mi pro july - issue 122
DESCRIPTION
Musical Instrument Professional. For Everyone In the Music Business.TRANSCRIPT
ARIA DISTRIBUTION STAGEWORKS GEAR LONDON MUSIC SHOW MUSIC EXCHANGE
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENTSBarnes & Mullins stays true to
its ‘indies only’ philosophy
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT PROFESSIONAL � FOR EVERYONE IN THE MI BUSINESS
No. 122 • JULY 2010 • WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK PRINT • ONLINE • MOBILE
WITH THIS ISSUEAn in-depth guide to the first
MI Retail Conference & Expo
REGULARS: DISTIE PROFILE 9 I WOKE UP 26 RETAIL NEWS 52 LOCATION REPORT 55 PRODUCTS 44-50 CODA 64
FEATURES
ARIA DISTRIBUTION 20How one supplier changed its name to representa change of direction
STAGEWORKS 23How brave do you need to be to start up in MImanufacturing today?
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COVER STORY 15
ISSUE 122 JULY 2010
So, the MI Retail Conference & Expo is imminent,excitement levels are high and a constant stream of newsfrom the Event Partners is now coming through, revealing
what sort of deals, offers and initiatives they will beshowcasing. There’s going to be a lot to take in.
As is often the way, in the build-up, preparing this magazineand the official Show Guide, themes begin to appear and helpshape the way things unfold. Foremost of these themes is the‘keep it simple’ edict.
On page 15 you will see Barnes & Mullins’ co-MD, BrucePerrin, recounting how, during his ten years in retail, peoplesuch as Mark Barnes were able to have such a strong impacton the industry because they made life easy for the retailers.
Perrin calls it ‘the Barnes factor’ and says he never losessight of it. “If a customer’s got a problem with an instrument for
an end-user, it’s got to be solved – it can’t be forgotten,” he says –
and you can’t really argue with the logic.
In a completely separate conversation with another of the MI
Retail Conference & Expo Event Partners, another managing
director was describing how his business worked. It was a
refreshing statement in many ways. “We give our dealers musical
instruments and they give us money,” he said. “I sometimes wonder
why we try to make things more complicated when the basic
parameters are so simple. Sometimes it’s almost like trying to pull
the wool over people’s eyes.”
Many will point out that it is, in fact, a bit more complicated
than that. The distributor or manufacturer will have suppliers, too,
that need to provide goods and materials and be paid and the
retailers also have customers that want to be supplied before they
will have money demanded of them, but you see the point, I think.
I said in this column at the beginning of the year that 2008 and
2009 had been extremely kind to the MI industry generally, but
that 2010 would be the real test. And so it appears to be. Among
the many whispers I receive each week was one saying that at least
one MI retailer is closing up each week. If this is true, it is tragic,
but it underlines the fact that the rest of us need to keep sight of
the bottom line; to keep it simple. Let’s talk more on June 29th.
Andy BarrettManaging editor
NEWS
EVENTS
SECTOR SPOTLIGHTS
Since Brian Cleary rejoined
Bruce Perrin at Barnes &
Mullins, the company has
enjoyed a renewed sense of
optimism. This, coupled with
its ‘indie only’ approach,
helps B&M and its dealers
keep it real.
MAKING LIFE EASIER
MI RETAIL CONFERENCE, MUSIC
EXCHANGE BUYS HERGA, ZOOM
COMPETITION, LONDON MUSIC
SHOW, AUDIO TECHNICA
SUMMER SCHOOLS
JHS EVENT 11The 14th JHS Event kicked off on June 13th,showcasing new lines from the distributor’s manybrands, with all the expected deals for retailers
COMBOS 29A round up of what’s new in the all-in-oneamplifier market
STUDIO MICS 37Discovering keenly priced mics worth shoutingabout... or through, for that matter
6
20
52
RETAIL
BPM OFFERS TRADE PASSES 52Free trade entry available for fourth yearly DJ event
B&M CUTS SMALL ORDER COSTS Supplier lowers carriage charges for orders under £250
FIRST OF FCN SUMMER OFFERSRetailers can benefit from distributor’s seasonal deals
Themes begin to
appear, shaping
the way things
unfold. Foremost of
these is the ‘keep it
simple’ edict.
ANDY BARRETT
EDITORIALCOMMENT
37
Dealers and suppliers flock to packed MI Retail
NEWS
The biggest names in retail, manufacturing and distribution support inaugural trade event � All sectors of industry, plus special
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THE FIRST MI Retail Conference
& Expo in association with
Musikmesse takes place on
Tuesday, June 29th at The
Brewery in Central London –
and is now totally sold out.
As the name suggests, this
new type of retail-focused trade
event combines a multi-faceted
conference, a mini-expo plus
myriad meeting and networking
opportunities, including an After
Show Party.
Reaction from suppliers and
dealers has been extremely
positive and very nearly
overwhelming. All Event Partner
slots were taken in double quick
time and around 200 dealers
will be in attendance – meaning
the debut event is now
completely full.
As well as a headline
partnership with Musikmesse,
the Event Partners comprise
Audio Technica, Barnes &
Mullins, Casio, JHS & Co,
Marshall Amplification and
Sonic Distribution, as well as
Adam Hall, Allianz Musical
Insurance, D’Addario UK, FCN
Music, Intermusic, Kam, Line 6,
Mel Bay, Monacor, Strings &
Things, Studiomaster,
Tanglewood, Tascam, along with
Roland, which is hosting the
After Show Party and Numark
Alesis Akai, which is sponsoring
the cash bar during the event.
Among the confirmed retail
delegates are Academy of
Sound, Ackerman, Bonner’s,
Britten’s, Chas Foulds, Dawsons,
Dolphin Music, Hard To Find,
HW Audio, Music Exchange,
Musicroom, PMT and Sheehan’s,
with support from the UK’s
two buying groups, Euromusic
and Rocktronic.
The conference, meanwhile,
will feature a series of
presentations and panel sessions
that include exclusive new
market data from GfK and
discussions of hot topics such as
online selling and the collapse
of Sound Control/Reverb – with
input from all sectors. There will
also be a retail-facing update
from our industry’s trade body,
the MIA – and a headline slot
from campaigning singer
songwriter Billy Bragg.
There will be live updates
from the event at mi-pro.co.uk
throughout the duration of the
day and a full report will be
included in our next issue.
AFTER SHOWSPONSOR
GOLD PARTNERS
PLATINUM PARTNERS
EVENT PARTNERS
AND SPONSORS
”Reaction hasbeen extremelypositive. Around200 dealers willbe inattendance.
MI Retail Conference& Expo
An event
in association with
TOM HARRISON and Ben Slater, the
respective managing directors of 440
Distribution and Blue Rock, have scooped
the UK distribution rights for Godin
Guitars and its associated brands. Both
are now excited at the prospect of
championing the brand again, both having
experience of it from their days at
Westside Distribution.
“Ben Slater and I have been involved
with Godin for more than ten years and
we feel that together we can bring a
sharper focus to the brand, which we feel
it richly deserves,” noted Harrison. “On a
personal note, I’m delighted to be back
working with the Godin family.”
Ben Slater, whose company will also
carry 440’s catalogue of Baden and Yairi
guitars, DSL straps, and Bullet Cable in the
south – where 440 had previously been
under-represented – added: “This is a
great opportunity for us and we’re
honoured that Patrick Godin chose us to
represent Godin, Norman and LaPatrie in
the UK.”
“We are very happy to announce that
Blue Rock and 440 Distribution will be our
distributors of Canadian based Godin,
Norman and LaPatrie guitars in the UK,”
said Godin’s export sales manager, Patrick
Godin. “Previously working with both Ben
Slater and Tom Harrison, we’ve come to
know them as driven, hard working
professionals and we look forward to a
successful new relationship with them
moving forward.”
440 DISTRIBUTION: 0113 258 9599.
BLUE ROCK: 0845 388 1183
Specialist guitar suppliers enter into new partnership
for the distribution of Canadian guitar brands
Godin caught between
440 and Blue Rock
STENTOR HAS announced that its wholly
owned Stentor factory workshop in
China has achieved ISO9001
certification status.
Many governments and purchasing
authorities worldwide now demand this
internationally recognised standard for
product and quality assurance
management. The Stentor factory
underwent a strict assessment in order to
obtain its certificate.
ISO9001 involves an ongoing,
systematic evaluation of the system of
quality management and confirms to
customers and suppliers that Stentor’s
management systems conform to
world standards.
Achieving ISO9001 compliance further
demonstrates the service and quality
that Stentor provides to its customers,
both in the UK and to its network of
distributors worldwide.
“This is the result of much hard work
by the team and is a well-deserved
recognition of Stentor’s commitment to
high standards,” said Michael Doughty,
managing director of Stentor.
The picture shows a recent visit to the
Stentor factory, where directors Michael
Doughty and Robert Bogin, together with
Luke Doughty, joined a factory outing of
Stentor factory staff and family
members, to Wushi.
STENTOR: 01737 240226
Stentor achieves ISO9001
Conference & Expo
NEWS
All Exchange for Herga
Win big with
Zoom’s Venom
Mini Cooper top prize
in cable competition
ZOOM UK has reincarnated its
prize draw car giveaway based
upon purchases of its Venom
cable range, which was last held
in 2002, having given away a
number of cars, as well as
other prizes.
This year sees the company
reintroduce its draw with a Mini
Cooper as the first prize, and a
road legal quad bike and £1,000
cash as second and third prizes.
Full details of the
competition are yet to be
revealed, but a brief statement
from Zoom indicates that the
competition will be limited to
just 100 entries and the prizes
awarded to trade buyers of
Venom cables. “This means that
entrants will have a three in
100 chance of winning, on top
of having some fantastic,
competitively priced guitar
leads in stock,” said the Zoom
UK statement.
Dealers wishing to get
further information on how to
be in with a chance of winning
one of these great prizes should
contact Zoom UK on the
number below or via
ZOOM UK: 01462 791100
guests will contribute to wide-ranging conference
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MUSIC EXCHANGE, the sheet
music distributor and publisher
based in Manchester, has bought
Herga Music Gifts, a
manufacturer and supplier of
'gifts for the musically minded'.
Following the purchase, Music
Exchange has announced that it
is working to produce a new
catalogue and order form.
“Over the coming months we
plan to introduce many new
product lines and will insure that
we have the necessary stock
levels to maximise the expected
increase in sales,” said Music
Exchange’s Paul Connett of the
deal. "We have found over the
past two years that the sale of
musical gifts has steadily
increased. We have introduced
the gifts as part of our extremely
popular racking scheme, Music in
Store. With the acquisition of
Herga we plan to increase the
stock in the existing racking
stores and are hoping to recruit
some new shops to the scheme."
Irene McGregor, one of the
partners from Herga Music will
be working closely with the new
owner to help maintain the
continuity of the business, which
supplies a wide range of
novelties from pencil sharpeners
and candlesticks to tea pots and
stationary. "She is as excited as
we are at the prospect of taking
what was already a thriving
business under Herga Music to a
whole new level,” added Connett.
Stock is now live on the Music
Exchange system and is available
to order.
MUSIC EXCHANGE:
0161 946 1234
HEADLINE SPONSOR
”Dealers will havea three in 100chance ofwinning a reallygreat prize, ontop of havingsome fantasticguitar leads instock.
BAR SPONSOR
NEWS
6 miPRO JULY 2010 SIGN UP FOR THE MI PRO NEWSFLASH SERVICE AT WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
AUDIO TECHNICA is to launch two
significant initiatives for MI dealers at the
inaugural MI Retail Conference & Expo on
June 29th. The event will see the unveiling
of Audio Technica’s MI Retail Summer
School programme, which will be
complemented by the introduction of its
new Centre of Excellence scheme.
Designed to
increase staff
knowledge of Audio
Technica products in
specific areas, the
Summer School is
open to all retailers
and can be tailored
to suit the needs of particular stores. The
topics from which retailers can choose
comprise Wireless, Live Sound, Studio
Microphones, Audio Basics and
Headphones. Training sessions (which will
be conducted in store) will be delivered by
Audio Technica’s training and product
support specialist Logan Helps.
The Centre of Excellence scheme has
been created to provide retailers with the
tools necessary to become ‘power sellers’
of Audio Technica products. In addition to
full product training, qualifying dealers will
gain marketing benefits, including featured
listings on Audio Technica’s online dealer
database and presence in end-user
advertising. Centres of Excellence will also
be able to purchase
their initial stocking
order at attractive
discounts, an offer
that will also
subsequently apply to
an annual CoE order.
Retailers can
become a Centre of Excellence in any or
all of three categories: Studio
Microphones, Monitor Headphones and
Live Microphones. To qualify, dealers must
have their own premises from which to
demonstrate Audio Technica’s range of
products, have completed the Summer
School programme and need to be able to
participate in the company’s First
Impressions trial scheme.
“Audio Technica is known for its
dedication to customer service and by
launching our Summer School and
Centre of Excellence schemes we’re
aiming to help retailers by improving
the service they can offer to their own
customers,” said Harvey Roberts, Audio
Technica’s senior UK marketing
manager. “Great customer service
ultimately leads to increased sales
and customer loyalty, so it’s an
important consideration in gaining an
advantage over competitors. We’re
very much looking forward to booking
retailers in for the Summer School
sessions at the MI Retail Conference &
Expo and working with them over the
coming months.”
More information is available at
audio-technica.com/coe and for
information on online booking for the
Summer School training program at
audio-technica.com/summerschool.
AUDIO TECHNICA: 0113 277 1441
Audio Technica ups its service ante
London Music Show shapes up
THE LONDON Music Show’s
organiser, Future Publishing, has
announced that Joe
Bonamassa, Newton Faulkner,
Dave Mackintosh, Ian
Matthews, Clem Cattini, Ash
Soan and Martin Ranscombe
will all be appearing at the
event, which takes place on
October 8th to 10th.
This news comes hot on the
heels of the announcement
that Fender will be exhibiting at
the show.
Joe Bonamassa will
be offering
guitarists the
chance to learn
from him first
hand at the
show on the
Friday (October
8th), with space
on his special
blues masterclass strictly
limited to 150 places at £30
each, with a signing session
afterwards. Other artists
appearing include the Brit
award-nominated
singer/songwriter Newton
Faulkner, who will also be giving
a lesson, this time in percussive
techniques for beginners, as
well as playing the Live Stage
on Saturday.
Kasabian’s Ian Matthews will
be bringing his talents – and
bass player Richie Blake – along
to the show for a masterclass in
rhythm section perfection.
Tuning master and self-
confessed ‘drum guru’ Martin
Ranscombe will also be on hand
to share his specialist
knowledge and lift the veil on
the dark art of drumming.
In addition, Mikedolbear.com
will present masterclasses with
session artists Ash Soan and
Clem Cattini, a legendary
player notable for appearing
on an astonishing 44 number
one singles with the likes of
Tom Jones and Dusty
Springfield, as well as
performing on Paul Weller’s
new album.
FUTURE: 01225 442244
Joe Bonamassa will
be there on the
event’s opening day
Big name artists confirmed and Fender confirms its attendance at event
Newton Faulkner will perform on the Saturday
Summer schools and centres of excellence to be introduced at MI Retail Conference & Expo on June 29th
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DISTRIBUTION PROFILE
Year Established: HTD France 1988 – UK office
established 2007
Number of employees: France and UK – 20
Is business up or down compared to last year?
We are still a relatively new company in the UK so
we are continuing to grow and develop. Business
has been up and down, the last few months of
2009 and the opening months of 2010 sales were
slow, but have started to climb again. It’s an
indication of the MI industry as a whole right now.
How has the economic climate affected business?
Although many retailers are quick to point out the
downside I think this is a great chance now for the
MI industry to wake up and be part of the 21st
century. For a distributor like HTD, the economic
climate has been good and we have been advising
retailers that profit, not turnover, is essential to
maintaining the longevity of their businesses.
What are your best-selling lines, and why do
you think they perform so well?
We have just launched the Larson Brothers
acoustics. To be part of a brand so integral to the
very development of steel strung guitars is
extremely exciting indeed.
We have spent a lot of time assessing and re-
developing our RapcoHorizon business model and
with Vigier, we continue to grow the public’s
awareness of the brand.
How does High Tech feel the UK market differs
from other global markets?
