If any company other than Fishman introduced a portable PA system that weighed only 25lbs they might be laughed at or just ignored. Knowing that Fishman makes quality products makes their new SoloAmp a PA worth checking out. It's designed to let the solo acoustic artist carry around a full-featured PA in one hand. Expect to pay around $999 street for this lightweight, portable PA system. Specs: Compact Line Array = Ultra wide horizontal dispersion & deeper sound penetrationTwo Mic/Instrument Channels- High-quality preamps- 3-band EQ- Phantom Power- Independent Reverb level- Effect Loop- Feedback-fighting Phase and Notch filtersDrivers- Six 4' mid-woofers, patented dual gap, high excursion design, neodymium magnets (200W)- One 1' neodymium soft dome tweeter with level control (20W)Auxiliary Stereo Input with Level controlFour Digital Reverb effects with master levelBalanced XLR D.I. outputs for both channels and main mixUnique Monitor I/O for improved on-stage ensemble monitoringMute with remote footswitch inputTuner OutputShips with Stand and padded Carry Bag (w/ wheels)Dimensions: 41.5' H x 5.6' W x 6.6' D*Weight: 25 lbs without Stand, 35lbs with Bag and Stand Click here to read more about the Fishman SoloAmp

When you hear the name Moog, what do you think of? Old analog monophonic synths? Funky old pedals? The last thing would probably be guitars but that will soon change. The new Moog guitar isn't for the standard rocker, it has features that experimental and creative guitarists will long for. At the list price of $6,495, creativity doesn't come cheap.OK, so what's different about this guitar? It has controlable sustain. Not like a compressor but more similar to the Fernandes sustainer except for this not only sustains notes, it has the power to mute them as well, creating interesting staccato lines.  When I watched the demo of the guitar on the Moog website, I was intrigued!  I can't wait to get my hands on this guitar to see how it feels.Features: FULL SUSTAIN MODE - like no other sustainer; infinite sustain on every string, at every fret position and at any volume. You may have heard sustain before but not with this power (we call it "Vo Power") and clarity.CONTROLLED SUSTAIN MODE - allows you to play sustained single or polyphonic lines without muting technique. The Moog Guitar sustains the notes you are playing while actively muting the strings you are not playing.MUTE MODE - removes energy from the strings, resulting in a variety of staccato articulations. The mute mode has never been heard on any other guitar; the Vo Power stops the strings with the same intensity that it sustains them. You feel the instrument transform in your hands.HARMONIC BLENDS Use the included foot pedal to shift the positive energy of Vo Power in Sustain mode and the subtractive force of Vo Power in Mute mode between the bridge and neck pick-ups to pull both subtle and dramatic harmonics from the strings.MOOG FILTER - control the frequency of the built-in, resonant Moog ladder filter using the foot pedal or a CV Input.Learn more about the Moog Guitar - Paul Vo Colletor Edition at Moogmusic.com

Finally, what might just be the best guitar harmony processor is now in stores! The Digitech HarmonyMan does things that no other processor can do.  For a street price of only $299, you can have the most advanced guitar harmony processor around!Features:Intelligent Pitch Shifting, based on a groundbreaking new signal processing technology, giving players ultra clean, low-latency harmonies based on one of four user-friendly shifting modes.Unique Key Display, showing the key that the HarmonyMan is currently using for harmonization. When musIQ is enabled, the display will update dynamically in response to the playing. A musically intelligent “Circle of Fifths” layout puts musically related keys (sharing the most notes) beside each other.Independently Selectable Voicings for each harmony, with a wide variety of options, including two intelligent shifting modes, unison/detune, octave up/down, straight chromatic shifts from -12 to +12 semitones, as well as 2 octaves down.Strum Key, allowing players to easily set the key of a song by simply strumming chords (perfect for songs that start with a solo).musIQ Sidechain Input/Thru, which lets a second guitar be the chord recognition source while the Clean Input Guitar signal is shifted to produce harmonies – perfect for bands with both a lead and rhythm guitar player.Voice Memory, allowing players to pre-configure and store up to four different harmony voicings and step through them with the memory advance footswitch.Pre-Harmony Distortion Loop, which lets players place a distortion stompbox before the harmony effect without affecting chord recognition of the Clean Input signal.Built-in Guitar TunerMix Control, programmable control of the mix between the lead and harmony signals.1/4” guitar input with distortion send and return, 1/4” guitar optional Sidechain input and pass-through and guitar ground liftBalanced Stereo 1/4” outputsRugged roadworthy all-metal chassisPower supply included

