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Luthier Spotlight – Stephan and Ella From StEllArt
Meet husband and wife team, Stephan and Ella From StEllArt…
How did you get your start in music?
My parents introduced me to music at a very young age. I still remember them playing the James Bond “Gold Finger Soundtrack” and Elvis’s “Blue Hawaii” vinyls when I was 5 or 6 years old. I got my own sound system a couple of years later and I vividly remember buying my first albums: Supertramp “Crime of the Century”, “Frampton comes Alive” and Heart “Dreamboat Annie”. That was it, I knew then that music would take an important place in my life.
Are you still an active player?
I was never very much of a good player, but enjoyed playing on a good instrument.
How did you learn the art of woodworking/Luthier? Who would you consider a Mentor? How did you get started as a Luthier?
After playing a year or two on my PRS Custom 22, I wanted to acquire a higher end instrument but just couldn’t afford it. Then one day while I was surfing the Web, I stumbled upon a very interesting British Builder’s Website called Crimson Guitars. This builder; “Ben Crowe” was generous enough to post the progress of his instruments on a daily basis. That really made it for me. I was getting up at 5:00 AM every morning for almost 2 years, spending between 1 or 2 hours looking at his progress and taking some notes before going to work every morning. Being an Engineer, it was relatively easy for me to put everything into perspective. I have to say that even if I never met Ben Crowe he taught me a big part of the art of art of woodworking/Luthier. One day, I will travel to Great Britain to meet Ben in person and thank him for what he did without even knowing it. It’s when my wife Ella (Architect and Fashion Designer from Moscow, Russia) immigrated to Canada in 2008 that we decided to undertake the construction of our first guitar, called StElla; a combination of our names, Stephan and Ella.
When did you build your first bass?
We completed our first Bass, Athena in 2012 after building a couple of guitars. Athena was commissioned by a musician who heard about us and our work. (Neck Through construction, dense exotic woods, attention to detail, stylish designs…)
Studio Pictures of Athena can be seen at:
www.facebook.com/stellart242/media_set?set=a.10155105103184202.1073741843.543684201&type=3
Pictures of the building process of Athena can be seen at:
www.facebook.com/stellart242/media_set?set=a.10151408683364202.571120.543684201&type=3
How do you select the woods you choose to build with?
We choose our woods for their tonal qualities and their aesthetics. My wife Ella is very good for choosing wood combinations that look great together. I could say that she is Chief of the Design department.
How about pickups? What pickups did you use in the past? What electronics do you use right now?
This is usually at the customer’s preferences.
On Athena, we used A “PJ “combination from EMG, active P5 and J5. The signal goes through a BQS active EQ system with a 5-knob system that features a balance control (blend) and master volume with separate bass and treble pots along with the concentric mid-control (stacked) and 18 V power supply for extra headroom.
More Photos:
www.facebook.com/stellart242/media_set?set=a.10155105103184202.1073741843.543684201&type=3
On Sibilla, we used EMG 4SW individual active pickups mounted in a Macasar Ebony housing. Each pickup has its own height adjustment. The signal goes through a EMG BQC active EQ system with a 3-knob system featuring a master volume, both the bass and treble on a concentric pot as well as another concentric pot for the mid-control and 18 V Power Supply for greater Headroom.
Also included is Richard McClich (RMC) PA-400BX, 4 individual Piezo transducers. The piezo signal goes through a Richard McClich (RMC) Poly-Drive 1 Preamp with piezo and MIDI outputs. Control includes Piezo Volume, Midi Volume, a 3 position selector switch (mag/mag + piezo/midi) and a momentary switch for the midi program changes.
Triple output jack as follows:
- Magnetic pickups
- Magnetic/Both/Piezo (use individual pots for blending)
- MIDI Output
When jacks 1 and 2 are inserted simultaneously, output 1 is magnetic only and output 2 is piezo only.
More Photos:
www.facebook.com/stellart242/media_set?set=a.10155105132084202.1073741844.543684201&type=3
On Nemesis, we used 1 Delano Xtender 6 passive pickup. The signal passes through an active 3 band
“F Bass” EQ (Bass/Mid/High) and Volume, and a 3 position selector switch for Mag Pickup configuration
“Single coil (rear)/Parallel/Single coil (front)”.
