THIS WEEK @ CME

CME Boxing Day Sales

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You Can Still Give Yourself the Gift of Gear with/ CME’s Boxing Day Sale!
You still have a chance to save 20% on select new gear (or save 10% on select vintage and used) when you shop CME’s 2023 Boxing Day Sale! Now, until January 3, 2024, get $500 OFF CME Exclusive Gibson Les Paul Standard models, get $400 OFF select* CME Exclusive Fender American Ultra models, or get $200 OFF select* CME Exclusive Player models—including select* case/gig-bag bundles!

*Select gear only. Exclusions apply.

Sale Highlight of the Week 

Save BIG on Your Next Gear Purchase During CME’s 2024 Spring Sale!

CME is kicking off the Spring season with a HUGE $750 PRICE DROP on the CME Exclusive Gibson USA SG Modern Ebony! Get up to 20% OFF select new gear and up to 15% OFF select other items. Or take 10% OFF select Vintage & Used gear & B-Stock Demo items in our Spring Sale Collections online, in-store, and on the CME Mobile App!

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Shop 20% OFF Select Gear

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Shop 15% OFF Select Gear

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Shop 10% OFF Select Gear

Feeling Lucky? Download the CME App to Access Huge Deals During our St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Sale!
This St. Patrick’s Day weekend, if you’re looking to find your four-leaf-clover-of-a-deal on guitars, amps, accessories, and more, then it’s your lucky day—but, ONLY if you download the CME mobile app! Now, through midnight Monday, March 18, download the CME Mobile App to access $500 OFF deals on select Gibson (w/ coupon code DIRTY500) and Fender CME Exclusives (ULTRA500) guitars! Plus, get up to 10% OFF Vintage/Used gear (w/ code MARCH10) through midnight Monday, as well as deals on select* guitars, amps, accessories, and more!

Highlight of the Week 

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Ready to Meet THE Maker? Join Us in Our Lincoln Avenue Showroom on May 6 for an Evening with Paul Reed Smith!
Have you ever wished you could meet the man whose name is on every PRS headstock? If you’ll be in the Chicago area early next month, head to Chicago Music Exchange on Monday, May 6, to join us for a meet-and-greet with the luthier whose eye-catching, exceedingly playable, and superbly crafted designs have catapulted his eponymous brand into the top echelons of the electric guitar manufacturing world—making him, perhaps, world the world’s most renowned living electric guitar luthier!

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Find the Fender Custom Shop Electric Guitar We Dreamed Up Just For You!
Here at Chicago Music Exchange, we’ve collaborated with the best minds at Fender’s “Dream Factory” to build the best instruments we can imagine from top to bottom, going over each spec to ensure that we offer our customers an array of electric guitar options they won’t find anywhere, each representing the combined product of our dreams and theirs! Scroll through all the latest finds and cool new finishes from Fender Custom Shop guitars on our website, or in the CME Mobile App!

D'Addario & Martin String Price Drops

It’s been a heck of a year, but don’t let it get you strung up! Start 2022 off right by stocking up on strings with Price Drops on all your favorite sets by D’Addario and Martin, now until the end of December while supplies last!

Martin Strings
D'Addario Strings

Chicago Drum Exchange

You can’t beat the Chicago Drum Exchange. Shop the newest gear from Chicago’s best drum shop today. 

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Zildjian Z Custom Cymbals are BACK at the Drum Exchange!
Handcrafted by DW Master Shell Craftsman Shon Smith, the DW Limited Edition Brass Pinstripe Ziricote snare drum marries the artistry of drum-making with unparalleled sound engineering. Wrapped in a unique Exotic Pinstripe Ziricote outer veneer boasting exquisite pinstripes, precision-inlaid with actual brass strips, then finished with a natural hard satin lacquer and assembled with Chrome hardware, this versatile 333 North American Maple shell is as visually striking as it is sonically powerful. Only 40 of these limited-edition snare drums will be crafted, so don’t miss your chance to own a piece of percussive artistry from Chicago Drum Exchange!

