Premier Guitar features affiliate links to help support our content. We may earn a commission on any affiliated purchases.

Rig Rundown: Tyler Childers Band

The Appalachia crew prove that ripping T-styles seasoned with effects-rich pedal steel can still be prominent in today’s country and Americana music.

Just before starting the 3-day run at Nashville’s Exit/In, Jesse Wells scored this 1965 Fender Twin Reverb that was once owned by fellow Rig Rundown alum JD Simo. It’s been overhauled with JBL K120s in it making it a heavy 2x12 combo.

Click to subscribe to our weekly Rig Rundown podcast:



- YouTube
A FREE update adds up to 150 new Premium Tone Models and presets for all TONEX users.
Read MoreShow less

This story’s author played this Belltone B-Classic 3 and found its neck instantly appealing, the tremolo capable of taking abuse and staying in tune, and the Filter’Tron pickups possessed of hi-fi clarity. Also, the sky burst metallic finish is pure eye candy.

Custom designing an instrument and its appointments from a menu of options makes ordering a new axe easy. Four manufacturers share their process.

It’s never been easier for any player to get a guitar made to their liking, and without being an expert, or even an educated amateur in wood, wiring, and other aspects of lutherie. Sure, you can find a builder who will spec out a guitar for you from tree to neck radius to electronics, but for most of us, we’re looking for something easier, less costly, and, often, more familiar.

Read MoreShow less

Well-designed pickups. Extremely comfortable contours. Smooth, playable neck.

Middle position could use a bit more mids. Price could scare off some.

$2,999

Ernie Ball Music Man StingRay II

music-man.com

4.5
5
5
4

A surprise 6-string collaboration with Cory Wong moves effortlessly between ’70s George Benson and Blink-182 tones.


Read MoreShow less

The Melvins' Buzz Osborne joins the party to talk about how he helped Kurt Cobain find the right sounds.

Read MoreShow less