NAMM 2019: Ibanez TSV808 Vemuram Tube Screamer

This year at NAMM, Ibanez has unveiled a new pedal. It is a collaboration with a Japanese pedal maker, Vemuram. Vemuram has made a name for themselves by using high-quality parts and outstanding quality control. The TSV808 looks like a beautiful example of simplicity and elegance in aesthetics. This pedal might look spectacular, but what's new with the Vemuram Tube Screamer?

Nearly anyone who has ever made an effect pedal has made a tube scream., and I do mean everyone. It's almost a right of passage for budding pedal builders to make this simple circuit. I love a tube screamer in my rig, but I don't pretend to hear a wide range of difference in the different shades of green. I own a 1980s TS9 and it is still a toss-up between a decent clone. So, this is a pretty reissue of a TS808 made with a boutique pedal builder. If you like that kind of thing, then this is for you. It doesn't really speak to me, but this is more about a new twist on an old favorite.

NAMM 2019: Fender American Acoustasonic

NAMM is upon us again, and I think the thing that everyone has an opinion about is the new Acoustasonic guitars from Fender. The early 2000s were a pioneering time. One of the standout products for the guitarist from that time is the Acoustasonic. You can probably think of someone you know that know that owns one. I know so many people that had one. this guitar is like the product of a love affair of Ovation guitar, with its round, composite back, and a Telecaster. I honestly can't stand them. They are neck heavy, bulky, awkward and dead sounding. In short, I hate them.

Enter, NAMM 2019. Fender has had hit after hit. The new line of effects is stellar and growing. Their limited artist tribute series must be making money hand over fist. It seems like Fender can do no wrong. Then there is this. The concept is a compromise. It must have been designed by a committee. It's like someone asked, "How do we get an electric guitarist to buy an acoustic?" then people started shouting out ideas at random. The end result was what we know today. It looks like they got the band back together to brainstorm again. This time they thought that exotic woods, an oddly sized soundhole and randomly place pickup should be added. I don't know what the street price is on this, but I'm sure I wouldn't pay half of whatever it is.