tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59430104479403343882024-03-19T16:48:27.254+08:00theGUITARaddictTalk guitars, amps & everything in between.subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.comBlogger7409125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-52639327871799853082024-03-13T13:41:00.001+08:002024-03-19T12:11:01.757+08:00Review quickie: FZone PT-01<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhynwFaitO3M5yKDPVO4ZstvvB8gcTq-2LLy3qhGDu4JALsp747avXAxJY7F1iF_Ux_Xo_neE33uAHoBK-cK03GGENK8B0MlhZ28-kD-dNXmF93Y1Qu9zGYlM8A1Y9hgYSz7YSPPTHyJ-Da6yGVTb5eggjDFb4HE97ZjchNeVulCLqdvhHfCU6QMRvzam94" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="345" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhynwFaitO3M5yKDPVO4ZstvvB8gcTq-2LLy3qhGDu4JALsp747avXAxJY7F1iF_Ux_Xo_neE33uAHoBK-cK03GGENK8B0MlhZ28-kD-dNXmF93Y1Qu9zGYlM8A1Y9hgYSz7YSPPTHyJ-Da6yGVTb5eggjDFb4HE97ZjchNeVulCLqdvhHfCU6QMRvzam94=w282-h400" width="282" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The <b>FZone</b> PT-01 is a simple tuner pedal. It's Chinese & available online for a bargain (different online stores offer different price points in view of seasonal discounts, shopper mileage claims, etc.). You won't see one in the stores, definitely. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Likes</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><ul><li>Accuracy</li><li>Responsiveness</li><li>Size</li><li>Features</li><li>Price</li></ul><div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislikes</span></b></div><div><ul><li>Re-boot mode with every initial use</li><li>Availability</li></ul><div>Some of us are really particular when it comes to a tuner pedal. At one end of the spectrum, some players insist on pinpoint accuracy & strobe technology. At the opposite end, some are content with getting no frills tuning done. The PT-01 has gists of both. It's darn user friendly & delivers tuning accuracy for both the working musician (stage use) & bedroom rockers alike. My only beef with this pedal is that it needs to boot up with every initial use. This is detrimental if you are after quick tuning on stage & you have forgotten to boot it up while your drummer is already clicking down for the next song. Also, this pedal should be made readily available at the stores, it's something good that everyone should try & it's downright affordable.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: thesegoto11</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVqORBNekPDxDnO6cwF23jSi87bl6Mkz826FTVI5cdiHf-pcsm0oPnTAdp9JFD7No1nAu3Dh8Awg9GVgWLJPDE594L9o7i2DDG3DBw1WIxZsQcfBnCiCFulCbuFvexVx1mobwyGS9tRv7T35h4IaxYA_wt_Dif6vwxsfDHFLxgQT0KQpdyxxRCGjUYRVEC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="364" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVqORBNekPDxDnO6cwF23jSi87bl6Mkz826FTVI5cdiHf-pcsm0oPnTAdp9JFD7No1nAu3Dh8Awg9GVgWLJPDE594L9o7i2DDG3DBw1WIxZsQcfBnCiCFulCbuFvexVx1mobwyGS9tRv7T35h4IaxYA_wt_Dif6vwxsfDHFLxgQT0KQpdyxxRCGjUYRVEC=w400-h160" width="400" /></a></div>Final rating: <b>92</b>%</div><div><br /></div><div>FZone: FP-01 pedal tuner</div><div>Availability: Online stores</div><div>Price: $30 +/-</div></div></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-30047932075550577402024-03-12T07:56:00.001+08:002024-03-12T18:59:34.055+08:00Ramadan 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0Dctql0QKfiVp0NbvnD8KllXLmk2k2ldqv8mZG2VoXmChbdJXkMu-VzBdkEcf3843mICXRmKgjcLuaQHH9XUJs4HYTg078HUHr08PDBWVhPA43w1jaCuPBr5tOpwE4xsuDYdCfgfu6g3XLl4msWrMtSxjfhysq7BJc-SpquOrg06zcPcCGE_RL0Y0KEjP" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="593" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0Dctql0QKfiVp0NbvnD8KllXLmk2k2ldqv8mZG2VoXmChbdJXkMu-VzBdkEcf3843mICXRmKgjcLuaQHH9XUJs4HYTg078HUHr08PDBWVhPA43w1jaCuPBr5tOpwE4xsuDYdCfgfu6g3XLl4msWrMtSxjfhysq7BJc-SpquOrg06zcPcCGE_RL0Y0KEjP=w640-h376" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another sombre Ramadan for me but grateful I am able to see this through. Focusing on the Ramadan task at hand rather than worry about things which are not within my control. Wishing all friends & blog readers a blessed Ramadan.</div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-45263663625352546012024-03-11T21:48:00.000+08:002024-03-11T21:48:09.320+08:00The other 30%<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjip4cDr1NzzS0KBqRTcNDW_kXGok6Z99rX2n_315_7lKgvqqDBFfb1lgKeNLWH5qLg3kcujOVtRagugZOv5RTg5u4sk0frCU30rMA-Y1rShck-kAXeext6c6MHFdHNpPNDEVP0RBau0AhzN8yaJyGmZAQQ-QZIUhEYmcTc5FXvJLm-nkenZ9dlGq_ffn6W" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="301" data-original-width="1134" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjip4cDr1NzzS0KBqRTcNDW_kXGok6Z99rX2n_315_7lKgvqqDBFfb1lgKeNLWH5qLg3kcujOVtRagugZOv5RTg5u4sk0frCU30rMA-Y1rShck-kAXeext6c6MHFdHNpPNDEVP0RBau0AhzN8yaJyGmZAQQ-QZIUhEYmcTc5FXvJLm-nkenZ9dlGq_ffn6W=w640-h170" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Swee Lee updated this today - in addition to the sale happening at its Bras Basah branch, there are also 30% discounts for selected instruments.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioHu-8iX-OG-28Uxx61NSi47RdKjeNaTUHJe3237UQpbat3yQa6YAdwqwPlpC1Yfg1iSxgG-icXfRz3hU9IWqv1_wqVMTRQan6_6qu0NPuxGAr28AdGOtCOV7KqP3gotljI9qgM2eMDRZPiVKdTaiVsJcekqoeBGUZjm7ZbxspJKTWmaxwG3Rfj43VO9kM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="840" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEioHu-8iX-OG-28Uxx61NSi47RdKjeNaTUHJe3237UQpbat3yQa6YAdwqwPlpC1Yfg1iSxgG-icXfRz3hU9IWqv1_wqVMTRQan6_6qu0NPuxGAr28AdGOtCOV7KqP3gotljI9qgM2eMDRZPiVKdTaiVsJcekqoeBGUZjm7ZbxspJKTWmaxwG3Rfj43VO9kM=w640-h284" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Majority of the guitars on this list are Fenders, these Squiers are discounted as well. They sure look familiar don't they? For the Nth time - Squier's 40th Anniversary was back in 2022. These instruments are still around today in the store & subjected to repeated discounts... well, it implies something, yes?