NAMM Gear, a Bass Masterclass, a Must-Read Interview, and More: This Week’s Top 10

As our Winter NAMM Show coverage continued, bass gear news dominated this week’s top 10. But that’s only part of the story.

Readers also dug into Paul Thompson’s deep dive on Wilbur Ware’s legendary solo, picked up essential right-hand technique tips from Ryan Madora, and got an inside look at Yolanda Charles’ latest album, Acid Funk, in part one of our exclusive interview.

Scroll down for this week’s reader favorite stories.

1. A Rocker’s Dream? Meet the Baum Guitars Nidhogg – Our Bass of the Week

With striking looks and a tone built for rock, the Baum Guitars Nidhogg is turning heads. Here’s what makes it our Bass of the Week.

2. Short-Scale Spector Basses Are Finally Here: Custom Shop Expands NS Series

Spector Custom Shop is now offering short-scale options on NS basses for the first time, expanding scale length choices from 30" to 35".

3. Sterling’s DarkRay 5 Bass is Here: A 5-String Beast with Darkglass Power

Sterling’s new DarkRay 5 Bass brings Darkglass-driven power to a 5-string format, delivering versatile clean, distortion, and fuzz tones.

4. What Every Bassist Can Learn from Wilbur Ware’s Legendary Solo

Wilbur Ware's legendary bass solo on "Softly" is a masterclass in phrasing. Discover how his rhythm, space, and storytelling elevate a great solo.

5. The Secret to Right-Hand Bass Technique: Float or Anchor Your Thumb?

Learn the secret to better bass technique - should you float your thumb or anchor it? Master control, economy of motion, and tone with this right-hand guide.

6. Kevin Scott and Avedissian Pickups Unveil a Vintage-Meets-Modern P-Bass Pickup

Avedissian Pickups and Kevin Scott have teamed up to create a new Split P pickup, designed to blend vintage warmth with modern clarity for P-Bass players.

7. Fan Dares Davie504 to Play “Hotel California” in California – So He Did… Just Not That One

A fan challenged Davie504 to play “Hotel California” in California—so he did… just not the one you’d expect. Watch him nail the solo on bass!

8. For the Love of Anthony Jackson: Bass Icons Unite for a Historic Benefit Concert

Bassists and music greats unite for "For the Love of Anthony," a special benefit concert honoring Anthony Jackson. See the lineup and how to support.

9. Aguilar’s DB316 Mid EQ Micro Pedal: Compact, Powerful, and Built for Bassists

Aguilar’s DB316 Mid EQ Micro Pedal is designed for bassists looking to shape their midrange. Its compact design features frequency and level controls.

10. “Acid Funk” and Beyond: Yolanda Charles Steps Into the Spotlight with Her Own Music

From Mick Jagger to "Acid Funk," Yolanda Charles has done it all. She talks bass, creativity, and taking center stage with her latest project, Project pH.