recording Guides

The world of recording can be complex. Choosing the right gear is vital, whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced engineer.

 

If you're looking for simple audio interface or you want to set up a home studio, our guides will help you cut through the noise and start recording!

recording Guides

The world of recording can be complex. Choosing the right gear is vital, whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced engineer.

 

If you're looking for simple audio interface or you want to set up a home studio, our guides will help you cut through the noise and start recording!

Electric Guitar Guides

Whether you're looking for the best beginner electric guitar, a more versatile electric to your selection, or just some info on guitar woods, our guides will point you in the right direction. Covering everything from the best electric guitar body shapes to where to buy your guitar, you'll find what you're after!

Electric Guitar Basics

Welcome to the world of electric guitars! Whether you're looking at getting your first guitar or your thirtieth, you may still be confused by what sort of guitar you are actually after.But don’t fear, as this guide will take you through every type of electric guitar available, what to look out for and what may suit you. If you want to shred the stage like Yngwie or rock out rhythms like Dave Grohl, there’s an electric guitar for everyone.

Stratocaster Guitars

Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Dave Murray, The Edge, Yngwie Malmsteen, Michael Landau, Eric Johnson, Buddy Guy. What do they all have in common? The Fender Stratocaster.Countless others have made the Strat their instrument and you could too. We’re here to help you pick the best guitar from Fender’s expansive range.

Telecaster Guitars

The grandfather of all electric guitars. Fender have made the Telecaster since its ‘50s inception and there's life in it yet.Teles are still massively popular and Fender’s back catalogue reaches far and wide. We’re here to help break the range down into digestible chunks so you can find your next purchase.

Les Paul Guitars

The Gibson Les Paul is a true icon. For over 60 years, it has been used by some of music’s most legendary guitar heroes, and has played an essential role in forming the rock sound that we all know today.Only the Fender Stratocaster is within the same ballpark of fame, and as one of the world's most renowned and longstanding guitar designs; the Les Paul's history is rich and varied. There are many Les Paul models available today, and in this article we're going to help you to distinguish their differences.

SG Guitars

The SG is undoubtedly up there among the most iconic and influential instruments of all time. Its double-cut design was a gamechanger in the '60s, and it's remained largely unchanged since.If you're in the market for an SG, it can be difficult to know where to start. Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this handy guide, we'll talk through the models on the market, common specs, and the bestselling options for you!

Offset Guitars

The offset guitar – the ‘something different’. For decades, players across the musical spectrum have been drawn to these alluring alternative shapes.When it comes to choosing your offset, there’s more choice than ever before. In this handy guide, we’ll explore the most popular models like Fender's Jaguar and Gibson's Firebird, and answer the common questions to help you find the best offset guitar for your needs!

7.8 & 9 Guitars

Are you looking to get a seven, eight or nine string guitar? Want to get creative with chords or just hammer the hell out of a low string? Here are your best options and the specs you should explore before you make your purchase.

Baritone Guitars

A must-have in your guitar arsenal or an outdated gimmick? Baritone guitars heavily split opinion, even when it comes to its well-suited heavy metal genre. Let's learn more about the instrument and how they differ from a regular guitar. We think they're great, and here's why...

Alternative S-Style Guitars

If someone says ‘guitar’, an S-style will usually be the first thing that comes to mind. As one of the world’s first established electric guitar designs, the S-style is considered the blueprint for all. Its tried-and-tested formula has stood for decades; used by a countless amount of high-profile guitarists. However, rather than going for something from the most iconic brand, it can be nice to own something that possesses a slightly more unique vibe. In this guide, we’ve identified some of the best S-style alternatives that you can buy today!

Alternative T-Style Guitars

What are T-type guitars and what makes them so special? Find out out everything you need to know about these iconic single cutaway numbers and discover the top t-style guitar brands you can buy right now.

Electric Guitar Genre Guides

Looking to play a certain style of music on your electric guitar, but aren't sure where to begin? These guides outline all of the essential gear you'll need to achieve your desired tone and look - with an in-depth piece dedicated to each major genre. From metal and rock, to blues and jazz, they're the perfect place to get started!

Best Rock Guitar Gear

Find out how to achieve the ultimate rock tone digging into any corner of the epic genre, from wailing lead guitar tones to softer, ambient cleans. We're here to help you out with your choice of acoustic and electric guitars, amps and pedals...

Best Jazz Guitar Gear

From a genre standpoint, jazz can seem fairly impenetrable looking in from the outside. And that's before we've even discussed the equipment and tone required for the job. To help out, we've outlined some of the best gear to ensure you're prepared for your jazz guitar journey!

Best Blues Guitar Gear

When it comes to gear for blues, your options are as diverse as the genre itself. Just as there are so many styles of blues, the number of guitars, amps, and pedals that are available to you can feel overwhelming. You can use almost anything to play the blues but if you need help nailing a blues sound then have a read through this guide for a rundown of the best gear for achieving a range of blues tones.

Best Metal Guitar Gear

Sifting through countless pages of guitar gear online can be fun, but with so much choice out there - “option paralysis” can easily creep in. This is particularly evident with metal-centric guitars, amps and pedals. To make your browsing experience a little easier, we’ve put together a helpful guide that highlights all of the essentials you’ll need to form the ultimate metal rig!

Electric Guitar Accessories Guides

Behind every great guitar is a selection of great accessories! Keep your guitar safe with the perfect case or stand, or ensure your performance and practice is as comfortable as possible by finding the best strap for you. Strings, tuners...even the best gifts for guitarists. Check out our guitar accessory guides below!

All Accessories

You've got your guitar, you've got your amp, but...something's missing right? Welcome to the world of guitar accessories! Here you'll find everything you need to make your life easier, improve your playing, and help you find your own style!

