Hi, I’m Andy Ferris
a YouTuber Guitarist Singer Songwriter Creator

The Week in Gear 79 – The One with the Free Fender (app)

Hey there, gear enthusiasts! It’s your boy, Andy Ferris, the Guitar Geek, and I’m back with another exciting installment of The Week in Gear. This week, we’re diving into some fantastic new guitar gear that has hit the market. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your musical journey, there’s something here for everyone. We’ve got strings that promise to make your acoustic guitar sing, shredding machines that look like they stepped out of a synthwave dream, and a free digital audio workstation from Fender that you absolutely need to check out. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s get into it!

1. Earthwood Bell Bronze Strings (John Mayer x Ernie Ball)

First off, let’s talk about something that has been on my radar for a while now—the Earthwood Bell Bronze strings from the collaboration between John Mayer and Ernie Ball. Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Strings? Really?” But trust me, these aren’t just any strings. These are crafted to elevate your acoustic guitar sound to new heights, almost like it’s been blessed by the guitar gods themselves.

These strings are made with a brand new alloy, inspired by the types of metals you’d usually find in cymbals and bells. The result? A sound that combines the top-end shimmer of eighty-twenty bronze with the warmth and richness of phosphor bronze. You can get them in four gauges—tens, elevens, twelves, and thirteens—so there’s something for everyone, no matter your playing style.

John Mayer himself claims these strings bring a kind of orchestral complexity to your playing, making them shine during solos. And while they’re uncoated, Ernie Ball’s marketing team promises they’ll last longer than your last songwriting phase. That’s right; these strings won’t let you down when inspiration strikes! Priced around thirteen notes a pack, they’re a solid choice if you’re looking to treat yourself or someone else.

2. Kramer Volante Series

Next up, let’s shift gears to the Kramer Volante series. Kramer has launched four new guitars under this name, and let me tell you, they look absolutely stunning. They’ve managed to make Superstrats look modern again, which is no small feat!

Among the lineup, we have the Volante Quilt HHFR in ultramarine burst and ultraviolet burst. This guitar features two Kramer USA Neptune humbuckers, a Floyd Rose, and a flame top, giving you that full sunset strip throwback vibe. If you’re into the classic rock aesthetic, this one’s for you!

Then, we have the Volante Quilt HSFR which comes in Aqua Burst and Magenta Burst. This model ditches the neck Neptune pickup for a Kramer USA Triton noiseless neck pickup, perfect for those glacier-clean tones. If you prefer a more traditional setup, the Volante HS GT comes with a hardtail option, making it ideal for modern players who want to avoid the fuss of a Floyd Rose.

But let’s talk about the showstopper: the Volante HHFR in intruder black or Defender red. This guitar has attitude, versatility, and looks like it just turbo-boosted from a synthwave nightclub. With a three-piece roasted maple neck, twenty-four jumbo frets, and coil-splitting options, this guitar isn’t just a pretty face. It’s built for performance, offering a range of tones that’ll satisfy any player.

3. Henry’s Music: Butt Tone Picks

Now, before we dive deeper into the world of guitars, let’s take a moment to talk about Henry’s Music and their unique product line—Butt Tone picks. Yes, you heard that right! These picks are handcrafted to create a rich and full tone, and they come in various shapes and sizes.

From the Crusher, inspired by the jazz three pick, to the Basser for bass players, and even the Folca, which boasts a larger surface area—there’s a pick for every playing style. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to check out the circular Moon Tone pick. I’ve got some of these on the way, and I can’t wait to give you a full review soon!

If you’re eager to try out Butt Tone picks right now, hit the link in the description to explore the full range. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed!

4. Gretsch Broadkaster Series

Moving on, let’s talk about a brand that’s synonymous with quality: Gretsch. They’ve just dropped four new guitars under the Broadkaster name, and they’re as classy as they come. Two of these are made in Japan, while the other two are part of the Electromatic series crafted in China.

