Guitar Journal: Strandberg Neck-Thru & More
Plus, vintage-voiced modulation and modern stereo headphone amp
5,0 / 5,0 | 
This week, we check out Strandberg’s limited-run Neck-Thru ‘hidden’ model. Then we look at the latest release from Mr. Black, the Stereo Vintage Ensemble Pro pedal, a modern take on a classic ’70s effect. Next up, we look at the new KMA Machines Stereo Headphone Amp.
Guitar Journal
Boden Original NX 6 Neck-Thru Titanium Satin LE
Strandberg has quietly announced a limited-run Boden Original NX 6 Neck-Thru Titanium Satin LE. It is currently available directly from them and appears to be a very small release compared to the rest of their lineup.
Neck-Through
Powered by classic Seymour Duncan JB & ’59 humbuckers, Strandberg states that it pairs a timeless tone with next-level ergonomics. It comes with a Roasted Maple neck-through build and chambered Swamp Ash body wings for massive resonance, a perfectly balanced lightweight feel, and absolutely effortless upper fret access.
Follow their social media channels to get your hands on one of these.
Stereo Vintage Ensemble Pro
The new Stereo Vintage Ensemble Pro from Mr. Black is a recreation of their 2015 Vintage Ensemble, which itself was their take on the classic 1970s Boss CE-1 chorus/vibrato effect. This effect offers vintage chorus and pitch vibrato in a modern package.
· Source: Mr Black
MIDI & More
Now, in 2026, the new version is stereo and includes tap tempo, MIDI, and a wet/dry blend, offering modern features that guitarists demand from their effects.
Modern
The Stereo Vintage Ensemble Pro is hand-built one at a time in Portland, Oregon, and this modern update to the classic chorus/vibrato effect is pretty well laid out. Warm modulation and modern control options make this one worth checking out for fans of the original Boss effect who want the sound without the hassle and noise.
The SVEP creates its stereo field not by separating the clean and affected signals, but by pushing and pulling the left and right delay times in opposite directions—as one shrinks, the other stretches. A great-sounding modulation, and, as ever with Mr. Black, I expect it to be well built and sound great.
MSRP – $299.99
KMA Machines Stereo Headphone Amp
The latest release from KMA Machines, the Stereo Headphone Amp, is a pedal-sized format and offers, as the name suggests, a stereo listening experience. They even provide Dual Headphone Outputs, so it is nice and flexible.
Simple Control
The main controls consist of Aux Mix, Phones (Level), and an Input Level Control. Making it easy to use and well laid out. The clip LED ensures you don’t mess with the signal by going too hot, and overall, it looks like a well-thought-out, premium design.
KMA states that it offers high-headroom audio, with high-impedance input circuitry.
They also include the ability to switch internally between Mix and Buffered Thru Outputs.
Available now at Thomann, priced $183/£166/€189.
Bluetooth
The unit also has an aux input from either Bluetooth Audio or a 3.5 mm stereo analog jack, so you can play along to backing tracks, etc.
A neat little stereo headphone amp with many uses, and it should deliver high-quality results.
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