
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) today announced the launch of the all-new Player Plus Series. As a new generation of guitar players continues to emerge, Player Plus puts the power of guitar squarely in their hands with new versions of Fender's most iconic models. Combining precise playability with unbridled style, these seven guitars and basses are engineered to remove any obstacle to effortless playing and are finished in vibrant, head-turning colors.
Player Plus is an extension of the Player Series, which was the most widely-adopted Fender guitar series in 2020 and has sold over 400k units since its 2018 debut. Millions of new players began their learning journey during the pandemic, and for many, the Player Series provided a seamless entry into the Fender brand.
As digital platforms like TikTok have opened up new pathways for artists to find worldwide audiences, Fender has designed Player Plus for the generation leading the charge: both online and as live music begins to roar back after its hiatus. The launch of Player Plus will also serve as the debut of Fender's very own TikTok, @fender. Fender's presence on the app will include exclusive content, product demos and educational content, tailor-made for both passionate musicians and aspiring artists. To highlight Player Plus on TikTok, Fender has teamed up with guitarists currently pushing the boundaries of genre and creativity in terms of what and how they are creating music. They include Blu DeTiger, Hannah Dasher, Gabriel GarzoĢn-Montano, The Destroy Boys and the Nova Twins.
Introducing the Player Plus Series | Fender
The launch of the Player Series in 2018 helped spark a movement in the guitar industry, one where Fender has committed to showcasing the youthful, creative and evolving universe of guitar and bass. This movement has been accelerated over the past twelve months with even more new players entering the world of guitar than ever before. This new generation of players have more diverse opinions, styles, tastes and perspectives than any cohort of guitarists before them. The launch of Player Plus is Fender's continued opportunity to unite this new generation of guitar players with a campaign that bridges creation, energy and style with expression, connection and collaboration. With the new Player Plus Series, Fender aims to highlight the diverse perspectives behind the creativity and self-expression that will shape the style, culture and music of the future.
"Artists will always be at the heart of what drives us to create and innovate," said Evan Jones, Fender CMO. "For us, this means listening closely to their needs, studying the evolving music landscape and delivering tools that will help them move and inspire fans. Inspired by the continued emergence of new artists who are taking guitar into new spaces and putting their own stamp on musical traditions of the past, the Player Plus series is built for artists who want to transmit a bold aesthetic and are unapologetic in their approach to their craft. Our hope is that working artists & emerging players will be attracted to the undeniable style, feel, energy and of course Fender tone that has and will continue to inspire generations of creators."
Blu DeTiger | Player Plus Sessions | Fender
The future of music has inherently adapted due to the rise of social media platforms like TikTok, which amasses over 100M monthly active users, many of them musicians. As a result, Fender is launching its own TikTok this month to inspire not only guitarists but also other content creators on the platform. Additionally, the new lineup of models will be featured in Fender's new content series, Sessions Plus. Building on the fan-favorite Fender Sessions, Sessions Plus profiles the artists at the forefront of a boundary-pushing musical subculture and the Player Plus guitar or bass they use to bring their passions to life. The series highlights how digital platforms have created new genres and made old ones more dynamic: from Blu DeTiger taking bass playing to center stage, to Destroy Boys' new twist on time-honored punk genres.
All Player Plus models are designed with features and hardware that are approachable yet empowering to the seasoned player. The necks for the series feature 12"-radius fingerboards, with rolled edges perfect for intense playing while maintaining comfort. The New Noiseless pickups used throughout Player Plus models deliver classic Fender tones with modern clarity: delivering highs that can cut through the mix without distracting hum. These electronics are controlled with advanced switching capabilities to give players easy access to a wide variety of tonal options, while locking tuners provide professional-grade stability and make string changes easy. These features differentiate Player Plus guitars and basses from traditional or vintage-style instruments, but maintain their ability to seamlessly blend and mesh with every conceivable use occasion, genre or creative situation.
