New and notable introductions that will be on-hand in Anaheim in January – either as part of the NAMM Show, or at nearby events

 

Fretted

  

Gibson Partners with Keith Richards to Release Signed 1960 ES-355 Models

Gibson announces its partnership with Keith Richards — one of the most influential musicians in history and co-founder of the legendary Rolling Stones. This collaboration introduces two extraordinary instruments: the Keith Richards 1960 ES-355 Collector’s Edition, Signed Guitar and Label, and the Keith Richards 1960 ES-355, Signed Label — both handcrafted by Gibson Custom in Nashville, Tennessee, and strictly limited. Developed in close collaboration with Richards himself, these guitars represent a rare opportunity for fans and collectors alike to own a signed replica of one of Keith’s best-loved and most recognizable guitars.

Only 50 of the Keith Richards 1960 ES-355 Collector’s Edition, Signed Guitar and Label have been produced and will be available exclusively worldwide on Gibson.com and at the Gibson Garage in Nashville and London. These guitars have been signed both on the f-hole label by Keith Richards and on the back of the headstock. Additionally, 100 of the Keith Richards 1960 ES-355, Signed Label — signed by Keith Richards on the f-hole label only — will be available at  Gibson Garage locations, authorized Gibson Custom dealers, and globally on Gibson.com.

For more than six decades, the “Human Riff” has been the heartbeat of The Rolling Stones, inspiring millions of fans and musicians the world over to get out of their seats and rock ’n’ roll. It’s difficult to imagine the landscape of popular music without the monolithic presence of Keith Richards looming over it with impossible cool, godlike nonchalance, and, of course, impeccable taste in guitars. Ask any guitarist which of Keith’s instruments they desire the most, and we’re willing to bet his black 1960 Gibson ES-355 will top the list. Keith first used an ES-355 back in 1969, taking it out on the road and into the studio during the legendary recording sessions for Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main St. His black 1960 model has been a staple of every planet-straddling Rolling Stones tour since 1997.

Gibson Custom now proudly introduces two meticulous recreations of the ES-355 that Keith made famous. Handcrafted in the Gibson Custom Shop in Nashville, Tennessee, these models aren’t just a tribute; they are exact replicas, crafted using advanced 3D scanning, period-correct materials and construction techniques, with Murphy Lab hand-aging to mirror every detail of the original, including its distinctive tone.

“This is my standard-tuning six-string; this is the other side of my thing,” Keith Richards explains, “My six-string stuff has always been, you know, a great Gibson — that’s where I feel the most comfortable. And also with the sound. Put it through just about any amp, and it will sound the way you want it, because this has so much more room for expression.”

 

 

Taylor Guitars Kicks Off 2026 with Two Major Launches

Taylor has announced its most ambitious tonal expansion to date with two key launches: a Next Generation evolution of its flagship Grand Auditorium guitars and the growth of its heritage-inspired Gold Label Collection to include a trio of deeper-bodied square-shoulder dreadnoughts. This dual launch underscores Taylor’s commitment to offer players the industry’s widest spectrum of acoustic tonal possibilities, from cutting-edge modern acoustic performance to time-honored traditional tonal character.

“As guitar makers, we see the ever-wider variety of players and styles,” said Andy Powers, Taylor’s chief guitar designer and CEO. “This means different types of sounds, feels and aesthetic presentations — all in step with the creative world of today’s players.”

EVOLVING A MODERN FLAGSHIP: Next Generation GRAND AUDITORIUMS

For more than 30 years, the cutaway Grand Auditorium body style has defined the Taylor brand — comfortable, musically versatile, and equally at home in living rooms, pro studios, and on big stages. Yet in keeping with Taylor’s ethos of continuous improvement, Andy Powers has continued to bring voicing enhancements to Taylor’s most popular body style.  The latest refinements arrive as a potent trio of performance-enhancing, “Next-Generation” innovations that fundamentally transform the feel, sound, and live performance utility, all while retaining the core identity that players love. Debuting in Taylor’s best-selling 300, 400 and 800 Series, including both Standard and Builder’s Edition models, the Next Generation Grand Auditoriums combine Taylor’s patented Action Control Neck, a new scalloped variant of Andy’s V-Class bracing, and all-new Claria System electronics—with all three design breakthroughs working in harmony to inspire players by offering a richer, more expressive musical experience.

