Music is the universal language
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” - Luke 2:14
General Interest
Reverend Guitars | NAMM 2026
Reverend walked us through the company's streamlined 2026 lineup, which reorganizes all their guitars into body-based lines (Charger, Kingbolt, Roundhouse, Sensei) differentiated by pickup configuration instead of individual model names. The lineup features new Steelhead humbuckers that combine ceramic and Alnico 5 magnets for added punch and chime, plus noiseless Steelhead 90 pickups designed to retain authentic P-90 character and single-coil quack without any 60-cycle hum.
New Lineup for 2026
Reverend has refreshed thier line for 2026 with 27 new models.
Charger HH
Charger H90
Charger H90W
Charger 290
Charger CC
Charger JR
Kingbolt H90
Kingbolt H290
Kingbolt HH
Kingbolt 390
Kingbolt H90FR
Kingbolt F-Sonic Descent
Descent W
Sensei HH
Sensei H90
Sensei 290
Sensei JR
Airwave
Charger Air HH
Kingbolt Air HH
Kingbolt Air 390
Roundhouse Air HH
Roundhouse HH
Roundhouse H90
Roundhouse 290
Matt West Wiz-1
DSM Humbolt Dumblifier Overdrive Special | NAMM 2026
DSM/Humboldt’s Daniel Schwartz walked us through the new Dumblifier—a pedal designed to capture the feel and responsiveness of original Dumble amps, developed after comparing their design against authentic models like the legendary No. 12. The pedal combines DSM's Simplifier platform with authentic ODS controls including jazz/rock EQ switching, J-FET boost, mid boost, and bright switch, giving players stereo cab simulation, multiple speaker options, and flexible routing in a compact format.
Dumblifier Overdrive Special
Have you dreamed of capturing the magic of the fabled D-style Overdrive Special? Sure, you can achieve its sound via digital modeling, but that won’t allow you to truly feel the sonic sorcery beneath your fingers. Infused with premium analog circuitry, the DSM Humboldt Electronics Dumblifier Overdrive Special pedal offers something different — it not only delivers authentic tone but also replicates the dynamic compression and touch response that makes the original amp such a mythical piece of kit. This amp emulator stompbox features two channels — Clean and Overdrive — with a shared 3-band EQ, Ratio and Drive controls, plus switches for Bright, Mid Boost, and Rock/Jazz voicing. Moreover, the Dumblifier includes a Preamp Boost for added gain, a Power Amp section for touch-sensitive compression, a stereo effects loop, a stereo reverb with three modes, and stereo Cabinet simulation chock-full of Speaker and cabinet Size settings. Flaunting a heavy-duty anodized aluminum enclosure with eye-grabbing wood side panels, the Dumblifier Overdrive Special provides discerning players with a genuinely authentic D-style playing experience.
Fryette Launches Pittbull Ultra-Lead II Amp And Valvulator Mini Buffer
Fryette Amplification has introduced the Pittbull Ultra-Lead II 120-watt amp head and Valvulator Mini buffer.
From its introduction in 1995 until its discontinuation in 2017, the Pittbull Ultra-Lead had long been the flagship of the Fryette amplifier line, and customer desire for the Ultra-Lead to be reissued has never waned. Following an intensive three-year development process, the new Pittbull Ultra-Lead II is a fully reimagined touring and recording tone machine, specifically designed to be the centerpiece of your playing and gigging environment.
With an eye toward the future of tube amplification, Steve Fryette prioritized the most popular features and functions of his original Pittbull Ultra-Lead and then added a compact, lightweight form factor, flexible three-channel topology, a graphic EQ and super dynamic 120 watt power amplifier. The new amp features the smoother harmonic balance of the former sister-ship, the Pittbull Hundred CLX and imported its personality into the Ultra-Lead platform by way of a Patent Pending power tube blending technology that extracts peak performance out of mixed pairs of EL34 and 6550 power tubes. The Pittbull Ultra-Lead II includes an all-new switching and signal processing platform that offers an array of sonic possibilities in a slick, intuitive sound modification system that can be managed via the onboard LCD display or operated remotely via a custom graphical user interface. “Many amp manufacturers view legacy product reboots in the most literal way possible, offering as accurate a reproduction as possible, given modern regulatory limitations. In our view, that approach is just uninspired and assumes that a great tube amplifier can’t be truly innovative. We believe that the Pittbull Ultra-Lead origin story was about moving beyond, and that is just as true today as it was in 1995” commented Steve Fryette.
The Fryette Valvulator Mini is a high voltage vacuum tube–based buffer designed to preserve and enhance your guitar’s tone by converting the signal from high to low impedance. This process eliminates high-frequency loss and signal degradation caused by cable capacitance, impedance mismatches, and effects pedals. The tube buffer also acts as a tone sweetener, cleaning up and enriching your sound while unveiling subtle harmonics, dynamics and touch sensitivity normally associated with plugging directly into an amp.
