INCORPORATING

NAMM REPORT LIMS LATEST RADIO MICS YAMAHA MANUEL RODRIGUEZ

The good

Grem lin

MI PRO’S RETAIL SURVEY 2009THE DEALERS HAVE VOTED

� TRADITIONAL � HI-TECH � ROCK � CLASSICAL � EDUCATION � PRINTED MUSIC ISSUE 105 � FEBRUARY 2009 � WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

Stop harping on about the recession andmeet the folk specialist that’s showingsome pluck and beating the squeeze

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We take the most in-depth look at a company that continues tomake waves in the MI business at large, while simply concentrating onwhat it does best. How do the ‘folk’ folk do it?

MI Pro’s unique perspective on the UK’s MI business with news,interviews and reports on all aspects of the country’s front line

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the UK Music Industry

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NEWS 6LIMS announces retail hall for 2009show, Andrew Kemble leaves YMUK,Manuel Rodriguez

DISTRIBUTION 10Sutherland gets Madarozzo, Warwickprofiled

PIANO NEWS 12Intermusic Piano Exhibition

DRUM NEWS 13Mike Dolbear runs through the latest kiton show at NAMM

PERSONNEL 36New positions at JHS, Strings & Thingsand Audio Technica

DAVE BURRLUCK 38As if you didn’t have enough NAMM,here’s some more

CODA 64The intimate snaps from the parties inJanuary, as well as a look at TheWalkabouts and classic Stradivari violins

GREMLIN IN THE WORKS 20

RETAIL

NEWS 41Holmes Music of Swindon creates nude calendar,Absolute Music of Poole expands, Freshman sells out

INDIE PROFILE 43Peter Norris of the Isle of Man gives us thelowdown on his island store

BASS & GUITAR 49 DRUMS 51 RECORDING 52 TRADITIONAL 54

PRODUCTS

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41 42

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COVER STORY

ISSUE 105 FEBRUARY 2009 IN THIS ISSUE

43

13

SECTOR SPOTLIGHT • RADIO MICS 34With the bandwidth sell-off creeping ever closer, we look at thelatest news from the Digital Dividend Review and at some of thebest kit on the market today

MI PRO RETAIL SURVEY 2009 25It’s back and after polling 100 retailers, the figures have beencounted and a smattering of analysis added. The rest is up to you

MEMBER

Retail rules

Taking advantage of what is usually a quiter monthfor retailers, January is now the traditional monthfor MI Pro’s retail survey. Combining this with with

the NAMM show, the February issue has become a prettyspecial one for us, as it provides one of the mostcomprehensive overviews of what and how the industry isdoing – and not just in the UK.

This year’s NAMM show (as you will see from thereport on page 15) was a bit different from previousshows. Fewer British visitors and a lower attendancegenerally gave the show a calmer atmosphere, but theshow only benefitted from this. Everyone there enjoyedthe show and felt they profited from it – it had somethingof the feel of exclusivity abou it this year. It was more ofa treat than usual to be a part of it.

In the retail survey (page 25) you will see a goodnumber of expected results as well as a lot of showingsthat certainly surprised us. We hope this will be a usefuldocument for you in the trade, whatever you do, to helpyou gauge some of the trends in the UK’s industry.

While the usual suspects can assure us that somethings never change, the notable newcomers to thesurvey will also, I think, go some way to proving that thisis still a dynamic business to be working in and that no-one should ever assume that any position can be takenfor granted.

The big news this month is, of course, that after takinga majority share in the London International Music Show,the MIA has immediately dug into what can be done tomake the show better.

The word from the general public last year was thatthere was disappointment in there not being any retailelement to the show. Retailers, too, appear to be keen totake advantage of having thousands of potential puntersto lure. As a result, and despite complaints from somesuppliers, a retail hall is to be annexed to the show.

If any retailers needed evidence that the MIA is lookingto be more on the side of its retail membership, this couldwell be it.

The success of NAMM – which has been representingthe American trade for well over 100 years now – comesfrom the fact that it is a retail-led association. Theretailers make the suppliers’ business possible and, Icertainly think, should be the foundation upon which anytrade activities are centred.

If LIMS attracts as many retailers to the retail hall asone would hope, this could be a catalyst for more retailersto get involved with the association and to start treatingit as their own fiefdom. It’s up to you.

Andy Barrettmipro@intentmedia.co.uk

The success ofNAMM comes fromthe fact that it is a

retail-led association.

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EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR

ANDY BARRETT

mipro@intentmedia.co.uk

EDITOR AT LARGE

GARY COOPER

gary@garycooper.biz

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ROB POWER

rob.power@intentmedia.co.uk

STAFF WRITER

ROB HUGHES

rob.hughes@intentmedia.co.uk

ADVERTISING MANAGER

DARRELL CARTER

darrell.carter@intentmedia.co.uk

PRODUCTION MANAGER

HELEN FRENCH

helen.french@intentmedia.co.uk

PRODUCTION EXECUTIVE

ROSIE MCKEOWN

rosie.mckeown@intentmedia.co.uk

DESIGNER

REBECCA ALMOND

rebecca.almond@intentmedia.co.uk

DESIGN ASSISTANT

CLAIRE BROCKLESBY

claire.brocklesby@intentmedia.co.uk

CIRCULATION

PAUL LITTLE

mipro.subscriptions@c-cms.com

CONSULTANT

GRAHAM BUTTERWORTH

buttsie@mbmediagroup.co.uk

PUBLISHER

DAVE ROBERTS

dave.roberts@intentmedia.co.uk

MANAGING DIRECTOR

STUART DINSEY

stuart.dinsey@intentmedia.co.uk

MI PRO CONTACTS

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NAMM’s quiet success

THIS YEAR’S Winter NAMM showclosed on January 18th withfigures three per cent down on2008’s figures, including a dropof two per cent of foreignvisitors. Around 50 less exhibitorsdisplayed their wares at thisyear’s show to the total of85,799 visitors.

The overall mood from thosethat attended, however, includingthe NAMM association itself, wasthat the show had a seriousnessand even more of a businesslikeatmosphere than previous shows.

Always the place for the firstdeals of the year, exhibitors werehappy with visitor quality.

“The 2009 NAMM Show wasperhaps one of the mostimportant industry gatherings inmemory,” said NAMM’s presidentand CEO, Joe Lamond. “Ourmembers once againdemonstrated theirdetermination and persistence asthe best and brightest fromaround the world gathered toexperience four days of newproducts, NAMM Universitycourses, networking and greatlive music.”

“We’re very pleased with thesteady traffic that has beenvisiting our display,” said DennisHoulihan of Roland US. “Dealers

are eager to see new productsand new technologies. Everybodyis anxious about 2009 and yetthere’s an underlying confidencein the value of music and theneed for music products in ourcountry right now more so thanever before.

“Roland is extremely pleasedwith the attitude of our retailersand we’re responding to theirneeds with products andprograms to help everybodynavigate through this time ofuncertainty and economicchallenge. Roland is confident,optimistic and moving forward,full-speed ahead.”

NEWS

Figures down, but seriousness pleases both exhibitors and visitors

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Guitars flourish

MARKET RESEARCH giant GFKhas reported that the UKguitar trade demonstratedincreased vigor during the2008 Christmas period,significantly bucking thegeneral retail trend.

Its figures show that totalguitar sales for the monthreached 106,300 – a rise of 3.4per cent on December 2007.Electrics were up by 7.5 percent, which dovetails with thevery strong performance fromhome entertainment products,such as games consoles, whichgrew in double digits. This addscredibility to the research thatsuggests the popularity ofmusic simulation games ishaving a positive effect on realinstrument sales.

Furthermore, the multiples’share of business fell, whilemusic specialists grew. Thisindicates an even greater levelof growth in value.

GfK collates its figures frommonthly reports from amajority of independent MIretailers, as well as somechains and also has an eye oncomparative markets, such aselectricals, which show that MIsales from the internet are still

relatively smallcompared toother industries.

MatthewGibbs, accountdirector forphoto andmusicalinstruments,concluded: "Interms of valuesales, guitarshave been oneof the strongestperformingmature productareas atChristmas.”

Christmas sales up dramatically on 2007despite economic downturn, reports GFK

AFTER MONTHS of speculation,the MIA has revealed that LIMS2009 will have a retail element– open only to MIA members,but affordable for smallerretailers as well as major shops.

In an announcement made tomembers on January 23rd, theMIA confirmed that, havingrecently taken a controllinginterest in the show, it hadcanvassed opinions frommembers and decided that retailhad a part to play. The retaildays will fall on June 12th, 13thand 14th, following a single,trade only day.

The lack of anywhere to buyequipment was one of the majorpublic criticisms of an otherwisewell-received LIMS 2008 and,

though there had been industry-wide calls for retail participationin the show, there wasopposition – primarily fromdistributors and manufactures.

In a joint statement fromCEO Paul McManus andpresident Jon Gold, the MIA said:“A total industry consensus isalways the ideal (albeit elusive)

and our decision is based onwhat the vast majority of youhave asked us to do.

“We are driven ultimately bythe high levels of consumers

who came to the 2008 showclearly wanting to purchaseinstruments at the event.”

The retail section will form aseparate component in the showadjacent to the main exhibitionhalls. A fixed number of standsare available and retailers areencouraged to represent all themusical genres on show. Threedifferent stand sizes will beavailable, but only products ondisplay at the show will beallowed to be sold. Non-MIAmembers will be able to applyafter joining the Association.

More details about this long-awaited development can beseen on page 32, as well as theMIA’s latest news bulletin onpage 46. MIA: 01372 750600

MIA reveals LIMS retail plansAfter lengthy negotiation London show gains retail hall and issues open offer to all prospective retail exhibitors

NEWS

Andrew Kemble leaves Yamaha Music UK

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AFTER 30 years as a key figure inYamaha Music UK, the managingdirector, Andrew Kemble, hasannounced he is taking up a newposition within the company,namely heading Yamaha’sEmerging Markets Group,responsible for the company’sbusiness in Eastern Europe,Greece and Turkey.

He will also continue to bepart of the senior managementgroup at Yamaha’s Europeanoffices as a vice president.

Kemble’s position within theUK operation is to be taken overby Megumu (Mike) Matsumoto,who was previously based inLondon, working as deputymarketing director for Yamaha’sgrowing European commercialaudio business.

“Mike has a huge amount ofoverseas experience, havingworked outside Japan for the last18 years in Madrid, California,Hamburg and London. I am sure

that under his leadership, our UKand Republic of Irelandoperations will continue tothrive,” Kemble said.

The move takes place amidmajor changes within theYamaha organisation, which hasappeared to be moving towardsa more pan-European mode ofoperation for some time.

Commenting on his move,Andrew Kemble said, “For thoseof you who know me well, youwill appreciate my mixedemotions: excitement at takingon what I regard as one of themost interesting positions withinYamaha’s European organisation,mixed with sadness at leaving amarket and a business that hasgiven me so much pleasure.

“It goes without saying that Iwill hugely miss the YMUK andChappell teams and my manyfriends and contacts among allour dealers, suppliers, artists andeducationalists.

“I am proud of Yamaha’sgrowth in the UK over the threedecades that I have beeninvolved and I have no doubtthat this success has been due tothe combination of Yamaha’samazing products and the multiaward winning team that I havebeen privileged to lead. (Thankyou again to our dealers forvoting us the best largedistributor for each of the lasttwo years.)

“I would ask you all towelcome and support MikeMatsumoto in his new positionas managing director of YMUK.He is in the fortunate position of‘inheriting’ a great team ofpeople and an excellent group of dealers.”

Kemble had been the sole MDof the UK supplier since January2008, after years as co-MD andMatsumoto will take over thisposition as sole MD. YAMAHA: 01908 366700

Long-term British boss to head Yamaha's Emerging Markets Group as Matsumoto takes over as UK operation’s sole MD

Roland partners with FuturePlusFuture’s agency starts year with contract to relaunch music titles

Auralex scoopsGibson approvalROLAND HAS announced a

new publishing partnershipwith customer publishingagency FuturePlus to relaunchits customer magazines.

Power On and Connect werepreviously published by BBCCustomer Publishing and willrelaunch under the guidance ofFuturePlus in 2009, as Rolandseeks to strengthen itscustomer communications. Themagazines are part of a plan todrive brand loyalty amongstcurrent Roland and Boss users,whilst encouraging sales of itsproducts amongst musicians ofall abilities.

Relaunching in April with aprint run of 25,000 copies anissue, Power On is aimed atenthusiasts and will bedistributed through Roland’sretail network and its website.sister-title Connect, with a printrun of 10,000 copies, is aimedat education professionals willreturn later this year.

Packing 80 pages with advicefrom a wealth of experts acrossFuture’s music makingmagazines, Power On will

include contributions fromwriters for Rhythm, Total Guitarand MusicRadar.

“With the MusicRadarplatform quickly becoming anessential part of the music-making landscape, Future is anobvious choice as we redefinethe role of a modern music-making customer magazine,”commented Martyn Hopkins,brand manager, Roland UK.

“We’re also particularlyhappy to be working with anexciting editorial team, andFuture’s newsstand titles form atalent pool of great writing,engaging design and marketawareness. Finally, Future’s in-house publishing expertisemeans we can develop titleswhich are robust, commercialand able to demonstrate

effective ROI – all essential intoday’s challenging economicenvironment.”

Ursula Morgan, accountdirector, FuturePlus added:“Working with FuturePlusenables Roland to tap into ourmix of customer publishingskills and decades of newsstandexperience, alongside ourmarket-leading position inmusic-making media. Thisskillset is unmatched by any ofour competitors and allows usto create compelling customercommunications with aconsumer magazine feel.”

The new look Power On willbe available to customers fromApril 2009, while the revampedpublication of Connect will berelaunched later in the year. ROLAND UK: 01792 702701

AURALEX ACOUSTICS andguitar manufacturer Gibsonhave collaborated to provide‘art of sound’ guitar images forAuralex’s SonicPrint line ofprinted acoustic panels.

Auralex has gained accessto Gibson’s gallery of imagesand is now licensed to printany Gibson, Epiphone, Dobra,Tobias and Steinberger productimages onto its panels.

SonicPrint custom-printedProPanels are fabric-coveredacoustic absorptive panelsdesigned with artwork,featuring the ‘art of sound’theme, which blends styleoptions with the company’sproprietary acoustic treatment technology.

Recording enthusiasts areable to outfit any space withpaintings and drawings of anykind, to cheer up theirrecording spaces, rather thanjust having single, solid-colourpanels adorning their studios.

Auralex Acoustics has a newdedicated micro-site, which isan online portal and directway for dealers to place ordersfor the company’s SonicPrintcustom ProPanels. Users canalso upload their own personalphotography, corporate logosor other custom images to beprinted on the panels.

Further details on this latestrange can be found onAuralex’s website atwww.auralex.com

New acoustic panels feature iconic guitars

Andrew Kemble willbe overseeing

Yamaha’s emergingmarkets

MANUEL RODRIGUEZ Senior,internationally renowned for hisclassical guitars, passed away onChristmas Day 2008, aged 82.

Rodriguez, the grandson offlamenco guitarist ManuelRodriguez Marequi and son ofclassical luthier ManuelRodriguez Perez, learned the artof constructing a guitar firsthandfrom his father and in the USA.

His apprenticeship began atthe age of 13 in Madrid and afteroperating in his own shop inSpain. Driven by the desire toexpand his scope and tocontinue developing his skills, hedecided to emigrate to the USunder the patronage of themusician Theodore Norman; thusin 1959 he established himselfand his newlywed wife Emilia inLos Angeles, California, where histwo boys, Manuel Junior andNorman were born.

Rodriguez resided in LosAngeles for nearly 15 years,making guitars for professionals,Hollywood actors, teachers, andstudents before moving back toMadrid in 1973.

After returning to Spain, hesoon realized that the businessneeded to be set on a sounder,more diverse footing and hedeveloped a dual approach,constructing both fullyhandmade concert guitars in the

workshop (his children receivingtheir training as luthiers withhim) and using machines and aspecialised workforce tomanufacture student guitars ingreater numbers, speciallydesigned by him with carefulquality control.

The family still runs thecompany, located in the Toledoprovince, where he was engagedand working until just a fewweeks before his death.

Today, the guitarsmanufactured by Rodríguez &Sons can be found in almostevery European country, as wellas in the US, Japan and aroundthe world. His valued labelguarantees fine design and thequality of the old master.

Manuel Rodriguez passed theart of guitar-making to his sons,Manuel Junior and Norman, whocontinue the family business.

Obituary – Manuel Rodriguez

NEWS

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1926-2008

Rodriguez’ labeltoday is a

guarantee of finedesign and quality

of the old master.

Mick Taylor named Future’seditor of the year

MICK TAYLOR, editor ofGuitarist magazine, has beennamed Editor of the Year atpublisher Future’s annualinternal awards ceremony.

The company’s magazinereported: “Mick’s vision, passion,dedication and craft makeevery issue of Guitarist apleasure to read. Delivering thehighest ever selling issue, moresubscribers, enviable efficienciesand overall ABC growth, Mickhas taken one of Future’s keytitles to its greatest heights thisyear. His enthusiasm andexpertise has energised thewhole team, and his ability todeliver spot-on ‘banker’ issuesleading with stars like EricClapton, while also reachingout to new readers withcalculated creative risks such ascovers on John Mayer andSeasick Steve, underpinGuitarist’s recent impressiveand sustained growth.”

Taylor first started work atGuitarist as productionassistant in 1997. Followingstints on Metal Hammer and

Mountain Biking UK, he editedGuitar Buyer, returning toGuitarist as editor in 2007.

“Being editor of Guitarist wasalways my dream job,” hecommented. “To get thisrecognition, moreover to havethe pleasure of working withsuch an incredible team, is amassive honour.”

Future Publishing’sExcellence Awards is the

company’s annual celebrationof its best work during the year.Guitarist was also shortlistedfor Future’s magazine of theyear 2008, though the top spotwent to Photo Plus.

Pictured left to right are:Simon Wear (Future chiefoperating officer), Mick Taylorand Robert Price (Future chiefexecutive). FUTURE: 01225442244

Guitarist editor scoops publisher’s excellence award

Yamaha MusicFoundation finalistsTen scholarships to be awarded in February

TEN STUDENTS representingsome of the UK’s leadingconservatoires have been chosento perform at the finals of theannual Yamaha Music Foundationof Europe Scholarship awards tobe held at the Adrian Boult Hallin Birmingham Conservatoire onFebruary 5th. The ten finalistswill have their performancesjudged by a panel of world-classartists and tutors with the threewinning finalists each receiving£2,000 to assist the furthering oftheir studies and classical musiccareers. The awards also providestudents with a high-profileopportunity to get noticed.

This year’s selected disciplineis brass and woodwind and withthe awards scheme now in its20th year, they are now highlyprized by students andrespected by the musicestablishment and conservatoiresin particular. This year’s awardsare no exception, attracting arecord number of entries fromstudents in full time musiceducation from all over the UK.

Preliminary judges includeJohn Reynolds (clarinetist and

head of woodwind at the RoyalWelsh College of Music andDrama), Chris Mowat (formertrombonist with the BBCSymphony Orchestra andlecturer at the RWCMD) and BillMartin (Yamaha educationliaison manager). The preliminaryjudges unanimously agreed uponthe ten 2009 finalists who hadsubmitted unedited recordings oftwo contrasting works. At thefinal, the ten finalists will eachperform a programme of 30minutes duration to the finaljudging panel.

The Yamaha Music Foundationof Europe is a charitable trustfounded in 1990 with a remit toassist talented young musicians.It currently operates in 31countries. Each year theinstrument emphasis rotatesbetween piano, brass andwoodwind, strings, percussionand voice.YAMAHA: 01908 366700

RODRIGUEZ: Learned histrade in Spain and the US

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New site goes live 6/1/09

A Vintage upgradeJHS selects two instruments to enhance

JHS has announced significantupgrades to two of its Vintagerange of guitars, one in theelectrics and another for anacoustic.