I use my Roland Micro Cube guitar amp just about every day and I love it.  It's the best practice guitar amp ever.  Now Roland introduced the Mobile Cube for singers, keyboardists, acoustic guitar players and more.  You can use a mic and any other instrument at the same time and take it anywhere using batteries.  At a size that's small enough to fit in a backpack with room for your sheet music, this just seems like the perfect little practice amp for any musician, not just guitarists. From Roland: Plug into instant audio entertainment with the new MOBILE CUBE amplifier. Small and mighty, this little stereo amp can handle all types of electronic instruments and audio devices, and can be used anywhere, anytime. Connect microphones, electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards, drum machines, MP3 players, you name it, and jam for up to 15 hours.Battery-powered amplifier for anyone, anywhere, anytime5W (2.5W + 2.5W) stereo power with two high-performance 10cm (4") speakersInputs for microphone, stereo-instrument, and stereo AUX; headphone outputCenter Cancel function for karaokeBuilt-in stereo reverb/chorus, distortion and moreDedicated strap included for easy carry around

At first glance, Yamaha's new TENORI-ON looks like fun but after reading a bit more, it seems limited.  I would imagine that I'd tire of this in a week but I'll definitely give it a hands-on test as soon as I can.  Until then, I'll still lust after the Korg Kaossilator.Click here to read more about Yamaha's TENORI-ON

Music technology has come a long way since the old days of guitar pitch shifting. My old Boss SE50 used to do a grainy sounding single shift but now even my Korg Pandora PX4D does a passable diatonic pitch shift. That's all well and good but for those of us who want better pitch shifting and intelligent key changes, Digitech has raised the bar with their new Harmonyman Intelligent Pitch Shifter. Based on their musIQ technology, the Harmonyman can automatically detect not only the key but the chord progression in order to get you the appropriate harmonies for you to solo with. This will definitely be a must-have, not only for the shredders but also the jazz players who know how to use more than one scale per song.Features:Intelligent Pitch Shifting, based on a groundbreaking new signal processing technology, giving players ultra clean, low-latency harmonies based on one of four user-friendly shifting modes.Unique Key Display, showing the key that the HarmonyMan is currently using for harmonization. When musIQ is enabled, the display will update dynamically in response to the playing. A musically intelligent “Circle of Fifths” layout puts musically related keys (sharing the most notes) beside each other.Independently Selectable Voicings for each harmony, with a wide variety of options, including two intelligent shifting modes, unison/detune, octave up/down, straight chromatic shifts from -12 to +12 semitones, as well as 2 octaves down.Strum Key, allowing players to easily set the key of a song by simply strumming chords (perfect for songs that start with a solo).musIQ Sidechain Input/Thru, which lets a second guitar be the chord recognition source while the Clean Input Guitar signal is shifted to produce harmonies – perfect for bands with both a lead and rhythm guitar player.Voice Memory, allowing players to pre-configure and store up to four different harmony voicings and step through them with the memory advance footswitch.Pre-Harmony Distortion Loop, which lets players place a distortion stompbox before the harmony effect without affecting chord recognition of the Clean Input signal.Built-in Guitar TunerMix Control, programmable control of the mix between the lead and harmony signals.1/4” guitar input with distortion send and return, 1/4” guitar optional Sidechain input and pass-through and guitar ground liftBalanced Stereo 1/4” outputsRugged roadworthy all-metal chassisPower supply included

I've been using Elixir coated acoustic strings exclusively for many, many years but I might consider a switch to the new Ernie Ball Coated Titanium acoustic guitar strings. Adding to the coolness of their new strings, Ernie Ball has introduced a new packaging that hermetically seals the strings to avoid corrosion and keeping them "factory fresh" when you open them. But don't expect the whole string to be titanium, from their press release, it looks like there's titanium wire around the twist end. For these strings to contain more titanium, it would probably make for a street price way higher than the $14.99 they're asking per set.From Ernie Ball: A long-awaited development, Ernie Ball's coated titanium Slinky Acoustic sets are stronger and longer-lasting than traditional coated and uncoated strings thanks in part to an exclusive protective coating on both the wrap wire and the plain strings as well as a patented winding of titanium wire around the lock twist of the ball end. Staying true to Ernie Ball's heritage of superb craftsmanship and sound quality, the Slinky Acoustic sets are also made with the finest and freshest raw materials, resulting in a crisp ringing sound with pleasing overtones.

Guitar players know that nothing sounds as good as real tubes and Seymour Duncan has released a hot new pedal featuring tubes, but not the standard 12AX7 preamp tubes but mini 6205 tubes. The Twin Tube Mayhem gives players access to tube based heavy distortion for a reasonable price (street price, $219-229). Expect the TT Mayhem to hit most stores in a few months.From Seymour Duncan: The high plate voltage and 100% vacuum tube signal path allow the tubes to operate at their fullest potential and provide maximum dynamic range. Additional gain is achieved with a high voltage, low noise, discrete Class A input stage. The solid state input stage increases the resistance of the stomp-box to microphonics. The result is maximum dynamic range, the most gain, and the heaviest tone your expect from a great tube preamp voiced for metal. Also features user-selectable 4dB or 8dB boost for pre-setting rhythm and lead levels. True bypass. Fully encapsulated toroidal transformer for quiet operation. Heavy duty steel chassis.