ACTION CONTROL NECK — The patented Action Control Neck features a long-tenon joint extending deeper into the guitar body for dramatically enhanced sustain, warmth, and resonance, while allowing instant, precise string height adjustments directly through the soundhole—with no string or neck removal required.

SCALLOPED V-CLASSTM BRACING — Working in harmony with the neck, a new scalloped V-Class bracing pattern lightens key brace zones for increased top movement and responsiveness, delivering the warmth and richness players crave with enhanced low-end response while preserving V-Class’s renowned pitch accuracy, projection and sustain.

CLARIATM  PICKUP SYSTEM — Finally, Taylor’s all-new Claria System electronics revolutionize amplified performance with an improved under-saddle piezo pickup paired with a proprietary onboard preamp that eliminates traditional piezo harshness. Discrete soundhole-mounted Volume, Mid-Contour, and Tone controls enable a wide range of tone-shaping—players will find it easy to quickly dial in their preferred sound in any type of performance venue, offering remarkable plug-and-play utility.

Next Generation Grand Auditoriums start at $2,499 and include:

*These 12-string models feature standard V-Class bracing.

GOLD LABEL GROWTH: SQUARE-SHOULDER DREADS + NEW 900 SERIES MODELS

One year after its debut, Taylor’s Gold Label Collection, which draws inspiration from past eras of traditional, non-cutaway guitars, welcomes another body style to the family: a square-shoulder dreadnought with a deeper body that creates an acoustic powerhouse with pronounced warmth and projection. The new dreadnought models include three tonewood pairings: the mahogany/torrefied Sitka spruce Gold Label 510e, the Indian rosewood/torrefied Sitka spruce Gold Label 710e, and the Honduran rosewood/torrefied Sitka spruce Gold Label 810e. (One other dreadnought that sits alongside these models is the Trey Hensley Gold Label 510e, introduced in Q4 of 2025.)

The new Gold Label Collection guitars start at $2,799 and include:

Additionally, a pair of new Gold Label models debut at Taylor’s 900 Series level, featuring an ultra-premium blend of materials and aesthetic refinements. Models include two body styles: the Super Auditorium Gold Label 914e and Grand Pacific 917e. Both pair Honduran rosewood with Adirondack spruce and feature exquisite paua-shell trim along the top, fretboard and headstock, in natural or golden-brown sunburst finishes. All Gold Label models feature the collection’s signature innovations: Fanned V-Class Bracing, the Action Control Neck, and heritage-inspired aesthetics.

“It’s like players are stepping into a different musical skin with our Gold Label guitars,” says Powers. “Songwriters, bluegrass players, Americana players, rhythm players, weekend strummers, worship leaders, all kinds of different players saying, ‘Wow, I love this sound. This is a whole different face of Taylor.’”

 

 

New Electrics and Acoustics from Ibanez

New for 2026, Ibanez just announced one of the latest additions to its esteemed Prestige line for 2026: the RG653DX.

The RG653DX blends classic RG visuals with modern performance. This model features throwback design elements that pay homage to the line’s history, including a classic pickguard and striking Acrylic & Abalone block inlays.

The visual design is further enhanced by two distinct finishes: White Flat and Transparent Deep Blue Flat. These finishes complement the vintage-inspired design scheme, resulting in a pair of high-performance contemporary instruments that lean into the inherent history and heritage of the Ibanez RG line.

Built in Japan with Ibanez’s renowned Prestige craftsmanship, the RG653DX is engineered for the modern player who also seeks dynamic classic aesthetics. 