Electric Guitar Strings

Guitar strings are a major factor in your playing and guitar tone. We’re going to take you through every important aspect of guitar strings so you know exactly what set to pick up next time you need to restring your instrument.

Electric Guitar Pickups

They are the reason that your guitar sings the way that it does...but how much do you really know about your pickups? In our Ultimate Guide, we'll look at why pickups make such a difference to your tone, and explore how you can find the perfect set for you!

Guitar Straps

An essential ingredient of a guitar player's setup is an often underappreciated one! With more options than ever, in this guide we explain why a guitar strap is so important and help you find the right one for your instrument!

Guitar Tuner Pedals

The humble guitar tuner is one of the most essential pieces of gear that any guitarist can own. Though its function may be simple, the importance is incredibly high; and ensuring your guitar is in tune is paramount. Decades ago you would've had to use tuning forks, pitch pipes or have perfect pitch. But there are so many models available in a seemingly saturated market, so how do you find the right one for you? Well, this guide will highlight the key differences between common tuners, as well as explore your options at contrasting price-points.\n\nWhile we’re at it, let’s target those tuner buzzwords, 'chromatic', 'frequency', 'strobe' and 'buffered vs. bypass'…

Gifts for Guitarists

It's that time of year again. You've been tasked with buying a gift for the six-string enthusiast in your life — but where do you start? Fear not! We've written this handy guide and recommended the best Christmas gifts for electric guitarists that we could think of. You simply can't go wrong with these picks (pun intended!)

Electric Guitar Brand Guides

We know many of you like to stay brand loyal - or you're just interested in what each company makes! So what better way to learn more about products we offer at Andertons than by our incredible brands? Here's a selection of manufacturers and their ranges.

Fender

Fender is one of the guitar industry’s most recognised and important brands. Alongside their contemporaries Gibson, Fender has designed some of the world’s most iconic electric guitars and it remains a dominant force within the market. Boasting a product catalogue that’s bigger and more diverse than ever before, we’ve put together this informative guide to help you to find the perfect Fender electric guitar!

Gibson

Under the guidance of newly appointed CEO James Curleigh, Gibson have revamped their entire range. There are some curveballs and a number of new artist models, but for the most part, the new range represents a triumphant return to form for the iconic company!

Squier

Squier is a name synonymous with beginner guitars, and the company is renowned for producing affordable and officially-licensed versions of Fender instruments. However, you’ll soon realise that there is far more to Squier than just simply being Fender’s “budget brand”. In this guide, we’ll take a close look at all of Squier’s current guitar series’ and explain the differences between the models in their diverse lineup.

Epiphone

Legendary guitars and basses made accessible to the everyday musician. Epiphone are your gateway into the world of classic Les Pauls, SGs, Dot ES-335 semi-hollow guitars and dreadnought acoustics. Let’s take a look at the extensive Epiphone instrument line-up…

PRS

PRS is one of the musical instrument industry’s largest and most recognised guitar brands. Not far behind their contemporaries Fender and Gibson in terms of stature and success; PRS continues to innovate and strive for perfection with its stunning guitar range.

Ibanez

Ibanez is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of electric guitars, with a diverse range of instruments. Synonymous particularly with metal players, Ibanez build their guitars with performance, precision and power in mind.

ESP

ESP Guitars is a popular Japanese instrument manufacturer. Founded in 1975, the brand started life as a replacement parts company but has since grown into an industry powerhouse - boasting a huge guitar catalogue comprising various shapes and series’.

Gretsch

Classy and elegant. They're a couple of words you'll hear a lot when it comes to describing Gretsch Guitars. A company packed with history and renowned for quality right across the range, let's take a closer look at what they have to offer...

G&L

\"The best instruments I have ever made\" — Leo Fender That's right. G&L Guitars are the late, great hit from the legendary luthier. Successfully melding classic guitar templates with cutting-edge innovations, G&L's \"vintage modern\ instruments are rock-solid workhorses! Let's take a look at their extensive electric guitar range...

D'Angelico

Pioneers of the archtop guitar for decades, d'angelico now produce some of the most striking guitars on the market - there's something for everyone. And we’re thrilled to now stock one of the uk’s biggest selection of d’angelico guitars – check it out!

Chapman

Chapman are renowned for being the the first guitar company to “collaboratively” design their instruments with the public. Initially involving founder Rob Chapman’s loyal YouTube following, the company now receives thousands of votes worldwide when it unveils its specification polls for new models!

EastCoast

Looking for a good starter electric guitar, acoustic guitar or bass guitar? EastCoast is one of the best brands to check out to get if you're an aspiring guitarist. Their huge range encompasses some of the best beginner electric guitars, acoustic guitars, bass guitars and starter packs we've ever come across — especially when compared to others in the same price bracket.

Beginner's Guide to Guitar Effects

We all have to start somewhere! If you're new to guitar pedals or building pedalboards, this should be your first stop. We explain what guitar pedals do, how to assemble your effects setup and all the wonderful sounds you can create.

Guitar Pedal Basics

The world of guitar effects is weird and wonderful, and a great way to expand on the sounds your guitar makes. But it’s difficult to know where to start when there are so many pedals out there! Here we'll take you on a tour of the fundamental effects you need to get started and the best pedals for beginners.

Multi FX Units

Looking to add some much-needed variety to your guitar rig? Learn everything you need to know about multi-effects pedals with our ultimate guide.

Pedalboards

Need a pedalboard but not sure where to start? Our complete buyer’s guide breaks down sizes, brands, accessories, and pro tips to help you build the perfect pedalboard setup.

Power Supplies

It’s important to have the right pedal power supply to ensure your pedals give you sound when plugged in and won’t fail you when playing live. We explore why you need a guitar pedal power supply and how to choose the right one for your needs, whether that be for a pedalboard or for using your pedals at home.

