Gear
Stompblox Modular Pedalboards – Rethink Your Pedalboard
It’s time to rethink your pedalboard with Stompblox Modular Pedalboards
Get a 10% when you use the code BMMAG at the online checkout! Thanks to Stompblox Modular Pedalboard for this gracious offer!
Years ago when I started on this slippery slope of effects use (and for those that use effects, you’re already nodding your head), I spent hours thinking about how to lay out my pedals for optimum tonal use, laying the patch cables just so, running the wiring from the power supply and then using zipties to lock everything in place. I would then take it to a gig, and in five minutes find a major oversight that would render my pedalboard in its current incarnation completely worthless. But what could I do? I was at the mercy of my pedalboard; it was either far too big for my current application (making me throw a couple loose effects into my gigbag) or it was too small (making me throw an additional effect into my gigbag along with my pedalboard). I had thought about building my own board that I could make bigger or smaller, but didn’t have the time to fully realize that. And sadly, there weren’t any manufactured options like that available.
That is, until now. My friends, the Stompblox Modular Pedalboard is here, and it’s fantastic. I had talked with Andy (the developer of Stompblox and a fellow bass player) since seeing this on the website last year, so was elated when a box with two of them arrived at my office. I immediately opened it up, took them out and laughed the laugh of a mad scientist.
Two Stompblox Modular Pedalboards, offer two different configurations
First thing to note is that one of the Stompblox by itself is not very big; it measures a micro 12″ x 9″ at a slope that reaches 2″ at the back (but with the kickout feet, you can raise it to 3″ if you like). Like many pedalboards on the market, it is extremely tough and well made (and even a bit heavy for its size), but the magic in the Stompblox is the underside. There are a TON of anchor points which will allow you to fasten power cables, patch cables, etc.. underneath quickly and easily. And, remember those kickout feet I mentioned previously? If you utilize them, you can put one of the bigger power supplies under the board no problem. I don’t know if I’d ever use a Rocktron PowerTap underneath just one of the boards, but the fact that I have the OPTION to do so and not just rely on my Rocktron DC OnTap Universal Power Supply and daisy chain cable is a definite plus.
For me, just the one is a perfect size to carry my “must haves” that I use regularly at church. But for some others, one may not be enough. Thankfully, you can buy two and attach them together. That’s right, attach them; none of this “I’ll just put two boards next to each other and hope that they stay put.” You have two configurations available; a vertical (measuring 12″ x 18″) or horizontal (measuring 24″ x 9″) format. There are clips on each of the Stompblox that will let them lock together, and the attached thumb screws on the underside will allow you to screw them together for a more permanent solution.
Three Stompblox boards start to open up many different configurations, to fit your needs
It’s at this point I need to mention that every Stompblox comes with its own modular carrying bag (which measures 12″ x 12″ square, with a front pouch that is roughly the same size). What does “modular carrying bag” mean exactly? The zipper (that is around the perimeter of the bag) can come apart. This allows you to take two bags and zip them together, much like you would zip two sleeping bags together. For those musicians that will keep two Stompblox boards together, you can rest easy knowing that your larger pedalboard has a gigbag. And for those, like me, that will use two boards when necessary but usually take one, you can still just use the bags separately.
Stompblox Modular Pedalboards are currently available direct with a street price of $59.99 each. The guys have also very graciously given us a 10% discount code – BMMAG – to use at checkout.
There are plans for the RISE (which I’m assuming is a riser) and the CAGE (a 4-5″ add on to allow you to use any sized power supply) in the near future, building upon the modular aspect of these boards. All in all, this is an ingenious, well thought out idea whose time has come. If you’re a musician that has different effect pedal needs based on the gig, someone that wants a board that can grow with them, or even a musician looking for the smallest board that can fit just the “must haves” for the gig, I highly recommend you check these out.
Gear News
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Spector offers Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses…
Spector, a leading authority in bass guitar design, unveils two new Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses. Synonymous with bass excellence since 1987, Wimbish collaborated with Spector’s USA Custom Shop to create the DW-4 and DW-5 models, echoing the iconic instruments that have been favored heavily throughout his recording and performing career.
These signature basses faithfully replicate Wimbish’s originals, down to the smallest details like neck contours and nut widths. Customized EMG pickups, developed in collaboration with Wimbish, capture the distinctive sound that has shaped his monumental musical impact. These models invite players to explore the feel and response that have defined Wimbish’s signature style over the years.
Available in 4-string and 5-string versions, each model boasts unique features & finish options. The DW-4 comes in Amber Stain Gloss and Black Stain Gloss options, while the DW-5 offers Dark Blue Stain Gloss and Faded Natural Gloss. Every purchase includes a certificate of authenticity signed by Doug Wimbish. Wimbish comments, “Spector took the time to get every little nuance right, and that to me is dedication and being thoughtful enough to know ‘I want to nail it,’ and they did. I’m able to pick these instruments up for the first time and play them like I’ve already had them for years.”