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Shop New Franklin Drum Co. Acrylic Rose Gold Drum Kits Now @ the Drum Exchange!
Handcrafted in the U.S. to offer drummers modern amenities and vintage vibes, Franklin Drum Co. is known for superb sound, exceptional playability, and stunning visual appeal. Fashioned from high-quality materials, from the precision-cut bearing edges to the perfectly tuned lugs, every detail is carefully considered to ensure optimal sound quality. Call now, or chat us online to learn more about the Franklin Drum Acrylic Rose Gold drum kit now available at Chicago Drum Exchange!

SHOP CRAVIOTTO DRUMS

Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare

Craviotto Custom Shop 6.5x14 Snare Drum Mahogany Maple w/ Cherry Inlay Snare Drum USED

£886.00
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits

Craviotto 13/16/22 3pc. Solid Cherry Drum Kit w/Red Inlay Natural Satin

£4,119.00
Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare

Craviotto 6.5x14 Walnut/Ash/Walnut Stacked Solid Snare Drum w/Red Inlay

£1,550.00
Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare

Craviotto 5.5x14 Solid Maple Super Swing Snare Drum w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops

£1,164.00
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits

Craviotto 12/14/20 3pc. Solid Maple Super Swing Drum Kit w/Walnut Inlay & Brown Stained Wood Hoops

£6,385.00
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits

Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/18 3pc. Drum Kit Silver Sparkle

£2,311.00
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits
Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Full Acoustic Kits

Craviotto Diamond Series 12/14/20 3pc. Drum Kit Blue Sparkle

£2,319.00
Craviotto 6.5x14 Burned Grain Ash Snare Drum Black Cherry Stain Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Burned Grain Ash Snare Drum Black Cherry Stain Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Burned Grain Ash Snare Drum Black Cherry Stain Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Burned Grain Ash Snare Drum Black Cherry Stain Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Burned Grain Ash Snare Drum Black Cherry Stain Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare
Craviotto 6.5x14 Burned Grain Ash Snare Drum Black Cherry Stain Drums and Percussion / Acoustic Drums / Snare

Craviotto 6.5x14 Burned Grain Ash Snare Drum Black Cherry Stain

£1,007.00

Featured Video

Our New Favorite MAGNATONE!
For the first time in over 30 years, the tophat-toting guitarist of Guns N’ Roses fame has collaborated with a new amplifier company—Magnatone—to create the Slash Signature SL-100 amplifier! Co-designed with longtime Magnatone engineer and amp guru Obeid Khan, the Magnatone SL-100 Slash Signature 100-watt amplifier is voiced loosely on the Magnatone Super Fifty-Nine M-80 design that Slash began using during the Guns N Roses 2023 World Tour. It was developed with Slash to meet the needs of his identifiable and unique style and tone, taking it to the next level with the monstrous tone, gain, and headroom Slash requires! Hear how it sounds with the whole CME House Band!

Shop Antelope Audio Zen Q Bundle Promotions

Attention!! Antelope Audio Special Offer! With the Zen Q Synergy Core, you can immediately start creating with 37 included effects, an FX bundle, afx2daw & Bitwig Studio DAW, once activated! Take the leap forward without leaving your home studio. Shop this Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core 4x8 Interface and get $5279 worth of plugins and gear free!! 

Fresh New Gibson Arrivals Are Here

After a massive delivery, we have a slew of Gibson guitars piled high at CME. As we sort through the mountain of new and exclusive gear, our Sales Associates are here to pull from the stack to help pick out the next major addition to your six-string arsenal—or, our Used & Vintage Buyers are happy to arrange potential trade-in options. Whether you’re looking for a step-up or a changeup, we’ll poke our heads out of the pile to help you find your next Gibson!

Gibson Custom Shop SG

Gibson Custom Shop "CME Spec" Guitars

Gibson is guitar history, and Gibson “CME Spec” is guitar history in the making. Thoughtfully designed with our favorite historic specs, custom colorways, and components you won’t find anywhere else, these exclusive models are love letters to one of rock’s most fundamental brands—big, bold, brash, and breathtaking, just the way they should be. 