Mini Guitar Pedals

Got room for one more? Mini pedals are bags of fun in a tiny package. Discover all the effects you know and love, only smaller! Let's learn more about mini pedals and find the perfect one to add to your collection...

Rack Mount Effects

The perfect combination of versatility, portability and customisation, rack mount guitar amps and effects are the way to go if you're after the ultimate personalised rig.

Overdrive & Dynamic Pedal Guides

If you're looking for the best overdrive pedal to make your sound flourish, or perhaps a noise gate that can tame any unwanted hiss - you'll learn everything you need to know about these stompboxes and more with our dedicated guides:

Overdrive Pedals

Arguably the most popular effects pedal, there’s no shortage of overdrive and distortion options available on the market today. Let's break down what each type of drive sounds like so you can buy the best one to suit your playing style.

Fuzz Pedals

Fuzz is a gnarly, distorted, gritty-sounding effect that's the perfect remedy when you need to give your tone a kick up the backside. Let's learn more about this old school effect and find the best fuzz pedal for your personal style of music.

Boost Pedals

Boost pedals are extremely versatile and not as one-dimensional some may think. Often underestimated, these seemingly simple stompboxes are a secret weapon for great guitarists – letting your solos sing or as a surprisingly powerful tone-shaping tool.

Compressor Pedals

The guitar compressor is probably one of the most intimidating and misunderstood guitar effects around. It’s also one of the most useful pedals and a pro guitar player shouldn’t be caught without one. So, let’s have a look at the world of Guitar Compression Pedals and see just how versatile this small pedal can be…

Preamp Pedals

Keen to downsize your rig and have all your core tones available at your feet? Preamp pedals allow you to do just that. In this guide, we’ll tell you what they do, how they work, and give you some handy setup tips to help get you started.

Volume Pedals

Volume pedals and expression pedals may look exactly the same however they serve completely different functions. These nifty pedals give you an expressive way of creating new and exciting sounds with your guitar by using your foot to rock back and forth and control different parameters. Let’s take a look at what you need to get the most out of a volume or expression pedal.

EQ Pedals

The word EQ is often bandied about within musical circles leaving observers dazed and confused. It isn’t a very difficult thing to understand but once understood, you’ll have a world of new ideas to try with your own guitar tone and in fact, music in general.

Noise Gate Pedals

If you play single-coil pickups or you use a high-gain amp, unwanted hum and buzz might be a common problem. A noise gate is one of the most popular solutions for unwanted guitar noise. In this guide, we'll explore the main causes of rig noise, and recommend some of the best guitar noise gate pedals on the market - read on!

Ambient & Modulation Pedal Guides

Fancy spicing up your tones with some angelic chorus or shimmering delay, but just don't know which pedal will suit you the best? The following guides will answer all of your burning ambient and modulation pedal questions:

Delay Pedals

The humble delay pedal is one of the most famous and easily recognisable guitar sounds in the world. It’s one of those pedals that a guitarist should never be without and can be incredibly versatile – often forming the backbone of a riff or adding ambience to more delicate parts. Delays offer many more possibilities for your sound than your probably realise, from fattening your guitar tone and creating ethereal effects, to taking you straight back to the 50s with vintage slapback sounds.

Reverb Pedals

The echoing, spacious qualities of reverb makes it one of the most widely used effects in modern music. Much like the natural spacious sound, the term ‘reverb’ is huge in its reach, with a rich history, plenty of variations and countless brands offering their own take on the effect.

Tremolo Pedals

The Tremolo & Vibrato guitar effect has a long history in the music world and has appeared on countless records. The soothing, washy tremolo tones that seem to make any clean sound that much better actually have an interesting story to tell. This story is steeped in 3 stages, from Rotary Cabinets through to amp Tremolo and Vibrato. This guide will take you through the best ways to achieve those tones using minimal effort and guitar pedals (rather than bulky speaker cabs).

Phaser Pedals

The swirling sound of the phaser is one of the most recognisable modulation guitar effects. Pioneered by the likes of Hendrix and Van Halen, this simple pedal has the capacity to warp your tone and add a wow factor to any riff. Find out how to harness it in this comprehensive guide.

Flanger Pedals

Among the plethora of weird and wonderful effects pedals, few have such humble DIY roots as the Flanger. This simple effect has the ability to bring life to your guitar tone!

Vibrato Pedals

The Tremolo & Vibrato guitar effect has a long history in the music world and has appeared on countless records. The soothing, washy tremolo tones that seem to make any clean sound that much better actually have an interesting story to tell. This story is steeped in 3 stages, from Rotary Cabinets through to amp Tremolo and Vibrato. This guide will take you through the best ways to achieve those tones using minimal effort and guitar pedals (rather than bulky speaker cabs).

Pitch & Filter Pedal Guides

Unusual effects can unlock many more creative avenues, and filter/pitch shifter pedals really let you experiment with the sound of your guitar via signal processing. If you're unfamiliar with these stompboxes, our guides cover all of the bases:

Wah Pedals

Wah is one of the most dynamic and expressive effects you’ll find. Used across as many styles as you can think of, this effect has become a true pedalboard staple. With many options available on the market today, we’re going to take you through some of the key pedals out there. That’s not all though, as we’ll also explain the history of the effect, how it works, and how to use one in your setup!

Pitch Shifter Pedals

Looking for some extra low-end fatness? Or maybe some abstract harmonised texture to inspire your creativity? Octave & pitch-shift pedals are a great way to expand your sound. In this guide, we’re going to take a look at the differences between octave and pitch-shift effects, and how you can build them into your rig! Read on...

Filter Pedals

These pedals definitely aren’t for the faint-hearted... they’re truly for the experimentalists! Filter pedals are known for providing unique, quirky and otherworldly sounds. Used as inspiring creative tools, these effects pedals allow guitar players to take a step into the realms of electronic music.

