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Bass Musician Magazine’s Year of the Luthier – Hannah Mayne, Mayne Basses
Meet Hannah Mayne of Mayne Basses…
How did you get started as a Luthier?
It was in1993 while attending college in San Francisco, and studying the bass. I remember going into a Luthier’s workshop to purchase a bass. It was very intriguing to see all the various parts and pieces of basses in various stages of restoration and construction. I went away knowing inside that I would again feel this desire to learn more about the intricacies and work of the Luthier. And in fact it was only a short year or so after that that I was apprenticing full time. It was the early years that gave me the foundation for a dedicated profession as a Luthier.
When did you build your first bass?
It was almost 5 years just on repair and restoration work before I finished my first bass. My plan was to build it between other work and see how it came out and whether I should attempt to build another one. When it was finished in 2001, it didn’t stay with me more than a few weeks, and ended up in the hands of bassist Jon Burr in New York. That was the exciting experience of my early career, because I had no idea that was even a possibility. My first bass was my dream and then it became real. I’ve been inspired ever since.
How did you learn the art of woodworking/Luthier?
A lot of my foundation for wood working techniques as it relates to Luthiery work, primarily came from Luthier Boyd Poulsen. I’ve also learned a lot of other wood working techniques from other wood workers. The work is involved and always evolving in some form. Staying centered and focused creates good results in the work, and keeps me injury free. I’ve worked alone for at least the last ten years or so. This solitude suits me, and I find that when I’m forced to figure things out by myself I learn about my weaknesses and make them my strengths.
Whom would you consider a Mentor?
My parents I consider my first teachers, my first mentors. They were both able to build things out of wood, make music, and make art that was very personal. I also consider anyone who has really influenced my thinking and my way of working to be a mentor for my work and for my life. And the two can’t be separated from each other. One’s work is who they are in part and the other layers are just somewhere in there too as part of what makes us create.
How do you select the woods you choose to build with?
I select based on what either the client wants or what I have on hand in the shop. I use traditional woods: maple, poplar, spruce.
Who were some of the first well-known musicians who started playing your basses?
Jon Burr is the first noted player that started playing one of my basses; in fact he has the first bass I ever made. Daryl Johns also plays on the same model Jon Burr plays on. Both players are really inspirational bass players and have recorded a lot with my basses. I’ve been very fortunate to have all my basses played by players I consider excellent people and great musicians.
How do you develop a signature or custom bass for an artist?
The most important consideration is what does the player want and how can I create it or at least come very close to it. Other considerations are aesthetics not just in sound but everything else to do with individual taste and preferences. A players relationship to an instrument reflects a part of who they are and how they feel their identity reflects well and is matched to an instrument is elemental to the whole process of creating an instrument for a particular person. How an instrument will feel under their fingers is also critical. How they create their tone and their musical voice are important aspects to building an instrument for a player.
What are a few things that you are proud about your instruments and that you would consider unique in your instruments?
I like the idea when I build an instrument that it will out live me. This is unique, to create something that will be a legacy. It’s like this story, like recording music is a story or any other artistic work. It’s about the process and what is left for posterity and what can be remembered by it. Going beyond the initial creation of one’s work and into history is something I can say makes me proud.
Which one of the basses that you build is your favorite one?
I used to think it was my first model but then I’ve come around to all of them as my favorites, and for different reasons. The first model I made is life as a Ferrari and the second is like a BMW, and the last model is a Rolls Royce. Surely I enjoy the three models I make because it’s what I make, and each one is unique and has a story I can tell about it.
Can you give us a word of advice to young Luthiers who are just starting out?
Especially in the beginning it is important to study and work alongside some one you like and respect. It’s always good to develop working relationships with others that encourage your growth and help you strengthen your skills and understanding. Avoid staying under someone who discourages you in any way or who is competitive or that you hear talk negative about others. This kind of person hurts the spirit. The work is very humbling and wood is always telling its own story. Finding the way is finding the true nature of your material.