First up, we have the Electromatic Flame Okume Junior, a single-cut Bigsby guitar that boasts a classy orange-stained smaller body. It’s perfect for those who want a bit of twang in their tone. On the pricier side, the Broadcaster LX Center Block is a full-sized gold-accented beast designed for players who want vintage elegance with modern gigging specs.

But my personal favorite? The Broadcaster Junior LX Center Block. Available in a stunning midnight sapphire finish that looks black at first glance, it features a semi-hollow laminated maple body with a spruce channel core center block. This design allows for feedback resistance while retaining that open-air resonance that we all crave.

Equipped with Gretsch’s new Pro Twin Sixes humbuckers, this guitar is designed for articulation and warmth. Plus, it comes with a Bixby B7GP string-through vibrato, gold hardware, and locking tuners. If you’re looking for a semi-hollow gigging machine, this is it!

5. Fender Studio: The Free DAW

Now, let’s talk about something I didn’t see coming from Fender: a full Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) called Fender Studio. And the best part? It’s completely free! This DAW runs on Mac, PC, iOS, and Android, making it accessible for everyone.

Fender Studio is designed for musicians, not engineers, so it’s user-friendly and focused on quick ideas and songwriting rather than overwhelming plugin chains. Initially, you get eight tracks and a built-in Fender Twin amp, along with various vocal and instrument effects like reverb and compression. But if you register, you can unlock even more features!

Now, I do want to mention that there are some limitations. For instance, it doesn’t support plugins yet, which means you can’t load your favorite third-party synths or amp sims at this time. But I think this is by design, keeping things simple and low-pressure. You’re not creating an Abbey Road mix here; you’re sketching songs!

6. PRS Triple Pickup Invasion

Finally, let’s get to my pick of the week—PRS has just launched five new models in their twenty twenty-five SE and S2 lines, and they all have one thing in common: three pickups! That’s right, fifteen pickups across the range, and they come in a variety of finishes.

The SE Studio Standard is the most stripped-back option, featuring an all-mahogany body, bolt-on maple neck, and three PRS pickups. Think classic Strat vibes with some PRS craftsmanship thrown in. The SE Studio steps it up with a flame maple top and upgraded pickups, while the S2 Studio brings U.S.-made construction and better hardware.

But the one that truly made me gasp during the press release? The SE Special Semi-Hollow in Lake Blue. Just look at it! With a figured maple veneer over a maple top and a semi-hollow mahogany body, this guitar is dressed in an electric melt blue finish that’s both elegant and striking.

It’s versatile, featuring a wide thin neck, twenty-two frets, and a combination of pickups that range from warm PAF-style tones to Strat-style snap and sparkle. With coil-splitting options and a five-way blade switch, you’re set for a wide array of sounds.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! That wraps up another exciting week in gear, filled with new guitar gear that is sure to tempt your wallets. From John Mayer’s new strings to PRS’s triple-pickup models, there’s plenty to explore. If you’re looking for quality gear that won’t break the bank, I’ve got you covered. As always, if you enjoyed this post and want to support the channel, consider subscribing or checking out my Patreon page for exclusive content.

What do you think of this week’s lineup? Let me know in the comments below, and until next time, keep strumming!

This Guitar is Going to Cause BIG Problems: A Deep Dive into the Baum Leaper Melody Vega

Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiasts! Today, we’re going to dive deep into a unique piece of new guitar gear that I recently got my hands on. Spoiler alert: there’s only one of these in the world, and somehow, it’s here with me! Yes, you guessed it—it’s the Baum Leaper Melody Vega prototype, and let me tell you, it’s as stunning as it sounds.

First Impressions: Unboxing the Gold Sparkle

As I pulled this beauty out of the box, the first thing that struck me was its color. Sparkly Inca Gold! Now, I’m no fashion expert, but this guitar looks like it belongs on a stage with a gold suit. Seriously, if I ever get the chance to perform in Vegas, this is the guitar I’d want by my side.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This is a prototype, which means it doesn’t have a pickup system yet. That’s right—no gimmicks, just pure craftsmanship and soul. And boy, does it feel light! For an acoustic guitar, it’s definitely lighter than your average solid body electric. You know what they say, lighter means you can play it longer, or at least that’s what I tell myself!

