Skip to main content
MusicRadar MusicRadar The No.1 website for musicians
UK EditionUK US EditionUS AU EditionAustralia SG EditionSingapore
Sign in
  • View Profile
  • Sign out
  • Artist news
  • Music Gear Reviews
  • Synths
  • Guitars
  • Controllers
  • Drums
  • Keyboards & Pianos
  • Guitar Amps
  • Software & Apps
  • More
    • Recording
    • DJ Gear
    • Acoustic Guitars
    • Bass Guitars
    • Tech
    • Tutorials
    • Reviews
    • Buying Guides
    • About us
More
  • Sly and Survivor
  • In My Life
  • 95k+ free music samples
  • One chord Diamond
  1. Guitars

New guitar gear of the month: review round-up (November 2012)

News
By The MusicRadar Team published 1 November 2012

October's new products at a glance

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

Brainworx bx_rockrack

Brainworx bx_rockrack

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"In terms of raw numbers, there's less here than most competitors, but what's there sounds absolutely fantastic."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Brainworx bx_rockrack

(Reviewed in Computer Music issue 183)

BUY: Brainworx bx_rockrack currently available from:
US: Sweetwater

Page 1 of 34
Page 1 of 34
Cornell PedalAmp

Cornell PedalAmp

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Versatile, rugged and beautifully made, the Cornell PedalAmp provides quality guitar tones in a very portable package."

3.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Cornell PedalAmp

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 2 of 34
Page 2 of 34
Peerless Leela 40

Peerless Leela 40

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"As a celebration of 40 years of guitar craft, this anniversary, and very limited, Leela is highly apt: a very classy solid-topped archtop."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Peerless Leela 40

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 3 of 34
Page 3 of 34
Carvin Allan Holdsworth HH2

Carvin Allan Holdsworth HH2

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Intelligent and good-sounding version of Ned Steinberger's original vision mixed with Holdsworth's immense experience and chops. Niche but nice."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Carvin Allan Holdsworth HH2

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 4 of 34
Page 4 of 34
Marshall JVM410HJS Joe Satriani Signature

Marshall JVM410HJS Joe Satriani Signature

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A monster head: without doubt one of the best Marshalls ever."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Marshall JVM410HJS Joe Satriani Signature head

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: Marshall JVM410HJS Joe Satriani Signature head currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music | DV247
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass

Page 5 of 34
Page 5 of 34
Carvin Frank Gambale FG1

Carvin Frank Gambale FG1

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A classy, well-made, good-sounding and playing semi. Do yourself a favour and track one down."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Carvin Frank Gambale FG1

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 6 of 34
Page 6 of 34
Carlsbro Sherwood II 30R

Carlsbro Sherwood II 30R

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"If you're in search of a darker sound for rootsier acoustic tones, add the Sherwood II to your list."

3.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Carlsbro Sherwood II 30R

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 7 of 34
Page 7 of 34
Vox AGA30

Vox AGA30

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A really neat, portable and stylish amp with choice of channel voicing and good potential for a little sonic abuse."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Vox AGA30

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: Vox AGA30 currently available from:
UK: Gear4Music
US: Full Compass

Page 8 of 34
Page 8 of 34
Rickenbacker 650C Colorado

Rickenbacker 650C Colorado

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"This is the Rickenbacker for people who think they can't play or don't like Rickenbackers."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Rickenbacker 650C Colorado

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 9 of 34
Page 9 of 34
Peavey AT-200

Peavey AT-200

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"The AT-200 may prove revolutionary for certain players."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Peavey AT-200

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 361)

BUY: Peavey AT-200 currently available from:
UK: Thomann | Gear4Music | DV247
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass

Page 10 of 34
Page 10 of 34
Taylor 712ce

Taylor 712ce

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A superb all-rounder - a guitar that will accompany you from the sofa to the biggest stages effortlessly."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Taylor 712ce

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: Taylor 712ce currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music
US: Sweetwater

Page 11 of 34
Page 11 of 34
Providence Stampede DT SDT-2

Providence Stampede DT SDT-2

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Superb 1980s-inspired rock distortion that never sounds small nor thin."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Providence Stampede DT SDT-2

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: Providence Stampede DT SDT-2 currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music

Page 12 of 34
Page 12 of 34
Strymon Flint tremolo and reverb

Strymon Flint tremolo and reverb

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"There's no better time to revisit the effects that started it all."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Strymon Flint tremolo and reverb

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: Strymon Flint tremolo and reverb currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | DV247

Page 13 of 34
Page 13 of 34
TC-Helicon VoiceLive Play GTX

TC-Helicon VoiceLive Play GTX

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"An excellent effects unit for vocalists that adds a guitar facility."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: TC-Helicon VoiceLive Play GTX

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: TC-Helicon VoiceLive Play GTX currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music | DV247
US: Full Compass

Page 14 of 34
Page 14 of 34
Taylor GS Mini Mahogany

Taylor GS Mini Mahogany

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"For a travel-friendly songwriting companion that doesn't sacrifice tone or playability for the size reduction, the GS Mini has got to be your first port of call."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW:Taylor GS Mini Mahogany