Gibson Custom Shop Trini Lopez

SHOP FENDER CHICAGO SPECIALS

Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster

Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster "Chicago Special" Relic Aged Butterscotch Blonde

£4,066.00
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster
Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster

Fender Custom Shop 1952 Telecaster "Chicago Special" Heavy Relic Faded Butterscotch Blonde

£4,550.00
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster

Fender Custom Shop 1962 Jazzmaster "Chicago Special" Journeyman Relic Super Aged Lake Placid Blue w/Painted Headcap

£4,268.00
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster
Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster

Fender Custom Shop 1959 Jazzmaster "Chicago Special" Relic Aged Sherwood Green Metallic

£4,409.00

Effects & Amplification

Let us be your Pedal Plug and Amplifier Tone Shop!

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Vox Combo Amps are Now in Vintage Red!
The new Vox AC10, AC15, and AC30 combo amp models are now available at CME in the limited Classic Vintage Red cosmetics! Featuring vintage red tolex, black, and gold fret cloth, as well as a vintage logo, this standout look is the perfect addition to any guitarist’s VOX collection.

SolidGoldFX Surf Rider IV Spring Reverb Pedal Effects and Pedals / Reverb
SolidGoldFX Surf Rider IV Spring Reverb Pedal Effects and Pedals / Reverb
SolidGoldFX Surf Rider IV Spring Reverb Pedal Effects and Pedals / Reverb
SolidGoldFX Surf Rider IV Spring Reverb Pedal Effects and Pedals / Reverb

SolidGoldFX Surf Rider IV Spring Reverb Pedal

£169.00
The Surf Rider IV brings the surf and sand in a ground-up redesign that packs 3 distinct spring tank emulations, based on some of our favorite vintage spring-laden pieces. The available reverb modes include a tight tank, based on our 60s Reverberocket, the classic splash of our early silver panel Super Reverb and our SGFX fantasy tank, with a slightly exaggerated drip and decay for when you want Misirlou to sound certifiably otherworldly.

Housed in a compact package, with expanded controls and added features like soft-touch bypass switching with trails, selectable momentary or latching modulation and top mounted jacks, the Surf Rider IV is guaranteed to satisfy like a cool breeze in the sweltering heat. So, plug in honey bunny, crank it up and get your Dick Dale on!

Compact Spring Reverb pedal with modulation
  • 3 distinct spring reverb tank emulations
  • Reverb-O-Rocket (left) – small and tight tank based on spring reverb found low-watt vintage combos and tape units
    • Super Reverb (center) – classic 60s surf rock spring reverb
    • Fantasy Reverb (right) – spring tank pushed to the limits with floppier springs and longer trails
    • Flutter style modulation of the reverb trails – switchable between momentary or latching via internal DIP switch
  • Multi-function footswitch switches the pedal on/off when tapped and engages flutter modulation when held down
  • Compact enclosure and top-mounted jacks - for ease of pedalboard mounting
  • Switchable Trails/Buffered Bypass – selectable via internal DIP switch
  • Hand-made in Montreal, Canada

Sometimes the sequel is just better than the original - and that’s okay. It shows that the creator has learned something since the last dance, and boy have we learned a lot about spring reverb since our last Surf Rider. Therefore, we’re not afraid to admit that this is the best spring reverb pedal we’ve ever made. We just can’t wait for you to tap into all of the splashing, crashing and drippy magic inside our latest Surf Rider VI.

Whether you add just a touch for a little extra depth and space or if you like your rig soaking wet and dripping with the sounds of a crashing waves, nothing quite captures the vibe of surf and summer like a good spring tank. So, here’s how you operate your new favorite splash machine.

