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
Premier Guitar
Boss GX-1 Guitar Effects Processor | NAMM 2026
We met up with Boss' Matt Knight to dive deep into the GX-1, an ultra-portable multi-effects unit with intuitive one-touch controls, 23 amps, and 140 effects featuring Gear Suite for saving individual effect presets within your patches. The unit includes built-in Bluetooth for app connectivity with librarian and session player, looper, stereo outs, USB-C audio interface, IR import capability, and battery power for up to six hours of use.
GX-1
- Ultra-portable amp/effects processor for guitar with premium BOSS sound and features
- Authentic tube amplifier tone and touch response with AIRD technology
- Straightforward operation with a color display and intuitive effect category buttons
- Exceptional audio quality with 24-bit AD and 32-bit DA conversion, 32-bit floating-point processing, and 48 kHz sampling rate
- Explore 23 amplifier types and over 140 BOSS effects
- Eight simultaneous effect blocks plus volume pedal and noise suppression
- Gear Suite feature allows you to quickly configure each amp and effect with the turn of a knob
- Includes 99 ready-to-play preset memories and 99 user memories for storing custom sounds
- Three footswitches and an expression pedal with toe switch, all freely assignable
- Play along with songs from your mobile device via onboard Bluetooth®
- Record and play tracks in music production software on a computer or mobile device* via a USB-C®
- BOSS Tone Studio for GX-1 app (macOS/Windows/iOS/Android) with powerful practice features and sound-editing tools
- Download and share Livesets on BOSS Tone Exchange
- Support for loading WAV speaker IRs
- Jack for expanded control with up to two footswitches or an expression pedal
- Tap into wireless foot control with the FS-1-WL Wireless Footswitch and EV-1-WL Wireless Expression Pedal
- Versatile power options: three AA batteries, AC adaptor, or USB (computer bus power or mobile battery)
- Compact, lightweight design fits easily in the pocket of a guitar case or bag
Cort Space G6MS & G6TTR Demos | NAMM 2026
A pair of headless wonders bring the rock and thunder for under a grand.
G6MS & G6TTR
A headless guitar with multi-scale precision — optimized for ergonomic feel, low-end clarity, and effortless reach across all 24 frets.
Boss CUBE Street Mini | NAMM 2026
The CUBE Street Mini is a 10-watt 2.1 portable PA system with a 5-inch speaker and two tweeters, featuring dual channels, Bluetooth audio, individual effects per channel, multiple guitar voicings, and onboard tuner. The rechargeable battery provides seven hours of use, and the unit includes headphone/recording output with emulated speaker, kickback stand, and mic stand mount for versatile positioning.
CUBE Street Mini
CUBE Street Mini builds on the trusted CUBE Street legacy, delivering exceptional sound quality and features in an ultra-compact PA for cafés, small-scale events, and personal studios. It’s packed with class-leading tools to elevate solo and duo performances, including dual channels, built-in effects, Bluetooth® audio, and a rechargeable battery with long runtime. With the portable and powerful CUBE Street Mini by your side, you’re ready to make an impact anytime and anywhere.
Cream Guitars | NAMM 2026
Cream Guitars returned to the NAMM floor with a collection of unique body shapes and eye-popping finishes, including the groundbreaking DaVinci, which boasts a low-energy E Ink Prism 3 electronic display with 64 programmable segments in seven colors, controlled via a Bluetooth app for custom color schemes and changing patterns. Company founder Luis Ortiz also walked us through the company's heated neck technology, which uses lithium battery power and graphite insulation to keep players' hands warm without affecting intonation.
Davinci
Choose between 3 voices:
Single coil, traditional humbucker, and high-output humbucker, featuring a custom system developed with Fishman pickups.