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

BUY: Taylor GS Mini Mahogany currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Gear4Music | DV247
US: Sweetwater

Page 15 of 34
Page 15 of 34
LTD M-53

LTD M-53

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"The M-53 is a solid all-rounder that can handle many styles. For this price, you can't knock it."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: LTD M-53

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

BUY: LTD M-53 currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Gear4Music

Page 16 of 34
Page 16 of 34
Roger Mayer Voodoo Vibe TC

Roger Mayer Voodoo Vibe TC

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Quality costs, but that client list speaks for itself, and the TC is an easy-to-use way of getting those sounds on your pedalboard."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Roger Mayer Voodoo Vibe TC

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

Page 17 of 34
Page 17 of 34
Fender FSR Telecaster Custom

Fender FSR Telecaster Custom

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Good looks, top-notch build quality and tones that could strip paint - well played, Fender. You've made us feel special."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Fender FSR Telecaster Custom

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

Page 18 of 34
Page 18 of 34
Ibanez FRM100TR

Ibanez FRM100TR

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Make sure you audition one of the most intriguing shred guitars we've tried in a long time."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Ibanez FRM100TR

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

Page 19 of 34
Page 19 of 34
Jackson JS23 Dinky

Jackson JS23 Dinky

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A very respectable entry-level rocker that - unsurprisingly, given its heritage - is best suited to fans of all things heavy and widdly."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Jackson JS23 Dinky

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

BUY: Jackson JS23 Dinky currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music

Page 20 of 34
Page 20 of 34
Sterling By Music Man Sub Silo3

Sterling By Music Man Sub Silo3

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"The mission statement of an HSS electric is to cram multiple personalities into one guitar and the Silo3 does this ably."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Sterling By Music Man Sub Silo3

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

BUY: Sterling By Music Man Sub Silo3 currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann

Page 21 of 34
Page 21 of 34
Ibanez SA160FM

Ibanez SA160FM

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"It's a little pricey for an entry-level axe. But if you're serious about braving the road or studio with just one electric, this is well worth the wedge."

5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Ibanez SA160FM

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

BUY: Ibanez SA160FM currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music | DV247

Page 22 of 34
Page 22 of 34
LTD KH-25

LTD KH-25

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"The KH-25 emulates 'Tallica well, but those looking for a more flexible metal axe should probably look elsewhere."

3 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: LTD KH-25

(Reviewed in Total Guitar Magazine 232)

BUY: LTD KH-25 currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music

Page 23 of 34
Page 23 of 34
Thermionic Culture Solo Vulture

Thermionic Culture Solo Vulture

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A highly desirable item for those who appreciate what valves can do in the right hands."

3 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Thermionic Culture Solo Vulture

(Reviewed in Future Music Magazine 258)

BUY: Thermionic Culture Solo Vulture currently available from:
UK: DV247

Page 24 of 34
Page 24 of 34
Taylor 712ce-N

Taylor 712ce-N

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Taylor's take on the hybrid steel/nylon guitar is extremely playable with a mellow acoustic voice and crisper, more attacking amplified sound."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Taylor 712ce-N

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: Taylor 712ce-N currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music
US: Sweetwater

Page 25 of 34
Page 25 of 34
TwinStomp Active A/B-Y MkII

TwinStomp Active A/B-Y MkII

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"The TwinStomp Active A/B-Y MkII is hard to fault for dependable, very high-quality two-amp switching."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: TwinStomp Active A/B-Y MkII

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 26 of 34
Page 26 of 34
Malekko Omicron Spring

Malekko Omicron Spring

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"It's impossible not to like the Spring's time machine tones, but it is niche."

3.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Malekko Omicron Spring

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 27 of 34
Page 27 of 34
Providence Silky Drive

Providence Silky Drive

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Wonderful overdrive with incredible dynamics, but with an equally 'incredible' price."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Providence Silky Drive

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: Providence Silky Drive currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music

Page 28 of 34
Page 28 of 34
IK Multimedia iRig Stomp

IK Multimedia iRig Stomp

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"The iRig Stomp provides a solid connection without having to be right next to the iOS device, it's also the practical choice should you wish to use one as part of your signal chain."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: IK Multimedia iRig Stomp

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

BUY: IK Multimedia iRig Stomp currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music | DV247
US: Sweetwater | Full Compass

Page 29 of 34
Page 29 of 34
Nineboys Wedge

Nineboys Wedge

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"Strangely addictive. Sure, you could make your own, but if you can't be bothered, Nineboys has done it for you."

