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4Pockets StompBox

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:09:00 GMT

With the aid of an iOS audio interface and some headphones, StompBox aims to provide a guitar practice facility on your iPad. It supplies you with up to 12 simultaneous effects in a virtual rack controlled by a virtual pedalboard, alongside a phrase-training-equipped media player for loading MP3s and playing along. You also get a tuner, metronome and a four-track loop recorder.

With just one main scrollable page that shows the foot controller at the top and the rack below it, StompBox is easy to use and has 12 available banks of six patches. Four banks are loaded with factory presets, some of which we found to be instantly usable, others just a wall of noise.

Not to worry though - the noisy presets just need the gain knobs on some of the components turned down, plus you can easily put your own rack together and create your own patches, all quickly recalled with the virtual foot controller, which also lets you enable and disable individual effects.

To accompany the single preamp you can choose from 17 effect modules which cover all the popular guitar effects and have many adjustable parameters, allowing the possibility of dialling in a wide range of playable tones.

While the distortion sounds can get a wee bit fizzy at times, there are some sounds here that work just fine in a practice situation. And, combined with the song playback, phrase-training and recording facilities, StompBox provides a very useful guitar resource for iPad owners.

Blackstar HT-METAL

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:42:00 GMT

When we were sent this extreme gain pedal from Blackstar, we took precautions. Upon opening the box we borrowed safety goggles; pets were ushered outdoors; tarp was laid down.

Blackstar means business with the HT-METAL, capitalising on endorsements with dudes such as black metal titan Ihsahn and Dimmu Borgir's Silenoz. All signs point to some thermonuclear gain action.

"Punching in channel one's Clean mode is like sticking your tone on a hot radiator, adding layers of warmth and just a little break-up when the gain is cranked."

The HT-METAL is a two-channel/three-mode distortion pedal. There are two channels on available with this ferocious offering, but you'll find that Channel One has a Clean/OD switch that enables you to use the pedal as a boost in Clean mode and dial in some hot bite as you turn the gain clockwise.

Reminiscent of the limited Gus G signature HT-BLACKFIRE distortion that we fell in love with last year, the HT-METAL now supersedes it as Blackstar's official entry for the title of The Ultimate Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal.

It takes a minute or two to get used to the two stacked pots controlling gain and level, the fattest of which controls channel one while the skinny one on top controls channel two.

The control panel is laid out like a Blackstar amp with Gain and Level, Bass, Middle and Treble, plus the patented Infinite Shape Feature (ISF). The ISF control works like a Trans-Atlantic tone translator, changing the character of your tone from a tight American sound when turned fully counter clockwise to a mid-rich British tone when fully clockwise.

Punching in channel one's Clean mode is like sticking your tone on a hot radiator, adding layers of warmth and just a little break-up when the gain is cranked. Blues players may be surprised that a pedal built for blood and thunder can also do sweet.

Channel one's OD mode is all about throaty, expressive crunch and, depending on where you set the ISF knob, you can even get some nice 'n' sleazy American rock tones or a blue-collar AC/DC bark.

Navigate your way to the high-gain stages of channel two and besides realising that the HT-METAL's USP is its ability to turn your signal into a gnawing musical chainsaw, you get the feeling that Blackstar is actually underselling this – the HT-METAL is more than just a pedal for musical extremists. Indeed, its comprehensive sweep of not just useable but great, inspiring tones should be experienced by all players.

Sure, for many it will be difficult to look past the moody exterior and the extremity of channel two. Sheesh, there is more gain here than you would ever really need (enough to saturate your tone) and it's obviously perfect for metal.

If your wardrobe is 100 per cent black and you use words such as 'necro' and 'brutal' to describe your mum's cooking, this one's for you. But really, this is so good we'd like to think there's something for everyone here.

Hughes & Kettner TubeMeister 5 combo

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:23:00 GMT

Last year we had the world's first official review of Hughes & Kettner's groundbreaking TubeMeister 18 head.

We concluded that it is small, good value and loud enough to take on small gigs, despite its tiny dimensions. Even better, it has the not inconsiderable benefit of an excellent sounding speaker-simulated direct output: we rated it, and continue to rate it, very highly.

"You get a focused urgency in the mid-range and very direct projection from the tiny box: it's very much a small-amp flavour, and sounds good mic'd up."

To kick off 2012, we have the even smaller, even more cute five-watt version in head and combo formats - identical in terms of electronics. Are they credible downsizing in real-world valve amps, or one sandwich short of a lunchbox?

On the combo the controls face up at you, so your audience/significant other just sees a black box from the front. The standard of external finishing is high on all the metalwork of the head enclosure, and the tidy leather-like vinyl, save for the most minor of untidy tucks around its control panel.

Accented with quality, extremely positive-feeling metal control knobs, metal jacks and a reassuringly clunky switch, the tiny TM upholds H&K's well-deserved reputation for high standards.

Behind the blue you'll find a single 12AX7 valve in the preamp section, and one 12BH7 - the same as that used in Blackstar's successful HT-5 - in the power section. The 12BH7 is a dual triode that runs within itself in push-pull (like two separate matched valves would in a bigger amp) to chuck out a whole five watts.

Like the 18-watt version, the TM5 includes a power-soak, though here it's in simpler form. Instead of providing a selection of incremental power reductions down to silent, it's simply the full five watts or silent: on or off.

The latter is particularly useful if you want to record silently via the inbuilt XLR direct output - with the power soak in the off position, you don't even need a speaker connected, meaning it can sit pretty much anywhere you like as long as there's power. There's no effects loop, no reverb and no footswitch, however.

The direct output is a custom, inbuilt version of Hughes & Kettner's well respected Red Box DI - we rate it very highly in the 18-watt incarnation (and indeed as a standalone box), so it'll be very interesting to hear how it compares on the end of the TubeMeister 5's smaller output section.

A quick look inside reveals a custom-designed PCB, screwed securely to the metal chassis. As well as the circuit components, it houses the pots and valve bases, but not the transformers and mains switch, as you'd expect.

The Red Box DI circuit is completely separate on its own PCB, which includes the power soak switch and the speaker output that will take anything between an 8- and 16-ohm load.

As we've come to expect from H&K, all is remarkably efficient and superbly designed; 'designed and engineered in Germany' is printed on the rear panel, but nowhere other than the packing box does it say 'manufactured in PRC'. Are we still embarrassed about Chinese build? In terms of quality, we shouldn't be, especially when it's as well-commissioned as this.