Key features include:

  •     A powerful pairing of DiMarzio Air Norton (neck) and DiMarzio Tone Zone (bridge) humbuckers, offering versatile tonal options.
  •     The Edge tremolo bridge, for exceptional tuning stability and expressive performance.
  •     A resonant Ash body for clear, punchy tone and a Rosewood fretboard for smooth playability.
  •     This new RG653DX is ideal for players seeking a blend of classic aesthetics and high-end, modern playability.
  •     Features 
  •     RG653DX
  •     Super Wizard HP 5pc Maple/Walnut neck
  •     Rosewood Fretboard
  •     Ash body
  •     Bound Rosewood fretboard w/Acrylic & Abalone block inlay
  •     Jumbo frets
  •     DiMarzio® Air Norton™ (H) neck pickup
  •     DiMarzio® The Tone Zone® (H) bridge pickup
  •     Edge tremolo bridge
  •     Black hardware
  •     Hardshell case included

Finishes: White Flat, Transparent Deep Blue Flat

LIST PRICE: $2,533.32

ESTIMATED STREET PRICE: $1,899.99

Ibanez has also announced two distinctive new acoustic models for 2026, both featuring eye-catching Art Grain tops beneath dynamic transparent burst finishes.

Leading the release is the AEWC16QA. This model showcases a stunning Quilted Maple Art Grain Basswood Top complemented by a Nyatoh neck, a Rosewood fretboard, and sturdy chrome die-cast tuners. Optimized for plugged-in performance, the AEWC16QA includes Ibanez onboard electronics and an undersaddle pickup. This attractive instrument is available in a selection of four vibrant transparent burst finishes.

The second new offering is the ALT50FA, an evolution of the popular, shred-inspired Altstar acoustics. Designed for enhanced playability and a sharp stage appearance, this model features a Flamed Maple Art Grain Basswood top and Sapele back and sides. The comfort grip satin-finished neck provides a fast, comfortable playing experience. It is also fully equipped with Ibanez onboard electronics and an undersaddle pickup, and its profile is defined by a redesigned, sleek single-cut body shape. The ALT50FA makes a bold statement with three high-gloss “Doom Burst” finishes: Blue, Red, and Transparent Violet.

Features 

  •     AEWC16QA
  •     AEWC body
  •     634mm/25″ scale
  •     Quilted Maple Art Grain (Basswood) top
  •     Sapele back & sides
  •     Comfort Grip Nyatoh neck (satin finish)
  •     Rosewood fretboard & Rosewood AEWC original top loading bridge
  •     Chrome Die-cast tuners (18:1 gear ratio)
  •     Ibanez Undersaddle pickup
  •     Ibanez AEQ-2T preamp w/Onboard tuner
  •     Ibanez IACS6C coated strings
  •     Recommended case: AC100C/MAP: $199.99

Finishes: Transparent Emerald Burst High Gloss, Transparent Black Sunburst High Gloss, Transparent Blue Sunburst High Gloss

LIST PRICE: $599.99

ESTIMATED STREET PRICE: $399.99

 

ALT50FA

  •     Altstar body
  •     Flamed Maple Art Grain (Basswood) top
  •     Sapele back & sides
  •     Body depth: 90/110mm at neck joint/body end
  •     Comfort Grip Maple neck (satin finish)
  •     Purpleheart fretboard & bridge
  •     Sharktooth inlay
  •     Black Die-cast tuners (18:1 gear ratio)
  •     Ibanez Undersaddle pickup
  •     Ibanez AEQ-2T preamp w/Onboard tuner
  •     Ibanez Advantage™ bridge pins
  •     Large frets
  •     Recommended case: GA50C/MAP: $199.99

Finishes: Blue Doom Burst High Gloss, Red Doom Burst High Gloss, Transparent Violet Sunburst High Gloss

LIST PRICE: $569.99

ESTIMATED STREET PRICE: $379.99

 

 

Accessories

Graph Tech Launches the 7-String UN-LOCK Nut at NAMM 2026

Graph Tech Guitar Labs proudly announces the release of the UN-LOCK Nut for 7-string guitars, expanding the groundbreaking UN-LOCK platform that has transformed tuning stability for modern players. After the huge success of the 6-string UN-LOCK Nut lineup, and overwhelming demand from artists, builders, and extended-range players, the family is growing again.

The new 7-string UN-LOCK Nut joins the four existing UN-LOCK Nut models for 6-string guitars, completing a full upgrade system for today’s tremolo-equipped and high-performance instruments.

