 Ukulele Case features a stylish zipper and high-quality password lock. This design makes the case less heavy but still fully protective. Color choices include: black, steel grey, silver, yellow, green, purple, red, pink, and turquoise. NAMM Booth 1500  www.kingstarintl.com EarthQuaker Fuzz Master General The Fuzz Master General is EarthQuaker Devices' take on the vintage Ace Tone Fuzz Master, an octave fuzz that was very similar to the wildly popular Shin-ei/Univox Super Fuzz. In this pedal, the basic circuit has been "re-imagineered" to be more useful for the modern player. The Fuzz Master General features a more accurate fuzz control delivering a much broader spectrum of dirt tones ranging from nearly clean through full buzz saw assault. A "Voice" toggle has been added to wrangle a more variable tone out of the classic circuit. It also has significantly more output volume and a much lower noise floor than the original. With all these added features, the Fuzz Master General delivers a more versatile version of the original while retaining the same swelling octave grind. MAP: $175. NAMM Booth 4296 www.earthquakerdevices.com Amalfitano Offers SVL Daytona Pickups Amalfitano's new SVL Daytona pickups were created for British recording artist Matt Schofield, with special guidance from Simon Law, Schofield's guitar tech. With extremely rich harmonics, the Daytonas closely resemble the original pickups from Schofield's coveted '61 Stratocaster. However, they boast the addition of a slightly overwound bridge pickup with a steel grounded baseplate epoxied to the bottom. This single-coil set is assembled entirely by pickup specialist Jerry Amalfitano, using a hand-wound, non-uniform wire layering technique, much like the way vintage pickups were manufactured. www.amalfitanopickups.com Protect Your Ears With DUBS Acoustic Filters Wearable tech company Doppler Labs Inc. is showcasing its first product, DUBS Acoustic Filters, at the NAMM Show. Advanced technology earplugs designed for an optimal listening experience, the DUBS use a proprietary combination of high and low pass filters to dynamically attenuate audio. This design allows them to reduce volume while preserving sound fidelity. Employing high design and a unique form factor that allows them to fit comfortably and to sit flush against the ear, DUBS Acoustic Filters feature a 12-decibel Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) to help protect hearing without sacrificing sound clarity, style, or comfort. U.S. MSRP $25. NAMM Booth 2683 www.getDUBS.com Grace Harbor Acoustic Guitars Dana B. Goods will launch its new line of Grace Harbor Acoustic Guitars at NAMM. Produced in one of the most renowned Asian factories, Grace Harbor guitars are available with either laminated or solid spruce tops, and come in a variety of popular sizes and styles. Drawing on nearly two decades of product sourcing expertise, Dana B. Goods has made sure that the new Grace Harbor line offers a compelling value. Cases are included. NAMM Booth 5972 www.DanaBGoods.com T-Rex Debuts ToneTrunk Pedal Boards New ToneTrunk pedal boards from Danish effects pedal manufacturer T-Rex Effects are made from lightweight, road-ready aluminum and feature a two-tiered design for easier access to the back row of pedals and to provide ample space for extension/patch cables and a power supplies. Solid rubber feet ensure the board remains in place. Each ToneTrunk board includes a rugged, padded gig bag with shoulder strap, as well as Velcro strips. Separate screw-on brackets for power supplies and wah/volume/expression pedals will also be available (sold separately). T-Rex pedals are distributed in the USA by Musiquip Inc. NAMM Booth 4258 www.t-rex-effects.com Wood-Shell Electronic Drums From Chronos The new Element Series of wood-shell electronic drums will launch from Freemont, California-based Chronos Drums, LLC at the Winter NAMM Show. "We saw a need for electronic drums to keep evolving and strive for the same feel and satisfaction of playing acoustic drums--and we have accomplished exactly that," said John Muzzio, director of operations at Chronos Drums. "By providing exceptional sensitivity and dynamics, we can create an immensely enjoyable drumming experience." Made from 100% birch wood with real wood finishes, Chronos drums feature Accu-Track trigger technology, triple-ply non-acoustic heads, and integrated Zildjian Gen 16 electronic metal cymbals, providing a superior playing and performance experience for any application and venue size. In the Element Series, Chronos offers six-ply birch wood shells in four rich, high-gloss finishes, along with triple-flanged hoops and chrome lugs. Configurable in four- through seven-piece kits. NAMM Booth 2463 www.chronosdrums.com Vic Firth VicGloves Vic Firth's new VicGloves for drummers are specially designed to protect the player's hands while improving their grip, all without sacrificing feel. VicGloves are crafted in premium cabretta leather with ventilated synthetic mesh palm and back to stay cool. Stretch lycra between fingers provides great fit and ultimate comfort. And to top it all off, the unique synthetic rubber grips on the thumb and forefinger provide outstanding grip and control. VicGloves are available in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. MSRP $40.50. NAMM Booth 3040 www.vicfirth.com Neck Illusions Guitar Fingerboard Protector MarcoSolo Productions' new Neck Illusions graphic fingerboard protectors are the world's first product designed to protect stringed musical instruments' fingerboards from unwanted wear. "Over time," said the inventor, "contact with the player's fingertips will develop small divots on the wood that can be costly to repair." Neck Illusions are easy to install, easy to remove, and most importantly, they won't interfere with players' ability to shred on their ax. More than 120 designs are available now, and more are being added