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Built in the UK: Why Marshall still defines the sound of guitar
By Guitar World Staff published
Sponsor Content Created With Marshall
The iconic brand’s amplifiers have stood the test of time. Here's how they continue to be a core part of the cultural conversation

Laney is leading the way for FRFR speakers in 2026 – and its LFR lineup sets a new standard for amp modeler users
By Guitar World Staff published
Sponsor Content Created With Laney
Laney’s LFR range injects digital rigs with the feel and response that comes with playing through an actual guitar amp – with plenty of pro features to boot

PRS has set the industry standard for high-quality, touring- and studio-ready guitars – now, its sights are firmly set on crafting tone-first amp designs for serious guitarists
By Guitar World Staff published
Sponsor Content Created With PRS
With Doug Sewell, PRS’s in-house amplifier designer, at the helm, the brand is setting the gold standard in amps, with current standouts including the PRS HDRX 20 Head, PRS DGT 15 Head, and PRS MT 15 Head

How Mesa/Boogie balances its storied heritage with modern tonal versatility across three flagship ranges
By Guitar World Staff published
Sponsor Content Created With Mesa/Boogie
In operation since 1969, Mesa/Boogie continues to cement its reputation as a leader in the tube amp market in the 2020s

As Blackstar heads towards its 20th anniversary, it redefines what it means to develop an artist-first amp that pairs class with innovation
By Guitar World Staff published
Sponsor Content Created With Blackstar
From being founded by ex-Marshall employees to leading the charge in patented tone-shaping circuits, hybrid valve-and-DSP designs and cutting-edge digital platforms, the Blackstar team looks back at its key moments

How the Rickenbacker 360/12 revolutionized the sound of ’60s guitar
By Chris Gill published
Introduced in 1964, the jangle of the 12-string Ricky inspired generations of players, with the likes of Tom Petty, Mike Campbell and Johnny Marr all making it their own

Simpsons icon Hank Azaria on his Springsteen tribute – and his custom Moe guitar from the Boss’ own builder
By Daryl Robertson published
From Springfield to Springsteen, the Simpsons actor talks about becoming The Boss, performing with two guitar icons, and shows off a custom Petillo guitar, complete with Moe inlay. Worst. Interview. Ever? Not a chance

Why bassist Paul Samwell-Smith chose a short-scale Epiphone for his “rave-ups” with the Yardbirds
By Stevie Glasgow published
The blues-rock opener from the band’s 1966 debut album showcases a standout example of Samwell-Smith’s fluid, freewheeling bass work

Thefts, sweat, and countless mods: The story of Rory Gallagher’s ’61 Stratocaster, one of the most iconic guitars of all time
By Julien Bitoun published
The late bluesman's most famous guitar is a true relic in the original religious sense of the term: it was a part of Rory himself, a receptacle for his musical mojo and a dear friend that spent more time with him than most people

How a new recruit turned Swedish adventure rockers Hällas into a band of gearheads
By Phil Weller published
The latest addition to the ever-quirky prog outfit's lineup, guitarist Rickard Swahn made an impact at his first rehearsal among worn-out frets, weird pickup choices, and crumbling amps – and saved a song that was too Mark Knopfler for them
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