<br /><br /></div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> Pics: SL webstore</span><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-39598429429868974532024-03-10T22:03:00.001+08:002024-03-11T20:47:35.605+08:00Chorus-ing<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgt_2VW8rE1bt4_3mcwBz7uC0aYAiUPyp5Ikc6nkuiEpgUSMwKMz40x92mjpaM6adXV3mO2Ntp5i8OKljD-wkiZfZ208i5LA32eHhsyQVhEjAEpCMLvsqdC7h-T6HmlDUjWmButyXWid3G_Dpjs29TJsW3-DZOS_O_tRNRTBsItJ1riDsUX9VPgGpjoPwmZ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1279" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgt_2VW8rE1bt4_3mcwBz7uC0aYAiUPyp5Ikc6nkuiEpgUSMwKMz40x92mjpaM6adXV3mO2Ntp5i8OKljD-wkiZfZ208i5LA32eHhsyQVhEjAEpCMLvsqdC7h-T6HmlDUjWmButyXWid3G_Dpjs29TJsW3-DZOS_O_tRNRTBsItJ1riDsUX9VPgGpjoPwmZ=w640-h366" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">It's that time in (my) life where one steps back & re-visit a detestable discourse only to realize it's actually a missing ingredient to attaining self-actualization. I hate acoustic guitars. OK to be fair, majority of them. Classical guitars rank below this aversion. Those slippery nylon strings are impeding my playing potential more than anything else. Then came this idea to pair the squeaky clean classical guitar tones with the chorus pedal to perhaps give a semblance of hope in embracing this other aspect of guitar playing & hey, presto! Things are actually more likeable now. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The BOSS CH-1 is, in my opinion, the standard to beat for chorus tones. It's a no frills take on how chorus should sound like. Come to think of it, is there such a benchmark to begin with? But that aside, the CH-1 is simply... good. Some appraisals soon.</div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-15008343800806316252024-03-09T16:13:00.001+08:002024-03-11T20:28:32.348+08:00Gretsch-lele<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhj2i3piMnW5wN_ez56N635WRBBAzwbCyzU6VZIZ3OtN_jwSFDwYSusLimD9d5ma6opXr4oWs_2dNnKRC5VzrYhud-5MTraE5p87cOneSt7wcbeIEsetU4Z_S4am29ODYCz0LIt3NloIa8IWtwl2BkQuaCygm9CBz3lnM-jAbQ43NWpIVeLdQmnR3UHlxfa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="386" data-original-width="1186" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhj2i3piMnW5wN_ez56N635WRBBAzwbCyzU6VZIZ3OtN_jwSFDwYSusLimD9d5ma6opXr4oWs_2dNnKRC5VzrYhud-5MTraE5p87cOneSt7wcbeIEsetU4Z_S4am29ODYCz0LIt3NloIa8IWtwl2BkQuaCygm9CBz3lnM-jAbQ43NWpIVeLdQmnR3UHlxfa=w640-h208" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gretsch</b> has a guitar-lele in its line up as well - the G9126 (List: $349). It's facing stiff competition from Ibanez (EWP12EWB: $329). The latter has a cut-away feature so it has more guitar vibes, especially with metal strings on board. We must not ignore Yamaha's GL 1 as well (List: $175) which is almost half the price. I am still struggling to play one of these, can't come to terms with the fact that it has to be handled like a ukulele; placing it on the lap is not how you deal with it. I simply can't hug & play this thing for sure. Coming from the guitar end of things, that not the job of my right hand.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Gretsch</span></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-58909388852801274942024-03-08T11:59:00.004+08:002024-03-08T11:59:58.854+08:00Grohl-piphone<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiw65DPfquX2AvQ77AhDzdhV8-wENNKSZ838FN0r1X2h3e82nEDYqEgFMkI89lTT-6rlwaqJECIkIc7qEbZ8B-KSMVQfpFXppHN3IpmxJyi6MLAazppgtrUwqL5LS1KikdGLxClu-ZZSu6Znqq_GSbrzv336fN5e-QX7Z3hSX7W72haU3IBQcjK9liAKU_x" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="2000" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiw65DPfquX2AvQ77AhDzdhV8-wENNKSZ838FN0r1X2h3e82nEDYqEgFMkI89lTT-6rlwaqJECIkIc7qEbZ8B-KSMVQfpFXppHN3IpmxJyi6MLAazppgtrUwqL5LS1KikdGLxClu-ZZSu6Znqq_GSbrzv336fN5e-QX7Z3hSX7W72haU3IBQcjK9liAKU_x=w640-h264" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">I am both happy & unhappy that this happened.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;">Happy: <b>Dave Grohl</b> is indeed a prominent name in guitar-driven music today & this more 'attainable' version is a deserving appointment. I even like that non-reverse Firebird headstock here. </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Unhappy: It's another costly-phone in the lineup, one that rides on the endorser's reputation like Dave Mustaine, Adam Jones & Joe Bonamassa, among others. It shouldn't be this way; Epiphone is supposed to champion affordability. Hmph.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Epiphone</span></div></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-81963373896187817052024-03-07T10:36:00.002+08:002024-03-07T10:36:11.714+08:0070th Antigua<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEin47e9cBtPv7Z0m2IBs9rmj6nF2fW5BQb53uNyGdudrndTk36ShLormnMmWxc9MwWcacjl_IRDJo0gzUWEP84Kp8n9sRECb7oSImx21L-c4E4BsOqoGDr1ppl2uxMWc0sbIZxGIbsbAADuP2szrHkBiwuYD43Hb28r8VucbFblIXwyIrPHlTnWd9wpgqr9" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="712" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEin47e9cBtPv7Z0m2IBs9rmj6nF2fW5BQb53uNyGdudrndTk36ShLormnMmWxc9MwWcacjl_IRDJo0gzUWEP84Kp8n9sRECb7oSImx21L-c4E4BsOqoGDr1ppl2uxMWc0sbIZxGIbsbAADuP2szrHkBiwuYD43Hb28r8VucbFblIXwyIrPHlTnWd9wpgqr9=w640-h206" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Fender</b> is releasing a slew of 70th Anniversary Strats, this is the only one that got my attention. I have always liked the Antigua finish & this one is a fixed bridge model so it's totally my thing. The price, however, is a deal breaker: USD<b>1,499 </b>(Mexican, Vintera II Series).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Fender</span></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-66288702618413840142024-03-06T10:11:00.003+08:002024-03-06T10:11:45.275+08:00In synth<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEmGDUU0p49l5xlesDMe1Bm-lq1gkYWlWP7yzBy3kwpIw4lDNDkNMV0LDDnmtrjOG9cRUc5Ccr7S2amkSgZ-YfgBvUZInaGNS_Lsq_szoKjzbR6UXq9nQEe7sYIwwVtLntM25WcT-3TEqBj8cQjnsCjgoPnGgm_I93XfKUCjwCKqlL4HANzHF9F8MWL7HY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1165" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEmGDUU0p49l5xlesDMe1Bm-lq1gkYWlWP7yzBy3kwpIw4lDNDkNMV0LDDnmtrjOG9cRUc5Ccr7S2amkSgZ-YfgBvUZInaGNS_Lsq_szoKjzbR6UXq9nQEe7sYIwwVtLntM25WcT-3TEqBj8cQjnsCjgoPnGgm_I93XfKUCjwCKqlL4HANzHF9F8MWL7HY=w640-h408" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I had given up my EHX 9-Series pedals, you know, the ones that emulate organ, synth, etc. I'm sticking to this one for similar applications. Got this used. It's an OK pedal if you are not too explicit with your emulation requirements. Not battery friendly, though. </div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-36902277271077406262024-03-05T19:36:00.000+08:002024-03-06T09:13:27.749+08:00Swift