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
Don't miss these
Custom Line King-12 CE NT
Acoustic Guitars "For a guitar that comes in at this price, the overall build is impressive, with a level of attention to detail that’s more than respectable": Harley Benton Custom Line King-12 CE NT review
The Gibson Songwriter Recording Artist Series in cutaway and non-cutaway versions, and in Rosewood Burst or Antique Natural finishes.
Guitars A future player favourite? Gibson unveils the Songwriter Recording Artist acoustics
A pair of Boss Waza-Air guitar amp headphones
Guitar Pedals As a pro guitarist, I think Boss makes the most reliable pedals around, so with 26% off everything from the DD-8 to the Waza Metal Zone in Amazon's Spring Deal Days sale, it's time to stock up
Fender 30th Anniversary Hot Rod Deluxe: the special edition tube combo comes finished with a commemorative "Western" vinyl covering, with gold and brown grille cloth.
Guitars Fender celebrates three decades of the Hot Rod Deluxe with a stunning anniversary edition
Blackstar Artist FR Standard
Guitar Amps "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
JHS Pedals 424 Gain Stage: this computer-gray stompbox is a preamp-cum-distortion that emulates the analogue mojo of the Tascam Portastudio
Guitar Pedals “There’s plenty of output to use the pedal as a conventional boost with tonal options. And there’s a whole area of dirt to be explored”: JHS Pedals 424 Gain Stage review
Neural DSP Quad Cortex
Guitar Pedals Best multi-effects pedals: Our pick of the best all-in-one guitar FX modellers
Epiphone Inspired By Gibson Acoustics 2026: the new all-solid core range takes its design cues from classic high-end Gibson USA builds.
Guitars Epiphone raises the bar for its acoustic guitar range with all-solid builds, rosewood fingerboards and affordable takes on Gibson classics
A pair of Audio-Technica in-ear monitors on top of a carry case
Studio Monitors Best budget in-ear monitors 2026: My pick of cheap in-ears for every type of musician
Mark Tremonti throws the horns and points to something during a live performance with Creed. His signature PRS singlecut is strapped on his shoulder.
Artists “I had no idea that he was that good”: Mark Tremonti on Alter Bridge’s “secret weapon” and his soloing strategies
Headphones next to electric guitar
Headphones Best guitar amp headphones 2026: My top picks for practicing your guitar quietly
The Victory MKX rehouses a high-end classic from the British amp brand in a more compact lunchbox format.
Guitar Amps “Undoubtedly the most versatile lunchbox amp Victory has ever made”: Victory MKX review
Gretsch Synchromatic Flacon close up of pickguard
Electric Guitars Best Gretsch guitars 2026: Nail that Gretsch sound at any price point
Deals of the week logo
Tech MusicRadar deals of the week: Score $200 off a whacky Gibson guitar, $150 off UAD plugins, and $200 off a must-have Moog synth
TC Electronic Polytune next to a Gibson Les Paul
Guitar Tuners Best guitar tuners 2026: From tuning pedals and clip-ons, to guitar tuning apps
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 (May 2017)

News
By Guitarist magazine, Total Guitar, Acoustic Magazine ( Acoustic Magazine, Guitarist, Total Guitar ) published 2 May 2017

All of the latest guitar reviews

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

Sigma GJA-SG200

Sigma GJA-SG200

It’s been another stellar month of guitar gear here at MusicRadar.

We’ve seen gorgeous acoustics, stunning electros and plenty more pass through our office.

Here, we take a digested look at all of the guitar gear that was reviewed on the site during April. We start with the Sigma GJA-SG200.

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“A touch of class that will not disappoint at a price that will not leave you high and dry.”

FULL REVIEW: Sigma GJA-SG200

4.5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Acoustic)

Page 1 of 16
Page 1 of 16
Manuel Rodriguez Model FF

Manuel Rodriguez Model FF

MusicRadar's verdict:

“This guitar would do well in the hands of a more advanced player. A superb instrument.”

FULL REVIEW: Manuel Rodriguez Model FF 

5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Acoustic)

Page 2 of 16
Page 2 of 16
Taylor 612CE 12-Fret

Taylor 612CE 12-Fret

MusicRadar's verdict:

“One of the best guitars we’ve laid our hands on.”