Traditional locking nuts changed guitar history but also introduced familiar frustrations: restricted tuning at the machine heads, slow string changes, mismatched radii, added weight, and reliance on fine tuners and Allen keys. With locking tuners now standard on many performance guitars, players have asked: Why are we still locking at the nut like it’s 1979?

The 7-string UN-LOCK Nut is Graph Tech’s answer, a modern, player-centric upgrade designed for extended-range performance.

Modern Engineering for Modern 7-String Players

The new UN-LOCK Nut features:

  •     Precision-engineered string ramps for smooth return-to-pitch and perfectly matched 10″, 12″, and 16″ neck radii.
  •     300% more internal lubrication, allowing tremolo players to return to pitch with unmatched consistency.
  •     Over 80% less weight than a traditional locking nut for improved resonance and reduced headstock mass.
  •     Full tuning freedom at the machine heads, no clamps, no Allen keys, no fine tuners required.
  •     Floyd-ready compatibility, unlocking the full potential of double-locking bridges.

Crafted from Black TUSQ XL, the UN-LOCK Nut delivers Graph Tech’s signature clarity, ultra-low friction, and modern tuning stability—built for aggressive tremolo use and expressive 7-string playing.

Pairing it with Ratio® Locking Machine Heads creates the fastest, most intuitive tuning system available.

New 7-String UN-LOCK Nut Models and Specifications

Graph Tech introduces two 7-string models to match the most common locking-nut footprints:

  •     Model #6521 — 7-String UN-LOCK Nut
  •     Length: 48.01 mm (1.890”)
  •     Width: 15.50 mm (.610”)
  •     Height: 8.55 mm (.337”)
  •     String Spacing: 41.50 mm (1.634”)
  •     Model #6522 — 7-String UN-LOCK Nut
  •     Length: 48.00 mm (1.890”)
  •     Width: 15.50 mm (.610”)
  •     Height: 8.55 mm (.337”)
  •     String Spacing: 41.50 mm (1.634”)

Both models are drop-in replacements for many popular 7-string locking-nut footprints.

Built for the Brands Players Love

Designed for compatibility with leading 7-string platforms from Ibanez, Schecter, ESP/LTD, Jackson, Dean, Music Man, and more.

 

 

ACT Entertainment Showcases RAT Sterling Vermin Pedal at NAMM 2026

ACT Entertainment’s iconic RAT brand brings its latest creation, the Sterling Vermin, to the 2026 NAMM Show (Booth 5227). With a new take on RAT’s unmistakable sound, this boutique distortion pedal blends heritage tone with modern refinement and delivers an improved level of precision and versatility.

The Sterling Vermin, which features premium components, deliberate design and a focused feel, opens an exciting chapter for the RAT brand. From low-gain tones that are reminiscent of a Klon or Bluesbreaker and high-gain settings similar to Big Muff pedals, to a tight and controlled pattern, the Sterling Vermin perfectly embodies the future of dynamic distortion.

With the LM741 Op-Amp and a pair of selectable clipping diodes, players can toggle between the traditional RAT silicon diode configuration for a punchy, mid-range bite or the BAT41 option for a smoother, more balanced response. The result is a pedal that’s equally at home delivering snarling distortion or articulate, low-gain overdrive, with a wide, usable tonal range throughout the entire gain spectrum.

The pedal also features CTS pots and oversized knobs for even, responsive control that affords a satisfying smoothness to the rotation, with just the right amount of tension. Additionally, the polished stainless-steel enclosure with laser-annealed graphics showcases the merging of the pedal’s vintage flavor and striking design.

“The Sterling Vermin embodies what RAT has always stood for: character, creativity and great tone, now with a boutique approach that emphasizes feel and craftsmanship,” says Shawn Wells, market manager — Sound, ACT Entertainment, who designed the pedal along with his colleague Matt Gates. “It’s meant for players who appreciate the nuance in their sound and the detail in their gear.”

The RAT Sterling Vermin is available immediately and retails for $349 USD. 