What advice would you give a young musician trying to find his/her perfect bass?
It’s individual. It’s about knowing yourself and what works for your ideas and concepts for creating your sound — knowing what you want is the first step to finding the instrument that can serve you well for creating music. It’s always a good idea to try a lot of different basses because you can discover what works for you in the process.
What is biggest success for you and for your company?
My basses have been recorded a lot and that is something that helps me feel a sense of success. A lot of times I never hear my basses played live, so hearing recordings is a great way to know what’s happening out there with my basses.
Are you preparing something new, some new model or new design?
I’m currently working on several custom basses. Whether it’s new building or restoration or repair work, there’s always a lot going on in the shop. Work keeps me busy and focused in the day-to-day. Then I can dream and imagine something new, like a new model or just a unique sound hole or detail I want to incorporate on my next bass.
What are your future plans?
I plan to continue my focus on building basses. I’m also dreaming to travel to places I’ve never been. I want to learn about other places and discover something new and different. Sometimes different emotions and feelings inform the process of creativity and without even realizing it we’ve changed and broadened our minds. This always encourages creativity and inspiration for work. Like getting a refueling.
Visit online at maynebass.com
Positive Grid launches Spark 2, the next evolution of their cutting-edge smart guitar practice amplifiers and Bluetooth® speakers.
Engineered for acoustic, electric guitar, and bass, Spark 2 delivers an immersive practice and playing experience. Enjoy detailed sound and an all-new upgraded speaker design powered by Positive Grid’s exclusive Sonic IQ Computational Audio technology. With an onboard creative looper, optional battery power, and intuitive AI features for tone exploration and practice, Spark 2 is the gateway to a musical experience that goes beyond expectations.
Proprietary Audio and Advanced Technology
Spark 2 represents a leap forward in amplifier design. It integrates a new DSP amp modeling engine with double the processing power, and at 50 Watts, it packs 25% more volume than the original. Positive Grid’s proprietary Sonic IQ Computational Audio delivers incredibly detailed and dynamic sound. New HD amp models, enhanced by multi-band dynamic range compression and virtual bass augmentation, redefine the sonic landscape.
Equipped with two premium FRFR speakers and reflex ports, Spark 2 offers wide stereo imaging and broader frequency response, ensuring refined bass and clear, immersive sound.
Built-In Creative Looper
Spark 2’s built-in Groove Looper features hundreds of hyper-realistic drum tracks. From basic loops to multi-layered soundscapes or the ultimate jam session, this intuitive tool inspires endless creativity. Onboard amp controls provide quick, on-the-go looping functionality.
AI-Powered Tone and Smart Jam
Spark AI revolutionizes tone exploration. Describe any desired tone in the Spark app – from practical to outlandish – and Spark AI will suggest tones to audition or download. The more it’s used, the smarter it gets, delivering the perfect sound.
Additional smart features make it easy to practice, learn new songs and improve playing skills. Smart Jam listens to the user’s playing style and generates accompanying bass and drum parts, while Auto Chords analyzes any song streamed and displays the guitar chords in real time, to make learning and practicing new songs easier than ever.
Enhanced Hardware Design and Portability
Spark 2 allows for storing up to eight customizable presets directly on the amp for quick access to favorite sounds. Perfect the tone with large, visible onboard controls for looper, EQ, gain, reverb, and more.
Designed for convenience, an optional rechargeable battery provides up to 12 hours of playtime for on-the-go sessions. The new double-thick strap and durable build ensure easy and secure transport. Spark 2 is also Bluetooth® ready, allowing for music streaming and jamming along with favorite tracks anytime, anywhere.
Multiple Outputs and Advanced Features
Spark 2 offers versatile connectivity with a headphone out for private practice, stereo line outs for external audio sources, and a USB-C port which enables it to function as an audio interface. WiFi-enabled, Spark 2 allows convenient over-the-air firmware updates, keeping the amp up to date with the latest features and improvements.
