IK Multimedia has released the ODS Legends Signature Collection for TONEX. The first in a new series of Signature Collections, ODS Legends offers guitarists instant access to 4 priceless Dumble Overdrive Special amplifiers. Found behind many of the world’s best players including Robben Ford, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Larry Carlton, David Lindley, John Mayer and more, the Overdrive Special easily fetches 6 figures when a rare example goes to auction. Also included as a bonus are Tone Models of 2 legendary overdrive pedals: a Silver Klon Centaur and an early ’80s Ibanez TS808.

IK had the exclusive opportunity to capture each of these incredible amps while they passed through the world-famous Ocean Way Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, a studio renowned for its superior recording facilities and long history of hosting legendary musicians. All amp and pedal settings were dialed in by tone experts to a variety of sweet spots from clean to overdrive and meticulously captured in between recording sessions.

This collection of 20 Tone Models recreates the very essence of these vintage treasures and makes them finally accessible to all discerning tone aficionados. Utilizing IK’s cutting-edge AI Machine Modeling Technology in conjunction with the Ocean Way’s sonically perfect environment has produced incredible results available now for purchase and download.

Showcasing an Artist’s True Talent
The all-tube Overdrive Special is Howard Dumble’s most prized model and was produced in very limited numbers, each one hand-wired and custom-built for a particular artist to suit their playing style and tone requirements. Known for its inspiring harmonic richness in the overdrive channel and transparency in the clean channel, the ODS is extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of genres including blues, rock and jazz, rewarding the player with unmatched headroom and responsiveness.

The 4 Overdrive Specials in this collection are pristine examples and were purchased from their original owners with their original tubes still mounted. They include a 1979 Dumble ODS 50-watt head, a 1983 Dumble ODS 100-watt head, a 1984 Dumble ODS 50-watt combo and a 2004 Dumble ODS 50-watt combo. Because the circuitry was tailored to suit a specific player, each amp offers a distinct and exciting tone that TONEX fully captured with multiple settings, letting users find the Tone Models that sound best for each situation.

Two Legendary Pedals
The ODS Legends collection includes an original Tube Screamer TS808 from 1981, a brilliant distortion and overdrive box from Ibanez. Still highly in demand today, vintage units easily trade above $1,000. Also included and fetching high prices is the legendary Silver Klon Centaur overdrive, which holds a mystique for its unique overdriven tones and boosting capabilities. Both pedals add a new dimension to the organic and fantastic tones in this collection.

State-of-the-art Captures
All Tone Models in the ODS Legends Signature Collection were captured by Audio Engineer and Operations Manager, Austin Atwood at Ocean Way Studios, a world-renowned recording studio located in Nashville, Tennessee. Housed in a 100-year-old Gothic revival grey stone church, Ocean Way Nashville provides an exceptional acoustical space and has recorded some of the biggest names in music including Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, Steve Martin and Paul Simon.

Living the Legend
The ODS Legends Signature Collection offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the exact tones revered by countless guitar legends live on stage and comes bundled for a limited time with new purchases of TONEX Pedal. Whether seeking the creamy overdrive of a Dumble amplifier, the harmonically rich overdrive of a Klon or that timeless Tube Screamer tone, this collection gives users exclusive access to record and perform with these celebrated tones at any time.

Instant Access
Signature Collections can be browsed and purchased via ToneNET, IK’s online tone-sharing and social platform, or within any version of TONEX Mac/PC including the free TONEX CS. After purchase, Signature Collections become activated inside TONEX software by selecting “Restore Purchases” in the Account panel, which instantly downloads all collection Tone Models to the user’s local library ready to play.

For AmpliTube Too
Signature Collection Tone Models work seamlessly inside AmpliTube 5. The TONEX amplifier and pedal gear models function just like other AmpliTube amps and pedals. They can be used together to build custom signal chains and save as presets for easy recall. The combination of TONEX ODS Legends and AmpliTube 5 lets users experiment with mid-stacking several ODS Tone Models together to create their own signature dream tones.

You know when your guitar tone feels a little… dry? I occasionally hit this ‘tone rut’ regardless of whether I’m using a fully analogue or fully digital signal chain. I find myself wallowing in a creative wilderness of sounds, effects and textures that have become overly familiar and uninspiring. The only way out, of course, is to acquire a new piece of gear.

