PRODUCT
z z u B Head of the Class
Strong as Oak
The Ludwig Classic Oak series drums offer high sensitivity, wide dynamic tuning range, and hybrid shells that blend an “aggressive attack” along with dark tones and quick, even decay, stated the company. The shell consists of a five-ply construction; three plies of North American Maple inner core with inner and outer plies of American Red Oak. The shells are 6.5mm thick with dual 45-degree bearing edges. The Classic Oak Series is available in seven standard wrap-tite finishes and two new lacquer finishes: Smoke and Tennessee Whiskey. They can also be custom configured via the Ludwig Order Guide. MSRP: Contact company Ship Date: Contact company Contact: Conn-Selmer, conn-selmer.com
Graph Tech Bass Ratio machine heads are designed with balancedgear tuning technology. They’re the world’s first bass machine heads to use a double-envelope gear design with a hardened steel gear to ensure smooth consistency on the higher ratios, stated the company. For example, from low B to C on a 6-string, smalldiameter post, the gear ratios are 48:1, 36:1, 30:1, 20:1, 18:1 and 16:1. One full rotation of any Bass Ratio key results in approximately one full tone pitch change. The Bass Ratio product line is comprised of seven sets of machine heads, allowing for customization based on number of strings (four-, five- or six-string bass) and tactile preference, including both Y-style and classic clover leaf chrome buttons. MSRP: Ranging from $99.99 to $199.95 per set Ship Date: Contact company Contact: Graph Tech, graphtech.com
Sax That Takes It to the Max Yamaha launched the YBS-480 Intermediate Baritone Saxophone, the company’s first new baritone saxophone in 35 years. The YBS480 features a redesigned bore and neck modeled after the 62 Professional model Yamaha saxophones, which improve the intonation of the horn. Yamaha also added the ability
to use a detachable peg so that the larger baritone saxophone is accessible to players of all sizes. MSRP: $8,555 Ship Date: Summer Contact: Yamaha, usa.yamaha.com 16
FEBRUARY 2020