FULL REVIEW: Taylor 612CE 12-Fret 

5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Acoustic)

Page 3 of 16
Page 3 of 16
Sigma JM-SG45

Sigma JM-SG45

MusicRadar's verdict:

“At this price, what’s not to like?.”

FULL REVIEW: Sigma JM-SG45

4 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Acoustic)

Page 4 of 16
Page 4 of 16
Avian Ibis Deluxe Fan Fret

Avian Ibis Deluxe Fan Fret

MusicRadar's verdict:

“An acquired taste perhaps, but this fan fret in full flight is a joy to behold.”

FULL REVIEW: Avian Ibis Deluxe Fan Fret 

4 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Guitarist)

Page 5 of 16
Page 5 of 16
Knaggs Severn X T3

Knaggs Severn X T3

MusicRadar's verdict:

“A fantastic instrument - a definite ‘keeper’.”

FULL REVIEW: Knaggs Severn X T3

4.5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Guitarist)

Page 6 of 16
Page 6 of 16
PRS McCarty SC 594

PRS McCarty SC 594

MusicRadar's verdict:

“We guarantee that the monetary investment in this PRS will be rewarded with tone, playability and jealous gazes aplenty!”

FULL REVIEW: PRS McCarty SC 594

4.5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Guitarist)

Page 7 of 16
Page 7 of 16
Squier Affinity Series Jazzmaster HH

Squier Affinity Series Jazzmaster HH

MusicRadar's verdict:

“Great sounds at a tiny price.”

FULL REVIEW: Squier Affinity Series Jazzmaster HH

4 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Total Guitar)

Page 8 of 16
Page 8 of 16
Taylor Academy Series 10E

Taylor Academy Series 10E

MusicRadar's verdict:

“This may just be the dream beginner guitar...and a potential trade-up for some.”

FULL REVIEW: Taylor Academy Series 10E

4.5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Guitarist)

Page 9 of 16
Page 9 of 16
Avian Songbird Deluxe Fan Fret

Avian Songbird Deluxe Fan Fret

MusicRadar's verdict:

“It may tip the scales in terms of price point, but the Songbird offers superb sound and an enjoyable playing experience.”

FULL REVIEW: Avian Songbird Deluxe Fan Fret

4.5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Guitarist)

Page 10 of 16
Page 10 of 16
Taylor Academy Series 12E

Taylor Academy Series 12E

MusicRadar's verdict:

“A keenly-priced guitar that will impress more than just newbies.”

FULL REVIEW: Taylor Academy Series 12E 

4.5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Guitarist)

Page 11 of 16
Page 11 of 16
Mooer Blues Crab

Mooer Blues Crab

MusicRadar's verdict:

“A real classy performer that won’t break the bank.”

FULL REVIEW: Mooer Blues Crab 

4 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Total Guitar)

Page 12 of 16
Page 12 of 16
TC Electronic Cinders

TC Electronic Cinders

MusicRadar's verdict:

“An inexpensive pedal to add some fire to your tone.”

FULL REVIEW: TC Electronic Cinders

4 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Total Guitar)

Page 13 of 16
Page 13 of 16
MXR Badass Modified OD

MXR Badass Modified OD

MusicRadar's verdict:

“An excellent low to mid-gain overdrive with wide tonal options and rock-solid MXR build.”

FULL REVIEW: MXR Badass Modified OD 

5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Total Guitar)

Page 14 of 16
Page 14 of 16
Xvive Sweet Leo

Xvive Sweet Leo

MusicRadar's verdict:

“With oodles of nuance this is a versatile asset for any pedalboard.”

FULL REVIEW: Xvive Sweet Leo

5 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Total Guitar)

Page 15 of 16
Page 15 of 16
Juketone True Blood 1X8” Combo

Juketone True Blood 1X8” Combo

MusicRadar's verdict:

“Available direct at just under the magic £250, this amp’s tweed magic at a bargain basement price - check it out!”

