First Looks

MXR Textures Can Make Your Guitar Sound Like Almost Anything

By James Volpe RotondiAug 24, 2026

James Volpe Rotondi

James Volpe Rotondi is the co-author of the acclaimed Stompbox Book, a contributor to Acoustic Guitar, Guitarist (UK), Rolling Stone, and The Wire, and the former Senior Editor for Guitar Player & Guitar World. He is the former guitarist for Humble Pie and ZOSO, and a touring member of Mr. Bungle & AIR. He currently performs the role of Jimmy Page in Led Zeppelin tribute KASHMIR, and lives in Nashville, TN.

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MXR Textures Granular Synth Engine uses granular synthesis, to slice and dice sound and experience your guitar in the fifth dimension.

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Dimebag’s Secret Weapon Is Finally a Pedal

By James Volpe RotondiAug 20, 2026

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Has Gibson Finally Perfected the Thunderbird?

More potent humbuckers and a more substantial bridge help make Gibson's still-radical bass heavier than ever.

By Steve CookJul 09, 2026

Steve Cook

Freelance writer and product review specialist Steve Cook is a musician with decades of experience in the music world as a worldwide touring and session musician, songwriter, and producer. His love for bass guitar fuels his creative fire, with a good Telecaster being a close second. He attended University of Southern Mississippi, and his former band, King Konga was the most successful unsuccessful band in the ’90s—they landed a spot at Woodstock ’99, but couldn't land a record deal. Steve also produces and shoots video from demos to full-length music videos, and is a ghostwriter of memoirs. Steve maintains balance in writing and song creation with lots of single origin coffee. Connect with him at www.stevecookwrites.com.

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Best Gain Pedal Under $100?!

Bohlinger tours a selection of unusual, fractured to fizzy to fat drive and fuzz tones in this expanded take on the Interfax Harmonic Percolator.

By John BohlingerJul 07, 2026

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John Bohlinger is a Nashville-based multi-instrumentalist best known for leading the band on NBC's Nashville Star, serving as music director for the CMT Awards and specials on PBS and GAC, and of course for his appearances in PG Rig Rundown, Review Demo, Axes & Artifacts, and What Bohlinger Plays videos.

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