Custom Guitar Tone - Crybaby modification

I recently got a Cry Baby modification (mod) done from a company called Custom Guitar Tone. customguitartone.com

As you can see from the photo, there is a control knob on the side (Mid control) and a switcher on the base at the front of the pedal. These do not come with the pedal, they are the "mods" I had done.

I got a business card from a guy handing them out at the world record attempt, in Hamilton, for largest guitar ensemble playing Smoke on the Water. I figured the guy made a smart marketing move by targeting over a thousand guitar players in one place so I decided to look at his site, contact him and eventually send in my Wah for a mod. He modifies several pedals but I was interested in the Wah.

Direct text from his site: Wah Custom Mods Changes to component quality and values for smoother sweep and better gain control as well as improved, more vocal Wah tones. Also 100% true bypass to eliminate tone sucking and an LED indicator to indicate when the Wah is on. Add a DC Jack for external power supply on the Vox Wah. Optional mods include external volume/mid control, which adjusts the level of volume and mid-range and a 3 way bass select switch to select between 3 different bass levels. Also add an output buffer to allow for full range in to a high impedance dirt pedal. Currently, we can mod Your: Dunlop GCB95, Dunlop Hendrix JH1, Dunlop Hendrix JH1-B, Dunlop Zakk Wylde, Vox V-847, Vox V-847A, Vox V848 Clyde McCoy. (You must include 15 for the return shipping of your Wah in Canda) © 2009 Custom Guitar Tone

I ordered the Wah Vocal Mod ($25). After explaining to Doug, the owner, what I used it for he recommended a few other mods. Not to up-sell, but to compliment my desktop venture. He wasn't pushy but was sincerely interested in my uses for recording the wah. On his advice I went for the 3way Bass Switch ($30) the Mid control Knob ($30) He also offeres a True Bypass with LED ($40) and a DC jack ($30). You can get the whole package for ($95). I didn't need the LED or Bypass since I only use it when recording so it is always on. (prices in Canadian Dollars)

The photo shows you the wave file that corresponds to the audio samples. You can actually see the difference in the waves as I alter the settings. Look at the photo while you listen to the Wah Demo. (note: when

I say mid control knob "off" I mean to say "zero", when I say "on" I mean to say "10")

Wah_Demo.mp3

I used my Gibson Les Paul Studio, Bridge Pick-up, a custom setting in Garage Band for my sound TTTM (Talk to the Machine) going directly into my external audio interface. Different settings will obviously enhance or diminish the effect of the Wah regardless of any mods. I picked the settings that would best display the sounds.

Truly you need to personally play through any effects with your settings before putting down any kind of money. I took a chance on Custom Guitar Tone and I was extremely pleased all around. I hope the audio samples give you an idea as to what you will get out of your mods.

Do let me know if you get anything done.

customguitartone.com

Customer service 5/5

Sound quality 5/5

Price 4/5 (if you get the full package plus shipping it is almost as much as buying another wah so it may not be an option for you financially)

This blog post originates from:

http://nathanfleet.blogspot.com

If you read this post and only see text, follow the link for photos, audio and video samples.

Think outside the buck$ (Part 1)

When I make independent films, I work within my means. I look in my closet at the things I own and say "how can I make a film with what I own?" Take it a step further and say "who do I know that owns this?" 

Since I film and edit video, I can offer services to musicians for little or no charge and in turn they'll play on my album or lend me some gear. 

Don't be the musician asking for everything and giving nothing in return. It may work first time around but after that people will be less inclined to help you. If you are just starting out and feel that you haven't anything to really offer anyone, seek out a mentor or your school's music teacher. Most music teachers have been there, done that. 

Look up "how to" tutorials on the net. Google any topic and your bound to get several useful results. In the past, some companies offered smaller versions of their recording software as a free download. Some music stores will offer free sample CD's of trial versions. Many bands have recorded great things using much  less than what we have today. Don't be greedy, be resourceful.

Remember that tambourine your Mom bought you that you thought you'd never use. It can be a perfect addition to a track that is lacking in the percussion department. Make a shaker out of a paper bag and some rice or beans. A good friend of mine (D'arcy McGilligan) once recorded a tapped Tim Horton's coffee cup with a pencil to enhance a bass drum.

Buy the cheapest strings at the music store. Usually they are supplied by a "name" brand. You don't need a massive amp to record. You can often get by, plugging directly into your computer. (more details on this in future blogs). After each session, pinch an old T-shirt and run it along each string. It will keep your strings shiny and long lasting.

Don't have a tuner? Your North American phone's dial tone buzzes an F (3rd fret, D string or 1st Fret either E string). Record E,B,G,D,A,E onto your phone or load it onto your iPod. Play it back when you need to tune.

For a cool effect, hold any playback device, like the earpiece of your phone, against your guitar pickup. If someone is talking, it will come through distorted on your amp. 

You're independent. No one is really waiting for your release (family and friends don't count) so take your time. If you are doing something that is out of the norm or against the grain you are probably on to something cool.

There are so many things available to you where you won't spend a dime. Think outside the buck$.