ÿþ<html><head> <title>BGW Guitars</title> <META name= Keywords content= Singapore,Guitar,Blog,Asia > <link rel="stylesheet" href="product_files/style.css" type="text/css" media="screen" charset="utf-8"> <link rel="stylesheet" href="product_files/lightbox.css" type="text/css" media="screen" charset="utf-8"> </head><body> <div id="main"> <div id="header"> <ul> <li><a href="contactus.htm"><img src="template_files/bgwlogo.jpg" width="127" border="0" height="23"></a></li> <li> <a href="index.htm">Home</a> </li> <li> <a href="customerserv.htm">Customer Service</a> </li> <li> <a href="blog.htm">Blog</a> </li> <li> <a id="product-tab" href="taylor.htm">Store</a> <ul> <li><a style="" href="taylor.htm">Taylor</a></li> <li><a style="" href="gibson.htm">Gibson</a></li><li><a style="" href="martin.htm">Martin</a></li><li><a style="" href="collings.htm">Collings</a></li><li><a style="" href="goodall.htm">Goodall</a></li> <li><a style="" href="rainsong.htm">Rainsong</a></li><li><a style="" href="lakewood.htm">Lakewood</a></li><li><a style="" href="furch.htm">Furch</a></li><li><a style="" href="alvarez.htm">Alvarez</a></li> <li><a style="" href="fender.htm">Fender</a></li><li><a style="" href="epiphone.htm">Epiphone</a></li> <li><a style="" href="prs.htm">PRS</a></li> <li><a style="" href="ibanez.htm">Ibanez</a></li> <li><a style="" href="gretsch.htm">Gretsch</a></li><li><a style="" href="sterling2.htm">Music Man</a></li><li><a style="" href="sterling.htm">Sterling</a></li> <li><a style="" href="others.htm">Other Guitars</a></li> <li><a style="" href="genzbenz.htm">Genz Benz</a></li> <li><a style="" href="strings.htm">Strings</a></li> <li><a style="" href="accessories.htm">Accessories</a></li> </ul> </li> </ul> <div id="account-status"> <a href="payment.htm">Shipping, Payment & Warranty</a> <BR> <a href="contactus.htm">Contact Us</a> </div> </div> <div id="content" class="clearfix"> <div id="main-column"> <br><br> <TABLE ALIGN=CENTER WIDTH=90% CELLPADDING=5><TR><TD> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Jan 30th 2012</B> <BR> <B><H2>New guitars from Sterling by Musicman®</H2></B> <BR><BR> We are excited to bring you 6 new SBMM guitars fresh from NAMM ! They will be reaching our store by late February! <BR><BR> " Axis AX40 TB (Transparent Black)<BR> " John Petrucci JP60 (Pearl Red Burst)<BR> " John Petrucci JP100 (3-Tone Sunburst)<BR> " Stingray Classic Ray34CA (Vintage Cream)<BR> " Stingray Classic Ray34CA (Black)<BR> " Stingray RAy-34 (Blue Sparkle)<BR> <BR><BR> <IMG SRC=http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/sbmm2012_2.jpg> <IMG SRC=http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/sbmm2012_3.jpg> <IMG SRC=http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/sbmm2012_4.jpg> <IMG SRC=http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/sbmm2012_5.jpg> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Nov 28th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>RainSong Shorty</H2></B> <BR><BR> This is RainSong's smallest and most refined body shape till date. Sporting a unidirectional soundboard, hybrid body construction and a short scale 12-fret neck, the result is a perfect combination for an intimate instrument with a warm tone and surprising punch. <BR><BR> The Shorty's neck joins the body at the 12th fret rather than the 14th fret. This moves the bridge back on the soundboard towards the center of the lower bout resulting in improved sonic energy transmission from the strings to the soundboard and enhanced bass response. <BR><BR> The unidirectional carbon mimics the tight grain of a fine Spruce soundboard. First introduced on the Concert Series, this soundboard is RainSong's lightest and the most tonally warm and rich of its variants. <BR><BR> Here's a video of a Shorty in action. Amazing richness and depth from a graphite guitar. <BR><BR><BR> <iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mpybIoZXQYs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <BR><BR> The Shorty is a mere peghead taller than the Taylor GS Mini. Here's a photo of a Shorty beside a Rainsong Grand Auditorium with more photos coming up shortly on our product page. <BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/rainsongshorty.jpg"> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Nov 14th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>Website & Photo Uprades.</H2></B> <BR><BR> Dear friends, kindly bear with our recent sluggish updates. We are working on a new website and better quality photos for a better viewing experience. <BR><BR> Meanwhile, do check out the new <A HREF="collings.htm">Collings</A> guitars in our store! <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Oct 18th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>Lakland Basses.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We will be adding these awsome basses to our inventory shortly. <BR><BR> Lakland is known for offering one of the most figured tops amongst peers in the industry. All their USA and Skyline models go through tough checks at the U.S. facility for installation of electronics, final inspection and set-up before reaching our shores. <BR><BR> They are especially sought after for their 35" scale length which gives 5-stringers a much tighter bass response. Here's a Lakland Skyline 55-02 Deluxe in action. <BR><BR><BR> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XGqtXGhE3Gs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Sept 26th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>Huss & Dalton.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We are excited to bring you Huss & Dalton guitars. <BR><BR> Ask acoustic devotees in the states to namecheck some of their favourite high-end makers and chances are that, alongside the likes of Collings, Santa Cruz, Goodall and Bourgeois, the name of Huss & Dalton will crop up. <BR><BR> For a company only founded in 1995 - by long-time luthiers Jeff Huss and Mark Dalton - this is no mean feat, and reflects the high regard in which their instruments are held, not least by high-profile users like Paul Simon and Albert Lee. <BR><BR> In global terms, it's not a big operation. The Staunton, Virginia company produces about 400 guitars a year, using both traditional handcrafting and modern CNC machinery with about 10 people in the shop. <BR><BR> Despite the limitations of production capacity, Huss & Dalton is slowly becoming better known as one of the finest builders of boutique acoustic instruments. Check out these videos of their best selling 00 model and proprietry CM and FS body shapes! <BR><BR><BR> <iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-NXaXWfJyus" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <BR><BR> <iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/luzScSWp-no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <BR><BR> <iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZB7qUYrn74g" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Sept 4th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>The New BGW.</H2></B> <BR><BR> Here are long overdue photos of parts of our new hangout. <BR><BR> We have just acquired a new shipment of <A HREF="rainsong.htm">Rainsong</A> guitars to cater to the overwhelming demand and will also be expecting new shipments of <A HREF="collings.htm">Collings</A> & <A HREF="furch.htm">Furch</A> guitars towards late September. <BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/bgwnewton01.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/bgwnewton02.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/bgwnewton03.jpg"> </A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Aug 1st 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>Rainsong Guitars at BGW.