In addition to its signal-enhancing buffer, the Valvulator Mini features pickup load switches that allow you to fine tune the mid-range and top end response characteristics of your guitar signal. Housed in a compact steel chassis, the Valvulator Mini provides an unbalanced low impedance output, an unbalanced transformer isolated output and a balanced XLR output for use as a tube direct box, making it a versatile solution for both pedalboards and studio use.
“The Valvulator Mini is the long-awaited evolution of one of our most popular rig solutions, the Valvulator 1 Vacuum Tube Buffer. The Mini features increased headroom and dynamic range, together with significantly lower noise. As always, I wanted a solution for myself that I knew would be a welcome tool for players, especially those who really appreciate the tone and feel of plugging directly into an amp” commented Steve Fryette.
The Fryette Pittbull Ultra-Lead II 120-watt amp head carries a $3,999 street price and the Valvulator Mini carries a $299 street price. For more information visit Fryette.com.
Danelectro | NAMM 2026
John Bohlinger stopped by Danelectro to hear about the company's rebranded "Dano" lineup—original 1955 headstock, "skate key" tuners, and hotter (30% in the bridge, 20% in the neck) lipstick pickups. The models include new graphic finishes from 1950s kitchen tabletops, P-90-equipped versions, authentic '40s and '50s colors, plus 12-string and baritone options.
The Blackstar BEAM MINI harnesses a tube-driven feel in a digital desktop amp format – with plenty of amp models and even ISF control
After unveiling the ID:X Floor – a new floor-based digital amp modeller – Blackstar has offered up something for the practice amp enthusiasts with its new Beam Mini desktop amp.
Designed for electric, bass and acoustic guitar players after portability and intuitive controls without sacrificing tone, the Beam Mini packs in Blackstar’s advanced digital modelling and powerful DSP into a small, portable, acoustically tuned cab for the classic Blackstar sound anywhere.
- READ MORE: NAMM 2026 Live: The latest guitar launches and news from the biggest music gear event on the planet
Loaded with two 60mm full-range drivers – as well as two passive bass radiators and Blackstar’s Super Wide Stereo technology – the Beam Mini is said to offer an “expansive, room-filling sound that belies its dimensions”.
Harnessing component-level modelling, Blackstar says the digital Beam Mini even offers up the dynamic feel of tube amps, despite its tiny size.
It also features 12 amp models – six Blackstar designs and six Ampton recreations of classic amps – as well as three bass amps, two acoustic voices, an acoustic simulator, and of course, Blackstar’s patented ISF control, which essentially allows the user to blend between British and American-style voicings.
Intuitive operation is key to the Beam Mini’s design, with a simple, large SpeedDial and Light Beam Display, offering “instant visual feedback” without having to navigate menus. There is, however, a Beam app, through which users are given deeper editing and creative options, as well as a growing library of amps, cabs, mics and pedal models, and thousands of user- and artist-generated patches.
Credit: Blackstar
Beam Mini also features XpressFX, which allows the user to adjust the intensity of multiple effects simultaneously with the single movement of the SpeedDial. It also sports a studio-quality mic input for recording guitar and vocals together, as well as Blackstar’s IR-driven CabRig technology.
Portability isn’t just served by its light weight and form factor; the rechargeable Beam Mini also features an IP66 dust-tight and weatherproof design, and offers over 18 hours of playtime on a single charge.
The Beam Mini is available now priced at $299.99.
For more info, head to Blackstar.
Credit: Blackstar
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PRS releases full-length documentary celebrating the life of guitar industry legend Theodore “Ted” McCarty
![[L-R] Ted McCarty and Paul Reed Smith](https://guitar.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Ted-McCarty-PRS@2000x1500.jpg)
As we reported earlier this month, PRS looked to be teasing something related to the late, great Theodore “Ted” McCarty.
As it turns out, that was a new full-length documentary celebrating the guitar innovator’s life, packed with archival interview footage, as well as new interviews with PRS head honcho Paul Reed Smith, McCarty’s daughter Sue Davis, and a number of PRS employees. And the 73-minute doc is available to watch right now at PRS’s YouTube channel.
- READ MORE: NAMM 2026 Live: The latest guitar launches and news from the biggest music gear event on the planet
Ted McCarty served as vice president of the Gibson Guitar Corporation in 1949, and later as president between 1950 and 1966. The man behind the Tune-O-Matic bridge – also working alongside Les Paul to develop the Les Paul guitar format – McCarty was also partially responsible for the humbucking pickup alongside engineer Seth Lover, as well as the Explorer, Flying V, SG, ES-335 and Firebird.
As PRS explains, Paul Reed Smith first discovered McCarty’s name in the US Patent office in the early ‘80s, and later enrolled him as a manufacturing and business consultant. PRS introduced its first McCarty model in 1994, and continues to honour him with new guitar designs. Ted McCarty sadly died in 2001 at the age of 91.