"We designed the Player Plus series to match the unique characteristics of today's players and creators," said Justin Norvell, EVP Fender Products. "When we first launched the Player Series in 2018, we set a new standard for what an entry-point Fender could be. Now, the Player Plus series offers a next-level playing experience to help a new generation share their passion and distinct perspective. The newly-voiced Noiseless pickups and rolled edges of the neck deliver the power and precision modern artists demand. With the Electric new gradient burst finishes, we've delivered a visually-striking line of performance instruments that exemplify Fender's ethos: honoring our past while looking to the future."
Player Plus guitars and basses come in a range of finishes that nod to Fender's history and culture. These include Belair Blue, Silver Smoke, Tequila Sunrise, Aged Olympic Pearl, Aged Candy Apple Red, Cosmic Jade and Opal Spark. Several of these finishes are a modern take on the gradient finishes seen on '80s-era, high-performance Fender models and differentiate Player Plus from any other series in the company's portfolio. The Player Plus series of electric guitars and basses feature seven new models available at local dealers and on Fender.com.
Models:
- Player Plus Stratocaster guitar ($999.99 USD, Ā£939.00 GBP, ā¬1,049.00 EUR, $1,999.00 AUD, Ā„137,500 JPY)
- Player Plus Stratocaster HSS guitar ($1,029.99 USD, Ā£979.00 GBP, ā¬1,099.00 EUR, $2,049.00 AUD, Ā„140,800 JPY)
- Player Plus Telecaster guitar ($999.99 USD, Ā£939.00 GBP, ā¬1,049.00 EUR, $1,999.00 AUD, Ā„137,500 JPY)
- Player Plus Nashville Telecaster guitar ($1,029.99 USD, Ā£979.00 GBP, ā¬1,099.00 EUR, $2,049.00 AUD, Ā„140,800 JPY)
- Player Plus Active Precision Bass guitar ($1,049.99 USD, Ā£1,069.00 GBP, ā¬1,199.00 EUR, $2,099.00 AUD, Ā„148,500 JPY)
- Player Plus Active Jazz Bass guitar ($1,099.99 USD, Ā£1,069.00 GBP, ā¬1,199.00 EUR, $2,199.00 AUD, Ā„159,500 JPY)
- Player Plus Active Jazz Bass V guitar ($1,149.99 USD, Ā£1,159.00 GBP, ā¬1,299.00 EUR, $2,299.00 AUD, Ā„165,000 JPY)
- Mod Garage: The Fender S-1 Switching System - Premier Guitar āŗ
- Fender Introduces the Player Series - Premier Guitar āŗ
- Fender Introduces Modern Player Series Guitars - Premier Guitar āŗ
- Fender Partners with Manly Bands to Create Wedding Ring Collection āŗ
- Blu DeTiger Drops New Single and Video āŗ
Bonnaroo announces its 2025 lineup featuring Luke Combs, Hozier, Queens of the Stone Age, Avril Lavigne, and more.
This year features headline performances from Luke Combs on Thursday, Tyler, The Creator on Friday, Olivia Rodrigo on Saturday, and Hozier on Sunday. Further highlights include John Summit, Dom Dolla, Avril Lavigne, Glass Animals, Vampire Weekend, Justice, Queens of the Stone Age, and the first-ever Roo Residency with King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard performing three sets over three days. In addition, Remi Wolf will lead the āInsanely Fire 1970ās Pool Partyā 2025 SuperJam, Bonnarooās legendary tradition. The complete Bonnaroo 2025 lineup is below.
Bonnaroo tickets go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, January 9 beginning at 10 am (CT) exclusively via bonnaroo.com. Guaranteed lowest-priced tickets are available during the first hour of sales, from 10 am - 11 am (CT). 2025 ticket options include 4-Day General Admission, 4-Day GA+, 4-Day VIP, and 4-Day Platinum, along with a variety of camping and parking options starting at just $25 down with a payment plan.
The 2025 festival will offer some exciting new features for Bonnaroovians, including the āCloserā RV and Primitive Camping accommodations that guarantee closer proximity to Centeroo, regardless of which day fans choose to enter The Farm. Among this yearās most exciting additions will be The Infinity Stage, a brand-new, one-of-a-kind venue ā presented in partnership with Polygon Live ā boasting spatial sound, synchronized lights, and an unprecedented three-dome, open-air design to create the worldās largest, most immersive, 360° live music experience.