Sound Check: Can It Hold Its Own?

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Andy, how does it sound?” Well, let’s set up a mic and find out! I used my trusty Lewitt 540 S condenser mic, along with some other mics to capture the sound in all its glory. Since this prototype doesn’t have a pickup, I had to get a bit creative with my mic setup.

First up, I recorded some low-end riffing and medium-strength strumming. The sound? Oh, it was warm and balanced. Honestly, it felt bigger than it looked and sounded. You know how some guitars feel squeaky and new right out of the box? This one didn’t. It felt like I’d been playing it for years, which is a testament to its build quality.

Fingerpicking and Strumming: A Versatile Companion

Let’s talk about playability. I grabbed it for some fingerpicking, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. It covered all the bases for what I want from an acoustic guitar. Open chords strummed beautifully, and it felt comfortable in my hands. But there was a little ringing behind the nut, which is pretty normal. Just a little finger placement behind the nut, and voilà, problem solved. Clean golden acoustic sound achieved!

Taking It Outside: A Bonding Experience

On a whim, I decided to take this beauty outside. The sunlight was glorious, and I wanted to see that sparkly gold in all its glory. Let me tell you, the rainbow sparkle that popped out was simply breathtaking. It’s not just a flat gold; it’s a universe of colors!

But it’s not all about looks. So, let’s get into the specs, shall we?

Specs and Materials: What Makes It Tick

The Melody Lipa Vega features a Sitka spruce top with mahogany veneer back and sides. The neck is also mahogany, and the fretboard is rosewood. The bridge plate is maple, while the bridge itself is ebony, and the pins are ebony with an abalone inlay. The rosette? Tortoise shell, which is just gorgeous.

Now, up at the fretboard, you’ll find mother of pearl butterfly inlays. Seriously, these details make the guitar feel like a work of art. The nut is ox bone, and we’ve got a rosewood veneer on the headstock. As for the tuners, they’re open-back vintage-style and, you guessed it, they look the part. The wheels on the back? Gold, of course, matching the front.

The Build Quality: Flawless and Premium

Let’s talk about build quality. This guitar is not cheap, but it’s worth every penny. I’ve played guitars that cost twice this one, and they don’t even come close in terms of quality. Everything is flawless, and it screams premium. By the way, if the gold is too much for you, it also comes in Nordic green and pearl black. But let’s be real—gold is where it’s at!

Playability: A Joy to Play

Now, I’ve had a chance to really bond with this guitar. It’s comfortable, and it sits nicely in your hands. Even though I typically prefer thicker necks, this one felt just right. If Baum can do this with every guitar they produce, they’re onto something special. I can’t wait to try out their full-fat version!

Capo Test: Does It Hold Up?

One of the tests I always do is the capo test. Many acoustics fail when you stick a capo on the higher frets, but this one? It passed with flying colors! I slapped the capo on the seventh fret, strummed a chord, and it sounded beautiful. That’s what I like to hear!

Price vs. Value: Is It Worth It?

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the price. At $1,599 for this model, it might seem steep. But having played it, I can confidently say it competes with guitars that cost $2,500 or more. It’s not just about the price; it’s about what you’re getting. A premium sound, build quality, and playability that’s hard to beat.

Some might argue that their $300 guitar sounds just as good, but let me tell you, they might be listening through a tin can. With over a thousand guitars played, this one stands out as one of the best.

Final Thoughts: A Magical Experience

So, to wrap it all up, the Baum Leaper Melody Vega is an incredible piece of new guitar gear. It’s not just a guitar; it’s a magical experience. The looks, the sound, the build quality—it all comes together to create something special. If you’re in the market for a new acoustic, I highly recommend checking it out.