The Vintage VS6 twin-horned, twin humbucker,double cutaway electric guitaris now available in a vintagewhite finish, withcomplementing gold Wilkinson hardware, including the covered MWVC Wilkinson vintage-voiced humbucking pickups,Tune-o-matic bridge and rock-solid face-mounted stop bar tailpiece.

A new colour finish is alsoavailable for the VRA400resonator, namely vintagesunburst, alongside the blackversion. The VRA’s mahoganylaminate body construction,with nato neck, is the idealtonewood complement to thebright response of the guitar'sfull size spun-cone 10.5-inchaluminium resonator, with itscorrectly-detailed spider bridgeassembly and small twin'porthole' fine mesh grillefront-bout soundholes.

The two guitars will retail at£249 and £279 respectively.JHS: 0113 286 5381

PROEL INTERNATIONAL hasscooped the UK distributiondeal for what the London-based company describes as‘the finest snare drums in theworld,’ namely the Italian-made Drum Art range.

Drum Art snares arehandmade by Silvano Bianucci,a leading craftsman in wood,and represents the mostpainstaking efforts tofashion the perfect snare drum.

Each Drum Art snaredrum is a unique creation,produced from 2.7cm(1.06 inch) solid wood.They are capable ofproducing “unheard ofsound quality andvolume”, Bianucci said.

In addition to the eye-catching shells, Drum Artsnares feature solidaluminium lugs, stainlesssteel M6 pitch tensionrods, a MicronTune snarestrainer and Puresoundsnare wires.

Drum Art snare drums areavailable from leading

percussion specialists acrossthe UK in spruce, maple,cherry, mutenia walnut,padouk, supreme (an Africanrosewood) and olive, in a widerange of sizes based on 12, 13and 14-inch diameters. Thewood chosen endows a

Drum Art snare with its owndistinctive sound, which meansdrummers have plenty ofchoice to achieve the tonethat is exactly right for them.Drum Art snare drums will sellfrom £750 to £1,000.PROEL: 020 8761 9911

Proel gets into the art of drumsBoutique Italian manufacturer announces entry into the UK market

SUTHERLAND TRADING hasbeen appointed as exclusive UKand Ireland distributor of theMadarozzo Bags and CaseCouture. Madarozzo MD MartinRitter and Sutherland MD GarethJones shook hands on thearrangement at the recentWinter NAMM show.

“Madarozzo fills one of the fewgaps in the Sutherland portfolio,”said Jones. “We’ve been sellingunbranded bags as a commoditybut we’re looking forward tobuilding a brand that has value.Martin Ritter’s experience,reputation and knowledge of theindustry give us a great start.”

The arrangement is seen bySutherland as a perfect fit as allMadarozzo products are designedby UK designers at Madarozzo’sNewcastle base.

Martin Ritter, who wasinstrumental in changing the waythe industry views musicalinstrument bags and cases, said:“Based on the huge success ofmy past work I had an enormousresponse on my new Madarozzoproject. After considering severalapproaches from the UK I amhappy to appoint Sutherland asexclusive distributor.”

The Madarozzo Gig BagCouture range is a fusion ofdesign, function and instrumentprotection and comprises morethan 70 models in a wide varietyof shapes, padding and pricepoints. It offers luggage grade600D polyester, rugged zippers,soft nylon lining, comfortabledesigned backpacks and secureheadstock, bridge and end-pinprotection.

Stocks are likely to be in theUK in April, although dealers arewelcome to contact Sutherlandimmediately.SUTHERLAND: 029 2088 7333

Sutherland bags couture brandMartin Ritter’s new company finds gap in leading UK distributor

Year of the Oram

THE JOHN Oram brand is nowavailable again in the UK,comprising its entire heritage, rightup to the latest range of outboardand consoles, all under oneumbrella: Oram Professional Audio.

The latest Oram innovations,known as the T Series, will still bemade in England with the samesonics and reliability, but with anew robust metal frame and metalshaft pots throughout.

Four recording consoleconfigurations are available with32, 24, 16 and eight inputs. Thereis even an eight-channel rackversion. All offer eight busses, eightauxiliary sends, a dedicatedmonitoring buss, mono mode, dualspeaker selection, built in talkbackmic and optional meter bridge.

The upgrades continue withthe Oram S25 dual 1U, HighDefinition mic-pre, thatbenefits from his latestchip-set design,which

gives a 28dBu input and outputheadroom. The Oram S50 singlepre has the same upgrade, andoffers instrument input, full eq andoptical compressor with VU meter,all in a 2U rack space.

To celebrate 45 years in theindustry, 2009 sees a live console,the Oram S200. John hasdeveloped this action-packed racknumber with Gunter Erdmann, oneof Germany’s top names in livesound. It has a frequency range of20Hz to 60kHz (within one dB), afour band eq, eight XLR balancedmic inputs and stereo channel.There is a deluxe model availablewith broadcast standard I/Ointerface with all metal pots,connectors and control knobs.ORAM PROFESSIONAL AUDIO:

01474 815300

John Oram products return to the UK

DISTRIBUTION • NEWS

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Date the business wasestablished: September 9th, 1982

Number of employees: 89

Is business up or down comparedto this time last year? Anyparticular reasons?Although though it was not an easyyear in many respects, we werefortunate enough to see business upby nine per cent in 2008 overall.

What are your best selling lines?The Warwick Range in general,RockBag, RockCase and Rockstand.

Apart from your products, whatare your strengths as adistributor?Firstly, we hold a huge stock levelfor our partners to facilitateimmediate supply. Secondly, we tryto work precisely, without anymistakes, in order to make ourpartners’ lives easier.

What do you think this year willbe like for retailers? Why?It’s difficult to say – if you look tothe daily news in the media you

might consider closing down yourcompany. The reality is though,business for us is still strong and wedo not feel a real effect so far. Ideeply believe that music is aninvaluable contribution to thequality of life in our society andthat consumers still wish to spendmoney on musical products.

What do you think is the biggestchallenge facing the industrytoday?To create the right product that ourconsumers are willing to buy.

In a perfect world what productlines would you add to yourportfolio?We are definitely happy with theproducts we carry and we are not

looking for any new products.

What are your aims for the next12 months?To continue with our investmentplans for production, in order toreach the very highest level ofquality possible in the industry forour Framus Guitars and Warwickbasses, worldwide.

Finally, how did Warwick find theNAMM show this year?Warwick’s booth was an awe-inspiring presence at NAMM – likeSuperman’s Fortress of Solitude orDarth Vader’s Death Star. Big andblack with the Warwick logosplashed about in iconic yellow, itmerged the best of Warwick’s pastwith the potential that lay ahead.

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PROFILE • DISTRIBUTION

Address: 75 Bridge Street, Manchester, M3 2RHPhone: 0161 839 0666Website: www.warwick-distribution.deEmail: info@warwickbass.co.ukContact: Hans Peter Wilfer

Known for itsexceptional basses andthe ever-popularRockbag, Warwick is alsoworking hard topromote and develop itsother lines, includingFramus guitars. As MDHans Peter Wilferreports, it seems thatthe company is doing asterling job…

CONTACT DETAILS

Dealer day underlines strong marketTHE INSTITUTE of Directors onLondon’s Pall Mall was host tothe annual Intermusic PianoExhibition on January 7th thisyear for the 23rd time, with 40top Intermusic dealers beingtreated to lunch and the chanceto view the latest models fromthe Dorset-based supplier.

At what has now become aconstant in piano dealers’calendar, all were treated to achampagne reception, fine foodand the chance not only to relaxin delightful surroundings, butalso to place the first orders ofthe year for Intermusic’s ever-growing catalogue of pianos.

On offer this year of particularnote were new models from

Bechstein and Ritmüller, as wellas the recently revamped Bentleyrange, made in the Pearl Riverfactory. Also with the Bentleybadge on it was a new electronicdrum kit.

“The day went off very well,”reported Intermusic’s MD,Richard Webb. “But then, wealways do well at this event.Everyone came and they were alllooking for savings – and judgingby the sales we made, theysucceeded. We would certainlylose out if we didn’t hold thisday. It is a chance to get in frontof dealers for a day, show themthe latest products for thecoming year and, of course, tosocialise and say thank you.”

The event came at a timewhen the piano trade wouldappear to be coping extremelywell with the current downturn,with the dealers present

reporting fourth quarter sales for2008 at worst flat, butexperiencing growth.

“I think everyone recognisesthat business will probably go

down this year,” continued Webb.“The US has had a 20 per centdrop and this could happen here.It hasn’t happened yet, so wecan be reasonably optimistic.”

The event is a logisticsnightmare, with some 30 pianosbeing delivered and installed inthe first floor room in themorning, then removed andshipped back at the end of theday. Webb had nothing but praisefor G&R Removals, whichhandled the carrying.

“It is the most professionaloutfit in this field and hashandled every one of ourexhibitions since the beginning,”he said. INTERMUSIC: 01202 696963

PIANO NEWS

40 top dealers gather for informal afternoon with most reporting stable sales at Intermusic’s piano exhibition

Yamaha claims size mattersMI giant expands award-winning grand piano line-up with new GC2

MI Pro’s section dedicated to all the news and issues that directly concern the piano market in theUK and beyond. If you have any news, views or promotions that involves the manufacture, supply orretailing of pianos, send them in to mipro@intentmedia.co.uk.

Positive notes forpiano marketPiano Warehouse looks forward to 2009

HOWARD MARTYN of thePiano Warehouse haspublished an extensive view ofthe market over the past yearand considers what to expectfrom 2009 in his company’slatest newsletter.

Despite gloomy predictionsat the beginning of 2008 andthe inevitable price increasesat the end of the year, Martynnoted that many retailers inthe UK enjoyed better levels ofbusiness than expected.Difficulties with price riseshampered the market a little,but again less than expected,although with Chinesefactories reporting a 35 percent downturn due to a fall insales to the US, profitabilityhas made it hard to remainopen, let alone profitable. “Forbusinesses buying from thesefactories, it is a case of ‘buyerbeware,’” said Martyn.

“With regard to factoriessuch as Beijing Piano and PearlRiver, though they are farbetter protected by having alarge presence in the healthyhome market, there remainsthe possibility that they willbe forced to increase processat some point.”

Martyn emphasised thatprices have increased acrossthe board, so no-one hasescaped and possibly pianosare back in line with morerealistic values, having beenstable for over a decade.

He concluded that it wouldbe foolish to predict anything,but points out that there isevidence of firms tradingdown. Despite this, the factthat 2008 turned out betterthan expected, might meansimilar could be true of 2009. PIANO WAREHOUSE:020 7267 9229

In black and white

12 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

BUILDING ON the increasinglypopular G series grand pianoline up, Yamaha’s new five-foot,eight-inch GC2, the companyclaims, delivers excellent soundquality and a highly responsivekeyboard action.

The award-winning G pianoshave become one of Yamaha’smost popular instruments inrecent years thanks to theincorporation of a range ofsound and manufacturingcharacteristics drawn from thecompany’s professionalConservatoire grand pianos. Inthe GC2, the duplex scaling hasbeen refined to deliver overallbalance and an increased depthof sound and range normallydifficult to produce in smallerinstruments. The secret to scaledesign, mastered by Yamaha, isthe concept of considering thepiano as a whole, rather than acollection of individualcomponents.

The solid spruce soundboardproduces warmth and power,

and this, combined withupgraded frame quality,ensures consistency of tone.Yamaha's key action providesquality response across theentire dynamic range, makingthe instrument equally suitablefor all musical styles.

The GC2 is available in awide range of finishes that willmaximise the instrument'sappeal – these include blackpolyester, ivory polyester,American walnutpolyester orsatin,mahogany

polyester and white polyester.With prices starting at justover £14,000, theseinstruments are perfect for thehome, hotels and restaurantsand mid-sized venues. YAMAHA: 01908 366700

L to R: Richard Webb,Steve Hammett andDavid Rushworth

Day oneTHOUGH MANY companies are currentlyholding back on the release of newproducts, there were plenty of launches tokeep the drum community happy.

Evans was showing Onyx twin ply blackcoated heads, EC1 snare heads, G-plus tomheads and Gmad bass drum heads. Also onshow was the new Ecopad, touted as anecological practice pad. The surface is madefrom recycled tyres and the base is madefrom compressed wood shavings. Somepads have an adjustable ‘snare’ mechanism.

Sabian releases consisted of AAXplosionfast crashes in 14 to 19-inch sizes and amatching AAXplosion 11-inch splash. TheArtisan range is expanded by 16 and 18-inch crashes and 13 to 15-inch hats.There is a new 11-inch Alubell to matchthose released last year.

The Raw Bell dry ride gets moved overto both the AAX and HHX ranges, both in21-inches. There is a new AAX ride in theform of the Memphis ride, aimed at thegospel community, but don’t pigeonhole it.

Dixon was showing the Outlaw, Demonand Chaos kits, together with an interestingnine-ply rosewood snare, complete withDunnett strainer and a new left footeddouble pedal.

Mapex showed the new Meridian kits inboth maple and birch. These have a revisedmounting system which is very solid andstill isolates. There are also upgrades for theSaturn (all black hardware all round) andfresh colours for the Orion. There is a newVXB, additional colours for the QR and adebut, entry level Q series.

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 13

The news from the impressive drum hall at the NAMM show, day by day, in this show special drum page

Day threeTHE VLX shell is new from DW, whichapparently gives an even lower shellpitch than the VLT and X-Shells. TheVLX shells have a couple of verticalplies mixed in with an X-Shell.

Roland has released the TD4 kit,which replaces the TD3. The kit has acompletely new module and rack, 25kits and 125 sounds. It focuses on moreRhythm Coach facilities for self-teaching and is compatible with theVH11 pad. The kit is due to ship inFebruary and lists for £969.

Following on from Rock Band (whichwas set up with a TD9 kit on thestand), Roland developed a newcomputer program for the HD1,which received a Best in Showplaudit. All cables are provided andthe program shows you music to play(either in Rock Band format or in'normal' drum score) and marks yourplaying.

Sonor was showing the Danny CareySignature snare, which is a 14 by 8-inchbrass shell with laser etched shell. TheForce 2007 and 3007 series now comein a new Rock set configuration with 22by 20-inch, 12 by eight-inch and 16 by16-inch with a 14 by six-inch snare.

Drums along NAMM

THIS PAGE IS SPONSORED BY MIKEDOLBEAR.COM, THE LEADING ONLINE RESOURCE FOR EVERYTHING DRUMS.

VISIT WWW.MIKEDOLBEAR.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.

ZILDJIAN REVEALED the new A CustomRezo cymbals, which have alternatingbands of traditional and brilliant finish,along with a new bell size and alternatinglathing, too.

Yamaha has been making changes toexisting gear rather then bringing out newstuff. The hardware range has had amakeover with new tilters and ball andsocket snare stands. The hi-hat stands havebeen lightened and now have retracting,lethal spurs in the feet, and the hi-hat and bass drum pedal all havea new smooth footplate, whichlooks retro and modern at thesame time.

Alesis had the USB Pro kiton display triggering a copy of BFD 2. Thekit consists of the Alesis pads and Surgecymbal pads going into a Alesis Trigger I/Oand then on, via MIDI, to a computerrunning the program. It’s a simple,efficient kit that was certainlygetting some attention.

Alesis was also showing an improved kitfor use with Rock Band for those whowant something a little more sturdy.

Further details of all products on thispage and many others can be found onthe Mike Dolbear website.

Day twoMEINL HAD just a few new cymbals onshow, but did have 130 new percussionproducts. From the cymbals there wasthe new range called SoundcasterFusion. They’re not aimed at fusiondrummers (though they can be used forfusion), but the name comes from thefusion of lathed and unlathed areas onthe cymbals surface.

Big news from Pearl is the EliminatorDemon Drive pedal. This has been builtfrom the ground up and features a soliddrive, Ninja bearing everywhere and afootplate that converts from a shortboard to a long board.

Gretsch was going a little retro with aUSA Custom 12/14/18 kit finished inVintage Oyster White that it had copiedfrom a piece of 30 year-old wrap. This isone of five new finishes for the range.

Gibraltar has a new stand, which canhold laptops, mixers, keyboards and soon. To go with it there is a mini fold-up table which is perfect for mini

mixers and the like. The NRG throne isfor drummers who want something big,but not something that will get in theway of their legs, as it is like a saddlethrone with the front cut off andshaped like a human backside.

Day four

The EliminatorDemon Drivepedal is a newproduct fromPearl

Blueridge have taken America by storm withtheir authentic vintage style guitars, and nowwe have made them available in the UK. Thisrange, renowned for spectacular value formoney, continues to receive excellent reviewsin all the best known guitar press, includingGuitar & Bass, Guitarist, Guitar Buyer, AcousticMagazine...

The leading brand of resonator guitars, with along US heritage, available in the UK exclu-sively from Gremlin Music. Saga Music, haveapplied the same dedication to quality to theseguitars as they have to the Gitane andBlueridge guitars, and the results are spectacular.

News: SK120 Rated ‘Exceptional’ inAcoustic Magazine. “A wonderful little ampdesigned by people who understand whatmusicians need”. Also Guitar & Bass have

just awarded the SK60 a massive 82%.We distribute these ShireKing Acoustic Ampsalong with Headway’s very popular pickupsfor acoustic instruments, including the Snake3 and SA1 pickups, and the ‘Band’ violin andcello pickups.

The best selling aluminium whistles inthe UK. Renowned for their clear sound,they appeal to whistle players of all stan-dards. Though ideal for beginners, theyare professional instruments and areused on stage by many leading players.

For the Gypsy in your soul! These beautiful guitars pay

homage to the Selmer andMaccaferri guitars of the early

20th century. They have solid tops,are a joy to play, and look andsound like the real thing, right

down to the excellent reproduction of the orig-inal tailpiece. More to the point, they are veryaffordably priced.

The Kentucky mandolins are the pinnacleof affordable bluegrass instruments, andoffer exceptional quality at excellentprices. These mandolins are a very wel-come addition to our growing section ofgreat quality bluegrass instruments,which includes mandolins, banjos,dobros, guitars and more.

A professional quality range of AcousticGuitars, Mandolins, Banjos & Fiddles, Basses,cases, electrics and more. This is the largestrange of mandolin family instruments, banjosand ukuleles in the UK, and the Ashburyname is associated with high quality andexcellent value.

A competitively priced range ofstudent squeezeboxes, includ-ing Piano Accordions from 12to 120 Bass, B/C, D/G andCajun one-row melodeons, andAnglo and English concertinas,all ideal for beginners.

As well as being the first point of call for all the hard to find traditional musical instruments your customers are askingyou for, Gremlin Music is a one stop shop for any musical instrument retailer. We can supply a massive range of acousticmusical instruments, spares, accessories, strings, books and DVDs. Become a Gremlin Dealer and give your customersa better choice! We pride ourselves on the personal touch - you can always reach us by phone during work-ing hours, and we’ll always send your order as fast as possible, no matter what the size. If you’re a dealer,you can browse our website for prices (retail and wholesale), contact us by email, and place orders online! We’ve beenin the business for over 25 years, and can offer you an experienced, friendly and professional service.

www.gremlinmusic.co.uk post@gremlinmusic.co.uk

Just a few of our Leading Brands...

Tel: +44 (0) 1903 203044 (9.30 - 5.30 Mon - Fri) | Unit A, Easting Close, Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 8HQ

NAMM • SHOW REVIEW

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 15

NAMM’s final comment on thisyear’s show confirmed whateverybody who attended the show

expected: figures were down. Visitorattendance dropped three per cent to85,799, while exhibitor numbers weredown nominally to 1,505 from 1,559 in 2008.