Hardware- Chrome Hardware
- Ratio Graphtech locking tuners
- Graphtech nut tusq XL
- Jumbo frets
- GHS #10-46 strings
- Stainless steel screws
- Cream Bridge
- CTS Push/pull 500k pots
- Fishman Fluence
- Fishman Fluence
- Switchcraft input
- Sony 3-way switch
- Roasted Maple Techwood
- Rosewood frets
- Block inlays
- Extra Jumbo Frets
- Scale 25.5
- Ratio 12
- Low energy consumption non-light emitting display
- Custom made Voltage guitar display design 64 individual segments
- Programmable custom color schemes and changing patterns
- Control and program your guitar through the app by
- connecting your phone or device to the guitar via Bluetooth
- 7 available colors: white, black, yellow, orange, blue, red and green
- It features a low-power, non-emissive E Ink Prism™ 3 display.
Two-Rock Studio Overdrive | NAMM 2026
Two-Rock's Eli Lester walks us through the Studio Overdrive, a compact 35-watt amp with two 6L6s featuring cascading gain stages, independent master controls, component-to-component front-end layout, Tone Stack Bypass EQ, and tube-buffered effects loop—shipping in a new lightweight open-back pine 1x12 cabinet. Guitarist Corey Congilio is on hand to crank it up for a demo.
Studio Overdrive
The Studio Overdrive is a compact Two-Rock platform designed for players who want immediacy, control, and expressive gain in a more focused format.
Built around a fast, responsive power section, the Studio Overdrive delivers a wide dynamic range that remains articulate at lower volumes while still feeling authoritative and dimensional. The clean channel is open and immediate, with a firm low end and clear top that tracks pick attack and guitar volume with ease.
The cascading overdrive channel is tuned for clarity and definition, allowing individual notes to remain distinct as gain increases. A newly designed Tone Stack Bypass EQ introduces an alternate voicing that tightens the response and brings the midrange forward, offering a more direct, connected character for lead work.
Divided by 13 BW 1969 Butch Walker Signature Amp Demo | NAMM 2026
The super producer, Marvelous 3 leader, and newest member of Train details his single-channel slugger, which uses both EL84 (cathode bias ) and 6L6 (fixed bias) tubes that can be engaged separately or together. A six-position input gain selector revamps the front end of the amp, changing feel and response rather than just adding gain.The amp is paired with a Divided by 13 2x12F cabinet, loaded with the new Divided by 13 454 speaker, a 40-watt Celestion Greenback built in Celestion’s UK factory.
BW 1969 Butch Walker Signature
The BW 1969 was designed around a simple but uncommon idea: two complete power sections, each with its own voice, built to run independently or together. Developed in close collaboration with Butch Walker, the BW 1969 reflects a working musician’s reality. It moves easily between sounds without losing its identity. An amplifier that responds to decisions and translates them directly to the speaker and the artist.
At its core, the BW 1969 features two independent tube power supplies, each fully realized and intentionally different. A pair of EL84s running cathode bias delivers speed, harmonic complexity, and immediacy at 18 watts, while a pair of 6L6s in fixed bias adds authority, control, and low-end stability at 45 watts. Each power section can be used on its own or combined, delivering a total output of 63 watts when run together. When blended, the amp retains the harmonic detail and responsiveness of the EL84s while gaining the weight and firmness of the 6L6 power section. The result is not compromise. It is interaction.
D’Addario Expands XS Series with XS Bass Strings
D’Addario expands its XS coated strings line with XS Bass Strings, bringing the XS series and its advanced coating technology to bass for the first time. Designed to deliver maximum string life and an ultra-smooth playing feel.
D’Addario announces the launch of XS Bass, incorporating the world's most advanced film coating technology into a dedicated line for bassists. This expansion follows the success of the XS guitar line, applying the same film-coating construction to nickel-plated steel bass strings.
Enhanced Durability and Core Construction
Available in 4-, 5-, and 6-string options, XS Bass strings feature D’Addario’s proprietary NY Steel core, designed to deliver exceptional break strength and outstanding tuning stability. A re-formulated nickel-plated steel (NPS) wrap wire enhances output and harmonic richness, for a clear, responsive tone across a wide range of playing styles.
The Next Evolution in Bass Strings
"When we decided to release XS Bass, the vision was to design the world's best film-coated round wound bass string, following the same philosophy that brought XS Guitar strings to life. We are confident we have achieved just that.”
