The extraordinary and extensive sound palette of the Montreal comes not only from the special 5-way switch linked to the two humbucker pick ups that produce five distinct tones of their own, but from the option to add the bridge transducers to the mix using a single patch cord, thereby creating an infinitesimal array of timbre and tone.

Bodyglove gig bags
The Carlsboro company has recently taken on the UK distribution of the Bodyglove gig bags. Recognised as a premium brand, this US company built its reputation on high quality padded covers and bags for the surfboarding fraternity. Just over a year ago, they launched their instrument Gig bag range with considerable success. The range includes bags for guitars, electric basses, keyboards etc and is split into three lines: basic, standard and premium. Each of the three lines is well padded and comes with grab handles and (in the case of the keyboard bag) an adjustable shoulder strap. Stay away from the storms though, as the zips aren’t waterproof and there is no return gusset to prevent water penetration.

Rosetti Series 7 Alto Sax
The Rosetti Series 7 range of instruments has long been regarded as exceptional value in the student/intermediate market, and the latest incarnation of one of the flagship models, the Eb alto confirms the Series 7 status. With the now ubiquitous high F sharp key, this new alto horn comes with an underslung crook. Clearly a deliberate move away from the standard format, this intriguing and unique design doesn’t try to replicate the old Conn favourite, but is a more solid piece of hardware that has no doubt been fashioned with student use in mind. Blowing freely and easily, this neat little Alto comes packed in a semi-hard case with a pre-formed composite interior and a back harness and a very useful cleaning brush.

Fender Highway One Jazz Bass
Fender have upgraded one of their most popular lines. The Highway One series of instruments is built like they used to make ’em, with a satin nitrocellulose lacquer finish to the body that lets the natural tone of the wood shine through. The 2007 “upgraded” model comes with the benefit of the high performance Badass II bridge with grooved saddles. Added to this, Fender have given the instrument a retro 70s styling with typical period headstock logo and body contour. They’ve even thrown in the white dot position inlays to give the instrument that truly authentic look.

Bach FH600 Flugelhorn
The Bach Aristocrat FH600 Flugelhorn has been developed and produced specifically to give Bach trumpet players a flugelhorn option. A keenly priced instrument, it is extraordinarily good value, with many professional features found on instruments twice the price. With a .434” bore, the FH600 has a new ‘air-through’ design together with a red brass first branch, a third slide trigger, three water keys and a classic Bach-style tuneable mouthpiece. The FH600 also includes nickel silver outside slide tubes with brass inner slide tubes for trouble free slide action, while the plasma-welded bell provides for full tonal vibration right out to the rim. With a genuine Vincent Bach mouthpiece and special Cordura covered case with a large accessory/literature pocket, this is some package and well worth checking out.

David Gallant