The AMS Blog

Since AMS is officially 40 years old, we wanted to take a look back on the biggest musical innoviations we've seen since 1986. What do you think are the most impactful changes to music over the years? 

It's AMS's 40th Anniversary! And what better way to celebrate than by looking back at some of the top gear from 1986 — the year we were founded. Step back through time and remember the good ol' gear. 

To celebrate 40 years of helping musicians find the right gear, let's take a look at the songs that were popular back in 1986 when AMS first got started. Bring your shoulder pads... 

Know someone who's always messing around with tracks and mic positions to create that perfect song? Check out this list of the best gifts for music producers — in case you want to get them something nice... 

They might all have black and white keys, but not all keyboards are the same! If you're looking for the best gifts for keyboardists, here's the lowdown on what makes the perfect gift. 

As an acoustic guitar player, have you ever wondered if you could channel your inner EVH on an electric guitar? Here are some tips you should know before transitioning to electric guitar. 

Need to find the perfect gift for the aspiring singer/songwriter? Pick any one of these top-10 picks that are guaranteed to make any musician smile after they take off the wrapping paper. 

It's never easy to shop for the drummer on your list — unless you have this nifty guide, of course! Check out the AMS-approved list of best gifts for drummers to find that perfect something for the one who likes to beat, bang, and kick. 

Show your favorite bassist some much-deserved appreciation for always holding down the groove. Check out the best gifts for bassists to make any low-end lover smile. 

It's not easy to buy a gift for a musician. There's so much gear out there! That's why we put together ten of the best products (and most useful) that'll definitely make your favorite musician's day when they open it. 

Buying the right gift isn't easy — but it is if you check out this DJ gift guide! We put together a few of the top products that would make a great gift for the DJ on your list. 

Can't find the perfect gift for the guitarist on your list? Check out these hot picks from the AMS gear nerds. At least, they're what we would want to unwrap — while you're looking... 

MIDI is the secret sauce behind today's music. You might even be using it without even realizing! Learn all about MIDI, how it works, and how it can make your workflow leaner, smarter, and more efficient. 

You can do lots of crazy things with mod pedals, so we went into the warehouse to find five of our favorite modulation pedals you didn't know you needed... until now. 

Dirt: It's what guitarists live for. Sure, you've heard of the staples like the Tube Screamer and OD-1, but here are five of our favorite lesser-known drive pedals that you definitely shouldn't sleep on. 

We were tired of bad recordings, so we went to visit Kevin Antreassian at Backroom Studios for some tips. Want to take your recordings to the next level? Here's how. 

Looking for an acoustic guitar that sounds good AND won't break the bank. Well, have we got the list for you! Check out our picks for best acoustic guitars under $1,000. 

We stacked up the best overdrive pedals just so you don't have to! Check out our list of the best overdrive pedals for 2025 and add some tone to your life. 

Studio time is a big deal, and it's important to be prepared. That's why we asked Kevin Antreassian, owner/producer of Backroom Studios, what he wishes his clients knew before getting into the studio. Are you ready for your studio time?

Ready to buy your next electric guitar but don't want to spend a fortune? We gathered all the best electric guitars under $1,000, so you don't have to scour the internet. Check it out here!