The pedal comes jam packed with 3 distinct spring reverb tanks, selectable via the 3 position toggle, each carefully crafted to give you the ultimate spring reverb experience.
  • Reverb-O-Rocket: Modelled after the shorter spring tanks found on our own ’62 Reverberocket and Space Echo, the Reverb-O-Rocket is designed to add depth and space to your sound, without soaking your rig. This tighter tank is crafted to emphasize the warmth of your guitar while maintaining a smooth and subtle spring reverb tail.
  • Super Reverb: Delivering the classic splash of our favorite 4x10 Fender, the Super Reverb is the ultimate amp style spring reverb emulation. Wider tails that bounce back and forth with that unmistakable metallic twerp. So get ready to be drenched in that classic 60s sound.
  • Fantasy Reverb: Put on your board shorts and dive into the Fantasy Reverb. If you like it soaking wet, dripping with ‘verb and splashy like a crashing wave, this is the one for you. A spring reverb  where each characteristic of the attack and tail is pushed to physically impossible limits. Exaggerated decay, floppier springs and a thicker body are all there when you need to go to eleven. 

Surf Rider IV’s Decay knob sets the amount of time your signal bounces back and forth in the spring tank. If you turn it up all the way, your signal will clang, twerp and bounce with a huge tail. Level controls the volume of the reverb (wet) signal while the Dwell control adjusts how lively your spring tank will be. Turn it up all the way and get lost in the clangy ambience that a spring tank is famous for. Alternatively, just turn it down to get a warmer ‘verb. While the Body control sets how chunky the reverb is. Looking for a huge, echoey tail? Crank it all the way up! Want the reverberations to cut through the mix? Turn it down.

Want to add even more movement to your surfing tones? Well Surf Rider IV also has you covered. The multi-function footswitch not only turns the pedal on or off, but when held down will activate a mild pitch modulation. Internal dip switches set the function of the bypass and modulation. The Speed and Depth of the modulation can also be adjusted to taste.  
View Details
Source Audio One Series Atlas Compressor Pedal Effects and Pedals / Compression and Sustain
Source Audio One Series Atlas Compressor Pedal Effects and Pedals / Compression and Sustain
Source Audio One Series Atlas Compressor Pedal Effects and Pedals / Compression and Sustain
Source Audio One Series Atlas Compressor Pedal Effects and Pedals / Compression and Sustain

Source Audio One Series Atlas Compressor Pedal

£185.00
The Atlas Compressor offers a comprehensive collection of compression circuits that perfectly capture the tone and feel of the industry’s most sought-after compressors. Straight out of the box, Atlas delivers six different styles of compression, ranging from classic stompbox compressors like the now-discontinued Diamond Optical Compressor to high-end rack units such as the snappy 1176 compressor and the smooth and gentle LA2A optical compressor. Atlas also features advanced dual-band compression, which provides an independent set of controls for both the high and low frequencies. Each compression engine has onboard controls for Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Output, Tone, and Blend, allowing for fine-tuned control over the compact One Series hardware.

A History Lesson in Compression
The Atlas is packed with so many different types of compression that it could serve as a tour guide through the history of compressor equipment.  First stop: classic stompbox squashers such as the legendary the Dan Armstrong Orange Squeezer and the excellent (but discontinued) Diamond Compressor.  Next stop: universal and ubiquitous studio rack gear like the smooth and gentle LA2A optical compressor and the ultra-responsive 1176 FET compressor.  Finally, we’re taking you to all-out nerd territory with Peak, RMS, VCA, and Dual compression, and an onboard Expander circuit… the Atlas has it all and does it well.

OPTICAL RACK
The Optical Rack compressor engine is based on the legendary LA2A studio opto compressors from the early 60s. Optical compression controls its output level with light. Increasing the incoming audio level in the original units caused an electro luminescent panel to shine brighter. A photo resistor monitors that light panel and decreased the audio output level, as the panel got brighter. The result is a very smooth and gentle attack that imparts a full-bodied and natural sound on guitar, bass, or vocal. This compressor sounds great with clean strummed or arpeggiated guitar lines as well as acoustic guitars.

STUDIO 76
The Studio 76 compressor is based on the 1176 studio rack compressors of the late 60s and early 70s. This solid state FET compressor is known for its full body and super-fast attack. All of the attack times in 1176 compressors clock in at less than a millisecond. Studio 76 is a great compressor for fast and aggressive country pickin’ (think Johnny Hiland), slap bass, slide guitar and much more.