- Jim D’Addario, Founder
Key Features
- Longest-Lasting Bass Strings: Ultra-thin XS film wrap resists corrosion and contaminants for maximum string life.
- Smooth, Fast Feel: Coated design delivers ultra smooth feel for enhanced speed and comfort when playing.
- NY Steel Core: Provides exceptional break strength and reliable tuning stability.
- Enhanced Tone & Output: Re-formulated wrap wire enhances output and harmonic detail.
- Multiple Configurations: Available in 4-, 5-, and 6-string options in the most popular gauges across six new SKUs.
Availability & Price
- XS Bass strings are available now through daddario.com and authorized D’Addario dealers worldwide
- Street price: Starting at $49.99
- Watch the full demo: ddar.io/xsbass-demo
- For more information, visit: ddar.io/xsbass-pr
Neural DSP Unveils Quad Cortex mini
Neural DSP today announced Quad Cortex mini, a new ultra-compact, all-in-one guitar and bass rig that delivers the full sound, processing power, and Neural Capture technology of the flagship Quad Cortex in a significantly smaller footprint. Quad Cortex mini is on display for the first time this week at the 2026 NAMM Show at Booth #5243.
Designed for live performance, studio recording, practice, songwriting, and compact touring setups, Quad Cortex mini delivers a complete guitar and bass rig that’s more than 50% smaller than the Quad Cortex, without the traditional trade-offs of compact hardware.
“Since the introduction of Quad Cortex in 2020, our goal has been to define the standard for what an all-in-one digital rig can be,” said Douglas Castro, CEO and Co-Founder of Neural DSP. “We set out to combine machine-learning-based modeling, studio-grade audio quality, and a fast, performance-focused workflow in a single unit. With Quad Cortex mini, we’ve carried that same philosophy forward, preserving the processing architecture and Neural Capture technology that allow us to create ultra-accurate digital replicas of amplifiers, cabinets, drive pedals, fuzzes, and compressors, now in a more compact form without compromise.”
Measuring just 22.8 x 11.8 x 6.5 cm (8.9” x 4.6” x 2.5”) and weighing 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs), Quad Cortex mini is designed to integrate naturally into pedalboards, compact racks, fly rigs, and desktop studios. Interaction is centered around the combination of the 7” touchscreen display and four stainless steel rotary footswitches, providing precise, tactile control underfoot and at the fingertips in both live and studio environments.
Despite its reduced size, Quad Cortex mini offers an intuitive and powerful control experience, including:
●Neural Capture V1 & V2 support for capturing amps, cabs, drives, fuzzes, and compressors
●Extensive library of 90+ amps, 100+ effects, 1000+ IRs, and 2000+ Captures
●Free access to thousands of community Captures via Cortex Cloud
●Focus system for fast, hands-on parameter control using the rotary footswitches
●Pages system for extended footswitch control without increasing the hardware footprint
●Preset, Scene, Stomp, and Hybrid modes for flexible workflows
●Gig View for clear, performance-focused stage control
●16-channel USB-C audio interface (8 inputs / 8 outputs)
●Plugin compatibility with supported Neural DSP plugins
●Cortex Control desktop app for full device management, editing, backups, and organization
Quad Cortex mini also introduces a locking power connector for secure live operation and offers comprehensive I/O, including an instrument/microphone combo input with phantom power, balanced XLR outputs, stereo send/return via TRS, MIDI over TRS and USB-C, and a headphone output for silent practice. The flexible I/O makes Quad Cortex mini suitable for pedalboards, compact desks, rack systems, and redundant touring rigs.
It integrates fully with the Quad Cortex ecosystem, allowing Presets and complete system backups to move freely between Quad Cortex mini and Quad Cortex. This makes it easy to share sounds across devices, maintain consistent rigs, or deploy multiple units for backups without rebuilding or reconfiguring anything.
CorOS 4.0.0 – Expanded Creative Tools for the Cortex Ecosystem
Quad Cortex mini also launches alongside CorOS 4.0.0, a major update that adds new devices and utilities to the platform, including:
●Nordic Concert Hall – a spacious, cinematic hall-style reverb
●Blossom – a swelling reverb that builds after the initial note for expressive passages
●Studio Plate 70 – a smooth, vintage plate reverb tailored for musical decay and mix integration
●Phase Doctor – a utility for aligning signals in stereo rigs and multi-amp setups
CorOS 4.0.0 includes full support for Quad Cortex mini and is available across the ecosystem at launch.
