We're back at it again for more great gear from 2024! If you haven't seen our Part 1, go check it out for heaps more of awesome, new gear! If you have, let's get down to it then...
Best in Show: East Coast, Beast Coast
You didn’t think we’d leave our own coast hanging, did you? We can’t help but shout out the East. Route 1? Wawa? The Northeast Corridor? What’s not to love? All up and down the Atlantic shore, we’ve got great love for this part of the country and all the awesome sound it produces.
Caroline Guitar Company Wave Cannon Zero Distortion
In a small “distortery” in Columbia, South Carolina, Caroline Guitar Company’s Wave Cannon Zero was born. Built off several versions of their legendary “rodent” distortion, the Wave Cannon Zero clocked in for a totally killer drive we all couldn’t get enough of. We went cannons blazing with this latest version of the Caroline classic, and we invite anyone to do the same!
Read Our Review Here
Martin Custom Shop Expert Acoustic Guitars
The Martin Custom Shop operates with a close network of Custom Shop “Expert” dealers. We here at Russo Music are proud to be one such dealer. In one of our recent trips over to the Martin Guitar factory in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, we assisted in constructing some custom Martin acoustic guitars with our own hand-picked materials. It’s hard not to feel the love and history Martin Guitar Co. has for their craft and this area of the country – they've been here for next to two hundred years, after all!
Champion Leccy "The Skitzy" Dual Layered Modulated Reverb
Our third brick-and-mortar shop sits in the City of Brotherly Love, so you can bet that we share a kinship with Philadelphia’s very own Champion Leccy and their Skitzy modulated reverb! A veritable master of all things modulated, distorted, and off-the-wall, Champion Leccy’s offering of The Skitzy got us jazzed up over its warped and mind-bending effect combinations. Tremolo, delay, reverb, take your pick on The Skitzy and let the wonderful weirdness bloom.
Best in Show: Enter the Matrix
Sometimes it’s not all about the classics, sometimes it’s about the future – and wouldn’t you know it, the future starts now! With these picks, we looked to the future of gear and took in all the digital muscle and sonic innovation that greeted us. (Sunglasses and long, black jackets not included.)
Strymon BigSky MX Next Generation Reverb Effect Workstation
It’s no huge surprise to see Strymon at this juncture of the list. With their Bigsky MX Next Generation Reverb Effect Workstation, Strymon built upon one of their most robust and popular reverb units with even greater processing power. If you’re not feeling like a true tone scientist now, just jump into the deep end of the Bigsky MX and you’ll start! With advanced (and we mean advanced) features, connectivity, and tones, this unit is a complete experience unto itself.
Moog Spectravox Semi-Modular Analog Spectral Processor
Moog is a classic name in synthesis, so we’re really never too surprised when they come out with something fresh and exciting. Their Spectravox Semi-Modular Analog Spectral Processor did just that for us with its ten-band vocoding, isolating, and spectral shifting. Decked in a classic Eurorack casing, the Spectravox expanded our minds on signal processing with its powerful sonic engine and unique textural properties. The future is now!
Vongon Replay Polyphonic Synthesizer
Vongon is a name that deals in pretty vintage-inspired tech, but rest assured, they are real movers and shakers when it comes to cutting-edge innovation. Their Replay Polyphonic Synthesizer takes cues from some absolute classics in synthesizing, but also forges ahead with in-depth arpeggiating, MIDI implementation, and connectivity. If you’re on the lookout for new angles and close customization on classic synth sounds, the Replay is your ticket.
Fender Tone Master '59 Bassman Amplifier
The Tone Master series of amps has brought classic tube sounds into the modern age through advanced digital processing power. Who would have thought that one of Fender’s most famously dirty amps could make the jump, though? The Tone Master ‘59 Bassman did just that and with flying colors, no less. Bringing exceptional tube-quality sounds with added modern features for attenuation, effects looping and more, this Fender classic lived to ride another day in the Tone Master series.
Best in Show: One With Nature
It’s not all air conditioning and Wi-Fi, you know. Sometimes you do have to go outside. No picks this year reminded us more of the great outdoors and how we should probably get a little bit of sun and fresh air than these few from some of our favorite names. As much as we love our dark studio setups, it never hurts to see the sun every now and again (even if the sun isn’t MIDI compatible, it’s pretty cool nonetheless!)
Gibson Falcon Tube Combo Amplifiers
You didn’t have to have an eagle eye to catch these amps this year! The Gibson Falcon combo amps delivered classic Gibson and Mesa Boogie voices with homegrown tube tonality and a rugged aesthetic. These are the kinds of amps you really just want to go straight in, crank up, and kick your boots on for a classic, American sound – rugged, honest, and lush.