“Ted McCarty was a legend. Incredibly smart. Really exceptional,” says Paul Reed Smith. “He was a champion, an industry icon, a leader, a mentor, a friend. In the end, he was family.”
“If you ask anyone who’s an expert over the age of 50, ‘Can you teach me,’ they say ‘Okay, I’ll teach,’ because they don’t want to die and have their gems of knowledge not be passed on,” he continues. “Ted was a prime example of that. He wanted his knowledge base to be passed on, and he decided to pass it on to us (at PRS Guitars), which I loved.”
“There is no better time to reflect on our history than as we close our 40th anniversary,” adds PRS Guitars COO Jack Higginbotham.
“Ted is a part of our foundation. He’s central to who we are. As we continue to grow the company and evolve and create new instruments, he’s fundamental in our thought processes of building great instruments. Ted will always be a part of the story of PRS Guitars as it goes forward.”
“I feel so proud that PRS has once again honoured my dad – this time through a great video tribute to his life and impact – and I am delighted and honored to have been a part of this project as well,” says Ted McCarty’s daughter Sue Davis.
“When Paul asked my dad to put his name on a guitar, dad wasn’t so sure anyone would want to buy it. Paul and PRS have made sure that the name Ted McCarty – and the man that he was – will be remembered for a long time to come. And for that, I could not be more thankful.”
You can watch the full documentary, The Legacy of Ted McCarty, below, or at PRS’s official YouTube channel.
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Ashdown supercharges its UK-made Peacemaker series with bigger heads, combos, and cabinets for the modern guitarist
Ashdown has announced a major expansion of its Classic Custom Shop UK-Built Studio Peacemaker series at this year’s NAMM show. Building on the brand’s existing 2-watt Peacemaker models, the new lineup adds full-power heads, combos, and matching speaker cabinets designed for studio and stage use.
Handcrafted in Essex, the UK-Peacemaker Series revisits one of Ashdown’s most iconic amplifier names, combining “traditional British valve tone” with modern reliability. The expanded range caters to guitarists at every level, from home practice and recording to full-scale live performance.
At the top of the range is the UK-PM-80H, an 80-watt, two-channel all-valve head designed for stage performance with unmatched headroom and authority. It’s joined by the UK-PM-20H, a compact 20-watt head aimed at delivering boutique tones with simple controls for the studio or small stage, and the UK-PM-20C, a 20-watt combo loaded with a 12-inch Celestion Creamback speaker.
Ashdown has also introduced three matching cabinets: the UK-PM-112 (1×12), UK-PM-212 (2×12), and UK-PM-412 (4×12), all fitted with Celestion Creamback speakers for classic British punch and projection.
Together with the original 2-watt PM-2H and PM-2C, the expanded Peacemaker range now covers the full spectrum of tonal needs, delivering the dynamic feel and harmonic richness British valve amps are known for.
The series is built with premium components throughout, including JJ valves, UK hand-wound transformers, and lightweight plywood cabinets loaded with UK-made Celestion Creamback speakers. It also celebrates the work of British engineer Dave Green, whose valve circuit designs shaped the Peacemaker name into one of Ashdown’s most respected platforms.
Designed for musicians who prioritise feel, dynamics, and tone, the UK-Peacemaker range preserves the character of Ashdown’s classic designs while offering a modern, professional-grade amp family entirely made in the UK.
The expanded Peacemaker lineup will be available worldwide through authorised Ashdown dealers and distributors.
Learn more at Ashdown Engineering.
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“It has that classic D-18 sound”: Molly Tuttle teams up with Martin on two new signature models inspired by her 1943 D-18
Martin has teamed up with Grammy-winning guitarist and bluegrass icon Molly Tuttle on two new signature guitars: the D-18 Molly Tuttle and the D-X2E Molly Tuttle.
Both models take direct inspiration from Tuttle’s beloved 1943 Martin D-18, an instrument that has shaped her sound and playing style for years. While the D-18 Molly Tuttle aims to channel the punch, clarity, and fast-playing feel of that vintage guitar, the D-X2E Molly Tuttle brings those same artist-driven details into a more durable, accessible X Series build.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing Martin guitars ever since I started playing the guitar,” says Tuttle. “To see my name on this Martin guitar and to have had a hand in designing it, it was just a huge moment for me.”
Leading the launch is the D-18 Molly Tuttle, the more premium of the two models, and one Martin describes as being “all wrapped in timeless tone and vintage style”. The guitar features rear-shifted scalloped bracing, a slim 1 11/16-inch nut width favoured by bluegrass flatpickers, and an authentic 1940s-style neck profile designed for speed and comfort.
Custom moon-phase fingerboard inlays reflect Tuttle’s personal aesthetic, joined by a silver Martin script headplate logo, oval tuner buttons, and a classic vintage sunburst top. Crafted with a solid spruce top, solid mahogany back and sides, and ebony appointments, the guitar delivers the balance, clarify, and punch D-18s are known for.