It's been a long time since I've drooled over a guitar effect pedal but the new Boss SL-20 Slicer is one of the most innovative pedals I've seen in the last 10 years. If you're into groove music and want to create some killer synth-style effects, this is the pedal for you (and me!). There are too many features to talk about in depth so I'll just direct you to their product page where you can see it demonstrated. But don't limit the SL20 to just guitar, it can be used on just about any instrument in real time! No word on when the SL20 will officially be released but it should be soon. Start saving your money!Features:Instant groove and percussive-melody generator50 Slice patterns onboard, with adjustable attack and duration, including Harmonic SliceTap Tempo via onboard pedal switch; internal and MIDI syncSound characteristics such as attack, duration, effect level, and direct level are controllable via external Expression pedal (sold separately)Variety of output modes, including the unique 3D Panning for spacious sliced FX

The piano is one of those instruments that has remained pretty much unchanged since its invention, that is until now.  The Schimmel Pegasus Grand Piano is the first piano I've seen in a long time that dramtically changed the classic design.  If you have around $100,000 this could be yours!Click here to read more at TechEBlog

The Moo-Cow-Music Drummer software allows you to play one of several drum kits and even create your own kits.  You can play along with the music on your iPhone and  even load your own samples!  Sure if voids your warranty if you hack your iPhone but isn't it worth it to have this cool drum machine app? Nope, but almost...Click here to learn more about the Moo-Cow-Music Drummer software

I know that Steve Vai was working for a long time on creating this special distortion pedal for Ibanez. There was a video that I posted a while ago that's no longer available that showed the prototype Jemini in Steve's guitar rig. Now you can finally get this pedal for yourself although it won't make you play like Steve.The Ibanez Jemini combines both overdrive and distortion into the same pedal allowing you to switch easily between a rhythm and lead sound. Combine this with Steve's taste in high-gain soloing and you have a pedal that will find its place in the pedalboards of rockers everywhere for the low price for only $199.From Ibanez: For 2008, Ibanez unleashs the Jemini, Steve Vai’s first Signature Distortion pedal. This unique, multi-colored stompbox combines overdrive and distortion in one rigid zinc die-cast case. Vai’s Ibanez Signature JEM guitar is one of the most iconic guitars in the world and now his sound can be yours to step all over.Click here to check out the Ibanez Jemini at Zzounds.com

When I saw the new Korg Kaossilator, I was overcome by GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome). This would be one of the most fun musical toys to own ever! You could use it to create beats or even as a solo instrument. You can get the Kaossilator for only $199 at ThinkGeek.

Back in the day, Alesis had the best drum machines but then they didn't release any new products for many, many years. Finally, fans of their popular SR16 have a new drum machine to drool over.Features:AC and Battery Power capability (6 AA’s- not included with product) and AC Adapter24 voice polyphonyBacklit LCDMIDI In and OutTRS ¼” Aux OutputDrum Roll functionHeadphone outputInstrument Input100 Preset Patterns and 100 User PatternsTempo / Value dialFootswitch control- Start/Stop and Count/A-B fillaClick here to read more at Alesis.com

Are you a fan of Spinal Tap's Nigel Tufnel? Do you want to own the guitar he played at Live Aid? If you have more than the current bid of $12,101 you might be able to win it from eBay!From eBay: One of a kind Custom made for the Live 8 concert 7-7-07. Ernie Ball Music Man have created a one-of-a-kind Global Warming Guitar - an incredibly elaborate guitar that merges plenty of creative global warming kitsch with the amazing sound and quality expected from Music Man's elite collection of special edition instruments. The result of over 1200 hours of concept design and labor, the awe-inspiring Global Warming Guitar debuted on the London LIVE EARTH stage on Saturday, July 7, in the hands of Chris Guest - perhaps best known for his role as Nigel Tufnel of Spinal Tap in the mockumentary film This is Spinal Tap - for whom the guitar was specially created.Check out the snow globe with Al Gore and the "presidential seal" along with the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pyramid and Empire State Building for controls.

I'm a huge fan of the Korg Pandora and I've owned several of them and currently use the Korg PX4D (which I love although I think needs service). I've even used both of my Pandora units for live playing, most recently using my PX4D as a bass preamp. Korg just recently released the newest Pandora model and they added everything that I've always wanted, including footswitch capability and a USB connectivity so that you can edit patches and use it as an audio interface for digital recording. At $249.99, it's a little pricey but the Korg Pandora series has always been the best headphone practice guitar/bass amp ever! From Korg: • More live control! Footswitch jack lets you use any common footswitch to select programs—a first for Pandora.• More effects! Over 20 new effects brings the grand total to 180.• More Recording! With USB audio, your Pandora doubles as a direct recording interface.• More jam tracks! 744 Rhythm and Bass patterns to jam along to. That’s over seven times more than the PX4D. Plus you can chain up to 20 different patterns together.• More memory! 80 second phrase trainer samples and slows down your favorite tune without altering the pitch. And if you want to change the key, we’ve got you covered with a transpose feature.