 

 

D’Addario Introduces the XPND Pedal Pry Bar

D’Addario announces the launch of the XPND Pedal Pry Bar: a compact, XPND-branded tool designed to make pedal removal faster and easier than ever for musicians. Say goodbye to screwdrivers and improvised tools to wrestle pedals away from tightly packed boards. The ergonomically designed XPND Pedal Pry Bar provides a clean, reliable way to lift pedals secured with hook-and-loop or other strong adhesives, without damaging your gear. 

The XPND Pedal Pry Bar joins D’Addario’s growing XPND ecosystem of modular pedalboard and power solutions, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to providing flexible, musician-driven tools for modern guitarists. 

Key Features 

  •     Effortless Pedal Removal: Safely lifts pedals secured with hook-and-loop or strong adhesives. 
  •     Pedalboard-Friendly Form Factor: Compact and lightweight; stores neatly underneath virtually all pedalboards. 
  •     Compatible with Any Board: Perfect for XPND, but compatible with all pedalboards and adhesive types. 
  •     Built for Players Who Tinker: Perfect for musicians who frequently swap, test, or reorganize pedals. 

Availability & Price 

The XPND Pedal Pry Bar is available now through daddario.com and authorized retailers 

Street Price: $9.99 

 

 

DPA Showcases Enhanced 4099 CORE+ Instrument Mic and Clip System at the 2026 NAMM Show

DPA Microphones will present its 4099 CORE+ Instrument Microphone and redesigned instrument clip solutions to 2026 NAMM Show audiences at Booth 16102. As the next generation of the brand’s renowned instrument microphone, the 4099 CORE+ sets a new benchmark for clarity, control and versatility. It features the industry’s most advanced distortion-reduction technology, which delivers a wider dynamic range, enhanced sonic transparency and improved authenticity for microphones that don’t just meet expectations—they redefine them.

With a design based on years of refinement and user insight, the 4099 CORE+ introduces groundbreaking advancements that push performance to unprecedented levels. Featuring 10 dB of added dynamic range and a higher clipping point than the previous generation, the 4099 CORE+ captures the full nuance of every instrument with precision and authenticity. Incorporating CORE+ by DPA technology, a groundbreaking, patent-pending innovation, the mic virtually eliminates the non-linearities that can occur in the microphone membrane and circuitry, resulting in remarkably transparent and distortion-free sound.

“The original DPA 4099 has long been the go-to for professional musicians and sound engineers around the world,” says Helga Volha Somava, product management director, DPA Microphones. “The 4099 CORE+ carries forward that legacy while elevating the microphone with next-level performance, maintaining the iconic tonal characteristics that users love, but introducing new technology that pushes the boundaries of studio and live sound. We first introduced CORE+ by DPA technology at last year’s NAMM, and we look forward to showcasing the 4099 CORE+ to audiences at the forthcoming show.”

 

 

Drums & Percussion

 

TAMA Releases New Limited-Edition Mike Portnoy Signature Snare Drum

New for 2026, TAMA has unveiled a brand-new signature snare drum developed in collaboration with long-time signature artist, Mike Portnoy. This snare combines striking aesthetics with a unique set of specifications, meticulously designed to put Mike’s signature tones into the hands of drummers worldwide.

The snare features an 8mm, 9-ply Bubinga shell, offering a finely-tuned balance of power, projection, and focus. This shell composition ensures the drum will speak with authority and cut through any mix with an unrestrained presence. Complementing the shell are 8-hole, chrome Die-Cast hoops and TAMA’s iconic Starclassic lugs. Other notable features include 20-strand Starclassic Carbon Steel snare wires and a reliable Remo Coated Ambassador batter head.

Finally, the snare drum is finished in an energetic, one-of-a-kind cascade that blends white and metallic purple. This singular and unique aesthetic is offered on no other TAMA snare drum, making it visually compelling and instantly recognizable.

Features

  •     8mm, 9ply Bubinga
  •     Chrome Die-cast hoops (8 hole) (MDH148 / MDH14S8)
  •     Starclassic lug (MSLSCT)
  •     Strainer (MCS100A) & Butt (MLS70B)
  •     20-strand Starclassic Carbon Steel snare wires (MS20SN14S)
  •     REMO® Coated Ambassador / snare side
  •     Limited Qty: 130pcs (US/CA Market)
  •     MP1455BUN

14″x 5.5″ Mike Portnoy – Dream Theater Signature snare drum

LIST: $1,615.00

MAP: $1,049.99

 

 

Pro Audio

 

Yamaha Launches MGX Digital Mixer Series, URX Series Audio Interface, and CC1 USB Controller to Empower Musicians, Performers, Streamers, and Content Creators Worldwide

Yamaha has announced the global launch of its MGX Series digital mixing consoles, URX Series audio interfaces, and CC1 USB controller.

