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Fender Launches Campaign Supporting Best-Selling Player Series
Fender Launches Campaign Supporting Best-Selling Player Series
Video features Aldana Aguirre
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announces the start of a new 2023 campaign for the acclaimed Player Series, a line of guitars and basses designed for the new generation of artists, players and creators. Since its inception in 2018, the Player Series has become Fender’s best-selling series, having sold more than half a million units globally and showing nearly 30% consecutive year over year growth. Beyond that, the series has ignited a demographic shift within the industry and attracted a diverse, passionate, and inclusive new universe of guitar and bass players. It’s a testament to the series’ singular ability to transcend genre and aid in the creative exploration of artists such as Turnstile, Cherry Glazerr, Saya Gray, Japanese Breakfast, Beach Bunny, Soccer Mommy and White Reaper, and has appeared on stages and inspired music and culture worldwide.
New data1 states that playing the guitar is more common among 18 to 29-year-olds (23%) than among any other age group, and the Player Series continues to be Fender’s best-selling series specifically catered towards but not limited to this demographic. In celebration of the modern day creator and bringing attention to the many reasons why you’ll never regret owning a Fender guitar, the brand is putting a concentrated focus on the Player Series to highlight boundary-pushing musicians of all playing levels and jumpstart their creative process with finely crafted, legacy instruments. The Player Series 2023 campaign will showcase the timeless appeal of Fender’s Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Precision Bass and Jazz Bass models, while heroing a handful of eclectic artists who exemplify the fresh and inclusive spirit of the Player Series, including HAIM and Dominic Fike, and up-and-coming Fender Next artists.
“The launch of the Player Series in 2018 was one of the first times Fender had spoken directly to emerging artists and creators through a flagship series of electric guitars, unbound by classic genres or musical traditions” said Evan Jones, Fender CMO. “Now, as the series boasts consecutive year over year growth since launch, we continue to see the diverse range of passion and musical expression that Fender Player Series guitars and basses have unleashed and we are building on that momentum. We hope the Player Series will continue sparking creative inspiration and inspire even more musicians to try out a Fender guitar or bass.”
The Player Series 2023 campaign is coming to life in a big way as one of Fender’s most expansive rollouts to date. Starting in May, and extending through the end of the summer, there will be paid activations that bring to life why guitarists will never regret their decision to be a player. Paid will live across traditional print media but also digital ad placements across the Match.com portfolio including Tinder, Chispa and BLK as well as Spotify, host-read ads on comedian Conan O’Brien’s podcast, “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend ,” and out-of-home via Live Nation and in key outlets and markets including New York City, Los Angeles, and Nashville. The campaign will be supported by artists who know first-hand the power of a Player Series instrument. Fender Next 2023 artists Cafuné, Jean Dawson, Cecilia Castleman, and Luna Li, will kick off the campaign in a launch compilation film, which will live across all of the brands owned channels, as well as “Tales of Regret,” a social dedicated series which will include featured artists talking through their best and worst purchases. In addition, the Grammy-nominated, powerhouse trio of sisters, HAIM, will star in the campaign’s hero video, and be included in the “Tales of Regret” series. Singer, songwriter, actor and guitarist Dominic Fike will also support later this summer with his very own episode in the coveted serialized series ‘Fender Sessions’ which highlights artists from around the world via a mix of live song performances, techniques and a conversation about their personal journey.
In addition, Fender is introducing two soon-to-be-classic Fender colorways to the Player Series lineup – Seafoam Green, an eye-catching blue-green, and Candy Apple Red, a rich, deep red. The new and striking paint jobs give musicians even more opportunity to express their individuality and creativity. Built for ambitious players who stop at nothing to elevate their craft, these classic Fender models embody that timeless look and sound that have made an indelible mark on popular music and culture for the last 80 years—and they’re the best Fender has built in the middle price-range. New in-depth product demo videos feature players Aldana Aguirre, Horace Bray and Arianna Powell as they take viewers through the Fender Player Series Bass, Stratocaster, Jazzmaster and Telecaster guitar.
“Our mission at Fender is to empower musicians to express themselves and amplify their creativity, and the Player Series is a prime example of this commitment,” said Justin Norvell, Fender’s EVP of Product. “We continuously evolve our product offerings, spec innovations, and stylistic options to meet the evolving needs of artists. With its easy playability, maximum comfort, and sleek design, the Player Series is designed to help players advance on their musical journey and amplify the musicianship of the artist.”
The Player Series sets the new benchmark for quality and performance, with features, including:
- Player pickups for legendary vintage tones heard on some of the world’s most influential records
- Traditional body radii handcrafted with players in mind for improved comfort
- Modern “C” neck profiles to support easy playability
- 22-fret necks for extended range
- Upgraded bridges for improved performance and easier setup
- New colors, our classic logo and “F”-stamped neck plate for a more authentic Fender look
The Fender Player Series includes the following models all available in either a maple fingerboard, or pau ferro fingerboard:
- Player Duo-Sonic™
- Player Duo-Sonic™ HS
- Player Mustang®
- Player Mustang® 90
- Player Stratocaster®
- Player Stratocaster® Left-Handed
- Player Stratocaster® HSS
- Player Stratocaster® HSH
- Player Stratocaster® Plus Top
- Player Stratocaster® HSS Plus Top
- Player Telecaster®
- Player Telecaster® Left-Handed
- Player Telecaster® HH
- Player Jaguar®
- Player Jazzmaster®
- Player Stratocaster® Floyd Rose® HSS
- Player Mustang® Bass PJ
- Player Precision Bass®
- Player Precision Bass® Left-Handed
- Player Jazz Bass®
- Player Jazz Bass® Left-Handed
- Player Jazz Bass® Fretless
- Player Jazz Bass® V
- Player Jaguar® Bass
*Pickguard colors vary by model, not all models offer the same color pickguard.
1YouGov, Younger Americans are increasingly exposed to playing music and a wider range of instruments, August 2022
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