“I just love how D-18s sound,” Tuttle says. “It has that classic D-18 sound… it’s wonderful to use in the studio because the notes are so clear.”
The guitar ships in a vintage-style light blue molded hardshell case reminiscent of 1970s Martin designs and is priced at $4,199.99, with both right- and left-handed versions available.
Credit: Martin
For players looking for a more affordable option, the D-X2E Molly Tuttle brings those D-18 core specs into Martin’s X Series for the first time. Notably, it’s the first X Series model to feature a 1940s-style neck shape with a 1 11/16” nut width, a profile Tuttle describes as “extremely comfortable to play”.
The guitar’s solid spruce top is paired with figured mahogany HPL back and sides for added durability, while scalloped X-bracing, moon-phase markers, and Martin E1 electronics make it stage-ready straight out of the box.
“You could pick this up and go down and play a gig with it that very day,” says Tuttle. Priced at $999.99, it offers a far more accessible route into the Molly Tuttle signature lineup.
The moon-phase motif that appears on both guitars carries personal meaning for Molly as well: “I feel like the moon represents creativity, inspiration, your subconscious,” she says. “Sometimes when I realise it’s a new moon, I think that’s a good time to plant the seeds of new ideas.”
She hopes these guitars spark that same creative energy for other players: “I hope you pick one up. I hope you love playing it. I hope they kind of unlock some new ideas in your playing.”
The D-18 Molly Tuttle and D-X2E Molly Tuttle will be available online and through authorised Martin dealers following their debut at The 2026 NAMM Show.
Learn more at Martin.
The post “It has that classic D-18 sound”: Molly Tuttle teams up with Martin on two new signature models inspired by her 1943 D-18 appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Córdoba’s new Stage Artist solidbody nylon electrics are built for the gigging guitarist – and they’re serious lookers
Córdoba Guitars has unveiled the new Stage Artist Series, an update to its Stage Series of solidbody nylon-string electric guitars aimed squarely at performing players. The lineup includes three models – the Stage Artist Agave Burst, Stage Artist Habano Burst, and Stage Artist Traditional – all priced at $1,199.99.
“Stage Artist guitars were designed in response to feedback from Córdoba artists and specifically crafted to meet their performance needs,” says Nick Beach, Product Manager at Fretted Instruments.
“They have thicker mahogany bodies and larger internal chambering than our Stage guitars, resulting in a more substantial feel, louder acoustic sound, and fuller amplified tone. They also have deeper body contours and sculpted neck heels that compensate for the thicker bodies, letting them rest comfortably against the player.”
Credit: Cordoba
Across the range, all three models feature premium appointments, including ebony binding with bold maple purfling, flamed maple Arches logos, and rosewood knobs with maple inlays.
The Agave Burst and Habano Burst models feature Córdoba’s Exotic Top design, pairing an ultra-thin flamed maple veneer with a solid spruce top. They also share Córdoba’s Fusion neck profile, which is slightly slimmer than a traditional nylon-string neck for a playing experience closer to that of a steel-string guitar.
By contrast, the Stage Artist Traditional caters to players who prefer an instrument that looks and feels like a traditional nylon-string guitar. Features include a solid cedar top, antique-tinted gloss finish, flat fingerboard, and a wider 52 mm (2″) nut width.
All guitars are fitted with the Stage Pickup System, co-developed with Fishman, which combines an under-saddle transducer with an internal body sensor for a detailed and balanced amplified tone. Onboard volume, EQ, and Body Blend controls allow for quick tone shaping in live or studio settings.
Learn more at Córdoba Guitars.
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Flattley Pedals The Joker Demo | NAMM 2026
The British crew bring a new bruiser to the show that offers two levels of grind. Plus, we learn about their versatile wah that features a blue LED light plate giving you full visibility on stage of the pedal’s status.
The Joker
The Joker came from the idea, “what happens if you add controlled distortion to a normally clean booster?”. To achieve this we added an FET based 12AX7 valve simulation with the aim of sounding similar to an overdriven single valve combo.
However, on building a prototype it was found that the pedal had more uses than first envisaged. Firstly, it can do the “small amp tone” as expected. So in “dirt” mode anything from a “warm boost” to a “flat out tweed”. So jazz to blues covered.
A second range (“filth”) was added to allow gain / distortion for rock fans.
Third (unexpected) way of using it is as a boost for a conventional amp but with the added bonus of adding additional harmonic content / tone shaping before hitting the front end of the amp. This gives heavy rock fans the tones they are always looking for.
Peterson StroboVUE | NAMM 2026
Do you need tune your guitar from the moon? Peterson has you covered with their sleek, high-definition LCD screen that gives you realtime tuning precision with the inclusion of over 100 excluse "sweetened tunings" and numbered guided tuning presets.