Octave Pedals

Looking for some extra low-end fatness? Or maybe some abstract harmonised texture to inspire your creativity? Octave & pitch-shift pedals are a great way to expand your sound.

Synth Pedals

Get out of your comfort zone and into experimental territory with a guitar synth pedal! Used as inspiring creative tools, these effects pedals allow you to take a leap into the realms of electronic music and unusual guitar sounds.

Ring Modulator Pedals

Ring modulator pedals definitely aren't for everyone... they’re reserved only for the experimentalists! Known for providing glitchy and otherworldly sounds, players use these as a means of taking a step into the realms of electronic music.

Utility Pedal Guides

Utility pedals may not sound exciting or inspiring, but they can be essential in making your rig more manageable. Some of them can be hard to understand, which is why our extensive guides offer all the insights you'd ever need:

Tuner Pedals

The humble guitar tuner is one of the most essential pieces of gear that any guitarist can own. Though its function may be simple, the importance is incredibly high; and ensuring your guitar is in tune is paramount. Decades ago you would've had to use tuning forks, pitch pipes or have perfect pitch.

ABY Pedals

In this guide, we're going to take a look at one of the most underrated yet powerful pieces of gear a guitarist can buy. They may not be as discussed as some of their counterparts in the pedal world, but ABY boxes are used by countless professional and touring musicians all over the world. An ABY pedal could be the secret weapon that takes your tone to the next level!

Looper Pedals

Is your playing stuck in a loop? Looper pedals can be a fantastic way to revitalise your practice performance and composition. Here’s why you should bump up the priority in getting yourself a looper pedal.

Buffer Pedals

A buffer pedal could be the saving grace for your long guitar pedal signal chain. We’ll explore all the situations in which you might need a buffer and explain exactly what they do.

Cab Simulator Pedals

Over the last few years, it has been apparent that many modern guitar players want their rigs to be more compact, manageable and portable; especially for those that frequently gig. With the small form-factor of guitar pedals, manufacturers have tried to develop ways to convincingly squeeze the sounds of amps into these tiny, ergonomic stompboxes. And now, some of these can even emulate the sounds of speaker cabinets!

Pedal Switchers

In this guide, we're going to take a look at one of the most useful pieces of gear a pedal-loving guitarist can buy. Used by countless professional and touring musicians all over the world, pedal switchers let you organise and operate your pedals far more efficiently.

Power Amp Pedals

If you’re frustrated by the cumbersome and back-breaking size of your amplifier, a power amp pedal can take you one step closer to forming a far more portable rig. Designed to fit on pedalboards, these stompboxes serve as ergonomic alternatives to traditional amps. And in this guide, we explain everything that they can offer!

Pedal Brand Guides

BOSS

The instantly recognisable Boss pedal is legendary not just within the guitar community, but to almost every music aficionado. The Boss range covers every effect, from your essential overdrives and reverbs to the sci-fi sounds of the synth. Let's take a look at the range.

Tone City

Tone city pedals are one of the most popular brands sold here at andertons music co. With their wide range of overdrive and distortion pedals as well as their reverb, modulation and delay units.

Pedaltrain

When thinking of pedalboards, an image that often comes to mind is that of the tough framework and uniquely simple design of the Pedaltrain.

Origin Effects

What's the deal with compressor pedals? We spoke to pedal designer Simon Keats about why you should have one on your board, plus we find out why classic studio compressors like the 1176 are so sought after.

Guitar Amp Guides

There's plenty of variety when it comes to guitar amps, regarding their form-factors, circuitry and the sounds that they can offer. With the following guides, we provide all of the insights you'd ever need:

Valve Amps

The world of guitars can be a confusing place, and it seems like there are so many words you have to learn before you feel qualified to talk about the subject! Read our guide to dispel those myths, and learn everything you need to know about guitar amps.

Digital Amps

The world of guitars can be a confusing place, and it seems like there are so many words you have to learn before you feel qualified to talk about the subject! Read our guide to dispel those myths, and learn everything you need to know about guitar amps.

Modelling Amps

Finding the best modelling amp for you can be a challenge in the modern climate where so many digital amps are so good that it can be difficult to distinguish between the differences. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled some key things to look out for when buying a modelling amp to make sure you get the best amp for your money. Read more below for advice on finding the best modelling amp.

Practice Amps

Wherever you are, whoever you are, practice goes a long way – but what certainly doesn't help is a duff guitar tone. Make sure to sound the part when learning your licks! Let's explore what makes a great practice amp and find the best one for you in our complete guide...

Combo Amps vs. Heads & Cabs

You’re in the market for a new guitar amplifier. Chances are you know the sound that you’re after, and you might even have a particular brand in mind. But do you buy an all-in-one combo or a separate head & cab setup? In this article we’ll explore the pros and cons for both rig types to help you make the right decision!

Rack Mount Amps

The perfect combination of versatility, portability and customisation, rack mount guitar amps and effects are the way to go if you're after the ultimate personalised rig. I'm going to cover what makes a rack-mounted setup, how they work and how you might go about putting one together.

Guitar Cabs

Many players out there believe that an amplifier provides you with your core tone. While that is true for the most part, some guitarists undervalue the significance of a guitar cabinet and the influence that one can have on your sound.

American vs. British Amps

British and American amplifiers are discussed to death in guitar forums. Although the details of their components and circuitry can be interesting, we understand that most players are keen to just learn about their differences from a sonic perspective.

Rectifier Amps

When searching for a new amp you may have heard the word rectifier come up, particularly with Mesa Boogie's Rectifier series. In actual fact, every tube amp needs a rectifier; but what are they and how does it affect the sound of your amp... Time to find out!

