Trace Elliot A8 1000 – 12/1210 Combo
The resurrection of Trace Elliot amps is great news for bass players who only a few years ago mourned the passing of the original marque. The new Trace Elliot company has introduced a completely new product range utilising studio quality integrated circuitry throughout. Although there are various models in the new line up, we chose to feature the top of the range 1000 watt A81000 – 12 head and the 500 watt 1210 combo, which both feature Trace Elliot’s famous 12-band graphic EQ. The A8 1000 – 12 head can be paired up with either a 4 X 10 or a 2 X 10 Celestion configuration, both with high frequency horns, while the 1210 is loaded with two 10 inch Celestions. Not only do these new sound systems sound as good as – if not better than their original stablemates – but they also look the business, finished in the original black livery and coming in embroided covers.

Pearl Elite Concert Woodblocks
Often shunned for the lighter polymer alternative, these hand-held or bar set woodblocks are unique in that they have a raised central ridge that gives the block added power and volume. Coming in 7, 9 and 10 inch, each in a different related pitch, they have a tone and timbre that is warm yet with plenty of bite and attack. The larger blocks have three support settings, while the smallest has only the one. If you are using them hand held, they have smooth and rounded edges and sit well in the hand. And if you’re into latin and salsa, then these babies will cut through the lot!

Planet Waves Martin Simpson Slide
For all those bottleneck players who find it hard to hold onto their slide, this tapered Martin Simpson version by Planet Waves should once again make playing a pleasure. It’s made out of aircraft quality stainless steel and has been electro-polished to a 7RA micro-inch finish. This patented procedure gives an excellent wear surface that comes with a super low degree of friction. But best of all, it provides pure harmonics together with exceptional sustain and has a
wonderfully warm tone that you don’t normally get with a metal slide.  

Meinl Professional Conga & Djembe Bags
These professional cordura covered padded bags are perfect for keeping congas and djembes in good shape. Coming in Quinto, Conga and Tumba sizes for the Conga model and large and medium for the Djembe, they provide all the protection that you’re ever likely to need. Both sport padded grab handles, or if you fancy giving your arms a rest, there’s a padded, detachable rucksack style harness to give you the option of carrying the drum on your back. The Conga series also features an additional upright zipper to simplify packing and unpacking of the drum. And being Meinl, they’ve included a handy accessory pocket for a tuning key etc.

Zildjian K Constantinople Range
Four new 20 and 22 inch ride cymbals have been added to the already popular premium K Constantinople range. The new K Constantinople Hi Bell Rides use a bell shape that was modeled after a 100 year-old pair of Zildjian Orchestral cymbals, where the larger surface area of the bell provides a wider range of frequencies. They are produced using a combination of traditional K Constantinople lathing and innovative “Spiral” lathing techniques. This new technique of Spiral lathing allows the cymbal to remain controlled while still making the Ride “crashable” and delivering an articulate stick sound. The Spiral lathing is employed from the bell to the middle of the cymbal only, with traditional lathing on the remainder of the cymbal. Particularly interesting is the 22 inch Hi Bell Dry Ride, that is the only one of the four to feature full spiral lathing, which prevents the cymbal from opening up as much as the half spiral models, while still keeping it crashable. A delight.

Rico Sax Straps
Made for soprano/alto/tenor and baritone, these sassy straps from Rico make adjustment easy. Based on friction, a specially designed disc can be moved up and down the cord making it either shorter or longer. Added to this is a new curved hook that securely and safely holds the instrument in the playing position. The nylon webbing neck halter comes in a range of jazzy colours and patterns, with one to please every horn player on the planet. At beer money prices, they’re well worth checking out.

David Gallant