accounts<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJP9BlVL6pAIo3Bgcf0tPHqrBIUBt8oQ0KK5-LU1ETHY244sjYGF6sPcA9wEOntwnzujQaod_PL-YxpjLidbWSPj1ACvCDiN5NY8nENwHLWIX9eO3VvnYqZIq3Zmo9dSFsL1RhWNrynx1jeosEb2Qsq8wRAF3B-NvhAGbgBmbuNsfG5svXnhCl_KwGkpOA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="884" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJP9BlVL6pAIo3Bgcf0tPHqrBIUBt8oQ0KK5-LU1ETHY244sjYGF6sPcA9wEOntwnzujQaod_PL-YxpjLidbWSPj1ACvCDiN5NY8nENwHLWIX9eO3VvnYqZIq3Zmo9dSFsL1RhWNrynx1jeosEb2Qsq8wRAF3B-NvhAGbgBmbuNsfG5svXnhCl_KwGkpOA=w640-h354" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">By now, this part of the world is in full knowledge that the Taylor Swift performances here had been significantly subsidized by the Singapore government. This was done so that the artist would perform here exclusively. I don't listen to Taylor Swift but this episode involving the government is disturbing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><ul><li>This subsidy means public funds were used. I am a tax payer, I certainly did not consent my money being used this way. The counter-perspective, advocated by the ministers & members of the public who are revelling in this exclusivity, is that the returns generated by this agreement are more than the amount forked out. The government refuses to disclose how much returns were potentially on the cards. Together with the subsidized amount, these remain confidential. In fact the government is threatening legal action against any entities leaking these details in the public domain (TODAY online, 4 March 2024). This reeks of desperate insecurity. Also, this benefit - does it return to all tax payers in some ways? If it is for the general good, there are parties who would benefit from this more than others.</li><li>This is a clear exercise in depravation. The haves are preventing the have nots from something, tangible or otherwise. The pro-haves are saying this deal with Miss Swift was done a while ago so those who are crying sour grapes now might have a hidden agenda. This aside, I just feel that we <i>should not</i> be proud of seeing others being deprived of something especially when you are buying out the circumstances. Reminder - we are observing a regional existence, there are others around us. If we are not mindful of our ways, others would react / retaliate to our detriment. Is securing a exclusive entertainment performance really something to be proud of? Of course, some are saying it's not about Taylor Swift but the economic gambit. </li></ul></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-71005657607221644152024-03-04T18:16:00.000+08:002024-03-05T12:51:33.138+08:00SALE: Swee Lee BB<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgr8VhNhyTb397S9P0TB0qgEJIynM9fFhGgacd61K4yLptLYcHaGBTl0HqbU3ehRld2UMnyAgvIEW2xuJJ65R8eFcJgAB1UmV7ziG7mUMhTI42CgxlXwQmPoCNXC_1T7z1b3wBWzkcEfUaeqgbp4KHrCb2wSgOeEU_n-FIW6-nyyqZdZBvIqDTXEJ7DjwgM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1440" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgr8VhNhyTb397S9P0TB0qgEJIynM9fFhGgacd61K4yLptLYcHaGBTl0HqbU3ehRld2UMnyAgvIEW2xuJJ65R8eFcJgAB1UmV7ziG7mUMhTI42CgxlXwQmPoCNXC_1T7z1b3wBWzkcEfUaeqgbp4KHrCb2wSgOeEU_n-FIW6-nyyqZdZBvIqDTXEJ7DjwgM=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Swee Lee sale (Bras Basah branch) is now on. Instruments with an <b>orange sticker</b> on its price tag are on <b>30</b>% discount. Moving forward:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;">Swee Lee can re-consider holding a sale event on a weekday. Many gear enthusiasts are working (yes, we have day jobs to feed out GAS). By the time we get there after work, we are left with scraps...</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Please paste the discount indicator sticker on the same side as the price. The current orange stickers are currently pasted on the flip side of the price tag making it difficult for buyers to know if a certain item is on sale or not. It becomes a little more challenging if these instruments are hung at the upper tier of the display wall.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: SLFB </span></div></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-85170144180126770852024-03-03T23:13:00.001+08:002024-03-05T12:24:33.605+08:00Price watch (75)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZxE_86fU6GiN-NokU6rA1bS53V9duo1VFcpV4ESn5Tk1mjbTox5kqqJQOMaOpc-PJWt5VOJVjNyIzEaTPPROjAWK8EPwhm4saIkBp4NSwsUJZdiNmNyKDMtiQc28rBryxiDIlaZMlO1u7-BX6MTo9vSkAFU8jlmxGct5keI7LWZsT1RUXjrW458Oq_dwR" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="1231" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZxE_86fU6GiN-NokU6rA1bS53V9duo1VFcpV4ESn5Tk1mjbTox5kqqJQOMaOpc-PJWt5VOJVjNyIzEaTPPROjAWK8EPwhm4saIkBp4NSwsUJZdiNmNyKDMtiQc28rBryxiDIlaZMlO1u7-BX6MTo9vSkAFU8jlmxGct5keI7LWZsT1RUXjrW458Oq_dwR=w640-h258" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">I do not wish to initiate another price watch episode too often because it implies a very disconnected after-market situation in which buy-sell are not underscored by appropriate awareness but this one is rather insulting. The TS7 pedal you see above has a clear gash on the label as indicated.<br /><p></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtkf1hSRKyv5jGzVdgKAzvgkKIsD6LDdG2T1iQLhSpu12ilomnIClKpeBbcG9TVis6uPr2nSjWsmsUzOTWnREMTATFqBZ6ycysbGBgaTObh-GKnVOBDvJ22dI4yEKGRBGFOGWpNPUkxp3Cg8ASMVVBavnzWrhVg-sZrNBhEbvFZSy_bAp2TYiKTekYJyMa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="246" data-original-width="715" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtkf1hSRKyv5jGzVdgKAzvgkKIsD6LDdG2T1iQLhSpu12ilomnIClKpeBbcG9TVis6uPr2nSjWsmsUzOTWnREMTATFqBZ6ycysbGBgaTObh-GKnVOBDvJ22dI4yEKGRBGFOGWpNPUkxp3Cg8ASMVVBavnzWrhVg-sZrNBhEbvFZSy_bAp2TYiKTekYJyMa=w640-h220" width="640" /></a></div>It is described as an item with minor scratches ... wait, what? The pedal clearly indicates a maifestation of robust use leading to significant dents & chips. If you are unable to fairly describe an item in terms of its wear & tear condition, please do not even go there. Leave it to the potential buyer to see & decide for himself. Take this case for instance, if I contest the condition of this pedal (because to me a gash is not equal to a minor scratch), there is a potential for dispute as the seller might not agree to my assessment of things. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Alternatively, you can indicate a rating for you pedal, eg.: TS7 in 8/10 condition as opposed to settling with descriptives. Most likely, if the buyer wish to mitigate the rating, he will ask you why you rate it as such. This (to me) is a healthier / less contentious approach. We can agree that buyers & sellers in the after-market do not know one another, it's not worth initiating acquaintances with displeasure.