THe GUitar ADdict

Post CNY sale @ Swee Lee (BB branch)

2012-02-02T00:02:00.002+08:00

Happening this Sunday (5th Feb). Spent your hong bao $$$ yet?

PRS: SE Singlecut Korina

2012-02-01T07:38:00.000+08:00

PRS's SE dual humbucking singlecut korina is the other model available currently at Davis GMC. The guitar-toting community looks up to korina for its sweeter (than mahogany) midrange. This characteristic, together with the instrument's overall weight determines the degree of punch/ top end available for use. The SE singlecut korina is every bit desirable weight-wise against its other standard, non-SE siblings. If you've never handled any PRS guitars before, you need to know that they are not as massive as you'd imagine them to be especially to the traditionalist who equates this to an 'ideal' Gibson Les Paul. I find this guitar very resonant, almost semi-hollow in its voicings, with lots of clarity from the in-house pickups. There are lots of warmth & cream coming from the neck unit especially, so it cuts through very well in both clean & driven settings. Les Paul tone? Maybe 20% likeness, it's not one to begin with but an absolute cracker in terms of tone. It sports a sub-$1K price tag, hmm...

Hey, it's February! :-)

PRS: SE 20 combo

2012-01-30T09:46:00.000+08:00

The PRS amps are in @ Davis GMC. In fact, they were there before the Lunar New year for amp dweebs like me to hear them in action before taking the holiday break to think. Think hard, mind you.

I've heard them all in their full glory but I'd start with the little brother of the family, the SE 20. PRS has objectivity in mind when they offer us these amps to the market; there are distinct channels on board for clean & driven applications with the respective set of EQs, no sharing please. However, distortion mongers like yours truly here would find the missing GAIN control very disturbing but PRS wants to make it clear that the VOLUME knob in this channel does that. However, turning it up in search of driven goodness is coupled with increased volume (the label says 'VOLUME' after all, duh...). It's how the amps of yesterday work, very volume driven & organic. Yes, that's the plus points of this amp; volume interplay opens up lots of definition & sensitivity manifestation. This amp will definitely appeal to those of us who dig into our frets & play with lots of feel.

No heavy metal here. That's right, the drive definition on offer does not tread the aggressive turf, you can still pull off Welcome to the Jungle very convincingly though, hope you don't approach this amp with intensity in mind but it's still hard rocking goodness through & through.

Because I've heard all three amps in application, I must say that the SE 20 exceeded what we expect a 20-watter would do as its power rating screams 'entry level' but that's not how it turned out to be. Nevertheless, the 20 could have been better in terms of depth; it's mind boggling how an increase in wattage opens up a very different voicing experience & dynamics. The SE 20 sound subdued but the warmth on offer makes it likable despite the limitations. Maybe that's the 6V6 magic... :-)

Gibson: Diablo SG

2012-01-28T17:59:00.000+08:00

OK, so the SG got a Floyd Rose in it this year as well, this one's called the Diablo. Note the lesser number of knobs in there (2 more frets here in case you missed them...) but what I like is the body's curved top unlike the flat traditional model- lovely.

Gibson: LP Studio Shred

2012-01-26T22:29:00.000+08:00

Gibson's latest Les Paul incarnation (2012)- a Floyd Rose equipped Studio dubbed the 'Shred' model. But Mr. Gibson, sir, we've been shredding our LPs without the need for a Floyd Rose.

We'd rather you slim down the neck for us (but this one still sports the traditional Studio 50s neck profile) & maybe include a more feasible neck joint for upper frets access. Next time, no? And what's that Richlite fingerboard you got there?

Hey, dad! (Part 52)

2012-01-25T22:04:00.000+08:00

Hey, dad!

Look- I am now taller than your standard-sized guitar.

He, he...

Schecter's new 8- note the bridge

2012-01-24T18:14:00.000+08:00

This is a new (2012) 8-string by Schecter.

Look at the bridge...

Schecter promises more details soon.

Fender ST-72: Duncanized

2012-01-24T17:46:00.000+08:00

I finally got this done- had Duncan's Classic Stack + in all positions of my Fender ST-72. I have a simple reason for liking the CS+; they perform equally well in both clean & driven settings.

Sister Lily

2012-01-23T09:35:00.000+08:00

Lately, I'm into clean-boosting my signals. I absolutely love my Ibanez Bottom Booster, was looking around for a match/ deserving adversary & thought of giving the Lily Boost a go. This is one of those simple pedals that works. There are 2 boost stages here (Pre/ Post)so quite a palette of boosted tones on tap. It yields a more desirable outcome with driven tones, any clean applications would see your headroom diminish but I guess there are some of us out there who love pick sensitive drive.

Dragon year!

2012-01-23T09:28:00.000+08:00

Was gonna say this last night but fell asleep after medication- Happy Lunar New Year to all Chinese friends, fellow guitar dweebs & all blog visitors!

Selling: Single coils (Strat pickups content)

2012-01-22T10:54:00.002+08:00

I'm doing away with my default Fender ST-72 pickups (Model: ST-Single)- nothing wrong with them, just that I wanna hear something else, something more familiar & to my preference. If you are interested in them, $55 for all three pickups.

Duncan's hybrid

2012-01-22T07:42:00.000+08:00

Looking forward to this Duncan.

Replacement needed

2012-01-21T10:02:00.000+08:00

I was up early today because my blocked nose needed some attention. I couldn't sleep thereafter so I decided to re-string my Fender ST-72 but there was something amiss with the 5-way pickup selector switch because it didn't notch into place when in use. True enough, as seen above, corrosion had virtually consumed it. *Ewwww....*

By virtue of this occurrence, do we deem Fender's ST-72 a lousy piece of work because the parts deteriorated over time? Simple answer: NO...

Mechanical parts do give way over time as they are exposed to the elements but how could an internal component be subjected to such decay? When we play our instruments (more so when you are in active performance), sweating is inevitable so the traces of moisture made its way into the residence of these internal components (through slots & gaps + some of us actually spray our polish fluid directly onto our instruments- you are actually forcing moisture through those gaps/ slots). This deterioration is expedited by the fact that some of us don't even bother to wipe down our instruments after play. In addition to this, we bring our instruments to venues with varying temperatures (indoors vs outdoors/ warm vs air-conditioned) so elementary Science tells us that condensation would take place & this is something beyond our control. It is therefore a healthy practice to service our instruments when the time comes especially so when we come across tell-tale signs of deterioration.

