The Gear I Use

Here are some insights into the gear I rely on during performances, in the studio, and at rehearsals. I hope you find this both informative and enjoyable. Please don't hesitate to leave a comment or ask any questions. Let me start by expressing my enthusiasm for this remarkable amplifier and sharing what I've learned about it.

The Fender ‘65 Deluxe Reverb Tube Combo amplifier is truly outstanding and has withstood the test of time as a classic. It stands out as one of the most versatile and revered amps in the guitar world, offering a rich and warm tone that suits a wide range of musical styles. The Deluxe's all-tube design delivers natural compression and harmonic distortion that's challenging to replicate with solid-state amps. Furthermore, its 12-inch speaker is adept at handling everything from clean tones to overdriven leads. With its legendary sound and exceptional build quality, the Fender Deluxe is an essential addition for any dedicated guitarist striving to capture an iconic tone.

I'm also quite fond of my Gibson SG Reissue. If I had to pick a number one, it would be her. If you're in the market for a high-quality guitar, I highly recommend exploring the Gibson SG. These instruments are celebrated for their exceptional craftsmanship, playability, and tone. With solid mahogany bodies, slim necks, and powerful pickups, they're versatile enough to accommodate a wide range of musical styles, from classic rock to straight-ahead blues. Moreover, their iconic designs and top-quality hardware make them a wise investment for any dedicated musician.

Let's shift our focus to a fascinating instrument that demands attention: the Weissenborn lap slide guitar. This unique instrument gained popularity in the early 20th century and was the brainchild of Hermann Weissenborn, a talented German immigrant who made his home in Los Angeles, California. Prior to this innovation, Weissenborn had honed his craftsmanship by constructing violins and cellos. However, he set out to create an instrument capable of producing the distinctive Hawaiian sound that he envisioned.

The lap slide guitar emerged during the Hawaiian music craze that captivated the United States in the early 20th century. Hawaiian music boasted a distinctive sound, featuring the use of slack-key guitar and lap steel guitar, both of which had been adapted from the Portuguese braguinha and the Spanish guitar. Recognizing an opportunity, Weissenborn set out to develop an instrument capable of producing a comparable sound while embodying a more sophisticated and refined design.

The Weissenborn lap slide guitar made its debut in the 1920s and swiftly captured the admiration of Hawaiian and country musicians. Its hollow, teardrop-shaped body crafted from koa wood, featuring a flat top and back, became its hallmark. The raised strings facilitated seamless gliding between notes, resulting in a unique sliding sound. Presently, the Weissenborn lap slide guitar remains a coveted treasure among musicians and collectors. Personally, I have a deep fondness for my Ashers and proudly play two Electro Hawaiian Jr Lap Slides, an Imperial Hawaiian acoustic, and a commemorative Weissenborn, all meticulously crafted by the skilled hands of Bill Asher himself.

I highly recommend Sam Ash for all your gear needs. They have quality customer service, and carry nearly all the gear that I use, so if I ever need to replace or upgrade something, big or small, I know where to turn. Here are some links to help you along the same path, and if you purchase through the links provided below, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. 

Full Stage Gear List (as of December 2023)

Bobby Carrillo-Thompson

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