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Luthier Spotlight – Devon From Devon Bass Guitars
Meet Luthier Devon From Devon Bass Guitars
How did you get your start in music?
Although I’ve been in music from a very young age, I got my first bass after my girlfriend in high school was grounded from going to the prom with me. So, what did I do with that extra cash? I bought a bass, of course. The girlfriend is long gone, but the bass never left me!
Are you still an active player?
Yes! I play bass mostly in church on a worship team. I find playing in a church very challenging as you need to learn new music within a week and then be prepared to learn more the following week. A lot of times you’re changing keys on the fly and have to work through compositional changes with every service — extreme flexibility is key!
How did you get started as a Luthier? When did you build your first bass?
While I built my first bass in 1993, I actually started building guitars as an independent study where I went to school at Carnegie Mellon University. All that really did was give me access to the wood shop. The real education came from a local Luthier who I called on the phone daily. Bless him for his patience because he’d talk me through the next steps on the guitar I was building step-by-step. When he was done, he got a chance to see the instrument and told me, “You know what kid? You’re a natural. You should consider doing this for a living!” From there I was hooked and couldn’t stop making musical instruments.
How did you learn the art of woodworking? Who would you consider a Mentor?
Except for the over-the-phone lessons from the local Luthier in Pittsburgh, I’m mainly self-taught; I suspect a lot of Luthiers are. We’re just innovative problem-solvers that simply figure out how to do things — they just happen to be musical instruments. Although I didn’t have a mentor, I wish I did. I’ve always admired and marveled at the work of Michael Tobias. I hope I could meet him someday to tell him that!
How do you select the woods you choose to build with?
I select woods based off their aesthetic and tonal properties — and the most beautiful woods don’t always sound the best and the best-sounding woods aren’t the most beautiful. I really pride myself in obtaining some of the most rare and beautiful woods money can buy. This is a prominent feature of a lot of my basses. That’s why I’ve rarely covered wood with paint — I just think the natural beauty of the wood tells the whole story. Consequently, I always have to plan ahead with my wood. Some of the wood I purchase has to sit for at least 3 years before I can use it or it will warp or crack if used prematurely. I want to ensure that my basses are extremely stable and reliable for whoever will be playing them.
How about pickups?
I’ve always used Bartolini pickups. I really like their warm tone and it’s a tone that I’ve become accustomed to. That said, I’d love to have my own Devon Pickups. Lately, I’ve been using other pickups from Nordstrand and Honey Badger. They have such different voicings than the Bartolini pickups and they’ve really opened up a new world of tonal options for my players.
Who were some of the first well-known musicians who started playing your basses?
Although I really don’t pursue endorsements of the rich-and-famous, there have been a few well-known players who’ve purchased my instruments throughout the years. As a policy, I don’t give away free instruments to famous players. I think it’s more of a testimony when well-known players are willing to lay down their own hard-earned cash for my bass because it’s something they want — not because they received for free.
More importantly, I love supporting players that love what they do and understand how a quality instrument can make a difference. Most of the players I sell basses to are folks that have already owned at least one of my instruments.
How do you develop a signature or custom bass for an artist?
It all starts by listening to the person and asking all the right questions. Sometimes a bassist knows exactly what they want, other times they want help making decisions. Either way, my goal is to help them get the bass that most closely matches their expectations. One of my favorite parts is showing off some of the awesome woods from my stock and helping them envision how their completed instrument will look, feel and sound. Then I’ll often share photos of the build as it’s progressing. That said, it’s a very collaborative effort where the player gets to contribute to the final piece. However, the best part is watching my customers play their bass for the very first time. Nothing is as magical as that moment. It makes all the blood, sweat and tears worth it!
What are a few things that you are proud about your instruments and that you would consider unique in your instruments?
Some of the most unique features of my basses include the magnetically-fastened electronics and battery covers — it makes accessing them a literal snap. The other notable feature is the rounded edge on my fretboards. I dare say that my necks are among the most playable bass necks in the industry. You’ve just got to try one to know what I’m talking about!
Which one of the basses that you build is your favorite one?
They’re like your own children, how can I choose a favorite? But, if I had to choose a recent favorite, it’s a J5 Fretless that I completed with an exquisitely rare Thuya Burl top with matching pickup covers and knobs and an ebony fretboard. It plays like butter and has the most wonderful “Mwah” growl to it. Gives me shivers just thinking about it!
Can you give us a word of advice to young Luthiers who are just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to say, “no.” You can’t be everything to everybody. Build instruments that you’d want to play yourself and you know that you’ll always believe in what you’re doing.
What advice would you give a young musician trying to find his perfect bass?
There’s no such thing as the perfect bass for all instances. Each bass has it’s own tonal personality and will be suitable for some occasions, but not others. That’s why you see very experienced bass players often have several instruments to choose from to match the occasion, venue or situation they’re playing in. The best thing a player can do is think through which combination of instruments will most closely match the repertoire of styles they’ll be playing. Often times this includes a variety of instruments with different pickup configurations, fretboard woods, scale lengths and number of strings. Most experienced, serious bass players have at least 6 basses.
What is biggest success for you and for your company?
As crazy as it sounds, I believe my bass building is a calling for me — to build beautiful works that God wants me to do. So, success to me is becoming who He intended for me to be — and in that, there’s a lot of fulfillment.
Are you preparing something new?
I’m always thinking of new models and features. I’m driven by innovation and aesthetics. The hard part for me is to choose which one to focus on. Consequently, I believe that I can continue to push the models I currently have with further generations with some really cool innovations that will add some great brand differentiation.
What are your future plans?
Continue to build my digital capabilities in marketing my instruments; this is essential for a builder who doesn’t use a dealer network in the US.
Visit online at www.devonguitars.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
