Latest articles by Richard Blenkinsop
From stage-ready tube icons to powerful digital modellers, here's our pick of expert-tested combos for every budget and playing style
Take a deep dive into the cavernous world of 'verb and explore the best reverb pedals for every budget
My pick of the top-rated overdrive pedals will get your gain tones on point
Plug into legendary dynamic response and organic warmth with my top-rated valve amplifiers for every budget and playing style
Get the most out of your modeler with my pick of FRFR speakers, from on-the-go options to arena-filling mammoths – these active speakers from Fender, Laney, IK Multimedia and more are tonally transparent beasts
The grandfather of acoustic guitars – our top parlor guitar picks from Gibson, Martin, Yamaha, and more
As well as advice on getting better results within your own home studio environment, I also cover the main gear you'll need and the pros and cons of recording your guitar by yourself
I'm here to argue that the humble valve amp is still as relevant today as ever – here's why
From studio-style levelers to stompboxes that squash, we put the market-leading compressor pedals for bass to the test
I count down the best compact acoustics for new players, smaller guitarists and those looking for a neat 'couch guitar'
We check out the top Squier guitars, including the Classic Vibe series, Affinity series, Debut models, and Paranormal series guitars
I break down the best modeling amps available, covering a range of budgets, brands and sizes
My top picks of small guitar amps that pack a punch and let you practice when you're short on space
Keep your instrument in its prime with my pick of the best cleaning kits and maintenance tools
Navigate scale lengths, active pickups, and multiscale fretboards with our expert-vetted selection of the best seven-string guitars
After nearly 10 years working in a busy high-street music store, I’ve seen which beginner amps truly deliver, offering the best value, most useful features, and long-lasting popularity from brands like Blackstar, Fender, Positive Grid, and more
Deliver low-end punch without the high-end price tag: the best budget bass amps from Fender, Ampeg and more
Get more for your money with my pick of the top-rated electric guitars below the $1,000 mark
Whether you prefer digital or analog delay pedals, the options in this round-up will help boost your creativity on the guitar
From straight-up klones to full reimaginings, here are some of the best Klon Centaur-inspired pedals on the market today
From classical, flamenco and crossover, to acoustic-electric models and beyond, these are the best nylon-string guitars around right now
The best beginner basses for young players, newcomers, and the budget-conscious, picked by our experts – featuring Yamaha, Squier, Ibanez and more
Fed up with cumbersome cables? Here's my pick of the best wireless guitar systems for every budget