Acoustic Amps

“Unplugged” is a term used to describe musical performances that prominently feature acoustic guitars. Remember those MTV shows from the ‘90s? But, nostalgia aside, it’s not really an accurate term. That’s because for large gigs, it is essential for acoustic guitars to be amplified so that audiences can hear them.

Choosing The Best Guitar Amp

Our general amplifier guides give you plenty to think about, but our "best" guitar amp guides feature handpicked selections of products to suit certain genres, budgets and even the types of pickups in your guitar!

Best Valve Combo Amp Guide

Valve amplifiers and electric guitars are the original partners in crime. In the mid 20th century, tube technology was the only amp option for projecting the sound of an electric. Now we’re flooded with solid-state and modelling solutions. But many a musician would argue valve amps are the pinnacle of tone. Even the alternatives aspire to sound like what came before.

Best Home Valve Amps

Buying a home-use valve amp can be a bit of a minefield with so many different lunchbox heads and small combo amps up for grabs. Let our guide run you through what to look for when buying a home amp to make the buying process that much easier.

Best Amps for Humbuckers

Your humbucker pickup guitar is the perfect sonic platform for all types of tone. Whether you enjoy soothing cleans, classic crunch or high gain heaviness, there an amp on this list for you. Here are 10 top picks catered to you.

Best Amps for Single Coils

Guitar amps come in all shapes and sizes - with valve, solid-state and modelling technologies making the market incredibly diverse. We aim to broaden your amplifier knowledge with the help of our dedicated guides, so that you can feel confident when shopping for your next guitar amp!

Guitar Amp Brand Guides

Marshall

Marshall are the most recognised amplifier brand in the music industry. Building a huge range of legendary amps since 1962, their designs have revolutionised the way that we hear guitars today.

Fender

Leo Fender may be regarded as the world’s most influential innovator of electric guitars, but he was also largely responsible for pioneering the production of guitar amps. Manufactured by his eponymous brand since the early ‘50s, Leo’s amplifiers arguably set the precedent for all others to follow, with dozens of companies still basing their designs off classic Fender circuits.

Mesa Boogie

The Mesa Boogie name is known around the world as one of the first boutique guitar amp builders. Mesa amps are a staple in every professional recording studio and touring rig, proving to be a driving force behind the evolution of some genres of music. Let's explore the extensive range and find the right amp for you...

Victory

Since launching in 2013, Victory amps have gone from strength to strength – and are showing no signs of slowing. Their range of UK-made valve amps ticks just about every box – so how do you choose which one to go for? In this guide, we’ll explore each area of the diverse Victory line-up and hopefully answer a few burning questions along the way

Kemper

The Kemper Profiler has revolutionised the world of guitar tone. Using unique, innovative and comprehensive tech, Kemper have made the search for the ultimate guitar sound easier than ever before.

Blackstar

In its short history, Blackstar has become one of the guitar industry’s most recognisable amplifier brands. Their products are used by thousands of musicians across the globe, including a number of high-profile players. This is testament to just how popular their guitar amps are, and of how genuinely good they sound.

Orange

Orange Amps encapsulate everything you love about British guitar tone. They’ve been a staple of the ‘big three’ UK-based amp companies since their foundation in 1968. With a varied product range consisting of powerful valve amps, lunchbox heads and bass gear, there’s plenty to get your callused fingers stuck into. Here’s our in-depth guide to Orange Amps.

Celestion

Celestion guitar amp speakers are considered by many as the industry standard, or rather “the voice of rock and roll” - in the company's own words. In this extensive guide, we've dissected the whole Celestion range to help you to find the perfect replacement speaker(s) for your amplifier or cabinet. Upgrading them can completely transform your tone!

Guitar Amp Pedal Guides

Modern players are seeking ways to make their rigs more portable and ergonomic, leading brands to create pedals that can emulate the sounds of guitar amps and cabs. The following guides will answer all of your burning amp pedal questions:

Amp Modelling Pedals

Looking to add some much-needed variety to your guitar rig? Learn everything you need to know about multi-effects pedals with our ultimate guide.

Preamp Pedals

Keen to downsize your rig and have all your core tones available at your feet? Preamp pedals allow you to do just that. In this guide, we’ll tell you what they do, how they work, and give you some handy setup tips to help get you started.

Power Amp Pedals

If you’re frustrated by the cumbersome and back-breaking size of your amplifier, a power amp pedal can take you one step closer to forming a far more portable rig. Designed to fit on pedalboards, these stompboxes serve as ergonomic alternatives to traditional amps. And in this guide, we explain everything that they can offer!

Cab Simulator Pedals

Over the last few years, it has been apparent that many modern guitar players want their rigs to be more compact, manageable and portable; especially for those that frequently gig. With the small form-factor of guitar pedals, manufacturers have tried to develop ways to convincingly squeeze the sounds of amps into these tiny, ergonomic stompboxes. And now, some of these can even emulate the sounds of speaker cabinets!

ABY Pedals

In this guide, we're going to take a look at one of the most underrated yet powerful pieces of gear a guitarist can buy. They may not be as discussed as some of their counterparts in the pedal world, but ABY boxes are used by countless professional and touring musicians all over the world. An ABY pedal could be the secret weapon that takes your tone to the next level!

Noise Gate Pedals

If you play single-coil pickups or you use a high-gain amp, unwanted hum and buzz might be a common problem. A noise gate is one of the most popular solutions for unwanted guitar noise. In this guide, we'll explore the main causes of rig noise, and recommend some of the best guitar noise gate pedals on the market - read on!

Acoustic Guitar Guides

There are quite a few aspects of an acoustic guitar's construction that you need to be mindful of before you buy one. With the following guides, we provide all of the insights you'd ever need - regarding body shapes, tonewoods and more:

Acoustic Guitar Basics

Acoustic guitars are among the most beautiful musical instruments ever made. After hundreds of years of building, from design to design we now have a plethora of different acoustic guitars that each offer completely different sounds.