“I’ve used a ton of practice amps while touring the world for over 38 years and it was always just a technical, bland exercise,” says guitar virtuoso, singer-songwriter and producer Nuno Bettencourt. “Spark 2 is like taking Madison Square Garden wherever you go – epic and versatile.”
Color Options
Available in Pearl or Black finish with a dark weave grille and premium finish.
Special Event, Upgrade Pricing & Availability
Join the special live premiere event featuring Nuno Bettencourt and surprise guests on August 1, 2024, at 8:00 am PT/11:00 am ET. Visit positivegrid.com/pages/livestream for more details and to sign up for a reminder.
Regularly USD $299, Spark 2 will be available at special early bird pricing during the pre-order period. Registered Spark 40 owners can also receive exclusive upgrade pricing.
For more information and to sign up for pre-order alerts, visit positivegrid.com/products/spark-2.
A review of the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Introduction: The Joyo Gloam is a sub-octave fuzz pedal specifically designed for bass players, combining modern sub-octave effects with rich fuzz tones. With two independently controlled circuits, the Gloam aims to provide a versatile range of sounds, from deep, aggressive fuzz to Moog-like synth effects. This review will explore the Gloam’s specifications, controls, and overall performance, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 130 * 110 * 50 mm
- Weight: 403g
- Working Voltage: DC 9V
- Controls: The Joyo Gloam features a comprehensive control set designed to provide bassists with a wide range of tonal options:
- Dry Tone: Adjusts the tone of the clean signal.
- Dry Volume: Controls the volume of the clean signal.
- Sub Octave Volume: Adjusts the volume of the sub octave signal.
- Gain: Controls the amount of gain in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz: Adjusts the intensity of the fuzz effect.
- Bass: Controls the bass frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Treble: Adjusts the treble frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz Mode Switch: Switches between two different fuzz modes.
- Dry Tone Frequency Switch: Selects between two different frequency points for the dry tone.
Performance: The Joyo Gloam excels in its dual-circuit design, offering both a sub octave and a fuzz channel that can be controlled individually. However, it’s important to note that the octaver cannot be used without the fuzz circuit activated; the only way to solo the octaver is by turning down the fuzz while both channels are engaged.
Fuzz Circuit: The fuzz circuit includes standard controls such as gain, volume, bass, and treble, along with a fuzz mode switch that toggles between two distinct fuzz modes. While one of the fuzz modes is highly usable and delivers a rich, aggressive tone, the other mode falls short and is less practical for most applications.
Octaver Circuit: The octaver circuit features controls for sub octave volume, clean volume, and clean tone, along with a dry tone frequency switch that provides two different frequency options. This allows for significant tonal versatility, enabling bassists to fine-tune their sound to match their preferences. Despite its limitation of being tied to the fuzz circuit, the octaver produces a deep, balanced sound that stands out.
Combined Effect: When used together, the fuzz and octaver circuits create a wide range of sounds, from classic, aggressive fuzz to synth-like tones reminiscent of a Moog synthesizer. This combination makes the Gloam a powerful tool for bassists seeking to experiment with their sound and achieve unique, textured tones.
Pros:
- Versatile Controls: Extensive control options for both fuzz and octaver circuits.
- Rich Tones: Delivers deep, aggressive fuzz and balanced octaver sounds.
- Sturdy Construction: Durable build quality ensures reliability.
- Wide Range of Sounds: Capable of producing everything from classic fuzz to synth-like effects.
Cons:
- Unusable Fuzz Mode: One of the fuzz modes is less practical.
- Dependent Octaver: Octaver cannot be used independently of the fuzz circuit.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Gloam sub-octave fuzz pedal offers a versatile and powerful option for bassists looking to expand their tonal palette. Despite some flaws, the Gloam delivers impressive sounds and flexibility. Its combination of rich fuzz and deep octaver tones, coupled with a sturdy construction, makes it a valuable addition to any bassist’s pedalboard. For those seeking a modern bass distortion with the added depth of sub-octave effects, the Joyo Gloam is a compelling choice for a very compelling price.
Visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/281.html
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Behind the Strings – Jim’s Corner…
D’Addario & Co. proudly announces the launch of “Jim’s Corner,” a captivating new YouTube series telling the 400-year-old story of the D’Addario family creating the world’s largest music accessories company. This series features Jim D’Addario, Founder and Director of Innovation at D’Addario and Co., sharing his family’s remarkable journey from 17th century Italy to a 21st century global enterprise.
In the first four episodes now available, Jim D’Addario takes viewers back to the beginning, making strings from animal guts and knotting ukulele wire as a family around the television. Countless generations carried the passion forward until the 1970s when the company made it official and never looked back. Jim recounts the creation of strings that inspired legendary riffs, including one by The Who, the launch of Darco strings, the merger with Martin Guitars and the company’s humble beginnings with his wife, Janet and brother, John. Jim D’Addario’s firsthand accounts provide an intimate and personal perspective on the milestones and challenges that shaped D’Addario into the revered brand it is today.
Episode Highlights:
- Episode 1: The Early Days in Italy and the Move to America
- Episode 2: Inspiring Iconic Riffs and Legendary Partnerships
- Episode 3: Launching Darco Strings and Merging with Martin Guitars
- Episode 4: Building the D’Addario and Co. Legacy
Watch & Subscribe Now:
Join us in celebrating this incredible legacy by watching the first four episodes of “Jim’s Corner” on YouTube. New episodes will drop every month so please subscribe to our channel to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes and exclusive content from D’Addario & Co.: www.youtube.com/@daddarioandco
Gear News
Gear News: Aguilar Amplification Unveils Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp
Aguilar Amplification announces the release of the Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp pedal. Hand serialized 1-100, this exclusive edition celebrates Aguilar’s deep roots in New York City with a tribute to its iconic landmarks and vibrant spirit.
Born in the heart of NYC and raised on the road, the Tone Hammer Preamp DI has been an indispensable tool for bassists seeking inspiring tone and versatility. The new Limited Edition Gold NYC builds on this legacy with striking custom graphics encapsulating the essence of New York City. Featuring iconic landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, this pedal is not just a tool, but a piece of art embodying the soul of the city. Each unit features a sharp platinum silkscreen over a stunning matte gold sparkle finish, that is as visually captivating as it is sonically powerful.
The Tone Hammer is an essential preamp/direct box for every bassist’s toolbox. The Tone Hammer features fully sweepable midrange frequencies in addition to bass and treble controls. With the Tone Hammer’s pristine D.I. players are set for either studio or stage. To give this tone shaping unit the ultimate flexibility we introduce our proprietary Adaptive Gain Shaping circuitry (AGS). AGS allows the player to kick in an additional gain structure and EQ with the “stomp” of a button. You can go from modern slap sounds to vintage or overdriven. 18-volt operation gives the Tone Hammer plenty of headroom to reproduce the most dynamic playing styles. Separate gain and master controls allow players to dial in just the right gain structure for any instrument.
Aguilar Amplification’s Jordan Cortese adds, “With only 100 hand-numbered units available, this third iteration of our NYC edition Tone Hammer is a collector’s dream. “It’s a homage to our city’s monumental influence on music and culture and celebrates the craftsmanship and the story of Aguilar”.
Street price: $299.99 For more information, please visit www.aguilaramp.com
Gear News: Future Impact V4 Guitar & Bass Synth Now Available in the U.S.
Interview With Barker Bass’s Inventor and Writer Lee Barker
Working-Class Zeros: Episode #4 – Boutique and Vintage Basses, Dress Code for Summer Gigs
Gear News: Ibanez & Graph Tech Launch Multi-Scale Bass with Cutting-Edge Tuning
Album: John Entwistle, Rarities Oxhumed – Volume Two
July 22 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Gear News: Positive Grid Launches Spark 2
Gear Review: Exploring the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Alberto Rigoni On Unexpected Lullabies