Fender 2012: Machete amp

2012-01-21T00:21:00.001+08:00

I happened to chance upon Fender's Tone Master some time ago (like a decade ago, maybe) & it's perhaps the manufacturer's perfect amp for intense distortion. If you dig up the amp's history, you'd read about a certain Bon Jovi guitarist who clashed head-on with Fender for associating him with this amp He'd like a little respect for such associations because he wasn't formally the amp's ambassador despite having a signature Fender Stratocaster model. This led to the demise of that Fender signature guitar which was a hefty loss in my opinion because he single-highhandedly made the Fender fraternity like a Strat with a humbucker in it. Tragic. I'm with that Bon Jovi guitarist in acknowledging the fact that Fender's Tone Master set itself apart from the glassy-clean domain of Twins & DeVilles in propelling distortion goodness. I certainly wish the Tone Master would be reincarnated one day...

But this 2012, Fender has the Machete to tempt us all. I've not heard it in full bloom because it's still a fresh offering, I'm sure there'll be plenty to refer to in planet You Tube once NAMM's 2012 winter blizzard retreats to other realms. By virtue of this following clip (it's not too fantastic sounding, though), it sounds promising:

Davis GMC- closed till...

2012-01-20T22:55:00.000+08:00

Davis GMC will be closed for the Lunar New year WEF 21st January (Saturday). Business resumes on 26th January (Thursday).

I happened to be there today, asked them if I could pick some stuff up over the weekend; that's when they told me the operating hours over the CNY period.

Dean: Vinman 2012

2012-01-20T07:29:00.001+08:00

Here's a new Vinnie Moore Dean model for 2012. What's the difference, you ask? Not much deviation from the USA model but this one has an FR Special bridge so it's not gonna dent your piggy too much.

To the Riches

2012-01-19T08:44:00.000+08:00

Jon Donais bid farewell to his ESP...

... & says hello to his BC Rich.

Ditto Matt Tuck with his Jackson...

... it's a BC Rich 2012 for him as well.

PRS SE: Korina One

2012-01-19T00:19:00.001+08:00

This is a simple beauty- simply wonderful, simply well-made, simply attractive in every way. For those of us who thrive on limitations (because it pushes us to our limits & give our best, not relying on detailed provisions) we'd love PRS' SE Korina One. The other sweet factor here is the instrument's body wood: Korina.

The documented goodness of Korina is of course backed by the venerable Van Halen who used to own an Ibanez Destroyer made from this wood (circa Women & Children First). The subsequent hacking of this guitar's body which rendered the instrument irrecoverable is the stuff of legends. Recently, Paul Gilbert's Fireman 1 Ibanez guitar featured this wood for the body as well. But more importantly, the instrument's tonal goodness speaks for itself upon hearing it in action. The SE Korina One is now available at Davis GMC for you to hear just that, its list price is pending release, ladies & gentlemen.

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The PRS SE Korina was previously mentioned here: CLICK

Van Halen's Ibanez Destroyer was previously mentioned here: CLICK

PS: Thanks Janet/ Chris for letting me plug this guitar into the PRS SE amp.

Squier 2012: VM 70s Strat

2012-01-18T00:18:00.000+08:00

New for 2012; Squier's VM 70s Strat. Great looking, they even glossed the neck for the occasion. However, 70s Strat fans would be more delighted if the body's ash (period correct body wood) instead of the VM's basswood. I'm not putting basswood down (too many of my Ibanez sports a basswood body; they are all great guitars) but it affects tone. I've tried the Classic Series Strat- that was a great guitar.

Charvel 2012: Desolation Star

2012-01-17T07:23:00.000+08:00

This is the other Charvel revival for 2012; the Star model, still under the Desolation Series offerings.

But we know Gus G has a certain liking for this body outline.

Charvel 2012: Desolation Soloist

2012-01-16T00:16:00.001+08:00

This is one of the new guitars featured in NAMM 2012; Charvel's Desolation Soloist. It's new for the manufacturer, not new to us but we are aware of the Jackson-Charvel affiliations.

GJ2 @ Davis

2012-01-15T21:20:00.000+08:00

Davis GMC is now the official distributor of GJ2 guitars- more news to come... :-)

Power boost

2012-01-15T15:44:00.000+08:00

I've put away my Marshall/ Laney in anticipation of a new amp so in the mean time, it's my Killer Ant + pedals. These are the pedals I use, nothing excessive, just the Power Stack & BB9. I'm grateful to BOSS for voicing the Power Stack like an amp, the BB9 acts like a pseudo EQ via its TONE knob manipulation while the GAIN feature defines/ saturates the distortion further.

Flu's back...

Worthy quote: Larry LaLonde

2012-01-14T09:50:00.000+08:00

Some of us are the players we are today due to our (guitar) teachers. Primus' Larry LaLonde paid tribute to his teacher in a recent guitar magazine interview:

... he really was an amazing, patient teacher. He taught me tons of technique, specifically string-skipping & sweep-picking, but he also helped me to break out of bad habits & make my fingers go to places on the fretboard that they didn't want to go. I still have my lesson book, & I go back sometimes & use the warm-up exercises that he showed me. The thing that set him apart from other teachers was that he was good at giving you information as well as just saying, 'Here's how you play.'

Larry LaLonde, Kirk Hammett & Alex Skolnick among others, were once under the tutelage of Joe Satriani. A good teacher inspires others to become masters of themselves, this is proof.

Schecter: Jeff Loomis (slight return... 2012)

2012-01-14T00:14:00.001+08:00

New for 2012, a Jeff Loomis 6-string version.

But if you still prefer a 7-string, Mr. Loomis has a V-type model this year.

ESP 2012

2012-01-13T07:44:00.000+08:00

ESP's 2012 models are unveiled. More references at their homepage, highlighting a few 'interesting' models here. Don't rub your eyes, the doublecut you see above are indeed Kirk Hammett's new models.

Jeff Hanneman also moved away from his preferred body outline, it's a more Eclipse affair this 2012 but the Kahler bridge's retained.

Frank Bello moves away from the Fender/ Squier camp this year, it's over to ESP but hey, we know that body outline. It's all too familiar.

This is 'new' for the USA market but the mystic black Horizon was already in store at Davis GMC in December 2011.

I have seen a selected range of non-USA offerings for 2012 & must say that there are some other interesting models which will make it here :-) Stay tuned...

Ibanez 2012: Falchion

2012-01-13T00:13:00.001+08:00

2012's Falchion... still no fixed bridge version, still Edge III in there... *yawn*

Schecter: Jeff Loomis

2012-01-12T00:12:00.001+08:00

Speaking of Schecter, the Jeff Loomis model is available @ Davis GMC (List: $1.4K). Everytime I was in store to test it out, I ended up being distracted by something else.

Who's on the cover?

2012-01-11T16:17:00.000+08:00

This pic is taken off Schecter's homepage; if you are a guitar fan, you should know who this is. Schecter's online catalog will be available online on 15th Jan.