Walrus Audio Monumental Stereo Harmonic Tap Tremolo
For trail trekkers and National Park aficionados, Walrus Audio dropped in with their Monumental Stereo Harmonic Tremolo pedal. This updated version of their Monument Harmonic Tremolo built in new stereo capabilities, preset recalling, and standard and harmonic tremolo blend functions for killer new tremolo sounds. The pedal, inspired by Monument Valley Park, captures a distinctly natural feel, even with all its bells and whistles, so when you grab hold of its harmonic tremolo sounds, you’ll really feel out in the wilderness yourself!
Fender American Performer Timber Electric Guitars
A limited release from Fender, the American Performer Timber series brought the American Performer Telecaster and Stratocaster to life with exciting new tonewoods! This series shared the sweet sounds of spruce, pine, and sassafras in classic Fender models for some new voices. Speak for the trees!
Best in Show: Behind the Music
We’ve got to throw it over to some of music’s greatest for direction in gear, sometimes. Traveling around the world, playing the biggest shows, arming yourself with your favorite gear, what could be better? For these picks, we turned to some musical masters for their own designs and favorites as manifested through some of our favorite brands!
Gibson Slash "Jessica" Les Paul Standard Electric Guitar
Sunglasses, top hat, Gibson Les Paul – any guesses? As one of Gibson’s most prolific guitarists, Slash defined a generation of Les Paul players by the time the late ‘80s hit. His main guitar, reimagined in this year’s “Jessica” model, came together as a model exhibiting true rock ‘n’ roll grit and bravado, complete with a three-piece maple top, Custom Burstbucker pickups, and a honey-shaded finish. Was this the sweet child Axl was singing about? Probably not, but it’s a nice thought to have!
Fender Mark Hoppus Jaguar Bass Guitar
It was the Mark, Tom, and Travis show all over again this year with the Fender Mark Hoppus Jaguar! This offset bass, packed with pure, caffeinated, pop punk energy, had quite a bit to celebrate. Hoppus, on tour with Blink-182 this year, actually played this exact model of bass on tour all around the world, making this limited release an extra-special occasion.
Fender Susan Tedeschi Telecaster Electric Guitar
As a prolific, modern blues guitarist, Susan Tedeschi got her own Fender Telecaster this year with all the style and gusto she’s known for! A slab rosewood fingerboard, an Aged Caribbean Mist finish, and custom-designed Telecaster single-coils made this artist model one to write home about. However you play a Tele, you were sure to find some kind of bluesy sweet spot with this Tedeschi Telecaster.
MXR Yngwie Malmsteen Overdrive
Neo-classical rock guitar incarnate, Yngwie Malmsteen. The legendary guitarist got his own signature MXR Overdrive this year, causing much celebration among his many, many disciples. Two dials and mountains of crispy, solo-ready tone came readymade with this special MXR drive – so for any prospective, neo-classical hopefuls, this is a perfect place to start!
EarthQuaker Devices Gary Automatic Pulse Width Modulation Fuzz and Dynamic Natural Overdrive
There’s always something great out there, someone pushing boundaries, someone like Gary. EarthQuaker Devices paired up with Lee Kiernan from one of today’s most necessary rock bands, IDLES, to revive their classic Gray Channel overdrive with a twist. What kind of twist? How does a pulse width modulation fuzz sound for a twist? This massively noisy and righteous drive and fuzz combo made quite an impression for those looking to take on new tonal territory.
Best in Show: Holding Out For a Hero
Heroes, myths, legends, we’ve got ‘em all! When it comes to exciting new gear, who wouldn’t want to get a little “Hero’s Journey” with it? For these picks, we delved into the depths of the literary canon (with some creative liberties taken) for some true musical might.
Mythos Pedals Herculean Deluxe Overdrive
Honestly, we couldn’t find a better pick for this category than Mythos Pedals (I mean come on... “Mythos!”) and their Herculean Deluxe overdrive. A dual-headed overdrive, this formidable, double-barreled drive packed in low-to-mid gain overdrive tonality to move some mountains and claim some glory for your own. Take on one head of this hydra or both at once and claim stake to your own heroic mettle.
Epiphone '63 Firebird I Electric Guitars
From one legend to the next, Epiphone brought out their iconic Firebird with the ‘63 Firebird I. Rising from ashes like the proverbial legend of the phoenix, this classic model from Gibson got a new set of wings through Epiphone with nine-ply necks, Gibson humbuckers, and some striking finishes. When this “Inspired by Gibson” line model bowed its head and rustled its feathers, it was fiery licks and blistering speed all the way down.