StroboVUE
Building on the legacy of StroboStomp HD, the view-only StroboVUE delivers Peterson’s renowned strobe accuracy in an always-on pedalboard format. Its angled, high-visibility display and fully top-mounted jacks keep setups clean. Featuring Pure Buffered output, continuous tuning feedback, and no mute switch, StroboVUE is built for players who demand precision.
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A totally new guitar, an upgraded Nexus Series and an international debut – here’s what Faith Guitars has launched at NAMM 2026
Faith has landed at this year’s NAMM Show, unveiling the brand-new PJE Legacy FG4 Earth Satin Sunburst, while also upgrading its Nexus Series – and finally allowing its updated FX Series to make its international debut.
Firstly, the new FG4 model comes as the latest instalment in Faith’s PJE Legacy Series. The line honours the acoustic body shapes of iconic luthier Patrick James Eggle, with previous editions coming in the form of the PJE Legacy Mars’ drop-shoulder dreadnought, in honour of the PJE Kanuga as well as PJE Legacy Earth’s orchestral model reminiscent of the PJE Linville.
Priced at £1,565, the PJE Legacy FG4 takes on the same shape as the PJE Legacy Earth, and is comprised of a solid torrefied sitka spruce top and solid African mahogany back and sides. Not only is it designed for warm low-ends and a rich midrange, the top has even undergone a round of “torrefaction” to essentially roast it. This process apparently improves its structural stability, as well as enhancing its tonal character.
Credit: Faith Guitars
NAMM attendees will be able to get a hands-on experience of the Faith’s new axe, as well as getting a cheeky look at Faith’s upgraded Nexus Series. The upgrades vary from more surface-level visual tweaks to refined playability.
Visually, Faith has made its Nexus line more cohesive. The Nexus Copper Black in particular has been renamed to the Thru-Black, with its new name falling in line with the Nexus Thru-Cognac. Both the Thru- models also now feature the same black ABS body, fingerboard and headstock binding and figured ebony pickguard as the Nexus Venus Solar Flare and Nexus Neptune Coffee Brown.
In terms of playability improvements, all Nexus Neptune models will also now include a cutaway in order to improve upper-fret access, as well as employing a soundhole-mounted Fishman S-Tone system. Upgraded Nexus Venus models will also feature a new Fishman Presus 2 preamp system with an undersaddle piezo pickup.
Credit: Faith Guitars
Despite these changes, Faith ensures that each guitar will maintain the signature Nexus tone and feel. Updated models cost anywhere between £805 and £885.
Alongside Faith’s new and improved axes, there will also be the international debut of the fresh FX Series. NAMM attendees will be able to get up-close and personal with both the FX Dark Natural Gold and FX Moondust Grey electro-acoustic models, both costing £1,245.
If you’re going to be at NAMM, Faith Guitars is set up at booth Booth #7007 in Hall C. Head to Faith Guitars for more info.
Credit: Faith Guitars
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Sterling by Music Man: New Luke model, Jason Richardson Cutlass and the brand’s first-ever baritone debut at NAMM 2026
2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Sterling by Music Man. This year’s NAMM Show sees the brand debuting a host of new instruments, with new additions across the Luke, StingRay and Cutlass lines – we’re talking new artist models, short-scale alternatives, and it’s even time to say hello to the brand’s first baritone guitar.
The StingRay line is getting the most love this year, with the StingRay Baritone coming as the brand’s boldest move yet. It comes as Sterling’s first baritone axe, boasting a 27.5″ scale, 24 frets, and B-standard tuning in a striking shade of Toluca Lake Blue.
The fresh StringRay Baritone also comes with a roasted maple neck, locking tuners and an HH pickup to round things off. It’ll cost you $849.99.
Credit: Sterling by Music Man
A smaller take on the StingRay has also been unveiled for bassists, with the lightweight StingRay Short Scale bass coming in at 30” scale. It’s a great option for anyone who can’t quite hack a full-scale StingRay without compromising on power, kitted out with passive electronics paired with a neodymium humbucker to maintain that strong punch.
There’s also a push-push volume boost and 3-way switch to help fine-tune your sound and adjust to your desired tonal character. The bass comes in Charging Green and sits at $749.99.
Credit: Sterling by Music Man
In terms of the Cutlass, the line gains two new additions this year. Both are pretty aesthetic-centric addition to the line, with the Cutlass Plus now available in Cashmere and Showtime – two new Ernie Ball Music Man signature styles. They’ll be available for $699.99.
Credit: Sterling by Music Man
There’s also a brand new finish for All That Remains’ Jason Richardson Artist Series Cutlass. The 7-string guitars serves as a must for metalheads, “designed to meet the technical demands” of the skilled axeman, focusing on a “hyper-ergonomic” feel to ensure even the fattest djenty chugs can be played with ease. That guitat is now available in Kokiri Forest green – and it’s also expanding to offer 6-string variants. A standard 7-string is priced at $999.99, with a 6-string option costing a slightly lower $949.99.