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We are expecting our first batch of Rainsong guitars this week at our new store! <BR><BR> Rainsong guitars are the world's first all-graphite acoustic guitar. The inherent nature of graphite makes it impervious to Humidity and Temperature changes. <BR><BR> The strength of graphite means a guitar that can survive travel and maintain utmost stability under all conditions. Hence unlike traditional wood guitars, the soundboard will not belly, sink, or crack and the all-graphite neck will not warp with changes in climate and temperature. Rainsongs are also lightweight, making them great travel guitars. <BR><BR> RainSong uses the same technology in bonding its bridges and necks that is used in making planes, rockets and satellite equipment. Stronger than bonds of any wood glue or off-the-shelf epoxy, this erradicates the worry of bridge lifts and neck resets experienced on wood guitars. <BR><BR> Compared to other graphite guitars such as Composite Acoustic and Emerald Guitars, one will generally find the tone of Rainsongs warmer, more bell-like and modern (Think Taylor over Martin). Unlike most graphite guitars, new Rainsong models also feature an adjustable truss rod whichs allows customization of the neck relief to individual preferences. This was a major deciding factor for us in bringing them to Singapore. <BR><BR> Electronics are not an afterthought at RainSong and are an integral part of the RainSong experience. As graphite is a natural enhancer of electrical energy, the all-graphite construction of RainSong works wonders with onboard Fishmen pickups. Plug in a RainSong and hear a unique bloom of harmonics and tone from carbon. <BR><BR> Here are video previews starting! The Concert and Black Ice series are our personal favourites. <BR><BR> <iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vrFL_mS1XyU" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> <BR><BR> <iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9ltNteZYq9g" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> </A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>July 25th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>The New BGW.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We have moved to <A HREF="../contactus.htm">142 Bukit Timah Road</A> (near Newton MRT Exit B) to serve you better. <BR><BR> Updates and photos coming right up! <BR><BR> <A HREF="http://maps.google.com.sg/maps?q=229842+singapore&hl=en&sll=1.359,103.818&sspn=0.359014,0.4216&z=16" TARGET="_BLANK"> <IMG SRC=http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/bgwmap.jpg> </A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>June 26th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>New BGW store coming up.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We have outgrown our current spot with your support and will be moving to a larger, more exciting front near Newton MRT to serve you better. <BR><BR> Thank you my friends for making this possible. <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Jan 17th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>Sterling by Music Man NAMM 2011.</H2></B> <BR><BR> The guitars are on their way to Singapore! They will not be available for immediate sale as we intend to observe how they mature. You are however, most welcome to drop by for a test run. Here's a sneak peek of the new Sterling by Music Man models exhibited at NAMM 2011 last week! <BR><BR> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wuR0q5sjwgI?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wuR0q5sjwgI?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><BR><BR> <BR><BR> <A HREF="Sterling2011.pdf" TARGET="_BLANK">Download</A> the complete 2011 SBMM Catalogue for a comprehensive coverage of all the new models! <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Jan 13th 2011</B> <BR> <B><H2>New Sterling by Music Man Models</H2></B> <BR><BR> Sterling by Music Man have just released 10 exciting new models for 2011. <BR><BR> These bang for buck guitars will soon be hitting our stores in February. <A HREF="Sterling2011.pdf" TARGET="_BLANK">Download</A> the complete 2011 SBMM Catalogue for a comprehensive coverage of all the new models! <BR><BR> Here's a peek at our favourites! <BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW Photos/sbmm2011fav.jpg"> <BR><BR> John Petrucci fans will be pleased to find the new JP models in a rich deep black metallic finish (JP60) and a quilted top (JP100) modeled after the Ball Family Reserve JP6. John Petrucci shield inlays completes the package this time, resulting in a gorgeous guitar! <BR><BR> Stingray and Sterling fans are also in for a treat with tobacco sunburst finish paired with a maple fingerboard now available as an option. For those who prefer an old school retro look, the new Stingray Classic Active Series are certainly worth checking out! <BR><BR><BR> <B>New SBMM models for 2011<BR><BR></B> " John Petrucci JP100 (Transparent Black)<BR> " John Petrucci JP60 (Black Metallic)<BR> " Axis AX30 (Cherry Burst)<BR> " Axis AX40 (Transparent Red) *2011 Limited Edition*<BR> " Sterling SB14 (Tobacco Burst)<BR> " Stingray RAy-34 (Tobacco Burst)<BR> " Stingray RAy-34 (White) *2011 Limited Edition*<BR> " Stingray Ray-35 Lefty (Honey burst)<BR> " Stingray Classic Ray34CA (Mint Green)<BR> " Stingray Classic Ray34CA (3 Tone Sunburst)<BR> <BR><BR> <A HREF="Sterling2011.pdf" TARGET="_BLANK">Download</A> the complete 2011 SBMM Catalogue. <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Dec 23rd 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>New from Collings - The Collings 290 DC S</H2></B> <BR><BR> We took our popular 290 model and reshaped it into an elegant Double Cutaway shape (hence the "DC") and also outfitted it with a single Lollar Dog Ear P90 pickup (hence the "S"). <BR><BR> To add to the straight ahead vintage tone and vibe of this 290, we have developed a custom Collings wraparound tailpiece that delivers unsurpassed dynamic range and tonal versatility with a very simple and classic design. We are truly amazed by what this single pickup guitar has to offer! It is capable of producing a vast array of tones, from pristine clean tones rich with harmonic complexity to hard-hitting vintage rock tones with enough focused growl to cut through any mix. Dial back the volume and tone, and you'll be surprised by the smooth, mellow tones that are available without ever getting muddy. This instrument will put tone back in the hands of the player, not in the hands of effect pedals or multi-channel amps. <BR><BR> Select features of the 290 DC S model include: <BR><BR>" Double Cutaway (22 frets clear of the body)<BR> " Single Lollar Dog Ear P90 pickup (wound 5% over)<BR>" Optional Collings custom wraparound bridge (made from a special alloy)<BR> " Single volume and tone control. No pickup selector switch<BR> " Collings custom "Bakelite" Dog Ear P90 pickup cover<BR> " Extra long neck tenon<BR> " Optional tortoise pickguard<BR> " Nitrocellulose lacquer finish<BR> " Custom body contours <BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/1.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/4.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/6.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/7.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/10.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/13.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/8.jpg"> <IMG SRC="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/images/290_dc_s/9.jpg"> <BR><BR><BR> For full details please visit <A HREF="http://www.collingsguitars.com/Instruments/?ID=69" TARGET="_BLANK">www.collingsguitars.com</A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Dec 14th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Handbuilt Acoustics at BGW (Part III).