<br /></div>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-19105494295204587902024-03-02T09:42:00.000+08:002024-03-05T08:55:29.345+08:00Hard choice<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiqBmfFELjY1pVbnM5r-K2vrN3pdX96biK7XVaNZqqNEmlZtqy6o0KNI0OOhDwK4TEsQoIsgVc2nwttbZ3lRwble3s4BZ0mo5T0wcKF4mPkTThjZi4kqstQbYpHimeULKSxLfpdJQEhKo0Zv5r5dAwY3Fmxmt328lqJUjcRgvGConEs-3eaoVvo5f5fCWfL" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="800" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiqBmfFELjY1pVbnM5r-K2vrN3pdX96biK7XVaNZqqNEmlZtqy6o0KNI0OOhDwK4TEsQoIsgVc2nwttbZ3lRwble3s4BZ0mo5T0wcKF4mPkTThjZi4kqstQbYpHimeULKSxLfpdJQEhKo0Zv5r5dAwY3Fmxmt328lqJUjcRgvGConEs-3eaoVvo5f5fCWfL=w640-h250" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is <b>Fender</b>'s limited run Vintera '70s hardtail Strat. I love everything about it, less the price: $<b>1,899</b>. They don't make too many hardtail Strats these days so this is something to be treasured. I'm still unable to reconcile certain price points with the country of manufacturer. I do not doubt the quality, it's about costs & prices. Then again, manufacturers will ride on stuff like <i>limited run</i>, to hike prices & we would fall for it. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Fender</span></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-2261791296268788562024-03-01T06:33:00.001+08:002024-03-01T06:33:00.134+08:00Costly-phone<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBF0hi5xUcg9IkNLbBgivnTk7qIW3CcUbIKq3dsYm1aMqgWjTUp_TfxiU5Fkw_LiKqasynsYnRKBNQ5c4UTFSnv8Xb-GHNquqXiw0PYyrquUZaS7TEwT-9UldojE9VUwpjb-pYIn_LElVkQfDKm-R2Hu5s-WhFbvNKDe2zNfZq1UR5ETxSgiH_Mzq8kzDM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="234" data-original-width="684" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBF0hi5xUcg9IkNLbBgivnTk7qIW3CcUbIKq3dsYm1aMqgWjTUp_TfxiU5Fkw_LiKqasynsYnRKBNQ5c4UTFSnv8Xb-GHNquqXiw0PYyrquUZaS7TEwT-9UldojE9VUwpjb-pYIn_LElVkQfDKm-R2Hu5s-WhFbvNKDe2zNfZq1UR5ETxSgiH_Mzq8kzDM=w640-h218" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Epiphone has once again collaborated with the Gibson Custom Shop to produce these very enticing Firebirds. This single pickup edition is the 1963 Firebird I.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibzkCtycm1-TpcuoBvcOtxfSZDiI6rwRWz1NgX7PvFEcK81mlwXN0lP9d3X1rO5OB-eqM2_56_EIUeQNZrbRl_C8OS98RWXyCLptGSm_o3UFzIY8RlVp6-IQkQawK7xk0-soJELovrtifVcOMRe08iWyY3RXJw0vd0KnAxAwAuCKfbPIJvp1z4huNFo6dx" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="226" data-original-width="551" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibzkCtycm1-TpcuoBvcOtxfSZDiI6rwRWz1NgX7PvFEcK81mlwXN0lP9d3X1rO5OB-eqM2_56_EIUeQNZrbRl_C8OS98RWXyCLptGSm_o3UFzIY8RlVp6-IQkQawK7xk0-soJELovrtifVcOMRe08iWyY3RXJw0vd0KnAxAwAuCKfbPIJvp1z4huNFo6dx=w640-h262" width="640" /></a></div><br /> The 2-pickups + whammy version is the 1963 Firebird V.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJKJO9KXjt8biYHKKx6PosMey_6nJCdwQzxpocgyfk5av1uQZKoCVR7tZoA_rqrONHC6kcBc3Zisy7Y27cnW7PJ_ukBUiCyr6FsNQGtcsac17ZaXre9iSpkKbzFlTkXbl3nhTC5kgJwIBrBiEu5VJElR6uDWkY452CO_vhHBuJ0C8nVd2ldTSDPSa8dtAo" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="551" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJKJO9KXjt8biYHKKx6PosMey_6nJCdwQzxpocgyfk5av1uQZKoCVR7tZoA_rqrONHC6kcBc3Zisy7Y27cnW7PJ_ukBUiCyr6FsNQGtcsac17ZaXre9iSpkKbzFlTkXbl3nhTC5kgJwIBrBiEu5VJElR6uDWkY452CO_vhHBuJ0C8nVd2ldTSDPSa8dtAo=w400-h193" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Each purchase includes a hardcase. Prices: Firebird I - USD<b>1,299</b> / Firebird V - USD<b>1,699</b>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We don't have an Epiphone dealer here so in a way, there are no real interests in these instruments but just because this is the situation, should the players here mirror the business politics in their purchase considerations? That's a firm <b>NO</b>. People would continue to be enticed by new products regardless of domestic availability. There is this thing called <i>online purchase</i> these days so not having a store distributing the instruments you want is not a real hindrance. However, it makes life a little more difficult for us; waiting time, mishandling of items, defects mitigation, etc. </div></div><br />Is this Epiphone - Gibson thing good? Is guitardom anticipating this collaboration? My take: Good & bad.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>GOOD</b>: Epiphone will strive to meet the Gibson standard which means we don't get a shoddy Epiphone. Also, we get a close interpretation of a Gibson through the Epiphone name which is fair; there's no compulsion for Epiphone to re-interpret / redesign anything to please the masses. The guitar geeks out there has a full understanding that Epiphone is a subsidiary of the Gibson name so they are commissioned to do Gibson things, to put it bluntly. Fine.</li><li><b>BAD</b>: Darn obvious - it's driving prices up. If the guitar community endorses this, prices would border on the unattainable. It moves away from the Epiphone philosophy; a subsidiary brand name that caters to newbies / budget-minded individuals. If Epiphone does not champion this cause, then we question its existence / relevance. </li></ul><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pics: Epiphone</span></div></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-7718544903602998482024-02-29T07:45:00.001+08:002024-02-29T07:49:57.435+08:00BOSS-y<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGbhUjfFcybR23eHK35uj9s2LmHR8vs2njrwyPzUs_w5bc36cbSs32OJJpDjltPZkOZluObhuPOowX84BIkEGYgix_I2v2sDE2dvACnm4GpTPcg3O0skSzf6L5yXM6pPKRCG3_2EhmmtqiQtrqRb5yI4qkFs2N1aoYFsRdGA4dTqNIXKxlThwDkfJHK-u9" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1306" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGbhUjfFcybR23eHK35uj9s2LmHR8vs2njrwyPzUs_w5bc36cbSs32OJJpDjltPZkOZluObhuPOowX84BIkEGYgix_I2v2sDE2dvACnm4GpTPcg3O0skSzf6L5yXM6pPKRCG3_2EhmmtqiQtrqRb5yI4qkFs2N1aoYFsRdGA4dTqNIXKxlThwDkfJHK-u9=w640-h406" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Slowly but surely, I'm being sucked into the BOSS nostalgia. I don't need another noise reduction unit but this NF-1 is difficult to pass especially when it's in this 8/10 condition & going for a good price.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Goodbye, February... 