The UK MI industry has such a rich history, but is
not that dissimilar to other territories. We have a
distinct advantage that HTD is a European
company and can assess the effects that different
markets are having. Of course each different
market faces its own challenges, but I think in the
last few years, possibly aided by the impact of the
Internet, the MI industry really is a global network.
What distinguishes you from the competition?
I think the very transparent, passionate and honest
way that HTD is set up helps retailers understand
that we want to invest in them. It is important to
know that most the HTD staff are active musicians.
As well as understanding the business, we have a
personal and hands-on experience. As a distributor
we have to be fair to our dealers – but MI is naive
with too many retailers giving away margin.
How do you maintain a good relationship
with retailers?
I like to visit my dealers on a regular basis, even if it
is just to see how business is progressing. I think
face-to-face interaction is a very important for
business. I can discuss any feedback the dealers
have in a relaxed atmosphere and gain a much
better insight into their business.
What would you say is the biggest challenge
facing the MI industry today?
This refers to the point I made about retailers
throwing away profit for quick sales. There is a long
way to go to eradicate the prehistoric mentality of
giving away profits, though after a lot of high-
profile retailers have collapsed in the last 12 to 18
months, I think retailers are starting to think twice
before giving away margins.
What are your aims for the next 12 months?
The next 12 months will see a lot of changes
implemented to the way the UK’s MI industry is
run. The changes re-shaping the UK’s business now
represent the chance for dealers to adapt and
reinvent themselves. HTD is always listening and
reacting to change, so we are perfectly poised to
capitalise on these new challenges.
Ben Whatsley
HIGH TECH DISTRIBUTION
Ben Whatsley
reveals how
crucial pushing for
profits and not
giving away
margins is in
order for retailers
to survive…
Address: High Tech Distribution UK, 4 Clifton
Row, West Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 7SJ
Phone: 01722 410002
Web: htd-uk.com
CONTACT DETAILS
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WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 11
JHS & Co’s 14th Event easily maintained attendance
figures, despite doom and gloom elsewhere – and even
attempts by the rain to dampen proceedings…
Accentuatingthe positive
JHS � EVENT REVIEW
We’re delivering first class customer service. Are you with us? Be an Audio-Technica Centre of Excellence.
Our new customer service initiative is designed to equip you with the tools you need to become power sellers of our products, armed with our
award-winning customer service know-how and on going personalised training programs to keep you streets ahead of your competition.
Our Centres of Excellence will be split into three categories:
Studio Microphones - Monitor Headphones - Live Sound Microphones
Be a Centre of Excellence for just one, or all three.For more information visit www.audio-technica.com/coe
AT4080 AE5400BP892
ATH-M50
�Centre of Excellence
The 14th JHS Event at John Hornby
Skewes & Co’s Leeds headquarters
took place from June 13th to 16th
with crowds of dealers attending,
maintaining the numbers, despite the
unusual appearance of rain on the
opening day.
The JHS Event has become an integral
part of the UK’s MI calendar over the
years, as the distributor looks to
entertain, feed and water its dealers, as
well as offer a large number of special
deals, including extended credit terms
and end-of-line discounts. As such,
retailers look upon it as an essential
expo, taking the opportunity to get more
quality time with JHS’ area sales
managers and other staff members.
“The Event shows that, whatever the
economic climate, it is the proactive
businesses that make things happen,”
said JHS’ managing director, Dennis
Drumm. “When you have a proactive
distributor, such as us, getting behind
like-minded dealers, you find that any
situation can be turned to the positive.”
Of particular note this year was the
launch of the new Odyssey brass and
woodwind range, newly designed and
targeting the student and beginner
markets with the sort of quality normally
the claim of far more expensive models.
“I have always believed that students
should be given the best possible
instruments to learn on,” said the range’s
designer, Peter Pollard, an instrument
technician to many big names in the
brass and woodwind world. “We’ve spent
a lot of time designing and tweaking the
prototypes and putting them in the
hands of professionals. We’re satisfied
now that we have products that will
easily take players up to Grade 6 – a
couple of them beyond that.”
A couple of the new brass instruments
stood out, with a ‘baby’ French horn with
adjustable hand rest for younger hands
and a soprano sax in Bb, shaped like an
alto, again, giving younger children the
opportunity to take up the instrument
regardless of size and weight issues that
make it impossible for youngster to play.
Also of note is the new KG series of
combo amplifiera from Kustom and a
Vintage signature model acoustic, made
in collaboration with fingerstyle virtuoso,
Gordon Giltrap and his luthier, Rob
Armstrong. Again, quality belies the price,
with both the six-string and 12-string
versions coming in at under £500,
including a hard case and Fishman
electronics as added bonuses.
As well as representatives of the
distributor’s suppliers (including Manuel
Rodriguez, Fishman, Regal Tip, Facelift,
Dunlop and Kustom) there were a
handful of exhibitors at the event.
Among these were Music Exchange
(fresh from the news of its purchase of
Herga Music Services and its novelty
anmd gift products, which were also on
display on its stand), Future Publishing,
raising awareness for the London Music
Show and Retail Up, which was offering a
fascinating opportunity for dealers to add
a JHS page to their websites, while
maintaining their own branding.
JHS: 0113 286 5381
12 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
EVENT REVIEW � JHS
“It is the proactive businesses that make thingshappen. When you have a proactive
distributor, such as us, getting behind like-minded dealers, you find that any situation can
be turned to the positiveDennis Drumm
JHS managing director
JHS’ MD and SD, Dennis Drumm and Alan Smith Scott Lombardo of Fishman and Regal Tip’s Dick MarkusMike and Joe Hrano with the new Rory Gallagher ‘Facelift’
Manuel Rodriguez III alongside Alan Smith of JHSGerald Burns, Irene McGregor and Paul Connett on the Music Ex stand
Ask almost anyone in the UK’s MI
trade what they think of Barnes &
Mullins and the reply is very likely
to contain the phrase ‘really nice people’.
That isn’t idle flattery and it isn’t an
accident either. B&M might be one of the
country’s oldest distributors, (it was
founded in 1895) but while it is among
the most forward-thinking in its use of
modern marketing techniques, it has
simultaneously managed to hold onto a
very gentlemanly way of doing business.
After a short hiatus, during which he
spent some time with Tanglewood, Brian
Cleary has been back at B&M for a year,
re-united with joint managing director,
Bruce Perrin, the two having finally
managed to buy-out the family interests,
which had been holding the company
back. Since they took sole control it has
been business as usual for B&M, despite
the tough climate. We brought Messrs
Perrin and Cleary together for a ‘state of
the union’ interview and to ask why they
think being good people to do business
with makes very good business sense.
MI Pro: Though MI Pro has covered
Brian’s re-joining B&M, could we start
by asking how the past year has been
and how it feels to be ‘back home?’
Brian Cleary: Fantastic – it’s better than
it was before. Now, all Bruce and I have
to do is focus on buying and selling
musical instruments, whereas for a great
many years prior to that we had a lot of
shareholder issues that we were having to
deal with and that sapped an enormous
amount of our time. So it’s the best it’s
ever been, in that respect.
Bruce Perrin: One thing it has done is
Young Guns go for itRegardless of the changes that have gone on at Barnes & Mullins over the years, one thing has remained in the foundation
of the company’s philosophy: the dealer comes first. Gary Cooper quizzes the co-MDs about how they keep it real…
Yo
un
g G
un
s use
Faith
gu
itars
BARNES & MULLINS COVER FEATURE
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 15
given us an opportunity to sit
down and plan out our future, which
we've not been able to do before. To be
fair, we had a very good framework in
place before, but now we’ve been able to
move forward with the emphasis on
marketing our brands and trying to make
Barnes & Mullins as big a help for our
customers as we can be.
The phrase that comes to mind is ‘user
friendly’. When you talk with retailers,
that’s usually the impression you get,
that they find B&M easy to do
business with. But that can’t be an
accident – you must work hard at
that, presumably.
BC: The reason this works is because
we’ve worked together for a great
many years and we have, at almost
every time, seen eye to eye on
everything and we have shared
vision of how we want Barnes &
Mullins to be. The analogy we’ve
often used is we want our trade
customers to perceive us in
perhaps the same way people
perceive John Lewis or Marks &
Spencer. It’s not just that we
buy and sell musical
instruments, it’s that we also try
to offer the best level of service
that we can – and I have to admit it
sounds trite when I hear myself say that.
Well that certainly raises a point. If you
were to ask any distributor, they would
all say they aim to offer fantastic
service and that they are nice people to
do business with. In fact, it’s a
sentiment that appears in our pages
several times a month. But it can’t
always be true, can it? Some
distributors are better than others – so
how? And what is it that seems to set
B&M apart?
BC: It’s dead easy – there really is no
rocket science. It’s not what we say in
magazine articles, it’s what we do as a
company on a day to day basis that
counts. It’s what we do when a customer
phones up with a problem. That’s what
matters – not what we say.
BP: My experience in the music
trade – and I had ten years in
retail before I joined Barnes &
Mullins, during which they were
my main supplier – was that they
made life as easy as possible for me.
If you go back to dealers who were
setting up in the 60s, you couldn’t find
anybody who was more helpful to them
than Mark Barnes. He helped more
businesses start from the 60s to the 80s
than anyone and I’ve always wanted to
follow his lead – I call it the Barnes Factor
and I never, ever lose sight of it. His way
was always to be as helpful as possible, to
understand the customer’s problems
and make business as easy as
possible. If a customer’s got a
problem with an instrument
for an end-user, it’s got to be
solved – it can’t be forgotten.
It’s all about service and I
know all our competitors say
the same thing, but I really
think the experience both Brian
and I bring to this company is
different. I had many years
with Mark Barnes, while
Brian had many years with
John Skewes, so we have
probably both been trained
by two of the more
successful entrepreneurs of our industry.
BC: Actually, the background that Bruce
had and the background that I had were
quite different in some ways and we often
bring different things to a conversation as
a consequence. My background with John
Hornby Skewes was very much sales led,
so I’ve always got that vision in mind...
BP: And my experience was always from
having that retail background and having
originally been employed by Barnes &
Mullins to run their retail store in the
Charing Cross Road, so I’ve always brought
that understanding of the retail side to
the table.
You’ve both been a part of this
industry for many years and seen a lot
of changes, such as the Internet and
the rise, fall and rise again of the guitar
as a key instrument for retailers. What
else stands out as a major change do
you feel?
BP: The supply chain and the values have
changed a lot. When I started at Barnes &
Mullins in 1977, our cheapest Fender-
esque guitar was £80, retail. Our
equivalent now is probably £70 retail and
we don’t actually sell any more now than
we did then. The demand isn't any greater.
Then there are the changes in the supply
chain itself. You have overproduction and
you have distributors that are retailers and
retailers that are distributors and the
buying groups – this has changed a lot.
Then there are all the changes the retail
sector has had to face due to the
introduction of Argoses, the Amazons –
and the internet in general, of course. But
perhaps the biggest change for retailers is
that they have had to evolve into being
more than just a dealer waiting for Joe
Public to walk through the door. They’ve
had to stimulate business in their areas by
running music schools, for example, and
there has been a huge change in the way
music is taught in schools, with so many
peripatetic teachers today. To be in the
music industry now, you have to be very
proactive to be successful. If a dealer is
proactive in his area, talking to teachers,
running workshops, getting out there
and waving his flag, he can compete, but
you can’t exist if you’re just going to do
it on price because there’s no margin to
be had.”
The question of margins is getting very
critical, isn't it?
BC: Yes and I can’t think of a period where
it has ever been tougher to be a retailer.
We know just how hard they are having to
fight to do business right now and that’s
the premise of a lot of the decisions we
make. It’s the reason why we don’t make
our products available to the big, non-
specialist chains. It’s not that we’re against
that sort of business, it’s that 100 per cent
of our customer base is individual music
shops and we don't want to do anything
that undermines them. We’re very careful
where we place our products. We don’t
want our products to fall victim to being
slaughtered on the internet. We’re always
mindful that the retailer has to make as
good a margin as possible.
Every few years there seems to be a
flap about ‘the role of the distributor’
and the doom-sayers predicting their
demise. Yet distributors still seem to be
here and are as much a part of the
industry as ever. But has your role
changed? Is it that you now support
smaller manufacturers, or is the drive
now to build your own brands – as you
have done with Faith guitars?
BC: I don’t think it has changed greatly.
There are a lot of significant brands out
COVER FEATURE BARNES & MULLINS
16 miPRO JULY2010 WW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
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there that don't want to be their own
distributors. There are greater demands
on us as a supplier than there were
before though. Manufacturers look around
and choose the best distributor for the
territory in question, but they want that
company to do a full marketing job and
that’s a big overhead. It’s one we're
prepared to take on, however.
Looking at Barnes & Mullins from
outside, it does seem as if you spend a
lot on marketing – considerably more
than the average at a guess?
BP: Yes, and if you take a brand such as
Rico, for instance, there’s any number of
workshops we’re doing, summer schools
we’re sponsoring – helping the dealer
promote the product. This is something
that we perhaps didn’t have to do ten
years ago. The whole concept of
marketing has moved forward greatly and
you also have a situation where Joe
Public wants more information and there
are more opportunities for him to go to
workshops, so these have to be done. As
Brian says, some manufacturers can’t do
their own distribution, so therefore they
will work with a professional company
that will promote the product and that’s
what we have to do.
You work harder distributing other
people’s products, while building your
own brands as well? In your case, that
has primarily been Faith, so how is that
going at the moment?
BC: Faith really has been a huge amount
of fun. It’s very rare that you have the
opportunity to do something with a
brand that is completely as you want it
to be. We make absolutely no
compromises on it in any shape or form.
Whether people agree with what we do is
another matter, but obviously enough do
for it to be selling very well. But another
nice thing about Faith is that it is a part
of Barnes & Mullins, so we can take our
time to get the details right, do things
that other companies that are wholly
dependent on one brand can’t do so
easily. It's part of our strategy. We strive
to have a mixture of house brands and
international brands and I think that’s
what our customers, the retailers, want –
a mix of both.
How do you feel the MI trade is doing
at the moment?
BC: I think the retail trade is having one
of the toughest times in a very long while
and if our customers are not selling, then
they’re not buying from us. We’ve been
very fortunate at Barnes & Mullins so far,
but we are very aware how tough things
are for our customers. This is why Bruce
and I recently sat down and planned out
what we have, with tongue in cheek,
called our ‘manifesto’ for this summer.
Essentially, it’s a three-point plan. We've
launched a three-month summer deal,
with some exceptional prices on some
strong-selling products, with extended
terms. Then, we’ve just announced that
we recognise retailers need to be buying
small quantities and regularly, so we’ve
really cut our carriage charges to the
bone to accommodate that. The third
thing, which we’re launching at the MI
Retail Conference & Expo, is what we’re
calling The String Gallery. This is a scheme
that will introduce general music shops
into the world of selling orchestral string
instruments. It’s going to give them all
the tools in product, sales skills, internet
backup – everything we can think of, so
they can engage in that market.
How big a boost do you feel this could
really be?
BC: For Barnes & Mullins, what we do in
orchestral strings is a significant part of
our business and we genuinely believe
that a lot of our customers could be
doing a lot more in that area, but that
they are scared of it for one reason or
another. So we’re going to be trying to
put together a project that will make life
very easy for them – and that's what
we’ll be launching at the Conference.
BP: I remember from my retail days how
you’d see people looking in the shop
window because they were scared to
come into the shop, because they were
scared of making a fool of themselves
and I think we are still like that. Lots of
mums and dads know what a guitar is,
but if a youngster wants a violin, the
easiest thing to do is go to a catalogue
shop and buy something that will, in fact,
put the child off. The idea is for the String
Gallery to be an information site that
tells everyone everything they need to
know. This was an idea that came out of
regular meetings we had with dealers,
who, when asked what they were doing
with bowed instruments, tended to say
‘well, we don't really do that area
because we don't now much about it’.
There’s a considerable amount of
business out there that the general
retailer is missing as a consequence.
Back on the rock side, your
relationship with Line 6 has been
unusual hasn't it – sharing distribution
with the manufacturer? Obviously, it
enables smaller retailers to have easier
access to a top brand, but how has it
been working for you?