Fender 2012: Bari-Tele

2012-01-11T09:55:00.000+08:00

This is one of the new 2012 Fenders which caught my attention; a Baritone Telecaster. It hails from the Blacktop series & features a 27" scale length. Fender specifies a 9.5" radius here so that the traditional Tele fans won't find it too far off the regular model. On a personal note, the fans of this guitar would probably be the distortion dweebs & we prefer a flatter radius for the job.
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PS: Blog follower Joe Wong- sorry for the delayed replay (e-mail), having hiccups with Hotmail in the mean time. I suspect it's the Firefox-Hotmail compatibility thingy going on. Regardless, please check mail :-) Cheers!

ESP: Horizon bolt-on (Part 4)

2012-01-11T00:11:00.001+08:00

This is a familiar sight by now, a push-pull coil split switch. There wasn't any in this guitar unlike the current generation of Horizons where a push-push switch is quite the norm. Note the binding there, it's a faux-type, meaning- this part of the ash wasn't stained blue to make it look like there's binding there. The black stains are the ash's inherent stripes.

The default 5-way switch is a Schaller unit which I've done away with. I prefer a 3-way option for a twin humbucker guitar with a push-pull coil split option.

The humbuckers in there now are the Distortion model for both bridge & neck. The pickup selector position is also not at the usual slot, it's nearer to the bridge, just behind the volume knob.

Ibanez 2012: RG2228 ver passive

2012-01-11T00:02:00.003+08:00

Also on my acquisition radar, the RG2228 with passive pickups; DiMarzio's D Activator 8. Yes, I know, it's another black option but this black is glitter-free unlike the RG2228 GK.

Fender 2012: Greta

2012-01-10T00:17:00.001+08:00

This is a rather scheming release by Fender. Yes, it's a Fender product which doesn't say 'Fender' there on the face panel. By virtue of that grille, you'd assume it's an audio product & you're not far off- it's a table top amplifier. What does that mean? It means, the Greta, is a head-like amp with it's own speaker on board. Behind the grille is a 4" driver, don't expect too much in terms of sonic pleasure but be informed that the Greta has some tube sweetness in there- 12AT7 & 12AX7 at your service.

ESP: Horizon bolt-on (Part 3)

2012-01-10T00:10:00.002+08:00

The current ESP guitars- those equipped with passive pickups- are equipped with Orange Drop caps. This picture is proof that it's a 'recent' consideration by the manufacturer because my Horizon blot-on model was still equipped with those budget caps.

The default pickups- unmarked models. At best, they could be ESP's in-house units, nothing awful but they didn't click with me. As you can see here, they were removed to make way for Seymour Duncans.

.To be continued... :-)

Squier 2012: Surf Strat

2012-01-09T09:55:00.001+08:00

Here's a cool offering from Squier this 2012: The Vintage Modified Surf Stratocaster. The highlight here is the trio of lipstick single coils. GASsing yet?

Marshall: Anniversary 1W models

2012-01-09T00:17:00.001+08:00

Marshall's celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Marshall will be releasing 5 commemorative models which are 1W units in both head & combo versions.

There is a grand buzz out there about these amps, in fact, a sizable camp believe these are unconfirmed products since there wasn't any word from Marshall to acknowledge their existence. So are we treading the X-files ground here- do you want to believe?

Well, I have to say that these amps exist & they will be available when the time comes. I've signed a blood contract not to disclose too much details. Unless I don't mind being arrested by internal security for disclosing details which will bring about commercial instability in this country, especially during this economic downturn when people should surge for jobs instead of low wattage amps.

You have been informed.

Ibanez 2012: RG470 mahogany

2012-01-09T00:09:00.002+08:00

Have I no interest in any whammy bridge equipped model this year? Yes I do; the RG470MHZ is on my watch list as it sports a mahogany body. If there is a fixed bridge version, that would be priority.

Jacksons @ SV

2012-01-08T09:30:00.000+08:00

Selected Jackson models are now available at SV Guitars. Mike said he'll try to have more options in store- that would be good news for us :-)

Ibanez 2012: My list

2012-01-08T08:50:00.001+08:00

Following 2011's pleasant encounter with the RG1451, I'm glad that there is still a fixed bridge Prestige RG in the 2012 line-up. The RG3521 will be on my watch list. It might prove to be a little excessive (price-wise) for a non-whammy bridge guitar so it's all down to feel & tone.

Here's the alternative to the RG3521 should I deem it unworthy of my precious dollars; the Premium RG821. I was looking forward to the Premium S-series but it features a pair of EMGs so that one's off my list. Also, the chances of any Premium Series 8XX to be here is a little remote (but still obtainable via other means... he, he), what we get here are the Series 9XX. We'll see what's going to be on offer, yes? It's a little too early to tell.

I love my RGD321; despite the longer scale length, I have no issues with it pertaining to adaptability. This year, the RGD7421 would be a definite acquisition.

*PS: I'm a little put off by the black option currently on offer for all the above models; I'm currently living with 11 black guitars, not too keen to acquire any more...

Ibanez 2012: 25th Anniversary models

2012-01-08T00:17:00.002+08:00

As part of the 25th Anniversary celebrations, Ibanez is releasing commemorative RG/ S-series guitars in the Premium range, if you like 'em fluorescent, chances are, you will like these models. The Premium tag here makes commercial sense; it won't be out-of reach to many fans & we know the 'Premium' tag means business in terms of quality. However, why differentiate the pickups? Why is the RG equipped with DiMarzio IBZ models while the S-Series has just the INF set in there?

Ibanez 2012: M8M... Meshuggah!

2012-01-08T00:07:00.000+08:00

If you think the standard 8-string models offered thusfar are too overwhelming, enter the Ibanez M8M. This instrument had some healthy inputs by the Meshuggah guitarists. But wait. This model particularly, has an even longer scale length: 29.4", darn! That's skimming the short-scale bass by merely a wee bit.

Ibanez 2012: Tight End R bridge

2012-01-07T22:10:00.001+08:00

Ibanez has a new fixed bridge for their (selected) models this 2012, it's called the Tight End R. It won't change the art of guitar playing very much but you have to give it to them for relentless innovation.

I am going to sound like I contradict myself but in terms of the guitar outline per se, Ibanez is just like the rest of the market players; they tend to stick to the formula that works. However in terms of the smaller details, I acknowledge the manufacturer's effort to innovate. Bass fans would remember the mono-rail bridge- that works, even Parker acknowledged that & used them for their basses.

The TER bridge looks like it's emulating its Edge siblings in terms of surface feel. This means, there shouldn't be a big difference in this aspect if you are playing a whammy bridge equipped guitar or this fixed bridge model.

