Sonic Youth Reopens Reverb Shop: Grab Studio Gear From the Art-Rock Legends
Gearheads and Sonic Youth fans, get ready! The iconic art-rock band is reopening its Reverb shop on May 21st, offering a treasure trove of studio-used guitars, pedals, and more. This isn't just any gear sale; it's a chance to own a piece of Sonic Youth's groundbreaking history and capture some of their signature sound.
This marks the third time Sonic Youth has partnered with Reverb, and this restock promises some truly unique items. From instruments used on seminal albums to quirky experimental tools, there's something to excite every musician and collector.
So, what kind of sonic artifacts can you expect?
Lee Ranaldo's Hagstrom II: His first-ever electric guitar, once traded for a Fender Super Reverb amp, is back in his possession and now up for grabs. Ranaldo reminisces about how this guitar set the precedent for his desired sound, making it a truly special piece of musical history.
A Foxx Tone Machine Pedal: Used in the band's earliest days, this pedal bears a Confusion Is Sex sticker - a badge of honor earned through countless gigs.
Ludwig Phase II Synthesizer: Described by Ranaldo as "the sound of Washing Machine's 'Diamond Sea'," this synthesizer is a key component in Sonic Youth’s experimental soundscapes.
Mu-Tron Bi-Phase: A coveted pedal used extensively on A Thousand Leaves, Washing Machine, and more. It’s a true workhorse of Sonic Youth's mid-career sound.
Custom Parametric EQ: A gift from Ranaldo's Fluks bandmate, this EQ was used on Sonic Youth's debut album, Confusion Is Sex, adding to its raw, iconic sound.
Taylor 314ce Acoustic Guitar played at Neil Young’s Bridge School benefit shows, complete with recommended bridge pins from Neil Young’s guitar tech.
Urei Studio Monitors: Gifted to Sonic Youth from the original New York Knitting Factory, these monitors were instrumental in shaping the band's sound at their Echo Canyon studio.
Stamp Pads: Even seemingly mundane items carry significance. Ranaldo used these to create guitar neck imprints in his notebooks, helping him map out the band's complex tunings and chord structures. This quirky item offers a glimpse into Sonic Youth's unconventional creative process.
The trend of bands selling their gear through online marketplaces like Reverb has gained momentum in recent years, with Modest Mouse and Wilco launching their own shops. The estate of the late Steve Albini, a notable (and vocal) Sonic Youth detractor, also sold his extensive collection online. This shift allows fans and musicians to connect with their favorite artists on a deeper level, acquiring instruments and equipment that played a direct role in shaping their music.
The **Official Sonic Youth Reverb Shop** goes live on May 21st. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Sonic Youth's sonic legacy. What piece of gear are you hoping to snag?
Leave a comment below and let us know what item catches your eye!