That high standard of build extends to the combo's cabinet. Constructed from ply (not particleboard) the combo has an almost fully closed-back design, save for a small open strip at the rear. The only downside is that it's a pain in the butt to get to the valves should they require changing.

Sounds

Obvious things first: yes, the eight-inch speaker and small cabinet of the combo sounds relatively small and boxy. Placing it on the floor helps the bottom-end response no end, but room filling and airy the combo is not, certainly compared with a Fender Blues Junior or Hot Rod Deluxe.

What you get instead is a focused urgency in the mid-range and very direct projection from the tiny box: it's very much a small-amp flavour, and sounds good mic'd up.

The TubeMeister 5's clean channel has a great sense of sparkle and presence that typifies many H&K valve amps. It will overdrive if you max the gain control and use more powerful pickups, but there's a surprising amount of headroom and volume on offer for such a modest power rating. Forget it with a loud live drummer, but for duos and accompanying vocalists, you could use this for little gigs with no problems.

The EQ is very powerful, enabling you to go from bouncy, mid-scooped country-type cleans right through to a smokier, more mid-rich jazzy deal. A lot of tiny amps don't have the full bass/middle/treble offering, so there's a great deal more flexibility here than on a Marshall Class 5 or Vox AC4, for example. We do miss reverb, though.

Engaging the overdrive mode ushers in a big kick in gain, starting at a slightly pushed, vintage-type amp overdrive, right through to modern, heavy, saturated distortion. There really is a great deal of variation in drive off the gain pot, which you can balance with the master/output section to sound relatively smoother or more fuzzy.

As we said, the EQ is very powerful so you span from scoopy '80s-type metal tones, all the way through to punching, mid-gained '60s-style blues.

The inbuilt Red Box DI does a superb job of clean tones especially. We'd say it gets less convincing with more gainy sounds when compared directly with a mic'd signal, but much of that is easily tweaked with EQ in your recording software.

Certainly, for convenient silent recording, it's superb. Mixed with the mic'd signal, it sounds huge.

During our recording, we did find both head and combo more susceptible to extraneous noise than the Bogner Goldfinger 45 we were also demoing in exactly the same conditions. A DI box between amp and guitar sorted the issue, however.

On sheer cuteness factor alone, the TubeMeister 5 has that 'must-have' quality, especially at this attractive price. Add a suitable reverb or echo pedal and you have a brilliant little amp for home practice and recording duties.

It's capable of a huge range of tones, and the inbuilt Red Box is genuinely useful, not just a spec point that gets listed but never really used. It doesn't feel as tonally refined as the bigger, more expensive TubeMeister 18 - but then it's unrealistic to expect it to, of course.

Many people will be wondering whether this is a better choice than a comparably priced digital modelling amp, and that's a very tough call. A valve amp of this nature sounds more visceral, has a different response to the overdrive and all-important mid-range frequencies, and so feels quite different under your fingers.

Some people like that, some people don't - do yourself a favour, though, and be sure to A/B test the TubeMeister 5 alongside a 20-40-watt modelling amp. We think you'll be very surprised.

Tanglewood T6

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:56:00 GMT

When performing live, an acoustic guitarist is generally either trying to make themselves heard above the chatter of a cafe or pub crowd, or running through the public address system in a larger venue.

In both scenarios it makes sense to have an acoustic combo, such as the new 60-watt Tanglewood T6 on your side. A good amp will blast your noise to the back of the room in smaller venues and earn its keep as your stage monitor in bigger sheds.

The T6 has a line out socket that enables you to run it to a PA without shutting down its built-in 8-inch speaker. That means you get the window rattling volume you need to rupture eardrums without compromising control over your onstage sound.

The T6 has two channels: channel one is for guitar and channel two is prepped for a mic or line-level source. Here, we're going to concentrate on channel one.

In use

Upon plugging in our Takamine electro-acoustic, the first thing to do is tweak the 'high/low' button. If your guitar has a battery-powered preamp like ours, select the 'low' setting. Choose 'high' for low-output soundhole pickups and stick-on bugs.

Now it's just a matter of balancing your guitar's controls and the amp's three-band EQ to get your sound. FYI, there is a red 'clip' indicator that ignites if you overload the channel. Don't panic - just drop the gain until the LED extinguishes then boost the master volume.

The T6 has plenty of headroom and top end sizzle, although there is a 'contour' control if you need to boost the treble. We like the dedicated DI, line out and MP3 sockets, and how the T6 can be mounted on a speaker stand for improved sound projection in smaller venues.

We're not so blown away by the onboard effects. The wet-sounding Hall reverb is OK, but the Plate and Chorus are anaemic and uninspiring. There's no way to tweak the delay, which is annoying.

The delay time and regeneration are set, so if you don't like the sound, tough. You can run your stompboxes and FX units through the amp's send and return sockets and assign them to each channel with the effects pan knob.

We don't regard the pants onboard effects as a deal breaker. The T6 is a great-sounding, ultra-portable amp that offers pro-quality tone and bags of headroom at an affordable price.

You can buy a padded gigbag (£39) for the T6, which offers neat storage for your cables and great protection from damage.

Of course, all that padding won't protect the T6 from some mighty stiff competition, not least the diminutive but powerful ZT Lunchbox Acoustic (£389). We reckon you should try as many acoustic amps as possible, including this one, before you make any decisions.

TC Electronic PolyTune Mini

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:30:00 GMT

You've heard us bang on about it for nearly two years now. Polyphonic tuning - the biggest advancement in guitar tuning since Pete Doherty learnt the 'fifth fret method' - was spearheaded in 2009 by TC Electronic with its PolyTune stompbox.

Oh, how we marvelled at its sleek design, ease of use and jaw dropping ability to listen to all of your strings at once. Then came the iPhone app and we began to wonder how TC could evolve further.

"If tuning up one string at a time is more your thing you can still do it. The PolyTune Mini jumps seamlessly between the two modes."

The answer recently arrived on our desk. Still with the wouldn't-look-out-of-place-in-the-Apple-Store design, the PolyTune Mini features the same polyphonic tuning as its bigger brother, plus the recently introduced Capo and Drop-D modes.

The main difference is that it's about 20 per cent smaller, measuring 51mm wide by 93mm front-to-back. Of course, there are a few other limitations: you can't update the Mini over USB and it will only run from a power supply (no battery).

The Mini has different modes, depending how you tune, all of which can be selected by pressing the small button on the side of the pedal. You can go for standard, dropped tunings (with standard intervals up to five semitones) or tell the pedal you're using a capo (up to the seventh fret).