BC: Line 6 was looking to sell as much as
it could, obviously. The company had two
people on the road and recognised that if
it sent one of its people to a shop in a
remote town that bought two amplifiers,
it couldn't really justify that cost. But we
have six area sales managers covering the
whole of the UK and Ireland and if our
customer in the middle of nowhere can
add a couple of Line 6 amplifiers to his
Barnes & Mullins order, it works well for
everyone involved. It’s a very interesting
model and all the parties concerned are
very happy with the results.
Any final thoughts you'd like to get
across to our readers?
BC: We understand how difficult business
is for retailers at the moment and we are
wholly committed to giving them the
best help we can.
BP: Yes, we're on their side. The sun’s
shining, the World Cup is underway,
not a lot of people are coming through
their doors, but we are wholly
committed to giving them the absolute
best support we can.
BARNES & MULLINS: 01691 652449
COVER FEATURE BARNES & MULLINS
18 JULY 2010 miPRO WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
“I can’t think of a period where it has ever beentougher to be a retailer. We know just how hard they
are having to fight to do business right now andthat’s the premise of a lot of decisions we make
Brian ClearyBarnes & Mullins co-managing director
B&M’s joint MDs. Left: Brian Cleary, Right: Bruce Perrin
COMPANY PROFILE ARIA DISTRIBUTION
20 miPRO JULY 2010 WW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
Few UK distributors could lay claim to
being any closer to the geeky heart of
the guitar business than Aria UK – or
should we say, to give the company its new
name, Aria Distribution. The change took
place a few months ago to more accurately
reflect the way the business has evolved
from being the UK distributor of the Aria
guitar range, to a more general supplier.
“The change of name is something
we’ve gradually been working on and we’re
very much focused on using that brand
logo and colours in everything we do now,”
says Aria’s Martin Hartwell. “As and when
we have any point of contact with the
customer – in this case a trade customer –
we’re using that brand now. It moves away
from being just Aria . ‘Aria Distribution:
leading MI products’ better reflects what
we are today. But, of course, this refers to
trade branding. If we do any advertising to
consumers, then it will be under Aria,
Seymour Duncan or the product logos.”
Aria is, by any standards, an increasingly
significant distributor of guitar related
brands, as a quick totting-up of the
company’s roster shows. In addition to Aria
itself, it represents Seymour Duncan, Rat,
Garrison, Pignose, Fusion, Bespeco and a
host of guitar refinement accessories, which
represent a useful profit opportunity for
retailers. But the company’s acquisition
path hasn’t ended yet, by any means, as
Hartwell reveals two new lines that are
likely to ring quite a lot of cash registers in
the coming year or so.
The first is ZT amplifiers. Do we
pronounce that like good British English
speakers – 'Zed-Tee', or in the American
'Zee-Tee' way, I asked.
“Zed Tee,” Hartwell says emphatically.
“They have Bob Harrison, as export sales
agent for Europe, the Middle East and Africa
and he’s both English and based in the UK,
so we’ve got very familiar with referring to
it in that way. The agreement with them
came together at Frankfurt and our first
stock was received in April, so we’re only
about eight weeks in.”
The innovative – not to say diminutive –
ZT amp range has created quite a stir
among players and journalists, but where
does Hartwell see the market for it?
“The first ZT product was the Lunchbox
and that’s very much the most compact of
the range – though the Lunchbox Acoustic
is the same physical size. The Lunchbox is
aimed at guitarists who want all the tone
of a 200-Watt RMS, 135dB at 1 metre
specification, but from a tiny amp. Loud
and small appeals to a wide range of
guitarists. We’ve heard of people using
them to drive a stack but anybody who
wants compact size, lots of tone and
output – well, that’s a wide market.
“The ZT Club takes the same concept,
but incorporates a 12” speaker in a cabinet,
which is actually not much bigger than 12
inches. We’ve found sales of that model
going to jazz guitar players, who have said
it is something that really works for them.
“There’s a really good artist roster that
goes with ZT too, including Billy Gibbons.
The take-up from the trade has been really
well received – that much output from that
size has generated a lot of interest.”
While ZT looks set to be one of the
more interesting newcomers, Aria has
another trick up its sleeve with the
magnificently named ‘Two Old Hippies’
guitar brand, which it is just about to
launch in the UK and Ireland.
This is a new acoustic guitar venture
which has gained considerable interest in
its native USA. Founded by a music
industry veteran, business
millionaire Tom Bedell, it has
already received extensive coverage
in Music Trades. To cut a long story
short, Bedell started in the guitar
trade in 1967, veered off to create a
$500-million fishing tackle business and
has now returned to his first love
with two new guitar lines: Bedell
(they will range in price from
around £600 to £2,000) and
Great Divide (£200 to £600).
Both are Chinese
manufactured, but noises
emanating from the USA say
that both the instrument lines
and the innovative marketing
being employed by the company
are creating significant interest.
“It moves away from being just Aria. ‘AriaDistribution: leading MI products’ better reflects
what we are today.Martin HartwellAria Distribution
What’s in a nameThough it hasn't shouted the news from the rooftops, Aria has been undergoing some evolutionary changes in the way it
operates in the UK and recently changed its name – it’s now Aria Distribution. Martin Hartwell explains the shift of
emphasis to Gary Cooper and trails two important new lines...
The Aria Distribution team,
with Tom Bedell (third from
left) and Martin Hartwell
(third from right)
“We spotted what was happening with the Two Old
Hippies brand last year. It breaks into three parts – the
Two Old Hippies store in Aspen, Colorado and then the
wider two brands – Great Divide and Bedell. We met
them at January NAMM, we’ve kept in touch since and
then at Messe we concluded everything. What appeals
is not just Tom Bedell’s background, but the effort that
they’re putting in – particularly in terms of marketing.”
The latter includes some daring stuff, particularly
TOH advertising in Forbes and Rolling Stone, appealing
to a wealthy potential market that might be wanting a
nice guitar, but won’t be reading Guitar Player. Hartwell
admits that a similar approach to advertising in the UK
might be beyond his reach, but understands the idea
behind it. All the same, some might still be thinking
‘just what I need – another acoustic line’. So what
makes Hartwell and his team think TOH can succeed in
such an overcrowded market?
“It's the brand’s strength that we will benefit from.
They have a fantastic team in China, including Jeff
Moore, who is an industry veteran and has worked for
people including Fender, and Dan Mills, who was
involved with George Gruhn for a long while.
They’ve gone from a standing start to half
their target dealers in the USA already and
have five distributors on board. Tom Bedell
spent four days with us recently and the UK
dealers I took him to received us really well.”
If habitual MI cynicism might be some people’s
reaction to another acoustic guitar line, what about
guitar bags? Last year Aria signed-up with a new
instrument bag brand, Fusion. This not only proved to
be a success, but has taken Aria into new territories,
such as brass and woodwind retailers, who were quick
to seize on Fusion’s extremely wide product range.
“The strength of Fusion is the depth of products –
bags for guitars, ukuleles, keyboards and DJs. It might be
unusual territory for us, but some brass players have
come out of the woodwork as a result. Our main
expertise may be in guitars, but we don't need great
expertise to sell gigbags for brass and woodwind. We
just need to know about the product, because we can
demonstrate its benefits just as well as we can to a
guitar dealer.”
Meanwhile, Aria itself is far from dormant, having
scored the winning goal with FIFA, introducing the
limited edition 2010 Gold Rush solid bodied travel
guitar and a host of other new models, including more
all-conquering ukuleles.
Hartwell and his small team have been putting a lot
of effort into consumer marketing their products too,
with a greatly expanded online presence.
“We’ve put quite a lot of effort into developing the
web 2.0 side of marketing,” he says. “It’s important
enough to make the effort and invest in it, but in
terms of return of investment, it’s a difficult area. How
much is coming through because of it? It might be
easier for a retailer to calculate, but it’s harder for
distributors. That said, I’m quite happy with the return
we’ve had for the level of investment into this kind of
marketing. Where you can tie all the marketing
together, that’s when you see the benefits. I think to
do it in isolation, it may be hard to see the benefit.”
The next 12 months will see how well Aria can
establish its new brands, as well as maintain the
impetus for its established lines. One thing seems
certain – despite a noticeable lack of ballyhoo, Aria
has been one of the UK’s more successful MI
businesses and it shows no signs of slowing down.
ARIA DISTRIBUTION: 01483 238720
ARIA DISTRIBUTION COMPANY PROFILE
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 21
The Fusion gigbag team at
Musikmesse this year
Though now might seem a strange
time to be launching an MI venture,
there’s a strain of business logic
that says a recession is the best point to
unveil new ideas. Of course, you need
great products and a strong sense of
what you are doing, but both of those
apply to a newcomer to our side of the
music industry (though not the music
industry as a whole) – The StageWorks
Gear Company.
StageWorks burst onto the scene just a
few weeks ago with a triple layer non-slip
mat for effects pedals - a simple idea, but
like many simple ideas, a clever one.
Many guitarists (not to mention
keyboard players these days) lug around a
patch of carpet to stop their pedals
skidding around the stage – not an ideal
solution – while a non-slip mat, is.
It turns out that this is just the first of
what is set to be a range of innovative
problem-solving products from this new,
British company.
So who is StageWorks Gear and what
are its plans? The company’s Matt
Chambers explained that it isn’t exactly a
stranger to the music scene.
“The focus of what we’re developing is
niche and unique solutions to common
problems faced by musicians, both live on
stage and in the studio.
“My background
has been in live
events and we are
constantly
involved with
professional
gigging and touring
musicians – working
musicians who spend a lot of
time on the road. My brother,
Rick Chambers, who’s the other
half of the StageWorks Gear
company, is a professional
drummer and he began to realise
that some of the simplest things
cause the biggest problems
for musicians.”
Additionally, the Chambers
brothers are also active in artist
management, with their own company
planning to launch three new acts this
year. So, not only does the company’s
team have a rock solid base in the music
industry from which to source ideas and
make sure they are needed, but it has the
business sense and experience to get new
products off the ground, develop them
and bring them to market.
“This first product, the StageWorks
non-slip mat, came about as the result of
a conversation with a friend of mine, the
producer Andy Murray, who’s also the
keyboard player for Ellie Brooks,”
Chambers explains. “He was complaining
because when you’re on tour these days,
you only have a finite amount of time to
get your rig set up and he was having to
use tons of gaffer tape to fix his pedals
to the floor. Then, if you need to move
your keyboard around, they’re stuck to
the floor. Similarly, on recording sessions,
he’d find that some of the studios have
got really expensive wood flooring and
they don’t want it ruined by tape.
“We started developing a product
from that and it went to three or four
prototypes as we worked out the best
combination of materials we could use.
When we looked into it, we realised
that it was a simple solution, but nobody
else was doing it. That then encouraged
us to look around and see what else we
could come up with that fulfilled a
similar function.”
Although their non-slip mats are just
starting to reach music shops now,
StageWorks Gear has its next idea almost
ready for launch, Chambers says.
“Our next product, which we’ve just
put on patent, is for drummers, to give
them access to a set of sticks if they
drop one while they’re playing. Again,
this came out of experience, when my
brother was on tour supporting the Irish
band, The Script. Their drummer was
keeping his sticks in a pair of DM boots
by the side of his kit. Again, there are
drum stick holders out there, but they’re
not very practical for use, particularly if
you’re in the middle of playing and drop
a stick. So that’s our next product and
there’s a load of other ideas and products
being developed beyond that. They’re all
developed out of necessity, to make
musicians’ lives a bit easier.”
Though the mats, which will retail at
£14.99 for a pack of two, are produced in
China, Chambers is insistent that as far
as possible, the company plans to make
as much as it can in the UK. Indeed, the
mats are packed here, into cartons that
are also made and printed in the UK. As
far as possible, it’s a philosophy they
intend to stick to, he says, despite
having his eyes firmly fixed on the
export market, which he believes could
“We started developing a product and it went tothree or four prototypes as we worked out the bestcombination of materials we could use. When we
looked into it, we realised that it was a simplesolution, but nobody else was doing it.
Matt ChambersJoint founder of StageWorks
Treading the boardsWe tend to cock a curious eyebrow whenever
someone decides to enter the MI manufacturing
fray, even more so in these troubled times.
Gary Cooper asks StageWorks Gear why it has
chosen now to come to market…
STAGEWORKS COMPANY PROFILE
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 23
be considerable.
At the moment, there is a degree of flexibility
about how the company’s products will be
distributed. The initial, direct-to-the-public launch
was via the Stageworksgear.com website, but
discussions are being held with a number of
interested UK distributors which are keen to add the
products to their ranges.
Which distributor to choose is difficult for a
newcomer. Based on the mats, the temptation might
be to go with a guitar-orientated firm – but would
they necessarily have the right contacts with drum
specialists as well?
“It is a bit difficult,” Chambers agrees. “In the
meantime, we already have quite a number of
dealers who are interested and we are very keen to
have a good retail base selling our products.
“We work on the philosophy that a lot of
musicians like to try before they buy. You buy some
stuff over the internet, unseen, but a lot of other
products you want to see and test before you
purchase them and we’re very keen to support music
shops – they’re a lifeline for a lot of musicians who
go to them to find out about new products and try
them out. Because of that, we’ve come up with
some special introductory deals for retailers.”
So MI Pro readers who are interested should
contact StageWorks direct?
“Absolutely. We can arrange supplies direct to
stores while we get distribution set up. We don’t
know who we’ll go with at the moment and it’s a
difficult choice – a smaller company appeals, as you
don’t get lost in their catalogue, but you also need
the coverage. We’re working closely with MI Pro on a
mail shot to dealers in Scotland and Ireland, for
example, where we can’t get to see them all
personally at this stage – so we’re exploring so many
options as we can. One of the issues is that a
product like the mats cross over into at least four
different areas – you have guitar pedals but also
electronic drums and keyboards.
“I think it’s possible that we may end-up with a
distributor who does some of the products and
maybe some of our own reps as well, but it’s too
early to say for sure yet.”
Already, Matt and Rick Chambers have the
products put on trial with professionals and are
starting to assemble useful quotes, which will be
used in advertising, he says.
“Robbie Williams’ pedal steel guitar player and
Ricky Wilde are just two, so far, who’ve been very
supportive and given us some great quotes to use.
Ricky, in particular, was saying how great they are,
especially when you’re flying around on tour and
you don’t have the time to have a big rig to get
assembled on stage. He says the mats are perfect
there, because you can just take them out of your
bag, put them on the floor, stick your pedals on
them and know they’re not going anywhere.
“Obviously, we’ll be using those quotes on our
website, but we also have a full programme of
consumer advertising for the rest of the year with all
the major magazines: Drummer, Rhythm, Guitarist,
Acoustic – it’s an expensive business, but if you’re
going to do it, you’ve got to do it properly.”
And finally, even better news for the retailer
whose customers take to the StageWorks mats: they
don’t last forever, so could well become a
consumable item, offering repeat business. Though
the company says they are sturdy enough for say,
two months full-scale professional touring, they will,
eventually, wear out and it’s not hard to imagine
them needing to be replaced due to losses.
New products, well packaged, nicely priced, with
easy to understand sales pitches are just what the
industry needs right now. So, if the mats really are
the beginning of a flow of similarly useful ideas, it
looks as if StageWorks might be here to stay, which
is good news for all kinds of musicians.
STAGEWORKS GEAR: 01438 730 540
COMPANY PROFILE STAGEWORKS
24 miPRO JULY 2010 WW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
Matt Chambers, along with
his brother Rick, hopes to
establish their company as
an MI problem solver
PROFILE
I WOKE UPTHIS MORNING
Some time between seven and half
seven is when I’ll get up on a
normal day, and take the dog for
a walk. Then it’s a nice cup of coffee
when I get in, followed by a walk down
to Woolwich station, before catching a
train to London Bridge.
We’re attached on to Terminal
studios, so it’s always worth having a
look at who’s recording that week and
maybe heading down when someone
interesting is there. There are tie-ins as
well, because some of the artists might
be endorsing our bass strings, for
example. Then I’ll check my e-mails,
which takes a while because we supply
Brian May globally, meaning we’ll get
mail from places in different time
zones at all times of the day and night.
When that’s done, I’ll get on the phone
and start talking to all the UK dealers
and do a bit of selling.
