Jam Track Boss GX-1 Guitar Effects Processor, Fender 75th Anniversary Telecaster Collection

In this week's issue 📩

• Practice over a ii V I iv Jam Track, learning chords, arpeggios, & scales
• Gear Showcase: Boss GX-1 Guitar Effects Processor
• News & Notes, including 75th Anniversary Telecasters

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Guitar Practice

Jam Track - ii V I iv in Bb

This week, lets dive into a jazzy chord progression, with a backing track to practice over.

Below, we have a ii V I iv chord progression in the key of Bb Major. Since this a loop starting with a Cm9 chord, we can also think of this as a C Dorian progression.

First, work on learning the chord voicings (especially if these are voicings you're not familiar with), and play the rhythm along to the backing track.

Next, practice the arpeggios of these chord voicings.

Lastly, to solo over this progression, you can use either a Bb Major Scale, or the C Dorian Mode. C Dorian is just the Bb Major Scale, but starting and ending with C).

ii V I iv in Bb

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Chords:

Arpeggios:

Bb Major Scale

C Dorian Mode

Gear Showcase

Boss GX-1 Guitar Effects Processor

The Boss GX-1 guitar effects processor is a compact, all-in-one unit that combines amp modeling, effects, and recording features into a single, portable pedal. The GX-1 is designed to cover all the basics, whether you’re practicing at home, recording into your computer, or heading out to a gig - without taking up much space or requiring a deep learning curve.

At the core of the GX-1 is Boss’s AIRD (Augmented Impulse Response Dynamics) technology, which helps recreate the feel and response of real tube amps. You get 23 amp models that cover everything from clean tones to high-gain sounds, along with more than 140 built-in effects like delay, reverb, modulation, and overdrive. You can run up to eight effects at the same time, so building layered, performance-ready tones is easy—even if you’re new to multi-effects units.

One of the standout features is how easy it is to use. The GX-1 has a bright color screen and simple, category-based buttons that let you quickly dial in sounds without getting lost in menus. Boss also includes a “Gear Suite” system, which gives you ready-made tone setups based on specific amps and effects—perfect for getting great sounds fast. This makes the GX-1 especially appealing for beginners or players who just want to plug in and play.

Despite its simplicity, the GX-1 still offers plenty of real-time control. It includes three footswitches and a built-in expression pedal, so you can adjust volume, wah, or effect parameters on the fly. You can also expand your setup with external controllers if needed. On top of that, Bluetooth and USB connectivity let you jam along with tracks, edit tones through the Boss Tone Studio app, or record directly into your DAW without extra gear.

Another big advantage is portability. The GX-1 is lightweight, runs on batteries, USB power, or an AC adapter, and is small enough to fit in a backpack. That makes it a great option for players who want a grab-and-go rig for rehearsals, travel, or casual gigs. Even with its small size, it delivers solid, professional-quality sound that holds up in real-world playing situations.

The Boss GX-1 strikes a nice balance between power and simplicity. It may not have all the deep editing features of high-end modelers, but it delivers a wide range of usable tones in an easy-to-use package. It retails for $229.99 USD, and can be found for under $200 on marketplaces like Reverb.

News & Notes 🗞️

• To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the iconic Telecaster, Fender is releasing a collection of limited edition 75th Anniversary Telecasters. The models include an American Ultra II Telecaster, American Professional Classic Cabronita Telecaster, a Vintera Road Worn 1951 Telecaster, a Player II Telecaster, and an American Professional Custom Telecaster.
• Gretsch unveiled a new Electromatic Premier Jet. Offered in several colors, it features a chambered mahogany body, a rounded "C" neck profile, a 10”-14” compound-radius bound ebony fretboard, and Sphera™ Twin Six™ humbuckers. Retails for $799.99 USD.
• Fender announced a new line of UltraCore guitar and bass strings. They have a high-carbon steel core, which they claim delivers strength, elasticity, and consistent tuning.

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