👋 </div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-33560222101455547892024-02-28T11:48:00.005+08:002024-02-29T07:08:58.482+08:00Price watch (74)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7dOCEzKIho7UdDSeujIjJFWmal3E8kWrYeZkObBVXrF91HnSY7nMzVHiMeO270Zjuv7uWjvF8epdrQnxWsANoFuogeNB85iT6yoJHrk9KJzRumi_0RzFEy5uJ0TQZ--5EUsq1xO3NV7rR-lx5-Uuvw9S5Ku8xzHN0t2fZVZlZmR_Ao_BrUzbMp6qaUZoJ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="958" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7dOCEzKIho7UdDSeujIjJFWmal3E8kWrYeZkObBVXrF91HnSY7nMzVHiMeO270Zjuv7uWjvF8epdrQnxWsANoFuogeNB85iT6yoJHrk9KJzRumi_0RzFEy5uJ0TQZ--5EUsq1xO3NV7rR-lx5-Uuvw9S5Ku8xzHN0t2fZVZlZmR_Ao_BrUzbMp6qaUZoJ=w640-h426" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This is a portable Marshall speaker, it's called the Willen. It operates on bluetooth connectivity (among others) & can easily fulfil your need for audio amplification for a small room. Yours for $179.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5TktIrZbkpbYpmdly8IPeB0GLOjgWbTVm3UEjdp_-yYES5iBkgeNzIqdg6upVmJT3WPzb9j4F1Ma-LPxMkTWV4aNVWFZuzeBf12B4DSRCLikPc29wRyRC5CsuSzcEsABGGYrag5u8xw84M94-vYTQ3s64ivvffMTJsC6oE_yRNQgXDgDu01t-mEfY_ZmH" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="1205" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5TktIrZbkpbYpmdly8IPeB0GLOjgWbTVm3UEjdp_-yYES5iBkgeNzIqdg6upVmJT3WPzb9j4F1Ma-LPxMkTWV4aNVWFZuzeBf12B4DSRCLikPc29wRyRC5CsuSzcEsABGGYrag5u8xw84M94-vYTQ3s64ivvffMTJsC6oE_yRNQgXDgDu01t-mEfY_ZmH=w640-h288" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The JBL Go & Philip TAS2505B fulfil similar needs for less money. The price differences here are rather huge. Inevitable reality check - why should you buy a Marshall for this need when you can buy something else? Marshall has its standards when it comes to <b>guitar amplification</b> but does it specialize in general audio amplification as well? We fall for this too often - we cascade a certain inclination unto other applications just because the brand name bears a certain benchmark for a particular performance. In this instance, names like JBL, Audio Technica & B&O (among others) are clear audio specialists. Marshall is riding on its guitar amp reputation to propel something similar. $179? No thanks.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pics: Times OI / JBL / Forbes</span></div></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-32494470382392463702024-02-27T12:31:00.000+08:002024-02-27T12:31:31.821+08:00Review quickie: Ibanez IC420<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI2p3GTVUqfp0tee7LkUEc0cqGxpMkegfnOROdMStA37HwD72HI0kCp6EYMSuHN_EA150czIi24Ch2ptZVQm9TXApP0NBW_DJTXaxS_xs8bsfE7qxr7ssWrW6posjOkJMDIgESQ77eN5LfuDacqZ5cwTCLZFGVcnvzUDBnFtJRZiiYn6BhaQU78xoVprq1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="2600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI2p3GTVUqfp0tee7LkUEc0cqGxpMkegfnOROdMStA37HwD72HI0kCp6EYMSuHN_EA150czIi24Ch2ptZVQm9TXApP0NBW_DJTXaxS_xs8bsfE7qxr7ssWrW6posjOkJMDIgESQ77eN5LfuDacqZ5cwTCLZFGVcnvzUDBnFtJRZiiYn6BhaQU78xoVprq1=w640-h212" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Ibanez</b> Iceman was the iconic model for the manufacturer in the mid '70s. It's a clever embodiment of the Les Paul (no hiding this) in a more unrestrained outline. This 2024, the Iceman returns in its 'standard' incarnation as the IC420.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Likes</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><ul><li>playability</li><li>tone (Super 80 pickups are awesome)</li><li>electronics</li><li>overall feel / handling</li><li>price</li></ul></div></div><br /> Dislikes<p></p><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>unslotted bridge string saddles</li><li>no elbow relief</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">This IC420 is a likeable guitar from the start. The Chinese craftsmanship is above expectations; no visible flaws except for a minor binding lifting mark at the neck heel (bass side) which is unnoticeable lest you scrutinize the craftsmanship excessively. Every functional feature here works fine; from the tuners to the electronics underlining some standard of dedication at the factory. Two things that makes this Iceman stand out in terms of value-for-money: 1) Playability. One of the best finished necks I've come across, suitable for all manner of playing - chords, taps, legatos. 2) Pickups. The Super 80 is ceramic-based but vintage voiced. This is basically a charged up PAF which conforms to your needs regardless of the genre. On that note, some shredders / metal heads out there might not fancy the rounded neck tone (aka Les Paul woman tone) but it's something an EQ / treble boost unit might cure. </div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My only beef with the instrument - the bridge saddles are not slotted so if you detune & do not compensate the tension (with thicker gauged strings), intense bends would displace strings. Do not despair, saddle slotting is a user-friendly affair with the proper tools, of course. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgju5dvanMRFXCgr_VgH8bCbLJKo0H-DHnwGyYUCQCoilPsdOQ4w_C2yAPlNRe0SuQAi4559Yn4Mf9zGwOZy3RK7q2LP0WkhOI1bF9iFlV2TSs50zegKij74Ayh8f_0ew-MZR9amE50XWeEJP_W622XLeTyw6YpeR02tfB15Hh7LFVNuiJZ2n8BxYHEps8R" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="175" data-original-width="366" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgju5dvanMRFXCgr_VgH8bCbLJKo0H-DHnwGyYUCQCoilPsdOQ4w_C2yAPlNRe0SuQAi4559Yn4Mf9zGwOZy3RK7q2LP0WkhOI1bF9iFlV2TSs50zegKij74Ayh8f_0ew-MZR9amE50XWeEJP_W622XLeTyw6YpeR02tfB15Hh7LFVNuiJZ2n8BxYHEps8R=w400-h191" width="400" /></a></div></div>FInal rating: <b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">94</span></b>%</div><div><br /></div><div>Ibanez: Iceman IC420 (bag included)</div><div>Availability: Swee Lee Co.</div><div>Price: $<b>899</b><br /><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Ibanez</span></div>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-4942614147907828192024-02-26T10:18:00.002+08:002024-02-26T10:18:29.277+08:00Break machine<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5TPzz1XuIMngT8AD2wohL1bvxpEIdeqfYCW3Zg_bVMI7TGZSVessvqTakoUDQ85sSDHyL2pc-IBe57vGy6Se8qp-9jjwnfYoAMTS_KJSwmKbUgwoJ8O1Bo-KQKJpuPkHO3typOPnEHDqUvzUVEZzJzcqosyYKNh2ACBF5sthq1SpSen2nzF258MW5kleU" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="723" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5TPzz1XuIMngT8AD2wohL1bvxpEIdeqfYCW3Zg_bVMI7TGZSVessvqTakoUDQ85sSDHyL2pc-IBe57vGy6Se8qp-9jjwnfYoAMTS_KJSwmKbUgwoJ8O1Bo-KQKJpuPkHO3typOPnEHDqUvzUVEZzJzcqosyYKNh2ACBF5sthq1SpSen2nzF258MW5kleU=w640-h358" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Russell Holzman</b> is not a staple name in guitar music. Rightfully so as he is a drummer. As I am someone who is easily triggered by beats more than guitar-playing, Russell is essential listening to me.