FULL REVIEW: Juketone True Blood 1X8” Combo

4 out of 5

(Originally reviewed in Guitarist)

Page 16 of 16
Page 16 of 16
Acoustic Magazine
We're the UK's only print publication devoted to acoustic guitar. image
We're the UK's only print publication devoted to acoustic guitar.
Subscribe for star interviews, essential gear reviews and killer tuition!
More Info
Read more
All the best guitar gear from this year's NAMM Show
Guitars The best new guitar gear of NAMM 2026: More effects, more amps, more guitars and more tech than ever
 
 
MusicRadar author Matt McCracken plays a Manson 007 electric guitar at The Guitar Show in Birmingham, UK
Guitars Here's 7 of the hottest guitar gear releases I tried at The Guitar Show this weekend that are available to buy right now
 
 
Deals of the week
Gear & Gadgets MusicRadar deals of the week: Save a colossal $500 off one of my favourite Sterling by Music Man guitars, grab $200 off a super cool D'Angelico, plus all the week's biggest sales on music gear
 
 
Deals of the week logo
Tech MusicRadar deals of the week: Score $200 off a whacky Gibson guitar, $150 off UAD plugins, and $200 off a must-have Moog synth
 
 
Deals of the week logo
Tech MusicRadar deals of the week: Score $390 off a divisive Fender Stratocaster, $180 off a stunning Gretsch and hundreds off PA and live gear
 
 
Harley Benton ST-Modern Carlos Asensio
Electric Guitars “An absolute steal when it comes to quality and value for money”: Harley Benton ST-Modern Carlos Asensio CGM review
 
 
Latest in Guitars
Melissa Auf der Maur and Courtney Love in 1998
Bass Guitars “It took me one second to understand that she's a survivor”: Melissa Auf der Maur on why she’s “proud” of Courtney Love
 
 
AUSTIN, TX - DECEMBER 09:  Displayed in public for the first time is John Lennon's piano, used to write numerous Beatles songs and part of Indianapolis Colts CEO and Owner Jim Irsay's "Jim Irsay Collection" during a reception at the Four Seasons Hotel on December 9, 2021 in Austin, Texas.  (Photo by Gary Miller/Getty Images)
Keyboards & Pianos "Lot after lot, we felt like we were making history”: John Lennon’s Broadway piano goes for £2.5 million
 
 
JHS Pedals 424 Gain Stage: this computer-gray stompbox is a preamp-cum-distortion that emulates the analogue mojo of the Tascam Portastudio
Guitar Pedals “There’s plenty of output to use the pedal as a conventional boost with tonal options. And there’s a whole area of dirt to be explored”: JHS Pedals 424 Gain Stage review
 
 
The Harley Benton SpaceShip 40 is a pedalboard with an integrated power supply, and battery power.
Pedalboards “Would I take this to gigs and use it with confidence, knowing that my pedals are being powered sufficiently and safely? Absolutely”: Harley Benton Spaceship Power 40-B review
 
 
A press shot of Paul Gilbert [left] wearing a tricorn hat and playing a pink Ibanez; Todd Rundgren wears dark shades and performs live in 2021.
Artists “To me, it was like being asked to tour with the Beatles”: Paul Gilbert on why he turned down the gig of a lifetime
 
 
Deals of the week logo
Tech MusicRadar deals of the week: Score $200 off a whacky Gibson guitar, $150 off UAD plugins, and $200 off a must-have Moog synth
 
 
Latest in News
(L-R) Kerry Katona, Natasha Hamilton and Liz McClarnon of English girl group Atomic Kitten, 2000. (Photo by Roberta Parkin/Redferns/Getty Images)
Artists OMD’s Andy McCluskey says it was a Kraftwerk legend who advised him to form girlband Atomic Kitten
 
 
The Ticketmaster logo is displayed on a smartphone screen in this photo illustration
Gigs & Festivals “I urge them to reconsider”: Minister’s message to Live Nation over £1 arena and stadium levy
 
 
Melissa Auf der Maur and Courtney Love in 1998
Bass Guitars “It took me one second to understand that she's a survivor”: Melissa Auf der Maur on why she’s “proud” of Courtney Love
 
 
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 01: Bruno Mars performs onstage during the 68th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 01, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.  (Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Artists Why Bruno Mars' new single Risk It All could have ended up sounding very different
 
 
James Blake performs during the inaugural 2024 Gazebo Festival at Waterfront Park on May 25, 2024 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Producers & Engineers "I’d say 95 percent of the work I’ve done was unpaid”: James Blake on the hit and miss nature of production work
 
 
Diane Warren and KPop Demon Hunters
Artists Songwriter Diane Warren’s Oscars losing streak goes on as KPop Demon Hunters’ Golden wins
 
 

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...