It works exactly as before: plug in, strum your strings and the pedal's six LED 'columns' (one for each string) detect your tuning. Green is in tune, above is sharp, below is flat.

TC has also introduced the Drop-D tuning mode for the Mini. This calibrates the pedal for the 'tone-down' interval on your low string. It's accessed by holding down the stomp switch for a couple of seconds and can work in combination with the other dropped modes for achieving, say, drop B tuning.

All of this talk of polyphony might feel as though you're reading a keyboard mag, and if tuning up one string at a time is more your thing you can still do it. The PolyTune Mini jumps seamlessly between the two modes.

When it senses only one note has been played, the display reacts like a traditional chromatic tuner with a virtual needle. Simply strumming two or more strings together kicks it back into polyphonic mode again.

TC Electronic has clearly worked hard to push things forward of late. While the mini didn't leave our jaws dropped like the original, it's still the cutest, best value tuner we can think of for the price.

Yes it has some shortcomings when compared to its big brother: the PSU only (not included) operation and the lack of a daisy-chain power output and USB socket. The fact that it can't be updated shouldn't be a problem - we're buying it for what it is, not what it could be - plus the range of tuning options available is more than enough.

If you want all of those extras, they're available for a bit more cash. Otherwise, you'll save pedal board space, and money, with the PolyTune Mini.

Hughes & Kettner TubeMeister 5 head

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:56:00 GMT

Last year, we had the world's first official review of Hughes & Kettner's groundbreaking TubeMeister 18 head.

"The TM5's EQ is very powerful, enabling you to go from bouncy, mid-scooped country-type cleans right through to a smokier, more mid-rich jazzy deal."

To kick off 2012, we have the even smaller, even cuter five-watt version in head and combo formats. Are they credible downsizing in real-world valve amps, or one sandwich short of a lunchbox?

The first thing to say about the TubeMeister 5 head is that it's tiny - almost laughably so. In fact most of our staffers assumed it was an elaborate desk toy sent as a Christmas gift! Secondly, and more usefully, the combo and head are exactly the same in terms of electronics.

Unlike the two-channel, three-mode 18-watt head (which strangely now adopts 'big' brother status), the 5 gets a single-channel, dual-mode set-up. Even so, H&K has packed five knobs and one switch onto the tiny control panels for independent gain and volume adjustments and a powerful, albeit passive, three-band EQ section. The push switch kicks in the distortion.

Power them up and it all glows blue in glorious H&K tradition. The standard of external finishing high on all the metalwork of the head enclosure. Accented with quality, extremely positive-feeling metal control knobs, metal jacks and a reassuringly clunky switch, the tiny TMs uphold H&K's well-deserved reputation for high standards.

The Red Box DI circuit is completely separate on its own PCB, which includes the power soak switch and the speaker output that will take anything between an 8- and 16-ohm load.

Sounds

We loved the sound of the head set up with a 1 x 12 cab. Just for kicks, we also tried the tiny device atop a H&K Celestion Greenback-loaded 2 x 12 and an Orange Celestion V30-loaded 4 x 12 too, with predictably bigger tonal results.

As we said, the EQ is very powerful so you span from scoopy '80s-type metal tones, all the way through to punching, mid-gained '60s-style blues. Again, the 1 x 12 option sounds smoother and more grown up than the 1 x 8.

During our recording, we did find the head more susceptible to extraneous noise than the Bogner Goldfinger 45 we were demoing in exactly the same conditions. A DI box between amp and guitar sorted the issue, however.

On cuteness factor alone, the TubeMeister 5 has that 'must-have' quality, especially at this attractive price. Add a suitable reverb or echo pedal and you have a brilliant little amp for home practice and recording duties.

Some people like that, some people don't - do yourself a favour, though, and be sure to A/B test the TubeMeister 5 alongside a 20-40-watt modelling amp. We think you'll be very surprised.

Dunlop DVP1 Volume Pedal

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:00:00 GMT

This recent addition to the Dunlop effects range revamps the basic volume pedal by making use of some clever thinking and similarly smart styling.

The latter concerns a beefy but smooth casing in space-age brush-finished aluminium, with chunky looks matched by measurements that easily accommodate a size 10 boot.

An accordingly long treadle section is topped with a tyre-like, heavy patterned rubber insert that gives you some serious grip underfoot. The pedal's substantial weight helps keep it firmly in place, with further anchorage provided by the rubber-covered baseplate.

Volume changes are made using a conventional passive pot, but the partner treadle mechanism employs Dunlop's new Steel Band Drive, designed for minimum maintenance and friction-free performance.

A rear-mounted tension screw adjusts sweep action stiffness, while all connections are at the opposite end of the case, comprising input and output jacks plus an independent tuner feed.

In Use

The well-chosen components ensure that there's no noticeable signal degradation, while appropriate level amendments are smoothly progressive from off to the full-on position.

Dunlop's DVP1 is an obvious competitor to the BOSS FV-500H, but lacks the latter's minimum volume facility. Despite this deficit, it's a viable alternative, although the asking price could be considered quite steep for such a simple pedal.

Gretsch Electromatic Double Jet

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:29:00 GMT

Electromatic Series guitars aren't just a good way of getting your hands on an affordable Gretsch, they've actually developed a bit of a cult following in their own right.

For example, owners of the Pro Jet and 5120 semi-acoustic often rip out the existing pickups to replace them with higher spec TV Jones models. Type in 'Electromatic modification' into YouTube and you'll see what we mean.

"Our Double Jet is gold, sparkly and as cool as your granny's mood when you wake her at 4am with AC/DC riffs."

These guys want to convert their Electromatic Pro Jets into Duo Jets and Electromatic 5120s into G6120 rockabilly machines; just like Eddie Cochran and Brian Setzer's big orange guitars.

Now Gretsch has got in on the Electromatic pimping fad. The freshly scrubbed Pro Jet and Double Jet models now feature pickup upgrades and new fingerboard inlays.

The Electromatic Double Jet pays tribute to the double-cut Duo Jet that Gretsch launched in 1961. Aside from the extra cutaway, the Double Jet's spec is identical to its single-cut brother.

But here's the niggle: the pre-facelift Electromatic Double Jet had period-correct thumbnail fingerboard inlays, and they just looked 'right'. Here Gretsch has chosen to replace the Double Jet's thumbnails with '57 'hump block' inlays.