Larrivée has made their first electric guitar with the sole desire of creating a superior electric guitar. If it's as good as their acoustic guitars, it's sure to be a winner!From Larrivée: The core of the guitar is a slim South American Mahogany body, overlaid with the industry’s thickest , Flamed Maple carve top (coming in at 3/4” thick). The single piece South American Mahogany neck is attached with an extra-long mortise & tenon joint. The Indian Rosewood fretboard features a specialty “spoke nut, truss rod” which allows you to adjust the truss rod with the strings at tension (without a special tool). Two body cutouts add comfort and style to the instrument while reducing weight – the RS-4 weighs in at about 8 lbs. on average.We’ve selected what we feel is the best available hardware for the guitar, with tone and reliability being our most important considerations. The RS-4 features Jason Lollar’s Imperial Humbuckers, Schaller M6 Tuners & Schaller Strap Locks, LUXE Bumblebee paper-in-oil Capacitors, Switchcraft Switch & Jack, CTS Pots, and vintage Shielded push-back cloth wire.Click here to read more at Larrivée's website

Vigier has always made some innovative instruments and their new Arpege Bass line has one feature that I'd love to see in other basses, a carbon reinforced neck for extra stability.From Vigier: Vigier Guitars has redesigned the elegant Arpege Bass. Benefiting from over twenty years of research and development, the Arpege features a Vigier pioneered, 10/90 carbon-reinforced bolt-on neck with a carbon bar replacing the traditional truss rod. This groundbreaking technology offers the strength and stability of carbon fiber while retaining the natural sound and sustain of Maple. The triple-layered, alder body with a thick maple top and back also contributes to the instruments stability and offers exceptional tonal quality.Vigier has always created electronic routings that standout, and this one is no exception. The Arpege features a pair of Benedetti pickups with separate Bass and Treble controls for each pickup, making the Arpege Bass unsurpassed in versatility.The New Arpege bass, with it's exceptional flexibility, stability and tone, is sure to inspire bass players everywhere who seek innovation and perfection from their instruments.

I'll never forget my first foray into recording, I think it was on a Tascam 244 4-track cassette recorder. Sure it was primitive by today's standard but it was the only multi-track recorder available at the time. Now we're lucky because we have access to all sorts of digital recorders for the same price we used to buy those old cassette multi-tracks. You can get Tascam's new DP-02 Digital 8-Track Recorder for only $499.Features:Two XLR mic/line inputs with phantom power for condenser microphonesEight-track recording at uncompressed 44.1k/16-bit audio qualityPortastudio-based interface with volume fader, pan, effect send, high and low EQ controls per channelEQ frequency button to access high and low EQ shelf frequenciesUSB 2.0 interface for transferring tracks, mixes and backup files to a computerDedicated stereo master track for mixdownInternal metronome and bar/beat display for song positionHeadphone outputStereo line outputs on RCA analog and S/PDIF optical digital connectors40GB internal hard driveMultieffects processor with guitar, bass, vocal and drum programsStereo reverb processor with send/return controls for multichannel mixingBuilt-in chromatic tunerBuilt -in CD-RW burner for CD mastering and song backupClick here to read more at Tascam's websiteGet it now at Musician's Friend

It seems that just about every company has released a portable audio recorder and Tascam introduced one with a low street price of only $299.Specifications:Portable, Handheld RecordingBuilt-in High-quality Stereo Condenser MicrophoneVariable Angle Microphone Mechanism with A/B Configuration48 or 44.1kHz 24-bit Recording ResolutionMP3 and WAVE file Recording and PlaybackSwitchable Low Cut FilterAnalog Auto Gain ControlAnalog LimiterRechargable Lithium-Ion BatteryUSB 2.0 Connection to ComputerBuilt-in Tuner and Vocal Cancel FeaturesOverdub Feature to record narration, singing or instruments over an existing recordingDimensions (not including protrusions):70 (W) x 27 (H) x 135.3 (D) (mm)2.8 (W) x 1.1 (H) x 5.3 (D) (inches)Weight: 208 g (including battery)Click here to read more at Tascam's website

