Stuart Williams
Stuart has been working for guitar publications since 2008, beginning his career as Reviews Editor for Total Guitar before becoming Editor for six years. During this time, he and the team brought the magazine into the modern age with digital editions, a Youtube channel and the Apple chart-bothering Total Guitar Podcast. Stuart has also served as a freelance writer for Guitar World, Guitarist and MusicRadar reviewing hundreds of products spanning everything from acoustic guitars to valve amps, modelers and plugins. When not spouting his opinions on the best new gear, Stuart has been reminded on many occasions that the 'never meet your heroes' rule is entirely wrong, clocking-up interviews with the likes of Eddie Van Halen, Foo Fighters, Green Day and many, many more.
Latest articles by Stuart Williams

By Chris Barnes Last updated
Just starting out behind the kit? We’ve put the top entry-level e-kits through their paces - testing sound quality, pad feel, durability and more - to help you choose the right setup. Watch our video demos to hear how they perform

By Stuart Williams Published
The drum part that introduced Nirvana and a drummer named Dave Grohl to the world was released back in 1991

By Stuart Williams Published
Forget surf, this baritone is designed to deliver at the meatier end of the rock spectrum

By Chris Barnes Last updated
Our experts have tested over 90 kits to bring you this guide to the best electronic drum kits available today - we've also got full reviews, buying advice and demos

By Stuart Williams Published
FX meets organic with Zultan’s hole-filled mini-hats

By Chris Barnes Last updated
My comprehensive guide to the best of Roland's electronic drum kit line-up - tested and rated, plus video demos

By Stuart Williams Published
Modelling doesn't need to be expensive or complicated, and Blackstar has just delivered the first proof for 2026

By Stuart Williams Published
The belt-driven pedal features a host of features aimed at usability, performance and fast response

By Stuart Williams Published
Premium DW shells paired with Roland's next-generation V71 and V51 modules and a choice of DW or Roland cymbals

By Stuart Williams Published
NAMM 2026: After a couple of weeks of teasers, Yamaha has finally lifted the lid on its next-level EAD product

By Stuart Williams Published
NAMM 2026: The all-acrylic design extends to the hoops for what could be some of the most focused acrylic sounds yet

By Stuart Williams Published
NAMM 2026: Designed in collaboration with Dave Elitch, the shallowest-ever True-Cast snare is limited to only 100 pieces

By Stuart Williams Published
Roland unlocks the tonal backbone of its flagship V71 for the new 5 Series. Is this the electronic drum set that finally keeps us away from the computer?

By Chris Barnes Last updated
Thomann's massive 2025 Cyber Monday deal have ended, but there are still plenty of ways to save

By Stuart Williams Published
With 45% off, this dual-amp-in-a-box overdrive is a worthy addition to any 'board, whether you're a Green Day fan or not…

By Stuart Williams Last updated
Snag Roland's next-gen, mid-price V-Drums set for less, complete with the same sound engine as the mega-expensive V71 module

By Stuart Williams Last updated
As Black Friday weekend turns into Cyber Monday, now’s the time to pounce on this 'if money was no object' V-Drums set from Roland

By Stuart Williams Published
With up to 73% off Toontrack SDX Expansion packs - including one inspired by Phil Collins, Stewart Copeland and Vinnie Colaiuta - is the doghouse really such a bad place to be?

By Stuart Williams Published
The sonic power of TONEX, ported to a bass-friendly version of the TONEX Pedal

By Stuart Williams Published
High quality in-ears don’t have to be custom-moulded, so says 64 Audio with its entry into the mid-priced monitor market

By Stuart Williams Published
A revived classic returns to the Gretsch line-up as an affordable, two-humbucker rock machine

By Stuart Williams Published
If you’re happy and you know it, Zultan is offering a cut-price solution to clapping your hands

By Stuart Williams Published
The first ever official software emulations of Boss pedals are here, but they live under a Roland Cloud…
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