It's unlikely to make any difference to the vast majority of people, but it's the kind of thing that keeps us - and Gretsch nerds - awake at night. Fellow detail fans will be pleased to know, however, that the horseshoe Bigsby fitted to our Double Jet is period-correct, although some '60s Jets came with a Burns vibrato unit or a G-cutout tailpiece.

So much for history - it's gold, sparkly and still as cool as your granny's mood when you wake her at 4am with AC/DC riffs. Which you will. Let's plug in…

Sounds

Running the Jet through a clean channel it's immediately clear that the new Blacktop Filter'Tron pickups are more Gretsch-like than those original mini-buckers.

The bridge Blacktop has much of that punchy clean sound that we expect from a Duo Jet. It's great for beating out old-school rock 'n' roll riffs. Gretsch guitars are more versatile than we give them credit for and both Jets pump out convincing rockabilly, blues and surf tones.

Then there's the rock stuff. Steve Marriott of The Small Faces and Humble Pie, and Malcolm Young of AC/DC, have both proven how great Gretsch Jets sound with some overdrive. The Blacktop Filter'Trons work great with the filth. The inherent brightness of the pickups cuts through an gives the overdriven tones a ballsy edge.

We're not claiming the Double Jet sounds like the high rolling Professional Series Gretsch models. There is still a big difference, but these latest Electromatics get closer than ever to the real deal.

It's time to give that elephant in the room a right good kick up the rear. Which is to say, why didn't Gretsch go the whole hog and build affordable replicas of its classic Jets while it had the chance? It wouldn't have taken much more effort.

Maybe Gretsch doesn't want to compromise its Japanese-made Professional range: if you buy a two grand-plus work of art such as the Gretsch G6128T-GH George Harrison Signature Duo Jet, you want everyone to know you unloaded your bank account on it. A 500 quid doppelgänger of your new pride and joy would likely not make you happy.

But as things stand, the Double Jet is perfect for Gretsch virgins seeking out great build, playability, tone and good looks. And the Electromatic cultists will no doubt keep on pimping them to get them even closer to the real thing, despite the pickup upgrades.

Gretsch Electromatic G5105 CVT III

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:19:00 GMT

Electromatic Series guitars aren't just a good way of getting your hands on an affordable Gretsch, they've actually developed a bit of a cult following in their own right.

"With the bridge pickup engaged the CVT comes across like a miffed Rickenbacker; that explosive power-chord thing that you hear on Jam records."

These guys want to convert their Electromatic Pro Jets into Duo Jets and Electromatic 5120s into G6120 rockabilly machines; just like Eddie Cochran and Brian Setzer's big orange guitars.

Now Gretsch itself has got in on the Electromatic pimping fad. The freshly scrubbed Pro Jet and Double Jet models now feature pickup upgrades and new fingerboard inlays. There are even new models including this '60s classic reborn with, gulp, a bolt-on neck…

'CVT' is short for Corvette, the model originally launched by Gretsch in 1961. While the first Corvettes had slab bodies, the outline was eventually honed into the shapely beauty you see before you.

Our CVT III has a mahogany body with a maple neck held in place with four screws through a plate, just like a Fender. Yep, this guitar has a bolt-on neck, which is not the norm for a Gretsch, but more on that soon. The chubby profile neck is mated to a rosewood fingerboard, with a 305mm radius and 22 well-seated and dressed medium jumbo frets.

The hardware includes an anchored (ie screwed into the body) adjust-o-matic bridge and bar tailpiece. Again, this is not classic Gretsch, but it does a textbook job of keeping the strings attached to the guitar.

The CVT comes with a master volume and master tone control both manipulated with lovely chrome 'G Arrow' knobs. The real frontpage news is the trio of mini-humbuckers encased in chrome-plated covers.

These pickups were originally spec'd on Pro Jet and Double Jet models. We liked them plenty on the Jets, so we're expecting good things when we plug this Corvette into an amp.

Sounds

The CVT III is a blast. The bolt-on neck actually works well on this guitar. It feels robust, like you can beat the hell out of it and it won't give up. It jangles through a clean channel but it really comes to life when you add some overdrive.

With the bridge pickup engaged it comes across like a miffed Rickenbacker; that explosive power-chord thing that you hear on Jam records. Selecting the other humbuckers one by one reveals some usable warmer tones, but it's the punk rock bliss in the bridge pickup that made our day.

In short, it's great when you find a budget guitar that punches above its weight. How about a single-pickup version, Gretsch?

Gretsch Electromatic G5435T Pro Jet

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:10:00 GMT

Electromatic Series guitars aren't just a good way of getting your hands on an affordable Gretsch, they've actually developed a bit of a cult following in their own right.

"The Jet's complement of hardware includes a set of vintage-style tuners, classic screw-on strap buttons and beautiful chrome 'G Arrow' control knobs"

These guys want to convert their Electromatic Pro Jets into Duo Jets and Electromatic 5120s into G6120 rockabilly machines; just like Eddie Cochran and Brian Setzer's big orange guitars.

Now Gretsch has got in on the Electromatic pimping fad. The freshly scrubbed Pro Jet and Double Jet models now feature pickup upgrades and new fingerboard inlays.

The Pro Jet is based around a chambered basswood body with a laminated arched maple top. You can own a Pro Jet in a black or gold finish with a deep brown back and neck.

The set maple neck is topped with a slice of rosewood, 22 medium jumbo frets and again has a 305mm (12-inch) radius, the same as a Les Paul, which might give you an idea of the great playability on offer here. By the way, the fingerboard comes studded with similar, '57-era 'hump block' inlays to those featured on the recent Gretsch George Harrison Signature and Custom Shop Tribute model guitars: fab indeed.

The Jet's complement of hardware includes a set of vintage-style tuners, classic screw-on strap buttons and beautiful chrome 'G Arrow' control knobs. You also get a horseshoe Bigsby Licensed B50 vibrato although this isn't period correct: '50s-era Jets would have been retrofitted with the longer-bodied B3 Bigsby. Just like the one on Beatle George's original guitar in fact.

The previous Pro Jet - and Double Jet - were loaded with the same mini-humbuckers that now come fitted to the CVT III Corvette. As such, as mentioned before, both Jets have been duly upgraded with sexy-looking Blacktop Filter'Tron humbuckers that claim to offer a more authentic Gretsch tone.

Sounds

Running the Jet through a clean channel it's immediately clear that the new Blacktop Filter'Tron pickups are more Gretsch-like than those original mini-buckers.