Credit: Sterling by Music Man
The Luke line is also earning a new addition, with its namesake, Toto’s Steve Lukather, working with Sterling to release the new Luke HSS. Yet again, the Luke HSS wears the iconic V neck profile and familiar Luke shape, but its also got a new HSS pickup alongside its 5-way selector, vintage tremolo and 12dB push-push volume boost. Available in Heritage Cherry Burst and Yucatan Blue, the Luke HSS is $849.99.
Credit: Sterling by Music Man
NAMM attendees also have the privilege of acquainting themselves with some unreleased guitars. While all of the aforementioned gear can be pre-ordered now, there’s two very special StingRay guitars at the event which wont be available until later in the year.
Credit: Sterling by Music Man
The first sneak peak on show at NAMM is the second edition of Cory Wong’s Artist Series Sting Ray. The StingRay II features locking tuners, an enlarged headstock and an oval-shaped pickguard reminiscent of the typical StingRay bass. That’s set to cost $749.99.
There’s also a SUB Series StingRay on show, which adds even more versatility to the SUB Series bass line. There’s a push-push volume boost to give that extra kick, alongside a 3-way switch to flick between parallel, and single-coil pickup configurations in an instant. The bass boasts a matching headstock and block inlays, resulting in a truly bold bit of kit. The SUB Series StingRay will be available in 4- and 5-string configurations, as well as coming in Seafoam Green or Vintage Sunburst finishes. – coming in 2026. The 4-string option will sit at $499.99, while the 5-string will be $549.99.
Except for the StingRay II and SUB Series StingRay, these new guitars can all be pre-ordered now. Head to Sterling By Music Man for more information.
Credit: Sterling by Music Man
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Seymour Duncan Announces MortalCoil Multiple-Voiced Active Humbuckers
Seymour Duncan is proud to announce MortalCoil Multiple-Voiced Active Humbuckers are now available to order from seymourduncan.com and from authorized Seymour Duncan dealers.
MortalCoil Multiple-Voiced Active Humbuckers
MortalCoil delivers three precision-engineered voices: a tight, aggressive modern metal MC1 voice with fast, controlled attack, authentic JB and Jazz-inspired passive tones, and a clear, articulate single-coil. Built with optimized-resistance coils and advanced audio op-amps for exceptional response and efficiency, MortalCoil is a powerful, versatile active upgrade.
- Our MC1 voice is a crushing modern metal sound with surgical precision, delivering tight lows and focused mids without high-end fizz
- Faster and stronger attack driven by a low-resistance, high-density copper coil design
- Authentic JB and Jazz voices drawn directly from Seymour Duncan’s legacy
- Single-coil voice with clear articulation and output suited for modern rigs
- Advanced, audio-optimized preamp for superior clarity and definition
- Efficient circuitry designed for best-in-class battery life
- Drop-in upgrade compatible with many multiple-voiced active pickup systems
Introducing Seymour Duncan’s MortalCoil: an active humbucker set with three voices engineered for precision, power, and musical clarity. Designed from the ground up for modern players who demand brutal articulation and authoritative low end, the new primary MC1 voice delivers an exceptionally tight, mix-ready modern metal sound that stays focused and controlled across complex riffs, palm mutes, and harmonics. Alongside it, MortalCoil brings additional voices drawn directly from Seymour Duncan’s legacy: a classic JB and Jazz–inspired voice, plus a powerful single-coil voice ready when versatility matters. Built on 50 years of pickup-voicing expertise, MortalCoil represents a fresh approach to what multiple-voiced active pickups can be.
MortalCoil’s MC1 (Voice 1) delivers uncompromising tightness, note separation, and cutting presence for modern metal applications, maintaining clarity and balance without fizz or nasal midrange, even under extreme gain. Voice 2 unlocks authentic JB Bridge and Jazz Neck voicings, capturing the proven character and feel players have trusted for decades. Voice 3 offers a strong, articulate single-coil voice with enough output and definition to hold its own in modern rigs, making it ideal for cleans, edge-of-breakup tones, and layered production.
At the core of MortalCoil are precision-wound high-density copper coils with optimized resistance, providing faster transient response and stronger pick attack than competing designs across all tunings. Our all-new preamp utilizes advanced audio op-amps that contribute gain, rich harmonic detail, and dynamic feel with extremely low distortion, while the efficient circuit design supports superior battery life for reliable performance on stage and in the studio. The result is crushing attack and surgical control under modern metal gain.
Whether you’re tracking or performing live, MortalCoil allows one guitar to move effortlessly from pristine cleans to aggressive high-gain tones. Experience what happens when 50 years of pickup expertise meets modern active technology. MortalCoil installs easily as a drop-in upgrade for many existing active setups and includes all required pots and wiring. Available now in 6-string and 7-string configurations.
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Seymour Duncan MortalCoil
Laney Introduces Supergrace Loudpedal Collab with Billy Corgan
Laney has introduced the Supergrace Loudpedal, a dual-channel amp-in-a-box collaboration with Billy Corgan and Carstens Amplification.
