Yamaha Launches Its First-Ever Lineup Of Finger Drum Pads

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Yamaha has announced the new FGDP Series finger drums, the brand’s first-ever, all-in-one finger drum pads designed for players at all skill levels. The stand-alone instruments, consisting of the FGDP-30 and FGDP-50, are portable, ergonomically designed and packed with a wide array of professional grade sounds.

Engineered to be played anywhere, at any time, the FGDP Series comes in a lightweight package equipped with high-quality preset sounds and a long-lasting battery for easy, fun music-making on the go.

The finger drums feature a unique, streamlined pad layout for ease of use, in addition to a velocity switch and polyphonic aftertouch sensor allowing players to incorporate dynamic drumming techniques, such as ghost notes and high-speed rolls in any performance.

“Our goal with FGDP Series is to introduce a new kind of way for our customers to create music whether they are passionate finger drummers, aspiring musicians, or new to the world of music making,” said Matt Rudin, drums product marketing manager at Yamaha Corporation of America. “With the FGDP-30 and FGDP-50, players can expect a versatile music machine that fuses years of Yamaha’s cutting-edge synthesizers and drums technology into a single compact instrument.”

The entry FGDP-30 model features ergonomic ultra-sensitive pads, 39 preset kits and USB MIDI / Audio. The advanced FGDP-50 model includes each of these capabilities plus additional preset kits and features, such as 50 user kits, session songs, eight additional RGB pads, a note repeat function, and playback sampler.

Pricing and Availability

The FGDP Series pre-order will be available starting September 5, 2023 at the following prices:

FGDP-30: $199.99
FGDP-50: $299.99

To learn more about the FGDP Series, please visit yamaha.io/fingerdrums

Sony Electronics Releases Two New Alpha 7C Series Cameras

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Sony Electronics announces the release of two new additions to the Alpha 7C series of compact full-frame interchangeable lens cameras, the Alpha 7C II (model ILCE-7CM2) and Alpha 7CR (model ILCE-7CR).

The Alpha 7C II is equipped with a full-frame image sensor with approximately 33.0 effective megapixels and features the latest still image and video functions and performance in a compact and lightweight design (approximately 4.88 in wide x 2.5 in deep and weighs approximately 181.1 oz.)

It is the second-generation version of the Alpha7 C, which is celebrated for its combination of performance and features in a compact size, perfect for a wide range of shooting scenarios such as travel and street photography.

The Alpha 7CR is a new compact full-frame interchangeable lens camera, posting the high-resolution of a full-size image sensor with approximately 61.0 effective megapixels, the same sensor found in the Alpha 7R V, into a compact and lightweight body (similar size and weight as the Alpha 7C II, approximately 18.2 oz). In addition to daily snapshots, it easily realizes high-quality image capture in a wide variety of settings, such as portrait, wildfire, and landscape photography, meeting the expectations of creative work with mobility.

Both models are equipped with the same AI-processing unit and BIONZ XR processors found in Sony’s newest interchangeable lens cameras such as the Alpha 7R V and Alpha 6700. Real-time Recognition AF recognizes a wide variety of subjects with high accuracy, and 5-axis in-body mage stabilization provides a 7.0 step shooting advantage when capturing stills.

In terms of video performance, both models support high-quality 4:2:2 10-bit video recording up to 4K60p, and both models support Sony’s acclaimed S-Cinetone color science for rich cinematic video. In addition, they have Active Mode in-body image stabilization, AI-based auto-framing, digital-audio interface support, and other features that support high-quality video shooting.

“At Sony, we’re committed to continually raising the bar and elevating standards for content creators. With the introduction of the Alpha 7C II and the Alpha 7CR models, we’re offering an innovative performance across our state-of-the-art imaging devices. By fusing advanced technology with user-friendly design, we’re empowering content creators to realize their artistic vision like never before,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics.

As the demand for sending and sharing captured content on social media networks has increased, more creators are looking for a combination of compact size and high imaging performance in mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. With the introduction of the Alpha 7C II and Alpha 7CR, which achieve high mobility and high-quality image expression in a compact size, Sony responds to the wide range of image expressions sought by creators.

