Shoegaze-in-a-Box: Catalinbread Soft Focus FX40
Some say shoegaze is making a comeback. The moody, reverb-rich, guitar-based genre plays on feelings of nostalgia, melancholy, and a lust for Jazzmasters. The folks at Catalinbread believe shoegaze never left, and we’re inclined to believe them after experiencing the Soft Focus FX40 Shoegaze reverb pedal. Pitched as an instant shoegaze button, the FX40 is […]
Not Fade Away — Gibson Returns to the Faded Series
Gibson has re-introduced the Faded series that became popular in the early 2000s, that later attained a cult status amongst gigging guitarists. This time around, Gibson has brought the “Faded” finish to the Les Paul Standard ’50s and ’60s as well as the SG Standard ’61 Maestro. The zZounds team was lucky enough to get […]
2025 Headphones Buying Guide
2025 Headphones Buying Guide Whether you’re a DJ, producer, performer, audiophile, or you just love having a soundtrack for your runs, commute or homework, our 2025 Headphones Buying Guide can help you find the perfect pair for your needs. Check out our guides below, watch our videos, learn the lingo, and get some handpicked recommendations […]
Conquering the Magic of the EBow
The EBow… one of the many wonders of the world, and of music! This unique tool allows guitar players to turn their picking hand into a “bow,” creating a feedback loop that can sustain your note for as long as you hold the EBow in place. As cool as this sounds though, it can be […]
Building Ambient Pads in Phase Plant
Let’s get back to the basics! Building an ambient pad is an ideal application of software synthesis and what better platform to explore this medium than Phase Plant? This top-of-the-line software synth from Kilohearts does just about anything you can imagine and more. Whether you are looking for traditional subtractive synths, a robust wavetable engine, […]
zZounds Live: Travel Through Time and Space with the Boss RE-202 Space Echo
Introduced in 1974, the Roland RE-201 Space Echo stands among the most legendary and sought-after effect units ever produced. The Boss RE-202 faithfully delivers the authentic sound and behavior of the Space Echo like never before with modern amenities and vintage-voiced tones. Roland/Boss engineers have tirelessly reproduced the same non-linear behaviors that original tape echoes […]
Songwriting Series: Blog Collection
Songwriting Techniques and Tips Do you dream of writing your first song, or just need some tips to enhance your own works? You’ve come to the right place. Find our collection of posts offering songwriting tips that will guide you from the first verse to the very end of your next song! A Guide to […]
zZounds Live: How to Use a Compressor
Compression is one of the most-heard effects in the world, but its ubiquity is almost matched by its mystery. While the applications of compressors can range from gentle squeeze to full vice grip, training your ear to hear the subtle differences can sometimes prove arduous. Well, wonder no more! Check out this special edition of […]
Celebrate Over 40 Years of Mesa/Boogie with the Mark V!
Satisfy your cravings for the ultimate Mesa/Boogie tone with the world-renowned Mark Series. This series’ pedigree spans over four decades, from founder Randall Smith’s earliest tinkerings to the modern high-gain amps of today. Whether you are looking for pristine yet muscular cleans, juicy saturation, or anything in between, a Mark Series amp delivers with ease. […]