Ibanez also has the X-Series to leverage on for non-standard models/ instrument outline. This way, they need not fret (no pun intended) if their fresh designs fall wayward to fans' appeal. They still have the traditional formula in tact & need not try too hard to dress their injured goodwill.

Ibanez 2012: Premium JEM

2012-01-07T13:02:00.000+08:00

This is the current buzz among the JEM aficionados; a 2012 offering in the Premium range. The implications are:

It's not made in Japan- but without QC compromise of course. If you've seen the current Premium offerings up close, you'd agree.
More affordable- since it's not made in Japan (jump up with glee, JEM fans... I am not jumping). Short-changed? No- look at the specs, they are still very much the original JEM features

No other finishes on offer thusfar, sea foam green might work with Strats, liking this one, well, you decide.

Alrighty! Enough leaks for today. :-)

Ibanez 2012: Glaive! (Mick's)

2012-01-07T12:44:00.000+08:00

The other new Ibanez Glaive model is Mick Thompson's new signature, the current RG-like offerings are discontinued. We can all agree that he likes the BC Rich-esque presence. He, he...

Ibanez 2012: Glaive!

2012-01-07T10:22:00.000+08:00

Forgive the pic quality, just wanna get you Ibanez fans started; here's a pair of new Glaive models to be announced soon (NAMM 2012)- a 7-string model & a 6-string silverburst. Really glad the 7 is featuring a pair of passive humbuckers- it's on my 'to-get' list.

Davis' Pedal Store- new location

2012-01-07T10:14:00.001+08:00

Please be informed that Davis' Pedal Store is now operating at a new location @ Peninsula Hotel (refer to pic) WEF Jan 2012.

In addition to pedals, you can check these in-store:

PRS guitars
Schecter guitars
Mark Bass amps
VHT amps
Jet City amps
Pre-owned guitars
Custom assembled guitars

Terrorknot

2012-01-06T06:54:00.000+08:00

Slipknot's Jim Root has a signature Orange amp (head): Terror #4. No prizes for knowing why it's '#4' instead of his name there.

Headless!

2012-01-05T07:06:00.000+08:00

An initial glimpse of the new Allan Holdsworth headless Carvins. When he performed at the Esplanade, he wasn't seen with a (Carvin) Fatboy so we know what's been in the works.

Fender select

2012-01-05T05:17:00.000+08:00

New for 2012: Fender's Select Series. Fenders with flame maple top... everyone else had been doing it, yes?

Ibanez: S470

2012-01-05T05:12:00.000+08:00

Here's another available-but-not-here model; Ibanez S470 in mahogany oil finish. Is the S-series coming back in more stained finishes rather than solid colours? Regardless, I am definitely interested.

Ibanez: GDTM21

2012-01-04T00:17:00.001+08:00

On the topic of a shorter-scaled guitars, Ibanez has this GIO Destroyer in the MIKRO series; it's only 22" from nut to bridge. The interesting guitars are everywhere but here. BUMMER.

Ibanez: RG450

2012-01-04T00:03:00.002+08:00

This is a rather peculiar Ibanez RG, it's available in the market (not here, sadly) but not cataloged. The other peculiarity is that it sports a mahogany body unlike it's other RG siblings which are mainly basswood. This 2012, Ibanez will release some anniversary RGs in neon finishes under the Premium tag; I had plans to take a look at those but this RG450MDX (M for mahogany) would most probably be more appealing to me.

Tall tale, short story

2012-01-03T00:03:00.002+08:00

These were yesterday's indulgences; Ibanez RGD321 & Aria STG mini. It's 26.5" vs 22.2" respectively in terms of scale length, both aren't the standard guitars scale lengths but I find owning them to be beneficial.

Longer-scaled instruments forces me to stretch my digits so if I slack, make no efforts to reach my destination & not persevere (because lethargy sets in rather quickly), there will be lots of mistakes. Due to the nature of my playing- a fair share of riffing & soloing- I find playing extended scale instruments do give the fingers a good workout. However, there are a good number of players out there who restrict themselves to the lower frets of the guitar because they are more attuned to the lower notes more than anything else. To them, this type of guitars are more useful as riffing tools.

The shorter-scaled guitars do not win too many fans with guitar players namely because they see it as a kiddy supplement; small stuff for the small people. If you hand one of these to a guitar dweeb, chances are, it's going to be a mistake extravaganza. The main protest: Frets are too near one another so they hamper 'natural' movements. But even with shorter-scaled guitars like the STG Mini, the distance between the initial two frets (the farthest) require some stretching but that stretch is less for this one as opposed to the standard scale model. So what's the lesson learnt here? Control- you reduce your stretch in trying to adapt to a shorter scale length. Once you get round this struggle, it's second nature.

ESP: Horizon bolt-on (Part 2)

2012-01-02T00:02:00.001+08:00

This is the headstock of my latest ESP Horizon, we know it's a discontinued model because that script/ font isn't used in current production.

The current font/ script looks like the above (Horizon III).

The other indicator of its discontinued status- ESP doesn't mark the current series of instruments as 'Custom Guitars' any more. It's now 'Standard Series'. Also, the current models sport their serial numbers at the headstock's rear but it's missing here; it's over at the guitar's bolt-plate instead.

The current Horizons are notably neck-through instruments unlike this discontinued model featuring a bolt-on construction. That's an ash body you see there, as such, the guitar is heavier than the other Horizons I own.

LTD: H-351 (Part 3)

2012-01-01T11:42:00.000+08:00

I just finished my morning finger-workout, the guitar in use was my LTD H-351. It still has its default SIT strings in there, they feel like a set of .010s. Nevertheless, play carried on.

I salute the Indonesian factory for giving me (us) this very well-made instrument. I planned to purchase the Deluxe H-1001 initially but this one is every bit worthy of praise. Great workmanship all round.

I'm not a fan of EMGs per se but I like what they do to distortion- menacing, to say the least. But in clean mode, they are something else.

The EMG's life source; a 9V meant for transistor radios (as stated) but we know that's not exclusive.

ESP: Horizon (discontinued)

2012-01-01T00:04:00.005+08:00

This is the guitar hibernating in that ESP hard case I've featured recently. It's a discontinued Horizon model. FYI- LTD guitars do not come with a hard case, let alone an ESP hard case. These cases are not sold separately either. He, he...

More updates to come...

Happy 2012 + thanks!

2012-01-01T00:01:00.002+08:00

By the time you read this; it's already a brand new year but here's wishing you all a great 2012! Thank you for stopping by & reading the entries here oblivious to the fact that you have other better things to do :-) 1.25mil hits later, I'm still gear blabbering...

I'm personally not looking forward to 2012- economic downturn, there's not quite something to look forward to at the end of the year. Nevertheless, I'm hoping for opportunities to surface along the way; would be grateful if I see through 2012 unscathed rather than grieving the wretched circumstances which are beyond my control.