Also included is “Richard McClish (RMC)” Bass Excellence piezo transducers and “Richard McClish (RMC)” Hybrid Pro “B” preamp with Volume and Tone control, 3 position selector switch for (Mag/Both/Piezo).
Dual output jack as follows:
- magnetic pickups
- Magnetic/Both/Piezo (use individual pots for blending)
When both jacks are inserted, output 1 is Magnetic only and output 2 is piezo only.
More Photos:
www.facebook.com/stellart242/media_set?set=a.10156104255054202.1073741856.543684201&type=3
Who were some of the first well-known musicians who started playing your basses?
Actually, we do not have any well-known musicians playing our instruments, but we do have test ride sessions booked with Alain Caron and Marc Langis, “Ex-Bassist for Celine Dion”.
How do you develop a signature or custom bass for an artist?
This is probably the most important part of the process. These instruments will probably last for a couple of lifetimes and passed on to the next generation so it is very important to get it right the first time. We spend time with the player discussing about his playing style to determine the size of neck and scale length of the instrument. In some cases, we have used a customer’s instrument that he (or she) is familiar with to reproduce the neck on his (or her) new instrument. Because our guitars are entirely built by hand, one by one, it is possible to fabricate any body shape. Ella’s aesthetic talents are exceptional and, so far, she has come up with a couple of beautiful body shapes. A multitude of wood species can be used to build guitars and they come in all colours and they can be relatively cheap to very expensive. Tone-wise, it is not easy to predict exactly how the instrument will sound but we are able to follow some pretty good guide lines. We work very closely with our customers in order to offer them a unique and rewarding experience, so that the process of the creation of their instrument can also constitute for them a most fruitful experience.
What are a few things that you are proud about your instruments and that you would consider unique in your instruments?
I think I would have to say the attention to detail and building without compromise. I think that our instruments combine many different building techniques that make them unique. Such as: Multi-Laminated exotic wood Neck Through, Multi-Laminated exotic wood bodies, Comfort Carved Backs, continuous wood back control covers, Inlaid Output Jack plates, Inlaid Truss rod covers, Multi-Laminated headstock veneers, Copper tape Faraday cage control cavities just to name a few.
Which one of the basses that you build is your favourite one?
Every new instrument is our favourite at that particular time. I think we are bringing the bar up each time, so I have to say that our new favourite is Nemesis, our latest 6-string semi-hollow neck through fretless.
Can you give us a word of advice to young Luthiers who are just starting out?
Find a good Mentor, listen attentively, be extremely patient, keep your two feet on the ground, plan a couple of steps ahead and be sure that your tools are always sharp.
What advice would you give a young musician trying to find his perfect bass?
Each time you have a chance to try a new Bass and you find that you like it. Be attentive and identify the reasons why. After playing other basses, you will probably notice that these reasons are repeating themselves. Then you will know what you are looking for.
What is the biggest success for you and for your company?
We are a team of two; my wife and I and we have been working in the dark for almost 10 years now. With the attention we received since the birth of Nemesis, we hope to change all that. For now, I would say that our biggest success comes at that moment when the musician takes possession of his instrument. The look in his eyes at this specific moment is very rewarding. Another satisfying moment is when you hear the instrument sing in the hands of a talented musician.
Are you preparing something new, some new model or new design? Or maybe some new gear amps, etc.
My head is always full of new ideas; the problem is which one to undertake? Apart from the fact that we might be starting the build of Nemesis # 2, Ella and I just finished the design of an 8-string multi-scale neck through single cut guitar. A StEllArt Facebook follower has proposed that it would be pretty cool to build a
9-string multi-scale extended range bass. I thought that it could be a nice project to undertake.
What are your future plans?
Originally, we started to build 6 and 7-string guitars. But I need to be honest and say that we have more pleasure building basses. Bass Players are more adventurous and open-minded and this is great for us because we can think outside the box and build instruments that are out of the ordinary. Saying that, we would be very happy to concentrate a greater part of our time building basses.
Is there anything else you would like to share that we have not included?
We would like very much to express our gratitude to those who gave us their trust in building for them a unique instrument that does not only provide them with superior performance capability and sound, but that is also a work of art.
We also want to say thanks to Valery and Raul from Bass Musician Magazine, without whom these instruments would not get as much attention as they deserve.
Visit online:
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