And remember, you can only buy this beauty directly from Baum. So, if you’re ready to take the plunge, hit the link in the description. You won’t regret it!

That’s all for today, folks! I hope you enjoyed this little journey into the world of the Baum Leaper Melody Vega. Until next time, keep strumming, and I’ll see you in the next video!

The Week in Gear 78 | The Week Guitar Logic Broke

Prepare to get GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) because this week, we’re diving deep into some truly exciting new guitar gear. Sparkle finishes, multi-scale guitars, and possibly the deepest reverb pedal I’ve ever seen are all on the menu. Buckle up, folks, because we’re in for a wild ride!

Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Sparkle Jet FT

First up, let’s talk about the Gretsch G5230T Electromatic Sparkle Jet FT. Yes, it’s a long name, almost like something Ibanez would come up with! This beauty features a single cut chambered mahogany body with a maple top, topped off with a finish that looks like someone spilled a disco ball all over it.

Available in both silver and gold sparkle, this guitar definitely shines! But it’s not just about the glitter; it packs two Filtertron FT5E humbuckers which are modern yet still carry that classic Gretsch vibe. The controls may seem a bit confusing initially (welcome to the Gretsch dance), but once you get the hang of it, you’ll appreciate the individual volume for each pickup, master tone, and master volume with a treble bleed.

And let’s not forget about the Bigsby B50 vibrato, which is perfect for those gentle warbles. However, if you’re looking to dive bomb, you might want to reconsider. The neck is a thin hue set mahogany with a Laurel fingerboard, a twelve-inch radius, and medium jumbo frets. The only downside? Those tuners look a bit cheap. But hey, you either love sparkly finishes or you don’t!

I personally am all about sparkle, especially the silver. It reminds me of Sheryl Crow’s second album cover that’s been stuck in my head for ages. If you’re into Les Pauls but want something a bit showier, this could be the guitar for you. Prices vary worldwide, but you can expect it to be around seven hundred notes. Check the links in the description for the most accurate pricing.

On the gasometer, this one is firmly in wishlist territory. If sparkle finishes are your thing, I think this guitar will find its way into your shopping cart.

Cort KX507MS Pale Moon

Next up is the Cort KX507MS Pale Moon. If the Gretsch is like a wild night in Vegas, this guitar feels like a sci-fi metal cathedral. Seriously, it looks like it was carved out of some alien tree—and I’m totally here for it!

This guitar features a pale moon ebony top, roasted maple, and purple heart neck, along with individual hardtail string-through bridges. But here’s the kicker: it’s a multi-scale seven-string guitar. This means longer scale on the bass side and shorter on the treble side, which keeps the tension nice and tight for chugging while allowing for easy bends on the high strings.

Now, I know some of you might be zoning out right now, but bear with me. Cort produces a lot of Indonesian-made guitars, and they’re known for delivering recognizable quality at a lower price point. So if this seven-string doesn’t excite you, I encourage you to check out their other models because they offer excellent bang for your buck.

This guitar comes equipped with Fishman Fluence modern humbuckers—ceramic bridge and Alnico neck—with three voicings selected via push-pull pots. You get everything from high-gain brutality to single-coil sparkle. The neck is a bolt-on five-piece speed machine, probably with a D-shaped profile, and it has twenty-four stainless steel frets.

Although I’m not completely sold on the finish, it’s definitely more on the “yum” side of my yum-to-yuck spectrum. The price? Expect to pay around one thousand notes. If this guitar had a different brand name, you’d likely be looking at a much higher price. On the gasometer, I’d say it’s firmly in the “borrow one to try” category, but if you’re in the market for a seven-string, it could easily squeeze its way into your cart.

Mooer MSC50 Pro

Now let’s talk about the Mooer MSC50 Pro. This is a higher-end affordable S-style electric guitar that’s packed with features. If you thought the Cort was too boring, strap in for this one.