The usual mass scramble to get inthrough the doors on the openingmorning was absent and the first day wasnoticeably quieter than anyone couldremember. Numbers clearly picked up onthe Friday and Saturday and then droppedback again on the Sunday – although infairness, it was no quieter than anySunday at any Winter NAMM gathering.

International visitors were down, too, ataround two per cent less than last year,which made for something of a strangeshow for those foreigners (particularlyBrits) who would normally spend the fourdays avoiding their compatriots. This yearthey were missing them.

And the overall result of all this?Probably one of the most fruitful, excitingand, as NAMM’s president, Joe Lamond

put it, important trade shows anyone hasever seen.

The reason for this is everything that islisted above – the uncertain economicclimate and the paranoia that, for some

strange reason, spending money on yourbusiness is a bad thing when times gethard. Of course, budgets need to bescrutinised, as good times invariablyinspire thoughtless overheads, but cuttingback on a show designed to improverevenue could be seen as being equallythoughtless.

Even before the show opened theatmosphere was set with two breakfast

calls – namely NAMM’s Breakfast ofChampions and Marshall’s MG4 serieslaunch. The latter was a sure-fire way toclear the tubes, with Kerry King (who cannow, for the first time, confirm that thesun is not yet up in California at 7am) andWhitesnake’s Doug Aldrich blasting outthe rock n roll over ham and eggs. Theformer proved to be something of an eyeopener as Joe Lamond attempted tointerview Gene Simmons. The former Kissbassman and vocalist railed the tradeaudience, asking individuals among themwhether their customers came to them orwhether they went out to their customers.Woe betide those that answered thecustomers came to them. “Not goodenough!” hollered Simmons.

These days, Simmons works in mediaand sets himself impressive goals – ‘thinkbig and be proactive’ was the gist of hisbarrage. It went down very well.

One British supplier noted that at timessuch as this, visitor numbers are evenmore irrelevant than they are whenbusiness is generally good. “If people havecome to the show in spite of the reasons

there are to stay away, then they musthave a plan and very likely a cheque bookas well,” he said.

While not strictly true – there were anumber of retailers on the aisles withouttheir cheque book – it stands thateveryone was there with clear goals…

Talking to retailers pounding the aislesand looking for… well, that was none tooclear as most of them were holding theircards close to their chest, but reports from the exhibitors revealed that businesswas good.

UK exhibitors, including JHS, IndieGuitars, Ashdown and Orange, were allmost pleased with the results. In somecases it could be put down to loweredexpectations, but generally it wouldappear that good business was donepretty much across the board.

Which brings us on to the seriousbusiness of having kit to sell. Productlaunches were pretty much wall to walland while a lot of it was a continuation ofwork done before, there were somegenuine innovations that could easilyspark whole new areas of business.

With the world cowering in expectation of the global economic collapse that still might or might not happen (accordingto which news broadcaster you listen to) most people expected January’s NAMM show to be a subdued affair. Howwrong they were. It wasn’t even quiet. Andy Barrett reports...

The overall result?One of the most

fruitful, exciting andimportant trade

shows anyone hasever seen.

Come together

Event: The NAMM ShowVenue: Anaheim Convention Center,CaliforniaDate: January 15th to 18thExhibitors: 1,505Visitors: 85,799 (down three per cent)Verdict: A quieter NAMM than usual,but by no means a quiet NAMM. Thefinancial constraints many are feelingmeant that those attending the showwere there to do serious business.Buyers on the aisles were keepingschtum as to what their plans were,but exhibitors were all surprisinglyupbeat, reporting good sales.

ROLANDThe glum faces of journalists called intothe Roland demonstration hall on theWednesday evening before the showopened did not take long to brighten up asthe Japanese hi tech specialist launchedwhat was to be the product of the show –the V-Piano.

This versatile instrument probably owesmore in heritage to the electric pianos ofRhodes and Wurlitzer, although theinstrument is a fully digital piano.

What the Roland R&D team has done isdevelop piano emulation, or modelling, forso long now a staple of the guitarfraternity, that depends upon the digitalcreation of soundwaves that reproducesevery aspect of acoustic piano sound.

Steinway and Bösendorfer pianos canbe ‘reproduced’, as well as the creation ofextra string windings, different stringmaterials (such as silver), hammerproportions and hardness, and frame andcabinet size all being accessible througheasy to use controls.

The result is either pure, traditionalpiano sounds or avant garde‘constructions’ that would be an

impossibility for traditional pianomanufacturers.

This was one of 19 product launchesfrom Roland, with other items of notebeing the Boss ME-70 multi-effects unit,the KC-880 stereo keyboard amp, thereturn of the shoulder keyboard with theAx-Synth, the VP-770 vocal and ensemblekeyboard, which has a newly-developedVocal Designer and the TD-4K electronic drum kit: the latest addition to the V-Drums range.

FENDERAs ever, Fender had a large ‘booth’ – newlyinstalled on the third floor – completelyrammed with new gear from the dozen orso companies FMIC now owns. No fewerthan 40 new guitars, amps and (yes,honestly) ukuleles.

Bringing the past back to life (andmaking it more accessible to a newgeneration), the Road Worn series ofFender guitars (Strat, Tele, Precision andJazz) re-creates guitars of the ‘50s and‘60s, replete with distressed finishes andthe knowledge that Fender’s Custom Shopis behind them.

With that vintage flavour still in mind,Fender also launched the new Band-Master VM and Deluxe VM amps, as wellas the Band-Master VM 212 cabinet,based on the classic Deluxe Reverb andHot Rod Deluxe amps – the first (Fenderassures us) pro valve amps on the market.

There are also new Iron Maidensignature guitars, a Steve Harris Precisionand a Dave Murray Strat.

Away from the Fender brand, Fall OutBoy’s guitarist and singer, Patrick Stump,got together with Gretsch to create theStump-O-Matic Electromatic Corvetteelectric guitar and Takamine has continuedits annual ‘arts and crafts’ releases withthe Ltd 2009, an electro-acoustic with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides.

JHSHunkered down in the treasure trove thatis Hall E (or The Basement), JHS had thefull range of Fret King guitars on show, aswell as the new Encore Blaster series ofelectrics. The latter, JHS’ top-selling entry-level guitars, have come in for the sametreatment as the Vintage range, with

Trevor Wilkinson adding features andtweaks to improve playability and overalloutput of the guitars.

Equally special are the new Fret Kingmodels that are pretty much constructedby Wilkinson at his workshop in Southportand are being labelled the Studio (orStvdio) series. Models include a CoronaDeluxe and the visually stunning Ventona60, with four humbuckers and finished in24 carat gold leaf. Dennis Drummaffectionately refers to this as Wilkinson’s‘Lagavulin Guitar’, named after a 16 year-

old single malt whiskey. “He must havehad a drop of this when he decided to putso many features on this guitar,” he says.There will be five models initially in themaster-built Stvdio series.

EPIPHONEGibson’s entry-level brand is moving up inthe world these days, with the launch ofthe 1962 Wilshire Custom Historic electricguitar, a reproduction of the originalWilshire, which was launched in 1960 tocompete with the Fender Strat.

The guitar has a chunky, retro feel andpacks a punch with its two P90 pickups,although the retro price of $210 in 1962has not been retained. This one will sellthrough at around $1,400.

Epiphone also had a very sexy littlerange of retro-styled amps due for launchlater this year – watch this space.

LUDWIGCelebrating its 100th anniversary in 2009,Ludwig has a selection of special kits tocelebrate. Notable among these are theCorey Miller signature kit (with shelldesigns courtesy of the tattoo artist that

gives the kit its name) and the re-issue ofRingo Starr’s Black Pearl kit from theheyday of Beatlemania.

The Ludwig marketing team had alsospent the past year putting together amovie which lays out the history of thedrum manufacturer, featuring many of itstop endorsers over the years – and unlikemany of the promo films we see in MI,this one comes across as a genuinedocumentary with quality productionvalues. I have to say that it was anenjoyable watch.

Hunkered down in the treasure trove that is Hall E(or The Basement), JHS had the full range of FretKing guitars on show, as well as the new Encore

Blaster series of electrics.

16 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

SHOW REVIEW • NAMM

GENE SIMMONS: “Think

big and be proactive”

Ashdown and Haydenamplification put ampsnext to its bus...

KORGStill flush with its hooking of the Samsonand Hartke brands, Korg still had someexcellent product launches under its ownbrand and, of course, with Vox – mostnotably the continuation of the JoeSatriani signature pedals. There are twonew pedals in the series, the Big Bad Wahdual wah pedal and the Time Machinedelay pedal. The wah pedal enablesswitchable access to two completelydifferent onboard wahs, while the delayunit offers a unique mix of tonal colors,wide delay range and musical dexteritythat sets it apart from other delays.

The Korg LP-350 ‘lifestyle’ digital pianois touted as ‘the most compact cabineteddigital piano now available on the market’.This full 88-note keyboard is designed tocomplement the modern lifestyle in afashionable and functional, yetunobtrusive way. Korg had also goneoverboard with product cosmetics andcolourings at this year’s NAMM, with alimited edition pink Kaossilator and brightcasings (red, yellow and blue) on the M50keyboards (of which there were models on

the Korg stand signed by Herbie Hancockand Edgar Winter).

YAMAHAYamaha had three acoustic guitars andthree electro-acoustics launched at theshow, the former in the L series and thelatter from the FG series. The acousticshave solid Engelmann spruce tops, three-ply laminated neck (mahogany, rosewood,mahogany), Yamaha's new C shape neckblock, combined with a hand-fitteddovetail neck joint with the whole thingcoated with an ultra-thin finish, tomaintain resonance.

The new FGs have 0.3mm thinner backand sides (again for increased resonance),a hand-fitted dovetail neck joint, enlargedL shape neck block and a thinner neck, aswell as the now expected Yamaha ARTpickup system.

GODLYKEAs well as having all of the Power-Allmodels on its stand, boasting highercurrent ratings and improved noise specs,Godlyke introduced three new package

NAMM • SHOW REVIEW

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 17

Bedwas House Ind Est, Caerphilly CF83 8XQ, T: 0845 2300 633E: sales@sutherlandtrading.com W: www.sutherlandtrading.com

Steve Vai revealed his firstsignature amp at the show,

which is produced by Carvin

configurations and four plug types for the range.

On top of this, Godlyke launched theTotally Wycked audio effects (TWA) brandwith the first model of the range being theLittle Dipper formant filter and ChunkSystems’ impressive Octavius Squeezeranalog bass synth, winner of theOutstanding Tone Award from Bass Guitarmagazine in the UK.

ASHDOWNAshdown and Hayden amplification hadone of the stand-out booths at the show. Ithad a genuine, open-topped double-deckerLondon bus and stacked up the amps andperformance areas around it (a neat ploy forthose looking for a cheaper standconstruction without losing square footage).

The newly revamped Hayden range atthe show included the Petite 2, Petite 5,Cotton Club 7/15, Cotton Club 15/30,Speakeasy and Classic Lead 80. TheSpeakeasy and Classic Lead 80 areavailable as heads, with a selection of2x12, and flat and angled 4x12 cabinets.

On the Ashdown side of the bus werethe first cabinet models to come out ofAshdown’s new Kentucky manufacturingplant, as well as the BTA 400 bass valveamp – a sledgehammer 400-Watt headthat partners the ABM Evo III preamp withan all-tube output section.

MARSHALLAs mentioned previously, the MarshallMG4 series of amps was launched directlyprior to the show at the loudest breakfastever, courtesy of Slayer’s Kerry King andWhitesnake’s Doug Aldrich. There are eightamps in the range, from ten and 15-Watt

combos to the ‘full-fat’ 100-Watt comboand head, all containing the same digitaleffects processor and Stompwaretechnology. With the new MG4s, Marshallhas returned to a simple, tried and trustedpanel layout for ease of use, with gain,followed by a three-band eq, volume andmaster volume placed in line. On top ofthis, the amps are packed with highquality effects (chorus, flange, delay,reverb) all controllable from theStompware footpedal that connects to theamps via a standard quarter-inch jack.

The effects are programmable and theresult is pretty startling.

TANGLEWOODTanglewood Guitars introduced the newTanglewood Master Design by Sanden tothe US and Canada to considerable acclaim.

Chuffed with its standing as ‘the onlyBritish guitar brand to be elevated to themain show area’, Tanglewood was ondisplay through its US distributorMusiquip, a US division of the Canadiandistributor SF Marketing.

The UK’s Tanglewood team met up with most of its 36 world distributors andmanaged to add to these with four newmarkets in Russia, Japan, Taiwan and Argentina.

As is often the case with Brits atNAMM, the flag was flown in fordecorating the stand in Union Jack livery.

LARRIVÉEThis fast-growing, large-scale (buteminently boutique) luthier introduced twonew mandolins at the show – the A-33 A-style and F-33 F-style mandolins, whichhave signature Larrivée select woods andhand-fit orchestral violin-type V neck joints.Both models use all solid western curlymaple back and sides, sitka spruce top,western curly maple neck, ebony fretboard,ebony headstock and truss rod cover, goldtuners and tailpiece, vintage water-stainedsunburst and 1920s-style loar bridge.

ALLEN & HEATHAllen & Heath unveiled the Xone:22, atwo channel analog DJ mixer, promisinghigh quality audio and a professionalfeature set at an entry level price. Thesmallest and most affordable Xone mixerto date, the Xone:22 is equipped with alite version of the analog Voltage ControlFilter (VCF) system, offering low-pass andhigh-pass filters, frequency sweep and‘mild to wild’ resonance control. There isalso a soft-switched effects loop to bringin external effects, which are routed backin through the filter system.

The new mixer has two stereo channelswith dual phono/line inputs and phonoscan be configured to line if no RIAAsources are in use. There is a three-bandtotal kill eq, crossfader curve control switchand the maximum output level is +25dBu.

CARVINThe third day of the show saw Steve Vaiaddressing the press office and launchinghis first signature amp, manufactured byCarvin. The new Vai Legacy II seriescomprises all-tube three-channel amps,which are the result of Carvin engineersworking closely with Steve Vai. The LegacyII has been reviewed and tweaked by ampdesigner Benjamin Fargen of Fargen Amps,who says that the result is “a powerfulblend of high-end boutique sound androck-solid American manufacturing”.

RETAIL UPLast, but by no means least, Retail Up,which sponsored MI Pro’s NAMM coveragethis year, introduced two new features toits online retailing system. The additionsto the Retail Up website and managementsystem includes a new ‘lead tracker’function and a ‘sales separation’ function.

The lead tracker provides automationwoven into the system that alerts theneed to follow up on customers, whetherthose for rented instruments or thosebuying products or books, or even thoseon the system who have followed throughan enquiry. The sales separation functionmeans that the program can divide‘shopping basket’ requests on the websiteinto items in stock or not. Following this,the system will alert the relevant suppliersas to the need for stock at a particularstore and can (if such a service isprovided) dispatch the goods for theretailer direct to the customer.

Retail Up is looking for a freelanceagent to represent its systems in the UK.Enquiries should be made to the editor of MI Pro.

SHOW REVIEW • NAMM

18 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

Ashdown and Hayden amplification had agenuine, open-topped double-decker London

bus and stacked up the amps and performanceareas around it.

It might seem paradoxical at a timewhen Nintendo Wiis, iPhones and Blu-Ray players seem to be the ‘must haves’

of our time, but reports from across theUK’s MI industry suggest that it istraditional instruments – and that meansreally traditional instruments – that arestaring recession in the eye and forcing itto back down.

Gremlin Music, for example, has beenbanging the drum (or should that bebodhran?) for traditional instruments forover 25 years and whenever owner PeteMcClelland or manager Chris Rudd areinterviewed, they report that business isjust fine. Of course, so do many others,but the facts bear out the duo’s optimism.Just over a year ago, the Sussex-basedcompany moved to a greatly expandedwarehouse and offices facility andbusiness, since then, has just kept ongrowing, with plenty of new products onthe way and a greatly enhanced website,bearing witness to continued investmentand growth.

Pete McClelland is too experienced ahand to take this success for granted,however, and he has some sharplyobserved views about the state of theindustry, which soon emerge, as we speak.But first, how is Gremlin doing and whatdoes he see as the driving force beingbehind its continued success and thegeneral good fortune being experienced bythe traditional sector?

“From our experience, the market isdefinitely good. There’s quite a strongdemand from retailers and we’reundoubtedly selling more to them. We’d like to think we’re doing so wellbecause people like us and find us easy todo business with but, obviously, there’ssome element of traditional instrumentsbeing more recession proof thanmainstream ones.

“That said, there seems to be evidencethat instruments, generally, are sellingbetter than some people had beenpredicting. The figures that I’ve beenreading from the MIA, for example, about

guitar sales holding up are pretty muchtrue from our experience, too. I think we were up 12 per cent recently and that is definitely due to demand. We’vedone the right things, we advertise, we putout catalogues and we keep our websitevery up to date, but we haven’t doneanything spectacularly better than before,so that increase has to be due toimproved demand.”

Despite Gremlin’s success, McClellandadmits he is deeply concerned by theproblem besetting the industry as a whole– particularly, the spectre of a plummetingpound and the price increases fromoverseas suppliers.

“What we are doing is putting ourprices up as we get the goods, rather thanimposing blanket price increasesbeforehand, which means some of ourprices have gone up more than otherpeople’s, while others haven’t gone up atall yet. For that reason, I don’t know thatwe’ve really felt the heat yet, because alot of retailers and their customers haven’t

With hi tech distractions everywhere and the ever-present aura of rock n roll forever in our faces, it is always refreshingto go back to the roots of our music making through folk-based suppliers such as Gremlin. Gary Cooper discoversthat it’s not just the music that is traditional – the business is, too…

Steady

beat

COVER FEATURE • GREMLIN

20 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

yet seen the full-force of the impendingprice rises.”

As McClelland admits, when the pricerises do work their way through thepipeline, they can be eye-watering. “Theworst yet has been an item which wehadn’t bought for over a year. When wedid, by the time we had worked it out, ithad gone up by 70 per cent. Typically, theyare 35 or 40 per cent increases which,when I hear some distributors are puttingtheir prices up by just 20 per cent, makesme wonder about their margins.

“But we are definitely going to put ourprices up. I’m a margins man, whichmeans that the sales we’ve made havebeen profitable, so I’m in a good positionat the moment. But I am fearful thatwhen people come to restock their guitarsand see how much they cost they willwant to buy less. The staff probably thinkI’m being unduly pessimistic, but I don’tthink we’ve hit the problems, yet.”

THE TEST OF THE TIMESThe acid test – and it is one facing theentire industry – is not, however, whatretailers or distributors think, it is what theend-user feels when he is asked to payconsiderably more for the instrument hewants to buy. Here, McClelland (who, likeeveryone at Gremlin, plays in a band andhas day to day contact with giggingmusicians beyond those he encounters atwork) is optimistic. His belief is that mostmusical purchases are made on such anirregular basis that, for the most part,musicians simply aren’t aware what theprice of the instrument they areconsidering was, say, six months ago.

“The salesman might be nervous,thinking that the instrument has gone up,

say, 50 per cent, but the customerwill have researched it on theinternet, and he will simply try toget the best price he can today.

“That said, it doesn’t meanthey will have the actual moneyto actually buy the products –that’s a different question, sothere are still worries ahead.”

“I think prices have been waytoo cheap for a long while,” addsChris Rudd. “People have actuallyasked ‘how can they make this socheap?’ and it’s just bad timingthat the increase has been so highand at a time when the news tellspeople there’s a recession. If itwasn’t for all the news reportingabout the recession, would anyoneactually know there was anythingdifferent going on?”

As an aside, both McClelland andRudd are less than happy with therole the media in general, and the

BBC in particular, have played inspreading the recession meme and Rudd

is also less than impressed with the

government’s VAT reduction. As he says:“Ooh, I’m saving 5p – it doesn’t make alot of difference to the end-user, does it?”

