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MXR Releases the Bass Synth Pedal

MXR Unveils New Bass Synth Pedal in Collaboration with Ian Martin Allison MXR®, a division of Dunlop Manufacturing, proudly announces the launch of the MXR Bass Synth Pedal, a bold and versatile addition to the MXR Bass Innovations line. Developed in close collaboration with acclaimed bassist and educator Ian Allison, this pedal is designed to bring expressive, synth-driven textures to the forefront of modern bass playing. Built from the ground up with working bassists in mind, the MXR Bass Synth Pedal delivers vintage analog warmth, contemporary digital control, and intuitive usability—all in a compact and road-ready housing. With a unique blend of classic synth waveforms, dynamic filter sweeps, and assignable modulation, this pedal empowers players to sculpt everything from sub-heavy synth-bass grooves to sparkling octave textures. “It’s the pedal I always wanted on my board,” says Ian Allison, known for his energetic stage presence and genre-defying tone. “We designed this with real players in mind—something that sounds massive but doesn’t take a degree in synthesis to use. It’s about inspiration, not complication.” This pedal marks MXR’s most ambitious foray into synth territory yet and solidifies Ian Allison’s growing role as an innovator in the bass community. Whether you’re laying down grooves in a pop production, experimenting with lo-fi soundscapes, or just want to unleash some sci-fi fury at your next gig, the MXR Bass Synth Pedal delivers the goods with power, tone, and musicality. You can check our first impressions here! Pricing & AvailabilityThe MXR Bass Synth Pedal will be available worldwide beginning July 15, 2025, at authorized MXR and Dunlop dealers and online at jimdunlop.com.

News

Fender Announces 2025 Squier Classic Vibe Bass Lineup

Fender Announces 2025 Squier Classic Vibe Bass Lineup with Four New Models Fender has announced the 2025 additions to its Squier Classic Vibe series, introducing four new bass models: the Classic Vibe Telecaster Bass, the Classic Vibe Active ’70s Jazz Bass, the Classic Vibe Active ’70s Jazz Bass V, and the Classic Vibe ’60s Jazz Bass. Each model blends vintage Fender style with modern updates aimed at today’s bassists. The Classic Vibe Telecaster Bass takes inspiration from late-‘60s and early-‘70s designs, featuring a contoured poplar body, a wide-range humbucker, and a Tele-style headstock and pickguard for a retro aesthetic with enhanced comfort. The Active ’70s Jazz Bass models, available in both four- and five-string versions, bring modern performance into the mix. They feature Fender-designed Noiseless pickups, an active preamp with bass and treble boost, and the ability to bypass the circuit for passive operation. Other upgrades include a HiMass bridge, block inlays, bound fingerboards, and a vintage-tinted gloss neck finish. Rounding out the lineup is the Classic Vibe ’60s Jazz Bass, which stays true to the early Jazz Bass vibe with a slim “C”-shaped neck, threaded saddle bridge, and 1960s-style headstock markings. It will be available in four finishes: Tahitian Coral, 3-Color Sunburst, Daphne Blue, and Black. The new Squier Classic Vibe basses are expected to ship in August 2025, with prices ranging from $473.99 to $556.99.