Bonnaroo also offers upgraded ticket types for those who prefer an elevated experience. GA+ tickets include unlimited access to the Centeroo GA+ Lounge, with relaxed seating, dedicated food for purchase, air-conditioned restrooms, and hospitality staff to assist with all festival needs; a private bar with drinks for purchase plus complimentary soft drinks; complimentary water refill station; a dedicated premium entrance lane at both gates into Centeroo, and more. VIP and Platinum guests will enjoy the same perks plus additional exclusive upgrades, including dedicated close-in and on-field viewing areas; unlimited access to VIP and Platinum Lounges; express lanes at the Festival Store, commemorative festival gifts, and so much more. To learn more about VIP and Platinum, please seehttp://www.bonnaroo.com/tickets.
A wide range of Camping & Parking options will be available in Outeroo including Primitive Car Camping, Glamping, RVs, Backstage Camping, Accessible Camping, Groop Camping, Community Camping, and more. Premium Outeroo Camping Accommodations include pre-pitched Souvenir Tents, cool and comfortable Darkroom Tents, weatherproof Luxury Bell Tents, and spacious 2-person Wood Frame Safari Tents for the ultimate Bonnaroo camping experience. Cosmic Nomads On-Site Daily Parking passes will be available for ticketholders not camping. For details on all accommodation options, please visitwww.bonnaroo.com/accommodations.
Complete Lineup
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
Luke Combs
Dom Dolla
Sammy Virji
Marcus King
Green Velvet
2hollis
Insane Clown Posse
Joey Valence & Brae
Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country
Wilderado
Max Styler
Azzecca
The Lemon Twigs
Wisp
Sofia Isella
Kitchen Dwellers
Dogs In A Pile
Die Spitz
Hey, Nothing
The Droptines
FRIDAY, JUNE 13
Tyler, the Creator
John Summit
Glass Animals
Tipper
Goose
The Red Clay Strays
Rainbow Kitten Surprise
Megadeth
Wallows
Foster the People
Slightly Stoopid
Flipturn
Of the Trees
JPEGMAFIA
Marina
Tape B
MJ Lenderman
BossMan Dlow
INZO
Levity
Mannequin Pussy
Leon Thomas
Cults
Aly & AJ
Matt Champion
Detox Unit
Rachel Chinouriri
Eater
Ginger Root
Bebe Stockwell
Effin
SATURDAY, JUNE 14
Olivia Rodrigo
Avril Lavigne
Justice
Nelly
GloRilla
Mt. Joy
RL Grime
Beabadoobee
Tyla
Jessie Murph
Modest Mouse
Gorgon City
Flatland Cavalry
Hot Mulligan
Action Bronson
Crankdat
Dope Lemon
Gigi Perez
Wave to Earth
Claptone
Jade Cicada
What So Not
Daưi Freyr
Ziggy Alberts
ROSSY
Destroy Boys
The Stews
Thee Sinseers & The Altons
AHEE
SUNDAY, JUNE 15
Hozier
Vampire Weekend
Queens of the Stone Age
LSZEE
Remi Wolf
Raye
Royel Otis
Dispatch
Role Model
Barry Can't Swim
Treaty Oak Revival
Big Gigantic
Jack's Mannequin
ATLiens
Bilmuri
Saint Motel
James Arthur
Alex Warren
Zingara
Natasha Bedingfield
Alexandra Kay
Goldie Boutilier
Grace Bowers & The Hodge Podge
GorillaT
YDG
SPECIAL PERFORMANCES
King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard Roo Residency: 3 Sets, 3 Days (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
Remi Wolfās Insanely Fire 1970ās Pool Party Superjam (Saturday)
Enhance your Ratio Machine Heads with Graph Tech's new Barrel Knobs. Designed for comfort and style, these barrel-shaped tuning buttons offer a fresh look and feel to your instrument. Available in chrome and black finishes, these knobs are the perfect way to personalize your guitar.
