New York's own Matt Umanov and me in L.A.  Matt was only 18 when he started working for Dan Armstrong. He was the closest link to the day to day goings on at the Armstrong guitar shop. Imagine Jimi Hendrix and Al Kooper walking in and you're eating lunch...just another day for Matt and Dan back in the day.

NAMM 2008 with Dan Armstrong's son and pickup maker Kent Armstrong. He was showing the all wood model in black and a new bridge system. We had a great chat about his dad and agreed that the new guitars would probably not pass his inspection.

Kent and I checking out a prototype in mahogany in a cherry color.

Prototype 2008 Armstrong/Ampeg guitar with metal guard and matching headstock. Also has a hybrid Tune-o-matic style bridge.

A rare prototype 2008 bass with chrome guard and matching headstock. I have to say the 2008 basses are pretty close in feel and tone to the originals once they are set up right.

Another 2008 prototype with a chrome guard and matching headstock.

2008 all wood prototypes. Dig the maple fretboard. These guitars weigh only 4 pounds, unlike the originals at 8.5 pounds.