“Quad Cortex mini represents our belief that size shouldn’t dictate what a professional rig is capable of,” concludes Francisco Cresp, Neural DSP Co-Founder and CPO. “It carries forward the same sound quality, the same processing depth, and the same creative control that define Quad Cortex, while opening up new possibilities for how and where that level of performance can be used. The goal was to ensure that whether a player is in the studio, on stage, or on the road, they can rely on the same technology, the same results, and the same level of trust in their rig, regardless of form factor.”
Quad Cortex mini is available today for €1299. To learn more about Quad Cortex mini, click here, or visit Booth #5243 at the 2026 NAMM Show.
Neural DSP Quad Cortex Mini Modeling and Effects Processor, Sweetwater Exclusive
Blackstar Introduces BEAM MINI
A New Compact Desktop Amp Designed for Portable, Immersive Play.
Blackstar announces the BEAM MINI, a compact desktop amplifier designed for electric, bass and acoustic guitar players seeking high-quality tone, portability and intuitive control. Previewing at NAMM 2026 and launching worldwide on 24 March 2026, BEAM MINI combines Blackstar’s decades of amp design expertise with advanced component-level digital modelling, powerful DSP and a sealed, acoustically tuned cabinet to deliver immersive sound in a small, portable format suitable for home, studio and on-the-go use.
Designed to remove barriers between players and inspiration, BEAM MINI delivers best-in-class guitar tone alongside high-quality Bluetooth audio playback. Despite its compact size, the amp features two 60mm full-range drivers, two passive bass radiators and Blackstar’s Super Wide Stereo technology, creating an expansive, room-filling sound that belies its dimensions. Developed in collaboration with one of the UK’s leading acoustics experts, the sealed cabinet is engineered to provide accurate, articulate guitar tones and exceptional music playback.
At the core of BEAM MINI is advanced component-level modelling, delivering the dynamic response and feel associated with traditional tube amplifiers. The amp features twelve component-level electric guitar amp models, including six Blackstar designs and six Ampton recreations of iconic amplifiers, alongside three bass amps, two acoustic voices, an acoustic simulator and Blackstar’s patented ISF control. Each model has been meticulously voiced by Blackstar’s UK engineering team to deliver authentic tone and responsiveness.
Control is designed to be immediate and intuitive. Players can shape their sound directly on the unit using the SpeedDial and Light Beam Display, offering instant visual feedback without navigating menus. Deeper editing and expanded creative options are available through the Beam app, which provides access to a growing library of professional-grade amp, cabinet, microphone and pedal models, as well as thousands of user- and artist-generated patches.
BEAM MINI also incorporates XpressFX, allowing players to adjust the intensity of multiple effects simultaneously with a single movement of the SpeedDial. A studio-quality headset microphone input with built-in reverb enables recording vocals and guitar together, making the amp suitable for songwriting, streaming and content creation. Blackstar’s IR-driven CabRig technology provides speaker and microphone simulation designed to recreate the immediacy and feel of a real amplifier in the room, offering flexibility for live, studio and practice applications.
Built for portability, BEAM MINI features an IP66 dust-tight and weatherproof design and offers over 18 hours of playtime on a single charge. Through the Beam app, users can access official artist patches from a growing roster of players, share their own tones with the global community and explore backing tracks and video lessons designed to support practice and learning.
Designed as a complete, compact desktop solution for practice, songwriting, recording or casual play, BEAM MINI is intended to deliver uncompromising tone wherever inspiration strikes. For more information about BEAM MINI and Blackstar’s full product range, visit www.blackstaramps.com.
Street Price: $299.99 USD
Cort Guitars Announces the New Space G6MS Headless Multi-Scale Electric Guitar
A modern instrument engineered for ergonomic speed, tonal clarity, and contemporary performance.
