ART Headphone Amp Repair
We’ve been using the ART HeadAmp6 6-channel Headphone Amp in my band for a few years, and it’s always worked like a champ. A while back however, the front panel lights began flickering disconcertingly and we were hearing some hum on a couple channels. I decided to crack open the case to see if it was something simple like a loose connector.More
Wiring an On-On-On Switch
The On-On-On 3-way switch can be a bit confusing, but its quirky switching layout can enable some clever circuits. I’ve been tinkering with an old project guitar to add both a kill switch and a passive-tone-shaping switch to the same pickup. With the On-On-On, I can combine both features into a single 3-way switch so I don’t have to drill another hole in the top.More
From Blackstar to Helix
When I received my Helix last year, my first order of business was to mimic the channels of my Blackstar Stage 60, so I wouldn’t have to lug the amp to rehearsals anymore. I didn’t need to pass a double-blind accuracy test- I just wanted to reproduce the sound to my (and the band’s) satisfaction. It was shocking how easily I was able to accomplish this. This was the first preset I created on the Helix. I’ve since created dozens of song-specific presets, but this “Stage 60 4ch” preset continues to live in slot 000 of my Helix to this day. More
Don’t Buy a Toy Ukulele!
PSA: don’t buy a cheap toy ukulele! You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a well-made ukulele, but you’re not going to find it at a toy store. If you’re hoping to be inspired to learn, and to have fun playing, you don’t want to be fighting with a poorly-made toy.More
Bye Bye Blackstar
I have loved playing through my Blackstar Stage 60, but it is time to let it go. I’m trying not to be sentimental about gear- if I’m not using it, it should go. More