NAMM 2009 Day One!

The highlight today has to be the depth review we got of the Washburn line.  They’ve got some new signature guitars and Vintage Series re-issues that are sure to make your must-have list, like the new signature model created for Adam D from Killswitch Engage with EMG pickups.  Even Washburn’s main line this year is outstanding, with beautiful new finishes and super-light bodies that could make any one of their guitars your new stage favourite.  

We also got a special inside look at Ernie Ball Music Man's 25th Anniversary Guitar, a stunning electric with custom Di Marzio humbucking pickups.  Ernie Ball has combined a basswood chambered body with a mahogany tone block and premium maple top to create a lightweight guitar with spectacular tone.

I was especially impressed with Walden's newest offering, a high gloss finish that is a Polyester build undercoat with a thin Polyurethane top coat (traditionally they do only satin finish). Their Stage Cutaway model is an awesome new addition to their line: nitrocellulose finish with built in pickup, tuner, and even tone control. The neck has two carbon rods that take the pressure off the 2 way adjustable truss rod, making adjustments easier and more precise. Although the rails add stiffness and improve sonic performance, they do not lock the neck into an un-adjustable state. Exact desired relief or back-bow can be dialed in by adjusting the truss rod. Truly an awesome stage-ready acoustic guitar.

Other highlights today included the stunning Shin Series from Fernandes Guitars; the Sans Amp Classic 20 pedal re-issue from Tech 21; and Radial’s Bone pedals, smaller, more affordable versions of their popular Tonebone line.

We’re working hard at the show this weekend to be able to bring you some amazing reviews in the coming weeks.  And stay tuned for my daily reports from the noisy, exciting and incomparable NAMM show floor!