</H2></B> <BR><BR> The guitars are on their way to Singapore! They will not be available for immediate sale as we intend to observe how they mature. You are however, most welcome to drop by for a test run. <BR><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/final01.jpg"><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/final02.jpg"><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/final03.jpg"><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/final04.jpg"><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/final05.jpg"><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/final06.jpg"><BR><BR> More updates coming up. <BR><BR><BR><HR> <TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Dec 8th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Handbuilt Acoustics at BGW (Part II).</H2></B> <BR><BR> In choosing the shape of the guitar, we juggled between the popular Grand Auditorium (GA) and the slightly smaller Orchestra Model (OM). We eventually decided on an OM for its added comfort and focus in tone resulting from a smaller body. Our only concern then was that chords may break up on heavier strumming but this was eventually resolved from the selection of our top wood. <BR><BR> German spruce was selected for the topwood as, compared to sitka spruce in general, it provides a richer and more complex tone, more headroom for the heavy strummer and better sensitivity to light-touch which will certainly please fingerstyle players. We settled for east indian rosewood back and sides naturally to complement a rich and lush tone. <BR><BR> Other fine touches to improve tone includes a nitro lacquer finish, a dovetail neck-joint and bone nut and saddle to give a big open-tone fresh out from the box. <BR><BR> For the stage worthy, the LR Baggs RTS2 pickup was chosen for its natural, balanced sound while Gotoh tuners were chosen for tuning sensitivity and stability. An Ameritage hardcase completes the picture by offering maximum protection from hard knocks. <BR><BR> So there you go, quality parts every step of the way to stretch your dollar to the fullest in acquiring a comfortable, versatile guitar requiring minimal maintenance*. <BR><BR> Visit this page again in a few days as we introduce the luthier behind it all and dwell more into the choice of design and finish. <BR><BR> Cheers. <BR><BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/polish02.jpg"><BR> <H5>Final touches.</H5> <H6><I>*Being built in an environment where humidity is similar to Singapore, frequent drying will not be required.</I></H6> <BR><BR><HR> <TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Dec 6th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Handbuilt Acoustics at BGW (Part I).</H2></B> <BR><BR> We have been toying with our own builds for close to a year now. <BR><BR> The idea was to stretch ones dollar and offer a hand built guitar tone at a much lower price than any factory produced guitar. <BR><BR> It was also decided that the guitar will be made in Asia. With factory humidity levels being similar to our tropical weather, frequent drying will not be required for these guitars. <BR><BR> The guitar will be a versatile workhorse with only quality parts and will be entirely handbuilt and hand-voiced by one experienced luthier. No marketing bullshit adding to cost. Just a very very honest build. <BR><BR><BR> <B>Specfications</B> <BR><BR> - OM Style<BR> - Select German Spruce Top (Bearclawed)<BR> - Select East Indian Rosewood Back & Sides<BR> - Cutaway (Optional)<BR> - Mahogany neck<BR> - MOP Fingerboard Diamond Inlays<BR> - Curly Koa Binding<BR> - Abalone Rosette<BR> - Bone Nut & Saddle<BR> - Nut Width 1 3/4"<BR> - 25.5" scale<BR> - Ebony Pins with MOP Dot<BR> - Ebony Bridge & Fingerboard<BR> - Nitro Lacquer Finish<BR> - Gold Gotoh Tuners with Ebony Knobs<BR> - LR Baggs RTS2 with Volume Control<BR> - Ameritage Harcase<BR> <BR><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/build00.jpg"> <H5>Choosing a highly-figured German spruce top.</H5><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/build01.jpg"> <H5>Building in progress.</H5><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/build06.jpg"> <H5>Guitars before final finishing.</H5><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/build04.jpg"> <H5>Front view before final finishing.</H5><BR> <IMG SRC="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/Guitars/BGW%20Photos/build05.jpg"><BR> <H5>Back view before final finishing.</H5><BR> We will be uploading more photos in a few days. Stay tuned. <BR><BR><BR><HR> <TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>Nov 19th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Sterling by Music Man Video Review.</H2></B> <BR><BR> Guitar World Magazine reviews the Silo30 & all time favourite JP50. <BR><BR><BR> <CENTER> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5k2ihX7bUn8?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5k2ihX7bUn8?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object></CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Nov 11th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Collings Acoustic & Electric Guitars Demo Videos.</H2></B> <BR><BR> Collings Guitars enjoy a stellar reputation for excellent tone and meticulous attention to detail and build quality. <BR><BR> With the top of every single acoustic guitar selected and hand voiced by the same tenured craftsman for over 20 years, it is no wonder that Bob Taylor once remarked, "You can't buy a better guitar than a Collings". <BR><BR> Check out these videos and hear it for yourself. <BR><BR><BR> <B>Collings Acoustic Models</B> <H2>Collings D2H</H2><BR> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RSEfnf9hPRw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RSEfnf9hPRw?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object> <BR><BR> <H2>Collings OM-2H</H2><BR> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/iK4aZp6QCrI?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/iK4aZp6QCrI?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object> <BR><BR> <H2>Collings CW</H2><BR> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Rbt9Akl754o?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Rbt9Akl754o?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object> <BR><BR> <H2>Collings CJ</H2><BR> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zBM3TZOTuns?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zBM3TZOTuns?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object> <BR><BR><BR> <B>Collings Electric Models</B> <H2>Collings 290</H2> <object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wPboL7i6fk0?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wPboL7i6fk0?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object> <BR><BR> <H2>Collings 360</H2> <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TOsTeDqRhEk?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TOsTeDqRhEk?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object> <BR><BR> <H2>Collings City Limits Jazz, Soco & I-35</H2> <object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/wMMKv3mdAVg?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/wMMKv3mdAVg?fs=1&amp;hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Nov 8th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Collings Guitars coming to BGW.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We are proud to be the official dealer for Collings guitars in Singapore. <BR><BR> These fine works of art will be arriving in our stores in coming February. Stay tuned as we update this page with more interesting news. <BR><BR><BR><BR> <B>Aug 12th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Sterling by Music Man bags Guitar World "Gold Award".</H2></B> <BR><BR> Sterling by Music Man guitars has just been awarded Guitar World "Gold Award in the October issue of the magazine. <BR><BR> Here's an article on the ever popular John Petrucci JP50 and Silhouette Silo30. <BR><BR> <ul><li> <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/GW1010p140.pdf">Download Page 1 of Article</A><BR> </li><li> <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/GW1010p141.pdf">Download Page 2 of Article</A> </li></ul> <BR><BR> Check out the full <I>FULL RANGE</I> of <A HREF="sterling.htm">Sterling by Music Man</A> at our store. <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>April 21st 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Zaolla Silverline Artist 500 Guitar Cable.