Yamaha 3 1/2 Octave Vibraphone
Yamaha has expanded the sound palette for percussionists by developing a new 3 1/2 octave vibraphone. It uses an additional low C to E set of bars, allowing beautiful low tones and voicing not available on other models. Other features include gold bars and reso-nators; quiet variable speed motor with silent on/off; folding rails. resonators and pedal crossbar; height adjustment; four-inch casters; and large swivel pedal. The unique instrument can be heard on Mike Mainieri’s recent recording, An American Diary: the dreamings. For more information call 616-940-4900
The New French Besson Trumpet
Boosey and Hawkes has expanded its Besson Trumpet line to include a new model designed by trumpeter Marvin Stamm. The new .460 bore model is designed to complement other French Besson trumpets. It’s available with either an “A” or “B” bell, allowing for maximum playing flexibility, and comes with valve cap spacers that lessen the resistance in the “blow” of the instrument. Also included is a square bend tuning crook that defines notes clearly and brightens the sound a bit, while taking nothing away from the warmth of the instrument. For more information call 847-816-2500
Toca Percussion’s Rumba Timba Drum
Kaman Music has designed the Toca Percussion Rumba Timba drum for the professional player looking for the sound and dynamics of a double-headed solo
or an accom-paniment drum. The Rumba Timba is a one of a kind model that draws on both African and Brazilian influences. It’s particularly well-suited as an accompanying drum to the conga. The double-headed drum is played bata-style, while seated, and features traditional hoops and exclusive four- bolt tension plate hardware. Suggested retail price is $649.50. For more information call 860-509-8891
Leblanc’s “Arturo Sandoval” Trumpet
Leblanc has introduced its “Arturo Sandoval” trumpet (model T357) and its fluegelhorn counterpoint (F357). Designed in collaboration with the trumpeter, these instruments meet his strict require-ments for tone, response and flex-ibility. The trum-pet has a specially tapered leadpipe and a unique one-piece tuning slide. The fluegel-horn features a tunable leadpipe, third slide trigger and an all copper 6 1/2 inch bell. For more information call 800-558-9421
Kaces III Brand Gig Bags
I Can’t Believe It’s Not Leather is a new line of gig bags from Kaces III. Available in keyboard, cymbal, guitar and electric bass configurations, the gig bags are constructed with high quality nylon or a new “Not Leather” material that is as durable and as attractive as the real thing. Each bag features water-resistant outer shells, heavy duty luggage grade zippers, high density thick padding, double
reinforced bottom sections and extra-strength stitching at stress points. For more information call 805-579-8737
Bassline’s Fundamental, Fretless System
Basslines and bassist Steve Bailey have joined forces to develop the Fundamental Fretless system, Steve’s signature model pickups and Tone Circuits. The active pickups are designed for use in 4, 5 and 6 string basses, with specific calibrations for neck and bridge position. The Tone Circuits are available with either two or three bands of focused EQ, together with a switch that engages a frequency contour opti-mized to bring out the fretless harmonics as well as mid-range boost. For more information call 805-964-9610