Okay, not always. But new gear can help. Especially if you’re an amps and pedals person. There’s nothing like sending the waves of electrons charging down your guitar cable through undiscovered mazes of copper, tubes and transistors to enhance your tone and kickstart fresh inspiration.

Well, that’s how it felt the first time I plugged my guitar into the Two Notes ReVolt Guitar. Fresh, responsive, vigorous; a delightful antidote to tone rut.

ALL ANALOGUE

The ReVolt Guitar is a peculiar product with a purpose that isn’t entirely self evident at first glance. Firstly, it can be used completely standalone. Flick on the cabinet simulation (based on a Marshall 4×12) and plug the balanced XLR output into a set of speakers, the front-of-house system, or an audio interface, and you’re all set. In this configuration, the ReVolt’s FX send and return lets you add your effects pedals into the chain if you desire. 

But there are two other ways to use ReVolt that let you incorporate your guitar amp. Full integration is achieved via the ‘four cable method’: guitar into ReVolt > ReVolt FX Send into amp input > amp FX send into ReVolt FX Return > ReVolt output into amp FX return. This essentially adds three extra channels to your amplifier, and it’s a wonderful way to breathe new life into an amp that’s become boring or has limited sonic scope. 

The final ‘hybrid’ method feeds ReVolt’s preamp circuit into the power amplification stage of your existing amp. To do this, take the ReVolt’s FX Send into your amp’s FX return and make sure the Cab Sim and 4-Cable Method switches are off. 

REVOLT DNA

Now that the ReVolt’s use cases are established, what exactly is it?

At heart, it’s a fully analogue three-channel preamplifier running on 200V with a 12AX7 tube stage for authentic amp vibes. Each channel is modelled after a classic – a Fender Bassman clean, a Marshall JMP Superlead overdrive, and a Soldano SLO100 lead – and tapping the channel’s footswitch a second time engages a boost for an extra hit of gain (which makes the tube light up red). Basic tone-shaping controls are available. Aside from individual Volume and Gain knobs per channel, the Clean channel has controls for Treble and Bass, and the Crunch and Lead channels share a three-band Bass/Mid/Treble EQ. The white Boost knob sticks out like a sore thumb against the otherwise exclusively black knobs and determines how hard the Boost drives the channels when applied. Bypass the unit by tapping the Clean and Crunch footswitches at the same time.

At this point it may sound like ReVolt is basically a guitar amp head in the shape of a pedal. There’s even a separate Output on a TS connector designed to send signal to a cabinet (via a power amp) or IR host (like Two Notes’ own Torpedo C.A.B. M+). But the onboard Cabinet Simulation really gives ReVolt wings, sonically and practically. That’s partly because, from a functionality perspective, ReVolt is all you need to produce a full guitar tone. But also, for the type of product it is, ReVolt does a fantastic job of simulating a real cabinet.

With more people learning and playing guitar than ever before, Fender has crafted epic deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with products suitable for players at all levels across various price points and products.

Punters can expect to get 40% off a range of guitars and basses with the single day Doorbuster Black Friday sale, while the Extended Black Friday sale takes 20% off selected instruments, amps, straps, and leads.
Simply enter the coupon code ‘FENDER’ at the cart to receive these Black Friday discounts.

Customers can also get set up with a 3-month subscription to Fender Play, alongside a loan-er guitar to get shredding sooner.

Head here for more Black Friday Sale info, and keep an eye out for the release of further Cyber Monday Sale deals as they go live on the Fender front page in the coming days.

Renowned electric guitar brand James Tyler Guitars have appointed Amber Technology to distribute their range in Australia and New Zealand through Amber’s musical instrument (MI) dealer network. 

Established in the early 1970s, James Tyler formed his reputation in the 80s and 90s amongst Los Angeles’ session players and artists as the go-to custom guitar builder. Today expert luthiers, together with state-of-the-art technology, create hand-crafted instruments that deliver superior sound and playability.

Based in San Fernando, California, James Tyler Guitars are manufactured by a small, dedicated team of talented craftsmen who build each guitar with exceptional handwork and attention to detail making a guitar feel comfortable and familiar. Using technology carefully chosen to enhance the production process, James Tyler believes it takes a determined balance of modern technology and old school tradition to give you a guitar that feels like an old friend when you play it for the first time. 