TC-Helicon was the first company to give vocalists true control over their instruments with some serious vocal processing tools! Before, singers had to rely on their sound man (something that's scary 90% of the time) but now you can do awesome effects that are more than just cheap tricks.The TC-Helicon Voicetone Double adds the most used recording effect of doubling vocals but live!Features:- Creates up to four virtal overdubs of a performer’s voice in real time- 10 doubling banks with 3 patches each- Uses advanced Inflection and FlexTime blocks to create a multitracked overdub sound- Additional effects include emulations of classic microshift, chorus and detune- Get creative and control the pitch, timing and levels of each patch- Access two customized patches during performance with A/B parts- XLR Mic level I/O in stereo and mono- Clean, studio quality mic preamp with phantom powerThe TC-Helicon Voicetone Harmony-G lets guitarists sing harmony vocals with no programing. Just play your guitar, sing and the Harmony-G will read the chord changes from your guitar and make the appropriate harmonies to your vocals.  I totally want this one!Features:- Two voice 4th generation intelligent harmony- Separate Double effect using overdub algorithm- Tone switch engages adaptive Live Engineer Effects- 6 reverb/delay combinations – for vocal and guitar input- 10 presets each with A/B location- Harmony Arrangement algorithm listens to guitar and voiceto follow your music- Selectable harmony voicing including unique Bass setting- XLR mic level I/O in stereo or mono- Clean, studio quality mic preamp with phantom power- Guitar input and pass-thru for separate amp- Guitar TunerThe TC-Helicon Voicetone Harmony-M lets singing keyboard players add easy harmony to their vocals (shouldn't it be the Harmony-K?).Features:- Two voice 4th generation intelligent harmony- Separate Double effect using overdub algorithm- Tone switch engages adaptive Live Engineer Effects- 6 factory reverb/delay combinations for rich vocals- 10 presets each with A/B location- Harmony Arrangement algorithm listens to MIDI input and voice to follow your music- Flexible harmony voicing including unique bass setting- Includes classic ”Notes” and ”Chord” harmony control modes- 1⁄4” TRS mic level I/O in stereo or mono- Clean, studio quality mic preamp with phantom power- MIDI input- Input for optional footswitch allows Harmony-M placement on keyboard

David "Fingers" Haynes is the most amazing drum machine drummer.  The fact that he's using an old Alesis HR16 makes this even more impressive!Click here to see another drum solo with David "Fingers" Haynes

Line 6 decided to relase a sweet little battery-powered guitar amp with their POD 2.0 amp modeling DSP. This amp is looking so good that it might make me give up my Roland Micro Cube!From Line 6: Four Spider III amp models, a new acoustic guitar model and six Smart Control FX give Micro Spider a wide tonal range and real sonic versatility. And with POD® 2.0 -style direct out, Micro Spider is ideal for practicing with headphones and hassle-free direct recording.

Boss just released their new flagship guitar multi-effects unit, the Boss GT-10. They're using a brand new DSP chipset so look for improved effects. The GT-10 features Roland's famous COSM modeling but they're also introducing "EZ Tone" which promises to give players great sound with less knob tweaking and a more intuitive, user-friendly interface.Bass players can look forward the the Boss GT-10B which sports the same processing power if it's guitar counterpart.Click here to visit the official Boss website

Finally bass players get a cool battery-powered practice and travel amp. Roland worked hard to make a small amp that could actually make a bass sound good.Features:Clean soundDigital effectsBattery-poweredClick here to visit Roland's official website

Following the success of Roland's popular Micro Cube series comes the new Micro Cube RX. My Micro Cube is one of my favorite amps and is great for practice so I might be picking up the RX.Features:Battery poweredAmp modeling4 speakers and stereo effectsClick here to visit Roland's official website

Here's an interesting new invention, Bob Kilgore's Harmonic Capo. Instead of fretting the notes, this hits specific harmonics depending on which fret you set it at and which strings you choose. Also unlike a normal capo the Harmonic Capo will require a bit more creativity and fretboard knowledge to play songs. Watch the following video to see an example of what's possible with the Harmonic Capo. Click here to read more about Bob Kilgore's Harmonic Capo

Quiet Riot was one of the groups that really ushered in the 80's metal scene. Kevin DuBrow was one of the loudest voices that made even non-rock fans convert to metal and his antics and behavior were also legendary. He was known to have quite the rock attitude. Into the 90's when metal was pretty much dead, DuBrow's attitude mellowed and he became a much more humble person but he never lost the energy that made him famous.Kevin was in high demand as metal made a comeback and did many tours in the last two years. Finally metal fans could enjoy the resurgance of the music they loved but unfortunately, Kevin's comeback was cut short when he was found dead last week in his house. We'll always remember him for his hits; C'mon Feel the Noise and Metal Health (I'm listening to them now).

Carl Martin makes some of the finest guitar effect pedals available so now that they're shipping their new 2-Wah, I have to go out and try it.  What makes it different?  6 different wah voicings, a heel switch and true bypass.From Carl Martin: What the world needs now is wah, more wah! Classic detailing in a diecast housing, the 2 Wah provides six different voicings with two presets controlled via a heel switch on the rocker. Sliding switches on the unit front allow three higher range voicings for rhythm work, and three lower range voicings for lead work…. and a Level control to dial in just the right amount of effect. 9V battery operation or regulated (suggested) power supply, and the typical true bypass on/off switch at the toe of the rocker complete this wah ‘chameleon’!