Cort Guitars announces the release of the new Space G6MS, a next-generation headless electric guitar designed for players who demand precision, comfort, and modern tonal versatility. Built for speed and accuracy, the Space G6MS combines multi-scale construction, compact ergonomics, and specialized hardware to deliver an instrument refined for punchy low end, slinkier high strings, and reliable performance across all 24 frets.
The body of the Space G6MS is crafted from okoume, chosen for its balanced weight and responsive tonal character, and is finished in either Semi-Gloss Trans Black (SGTK) or Semi-Gloss Turquoise (SGTQ). Its bolt-on neck construction features a rigid five-piece roasted maple and walnut neck topped with a roasted maple fingerboard. The Ergo V neck profile, with a thickness measuring 21 mm at the first fret and 23 mm at the 12th, plus its 12"–15.75" compound radius fretboard provide a fast, controlled feel, further enhanced by stainless-steel tall medium-jumbo frets. Added details include black dot inlays, glow-in-the-dark side dots, a PPS nut measuring 1 21/32" (42 mm), and a 25"–25.5" multi-scale length that improves intonation and a matte finish for a fast feel.
Electronics are centered around a pair of Cort® Voiced Tone VTH77 humbuckers, delivering articulate, high-output tones with tight lows and smooth highs. A straightforward control layout with 1 volume, 1 tone, and a 5-way selector offering a wide range of voicing options suited for modern styles while keeping intuitive on-the-fly access for performing musicians.
The Space G6MS features Cort’s specially designed headless hardware, including a proprietary bridge and tuning system engineered for stability and long-term reliability. More specifications include a two-way adjustable truss rod with spoke-nut and a factory setup with D’Addario® EXL110 strings. Each guitar ships with a gig bag.
For additional product details, images, and availability, please visit NAMM Booth #6810 or online at www.cortguitars.com.
Street Price: $839.99 USD
Masterpiece: Wes Montgomery’s “West Coast Blues”
In August 1960, hot on the heels of releasing his breakthrough record as a bandleader, Wes Montgomery won the New Star guitarist award in DownBeat magazine’s International Jazz Critics Poll. The album, The Incredible Jazz Guitar of Wes Montgomery, set the jazz world on fire, and featured one of the guitarist’s most electrifying approaches to soloing—moving from stunningly swinging single-note lines to breathtaking cascades of his trademark octaves, and culminating in wickedly masterful chordal soloing.
Playing with his thumb instead of a pick—initially, so as not to wake his family and neighbors during his late-night practice sessions—Montgomery’s tone was strikingly smooth and warm, while simultaneously being the epitome of cool.
The album has more than a few standout tracks, but, as DownBeat writer Ira Gitler raved in his 1960 review, “‘West Coast Blues’ will knock you out.” Composed by Montgomery, it is a decidedly non-traditional 12-bar blues, evoking a smoke-filled, late-night jam session. Also unique is its use of 6/4 time. But, fear not, you can think of a bar of 6/4 as simply being two bars of 3/4, with an invisible bar line in between.
Here’s the tune in its entirety. Note how Montgomery keeps his solo (0:58) compelling throughout, all the while building to a dazzling chordal crescendo. You can follow along using the accompanying chord chart.
- YouTube
Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.
Note: You can play all of the examples in this lesson either with a pick, or Wes-style with your thumb, but you’ll notice a snazzy change in tone trying the latter.
Half-Steps Are Hip
For the first four choruses of his solo, Montgomery focuses exclusively on single-note lines. Along the way, he injects new life by conjuring unique twists and turns. Every chorus is vibrant, always keeping us on the edge of our seats.
Let’s begin with Ex. 1 (1:09), in which Montgomery spices things up with some subtle rhythmic detours.
Ex. 1
Coming off of a series of eighth-notes in the solo’s previous bars, notice how adding just a slight hitch, like the tie in the middle of bar 1, can throw us rhythmically off balance for a moment (in a good way). The triplet figure in measure 2 is also pretty cool.