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="338" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Zv-2_sQEW4c" width="481" youtube-src-id="Zv-2_sQEW4c"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">What's the big deal? Russell has disciplined himself to master breakbeats which are commonly handled by machines / programming rather than a person. The above clip is a breakdown of his approach to handling & manifesting these beats. Does one need to play like a machine to be deemed good? No. It's the discipline that defines the player, not the genre & most certainly not speed.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pics: Mvsicfvllness</span></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-54604456189652929712024-02-25T08:01:00.002+08:002024-02-26T09:19:48.191+08:00Schecter: Headless<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhncWda7C22zO5BmlrLCRSXMx87MEZsVh3QFfxNP2YsJa1dO26AhIK1JVvPXlT24qiMStFhkJqIdRJ84BaMX0EdUIIFb8rLadIUKeps9WGVZpTxGR1RDKUNHYVsnAdazgzWRCx-VSA2chJCqYaxTX4etay_T_z_qFvgsJwuwljLDfTIq683nr1GLIExcOHx" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhncWda7C22zO5BmlrLCRSXMx87MEZsVh3QFfxNP2YsJa1dO26AhIK1JVvPXlT24qiMStFhkJqIdRJ84BaMX0EdUIIFb8rLadIUKeps9WGVZpTxGR1RDKUNHYVsnAdazgzWRCx-VSA2chJCqYaxTX4etay_T_z_qFvgsJwuwljLDfTIq683nr1GLIExcOHx=w400-h400" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"> Schecter Japan has headless models now. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXNsoLHGQKcptKHFtAoOk42A6jkq01XSX7PaUo4_g86z-cQeWHyLmqrYK8Ustu-eU8CwzK5viHbW5TXDUElVt64lUdlsg9WVIcEK1xfnHUVBGP2-QPxdRP_OdgMCpekGc1wjOaa77PEIC0v8f3fInBJEQFzDMM3cAbpqVID0mzII2oHc5UHwfSD1Q86yQG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXNsoLHGQKcptKHFtAoOk42A6jkq01XSX7PaUo4_g86z-cQeWHyLmqrYK8Ustu-eU8CwzK5viHbW5TXDUElVt64lUdlsg9WVIcEK1xfnHUVBGP2-QPxdRP_OdgMCpekGc1wjOaa77PEIC0v8f3fInBJEQFzDMM3cAbpqVID0mzII2oHc5UHwfSD1Q86yQG=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br />Really wish these would make it here somehow 😓 There're limited options here at the stores. In fact, only the Ibanez Q models are making an impact here. Strandberg - no dealer. Kiesel - direct purchase / build to order models... prices are getting out of hand.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pics: Schecter Japan FB</span></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-35998227870107620262024-02-24T16:04:00.000+08:002024-02-24T16:35:12.293+08:00Review quickie: Ibanez AUP10N<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSFc-G4rU1JlYXat4RhTtRHKdxukBDVSU3Z70RkG-XNaMydPyXrQDG1050RxcSTvdSp6_s2VTeVCdr9BwdNJNAJvOEGYZtcmihYTpEkW_iR60_HQIyA1EdzUaMGUMBoUGvP4Ynq-3E_kJPK86nWtFiIaGtz34slCIkh6PHhaqBm1TsxFebT7C_Okcp5MNw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="2600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSFc-G4rU1JlYXat4RhTtRHKdxukBDVSU3Z70RkG-XNaMydPyXrQDG1050RxcSTvdSp6_s2VTeVCdr9BwdNJNAJvOEGYZtcmihYTpEkW_iR60_HQIyA1EdzUaMGUMBoUGvP4Ynq-3E_kJPK86nWtFiIaGtz34slCIkh6PHhaqBm1TsxFebT7C_Okcp5MNw=w640-h212" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The AUP10N is a guitarlele; a guitar trapped in ukulele form. From another perspective it's a ukulele with 6 strings. Unlike the conventional ukulele construction, the AUP body is carved / hollowed out from a block of wood so it's virtually a solid container with a 'lid' ie. the body's top. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Likes</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>construction / fit & finish</li><li>tone</li><li>price</li></ul><div>Dislikes</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>double hole bridge</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">From the start, I was intrigued by the body of this instrument; that carved out construction just makes it feel <b>super sturdy</b>. The fact that it's well made - no bumps / ill fitting edges - shows the level of expertise involved. Mind you, this isn't a normal ukulele construction (which is very much a guitar construction), this is another level of craftsmanship manifested into an instrument. The AUP feels exclusive from the get go. Tone-wise, the nylon string - solid sides / back interaction gives off that crispy tone that doesn't reside at the shrill end. The definition here is simply awesome if you thrive playing single notes. Chords sound full without muffling out like some ukuleles do, then again, this isn't one. Those nameless black tuners also did well in terms of functionality but due to the 'extra' two tuners on board, the instrument suffers from a neck dive but it's non-chronic once a strap is employed. The fact that one end of it gets attached to the nut area means a very good balance could be achieved almost immediately. The stereo sound port, in my opinion, has very little effect in limiting volume projection; the AUP10N remains loud & proud during play; would be interesting to have a plug in variation in time to come.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The only feature I detest (strictly personal) is the double hole bridge that necessitates an extra travel, due to its wraparound nature, when re-stringing; is this necessary? Yamaha's guitarlele employs a conventional bridge & is a familiar affair if one owns a classical guitar. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The demand / need for a guitarlele is a niche interest. Yamaha had been having one in production for a while & it's not about to be discontinued. Implication - there is a demand for such a quirky musical instrument. The AUP is a well-made guitarlele & should appeal to the guitarist at heart who suffers from acoustic guitar lethargy at times. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisawvMmq1AMgGW0FOY_E4YS15yt8N4sg0-Tgvg1jSBXpnsfVyW-f6VBFk7MpVdD8IpVbVedxEcpF-1uTtZz3OznoE4Kklg2Mc11miq6F9fCBSg_W8p7Tua2cauoO7U-rNfE_gjk6-MauosVikb3da_I_hriEhBHg04mwFEVgeV5J65H9N8C1XdXl7_MBls" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="165" data-original-width="361" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisawvMmq1AMgGW0FOY_E4YS15yt8N4sg0-Tgvg1jSBXpnsfVyW-f6VBFk7MpVdD8IpVbVedxEcpF-1uTtZz3OznoE4Kklg2Mc11miq6F9fCBSg_W8p7Tua2cauoO7U-rNfE_gjk6-MauosVikb3da_I_hriEhBHg04mwFEVgeV5J65H9N8C1XdXl7_MBls=w400-h183" width="400" /></a></div>Final rating: <b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">92</span></b>%<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ibanez: AUP10N</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Availability: Swee Lee Co.