Taylor Guitars has been making a lot of fuss about their new electric guitar. Since it's their first solid-body electric, they're claiming that it's really special. So what's different? They've introduced a unique all aluminum bridge, custom designed pickups, a newly designed neck joint and interesting electronics that include a tone knob that works as a normal tone knob and as a mid-boost. The Taylor electrics look nice but retain a vintage style appeal. I can't wait to play one.Click here to read more at Taylor Guitars' official website

Gibson's new Robot Guitar does something pretty amazing, it tunes itself! In fact it can automatically tune itself to several different tunings including open tunings and dropped tunings. It's pretty amazing but for now I'll stick to the virtual tunings on my Line 6 Variax. I'm sure I couldn't even afford 1/4 of the new Gibson guitar due to come out in December (just in time for Christmas, if you're rich!).Click here to read more at Gibson's official website

Looking about the same size as your average USB drive, the new Digidesign Mbox 2 Micro is designed for editing and creating on the go. Now you can work on your laptop, editing and mixing music at 24-bit/48 kHz. The only downside is that the Mbox 2 Micro is for editing only since it doesn't have any audio ins. Just one 1/8" headphone jack and a volume control. But it does come with Pro Tools LE and more and is compatible with other versions of Pro Tools. If you're looking for a way to be creative on the road, the Mbox 2 Micro will definitely help your productivity level for the suggested retail price of only $279.From Digidesign: About the size of a typical USB flash drive, Mbox 2 Micro offers high-quality 24-bit / 48 kHz sound, a 1/8-inch stereo output for headphone or speaker monitoring (no audio inputs*), and a convenient volume wheel, providing you with the freedom of true editing, sequencing, and mixing mobility. Whether you’re looking to work on studio-created or live sound Pro Tools sessions on the go, or create loop-based or virtual instrument-driven music, Mbox 2 Micro lets you work wherever inspiration takes you.

Engl isn't a household name as far as guitar amps are concerned but you'll find them in the studios and on the stages with some top level players like Marty Friedman and Steve Morse. The Engl Sovereign is a combo amp that puts the power of an Engl into a small package for gigging musicians like me.  There are 4 channels so you should be able to dial in everything from sweet clean tones to the meanest crunch imaginable!  I'm not so sure I could afford the hefty price tag of $2,470.Features:4 channels- each one with a separate volume control, clean, crunch, soft lead, heavy lead, single 3 stage EQ plus extra crunch treble, 4 stage EQ for lead channels, lead presence, Reverb, bright switch, 5x ECC 83 preamp tubes, Reverb, 2 fx loops (serial to parallel adjustable), built in Noise Gate with threshold control. Channels and sound options Midi switchable.Master A / Master B, 100 watts (1 x ECC83, 4 x 6L6GC power amp tubes), ECS tube protection and power tube monitor system.Balanced Line out- recording compensated with level pot1 x 12" Celestion Vintage 30 or 2 x 12" Celestion Vintage 30You can buy the Engl Sovereign at Musicians Friend

I love all of the new drum pedal designs that have come out lately from the killer Trick pedal to the Drumnetic magnetic pedal and the Pacific B.O.A. springless pedal. Now Gibraltar adds their newest take on the drum pedal with their new Catapult Bass Drum Pedal!The innovation in Gibraltar's Catapult allows for more of a natural foot motion that won't fatigue your foot and ankle like most traditional pedals do.  I'll be interested to see how the action is on this pedal and if you can do a heel-toe technique easily.  The Catapult is now available for only $119 at Musician's Friend.From Gibralatar: Gibraltar’s Catapult Linear Motion pedal (GCLMSP) was designed to permit the extensor and flexor muscles to function naturally, allowing the ankle and corresponding muscles to utilize a full range of movement. The result – a remarkable increase in muscle comfort, endurance and precision. The mechanical advantage of the GCLMSP is total harmony with the biomechanics of the natural movement of the foot.

Line 6 has a new amp that adds something no Line 6 amp has ever had, TUBES! Not just a token tube preamp but a Bogner-designed tube section! One of my complaints about modeling amps is that they sound a little one-dimensional. Tubes (when done right) add some sweet tones, a tactile feel and hopefully more headroom. The combination of tubes and modeling could be the ultimate in flexibility. After my gear got stolen recently, this might just be my next amp.Features40W Class AB tube amp through (2) 12AX7 preamp tubes and (2) 6L6 power tubes1X12" configuration featuring Premium Celestion® Vintage 30 speaker12 dialed in amp models (channel voices) that deliver a complete tonal range from shimmering clean to insane grind.7 Smart Control Effects including Tape Echo, Multi-Tap, Sweep Echo, Flanger/Chorus, Phaser, Tremolo and Reverb.36 user programmable channels300+ artist created presets covering the greatest guitar tones of all timePOD® 2.0 XLR direct out for studio direct tone.