Acoustic Guitar Shapes

The acoustic guitar has seen many forms over its long and colourful history. Each shape undeniably has a unique character, in terms of sound, feel and looks. In this guide, we’ll highlight the most common acoustic guitar shapes you’ll come and help you choose the best for your style!

Electro-Acoustic Guitars

Nothing quite beats the chime of a quality, perfectly tuned, acoustic guitar. But if you’re up on stage with a full band or trying to record the purest audio possible for your next release, sometimes, a regular acoustic just won’t cut it.

Travel Acoustic Guitars

Do you love acoustic guitars, but find they’re just a bit too large in most circumstances? Travel acoustics are the answer! Here’s everything you need to know about buying a mini version of the instrument you know and love.

Acoustic Guitar Tonewoods

How do acoustic guitar tonewoods shape your sound? In this guide, we’ll explore spruce tops, rosewood backs, and everything in between to help you find the perfect woods for your playing style

Acoustic Guitar Accessories Guides

To ensure that you get the most out of your acoustic guitar, there are some essential accessories required to unlock its full potential. From specialised acoustic guitar amps to pickups that enable electro-acoustic functionality - there's plenty to learn about:

Acoustic Guitar Amps

“Unplugged” is a term used to describe musical performances that prominently feature acoustic guitars. Remember those MTV shows from the ‘90s? But, nostalgia aside, it’s not really an accurate term. That’s because for large gigs, it is essential for acoustic guitars to be amplified so that audiences can hear them.

Acoustic Guitar Pickups

Many makes of acoustic guitar, whether nylon or steel-strung, are available with factory inbuilt pickup systems, ready to plug-in and play. But many popular models contain no such electronics and there are two main reasons why you might want to install a pickup on your acoustic guitar – to make use of effects such as distortion and reverb, and to increase the volume of your sound. Acoustic guitars are pretty loud by themselves, but if you're going to be playing live in bigger venues, you're going to need to amplify your guitar. In either case, you're going to need a pickup.

Guitar Straps

An essential ingredient of a guitar player's setup is an often underappreciated one! With more options than ever, in this guide we explain why a guitar strap is so important and help you find the right one for your instrument!

Gifts for Acoustic Guitarists

Have you been tasked with buying a Christmas gift for a six-string strummer? Or do you just feel like treating yourself this year? Don't fret — we've put together a handy guide that'll help you find the perfect present!

Acoustic Guitar Brand Guides

Fender

Fender are of course renowned for their legendary electric guitars, but their acoustic range is equally as impressive. Let's explore the Fender acoustic guitar line-up and find out what makes them so great...

Martin & Co.

As one of the most highly coveted and deeply established acoustic guitar manufacturers in the world, C.F. Martin & Co offer an expansive range of acoustic instruments. If you’re thinking about buying a Martin, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down every series into digestible chunks so you can be confident in making your next purchase.

Taylor

So, you want to buy a Taylor Guitar but you don’t understand the difference between the body shapes! Fortunately, it’s very easy to decode their naming system for their guitars, and their 5 body shapes are all easily defined and identified.

Sire

Welcome to a fresh take on classic acoustic designs. Sire are masters of superb instrument quality at outstanding prices. Let's explore the Sire acoustic range...

Lowden

The no.1 chart-topping artist has conquered almost all there is to achieve in the world of music. Now, he’s brought out his own range of acoustics with the help of lowden guitars!

Bass Guitar Guides

Whether you're looking for the best beginner bass guitar or you want to just add a little more versatility to your instrument collection, our guides will point you in the right direction. Covering everything from the basics to Jazz and Precision body shapes; we're sure you'll find our guides more than useful:

Bass Guitar Basics

Whether you're buying your very first bass guitar or you're making an upgrade, this guide will explain all there is to know about picking out the best bass for your style and sound.

Bass Guitar Tonewoods

How do different woods affect tone, weight, and even feel? Read all about it in our bass guitar tonewood guide and find the perfect match for your playing style!

Jazz Bass Guitars

Fender’s Jazz Bass is one of the most recognisable instruments of all time. Offering a more versatile sound and curvier design than its Precise counterpart, it’s defined countless records and musical genres. But which Jazz Bass is best for you? There’s plenty of choice on the market – in this guide, we’ll explore the main features and differences between models to help you make your decision!

Precision Bass Guitars

The Fender Precision bass is an iconic instrument – the oldest solid-body bass guitar in the world. Its legacy is unparalleled, and nowadays it remains a staple in the Fender line-up. With more choice than ever before, it can be difficult to choose the best Precision bass for your needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the main features and differences between models to help you make your decision!

Short Scale Bass Guitars

If you’re a guitarist that has ever picked up a bass, you probably would have noticed the much longer scale that the neck would have had. While not feeling impossible to play, the extra length of a bass may have felt somewhat daunting and difficult to get to grips with at first.

Fretless Bass Guitars

“what is the difference between a fretless and fretted bass?” But truth be told, the answer lies in their names - a fretless bass simply doesn’t feature any frets whereas a fretted bass does. Offering a unique sound and requiring an altered playing style, we’re going to explain why a fretless bass can be a great addition to your instrument arsenal.

Bass Guitar Brand Guides

We know many players are brand loyal - or maybe you're just interested in what particular companies produce! So what better way to learn more about the gear we offer at Andertons than via our incredible brands? Here's a selection of guides about our top bass manufacturers and their models:

Sire

Bass guitars come in all shapes and sizes, with accessories in the bucketloads. There's a massive selection of bass gear to choose from - especially at Andertons! Our bass guitar buyer’s guides make your next purchase much smoother and simpler to find. Begin your bassist buying journey right here...