Pricing and Availability

The new Alpha 7C II will be available in Fall of 2023 at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers:
Camera only: MSRP $2199.99 USD, $3399.99 CAN
Camera w/28-60mm lens: MSRP $2499.99 USD, $3399.99 CAN

The new Alpha 7CR will be available in Fall 2023 at a variety of Sony’s authorized deals:
Camera only: MSRP $2999.99 USD, $4099.99 CAN

The new GP-X2 extension will be available in the Fall of 2023 at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers for MSRP $159.99 USD, $214.99 CAN.

RØDE Introduces Wireless PRO Compact Wireless Microphone System

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RØDE introduced the Wireless PRO compact wireless microphone system. The Wireless PRO is the ultimate wireless microphone, packed full of powerful features that offer incredible flexibility for recording pristine audio for your content.

Never lose a take with 32-bit float on-board recording, keep all your video and audio flawlessly synchronized with timecode, and capture incredible-sounding content effortlessly with incredible-sounding content effortlessly with intelligent GainAssist technology. The Wireless PRO delivers everything you could possibly want from a compact wireless microphone system, and much more.

State-of-the-art Wireless Audio

RØDE pioneered the ultra-compact wireless microphone category with the original Wireless GO and this legacy carries on with Wireless PRO. Utilizing state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission and proprietary near-zero latency codec with 128-bit encryption, it delivers crystal-clear, incredibly stable audio with a range of up to 260m. Wireless audio you can rely on in almost any recording application.

Never Lose a Recording

There’s nothing worse than pulling your audio into your editing software and realizing your recording clipped and can’t be used. With the Wireless PRO, this is a thing of the past. 32-bit float on-board recording means your audio is safely backed up every time you record, with the ability to recover any recording in post-production that was too loud or too quiet. Never worry about setting your gain perfectly again. Gamechanger.

Audio and Video, Perfectly in Sync

With the Wireless PRO’s timecode capability, you can perfectly synchronize your audio and video with ease – no need for complex and expensive external timecode systems.

Pristine Audio in Any Situation

In addition to its 32-bit float on-board recording, the Wireless PRO offers a plethora of features that promise pristine audio in any situation. Ensure your audio is smooth and balanced with intelligent GainAssist technology and tailored presets. Precisely match your mic to your camera with flexible gain controls and tailored presets. Add an extra layer of protection with the safety channel. Perfect recordings, every time.

The Ultimate Pro Recording Kit

The Wireless PRO comes with everything you need to get set up and recording wireless audio right out of the box. Included are two professional Lavalier II microphones that are perfect for recording on-screen talent, as well as furry windshields for outdoor use, a pair of MagClip GO to attach your transmitters anywhere, a smart charging case and a handy accessory pack to store your lavs, cables and clips.

Connect to All Your Devices

Thanks to its analog (3.5mm) and digital (USB-C) outputs, the Wireless PRO is universally compatible with cameras and other audio devices, both iOS and Android smartphones and tablets, and Windows and Mac computers.

Key Features

  • Dual-channel compact wireless microphone system
  • RØDE’s state-of-the-art Series IV 2.4 GHz digital transmission with 128-bit encryption for crystal-clear, incredibly stable audio with a range of up to 260m
  • Universal compatibility with cameras, smartphones and computers
  • 32-bit float on-board recording for recovering clipped or quiet audio files
  • Timecode capabilities for quick-and-easy audio sync in post-production
  • Intelligent GainAssist technology, flexible output gain control and safety channel for ensuring pristine audio when recording direct to camera
  • 32GB internal memory per transmitter for over 40 hours of on-board recording time
  • Locking 3.5mm TRS connectors for complete security
  • Headphone monitoring with on-board level control
  • Plug-in power detect for extended battery level control
  • Complete accessory kit, including smart charging case, two Lavalier II microphones, cables, MagClip GO magnetic mounting clips and accessory case
  • Easy configuration on a computer or smartphone via RØDE Central
  • Designed and made in RØDE’s precision facilities in Sydney, Australia

Darkglass Introduces Microtubes X 900

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Darkglass Electronics introduces Microtubes X 900, a 900W Bass Amplifier. Designed after the revered X series pedals, the Microtubes X 900 sets a new standard for accuracy and control. We packed an all-analog preamp, a 900 watt Class D amplifier, and an ultra-quiet 6-band graphic equalizer inside to sculpt tomes from crystal clear to aggressive and overdriven.

