At some of Chicago’s more famous museums, patrons aren’t supposed to touch the exhibits. But Synth House Chicago Museum is different. In this cozy co-working space in the West Town neighborhood, guests get their hands on an impressive collection of modern and vintage synthesizers curated by owner Marty Pelayo, who encourages museum visitors to bring […]
Getting a signature model is a dream for many musicians. Creating something to your exact specs, tastes and sonic preferences is definitely a sign you’ve made it. We asked zZounds staffers what their dream signature gear would look like and we got a range of cool ideas. Check them out below and let us know […]
IK Multimedia’s new AXE I/O interface (endorsed by Joe Satriani!) is aimed at the recording guitarist, with the goal of making it easier and faster to get a great tone — especially on direct injection, or DI, recording. To that end, the AXE gives you a few key options for tone shaping: 1. A Passive/Active […]
It’s a fact: if you’ve been to two or more shows, you can talk about the best show you’ve ever seen (so far). Whether it was a band you’ve idolized since childhood, or an unknown act that blew you away, or even a perfect crowd, these shows can be a transformative experience. We asked zZounds […]
2019 marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most iconic and most copied overdrive pedals of all time: The Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer. Designed by Maxon and re-branded by Ibanez, the Tube Screamer has been a favorite among guitarists of all genres. Whether you’re trying to get the sweet bluesy break up of Stevie […]
Endorsements are a huge sales driver in any industry. It’s why young basketball stars are wooed to sign shoe deals with brands like Nike and Adidas. Or former NBA stars like Shaq, who get courted by brands like Icy Hot and Gold Bond. Music gear is no different, with a history of artist endorsements going […]
G&L was founded in 1980 by George Fullerton and the legendary Clarence “Leo” Fender. Few people know about Leo’s time after leaving Fender, in which he designed some of the first Music Man models and then founded G&L where he worked until his passing. These instruments featured some of Leo’s final innovations to the electric […]
Sometimes, you play a great show. Other times…things go wrong. From smashed gear to horrific venues to audiences looking to really rage, these are tales from the shows we wish we could forget. Read these terrifying short stories if you dare, and share yours in the comments below! Mellow Against the Machine Shop One of […]
Another NAMM is in the books, but we still can’t stop talking about the awesome gear and people we saw there. Check out our rundown of the coolest things we saw this year at NAMM! Neon Vines demoing the Akai Force One of the hottest launches of the 2019 NAMM Show was the Akai Force. […]