</H2></B> <BR><BR> <B>We are proud to be an official dealer for Zaolla cables. Here's an excerpt:</B> <BR><BR> Buena Park, CA  February 2010 & Zaolla Silverline, the leading innovator of cable technologies for the musical instrument and pro audio industries, is proud to introduce The Artist 500 guitar cable. In The Artist 500, Zaolla Silverline combines the legendary performance of the company s unique silver-core cable with a new plug a silver-core version of the legendary Show Saver"! by G&H Industries. The result is a cable in which sonic transparency combines with durability to deliver a superior sounding, positively rugged cable for today s guitarist. The Artist 500 is ideal for professional studio musicians, serious home recordists, live performers, and anyone seeking superior performance from their guitar and amplifier. <BR><BR> The Artist 500, like all Zaolla Silverline designs, is designed around a solid-silver center conductor. Silver, the most conductive element on earth, is 7% less resistant than copper. This substantial improvement in conductivity is manifest in every aspect of signal transmission. All else being equal, the bandwidth of a silver conductor is greater than that of a copper conductor. Thus, a silver conductor yields greater HF and LF transmission and overall signal clarity. <BR><BR> While it is true that silver is superior to copper as a conductor of electricity, this is not to say that silver is superior to copper in every application. Low-level analog audio signals benefit from the MF boost and  warmth associated with copper. Thus, The Artist 500 guitar cable features a solid-silver center conductor and an enamel-coated, stranded-copper ancillary conductor in a unique hybrid configuration for the best of both worlds. <BR><BR> A guitar cable is only as good as its signal-to-noise ratio. Zaolla Silverline surrounds the unique hybrid conductor at the core of The Artist 500 with redundant shielding. Conductive PVC combines with a traditional copper braid to provide maximum EMI, RFI, and electrostatic rejection without the added stiffness of a second copper braid. Similarly, foamed polyethylene separates the conductor from the shield without adding stiffness. <BR><BR> Zaolla Silverline focuses on design as much as on materials. The unique features of The Artist 500 coexist in true coaxial cable geometry. This accounts for the unique flexibility of The Artist 500 among boutique guitar cables, many of which are secretly microphone cables terminated for use with a guitar. The Artist 500 is as much at home on the stage as it is in the studio. <BR><BR> The new plugs found on The Artist 500 guitar cable combine the robust design of G&H Industries Show Saver"! plug with the added benefit of a silver core. The straight plug has the same structure as G&H Industries ultra-high clarity plugs while the right-angle plug is based upon the traditional Show Saver structure. The copper core in each has been replaced with 99.99% pure silver to increase conductivity and improve sonic responsiveness. These new plugs are the only ones on the market with solid-silver tip connections. Due its low capacitance, low resistance, and high conductivity, it is the best sounding plug available and is the ideal complement to Zaolla Silverline s cable. <BR><BR> Jonathan Pusey, National Marketing Manager of Zaolla Silverline, commented on The Artist 500 guitar cable,  The Artist 500 is our latest achievement in our on-going effort to build the ultimate guitar cable, says Pusey.  The new G&H Industries silver-core plugs deliver the cable s superior sonic performance while also adding to its overall durability. It s the next-best thing to hardwiring one s guitar directly to the amplifier. Gone are the days of the instrument cable as a disposable accessory. The Artist 500 is a component that must be played to be believed. <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Mar 11th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Black Pearl coming to BGW.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We will be bringing you the highly acclaimed award-winning Black Pearl coming April. <BR><BR> The Black Pearl is meticulously designed with an all-tube signal path, component selection and custom transformer that adds up to a responsive, thick, rich tone. <BR><BR> Every Black Pearl is crafted with black Military Spec PCB s with robust, precision routed Direct-to-Point Gold-flashed signal traces, neatly dressed wiring and custom tube sockets and retainers; all to ensure that every amp built delivers the Black Pearl s boutique tone. <BR><BR> The Black Pearl's tube rectifier design, custom wound transformers and choice of Eminence Alnico speakers gives your your desired boutique tone yet at an affordable, non-boutique pricepoint. Check out the videos and reviews below! <BR><BR> <object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JwdA7pCjfFw&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JwdA7pCjfFw&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object> <BR><BR> <object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/XelUrFxLhTM&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/XelUrFxLhTM&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object> <BR><BR><BR> <B>Related Links</B> <BR><BR> " <A HREF=" http://reviews.harmony-central.com/reviews/Guitar+Amp/product/Genz+Benz/Black+Pearl+30+1x12+Combo/10/1" TARGET="_blank">Harmony Central Reviews </A><BR> " <A HREF=" http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=201190" TARGET="_blank">The Gear Page Reviews </A><BR> " <A HREF=" http://www.genzbenz.com/?fa=video_bpjeff" TARGET="_blank">More Black Pearl Videos </A><BR> " <A HREF="http://www.genzbenz.com/?fa=detail&mid=2000&sid=519&cid=91" TARGET="_blank">Black Pearl Specifications</A><BR> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Feb 1st 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Sterling by Music Man®</H2></B> <BR><BR> BGW is proud to be the official dealer for Sterling by Music Man® guitars. <BR> <BR> Introduced by Music Man® at the 2009 Winter NAMM Convention, these guitars are built with a focus on providing high quality at a great value. Aimed at the mid range price point, Sterling guitars bear the same quality expected from the Music Man® family. <BR> <BR> With features such as all solid tonewoods, Music Man® designed parts, Active electronics, locking tuners, heavy padded gig bags and a final set up/inspection in Music Man's Orange, CA USA facility, Sterling by Music Man® pledges to give you a quality instrument that will meet or exceed your expectations for all of your musical needs. <BR> <BR> Do check out the following Youtube demos on the Stingray and John Petrucci models! More information on the full range of models is available on the <A HREF="http://www.sterlingbymusicman.com">Sterling by Musicman®</A> official website. <BR> <BR> <CENTER> <object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/67Fo7AKwfA0&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/67Fo7AKwfA0&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><BR><BR> <BR> <object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WzrHJjb7xFo&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WzrHJjb7xFo&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object> <BR> <object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VyvnFl2y170&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VyvnFl2y170&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object> </CENTER> <BR><BR> More Reviews on Sterling by Music Man. <BR> - <A HREF="http://www.ernieball.com/forums/music-man-basses/37963-sterling-music-man-ray34-review.html">EBMM Forum</A><BR> - <A HREF="http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=544157">Talkbass Forum</A><BR> - <A HREF=" http://basschat.