With an older body, roasted maple neck, and a twelve-inch radius rosewood fretboard, this guitar comes with locking tuners, a two-point tremolo, and an HSS pickup layout with a coil split on the bridge humbucker. That’s more premium features than some guitars priced twice as high!

The sparkly finish is called “magic crystal.” Yes, it looks like a glitter bomb exploded in the factory, but in a tasteful way. The see-through pickguards are a fantastic design choice, allowing you to see everything happening inside the guitar. However, I have to admit that after seeing high-resolution photos, I’m not as fond of the pickguard as I initially was.

Nothing about this guitar screams budget! It even comes with a bone nut and that push-pull coil split, which is usually reserved for much more expensive guitars. So, let’s place some bets on the price. If you guessed around four hundred notes, then congratulations—you win seventeen internet points! This is a lot of guitar for a very reasonable price.

However, I do think it’s a bit odd that it’s only available in a sparkle finish, which might not be for everyone. Still, this should definitely put Mooer on the map when compared to brands like Squier and Harley Benton. On the gasometer, this one is another firm add to cart, with only the finish holding it back in my humble opinion.

EHX Ocean’s Abyss

I don’t usually need scuba gear to explore a reverb pedal, but the EHX Ocean’s Abyss is deep—like Mariana Trench deep! Imagine if Electro-Harmonix took their amazing Ocean’s Eleven reverb pedal and cranked it up to eleven. Well, that’s exactly what they did!

The Ocean’s Abyss isn’t just a reverb pedal; it’s a full stereo reverb workstation. With dual stereo reverb engines, you can have two stereo reverbs running simultaneously, and you can even place each one independently in the stereo field. There are ten reverb types, including shimmer, dynamic, polyphonic, auto infinite, and even resined reverb. And that’s just scratching the surface!

They’ve packed in eight effect blocks, including delay, EQ, chorus, bit crush, and tremolo, which you can arrange in any order you like. It’s also got MIDI, USB-C, one hundred and twenty-eight presets, expression and footswitch inputs, and an editable tails mode per preset. It’s absurd!

This pedal is not just about slapping reverb onto your signal; it’s about sculpting the very space your sound exists in. It could easily become a lost evening or weekend rabbit hole in the best possible way. But all this fun comes at a price, and it’s not going to leave you with much change out of five hundred notes. So, if you’re a casual reverb user, I’d recommend starting with the Ocean’s Eleven. But if you live inside your reverb trails, this might be your new command center!

According to the gasometer, this one is definitely an add to cart. Just be prepared for the price tag.

Andy’s Pick of the Week

Now, let’s move on to my pick of the week, which happens to be two pedals—the Thermion Power Trem and Power Vibe. These beautifully built analog pedals from Spain are worth your attention.

The Power Trem pays homage to vintage amp tremolos, like the brown face Fender harmonic trem and classic optical trem circuits. The Power Vibe is a modern take on the Uni Vibe, boasting separate chorus and vibe modes along with a full analog signal path. If you’ve ever wanted to float above your amp, these pedals might get you there!

Here’s the exciting part: both are priced at just one hundred and twenty-five euros. In a world where pedals around a hundred notes are usually made in factories across Asia, Thermion is taking a different path. I’ve played a lot of their products, and everything has been fantastic so far. These pedals sound amazing in the demo videos and offer great value.

According to the gasometer, these are firmly in the buy-it-now territory. They might not set my wallet on fire, but they should give you quality pedals for your board while supporting a great business. Plus, I’ve been told that Thermion will be rolling out a whole range of effects in the PowerBolt series, so keep an eye out for more!

Support the Channel

Before I wrap things up, I want to extend my gratitude to the wonderful people who support this show on Patreon. Your names are up on screen, and I genuinely appreciate each and every one of you. If you’d like your name in lights, consider clicking the join button or visiting my Patreon link in the description.

If you have thoughts on this week’s gear, let me know in the comments below. Also, don’t forget to check out the affiliate links in the description to support the show. Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll catch you in the next one!

And remember, the washing machine is going up, so I might need to buy a new one!