Clip-on guitar tuners offer a quick way to tune a guitar, but that speed is accompanied by a series of compromises. The speed comes from their position on the headstock: clip-on tuners effectively become part of the guitar, turning the instrument’s vibrations into a pitch. But this also requires building sophisticated electronics into a tiny device. I own Boss, Cherub, … [Read more...] about Clip-on guitar tuners: the best choice for accuracy and speed
Guitar Reviews
Boss Blues Driver BD-2 pedal review
Overdrive has become synonymous with the sound of the electric guitar, offering grit and power without sacrificing nuance. Boss makes several overdrive pedals, with its Blues Driver BD-2 favoured by guitarists including Prince, The Indigo Girls’ Emily Saliers, Sleater-Kinney’s Carrie Brownstein, and Los Lobos’ Cesar Rosas. The pedal has also been used in more creative … [Read more...] about Boss Blues Driver BD-2 pedal review
A close-up look at Kurt Cobain’s Martin D-18E acoustic guitar
Kurt Cobain's 1959 Martin D-18E acoustic guitar will be forever associated with the musician thanks to Nirvana's live 1993 MTV Unplugged performance just months before he died. It would take a further 26 years for the guitar to earn a different type of infamy after Røde Microphones founder Peter Freedman bought it for $6 million, making it the most expensive guitar ever … [Read more...] about A close-up look at Kurt Cobain’s Martin D-18E acoustic guitar
Artist Guitar CL44AM entry-level classical guitar: a worthy alternative to the Yamaha C40
Artist Guitars online-only business model means they don't have the reputation of some manufacturers but their CL44AM classical guitar offers one of the strongest combinations of price-to-quality in the beginner nylon string range. I bought a new CL44AM classical guitar in 2021 after initially borrowing a model to test - like any low-cost guitar it has its limitations. But … [Read more...] about Artist Guitar CL44AM entry-level classical guitar: a worthy alternative to the Yamaha C40
Cedar or spruce? Alhambra, Yamaha and Alvaro acoustic guitars tested
The sound of an acoustic guitar is dictated by many factors, but one of the most important is the choice of wood for the top plate. Spruce and cedar have traditionally been among the most popular due to the wood’s stiffness and low density. A recent study compared the sound characteristics of the two materials across two groups of spruce and cedar top guitars. The first … [Read more...] about Cedar or spruce? Alhambra, Yamaha and Alvaro acoustic guitars tested
What is the most expensive electric guitar ever sold?
The electric guitar underpinned the rise of pop and rock music – and some aficionados are willing to pay millions for the instruments that made it happen. Electric guitars have routinely sold for more than any other type of guitar although the most expensive guitar remains Kirk Cobain's acoustic Martin D-18E. It is one of just three acoustic guitars to sell for more than $1 … [Read more...] about What is the most expensive electric guitar ever sold?
What is the most expensive acoustic guitar ever sold?
The most expensive acoustic guitars in the world have helped shape the history of modern pop and rock music. For those able to afford them, the price pales into insignificance compared to the value of owning an instrument that channeled some of the most iconic songs ever known. While the most expensive classical guitars have attracted a few hundred thousand dollars, … [Read more...] about What is the most expensive acoustic guitar ever sold?
What is the most expensive classical guitar ever sold?
The classical guitar marks the instrument in its purest form. Yet these guitars, first standardised by Antonio de Torres in the 19th century, are far from the most valuable instrument. Virtually every other type of guitar, whether electric or steel-string acoustic, has been sold for more at auction. Perhaps it's no surprise. Music is about emotion more than history. Kurt … [Read more...] about What is the most expensive classical guitar ever sold?
Is the Yamaha C40 a good guitar for beginners?
Beginner guitarists need a low-cost instrument that is durable, yet easy to play. The C40 is Yamaha's solution to this demanding set of criteria. In fact, the C40's low price and consistent quality has made it one of the most popular nylon string guitars in the world. It is a favorite among guitar teachers and their students. I recently bought a second-hand Yamaha C40 to … [Read more...] about Is the Yamaha C40 a good guitar for beginners?