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=63788&st=0">Basschat Forum</A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Jan 25th 2010</B> <BR> <B><H2>Cooperstands coming to BGW.</H2></B> <BR><BR> Cooperstands fit in the headstock area of a guitar case, need we say more? <BR><BR> <CENTER> <object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/RU6ADRnHnVA&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/RU6ADRnHnVA&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>. </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Dec 20th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>More Genz Benz & Dehumifiers coming your way.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We will be bringing you more Genz Benz Bass Amplifiers and affordable dehumidifiers coming January. <BR><BR> Have a Merry Christmas! <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Dec 7th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>More Value Products.</H2></B> <BR><BR> Some award-winning amplifiers, guitars and instrument cables will soon be reaching our shores. Stay tuned as we bring you more value for your dollar. <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Nov 21st 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Plekked Guitars at BGW.</H2></B> <BR><BR> In our constant strive to bring you more value for your money, we now offer the option of having your guitars Plekked* when you purchase a new guitar from us. <BR><BR> The PLEK machine is a unique computer controlled precision robot that measures and locates differences (within a thousand of a millimetre) on the neck, frets and fretboard. These differences are sanded off which results in a better sounding instrument and improved playability. <BR><BR> Even though great instruments are built nowadays, there are still limitations to achieving precision that makes guitars less sonic and not as playable as they could be. These deficiencies can now be eliminated with this innovative invention which has already been applied on all Paul Reed Smith and Martin guitars. <BR><BR><BR> <FONT SIZE=2> <I>*This option is vailable for most guitars we carry.</I> </FONT> <BR><BR><BR> <CENTER> <object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/PG4BOLlKOb4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/PG4BOLlKOb4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Nov 10th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>New Old Stock Guitars!</H2></B> <BR><BR> To stretch your dollar, we now offer New Old Stock (NOS) Guitars which are essentially brand new guitars from 2007-2008 at heavily discounted prices.<BR><BR> <CENTER> <A HREF="nos.htm">Click here for a list of NOS Guitars.</A> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Nov 5th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Over 65 Brands now available at BGW</H2></B> <BR><BR> Our inventory has expanded and we can now get you guitars from over 65 brands! We offer free shipping and will peg our prices closely to the cheapest online stores. <BR><BR> <CENTER> <A HREF="brands.htm">Click here for a list of brands we carry.</A> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Oct 22nd 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Genz Benz Bass Amps at BGW</H2></B> <BR><BR> We have received our first shipment of Genz Benz bass amplifiers including the highly-rated Shuttle 3.0 Combo! Do check out our introductory prices!<BR><BR> <CENTER> <A HREF="../data/accgenzbenzbass.htm"> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/genzbenzbass.jpg"> </A> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Oct 14th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Ameritage Silver Series Cases</H2></B> <BR><BR> Ameritage announced their newest case line at Summer NAMM 2009. This new line boasts superior construction at a comfortable price. If you liked the original Ameritage Case, but did not want the humidity control system this is for you! The new Silver is the way to go if you want a case that protects your instrument AND your budget.<BR><BR> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/ameritagesilver.jpg"> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Oct 2nd 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Genz Benz Shuttle 9 Now Available!</H2></B> <BR><BR> Check out the new Genz Benz Shuttle 9.0, a 900-watt RMS bass amplification head which weighs just 1.8 kilograms. <BR><BR> <CENTER> <object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/BqancBS121M&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/BqancBS121M&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Sept 24th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>THANK YOU for sticking with us.</H2></B> <BR><BR> We will be sending a set of <A HREF="data/accpwfps.htm">Planet Waves Fret Polishing System</A> to everyone who have purchased a guitar from us shortly. Thank you for your kind support since our humble beginnings. <BR><BR><BR> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/pw.jpg"> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Aug 13th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Genz Benz Amplifiers in Store!</H2></B> <BR><BR> Our <A HREF="genzbenz.htm">Genz Benz acoustic amplifiers</A> have arrived and are now available at introductory prices (while stocks last)! The Shenandoah junior serves as an excellent bedroom acoustic amplifier with sufficient headroom for even a cafe gig while the Compak 300 brings it a bar higher with 175W of pure acoustic mojo! Both models are extremely portable and lightweight. Check out the <A HREF="genzbenz.htm">specifications</A> and do drop by our showroom for a test run! <BR><BR> " Shenandoah Junior SGD$550 (UP SGD$690)<BR> " Compak 300 8T SGD$1150 (UP SGD$1390)<BR> <BR><BR> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/gb.jpg"> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>Aug 5th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Genz Benz Amplifiers Arriving August 13th</H2></B> <BR><BR> <A HREF="genzbenz.htm">Genz Benz acoustic amplifiers</A> will be arriving at BGW next week. Stay tuned for introductory prices! <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>July 24nd 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Genz Benz Compak 300 Review by Acoustic Guitar</H2></B> <I>- Extracted from <A HREF="http://www.acousticguitar.com/article/default.aspx?articleid=24739" TARGET="_BLANK">www.acousticguitar.com</A></I> <BR><BR> <CENTER> <A HREF="http://www.acousticguitar.com/video/playvideo.aspx?videoname=GearReviews/AG201/GenzBenz_AG201" TARGET="_BLANK">Watch the Video Review of the Genz Benz Compak 300</A> </CENTER> <BR><BR> Jeff Genzler began building speaker cabinets in his garage decades ago, which led to the formation of Genz-Benz in 1984. The company started producing amps designed for acoustic guitars around 2000 and recently introduced two compact and versatile new additions to its popular Shenandoah line. The Compak 300 amps include the SHEN-CPK-8T and SHEN-CPK-10T, which we received for review. The amp can function in several ways: as a stand-alone amp, to power external speakers, or as a preamp/DI in conjunction with a PA system. The head can be easily removed and is extremely portable, allowing you to bring your familiar amp sounds and settings with you. Just plug it in to an external cabinet, and you re ready to go. In addition, the included XLR mic input allows the amp to be used as a small PA for singer-guitarists. The amp is remarkably light and has a built-in tilt foot, which points the cabinet upward. <BR><BR> I tried the SHEN-CPK-10T with several different guitars, including a Taylor 714ce with a Fishman Acoustic Matrix undersaddle pickup, a Gibson J-45 and Guild D50 NT with