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">List: $<b>259</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Ibanez</span></b></div></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-80872007452858743442024-02-23T10:19:00.002+08:002024-02-23T10:19:19.193+08:00M & M: 2 May<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgooqPd1_4W16q2yQgNQSQNN_TVU_FGMjsp9oFM8wDkTK9kli766aXzsiK6o2_W9L_bWEvCu9q9gu179qyl2i--Wr36zmeXpozuw11t1sM3owvxN2xPW-gGpZKyoz9JVBXnQwsIlRP9hbn1ATIJb2JisgE6jNjo6JYtUotp_7GmYuoUVNxQcFb-Uu79qHvn" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="878" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgooqPd1_4W16q2yQgNQSQNN_TVU_FGMjsp9oFM8wDkTK9kli766aXzsiK6o2_W9L_bWEvCu9q9gu179qyl2i--Wr36zmeXpozuw11t1sM3owvxN2xPW-gGpZKyoz9JVBXnQwsIlRP9hbn1ATIJb2JisgE6jNjo6JYtUotp_7GmYuoUVNxQcFb-Uu79qHvn=w640-h430" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Marty & Malmsteen to play here on 2 May, Fort Canning Park, 7pm. Tickets on sale 26 February if you are keen.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Straits Times</span></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-57456144665477384212024-02-22T20:01:00.000+08:002024-02-22T20:01:15.477+08:00Price watch (73)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhDG8dcWePn0j4EDQCgE3alPPwcCt2T3xYOyNjByS87XZhI6RPkWbfpTjKeLSzApzeiU_LaWqZ2fVE8-k6aASoinkTTiegw8jQHwBDWHK8J_JIN8FgL6FYdAh3qwGtH-kEXCAA17vV3DD4mmwZxHV0nAo44z_sjAn9rSrtL9aluq4bViRuFVOJfCl0b2lsL" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="786" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhDG8dcWePn0j4EDQCgE3alPPwcCt2T3xYOyNjByS87XZhI6RPkWbfpTjKeLSzApzeiU_LaWqZ2fVE8-k6aASoinkTTiegw8jQHwBDWHK8J_JIN8FgL6FYdAh3qwGtH-kEXCAA17vV3DD4mmwZxHV0nAo44z_sjAn9rSrtL9aluq4bViRuFVOJfCl0b2lsL=w640-h286" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This entry should have been an appendix to Episode 72, really. It seems there are 3 Ibanez EWP14 in the after-market with interesting prices. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><ul><li>$<b>88</b>. The best deal & the most well-maintained. Didn't get along due to the size.</li><li>$<b>190</b>. Gave up due to a lack of playing time. Slightly blemished but barely visible.</li><li>$<b>270</b>. Costs more than a new piece from Swee Lee but includes a stand.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The EWP14 is $265 new. From the listings above, we kinda know who really wants to pass this on to a deserving owner & then there's someone who is very reluctant to accept the fact that some things depreciate upon re-selling. The EWP is a niche / novelty instrument. Cost recovery shouldn't be the agenda when putting this up for sale. Keep in mind the EWP is trying its level best to keep up with its newer sibling, the AUP. </div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-86426639216379075632024-02-21T06:22:00.001+08:002024-02-21T06:22:00.128+08:00On bag<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbqgDJQsPs3iTliJ56-_0vD5PQoO7hf8Pa9vghQSEmM1VX7f31wU4q8opepo1XX7RbEVuZrO3XlWze8fRZ6ZtJ_tHOCIUgCJ6Xa4fV6W51TpqkP4U1YRk2C1u9aHnJCtl1za8_11GPdE8vmTZko-jPosbD6jakZjvjRuvoE8nrAJdt8EoNNk6lJbD7Cecr" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1572" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbqgDJQsPs3iTliJ56-_0vD5PQoO7hf8Pa9vghQSEmM1VX7f31wU4q8opepo1XX7RbEVuZrO3XlWze8fRZ6ZtJ_tHOCIUgCJ6Xa4fV6W51TpqkP4U1YRk2C1u9aHnJCtl1za8_11GPdE8vmTZko-jPosbD6jakZjvjRuvoE8nrAJdt8EoNNk6lJbD7Cecr=w640-h288" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The cat is oblivious to my playing time. She would just prance around the room & would settle on something she fancies. Most of the time it's the guitar case / bag. When this happens, I do not have the heart to remove her from her preferred spot. She would be left alone till there's a need to move away & that's usually during treats time or when someone opens the front door. I'm really glad my cat has no interest in turning my instruments & amp into her scratch post. Yes!</div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-78667774444658515182024-02-21T05:52:00.002+08:002024-02-21T09:46:39.844+08:00Price watch (72)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhaHVeIiZC5smB3ArDwNDexgYbE4ycnfI4f9Z-u2KthPFoaDmwXUQ7SPcMQSls_NJlP2pvPOeVGfMQviWsPUbnLGsGig-esFPdNbWKv70mL9lgicypS6LgOKLJ2EODDAjwPbBFxotqE-2qv4IzaHhRwOItBTzTXSRuSkSc01SOTnwBal_QrslOXklBotJr-" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="1117" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhaHVeIiZC5smB3ArDwNDexgYbE4ycnfI4f9Z-u2KthPFoaDmwXUQ7SPcMQSls_NJlP2pvPOeVGfMQviWsPUbnLGsGig-esFPdNbWKv70mL9lgicypS6LgOKLJ2EODDAjwPbBFxotqE-2qv4IzaHhRwOItBTzTXSRuSkSc01SOTnwBal_QrslOXklBotJr-=w640-h240" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Some good stuff this time, starting with this RGX A2. Vouching for the good performance of this instrument from an owner's perspective. At $250, this is like less than 1/3 of the original listing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhadfaExKLjNreSduK0--w_ewO28SGIJqI9vAOYpXeXsCJ2Pt0SSaydTt3hwWxbdpzS_pXjLFtVsTOwpS_hYz-ICTdj-MDTOeC-6wWEwkn-dsVyqSCEiZZWO0Qlo8vqJ8OciW06nk_7ISNnM-CpZ7JuCiQNBQ_WSmoTwkvF6D9Q_eKGcNYzmaRqrH8oomSE" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="503" data-original-width="831" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhadfaExKLjNreSduK0--w_ewO28SGIJqI9vAOYpXeXsCJ2Pt0SSaydTt3hwWxbdpzS_pXjLFtVsTOwpS_hYz-ICTdj-MDTOeC-6wWEwkn-dsVyqSCEiZZWO0Qlo8vqJ8OciW06nk_7ISNnM-CpZ7JuCiQNBQ_WSmoTwkvF6D9Q_eKGcNYzmaRqrH8oomSE=w640-h388" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ibanez calls this a piccolo guitar which is basically a guitar trapped in a ukulele's form. If you are hooked on the ukulele but do not wish to re-learn the chord fingerings as you are used to the guitar, this one is a steal for less than $100. <b>EDIT</b>: The revised price of this instrument is $<b>88.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-9aM-ron4DBlG_aiU6WzNJOhdzKNIDDUjtW23ojrYGd4hM976Ei9c5jtgDQdbR5mcOch1UG54EZw5rxSKDePQbBv4RNih7FO-Gi9B5boKJtwzLAilM_IIzpyz1iZvqSrf5hi30Tg4BBh196qfmEMjtChS_Ow799OhTCFZ5s7a18Rnu-MDXGzErtVHXcWD" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="1113" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-9aM-ron4DBlG_aiU6WzNJOhdzKNIDDUjtW23ojrYGd4hM976Ei9c5jtgDQdbR5mcOch1UG54EZw5rxSKDePQbBv4RNih7FO-Gi9B5boKJtwzLAilM_IIzpyz1iZvqSrf5hi30Tg4BBh196qfmEMjtChS_Ow799OhTCFZ5s7a18Rnu-MDXGzErtVHXcWD=w640-h216" width="640" /></a></div><br />Set neck model for less than the price of a bolt-on version. This guitar is well-maintained. Note: Older Epiphone headstock design.