Darkglass Suite

Using the desktop version of the Darkglass Suite allows you to suggest and use any of our available impulse responses from our provided library in addition to loading your own custom impulse responses. In addition, you can control the amplifier channel settings for the Super Intelligent Footswitch.

The intelligent Footswitch is an intuitive yet versatile accessory for your Microtubes X 900. One tap will engage and disengage the Distortion, while holding for 3 seconds will Mute the amplifier. It is connected to the head via a standard 1/4” cable and it’s powered by a microcontroller that sends commands to the head using a proprietary communication protocol.

Front Panel Features

Input: Use this jack to connect your instrument via a standard 1/4” mono cable.

Passive/Active: Use this push-button switch to change from passive to active mode. If your bass is active it can have a hotter signal, making the amp distort earlier (feel free to use if such additional distortion is desired).

X: Use this push-button to turn on or off the Microtubes X Engine which allows you to compress and distort your bass signal in two separate bands, solidifying the clean low end and distorting the highs to taste from articulate to aggressive. The Microtubes X Engine operates before the EQ section.

Clean Comp: Use this push-button switch to activate the compressor circuit for the clean channel.

Vol (Clean Comp): Sets the level of the clean channel when the compressor is engaged.

HPF (High Pass Filter): Controls the cutoff frequency of the high pass filter which is applied before the clean signal is fed to the distortion circuit. Ranging from 100 Hz (for thicker, fuzzier saturation) to 1 kHz (for ultra-sharp definition).

Drive: Sets the amount of distortion for the high pass side.

Mix: Controls the blend between the compressed lows and the distorted highs.

LPF (Low Pass Filter): Controls the cut-off frequency of the low pass filter which is applied before the clean signal is fed to the compression circuit. Ranging from 50 Hz (for only sub-bass) to 500 Hz (to preserve some clean mids).

Comp: Controls the amount of compression for the low band when X is activated. Both threshold and makeup gain are controlled to maintain a constant level. This control is also used to control the amount of compression when the compressor is enabled for the clean signal. The clean comp is full-range.

Level: Sets the output volume of the X channel.

Bass: +-12 dB @ 80 Hz.

Mids: +-12 dB at 250, 500, 1.5k and 3kHz.

Treble: +- 12 dB @ 3kHz

Peavey Announces The HP 2 Series Guitar

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Peavy HP 2 and HP 2 Poplar Burl RM guitars are constructed with leading-edge technology, traditional handcrafted methods, professional-quality upgrades, and customizations. When a guitar bears the initials of Peavey founder and CEO Hartley Peavey, players can expect an iconic design with its own unique flair.

While the esthetic is classic, the HP 2 stands out with its carved top and offset, asymmetrical body design that offers comfort, proper balance, and maximum playing ease. These models feature your choice of a Flame Maple or Poplar Burl top, with each option chosen for its natural beauty, weight, and specific tonal qualifies.

The Poplar Burl models feature a Roasted Maple neck, a process which removes moisture from the wood and prevents it from warping over time. This also helps the guitar maintain its tune. All models include cream edge binding to accent the body.

At the select Birdseye maple neck and fingerboard, players will find unmatched stability and playability. Dual graphite reinforcement bars and an easy-access, adjustable steel torsion rod provide additional strength, as does the bolt-on construction with contoured neck heel. The oil fingerboard is cut from the same piece of wood as the single-piece neck, keeping the color and grain patterns consistent.The stress-relieved lamination also adds increased stability.

The HP 2 has a 25.5” scale length, 22 jumbo frets and 15” fingerboard radius. The 10-degree tilt-back headstock has a 3+3 tuning machine configuration featuring Schaller tuning machines with pearloid butons. The chrome-plated hardware finish completes the look.

The HP 2’s construction and electronics work in harmony. Two custom-wound Peavey hukbucking pickups supply optimal output and tonal response. They’re made using a two-step wax-dipping process that provides ultra-low noise operation and resistance to microphonic feedback. The pickups are mounted directly to the body, further reducing feedback at high volume levels and enhancing response.

A Switchcraft 3-way toggle switch allows selection of pickups in up, center and down configurations. Players will also find a Peavey/Floyd Rose, licensed, double-locking tremolo assembly to complete the guitar. Finishing off the guitar are two push-pull knobs for volume and tone, with the ability to split the pickups individually.