undersaddle piezo pickups, and a Martin 000-18 with a K&K Pure Western soundboard transducer system. <BR><BR> <H2>Intuitive Control Layout</H2> In general, the control layout is easy to use. The two channels have identical knobs, and though they are somewhat small, once you are familiar with them, they pose no problems. The effects control knob is a little more challenging. As you turn it, it is a bit hard to see which setting you re on because the black line pointing to the settings is on the top of the knob. Placement of the indicator line next to the chassis would make it easier to read. While it may be a challenge to move quickly to the setting you want in the middle of a performance, with experience you ll get used to finding the settings you prefer. <BR><BR> <H2>Dial In Your Sound</H2> Each channel has its own three-band EQ section that includes a midrange frequency control knob that sweeps between 250 Hz and 5 kHz. You can use this sweepable control to reduce or boost frequencies in a bandwidth about an octave wide. By using the EQ controls and phase switch, I was able to dial in a tone I liked for each guitar, and the amp responded well to both fingerstyle and flatpicking. I played the Irish song  Star of the County Down on the Martin, both fingerstyle and with a flatpick, and found a good sound with the flatpick by rolling off the mid gain control about 9 dB. This setting also worked well as I flatpicked two jazz tunes,  Nardis and  Timeless. The same setting, however, produced a thin, nasally sound from the Gibson s piezo when I flatpicked the same tunes, but I was able to reduce this by rolling off the high gain almost completely, putting the mid frequency up to about three o clock and engaging the phase switch. Clearly, tone settings are a matter of taste, but the EQ controls afford a lot of possibilities for finding a variety of tones. <BR><BR> <H2>Plenty of Power</H2> For an amp this size, the CPK-10T packs a big sound. There s a lot of volume with the amp as a stand-alone combo amp. Even when I pushed the volume controls way up, the guitar sound stayed clear and clean. It would easily work in a café setting or with a small band that s not too loud, and it can power additional speakers to spread the sound around a room (Genz-Benz makes an extension speaker for the CPK-10T, the SHEN-CPK-EXT10, which has a street-price of about $480). If the amp alone is not enough volume for your needs in larger venues or with larger groups, you can run the signal from the direct outputs through a PA system. <BR><BR> <H2>Effective Effects</H2> The amp s effects are generated by a 24-bit digital processor and include eight reverb settings, chorus, flange, two delays, two chorus/reverb settings, and a rotary speaker emulation. Each channel has a separate level control for the effect in use, and there is also a master effects volume control. I found that the effects were subtle, and I enjoyed the different tones. In particular, the smaller of the two hall settings added a depth and warmth that enhanced the guitar sound a great deal. If you want to crank the effects (and here we leave the realm of reproducing a pure acoustic-guitar sound), there are a variety of interesting possibilities. Reverbs become large and cavernous, which could be used for a lead acoustic-guitar sound with a band. Chorus and flange effects are strong and clear, and I got more of an electric-guitar sound when I boosted them all the way up. <BR><BR> <H2>Using the Amp as a Small PA</H2> While each channel has a 1/4 -inch input jack, Channel Two also includes an XLR input, which can be used to add a mic for voice or another instrument, in essence turning the amp into a small PA. I ran a Sennheiser e825S dynamic microphone into the XLR input and got a clear, warm vocal sound that blended well with the guitar. I also had a friend play another guitar through Channel One so all three inputs were used at once. The sound was impressively clear; we had to raise the volume a bit, but there was plenty of headroom. The amp would also be an excellent stand-alone PA for guitar and vocal in a small café or outdoors at a small party or wedding gig. Although there is only one volume control for the two inputs on Channel Two, you can set the microphone volume to your desired level at the amp and then control the instrument volume on Channel Two with a separate volume control on your instrument or preamp, allowing you to make good use of the amp s three inputs. <BR><BR> <H2>Clean, Powerful, and Faithful Sound<BR></H2> Most acoustic guitar players have the same goal when amplifying an acoustic guitar: to reproduce the guitar s acoustic sound as clearly and faithfully as possible and to make the guitar loud enough to reach a large audience. The Shenandoah SHEN-CPK-10T does just that. It should please anyone looking for a lightweight, clean, and powerful acoustic guitar amplifier. <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>July 18th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Genz Benz Amplifiers coming to BGW</H2></B> <BR><BR> Here's the answer to our search for an affordable acoustic amplifier which will not burn your pockets while giving you the clarity and headroom for a class performance. <BR><BR> The <A HREF="genzbenz.htm">Genz Benz Shenandoah Junior</A> and <A HREF="genzbenz.htm">Shenandoah Compak 300</A> acoustic amplifiers are simply one of the best-sounding acoustic guitar amplifiers in its price range. We have scoured through various makes including the much favourited Fishmen Loudbox, Ultrasound and AER Compact 60 before settling for these. <BR><BR> Nothing came close to the performance of the Shenandoah Jr. in the sub USD$500 category while in the sub USD$1000 category, the performance of the AER Compact 60 and Genz Benz Shenandoah Compak 300 were clearly our favourites. Both were able to deliver warm, rich tones and phenomenal output in surprisingly compact cabinets with the Genz Benz sparking a unique removable amplifier chassis which allows the player to extract the amp and use it for even larger venues. <BR><BR> It is no wonder that Genz Benz was awarded Guitar World Acoustic's highest mark of recognition, its <A HREF="http://www.genzbenz.com/img/pdf/shenpro.pdf" TARGET="_BLANK">'Platinum Award'</A>, for its Shenendoah Pro acoustic amplifier and have since established a presence on the international stages of Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artists <BR><BR> These amplifiers will be reaching our store in about a fortnight. Do <A HREF="contactus.htm">make an appointment</A> with us to give these highly affordable amplifiers a test run and do stay tuned for our introductory offers (Limited pieces only)! <BR><BR><BR> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/shensmall.jpg"> </CENTER> <BR><BR> <B>Related Links:</B> <BR> " <A HREF="http://www.genzbenz.com/" TARGET="_BLANK">Genz Benz Website</A> <BR> " <A HREF="http://www.premierguitar.com/Magazine/Issue/2009/May/Genz_Benz_Shenandoah_Compak_300_Combo_Acoustic_Amp_Review.aspx" TARGET="_BLANK">Genz Benz Shenandoah Compak 300 Review</A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>July 15th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>United Breaks Guitars</H2></B> <BR><BR> The first of 3 installments by <A HREF="http://www.davecarrollmusic.com/story/united-breaks-guitars/">Dave Carroll</A> on how United Airlines broke his Taylor guitar. Have a good laugh. <BR><BR> <object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5YGc4zOqozo&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5YGc4zOqozo&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object> <BR><BR><BR> <B>Related Links:</B><BR> " <A HREF="http://www.davecarrollmusic.com/story/united-breaks-guitars/" TARGET="_BLANK">Full Story</A> <BR> " <A HREF="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpQNWNN_HS4&feature=related" TARGET="_BLANK">CNN Cover Story</A> <BR> " <A