Andy Ferris is The Guitar Geek. Youtuber, Guitar Gear Reviewer and Musician.
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Hi, I’m Andy Ferris a YouTuberGuitaristSingerSongwriterCreator
I'm Andy the Guitar Geek! You'll know me me from YouTube, where I review, demo, mod and make tutorials on all things guitar. With over 140K subscribers, I guess I'm kind of a big deal (just kidding, I'm still a dorky guitar nerd at heart).
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Who is The Guitar Geek?
About Me
Andy Ferris AKA The Guitar Geek is a British guitarist and YouTuber, is recognizable for his distinctive Afro, glasses, and quirky sense of humor. With over 140,000 dedicated subscribers, his channel is a hub for gear reviews, gear news, artist interviews, and more, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in the industry. Andy was voted as the fifth-best online guitar personality of 2022.
New Guitar Gear: Martin Made a VERY Bold Move with This Guitar
Welcome back, fellow guitar enthusiasts! Today, I’m diving deep into what might just be one of the most controversial guitars Martin has ever produced—the Martin DJr-10E StreetLegend. This guitar has sparked a lot of debate in the community, and I’m here to dissect it piece by piece. From its unique reliced burst finish to its modern sound profile, I’m excited to share my thoughts with you. So, if you’ve been curious about this guitar and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash, stick around!
The Controversy Behind the Design
Right off the bat, let’s address the elephant in the room: the reliced burst finish. Some love it, some hate it, but one thing’s for sure—this finish is a bold statement. It’s designed to give the appearance of an aged guitar, but as I’ve learned through my experience, it’s not just about looks. It’s about sound, feel, and how it fits into the modern musician’s toolkit.
As I play this guitar, I can’t help but feel that it’s a mix of old and new. The relic finish gives it character, while the rest of the guitar feels brand new. It’s a puzzling combination, but it’s one that intrigues me. Is this a clever marketing ploy, or does it genuinely enhance the playing experience? Let’s find out.
Sound Tests: Mic’d, DI, and Amped
To really get to the heart of this guitar, I’m going to test it in three different ways: mic’d up, through a direct input (DI), and plugged into my Orange acoustic amp. Each method reveals different qualities of the guitar’s sound, so let’s get started!
Mic’d Acoustic Sound Test
For the mic’d test, I used the Lewitt LCT 140 Air, a small condenser mic that captures the nuances of the guitar beautifully. I positioned it about six inches away from the guitar. My first impressions were that it had a very bright and produced sound. The clarity and note separation were impressive, which is somewhat unusual for a Martin guitar, traditionally known for its warmer tones.
This guitar leans more towards a modern sound rather than the vintage tones associated with models like the D-28 or D-18. It’s clear that this guitar is built for the modern musician, and it feels modern too. While the front sports that relic finish, the rest of the guitar is brand new and pristine.
DI Sound Test
Next, I plugged it into the DI to see how it performs in that setup. I added a bit of reverb but held off on any EQ adjustments to keep things raw. The sound through the DI was different; it still had that piezo character but felt more versatile. It’s important to note that while I enjoyed this sound, I was aware of the inherent limitations of a DI setup. It’s a good option for live performances, but typically, you’d want to EQ this sound for the best results.
Amped Sound Test
Finally, I plugged it into my Orange acoustic amp. This is where the guitar really came alive. The sound was vibrant and engaging, and I found myself getting lost in the groove. The tonal range was impressive, and while I noticed some lacking in bass, it’s important to remember that this guitar is more parlor-sized than dreadnought. It’s lightweight and very playable, making it perfect for those long jam sessions.
Strumming vs. Fingerpicking
When it comes to playing styles, this guitar seems to favor fingerpicking over heavy strumming. While it can handle strumming, I found that it shines with more delicate playing. The note separation and clarity really come through when you take your time with each note. I also noticed that my heavy-handed strumming could overpower the guitar, which made me realize it’s better suited for a lighter touch.
Under the Hood: Specs & Tuner
Now, let’s take a closer look at what’s happening under the hood. The specs of this guitar are quite interesting. The top is made of solid spruce, while the back and sides are constructed from sapele, giving it a mahogany-like feel. The neck is a select hardwood that feels smooth and comfortable in hand, and the bridge is made of FSC-certified rich light.
One of the standout features for me is the angled tuner. It’s positioned perfectly for the player, and you don’t have to awkwardly look down at the body of the guitar. This small detail really enhances the playing experience, making tuning not just easier but more intuitive.
Weight and Feel
In terms of weight, this guitar comes in at about 1.8 kilos or roughly four pounds. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, which is a big plus for those who might be using it for extended playing sessions. The feel of the guitar is very smooth, with a satin finish that’s pleasant to the touch. There’s no gloss to it, which adds to the vintage vibe while still feeling brand new.
The Price Point: Is It Worth It?
Now let’s talk about the price point. This guitar sits in a competitive range, and I can see some people questioning whether it’s worth the investment. My take? If you’re looking for a Martin that stands out, has a modern sound, and offers a unique playing experience, then yes, this guitar is highly recommended. If the reliced finish doesn’t appeal to you, there are other models in the Junior Series that might be more up your alley.