Designed for musicians, performers, streamers, podcasters, and content creators, this innovative lineup delivers studio-quality sound, intuitive control, and seamless integration for a wide range of applications – from live performance and music production to podcasting and streaming.

The new products will be showcased at The NAMM Show in Anaheim, California, January 22–24, 2026, with interactive demos and detailed product walkthroughs. 

 MGX Series: Digital Innovation Meets Trusted Heritage

Acclaimed for exceptional sound quality and intuitive design, the Yamaha MG Series mixers have become an industry standard. Building on this legacy, the MGX Series introduces advanced digital technology for superior sound and flexibility. With support for 32-bit/96 kHz audio, multi-channel streaming, and HDMI-USB video/audio interface on select models, MGX mixers deliver “true sound” and proven performance for live sound, hybrid audio-video mixing, recording, and streaming.

MGX Series Lineup:

  •     MGX16 B/W
  •     MGX12 B/W
  •     MGX16V B/W
  •     MGX12V B/W
    Available in Black and White finishes.

URX Series: Professional Audio Interfaces for Creators

The URX Series offers class-leading audio performance with 32-bit/192 kHz support, ultra-low noise operation, and integrated mixing and routing. The URX44V adds HDMI-USB video/audio interface capability, making it a powerful hub for recording, streaming, and production.

URX Series Lineup:

  •     URX44 B/W
  •     URX22 B/W
  •     URX44V B/W
    Available in Black and White finishes.

CC1 USB Controller: Streamlined Workflow for Modern Creators

The CC1controller features a 100 mm motorized, touch-sensitive fader, 12 LCD keys compatible with Elgato’s Stream Deck app, and integration with leading DAWs such as Cubase, Nuendo, and Pro Tools. Designed for music production, live streaming, and hybrid workflows, CC1 enables precise control and fast adjustments across multiple platforms, including OBS Studio.

Controller Lineup:

CC1
Available in Black finish.

Seamless Integration and Partnerships

Yamaha’s new lineup integrates with Steinberg software and leading streaming tools like Elgato Stream Deck and OBS Studio, delivering unmatched convenience and flexibility for creators worldwide.

Pricing and Availability

MGX Series: Starting at $799.99

URX Series: Starting at $399.99

CC1 Controller: $399.99
Available now through authorized Yamaha dealers.

“We’re not interested in adding digital features for their own sake – we’re focused on what truly helps engineers, musicians, and creators deliver great performances,” said Preston Gray, director of marketing, Professional Audio for Yamaha. “The new MGX mixers extend the trusted MG family into the digital space with the same priorities: a musical, natural sound, straightforward operation and the confidence that comes from using a Yamaha console. Paired with the new interfaces and controller, this lineup gives performers, streamers, and creators a complete ecosystem they can trust – no matter the size of the gig or workflow.”

Takatsuna Maeda, senior general manager of Yamaha’s Creator & Consumer Audio Division, added: “These solutions build upon the long-standing legacy of the MG Series and Steinberg’s trusted hardware products. By empowering creators worldwide, we aim to support their creativity and success through integrated hardware, software, and services.”

 

 

Fender Introduces Fender Studio – Releases First DAW

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) has announced a significant milestone in its evolution of creative tools, introducing Fender Studio as a new brand and unifying PreSonus® Studio One Pro and its renowned recording interfaces together under the Fender name. Starting this year, Studio One Pro becomes Fender Studio Pro, while the Quantum and AudioBox Go lines transition to the Fender Quantum Series and Fender AudioBox Go.