Graph Tech Guitar Labs has introduced the latest addition to their Ratio Machine Head family: Barrel Knobs. These barrel-style tuning buttons bring a fresh look and feel to the Ratio system, offering players a new way to personalize their instruments ā and an easy-to-grip alternative to more traditional tuner knobs.
Available in two different finishes ā chrome and black ā the new barrel knobs can be ordered as a standalone option. If you already own Ratio Machine Heads, simply order the Barrel Knobs and swap them out ā the process is easy and only takes a few minutes. Best of all, there is no need to replace the entire Ratio tuner system.
The new Barrel Knobs were developed at the request of guitarist Thomas Nordegg, known for his work with rock legends like Frank Zappa and Steve Vai. A longtime fan of Graph Techās Ratio machine heads, Nordegg saw an opportunity to enhance the systemās ergonomic design and approached Graph Tech with the idea of creating barrel-style tuning buttons to provide an alternative option for players seeking a fresh look and feel. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the Ratio system, these knobs combine ergonomic comfort with understated style, giving players another way to personalize their instruments.
More and more players are option for Ratio Machine Heads on their instruments. Ratio Machine Headsare designed with gear ratios that are uniquely calibrated for each string, making tuning consistent andpredictable across the fretboard. This innovative system simplifies fine-tuning and alternate tunings, saving time and improving accuracy.
Hereās what the new Barrel Knobs offer:
- Refined Functionality: Barrel-shaped design for a natural grip and precise adjustments.
- Timeless Aesthetic: A sleek, modern look that complements any guitar style.
- Perfect Fit: Designed specifically for Ratio Machine Heads, ensuring flawless compatibility.
- Available in chrome and black to suit a variety of instruments and player preferences.
Graph Techās new Barrel Knobs are available for $3.00 each and are available in chrome and black finishes.
For more information, please visit graphtech.com.
Neural DSP introduces Archetype: Rabea X, a revamped plugin featuring updated effects, amps, and the Overlord Synth. With a redesigned UI, additional speaker option, and optimized performance, this plugin offers a wide range of tonal options for guitarists.
Neural DSP today announced the introduction of Archetype: Rabea X, a reinvention and reimagining of the original Archetype: Rabea plugin, another in Neural DSPās celebrated series of collaborations with the world's most creatively and technologically adventurous guitarists.
Rabea Massaad, as both a solo artist and a member of innovative bands Dorje and Toska, is the quintessential modern musician, as at home on YouTube as he is on the fretboards of guitars. Heās also a teacher, the creator of dozens of instructional and informational videos on playing, performing, and gear. That same artistic versatility that was originally captured with Neural DSPās acclaimed Archetype: Rabea is now taken to new heights via the Archetype: Rabea X plugin. It offers updated takes on key processors that are critical parts of his sound, including Octaver, Fuzz, and Overdrive effects, as well as stereo Delay and Reverb effects with their own unique parameter controls.
Archetype: Rabea X features a unique and innovative suite of amps and effects, as well as the groundbreaking Overlord Synth. Thereās also a new speaker option, a redesigned UI, two new noise options for the oscillators (White & Pink), a portamento Glide knob for smoother transitions between notes, and Quad Cortex compatibility via a future CorOS update. All told, this plugin embodies the uncompromising creativity that defines Rabeaās artistry.
"Rabea is a brilliant guitarist, musician, and teacher all in one, and thatās what weāve set out to do with Archetype: Rabea X ā bring that brilliance to other musicians in a way thatās authentic and accessible,ā said Douglas Castro, Neural DSP Technologies CEO. āItās an incredibly versatile plugin, distilling his sonic vision and designed to offer a wide variety of options for players in search of his unique tonal. Today, we proudly present to you, Archetype: Rabea X.ā
What's New
- Revamped Overlord Synth: Updates include a fully redesigned UI with visual waveform representations for a more intuitive tone-shaping experience, two new noise options for the oscillators (White and Pink), and a Glide knob for smoother transitions between notes.
