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Ray's Guitar Shop | Pro Guitar Gear Reviews

Whirlwind Red Box Compressor Review

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MXR effects from the 1970’s are rightly regarded as “classic” effects. None of the MXR effects is more widely respected than the MXR Dyna-Comp compressor, which is widely used by in-the-know studio players and tone connoisseurs alike. What not too many know is that Michael Laiacona, of Whirlwind USA, was one of the original founders of MXR. So, the new Whirlwind Red Box Compressor is a true reproduction (with some notable improvements) of the original Dyna-Comp compressor.

Trying out the Red Box Compressor with my new Fender Deluxe Reverb combo, I was impressed with how the unit added sustain without any added noise. Maxing out the controls, I was able to get some serious funk chord action and country chicken’ pickin’ pop. Even when used with a Keeley Fuzz Box, the noise level was incredibly low. This is one classic pedal (pseudo) reissue that perhaps trumps the original.

V-Picks – Are They Really Worth the Hype?

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Before discussing my views on the V-Pick, I have to be honest. I have a pretty low tolerance for gimmicky guitar gear. The market does too, since most flavor-of-the-month guitar products tend to not last very long. The whole “boutique” phenomenon is not something I’m crazy about either. I definitely dig handmade amps and guitars from smaller manufacturers, but when you start getting into “boutique guitar strings” and “boutique amp stands,” then I get a little nervous. Same goes for “boutique guitar picks,” but then I gave V-Picks a try, based on the advice of a friend.

Wow.

I have a problem when I play. I tend to sweat a lot, especially if it’s a high stakes gig or I’m sitting in with someone who, quite frankly, is far better than me (I had a chance to jam with Skunk Baxter a couple of years ago, and my guitar pick almost flew out of my hand). So, anything that can help me keep a grip on my picks is good with me. I don’t know how he did it, but Vinni Smith (the “V” in V-Picks) has created a pick that you can grip even if you get all sweaty. And the tone is to die for. Vinni and his wife Nancy (aka “Mrs. V”) really have something going, and for a price that’s reasonable.

1998 American Fender Strat

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I recently had the opportunity to purchase gently used 1998 American Fender Strat, and I can see why so many people are drawn to this year of Fender Stratocasters. The quality is “custom shop” for a much lower price. The neck is one of the best I’ve ever played, and the fretwork is immaculate. If you can find one, I’d strongly recommend giving one a try, based on my recent experiences.

Carvin CT624 Review

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I’ve owned a Carvin CT6 since the model was introduced a few years ago. While I love the guitar, I’ve always longed for a 24 fret version. Finally, Carvin has come through with a 24 fret version of the CT guitar. I have to say this guitar actually outplays my much beloved PRS Custom 24, which is saying something. Carvin has become the premiere custom guitar shop builder in the United States in my view, and the CT624 is evidence of that quality.

I ordered an instrument with a flamed emerald green top with black hardware and a birdseye maple fretboard. I also opted for the Holdsworth headstock, which really ups the “cool” factor with the instrument. A Floyd Rose completed the package. It plays and sounds amazing and is one of the best Carvins I’ve ever owned, which is saying something.

Fender Road Worn Player Telecaster Review

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My favorite guitar is a Telecaster. I own and love dozens of different guitars, but I always come back to the Tele. I’m primarily a jazz, blues, and classic rock player, and the Tele covers all those bases quite well. I had a chance to play a new Fender Road Worn Player Telecaster, and I’m really speechless with how good this guitar is.

One of my favorite recent guitars is the Fender Road Worn 50’s Telecaster, and the new Player version has a lot to offer as well, not the least of which is the Seymour Duncan ’59 pickup in the neck. I primarily use the neck pickup in my other Teles, and I’m glad to see such a quality Humbucker as an option. One thing I will emphasize is that it is time to do away with the stigma of the MIM label. Mexican-made Fenders are excellent guitars these days, and the Road Worn Player Tele is no exception.