“There is another aspect to the pricerises that some may not be aware of,which is that they affect this countryparticularly hard,” McClelland says. “Theglobal market isn’t affected by currenciesto the same extent – it is only the Britishmarket that has been so badly hit.

“I’ve looked at India, Pakistan, Turkeyand other non-EU countries,” he continues(Gremlin procures instruments from atremendously diverse range of sources),“and they are all much less troubled thanwe have been.

“It’s almost unique to us, because othercurrencies are tied to the US dollar oneway or another and we are not. Thatmeans our factories and suppliers don’tunderstand our dilemma. They don’trealise that if they force us to take stuff ata stupid price it will strangle business with them.

“This could have quite an impact ondistributors, generally. People could loselines because they’re thought not to bedoing the business they ‘should’ be doing,by suppliers who don’t realise how badlythe UK has been hit.”

CAN MI ESCAPE?That said, McClelland’s view is that MImight escape the worst of the recession,because it has undergone a significant cullin recent years, with the loss of Williamsand Sound Control as well as the foldingof some smaller distributors.

Gremlin’s strategy for handling therough seas ahead is simple but guaranteedto appeal to its customers. Quite simply, itplans to do everything possible to make iteasy for a retailer to do business withthem. Musical traditionalists McClelland,Rudd and the Gremlin team may be, butthey are anything but Neanderthals and afull time member of staff is employed tokeep the company’s website absolutely up

to date. Revamping the website has beena major project, but one that is vital totheir continued success, they believe.

“Our whole focus is in backing retailers,McClelland says. “This applies both toonline and shop sales. Everybody criticisesonline selling but it’s the future andproviding a retailer has a shop and it isopen, we are very keen to help them sellonline as well and we will do everythingto assist, including drop-shipping, of whichwe are doing an increasing amount. Theretailer makes the sale but we doeverything else – not just delivering to thecustomer, but providing all theinformation they need to be able to sellour products: which is where the newwebsite comes in.

“Obviously, we’ve had a website foryears, but what we have now is greatlyadvanced and, importantly, it is fully up todate. Prices have to be current – not justup to date for this year or this week, butto the actual day. And it’s no use justhaving a few words to describe a product– all the relevant information needs to bethere and it is.”

“We’ve looked at a lot of other people’swebsites in the process of developingours,” says Chris Rudd. “I think, as a result,that ours is far better than a lot of others– for example, in the way the searchfunction works and also by having up todate pricing and information on each

GREMLIN • COVER FEATURE

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 21

“Our whole focus is backing retailers. Everybodycriticises online selling but it’s the future and

providing the retailer has a shop and it’s open,we’re keen to help them sell online as well.”

Pete McClelland, Gremlin

item, as Pete says. Each instrument has itsown page with a lot of detail. It is a veryeasy to use site, both for consumers andretailers, with a fully secure area fordealers, with online ordering, secure creditcard handling – everything we can think ofto make it easy to use.”

DISTRIBUTING CUSTOMERSHaving a good website is only half thestruggle, however. How does Gremlinattract users to it and what does it do tosend them, once they have found whatthey want, to a retailer?

“I think quite a lot of customers findour site because they’re looking forsomething that not a lot of retailers stock– Chieftain whistles, Ashbury banjos, orExclesior melodeons, for example andnormally we’ll be on the first page ofGoogle. From there, they usually drop usan email and we forward them to theirnearest Gremlin dealer,” Rudd says.

And if that dealer doesn’t happen tohave the product in stock? That’s not aproblem, as McClelland mentioned earlier,because Gremlin has been one of the firston the block to do what white goodsmanufacturers have been doing for some time – drop-shipping for its retail customers so that, as far as theconsumer is aware, the product he bought from John Smith Music, isdelivered by them, complete with JohnSmith’s own paperwork.

“We’ve been doing this for a handful ofcustomers for the last couple of years,because it saves the shops having to holdmore stock than they need and it hasworked very well, which is why we’reexpanding it considerably,” Rudd says.

It is this mixture of forward thinkingfrom a company steeped in the Folktradition that perhaps catches peopleunaware. The more you learn about whatPete McClelland and Chris Rudd are tryingto do to improve service to retailers, whilestill maintaining a personal, friendlyapproach, the more you understand thatGremlin is being run by some of thesharpest knives in the drawer. It mightseem a bit laid-back and folky, but interms of the hard-nosed business thinkingneeded to have grown as much as it hasand as far as having an appreciation ofhow the industry is changing, it is at leastthe equal of companies often regarded asthe UK industry’s trailblazers.

One unusual aspect to Gremlin’sbusiness and which is also helping itweather the storm, is the number ofdomestically produced products it sells.“We do still have a core of products madehere,” says McClelland. “Our Gremlin rangehas a fairly strong number of UK products– particularly woodwind and that’s aprotection against the recession. A whistleis going to look 30 per cent cheaperagainst a guitar if it is made here and, of

course, we handle export for a lot of thesecompanies too, and they are very wellplaced in overseas markets because ofthat.

“As everything we import has gone upin price so rapidly, it’s certainly making theproducts we distribute from the UK lookmore attractive,” adds Chris Rudd. “In factwe’re always searching for new UK makerswho are looking for distributors and, ofcourse, we can help them with export, too.Most of our UK-made instruments arethings like whistles and bodhrans, butthere are also the stringed instrumentsfrom Fylde and it’s another thing thatmakes us different from companies thatjust go for Far East produced instruments.We are actively looking for UK productsnow,” he adds, refreshingly.

HELP IS AT HANDRetailers who have already seen thetraditional instrument light may not needan introduction to the plethora of brandsand instruments Gremlin offers, but thosethat haven’t and who are tempted by allthis talk of a thriving market sector they

may not previously have considered, willfind a lot of food for thought on thecompany’s new website. And if they findthemselves growing more intrigued butdon’t feel secure enough to take theplunge into an area of, it has to beadmitted, sometimes quite niche products,then help is at hand. Gremlin is happy togo in, consult and then advise. And,moreover, what it is consulting andadvising on, Messrs Rudd and McClellandare quick to point out, are brands that arenot subject to fierce box-shiftingdiscounts. Nor are many of theinstruments it sells also in the shopwindow of every other dealer in town. Fordealers that decide to take the plunge, onoffer is a Gremlin ‘Folk Dealership’, whichcosts £1,000 at trade prices, and offersincreased margins and a lot of hands-onsupport and advice.

Meanwhile, what is in store for thosewho have already realised the benefits andare looking for more ideas from Gremlin?Well, last year, the Ashbury range began tomake useful inroads into the UK marketwith some impressive guitars, designed by

Bristol-based specialist luthier PhilDavidson, being produced in Vietnam.Now on the way are Ashbury mandolins,the first batch of which has just arrived.

Rudd says: “There are a lot of guitaristsout there that seem to be wanting to startpicking up the mandolin and the handything about the Ashbury range is that ithas a wider fingerboard, so it’s easier forguitarists to play.

“In fact, Phil and I are going to Vietnamthis month, to work on the next project –which will include mandolas, bouzoukisand citterns, which will probably be readyfor retailers at the end of this year. There’sa big hole in the market for affordableinstruments of this type. The mandolin hasbeen far more readily available in recentyears but, in fact, for most players used tothe guitar, the mandola is probably a loteasier to approach, but there just hasn’tbeen an affordable one so far – and nowthere will be.”

It may be a world away from Strats anddistortion pedals – and a light year fromsoftware – but the UK is experiencing nota boom, but a steady, consistent growth ofinterest in Folk, Country and traditionalinstruments that has been underway forseveral years.

If that sounds like a businessopportunity in troubled times, who betterto help than the company that has doneso much to help sustain and encouragethat very market sector?GREMLIN: 01903 203044

COVER FEATURE • GREMLIN

22 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

The Gremlin warehouse stocksa huge variety of traditional

instruments – Ashburymandolins have just arrived

“We’re always searching for new UK makers whoare looking for distributors and, of course, we can

help them with export, too. We’re activelylooking for UK products now.”

Chris Rudd, Gremlin

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www.mi-pro.co.uk miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 25

Take 100 randomly selected stores,a broad sweep of questionscovering everything from best

selling bass amps to predictions for theyear to come and one sturdy telephone,and you’ll find the only comprehensivelook at the current trends in the musicalinstruments industry – or, as we like tocall it, the MI Pro Retail Survey 2009.

The results shown here are anaccurate representation of the answersgiven by the 100 retailers that were

contacted, and make for someinteresting reading. Those surveyedincluded all out rock n roll stores, pianospecialists, sheet music retailers – youname it, we took a sample and grilledthem about the past year. As befittingsuch a cross section, the results werewildly varied and not always asstraightforward as you might think. Thecategories were picked in order topresent a balanced general view of theindustry and were answered honestly

and with much gusto by retailers up anddown the country.

For the sake of brevity and to aid youin getting to the meat of the matter, notevery single vote is shown here, such wasthe huge amount of gear mentioned.With so many votes cast, often in theirones and twos, fitting them all in herewould not have been an easy task, so theleaders in each category are listed, withhonourable mentions given to thoseproducts or companies that performed

well, but just not well enough to crackthe top. All results are shown aspercentages, and do not include the largeamount of retailers that abstained fromeach category, either because they didn’tstock the product or couldn’t find orbring to mind a relevant answer.

Anyway, that’s the tension built upquite enough, and it is now time tomove to the heart of the matter. So, withno further ado, let’s move on to thisyear’s winners…

2009 • RETAIL SURVEY

Retail SurveyThe votes have all been counted, compiled, pored over and triplechecked and the results are finally in. Rob Power takes a fine toothcomb to this year’s MI Pro retail survey and finds out what’s hot andwhat’s not for 2009… 2009

RETAIL SURVEY • 2009

ACOUSTIC GUITAR UNDER £500Tanglewood...........................................................................26%Yamaha FG700 ....................................................................21%Yamaha APX 500 ...................................................................9%Fender CD60............................................................................8%Crafter........................................................................................8%

Honourable Mentions: Ashton D25, Freshman FA1,Epiphone J200

2008 winner Tanglewood has retained a strong presence inthis sector, with the Evolution range making its presence feltin the top spot.

An excellent year for Yamaha in the budget acousticguitar category, with the FG700 – a favourite budget guitarthanks to its excellent, built-to-last construction andsinging tone – finishing up second and third, but withthe greatest percentage overall. The APX serieshas proved popular among players looking totake the step up to a decent second guitar.

Fender’s Chinese-built CD60 has beenperforming well this year, and for a well-constructed guitar with the Fender headstockon it retailing at under £150 it is easy to seewhy. Crafter remains popular across theboard, and was closely followed byAshton’s D25 in the fight for fifth place.Freshman saw a decrease in votes fromlast year but remained near the top ofthe table, while the resurgence ofEpiphone’s J200 suggest that affordablejumbos might just on their way intofashion for 2009.

An excellentyear for Yamaha(above) whichpolled two ofthe top threeunder £500

ACOUSTIC GUITAR OVER £500Taylor 110 ...............................................................................................19%Martin DX 1............................................................................................15%Tanglewood TW45 ...............................................................................15%Gibson J-45 ...............................................................................................8%Freshman FA500......................................................................................3%

Honourable Mentions: Crafter, Breedlove, Stonebridge

Improving on its third place position, the Taylor 110 hasperformed impressively, nearly doubling its percentage on lastyear and proving that at the high end, no matter what thepreconception, there is always room for movement. Last year’swinner, the Martin DX1, may have slipped into second place,but has all but maintained its high score from last year andcontinues to be a popular choice for players with a bit morepunch in their pocket.

Taking the joint second spot is the beautifully craftedTanglewood TW45, another impressive showing fromTanglewood that demonstrates the brand’s staying power aftera period of sustained growth in the acoustic market.Meanwhile, Gibson’s evergreen J-45 tells an important tale,namely that guitarists love classic shapes and familiar tones.The guitar has proved that fashion never really changes thatmuch. Freshman holds fifth place with its FA500 in what hasbeen a strong year in the acoustic sector for the Scots, whichcontinues to impress all that crosses its path. Crafter,Breedlove and Stonebridge tied for sixth place in this tightcategory that has shown that there is plenty of spark left inthe unplugged world.

ELECTRIC GUITAR UNDER £500Epiphone Les Paul .................................................................................19%Fender Standard Stratocaster...........................................................14%Encore........................................................................................................11%Squier Affinity Strat..............................................................................10%Vintage V100.............................................................................................6%

Honourable Mentions: Ibanez RG300, Yamaha Pacifica

Topping the under £500 electric guitar table for the secondyear running, Epiphone’s Les Paul Standard has continued toperform strongly, giving rockers who dream of a Gibson thechance to own something really not that far removed at afraction of the price.

Second place has been held by the Mexican-built FenderStandard Stratocaster, which has given those who have alwayspined after that genuine Fender headstock just what theywanted. With build quality having dramatically increased atFender’s Mexican factories of late, these are great guitars thathave rightly leapt from seventh to second place since last year.

Encore’s S-type packs still have the popular vote amongbewildered beginners looking for an accessible way into theworld of the electric guitar, and combined with JHS’ otherrange, Vintage, the Garforth supplier is making massive in-roads into this market. (It’s worth noting the combined figuresfor Encore and Vintage out-do the Fender Strat.) The V100, andthanks to some excellent additions to the rest of its lines

across the year and a profile boost thanks to its relic-a-likes,JHS’s guitar brand has performed admirably.

The Squier Affinity Strat at fourth place, however, is stilla big contender for the nation’s favourite starter guitar.Closely following on were the Ibanez RG300 and theYamaha Pacifica, which has seen a dip in popularity of late,

falling from third place last year to outside the top five.

26 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 www.mi-pro.co.uk

2009 • RETAIL SURVEY

www.mi-pro.co.uk miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 27

ELECTRIC GUITAR OVER £500Fender USA Standard Stratocaster..............................................42%Gibson Les Paul .....................................................................................6%Fender USA Std Telecaster ................................................................5%Ibanez RG262 ........................................................................................3%Rickenbacker 330 .................................................................................2%

Honourable Mentions: Gordon Smith, Indie, Blade

Having held the top spot for the last two years in thiscategory, it is no real surprise to see Leo Fender’s greatestcreation once again taking first place. No matter the trends,musical or social, there is still something about an AmericanStrat that makes every guitarist want to own one. Droppingone per cent from its 2008 score, Fender’s crown prince is stillfar and away the leader in its field and will no doubt continueto be for some time.

A full 36 per cent behind the Fender is Gibson’s leadinglight, another guitar which cries out for inclusion in any self-respecting player’s list of dream guitars. Perhaps due to price,or maybe even Gibson’s distribution troubles over the last 12months, the Les Paul has not performed as well as it might,but has done well to maintain second place, rising from thirdin 2008. Telecasters remain a popular choice, probably nodoubt to their endless versatility and tank-like construction,while Ibanez has cropped up in fourth place with the RG262.

Bringing up the rear is the jangle-tastic Rickenbacker 330,an instrument that continues to appeal to a large segment ofthe market still convinced (or perhaps just wishing) it’s 1966.Gordon Smith tied with Indie – a great result here for theOxfordshire based manufacturer – and Blade just outside ofthe top five in what was a close year for the high endelectrics.

All hail the king: TheFender Strat has beennumber one for allthree years of the MIPro survey

Fender’sTelecaster takesFender’sshowing in thissector to nearly50 per cent ofthe votes

RETAIL SURVEY • 2009

Squier basses –still the place

to start forwannabe

lowdowns

BASS GUITAR UNDER £500Squier P-Bass ...................................................................................16%Yamaha RBX 170 ...........................................................................14%Fender Standard Jazz (Mexican) .................................................8%Vintage .................................................................................................7%Ibanez GSR200 ..................................................................................6%

Honourable Mentions: Crafter Cruiser, Cort, Stagg

Topping the budget bass category for 2009, the SquierPrecision has almost doubled its votes from 2008 and madean impressive leap from third to first place. Favoured byfans for its great looks and excellent reproduction of itsmore expensive Fender cousin, it makes a great first bassand an excellent introduction to the instrument.

In second place, Yamaha’s RBX170 on 14 per cent hasdropped down from its perch on the top shelf last year, yethas still experienced a 1.5 per cent increase in votes. Theversatility of this bass has added to its universal appeal andmade it a consistent high performer in MI Pro retail surveys.Fender’s Standard Jazz has experienced a three per centgrowth on last year and continues to perform well, whileVintage appeared out of nowhere last year to make itspresence felt at fourth place in 2009. Ibanez has performedconsistently well in all the guitar categories, although withthe Crafter Cruiser, Cort and Stagg are looking to break intothe top five, it could have a fight on its hands.

GUITAR AMPLIFIERMarshall MG....................................................................................30%Line 6 Spider III 15 ........................................................................23%Roland Cube.....................................................................................14%Line 6 Spider III 75...........................................................................6%Kustom.................................................................................................5%Fender Frontman..............................................................................5%

Honourable Mentions: Laney, Orange Tiny Terror

A runaway winner here sees Marshall retaining its top slot,while Line 6’s tirelessly popular Spider III amps combine tomake a close second. as buyers continue to flock to theirpreferred brands. The Roland Cube, a long time servant ofmany a touring guitarist, has surely benefited from thebroader range of options under the Cube umbrella now, butunfortunately didn’t quite have enough votes to dislodgeLine 6 or Marshall from pride of place at the top of the pile.

BASS AMPLIFIERAshdown Electric Blue .................................................................18%Kustom ..............................................................................................15%Fender Rumble .................................................................................15%Laney RB.............................................................................................12%Marshall MB30....................................................................................7%

Honourable Mentions: Roland Cube, Trace Elliot 715

Ashdown continues to dominate the UK’s bass market, witha stronger showing than last year (but that’s the risk of arandom voter selection) and the ever-popular Electric Bluetakes its rightful place again. A surprise showing this yearfrom the Kustom brand, which has surely benefited fromgood entry-level sales.

Some odd names popped upin the bass amp section thisyear, but no surprises

BASS GUITAR OVER £500Fender USA Jazz ...........................................................................20%Fender USA Precision ..................................................................16%Musicman Stingray .........................................................................5%Cort .......................................................................................................2%Indie ......................................................................................................1%

Honourable Mentions: Gibson Thunderbird, Fender Jaguar Bass

Taking a double gold, Fender’s longest serving bassstalwarts have taken first and second place withsignificantly more votes than last year. Showing anexcellent growth in 2008, Fender has continued tocapitalise on its reputation as the go-to bass brand.

In at third place, although a significant 11 per centbehind its nearest rival, the Musicman Stingray hasperformed really rather well. A strong third this year couldwell indicate a swing back towards the much-loved andtonally distinctive Stingray. Cort and Indie prop up the topfive, with no single model standing out from the pack asretailers simply named the brand they felt had sold themost. Gibson’s mighty Thunderbird and Fender’s eye-catching Jaguar were close to breaking into the top five.

GET YOUR MESSAGE OUT THERE

2009 • RETAIL SURVEY

DIGITAL PIANOYamaha CLP.......................................................................................18%Casio Privia........................................................................................17%Yamaha YDP 130.............................................................................11%Kawai CN 21........................................................................................6%Korg SP250...........................................................................................3%

Honourable Mentions: Roland FP7, Robertson RP 120

With only one per cent in it at the top of the digital pianocategory, it’s clear that Casio has worked hard to push thePrivia range forward, but Yamaha’s popular Clavinovas with a double showing in the top five places here are again clearwinners.

ACOUSTIC PIANOYamaha U1........................................................................................18%Kawai ...................................................................................................16%Yamaha U3........................................................................................13%Yamaha B Series..............................................................................12%Steinmeyer S108 ............................................................................10%

Honourable Mentions: Reid Sohn, Kemble Concerto

The specialist piano retailers interviewed have put theYamaha U1 in the top spot and three entries from Yamahain this section indicate an area that the manufacturer isclearly comfortable operating in. A good shout at secondfrom Kawai demonstrates there is competition aplenty.

