Bosphorus Jazz Master Series Cymbals
Given the name of this new series, handcrafted in Turkey by Bosphorus’ cymbal masters, you can probably already guess what the aim is sound-wise: focused, articulate, crystalline. As far as playability, the cymbals’ higher profile means added control, and the 19-, 20-, 21-, 22- and 24-inch cymbals can function as crashes or rides. Fourteen-inch hi-hats are also available, as well as 20- and 22-inch China cymbals. bosphoruscymbals.com
Roland Blues Cube Tone Capsules
As if Roland’s Blues Cubes weren’t brilliant enough already–the warmth and earthiness of a favorite tube combo with the dependability and functionality of a modern solid-state box–the series can quickly be modified via Tone Capsules. Recent highlights of the line include Capsules by jazz-blues virtuoso Robben Ford and NYC-based funk-fusion shredder Oz Noy (dubbed “New York Blues”). Installed as easily as plugging in a lamp, these add-ons can reshape every facet of the amp’s sound. $199-$299 online. roland.com
Spitfire Audio “North 7” Vintage Keys
Sampled vintage-electric-piano sounds can easily go amiss; everyone who’s listened to jazz and pop since the ’60s knows how those sonics are supposed to go, so even a teeny bit off is too much. For absolute authenticity, check out Spitfire Audio’s North 7 collection, featuring painstakingly captured and engineered versions of a Fender Rhodes 73 Mark 1, a Fender Rhodes piano bass, an Hohner Clavinet and a Wurlitzer 200A. $299 online. spitfireaudio.com
BOSS VB-2W
Vibrato PedalHelping those guitarists who’ve scoured the Internet looking for an affordable vintage BOSS VB-2, the Roland-owned brand is less reissuing the pedal than reinventing it. The analog circuitry and classic tones are there when you need that Americana shimmer or want to walk some organ-like basslines, but new sounds are also available through the VB-2W’s Custom Mode, and it can be hooked up to an expression pedal, among other fresh features. $199 online. bossus.com
G&L Kiloton Bass
Leo Fender’s love of innovation defined his entire life’s work, including, or especially, the instruments he designed for his G&L brand. The company’s new Kiloton bass matches his Magnetic Field Design humbucker with a striking, comfortable body design that evokes Fender’s iconic basses as well as his Stratocaster. Other features include a 1 1/2-inch nut width and medium-C neck profile; medium-jumbo, Plek-dressed frets; and a three-position series/split/parallel mini-toggle. $2,000 MSRP. glguitars.com
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