Guitar Journal: OSCIX VSM, SPRITZ! Saturator & More!
Plus, The Damned's Brian James' 1964 Gibson SG sold at auction
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This week, we check out the all-new Spurr Audio OSCIX VSM, which offers a unique take on modulation effects in a pedal. Then we take a look at Supercool Pedals new SPRITZ! Saturator pedal. Finally, we look at the 1964 Gibson SG used by the late Brian James, one of my guitar heroes’ guitars, which has just sold for $95k!
Guitar Journal
Spurr Audio OSCIX VSM
Spurr Audio and founder Víctor Meneses have unveiled the OSCIX VSM (Virtual Sound Modeler), a chorus pedal inspired by the industrial mystery of 90s satellite telecommunications. I’ve been a fan of Victor’s work for a few years now, so whenever he has a new release, I try to share them with our readers.
Satellite Tech
Drawing on the “peaceful technology” of Mexico’s silent satellite dishes, the OSCIX VSM offers a unique take on modulation through two key features: The VSM Engine: A sophisticated processing hub that goes far beyond standard chorus effects to create complex, “tuned-in” textures.
Then there is the Integrated Visual Display: A retro-style screen—reminiscent of 90s monitoring equipment—that provides real-time feedback as you sculpt your sound.
8 Waveforms
The OSCIX VSM features eight unique waveforms, allowing you to move from smooth sine waves to jagged industrial pulses. Its proprietary “Depth + Architecture” reverb system provides a lush backdrop that functions independently or blends into your signal for immersive, atmospheric soundscapes.
Satellite Clouds
For those seeking more movement, the Shift function activates “Satellite Clouds,” an ethereal shimmer inspired by high-altitude signal drift. You can also dial in some grit with the Warble control, a dedicated knob that perfectly recreates the glitchy tracking of vintage video tapes and old-school analog broadcasts.
As ever with Spurr Audio, visually, this new pedal is very retro and looks fantastic! Truly boutique pedals, and each one is built by hand in Mexico.
MSRP – $245
SPRITZ! Saturator
Next up is Supercool Pedals new SPRITZ! Saturator, which is built in Canada. This is a refreshing blend of classic compression and juicy, amp-like grit.
Classic Compression Gets a Shake Up
While it pays tribute to legendary OTA circuits like the Ross and Dyna Comp, this “cocktail” features a modern twist with a cleaner interface and significantly improved bass response.
Whether you’re on guitar or bass, it’s designed to be the versatile, high-fidelity cornerstone of your signal chain. Perfect for Fender Bass VI or Baritone guitars, etc.
Juicy Cocktail
True to its Italian-inspired aesthetic, the SPRITZ! Saturator features an illuminated dial for tube simulation and a “satisfyingly simple” layout that keeps you out of menus and in the music. It uses JFET technology to bridge the gap between classic Ross-style compression and saturated overdrive, all while maintaining an enhanced low-end that’s perfect for 5-string basses and down-tuned guitars.
Built in Peterborough, Canada, with true bypass switching, it’s a rugged, dual-purpose tool designed for pure heritage tone.
MSRP -$179
The ‘New Rose’ SG!
The 1964 Gibson SG used by Brian James to record “New Rose”—the UK’s first punk single—sold for a massive $95,000 at a recent Bonhams auction.
Shattering its initial $20,000 estimate by nearly five times, the sale highlights a booming market for punk history.
This instrument was James’ primary tool during The Damned’s most influential era, featuring on their seminal debut album, the follow-up Music for Pleasure, and throughout their live sets until 1978. He also played later with Iggy Pop, so it has been toured and used extensively.
Mismatched Knobs
Sold by the Brian James Estate, this 1964 Gibson SG (Serial #155983) is a collector’s prize featuring a rare Brazilian Rosewood fingerboard and a Maestro Vibrola with the engraved Lyre logo.
Its history as a “player’s guitar” is evident in its mismatched hardware, which pairs three silver-insert “Top Hat” knobs with a single gold speed knob. If only I had a spare $100k to spend on vintage guitars, I would have loved to have bid on this one.
Only a few weeks ago, I wrote about the Marshall Sex Pistols limited-run JCM800 half-stack, but this SG is way more Punk than they could ever be!
I would say an SG is a joy to play, and the current Gibson Standard 61 is a great guitar for those of us who cannot afford vintage originals.
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