Bass Videos
New Gear: Spector Expands Its Popular NS Ethos & NS Dimension Lines with the HP Series
Spector, a leading innovator in bass guitar craftsmanship, proudly announces the release of its NS Ethos and NS Dimension HP Series basses.
These cutting-edge instruments blend Spector’s iconic NS neck-thru designs with new features, including EMG and Darkglass electronics, illuminating side dots, and timeless tonewoods. The HP basses also offer a stunning selection of solid finishes, paying homage to some of the brand’s most legendary models.
Jeff Shreiner, Category Bass Brands – Marketing Manager, comments, “Some of history’s best-known Spectors are our straight-forward, solid finished instruments. Everyone from Sting to Jason Newsted has made that a go-to look for our basses. The HP models embrace that legacy and bring it to our NS Ethos and NS Dimension series instruments. You get the iconic Spector tone, ergonomics, and neck-thru construction as many of our other models in a bass built to go to work.”
The NS Ethos HP basses embody the essence of the NS Ethos models, featuring their neck-thru construction and elegant NS body contours. Designed for performance, these HP basses combine a 3-piece maple thru-neck (ebony fingerboard) with resonant alder wings. Each instrument also showcases powerful EMG DC active pickups, flawlessly synergizing with Darkglass Tone Capsule preamp for a thoroughly modern Spector tone.
The NS Dimension HP basses represent Spector’s commitment to cutting-edge performance and design. Leveraging the multi-scale, neck-thru construction from the esteemed NS Dimension Series, the HP models exhibit a confident simplicity that resonates with the no-nonsense bassist. With EMG DC pickups and Darkglass Tone Capsule preamps, the NS Dimension HP basses are the ultimate choice for rock, metal, and progressive bassists.
NS Ethos and NS Dimension HP Series basses are a modern evolution of Spector’s most iconic neck-thru instruments. With their streamlined marriage of classic and innovative design, these instruments empower bassists to push the boundaries and make their mark.
For more information about the NS Ethos and Dimension HP Series basses, please visit spectorbass.com/series/dimension-series/ and spectorbass.com/series/ethos-series/
Bass Videos
New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers
New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers…
Aguilar Amplification is excited to unveil the next generation of Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers. These amplifiers are designed to meet the exacting standards of today’s bassists, enhancing their musical expression through in-demand features and fresh new designs.
The latest innovations in the Tone Hammer and AG series include the introduction of the Aguilar Cabinet Suite, dual XLR outputs, expanded connectivity options, and power section upgrades. These features not only provide superior sound quality and flexibility but also maintain the classic Aguilar performance that musicians have relied upon.
Key features of the next-generation amplifiers:
Aguilar Cabinet Suite: This new software allows players to load Aguilar ’s custom-designed SL/DB cabinet impulse responses (IRs), or their own custom IR files. This feature is available through both XLR and headphone outputs, offering new tone shaping and cabinet emulation options.
Dual XLR Outputs & Expanded Connectivity: Musicians can now tailor their tone and utilize cabinet IRs for their monitor mix, while also sending a pre-EQ ’d signal directly to the front-of-house. This dual functionality ensures optimal sound for both the artist and front-of-house. The new amplifiers include auxiliary input and headphone output options for silent practice. They also feature mix controls to fine-tune the listening experience, ideal for both practice and performance.
Upgraded Power Sections: Previously exclusive to Aguilar’s 700-series, the upgraded power sections in the Tone Hammer and AG 500 now support a 2.67 ohm load and include universal mains. These enhancements make the amplifiers perfect for international touring, offering seamless voltage adaptation.
“The new Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers are a testament to Aguilar ’s commitment to world class sound and performance, providing bassists with the tools they need to define their sound on the global stage,” remarks Jordan Cortese, Brand Manager, Aguilar Musical Instruments.
The next-generation Tone Hammer and AG series amplifiers are available for purchase through www.aguilaramp.com and Aguilar’s extensive dealer network worldwide. For more information about the new amplifiers and other Aguilar products, please visit www.aguilaramp.com.
Bass Videos
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
Bassist Derek Frank…
Many of you will remember the last time I chatted with Derek Frank was back in 2017. The main thing that impressed me was how busy Derek was and how he juggled playing with many huge acts.
Now, I am happy to hear that Derek launched a new album last March titled “Origin Story” where he digs deep into his roots and pays homage to Pittsburg.
Join me as we get caught up after all these years and hear the details about the new album, how Derek gets his sound, and his plans for the future.
Photo, Stephen Bradley
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Visit Online:
www.derekfrank.com
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www.youtube.com/derekfrankbass
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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
Bass Videos
Interview With Bassist Graham Stanush
Bassist Graham Stanush…
Return to Dust is keeping Grunge alive and well! They have a new self-titled album that went out on May 3rd, 2024 and will be super busy promoting this project in the near future.
Graham Stanush is the bass powerhouse driving their sound and adding vocals to the mix. Join me as we hear all about Graham’s musical journey, details about the new album, how he gets his sound and their plans for the future.
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Visit Online:
linktr.ee/returntodust
instagram.com/returntodustband/
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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
New Gear: Aguilar Amplification Next-generation Tone Hammer and AG Series Amplifiers
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
Artist Update With Bassist Derek Frank
String Instrument Humidifiers
Interview With Bassist Graham Stanush
New Gear: Spector Doug Wimbish USA Custom Series Basses
New Campaign: Alberto Rigoni, Nemesis Call – Queens Of Strings
Luthier Spotlight: Ellis Hahn of LEH Basses
Approach Notes – Part 6