Cleveland Music Introduces Midgeapocalypse Vintage Fuzz

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The Midgeapoclaypse Vintage Fuzz is tailor-made for anyone who likes their fuzz gnarly, spitty, gated, and mean. The “Midge” is inspired by the classic FY-2 fuzz. It sports a distinctive vintage voice and tonal enhancements as modern as it looks. This one is not for the uninitiated.

Midgepocalypse Vintage Fuzz is priced at $149.00.

An Unholy Gnarl Bomb Of Fuzzy, Buzzsaw Bliss

If you know what the FY-2 is, you vaguely know what you’re getting with the Midgeapocalypse Vintage Fuzz. If you don’t know, just consider it has been used with killer results by artists ranging from The Black Keys to Radiohead to The Jesus and Mary Chain. But as great as the original pedal is, it has limitations: namely, an overwhelmingly scooped frequency response and famously low output level. So, we set out to create a modern, more versatile distant cousin in the Midgeapocalypse.

First, we added a BOOST control that allows you to dial in just the right amount of midrange, making the available tones more fluid, raw, and distinctive than they already are. Second, we added a SPLAT knob to control the bass entering the circuit, which can yield tones from a single buzzing gnat, to a blooming mushroom cloud of zombie midges. Lastly, we fixed that pesky output volume problem; the Midgeapocalypse can bring any amp to its knees with ease.

CONTROLS

VOLUME: Sets the overall output level of the pedal. Clockwise for more output; counter-clockwise for less.

TEXURE: NOT a fuzz or gain control! This control subtly changes the character and, well, texture of the fuzz.

BOOST: Clockwise to add more midrange frequencies to the tone, counterclockwise for less. Adding more mids will boost the overall volume of the pedal. This is normal.

FAT: Cuts or adds bass content entering the circuit, allowing more low end to pass through as it is adjusted clockwise. This has the effect of changing the intensity and character of the fuzz. Extreme clockwise settings can create a pleasing, splatty, compressed fuzz with “bloom”.

True-bypass switching. Top-mounted audio and DC power jacks. No batter snap provided. The pedal is industry-standard 1258B in size.

Midgeapocalypse Vintage Fuzz Nerd Notes

* Rugged powder-coated and UV-printed enclosure

* Awesome solid aluminum knobs

* Genuine Fairchild silicon transistors

* 1% Royal Ohm metal film resistors

* Alpha potentiometers

* Neutrik audio jacks

* GØRVA Mechano 3PDT soft-touch latching footswitch

* WIMA and Kemet film capacitors

* Nichicon and Panasonic electrolytic capacitors

* MLCC C0G capacitors in the audio path (for the hardcore tone nerds out there)

The Cleveland Music Co. Midgeapocalypse Vintage Fuzz is handmade in limited runs in Cleveland, Ohio.

Electro-Harmonix Introduces Pico Platform

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Electro-Harmonix introduced the Pico Platform. It is a studio-style compression / limiter in a super small pico package! The Pico Platform is priced at $119.00 (USA Street Price).

The EHX Pico Platform Compressor / Limiter is a powerful and versatile studio-style compressor enclosed in a pico-sized package. Borrowing from the original, the Pico Platform condenses the comp section of the full-sized Stereo Platform for those looking to fit smooth studio compression onto any pedalboard. Packed with 2 modes and Hard/Sort Knee compression options, it is a perfect fit for sculpting your dynamics with professional precision.

Use the Pico Platform compressor / limiter on any instrument for precise and powerful control of your signal’s volume and of course, extended sustain on leads. Add subtle dynamic control to level out peaks and valleys in your signal or give your sound a real squeeze for extra sustain and pop. The Pico Platform is extremely transparent with no tonal coloring, making it extremely versatile and easy to work into your existing set up.

The Pico Platform’s control set is simple yet comprehensive. Use the Sustain control to adjust the compressor ratio or limiter threshold for a subtle or extreme effect. The addition of a Blend knob allows for adding seamless sustain while preserving attack and tone. Adjust the Attack control to set when the compressor activates after a transient. Use the Mode button to choose between the Compressor and Limiter modes and Soft Knee or Hard Knee compression curves for smoother or more dramatic styles.