HIGH TECH / DJLine 6 Pod X3 Live ..........................................................................19%Microkorg ...........................................................................................18%Korg Kaos Pad...................................................................................16%Boss Micro BR...................................................................................15%Line 6 Toneport ................................................................................13%

Honourable Mentions: Numark, Boss RC20

Another good result for Line 6 in what was a hotlycontested area of the survey. Among those that stock hitech gear, Line 6’s floor-based Pod X3 Live scraped in aswinner, closely followed by the versatile and surprisinglypowerful Microkorg. Another Korg entry at third place withthe Kaos Pad was no doubt the result of an excellent TVappearance earlier in the year. Line 6 grabbed a secondentry with Toneport, just behind Boss’ excellent minirecorder, the Micro BR.

� Print Edition � Digital Edition �Mobile Edition � Online LeaderContact Tom.Roberts@intentmedia.co.uk for more details on the exciting opportunities ME can offer.

DRUMS MID – HIGH ENDMapex M-Birch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15%Roland TD9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13%Premier Cabria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7%Pearl Forum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3%Yamaha Stage Custom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2%

Honourable Mentions: Tama Superstar, Ludwig

Mapex’s M-Birch kit came up strong enough to topple theRoland kits from what was a dominant position last year.Between the Mapex and the TD-9, this year’s voting hasproved the market is truly split between acoustic andelectronic at the moment. Premier’s Cabria has moved upfrom fifth place last year, which will no doubt please theLeicester manufacturer.

BRASS AND WOODWIND

JHS Odyssey.......................................................................................25%Jupiter ...................................................................................................17%Yamaha ................................................................................................16%Trevor James.......................................................................................10%Stentor ....................................................................................................5%

Honourable Mentions: Sebastian Buckley, Besson

JHS took prime position in the brass and woodwind sector,with many keen to point out the quality of its Odysseybrass range. With most of the main players getting amention, Jupiter has performed well to take second place,especially against some significantly larger competition inthe form of Yamaha. Stentor has its first showing of thesurvey here, while Trevor James deserves a big mention.

DRUM KITS – ENTRY LEVELStagg TIM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20%Sonor 1005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12%Percussion Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10%Impact. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4%CB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4%

Honourable Mentions:Dragon, Ridgewood, Roland HD-1

The Stagg TIM position willno doubt please EMD greatly.Affordable yet not feeling likea cheap kit, the TIM has wonover plenty of first timedrummers, while the Sonor1005 is not far behind theone or two that seem to beprevalent. Percussion Plusalso showed strongly for thefirst time this year, makingfor a clear top three.

Yamaha meanz pianos.Some brands arebuilding market share,but not at the expenseof the Japanese giant, itseems

ACCESSORIES BRANDD’Addario ................................................................................................46%Ernie Ball.................................................................................................15%Dunlop........................................................................................................8%Rotosound ................................................................................................5%

Honourable Mentions: JHS, Levi’s

D’Addario ran away with things in the accessories categorythis year, raking in nearly half of the votes thanks to sustainedstring sales and an eye catching presence from Planet Waves.Ernie Ball another string specialist, also performed admirably.Rounding off the top four is another US brand, Dunlop, butRotosound can lay claim to being the most popular Britishaccessories line – more power to ‘em.

30 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 www.mi-pro.co.uk

BEST SUPPLIERWestside ..............................................................................................23%Roland...................................................................................................20%Sutherland...........................................................................................19%Yamaha.................................................................................................19%Tanglewood.........................................................................................15%

Honourable Mentions: JHS, P&R Howard

Thanks no doubt to its ever growing and impressive selectionof brands and its proactive work towards helping its dealersturn a decent profit, Westside has come from nowhere totop the much-coveted Best Supplier first place in this year’ssurvey. Considering the popular distie missed out on aplacing at all in 2008 only goes to show just how impressivea year this has been for Westside.

It was no easy victory for Westside, however, with Rolandjust behind them at second place – a leap of two places fromlast year – while the ever-popular Sutherland and Yamahatook joint third place after dominating the first two yearsbetween them. Another solid performance this year fromTanglewood sees the company in fifth place and JHS andP&R Howard were snapping at the heels.

BUSINESS IN 2008 ON 2007Up .........................................................................................................41%Same .....................................................................................................33%Down ....................................................................................................23%Don't know ..........................................................................................3%

It seems to have been a good year across the board asretailers react to the toughening trading conditions withaplomb. While last year’s survey revealed that a worrying 41per cent experienced a downturn in 2007, it would seem that2008 was certainly not as harsh as it may have seemed attimes. A big majority of our survey experienced sales growthover the last 12 months, with an equally impressive 33 percent managing to maintain things at an acceptable level.

Any dealer will tell you that they are working a lot harderto maintain the same profitability as was once the case, butthese figures seem to show that the extra work is paying off.2008 began with the Northern Rock crisis and has gonedownhill from there, but MI continues to buck the trend seenin the retail sector in general.

FORECAST FOR 2009Down .....................................................................................................36%Same......................................................................................................28%Up ...........................................................................................................23%Don't know..........................................................................................13%

With an unstable economic climate forcing retailers to thinklong and hard over their business plans for the next year, thefeeling was unsurprisingly dour. 36 per cent are bracingthemselves for the worst and with the credit crunch still bignews across the globe, there is certainly a battle to be fought– every penny is going to be hard earned in 2009.

For all the doom and gloom, there is a surprising amountof optimism out there as retail digs in for whatever the next12 months has to throw at it. 28 per cent are hopeful ofsimilar takings in 2009, while a surprisingly high 23 per centare looking up, suggesting that not everyone is quite aspessimistic as might be expected. A strong start to the yearhas certainly boosted confidence and some are hoping toprove that recessions make more musicians. Time will tell.

SHEET MUSIC PUBLICATIONMamma Mia ..........................................................................................23%Associated Board Exams...................................................................21%Modern Guitar Method .....................................................................15%Absolute Beginners Guitar................................................................12%High School Musical .............................................................................8%Beatles Complete ...................................................................................5%

Honourable Mentions: Rock School Guitar, Guns n’ RosesGreatest Hits

In the year which saw Mamma Mia break all previous DVDsales and become the favourite film of every female in theland, it is really no surprise to see its piano, vocal and guitarbook at the top of the sheet music tree. ABRSM took up itsusual position at or near the top, and Mel Bay had a strongshowing, too. Another all-singing, all-dancing affair is at fourthplace, with High School Musical, while Absolute BeginnersGuitar maintained its strong position. The Beatles take fifthplace, proving that the Fab’s still have what it takes to prick upthe ears of musicians across the country.

ORCHESTRAL STRINGSStentor.................................................................................................36%Stagg ....................................................................................................20%Yamaha ..................................................................................................8%

This category is once again safe in the hands of the specialists,who selected Stentor as the leading brand for strings. BothStagg and Yamaha also got a look in, but there can be nodoubt that Stentor will be happy to have cornered its primearea of the market.

RETAIL SURVEY • 2009

MICROPHONEShure SM58 ...........................................................................................36%Sennheiser E800 series ......................................................................18%Shure SM57 beta .................................................................................12%Audio Technica AT-2020 ......................................................................7%AKG D5S....................................................................................................4%

Honourable mentions: EV, JHS, Peavey

There is simply little anyone can do in the mic market toovercome the conservatism of the average gigging band, whichplumps for Fender and Gibson guitars and basses and theSM58 mic. Despite this overwhelming two-to-one superiorityover the second placed Sennheiser 800 series, the fact thatSennheiser and Audio Technica have kept their places in this‘unified’ mic category this year, shows that there is room stillfor others to eat away at the master’s four-decade dominance.

Mama Mia predictablytopped the sheet musicvote, but guitar tutors arenever far away

What can you do?The SM-58

maintains its gripon the buying

public’sconsciousness

FENDER® GBI WOULD LIKE TO THANK... ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS WHO VOTED FOR OUR INDUSTRYLEADING PRODUCTS IN THE MI PRO RETAIL SURVEYTHANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

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DEALERSHIPSAVAILABLE

After months of speculation, the MIAhas revealed that LIMS 2009 will,after all, have a retail element –

open only to MIA members but affordable,the association says, for smaller as well asmajor shops.

The MIA confirmed that, havingrecently taken a controlling interest in theshow, it has canvassed opinions frommembers and decided that retail has apart to play. The retail days will fall onJune 12th, 13th and 14th, following asingle, trade only day.

Though widely praised by visitors andexhibitors alike and with good attendancefigures, one major criticism of the initialLIMS from members of the public was theinability to buy the instruments andequipment on display and beingdemonstrated.

The MIA’s president, Ashton Music’s JonGold, explained that he and thecommittee charged with running LIMS2009 were well aware of the controversythat could follow bringing retail into thisyear’s show, but that the pressure to do sohad been irresistible and that it wouldgreatly enhance the appeal to visitors.

“We’ve got the template for a greatshow at last, and we have needed to find away of including what the public wants ina way that satisfies as many people in theindustry as possible. The feedback wereceived from consumers last year was that

they loved the show, they loved the venueat ExCel, but they couldn’t buy anything.

“Rather than sit round and dictate whathappened, we wanted to consult theindustry and find out what the industrywanted to do. So we held a meeting andinvited some key players among retailersand manufacturers to find out. We hadpeople like Digital Village, PMT, Bonners,Andertons, Roland, Sound Technology andmyself from Ashton, to discuss a way

forward. We wanted to avoid the solusoperation there has been at Music Livebefore and we wanted to be fair to all ofour members.

“But that wasn’t all we did. Prior to thatmeeting, we sent a questionnaire to everyMIA retail member, asking their views andwe had an excellent response, with verylittle opposition from retailers. In fact, thereservations were mostly from distributorsand manufacturers, but as the plan hasunfolded and they have seen that we aredetermined to make this a qualityexperience, that has dropped away, too,

and there is now a pretty broad backingfor what has been decided.”

The plan is for LIMS 2009 to have aseparate retail hall adjacent to the mainfour halls, with a limited number of standsselling as representative array of productsas possible from the show – and onlyproducts on display will be allowed.Participation, similarly, is only available toMIA members, but non-member retailerswho wish to join to take advantage of the

opportunity will be welcomed, Goldconfirmed.

MI Pro understands that within minutesof the email announcing retailparticipation at the show, the Association’soffice had received four applications, inaddition to the interest exposed by amajor guitar retailer beforehand.Interestingly, however, Gold revealed thatthe MIA does not expect the retail hall tobe dominated by the ‘usual suspects’, someof whom have already said that, while theywill support LIMS in other ways, theymight elect not to take part as retailers.

This may be, it has been speculated, due tothe absence of mega-stands.

“We very much want the show to beavailable for smaller retailers,” Gold says.“Obviously, we know that a two-manshop from North Yorkshire, say, won’t beable to run a stand at a three-day event inLondon, but the stands start from around£3-4,000, and include storage, so it isn’tgoing to be unaffordable to those whothink they could manage it.”

Behind the scenes, it seems certain thatthe MIA and manufacturers anddistributors will be trying to avoid the ‘carboot sale’ atmosphere that has marredsome other shows and that there will be‘terms and conditions’ imposed to “ensurethe professionalism of the retailexperience,” as the MIA puts it.

On offer are both shell schemes andbare space plans: Gold stands measuring10x10 metres, Silver, 7x10 metres andBronze 4x10 metres. All will include anamount of storage space, but additionalspace can be purchased.

“We want to be fair to everyone,” Goldsays. “We respect the fact that, whateverwe do, all our retail members can't beinvolved and we want to deliver a qualityretail experience, where customers aren'tgoing to be buying products for nothing.They’ll be paying the going rate, but theywill get value from the demonstrations,the products on show and the expertise.”

As the MIA reveals plans to incorporate retail at the second London International Music Show, Gary Cooper talks to theassociation’s president, Jon Gold, about how the show will now develop…

32 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

SHOW PREVIEW • LIMS

“We very much want the show tobe available for smaller retailers.The stands aren’t unaffordable.”

Jon Gold, MIA

Deck the halls

While there is undoubtedly stillextremely good business to behad across the board selling

radio mic, instrument and IEM systems,from high-end touring and theatrecompanies to the humblest of MI stores,this has become one of the hardestarticles to write in terms of productoverview. The reason for this, as most ofyou will be aware, is because of theproposed Digital Dividend Review (DDR)underway through the Governmentdepartment Ofcom.

To give the briefest and most easilyunderstood overview of the presentsituation as it stands, one needs to goback a few years to the announcement ofthe DDR, when the sale of spectrumfrequencies was announced. At that time,Ofcom succeeded in completelyoverlooking the programme making andspecial events (PMSE) market, promptingthe re-formation of the BritishEntertainment Industries Radio Group(BEIRG) to lobby for the retention ofchannel 69, which contains the licensedfrequencies that PMSE had been using for years.

The success of BEIRG’s lobbying looked

as though it had paid off by 2007; Ofcomhad acknowledged PMSE’s claim as validand had made assurances that space (andprobably channel 69) would be left forPMSE usage.

Then came the World Radio Conferenceof 2007, where EU techies discussed thepossibility of establishing a co-ordinatedpan-European frequency spectrum block.The plan was adopted, which means thatEurope will (sensibly) have a united radiofrequency policy, but the bad news is thatthis block included channel 69.

Ofcom was unlikely to question this asthe sale of channels 61 to 69 would bringin much more revenue than sellingchannels 61 to 68.

Of course theindustry,represented by BEIRG,can bid for channel 69,but up against the multi-millions of the mobilecompanies, even companiessuch as Shure, Sennheiser, AKGand Audio Technica combinedcannot hope to compete. BEIRGcould also have rejected theoffer to switch, but in the world

of political negotiating the result could wellhave been ‘take it or leave it’.

This means that, in all likelihood, thecurrent ocean of wireless systems outthere will be redundant by 2013. Thatleaves four years for the entire industry toredesign and market new equipment,which might not seem too much of adifficulty, until one takes into account thefact that Ofcom has yet to announcewhich channel will be made available toPMSE, whether this will be a permanent or

temporary move andwhether the governmentwill help fund the switch.

This leaves everyone –and by no means least theMI retailer – withsomething of a dilemma.There is good money tobe made from sellingentry-level to mid-pricedwireless systems, it is a

34 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

SECTOR SPOTLIGHT • RADIO MICS

While radio mics continue to be alucrative source of income for many,the prospect of losing channel 69 inthe Digital Dividend review meansthat the wireless world post-2012could be very different. Andy Barrettlooks at the possibilities and still findsbandwidth to look at some of thebest systems on the market today...

Waitin’ forthe manIn all likelihood, the current ocean of

wireless systems out there will beredundant by 2013. This leaves MI

retailers with something of a dilemma.

growing market and, as is often the waywith technology, the state of the art isbecoming increasingly available to an everwidening market, but now the productshave a built-in obsolescence.

Without word from Ofcom as to how(or if) the Government will assist in anyswitch over, let alone on what frequencythe equipment will function in the future,retailers would be wise to explain thesituation with each sale. There is obviouslythe chance that Ofcom and manufacturerswill allow some sort of amnesty – bring inyour old wireless system and get a newone – but no-one knows. In the meantime,as one BEIRG spokesman put it: “You needto cover your arse.”

He went on: “This might have anegative effect on sales, but there isnothing to be done. The important thing isthat people have to know what has beengoing on and, if they can be, persuadedinto registering their displeasure withOfcom, their MPs, anyone and everyone.”

As MI Pro goes to press, the publicationof the Digital Britain report is imminent(due on January 27th), which may makethings a lot clearer – although on pastevidence, one might be equally justified toexpect the continuation of the vagariesand procrastination at which Ofcom hasexcelled since the DDR was firstannounced.

That said, the wait is almost certainlycoming to an end sooner rather than laterand there are a good three years’ worth ofsales to be had from stocking these

increasingly popular products.The important thing is to

keep your ear to theground and keep yourcustomer informed asto what is going on. Asis always the case,

better to lose a sale butkeep the customer in the

long run.

SAMSONSamson has been at theforefront of micro-technology since itlaunched the Airline systemsome years ago and theabandonment of the needfor beltpacks and wires(particularly for lavaliermics and instruments) wasbroadly welcomed by theend user.

The Concert 77 systemcan be configured with thenew HT7 handheldtransmitter available withSamson’s Q7 dynamicelement, as well as theSamson C05 handheldcondenser element.

The HT7 features a three-segmentbattery indicator, separate power andaudio on/off switches, adjustable AF level(audio gain) and 12 hours of battery lifeon a single nine-volt battery.

The new CT7 belt-pack transmitter canbe configured as a lavalier, headset, windinstrument and guitar system thanks tothe locking P3 input connection. Thedevice also has an adjustable AF level and12 hours of battery life on a single nine-volt battery.

The CR77 true-diversity half-rack UHFreceiver is the core of the Concert 77system. The synthesized PLL frequencycontrol circuitry keeps the signal locked,while dual-tuned antennas with LEDsmonitor the true-diversity operation. TwoCR77 receivers can be rack-mountedtogether in a single-space rack adapteravailable as an added accessory.

SENNHEISERAs Samson was coming out with its Airlinetechnology, Sennheiser was keeping stepby coming up with the SKP unit, a littleplug that attaches to any XLR connectedwired mic (that’s as close to all of them asmakes no difference) and turns it into awireless mic.

The SKP 3000 is, unsurprisingly, part ofthe 3000 series, which also includes theSKM 3072-U handheld that comes loadedwith access to 32 switchable channels anda veritable swathe of receivers, includingthe EM 3031-U/-V which provides 32channels in a single rack-space unit.

Then there are the beltpacks, includingthe new EK 3241, which has a switchingbandwidth of 36MHz and frequencies thatcan be tuned in steps of 5kHz, making thereceiver the perfect partner forSennheiser’s higher end transmittermodels in the 5000 series, the SKM 5200and SK 5212.

AUDIO TECHNICAThe Japanese giant for all things mic andheadphone has been making significantinroads into the wireless market for someyears now, which combined with somespectacular endorser deals (perhaps themost notable being the opera singerKatherine Jenkins, who uses the Artist EliteAEW-T5400 transmitter mic, the Pigeon Detectives and Breed), have seen the company winningconsiderable prestige.

The high-end Artist Elite 5000 and4000 series range from the AEW-5416package (retailing at £3,649), a dualsystem with two AEW-T1000 UniPakbeltpacks and two AEW-T6100 handheldhypercardioid dynamic mic transmittersand the AEW-R2500 dual receiver, to theAEW-4110 body-pack system with anAEW-R4100 receiver and AEW-T1000UniPak transmitter – a snip at £1,069.

Closer to MI hearts are the moreaffordable mics and receivers available inthe 2000 and 3000 series (with prices formics alone starting at £209 for the ATW-T220 and £299 for the ATW-T341).

SHUREThe king of the mic makers maintainspretty strong elbow room in the marketon the basis of its name, of course, butmore so because the quality of its wirelesssystems keep it as the front runner. Thelatest (and many would say best) of theseare the new and extensive PerformanceGear systems, which comprise set-ups forlavalier, headsets, instruments and, ofcourse, handheld vocals.

The PG2 transmitter has a combinedpower/mute button with lock function,gain switch, channel select, a seven-segment, multi-coloured LED display, eighthours of battery life from a nine-Voltbattery (included) and functions over adistance of 75 metres. The handheld isfitted with the PG58 mic head and all thatnumber has inspired in mic users for thepast 40 years. Combined with the PG4receiver and its microprocessor controlled‘Predictive Diversity’ technology, internalantennas for ten selectable frequenciesand up to four compatible systems perband, you have one of the most effectiveand simple systems available for under£200. The PG58 system is also available asdual system.

TRANTECBuying British is something that a lot ofmusos don’t consider, but for vocalists –and particularly those looking for a goodwireless system – it is a good optionthanks to Trantec.