Opeth: Tix on sale now

2011-12-31T14:57:00.000+08:00

Opeth tickets are on sale now at Inokii...

Plush Scarlett

2011-12-31T08:49:00.000+08:00

Did a mix-N-match yesterday & settled down with the above pedals for the rest of the day's guitar playing episodes. The Scarlett has this sweet transparency that prevents itself from being too vintage voiced while retaining that typical smooth drive nuance. I usually don't assign such a pedal to be my primary drive unit. The Cream behaves likewise but it has a whole lot more in terms of saturation (not intensity, mind you) so it became my primary reference with the Scarlett being its reinforcement, set as a post-drive/ boost application. I went on to play with just these two pedals for the rest of the day till night time when a little chorus was introduced. Guitars used:

Jackson JS20 (TESLA)
Ibanez RG471 (Seymour Duncan)
LTD H-351 (EMG)

The LTD saw the least duration because I 'm not too keen in hearing active pickups in action with mild drivers but the neck '85 was in action most of the time- great legato licks with those pedals. The Duncans in the Ibanez blended well with the pedals but I couldn't slow down with this guitar despite the great tones. This led to the Jackson occupation for the rest of the day/ evening, those TESLAs in there just sounded sweet & they benefitted the most from such drive laden settings (nothing metal in any way). I especially enjoyed the Plasma 1 in this application- sounded awesome with saturation or with the guitar volume dipped.

Worthy quote: John Petrucci

2011-12-31T00:02:00.001+08:00

Someone told me I am a collector but I disagree; otherwise I'd be busy hunting collectibles not the potentially abject instruments which I hold dear. But I'm not alone in this, John Petrucci has this to say:

I'm not a guitar collector... I don't have old Les Pauls & Strats or any of that stuff, I just have some Ibanezes & my Music Man guitars. I never went down the road of picking up old guitars. I'm into playing them...

Why play something else just because it's old? Being old doesn't mean it' great. It might be, it could be awesome - but what I'm playing is perfect for me. It's like having a really perfect glove & someone tells you, 'No, you've got to wear this glove, because it was made in 1960!' But it doesn't fit me & it has holes in it!

When we talk to senior players (especially), they tend to opine that older guitars are better, more appealing & true treasures unlike the compromised production units of today. I believe, those guitars were magical. Something happened to them (referring to production magic of course, not a spell cast in any way). They ended up being appealing more than paltry survivors over time. Some of us would be drawn to this charm while the rest prefer to embrace the contemporary. It's OK to stand by our preferences, yes? But it gets chauvinistic & myopic if we tell people off because they don't align themselves to our liking.

LTD: H-351 (Part 2)

2011-12-30T00:02:00.000+08:00

This is the rear view of my LTD H-351; look at that sumptuous rib cage contour.The effect of this feature is rather marked when I played it strapped on; it gave a certain inclination towards your body, like it moved closer to you, that kinda feeling.

Underneath that control cavity cover is a whole lot of tidiness- Bro Yus, if you are reading this, you gave the Indonesian LTD a thumbs-up remember? Well this is another proof to that.

Moving up

2011-12-29T20:56:00.000+08:00

If you are thinking Davis' Pedal Store had ceased operations then be informed that they are still active. WEF 2012, they will operate in another unit at Level 1 of Peninsula Hotel, will update details here.

Selling: Ibanez RG350EX (not mine)

2011-12-29T07:02:00.000+08:00

Here's a pre-owned Ibanez RG350EX for sale, pickups in the guitars are:

Neck: DiMarzio D'Activator
Middle: DiMarzio Virtual Vintage
Bridge: DiMarzio X2N

Some wear & tear marks for you to take note of at the rear bridge springs cavity cover...

...& at the pickguard area.

Also a minor dent there at the treble side cutaway. If you are interested it's going for $530(neg), confirmation/ queries to be done here: s.yuuki@gmail.com

Ibanez: Halberd (Part 6)

2011-12-28T07:36:00.000+08:00

This tune-o-matic type bridge belongs to my Ibanez Halberd; proof that even hardware for Chinese production models are out-sourced wares.

Gibson: ES335-S

2011-12-27T00:07:00.002+08:00

Gibson's 'new' ES model is actually a solid body model; ES335-S. If it's a solid body model, then what's the point? The whole objective of getting an ES is really to embrace the non-solid nature of the body construction, that's what I believe.

All guitars played today

2011-12-26T21:09:00.007+08:00

I took the opportunity to clean some (moldy) bags & cases today because of the fine weather. I gave them a good wipe-down & left them to dry in the sun; what little sunlight was available today, actually.

While waiting for them to dry, the instruments were played. First was the Grassroots G-LP-50S; felt like playing a singlecut but not a Gibson so this was the natural pick. The neck profile made this playing experience enjoyable. When I play a Les Paul, it's like OK, I'll play for 15min tops then switch guitars but not with this Grassroots.

Then there was this urge to hear some low & heavy riffing so I moved on to Schecter's Omen 7. The treble strings are dead by now, the guitar needs a re-string. OK, that will happen this weekend.

Finally, before my evening jog, the ESP M-II took over- simply love a single coil tone which isn't coming from a Strat. This one's in need of a re-string as well. So 2 guitars to attend to this weekend... which would make an awesome New Year weekend engagement. At least to me...

Goodnight. Retiring early after a warm cup of tea & some reading. Bothered by that sinking feeling of having to start work. Wish my office disintegrates by the time I wake up.

Red Witch: Scarlett

2011-12-26T11:22:00.000+08:00

I purchased this Red Witch Scarlett overdrive before X-mas, didn't try it then; was rather busy. Also, the pedal wasn't ready for use as it required some charging. Be informed that the Sister series pedals are all rechargeable units. Just plug in a 9V adaptor & let it charge for 12hrs (mine didn't take that long...).

When it's done, the light turns yellow as seen here & you are good to rock.

Ibanez: Halberd (Part 5)

2011-12-26T00:05:00.002+08:00

I've talked about shimming & neck tilt recently & my Ibanez Halberd here obviously has a tilted neck. The evidence is rather clear from the pic above. Will check for any shimming done to this guitar on its next string change.

2012 wish list

2011-12-26T00:02:00.001+08:00

The government says, 2012 will be an economic downturn for many of us. But I don't find it sensible pegging my gear acquisition to what the government says, they shouldn't dictate what I wish to acquire. Nevertheless, I shall take heed because I don't run this country, just a mere passenger in the economic ferry. Chances are, I'll get hit by the occurrences, Mr. Govt can only offer me limited help in this aspect. Anyway, I have a simple plan for 2012 gear-wise. Firstly, I'm anticipating what Marshall has to offer simply because they are celebrating their 30th year running come 2012. It seems that they will be offering affordable stuff to the masses & I'm waiting to see what's in store.