We start at ten, but I’ll get there at
around quarter to, in order to open up
the office and warehouse. It might
seem later than most, but it is rock n
roll after all so no one’s up earlier than
that in our industry anyway. Although
we deal mostly in bass and guitar
related products, we do also deal with
violins and cellos, so there is a bit of
variety in there. We also do a lot of our
own brands, particularly bass and
strings. I spend a lot of time building
up relationships with dealers and
ensuring they have our products on the
wall as well.
Outside of work, I’m a huge football
fan. I hold season tickets for both
Tottenham and Leyton Orient. I am a
bigger supporter of the latter, but most
people will probably think that’s the
wrong way round. My wife is a
producer on Radio Five Live’s 606
phone-in show, so she’s also mad
about football. I’ve probably got the
only wife in the country who asks if we
can watch Match of the Day. I also do
a lot of DJing at cheesy discos,
weddings and those sorts of places. I
play a lot with bands as well.
I’ve always worked here, from back
when the Bass Centre, which we’re
joined on to, was based in Wapping,
but I spent a short period of time at
the Academy of Sound in Norwich. I
moved back to London just as it
became Sound Control and have been
here since.
I don’t have a set time when I get
home, because one of the many
benefits of being in London is there’s
always people wanting to go for a
quick drink or some other social
meeting after work, which means I
never get home at the same times
from one day top the next.
House Music’s Dean
Mitchell maintains a
subtle balance of MI
distribution and
football. What he
doesn’t know about
Brian May guitars
and ‘The Mighty Os’
isn’t worth knowing...
House Music – Sales manager
DEAN MITCHELL
www.daddario.co.uk/inkedWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
”I’ve got the onlywife in the countrywho asks if we canwatch Match ofthe Day.
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 29
COMBOS SECTOR SPOTLIGHT
When thinking about how the
best guitarists achieve their
unique sound, the first thought
that springs to mind is the instrument
they use. If the most successful musicians
neglected the importance of their amps,
however, they would never have achieved
that full tone, shuddering power or
delicious effects that make up their ‘voice’.
Our April edition featured a section on
the best heads and cabs, so now it’s time
to see what’s in the combo market.
As well as being a series aimed at any
novice guitarist, Fender’s G-Dec 3 range
goes one step further by allowing players
to create and store their work and upload
to a PC, as easily as you would a digital
camera, for example.
Fender’s Super-Sonic 60, with its
enhanced bass response and ‘fatter’ tone,
incorporates long-spring reverb and a
professional effects loop with level
control. Its vintage channel contains pre-
gain tone controls and the burn channel
comes with post-gain eq and two-stage
cascading preamp controls.
Vast is a huge understatement when
describing the number of Marshall amp
products on the market, but the MG series
is certainly one worth highlighting.
Ranging from a compact 10-Watt model,
the MG series also features classic
Marshall styling and that unmistakable
overdrive that the British manufacturer
has become known for.
The JMD:1 range is a hybrid amp,
combining traditional valve technology
with the benefits of modern digital
gadgetry. Some 16 sounds from the rotary
preamp control are available through four
groups – clean, crunch, overdrive and lead.
The inclusion of ten entirely adjustable
effects, make this series worthy in any live
or studio situation.
A substantial selection of over 500
presets is on offer with the Spider IV 75
from Line 6. These include settings
perfected by a number of renowned artists
and several based on hugely popular
songs. Up to eight effects can be played at
once with the optional FBV MkII foot
controllers, including pitch glide, echoes,
tremolos, delays and more.
Another member of Line 6’s Spider
family is the Valve MkII. This 40-Watt
model is made up of two 12AX7 preamp
tubes and two 6L6 power tubes. An
expandable effects palette allows for a
great deal of experimentation, especially
with the added advanced effect routing
and adjustable boost function.
Roland still seems to come in under
the radar for many, but the company’s
Cube series fights its corener well,
particularly the smaller amp combos.
Its best seller in this field is the
Microcube. This funky little noise-maker
weighs just a few pounds and is about as
easy to transport as an amp can get.
Representing the middle of the Cube
range is the 20X. A Power Squeezer allows
for maximum sustain, even at lower
volume and acoustic simulation that first
appeared on the Boss AC-3. Its 20-Watt
output and onboard tuner makes it a step
up from the Microcube, but it remains in
an undoubtedly affordable price point.
Peavey has released its popular 6505
series for the first time as a 1x12 combo.
Aimed at the heavier market, this range is
claimed to function well, whether in clubs,
rehearsal rooms or studio settings.
Delivering 60 Watts, this new 6505
comes with a formidable set of features.
“If musiciansneglect the
importance of theamp, we will never
know theirsignature ‘voice’.
Another sector that remains fairly stable while others fluctuate radically, amp combos provide noise-making joy to
beginners and pros alike. Adam Savage has a look at what’s out there…
Led by the noise
Line 6 Spider IV £280.83
The Spider IV provides 75 Watts and a
1x12” Celestion custom speaker gives
some serious kick, as well as
sophisticated touch response, complex
distortions and a number of features
that are comparable to classic vintage
tube amps.
Fender G-Dec 3 15W £279.99
This 15-Watt model, loaded with
an eight-inch speaker, features an
onboard chromatic tuner and
phrase sampler, with overdub and
export functions. USB connectivity
allows for user programming and
audio recording output.
Marshall MG series £317
This solid-state lineup
includes models ideal for
beginners all the way up to
professionals and features
four customisable, storable
channels and various digital
effects, including reverb,
chorus, delay and flange.
Five 12AX7 preamp tubes and a couple of 6L6GCs, along with Peavey’s
Resonance control tweak provide the tonal foundations. The separate
channels for lead and rhythm provide an independent three-band eq. An
MSDI (microphone-simulated direct interface) allows users to direct the
signal straight to a recording device or mixing console.
Peavey 6505 1x12 £499
Six DSP effects, COSM amp modeling and a
digital tuning fork are all included in a package
that costs just under £100. The option of running it on battery power
enhances its practicality even further, which will appeal to those
wanting to have a quick jam in more unusual settings.
Roland Microcube £97.07
ANDY JOHNSPRODUCER/ENGINEERSELECTED DISCOGRAPHY
LED ZEPPELIN2, 3, 4, PHYSICAL GRAFFITI (ENGINEERED & MIXED)
THE ROLLING STONESSTICKY FINGERS, GOATS HEAD SOUP, EXILE ON MAIN STREET,
IT’S ONLY ROCK & ROLL (ENGINEERED & MIXED)
FREETONS OF SOBS, HIGHWAY, HEARTBREAKER, FREE LIVE
(PRODUCED, ENGINEERED & MIXED)
ERIC CLAPTONCROSSROADS (PRODUCED, ENGINEERED & MIXED)
VAN HALENFOR UNLAWFUL CARNAL KNOWLEDGE (PRODUCED, ENGINEERED & MIXED)
JOE SATRIANITHE EXTREMIST (PRODUCED, ENGINEERED & MIXED)
CHICKENFOOTCHICKENFOOT (PRODUCED, ENGINEERED & MIXED)
www.haydenamps.com
“ONE OF THE BEST GUITAR AMPS I’VE EVER RECORDED”
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 31
ACOUSITC GUITARS SECTOR SPOTLIGHT
This collection of solid state combos
ranges from a compact ten-Watt
model with volume and eq control, up
to a 30-Watt version with twin input,
switchable lead and rhythm channels,
built in chorus, reverb and delay, as
well as an FX loop, all delivered
through two 12-inch speakers.
Kustom KG series From £59.99
Having been one of the amp giants for
over four decades, there is of course a
plethora of other Peavey products in this
category. The Vypyr 120 utilises 32-bit
floating point SHARC processors,
ensuring accurate likeness to the amp
emulations.
Debuting at this year’s JHS Event was
the new KG series from Kustom, which
encompasses a 10-Watt practice model
to a 30-Watt option.
The Kustom catalogue also features
the mightier Defender valve amp,
delivering 50 Watts of power and a
switch that enables users to select either
classic British or American tones. With a
12-inch speaker and Duo-Mod preamp
circuitry in an all-pine cabinet, the
Defender represents the higher end of
the Kustom scale.
Orange’s new Rockerverb II series,
which includes the 50-Watt 1x12 combo,
features several updates and changes to
the original Rockerverb range, including
enhanced reverb, FX loops and front
mounted controls.
Other combo offerings from Orange
include the Tiny Terror, which was hugely
popular in head form, the Rocker 30C,
with its 12-inch Celestion Vintage 30
loudspeaker and the AD30TC, a two-tone
channel switching amp that represents
the higher end models from this
particular manufacturer.
The Vox Valvetronix series has been
bolstered with the arrival of the VT range,
which features sounds that accurately
mimic that of numerous famous
guitarists. This selection of 22 models
ranges from high-gain types to boutique
and vintage amps and a variety of
effects, ensuring that multiple styles of
guitar playing are covered.
Another offering from Vox comes in
the form of the VR series. Whether tube
or solid-state, modern or old-school,
clean or dirty, this line is also one with a
wide target market. The AC30VR and
AC15VR also incorporate Valve Reactor
gadgetry and produce authentic and
satisfying tone.
Representing the higher end of the
scale is Mesa Boogie, which has the
Mark V combo, a unit that functions as
an all-in-one collection of amplifiers
from the company’s 40 year history.
Mesa’s Electradyne, like the Mark V, is
Simul-Class powered and features a
switch for easy changing between 45 and
90-Watt output.
An all-tube long spring reverb is
included, with auto reverb defeat switch,
for hi and lo mode selection.
The Electradyne offers the same
versatility of a multi-channel amp but
with single-channel simplicity
(achievable by a two-button footswitch
with three modes).
A completely transparent sound is
achieved via the new valve FX loop
and another addition is the middle
control function on the clean
channel. Reverb tone has also been
improved and this model comes
with two EL34 valves and front
mounted controls.
Orange Rockerverb II 50 £1,399
Four output choices are available,
as well as 66 presets, to help even
novice guitarists find a suitable
sound immediately. With
everything covered from entry-
level right through to units
suitable for professional stage and
studio scenarios, the VT series is
certainly a complete one.
Vox Valvetronix VT series £176
32 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
Its 20-Watt output is certainly
enough to fulfill its requirements as
a small practice model. Equipped
with a 6.5” speaker, it also has a
three-band eq with mid sweep and
inputs for a CD or MP3 player.
Stagg MOB20 £183.95
Aria ZT Lunchbox £269
This is a contender for the highest
power to size ratio on the market, due
to all this noise coming from such a
small box, with its 6.5-inch speaker.
Ultra low latency circuitry suitable for
all styles and formidable frequency
range means there is more to this
combo than just immense grunt.
The first channel provides a clean to light
crunch gain range and the second is
capable of going from medium crunch all
the way up to full overdrive. A pair of both
EL34 and 6L6 valves are built in, the first of
which producing a warm, British sound and
the latter emitting a more American tone.
Hayden Speakeasy Combo £1,499
Mesa Mark V £2,699
From the pioneering Mark I, this
product offers nine built-in patents
and a footswitchable five-band
graphic eq. The Mark V includes
three fully independent channels
and a Simul-Class power amp with
Multi-Watt and Duo-Class
technology, all enclosed in a robust
aluminium chassis.
SECTOR SPOTLIGHT ACOUSITC GUITARS
BlackheartHandsome Devil £361
A dual power mode allows for
either seven or 15-Watt output
and separate master and level
controls mean plenty of tweaking
for those seeking the perfect
sound. This hand-built unit
includes a 16-gauge steel
chassis and 12-inch 1216B
Eminence speaker.
FENDER 01342 331700MARSHALL01908 375411PEAVEY01536 461234WESTSIDE (MESA BOOGIE)0141 248 4812JHS (KUSTOM)0113 286 5381KORG (VOX)01908 857100LINE 601327 302700BARNES & MULLINS01691 652449LOUD TECHNOLOGIES(BLACKHEART)01494 557398FREESTYLE (HIWATT) 01924 455414LANEY0121 508 6666ORANGE020 8905 2828ROLAND01792 702701EMD (STAGG)01293 862612HAYDEN01245 441155ARIA (PIGNOSE, ZT)01483 238720
The wonderfully branded Blackheart
range has the Handsome Devil combo,
also available as a compact head. This
amp emits a vintage tone, not unlike the
old classic models from the 1960s.
It’s younger brother, the Little Giant
may be only a five-Watt amp, but it still
packs a punch, as its name suggests. A
combo consisting of an EL84 power tube
and three band eq, results in a product
that offers excellent output options and a
range of tone up to a shuddering
overdrive, for those that way inclined.
The versatility that has been the basis
for Hiwatt’s success is evident with the
G50 CMR. This twin channel model now
includes a variety of switching tones,
from classic and modern styles.
Next is the Hi-Gain SER 50W. This
combo blends the old with the new,
based on the custom DR series and
including a new Hi-gain channel. It also
features Accutronics reverb, FX loop and a
variety of settings on the clean channel,
similar to those on the custom series.
Laney’s LC30-112 offers great tonal
flexibility with gain and drive controls on
each channel, along with independent
equalisation and a switchable spring
reverb. The LC30-112 is also fitted with
premium ECC83 preamp valves and EL84s
for the output and delivers 30 Watts of
punchy, tone-drenched sound.
Laney’s Cub 12R provides half the
power of the LC30, but for half the price.
Three ECC83 preamp valves and two
EL84s in the output stage help create
British tone when pushed to the limit.
A good choice for those who want a
standard amp without all the bells and
whistles that are unnecessary to some, is
the Stagg 60 GA R. Featuring a clean and
overdrive channel with separate volume
controls, this 60-Watt combo includes a
three-band eq, effects loop and spring
reverb, with the option of DSP effects for
a little extra cost.
The MOB20 is one that Stagg describes
as a busker’s amp, due to its portability
and onboard 12 Volt battery. The rest of
Stagg’s offerings consist of amps for
basses, keyboards and electric drum kits,
all falling in the £100 to £150 bracket.
Many will remember the Pignose P7
100, which was famous for being small
enough to fit, actual size, on a magazine
advert page. It’s now been re-released
through Aria distribution, in its iconic
brown pigskin tolex attire. Like the
Microcube, it can operate on either mains
power or via batteries and includes strap
buttons and an internal lead storage
feature. The Hog 20 and 30-Watt models
are also available from Pignose, with their
rechargeable battery power sources.
Also obtainable through Aria is the
staggering ZT 200-Watt ZT-Lunchbox
combo, which can deliver almighty power
through its 6.5-inch speaker.
The Speakeasy Combo from Ashdown’s
sister company Hayden is a 50-Watt two
channel valve model with a 12” Eminence
Governor Red Coat driver.
Hayden also has the Peacemaker, a
hand wired amplifier that provides Class A
tone at an affordable price. Modern
specifications are featured along with its
vintage style, including reverb, digital
chorus and effects loop and a four-way
footswitch is even thrown in as standard.
CONTACTS
A 1x12” high performance speaker
can be added to with the new
extension output and there is an
optional footswitch for channel and
reverb. Also, at a snip over 200 quid,
the price will appeal more to the
masses than high-end guitarists.
Hiwatt G50 CMR £204.95
With a 12-inch Celestion driver, it
produces vintage valve tone and
high quality reverb. The <1W input
socket also allows the guitarist to
drive the amp to extreme levels
with heaps of compression, due to
the 0.75-Watt output available
from this setting.
Laney CUB 12R £279.95
CASIO Electronic Musical Instruments
To experience the innovative and true expressiveness of Casio’s new pianos, visit www.casiomusic.co.uk
Or call 0208 208 7826 for your nearest stockist.
The model shown is the elegant AP-420. The Celviano range starts at £769.99
www.casiomusic.co.uk
With an outstanding heritage of musical instruments, the Celviano range from Casio
offers an authentic playing experience with a classic, inspired appearance. With
remarkable sound quality, 88 keys, authentic AiF sound source and hammer action
keyboard that replicates the true feel of an acoustic instrument, let the magnificent
sound of the Celviano range fill you with classical inspiration.
Celebrating 30 Years
of Musical Instruments
YE
A
R WARRAN
TY
Smart. Sweet. Powerful.
The new
TLM 102
Georg Neumann GmbH • Ollenhauerstraße 98 • 13403 Berlin • Germany
www.neumann.com
m.i.p.a. Award 2010 Tech Award 2010 KEYS Award 2010
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 37
STUDIO MICS SECTOR SPOTLIGHT
Sometimes plagiarism is simply
unavoidable, thus, it is a truth
universally acknowledged that when
there is a job to be done in the studio or
on the stage, there is a microphone for
that job – and no single microphone can
be married to all applications.
For decades now, studio boffins have
been collecting microphones – dozens of
them, each filling different roles within the
recording process. However, in this age of
almost unlimited access to recording
technology, there are a lot of keen
amateurs out there somewhat confused by
the sheer variety of choice, ranging from
several thousands of pounds to a few quid.
As with most things relating to MI
manufacturing, price is becoming less of an
issue for those that fall within the
‘hobbyist’ category, as Far Eastern
production brings ever increasing levels of
quality for the sort of money that would
have bought you a virtually unusable mic
from Woolworths 30 years ago (not that
there is any such thing as an unusable mic
– another truth universally acknowledged).
The budget-priced mics available to the
end user are plentiful, so apologies for the
lack of space in this article. Here’s our run-
down of items of note…
Superlux was one of the first names to
be associated with keenly priced studio
mics and today the £99 CM-H8A offers a
large diaphragm condenser microphone
solution with studio optimised cardioid
patterns and ‘super buffered’ ultra-low
noise electronics. A step down from this is
the CMH8K/HUO pencil condenser mic
set, which offers no less than three
capsules, set with omni, super cardioid, and
uni direction for a mere £88.
Stagg offers a wide range of affordable,
quality microphones for the studio, with
some rugged enough for live situations. In
the CM series there is the CM5050, a
cardioid condenser for ambient recording,
great for overheads and cymbals (£33) and
the CM5060 – a hypercardioid condenser
ideal for drums (£38). Also the CM7050, a
cardioid condenser all rounder (£61).
Continuing the PGT series is the PGT70,
a cardioid condenser with 10dB pad, low
cut filter switch and shock mount. Ideal for
most applications (£86).
Sontronics has a bewildering array of
top quality studio mics that not only begin
at surprisingly budget prices, but maintain
incredible value right the way up its range.
The Saturn, which was launched at the
NAMM Show in January is a good case in
point. For a mere £699 there is as much
quality as many users will ever need. A
genuine, pro level mic, designed in
collaboration with producers, those extra
months of saving will be well worth it.
On top of that, there are the STC-10 (a
cardioid condensor for under £100), the
STC-1 (an instrument condensor, again
under £100) and the STC-80 – a vocal mic
that is also rugged enough for live
applications – and again, less than a ton.
Shure’s PG studio mics are also
available as XLR versions, but beyond that
the Shure X2U adapter is a modular
accessory that connects any XLR mic to a
“For decades now,studio boffins have
been collectingmicrophones –
dozens of them,each filling
different roleswithin the
recording process.
With state of the art microphone technology reaching ever more widespread corners of the manufacturing world, there
has never been a better time to build up a good mic collection. Prices are getting lower, discovers Andy Barrett, but the
quality is holding fast. It’s good news for home studios and dealers alike…
Budget report
Behringer C-1 condenser mics£45
The C-1 Condenser Mic is an affordable,
high-quality studio tool. Thanks to its
cardioid (heart-shaped) pattern, the C-1
microphone picks up your source signal,
while rejecting off-axis sounds that can
ruin an otherwise perfect recording.
With its excellent transducer and gold-
plated XLR output, the C-1 is very
neutral sounding and truly delivers on
the promise of noise-free transmission.
A die-cast body, foam-padded carrying
case and a swivel stand mount round
off a neat package..
Audio Technica AT 2050£219
The versatile AT 2050 provides
consistent performance in
switchable cardioid,
omnidirectional and figure-of-eight
polar pattern settings. Its dual large
diaphragms are gold-vaporised and
aged to achieve optimum
characteristics over years of use.
Equipped with a switchable 80Hz
high-pass filter and 10dB pad, the
microphone is ideal for studio and
live sound use on vocals, piano,
strings, drum overheads, guitar
amps, and more.
JTS JS-1 £160.00
The JTS JS-1 is a studio mic designed
for use in the most demanding
applications. A specially contoured 1”
super thin 24K gold plated diaphragm
provides clear reproduction of all
frequencies, even at high sound
pressure level signals. A switchable
10dB pad is built-in to increase the SPL
capabilities. It’s precise resolution and
ability to handle high sound-pressure
levels makes it an excellent all-purpose
microphone. Included with the JS-1 is a
versatile shock-mount with standard
5/8”-27 threads and is supplied in a
plastic padded flight case.
The TLM 102 defines a new
generation of Neumann studio
microphones. This applies not only to
the design of the microphone, but
also to the price. In the interior is a
newly developed large-diaphragm
capsule (cardioid) with a max sound
pressure level of 144dB, which
permits the recording of percussion,
drums, amps and other very loud
sound sources. Instruments that are
not especially loud also benefit from
the very fast transient response of
the TLM 102.
Neumann TLM102£599.99
A very cool, well priced studio unit
from an unexpected source, the
Peavey M2 condensor has a one-
inch diaphragm with gold-plated
membrane, three directional
characteristics (omni, cardioid or
figure-8), low frequency attenuation
switch, -10dB pad and a frequency
response of 30Hz to 20kHz. Topped
off with a carrying case and stand
mount included, with a shock mount
available, this pro level mic ticks a
lot of boxes.
Peavey Studio Pro M2 £349
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 39
STUDIO MICS SECTOR SPOTLIGHT
This complete set of drum microphones is
ideal for recording, although they can be used
for live applications, too. The set is composed
of a kick drum mic (designed to withstand
very high input signals), four super cardioids
for various percussion instruments and two
wide range condensers for cymbals. All the
mics are unidirectional and the pack ships
with relevant mic stands (including a rim clip)
and an aluminium flight case.
QTX Sound drum mic set£229.99
computer, creating CD quality recordings. The X2U is
styled to Shure’s SM57 and SM58 mics and can be
used for live, as well as studios.
The Sennheiser e914 is a high grade condenser
microphone for demanding applications. Its sound
properties qualify the e914 for sophisticated tasks
and the German manufracturer touts it as a perfect
microphone for ambitious recordings.
Its main areas of application are acoustic guitars,
cymbals, percussion, overhead, orchestras and grand
pianos. The super-cardioid e606 instrument mic has
been specially shaped for miking guitar cabs
extremely close to the signal source.
sE Electronics’ studio range is pretty much second
to none, offering everything for the budget market,
right up to the latest ribbon mic, designed with
Rupert Neve (the RNR-1). Budget prices begin at
around £100 with mics such as the sE1a, which
comes as a balanced stereo pair, retaining the same
capsule as the sE1, but utilising new, super-quiet
electronics, housed in a restyled chassis. Great for
drums, pianos, and acoustic stringed instruments. The
sE X1 is a dangerous mic to search for online, but
once qualified with the word ‘mic’, you should avoid
any surprises. The sE X1 is the latest addition to the
entry level range of sE microphones, produced with
one thing in mind: to outperform every other mic on
the market in its price category and then some.
Samson is another expert in this area and the CL7
has broken a lot of expectations at this price. Like the
finest studio mics the CL7 has a true capacitor
condenser mic element, making it warmer, brighter
and bigger sounding than electret-based elements.
The CL7 features a large, 1.1-inch, ultra thin
diaphragm capsule that reproduces a variety of
sound sources from vocals and acoustic instruments
to overhead cymbals. Samson has a whole range of
studio mics worth a look, including the CO1, CO3,
Q6CL, Q4CL, R21 and R21S.
The Røde K2, at £599 might not be quite ‘budget’
but you get a lot of bang for very little comparative
buck. The Røde K2 is the result of years of designing
and building valve microphones. Its HF-1 capsule
combines modern high-end specs with the character
and subtleties of legendary 50s mics. Variable control
of the K2’s polar patterns provides the freedom and
flexibility for any recording situation.
QTX Sound has the miniature cardioid condenser
mic twin pack with a unidirectional, cardioid
condenser, wide frequency response, 10dB attenuator
for operation at high SPLs and a bass roll off switch.
Their compact dimensions and high sensitivity makes
them ideal for many applications, ranging from
overhead drum mics to discrete use in conference
and interview situations.
Peavey has some exceptional studio mics, ranging
up to the Studio Pro M2 (above). There are also the
CM-1 and the M1 (£119 and £239 respectively). The
CM-1 is a back-electret condenser microphone with
simulated electronic tube response. It has a cardioid
unidirectional polar pattern, a frequency response of
50Hz to 16kHz and a max SPL of 136dB.
A step up from here is the M1 professional studio
recording microphone, featuring a one-inch
Touted as the ‘world's quietest studio condenser, the Røde
NT1-A has become as widely used as any in the business,
delivering the warmth, extended dynamic range, clarity and
high SPL capability. Now available as the ‘complete vocal
recording solution’ the NT1-A package now includes
everything the user needs for quality vocal recordings. The
pack adds a pop shield, shock mount, a premium 20-foot
cable, dust cover, instructional DVD with recording tips, and
Røde’s unmatchable ten-year warranty.
Røde NT1-A £195
With omni-directional, cardioid and figure-of-eight
patterns, as well as a 10dB cut/boost function, Orpheus
is the perfect choice for any studio or live application.
Its low self-noise and unmistakable presence allow you
to record the subtlest of instruments or voices without
the need to edit after.
The highly sensitive 35mm dual-diaphragm capsule is
suspended in its own special mount, almost floating in
the large, spherical basket.
Sontronics Orpheus£329
40 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
Stagg PGTV90£289
Stagg, as ever, opens the door for the
most cash strapped hopefuls to get in
on the act and the PGTV90 cardioid
tube mic is no exception. The mic
comes with its own power supply,
shock mount and flight case and is
perfect for those looking to get into
producing recordings with a classic
valve mic tone.
sE 2000 large diaphragm cardioid£2,699
The sE 2000 utilises a one-inch, centre terminated, gold
sputtered mylar diaphragm capsule in conjunction with
low noise Class A, FET circuitry and a transformer
balanced output stage. It features a wide frequency
response with a subtle presence lift and is suitable for
recording studio vocals as well as most acoustic
instruments. All sE microphones are closely matched,
making them good for stereo applications.
SECTOR SPOTLIGHT STUDIO MICS AUDIO TECHNICA 0113 277 1441KORG (BEHRINGER/SAMSON)01908 857100PROEL (JTS) 020 8761 9911SENNHEISER (NEUMANN)01494 551551PEAVEY 01536 461234AVSL (QTX SOUND) 0845 270 2411SOURCE DISTRIBUTION (RØDE)020 8962 5080SONIC DISTRIBUTION (SE ELECTRONICS) 01582 470260SHURE 01992 703058TIME+SPACE (SONTRONICS)01837 55200EMD (STAGG) 01293 862612SCV LONDON (SUPERLUX) 020 8418 1470MUSICTRACK (MXL) 01767 313447SOUND TECHNOLOGY (AKG)01462 480000
diaphragm with gold-plated membrane,
condenser, cardioid pattern, low frequency
attenuation switch, -10dB pad and a
frequency response of 30Hz to 20kHz.
The MXL 2010 (£171) claims to be
perfect in a home studio for both vocals
and instruments. What makes the 2010 so
versatile is MXL’s multi-pattern design with
omni, cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns.
It also includes a -10dB attenuation switch
for high sound pressure levels, so it's also
excellent for drum overheads or guitar
amps. A shockmount, windscreen and
three-year warranty round off the package.
The Proel-supplied JS-1E from JTS is an
economic version of the JS-1 (above). The
capsule and body is the same as the JS-1,
but it does not have the pad and low cut
function switches. It also skips the spider
type shock mount, but there is a handy
connection bracket, for easy mounting.
The JS-1T is a multi-pattern studio
microphone with three selectable polar
patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional and
figure-8, good enough for vocals, acoustic
instruments and drum kits for live or studio.
A specially contoured super thin 24K gold
plated diaphragm delivers real transparency
from 20Hz to 20kHz and handles high
sound pressure level.
Understanding that tube mics can wipe
out a home-recording budget faster than
you can say ‘phantom power supply’,
Behringer introduced the T-1 and T-47
microphones. These mics represent
considerable value for a studio-grade, tube-
powered condenser mic.
Furthermore, the B-5 single diaphragm
condenser comes with interchangeable
cardioid and omnidirectional capsules,
making it a fantastic all-purpose mic,
capturing sounds with realism, sensitivity
and accuracy, particularly for acoustic
instruments, vocals and overhead micing.
Audio-Technica’s 20 series comprises
live and studio microphones priced
between £99 and £219, with highlights
(aside from AT2050 above) including the
AT2020 USB, a side-address studio
condenser with USB digital output. With
low self-noise, the AT2020 USB is suited for
sophisticated digital recording equipment.
The AT2035 is designed for home, project
and pro studio applications and live
performance. This large-diaphragm
condenser delivers detail and low noise.
The Pro series offers a comprehensive
offering of 12 dynamic and condenser
microphones for stage and studio use,
priced between £55 and £179. Highlights
include the Pro 37 small-diaphragm
cardioid condenser and the Pro 61 – the
Pro series’ premier vocal microphone.
The Midnight Blues range includes the
popular MB/DK5 (£185) and MB/DK7
(£365) drum microphone packages,
allowing budding drum stars an easy ‘all-in-
one’ solution to drum-miking.
AKG is well known for its ultra-high-end
studio mics – models that sit comfortably
alongside Neumann and other prestige
studio brands. The Austrian manufacturer
does, however, have an exciting range of
budget mics under the Blue Line moniker.
The AKG Blue Line series is a modular
system that offers some eight different
capsules for various recording functions.
There are six different capsules that all
function on the SE 300 B transformerless
powering/output module. These are the
C391, a cardioid condensator, the CK91, a
cardioid, the CK92 omni, the CK93
hypercardioid, the CK94 figure-eight and
the CK98 shotgun.
CONTACTS
A ribbon microphone with figure-8
pattern, mounting bracket and
cable, the R102 is an active
aluminum ribbon microphone
designed specifically for recording.
It features the high sensitivity of a
condenser microphone, yet exhibits
the smoother frequency response
and excellent transient response of
a ribbon microphone. The speed
response of a ribbon mic is optimal
among all types of microphones.
Superlux R102 ribbon mic £135
The Q7 dynamic mic brings a high level of accuracy
to vocal miking applications thanks to its low mass,
neodymium element. The Q7 is a handheld, dynamic
that works for both recording and live performance
applications. Equipped with a linear frequency
response for superior reproduction, it is also designed
to withstand high sound pressure levels.
The mic employs a tight supercardioid pattern to
reduce feedback and effectively reject signals not
originating directly in front of the capsule and a
special shockmounted element also minimises
handling noise and provides additional protection.
Samson Q7 dynamics £91
Shure PG 42 & 27£311 & £240
The PG27USB and PG42USB
microphones connect
professional standard Shure
microphones to any USB port
with “Plug and Play”, meaning
digital recording can be
completed anywhere with a PC
or laptop. Ideal for multi-track
recording, the cardioid
condenser microphones feature
built-in headphone monitoring
with zero latency and monitor
mix control.
Exclusively distributed in the UK & Ireland by Source • www.sourcedistribution.co.uk/rode • T: 020 8962 5080
There was a time when a truly great microphone cost an unreal amount ofmoney. Then came Røde, and no-one could believe how a range ofmicrophones that performed so well could cost so little.
Today, discerning producers, engineers and recording musicians chooseRøde not just because they’re great mics for the money,
but because they’re great mics – period.
Discover more about Røde microphones at www.rodemic.com
It’s your route to a great recording.