A quarter of a century after pioneeringthe first readily available radio mics,Trantec introduced the groundbreaking S5series, based upon the award-winning,professional S6000 system, which is widelyused in theatre and broadcast. The S5.3,the latest multi-channel UHF product fromTrantec, is the little brother of the S5.5system and has 11MHz of bandwidth that

enables the running of up to 12 channelssimultaneously – at a price you will findhard to match.

AKGNAMM saw the launch of a new systemfrom the famed, Harman-owned, Austrianmic manufacturer, the DMS 700, whichgives users a state of the art feature setincluding digital audio encryption, ultrawide tuning range and high channel countin a simple to use 19-inch chassis. Idealfor live sound reinforcement, the DMS 700is touted as a ‘revolutionary wirelesssolution designed for the future’ as itoperates with two frequency bands witheach band providing a tuning range of upto 155MHz of receivers and transmitters,giving the user extended flexibility intoday’s crowded RF environment.

Meanwhile, at the entry level, AKG hasthe WMS 40 Pro systems, which have theunique HDAP (High Definition AudioPerformance) technology, which ensures aquality, transparent sound in virtually anyconditions. The transmitters operate for 30hours off a single AA size battery, savingthe user frequent battery replacementsand thus money.

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 35

RADIO MICS • SECTOR SPOTLIGHT

CONTACTSKORG (SAMSON) ...................................................................01908 857100

SENNHEISER ...........................................................................01494 551551

AUDIO TECHNICA ...................................................................0113 277 1441

SHURE ....................................................................................01992 703058

TRANTEC ................................................................................020 8330 3111

SOUND TECHNOLOGY (AKG) .............................................01462 480000

PERSONNEL

36 miPRO FEBRUARY 2008 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

JOHN HORNBY Skewes has welcomedMartin Donoghue as its new UK andIreland house account manager.

Based at the JHS head office inGarforth, Yorkshire, Donoghue’s remit is tohelp develop relationships with existingvalued trade house account customers, aswell as establish new ones. In this newlycreated position, he will primarily help tofacilitate the continued the growth ofexclusive licensed products, such as theSponge Bob Square Pants real musicalinstrument range.

Donoghue joins JHS from a professionalbackground, which includes experience ofMI retail, senior sales management,financial services and work as aprofessional musician.

JHS sales and marketing director, AlanSmith, commented: “Martin is a keenpeople’s person with great personal andprofessional attributes and we’re pleasedto have him on the sales team.”

Donoghue is said to be looking forwardto getting stuck into this new role and willbe available for meetings at the

forthcoming, combined JHS andSpongeBob booth at this year’s Spring FairExhibition, NEC Birmingham, Hall 5 D81between February 2nd and 5th.

He can be contacted by phone on thenumber below, on his mobile (07833477387) or email atmartin.donoghue@jhs.co.uk. JHS: 0113 286 5381

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New position at JHSGarforth distributor appointsUK and Ireland manager tonewly created position

WEST SUSSEX-based music accessorywholesaler Strings & Things, hasappointed Frankie Rudd as its roadrepresentative in the South West ofEngland and South Wales.

Rudd comes to the company withseveral years of sales experience and is aseasoned professional musician.

Peter Lunney, the company’s generalmanager, commented: “We areextremely excited about Frankie joiningthe team. Not only does he have anexcellent rapport with existingcustomers and staff, he is a greatadvocate of the high quality productsthat we supply. With his musicalexperience, he really understands themarket and what musicians need and isable to demonstrate this to customersacross a broad range of instruments.”

“I am delighted to have joined Stringsand Things – this is my dream job,”added Rudd. “I am combining my love ofnew musical equipment with my passionfor sales. I have played the guitar andkeyboard since the age of six and havebeen gigging for over 15 years, so I

believe my experience will really helpwhen communicating with retailers.”

Rudd joins the seasoned team atStrings & Things with Robin Crockerreturning to the road in the South Eastof England, Davie McArthur continuing in the North of England andScotland and Andy White as sales rep inthe Midlands. STRINGS & THINGS: 01273 440442

New addition to Strings& Things sales teamEx-Wharfedale salesman to head up MI and pro division

DONOGHUE: To handle licensed rangesRUDD: Dream job

RECENT STAFF changes at Audio Technicahave seen the company strengthen itssales and marketing team in response tothe demands of its customers. New recruitBen Wood has been appointed as areasales manager for London and the South,specifically catering to the needs of theMI market, while Audio Technica’s existingtechnical support manager, Logan Helps,joins the marketing team as training andproduct support specialist.

Helps has been with the company since2005, following a creative music andsound technology degree at LeedsMetropolitan University. With abackground in both live and studioengineering and broadcast media support,

he is well placed to provide producttraining for Audio Technica customers inhis new role and continuing to act as afirst point of contact for dealers’ technicaland product queries.

“I’m looking forward to broadening myrole in offering extra support and trainingboth for internal staff and customers,”commented Helps.

Wood has worked in management andpromotion in the US, South America andthe UK, most recently acting as asponsorship agent for the UK’s leadingmusic festivals. He remarked: “I am excitedto be in a position to work with some ofthe highest quality products within themusic industry.” AT: 0113 277 1441

Audio Technica strengthenssales and marketing teamTwo appointments for mic maker to meet customer demand

WOOD: Remit in London and the south HELPS: Well placed for product training

At GfK we have what we call ‘retail panels’ thatoperate across all the different markets that wetrack, including MI, electrical, DIY and so on. For

each one we have a defined group of panel members orretailers that we track. Those retailers supply us withdata on either a weekly or monthly basis.

We have a standard report that goes out tomanufacturers that includes all the brand and modellistings, value, average prices and distribution data. It’sproduced in the same way each month, so they can seehow the brand’s share has changed and where they arecompetitive. What we produce is known as continuousresearch – a continuous audit and methodology.

I’ve worked on the commercial side of the business forabout seven years, and my job is really to be in overallcharge of two defined panels. I run the musicalinstruments and the photographic panels, so I’mresponsible for the relationship between the clients (themanufacturers or suppliers), and GfK. I’m also responsiblefor the overall strategy and direction of these panels. Ifwe need to recruit more retailers to get better coveragefor a certain area of the market, I’ll work with the field orretail department to go and recruit additional retailersand explain the benefits of taking part.

The main part of my job is to ensure the quality of thedata on a monthly basis and to maximise the insight userscan gain from it. I spend several days a week with clients,discussing the reports or presenting current trends to them.

I check all of the data that we would send out to amanufacturer. I get what we call a QC project – the datawhich has been extrapolated (weighted up to representtotal market sales) and a draft version of the report – andI then go through the data to see if there is anything thatlooks like it might be an anomaly within the data. Wehave a system which automatically checks for any majorfluctuations so, for instance, if we have a Gibson Les PaulStandard that one retailer appears to be selling for £200,that would be flagged up and I’d be able to investigate. SoI do a sense check of the data and ensure that the trendswe are reporting are consistent.

For example, with the December ’08 figures, theheadline was that guitar sales were 3.4 per cent up on thesame month in ‘07, but I can see underneath that to eachindividual retailer, and look at the performance of eachone to make sure that the trend at the top line is actuallyrepresentative of the industry in general. I can see if itwas a general trend that was being repeated across themarketplace or if specific retailers were responsible for it.

On the MI Pro site people challenge the market figureswith anecdotal evidence of stores closing their doors upand down the country, but you need to look at the biggerpicture. Woolworths has just shut down – does that meanthere is going to be three billion pounds less spent in themarketplace because it’s no longer there? No, becausepeople will buy from somewhere else. One of the biggestretailers in the MI business went under last year. Their shareof the business goes to the retailers that remain trading ornew start-ups. It’s clear we are facing a very tough retailingclimate across all sectors, but as at any time there will bemarkets or segments of markets performing better thanothers. We’ll work with our retailer and manufacturerpartners to identify these areas of opportunity or potential.

Once I get home after work I like to get a good dose offresh air, having spent all day in the office or in the car, soI might get my bike out or go for a run depending on theweather. If it’s raining I’ll head to the gym.

I WOKE UP THIS

MORNING

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 37

PROFILE

GfK’s report that showedUK Christmas guitar salesto be up 3.4 per cent onlast year has caused somecontroversy on the MI Prowebsite. This is how theman behind the figuresspends his day…

MATT GIBBSAccount Director for photo &musical instruments, GfK Retailand Technology

On the MI Pro site peoplechallenge the market figures

with anecdotal evidence, but you need to look at the

bigger picture.

Well, the weather was good,wasn’t it? Was that the onlyredeeming factor of this year’s

‘winter’ NAMM show? Of course not, butfew would class it as a classic. Footfalldefinitely seemed down on last year andalthough the upper halls were rammedwith exhibitors, the lower hall – ‘inventorsalley’ – seemed quieter than usual interms of displays.

There was certainly no shortage of newstuff, although fewer products stood out.Guitarist editor Mick Taylor and myself hadour usual fun trying to visit over 200guitar-related stands as well as doing theall-important PR for the magazine, aidedin the latter by editor-at-large NevilleMarten. Yet despite four full days oftrolling the aisles we were still strugglingto fill our ‘Top Ten Products’ feature forour NAMM/Frankfurt 2009 coverage.

Had we not already reviewed them,Fender’s new Mexican-made Road Wornseries of aged guitars and basses,Marshall’s MG 4 series and Gibson’s DarkFire Les Paul would have made our TopTen. It actually seemed a show less aboutstand-out product than continuing trends.

So what were they? Well, looking at thebig picture, little has changed since lastyear. Relicing – aging, call it what you will– is definitely more evident, not only withFender’s important Road Worns but therewere many other attempts to create new,old-looking guitars from Gibson, ESP and ahost of others.

ESP launched the very limited JamesHetfield ‘Iron Cross’ guitar, an aged replica,ironically, of Hetfield’s well-used and

customised Gibson Les Paul Custom. Atthe other end of the spectrum we weretaken to a small stand producing fifties-style aged Teles, thankfully without theFender-correct headstock and proper newcompany logo. But it was a ‘vintage Tele’nonetheless, priced between Fender’s RoadWorns and its USA-made Relics. Pokearound and you’ll find increasing numbersof companies offering aged hardware, notjust from small boutique suppliers butmore mainstream hardware makers likeGermany’s ABM.

Of course, Gibson is rightly celebrating50 years of its most famous guitar, the1959 Les Paul, with a limited 50thAnniversary reissue model and variousaged and small number artist models:Mike Bloomfield, Jimmy Page’s ‘No 2’ and

later in the year, we understand, BillyGibbons’ fabled ’59.

Yet it’s not all backward looking. Taylorchose this year not to launch a newacoustic, concentrating instead on its newelectric T3 (available with or withoutBigsby), while introducing a newmodernistic vibrato for its SolidBodyrange. PRS officially launched its newhigh-end acoustics and amps, alreadybeing used by some heavyweight andloyal artists. It also nodded in the directionof us paupers with the Mira X, a moreaffordable version of its previously mostaffordable USA-made guitar.

I rarely make it to the lower hall muchbefore Sunday pm and this year was nodifferent. And while it holds well-knownbrands like Collings, Suhr, Breedlove and

Santa Cruz, to name but four, you canreally see the dilemma so many lesser-known smaller companies face. It’s oftennot the products – there was some veryfine craft on show. But why, especiallynow, would someone pay top dollar for aninstrument that has no legacy, no vibe?There seems little point at the moment, inproducing anything without the budget tomarket it. Ironic then that one of our best-known PRs, Max Kay, chose this show to‘retire’. It’s times like these that we needmore PR, not less. Max, you’ll be sorelymissed… especially at the bar.

Whereas the backdrop of last year’sshow was who was acquiring who, this yearit was who was going or has already gonebust. Grim reminders, if any were needed,that for a lengthy period things are goingto get tougher. Some feel it’s for the good.We have too much product vying for amarket that isn’t expanding. Price alone isno longer a USP; innovations are falling bythe wayside lacking the promotionalbudgets to get a viewing. Our industry isdistilling, burning off the unnecessary andleaving mostly old favourites that inspireconfidence in the consumer. I saw very fewexamples of products aimed at the creditcrunch, just fewer products, more limitedruns and limited-to-demand models. Peopleare playing it safe.

“Hey, people only wanna buy a Strat, aLes Paul or a Marshall,” quipped an FXdesigner I ran into. He may be right, butwhat of his own-design pedals that areabout as classic as a Heston Blumenthalculinary creation? Are we still fiddling whileRome burns?

Yet another NAMM show is clocked up by our correspondent. Not a classic…

Dave Burrluck is the Gear ReviewsEditor of Guitarist magazine.

Guitarist, the UK’s leading magazinefor serious players, is published byFuture Publishing – 01225 442244

DAVE BURRLUCK

38 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

Business as usual?The halls were quieter

than last year...

RETAIL

Rare conditioninspires Swindon

NEWS, OPINION, DATA

HOLMES MUSIC of Swindon’s owner, AlanHolmes, has been galvanised into action insupport of the Goldenhar Family SupportGroup, a charity set up to help thefamilies of those who suffer from the rare congenital condition known asGoldenhar Syndrome.

The reason is a painful one for theSwindon retailer, as his two-year-oldgrandson, Morgan, was born with thecondition, leaving him severely disabled

with only one eye, one ear and butterflyvertebrae. Part of the child’s jaw missingand he has to breath through atracheotomy.

Part of a series of campaigns in aid ofthe charity has been the creation of anude calendar, a la Calendar Girls,featuring the bodies beautiful of localmusicians and customers of the store,which has been a part of Swindon’s towncentre for some 40 years now.

The calendar was designed by BillyBeaumont and features the nakedmusicians with carefully position musicalinstruments of choice to maintain somedegree of modesty.

Among other events, Holmes has also

held a raffle with the help of donationsfrom suppliers and a sponsored men’s‘waxing night’. Alan Holmes commented:“The first thing was the men’s waxingnight and, well, ouch, yes that did hurt.Then, when two of my customers, Darrenand Lisa Coleman from PuttyfootPhotography, offered to make and producea Swindon musicians’ nude calendar, wejumped at the chance – and what afantastic idea it has turned out to be.”

The shop also put on a Christmascharity show on December 14th featuringsome of the musicians on the calendar,raising further moneys this way.

“I would like to thank ESP Colour forprinting the calendars free of charge andall my suppliers for their generousdonations and raffle prizes; we have so farraised £6,284.50. If anyone else would liketo make a donation, please contact me atHolmes Music.”

Children born with GoldenharSyndrome suffer from variousabnormalities affecting one side of theirbody, which include abnormal, missing ormisplaced ears with associated hearingloss, breathing problems, feeding problems,abnormal ribs and vertebrae. The heart,lungs and eyes are sometimes affectedand the face is often smaller on theaffected side.

The Goldenhar Family Support Groupwas established in 1989 and is a registeredcharity with six committee membersworking voluntarily with families ofGoldenhar Syndrome sufferers by regularnewsletters, arranging family meetings andmore. All funds are spent on supportingfamily members.

For more information, contactHolmes Music: 21-23 Faringdon Road,Swindon, SN1 5AR, or on: 01793526393. Alan Holmes can be emailedat alanholmes73@hotmail.com

Retailer Holmes Music releases nude calendar of customersand the town’s musicians in aid of Goldenhar Syndrome

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 41

NEWSAbsolute Music inPoole expands andadds extensivetuition facilities

NEWSAccess All Areasenjoys massivesuccess with theApollo series

INDIE PROFILEPete Norris on theIsle of Man reportsbusiness up for2008

“When my customersoffered to make a nudecalendar of musicians, Ijumped at the chance.”

Alan Holmes

42 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

RETAIL • NEWS

Absolute expansionPoole retailer does justice to growing guitar and keyboard collection

LEADING MUSIC retailer AbsoluteMusic has tripled the size of itsDorset-based showroom with theaddition of a large vintage guitararea, soundproofed acoustic room,guitar workshop and a dedicatedelectronic piano and keyboard room.

Taking the overall space of thePoole store up to 4,800 square feet,these new rooms have been createdto showcase the large, growingnumber of quality guitars, basses,keyboards and pianos that AbsoluteMusic now stocks.

The guitar rooms featureeverything from limited-editionGibson, Hamer, PRS and Warwickmodels right through to rare vintageguitars, Fender Strats and Telecasters.Orange and Vox amps, Boss pedalsand entry-level models are alsoavailable for beginners.

The keyboard space features aconstantly revolving collection ofRoland and Yamaha electric pianos, as

well as synths and keyboards fromClavia, Korg, Roland, Yamaha.

The shop’s knowledgeable salesteam is on hand to offer advice andhelp, while the in-house guitarworkshop boasts expert technicians,offering a wide range of services,from restringing and set-ups to moreserious repairs.

“Over the last six months we havebeen selling more and more guitars

and basses, including some extremelyrare vintage models and limited-editions,” explained Alan Barclay,managing director of Absolute Music.“It was time to do them more justice,so we’ve created a fantastic spacewith all the electric guitars andbasses on show, plus a range of ampsand cabs, allowing customers toappreciate the quality of our guitarsas well as try them out.

“We also know that keyboardplayers like to try before they buy,whether it’s to get a feel for ahammer-action electric piano or toaudition the sound on a synth,” hecontinued, “and that’s exactly whatour new keyboard room is for.”

The newly expanded showroomand store can be found at: 58Nuffield Road, Poole, BH17 0RT.Opening hours are 9.30am to 5.30pmon weekdays, and 10am to 4pm onSaturdays. For more information, call:01202 684500

OBITUARYLen Catherwood1927 to 2008MUSIC LOVERS in the north ofScotland were saddened to learnof the death of Len Catherwood,owner of The Music Shop inChurch Street, Inverness.

Catherwood studied at theLiverpool Royal School of Music,where he received his degree asa qualified music teacher.

After a spell with an electricalretailer, he applied for a job asmanager with Bruce Millers inInverness. When the companysold up, he bought up the stockand started business with wife,Moira and children Diane,Donna and Roger.

In 1991, he opened largerpremises in Church Street,where the store is still situated.

He worked in the shop intohis eighties and still managed towind-up the customers with hisdry sense of humour.

Apollo sells outSupplier struggles to maintain stocks, but

SEAN KELLY’S Access All Areasdistribution company, which isresponsible for the design andmanufacture of the Freshmanbrand of guitars, has had the‘pleasant’ difficulty of selling outof stock of the new Apollo seriesof guitars, just 21 days after thefirst consignment arrived.

The first shipment of Apolloguitars arrived in late October2008 and within three weeksevery guitar had been sold,with repeat orders comingshortly afterwards.

“It’s a nice problem tohave,” commented Kelly.“When you think aboutit, it is amazing thatsomething like this ishappening when allaround people aretalking about howhard things aregetting. We areextremelypleased.”

The key to thesuccess ofFreshmangenerally, Kellybelieves, is the factthat his companysources every component

and wood itself, with the newApollo series benefiting froman even higher spec of topgrade spruces than everbefore in the Fishman range.

“The Apollo guitars are realeye candy, but they sound good

and play really well, too. You needthis combination if your guitarsare going to sell consistently,” headded.

The latest shipment of Apolloguitars arrived in dock just as MIPro was going to press, so Kelly(obviously) is reminding dealers toget their orders in promptly.

“We have just about managedto cover the current orders and

actually have a bit tospare, too,” he explained.“We ensured that no-one had to wait toolong and we still havesome left, so keep theorders coming.”

Freshman guitars’Apollo series made itinto the top five in theMI Pro retailers surveyin this issue (page26), proving that theguitars have made an

immediate impact. AAA: 01355 228028

Alan Barclaydoes justice to

his stock

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 43

INDIE PROFILE • RETAIL

PETER NORRIS MUSIC,ISLE OF MAN

Do you think that business is up ordown compared to this time lastyear?It’s slightly up so far, but we’re stillworking on last month’s figures, so we’reyet to know for sure. We’ve kept goodstock and worked hard on our websiteand tried to convince locals to talk to usabout prices before buying elsewhere.