Final Thoughts
To wrap things up, the Martin DJr-10E StreetLegend is not just another guitar; it’s a bold move by Martin that’s designed to cater to modern musicians. Whether you love or hate the relic finish, there’s no denying that this guitar has a lot to offer in terms of sound and playability. For those looking for something that combines the heritage of Martin with a contemporary flair, this could be your new go-to instrument.
So, what do you think? Are you on board with the relic vibe, or do you prefer a more traditional look? Leave your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out the links in the description for where to get your own Martin DJr-10E StreetLegend. Until next time, keep strumming!
Are you on the hunt for new guitar gear that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the PRS CE 24 SE, a stunning instrument that promises to deliver exceptional quality at an accessible price point. In this detailed review, we’ll explore everything from the unboxing experience to the guitar’s tonal capabilities, build quality, and overall playability. Let’s dive in!
Unboxing the PRS CE 24 SE
Upon opening the box, the excitement was palpable. This is the first PRS guitar to grace my channel, and I had been eagerly anticipating its arrival. The guitar comes packaged in a well-padded gig bag, which is always a plus for travel and protection. The thoughtful packaging includes a poly bag for the guitar itself, ensuring it arrives in pristine condition. This kind of attention to detail is something I truly appreciate, especially considering past experiences with guitars that had minor damages during shipping.
First Impressions and Specs
As I pulled the guitar out of the bag, I was greeted by the striking sandblasted red finish that gives off a three-dimensional effect, reminiscent of something out of a sci-fi movie—think Darth Maul! It’s lightweight yet feels sturdy, and I can’t help but admire the craftsmanship. The PRS CE 24 SE features two humbuckers, a floating tremolo system, and a master volume and tone control, the latter equipped with a push-pull pot. The bolt-on maple neck adds to its appeal, and the overall aesthetic is definitely eye-catching.
Specifications Breakdown
Body: Mahogany with a swamp ash top
Neck: Maple with a scarf joint
Fretboard: Rosewood
Pickups: PRS 85/15S humbuckers
Tremolo System: Floating tremolo
Controls: Master volume, master tone (push-pull)
Let’s get this beauty tuned up and plugged in!
Setup and Tuning
Tuning the PRS CE 24 SE was a breeze thanks to its smooth tuners. The neck felt slim and delicate, requiring a gentle touch while fretting. This guitar definitely feels smaller than some of the models I’m used to, but it’s full-sized, and it’s just my perspective making it appear smaller. With the strings tugged and a quick retune, I was ready to plug it into my Fender Deluxe Reverb.
Clean Tone Playthrough
Once plugged in, I was eager to test the clean tones. The initial impressions were promising; the guitar produced a clear and resonant sound. Starting on the bridge pickup in humbucker mode, I cranked up the reverb for some added ambiance. The clarity of the notes was impressive, and I could already sense the versatility this guitar offers.
Exploring Pickup Options
Switching to single coil mode, I was pleasantly surprised by the tonal differences. The bridge single coil sound was crisp and defined, allowing for a funky vibe that I didn’t expect. The middle split coil option also added a lovely brightness to the sound, making it a perfect fit for various musical styles.
Crunch Tones
Now it was time to get a bit more aggressive. Engaging the Wampler Plexi Drive Mini, I wanted to explore the crunch tones this guitar could produce. The PRS CE 24 SE exceeded my expectations here, providing a palette of gritty sounds that were both chunky and clear. I found the playability to be phenomenal, although I did notice that the pickups might not handle high gain as well as I’d hoped. However, at this price point, it’s hard to complain.
High Gain Tones
Next, I switched to the Iron Horse pedal from Walrus Audio for some high gain experimentation. The middle position was where this guitar truly shined, offering a robust sound that balanced clarity and body. I did notice that the neck pickup felt a tad brittle under these settings, which might be something to keep in mind for those looking for a more aggressive tone.
Under the Hood: Wiring and Hardware
After getting a feel for the guitar, I decided it was time to take a closer look at the hardware and wiring. Removing the tremolo arm, I examined the headstock and the back cavity. The attention to detail was evident; everything was neatly organized, and the internal components appeared to be of good quality.
Weight and Wood Breakdown
The guitar felt light in my hands, weighing in at approximately six pounds, which is quite manageable for long playing sessions. The combination of mahogany and swamp ash not only contributes to the weight but also to the tonal qualities. The sandblasted finish is not just for looks; it enhances the resonance of the wood, making for a lively instrument.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
After thoroughly testing the PRS CE 24 SE, I can confidently say that it is an excellent guitar for the price. It combines beautiful aesthetics, solid build quality, and impressive tonal versatility. While the pickups are decent, I believe swapping them out for something more aggressive could elevate this guitar to new heights.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for new guitar gear that offers more than you might expect for its price, the PRS CE 24 SE is definitely worth considering. With its stunning design and impressive performance, it stands out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this guitar provides an excellent balance of quality and affordability.