Secondly, investing in another Special Order ESP makes much sense. I'm very happy with what ESP manifested for me this year so this is a thumbs up of sorts to them. I'm not into a full custom option, I have never had that desire to tell others to make me what I strictly want, regardless of people reminding me about the money spent on whatever I have acquired thusfar being capable of getting me a personal-spec instrument.

There. Simple wants for 2012.

Selling: Little Brute Drive (EWS)

2011-12-25T10:10:00.001+08:00

This little ditty here is the EWS Little Brute Drive. It's for sale. You can check out the specs & sound clips here: CLICK Space-saver for your pedal board, definitely.

Selling: EWS Little Brute Drive (box included)
Condition: 9.5/10
Self-collect: CCK mrt station
No reservations/ trades
Confirmation/ queries: subversion.sg@gmail.com
Price: $99 (final)

**Sorry, I have no Paypal account...
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Other items for sale:

Kustom 10W bass amp
Gibson pickups: 490R/ 498T
Modtone Mini CHORUS

Dr. Duck's neck support

2011-12-25T00:07:00.001+08:00

This is a neat product by Dr. Duck- a guitar neck rest. There aren't too many shops selling guitar DIY accessories/ tools here so if this could be made available to us, we'd definitely be grateful. Wonder if SV Guitars can make this available here...

Happy holidays!

2011-12-25T00:01:00.001+08:00

Wishing all friends, blog visitors & fellow guitar/ music enthusiasts Happy Holidays! While some of us are taking this opportunity to stretch their celebrations from X-mas Day till the year's end, the rest of us are actually starting work after Boxing Day. *BUMMER*

PS: By the time you read this, I'm watching one of the Die Hard movies- it has a Christmas ending...

Ibanez: TSA15H

2011-12-24T21:27:00.000+08:00

Got this from the X-mas Eve Swee Lee sale earlier today: Ibanez TSA15H. It's an Ibanez tube amp featuring an in-built Tube Screamer section. This one's on my to-get list since I was aware of it here: CLICK I feel pathetic because it had been a terrible wait.

I had been updating stuff via Twitter lately- thank you to those who followed. Salute!

LTD: H-351... slight difference

2011-12-24T08:56:00.000+08:00

Just pointing out the slight difference- the above pic was taken off ESP's website. Note: No fretboard binding.

What you get in stores here are H-351s with fretboard binding. Maybe the people back at the factory did this by accident it remains a mystery but we don't mind a little 'bonus' do we? He he...
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DEG: Boss, if you have the H-351 there with you, which version is yours?

LTD: H-351

2011-12-24T00:36:00.000+08:00

Ho, ho, ho! As mentioned in my Twitter entry, this is my new guitar: LTD H-351.

The lizard

2011-12-24T00:28:00.000+08:00

A few days ago, while I was updating this blog with some down-tempo music playing softly in the background, this little fella crept out of hiding (behind some toys) & attempted to flee to the kitchen. It dashed across the living room floor but my residence is such that there are limited cracks/ gaps here so looking for cover behind doors or corner openings was not the learned thing to do. So I caught it without too much effort as it was big & rather clumsy. As you can see in this pic, the house gecko isn't entirely beige, there are some pale green patches running down from head to tail. What happened to it? I let it go at the common corridor & it scurried to the neighbour's potted plants.

Ibanez RGD320: Back in action

2011-12-23T23:52:00.000+08:00

Ibanez RGD320- not mine, belongs to my friend, Fabian. I'm helping him with the action settings.

The Edge III bridge was lowered but the tension wasn't compensated so it led to the bridge reclining itself into the cavity.

OK, done. Bridge was re-adjusted & guitar is ready for collection. I only agreed to do this because I had some prior encounters with the Edge III.

Swee Lee sale: X-mas eve 2011

2011-12-23T09:48:00.000+08:00

If you are not too busy with the festive preparations this X-mas eve (or you choose not to be busy...), maybe you can grab yourselves something deserving. See you tomorrow.

GJ2

2011-12-23T09:40:00.000+08:00

To us guitar dweebs, the name Grover Jackson is all too familiar; Jackson guitars, that's right. Mr. Jackson is back with a range of brand new range of electric guitars under his helm- the GJ2- all to be showcased at the upcoming Winter NAMM 2012. The above model is a glimpse of what's to come.

Here's a worthy quote from Mr. Jackson himself pertaining to the manufactured aging of guitars (that's relic to the rest of us):

If you would like one of our guitars to look like it has been used for years we have the following advice. Buy one of our guitars and play it for years. Guitars are beautiful objects for sure, but they should be played with fire, passion and intensity. Don’t pet it, play the hell out of it. You will have a lovingly aged guitar in no time, a guitar that reflects what you have put into it. Enjoy.

Opeth's deliverance

2011-12-22T00:04:00.002+08:00

Opeth's ~~Deliverance~~ performance here: 9th Feb 2012, ~~Blackwater~~ Fort Canning Park. Tickets available @ Inokii.

Sisters are here

2011-12-21T00:02:00.005+08:00

At the start of 2011, you read about the Red Witch's 7 Sisters here: CLICK Maybe some of you are waiting for them to be available because they are slimmer than the average pedal you own (Remember: They have internal rechargeable batteries in them...) & you deem this rather crucial for your pedal board's spatial considerations. They are now available at Davis GMC, it's like 4 days to X-mas & it'll be the perfect gift- for yourselves, especially.

Ibanez: Halberd (Part 4)

2011-12-20T00:02:00.001+08:00

There's no hiding the fact that the Halberd's headstock is the defunct Iceman's, beveled at the tip to make it arguably 'different' but there's no escaping the history.

Over on the flip-side, the serial number wasn't pasted immaculately on its spatial allocation but that's the least of my concern. Yes, I have yet to remove those plastic lining on the tuner's machine covers, might do that on the next string change.

I've shown the front, this is the body's rear. Just have to say that things are really neat so it gave a sense of victory upon purchase knowing this isn't a higher tier offering. The Halberd's entire outline is a little excessive so it isn't an optimum option for a small-bodied person, I won't recommend this for your kids. That said, the Halberd sits well on your lap & has great balance but the upper horn, extends a little higher than the average guitar of similar make (eg: RG/ S-Series). I kept checking my posture while playing, preventing it from getting too up there; it's threatening to jab my shoulder blades. No such irritation when playing it strapped on, though.