Then there's the rock stuff. Steve Marriott of The Small Faces and Humble Pie, and Malcolm Young of AC/DC, have both proven how great Gretsch Jets sound with some overdrive.

The Blacktop Filter'Trons work great with the filth. The inherent brightness of the pickups cuts through an gives the overdriven tones a ballsy edge.

We're not claiming the Pro Jet sounds like the high rolling Professional Series Gretsch models. There is still a big difference, but these latest Electromatics get closer than ever to the real deal.

It wouldn't have taken much more effort. The Pro Jet only needs a B3 model Bigsby vibrato, a chunky silver-backed perspex pickguard, sculpted pickup rings and a pair of DynaSonic lookalike single-coils to nail the '57 Duo Jet's aesthetics.

But as it stands, the Pro Jet and Double Jet are perfect for Gretsch virgins seeking out great build, playability, tone and good looks. And the Electromatic cultists will no doubt keep on pimping them to get them even closer to the real thing, despite the pickup upgrades.

Fret-King Black Label Elise GG

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Vintage's AV3H impressed us on its release and this Fret-King version is even better. Basically, the two-piece, centred-joined mahogany back is routed out to leave a centre block that runs just beyond the stud tailpiece - the rest is hollow.

It's capped by a solid maple top - very unusual at this price point - carved inside and out, then faced with a figured maple veneer. At 368mm (14.5 inches), wide and 450mm (17.75 inches) long, its smaller than an ES-335 and, of course, the treble side is pulled back, offsetting the horns and the waist.

"If you know your sounds and how to get 'em, this guitar will suit pretty much anything."

A major difference, visually at least, is the six-in-a-line back-angled headstock, giving a Gibson Trini Lopez vibe. It looks better than the bulky 'stock on the AV3H in our opinion.

Aesthetics asides it's a complex guitar to make and that's before we get to the equally complex electronics housed under an over-sized inset backplate.

We have three pickup sources: the two Wilkinson magnetic pickups and the piezo elements of the tune-o-matic-style bridge that, like most hybrids, aims to provide an acoustic-like tonality to contrast and complement the conventional magnetic tones.

Control of the passive magnetic pair is straightforward with a three-way toggle pickup selector, master volume and tone. The active piezo circuit is more involved with a volume and three-band EQ from three separate, centre-notched rotary controls. Finally, a three-way mode switch enables magnetic or piezo individually or both together.

The output is a single jack that with a mono lead mixes both sources to the same amp or with a stereo 'Y' you can output the two systems to separate amps.

It's very tidily constructed and a good weight. The neck has a similar profile to the DBC, although here it's very a tad asymmetric feeling slightly bigger on the bass-side. And despite the plethora of controls, it's pretty obvious what's what.

The smaller centre-notched knobs operate the EQs, the regular knobs the volume and passive tone, the piezo volume being the lowest of the three.

Telltale details such as how clean the body and fingerboard binding is and fret ends are all very ship-shape, likewise the very tidily bound f-hole. Fret-King has established a reputation for quality and these, just like the JD we looked at last year, don't let the side down at all.

Sounds

The Elise looks and sounds a little bit sophisticated. The humbucker has a nice hotter-than-PAF-like output, a little more aggressive in the high end, but the neck single-coil is very much in the 'hot Strat' camp and played clean there are a host of older sixties tones here, some smooth jazz or way more contemporary arpeggios that work effortlessly with our pedalboard.

There's a nice fat fullness to the overall sound, which is more woody than a standard ES-335 style. Edging up the wick, electric blues and more forceful jazz fall out of the guitar. If you know your sounds and how to get 'em, this guitar will suit pretty much anything, with perhaps with the exception of clinically clean country Tele twang and all-out metal.

Adding a coil-split to the humbucker would certainly help the former and if you can control the feedback then the latter would be a possibility. But those extra knobs are calling…

The quality of the piezo sound is acceptably acoustic-ish, certainly good enough to add texture to the magnetics when, for example, run through an acoustic combo; good enough certainly for a hybrid jazz tone, less acceptable for a strummy acoustic intro and pretty much a no-go if you need to do an acoustic gig and this is the only guitar you have.

Along with what are clearly a couple of pre-production glitches on this sample, there's also a high frequency, almost out-of-phase 'halo' to the sound that doesn't do the tonal quality any favours.

That said we got some very usable hybrid sounds running both signals into a clean-ish Fender-style combo where the piezo adds a different, certainly acoustic-like, texture. Potentially, it's a very powerful machine but be prepared to do a little work to get the most from the piezo side.

Giltrap's Elise is a bold guitar that,so long as the piezo hiccups are sorted by the time it hits the stores, is a lot of guitar for the money - a really neatly designed and excellent sounding electric guitar with some acoustic-like colour. You'd be foolish not to audition this - and the rest of the Black Label range.

Fret-King Black Label Eclat DBC

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:00:00 GMT

Classed by designer Trevor Wilkinson as a "no-brainer", the Eclat DBC is obviously based on the Les Paul Junior.

The standard Eclat resides in Fret-King's Blue Label range - a Wilkinson-ised version of a Les Paul Standard while the Eclat 2 goes for more of a Les Paul Special vibe.

"The Eclat DBC isn't a guitar to obsess over, just one to plug in…"

Aside from the iconic outline, this Eclat DBC differs with that very un-Gibson-like shoulder and cutaway, and like the other Eclats we have a scooped forearm cut here. Aside from that it follows the Junior recipe: 45mm thick slab body with small edge radius, mahogany set neck with dot-inlaid 22-fret rosewood 'board.

There's a simple, vintage-style wrapover bridge, three-on-a-strip tuners, dog-ear P-90-style single-coil,
a single-ply scratchplate and rear-mounted volume and tone controls, the output jack held in a recessed Tele-type collar.

It's a tidy job with a light, old-style two-tone sunburst and a full profiled very slightly flat-backed neck. It's not a guitar to obsess over, just one to plug in…

Sounds

Warming our test amps up with an original Les Paul Junior, we're reminded just how raw and brutal they can sound. With a 'c'mon beat that' cockiness we plug in the Fret-King and are very pleasantly surprised.

The hot output of the '57 Junior is matched here; there's less hi-fidelity, the Eclat sounds a little rounder but with similar juicy mid-range and roomy low-end.

Dial in a classic crunch amp tone and you have the archetypal rock rhythm machine. Kick in a level boost and the combination of the hot output and single-coil sparkle is the perfect anecdote to the almost over compressed LP Standard lead tone - this is edgier.

