Musical Instruments

Roland has revamped most of the models in the FP line this year. The refinements in the new FP-30X make this keyboard an excellent instrument for many situations and players.

You’ve got your guitar, and a tune in your head. But you also imagine a particular tone you’d like your skull crushing rock epic to sound like. Your guitar is certainly a part of that overall sound, and your playing styles and techniques will certainly contribute. Ultimately, though, your amplifier is what will define your tone. The number of amplifier options and technologies involved seem endless, and can be confusing. How do you even begin looking? I’ll try to help you find the amp that will deliver the sound you want.  

Epiphone have great-sounding and affordable instruments for guitarists of all levels. These FT-100 guitars are no exception.

The Joyo DC-15 Guitar Amplifier has awesome features, including drum tracks to take your playing to the next level.

Woodwind instruments are varied in size, playability, and sound, and this buying guide will help you to begin navigating through this musical territory.

Here’s the American Standard Stratocaster electric guitar by Fender. This beauty had the privilege of spending some time in my studio for a little routine check. And what a ride it was! For some rock chords, blues riffs, funky rhythms and lots of modern jazz, this Strat is a versatile, high-end guitar. The American Standard I personally tried is equipped with three single coil pickups, features a black body finish with a classic white pickguard. The sexy curves of this solid body (it has contours that fit the musician’s arms) makes this guitar a gem of modern electric instrument manufacturing. The Stratocaster model, with its two asymmetrical horns continues to be the most imitated guitar body amongst all lesser brands of electric guitars. Thousands of timeless albums feature the tones of this american musical giant. Hendrix, Clapton, Stevie (and many more) used the Strat as their main instrument. We shouldn’t take this lightly!

Epiphone's FT-100CE adds high note access and a pickup system to an already great dreadnought style guitar.

The M-Audio Studiophile line attempts to straddles that edge between high-performing computer speakers and entry-level studio monitors. Their size is large when compared to desktop computer speakers, but small when compared to studio monitors. The AV 30’s features go beyond traditional computer speakers and approach those of studio monitors. These speakers have decent sound, can deliver a good punch and, in the end, are something to consider for even the most budget-conscious. If you’re looking for some good sound for your gaming, music or videos on your computer, then the AV 30’s are worth a listen.

Almost all major guitar manufacturers now carry at least two brands of guitar under their umbrella. You have the one “name” brand that is the premiere flagship brand and then a less expensive brand that makes more affordable versions of the classics. Gibson Guitars has the Epiphone brand, ESP has LTD, and Fender has Squier. And while these guitars are more affordable than their famous brothers, that doesn’t mean that they don’t play and sound great, especially considering their price points. This blog will look at two Squier Stratocasters and discuss playability, sound, and value.

The Populele smart ukulele is a great instrument for anyone to learn how to play music and Best Buy is giving away a couple in this contest.