Line 6 is definitely on a roll with the introduction of what they're hoping will be the ultimate practice amp, the Spider Jam. The Spider Jam takes the Line 6 Spider III amp and adds a ton of fun features like prerecorded rhythm tracks to jam with, a looping recorder, a mic input and more... No price announced yet so you'll have to wait until the fall before you can get your hands on a Spider Jam amp.Features:100 + Endless Jams created by pro rhythm sectionsLooping recorder with 14 minutes of capture capacityGuitar and Aux instrument inputsMicrophone input with trim control and dedicated effects12 distinct amp and cabinet models7 Smart Control FX models including Tape Echo, Multi-Tap, Sweep Echo, Flanger/Chorus, Phaser, Tremolo and Reverb250 artist-created tones36 programmable presets75-watt power section12" Custom Celestion® speaker2" tweeter for full range audio on jam tracksOn-board tunerCD/MP3 Input jackStereo 1/4” and headphone jack outputs Click here to read more at the official Line 6 website

The Line6 TonePort has been a pretty popular recording interface due to the great amp models, mic models and effects but if you've been wanting more ins & outs, the new UX8 can record up to 8 chanels of audio at once!From Line6: TonePort™ UX8 is the latest addition to the award-winning TonePort family of USB recording and modeling interfaces. With its rock solid construction, pro-grade components and world class tone, TonePort UX8 is the ideal multi I/O recording interface for project and pro studios.TonePort UX8 is the only USB audio interface that delivers the powerful tone-shaping mojo of Line 6’s acclaimed GearBox™ software—the same tone engine used by POD® —with recording inputs and outputs for eight simultaneous channels of studio-quality 24-bit/96 kHz audio.The Line6 Toneport UX8 is set to be relased on October 15 and will go for a street price of around $499.

I have spent literally thousands of dollars on Digitech gear and influenced many, many, many more thousands of purchases but now I'm hesitating on another Digitech purchase. Since my beloved Digitech 2112 was recently stolen I considered buying the new GSP1101. I was excited to hear about the GSP1101 at the Winter NAMM show but there was no working demo so when it was announced on the Digitech website I was hoping there would be audio samples or cool video samples like Line6 has for every item that they make. Nope. Instead there was a corny video (picture capture shown above) which tells the user NOTHING about the GSP1101 except "It kicks a##".Here's the only real information from the Digitech web site: The GSP1101 not only preserves your tone, but it gives you access to a vast array of over 120 different models, from stompbox overdrives, preamps, and amps, to studio quality effects including luscious Lexicon® reverbs and unique products like DigiTech’s Whammy®. So many sounds, so little time…Here's where I usually put links to their web site or places to purchase the equipment but the website doesn't give much info and until I hear the GSP1101, I won't recommend it. If you want to hear great video or audio samples and a web site that makes me want to buy stuff, go to Line6.com!Update 10/26/07: Digitech finally has sound samples of the GSP1101 on their web site and it sounds pretty good.

I always hate when I hear about gear being stolen but this time it's personal. No seriously, I just returned from my church a while ago after I learned that there was a break in. Several of my guitars, a rack of preamps & effects, my pedals and my amp were taken. I talked to the police but it looks like the chances of recovery are slim. What should I do? I guess the only thing to do is to visit every pawn shop in the area for the next couple of months.Missing are two custom Strat-style guitars, (no serial numbers because they were customized), a rack of effects including a Digitech 2112, various pedals, a Carvin amp... Ah, why go on, it's not like most of you live in my immediate area. If any of you have ever gotten stolen gear back, I'd love to hear your story.

I always hate when I hear about gear being stolen but this time it's personal. No seriously, I just returned from my church a while ago after I learned that there was a break in. Several of my guitars, a rack of preamps & effects, my pedals and my amp were taken. I talked to the police but it looks like the chances of recovery are slim. What should I do? I guess the only thing to do is to visit every pawn shop in the area for the next couple of months.Missing are two custom Strat-style guitars, (no serial numbers because they were customized), a rack of effects including a Digitech 2112, various pedals, a Carvin amp... Ah, why go on, it's not like most of you live in my immediate area. If any of you have ever gotten stolen gear back, I'd love to hear your story.

Wow, Line6 sure has come a long way since the first POD guitar processor. I wasn't impressed with their first POD but with each new release, they've really won me over. In fact I was thinking of getting POD XT Live but now I'll wait until the POD X3 live comes out.So what's new? A lot! You can play two separate amp selections at the same time or two guitars at the same time or a bass and guitar or get this, VOICE and guitar at the same time! Yes, the POD X3 has an XLR input and special presets just for your voice! Awesome. It looks like this thing can do it all, even be a USB recording device. There's no release date but expect it in time for Christmas.From Line6.com: Guitar amp models are just the beginning: with guitar cabs, stompbox and studio effects, bass amps, bass cabs and vocal preamps, POD X3 comes complete with the all-around sonic firepower of a top-tier major-label studio, ready to tackle guitar, bass vocals and beyond. What’s more, its larger LCD and smart new editing workflow pages make it easier than ever to find, tweak and save tones.Click here to read more about the new POD X3 and POD X3 Live at Line6.com

It doesn't seem that long ago when Cakewalk was a simple MIDI sequencer that was only available for DOS. I've been using Cakewalk since those days and now I use Sonar 2. Sonar 2 seems ancient compared to the new version, Sonar 7, which introduces some pretty amazing features!If you can't produce a great CD with Cakewalk's Sonar 7, the problem is you!New Features:A complete MIDI overhaul with Smart MIDI Tools and dozens of other new featuresIntroduction of the most powerful Step Sequencer found in any DAWTrue linear phase mastering plug-insInternal sidechainingDelay compensation for external hardwarePitch to MIDI functionality with Roland V-Vocal 1.5Numerous workflow, mixing, and delivery enhancements throughout the applicationClick here to learn more about Sonar 7 at Cakewalk.com

I'm a huge fan of the Electo-Harmoix POG (Polyphonic Octave Generator) but for those on a budget or just need a stripped down version will be delighted with the new Micro-POG! With just 3 simple controls for Dry, Sub Octave and Octave Up, you'll be making great 12-string guitar or 8-string bass sounds instantly.The Micro POG should be available any day now from your major music stores, price TBA.