Rich Renken, General Manager of James Tyler Guitars said about the partnership “We are delighted to appoint Amber Technology to distribute our brand in Australia and New Zealand. Amber’s reputation as a distributor of choice in the MI market is excellent and we are looking forward to working with their experienced team.”

Peter Amos, Managing Director of Amber Technology comments “As we continue to build our MI portfolio, James Tyler joins an elite group of brands that we represent as best in class for their category. We are delighted to be representing James Tyler Guitars in Australia and New Zealand and look forward to introducing the James Tyler brand to electric guitar aficionados in both countries.”

Discerning guitar players will enjoy the carefully chosen range of elite guitars, from the US and Japan, that are immediately available through Amber Technology’s dealer network, with custom-build options available for order.

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) has announced the American Vintage II Series, an electric guitar and bass range that celebrates Fender’s iconic models through the decades. The line is equipped with authentic specifications and aesthetics for lovers of vintage-inspired style and sound. During the monumental musical decades of the 1950s, ‘60s, and ‘70s, Fender shaped the sonic landscape with its innovative electric guitar and bass designs.

With vintage-inspired trends at a high point among tastemakers and consumers, Fender doesn’t have to go far to revive the iconic models that defined decades of music. Built in Corona, Calif., this new flagship series is a testament to the lasting influence and timeless designs from one of the world’s most iconic instrument makers. The range includes the Telecaster, Stratocaster, and Jazzmaster guitars, and Precision Bass and Jazz Bass models in their celebrated, original form. Harnessing vintage-inspired style, sound, and feel, the American Vintage II series elevates the playing experience for modern musicians, while maintaining the classic features that have influenced through the decades.

“The iconic models in the American Vintage II Series are a near 1:1 comparison with their original predecessors. Today they are built with precise, modern manufacturing processes that weren’t available in the past,” said Justin Norvell, Executive Vice President of Product, FMIC. “These original guitars and basses have long been coveted by avid players and vintage enthusiasts around the world for their aesthetic and tone that inspired some of the greatest music and most-identifiable guitar and bass lines of all time. Whether you’re after nostalgic guitar sounds in the studio, or a vintage-style instrument that can withstand the demands of the road, the American Vintage II series harnesses the best of Fender’s legacy and craftsmanship so modern musicians can innovate today’s soundscapes.” 

The fascination with vintage eras is as prominent in today’s culture as it has ever been. From classic songs re-entering the charts decades later because of TikTok, thrifting as a sport, or even the obsession with mid-century homes, consumers are drawn to the vintage look and are constantly looking to satisfy the feeling of nostalgia. According to a study from Billboard, during the pandemic 55% of music consumers listened to music they used to listen to but haven’t heard in a while — evidence that people are seeking comfort from the past and wanting to give new life to items that were once considered old. This demand also extends to vintage instruments. To spark musical inspiration today with iconic guitars of the past, Fender’s American Vintage II Series breathes new life into a classic tool for players looking to create in today’s modern music landscape. 

The series pays homage to the music and cultural moments they’ve inspired, countless and ever-evolving in reach and impact. In Fender’s most robust marketing campaign to-date alongside creative agency McGarrah Jessee, the launch kicks off with ‘Music Never Dies’, a 60 second launch film featuring a tailored collage of era specific footage underpinning the powerful, burning need to create music, and the impact that that has on culture. Fender has the honour of featuring the poet-performer, Patti Smith, one of the most influential artists from the ‘70s punk rock movement. The film comes to life as she lends her voice and signature Fender guitar feedback.

 “If you’ve listened to popular music, chances are your favourite songs, guitar solos, and punchy bass lines were played on a Fender,” said Evan Jones, FMIC CMO. “It’s impossible to count the number of artists who have used these instruments to create some of the most memorable music that has spanned the last 76 years. Built to the original specs, these American Vintage II series models demonstrate both the timelessness and relevance of the Fender brand.”

