Hot news from Snark! Taking the company’s ultra-popular product line to a whole new level, Snark has introduced a trio of high-precision clip-on tuners: the Snark ST-1X HPT, ST-2 HPT and ST-8 HPT. These models feature all-new software with ultra-tight “in tune” windows for pinpoint accuracy with a broad range of instruments.
Adding to the best-in-class performance: a patented anechoic sound shield on the back of each tuner helps block room noise. This unique shielding allows each of the new high-precision Snarks to deliver faster and more precise tuning in any environment. The Snark ST-1X HPT, ST-2 HPT and ST-8 HPT all feature super bright LCD screens for easy viewing in the brightest sunlight or on low light stages.
All three models are rechargeable (no batteries needed!) and come with a USB cable/adapter for quick, easy charging. Each tuner’s screen includes a prominent battery gauge, so you can feel confident that your tuner has plenty of battery power available. No matter what you play – stringed instruments such as guitar, bass, and ukulele, or brass and woodwind instruments – you’ll find one of the new Snarks that’s perfect for you. All three tuners offer adjustable pitch calibration. Also, the ST-2 HTP provides a switchable option for selecting Mic mode or Vibration mode. Choose Vibration mode for regular clip-on use; switch to Mic mode and clip the ST-2 HTP to your music stand. Snark’s new high-precision ST-1X HPT, ST-2 HPT and ST-8 HPT rechargeable tuners have MRSPs of $24.99, $26.99 and $26.99 respectively.
Lollar Pickups has announced the release of a new line of single-coil pickups called the sB (single blade), based on the design of their popular dB (dual blade) humbucker. The first two offerings in the lineup are intended as drop-in replacements for Jaguar and Bass VI style instruments.
Featuring a large blade-style pole piece and modified coil design, the sB single-coils offer hotter, fuller, and fatter output as compared with the original standard Jaguar type of pickups often used in these instruments. The blade also provides improved overall consistency – in terms of both frequency response and string-to-string balance – thanks to its added inductance and unique physical properties. This is benefit particularly useful for the Bass VI, since some players feel that the conventional Jaguar pickup design can lack the fullness in low-end frequencies needed for more modern playing styles. This makes the sB a great choice for players seeking a more versatile pickup option for their instruments and those looking to play heavier styles of music.
The sB pickups for Jaguar and Bass VI are available for order now at www.LollarGuitars.com/sB-pickups and Lollar Pickups authorized dealers. They are offered in two-piece sets for Jaguar and three-piece sets for Bass VI, in parchment, white, black, and cream.
Peavey® introduces new Cirrus™ bass guitar models, featuring 4-string and 5-string options in nine styles. With Peavey VFL humbuckers, 3-band active EQ, and exotic hardwoods, these basses pay homage to the original 1997 design. Starting at $3299.99.
Peavey® announces the debut of new Cirrus™ bass guitar models. Featuring 4-string and 5-string models, in an encompassing collection of nine different styles, Cirrus bass guitars deliver the high level of craftsmanship and sonic character that helped bring Peavey fretted instruments to a new standard. Featuring Peavey VFL humbuckers, 3-band active EQ, and visually striking designs, Cirrus basses are back to make their boldest statement yet.
The initial launch of handcrafted Cirrus basses in 1997 helped Peavey guitars gain a new level of respect among professional players. Peavey’s master luthier, the late Mike Powers, achieved excellent tone with a lighter, neck-through design. In the new Cirrus bass models, Peavey brings back this essential feature, as well as the use of exotic hardwoods, state-of-the-art electronics, and a 35-inch scale length to improve the low-end.
Peavey Debuts New Cirrus Bass Guitars Models
The new Cirrus bass design improves upon the VFL (Vertical Flux Loading) humbucker technology that originally debuted with this model. VFL was another Powers innovation that optimized the magnetic field for less inductance and enhanced high-frequency performance. Peavey’s VFL electronics include 3-band active Cirrus EQ, blend control, and master volume, allowing players of various styles to dial in their perfect tone.