CUBIC ZIRCONIA
The Cubic Zirconia was inspired by opto compressors that use an LED in place of the LA2A’s electro luminescent panel. This technology is usually what you find inside effects pedals. Using an LED as an optical compressor’s light source creates faster attack and release times, which generate artifacts that tend to make the compression sound a bit dirtier. This is a great sound for playing tight and funky riffs on the guitar.

STUDIO SNAP
A very aggressive and modern sounding compressor. It's based on hard-knee, VCA feed forward type compressor. It uses two compressors in parallel to handle both RMS level controls (“Root Mean Square” compression means that the compressor will react according to the “average loudness”) AND the peaks. The combination of these two compression approaches gives STUDIO SNAP its character.

DUAL BAND

The Atlas has two independent compressors that can be routed in a number of different ways. They can run in Series Mode (one running into another). They can also run in Parallel Mode and be mixed together with a Crossfade control. The Dual Band compressor runs in Band Split Mode, which is a version of parallel routing where one compressor controls only the higher frequencies (everything above 333Hz) and the other controls the lower frequencies (everything below 333Hz). With the Dual Band Compressor the high frequencies release faster than the lower frequencies, so as you sustain a chord the low frequencies remain compressed while the second compressor releases the high frequencies. The result is a beautiful blooming effect that accentuates high harmonics. This is a great compressor for slow ringing chords or lead lines with long sustained notes.


Bass Optimization Mode
We have made it easy to transform the Atlas into a bass guitar specific compression machine. With the push of a button, you can convert all six of Atlas’ onboard factory presets into low-end responsive compression engines, precisely optimized for the complexities of the bass guitar.  The dynamic range and attack characteristics are much different for bass than guitar.  Typically, to achieve a smooth compressed bass tone, the attack and release ranges for compressors such as the 1176 FET compressor and LED optical compressors need to be dialed-in accordingly. Likewise, in dual compression modes, the cutoff frequency that separates the lower band from the higher band needs adjustments to accommodate the specific frequency range of bass guitar. It is all part of our mission to make the Atlas Compressor the most flexible and easy-to-use compression workstation on the planet.


Features:
  • 6 Types of Compression: The Atlas offers many different styles of compression with sounds inspired by studio rack gear and classic effects pedals.
  • LA2A Optical Compression: A faithful recreation of an electro luminescent panel combined with a photo resistor and the resulting warm and smooth compression that has been the standard in studios since the 1950s.
  • 1176 Feedback FET Compression: Based on the solid state FET compressor known for its full body and super-fast attack.
  • LED Optical Compressor: Inspired by pedals that work on a similar concept as the LA2A, but swap the electro luminescent panel for an LED and a quicker, dirtier response.
  • Dual Compressors: Use Atlas’ dual compressors in a variety of ways: in Series, Parallel, or Band Split mode, which provides a separate set of controls for both high and low frequencies.
  • Studio Level Compression Controls: Access all the essential compression parameters including Feedback, Ratio, Attack, Release, Makeup Gain, Mix, and Tone, either with the pedal’s knobs or the Neuro Editor.
  • Special Bass Mode: With the push of a button, quickly convert Atlas to a special Bass Mode with compressor engines specifically optimized for bass.
  • Auto Makeup Gain: Dial in sounds quickly. Atlas automatically increases or decreases the Makeup Gain depending on the amount of compression.

