Among the selection of guitars that Alvarez will be displaying at Winter NAMM 2009, there are some new models and series, namely the Fusion series. The series will consist of the FCC and FCF models and have been stamped as acceptable for interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable -- nothing to offend or arouse anyone here.

The Fusion Series guitars feature built-in electronics and slim bodies, like the magazines say they should. The bodies are chambered to retain tonal characteristics provided by the select tonewood top without suffering as much collateral tonal loss from the svelteness of the body.

The Fusion series features a couple of classical, nylon-stringed versions -- one with a spruce top and one with cedar. The two folk, steel-stringed versions are available with either natural select spruce, quilted maple or koa tops.

Electronics are provided by Fishman, who seems to be monopolizing the on-board pickup system market, with Aura IC electronics. This gives players usage of four different acoustic sound images that take advantage of the hottest vintage and contemporary microphones put to work in a controlled recording space.