The two main models are the Cirrus 4-string and 5-string. Each model offers Flame Maple, Flame Maple Trans Black, Flame Maple Trans Blue, or Wenge wood for the top material. The Cirrus 4 offers the additional option of a Quilt Maple top. The maple tops are paired with alder bodies, achieving a harmonious balance of brightness and midrange warmth. Similarly, the pairing of the wenge top with walnut creates a distinctive tonal fusion resulting in a rich, balanced sound. A natural oil finish is used, with the exception of the Flame Maple Trans Blue and Trans Black models, which have a corresponding Gloss Burst finish for a dazzling splash of color.
On each model, a rosewood fretboard with 24 medium jumbo frets is reinforced by purple heart wood stringers, which not only add to the tonal depth but provide an eye-catching design that complements each instrument’s overall look. Another captivating signature feature is the Cirrus inlay on the 12th fret.
The engineering team also tips their hat to the lightweight 1997 design by using graphite pultrusion, as well as a graphite top nut and graphite overlay headstock with Peavey’s block letter logo. Wood is the material of choice for the back plate, battery cover, and dual-action truss rod cover, secured with machine screws.
While most of the models have sleek black hardware, the Quilt Maple and Flame Maple models offer a unique flair with gold hardware. Dunlop-style strap locks come standard.
With the debut of new Peavey’s Cirrus bass guitars, past and present reunite to provide players endless possibilities for a new musical journey.
Street prices starting at $3299.99 with TKL hardshell case included.
The Limited Edition Mark Speer Stratocaster® features DiMarzio® Pro Track™ pickups, while the Laura Lee Jazz Bass® Boasts Dimarzio Ultra Noiseless Jazz Bass Pickups and Vintage-style Chrome Covers
Today, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) is proud to announce the Limited Edition Mark Speer Stratocaster® and Limited Edition Laura Lee Jazz Bass® from the iconic band, Khruangbin. For the first time in its nearly 80-year history, Fender is introducing a signature bass and signature guitar for the same band, released simultaneously.
Known for their psychedelic melodies and a genre-blending sound that draws from funk, rock, and soul, Khruangbin has carved out a distinct musical identity. The breakthrough trio—bassist Laura Lee, guitarist Mark Speer, and drummer Donald “DJ” Johnson Jr.—is celebrating their 10th anniversary of the band's debut album, The Universe Smiles Upon You; to mark the milestone, the band is teaming up with Fender for something truly special. Fender® guitars have been a core part of the band’s sound since its inception, shaping the tones that define their music. Designed to capture the essence of a decade’s worth of tone, style, and innovation, these guitars invite musicians to carve out sonic paths while channeling the sound that helped define a generation.
Khruangbin | Fender Signature Sessions | Fender
“Khruangbin is a band that has made a huge mark on modern music—they blend cultures, genres, and eras into something entirely their own,” said Justin Norvell, EVP of Product at Fender. “Mark and Laura had built their trademark sound with some unique specs and features on their primary instruments and with these signature models, we wanted to be able to share that with the universe of musicians and fans.”
Drawing from a wide palette of worldly influences, Mark Speer’s innovative guitar playing with Khruangbin has established him as one of the most original and distinctive guitarists of his generation. The music is a stunning mix of psychedelia, soul, rock, and country with all of Mark’s smooth, reverb-drenched riffs and melodies played on a single guitar: the same original Fender® Stratocaster® he’s played since the band's inception.
The guitar looks as good as it sounds, with an Aged Natural finish over a custom contoured ash body, and distinctive all-white hardware. DiMarzio® Pro Track™ pickups in the neck and bridge deliver vintage humbucker tones, while the 70’s Fender® Stratocaster® middle pickup gives the guitar an even wider range of tonal options. The Custom “C”-shape neck with a 7.25” radius and 21 jumbo frets offers a comfortable feel, while the vintage-style synchronized tremolo provides classic Strat® vibrato action. Finally, Graph Tech® saddles and string trees increase harmonic content and improve tuning stability.