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Nineboys Wedge

(Reviewed in Guitarist Magazine 360)

Page 30 of 34
Page 30 of 34
PRS SE Dave Navarro

PRS SE Dave Navarro

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"If you're after PRS quality on a budget - and dig the colour scheme - then the SE Dave Navarro is the guitar for you."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: PRS SE Dave Navarro

(Reviewed in Total Guitar issue 233)

BUY: PRS SE Dave Navarro currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | Gear4Music | DV247
US: Sweetwater

Page 31 of 34
Page 31 of 34
Majik Box Doug Aldrich Rocket Fuel

Majik Box Doug Aldrich Rocket Fuel

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A tonal elixir that won't quite do all the work for you, but will make sure your scorching hot distortion tones sound the best they possibly can."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Majik Box Doug Aldrich Rocket Fuel

(Reviewed in Total Guitar issue 233)

Page 32 of 34
Page 32 of 34
Jackson Adrian Smith SDX

Jackson Adrian Smith SDX

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A bit of a game changer in the sub-£500 guitar market. The SDX could convince you it's worth double the street price: no small feat."

5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Jackson Adrian Smith SDX

(Reviewed in Total Guitar issue 233)

BUY: Jackson Adrian Smith SDX currently available from:
UK: Andertons Music | Thomann | DV247
US: Sweetwater

Page 33 of 34
Page 33 of 34
Freshman FA1TRAVLTD

Freshman FA1TRAVLTD

MusicRadar’s verdict:

"A good quality, practical and fun travel guitar, but you'll want to head back to a dreadnought for recording/performing purposes."

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Freshman FA1TRAVLTD

(Reviewed in Total Guitar issue 233)

BUY: Freshman FA1TRAVLTD currently available from:
UK: Gear4Music

Page 34 of 34
Page 34 of 34
The MusicRadar Team
The MusicRadar Team
Social Links Navigation

MusicRadar is the internet's most popular website for music-makers of all kinds, be they guitarists, drummers, keyboard players, DJs or producers.

GEAR: We help musicians find the best gear with top-ranking gear round-ups and high-quality, authoritative reviews by a wide team of highly experienced experts.

TIPS: We also provide tuition, from bite-sized tips to advanced work-outs and guidance from recognised musicians and stars.

STARS: We talk to artists and musicians about their creative processes, digging deep into the nuts and bolts of their gear and technique. We give fans an insight into the actual craft of music-making that no other music website can.

Latest in Guitars
Deals of the week logo
MusicRadar deals of the week: Score $390 off a divisive Fender Stratocaster, $180 off a stunning Gretsch and hundreds off PA and live gear
 
 
George Harrison wears all white and plays an acoustic guitar during his 1974 Dark Horse tour.
“When I first met George I was speechless”: Robben Ford on what it was like working with a Beatle at the age of 22
 
 
IK Multimedia Tonex One Double Special: the limited edition mini pedal comes preloaed with 20 modelled sounds from two of IK's own super-rare Dumbles.
IK Multimedia just put $300,000 of Dumble mojo into a Tonex One mini pedal
 
 
Mark Morton with his signature Les Paul Modern
How Mark Morton and Gibson reinvented the Les Paul for modern metal – and why passive beats active humbuckers hands down
 
 
Blackstar Artist FR Standard
"This might be the most amp-like option out there, and it's certainly convinced me of the benefits of the humble FRFR speaker": Blackstar Artist FR Standard review
 
 
Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Acoustics 2026: the new all-solid core range takes its design cues from classic high-end Gibson USA builds.
Epiphone raises the bar for its acoustic guitar range with all-solid builds, rosewood fingerboards and affordable takes on Gibson classics
 
 
Latest in News
Shye Ben Tzur, Jonny Greenwood and The Rajasthan Express black and white photograph
“Music is just such a sweet shop”: Jonny Greenwood to release album with Qawwali musician Shye Ben Tzur
 
 
wood
SampleRadar: 213 free wooden percussion samples
 
 
MADRID, SPAIN - JULY 10: The musician Jack White during a concert at the Mad Cool 2022 Festival, in Valdebebas, on July 10, 2022, in Madrid
“Dylan didn’t tell you what the answer was”: Jack White on why he doesn’t write protest songs
 
 
LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 27: Lou Reed and Damon Albarn of Gorillaz perform on stage with Gorillaz at the Gibson Amphitheatre on October 27, 2010 in Los Angeles California. (Photo by Paul R. Giunta/Getty Images)
“I was told to take it off": Damon Albarn reveals that Lou Reed’s voice on The Mountain is a ‘replica’
 
 
Marianne Faithfull
“It was such a special moment”: Marianne Faithfull's last performance captured in new doc
 
 
NIJMEGEN, NETHERLANDS - JULY 2: Steven Tyler of Aerosmith performs live on stage at Goffertpark on July 2, 1999 in Nijmegen, Netherlands. (Photo by Paul Bergen/Redferns)
Songwriter Diane Warren is bewildered by some of her lyrics for what became Aerosmith's biggest hit
 
 

MusicRadar is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.

Add as a preferred source on Google Add as a preferred source on Google
  • About Us
  • Contact Future's experts
  • Terms and conditions
  • Privacy policy
  • Cookies policy
  • Advertise with us
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Careers

© Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

Please login or signup to comment

Please wait...