Musical Instruments

Even though I’ve been here before, NAMM is exciting, overwhelming, thrilling and exhausting. The first day was a hit-the-ground-running experience even though my brain and gear-geek self were asking my body and schedule to slow down. My francophone co-hort (Marc-Andre) and I caught up on each others’ past year, took a spin through the exhibit floor, saw a lot of new and familiar faces and, most importantly, took lots of photos, videos and notes on lots of interesting things!      

The DJ2GO2 Touch DJ Controller from Numark packs classic features in a portable DJ controller at an affordable price.

A decade ago, I probably wouldn’t have recommended digital pianos to anyone looking to purchase one for learning the instrument. These days, given the advances in technology and relative prices, I’d say they’re something that one needs to seriously consider. They’re a great option for the modern family who want to start learning and enjoying the instrument.    

Roland's AeroCaster harnesses the power of your iPad to get you streaming wirelessly with multiple mobile devices in no time.

When it comes to guitar effects pedals, or “stomp boxes” as they are often referred, the Boss brand pedals are certainly among the most ubiquitous on a guitarist’s pedal board. The BOSS OD-1X—BOSS’ newest Overdrive offering—The BOSS BD-2w Blues driver, and the BOSS TE-2 Tera Echo are among the newest effect pedal offering from the revered company. The 3 pedals on review here all have their own little nuances and tones to offer and it ultimately will depend on what you are looking for in your pedal that will determine which you will want to purchase and add to your pedal board.

IK Multimedia continues at the forefront of technological innovation that has allowed the average consumer to enter the creative realm of music production.

A lot of different bang for your buck.   The Alesis Transactive Wireless speaker functions as a wired speaker, a Bluetooth speaker, a USB charger for your mobile devices, an amplifier for guitar, keyboards, or electronic drums, and a small Personal Address (P.A.) system. It is portable, can run on AC power or with the built in rechargeable battery, and can even be pole mounted. This hard working unit can do it all and not empty the bank account.

In the midst of all the blinking lights and touch-screens, I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find some really beautiful workmanship. Not just injection molded plastic and brushed metal, but wood and other natural materials crafted into instruments that I’d be extremely pleased to handle and play.   A stop by the Tanglewood booth prooved to be one of those times.

The Epiphone Hummingbird is an excellent affordable alternative to Gibson's legendary model.

The Roland Aerocaster and Web Presentation Dock are perfect for any burgeoning content creators who want to produce professional quality content. Enter for a chance to win!