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Ask Zac

by Zac Childs
Music CommentaryMusicMusic History
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Latest episodes

  • 1960 Danelectro 3923 Double Neck: History, Design, and the SRV Mod

    October 15, 2026 · 31 min

    In this episode of Ask Zac, we take a deep dive into an unusual vintage instrument: the 1960 Danelectro 3923 Double Neck. From the early history of Danelectro to playing demos, modding options, and the famous Stevie Ray Vaughan connection…

  • A Look At The Fender Tone Master '59 Twin-Amp (Joe Bonamassa Edition)

    October 8, 2026 · 22 min

    Why would a legendary tone snob with Dumbles and real '59 Tweed Twins put his name on a digital amp? On today's episode of Ask Zac, we take a deep dive into the new Fender Joe Bonamassa Tone Master '59 High-Powered Tweed Twin, and what…

  • When and Why To Use A Guitar Wireless

    September 29, 2026 · 22 min

    On today’s episode of Ask Zac, we dive into the world of guitar wireless systems, specifically when and why you should consider ditching your instrument cable. From small casino stages to massive stages with thrusts, we look at how going…

  • My 5 Favorite Delay Pedals (Plus an Honorable Mention)

    September 17, 2026 · 29 min

    Delay is hands down my favorite guitar effect. It’s the ultimate tool for adding space, fattening up your tone, and creating depth, whether you're playing fast country chicken pickin' or holding out ambient chords. In this episode, I share…

  • Richard Bennett's Genius on Steve Earle's “Guitar Town”

    September 8, 2026 · 19 min

    On this episode of Ask Zac, we take a deep dive into Steve Earle’s landmark 1986 album Guitar Town and, in particular, the incredible guitar work of Richard Bennett. Bennett’s playing on the title track is a masterclass in taste, melody…

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  • My Favorite Seymour Duncan Pickups

    September 1, 2026 · 42 min

    In honor of Seymour Duncan’s 50th anniversary, I’m taking a look at some of my favorite Seymour Duncan pickups, and the guitars I use them in. I’ll start with a little Seymour Duncan history, including the famous story about Seymour…

  • Why My Baritone Tele Got a B-Bender

    August 18, 2026 · 19 min

    Eight months ago, I built a baritone Telecaster with some friends. Since then, it has traveled with me all over the United States and Europe on tours, stages, airplanes, and 18-wheelers. Through all these gigs, I’ve learned a lot about…

  • Remembering Jerry Jones: The Guitar Builder Who Changed Nashville

    August 10, 2026 · 31 min

    In this episode of Ask Zac, I’m paying tribute to the late, great Jerry Jones, one of Nashville’s most respected guitar repairmen, builders, and innovators. Before becoming known for his incredible line of instruments, Jerry was the…

  • The Danelectro 6-String Bass I Used on the Today Show w/ Brad Paisley | "This Town" Breakdown

    August 4, 2026 · 20 min

    On today’s Ask Zac, I’m talking about playing in the context of a band, specifically how I used a Danelectro 6-String Bass (Tic-Tac Bass) with Brad Paisley on the Today Show. A lot of players talk about the history of instruments like the…

  • The Album That Changed Eric Clapton Forever - J.J. Cale's Naturally

    July 30, 2026 · 20 min

    In this episode of Ask Zac, I take a deep dive into Naturally (1971), the landmark debut album that quietly shaped the playing of Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Tom Petty, John Mayer, and countless others. We'll explore the story behind the…

  • The Wicked Stepchildren of the Telecaster - The 70s Tele Custom & Telecaster Deluxe

    July 30, 2026 · 24 min

    Ever wondered why the 1970s Fender Telecaster Custom and Telecaster Deluxe are some of the most misunderstood guitars Fender ever built? In this episode of Ask Zac, we take a deep dive into these "wicked stepchildren" of the Telecaster…

  • What It's Like Playing The Grand Ole Opry

    July 30, 2026 · 20 min

    Have you ever wondered what it's really like to play the Grand Ole Opry? In this episode, I share stories from my most recent appearance with Brad Paisley, including an unexpected guitar solo, the history and traditions of the Opry, and…

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About the show

Zac Childs is a music insider and historian. He is the host of the acclaimed Truetone Lounge interview series and contributed to Vintage Guitar Magazine for 15 years via his Ask Zac column, and numerous featured articles, product reviews, and cover stories. On his ASK ZAC channel, Zac takes a look at players and gear and also answers guitar-related questions in ways that were never possible via print.