Working alongside amplifier designer Brian Carstens, the mind behind the renowned Carstens Grace amplifier, Laney set out to do what most believed impossible: faithfully translate two distinct, professional-grade amplifiers into a single floor-based format without compromising the soul of either. The result is the Supergrace: a dual-amplifier platform designed for players who refuse to choose between modern precision and vintage authority.
Born from Billy Corgan’s demand for extreme gain, massive headroom, and unmistakable identity, it delivers articulate saturation with exceptional note definition-long after most amplifiers collapse into compressed blur. Harmonic richness, dynamic sensitivity, and clarity remain intact even at punishing gain levels. Clean transparency flows effortlessly into textured overdrive using only guitar volume and gain controls.
Using the pedal’s Amp footswitch you can select the Supergroup channel and you’re instantly transported to 1969. This channel is a faithful recreation of the legendary Laney circuit that helped define early heavy metal and still powers some of the heaviest tones on modern stages. Gain here is organic and uncompromising. No digital modelling. No shortcuts. Push the input and power section and you’re rewarded with an uncompressed, wide-bandwidth response defined by clarity, punch, and visceral connection. Even the famous “transformer rub” sub-note heard on countless vintage Laney recordings is preserved intact.
Supergrace is more than two amplifiers: it’s Billy’s fly-rig. Laney’s LA·IR Advanced Impulse Response technology provides studio-grade Impulse Responses (IRs), preloaded with Billy’s preferred IRs. USB-C connectivity enables latency-free recording straight into a DAW ands also allows the IRs to be switched out for something specific to the player using Laney’s LA*IR App. MIDI integration is also seamless.
A transformer-isolated FX loop offers flexible routing, an auxiliary input supports backing tracks, and headphone output allows for silent practice. Whether in the studio, on tour, or at home, the full rig is always available.
Features include:
Dual Authentic Amplifiers – The Carstens Grace high-gain channel and a faithful 1969 Laney Supergroup circuit, united in one floor-based platform
True Analogue Signal Path – No digital amp modelling; real amplifier tone, dynamics, and response throughout
Professional Connectivity – USB-C audio interface, MIDI control, transformer-isolated FX loop, auxiliary input, and headphone output
LA·IR Advanced Speaker Emulation – Studio-grade impulse responses preloaded with Billy Corgan’s personal touring IRs
Stage-Proven Power – Used live by Billy Corgan in front of 60,000 fans with his full touring rig replaced by a single pedalboard
Handcrafted in the UK – Built at Laney’s Black Country Customs workshop and supplied in a premium presentation case
Every Supergrace Loudpedal is handcrafted in Laney’s Black Country Customs workshop in Birmingham, England. Each unit ships in a handcrafted presentation box, complete with power supply and premium USB cables.
Laney’s Supergrace carries a street price of $629.99. For more information visitlaney.co.uk/amps/guitar/supergroup/bcc-Supergrace.
Laney Supergrace Loudpedal Amplifier Pedal
Classic Colors Burst Across Levy’s New Chroma Series Gig Bags
Levy’s Music has introduced the Chroma Series, a new collection of leather gig bags that applies bold, guitar-inspired colorways to classic soft-case construction. The series brings a visual update to Levy’s gig bag offerings while maintaining the brand’s established approach to premium materials and skilled craftsmanship.
Visual contrast and color are central to the Chroma Series design, introducing a brighter, more expressive look within Levy’s leather gig bag offerings. The collection is available in Party Red, Powder Blue, Aqua Green and Soft Pink, each applied across a smooth leather exterior. All four colorways are offered in both electric and bass guitar formats.
Each Chroma Series gig bag is constructed from premium garment leather and features a padded interior designed to protect instruments during routine handling and storage. 1" (2.5 cm) plush foam lines the interior, while reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers support long-term use. An exterior accessory pocket provides space for small accessories, and adjustable backpack straps and a carry handle offer multiple carrying options.
All Chroma Series gig bags are handcrafted in Canada, reflecting Levy’s’ long-standing production standards and attention to detail across its leather products. The Chroma Series joins Levy’s broader range of gig bags, which also includes the recently released Solera Series of premium leather bags. For more information, visit levysleathers.com.
Spector Bass Announces NC-4 Frank Bello Black Sapphire Signature Bass
Spector Bass announces the NC-4 Frank Bello Black Sapphire Signature Bass, a new finish option for the official bass of Anthrax. Available worldwide through authorized local retailers and online, the Black Sapphire NC-4 introduces a darker, more aggressive visual identity while keeping the design, feel, and performance that defines Bello’s signature model. Featuring a matching headstock and inlays, the Black Sapphire finish further reinforces the thrash metal aesthetic associated with Anthrax and Bello’s unmistakable presence on stage and in the studio.
