Buying guides

I count down the best compact acoustics for new players, smaller guitarists and those looking for a neat 'couch guitar'

After nearly ten 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

Get the most out of your playing at home with one of these great bass practice amps

Stay in tune whatever your budget, with my tuner must-buys from Boss, Korg, TC Electronic, D’Addario and more

Find your fit with our top pick of the best Fender Strats

I tested 10 of the most popular capos on the market. Here’s my expert picks for electric, acoustic, 12-string and beyond

From Fender to Gibson, Gretsch to Spector, here are our top picks for the best short-scale basses on the market right now

Get more for your money with my pick of the top-rated electric guitars below the $1,000 mark

My expert pick of straps for electric, acoustic and bass, covering all budgets and materials

I used 10 pedalboards from Fender, D’Addario, Pedaltrain and more at home, in the studio and on stage to find out which ones are worth stomping on