“This guitar is the easiest way for me to get the musical idea from my head, out into the world,” said Mark Speer. “I know this thing inside and out, the sounds it can make, and the textures I can achieve. It’s like becoming really familiar with your paintbrush.”
Laura Lee’s warm and inventive basslines have propelled Khruangbin albums into the Top 40 in the U.S. and even higher around the world. Armed with a Jazz Bass®, her unique playing style mixes classic-era basslines with funk, soul, country, and surf rock to create something completely distinctive and raw.
Finished in classic Vintage White, with stunning chrome appointments, this bass is an eye-catching instrument tailored to meet Laura Lee’s aesthetic and tonal design choices. DiMarzio® Ultra Jazz™ pickups provide deep lows, percussive highs, and rich harmonic overtones that help define Laura Lee’s sound. Vintage-style concentric volume/tone knobs for each pickup allow complete control over your sound. The Custom “U”-shape neck is topped with a rosewood fingerboard with a 9.5” radius and 21 jumbo frets, providing a comfortable, unique feel just like Laura’s original bass.
“A lot of the features on my bass look vintage, but they function in a modern way. We've been trying to cultivate our music to feel classic and timeless, really. To me, the look and feel of this instrument is the same — it just sounds better the more you play it,” said Laura Lee.
The Limited Edition Mark Speer Stratocaster® and Limited Edition Laura Lee Jazz Bass® each carry a $1,499.99 street price. For mor information visit fender.com.
Limited Edition Mark Speer Stratocaster®
($1,499.99 USD, €1,599 EUR, £1,349 GBP, $2,499.00 AUD,¥220,000 JPY) Drawing from a wide palette of worldly influences, Mark Speer’s innovative guitar playing with Khruangbin has established him as one of the most original and distinctive guitarists of his generation. The music is a stunning mix of psychedelia, soul, rock, and country with all of Mark’s smooth, reverb-drenched riffs and melodies played on a single guitar: his original Fender Stratocaster®.
Finished in a beautiful natural ash and furnished with upscale features, this guitar looks as good as it sounds. DiMarzio® Pro Track™ pickups in the neck and bridge deliver vintage humbucker tones, while the 70’s Fender® Stratocaster® middle pickup gives the guitar an even wider range of tonal options. The Custom “C”-shape neck with a 7.25” radius and 21 jumbo frets offers a comfortable feel, while the vintage-style synchronized tremolo provides classic Strat® vibrato action. Finally, Graph Tech® saddles and string trees increase harmonic content and improve tuning stability. Whether you’re aiming to capture Mark Speer’s signature sound or seeking a Stratocaster® with custom upgrades, the Mark Speer Stratocaster® is sure to thrill any guitar enthusiast.
Limited Edition Laura Lee Jazz Bass®
($1,499.99 USD, €1.699,00 EUR, £1,399 GBP, $2,499.00 AUD, ¥253,000 JPY) Laura Lee’s warm, pulsing, and inventive basslines have propelled Khruangbin albums into the Top 40 in the U.S. and even higher around the world. Armed with a Jazz Bass®, her unique playing style mixes classic-era basslines with funk, soul, country, and surf rock to create something completely distinctive and raw.
Finished in a classic vintage white with stunning chrome appointments, this bass is an eye-catching instrument tailored to meet Laura Lee’s aesthetic design choices. Loaded with DiMarzio® Ultra Jazz™ pickups, this bass has deep lows, percussive highs, and rich harmonic overtones that help define Laura Lee’s sound. Vintage-style concentric volume/tone knobs for each pickup allow complete control over your sound. The Custom “U”-shape neck is topped with a rosewood fingerboard with a 9.5” radius and 21 jumbo frets, providing a comfortable, unique feel just like Laura’s bass. With its classic Jazz Bass® controls, chrome hardware, and upgraded DiMarzio pickups, this bass will help you stand out on any stage.