HREF="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n12WFZq2__0&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bgwguitars.com%2Fblog.htm&feature=player_embedded" TARGET="_BLANK">Taylor Guitar's Response (Great Info Here)</A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>July 11th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Taylor T5 Soundroom</H2></B> <BR><BR> Here's an excellent soundroom to check on the versatality of the Taylor T5. Hear the T5 through various pickup selections and a large variety of amplifiers. Takes a while to load but it's definitely worth the wait! <BR><BR> <CENTER> <A HREF="http://www.taylorguitars.com/guitars/electric/Models/Soundcheck/">Taylor T5 Soundroom</A> <BR><BR> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/taylort5.jpg"> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> <B>July 10th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Taylor T5 ES Noise</H2></B> <BR><BR> Here's a post to address a simple fix on the older expression electronics installed on pre-2007 Taylor T5s. <BR><BR> Depending on how dirty/clean the current is that you're plugged into and the grounding at your facility, a minority of users may experience pickup noise on position 3 and position 5. The noise is often observed to be significantly reduced when the strings/humbucker is touched. <BR><BR> The fix is pretty simple and involves the installation of a "fused string ground" or a metallic strip wired to the crcuit ground as shown below. Expression systems on T5s from 2007 onwards come default with the "fused ground string" and do not require further installations. <BR><BR> The following photos should be self-explanatory. <BR><BR> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/fusedstringground01.jpg"><BR><BR> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/fusedstringground02.jpg"><BR><BR> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/fusedstringground03.jpg"><BR><BR> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/fusedstringground04.jpg"> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>July 5th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>String Tone</H2></B> <BR><BR> Here's a useful site with a list of soundclips which demonstrates how different types of strings will affect the tone on your guitar. A Taylor 414-CE acoustic guitar was used for the recordings in this instance. <BR><BR> <CENTER> <A HREF="http://www.stringsandbeyond.com/soundroom.html" TARGET="_blank">Strings and Beyond Soundroom</A> </CENTER> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>July 3rd 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>McPherson Tonerited</H2></B> <BR><BR> Here are clips after <A HREF="data/acctonerite.htm">Toneriting</A> a McPherson 3.5 (Engelmann / Rosewood) for 3 days at high power. The clips don't do justice to McPherson guitars though as it was hard to capture the sweet spot for recording using a single microphone on this guitar. The guitar definitely sounded more "played-in" after the treatment as though a natural reverb was present. <BR><BR><A HREF=http://www.bgwguitars.com/data/others04.htm>McPherson 3.5</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/McPhersonMG35.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Original</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/McPhersonMG35-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">3 Days</A> | <BR><BR><H6> <I>Note:<BR> No editing or effects were used throughout the recording. The recording setup was set constant throughout. Fresh Elixir strings were strung on before the treatment and were kept on for the 2nd recording. </I></H6> <BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>July 1st 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Can I Play a Semi-Acoustic Guitar through <BR>an Electric Amplifier ?</H2></B> <BR><BR> A good <A HREF="data/GenzBenzShenJr.htm">acoustic amplifier</A> seeks to reproduce the tone of an acoustic guitar without distorting (colouring) it. <BR><BR> Electric amplifiers on the otherhand are heavily tailored to reproduce certain tones required by a guitarist. The response of these amplifiers is often anything by flat hence they make poor acoustic amplifiers <BR><BR> With most electric amplifier tone circuits designed to cut a lot of mids, if you cut the highs and lows and boost the mids, you will likely get a better acoustic tone. However, you will still get a much more natural tone if you play your acoustic guitar through a good acoustic amplifier. <BR><BR> Vice versa, an acoustic amplifier will make an electric guitar sound too clean. Although theoretically, you could put an electric guitar into a hi-fidelity acoustic amp and use a distortion pedal to generate some "electric" characteristic. <BR><BR><BR> <B>Playing through the PA</B><BR> <BR> If you play through a PA system, an acoustic amplifier is rarely required. PA s are designed for full range reproduction and the monitors will usually do a much better job of amplifying and spreading the sound of an acoustic guitar than a single acoustic amplifier. Alternately, keyboard amplifiers are fairly efficient in reproducing tone across the full range of frequencies. <BR><BR><BR> <B>Recommendations</B><BR> <BR> If you have a budget of around SG$1500 for an acoustic amp, we strongly recommend the Genz Benz Compak 300 and AER Compact 60. These small and lightweight ampfliers can deal a great deal of volume while allowing for sufficient headroom. Both amplifiers reproduces the tone on your acoustic guitar in a natural manner with minimal colouration.<BR> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>June 30th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>ToneRite Soundclips (Part 2)</H2></B> <BR><BR> Here's our 2nd installment of <A HREF="data/acctonerite.htm">ToneRite</A> soundclips from 10 days of ToneRite treatment. <BR><BR> ToneRite was kept at maximum power during the first 3 days. All guitars showed a consistent improvement in resonance especially in the lows (bass) and low mids. It was noticed that the trebles were slightly muted due to the overpowering bass response. <BR><BR> The guitars were subsequently ToneRited for another 3 days at high power treatment followed by 4 days at low power to bring out the trebles. Once again, all guitars showed a consistent improvement in resonance. The overall tone of the guitars also became more rounded and defined. With the low power settings however, we observed that the improvement in resonance of high mids and trebles became more apparent. <BR><BR> <ul><li> <A HREF=data/taylor80.htm>Taylor 410 1996</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/96%20Taylor%20410E.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Original</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/96%20Taylor%20410E-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">3 Days</A> ) <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/96%20Taylor%20410E-AFT-2.mp3" TARGET="_blank">10 Days</A> )<BR> </li><li> <A HREF=data/gibson10.htm>Gibson SJ-200 TV VOS</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Gibson%20SJ200.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Original</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Gibson%20SJ200-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">3 Days</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Gibson%20SJ200-AFT-2.mp3" TARGET="_blank">10 Days</A> )<BR> </li><li> <A HREF=data/alvarezMD90.htm>Alvarez Masterworks MD90</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Alvarez%20MD90.