Ibanez: Halberd (Part 3)

2011-12-19T00:05:00.001+08:00

This was what became of the Halberd's innards after the active circuitry was removed. The scratches you see at the input jack area were present when I snipped the wires off. The battery compartment was also removed (tell-tale sings: 2 screw holes there) but it wouldn't get in the way should it be left in tact. Sparse controls? Definitely, there's only a 3-way pickup selector in the middle of the cavity & a push-pull coil split switch which doubles as the volume control. No Orange Drop cap needed here as there are no tone control for its application. Do note that the wood at this part of the instrument is rather porous, no amount of white paint could quite cover & level the surface.

The push-pull coil tap switch- since there is no tone control here, this switch proved useful in keeping some tonal variations in check.

But I am enjoying my pickups' very open tone in the mean time, good to hear something different at work. The pickups in there: Duncan's Distortion (bridge) & Jazz (neck). I could dial in much bass for both pickups & still obtain note clarity. I would say it's partly attributable to the pickups' default voicings as well as the absence of any capacitors in the circuitry. I get the 'right' results having Duncans in my guitars, this is no exception.

Ibanez: Halberd- the real finish

2011-12-18T22:39:00.001+08:00

This is the Ibanez Halberd- pic's taken off the manufacturer's homepage. You'd thought that the darker hue surrounding the body bevel was a lighting effect.

But it's actually a shade of grey, not quite apparent from the manufacturer's online snapshot. You didn't see wrong, I swapped the default pickups to Duncans.

Laney: Ironheart 60W head (Wattage variant)

2011-12-18T15:33:00.001+08:00

I'm giving the (Laney) Ironheart's wattage variant control a thumbs-up for matters pertaining to practicality. This means you can tame the Ironheart down to the lower wattage range for smaller performance venues (which includes your bedroom) if you wish to keep the volume in check without losing the power tubes saturation. However, there is a need to re-tweak your EQ once you do just that (not a drastic change, yes?); the amp's voicing would be affected by the different wattage levels. This is a mark of a good amp, one which responds to power (supply).

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A belated thanks to the good people @ Sound Alchemy for the acquisition of this amp.

Animal drive (Way Huge content)

2011-12-17T08:26:00.001+08:00

This is a new one by Way Huge; the Red Llama overdrive. The RL pedal was already in existence some time back (that point in time when we were not into guitars YET). If you have bought the Green Rhino but felt that you are in need of a more up-front, less EQ-tampered drive, the RL might be it. Wait till it's here, of course. No, there's no Camel Distortion in the works.

UNO: Warzone 2 (Part 5)

2011-12-17T00:17:00.001+08:00

This is how the WZ2 body looks like flip-side:

Generous upper fret access
Extended chest area bevel

The standards set by this simple guitar are admittedly very high. The manufacturer chose to focus on not letting owners down by focusing on the instrument's fantastic QC. At the very least, after walking away with this guitar, you'd feel that it's money well spent.

I would reiterate the fact that I'm not into guitars featuring locking whammy bridges these days. This contraption get in my way of playing enjoyment more than anything else but this purchase proved that I'm not averse to good instruments regardless of the features (colour & brand name too) on board. A good instrument is a good instrument, this is the way it should be appreciated.

Thanks to Mike @ SV Guitars for making this purchase a very pleasant episode (beyond pleasant actually). He knew I prefer a set of .009s in there & made my day by substituting the default .010s with my preferred string gauge. Kudos, Mike!

Your pick...? (LTD content)

2011-12-17T00:01:00.002+08:00

What have I been up to lately? I've been bothering Janet & company at Davis GMC by returning to the store premises to try LTD guitars. The model you see above is the manufacturer's top of the line Horizon offering, the Deluxe H1001.

I've been pitting the Deluxe against its little brother, the H-351. As you would have observed, the instruments, at a single glance, are identical but let me just highlight to you the differences because there is a $250 gap between them:

the H-1001 features a more defined flamed maple top
the Deluxe's neck binding spills over to the fretboard
locking tuners (ESP brand) in the Deluxe
locking TOM-type bridge in the Deluxe
Deluxe- made in Korea, H-351- made in Indonesia

The remaining features are identical. Feel wise, there are hardly any marked differences to highlight. You'd thought the Deluxe would be a little heftier due to the locking tuners over at the headstock but those tuners were careful selections so as not to make the situation a little too complicated in this category. They are also equally responsive, hence likeable. Both models are incredibly light, in fact, my Schecter Omen 6 would be considered heavy after handling these babies.

Tone? These guitars are equipped with a pair of EMG (active) pickups; the 81 in the bridge, 85 in the neck. You know how it is when you have actives in an instrument; you'd hear the pickups' performance more than what the guitar itself has to offer; akin to spreading very sweet honey on 2 different slices of bread brands only to taste the honey more than anything else. So my friends, the H-1001 & H-351 performed on like terms in this category.

What would your pick be in view of the perspectives presented above?

Ibanez: Halberd (Part 2)

2011-12-16T09:06:00.001+08:00

This is the default electronics in Ibanez's Halberd model; the wires belong to the guitar's CAP-LZ pickups, the active relay system & batteries. It's rather cramped, no room for even a small snake to slither through.

Default batteries- China's Golden Power brand.

These are the CAP-LZ pickups up close. I find them accceptable tone-wise, not as inviting as an EMG but equally menacing. I have the same set of pickups in the Glaive so doing away with them here wasn't a loss.

UNO: Warzone 2 (Part 4)

2011-12-16T00:03:00.001+08:00

A look at the Warzone 2's headstock; a simple outline, very ESP-like. The fittings here are impressive, ditto the binding & decal placement.

The flip-side is equally impressive. The volute under the nut implies a fortified area & that's a wise consideration since that's where it's prone to snapping.

Neck & body joint- I've indicated the line there which means it's a set-neck type. Absolutely good news for us shredders or upper fret explorers alike; considerably less hindrance to impede our movements.

SG Life: To profit from national distress

2011-12-15T23:41:00.002+08:00

By the time you read this, you would have been aware of the situation earlier in town (it's on the news); another train breakdown, this time involving the N-S line. Apparently, there was a technical fault causing a power failure & service disruption. People were trapped in the underground train in total darkness (between Marina Bay & Braddell stations), someone even smashed the glass window as a result of poor ventilation. I thought if there's a time to observe the reactions of Singaporeans in pressing times, this is one of them.

But what bothered me rather deeply was the message you see above. The cabs here have an internal networking system mainly used to relay bookings, traffic alerts, etc. Look what popped up on screen: Income opportunity. If the cab companies here have the bollocks to stand up & empathize with the distressed commuters & other affected citizens alike, they would tell one another to forgo the peak hour surcharge & make their services available in times of need. They could subsequently lodge some form of recovery of loss income (on behalf of the drivers) from the government. But that's wishful thinking from commercial entities. In this country, we still need to be told to do good, being forthcoming in emergencies seems to require the presence of a reward of sorts. So 'tis the season of giving, tra la la la la, la la la la? Bah, humbug!