Do you advertise locally?Spasmodically. I don’t spend a fortuneon advertising because I think it canoften be a waste of money. We certainlydon’t regularly advertise in newspapers,but we will get behind special localevents.

Do you have a web presence?Yes, it’s an essential thing to have thesedays – you have to continually maintainyour presence there.

We’re getting more and moreenquiries all the time; we even had

someone from Norway contact ustoday.What is your main strength?Being on an island with a smallcatchment area, we have to sell a bit ofeverything. We’re experienced musicians,helpful, knowledgeable and always keento do a deal. We also offer music lessons– I think that’s important too.

What is the most important lessonyou’ve learned during your time inthe business?Getting the balance right between stocklevels and sales. Its really difficult andI’m still learning.

What is the biggest challenge facingyou today?The internet and trying to convincepeople to buy locally, take advantage ofthe touchy-feely situation and haveinstruments set up properly.

Given the power, what one thingwould you change about theindustry?The varying degrees of discounts frommanufacturers; I’d level the playing field and enablesmaller independent retailers to makethe same profit margins as big multiples.

Address: 39 Finch Road, Douglas, Isle ofMan, IM1 2PWOwner: Ken MitchellEstablished: 1989Employees: Four

FACTS & FIGURES

WHAT?The MIA has formally confirmed that ithas acquired the majority stake holding in the London International Music Showand is working with the show’s director,Clive Morton of MB Interactive, to bringthe best possible showcase for the MI industry.

WHEN?June 11th to 14th (Thursday, Friday,Saturday and Sunday).

WHERE?The event will once again take place atExCel and will build upon the successfulinaugural event of 2008.

All instrument genres will berepresented across four halls featuring: TheLondon Guitar Show, Drummer Live,Sound Recording Technology (SRT) andUnplugged.

FORMAT?The show will once again feature a tradeday on the Thursday (June 11th) and threesubsequent public days (including anEducation focus on the Friday andSaturday/Sunday mornings). The tradelounge will be open for trade visitors forall four days.

A live stage will be used for a fullprogramme of performances and masterclasses.

DID THE MIA LISTEN?Extensive feedback has been taken fromthe industry further to the 2008 show andthe MIA has responded to as much of thisas possible.

It should be pointed out that theassociation was delighted with theconstructive and positive nature of all thecomments it received from last year –even the critical ones. As an example, theDrum Hall will now be on the same sideof the concourse as the other three halls.

FOOTAGEBev Channell of Channell Events is co-ordinating all exhibition footage sales. Halfof the footage is already gone, so you willneed to act quickly. Don’t forget that MIAmembers can exhibit at a discounted rate.

SPONSORSHIP AND MARKETINGDave Phillips of A&R Marketing is co-ordinating marketing, sponsorship and

general publicity. Many will recall thatPhillips achieved some deals with titlessuch as Q magazine last year, so watchthis space for further developments there.

Phillips has already struck a deal withthe O2 arena and the new British MusicExperience museum on the other side ofthe river. A full run-down of showsponsors will be published shortly.

PARTNERSIn order to get as many consumers aspossible to attend the event, the MIA willbe working with a range of partners suchas Music for Youth to help ensure that theshow attracts not only existing musicians,but anyone that might be interested infinding out more about playing aninstrument.

RETAILINGThis is a passionate and polarising subjectfor the industry. Consumers clearly wantedto be able to purchase goods at the 2008show and as a result, the MIA hostedmeetings with retailers in order to gaugethe best way to address this issue withoutthe retailing presence being detrimental tothe spirit and feel of the show.

In addition, the associationcorresponded with an unprecedentednumber of businesses in order to beabsolutely clear on the pros and cons ofretail activity at the event.

Ultimately, the MIA decided that LIMSwill have a separate retail hall next to themain four halls with a limited amount of

stands selling products on show. There willbe retail days on June 12th, 13th and14th, following a single trade only day.

SUMMARYEveryone is aware that this will not be aneasy year and we ask every one of you toeither exhibit, attend or get yourcustomers to come to the show in orderthat we can deliver an event that the UKand all our partners around the globe canbe proud of.

LIMS: Everything you need to know

46 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

The London International Music Show is set for its second incarnation at the ExCel Centre in London. The MIA gives MI Pro the lowdown on all of the vital information…

CONTACTSCLIVE MORTON: ..........................................................................................01572 757775

clive@mbinteractivegroup.co.uk

COLIN HOLDSWORTH: .............................................................................020 8866 6230

colin@cphexh.org.uk

BEV CHANNELL (SALES): ............................................................................01332 813952

bev@channellevents.com

DAVE PHILLIPS (MARKETING): ..................................................................01604 762361

david@armarketing.co.uk

MIA OFFICE: ..................................................................................................01372 750600

clare@mia.org.uk

The MIA will beworking with a range

of partners such asMusic for Youth to help

ensure that the showattracts anyone withan interest in music.

This year’s LIMS is setto deliver more of

what retailers want

NEWPRODUCTS

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 49

PRSMODERN EAGLE II £5,595They say: Builds on the illustrious reputationof its predecessor.For: GuitaristsRange: PRS electricsSpec: Premium grade curly maple top withmahogany back, 25” scale black rosewoodneck (wide fat carve), 22-fret fingerboard, highgloss nitro finish, available with PRS tremoloor stop tailpiece, hybrid gold/nickel hardware.From: Headline 01223 874301

SHINESR-1 ROCK SERIES £POAThey say: One of a totally new range of Shineguitars, higher quality specs and keener prices.For: GuitaristsRange: Shine electricsSpec: Mahogany body, mahogany set neck, diecast tuners, 22 jumbo frets, rosewoodfingerboard, EMG humbuckers, volume, tone,3-way toggle, Tune-O-Matic bridge, goldhardware, white finish.From: Intermusic 01202 696963

MARINERA-6H AUDITORIUM £685They say: Handcrafted auditoriumacoustic guitar debuts newpremium brand.For: GuitaristsRange: Mariner Archive seriesSpec: Open arch mahogany back,solid mahogany sides, sitka sprucetop, maple bindings withherringbone purfling, GroverRotomatic tuners, ships withdeluxe shaped, plush lined hard case.From: Ashton 01780 781630

FENDERROAD WORN SERIES ELECTRICS FROM£859.99They say: Guitars and basses develop an unmistakablemojo over time that makes them cooler and morecomfortable.For: Guitarists, bassistsRange: Fender electric guitars and bassesSpec: Based on Fender classic 50s Tele, Strat andPrecision (£1,049.99) and 60s Strat (£859.99) and Jazzbass (£1,119.99), distressed finishes.From: Fender 01342 331700

EVHWOLFGANG FROM £2,399They say: Represents Eddie’s 35years of experimenting, two yearsof intense research and a full yearof brutal road testing.For: GuitaristsRange: Eddie Van Halen signatureguitarsSpec: Quilted maple top, mapleneck and fingerboard, stainlesssteel frets, double-potted custom-wound pickups, five-piece bindingon body and headstock, custommachineheads, Floyd Rosebridge, low-friction pots.From: Fender 01342331700

ARIATA 50QM THINLINE SEMI-ACOUSTIC £349They say: This guitar sounds andperforms like guitars costing threetimes as much.For: GuitaristsRange: Aria thinline semi-acousticsSpec: Quilted maple top, back andsides, chrome hardware, maple setneck, rosewood fingerboard, twoHB-103 humbuckers with ceramiccoils, proprietary SPT bridge andQH tailpiece.From: Aria 01483 238720

BASS & GUITAR • NEW PRODUCTS

LAGFOUR SEASONSACOUSTIC GUITAR SERIESFROM £175They say: Each guitar brings itsown distinct appearance and tone.For: GuitaristsRange: Lag acousticsSpec: Spring: laminate spruce top.Summer: solid spruce top. Autumn:solid red cedar top. Winter: sitkaspruce top. All with Shadow StudioLag preamp with five eq presets.From: Barnes & Mullins 01691652449

Fender continues as atribute to itself with

the Road Worn series

1 – 4. 4. 2009live for the music

The world of music is coming to Frankfurt am Main again in 2009. Visit the Musikmesse show from 1 – 4 April to find out about the most important product innovations and new developments in the industry. Musikmesse is the leading international trade fair for musical instruments, music soft-ware, computer hardware, sheet music and accessories. With a complete range of musical instruments from the classical spectrum through to electric guitars, keyboards, brass instruments and electronic equipment, our exhibitors give retailers, trade visitors and music fans alike an insight into the latest trends. Make valuable contacts and success-ful business links here. Discover the most recent technical innovations and try out the latest instruments. Plus, there are professional product presentations from famous musi-cians to enjoy at this top insider event.

Tel. +44 (0) 17 84 41 59 50info@uk.messefrankfurt.comwww.musikmesse.com

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 51

THIS PAGE IS SPONSORED BY MIKEDOLBEAR.COM, THE LEADING ONLINE RESOURCE FOR EVERYTHING DRUMS.

VISIT WWW.MIKEDOLBEAR.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.

DRUMS & PERCUSSION • NEW PRODUCTS

AQUARIANQUIK BOUNCE PRACTICE KIT £24.99They say: A smaller, more portable version of the 12-inchTru Bounce practice pad.For: DrummersRange: Aquarian accessoriesSpec: Six-inch practice oad, ‘realistic’ bounce, mountableon 8mm thread cymbal stand, pack contains ‘TeacherApproved’ rudiment chart, First Step elementary snaredrum studies by Roy Burns, pair balanced graphite practicesticks.From: MSC 01562 827666

ZILDJIANARTIST STICKS £69(PACK OF SIX)They say: Two of Zildjian’s newestartists have designed their owndrumstick models.For: DrummersRange: Zildjian sticksSpec: John Blackwell sticks: 16.125inches long, 0.57-inch diameter,thick neck, short taper, wood barrelltip, US hickory. Ronnie Vannuccisticks: 16-inch length, 0.61-inchdiameter, oversized barrel tip, maple.From: Yamaha 01908 366700

ZILDJIANA CUSTOM REZO SERIES £POA

They say: New hi-hats, splashes, pangs and ride cymbalsto complement existing crash range.

For: DrummersRange: Zildjian A Custom cymbals

Spec: Seven additional new models to range, alternatingbands of spiral and full lathing techniques, traditional andbrilliant finishes. New bell design on hi-hats and splashes.

Unlathed, high polish bell on ride.From: Yamaha 01908 366700

MEINLSOUNCASTER CYMBALS£POAThey say: Produced in Meinl''s stateof the art factory in Germany usingcomputerized hammering methods.For: DrummersRange: Meinl SoundcasterSpec: B12 bronze alloy, machinehammered, dual finish (unlathed,brilliant and closed lathed), 10"splash, 14" hi-hat, 16" &18" crash,18" china, 20" ride, 20" power ride,22" power ride.From: Active 020 8693 5678

TRXOVERSIZED BRT CYMBALS£POAThey say: In response to requestsfrom hardcore and progressivedrummers for larger, more powerfulcymbals.For: DrummersRange: TRX BRT cymbalsSpec: Additions to series include 24-inch ride, 21-inch and 22-inchcrashes and 15-inch hi-hats. Hand-hammered Turkish cymbals, high-polish surface.From: Morico 01992 461089

ZILDJIANK CUSTOM HYBRIDCYMBALS £POAThey say: Designed by of one ofJapan's top drummers: Akira Jimbo.For: DrummersRange: Zildjian K CustomSpec: Additions include 21-inch,medium-heavy ride, unlathed,brilliant finish inner, traditionallathing on outer. Also 13-inch Trashsplash and 15-inch Trash crash thinspecial effect cymbals.From: Yamaha 01908 366700

AQUARIANHI VELOCITY SNARE HEADS £22.38 &£23.61They say: This is one of the heaviest coated snarebatter heads available.For: DrummersRange: Aquarian headsSpec: 2.7mm thick twin-ply snare head, proprietaryZ-100 application coating, large ‘Power-Thin’reverse dot. Available as 13-inch and 14-inch.From: MSC 01562 827666

The German madeSoundcaster cymbals

(above) add a touchof real quality to the

entry level

Aquarian makes thepractice pad even more

portable

NEW PRODUCTS • RECORDING & HI TECH

LINE 6POD STUDIO UX2 £149They say: Powerful and versatile, allthe necessary features needed to getthe most from recording music.For: Guitarists, desktop recordingRange: Line 6 interfacesSpec: Two 1/4-inch guitar and twobalanced XLR inputs, phantompower, trim knobs, 1/4-inch stereomonitor input, two 1/4-inch lineinputs, two balanced 1/4-inch lineoutputs, S/PDIF digital output,headphone output, assignable VUmeters. Pod Farm plugin, AbletonLive Lite, Reason Adapted.From: Line 6 01327 302700

MARK BASSSTUDIO 1 PLUGIN £199They say: One of very few pluginsthat accurately models bass ampsand cabs.For: Musicians, producersRange: New Mark Bass productSpec: Three Mark Bass heads and sixcabs modelled, six ‘mic’ options,compression, mic position, tweeterlevel, room ambience control, 64user presets, standalone capability.From: Proel 020 8761 9911

M AUDIOTORQUE 1.5 £POAThey say: Brings even more creative options to mergelive DJ performance and advanced music production.For: DJsRange: M-Audio DJ productsSpec: Tempo/pitch alteration, tempo anchors, tempomaster, Z-plane Elastique time-stretching/compression, transmit/receive MIDI beatclock, headphone song preview before loading todeck, intuitive toolbar buttons.From: M Audio 01753 659590

FOCUSRITEPLUGIN SUITE VST/AU£POAThey say: Focusrite's firstindependent VST/AU plug-in suite.For: Computer musicians, producersRange: New Focusrite companySpec: Collection of eq, compression,reverb and gating VST/AU plugins fortracking and mixing, all withadjustable factory presets, all basedon Focusrite hardware, except reverb– based on classic studio designs.From: Focusrite 01494 462246

Focusrite moves intoVST with its first VSTplugin

NOVATIONFX PLUGIN SUITE £POAThey say: A new effects plugin suite derived fromNovation's illustrious synthesiser heritage.For: Musicians, producersRange: New Novation productSpec: Five key effects: chorus, delay, tremelo, phaserand five filters with three octave slopes and overdrive,modelled on Novation Supernova II, audio triggeredenvelope.From: Focusrite 01494 836324

LEXICONI·ONIX U22, U42S, & U82SUSB INTERFACES £299,£399 & £599They say: The highest qualityhardware and software to providethe user with exceptional recordings.For: Computer musicians, producersRange: Lexicon interfacesSpec: 24/96 digital recording,Steinberg Cubase LE, ToontrackEZdrummer Lite, Lexicon PantheonII VST/AU reverb plugin, dbx micpreamps. Two, four and eight channelrecording respectively, Hi-Zinstrument inputs.From: Sound Tech 01462 480000

MOOGETHERWAVE PLUS THERAMIN CONTROLLER £TBCThey say: Wave your hand and control your gear with Moog'sEtherwave Plus.For: MIDI users, theramin playersRange: Moog MIDI controllersSpec: MIDI-linked controller, standalone theramin use, pitch andvolume control, gate output, pitch preview, headphone output.From: Arbiter 020 8207 7860

Bob Moog’s lastcompleted project (aboveright) the Theramincontroller

52 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

Warwick UK: Warwick Music Equipment Trading (Manchester UK) Ltd. • 75 Bridge Street • Manchester M3 2RH / Great BritainPhone 0044 - (0) 161 - 8390 - 666 • Fax 0044 - (0) 161 - 2146 - 161 • E-Mail : info@warwickbass.co.uk

Headquarters: Warwick GmbH&Co.Music Equipment KG • Gewerbepark 46 • 08258 Markneukirchen / Germany • E-Mail: info@warwick.deBranches: D ü b e n d o r f / S w i t z e r l a n d • P r a h a / C z e c h & S l o v a k i a R e p u b l i c • W a r s a w / P o l a n d • S h a n g h a i / P. R . C h i n a

Visit us on the World Wide Web: www.warwickbass.co.uk • www.warwick-distribution.co.uk & join the WARWICK BASS FORUM: www.warwick.de/forum

www.viktorkrauss.comwww.warwick.de/Hellborg

awarded January200

8

Hellborg PreampAudiophile quality bass preamp with 72 dB gain,transformer balanced input, 4Band Eq with inductor basedmid bands, effects loop operating on -10 or +4 dBlevel, transformer balancedDI out. All transformers andcoils are studio grade andhoused in mu metal casings.

Hellborg Mono PowerMassive 250 and 500 WattBipolar Power Amps withover dimensioned outputstage. Transformer impedancematching between amp andspeaker. Advanced circuitprotection.

Hellborg Hi Cab 212Bass reflex cabinet loadedwith 2 twelve inch Celestion drivers. Frequency responsefrom 50 Hz – 8 kKHz withfocus on midrange clarity.Rated at 200 W RMS.

Hellborg Big Cab 215Direct radiating band passcabinet loaded with one 15”coaxial full range speakerand one 15” Bass driver.Extended low frequency res-ponse. Rated at 500W RMS.

NEW PRODUCTS • TRADITIONAL

54 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

BREEDLOVEQUARTZ FF MANDOLIN£1,495They say: Quite simply, Breedlove’sbest ever.For: Mandolin playersRange: Breedlove mandosSpec: F-hole style body, solid sitkatop, solid western maple body, ebonyfingerboard, designed for bluegrassand folk players.From: Gremlin 01903 203044

MISTRALSTARTER WOODWIND OUTFITS FROM£110They say: Already established a reputation for qualityand reliability.For: Woodwind beginnersRange: Mistral woodwindSpec: All outfits include hard cases, seven instrumentsin range: flutre, piccolo, clarinet, alto, tenor & sopranosaxophones, curved soprano sax.From: Stentor01737 240226

TANGLEWOODTB18MG UNION BANJO£229They say: Tanglewood has adaptedits value for money approach to thefolk market and gives the consumereven more for his money.For: Banjo playersRange: Tanglewood folk instrumentsSpec: Bluegrass style G banjo iwithmaple cosmetic, resonator, 18bracket precision geared 5th tuner.From: Tanglewood 01959 571600

A strong showing fromIntermusic from Knight

Strings (above) toBentley digital pianos

(below)

ARCHETTOCOLOURED VIOLINS £79They say: A high quality,competitively priced instrumentavailable in a variety of colours.For: Beginner violinistsRange: Archetto orchestral stringsSpec: Spruce and mapleconstruction, ships with hard foam,fitted carry case with plush interior,exterior strap, bow and rosin.Available in red, yellow, pink, green,black, blue & purple.From: Karacha 0845 200 8343

BENTLEYCONCERTO DIGITAL PIANO £POAThey say: Flagship new concept for Intermusic digital pianos, with creativenew sampling.For: PianistsRange: Intermusic digital pianosSpec: Specially designed fully weighted 'new touch' hammer action, newsampling, full USB facilities, ex-VAT trade price of £449, free delivery.From: Intermusic 01202 696963

INTERMUSICENSEMBLE DIGITAL PIANO£POAThey say: More amazing value pianosadded to Intermusic’s growing range ofdigital instruments.For: PianistsRange: Intermusic digital pianosSpec: 88 fully weighted keys, 137 digitallysampled voices, 109 auto rhythms, 3,000note record memory, ships with stand andonboard speakers. Prices from £275, incldelivery, no minimum order, discounts forquantities.From: Intermusic 01202 696963

KNIGHT STRINGSKNIGHT ACADEMY VIOLINOUTFIT £POAThey say: New technically more advancedall solid, specially selected tonewoods.For: Beginner violinistsRange: Knight orchestral stringsSpec: Spruce and maple construction,introductory prices Academy £24.95,Academy ‘de luxe’ with ebony fittings fromonly £37.95 (discounts in quantities of five).From: Intermusic 01202 696963

New to the UK market,Archetto’s colouredviolins (right)

MI MARKETPLACE

CLASSIFIEDS: MINIMUM 12 MONTHS - ONE ANNUAL CHARGE QUARTER PAGE £1,295

MARKETPLACE INDEX

Welcome to Hot Rox UK, theofficial UK distributor ofJensen speakers and a

global supplier of computer matchedvalves and boutique effects pedalsincluding the full Electro Harmonixrange. Hot Rox stocks amplifier parts,components and specialises in valveamp repairs.