In addition, Fender has teamed up with boundary-breaking country music duo Brothers Osborne, British vocalist, guitarist, singer and songwriter James Bay, legendary British rock guitarist Jeff Beck and more to bring the series to life. Each campaign artist will be featured in a four-part video series that showcases six guitars and basses in the collection through powerful vignettes that highlight the progression, inspiration and influence vintage gear has had on music through time; these videos will include personal conversations, performances of some original songs, and covers of songs from each American Vintage II decade that have influenced the artists’ personal sound. Fans can watch highlights of how iconic Fender guitar models continue to influence artists’ music today, with models being built to every last original spec.

“If you went back to the early 50s and bought a Tele, most likely, you will pick it up and it will look and play like this [American Vintage II ‘51 Telecaster guitar]. Fender definitely nailed it,” said T.J. and John Osborne of Brothers Osborne. “The reason why Fender guitars are great is because people played the hell out of these guitars, they were made to be played.”

To further amplify the American Vintage II Series launch, Fender and the McGarrah Jessee agency, will be hosting the first ever immersive pop-up near the the Austin City Limits Music Festival. Kicking off with a private VIP event on Thursday, 13th October — and open to consumers on Friday 14th October — the “Fender Presents: American Vintage II” pop-up event will take music lovers back in time to the 1950s when Fender’s legacy began. This immersive pop-up will include a performance by Adrian Quesada’s Boleros Psicodélicos on the VIP night, a direct-to-vinyl recording booth and most importantly, the opportunity to purchase the ‘51 Telecaster guitar at the original 1951 $229.90 price. 

To further the impact of the campaign on a global scale, Fender will be hosting a second experiential pop-up in one of Tokyo’s most avant-garde neighbourhoods, where consumers can purchase the ‘57 Stratocaster guitar at the original $274.50 1957 price. 

“We are excited to push the full breadth of our global marketing support for the American Vintage II series,” adds Evan Jones, FMIC CMO. “Inspired by the 1950s — and great legacy of Leo Fender’s original inventions — these events will deliver an immersive experience, celebrate the nostalgia of both the 1951 Telecaster and the 1957 Stratocaster in the American Vintage II Series, and provide exclusive early access to the initial production runs of these great guitars and other Fender memorabilia.”

Fender’s American Vintage II Series, expertly crafted in Corona, Calif., is a testament to the lasting influence and timeless design of one of the world’s most iconic instrument makers. The guitars and basses come in nitrocellulose lacquer finishes, with period-correct pickups and neck profiles, vintage-style hardware and traditional Fender tonewoods used from the ‘50s through to today. This series isn’t just about replicating these iconic models, it’s about recreating the inspiration they generate and sharing that inspiration with a new generation of musicians.

Highlights Include: 

• Nitrocellulose lacquer finishes (where era-appropriate)
• Vintage-style neck profiles
• Heirloom-quality year-specific pickups
• Traditional Ash and Alder tonewood bodies
• Vintage-style hardware
• Vintage-style cases

Series models include: 

1950s

• American Vintage II ‘51 Telecaster guitar and American Vintage II ‘51 Telecaster LH guitar. US$2,249.99 / A$2,399
• American Vintage II ‘54 Precision Bass. US$2,249.99 / A$4,399
• American Vintage II ‘57 Stratocaster guitar and American Vintage II ‘57 Stratocaster LH guitar. US$2,099.99-$2,249.99 / A$4,099-$4,399

1960s

• American Vintage II ‘60 Precision Bass. US$2,099.99 / A$4,099
• American Vintage II ‘61 Stratocaster guitar and American Vintage II ‘61 Stratocaster LH guitar. US$2,099.99 / A$4,099
• American Vintage II ‘63 Telecaster guitar. US$2,099.99-$2,249.99 / A$4,099-$4,399 
• American Vintage II ‘66 Jazz Bass and American Vintage II ‘66 Jazz Bass LH. US$2,299.99 / A$4,499
• American Vintage II ‘66 Jazzmaster guitar. US$2,399.99 / A$4,699

1970s

• American Vintage II ‘72 Telecaster Thinline guitar. US$2,399.99 / A$4,699
• American Vintage II ‘73 Statocaster guitar. US$2,279.99 / A$4,449
• American Vintage II ‘75 Telecaster Deluxe guitar. US$2,299.99 / A$4,499 
• American Vintage II ‘77 Telecaster Custom guitar. US$2,199.99 / A$4,299