ESP 2026: MT-1

So this is how the ESP version of Mick Thompson's signature model looks like... exactly like the LTD version but with a more aggressive chamfering at the bass side cutaway. Rather upset that for an ESP, the fingerboard here is phenowood; a compound of wood & resin. The LTD version is ebony, FYI. Reminds me of that time when Gibson used richlite for its LP Custom. Bummer. 

Pic: ESP

Ibanez 2026: Kiko

Kiko Loureiro's new KIKO300 puts him into the AZ camp. As seen above, the guitar offers an HSH pickup combo + 24 frets. Pickups here are DiMarzio KIKO models & that flick switch is a coil-tap feature, not the Alter Switch. If the features here look familiar to you, it's basically an AZ2407 with a flick switch. Of course, those block inlays help differentiate this guitar visuall7.

Pic: Ibanez

Black S (2)

Once upon a time (CLICK to know when exactly this was), I promised to do a follow up on this guitar but somehow failed to keep to the promise. The primary frustration was getting those upper frets to not buzz. After countless attempts, I gave up. Today, I decided to re-look at things from a fresh perspective. It seems that the neck didn't sit level against the pocket surface. Was wondering how the previous owner dealt / endured this. Have a feeling he didn't venture up the upper frets. A quick levelling of the neck pocket (sand paper) & shimming did the trick. Folks, whatever the issue, sometimes it's important to leave things unresolved & return with a renewed vigour to solve things, not just guitar-related issues.

A quick re-string, of course.

 

If you are atrracted to & intend to purchase these Chinese rail-type humbuckers - don't. 1) There are no specific neck / bridge models so the neck & bridge tones are the same (no kidding) 2) Excessive bass. In fact, I had to put my amp's bass level to ZERO for it to sound normal / acceptable but it could have been lesser. 3) Note separation is absolutely rubbish 4) The clean tones manifest fuzzy farts & this would give you a clue to the kind of output on offer. These pickups are dirt cheap (less than $10 each) but I regret not spending on strings instead. Oh, well.

Wishing everyone a good week ahead.

Yamaha 2026: SC

This got me really excited - Yamaha released the singlecut version of its Pro & Standard Plus models. I need to try these in person. Despite the rather substantial price difference there, the Standard Plus (Indonesian) might hold its own since specs are very close to the Pro (Japanese). Trying not to look at these guitars too much, it's anxiety inducing.

Pics: Yamaha

Ibanez 2026: TOD100

The sneaky trolls at Ibanez are adding new signature models to the 2026 list just when we thought there's no more for NAMM. The above TOD100 features subtle revisions & worth the purchase considerations for die hard fans. That cutaway chamfer & elbow rest are new.

Also new is the double hole bridge. The extra wrap over acts as a locking mechanism of sorts. This, I don't fancy (dealt with them in the AU Series). It means more string length used at the bridge & might compromise the headstock winding because some string manufacturers do not produce sufficiently long strings & I shall not name them. Loyalists would argue that those manufacturers don't make strings with such bridges in mind. Gentle reminder; the TOD100 is only available in June / July, which would subject them to further price increase as opposed to having them released now.

Pics: Ibanez

SE Ed

The guy who made travel-sized guitar fashionable is back with a new signature model. However, he went the opposite way by endorsing a baritone (27.7"). The Ed Sheeren SE also features a hollow body, strung with a set of 14 - 68 by default. The name has a strong following & would likely trigger an irrational demand. That funky finish there (with matching headstock) reflects Mr. Sheeren's art passtime.

Pic: PRS guitars