Now, you may have noticed that even though the initial chord is Ebm7 (Eb–Gb–Bb–Db), Montgomery chooses to treat it as if it’s Eb7 (Eb–G–Bb–Db), playing the major third right on beat 1. In jazz (or blues or rock), if you play with confidence, and phrase musically, you can often get away with breaking the rules.
Ex. 2 (1:28) demonstrates Montgomery’s skillful use of über-memorable motifs.
Ex. 2
Here, he establishes a unique rhythmic motif that he repeats, altering his note choices along the way to fit the underlying harmony. This creates a unique moment that immediately distinguishes the second chorus from the first and, again, keeps things moving along nicely.
Also, notice his use of neighbor tones—the note a half-step below any target note, regardless of whether it’s in the key (it often isn’t). This is an extremely hip jazz concept that can make your phrases come alive, as Montgomery’s does here.
He also employs another nifty melodic device, one that is often useful over a dominant chord: playing a min7 arpeggio starting on the chord’s 5. Over the Ab7 (Ab–C–Eb–Gb) in measure 1, Montgomery outlines an Ebm7 arpeggio (Eb–Gb–Bb–Db), the 5 of Ab7. Notice how its first two notes are the 5 and b7 of Ab7. Next comes some magic, as you begin to add the chord’s extensions—color tones that go beyond the b7—here, the 9 (Bb) and 11 (Db). Repeating the idea, he then plays an Fm7 arpeggio (F–Ab-C-Eb) over the Bb7 (Bb–D–F–Ab).
Ex. 3 (1:44) is another example of Montgomery employing an ear-catching motif, this time whipping up a bouncy descending phrase that also happens to include some neighbor tones.
Ex. 3
It’s so musical, yet Montgomery is simply playing the key of Bb’s diatonic arpeggios—those found naturally in the key—each introduced with a quick nod to a neighbor tone. But why does he target an Ebmaj7 arpeggio (Eb–G–Bb–D) to start? Another basic jazz melodic device, used over a minor 7 chord, is to play a major 7 arpeggio starting from its 3. Here, the chord is Cm7 (C-Eb-G-Bb) and its 3 is Eb, so your major 7 arpeggio starts from there; note that it adds D, the chord’s 9, to the conversation. (Conversely, over a major 7 chord, playing a minor 7 arpeggio from its 3 can also be very hip.) Montgomery ends the phrase in style, on a C, the 9 of Bbmaj7.
Octaves, Octaves (and More Octaves)
There are more great moments in the opening choruses, but we must move on to Montgomery’s trademark—his unearthly ability to play complex melodies entirely in octaves. This interval is most often played on two non-adjacent strings, with the unused string in between muted with the inside of your picking-hand index finger.
First, let’s take a quick look at Montgomery doing his octaves thing on tenor sax icon John Coltrane’s “Impressions.”
Ex. 4 (3:09) is a slickly syncopated line—emphasizing the “and” of beats—that climbs straight up a Cm11 arpeggio (C–Eb–G–Bb–D–F). Montgomery then ends the phrase with a bluesy descent of the Bb minor pentatonic scale (Bb–Db–Eb–F–Ab), exhibiting his keen sense for knowing when to just keep things simple.
Ex. 4
In Ex. 5 (3:52), Montgomery introduces an octave motif that he cycles through the chord changes. Notice how he changes it up slightly each time, either rhythmically or melodically, in a musical way.
Ex. 5
A Cavalcade of Chords
The final section of the solo features Montgomery’s thrilling mastery of chord soloing. It could easily be a full lesson in itself; below are just a couple of examples to get you started.
Ex. 6 (4:25) shows Montgomery creatively playing off of the basic chord changes from measures 18 to 20 of the chart.
Notice how he’s not rhythmically tied down to exactly where the chords change on the chart (beats 1 and 4). And he’s using partial chords, most notably omitting the root notes that might be added on an additional lower string in more standard rhythm playing. This makes for lighter-sounding voicings and more economical movement.
Now, even though he’s exclusively playing chords here, Montgomery is still thinking melodically, creating a melody by connecting the highest note of each chord. While an oversimplification, this is one of the most important considerations for choosing the different voicings he plays.