EarthQuaker Devices Blumes Low Signal Shredder Bass Overdrive, Russo Music Exclusive
Some sounds you can find just about anywhere. With the EarthQuaker Devices Blumes, some sounds you can find just about anywhere – and then some! This pick from EQD brought the legendary sounds of “screamer”-style overdrives into the realm of the bass for bassists to get in on all the signal-shredding fun. The Blumes carried with it a familiar interface and a prolific sound – if you thought you’ve seen this traveler before, you’re right!
Old Blood Noise Endeavors Dark Star Stereo Soundscape Reverb
Reappearing like an omniscient presence among the stars, the Old Blood Noise Dark Star Stereo manifested as an expanded version of their Dark Star modulated reverb pedal from eons before. This celestial being graced us with a complex cauldron of sounds from pitch-shifting to bit-crushing, making for a lush mix to color the cosmos. It’s through pedals like Dark Star Stereo that legends become myths, but make no mistake, this constellation of reverb tones is as real as you or me!
Read Our Review Here
Best in Show: Double Down, Triple Threat
With these picks, we were seeing double (and triple or quadruple) on new musical directions. In one way or another, these pieces gave us plenty of places to go and so many options to choose!
Old Blood Noise Endeavors Expression Ramper X3
Old Blood Noise Endeavors’ Expression Ramper is a classic around these parts. Automatic remote expression control? Sign us all up, right? We thought we had it made until Old Blood reared its head to drop the Expression Ramper X3 – a three-time upgrade to the classic Expression Ramper formula. Automate up to three expression controls at one time while incorporating new tap, sync, and random waveform functions to get really regimented or really wild with your expression ramping!
Gamechanger Audio AUTO Series Modular Effect Pedals
Three’s a magic number. When it comes to Gamechanger Audio’s AUTO Modular series of pedals, it’s a quite scientific number, too. The AUTO series of modulation, delay, and reverb effect pedals punches in with multiple effect modes, stereo routing, and unique patch cable operation, these guys make for quite the methodic and experimental effect experience. If you’re missing that modular touch in your rig, take one of these three pedals for a spin!
Moog Labyrinth Parallel Generative Analog Semi-Modular Synthesizer
Things got pretty twisty around here with the Moog Labyrinth. This analog, semi-modular synth features two eight-step sequencers that dance and wind around each other to create pretty complex and colorful jam sessions of synthesized sequencing. There’s always a new direction (or two) to take with the Labyrinth, so grab hold and let these twin sequencers carry you away.
Keeley 4-In-1 Series: Blues Disorder, Super Rodent, Angry Orange Overdrive and Distortions
It’s always a treat to have options. This definitely proved to be true with these three pedals from Keeley Electronics – the Blues Disorder, Super Rodent, and Angry Orange. These pedals, part of Keeley’s 4-in-1 series, offered up four distinct drive effect combinations to put a smile on anyone’s face. According to the laws of physics, there is only so much room in the universe to have space on your board – might as well make it count!
Best in Show: Simple and Clean
You’ve gotta simplify, sometimes. While these picks might not all be strictly “clean” in sound, their presentation as plain and simple musical instruments had us swooning. Whether it was a guitar, pedal, or amp, we needed to shout out these pieces as exceptionally fluid, clear and purposeful.
Browne Amplification Carbon X Dual Overdrive
There’s really no nonsense about the Browne Amplification Carbon X Dual Overdrive. A two-in-one overdrive pedal, this model busted in balancing low and high gain overdrive tones with high fidelity and a raucous voice. Just take a gander at this overdrive and say you’re not about to get down to business – we dare you!
Gibson ES Supreme Electric Guitars
Maybe we need to pick another word for this entry from Gibson, the ES Supreme. Clean might not do it. Serene? Pristine? All of the above? These Gibson American-made semi-hollows dropped in the conversation this year with AAA figured maple body layers, ebony fingerboards, and Burstbucker Pro humbucking pickups. All of these features added up to a series of massively impressive instruments with sound and style to spare.
JHS Pedals Flight Delay
Everything you need, nothing you don’t: this is the mission statement of JHS’s Flight Delay multi-mode delay. Bringing things back to relative basics with a multi-mode delay of this caliber was something that enchanted us this year. Digital, analog, and reverse delays with a built-in modulation section had us simply in love with delay all over again.
Read Our Review Here
*****
Well, here we are. The tail end of another year. As we wind down these last few weeks of 2024, we'd like to shout out all our brands and all of our readers that make year-end round-ups like these so exciting. Stay tuned and we'll see you in 2025!