Music Man

Music Man bass guitars are admired for their punchy tones, versatile electronics and unrivalled playability. It’s therefore no surprise why so many established musicians use Music Man basses, for both live and studio applications. In this guide, we’ve broken down the features of Music Man’s most popular bass guitars - to make their comparison as clear as possible!

Warwick

Undoubtedly one of the biggest modern influences on the electric bass, Warwick continue to astonish with their exceptional build quality. Rock, jazz and metal players will feel right at home with a Warwick. With some many bass specs to choose from, narrowing down your perfect Warwick bass can be a tricky task. We’re here to help…

G&L

\"The best instruments I have ever made\" — Leo Fender\n\nThat's right. G&L Guitars are the late, great hit from the legendary luthier. Successfully melding classic guitar templates with cutting-edge innovations, G&L's \"vintage modern\ instruments are rock-solid workhorses! Let's take a look at their extensive electric guitar range...

Gibson

Under the guidance of newly appointed CEO James Curleigh, Gibson have revamped their entire range. There are some curveballs and a number of new artist models, but for the most part, the new range represents a triumphant return to form for the iconic company!

Ibanez

Ibanez are most often seen in the hands of big-hitters in the hard rock and metal scene. With legendary virtuosos such as Steve Vai and Joe Satriani using their guitars since the '80s, and modern metal pioneers like Jake Bowen (Periphery) and Nita Strauss choosing Ibanez guitars to establish their ground-breaking tones — these instruments are specifically built to ensure uncompromising performance.

Markbass

Italian amp masters Markbass are one of our favourite bass brands and that sentiment is shared by plenty of pro bassists. Let’s take a look at the diverse range of heads, combos, cabs and accessories we have to offer at Andertons.

Orange

Orange Amps encapsulate everything you love about British guitar tone. They’ve been a staple of the ‘big three’ UK-based amp companies since their foundation in 1968. With a varied product range consisting of powerful valve amps, lunchbox heads and bass gear, there’s plenty to get your callused fingers stuck into. Here’s our in-depth guide to Orange Amps.

Bass Amps

Most bass rigs are simple. After your bass, your amp is the other main element of your setup that will form your tone. In our ultimate guide, we'll explore different types of bass amps available, and explain the key elements to look out for so that you can find the perfect bass amp for you!

Bass Pedals

Looking to expand your tone arsenal or soup up your live performances? Sounds like you need some bass guitar pedals! Learn everything you need to know with our ultimate guide.

Guitar Straps

An essential ingredient of a guitar player's setup is an often underappreciated one!\n\nWith more options than ever, in this guide we explain why a guitar strap is so important and help you find the right one for your instrument!

Gifts for Bassists

Musicians can sometimes be difficult to buy gifts for, especially when some music gear can be pretty expensive. Don't fret though — we've compiled a range of sub-tastic gifts for bass players, just in time for the Christmas shopping period!

Keyboard Buyer's Guides

We want to make your buying journey as easy - and enjoyable - as possible. Beginner or professional, our guides are here to help you find your way. Can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, we're always adding fresh content to make your life easier. Alternatively, feel free to contact us by phone or email if you have any burning questions and one of our experts will be happy to help!

How To Choose A Digital Piano

This is our useful guide to help make it as easy as possible for you to find the perfect digital piano for your needs. With so many different types of digital pianos on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start or what to even look at! In this guide, we’re going to break down for you some of the things we find most important when picking a digital piano, what’s great for beginners and experienced players and some of the key differences between makes and models.

Best Keyboards + Pianos for Beginners Guide

It can be hard to decide what digital piano and keyboard to get for starting out on the piano. Don't fret! We've put together this tasty guide to help you. Here you'll find common the best pianos and keyboards you should pick when getting started.

Guides To Our Top Digital Piano Brands

Yamaha Digital Piano Guide

What’s the difference between Yamaha's digital pianos? In this guide, we’ll explore the main features of each range to help you find the perfect piano for you – whether you’re a beginner, a professional or anything in between.

Roland Digital Piano Guide

What’s the difference between Roland’s digital pianos? In this guide, we’ll explore the main features of each range to help you find the perfect piano for you – whether you’re a beginner, a professional or anything in between.

Casio Digital Piano Guide

What’s the difference between Casio's digital pianos? In this guide, we’ll explore the main features of each range to help you find the perfect piano for you – whether you’re a beginner, a professional or anything in between.

Keyboard Articles

Best Stage Piano Guide

What are the best stage pianos for live performance, studio work, and touring? Find out with our dedicated guide, where we’ll explore top brands like Nord, Roland, and Yamaha. So, you’re in the market for a stage piano, but with more choice than ever before, it can be difficult to know where to start. Fear not – we've put together this handy guide to save you the hassle!

Digital Vs Real Piano

When it comes to pianos, there are two camps that divide the market. While real acoustic pianos represent a long-established and traditional sound, digital pianos offer far more flexibility for modern players.

Roland V-Stage Gigging Keyboard

Roland enters the stage with the V-Stage 88 and 76 stage performance keyboards, just what the gigging musician needs on tour, in the studio or at the club, but how does it fair to the competition?

Guildford Piano Store

At our Guildford store in Surrey, we have a digital piano, keyboard and synthesizer department with a wide range of products waiting for you to come in and try! We’ve got experts on hand to offer you fantastic customer service. Able to answer any questions that you have about any of our products, we want to help you choose the right gear for your needs.

Roland FP1- vs FP30

Roland are at the forefront of digital piano innovation. Their FP range spans from entry-level to studio-grade, and the FP10 is their most compact piano yet. So how does it compare to one of their most popular products, the FP30? We compare specs and sounds to point you in the right direction...