“For more than a decade, Studio One Pro has set the standard for modern music production,” said Max Gutnik, chief product officer, FMIC. “Its balance of power, creativity and ease of use has inspired countless artists and shaped how music is made today. With Fender Studio Pro, we are taking those celebrated features and enhancing them with a modernized interface, Fender’s award-winning amp and effects models and new intuitive workflows and capabilities that make creating music faster, more inspiring and more connected than ever.”

The reimagined Fender Studio Pro environment introduces an updated visual design, native Fender amp and effects plugins, a new channel overview for faster mixing workflows, updated samplers and AI powered audio-to-note conversion for layering sounds and inspiring intelligent chord technology for creative songwriting. For artists, producers and engineers, this move represents more than a name change. It brings together the trusted performance of PreSonus hardware and software with Fender’s deep legacy in tone and musical expression.

Combining Studio One Pro’s celebrated features and trusted performance with a new modernized interface and intuitive workflows, Fender Studio Pro 8 features Fender’s renowned amps and effects models that make creating music faster, more inspiring and connected than ever. Available exclusively in the Fender Studio app and Fender Studio Pro, the Mustang and Rumble Native plugins offer 57 guitar and bass amp models and hundreds of effects for players to find their sound.

From iconic instruments and amplifiers to award-winning digital platforms like Tone Master Pro and Fender Play, Fender remains dedicated to inspiring generations of artists and creators through technology, tone and timeless design. The new Fender Studio brand represents the next evolution of that vision, where tradition and innovation meet in the service of creativity. Anchored by Fender Studio Pro and the Fender Quantum Series Interfaces, this next-generation lineup delivers reliability, premium sound quality and seamless integration across hardware and software, from the studio to the stage. Built for artists, producers and engineers, Fender Studio enhances the creative process and brings ideas to life without disrupting the flow of inspiration.

“Having authentic Fender amps and pedals built straight into the DAW is a game-changer,” said Alissia, GRAMMY®-Nominated Producer of the Year, Bassist and Artist. “Fender Studio Pro delivers true analog warmth with a seamless workflow.”

All existing PreSonus customers will continue to be served through the new MyFender platform effectively replacing MyPreSonus. This exciting new platform will not only serve software and hardware customers but the wider universe of Fender customers who purchase guitars, amps and effects.

In parallel, the PreSonus brand will continue to serve creators with industry-leading audio solutions like the acclaimed Eris® Monitors, StudioLive® Series III SE Mixers, Air XD Loudspeakers and more. As part of the FMIC family, PreSonus remains committed to its core mission of democratizing music creation and making professional-quality tools accessible to artists at every level. PreSonus customers will continue to receive full support and updates. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements to come in 2026.

 

 

Print & Digital

 

Hal Leonard Releases Composer-Approved Matching Folio to Wicked: For Good

Hal Leonard is proud to announce the release of the official matching folio for “Wicked: For Good,” created in close collaboration with legendary composer Stephen Schwartz, who personally reviewed and approved every arrangement in the collection.

This highly anticipated songbook features piano/vocal/guitar arrangements of eight songs from the blockbuster film adaptation of the beloved Broadway phenomenon. Highlights include the new songs “No Place Like Home” and “The Girl in the Bubble,” along with the previously unprinted Broadway favorite “The Wicked Witch of the East” and the movie-version arrangement of “Wonderful.”

“Wicked: For Good” has made a massive cultural and commercial impact, debuting with a record-setting opening weekend of over $150 million domestically and more than $225 million worldwide, making it the largest opening ever for a Broadway musical adaptation. The film’s ongoing box-office success continues to fuel renewed interest in Wicked across generations of fans, performers, and educators.

By working directly with Stephen Schwartz, Hal Leonard’s editorial team ensured that every note, lyric, and musical nuance reflects the composer’s original artistic vision — a level of authenticity and accuracy that teachers, performers, and serious fans trust and expect from the Hal Leonard name.

Songs included:
As Long as You’re Mine • For Good • The Girl in the Bubble • I Couldn’t Be Happier • No Good Deed • No Place like Home • The Wicked Witch of the East • Wonderful

Beautifully produced and designed for ease of play, this folio is a must-stock title for retailers looking to capitalize on the film’s continued success and the enduring popularity of one of musical theater’s most iconic works.

The book retails for $22.99.

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