The NC-4 Frank Bello is rooted in Spector’s heritage and the classic American bolt-on bass design with modern contours for enhanced playability. The instrument features a refined body shape with a radiused top and a uniquely contoured neck heel, offering a more comfortable and agile playing experience. An alder body provides a balanced tonal foundation, while the one-piece maple neck and maple fingerboard contribute clarity, articulation, and snap. The neck profile is slim yet comfortable, modeled after several of Bello’s most valued vintage instruments for a familiar, broken-in feel. The bass features a 34-inch scale length and is visually unified by its matching headstock and inlays, all finished in the striking Black Sapphire color.
Electronics on the NC-4 Frank Bello reflect a straightforward, performance-focused approach. The bass is equipped with Frank Bello’s signature EMG P/J pickup set, paired with a simple control layout consisting of two volume controls and a master tone control. This configuration allows players to quickly blend pickups and shape their sound with ease, whether performing live or working in the studio.
Hardware appointments are equally purposeful, combining vintage-inspired chrome tuners with a modern, fully adjustable bridge for reliable tuning stability and precise setup. Designed to withstand the demands of professional touring and recording, the NC-4 Frank Bello Black Sapphire is built to deliver consistency and confidence on the world’s biggest stages. Frank Bello’s career spans nearly 40 years, from his early days as a guitar tech to becoming a defining force in thrash metal as the bassist for Anthrax, one of the genre’s iconic “Big Four.” His aggressive playing style and commanding stage presence continue to influence generations of bassists.
“I’ve had my Spector bass out on tour and in the studio for the past year, and it’s gone above and beyond my expectations—whether on the biggest stages or in the studio,” says Frank Bello. “I’m thrilled to introduce the new Sapphire Black version for all the players who’ve been asking for it. Cheers to Spector for making it happen!”
For more information on the NC-4 Frank Bello Black Sapphire Signature Bass and the complete Spector Bass lineup, visit NAMM Booth #6802 or online at www.spectorbass.com
Street Price: $1499.99 USD
NAMM 2026: ESP Guitars LTD Series Turns 30
Following an entire year of celebration for the company’s 50th anniversary in 2025, ESP Guitars (NAMM Booth 210D) will spend 2026 recognizing another huge milestone: the 30th anniversary of their LTD series of guitars and basses. LTD instruments first became available to the public in 1996.
“It was the introduction of LTD in 1996 that made ESP a global brand with accessibility to every level of musician,” says Matt Masciandaro, president and CEO of the ESP Guitar Company. “ESP was already recognized as a very high-quality guitar builder. But it was LTD that put those outstanding guitar and bass shapes into the hands of musicians around the world.”
ESP Guitars had already established itself as a high-end boutique-level luxury guitar brand when, in 1995, ESP’s USA-based distribution company broached the idea using ESP instrument shapes to build high-quality, mass-produced guitars and basses using higher volume OEM factories outside of Japan. This allowed for a larger volume of instruments to be made than what was possible with ESP’s handcrafted instruments, built one at a time by their Custom Shop in Tokyo. In turn, it made the retail pricing of these LTD instruments accessible to far more musicians than their handcrafted ESP-branded counterparts.
The success of the LTD Series was immediate, and within a short time frame, LTD became a significant brand for musicians and musical instrument retailers alike. Six years later in 2002, the company added their LTD Deluxe Series, which added upgraded pro-tier build techniques and components to the already-popular LTD brand. Today, LTD guitars and basses are manufactured with superb quality in multiple countries, and are sold at hundreds of US-based retailers and 80 countries worldwide via ESP’s network of international distributors.
More information on ESP Guitars and the LTD Series is available on the ESP web site at www.espguitars.com.
New Studs and Colors Drive Levy’s’ Latest Amped and Rebel Leather Series Expansions
Levy’s Music has broadened two of its leather guitar strap collections with new additions. The Amped Leather Series now includes new colorways and acoustic-format models that build on its familiar construction, while the Rebel Leather Series gains added variations that extend the series’ existing design.
The Amped Leather Series has expanded with a range of new color and material options that build on its padded leather construction. Additions include black with tan accents, burgundy with matching burgundy leather, dark brown in an extended-length format, red with white detailing, and a walnut-and-brown combination. The update also introduces a suede-backed variation in black and tan that adds an alternate texture within the standard format. Two acoustic-format versions offered in black and dark brown feature a narrow, elongated end designed to fit smaller strap buttons and tight spaces on acoustic guitars.
The Rebel Leather Series adds two new groups that broaden the collection’s material and hardware options. The first introduces eyelet-style straps in distressed black, oxblood, and white, each featuring repeating metal-rimmed eyelets along the length. The second adds studded designs in black leather with silver or red studs, oxblood leather with black studs, cracked white leather with silver studs, vibrant red leather with red studs, and white leather with red studs. These updates provide new visual and material variations within the series’ established leather builds.
All new straps continue to be handcrafted in Nova Scotia, Canada, reflecting the production methods and material standards used across Levy’s leather collections. For more information, please visit levysmusic.com.
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