- Additional Speaker: The cabinet for the Lead Amp now includes a V30 speaker, offering expanded tonal versatility.
- Redesigned UI: A refreshed interface with updated visuals offers an intuitive, user-friendly experience.
- Optimized Performance: Enjoy faster, smoother, and more responsive functionality.
- Updated EQs: The onboard 4-band semi-parametric equalizers for the Clean, Rhythm, and Lead amps now include high and low-pass filters.
Pre Effects
Featuring a Dual Compressor, Octaver, Fuzz, and Overdrive to cover everything from chimy blues to colossal distortion. Use the vintage/modern switches on the Octaver, Fuzz, and Overdrive to toggle between independent algorithms with era-appropriate characteristics.
Amps
Three remarkable amplifiers meticulously tweaked with Rabea to deliver a world of vintage and modern tones.
- Clean: Traditional Cali cleans with added modern chime, this simplistic amp is truly one for the classic players.
- Rhythm: An all-rounder by no exaggeration! This amplifier excels at edge-of-breakup, searing gain, and everything in between.
- Lead: An incredibly malleable modern high-gain amplifier, delivering all the tight or saggy chugs you could ever possibly desire.
Cabsim + IR Loader:
A comprehensive cabsim module with IRs captured by Neural DSP. Featuring six virtual microphones that can be easily positioned around the speakers. In addition to the included IRs, this module can be used to load your own impulse responses.
Room Reverb
The Room Send controls in the cabsim module introduce a subtle room reverb effect, adding natural depth to your sound.
Post Effects
With somebody as renowned for their abundant use of delay and reverb as Rabea, Neural DSP crafted the pluginās post-effects section to deliver exceptional tonal versatility:
- Stereo Delay: As analog as you can get in a plugin! This delay features all the usual parameters youād expect, with Icicles and Cross-feed controls for infinite dreamy delay sounds. Toggle the pre/post switch to position the delay before the amplifier for a vintage approach to tone crafting.
- Reverb: Vast, rich, and endlessly expansive, just as youād imagine! Hit the Freeze button while playing a chord to suspend it in space, transforming it into a pad you can jam over while using the independent āVolumeā and āPitchā controls to change its sound.
Operation Overlord
Archetype: Rabeaās legendary Overlord Synth ā a full-featured subtractive monosynth playable with any standard guitar (no keyboard or MIDI programming required!) ā has received significant updates. These include a fully revamped UI with visual waveform representations for more intuitive tone-shaping, two new noise options for the oscillators (White and Pink), and a Glide knob for smoother transitions between notes. Youāll also retain its fantastic features, such as proprietary note triggering, pitch tracking, and envelope tracking algorithms, enabling seamless synth control with your guitar.
āArchetype: Rabea X is the next step in Neuralās dedicated mission of creating flawless virtualizations of the worldās most amazing and creative guitarists,ā concluded Dan Davies, Neural DSP Technologies Chief Marketing Officer. āWe worked tirelessly to assure that users of Archetype: Rabea X will enjoy the full Rabea experience!ā
The new Archetype: Rabea X plugin is free as an update to existing Archetype: Rabea plugin users. New users can get 30% off Archetype: Rabea X from December 18th, 16:00 EET, until January 6th, 16:00 EET.
For more information, please visit neuraldsp.com.
The Spring King Junior follows in the footsteps of the original Spring King reverb, however, with a much smaller footprint.
Building on a 25-year legacy, Danelectro has launched the brand new Spring King Junior reverb pedal.
"Danelectroās new Spring King Junior offers authentic reverb from a real built-in spring tankā¦but in a more compact pedalboard-friendly size. And the Spring King Junior passes the ultimate spring reverb test with flying colors: bump it and youāll get thunderous reverb sound, just like vintage spring reverbs."
Spring King Junior features include:
- Built-in spring reverb tank
- True bypass soft switching
- Two knobs for controlling reverb Depth and Tone
- Standard 9-volt DC input; no battery compartment
- Rugged die-cast case measuring 2-1/2ā wide x 6ā long x 2-1/8ā high
Danelectroās Spring King Junior carries a street price of $199.