Stellartone Review: Tonestyler Jr.

History: I have been a full-time pro club/touring musician for the last 3 years. My styles include hard rock, dance, funk, and classic "bar" rock.

Purchase: This was bought directly through Stellartone. There are several different setups you can purchase, but they all have the Tonestyler tone control unit in common. I bought the Jr. model (one vol. one tone pot) and a set of 3 (2 tones, 1 vol) for my Strat. The Jr. is $130, and the set of 3 was $250. Worth EVERY penny!!

What I Like About This Stellartone Tonestyler Jr.: These gems are replacement tone/stacked volume controls that significantly increase sustain, tone, and overall sound of just about any pickup. There are 16 positions on the control knob (my knob goes to 16!) which give you total tonal control under ANY condition and ANY volume. It is the most significant improvement to my setup I've ever made. The rolloff is unbelievably rangy and there is no loss of tone at any volume.

What I Do NOT Like About The Stellartone Tonestyler Jr.: The wiring is a little confusing and time consuming (about 1/2 an hour tops) to install. Also, the tone knobs are pre-notched, so there are little "clicks" when turning them...but they are only noticed at the highest of volumes. Minor stuff. The volume pot is stacked (keep room in mind when installing) and is fairly stiff to control, but that's a good thing especially if you're prone to hitting your volume knob while strumming.

Stellartone Tonestyler Jr. Quality Rating: Fabulously constructed and compact, these tone/volume pots are drop-in replacements. Just wire 'em up.

Review Summary: Every musician who wants a total tonal package for their guitar NEEDS these. No joke. Tone afficianados and club bangers will automatically appreciate their flexibility and depth of range. These will make your Les Pauls jump to life with outstanding sound quality and make a Strat capable of reproducing ANY tone. These work equally well distorted and especially clean. Buy one, try it, be AWED!! You heard it here first.

Rating of this Stellartone product: 5

This Stellartone Tonestyler Jr. Guitar Accessories Review Submitted By: Bruce Despommier

Review Date: 2006-05-14