For more information, visit spectorbass.com/doug-wimbish-usa-signature-series/.
Photo: Doug Wimbish, pictured with the new Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series basses
Bass Videos
String Instrument Humidifiers
String Instrument Humidifiers
After living in some very humid parts of the country for decades, we moved to a dryer, much sunnier location. As a result, I started noticing some fret sprout on my string instruments and recently did a video on fret sprout correction.
It occurred to me that I should take a more preventative approach to string instrument humidification. Of course, I turned to my instrument maintenance experts, Music Nomad Equipment Care, for a solution and they suggested their Humitar series. (Note: They sent two press samples and I purchased the remainder online.)
Join me as I look at these useful tools for keeping my string instruments in tip-top condition.
The Humitar series is available online at Music Nomad Equipment Care, as well as Amazon.com
Gear News
New Gear: Alberto Rigoni Signature Bass, the VPR5 by Gaetano Costanzo!
Alberto Rigoni Signature Bass, the VPR5 by Gaetano Costanzo!
Internationally renowned bassist ALBERTO RIGONI (soloist, BAD AS, Vivaldi Metal Project, TwinSpirits, etc.) is proud to announce the release of his signature bass VPR5 made by renowned Italian luthier Gaetano Costanzo!
The bass is entirely handmade in Italy, without the use of CNC or other machinery, and has rather special features. The VPR is a 5-string bass (but also available as a 4-string) with 30 frets, Seymour Duncan pickups, Music Man Alnico style, passive electronics (volume, tone and a switch to select series/parallel/single-coil mode), alder body, and American maple neck and fingerboard. Gotoh tuners that ensure perfect intonation. The bass is totally painted white (nitro finish) but other colors can be requested. The VPR has a weight of about 2.9 kg and suitable for any genre.
For more information contact Gaetanobass77@gmail.com or visit online at www.instagram.com/gaetanocostanzoluthier or www.facebook.com/GaetanoCostanzoLuthier
Bass Videos
Review: CrystalBright Rombo Picks
CrystalBright Rombo Picks
PR SamplePlaying bass with a pick is still a touchy subject in our community. I believe you should be able to use whatever you need to get your sound. Even though I mostly play with my fingers, I like to check out innovative new picks that might have something new to offer, sonically speaking.
Judith and Carlos from Rombo recently contacted me about a new material called CrystalBright that they have been researching for the last 12 months and offered to send some prototype picks. After trying them out, I put together this video with my findings.
For more info check out @rombopicks
Gear
New Joe Dart Bass From Sterling By Music Man
Sterling by Music Man introduces the Joe Dart Artist Series Bass (“Joe Dart”), named after and designed in collaboration with the celebrated Vulfpeck bassist.
Above photo credit: JORDAN THIBEAUX
This highly-anticipated model marks the debut of the Dart bass in the Sterling by Music Man lineup, paying homage to the Ernie Ball Music Man original that all funk players know and love. The bass embodies many of the original model’s distinctive features, from its iconic minimalist design to the passive electronics.
The design process prioritized reliability, playability, and accessibility at the forefront. Constructed from the timeless Sterling body, the Dart features a slightly smaller neck profile, offering a clean tone within a comfortable package. The body is crafted from soft maple wood for clarity and warmth while the natural finish emphasizes the simple yet unique look.
Engineered for straightforward performance, this passive bass features a ceramic humbucking bridge pickup and a single ‘toaster’ knob for volume control. Reliable with a classic tone, it’s perfect for playing in the pocket. The Dart is strung with the all-new Ernie Ball Stainless Steel Flatwound Electric Bass Strings for the smoothest feel and a mellow sound.
The Sterling by Music Man Joe Dart Bass is a special “Timed Edition” release, exclusively available for order on the Sterling by Music Man website for just one month. Each bass is made to order, with the window closing on May 31st and shipping starting in November. A dedicated countdown timer will indicate the remaining time for purchase on the product page. Additionally, the back of the headstock will be marked with a “2024 Crop” stamp to commemorate the harvest year for this special, one-of-a-kind release.
The Joe Dart Bass is priced at $399.99 (MAP) and can be ordered globally at https://sterlingbymusicman.com/products/joe-dart.
To learn more about Joe Dart, visit the official Vulfpeck artist site here https://www.vulfpeck.com/.
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
String Instrument Humidifiers
Interview With Bassist Graham Stanush
Review: CrystalBright Rombo Picks
This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
String Instrument Humidifiers
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
