ULtra-core

Fender has new strings. They call it the Ultra Core. When was the last time you bought a pack of Fender strings? More importantly, when was the last time you bought a pack of Fender strings & actually like them? As for me, the last time I bought a pack of Fender strings were the bullet end ones, which got stuck in the trem block holes.

Pic: Fender

Strobo

Really hope this one isn't a hyped up tuner pedal. It's always good to have strobe tech in tuners to enhance accuracy. It's already sold out in Japan...

Pic: Fender

Raya deals @ Swee Lee

Swee Lee is having a Raya promo (block discounts) for many items on their list till 29 March.

Recommended: Jackson JS22 - no frills, affordable. That curved top is a touch of class.

Pic: SMusic

 

Prism mini

Positive Grid, JBL, Blackstar... & now Laney. The model you see here is the Prism mini, joining the aforementioned brand names in offering app-based amp portability. A quick check with Davis GMS - stocks are coming in soon.

Pic: Laney

Friedman @ SG

This isn't a guitar clinic, it's a full show featuring Marty's band. Click HERE for ticket details.

Pic: Sistic

Coconut

Was talking to someone yesterday about fretboard maintenance. He was asking if organic oil was the way to go for hydrating purposes. I told him I prefer this as opposed to other synthetic fluids which feels oily but dries up real fast. Implication - oil content might be lesser than marketed. He then asked if I have tried using cooking oil & told him heck, no. Cooking oil is formulated for cooking & geared towards temperature tolerance & taste, certainly not for instrument maintenance. On that note, Dunlop now has coconut oil for us gear geek if we are really picky with the organic content. I just bought myself a small bottle to try. Of course, please do not spray this onto your hair & think it's just coconut oil anyway.

EHB600

Would like to thank Ibanez for making the EHB basses more affordable this year with the introduction of the the 600 Series. Catch - the fretboard is now jatoba instead of roasted maple. In stock at Swee Lee now.

Pics: Ibanez

8620

Nothing really refreshing at the Ibanez front for March. The RG8620 is now available in the new finishes depicted above - Anvil gray burst flat (top) & Ghost fleet blue burst (bottom). Both are now available at Swee Lee ($3,999)

Pics: Ibanez

TJAMC @ Esplanade

If your music revolved round the alternative genre back in the mid-'80s or so, The Jesus & Mary Chain would be a familiar name. Notable others in this era include Sonic Youth & Cocteau Twins, among others. TJAMC will be performing here in April for those interested.

Pic: Esplanade