The tone control is nicely graduated: fully off, that choked 'woman' tone is more than usable while the volume control does soften things slightly when reduced. On our original LP Junior it almost enhances the sparkle as the amp cleans up. The Eclat is different, but is a 'Junior' this writer would happily take on a gig, as its tuning is more stable, the neck less of a log and upper fret access easier.

You can buy a US-made Gibson Les Paul Junior for the same price as this DBC model, which clearly remains its huge rival.

Is the DBC 'better'? Quite probably, but the iconic appearance and name is a huge draw. Do yourself a favour and try the DBC though - it's a really good rock guitar.

IK Multimedia AmpliTube 3.7 & Custom Shop add-ons

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:00:00 GMT

IK Multimedia continually expands AmpliTube 3 and has just released version 3.7 for free download.

Each upgrade may include bug fixes or add new features for all users (3.7 adds OS X Lion compatibility among others) but a big part of it is to add models that you can try out and perhaps purchase from the Custom Shop. This time there are four new amps, one cab and two microphones.

Sounds

Jet City is the latest company to license models for AmpliTube, offering the JCA20H and JCA100H, both with a nice line in Soldano-designed overdrive. For metallers the German Gain model is based on the Engl Fireball and has a massive array of controls that can conjure up powerful leads as well as heavy rhythms. IK has also filled a gap in its vintage Brit kit list with the HiAmp, based on the HiWatt DR103.

Finally, a couple of high-end valve condensers (modelled on the Neumann CMV563 and Brauner VM1) bring a touch of class to the selection, offering more options for tailoring your end sound if you feel the need.

Coopersonic Germaniac Vintage Fuzz

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:00:00 GMT

The earliest fuzz pedal circuitry was based around Germanium transistors and several boutique manufacturers still produce pedals using them.

As its name undoubtedly gives away, the Germaniac from Nottingham-based Coopersonic is one such stompbox, being based around a single germanium transistor. Featuring true bypass, it can be powered from a battery or standard 9V adaptor.

Sounds

Disregarding the mania knob for the time being, the Germaniac functions as a basic two-knob fuzzbox with the level knob setting the overall output volume and the fuzz knob piling on '60s-style snotty-nosed garage fuzz, brash and rude with a top-end that cuts through.

If you start messing with the mania knob, things start to get extreme. Not a lot happens until the knob gets towards the halfway point but advancing it creates greater degrees of instability until self-oscillation sets in and you can get a range of wild chainsaw noises and analogue synth-style drones without even touching your guitar (although you can manipulate these with your volume control).

It's not all mayhem though - juxtaposition of the mania and fuzz knobs can yield some sweet spots for
a thicker and harmonically rich fuzz tone. In short, if you like your fuzz to be on the edge or you need some wild noises on stage, the Germaniac may be for you

Visual Sound Dual Tap Delay

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Like many other Visual Sound pedals, this is a two-in-one design, although with channel one's modulation control you can add in chorus too.

Aside from that, the two delay channels are identical: maximum one-second delay time and controls for time division, delay time, repeats and effect level plus a manual/tap switch and mini tone control. Three hefty footswitches operate each channel's on/off status (both can be used simultaneously) and the tap tempo.

It's a mono delay but we have two outputs - mono, plus an output to a second amp, which can be switched to effected or dry. You can also mute repeat trails when the effect is off.

There's an external tap/click input socket too, for a new external click track box (to be launched next year) allowing the unit to sync to an external source or transmit BPM.

Sounds

Classed as a 'hybrid analog/digital circuit' we hear the clarity of digital with the tone turned up, with the option of more analogue sounds with reduced tone and potential for self-oscillating mayhem if that's your bag. It's dead easy to use, but complex 'multi-head' repeats can be achieved with both channels on and different time division settings.

To say the pedal market is swamped with delay pedals is an understatement. This is one for old-school occasional delayists; there's no programmability, but if you need a little slap back for a couple of songs or a more modern tempo-locked modulation, it's all here.

Guitar Man Plug 'N' Play Lead With Delay

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:00:00 GMT

For rock solos, most players require additional gain for sustain and a hike in volume, which would explain the dirty nature of the tone of this unit. The delay allows for a warmer tone, too.

Sounds

There's no way of altering the delay parameters but, as it's set lower in the mix, this is no bad thing. For Vai-style emotive lead sections with the neck pickup, the tone is nigh on perfect and riffing with power chords is equally satisfying.

Perhaps reverb could've been added to the Acoustic unit, too, because the delay makes all the difference to the sound here.

Guitar Man Plug 'N' Play Metal

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:30:00 GMT

No selection of tone generators would be complete without one dedicated to metal.

The secret is to marry crushing amounts of gain with ferocious highs, fat, expressive lows, and not too much in the middle.

Sounds

However, with anything less than full gain the tone is too middly and flabby: winding up the gain only increases the fizz. Consider Dimebag's solid-state rhythm crunch, yet without any real depth or definition. Palm-muted chords bark rather than crush and despite plenty of gain on tap, it's not a patch on the Vox Metal AmPlug.

Guitar Man Plug 'N' Play English Channel

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Any mention of English or British here means tones based around the EL34, which, in turn, usually means Marshall. The P'N'P range also includes a Super Lead unit, but here it's less about impact and more about these valves' squashy nature.

Sounds

Even at full gain, the tone is cleaner than expected, thus giving a rhythm sound that's closer to AC/DC than Van Halen, albeit without the depth of either. However, when using a humbucker with a decent output, the backed-off sound is expressive for those hard-hitting 12-bar riffs.

This unit suits tones requiring more subtle overdrives, but aside from the lack of gain, it's a perfectly useable option.

Guitar Man Plug 'N' Play Acoustic

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:30:00 GMT

Even the best acoustic simulators can sound very different to the real thing and it's worth pointing out that the sound that this and other similar units strive to recreate is the crystalline tone of a piezo rather than the warm glow of a mic'd-up vintage Martin.

Sounds

The gain pot acts as a notch for the EQ, ranging from a very metallic tone to a warmer, more rounded sound. For strummed passages the performance is actually quite good, and adding a little treble aids the clarity of fingerpicked pieces.

It'll never replace a genuine acoustic, but for a clean strum, it's worth a look.

Fender Bronco 40 Bass Combo

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT

In the modern climate of inexpensive, feature-packed digital modelling amps for guitar players, it's good to see bass players getting a look in too.