* Studio-style compressor / limiter to precisely tune dynamics

* Compressor and Limiter modes for a wide range or compression styles

* Selectable Hard Knee / Soft Knee compression curves

* Sustain adjusts Compressor ratio or Limiter threshold

* Attacks adjusts attack time

* Blend adjusts dry/wet ratio

* Volume control overall output level

* Power adapter included

* Specifications

* Circuit – Digital

* Bypass – Buffered Bypass

* Audio – Mono

* Power Supply – 9.6VDC – 200mA power adapter included

* Dimensions (in) – 3.65 x 2.0 x 2.0

* Current Draw – 100mA

* Year released – 2023

* UPC – 683274012537

BOSS Announces AC-22LX Acoustic Amplifier

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BOSS announces the AC 22LX Acoustic Amplifier, a compact stereo amplifier for pickup-equipped acoustic stringed instruments. The AC-22 LX presents a new concept in acoustic amplification, delivering a full-immersion playing experience realized through advanced BOSS Air Feel technology.

Air Feel breathes life into the dry, sterile sound of standard acoustic instrument pickups, recreating the detailed tones captured by stereo acoustic microphone setups in world-class studio settings. From acoustic-electric guitar to ukulele, violin, banjo, and other stringed instruments, the AC-22LX and Air Feel deliver the ultimate personal amplification experience for serious acoustic players.

Many elements contribute to the rich, complex sound of acoustic stringed instruments, including the soundboard, body resonances, and more. In recording situations, stereo microphone setups are used to capture this combined sound along with the surrounding room ambience.

Unfortunately, instrument microphones are impractical for most amplifying playing situations due to feedback and other issues. Air Feel erases these limitations, bringing authentic studio microphone sound to acoustic amplification for the first time.

Born of intensive BOSS sound research and advanced processing technologies, Air Feel transforms a standard acoustic pickup’s sound with richness and dimension never possible until now. Players can plug in and enjoy their instrument’s natural acoustic character at performance volumes – without the need for microphones and audio engineering skills.

Easily accessible via a panel knob on the AC-22LX, multiple Air Feel settings recreate the immersive sound of classic stereo microphone techniques, including XY, AB, ORTF, and mid-side.

The AC-22LX’s compact and attractive cabinet is equipped with two custom twin-cone speakers, providing expansive stereo tones for home playing. Along with Air Feel, the Guitar/Instrument channel features a three-band EQ plus reverb and combined reverb/chorus effects. The Mic channel supports an XLR vocal microphone and includes selectable phantom power, two-band EQ and a dedicated reverb for independent processing.

With 15 onboard memories, users can save setups for different songs and instruments. The AC-22LX Editor (macOS/Windows/iOS/Android) provides even deeper control with the ability to change reverb types, access effect parameters, and more.

With its versatile analog and USB connectivity, users can send the AC-22LX’s sound output to a PA system, recorder, or live-streaming application, complete with Air Feel processing and spatial rhythm tones. The analog line output supports mono or stereo operation, while the USB connection has a convenient Loopback function for monitoring sounds from a computer.

There are a variety of available options to extend the AC-22LX experience. A rear-panel jack supports up to two footswitches, providing access to rhythm start/stop, control of the onboard looper, and other assignable functions in the AC-22LX Editor.

Installing the Bluetooth Audio MIDI Dial Adaptor unlocks even more possibilities through wireless connectivity, including the ability to stream and play along with music from a mobile device, adjust settings via the iOS/Android version of the editor, and more.

Electro-Harmonic Introduces Pico POG

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Electro-Harmonic introduces the Pico POG, EHX’s smallest and most powerful compact Polyphonic Octave Generate yet, The Pico POG takes the streamlined simplicity of the Micro and Nano POGs and fits it all into an ultra-compact chassis and adds a powerful tone control. The tightest octave effect now fits on the tightest of pedalboards.

The EHX Pico POG features a lightning fast feel that will track every not and chord you play with precision. Dial in Sub Octave to add stumble rumble or monstrous thunder. Add Active Up for ethereal air or make it out to shred into another galaxy. Perfectly blend 3-voice tones for fat synths madness. The 3 mode Tone control lets you tailor your sound to fit into any pocket no matter how massive or small.