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggHNC0mWiFahD0m4teadRByh6cGQgYCtdVCbzSMpJDJY36YVf0QC0RCMon5iqYjguxQQLg416osv1QxWmrWonuUiRJWonXpsgLXtPRO-R7kM5WTzd4dyKdeRq83SS8qL8xWxblbFTsjV4LSEGZao9nRIluAtyrpwIwX7kgFEw4gt7JkZ3wW6jdNiQkIkdW" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="1106" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggHNC0mWiFahD0m4teadRByh6cGQgYCtdVCbzSMpJDJY36YVf0QC0RCMon5iqYjguxQQLg416osv1QxWmrWonuUiRJWonXpsgLXtPRO-R7kM5WTzd4dyKdeRq83SS8qL8xWxblbFTsjV4LSEGZao9nRIluAtyrpwIwX7kgFEw4gt7JkZ3wW6jdNiQkIkdW=w640-h234" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A premium model for a whisker off $500. I find the neck of this instrument very addictive; in fact it's one of the non-maple necks that I fancy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">No, <i>Price Watch</i> isn't about calling out ridiculous / dodgy listings exclusively. Good deals deserve the highlight as well.</div></div></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-75515222839361716112024-02-20T06:10:00.001+08:002024-02-20T06:10:00.139+08:00Ibanez GRX120: Price<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhty22v50wem8B6Sqvf2WTkewswjdAHid2g7_1xvW1syrWFoXI2ueJtWPJyw4L95EY1UX7ZaTwxh3B7DaOFqtDJwfWacsZp-C20rCe4IzY6A2d26i0HHwJIdawczhE29RDbiyjHn982_ayzTMItSHj6uo5IFuLjRGXAnp18ITXEuNGgXeBMvMJ7XiOh-UxS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="620" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhty22v50wem8B6Sqvf2WTkewswjdAHid2g7_1xvW1syrWFoXI2ueJtWPJyw4L95EY1UX7ZaTwxh3B7DaOFqtDJwfWacsZp-C20rCe4IzY6A2d26i0HHwJIdawczhE29RDbiyjHn982_ayzTMItSHj6uo5IFuLjRGXAnp18ITXEuNGgXeBMvMJ7XiOh-UxS=w640-h364" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Folks, the 2024 GRX120 is now available at Swee Lee, prices are depicted above. I'm of the opinion that the GRX120 is one of the better entry level guitars out there & it's not just in the Ibanez domain. I was expecting a $300+ listing after the 2024 revision but this is a likeable figure for many of us who are starting out & do not wish for something extravagant / excessive.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: SL webstore</span></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943010447940334388.post-7773458902719741952024-02-19T08:54:00.005+08:002024-02-22T10:56:35.238+08:00Review quickie: Ibanez FRH10N<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJf-QOMD2ijIYtLgRXL-sbvNpSqF2vPH4ksiGrK7kPA1TjhAnTLkky2f_Wriw1dTWmPIMuHjqea2YtGxfpdvlZQjkOIZT_NrYLKC0hinbfhvGQeXFhs02e34pLsYrdS_v1XO9R0VGPFhyQ55TxpEtAXSIxK1p3V2uNOrEfbbP40LRamke3nfAmsJWUnLxr" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="862" data-original-width="2600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJf-QOMD2ijIYtLgRXL-sbvNpSqF2vPH4ksiGrK7kPA1TjhAnTLkky2f_Wriw1dTWmPIMuHjqea2YtGxfpdvlZQjkOIZT_NrYLKC0hinbfhvGQeXFhs02e34pLsYrdS_v1XO9R0VGPFhyQ55TxpEtAXSIxK1p3V2uNOrEfbbP40LRamke3nfAmsJWUnLxr=w640-h212" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Ibanez</b> FRH10N is actually a non-signature version of the Tim Henson model. It is fundamentally a classical guitar sporting the FR body outline. Yes, that body outline isn't new, it's from the FR series, one of the few singlecut Ibanez designs. Between the TH version & this FRH, every appointment is the same save for: 1) Preamp. This FRH is only equipped with Ibanez's own T-Bar pickup & CE electronics. As such, it has no volume / EQ controls of any kind & runs on the CR2032 button type battery 2) Blank fretboard. The TH version sports a tree of death inlay. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Likes</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><ul><li>solid top</li><li>wider neck profile</li><li>weight</li><li>overall construction</li><li>price</li></ul><div><b><span style="color: red;">Dislikes</span></b></div><div><ul><li>no volume / EQ control</li><li>side sound port does not help acoustic volume projection</li><li>no bag</li></ul></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The FRH10N does not fall into the typical demand for an acoustic instrument with a shred potential. Ibanez wouldn't have introduced this on its own accord save for the insistence of a certain Tim Henson & the provision of a more affordable take thereafter. The FRH10N is a very shred-able guitar but those of us who are unaccustomed to the nylon strings need to adapt to that annoying roll-over feel once too much pressure is applied. Ditto playing too fast. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Those of us who played & liked the TH version need to understand the major setback here; there are no volume or other voicing controls when plugged in. Be reminded that the FRH10N is essentially a plug in guitar unless one is content with the measly volume projection during unplugged moments. That side sound port is a novelty inclusion as it does not project sound unto the player's audio territory (ie. the face / ear). Nevertheless, the default tones are above expectations especially with chorus dialled in. Coming from a predominantly electric solid body perspective, the FRH10N profile suits the electric player very well. Maybe Ibanez could add an elbow relief at the body end for prolonged playing comfort. Is it too much to ask for a bag as well?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivvBXvtr8hE079ZZUfknnQRihfnL5ExF8o97A7DKL4tEE3SkqFinWrpMaRbfunwLXTcNX32on53mODdg86Zbn3Sk6GcQ52_wjca-DHerHs4mw3I9NEae4jMNAdppymgIBab3gouquSaL9Dj1sR-iO-JNFsFSVf7V3zwq6OYOcBnixFz2sTOKSgMme9R6wV" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="177" data-original-width="397" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivvBXvtr8hE079ZZUfknnQRihfnL5ExF8o97A7DKL4tEE3SkqFinWrpMaRbfunwLXTcNX32on53mODdg86Zbn3Sk6GcQ52_wjca-DHerHs4mw3I9NEae4jMNAdppymgIBab3gouquSaL9Dj1sR-iO-JNFsFSVf7V3zwq6OYOcBnixFz2sTOKSgMme9R6wV=w400-h179" width="400" /></a></div></div>Final rating: <b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">82</span></b>%<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ibanez: FRH10N</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Availability: Swee Lee Co.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">List: $<b>649</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pic: Ibanez</span></b></div><p></p>subversion.sghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08361277185571967208noreply@blogger.com0