Ex. 7 (5:04) culminates with a brilliant descending phrase that closes out Montgomery’s solo, over the final three measures of the chord chart. Note the two different voicings of Db13 chord in bar 1. The first has the 9 (Eb) in the melody, whereas the second has the 13 (Bb). Having this arsenal of voicings allows him to freely construct flowing melodies. At times, he’s more implying the chords than outright playing them; for example, most of the F7 chords in bar 2 lack both their root (F) and b7 (Eb).Ex. 7
Let’s close out with Montgomery playing yet another of his swingin’ tunes, “Twisted Blues.” And, if you enjoyed this lesson, check out my similar looks at jazz icons Mike Stern and Barney Kessel.
- YouTube
Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.
NUX - MG-50Li Modeler & Profiler and More | NAMM 2026
We stopped by the NUX booth to check out the MG-50Li, their flagship multi-effects processor featuring physical modeling amps and profiling technology, with six footswitches, high-definition LCD, and rechargeable lithium-ion battery (hence, the "Li") providing up to five hours of runtime. Also new: the C-7 Wireless In-Ear Monitor System with unlimited receivers, and the Busking 200FR, a 200-watt battery-powered FRFR speaker that pairs with the MG-50Li for portable gigging.
MG-50Li,
The MG-50Li features our iconic TS/AC-4K Amp Modeling (White-box Physical Modeling algorithm), which is twice as complex as that found in previous versions. This led us to design a new hardware platform with three DSPs: one dedicated to handling all effects, another to running the amp modeling algorithm, and the third to supporting the split amp simulation functionality. Now we’ve even split Amp Modeling into separate preamp and power amp simulations. This means you can select different power tube models to craft unique, creative sounds.
Donner - Rage Breaker & Dream Weaver Pedals | NAMM 2026
Donner's Taylor Hatch shows us two compact pedals developed in partnership with Miyavi—the Rage Breaker, combining overdrive, fuzz, and booster circuits for maximum drive and punch, and the Dream Weaver, featuring atmospheric reverb, precise delay with tone control, and adjustable depth chorus that can run individually or stacked together for layered textures. John Bohlinger gets the scoop.
Bad Cat Amplification - Hot Cat 50 & Purepath Passive Analog Cab Simulator | NAMM 2026
John Bohlinger met up with Bad Cat to check out the Hot Cat 50, featuring a redesigned 50-watt power section with two channels and switchable Lo and Hi gain modes that cover everything from glassy American cleans and Paisley-style country leads to JCM-style crunch and modded high-gain metal tones. The company also previewed the Purepath, a passive load box and direct box launching in early spring that uses a mechanical fan-based load to make amps sound like speaker cabinets through the PA.
Hot Cat 50
The Hot Cat 50 is the latest evolution of Bad Cat’s now-legendary Hot Cat platform. For over 25 years, the Hot Cat has been Bad Cat’s go-to high-gain amp for professional players. This newest version raises the bar with a redesigned 50-watt power section, a more flexible EQ, two seamless channels, and switchable Lo and Hi gain modes.
Mighty Mite | NAMM 2026
We got the full tour of Mighty Mite's new replacement pickups, custom-painted bodies, and reclaimed parts sourced from unrepairable guitars and manufacturer B-stock. The new pickup line includes '60s and '70s Strat sets, P-90s, Tele sets, and bass pickups available as complete sets, plus custom-painted bodies by Brian Nutter and standard replacement bodies in classic finishes or sealed for DIY finishing.
Guitar Parts
Mighty Mite, a name synonymous with guitar customization, began its journey in the early 1970s. Founded by Randy Zacuto, the brand quickly became a go-to for guitar enthusiasts looking to "hot rod" their instruments. During this period, Mighty Mite made its mark by offering high-quality guitar necks and brass replacement parts, catering to musicians who wanted to personalize their guitars' playability and sound.
Magnatone Lil' Viper & Kingston I NAMM 2026
Magnatone's Granville Helm walks us through the Lil' Viper, Slash's 8-watt combo with one 12AX7 and paired NOS 6AQ5 power tubes and a custom 8-inch speaker, featuring high/low gain switching, headphone output, and aux input in Purple Python cosmetics. Also, Larry Cragg shows us the Kingston, a 12-watt workhorse with two 12AX7s and paired 6V6s through a 12-inch speaker, high/low inputs, Accutronics Digi-Log reverb, and line out.