The Fender Bronco 40 is a compact bass combo that not only possesses great sounds as it stands but also has a plethora of onboard effects and amp models. It also has the ability to link to your computer using the Fender Fuse software to give access to unlimited preset storage and online patch swapping.

"The level of output means it's ideal for practice and even small gigs, but the Bronco has far more use as a studio combo where you can take full benefit of all the onboard facilities."

Presented in smart black livery with a metal mesh grille, metal corner protectors and a single strap handle, this is well built and easily transportable. It has a 10-inch bass speaker making the whole thing compact and lightweight so absolutely ideal for home practice or more intimate rehearsal sessions and gigs.

Equipped with a clearly defined control panel that makes navigation both straightforward and logical it doesn't take long to get to grips with how everything works. The 24 amp models run in three banks of eight and are colour coded by yellow, green and red LEDs, so recalling or trying a new setting is easily achieved.

Every setting you change can be stored and recaptured, and you can reverse your decision before committing it to memory. Rotary controls are supplied for compression ratio and for the choice of effects, and with so many sound options at your fingertips, rehearsals are going to become a lot more fun.

The headphone option means you can experiment to your heart's content without annoying everyone in a 50-metre radius.

Sounds

In spite of only having the one 10-inch driver, the Bronco has generous, deep bass response. As a straight-ahead combo it has lots to offer tonally, but with the added advantage of effects and eight amp models, you're spoilt for choice. Models include Fender's own 59 Bassman, Redhead (SWR) and Rockin' Peg (Ampeg SVT).

The effects include delay and an envelope filter plus a good-sounding chorus: but the quality of each effect is dependent on which model you've selected. When you find a combination that works for you, the sounds storage ability is a real blessing.

Switching between models and effects is easy and, stepping from one amp to another, the resulting changes vary from subtle to startling, so there is plenty to experiment with - all part of the learning curve.

One of the most rewarding forms of solo practice is playing along to favourite tracks, and to this end Fender has included an auxiliary input so that your mobile music player can be
fed into the mix.

Nicely presented and compact, this is an extremely versatile unit despite its size. The level of output means it's ideal for practice and even small gigs, but the Bronco has far more use as a studio combo where you can take full benefit of all the onboard facilities. And with direct computer access without the need for additional interface or microphones, this is 21st century technology working to our advantage, with a control interface that doesn't overtax the brain.

This amp will appeal to multi-instrumentalists looking for a fine sounding, easy-to-use bass amp solution, as much as it will to more seasoned bassists looking for a portable, versatile amp for when the big rig is too much. Good work once again, Fender.

Neo Instruments Ventilator

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:00:00 GMT

You'd be forgiven for thinking emulation effects were a modern invention. Software plug-ins and increased DSP power mean emulation is currently in vogue, but the idea itself can be traced back to 1968, when the Japanese Shin-Ei company released the Uni-Vibe, a foot pedal designed to emulate the sound of a Leslie rotating speaker cabinet.

The Uni-Vibe was massively popular in spite of the fact that it didn't really sound a great deal like a Leslie, but the new Ventilator pedal from Neo instruments promises a much more faithful recreation of this classic sound.

"The Ventilator may not be the most versatile unit on the market, but it does its one trick very well."

Modulation station

The distinctive modulation effect created by Leslie cabinets has been a live and studio staple for half a century. The signal is amplified, split by a crossover at 800Hz and then fed to high- and low-frequency drivers that feed into rotating horns and baffles.

The Ventilator is a digital emulation of the Leslie Model 122, but the one-knob-per-function interface gives it an immediate, analogue feel. The neatly recessed knobs are intuitively labelled, giving access to the vast majority of options via the front panel.

The Speed control governs the rate of the virtual rotors' movement, while Acceleration controls the rate at which the rotors come up to speed when switching between slow and fast modes.

Round the back, a push-button switch toggles between Keyboard and Guitar modes. The former emulates the highly coloured tone of the original 122 cabinet, while the latter offers the modulation effect without colouring the signal.

Keyboard mode will obviously appeal the most to purists, but Guitar mode may be more appropriate for electronic production as well as satisfying axe-wielding tone fiends. In action, the sound is incredibly authentic - we'd even go so far as to say it's the most realistic Leslie emulation we've ever heard, and we're sure most people wouldn't be able to tell it apart from the real thing in a mix. From subtle shimmer to more intense modulation, this is a seriously usable effect.

Drive time

The main magic happens inside the cabinet, but the rotating horns are only one part of the Leslie sound; before your signal even hits the speakers in a Leslie, it's amplified through a built-in valve amp.

The Drive control on the Ventilator recreates the effect of pushing the 122's amp hard. It's a basic tube overdrive sound, but for more extreme effects it would be easy to insert a fuzz pedal earlier in the signal chain.

Many rotary speaker simulators also overlook the fact that there's a further variable after the sound leaves the cabinet: mic placement. The Ventilator is modelled on the classic approach, emulating a stereo pair of mics for the high frequencies and a separate mono mic for the bottom end.

The Distance control allows the virtual mic placement to be adjusted. At lower settings, the amplitude modulation effect is much more pronounced, decreasing at higher distances. The Balance control varies the relative levels of the low and high signals, providing a basic but effective tone control.

The Ventilator isn't the most versatile unit on the market, but it does its one trick very well. We'd have liked an expression pedal input for speed control, and it's a shame that a run/stop button isn't included in the basic unit (a Hammond CU-1 switch or Neo's own remote foot pedal, available separately for £59.84, will add this feature), but we're struggling to come up with any major complaints.

ESP LTD H-330NT

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:01:00 GMT

Like most mainstream guitar companies, ESP constantly strives to identify gaps in both the market as a whole and within its own catalogue; after all, where there's opportunity, there's the chance to make a nice wedge.

Thanks to the endorsement of a number of A-list metal bands, not least Metallica, Slayer and Children Of Bodom, the vibe of many ESP and the firm's lower priced LTD guitars is intertwined with the dark art of high-octane rock - boasting active pickups, fast necks and a sturdy construction.

"Metal tones are full, expressive and cutting, with the much-reduced middle hump adding to the experience."

This shiny new Indonesian-made LTD 330 Series subscribes wholeheartedly to the ideal. Aimed at players who are meagre of pocket but flush with ambition, it fits snugly between the cheaper end of the catalogue and those models suited to semi-pro players with a bigger budget. Each of the five incumbents feature a bolt-on neck, just one choice of finish per model and come loaded with the new ESP-branded active ALH-200 pickups.