Controls on the Pico POG include dedicated volumes knobs for the SUB OCTAVE, OCTIVE UP, and DRY voices. These three controls act as a mixer for infinite possible voice mixes. The TONE knob features three modes controlled by the FILTER button.

In Tone Mode, the knob acts as a tilt-EQ with a flat frequency response in the center, more treble and less bass as you turn the knob counterclockwise. In this mode, EQ is applies to all 3 voices. In Low Pass Filter mode, the knob cuts highs in the Sub and Octave Up voices, while High Pass Filter mode cuts lows in the Sub and Octave Up Voices.

Features include:

  • Lightning-fast tracking with perfectly precise octane tones
  • 3 volume knobs control level of SUB OCTAVE, OCTAVE UP, and DRY tones
  • TONE knob applied tilt-EQ to all output
  • Low Pass Mode applies a resonant low pass filter, which allows low frequencies to pass while cutting higher frequencies of the Sub and Octave Up voices
  • High Pass Mode applies a high pass filter, which allows high frequencies to pass while cutting lower frequencies of the Sub and Octave Up voices
  • Power adapter included

The Pico POG Polyphonic Octave Generator is priced at $240.00 (USA Street Price)

Fender and Loog Team Up To Bring Kid-Sized, 3-String Guitars To The Next Generation

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Children’s guitar brand Loog, and Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), the world’s leading guitar manufacturer, announced the launch of the Fender X Loog collection, a collaboration featuring kid-sized, versions of Fender’s iconic guitar models.

Fender x Loog brings Loog’s signature elements to Fender’s trademark headstock design – small in size and big in sound. The guitars, manufactured by Loog and designed alongside Fender’s innovative product team, come fully equipped with learning tools including cord flashcards and access to Loog’s learning app, Loog Guitar. The app is available for free in the Apple and Google Play stores and includes video lessons and game-like exercises. Exclusively made for this partnership, the guitars also come with a booklet telling the story of Fender’s first electric guitars.

“I’m very proud of this collaboration. The Fender x Loog collection is a great way to introduce kids to the world of electric guitars and celebrate two of rock ’n’ roll’s seminal instruments: the Telecaster and the Stratocaster” announced Rafael Atijas, founder and CEO of Loog Guitars. “To work alongside Fender’s team on this project has been a pleasure and I’m honored that we were given the opportunity to reimagine these design masterpieces as 3-string electric guitars for children.”

The Fender x Loog collection features two models: a mini 3-string Stratocaster guitar available in black and a mini 3-string Telecaster guitar available in Fender’s signature Seafoam Green. Both guitars come equipped with a single-coil pickup and a standard 1/4 jack that allows them to be plugged into an amplifier. Loog’s trademark design element, the slim 3-string fretboard, sets them apart as an ideal choice for children. With chords simplified to only three notes, learning becomes more accessible and less intimidating for young players. Utilizing standard guitar strings and tuning ensures everything learned on a Fender x Loog guitar can be applied on a 6-string guitar as well.

“It was a natural fit to collaborate with Loog, providing young artists with new tools and they take their first step in their musical journeys,” said Richard Bussey, VP of Accessories, Lifestyle and Licensing at FMIC. “With a history of supporting music education, Fender and Loog came together to blend Fender’s renowned craftsmanship with Loog’s mission of teaching children to play. This exciting partnership aims to foster creativity and enhance accessibility for aspiring artists, nurturing the rock stars of tomorrow, one chord at a time.”

The Fender x Loog guitars retail at $199.00 and are currently only available in the United States on Loogguitars.com, Fender.com, and in key retailers nationwide with plans to expand in Europe, Japan, and Australia later this year.

About LOOG Guitars:

Loog is an award-winning line of guitars, designed to make it fun and easy for children to play music. It started as an academic project when Rafael Atijas developed the concept for a 3-string kids’ guitar as his Master’s thesis at New York University. A year later, in 2011, Loog launched to market through a Kickstarter campaign and, since then, has expanded to a full line of acoustic and electric instruments and music learning apps. Loog guitars are played by hundreds of thousands of children all around the world, as well as established musicians, such as Jack White and members of The Rolling Stones.

About Fender Musical Instruments Corporation:

Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC)-whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands include Fender, Squire, Gretch guitars, Jackson, EVH, Charvel, Bigbsy, and PreSonus – follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres.