UBD January 23, 2025
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Taylor Model Is Good as Gold Taylor Guitars has released its Gold Label Collection, headlined by the Gold Label 814e. This acoustic family introduc- es Taylor’s super auditorium body shape, a slightly larger take on the brand’s grand auditorium shape that’s voiced for superior warmth, depth and power. onance, sustain and volume. This model features Honduran rosewood back and sides paired with a torrefied sitka spruce top for a full, harmonically complex over- tone response complemented by robust tre- bles and a lush bass range. Available in natu- ral or sunburst finishes, the Gold Label 814e is inspired by old-heritage acoustic sounds and classic flattop designs. $ Taylor Guitars (taylorguitars.com) Inside the guitar is a fanned variant of Taylor’s V-Class bracing and a long-tenon neck joint that yield improved low-end res-
Vandoren Expands Profile Line Vandoren has introduced three new addi- tions to its Profile mouthpiece series: the SP4 for soprano saxophone and the AP2 and AP4 for alto saxophone. These models build on the Profile series’ reputation for flexibility, clarity and response. The AP2 is a standout addition for classi- cal alto saxophonists, offering a round, warm sound with immediate response while maintaining the trademark flexibil- ity of the Profile line. These qualities com- bine to ensure a seamless playing experience across all registers. The AP4 offers alto saxo- phonists a larger tip opening and enhanced projection, ideal for those seeking a dynam- ic alto saxophone sound. Rounding out the new additions, the SP4 for soprano delivers a robust sound with superior projection, even timbre and easy response. $ Vandoren (vandoren.com)
Toca Bantam Weight Cajon Packs a Punch Toca Percussion has launched the Bantam Weight Cajon, an addition to its cajon lineup that offers musicians a lighter, more respon- sive instrument without compromising on sound quality. Designed with a Bali Birch body and a maple front plate, the Bantam Weight Cajon is nearly three pounds lighter than Toca’s standard cajons, making it easier to carry to gigs, practice sessions or performances. The reduced weight is achieved without sacrific- ing the full sound that players expect. The thinner front plate enhances response, allow- ing for greater precision and sensitivity, while Toca’s bass reflex design extends and enriches bass tones, delivering a robust low end. Equipped with an internal snare, the Bantam Weight Cajon provides a crisp, snappy sound alongside its bass response, making it versatile for a wide range of musical styles. The Bali Birch and maple construction lends the cajon a simple, ele- gant appearance, reflecting its balance of
MAILA Fills High Demand LD Systems has debuted the MAILA, a compact line array stereo system with unique flexibility. While some jobs require a large line array, the MAILA can handle every- thing else. Engineered in Germany, MAILA works for professional live sound applica- tions, clubs and large conferences that have high demands in terms of power, throw and even sound dispersion, but don’t want to fore- go easy handling and maximum flexibility. The system is also perfectly at home in theaters with its slim, cable-free design con- cept. MAILA doesn’t present itself as one product, but instead as a scalable stereo sound reinforcement solution offering diver- sity and flexibility. Sound demos will be taking place throughout this week’s NAMM show at Adam Hall Group booth. $ LD Systems (ld-systems.com)
craftsmanship and practicality. $ Toca Percussion (tocapercussion.com)
Gator Turns 25 Gator is celebrating its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter century of designing and manufacturing protective gear and accesso- ries for musicians. To commemorate the mile- stone, the brand has introduced its Icon Series 25th Anniversary Limited Edition gig bags — a tribute wrapped in “Gator Red” that has become synonymous with the brand’s legacy. Gator’s collection of anniversary bags comprises four models: two snare drum bags, sized at 14- by 6.5-inch and 14- by 5-inch, and two guitar gig bags, available in electric and bass guitar sizes. The Icon Series Snare Drum Bags are built for drummers requiring durability and convenience. The Icon Series Guitar Gig Bags uphold the same standards of quality as its percussion counterparts. Built with a semi-rigid construction, these bags merge the durability of a case with the lightweight flexibility of a gig bag. $ Gator Co. (gatorcases.com )
On-Stage Goes Portable On-Stage has rolled out the OS TGA01 Travel Electric Guitar Amp. The recharge- able amp features a lightweight lithium bat- tery that offers seven full hours of playing time off a single charge. Its portable design allows you to play from almost anywhere. At 4 inches tall and weighing less than one pound, the OS TGA01 Travel Electric Guitar Amp is almost pocket-sized. Users can choose between two full-range Bluetooth speakers and headphone connec- tion, so they can play out loud or strum to themselves. Full-range speakers let players jam along with their favorite songs, keep time to a click track or use it as a speaker. $ On-Stage (on-stage.com)
Kala Anniversary Uke Collection Honors Roots
For Kala’s 20th anniversary, the company made a collection of ukuleles that featured special details — from the material selection process to the finishing touches. To honor Kala’s roots, the company brought togeth- er the first two homes of Kala, Hawaii and California, in these models with a distinct custom California Poppy headstock inlay. The ukes will be offered in two options:
a solid Hawaiian koa top with solid African mahogany back and sides and a solid spruce top with quilted sapele back and sides. The ukuleles also feature a Paua Abalone rosette, Paua Abalone purfling around the body, fretboard and head- stock, D’Addario Fluorocarbon strings, and a custom logo gig bag. $ Kala Brand Music Co. (kalabrand.com)
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