News

Helix Stadium Redefines the Low End

A New Era for Bassists Begins When Line 6 unveiled the original Helix nearly a decade ago, guitarists rejoiced — and bassists took note. The system’s flexibility, modeling power, and signal routing turned it into a favorite among players across genres. Now, with the arrival of the Helix Stadium series, bassists finally get a rig that isn’t just compatible — it’s custom-built to elevate their tone, control, and creativity to stadium scale. Tailored for the Bottom End — and BeyondThe Helix Stadium family includes two floorboard models — the streamlined Helix Stadium Floor and the expanded Helix Stadium XL Floor — both of which deliver massive processing power, unprecedented UI clarity, and performance features that speak directly to the working bassist’s needs. Whether you’re running DI into a PA, slaving a vintage Ampeg rig, or splitting signals for synth and clean tones simultaneously, Helix Stadium gives you the routing and dynamic range you need. Think of it as a studio-grade bass preamp, effects suite, and performance hub — all under your feet. Smarter Modeling with AgouraCentral to Helix Stadium is Agoura, Line 6’s brand-new modeling engine. For bassists, this means you can sculpt amp tones that truly feel right under the fingers — with touch-sensitive dynamics that reflect your right-hand technique, whether you’re ghost-noting on a P-Bass or digging into slap passages on a modern five-string. But it gets better. The “Hype” control allows you to dial in how “real” or “idealized” you want your amp tone to be. Want the gritty sag of an SVT pushed too far? Go authentic. Prefer a studio-polished DI chain with surgical EQ? Dial it in instantly. Meet “Proxy”: Clone Your Real-World Bass RigsFor those with beloved tube heads, boutique pedals, or unique mic’d cabinet tones, Helix Stadium introduces Proxy, a new cloud-connected system that lets you capture the sound of your actual gear and bring it to the stage — no heavy lifting required. Imagine cloning your 1976 Acoustic 370 and running it at any venue, anywhere in the world — perfectly mic’d and EQ’d every time. Built for the Stage (and the Pit)Bass players often double as the backbone and the brains of the band — holding down the groove and triggering tracks, managing MIDI, or syncing with lighting rigs. Enter Showcase, a performance playback engine built into Helix Stadium. You can run up to 8 stereo tracks, trigger MIDI changes, or cue light scenes right from your footswitch — no laptop needed. And with the XL Floor, you also get a toe-controlled expression pedal (perfect for filter sweeps or sub-drops), plus 12 OLED scribble strips to label every switch clearly — even under dim stage lights. Connectivity: All the I/O You Could Ask For Whether you’re running IEMs, backline, front-of-house, or all of the above, Helix Stadium has the flexibility to integrate with any modern setup — even multi-instrument rigs. Options for Every Player Prices start at $1,799 USD, with preorders opening June 25 and the XL shipping this Fall. Final Word: Built for Bassists Who Lead the BandWhether you’re laying down dub-heavy grooves, navigating complex prog changes, or supporting a pop act with backing tracks and synth bass, Helix Stadium isn’t just “compatible with bass” — it’s tuned to your role as a sonic architect. This is more than an upgrade. It’s the first Helix built with bassists in mind from the ground up — and it’s ready for your next big gig.

FEnder Laura Lee Jaz Bass
News

Fender Unveils Signature Laura Lee Jazz Bass

A Bold Collaboration with Khruangbin’s Bass Muse Scottsdale, AZ – June 10, 2025 — Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) proudly announces the launch of the Laura Lee Signature Jazz Bass, a striking new addition to its Artist Signature Series, developed in close collaboration with Laura Lee of the genre-defying band Khruangbin. Recognized for her hypnotic basslines, minimalist playing style, and commanding stage presence, Laura Lee has redefined modern bass playing. Her new signature model celebrates that innovation, blending vintage Fender tone with contemporary flair, and a design that’s as unique and expressive as her sound. “The bass is an extension of myself — it’s how I move, how I express emotion,” says Laura Lee. “Fender really let me put a piece of my personality into this instrument. It’s elegant, funky, and feels like home when I play it.” Standout Features: Laura Lee’s warm, inventive playing has propelled Khruangbin albums into the Top 40 in the U.S. and beyond — and now, her signature instrument gives players everywhere the tools to explore the same expressive sonic range. Designed to inspire, this bass is as visually stunning as it is musically empowering. The Laura Lee Signature Jazz Bass is now available at select retailers and via Fender.com

Boss Plug-in
News

BOSS Effects Pedals Plug-In Now Available in Your DAW

Roland releases the BOSS Effects Pedals Plug-In Roland has unveiled the BOSS Effects Pedals Plug-In, bringing the iconic sound of BOSS compact pedals to digital audio workstations (DAWs) for the first time. Available exclusively through the Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, this plug-in suite offers musicians and producers a new way to access the legendary tones that have shaped music for decades. Since their debut in 1977, BOSS compact pedals have been a staple on pedalboards worldwide, known for their durability and distinctive sound. The new plug-in faithfully recreates eight of these classic effects, allowing users to integrate them seamlessly into their digital workflows. Included Pedals: Each effect is modeled with precision, capturing the nuances that made the original hardware beloved by musicians across genres. Features Tailored for Modern Production The BOSS Effects Pedals Plug-In is designed with both authenticity and flexibility in mind: Accessing the Plug-In To use the BOSS Effects Pedals Plug-In, users must subscribe to the Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which offers a 30-day free trial. This subscription not only provides access to the BOSS plug-ins but also to a vast library of Roland’s virtual instruments and effects. Looking Ahead Roland has indicated plans to expand the plug-in’s library, potentially bringing more of their extensive catalog of over 140 BOSS pedals into the digital realm. This move signals a commitment to preserving and evolving the legacy of BOSS effects for future generations of music creators. For more information and to start your free trial, visit the Roland Cloud website.