For more information and to check out purchasing options, follow the links below:
In the realm of guitar gear, the pedalboard is a critical component for any guitarist. It’s where creativity meets functionality, but what happens when that functionality becomes an overwhelming burden? In this article, we’ll explore the transformation of an impractical pedalboard into a streamlined setup, showcasing the importance of weighing convenience against complexity. If you’re curious about new guitar gear and how to optimize it for performance, you’re in the right place.
The Most Impractical Pedalboard I’ve Ever Seen
A few months back, my band played a show, and I had the opportunity to witness a pedalboard that was, quite frankly, a disaster. It was big—almost laughably so—and heavy. The guitar player from the support band, Steve, was struggling with a chaotic array of pedals that seemed to have no rhyme or reason. It was clear that something needed to change. I received a WhatsApp message asking for my help in persuading Steve to switch out this behemoth for something more manageable.
The first issue with Steve’s board was its weight. Weighing in at an astonishing twenty-three kilos (about fifty pounds), it was cumbersome to transport. The weight made it impractical for gigs and rehearsals, especially when navigating through crowded venues. The sheer size of the board also made it difficult to save settings, as Steve had to check everything before each performance. This is where we began our journey towards a more user-friendly solution.
How Big Is Too Big? Pedalboard Size Test
When we arrived at the rehearsal room, I could see the board in its entirety. It was massive—sixty centimeters deep and eighty-five centimeters wide. At its highest point, it stood about eighteen centimeters tall. The dimensions alone were enough to make anyone reconsider their setup. We discussed how the size was not just a minor inconvenience; it was a significant obstacle to Steve’s performance.
While size alone isn’t inherently bad, the weight and bulkiness often led to frustration. Carrying such a large pedalboard through a pub or venue was not only impractical, but it also turned heads for all the wrong reasons. It was time to find a solution that offered a more manageable size without sacrificing functionality.
Pedalboard Weight: Before & After
As we prepared to transition to a new pedalboard, the first step was to weigh the original setup. Steve and I placed the board on the scale, and the result was staggering: twenty-three kilos! That’s almost the weight of a small child, and it certainly felt like it when trying to lift it. This was just one of the many reasons why a new guitar gear upgrade was necessary.
Next, we unboxed the Pedaltrain Novo 32, which promised to be a game-changer. With a much lighter design, this board offered both portability and functionality. The new board was a significant size reduction but still allowed for ample pedal space. We weighed this new setup without the pedals, and it came in at just two point four kilos (five pounds)—a massive difference compared to the original!
Power Supply Setup & Cable Management
One of the most significant changes we made was the power supply. The original power source was unreliable and had already failed Steve once, leaving him in a bind during a performance. We chose the Walrus Audio Canvas Power 15, which boasts more outputs and reliable performance. This power supply is designed for the modern guitarist, providing various voltage options, including USB-C outputs for added versatility.
The setup for the new power supply was straightforward, and I was impressed by how quickly we could install it. We mounted it to the underside of the board, ensuring that cable management would be a breeze. Good cable management not only improves the aesthetics of the board but also enhances functionality by reducing noise and interference.
Programming Pedals: Tips for Clean Workflow
Once the power supply was securely in place, we began transferring pedals from the old board to the new one. This was an opportunity to rethink the layout and organization of Steve’s pedals. We discussed the importance of creating a clean workflow, ensuring that the most frequently used pedals were easily accessible while keeping the less critical effects organized.
As we worked, we made sure to label each pedal clearly, which would aid in programming and performance. This small detail can make a significant difference during live shows, allowing for quick adjustments without fumbling around in a chaotic setup. Steve was excited to see how this new organization would enhance his playing experience.
Final Setup & Does It Actually Work?
With the new pedalboard assembled and everything in place, it was time for the moment of truth: plugging it in. We connected the board to the amplifier and crossed our fingers. Would everything work as planned? As we powered everything on, we eagerly awaited a response. The lights illuminated, and the tuner showed a signal—success!
After a few minor adjustments to settings, we were ready to celebrate. The new setup not only halved the weight but also provided a more reliable power supply. Steve’s face lit up with excitement as he realized how much easier his life as a guitarist would be with this new gear. We had transformed a cumbersome disaster into a streamlined, professional setup.
The Takeaway
In the world of new guitar gear, it’s essential to strike a balance between functionality and practicality. Steve’s journey serves as a reminder that sometimes, less is more. Investing in a high-quality pedalboard and power supply can vastly improve your playing experience, making it easier to focus on what truly matters: the music.
Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting, consider the weight and size of your pedalboard as you build your setup. A manageable board not only enhances portability but also allows for a more organized workflow, leading to better performances. If you’re looking to upgrade your gear, the Pedaltrain Novo 32 and Walrus Audio Canvas Power 15 are excellent options worth considering.
For more insights on optimizing your gear and enhancing your musical journey, be sure to check out the original creator of this transformation, TheGuitarGeek.