When the Line6 Variax 700 bass came out, it emulated the sounds of 24 different basses incredibly well. For those of you unfamiliar with Line 6's Variax guitars and basses, they not only emulate the sounds of different guitars and basses (fretted and fretless on the bass) but you can also create your own custom settings along with custom tunings. All of these can be changed with the flick of a switch or on the Variax bass, a turn of a knob. This makes it perfect for the gigging musician who wants different sounds but doesn't want to carry around a lot of guitars.At around $1,500, the Variax bass didn't sell very well and now Line6 is blowing out their whole stock! I guess bass players are a more conservative bunch than the people thought. If you love innovation and want to get the sounds of 24 different basses, you can now pick up the Line 6 Variax Bass for only $499!Features: Line 6 modeling technology24 bass modelsVintage, modern, hollowbody, acoustic, upright, synth, and other sounds available.Works similarly to traditional bass controlsAlder bodyMaple neckRosewood fingerboardSealed chrome tunersCustom-fitted gig bagSpecial direct box includedGig bag includedClick here to check out the Line6 Variax Bass at Musician's Friend for only $499

I'm sure most of you remember the hype surrounding the Numark iDJ2 which uses your iPod to mix live music.  Numark is now demoing the iDJ2 at DJ Expo.From Numark: Numark, the world’s leading manufacturer of products for the DJ market, will show the industry’s first DJ mixing console with Universal Dock for iPod, that features the ability to scratch, control pitch, key-lock, and simultaneously play two songs from a single iPod with a stunning full-color screen. Demonstrations begin today at the DJ Expo show in Atlantic City August 14-16 at booth # 301.The Numark iDJ2 is the only iPod mixing console that provides music control with real-time scratching, pitch control, seamless loop, and full cueing. For the first time ever, DJs can entertain crowds of all sizes with a single, docked iPod using pro-grade, balanced XLR connections or stereo RCA output, all with a brilliantly clear color screen that insures they never miss a detail.

Don't expect to see this monster guitar for sale at your local music store. At this huge size, every single part had to be custom made. Source - TechEBlog

There are tons of distortion boxes on the market, almost too many. Most of them are decent but once in a while a really good one hits the scene. SubDecay's BlackStar distortion is one distortion box that definitely sounds better than most.The BlackStar can do some subtle distortion but it really excels at high-gain rock tones with tons of creamy sustain. The reason I like this pedal is because it has a lot of sustain and great tone without sounding too harsh like the majority of distortion pedals.  You can pick one up for around $159 street price.Click here to read more at SubDecay's official web site

One of my complaints about a lot of pedals out there is that there's no subtlety to them.  With Love Pedal's Tweed Twin, you get great tube amp style distortion but you can also control the amount of distortion with your guitar's volume knob so you can go from clean tones to sweet distortion and get everything in between!  The Tweed Twin also boasts an extra footswitchable gain switch for leads and true bypass.  If you're in the market for a quality boutique distortion pedal, this might just be it.Click here to check out Love Pedal's Tweed Twin and listen to sound samples

I was looking into Martin's "History of Flight" guitar mentioned at Gizmodo but I was more fascinated by the Martin D-100 Deluxe which has more inlays than I've ever seen on any guitar in my life! At a list price of around $109,999, it's only reserved for the rich guy who wants to show off. I'm curious to know how many man hours it takes to do this many inlays.  Inlays are one of the most difficult things to do so you have to admire this guitar even though it might have about 2 or 3 hundred too many inlays.  It's up to you if you think this guitar is beautiful or gaudy and God bless you if you can afford it!Click here to read more about the Martin D-100 Deluxe at the official Martin website

When I heard about Morley's new FX Blender pedal, I thought, "why hasn't this pedal been made before?". I love the idea of being able to blend any pedal into your sound with varying degrees of control. I've been looking for a couple of pedals that had a blend control and they just don't seem to exist. With Morley's FX Blender you can blend anything from distortions to delays! I plan to use it for compression, allowing me to control my acoustic sounds and then treadle it all the way up for soloing!  I already own 3 Morley pedals so I know that they're build well so I'll definitely be picking up an FX Blender!My Current Pedalboard from l to r: Boss RC20 Looper, Digitech Control 1 (goes to a Digitech 2112), older Morley Wah used as filter effect, Bad Horsie II, Wah/Volume (used only for volume). Click here to check out the Morley FX Blender Expression Pedal at Musician's Friend