I was on my way home from Beez's when this happened. There's this hypnotic, rather subliminal voice telling me to take the bus rather than the train. It must be those evil messages in the music I listen to: TakeS theA busT, forget About the traiN... repeating, ringing in my head. Something to that extent.
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Apologies by SMRT
This is taken from TODAY's online edition (16th Dec 2011):

SMRT also apologised for an "oversight" which saw a message dispatched to all its taxi drivers of an "income opportunity" following the massive train service disruption. "Our staff used a template and we have since corrected it," the SMRT spokesperson said.

It implies that there's is no need to think before doing- do first, get screwed, then think.

SWINGing colours (MG-505 content)

2011-12-15T21:13:00.000+08:00

Greetings fellow guitar enthusiasts. It's now 10 days before Xmas & many of us are walking around with bloated pockets due to the year-end bonuses. Some of us are interested in Swing's MG-505 & I'd concur that it's indeed one of the best contemporary, no frills guitar out there right now & it won't break our piggies (more so with the Indonesian version in stores) . But be informed that only the trans-black version is now left for your considerations.

Ibanez: Halberd

2011-12-15T14:14:00.001+08:00

As Twitted (or should that be Twittered), my next guitar is a weapon- Ibanez Halberd. A Halberd is a medieval weapon akin to an axe/ hammer hybrid; a side which cuts, the other, punctures. By the time you read this, I'd be on my way to Beez's to replace the default pickups- having Duncans in there.

Do not open till much later

2011-12-15T11:12:00.000+08:00

Now in my residence. To be opened much later, next weekend maybe... That would be Xmas eve, yes?

UNO: Warzone 2 (Part 3)

2011-12-15T00:17:00.001+08:00

These are lethal pickups (default in the Warzone 2) not because they out-perform everything else out there (that's a very unschooled perspective) but because they are the right pickups for this guitar. You'd hear great bottom end from the bridge Tesla UNO Custom despite the guitar featuring a Floyd Rose bridge which is traditionally touted to hamper bass responses. The neck counterpart possesses that great zing in clean mode, lots of warmth as well. You'd get to hear that smooth distorted notes of yours during solos. I wish TESLA could just make them available to us as regular production models.

UNO hiding dirty secrets in its control cavity? Not according to the above pic- spick & span. Alpha pots used so you know UNO means business.

Shimming notes (Part 3)

2011-12-15T00:02:00.001+08:00

So the compromised shim in the previous episode was detached from the neck's pickup-end base, a replacement shim was made using an unused portion of a guitar string box & inserted into the area depicted above. I usually ensure at least 1/4 of the pocket surface is covered for a marked effect. The corners of the shim were rounded for a snug fit.

When the neck was re-attached to the body pocket, the effect of the shim can be seen here; there's a little gap as indicated above. Despite the shim being rather thin to many of us, it's more than enough to wedge the neck up. The neck needed a wee bit of wedging material to generate enough angular effect to rectify the action settings. It's like prescribing a small dosage of medicine to cure a person, regardless of how big the person is.

Why is shimming necessary?

You did well in setting up your guitar; the neck had been straightened or bowed adequately according to your personal preference, the action had been checked to your specs but upon playing, you feel that the action at the upper frets are disproportionately higher than the rest of fret areas.

Why does this happen?

It's not your fault. Either the body's neck pocket cavity had been routed a little too deep or the neck itself had been cut/ sanded down too much. It could also be the bridge's fault; at its lowest setting, it still inclines the strings too much at the upper fret areas (assuming there are no issues with the body's cavity & neck).

Some upper tier guitars feature a neck tilt mechanism to address this issue like the Fender you see above. All you need to do is insert the allen wrench provided & adjust the neck inclination accordingly.

UNO: Warzone 2 (Part 2)

2011-12-14T13:41:00.000+08:00

Do note that the whammy bridge in UNO's Warzone 2 is a Floyd Rose Original model, the same model featured in many high end instruments. Before I brought the WZ2 home yesterday, I managed to have a go at it; actually Mike asked me to give it a good workout & I obliged. It was fantastic in terms of response- smooth operations as expected from this tried & tested brand name product. More importantly, Mike came up to me & clipped a tuner at the WZ2's headstock to check post-abuse tuning & it was spot-on.

Shimming notes (Part 2)

2011-12-14T11:22:00.001+08:00

This is the neck of my Jackson JS-20, I recently removed it to check if there was any shimming done because I felt/ observed the neck wasn't sitting too well in the body pocket. I was right, they shimmed it but look at what was used for the task- a discarded sand paper...

To get the thickness right, they even folded the paper into half... There's a simple reason why this failed, not because of the paper's thickness, but look at its alignment; it's sitting too much on the left. *Duh*

Clipped

2011-12-14T09:13:00.001+08:00

Perhaps the primary attraction for us distortion dweebs is the (Laney) Ironheart's Pre-Boost feature. This has the same effect of adding a drive pedal to an already distorted amp channel up front not through the loop access. This gives the player more sensitivity in terms of picking, a more sensitive harmonics trigger as well as more body in the distortion per se. This consideration was included in the Ironheart design to save the player some trouble in having to add an external drive pedal to beef up the distortion (eg: adding an Ibanez Tubescreamer).

However, please be informed that at higher Pre-Boost settings, you'd hear this rather obnoxious clipping of notes; meaning- while playing you'd hear your notes 'cut off' as if they are forbidden from crossing a certain limit. I'm aware of the technicalities here; it's the same effect of having a fuzz/ drive circuitry set at higher thresholds to such an extent the signals are truncated- it's more apparent from fuzz units than anything else. As you can see from the pic above, I limit my Pre-Boost to about 40% of the range to avoid the annoyance from being too obvious.

UNO: Warzone 2 (Part 1)

2011-12-14T00:02:00.001+08:00

This was the fantastic instrument I purchased yesterday; UNO's Warzone 2. Before I left for SV Guitars (Marsiling branch), I took the last dosage of flu med so I was good when I reached there; my nose wasn't leaking & there were no extensive, violent sneezing. However, upon reaching home, I was ill, my eyes were watery so I told the Mrs to replenish my medication; I requested for some strong flu tablets, swallowed the prescription & it knocked me out. Hence there wasn't any real opportunity to run the gamut but I had sufficient episodes with this guitar to say that it's one of the best out there- in terms of a contemporary-profiled instrument equipped with locking hardware- for the money. A stunner to say the least. More updates to come as soon as my head stops feeling like there's an anvil resting there...

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PS: Thanks to brother Aaron Tan for the get-well Twitts!