Connect the Atlas Compressor to the Neuro Desktop Editor (a free download for Mac or Windows computers) or the Neuro Mobile App (free for iPhone and Android) and explore the power of effect downloading, customization, and sharing that comes with every One Series pedal.
  • Growing Library of Published Presets: Quickly test and download sounds from the ever-expanding collection of published User Presets created by Source Audio and the rest of the Atlas Compressor/Neuro Editor Community.
  • Deep Effects Editing Capabilities: Use the Neuro Desktop Editor (free download for Mac and Windows) or the Neuro Mobile App (free for iOS and Android) to create, store, and share highly customized filter effects.
  • Dual Compressor: Use Atlas’ dual compressors in a variety of ways: in Series, Parallel, or Band Split mode, which provides a separate set of controls for both high and low frequencies.
  • ​Dan Armstrong Orange Squeezer: A gritty compression inspired by the vintage 1970s unit that graced classic tracks like Steely Dan’s “Peg” and Dire Straits’ “Sultans of Swing.” Available in the Neuro Editor.
  • Look Ahead Compression: A classic studio trick. When engaged, Look Ahead creates an imperceptible latency in the signal that “looks into the future” and allows for an extra quick and smooth attack that without any additional distortion or artifacts.
  • Soft Knee:Adjusts the transition curve of the Threshold point. A sharper knee creates a snappy compression and a soft knee creates a more natural sounding compression. 
  • Side Chain Compression: Use the signal going to Input 2 to trigger the compression applied to the signal going into Input 1.
  • ​Advanced Equalization: Use the 3-band parametric or 8-band graphic equalizers to tweak the tonal characteristics of your compression.
  • USB Connection – Use the pedal’s mini USB port to connect Atlas to the Neuro Desktop Editor, which can be used to edit presets or download the latest pedal firmware.

The Atlas Compressor responds to MIDI Program Change (PC) and Continuous Controller (CC) messages via its mini USB port. The USB port handles communication between the Atlas and digital audio workstations (DAW) on Mac and Windows machines as well as external MIDI controllers with USB host support (we recommend the DMC.micro from Disaster Area Designs)
  • Preset Saving – Save up to 128 effect presets.
  • MIDI Mapping – Use the Neuro Desktop Editor to easily map MIDI Continuous Controller (CC) messages to a comprehensive list of parameters.
  • Preset Recall - Use MIDI CC numbers 103 & 104 to recall any of the Spectrum's 128 MIDI accessible presets.
  • The Neuro Hub - Connect the Spectrum to the Neuro Hub and use MIDI CC messages to control parameters or recall presets. 
  • ​Note: As of Hub fw 1.18 and Spectrum fw 1.05, the Spectrum can now be added to scenes, is visible through the Hub, and can be controlled by PC messages, giving you the full access to 128 preset slots. 

Specifications:
  • Includes 9v DC power supply (300mA / Negative Tip)
  • Includes 1/8” to 1/4” cable for Neuro Mobile App connection.
  • Power Consumption — 165mA
  • USB port — Connects to Mac or Windows PC for firmware updates and the forthcoming in-depth effects editing software.
  • Brushed anodized aluminum housing.
  • Dimensions: L: 4.5 in./11.4cm x W: 2.75 in./7cm x H: 2 in./5.1cm (including knobs)
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09.10.23 - EarthQuaker Devices One-of-a-Kind 2023-07.jpg__PID:9e9ab1d0-7ace-4075-b071-a60f6eb2b4fb

EarthQuaker Devices One-of-a-Kind Pedals
A limited number of one-of-a-kind EQD pedals, including Ledges and Ghost Echo pedals, represent the last remaining at CME. But, just like the others, it won’t be here long before someone else nabs them up. If one of these utterly unique EQD pedal finish options is all you, call CME, chat with us online, or come in today to claim the one for you as your very own!

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Find Out More About The Rare Vintage Effects Units Available For Sale At CME!
Did you know that CME is also a hub for rare and vintage effects? And not just the pedal kind—although we’ve got plenty of those, as well! From a vintage Roland RE-501 chorus echo unit to an original vintage Arbiter electronics Fuzz Face from the 1960s, or an early MXR Overdrive, CME has some of the most sought-after effects units under one roof!

Featured Video

CME Sessions: North By North | Live at Chicago Music Exchange

After a brief stop back home this January for a show at the Empty Bottle, Chicago-based North By North is picking up where they left off on the life adventure they call “the never-ending tour,” during which they’ve shared stages with the likes of Eagles of Death Metal, Tegan and Sara, and Sheer Mag, among others! But, before they take their textured blend of lo-fi, pop-infused garage rock all across North America in 2024, the crunch-rock duo stopped into Chicago Music Exchange to play a few tunes! Check out North By North here in this week’s CME Session!

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