Impact soundworks – rosette fingerstyle $179

Michael Watts reflects on how the choice of the two most popular back and sides woods affects your acoustic sound

MARTIN DE RETRO PLUS MAHOGANY £1,899

Lloyd Baggs is the genial genius behind the mighty LR Baggs acoustic pickup company that today supplies some of the biggest artists and guitar brands in the business. We joined him earlier this year to hear how slide legend Ry Cooder inspired him to get the whole thing started – and learn why his new AEG-1 guitar may be a game-changer

EPIPHONE INSPIRED BY GIBSON CUSTOM 1962 ES-335 REISSUE £1,099

Last year’s D’Ambrosio series guitars signified numerous firsts for Eastman, not least that they were US-made with boutique prices to match. These new FullerTones capture the magic at a fraction of the price

Taking cues from Steely Dan but bringing their own unique vibe to the 70s AOR genre, Young Gun Silver Fox have grown a devoted fanbase. We join guitarist and co-founder Shawn Lee to see how rare, oddball and collectible guitars have powered their sound