The route to agreat recording
PLATINUM PARTNERS
GOLD PARTNERS
BAR SPONSOR
AFTER SHOW SPONSOR
DEALER DELEGATES:
Absolute Music Solutions LtdAckerman Music Advance Music limitedAllegro MusicAmazonArgosBaird Sound Systems LtdBalaam’s Music Bass GearBecketts Music Bonners Music SuperstoreBrittens MusicBruce MillersCC MusicChamberlain MusicChappell of Bond Street Chas FouldsCity MusicCliff Owen MusicCODA MusicColbecksCompton PianosConnevans Cookes Band Instruments County Music Supplies Ltd
Dawkes MusicDawsonsDigital Village - Music VillageEducation DivisionDolphin Enterprises Europe LtdDolphin MusicDouglas TelfordDuck Son & Pinker Duke of UkeEast Coast Musicebgb MusicEric Furze Guitar & SonEric Lindsey MusicEuromusic LtdFoote’s LtdGamlins Music Centre/Euro MusicGardonyi’s LtdGear4MusicGigbags in City MusicGreensleeves Guitar VillageHard To Find RecordsHarmonics MusicHeybrook MusicHogan MusicHolmes MusicHW Audio
idrums.co.ukimuso.co.ukJ.G. Windows JBS MusicJG WindowsJohn Packer Keyboard KavernKnock on Wood London PA Centre Mann’s MusicMarkson Pianos McCormacks Mickleburgh Millers Music Centre Minim MusicMOR MUSICMusic RoomMusic StationMusicians CentreMusicland UK Morlings NevadaNewcastle Drum CentreNewtonsNormansNorthern Music OnlineOne Man Band
Park MusicPlay Away GuitarsProduction RoomPromenade MusicPurple Turtle Music Red Submarine Limited - Gear4MusicRimmers Music LtdRock And Roll Music RockboxRocktronic Music StoresRosehill InstrumentsSharon MusicSheehan’sSheet Music Hound Sounds of FromeSoundsLive.co.ukStageBeatSymphony Music & TechnologyCentreThe Music StopThe Music Trading CompanyTiverton Music ShopTower Music Trago MillsUmbrella MusicVivace PianosWembley Drum/Guitar/PA
The MI Retail Conference & Expo is supported by the UK’s two main buying groups
10:30 – Coffee/Registration
11:00 – Conference
13:00-14:00 – Lunch
13:00-18:00 – ExpoExclusive meetingopportunities for EventPartners and over 100 of the UK’s leading dealers
14:00-18:00 – Cash barSponsor: Numark Alesis Akai
18:00-23:00 – After ShowParty Sponsored by Roland,featuring The Fabulous Beatlesat the Parker McMillan bar
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:11:00 – Introduction Stuart Dinsey, MI Pro11:02 – Welcome Cordelia von Gymnich,Musikmesse11:10 – Where We’re At, WhereWe’re GoingMatt Gibbs, GfKExclusive data from the marketresearch specialist.11:25 – Reverberations (Panelsession)Chairman: Andy Barrett, MI Pro.Panelists: Noel Sheehan,Sheehan’s; Simon Gilson, PMT;Dennis Drumm, JHS & Co; JuliaThompson, FCN Music.What have we learned from thecollapse of Sound Control,Reverb and others?11:50 – What Has The MIA EverDone For Us?Paul McManus, MIA
12:10 – Music For AllTim Walter, RolandThe industry charity’s ThreeMen on a Bike initiative.12:15 – Online Selling: Threat orOpportunity? (Panel session)Chairman: Peter Heath, RolandPanelists: Katy Watson-Cave,Dolphin; David Briggs, Dawsons;Harvey Roberts, Audio Technica;Paul Marshall, Marshall.The single biggest shift in the MIretail landscape comes underthe spotlight.12:40 – Music MattersBilly BraggThe legendary singer, songwriterand campaigner talks about theimportance of music and therole of retailers across allaspects of the community – andupdates us on his Jail GuitarDoors project.
1. GATOR
TSA GUITAR CASES FROM
£109.95They say: Military-grade proteciton taking
cases to the next level.
For: Guitarists, bassists
Range: Gator cases
Spec: Available for standard electric and
bass guitars, classical guitars and 335-style
guitars. Polyethylene outer, black powder-
coated valance and hardware, surface-
mounted impact diversion latch, neck
cradle, crushed velvet plush interior,
universal fit EPS protective foam open
cavity design.
From: Freestyle 01924 455414
2. KAM
KAMSTANDS FROM £24.95They say: From a name you can
trust, a whole range of stands and
accessories designed for all
performers..
For: Live & studio
Range: Kamstands
Spec: Stands for microphones,
speakers, guitars, keyboards,
instruments, sheet music, studios,
lighting and truss. Steel and
steel/ABS construction.
From: Lamba 01582 690600
NEW PRODUCTSACCESSORIES � BACKLINE � BASS & GUITAR � DRUMS � PRINT
4. RYCOTE
INVISION USM SHOCK MOUNT
£74.95They say: A 21st-century alternative to
elasticated suspensions.
For: Studios
Range: Rycote mic accessories
Spec: U-shape Lyre suspension mount, fits
mics from 18mm to 55mm diameter (incl
flat-sided and tapered models), virtually
unbreakable Hytrel construction, no elastic
or rubber.
From: Rycote 01223 700614
5. SHUBB
LITE CAPO £25.99They say: Shubb has sold over a
million capos over the years – and for
good reason.
For: Guitarists
Range: Shubb capos
Spec: New lightweight ‘aerospace
quality’ aluminium construction, nickel
plated, available for nylon (SHL2) and
steel-strung (SHL1) guitars, rubber string
hold, threaded grip.
From: JHS 0113 286 5381
NEW PRODUCTS ACCESSORIES
6. TC ELECTRONIC
POLY TUNE TUNER £75They say: Are you still tuning one
string at a time?
For: Guitarists, bassists
Range: TC Electronic floor pedals
Spec: World's first polyphonic tuner,
strum all strings and LED display
indicates which are out of tune,
dropped tunings from Eb to B,
ambient light sensor
automatically adjusts LED brightness,
chromatic tuner mode (when single
string is picked).
From: TC Electronic 0800 917 8926
ACCESSORY SPOTLIGHT
FUSION
F4 SERIES UKULELE GIGBAGS
FROM £18They say: A far cry from just a gigbag.
For: Ukulele players
Range: Fusion gigbags
Spec:The Fusion F4 ukulele series is as
tough and robust as gigbags come,
specially designed to protect these
vulnerable instruments, while remaining
lightweight for ease of portability.
10mm, high-density foam padding is at
the core of the design, with plush nylon,
Fusion-embossed, non-scratch inner
texture for a snug, soft and safe fit.
For protection against the elements,
the Fusion F4 ukulele series has a
durable Fusion branded outer material
of hardwearing polyester with two
roomy external accessory pockets.
The inverted zips have ergonomic
rubber zip pulls to avoid scratching the
instrument, while adjustable back
straps and a side-grip carry handle,
makes light work of transporting your
favourite ukulele.
Three in the range: Soprano (£18),
Concert (£19), Tenor (£20), Baritone
(£22). Available in: black/blue,
black/orange or black/grey.
From: Aria 01483 238720
1
3
3. REUNION BLUES
CONTINENTAL TRIPLE TRUMPET
CASE £179.50They say: Blending sleek, modern design
with the best in trumpet protection.
For: Trumpeters
Range: Reunion Blues instrument cases
Spec: One-inch thick shock-absorbing
'Flexoskeleton' exterior, knurled abrasion
grid on bottom, wide-mouth lid, roomy
interior, double helix velvet lining, high-
strength corded edges, Zero-G palm-
contoured handle.
From: Summerfield 0191 414 9001
2
6
4
5
44 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
‘Playing’ Live is so much more than just launching clips.
Find out how 64 buttons can put Ableton completely at your fi ngertips, visit:
www.novationmusic.com/launchpad
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 45
BACKLINE NEW PRODUCTS
1. DIGITECH
JAM MAN DELAY LOOPER
£389They say: Attributes never-before-
offered by stage-ready, individually
controlled loopers.
For: Guitarists
Range: Digitech effects pedals
Spec: 16 seconds of stereo delay time,
tap tempo footswitch, expression pedal
input, eight delay types, three
programmable presets, USB conneciton,
downloadable Jam Manager looper
librarian software, custom loop Jam
Lists for live recall.
From: Sound Technology
01462 480000
2. PALMER
3-EASY THREE-WAY
ROUTER £TBCThey say: An economy version of
the Triage router, guaranteed to
leave an impression.
For: Guitarists, live applications
Range: Palmer routers
Spec: Switches input signal
between three outputs, steps up
9V power supply to 30V, silent
switching, I/O set to unity gain, lo-
Z out, outputs 1 & 2 floating and
isolated, output 3 non-isolated,
discrete Class A FET input amp is
similar to the input stage of a hi-Z
tube amplifier.
From: Adam Hall 01702 613922
3. PROVIDENCE
STOMP BOXES $POAThey say: Used by such notable artists as
Gus G of the Ozzy Osbourne Band and
Robben Ford.
For: Guitarists
Range: Providence pedals
Spec: Models in range include: ADC-3
Anadime chorus, FBT-1 Final booster,
HBL-2 Heat Blaster distortion, PHF-1
Phase Force, SDR-4 Sonic Drive
overdrive, SOV-2 Stampede overdrive,
VLC-1 Velvet compressor.
From: Godlyke +1 973 777 7477
4. TC ELECTRONIC
NDR-1 NOVA DRIVE £219They say: Guitarists everywhere, start
your engines, because your tone is about
to take a new turn.
For: Guitarists
Range: TC effects
Spec: Dual engine, digitally controllable,
true bypass overdrive & distortion unit,
overdrive/dry mix, distortion with two-
band eq, each channel stackable or
parallel function.
From: TC Electronic 0800 917 8926
1. FRAMUS
DIABLO 7-STRING ELECTRIC
£1,879They say: More headroom with powerful,
full-bodied, yet clean distinguishable low-
end frequencies.
For: Guitarists
Range: Framus electrics
Spec: Arched mahogany body, maple bolt-
on neck, rosewood fingerboard, Seymour
Duncan Blackouts Phase I pickups (AHB-
1N 7, neck; AHB-1B 7, bridge), Framus
locking machine heads, TonePros tune-o-
matic bridge. Available as leftie and in
variety of finishes.
From: Warwick +49 0374 225550
SPOTLIGHT GUITAR
FRET KING
COUNTRY SQUIRE
EVOCATION £POAThey say: Fret King’s new Stvdio
series designed by Trev Wilkinson to
evoke historic guitars.
For: Guitarists
Range: Fret King Stvdio series
Spec: Swamp ash body in see-through
blonde maple rosewood, custom Fret
King double pole mini humbucker
with vari-coil option, shallow C-profile
neck, rosewood fingerboard, Wilkinson
WT3 bridge.
Wilkinson takes up the story:
“Quite what influence the original
Paul Bigsby guitar, built for Merle
Travis, had on Leo Fender is anyone's
guess, but my feelings are it was quite
profound. They were certainly aware
of each others efforts in the fledgling
industry we find ourselves in today.
“Les Paul, Leo Fender and Paul
Bigsby would hang out together. They
were actually drinking buddies and
would just ‘hang out’ at Paul's house.
“One day, Travis asked Bigsby to
make a special guitar that was solid,
but could sustain like a steel guitar
and could be easily tuned.
“Travis sketched out a design.
Before you know it there was an
instrument with six-on-a-side tuning
heads and a solid body and that was
probably the first production solid
body electric guitar.
“I personally feel that the head
stock was influenced by a much
earlier design found on an acoustic
guitar built by J Stauffer, who,
coincidentally, was the guitar
builder that CF Martin was
apprenticed to in 1811.
“Looking at this head stock you can
see the Tele and Strat influences later
popularised by Fender.
“Whatever happened, I think the
Merle Travis guitar was more a piece
of art than just a guitar.
Embellishments and design ideas from
another time, all in all a very cool
guitar. How I wish I'd have been a
drinking buddy of theirs too.”
From: JHS 0113 286 5381
1
6
“What influencePaul Bigsby had
on Leo Fender isanyone’s guess.
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 47
BASS & GUITAR NEW PRODUCTS
6. MADAROZZO
ELECTRIC GUITARS &
BASSES £TBCThey say: After well over two years
of product development the
Madarozzo Guitar project is right
on track.
For: Guitarists
Range: New range
Spec: Proprietary ‘advanced guitar
architechture’, custom designed
and manufactured hardware, two
models in range: Madrose guitar
and Madchilli bass.
From: Madarozzo 020 8816 8368
3. FRET KING
BLUE LABEL ELAN
SUPER 60 SSP & HBP
£679 & £699They say: A classic design
that combines sophisticated
looks with a high spec build.
For: Guitarists
Range: Fret King Blue Label
Spec: Double cutaway body,
12” radius premium rosewood
fingerboard, angled-back
asymmetric six-in-line
peghead, Wilkinson WVP
vibrato, classic set-neck.
From: JHS 0113 286 5381
5. WASHBURN
10 SERIES ACOUSTICS
FROM £170They say: All-new range featuring a
variety of body shapes and wood combos.
For: Guitarists
Range: Washburn acoustics
Spec: Mahogany backs & sides, tops are
spruce (WD10 & WMJ10), flame maple
(WD10F, WMJ10F, WD10FCE &
WMJ10FCE. WD10FCE/WMJ10FCE with
cutaway and Fishman electronics. WD10S
& WMJ10S with solid spruce top. WD11S
& WMJ11S with solid cedar top.
From: Sound Technology 01462 480000
4
2. FRAMUS
PANTHERA 7-STRING
ELECTRIC £2,059They say: Fans of heavy electric
guitar tones and drop-tuning styles
will love this one.
For: Guitarists
Range: Framus electrics
Spec: Arched mahogany body, set
mahogany neck, rosewood
fingerboard, Seymour Duncan
Blackouts Phase I pickups (AHB-1N
7, neck; AHB-1B 7, bridge), Framus
locking machine heads, TonePros
tune-o-matic bridge. Available as
leftie and in variety of finishes.
From: Warwick
+49 37422 555 3000
2
3
4. WASHBURN
55 SERIES ACOUSTICS
FROM £452 They say: Represents Washburn's
new deluxe acoustic models.
For: Guitarists
Range: Washburn acoustics
Spec: Solid Canadian Spruce top
with variety of tonewoods for
back & sides. Available in
dreadnought and grand
auditorium body styles, Fishman
equipped acoustic electrics.
From: Sound Technology
01462 480000
5
48 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
DRUMS SPOTLIGHT
MAPEX
BLACK PANTHER SNARES
£POAThey say: An entirely new and
improved Black Panther snare drum
range.
For: Drummers
Range: Mapex Black Panther
Spec:14 models in range. New shell
construction, new snare strainer and
butt, new hoops, new lugs, new
bearing edges, new air hole, new
finishes. Specification describing size,
shell type, individually named .
Models include the Fast Back
12x7 5.1mm maple shell, Phat Bob
14x7 maple, and the Stinger 10x5.5
steel shell.
From: Korg 01908 857100
2
31
1. CANOPUS
SNARE WIRES ¥POAThey say: Demonstrate distinct existence
of every particle of sound even in the
middle of large volume of sound.
For: Drummers
Range: Canopus accessories
Spec: Two in range: CPSS-BB14DR (dry)
and CPSS-BB14NP (chrome), spiral wires,
1mm end plate, knitted nylon fibre belt.
From: Canopus +81 3 3247 0330
2. MEINL
BENNY GREB SAND HAT £358They say: Every Byzance cymbal is a piece
of art and has its own unique sound
characteristics which can never be
duplicated.
For: Drummers
Range: Meinl Byzance
Spec: Hand hammered, B20 bronze, sand
blasted surface, various hammer
techniques, noticeable weight difference
between top and bottom, vintage sound
with modern clarity.
From: Active 020 8693 5678
3. MEINL
BYZANCE FLAT CHINA £259They say: Flat profile China cymbal for a
unique blend of sounds and tones.
For: Drummers
Range: Byzance Traditional
Spec: B20 bronze, light hand hammered,
uniform thin lathing, thin weight, 16” and
18” (£300) sizes available, no bell, short
sustain, soft attack.
From: Active 020 8693 5678
NEW PRODUCTS DRUMS & PERCUSSION
Blueridge have taken America by storm withtheir authentic vintage style guitars, and nowwe have made them available in the UK. Thisrange, renowned for spectacular value formoney, continues to receive excellent reviewsin all the best known guitar press, includingGuitar & Bass, Guitarist, Guitar Buyer, AcousticMagazine...
The leading brand of resonator guitars, with along US heritage, available in the UK exclu-sively from Gremlin Music. Saga Music, haveapplied the same dedication to quality to theseguitars as they have to the Gitane andBlueridge guitars, and the results are spectacular.
SK120 Rated ‘Exceptional’ in AcousticMagazine. “A wonderful little amp designedby people who understand what musiciansneed”. Also Guitar & Bass have awarded the
SK60 a massive 82%.We distribute these ShireKing Acoustic Ampsalong with Headway’s very popular pickupsfor acoustic instruments, including the Snake3 and SA1 pickups, and the ‘Band’ violin andcello pickups.
The best selling aluminium whistles inthe UK. Renowned for their clear sound,they appeal to whistle players of all stan-dards. Though ideal for beginners, theyare professional instruments and areused on stage by many leading players.
For the Gypsy in your soul!These beautiful guitars pay
homage to the Selmer andMaccaferri guitars of the early
20th century. They have solid tops,are a joy to play, and look andsound like the real thing, right
down to the excellent reproduction of the orig-inal tailpiece. More to the point, they are veryaffordably priced.
The Kentucky mandolins are the pinnacleof affordable bluegrass instruments, andoffer exceptional quality at excellentprices. These mandolins are a very wel-come addition to our growing section ofgreat quality bluegrass instruments,which includes mandolins, banjos,dobros, guitars and more.
A competitively priced range of stu-dent squeezeboxes, including PianoAccordions from 12 to 120 Bass,B/C, D/G and Cajun one-rowmelodeons, and Anglo and Englishconcertinas, all ideal for beginners.
As well as being the first point of call for all the hard to find traditional musical instruments your customers are askingyou for, Gremlin Music is a one stop shop for any musical instrument retailer. We can supply a massive range of acousticmusical instruments, spares, accessories, strings, books and DVDs. Become a Gremlin Dealer and give your customersa better choice! We pride ourselves on the personal touch - you can always reach us by phone during work-ing hours, and we’ll always send your order as fast as possible, no matter what the size. If you’re a dealer,you can browse our website for prices (retail and wholesale), contact us by email, and place orders online! We’ve beenin the business for over 25 years, and can offer you an experienced, friendly and professional service.
www.gremlinmusic.co.uk [email protected]: +44 (0) 1903 203044 (9.30 - 5.30 Mon - Fri) | Unit A, Easting Close, Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 8HQ
Musical Instrument Co.
A new range of Ashbury ukuleles, tenor guitars andmandolin family instruments have been designedby British Luthier Phil Davidson and are hand madein Vietnam.Ashbury also has a professional quality range ofAcoustic Guitars, Mandolins, Banjos & Fiddles,Basses, cases, electrics and more manufactured toa high standard in China and Indonesia.
“I was amazed and Impressed”Build Quality: 5/5, Sound Quality: 4.5/5,
Value for Money :5/5.Acoustic Magazine reviews the AU-24T
Ashbury solid koa Tenor Ukulele
Just a few of our Leading Brands...
50 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
NEW PRODUCTS DRUMS & PERCUSSION 4. ZILDJIAN
8 & 10-INCH ZXT TRASHFORMER
£69.50 & 84.60They say: Add a little trash, expand your
sound and enhance your set-up.
For: Drummers
Range: Zildjian Trashformer
Spec: B8 bronze alloy, ten-inch and eight-
inch models, mis-shapen splash/china style
cymbals, function standalone or as ‘white
noise’ layer on other cymbals, brilliant finish.
From: Yamaha 01908 366700
5. SONOR
PHIL RUDD SIGNATURE SNARE
£379They say: AC/DC’s drummer finally comes
through with a snare of his own – and it’s
heavy metal, of course.
For: Drummers
Range: Sonor snares
Spec: Based on Sonor Horst Link
Signature brass model snare, 1mm chrome-
over-brass shell, double-ended lugs with Tune
Safe system, die-cast hoops, 14x5-inch, 20
snare wires.
From: Sutherland 029 2088 7333
6. MEINL
BYZANCE RAW BELL RIDE £380They say: A dry, dark, but projecting cymbal
that looks as good as it sounds.
For: Drummer
Range: Byzance Traditional
Spec: B20 bronze, heavy hand hammered, 20-
inch ride, untreated raw bell creates fat,
projecting sound that has wide spectrum.
From: Active 020 8693 5678
4
5
6
THESE PAGES ARE SPONSORED BY MIKEDOLBEAR.COM, THE LEADING ONLINE
RESOURCE FOR EVERYTHING DRUMS.
VISIT WWW.MIKEDOLBEAR.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.
Developed in close consultation with the legendaryBritish bass player, the Ashdown MK500 Mark King
Signature Series bass amp delivers breathtakingclarity, precision tone shaping facilities and a
stunning dynamic range.
An advanced design using only discrete componentswith no ICs ensures absolute sonic integrity, while therevolutionary Harmonic Emphasis control introducesa stunning top-end ‘zing’ – like permanently playing
with a new set of strings!
“It’s so dynamic – so alive!This amp takes my sound
to a whole new level.”Mark King
Mark King
A very special version of a very special amplifierWe’re making just thirty examples of this stunning, 24-carat gold plated bass amp,each signed and numbered by the man himself. But don’t worry if you’re not luckyenough to get your hands on one of these very special amplifiers. The standardAshdown MK500 Mark King Signature Series head is exactly the same 575-Watt funkpowerhouse, minus the bling. See it on the Ashdown website and hear it on tour with Level 42. Check out www.level42.com for dates.
Signature Series Bass Amp
www.ashdownmusic.com www.level42.com
Celebrating 30 years of Level 42The Mark King Signature Series Gold-Plated Amp Head
BARNES & MULLINS has
announced a reduction in its
carriage charges for orders
under £250 as an incentive for
retailers to take advantage of
smaller orders in the current,
tight economic times.
A statement from the
general MI distributor read: “For
many retailers, carriage charges
can be a cost that is easily
overlooked, with a number not
fully appreciating how these
ultimately add up and affect a
store’s net profit.
“In these more challenging
times, Barnes & Mullins has
recognised the need for some
retailers to have the option of
buying smaller quantities more
often, thus reducing the
frequency of high-value
invoices and excess money tied
up in slower-selling stock.”
The new carriage fees are
applicable to the UK mainland
only and are reduced from
£7.50 to £4 for all orders under
£250. All orders over the £250
threshold will continue to be
despatched carriage free.
“With these new lower
charges and our policy of never
charging carriage on backorders,
I believe Barnes & Mullins offers
one of the fairest carriage
schemes in the industry,” said
joint MD, Brian Cleary (pictured
right with his co-MD Bruce
Perrin). “Also, with our
partnership with UPS and our
current investment in online
technology for the future, we
are confident that we can
continue to rapidly despatch
fully traceable orders long into
the future.”
B&M: 01691 652449
B&M eases costs for retailers
RETAIL NEWS
52 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
FCN MUSIC has kicked off its
summer trade offer season by
giving dealers the chance to
organise their buying programme
for the 2010 sales season. The
offers are available for one month
from June 11th, meaning that, as
MI Pro goes to press, there is still a
week or so remaining.
“We are conscious that it is
very tough out there for our
retailers, so as well as fabulous
deals and quantity discounts we
have included some very special
payment term options," explained
Julia Thompson, FCN's commercial
director. "We are aware that our
offers are keenly awaited, so this
year they feature a fabulous
extended credit deal or an
extraordinary four per cent
discount for early settlement.
There are special offers for Aulos
recorders, J Michael brass and
woodwind instruments, Walden
guitars, Lee Oskar harmonicas,
Tycoon percussion and many
other popular lines.”
Full details of the offers can be
found at the FCN website, in the
password-protected, exclusive
dealer area or by contacting the
FCN sales office on 01892
603733, via email here, or through
dealers' own area sales
representative.
Alan Pine (Scotland, Northern
and Central England, North Wales):
07860 486123.
John Haddock (London, South
and East England, Channel Islands):
07831 832170.
Neil Bye (South and West
England, the Midlands, Central
London, South Wales): 07836
501304.
Stephen MacRory (Republic of
Ireland and Northern Ireland):
0876 504169.
Last chance
for FCN offer
THE BPM SHOW, in association
with MI Pro, the official trade
sponsor of the event, is offering
free complimentary VIP passes
to MI and DJ retailers, as well as
installers, distributors,
manufacturers and those
associated with record labels or
the press.
The event, the biggest in
Europe dedicated to the DJ
market, is promising that this
year will be the biggest and
best yet.
Running from Saturday
October 2nd to 4th, BPM has
become a major attraction
since its debut in 2007 for
everyone related to the
industry, as well those who
simply have a passion for DJing
and dance music.
BPM pulled in an impressive
2,200 visitors for its inaugural
show, putting on a weekend of
gear demos, networking,
seminars, workshops and live
performances. In 2008 the
event went on to better its
attendance by a further 300.
Last year, it moved from the
Donington Park Exhibition
Centre to the Birmingham NEC
to accommodate the
continuiing growth and to
benefit from improved
transport links.
This switch of venue resulted
in a 50 per cent increase in
numbers – to 3,897.
With this year's figures
expected to rise further and
with many stating that they
would prefer not to attend at
the weekend, the Monday date
has been added.
The exhibition area contains
everything from DJ mixers to
PA systems and lighting effects
to production hardware and
software. This gathering is an
opportunity to meet with other
DJs and like-minded individuals
from the world of dance music.
Delegates will be required to
prove their status to be eligible
for the complementary pass (by
providing a trade reference
from an exhibiting company)
and those who have previously
taken advantage of the offer
can log in on the website to
sign up easily.
VISITBPM.CO.UK
Fourth annual DJ event offers VIP passes added to package in association with MI Pro
BPM complements trade
PERRIN & CLEARY: One of the fairest carriage schemes in the industry
Sound • Lighting • Special Effects • Distribution Power Squared • Tel: +44 (0) 1525 850085 • www.leisuretec.co.uk
bringing brands together
The Leisuretec Listings Plus 2010 • Call us to Order Your Copy • Experience • Choice • Value • Service
54 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
MIA NEWS an update from your industry trade association
Musicguard: putting money in your till
It's a sad fact, but musical
instruments are stolen,
damaged or lost every year
and the popularity of online
auction sites are making it ever
easier for unscrupulous thieves
to sell stolen instruments and
musical equipment. Not only is
there often considerable personal
sentiment associated with having
an instrument stolen, but
without insurance many
musicians could be left seriously
out of pocket – and let’s face it,
there aren’t many musicians that
cope with that.
WHY MUSICGUARD?
Musicguard, the MIA’s preferred
insurance provider and main
sponsor, is a company that was
founded by musicians in 1997, a
fact reflected in the present
accumulation of its tailored
products and services, covering
everything from a child learning
to play the violin at school, to
musicians earning a living with
their equipment.
This also includes the likes of
the professional DJ, sound
engineers and others.
With Musicguard, musicians
can choose the level of cover
they need. Each policy is tailored
toward the needs of the
individual, with three basic cover
options, which include:
1. Home and studio: covering
equipment at a single location;
2. Flexicover: suitable for
musicians/DJs that only take
some of their equipment to gigs;
3. Select: suitable for
musicians/DJs that take all of
their equipment to gigs;
For gigging musicians, most
venues now require minimum
levels of public liability cover.
Musicguard policies provide £1m
liability cover as standard with
the option to top up to £5m.
Musicguard is one of the
leading specialist insurance
providers for musical
instruments, covering more than
£80 million worth of equipment
for over 10,000 musicians in the
UK. The insurer is so confident of
this, it will pay double the price
difference to customers who find
equivalent cover cheaper
elsewhere within 28 days of the
policy start date.
BENEFITS FOR RETAILERS
If you run a music shop, website
or mail order business, you can
join the Musicguard affiliate
programme, which offers dealers
the chance to earn extra money
for referring customers to us. All
that is needed for this is to stock
counter-top leaflets or to display
Musicguard’s website banners.
HOW TO SIGN UP
Retailers can visit the website to
sign up securely online – This will
only take a couple of minutes. All
that is needed is the provision of
details of the store or business,
contact details and bank
information to receive payments.
Also, for simply being an MIA
member, Musicguard offers
dealers a 15 per cent discount on
their own musical equipment
insurance. visit
musicguard.co.uk/mia and create
a policy. MIA: 01372 750600
Musicians need insurance cover more than most and the MIA’s insurance partner can help dealers earn more, too...
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 55
LOCATION REPORT RETAIL
As one of the world’s most famous cities, it’s not surprising
that Cambridge offers a variety of stores for musos to get
their teeth in to. Adam Savage had a look around…CambridgeMILLER’S MUSIC/KEN STEVENS
Established over 150 years ago, Miller’s
Music is not only Cambridge’s biggest
music store, it also claims to be the first
recorded music shop in Britain.
The most unique aspect of this shop is
its partnership with Ken Stevens, a store
literally joined at the hip, creating one giant
building of musical loveliness. Miller’s is a
proper piano specialist, two floors of them
up to a selection of Bechstein grands.
Presentation is clearly taken very
seriously. Everything is immaculately
polished and arranged to ensure enough
space to move around. The Please Touch Me
signs placed on all the pianos is a nice
touch, making the place welcoming.
Ken Stevens offers a bit of everything
else, with a nice guitar section and
percussion area. The staff are friendly and
knowledgeable and there is a family
atmosphere across both shops that makes
them attractive to a range of people from
new starters right up to expert musicians.
CAMBRIDGE STRINGS
Just down the road from Miller’s lies this
great little shop. This tiny string specialist
has only been around for a year. Stocking a
wonderful range of bowed and pluckable
products, this charming little store cleverly
fills a niche in the Cambridge MI market.
Upstairs comprises a violin display, a
selection of accessories and an array of
sheet music. The instruments on show in
the window set the tone for the rest of the
store, with a nice selection of the now
ubiquitous colourful ukeleles.
The lower level is home to cellos,
classical acoustics and a small room used
for lessons.
DIGITAL VILLAGE
The Cambridge link in Digital Village’s UK
wide chain offers a very different
atmosphere. A long-haired student loudly
riffing in the corner amid a medley of other
sounds is a stark contrast to the quieter
stores around the city.
The manager explained that this is
where young people come to kill time and
play guitar with like-minded others.
With a great selection of guitars, basses,
digital pianos and keyboards, Dig Vig offers
a similar ‘come and play’ mentality to that
of Miller’s, but for a different kind of muso.
Although part of a chain, its aim is to come
across as a local store. Products on display
range from entry-level instruments right up
to the higher end of the scale.
ARENA MUSIC
Arena Music ticks all the boxes of the all-
round, traditional UK MI shop. Stocking
more or less everything, this store is perfect
for catering to the needs of a variety of
different customers.
Arena’s main attraction is its highly
impressive guitar stock for a shop of its
size. From floor to ceiling lie swathes of
electrics and acoustics of varying price, and
a room with a cosy leather sofa for some
solitary strumming.
Business has started to improve in recent
months, probably due to people being less
reluctant to spend on luxuries. With
customers regularly coming from Kings
Lynn, Saffron Walden and even Suffolk, this
place has established a great reputation.
WOOD, WIND & REED
A retailer that supplies a more unusual
musical stock was always going to have an
alternative feel, but upon entering Wood,
Wind & Reed, it becomes clear that this
place is a highly unique specimen.
A workshop on the main shop floor with
no dividing wall or obstruction of any kind
allows the visitor to observe craftsmanship
first hand, while a second room has a
selection of sheet music and a display of
finished products. Upstairs though is where
one of the biggest surprises lies. The
selection of reeds on this floor is surely a
contender for the UK’s largest, with a
highly organised arrangement. Availability,
choice and quality means this store delivers
exactly what its name suggests.
56 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
CLASSIFIEDS: MINIMUM 12 MONTHS - ONE ANNUAL CHARGE QUARTER PAGE £1,295
MARKETPLACE INDEX
SU
PP
LIE
R S
PO
TLI
GH
T
TO ADVERTISE CALL DARRELL CARTER OR JODIE HOLDWAY ON 01992 535647
The UK supplier is among the most forward-looking
in the country, but with its roots firmly in place...
Since starting off as a retailer
over 50 years ago on
Shaftesbury Avenue, Bill
Lewington has grown from a
renowned brass and woodwind
dealer and repair specialist to a
distributor of various brands,
from guitars to brass.
