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EMpress Bass ParaEQ
News

Empress Effects Releases the Bass ParaEQ

Empress Effects Releases Dedicated EQ Pedal for Bass Instruments Ottawa, ON – May 21, 2025 – Empress Effects is proud to announce the release of the Bass ParaEq, the only bass specific parametric EQ pedal on the market today. Building on the success of their acclaimed ParaEq MKII series, which has already gained popularity with bassists, the Bass ParaEq offers the same studio-grade precision but with features tailored for low-end instruments. The Bass ParaEq follows the success of the Empress Bass Compressor and ParaEq MKII Deluxe, which have become some of the company’s best-reviewed and top-selling products. The Bass Compressor’s popularity confirmed what Empress had long suspected: bassists are eager for tools built with their needs in mind, not just adaptations of guitar gear. The Bass ParaEq retains the line’s powerful 3-band parametric EQ and studio-style features while introducing a bass-optimized frequency layout, a selectable 10MΩ Hi-Z input for piezo- equipped instruments, a dynamically-adjusted low shelf, and automatic balanced output detection—perfect for live and studio use alike. Whether dialing in clarity for a dense mix or compensating for an unfamiliar venue, the Bass ParaEq offers precise tonal control in a compact, road-ready form. With 27V of internal headroom to prevent clipping from even the hottest active pickups, the Bass ParaEq is the ultimate studio-style EQ designed to travel. Key features of the Bass ParaEq include:● Adjustable frequency bands tailored for bass instruments● Selectable 10MΩ Hi-Z input for upright basses and piezo pickups● Auto-detecting balanced output for long cable runs and direct recording● Three sweepable parametric bands with variable Q● High-pass, low-pass, low shelf, and high shelf filters● Transparent analog signal path with 27V of internal headroom The Bass ParaEq is now shipping worldwide. It can be purchased from the Empress Effectswebsite for $374 USD and through authorized Empress dealers globally. About Empress Effects: Founded in 2005 in Ottawa, Canada, Empress Effects designs analogand digital effects for discerning musicians who value tone and creative depth. Known for boththeir studio-grade compressors and EQs, as well as the powerhouse “modular synth in pedal-form” ZOIA, Empress’ unique and vast offerings can be seen in studios and on stages acrossthe world.

Pino Palladino Smothie Flats
News

Ernie Ball Launches the Pino Palladino Smoothie Flats Bass Strings

The Feel of Old String, Straight Out of The Pack! Ernie Ball has officially released the highly anticipated Pino Palladino Smoothie Flats, a new set of flatwound bass strings developed in close collaboration with the legendary session bassist himself. Designed for players chasing a rich, vintage tone with ultra-smooth feel, the Smoothie Flats are crafted using a precision-polished cobalt alloy ribbon. This unique construction gives the strings lower tension and a deep, thumpy low end that flatwound fans—and especially fretless players—will appreciate. Palladino, known for his iconic fretless tone and his work with artists like D’Angelo, John Mayer, and The Who, was deeply involved in the development process. “They feel so good,” he says in Ernie Ball’s demo video. “You don’t get any string noise. They’ve got that real thump and tons of low end. It’s a different approach compared to roundwounds.” String gauge was also key to the final design. The Pino Palladino Smoothie Flats are available in two sets: Whether you’re after classic Motown warmth or a modern, articulate flatwound vibe, these strings are definitely worth a test drive.

Flax Pack 2
News

René Flächsenhaar Releases Flax Pack 2

A New Collection of Stunning HX Stomp Presets René Flächsenhaar is back with Flax Pack 2, an inspired new selection of HX Stomp presets designed to elevate your tone. From tight, funky rhythms to expansive ambient soundscapes, this pack offers a versatile palette perfect for both hobbyists and professional musicians. Whether you’re looking to spark creativity or refine your live rig, Flax Pack 2 delivers fresh, expressive tones that stand out in any mix. Get the Flax Pack 2 Here!

IAM La Bella Super Polished Bass Strings
News

La Bella Introduces IAM Signature Super Polished Bass Strings

The legendary brand teamed up with Ian Allison La Bella Strings is proud to unveil the Ian Martin Allison Signature Super Polished Set—a fresh take on our classic stainless steel recipe, tailored for one of today’s most versatile bass players. “When Ian approached us, he was after a feel that blended the punch of stainless round wounds with the buttery smoothness of flats. We kept the essence, then fine-tuned the formula: adjusted gauges, left just a touch more edge on the wrap for clarity, and added Ian’s custom pink and gray silk wraps.” The result? A polished stainless steel round wound set that leans roundwound in tone but delivers the smooth playability Ian needs for both studio and stage. His verdict after months on tour: “Did you guys just build the perfect string?!” Key Features: Available now at select retailers and labella.com.

Boss SDE-3
News

Boss Releases the SDE-3

BOSS SDE-3 Dual Digital Delay: A Modern Take on a Vintage Classic BOSS has just unveiled the SDE-3 Dual Digital Delay, a compact stompbox that brings the beloved sound of the legendary Roland SDE-3000 rack unit into the modern age. With a design that appeals to tone purists and experimentalists alike, the SDE-3 is more than just a nostalgic nod—it’s a powerful, stereo-capable delay tool fit for today’s versatile musicians. At the heart of the SDE-3 is a faithful recreation of the SDE-3000’s rich and detailed digital delay character. While the original unit was a staple of ’80s racks, the SDE-3 translates its sonic identity into a pedalboard-friendly format. Musicians can now access those sought-after clean, precise repeats without the hassle of bulky gear. The standout feature of the SDE-3 is its dual delay engine. This allows players to stack two separate delay lines and fine-tune them with the Offset knob. Whether you’re going for subtle stereo widening, ambient textures, or rhythmic interplay, the SDE-3 delivers in spades. Want dotted eighths in one channel and quarter notes in the other? No problem. You can achieve everything from tight slapbacks to sprawling soundscapes. Additionally, the pedal features multiple output routing options, including true stereo operation, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into any modern rig. The flexible layout is ideal for both guitarists and bassists, with clear definition and warmth that never muddies the low end. The BOSS SDE-3 is perfect for players who crave high-fidelity delay with a vintage soul. Whether you’re chasing The Edge-style patterns or laying down cinematic ambient washes, this pedal brings creative delay manipulation to your feet. Stay tuned for availability and pricing, but from early looks, the BOSS SDE-3 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases in the delay world this year.