"The new ALH-200 set features ceramic bar magnets to cover any string spacing and to give plenty of punch along with the moderate output coil windings," ESP tells us. "Although active, we wanted to keep more of an organic sound, so players will notice that our pickups do offer a moderate amount of gain, and we feel that players can actually use our active pickups with their existing amps and not feel like they are completely changing their sound."

Do these guitars offer yet more choice or further muddy the waters? We've been looking at four of the five new models - the M-330R, the Viper-330, the EC-330 and the H-330NT - to try to find out.

Snow white

Why this was deemed to be the one to be finished in snow white is anyone's guess, but the change does allow for other variations in livery. We last saw the mother-of-toilet seat binding on an ESP Formula-II we reviewed in 2010, although the masking here seems to be a little slapdash, especially around the cutaways.

The mahogany body joins the 648mm (25.5-inch) scale maple neck in the customary bolt-on manner, and there's a lip to the rosewood 'board too. The style of inlays here harks back to ESP's earliest days and, as with just about every other modern LTD guitar, the model number graces the 12th fret.

ESP-branded tuners adorn each headstock, including the H-330's cool version, and as with all hardtail Horizons, the strings are secured through the body by six coordinating black nickel ferrules.

Sounds

Now we're talking. With the only major difference in build from the rest of the LTD 330 Series being the through-body stringing, we can assume that it's made all the difference. Metal tones are full, expressive and cutting, with the much-reduced middle hump adding to, rather than detracting from, the experience.

The neck pickup is a usable mix of warmth and high-end cut for Hammett-style solos. The neck binding makes the side dots quite difficult to see, which is an oversight, but it's still very playable indeed.

Lowering the gain reduces the depth but leaves a disproportionate level of treble, so bluesier styles are better served, again, by flicking to the neck pickup to take advantage of its inherent roundness.

ESP LTD EC-330

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 15:24:00 GMT

"The EC's metal tones are none too convincing, causing us to have some doubts about the pickups."

Do these guitars offer yet more choice or further muddy the waters? We've been looking at four of the five new models - the M-330R, the Viper-330, the EC-330 and the H-330NT - to try to find out.

Smooth contours

ESP's single-cutaway EC and Eclipse ranges include some lovely guitars - James Hetfield, for example, swears by his Truckster and Iron Cross - and when set-up well, they produce a wonderful noise.

Here the complement of controls is further expanded to include independent volume pots alongside a master tone and, at 49mm at its thickest, the mahogany body is sufficiently slender to reduce weight without, in theory, having an adverse on the tone. It also offers some smooth contours, including some shaping around the entire neck plate and behind the cutaway - there's even a subtle central arch.

The maple neck is nicely finished and gives a profile that feels compact, especially at the lower frets.

Sounds

Tone-wise the EC sits between its siblings the M and Viper - it has less depth than the latter but a better overall balance than the former, and the lightweight construction makes it arguably nicer to play than either.

Sadly, like its stablemates, the EC's metal tones are none too convincing, causing us to have some doubts about these pickups. When compared with EMG-equipped models, the EC just doesn't cut it if you require tight aggression and fire to your riffs.

At lower gains, things perk up and on the off chance an all-black guitar such as this screams lighter, bouncier tones, there are plenty to enjoy in the EC-330. We're just not sure that's the target market here.

ESP LTD Viper-330

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 15:08:00 GMT

"Muted riffs tend to be a little too flat with poor string separation, and the treble can be overly abrasive in too non-musical a manner."

Do these guitars offer yet more choice or further muddy the waters? We've been looking at four of the five new models - the M-330R, the Viper-330, the EC-330 and the H-330NT - to try to find out.

None more metal?

This all-black, SG-esque Viper is pure Tony Iommi and it doesn't get much more metal than that.

Strapped on it's slightly less neck-heavy than an SG, as the mahogany body is reassuringly weighty, while the offset horns are a nicely modern twist.

The control panel adds a master tone alongside a volume and three-way toggle, and the rosewood 'board's white binding has been uniformly and nicely scraped back between the frets. Its feel, although wide, is more akin to that of a Gibson Les Paul Classic in as much as the perceived breadth is counteracted by a smooth 'U' profile and, when strummed acoustically, the inherent resonance promises good things to come.

Sounds

Again, starting with a high-gain tone, the Viper is immediately fuller sounding than the M-330 we tested perhaps owing to the hard tail and all-mahogany construction, but that's not to say that the exaggerated middly character has been dispensed with.

Muted riffs tend to be a little too flat with poor string separation, and the treble can be overly abrasive in too non-musical a manner. That said, the tone control is adept at smoothing some of the edges when required.

Where the Viper has more success is with classic rock, and John Sykes-esque riffs - all pinched harmonics and huge chords - are convincing enough. Frustratingly, the strident high-end prevents us from nailing that lovely AC/DC rhythm sound, but clean, funky strums benefit from the bite, especially when using both pickups together.

ESP LTD M-330R

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 14:55:00 GMT

"The neck pickup possesses a surprisingly tuneful Strat-like quality and, when used totally clean, the toggle's central position is genuinely impressive for picked notes and cool chords."

Do these guitars offer yet more choice or further muddy the waters? We've been looking at four of the five new models - the M-330R, the Viper-330, the EC-330 and the H-330NT - to try to find out.

Wider and flatter

The M Series offers a more than reasonable compromise for Metallica fans who aspire to owning a full-on Kirk Hammett model but can't afford it - the M-330R is unique in the range in that it's the only one to feature a reverse headstock. Like the MH-330FR, it also offers a double-locking vibrato - a Floyd Rose Special - and a traditional three-way toggle selects the pickups.

The rosewood 'board is bound in white, and the maple neck itself is cut out from a spread of maple comprising several 19mm sections. It offers certainly the widest and flattest feel of all four guitars here and, as with all 330 models, it is a bolt-on.

The heel has been shaped to ease access to the higher frets, which leads to a trapezoid rather than rectangular four-screw neck plate, and the mahogany body has been finished in the only possible hue: gloss black.

Sounds

Active pickups are more versatile than many give them credit for - they have any number of uses outside of the metal tones they are often associated with. But that said, our first port of call for our sound test is to dial-in a scooped crunch.

Initially, the bridge pickup sounds too bright and provides less in the way of bass depth and girth. In addition, the middle seems overpowering at times, giving less of a Black album-style crunch and more of an unattractive bark.

More cleanly, the neck pickup possesses a surprisingly tuneful Strat-like quality and, when used totally clean, the toggle's central position is genuinely impressive for picked notes and cool chords.