With a brand portfolio that
now stands at over 60, Bill
Lewington is particularly proud
of its two most successful brands,
Dean Guitars and Ddrum, which
both represent the direction the
company has taken, from
traditional instruments to a
more rock n roll approach. Dean
Guitars, which is known mostly
for its electrics, is targeted
predominantly at metal
guitarists, with a number of
extreme designs sure to catch
the eye of the heavier riffing
guitarist. Ddrum is a similar
story, with several ranges of
aggressive looking
acoustic kits with
names such as Diablo
and Dominion, as
well as several
other models for
the general
drummer
too, of
course.
You would expect a company
with a history such as this to
struggle with modern concepts, but
this is not the case. A supplier with a
consistently updated website is a
rare blessing and with social media
and online marketing high on the
agenda, it seems Bill Lewington is
more contemporary minded than
many of its competitors.
Its worldwide reputation may
stem from its original function as a
fashionably located retailer, but it is
now being taken seriously on the
global scene as a distributor,
especially since it has established a
number of big deals with
international manufacturers, such as
Muramatsu Flutes of Japan.
Although now considered possibly
the smallest part of the company,
instrument repairs is still a major
area of business for them. Phil
Williams, who has been there since
the beginning and, unsurprisingly,
possesses heaps of experience, is
responsible for this department,
proving that although Bill Lewington
is a very forward-thinking company,
it has never abandoned its roots.
As well as establishing new
brands and maintaining those
already in their lineup, this
distributor has much more in the
pipeline, such as the DOA event, a
Dean Guitar party set to take place
on September 25th. It’s remarkable
how much Bill Lewington has
changed since it began, but it
seems that now it has found a
market that really allows it to
compete and grow.
BILL LEWINGTONON:
01268 413366
THE PLACE FOR BUSINESS
MIMARKETPLACE
440 DISTRIBUTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0113 258 9599
AARIA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01483 238720ALLPARTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0870 442 3336AVSL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0845 270 2411
BBILL LEWINGTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01268 413366
CCOVERNOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0121 327 1977 CBAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8816 8368DDADDARIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0800 234 2848
FFCN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WWW.FCN.CO.UKFENDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WWW.FENDER.COMFOCUS MERCHANDISE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8245 9035
HHOT ROX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0115 987 3163
JJAM PERCUSSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0151 494 1492
LLEISURETEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01525 850085
MMARSHALL AMPLIFICATION. . . . . WWW.MARSHALLAMPS.COMMCLELLAND/GREMLIN MUSIC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01273 491333MEL BAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8382 8010MUSIC SHIPPING CO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01562 827666
OOCARINA WORKSHOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01536 485963
PPROEL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8761 9911
RRICHARD GUITARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07531 935 399RITTER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8816 8368ROBERT MORLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8318 5838ROTHWELL AUDIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01204 366133SSOAR VALLEY MUSIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0116 230 4926
TTEAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01923 438880
WWIND PLUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0116 243 1698WORLD RYTHM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01242 282191
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 57
MI MARKETPLACEAMPLIFICATIONS
To find out more about the JVM Series and other Marshall products contact: Marshall Amplification plc Denbigh Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK11DQ www.marshallamps.com
DISTRIBUTOR
www.daddario.co.uk/inked
Call Tom Harrison on 01132 589599 or email - [email protected]
DISTRIBUTOR
0845 270 2411
0845 270 2433
www.avslgroup.com
A leading distributor within the Audio Visual, Sound & Light, Public Address and MI trades.
GRO
UP
Order online
Friendly sales team
Over 4000 products in stock
DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR
58 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
DISTRIBUTOR
MI MARKETPLACE
DISTRIBUTOR
DISTRIBUTOR
Active & passive speakers Line array InEar & Wireless Public adress
The sound of experience
a member of
dBTechnologies UK16 Whitebeam CloseNewhey, RochdaleOL16 4NDDirect: 07595 672157Freephone: 0800 234 2848mail: [email protected]
www.dbtechnologies.com
www.dbtechnologies.com
DISTRIBUTOR
INTERNATIONAL LTD
The UK’s fastest growing supplier of Professional Audio and MI equipment direct to the industry!
Supplying you with our ever expanding range from
As well as premier UK distribution for these leading brands
Tel: 020 8761 9911Fax: 020 8761 9922
Email: [email protected]
www.proelint.co.ukwww.gremlinmusic.co.uk
Acoustic, Celtic and TraditionalMusical Instrument Specialists
Become a Gremlin Dealer and giveyour customers a bigger and betterchoice! We pride ourselves on thepersonal touch - you can alwaysreach us by phone during workinghours, and we’ll always send yourorder as fast as possible, no matterwhat the size. We’ve been in thebusiness for over 25 years, and can
offer you an experienced, friendly andprofessional service.
Email: [email protected]: +44 (0) 1903 203044 (9.30 - 5.30 Mon - Fri)
DISTRIBUTOR
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 59
MI MARKETPLACE
DISTRIBUTOR DISTRIBUTOR
60 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
MANUFACTURER
MI MARKETPLACE
GUITARS
If you answer yes to any of the following questions,
Guitars.co.uk WILL be of value to your business...
Want your shop SEEN?
Want your service APPRECIATED?
Want your Products SOLD?
We believe in power in numbers and want the UK’s
specialist stores to be seen, appreciated and most of
all get their rightful place BACK at the heart of guitar
sales in the UK.
DON'T be a sceptic.
SEE that positive things can happen!
Make it happen by calling us at your
earliest opportunity
07531 935 399
...bridges, necks, bodies,
electronics, frets, inlay dots, pickups, knobs,
switches, pickguards, tools scratchplates, strings, screws,
nuts, saddles, tailpieces ...and much more!!!
The UK’s Premier Guitar & Bass Parts Supplier
Pick a partABM, Badass, Bartolini, Bigsby, CRL, CTS,
Danelectro, Earvana, Electrosocket, Fender,
Gotoh, Graphtech, Hipshot, Hofner, Jim
Dunlop, Lace, Leo Quan, Moses, Razor,
Schaller, Sperzel, Sprague, Switchcraft
& Wilkinson.
To order call 0870 442 3336Low call rate 0845 345 5951
Order online or find a local dealer @:
www.allparts.uk.comor email us: [email protected]
GUITAR PARTS
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JULY 2010 61
MI MARKETPLACEMANUFACTURER
Find out more at www.fender.com/gdec3Fender® and G-DEC® are trademarks of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation. © 2010 FMIC. All rights reserved.
Like no other guitar amplifi er you’ve ever experienced.
ALL NEW
INSURANCE AND BUSINESS
MUSIC PUBLISHERS
OCARINAS
Making Music in SchoolsSince 1983
UK made rainbow ocarinas fromOcarina Workshop are easy to playand great fun to teach with.
These pocket-sized instrumentsare popular with kids & well-tuned.Together with 'Play your Ocarina'music books, they are the key tosuccessful music-making in manyschools around the country.
Make sure school ocarinas are onyour counter-top and availablewhen customers request them!
Quote ‘MI Pro’ when you order12 Ocarinas & 12 Books and beamazed at the ocarina’s potential...
Trade orders are sent by return:free delivery & no minimum order
www.ocarina.co.uk
tel: 01536 485 963fax: 01536 485 051
email: [email protected]
62 miPRO JUNE 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
Rober t MORLEY Co Ltd
34 ENGATE St. LONDON SE13 7HA
020•8318•5838Grand & Upright Pianos by
Elysian, Grotrian-Steinweg, Bechstein,Monington & Weston
and other famous makers
John Morley Clavichords, Spinets,Harpsichords, Virginals & Celestes
Antique, Modern & New, Rental, Repairs,Sales lists & colour brochures on request.
Robert MORLEY & Co Ltd.Piano & Harpsichord Makers
Established 1881
www.morleypianos.com
PIANOS PERCUSSION & DRUMS
MI MARKETPLACE
PERCUSSIONPERCUSSION
PROMOTIONAL
WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO JUNE 2010 63
PERCUSSION
MI MARKETPLACE
WIND INSTRUMENTREPAIRS
JULY 2002Cover Stars: Sound Technology discusses the
swings and roundabouts of third-party distribution
after the news that Apple has subsumed Emagic
and its popular Logic music production software
News: Apple buys Emagic, Live! And Disco
International magazines ‘suspended’ by Highbury
{Publishing Dreadnought and Exclusive co-operate
on Martin distribution, Bob Kelly leaves MIA
Features: DGC, Vestax Europe, JHS Event, Yamaha
and Classic fm, BMF guide, Giraffe Stands,
Electrofix technical services
Products: Groove Tubes GT series mics, Vintage
VHS1, Ovation CC series, Aria Mac 35, Yamaha PF
500, Fret King Eclat, Italia Modena, Mobius Midi
Tapper, Yamaha GC1 baby grand, Yamaha U5
upright, Steinberg Cubase SX, Applied Acoustics
Lounge Lizard, Brauner Phantom mic (listed at
£13.99 – would have been a bargain... If true)
Number one singles: Gareth Gates: Anyone Of Us
(Stupid Mistake)
Number one albums: Oasis: Heathen Chemistry,
Red Hot Chili Peppers: By The Way
RETRO
MI Pro is the only place the UK’s MI trade turns for the news and analysis of everything going on in the industry. Aside
from that, we appreciate the fun that lies at the root of everything we do, so this is the section to crack open a beer, put
your feet up and have a laugh. If you have any pictures you’d like us to include, send them to [email protected]...
Alook back at previous MI Icon
entries will throw up a series
of revolutionary success
stories that were usually due to
huge leaps forward in quality, value
or manufacturing technique. Rarely,
however, will we choose an
instrument that was, well, to put it
bluntly – a bit rubbish.
The Casio VL-Tone is surely a
contender for being one of the most
bizarre products in MI history
because of its ability to function as
both a ‘synthesiser’ and calculator.
This may appear as some kind of
joke until you learn that the VL-Tone
not only encouraged Casio to enter
the world of MI manufacturing, but
also sold over a million models and
sparked a revolution.
In terms of quality and choice of
sounds it was certainly limited, with
only flute, piano, guitar, violin and
the weird ‘fantasy’ option on offer,
all of them delivering highly
questionable likenesses to the
instruments they were emulating.
Ironically it was these basic tones
that was part of its appeal and when
word got round that when played
through the line output it actually
sounded mildly acceptable, a
number of relatively big names
began to experiment with it.
An example would be German
band Trio, who used the VL-Tone on
their hit record Da Da Da. With a
resurgence of retro styles becoming
increasingly common in popular
music today, we could even see a
resurrection of the product in the
near future. Artists such as Moby
and Goldie have already utilised the
sounds in some of their work.
It also features a selection of ten
pre-loaded rhythms made from just
three drum sounds, which is a far cry
from the keyboards and synthesisers
of today.
Price was another reason it sold
so well between 1979 and 1984. It
cost just £30, which is great value
for a product that allows you to play
a catchy tune and do your maths
homework at the same time.
Some might disagree with the VL-
Tone’s icon status, but there are
certainly those out there who will
remember this little gadget fondly,
despite its obvious drawbacks.
MI ICON Casio VL-Tone
THE LAST WORD IN MI PRO
64 miPRO JULY 2010 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK
PIC OF THE MONTHTHE BOWFRIDGAPHONEHere we see the Toronto-based
artist, Iner Souster with his
bowfridgeaphone. It looks and
sounds pretty weird and wonderful,
until you actually pop along to
Souster’s blog-spot
(http://inersouster.blogspot.com)
and see that the musical inventor
actually does quite a lot of this
sort of thing.
The bowfriedgeaphone,
apparently, does exactly what it
says on the tin and creates the
sound of an instrument made from
parts of a refridgerator… Whatever
that might be.
To be a little more precise,
the instrument also uses a cake
tin and a salad bowl along with
other bits and pieces. Souster
has attracted the attention of
more industrial sounding outfits,
such as the Fembots.
“Around 2000, I had been
working with sculptures and I
plugged a microphone in a
piece I was making with an old
speaker and an amazing sound
came out of it,” said Souster in
a recent interview.
“I switched gears and I
started getting into full time
building instruments.”
Hard playing Aussie classics rockers Airbourne made a name for themselves with a crunching 70s
sound, this explosive quartet are the latest to fly the flag for uncompromising four chord rock n
roll, and are about to unleash second album No Guts, No Glory. Here's how they make their noise...
SOUNDALIKESAIRBOURNE
NEXTMONTHA full report on everything that went on at
the MI Retail Conference & Expo, a major
new pro audio/MI crossover company on
the cover and sector spotlights examining
the school rental market and accessories.
EDITORIAL: ANDY BARRETT
ADVERTISING: JODIE HOLDWAY
Company/job title:
D’Addario UK –
marketing manager
Years in the industry?
Three years. Before that I was working in
the clothing industry
First single bought?
Just Can’t Get Enough – Depeche Mode. I
also had a dodgy perm at the time…
Favourite album?
Singing Bones by Handsome Family. I’m a
bit of a fan of Gothic Americana and not
many musicians can get away with playing
a musical saw so beautifully.
Currently listening to?
Black Keys, Band of Horses, Broken Family
Band and Johnny Dowd – I saw him in York
recently and he brought the house down!
Favourite musician?
E from Eels – Love a man with a beard
Which instruments do you play?
I have a Martin guitar I treat very badly so
it’s not playing. I want to learn accordion.
Are you currently in a band?
No, I much more prefer to be an
appreciative audience member
MI SPACE
© Intent Media 2010 No part of this publication may be
reproduced in any form or by any means without prior permission
of the copyright owners. Printed by The Manson Group, AL3 6PZ
Enquiries to MI Pro, Intent Media, Saxon House 6a St.
Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1JA.
Tel: 01992 535646 (Editorial)
Tel: 01992 535647 (Advertising)
Fax: 01992 535648
miPRO is a memberof the PPA
ISSN 1750-4198
JOEL O'KEEFE – guitar and vocals – 76
Gibson Explorer, 71 Gibson SG, Marshall
SLP, Marhsall JCM 800, Marshall Kerry
King JCM 800, Marshall DSL
DAVID ROADS – guitar and vocals –
Vintage Gibson Explorer, Marhsall JCM
800, Marshall Majors
JUSTIN STREET – bass guitar and vocals
– Black Fender USA Precision bass,
Ampeg SVT-VR bass amp.
RYAN O'KEEFE – drums – Tama Coral
Blue Starclassic Performer, 18"x22" kick,
5.5"x14" snare, 9"x12" tom, 10"x14" tom,
16"x16" floor tom, 16"x18" floor tom,
Iron Cobra Power Glide twin pedal, Iron
Cobra Lever Glide h-hat stand
MI PRO Magazine. Saxon House, 6a St. Andrew Street.
Hertford, Hertfordshire. SG14 1JA
ISSN: 1750-41980 Copyright 2010
Printed by The Manson Group, AL3 6PZ
the international monthlymagazine for musicinstrument professional andeveryone in the MI business
MI Pro has a monthly circulation of well
over 6,000. It is distributed to all MI
retailers and industry professionals plus
carefully selected educators, pro audio
executives and resellers, and
associated industries.
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MI PRO is published 12 times a year, reaching well over
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Managing EditorAndy [email protected]
Editor at LargeGary [email protected]
Staff WriterAdam [email protected]
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Sales ExecutiveJodie [email protected]
DesignerClaire [email protected]
Production ExecutiveRosie [email protected]
CirculationPaul [email protected]
Editorial ProductionManagerHelen [email protected]
PublisherDave [email protected]
Managing DirectorStuart [email protected]
ELAINESMITH
66 miPRO JULY 2010
www.staggmusic.com
BRUSSELS, 1840.ADOLPHE SAX DREAMS UP
A NEW INSTRUMENT.
BRUSSELS, 2010.STAGG INTRODUCES THE ALL-NEW
77-SA ALTO SAXOPHONE.
FEATURES:
F/F# link leverFull regulation screws for left and right hand
Blue steel springsUpgraded felts
Stop bumper on crook key
All Stagg woodwind instruments are fully checked and professionally set up by Stagg’s in-house technicians
prior to shipping.
Please call the UK sales team on 01293 862612, contact your area sales manager, or log on to our dealerwebsite at www.emdmusic.com for more details.
The V-Studio 20 from Cakewalk: an audio interface and control surface with Boss effects and Guitar Tracks recording so ware. It’s all you need to jam, play, record and mix killer music.
Call 01792 702 701 or visit www.roland.co.uk/vs20
Guitar FX by BossControl surface by RolandRecording software by Cakewalk
Killer tunes by you