Established in 1985, Hot Rox UKhas established itself and is recognisedthroughout the music Industry for itssound technical advice, expertise,attention to detail and exceptionalcustomer service from the beginner orenthusiast,to big-name artists on tour.

ValvesAt Hot Rox UK it is our intention toprovide customers with true,substantial facts, expelling all themyths associated with valvetechnology. Our wide range of valveshave a long burn-in before they arerigorously tested then curve tracedand precisely matched, deliveringquality and reliability.

Jensen speakersAn alternative to the ubiquitousChinese manufacturing, the Jensenspeaker range, we are proud to say, ismade to a high specification at thewell-established SICA factory in Italy.

Jensen speakers, renowned for theiroutstanding tone and reliability, arenow used by many leading namedamplifier manufacturers.

These speakers really can provideultimate tonal qualities and arecapable of enhancing the performance of all or any vintage andmodern amplifiers.

Jensen’s comprehensive cataloguenow includes the following models: P Alnico, C Ceramic, CH Chicago,Neodymium, the new 100-WattAlnico magnet Blackbird and theTornado 100-Watt Neo-Magnetseries, all available with various Ohmsand sizes.

All speakers are labelled with theJensen logo. Any amplifiermanufacturer or gigging musicianshould seriously consider using theJensen speaker brand for the ultimateperformance and value for money.Catalogue and prices are available toboth supply and retail.

We offer a 24-hour guaranteeddelivery service throughout the UKand our wide range of products areavailable in store or via our website.

Contact details:Hot Rox UK, Unit 6, Millview Court,Newark Street, Nottingham NG2 4PSTel: 0115 9413321Tel/Fax: 0115 9873163E-mail: sales@hotroxuk.comWebsite: www.hotroxuk.com

SU

PP

LIE

R S

PO

TLIG

HT

THE PLACE FOR BUSINESS

A

ALLPARTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0870 442 3336

B

BILL LEWINGTON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01268 413366

BARNES & MULLINS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01691 652 449

C

COVERNOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0121 327 1977

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FOCUS MERCHANDISE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8245 9035

FCN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01892 603730

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GHANA GOODS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0117 955 8668

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HERGA MUSIC SERVICES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8861 1590

HOT ROX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0115 987 3163

L

LEED REPRESENTATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01243 378050

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MADAROZZO™/CBAC LTD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8816 8368

MARSHALL AMPLIFICATIONS . . . WWW.MARSHALLAMPS.COM

MCELLAND/GREMLIN MUSIC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01273 491333

MELBAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +44 (0)20 8382 8010

MIDI (IRELAND) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 003531 6779004

MUSIC EXCHANGE.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0161 946 1234

MUSIC SHIPPING CO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01562 827666

O

OCARINA WORKSHOP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01536 485963

ORANGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0208 905 2828

P

PIANO LOGISTICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0208 561 4321

R

ROBERT MORLEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8318 5838

ROTHWELL AUDIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01204 366133

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SOAR VALLEY MUSIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0116 230 4926

STAINER & BELL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 020 8343 3303

V

VARSITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0131 557 4310

W

WARWICK BASS GUITARS . . . . . . . . . . . . 0049 3742 255 5100

WIND PLUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0116 243 1698

TO ADVERTISE ON THESE PAGES CALL DARRELL CARTER ON 01992 535647MIMARKETPLACE

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Hot Rox is hot

56 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

AMPLIFICATION

To find out more about the JVM Series and other Marshall products contact: Marshall Amplification plc Denbigh Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK11DQ www.marshallamps.com

ACCESSORIES & GIFTWAREABROAD REPRESENTATION

CLASSICAL GUITARS

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2008 57

MI MARKETPLACEDISTRIBUTION

DISTRIBUTION

DISTRIBUTION

DISTRIBUTION

ETHNIC AND FOLK

MI MARKETPLACE

58 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

DISTRIBUTIONDISTRIBUTION

ETHNIC AND FOLK

GHANA GOODSWEST AFRICAN PERCUSSION

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL

PO Box 95, Fishponds

Bristol, BS16 1AG

Tel: 0117 9354132

ghanagoods@clara.net

www.ghanagoods.com

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 59

MI MARKETPLACE

ETHNIC AND FOLK

To order call 0870 442 3336Low call rate 0845 345 5951

Order online @:www.allparts.uk.comor email us: info@allparts.uk.com

Pick a part

• Amp Cabinets • Capacitors • Hardware• Resistors • Transformers • Tubes

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Rothwell effects pedals are trulyhand-made here in the uk and built to thehighest standards. The cases are handpolished and the electronics carefullyassembled by skilled uk workers. The circuit designis innovative and original (we don't do clones, repros ormods) and the sound is the sound of classic rock guitar - pure tone.Our pedals are quickly gaining a reputation for superb quality and are being played on some of theworld's biggest stages. The Hellbender (overdrive) and Switchblade (distortion) are currently beingheard by thousands of fans on Justin Timberlake's world tour, played by Mike Scott (also Prince'smain guitarist), who says "you make truly great, great pedals".

Why not join our growing list of uk and international dealers and stock Britain's finest boutiqueeffects pedals.

BRITAIN'S FINEST BOUTIQUE EFFECTS

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INSURANCE BUSINESS

MUSIC PUBLISHERS

Excellence in Music

Office 2.05, Argentum 2 Queen Caroline Street Hammersmith, LONDON W6 9DX UK Sales Freephone: 0800 432 0486

Fax Number: +44 (0)20 8323 8306 E-mail: salesuk@melbay.com

60 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

MI MARKETPLACE

INSTRUMENT FORUM

MUSIC PUBLISHERS

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 61

MI MARKETPLACEPIANOS AND HARPSICORDS

Rober t MORLEY Co Ltd

34 ENGATE St. LONDON SE13 7HA

020•8318•5838Grand & Upright Pianos by

Elysian, Grotrian-Steinweg, Bechstein,Monington & Weston

and other famous makers

John Morley Clavichords, Spinets,Harpsichords, Virginals & Celestes

Antique, Modern & New, Rental, Repairs,Sales lists & colour brochures on request.

Robert MORLEY & Co Ltd.Piano & Harpsichord Makers

Established 1881

www.morleypianos.com

Making Music in SchoolsSince 1983

UK made rainbow ocarinas fromOcarina Workshop are easy to playand great fun to teach with.

These pocket-sized instrumentsare popular with kids & well-tuned.Together with 'Play your Ocarina'music books, they are the key tosuccessful music-making in manyschools around the country.

Make sure school ocarinas are onyour counter-top and availablewhen customers request them!

Quote ‘MI Pro’ when you order12 Ocarinas & 12 Books and beamazed at the ocarina’s potential...

Trade orders are sent by return:free delivery & no minimum order

www.ocarina.co.uk

tel: 01536 485 963fax: 01536 485 051

email: sales@ocarina.co.uk

PERCUSSION AND DRUMS

MUSIC PUBLISHERS

sales@musicshipping.co.uk

MSC ONLINE

Extensive Product Information

Secure Dealer Only Section

Public & DEALER Forums

Online Ordering

www.musicshipping.co.uk

01562 827666

NEXT DAY DELIVERY

Drum and Percussion Accesories

THE MUSIC SHIPPING CO.

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OCARINAS

REPAIRS

TOP 10 BEST SELLERSNASHVILLE ACOUSTIC GUITARS . . . . . . . . . . . . £50.00 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £27.50 trade ex vat

NASHVILLE ELECTRIC GUITARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . £99.95 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £54.97 trade ex vat

ARK HEAVY DUTY MUSIC STAND. . . . . . . . . . . . . . £18.50 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £10.18 trade ex vatDOLMETSCH DESCANT RECORDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . £6.99 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £3.84 trade ex vat

STEINHOFF 108B UPRIGHT PIANO . . . . . . . . . . £1795.00 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £987.25 trade ex vat

RAVEN STUDENT TRUMPET OUTFIT . . . . . . . . . £140.00 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £77 trade ex vatNASHVILLE ELECTRO ACOUSTIC BASS . . . . . . . £125.00 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £68.75 trade ex vat

STERN VIOLIN OUTFIT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £75.00 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £41.25 trade ex vatMAXTONE BONGOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £29.95 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £16.47 trade ex vatNASHVILLE 5 STRING BANJO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £99.95 retail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £54.97 trade ex vat

WHOLESALERS

PIANO MOVERSPROMOTIONAL MERCHANDISE

www.focusmerchandise.co.uk

62 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

MI MARKETPLACE

Advertiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page

Acess All Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Adam Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Anglo Spanish Guitar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Aria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Ashdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Ashton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Barnes & Mullins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19,39

EMC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 & 45

EMD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Fender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

House Music. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Indie Guitar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

JHS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Marshall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

MB Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Mcelland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Mel Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Retail up! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Roland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Rotosound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

S.Johnson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Sherwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Sound Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Stentor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Summer Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Sutherland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Warwick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Westside. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11,27,33,40

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 63

MI MARKETPLACEADVERTISERS INDEX

TO ADVERTISE IN MIPRO CALL

DARRELL CARTER ON

01992 535 647

WIND INSTRUMENTS

SEND YOUR PICTURES TO CODA@INTENTMEDIA.CO.UK

64 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

FEBRUARY 2007

COVER STARS: Burns London’s Barry Gibson talksof his high hopes for his company’s future, ridinghigh on the wave of ‘retro-couture’.

NEWS: Another record-breaking NAMM after aquiet Christmas, Ringwald joins NAMM, Steinwaywithdraws Woodwind & Brasswind bid – GuitarCenter snaps it up, GfK begins MI stats.

FEATURES: Gremlin, music software, NAMM 2007,Time + Space, folk instruments, the first MI ProRetail Survey.

PRODUCTS: Ritter Revolution gigbags, Phil JonesFlightcase combo, Maoex Black Panther snare, CBdrum kit, Focusrite Saffire Pro.

NUMBER ONE SINGLES: Mika – Grace Kelly.

NUMBER ONE ALBUMS: The View – Hats Off toBuskers, Norah Jones – Not Too Late, Mika – Lifein Cartoon Motion.

RETRO

THE LAST WORD IN MI PRO

ON THE SHOW FLOORNAMM 2009 proved as lively as ever forthose that visited the show – and thosethat exhibited, such as Indie’s Keith Willis(top), together with his US counterpart,who launched his company’s US arm toconsiderable approval from hundreds ofAmerican dealers. Of course, CookieMonster (top right) was on hand forphotos and autographs, as were Kerry Kingof Slayer (above) and Doug Aldrich ofWhitesnake (above right) for Marshall atthe World’s Loudest Breakfast directlybefore the show opened. If you have beenwondering whatever happened to OzOwen (doubtful, but you never know) heis to be found at most MI and audio tradeshows with a camera grafted on to hisface. (The picture he took here has beencensored for the sake of the innocent.)

MI Pro prides itself on bringing you hard-hitting news and analysis, but, we reckon you’d also enjoy seeing your peers intheir more ‘off duty’ moments. So, we’ve expanded CODA to include a permanent pictorial spread of the month’s socialhighlights. If you have any snaps from an event you’d like us to include, please send them to mipro@intentmedia.co.uk...

WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 65

THE LAST WORD IN MI PRO

MI ICON Stradivarius Violin

Stradivarius instruments arefamous for the quality of theirsound, which has defied

attempts to explain or reproduce.The name has also become asuperlative applied to designate

excellence. To be called ‘theStradivari’ of any field is to be deemedthe finest there is.

Born in Italy in 1644, AntonioStradivari is considered to have been adisciple of Nicolo Amati, of the Amati

family of luthiers of Cremona. In1660, Antonio set up shop on

his own in Cremona, thoughhis early violins aregenerally considered inferiorto those of his ‘golden age’,

between 1698 and 1720. While his techniques have

long been fertile soil fordebate and not fully understood

by modern craftsmen andscientists, it is known forcertain that the woodused included spruce forthe harmonic top, willowfor the internal parts andmaple for the back, strip

and neck. This wood was

treated with several types of minerals,including potassium borate, sodiumand potassium silicate, and vernicebianca, a varnish composed of Arabicgum, honey and egg white.

A Stradivarius made in the 1680s,or during Stradivari's Brescian periodfrom 1690-1700, could be worthseveral hundred thousand dollars ormore on auction. Depending oncondition, instruments made duringStradivari's golden period from 1700to 1720 can be worth several milliondollars. Though relatively rarely sold,the highest publicised price paid wasat public auction for The Hammer,made in 1707, selling for $3,544,000on May 16th 2006. Private sales ofStradivari instruments have exceededthis price.

It is not uncommon for violins tobe labeled or branded ‘Stradivarius’, asthe name has been used since byother manufacturers. However, it isgenerally believed that there are fewerthan 700 genuine instruments, veryfew of which are unaccounted for.

The fame of Stradivari instrumentsis not a modern phenomenon. Theyappear in numerous works of fiction,

including the fictional detectiveSherlock Holmes being described asowning a Stradivarius.

A famous, if perhaps apocryphalstory about the Duport Stradivariusclaims the instrument's visible dentwas made by the boots of EmperorNapoléon I of France, who tried hishand at playing it.

One aspect of Stradivari's approachhas been noted that, while one wouldexpect the 'f'-holes on the top of aviolin to be symmetrical, Stradivarioften made his slightly offset. Thisimply that he was less of aperfectionist than tradition holds, but,if true, it more likely demonstrates anaural perfectionism preferred over thevisual aesthetic.

The reputation of the Stradivarius issuch that its name is frequentlyinvoked as a standard of excellence inother unrelated fields (such as shipsand cars), for example, the Bath IronWorks' unofficial motto is ‘A Bathboat is the Stradivarius of destroyers.’In 1924, Vincent Bach began releasinga line of trumpets which becameknown as Stradivarius Trumpets,capitalising on the Stradivari name.

LATEST NEWSSTRAIGHT TO YOUR MOBILE

Bookmark us in your phone:MOBILE.MI-PRO.CO.UK

SEND YOUR PICTURES TO CODA@INTENTMEDIA.CO.UK

RECEIVED BY THE CHAIRMANTHE FIRST evening of each Winter NAMM sees a prestigious reception fromNAMM’s chairman, chairman elect, past chairmen, president... The list goes on –needless to say, the great and the good of NAMM are there to greet VIP visitorsand exhibitors from around the world. This year’s reception was no exception,with fine food and wine flowing freely.

Lee Worsely and Paul Hagen of Active Music (top left) enjoy a laugh and thefact that the Ludwig brand (which they handle in the UK) is celebrating its100th anniversary this year. Mark Mumford and Larry Morton of Hal Leonard(above) were making sure that their sheet music customers would be poppingby their stand. Just 24 hours after launching what many consider to be thelaunch of the show – the Roland V-Piano – Ikutaro Kakehashi (above right),Roland’s founder, enjoys the evening, surrounded by his teams from the US andthe UK. Some familiar faces from the UK were on hand, too, with those mastersof all things brass and woodwind (with a bit of accessories thrown in) AlunHughes (far left) and John Rogers (second right with wife Alison), all being keptsuitably amused by the MIA’s Colin Holdsworth’s (right) latest set of jokes.

66 miPRO FEBRUARY 2009 WWW.MI-PRO.CO.UK

Former members of Jonathan Fire Eater

and The Recoys, NYC’s The Walkmen

have departed from their garage roots,

plumping for a more contemporary

indie rock sound. They have, however,

held on to some vintage instruments…

SOUNDALIKESTHE WALKMEN

NEXTMONTHSector spotlights on electric guitars over£700 and electric drums, plus majorinterviews and all the news and views fromthe world of MI. Don’t miss the firstMusikmesse preview, too.

EDITORIAL: ANDY BARRETT

mipro@intentmedia.co.uk

ADVERTISING: DARRELL CARTER

darrell.carter@intentmedia.co.uk

Company / Job Title: Adam Hall,general manager.

Years in the industry: Just the one.

First single bought: That memoryhas been erased somehow. NewOrder’s Blue Monday was an early12-inch of mine.

Favourite album: The one thatmeans the most to be is Gabrielle’sRise because she wrote it about herown experiences and it brings backmemories of something I wentthrough eight years ago.

Currently listening to: The lastthings I downloaded were Prince andKelly Rowland. It’s great being able toget hold of anything online thesedays.

Favourite musicians: DanielMerriweather, the guy who hascollaborated with Mark Ronson onrecent tracks.

What instruments do you play: Myweapon of choice is either an X-box360, PS3 or Wii; I’ve got them all

Are you in a band: Does Singstarcount?

Andrew Richardson

THE LAST WORD IN MI PRO

MI SPACE

© Intent Media 2009 No part of this publication may bereproduced in any form or by any means without prior permissionof the copyright owners. Printed by The Manson Group, AL3 6PZ

Enquiries to Mi Pro, Intent Media, Saxon House 6a St.Andrew Street, Hertford SG14 1JA.

Tel: 01992 535646 (Editorial)Tel: 01992 535647 (Advertising)Fax: 01992 535648

MI Pro has a monthlycirculation of well over6,000. It is distributedto all MI retailers andindustry professionalsplus carefully selectedpro audio executivesand resellers.

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To order your subscription: call: 01580 883848 oremail: mipro.subscriptions@c-cms.com. Please notethat this is a controlled circulation title andsubscription criteria will be strictly adhered to.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

INTERMUSIC PIANO EXHIBITION

AS REFERRED to in piano news (page12), Intermusic’s annual pianoexhibition and dealer day took placeon January 7th this year, with thecream of piano retail beingrepresented for an afternoon ofexcellent company, fine food andwine and, of course, the chance to fillin an order or two.

Among the 40 dealers presentwere (top) Simon Loat of Forsythes inManchester and Celia Stockbridge ofCarstair’s Pianos in Canterbury.Immediately right is formerHammond man, Keith Beckhinghamof Cheltenham Music, sharing a jokewith John Morley of Morley’s ofLewisham.

At the bottom, Richard Webb takesthe opportunity to get close withDanni Jackson, the piano departmentmanager of Foulds of Derby.

Hamilton Leithauser

(guitar, vocals):

1965 Fender Telecaster, 1965

Fender Vibrolux Reverb, Shure

SM-58.Paul Maroon (guitar):

1957 Gretsch Streamliner,

1967 Rickenbacker Capri, 1965

Fender Pro Reverb

Walter Martin (bass):

Vox Apollo Bass, Ampeg SVT

head, SVT 8x10 cabinet

Peter Bauer (guitar):

1965 Vox Continental, 1968

Fender Pro Reverb

Matt Barrick (drums):

1959 Ludwig WFL drumset,

‘old Zildjian cymbals’

Our best selling products are now available to orderdirect from our warehouse in Foshan, China at export price

plus 7,5% with express delivery time of 6-8 weeks.

Call EMD now on 01293 862612 or log on the websiteat www.emdmusic.com for more details.

A big thank you to all our customers for voting usNo1 in the MI Pro Survey

EMD invites you to discover a world of instruments and

accessories at the best prices.

United Kingdom: Unit1, South Lodge Court - Ironbottom, Reigate - RH2 8QG SURREY - Tel : 01293 862612 - Fax: 01293 863665

w w w . r o l a n d . c o . u k

A contemporary approach to a timeless classic

Beautiful, elegant and different: introducing the new LX-10 digital upright piano. Roland’s engineers have redefined the upright piano, creating a bold new instrument combining pure piano performance with contemporary style and convenience. The LX-10 is a piano with the looks, sound and feel of a classic. Call your area manager for more information. www.roland.co.uk