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Original</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Alvarez%20MD90-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">3 Days</A>| <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Alvarez%20MD90-AFT-2.mp3" TARGET="_blank">10 Days</A> )<BR> </li></ul> <BR> We are pleased by the conclusive results. ToneRite was able to accelerate the natural play-in process and improvements in tone and resonance were significant. This was achieved without altering the original character of the tone. Kudos to the team at ToneRite Inc. ! <BR><BR><H6> <I>Note:<BR> No editing or effects were used throughout the recordings. The recording setup was set constant throughout. Fresh Elixir strings were strung on before the treatment and were kept on for the 2nd recording. New strings were strung on for the final recording</I></H6> <BR><BR> <A HREF="data/acctonerite.htm"> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/toneriteunit.jpg"> </CENTER> </A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>June 29th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Mix n Match your Elixirs</H2></B> <BR><BR> To add more value to your purchases, you may now mix any <A HREF="data/accelixir.htm">Elixir</A> strings in a single purchase and still be entitled to bulk discounts. <BR><BR> <A HREF="data/accelixir.htm"> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/elixirmix.jpg"> </CENTER> </A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <B>June 28th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>ToneRite Soundclips</H2></B> <BR><BR> Ran a 72 hour <A HREF="data/acctonerite.htm">ToneRite</A> treatment for 4 selected guitars. <BR><BR> Fresh Elixir strings were strung on the guitars before the treatment and were kept on for the 2nd recording. No production magic or effects were used and the ToneRite was set on maximum power throughout. Enjoy the raw soundclips!<BR> <BR> All guitars showed a consistent improvement in resonance especially in the lows and low mids. The trebles were observed to be slightly muted due to the overpowering bass response. The trebles are expected to mature with a low power treatment subsequently as recommended by the guys at ToneRite. We will be running clips again after a week of treatment. Stay tuned! <ul><li> <A HREF=data/taylor80.htm>Taylor 410 1996</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/96%20Taylor%20410E.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Before</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/96%20Taylor%20410E-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">After</A> )<BR> </li><li> <A HREF=data/others04.htm>McPherson MG3.5</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/McPhersonMG35.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Before</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/McPhersonMG35-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">After</A> )<BR> </li><li> <A HREF=data/gibson10.htm>Gibson SJ-200 TV VOS</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Gibson%20SJ200.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Before</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Gibson%20SJ200-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">After</A> )<BR> </li><li> <A HREF=data/alvarezMD90.htm>Alvarez Masterworks MD90</A> ( <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Alvarez%20MD90.mp3" TARGET="_blank">Before</A> | <A HREF="http://www.bgwguitars.com/clips/Alvarez%20MD90-AFT.mp3" TARGET="_blank">After</A> )<BR> </li></ul> <BR><BR> <A HREF="data/acctonerite.htm"> <CENTER> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/Toneriting.jpg"> </CENTER> </A> <BR><BR><BR><HR> </TD></TR><TR><TD COLSPAN=2> <BR><B>June 27th 2009</B> <BR> <B><H2>Ameritage Cases coming to BGW</H2></B> <BR><BR> We will soon be bringing you <a href="http://www.ameritage.com/" TARGET="_blank">Ameritage</a> instrument cases! These guitar cases are of the finest quality and will protect your prized instruments from even the most rugged elements. <BR><BR> Ameritage gold series cases features: <ul><li> Strong, breathable 6-ply hardwood veneer shell </li><li> Instrument suspended in a compression fit, shock absorption system </li><li> Ameritage<sup>®</sup> Humidity Control System protects instrument from humidity concerns </li></ul> <CENTER> <BR> <img src="http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r52/brendon8303/blog/Ameritage.jpg"> </CENTER> </TD> </TR> </TABLE> </div> <div id="sidebar"> <br><br> <h3 class="expanded first">Acoustics</h3> <ul id="sidebar-categories" style="display: block;"> <li><a href="taylor.htm" class="category">Taylor</a></li> <li><a href="gibson.htm" class="category">Gibson</a></li><li><a href="martin.htm" class="category">Martin</a></li><li><a href="collings.htm" class="category">Collings</a></li></li><li><a href="goodall.htm" class="category">Goodall</a></li><li><a href="mcpherson.htm" class="category">McPherson</a></li><li><a href="rainsong.htm" class="category">Rainsong</a></li><li><a href="lakewood.htm" class="category">Lakewood</a></li><li><a href="furch.htm" class="category">Furch</a></li> <li><a href="epiphone.htm" class="category">Epiphone</a></li> <li><a href="alvarez.htm" class="category">Alvarez</a></li><li><a href="otheracoustics.htm" class="category">Others</a></li> </ul> <br> <h3 class="expanded first">Electrics</h3> <ul id="sidebar-categories" style="display: block;"> <li><a href="fender.htm" class="category">Fender</a></li> <li><a href="gibsone.htm" class="category">Gibson</a></li> <li><a href="prs.htm" class="category">PRS</a></li> <li><a href="ibanez.htm" class="category">Ibanez</a></li> <li><a href="gretsch.htm" class="category">Gretsch</a></li><li><a href="sterling2.htm" class="category">Musicman</a></li><li><a href="sterling.htm" class="category">Sterling</a></li> <li><a href="otherelectrics.htm" class="category">Others</a></li> </ul> <br> <h3 class="expanded first">Strings</h3> <ul id="sidebar-categories" style="display: block;"> <li><a href="data/accelixir.htm" class="category">Elixir</a></li><li><a href="data/accdaddario.htm" class="category">D'Addario</a></li> <li><a href="data/accmartin.htm" class="category">Martin</a></li> <li><a href="data/acceverly.htm" class="category">Everly</a></li> </ul> </ul> <br> <h3 class="expanded first">Amplifiers</h3> <ul id="sidebar-categories" style="display: block;"> <li><a href="data/accgenzbenzbass.htm" class="category">Genz Benz (Bass)</a></li><li><a href="data/accgenzbenzelectric.htm" class="category">Genz Benz (Electric)</a></li> <li><a href="data/accgenzbenzacc.htm" class="category">Genz Benz (Acoustic)</a></li> </ul> <br> <h3 class="expanded first">Sound Better</h3> <ul id="sidebar-categories" style="display: block;"> <li><a href="data/accvpicks.htm" class="category">V-Picks</a></li> <li><a href="data/acctonerite.htm" class="category">ToneRite</a></li> <li><a href="data/accg7thcapo.htm" class="category">G7th Capo</a></li><li><a href="data/acccables.htm" class="category">Zaolla & Hosa Cables</a></li> </ul> <br> <h3 class="expanded first">Accessories</h3> <ul id="sidebar-categories" style="display: block;"> <li><a href="data/acctuners.htm" class="category">Tuners</a></li> <li><a href="data/acccooperstand.htm" class="category">Cooper Guitar Stand</a></li> <li><a href="data/acctalon.htm" class="category">Talon Guitar Stand</a></li> <li><a href="data/acclevy.htm" class="category">Levy Leather Straps</a></li> <li><a href="data/accpwfps.htm" class="category">Fret Polishing System</a></li> <li><a href="data/acczorbit.htm" class="category">Zorb-it Humidity Pack</a></li><li><a href="data/accdc930.htm" class="category">Portable Dehumidifier</a></li><li><a href="data/acchygrometer.htm" class="category">Digital Hygrometer</a></li> <li><a href="data/accmono.htm" class="category">Mono Gigbag</a></li><li><a href="data/acchardcase.htm" class="category">Fender Cases</a></li> <li><a href="data/accameritage.htm" class="category">Ameritage Cases</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <div id="bottom-links" class="clearfix"> <ul> <li><a href="brands.htm">We can get you any guitars from these 65 brands.</a></li> <li><a href="contactus.htm"><FONT COLOR="white">brendon@bgwguitars.com</FONT></a></li> </ul> </div> </div> </body></html>