Nord Piano Guide

With the release of the Grand, Nord have further cemented their position as titans of the stage piano world. The Grand elevates Nord’s piano selection to new levels of authenticity and immersive playability. But what sets it apart from its 88-key peers, the Piano 4 and Stage 3? In this article, we compare these three world-class instruments in terms of feel, sound and features.

Synth Buyer's Guides

We want to make your buying journey as easy - and enjoyable - as possible. Beginner or professional, our guides are here to help you find your way. Can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, we're always adding fresh content to make your life easier. Alternatively, feel free to get in touch with our resident experts if you have any burning questions!

Synthesizer Buyer's Guide

Are you new to the world of synths? Upgrading your existing setup? Looking for a bit of inspiration? Look no further. In our guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the synth world, from beginner desktop synths to all-encompassing professional workstations. Go forth and synthesize!

Modular Synth Guide

In the market for a synthesizer? You might be a seasoned synth nerd, or perhaps you're looking for your first keyboard or desktop module. As with the wider world of musical gear, there's more choice than ever before!

Drum Machine Guide

Looking to ditch your drummer for something far more reliable? Whether you’re a solo musician fleshing out your songs with percussion or injecting a creative kick into your band, a drum machine is a great option. Here’s everything you need to know about the wondrous world of drum machines.

Live & PA Buyer's Guides

We want to make your buying journey as easy - and enjoyable - as possible. Whether you're buying your first PA system or upgrading your live microphone setup, our guides are here to help you find your way. Can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, we're always adding fresh content to make your life easier. Alternatively, feel free to get in touch with our resident experts if you have any burning questions!

How to Choose a Live Vocal Microphone

We want to make your buying journey as easy - and enjoyable - as possible. Whether you're buying your first PA system or upgrading your live microphone setup, our guides are here to help you find your way. Can't find what you're looking for? Don't worry, we're always adding fresh content to make your life easier. Alternatively, feel free to get in touch with our resident experts if you have any burning questions!

How to Choose a Wireless Mic System

Tired of all the mic cables around your feet? We’ve put together this guide to help you know what to look out for when picking out a great wireless mic system. Whether you're completely new to the topic or you simply want to learn more, we've got you covered!

How to Set Up a PA System with QSC

Not sure where to start when it comes to setting up your PA system? No idea how a mixer should work in conjunction with your speakers? We explain all in our handy guide!

How to Choose a PA Speaker

Looking for a PA speaker but not entirely sure what makes one model better than the next? Then check out our guide on how to choose the right PA speaker for you! Whether you're completely new to the topic or you simply want to learn more, there's plenty of usual information below.

Guide to the Best PA Systems

There’s an awful lot to consider when it comes to buying a PA system. Different components, power ratings, price tags – where to start? Here are a few top tips to help you find the best PA system to suit your needs!

Digital Mixers Explained

What are the differences between an analogue and digital mixer, the pros and cons explored.

Recording Guides

If you're really committed to recording, you may want to set up a home studio. You'll need more gear than just an audio interface such as headphones or studio monitors for checking the sound and a microphone. Take a look at the guides below to find which is right for you.

What Do I Need To Start Recording And Producing Music?

The world of recording can be a wild one. Where do you start? Well, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started on your record-making process, from the DAW, Microphone and Audio Interface, all the way to what to look for in cables and stands. Let's dive in together.

How to Choose an Audio Interface

Looking to start recording at home or wanting to upgrade your existing setup? Check our guide on how to choose a great audio interface! Whether you're completely new to the topic or you simply want to learn more, there's plenty of usual information below.

How to Choose Studio Monitors

This is our useful guide to help make it as easy as possible for you to purchase a great pair of Studio Monitors!

How to Choose a Condenser Microphone

There's an awful lot of options out there, so we've put together this guide to help you choose a condenser microphone! Whether you're completely new to the topic or you simply want to learn more, we've got you covered!

How to Choose a Handheld Recorder

Handheld recorders are a perfect bit of kit for quick, remote recordings and can serve a wide range of purposes and applications. Looking to get your hands on a portable digital recorder? This guide will help you know what to look out for when choosing one!

Recording Brand Guides

Universal Audio Buyer's Guide

If you want sharp, sheen, polished recording results, you’re in the right place. Universal Audio are all about pro-quality equipment, whether you’re using a simple desktop recording setup or an expansive rack system. Here’s our in-depth guide to the Universal Audio line-up.

Roswell Audio Pro Microphone Buyer's Guide

Roswell is a boutique microphone company known for its handcrafted designs and distinctive sound. Here we'll explore the brand’s philosophy and a detailed look at both the Mini series and its flagship single microphones. Whether you’re a vocalist, instrumentalist, or engineer, this guide will help you discover the Roswell microphone best suited to your creative needs.

Bass Guitar Accessories Guides

Accessories are essential for getting the most out of your bass guitar, whether that be for maintenance or performance. With an amp being the most important extra, you can embellish your bass sound with pedals too. Strings, stands and straps also add up to the equation, and we've got dedicated guides for all of them:

Bass Amps

Most bass rigs are simple. After your bass, your amp is the other main element of your setup that will form your tone. In our ultimate guide, we'll explore different types of bass amps available, and explain the key elements to look out for so that you can find the perfect bass amp for you!

Bass Pedals

Looking to expand your tone arsenal or soup up your live performances? Sounds like you need some bass guitar pedals! Learn everything you need to know with our ultimate guide.

Guitar Straps

An essential ingredient of a guitar player's setup is an often underappreciated one! With more options than ever, in this guide we explain why a guitar strap is so important and help you find the right one for your instrument!

Gifts for Bassists

Musicians can sometimes be difficult to buy gifts for, especially when some music gear can be pretty expensive. Don't fret though — we've compiled a range of sub-tastic gifts for bass players, just in time for the Christmas shopping period!