Lil' Viper
The Lil’ Viper is an ultra-portable 8-watt combo designed by Slash and Magnatone Chief Engineer Obeid Khan to deliver the unmistakable Master Collection voice in a remarkably small format. Built to sound full, bold, and authoritative, it is equally at home in the studio, at home, or backstage before a show. Finished in Slash’s signature Purple Python cosmetics with gold-accented hardware and a backlit Magnatone logo, the Lil’ Viper makes a striking visual statement.
Black Mountain Asteroid Pick, Capo & Thumb Pick | NAMM 2026
Creative Canadian Cole McBride shows off a trifecta of tone sweeteners that seem simple but improve players' experience with pragmatic changes.
Capo
The world’s first capo with a spring-loaded string padA breakthrough in capo technology!Keeps your guitar in tune and eliminates string buzz.
No more pinched, out-of-tune strings
Easy to use – just clip, fine-adjust and play.
Simple, elegant design to match the beauty of your guitar.
Asteroid Pick
3 tips, 3 sounds, endless fun!Players love the Asteroid pick because it gives them instant access to three different sounds while they play.
The blue pick is flexible and great for strumming.
The red tip is round and produces a full-bodied tone. The black tip is pointed and built for speed.
Thumb Pick
Black Mountain thumb picks feature a patented spring-loaded design for a comfortable, universal fit. They allow guitarists to transition seamlessly between fingerstyle and flatpicking, combining the security of a thumb pick with the feel of a traditional plectrum. Available in various gauges, they are built for versatility and durability.
TV Jones Power'Tron Ultra | NAMM 2026
Tone ranger Tom Jones introduces us to the new Power'Tron Ultra, the TV Jones' boldest and most powerful pickup to date, featuring mismatched coils—one extremely thick and heavy, one standard—that create a wide harmonic spectrum with both thickness and presence. Designed with artists like Scott Holiday and Ronnie Crutcher in mind, the pickup offers impressive versatility through coil-splitting that delivers clarity under gain while retaining aggressive Power'Tron power.
Fryette - Pittbull Ultra-Lead II and Valvulator Mini | NAMM 2026
Fryette's Steven Fryette introduces us to the Pittbull Ultra-Lead II, a two-rack-space, 25-pound version of his legendary Ultra-Lead that delivers 100 watts with a patent-pending output transformer, allowing players to mix 6550s and EL34s equally. The amp features digitally controlled graphic EQ with per-channel storage, zero-latency IR loading, MIDI switching, and direct USB recording—designed for touring artists like Helmet's Page Hamilton who needed the Ultra-Lead's tone without shipping massive rigs worldwide.
Pittbull Ultra-Lead II
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 bereissued 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.
Valvulator Mini
The Fryette Valvulator Mini is a high voltage vacuum tube–based buffer designed to preserveand enhance your guitar’s tone by converting the signal from high to low impedance. Thisprocess 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 touchsensitivity normally associated with plugging directly into an amp.
Spector Bass | NAMM 2026
We met up with Spector to get the rundown on the new 2026 Doug Wimbish Euro 4 signature bass, a 50th anniversary custom bass with inlay depicting the company's history, the sapphire black sparkle Frank Bello signature NC-4, and a limited run of 50 SB1 basses honoring Stuart Spector's original design with DiMarzio Model One pickups.
Doug Wimbish Euro 4 Signature Model
In 2024, Spector unveiled the Doug Wimbish USA Signature Series which celebrated the impact and legacy of Doug’s iconic Spector instruments. Now, Spector is proud to introduce the newly refined Doug Wimbush Euro 4 Signature Model with specifications taken directly from Doug’s 1987 NS-2. This model has been carefully specified to match the unique properties of Doug’s instrument, including a slim neck carve, narrow nut width, distinct pickup locations, and custom-wound EMG pickups, voiced alongside Doug’s originals.