every month. Non-permanent, low-tack adhesion means they can easily be removed without leaving any messy residue on the fingerboard. They stay in place even during the most demanding licks, and the Protector won't ever move, wrinkle, or stretch. At just 0.005" thick, Neck Illusions won't interfere with the musician's playing. Installation is super-easy and typically takes less than 15 minutes. Their low price point creates repeat customers. www.neckillusions.com VFE Pedals RUP Multiband Distortion VFE Pedals' new RUP, an ambitious multiband distortion pedal first successfully launched through Kickstarter in December, will hit retail stores in March. The RUP was designed for all electronic instruments including guitar, bass, synth, etc. The audio path is first split into three pathways--lows, mids, and highs. Each pathway has its own dedicated bandwidth, gain, compression, and volume controls, as well as switchable pre-gain or post-gain FX loop. The signals can be mixed back together or sent out through the FX loops to multiple amps or other devices. The RUP also features a master three-band EQ, a dry clean blend, master volume control, and a mid boost section for cutting through the mix. Street price: $499. NAMM Booth 1584  www.vfepedals.com Tony Williams Replica Cymbals By Istanbul A much-anticipated set of cymbals from the Istanbul Mehmet Company has been created in tribute to legendary drummer Tony Williams. Created as faithful replicas of the now iconic cymbals made famous by Williams on recordings of the '60s-era Miles Davis Quintet, these exclusive new cymbals will be available initially as limited-edition numbered sets. The Istanbul Mehmet Company has been granted exclusive access to Williams' cymbals, made in Istanbul in the late '50s. Every detail of the legendary cymbals has been meticulously measured, weighed, gauged, and recorded. To ensure precision, Tony's wife, Colleen Williams, hand-carried these precious cymbals "home" to Istanbul, affording Istanbul Mehmet master artisans firsthand access to the original cymbals. Available now, the Tony Williams Tribute Cymbal Limited Edition sets features a 22" ride, 18" crash, and 14" hi-hats together with a deluxe leather cymbal bag, a selection of rare Tony Williams photographs, and a certificate of authenticity. NAMM Booth 2870 www.istanbulmehmet.com Radial Ultra-Compact Balanced Line Isolator Radial Engineering's JDI Stereo and J48 Stereo direct boxes each include a quality Jensen transformer to deliver a phase-accurate, distortion-free signal, particularly in the bottom end. The JDI (MAP $299) also "elegantly handles excessive transients without flinching, producing a natural compression that is often touted as 'vintage sounding.' [Due to] the isolation, the tech is no longer spending hours before every show, hunting down hum and buzz problems caused by ground loops." The J48 (MAP $299) applies the same vision to its active circuitry, working within the confines of 48 volt phantom power to deliver a wide frequency response and more headroom with less distortion, while introducing a new way of lifting the pin-1 ground without cutting off phantom power. Its internal switching supply converts phantom power for more rail voltage, resulting in less distortion and more gain without the use of an input pad. The innovative power system also relocates the ground lift inside the power supply, enabling the stage technician to lift the ground without having to revert to costly and environmentally hazardous batteries. NAMM Booth 6959 www.radialeng.com GTC REVPAD Touchpad Effects Controller The new REVPAD from GTC Sound Innovations is the world's first wireless touchpad effects controller and ultra-dynamic sound processor that turns any guitar into a smart guitar. Based on GTC's TouchFX patented technology, the REVPAD offers a whole new dimension of sounds, original effects, and a vast range of new creative options not available to guitar players before. This small, ergonomically designed device can be easily attached (just like a sticker) on top of any amplified guitar--electric, acoustic, or bass. It transmits wirelessly to a sound processing base unit that contains high-end effect algorithms along with traditional analog distortion and overdrive. The REVPAD is a powerful tool to design new sounds and create new music. With a simple swipe or tap of a finger, the REVPAD offers guitarists full control of multiple effect parameters simultaneously. NAMM Booth 1188 www.gtcsound.com Americana Jump Kit From rbh Drums The new Americana Jump Kit from rbh Drums is a meticulously crafted small stage kit that gets its name from EMS and Fire Department first responders: The "jump kit" is the first equipment to grab as you "jump" into action. The Americana Jump Kit is small, easily carried and set up, yet delivers a powerful sound in a compact package. Patterned loosely after small cocktail kits from yesteryear, the Americana Kit is made with the same molds and patterns as rbh's Monarch line. The Americana Bass drum comes in a 13x16 size and is the only rbh bass drum supplied with a universal mount for a snare basket or tom holder. Medium duty spurs and a drum lift are standard. The Americana can be used as a standup kit or as a small bop kit for the micro stage found in many venues today. NAMM Booth 3377 www.rbhdrumsusa.com Tempus Introduces Primus 5.0 Tempus has released Primus 5.0, an easy-to-use web-based payment and reporting system. Primus 5.0 helps businesses manage international payments safely, easily, and flawlessly. Primus 5.0 features enable users to: generate real-time rates of exchange; make multiple payments in one order; run date-payment reports; add and edit beneficiaries; receive individual order confirmations; track the status of each payment. The system also provides same-day and next-day delivery capabilities and allows a dedicated account manager for each client. www.tempus-us.com