Believe in Music / NAMM 2021 - The Latest News
Tuesday, 12 January 2021
by Kim | Bax-shop
NAMM is the largest music-gear-focussed conference on Earth. Usually held every January, in Anaheim, California, the 2021 edition has been forced to retreat to the safety of the internet due to coronavirus. Aptly named, 'Believe in Music', the online programme is already rammed with livestreams and is still expected to be stacked with the freshest releases and the tastiest gear. Everything kicks off on Thursday the 21st of January and won't stop until Sunday the 24th of January, but before all of that, all the giants of the music gear world will already be been dropping some brand new goodies, so keep an eye on this page to stay in the loop!
Want to Join Us?
So, it'll be a conference like never before: the music stores, importers, makers and journalists won't be able to meet and mingle, but the determined people of NAMM have done their very best to put together a solid online-edition, and that actually comes with some just as solid benefits, since everyone is invited - even you! Simply register at the NAMM Believe in Music website and enjoy a sweet, four-day-long stretch of educational livestreams, live performances, and mouth-watering gear reveals and run downs.
Keep a close eye on our NAMM page, since until the end of January, we'll be announcing all of the newest gear the moment it's released, as well as posting the freshest news and clips!
Products
Guitars | Keyboards | Drums & Percussion | Sound, Lighting & DJ gear| Microphones & Studio Gear
Blackstar Broaden the Landscape with the ID:Core V3 Series Guitar Amplifiers
Born in the depths of the Blackstar labs, the ID:Core V3 is a comprehensive and complete combo guitar amplifier that offers Super Wide Stereo sounds, six voices, and a nice bundle of built-in effects. This future-proof amp comes fully prepared for live-streaming, audio-streaming and recording.
Boss Renew their Classic BCB Pedalboards
Boss have completely reworked the now-classic BCB pedalboard range. The BCB-90X and BCB-30X boards now both accommodate more contemporary stompbox-set-up needs, while the all-new BCB-1000 is a flight-friendly gigging box on wheels, built for the hard-working and globe-trotting guitarist and bassist.
ESP LTD Unveil New Models for 2021
Any self-respecting heavy metal and hard rock guitarist will already know of the LTD Series; put ting ESP-grade models within attainable, affordable reach while retaining every bit of the build-quality, high-grade finishing, and delicious tone. For 2021, ESP LTD are keeping things just as solid, and just as exciting.
ESP Unleash All-New Models for 2021
Many giants of metal tote an ESP-made guitar or bass, and for excellent reason, since this Japanese builder produces what might as well be the final word when it comes to instruments of exacting, detailed quality, each crafted by hand. So what do these masters have in store for 2021? Come and find out now!
Squier Present the Fresh and Forward-Facing Contemporary Series
Squier have stuck their head into the none-too-distant future and emerged unscathed carrying the entirely fresh Contemporary Series guitars and basses with them. These instruments comes with familiar and classic Fender styling, but have been loaded with a sweet stack of ultra-modern features. In 2021, we’ll be treated to a wide range of new Contemporary Series models.
Fender brings ‘90s Flavour with a Difference with the Noventa Series
In the Noventa Series (or ‘Ninetieth’ when literally translated from Spanish), Fender prove yet again that you can still do something new while sticking close to time-honoured tradition. What we get is familiar Fender design loaded with the fierce sonic power of P-90 pickups, giving the renowned Telecaster, Jazzmaster, and even the Stratocaster an entirely fresh tonal palette to play with.
The Fender Mustang Micro: a Humble yet Far-Reaching Headphone Amp with Bluetooth
The Fender Mustang Micro is a complete, itty-bitty bluetooth practice amp that plugs directly into your guitar and puts the sound of 12 high-grade GTX Series amps and a range of effects directly in your ears.
The Newest Ibanez Guitars and Basses for 2021
Whether it’s an all-out metal-machine or an insanely versatile all-rounder of an electric or acoustic guitar or bass, Ibanez guarantee innovation alongside a thoughtfully attainable price. So, whenever Ibanez drops a fresh batch of models, the guitar world rejoices, and it’s apparently party-time since we’re treated to a solid new range, fit to take on 2021.
Gretsch Get Fresh for 2021
Gretsch are well-known and much-loved for producing timeless classics, especially when it comes to their semi-acoustic guitars. This year, we’re treated to classic Gretsch-style coupled with innovative design, playability, and sound enhancing tweaks.
VOX Expand their Bobcat Series
If you’re already familiar with the VOX Bobcat Series, then you already know that it’s home to a stunning range of superbly built semi-acoustic guitars that purr with thick and round tone. During this year’s online edition of NAMM, they expand on the theme by adding a fresh batch of models, each loaded with a Bigsby tremolo system.
The VOX MINI GO: Mini-Amps with Multi-Coloured Character
This new range of VOX MINI GO amplifiers finds its inspiration in the Cambrige50, and has been made available in 3, 10, and 50 Watt versions. These handy wee amps are designed for the travelling guitarist that can’t do without tonal flexibility alongside a tight bank of sound options. They can even be powered via a powerbank.
VOX Innovate with New VGH Series Headphone Amps
Following the success of the hugely popular amPlug Series, VOX innovate with the VGH Series: a pair of great-sounding headphones featuring a built-in headphone amplifier that's designed to pour out pure VOX-grade tone.
Epiphone Drop a Fresh Batch of Guitars and Basses for 2021
Known as the sister-company of guitar giants, Gibson, Epiphone have been churning out high-quality innovations for decades. Every year, they treat the world at large with a fresh batch of fresh-faced models, and this year is no exception. Check out the new electric and acoustic offerings they dropped during this year’s NAMM.
Jackson Smash it with their Newest Metal-Focused Range
Loved the world over by complete beginners and professional shredders alike, Jackson Guitars are seen as one of the leading metal guitar specialists. In 2021, they unleash a fresh array of sonic-smashing models, each built to tear the world apart.
EVH Unveil New Guitar and Amplifiers
If there was just one guitarist deserving of their very own brand, it was the endless-innovator, Eddie van Halen. A self-confessed perfectionist, Eddie was forever tinkering with the design of his EVH guitars and amps, and always to superb effect. Meet the youngest members of the EVH family.
The Yamaha YC Stage Keyboard Now Comes with 73 or 88 Keys
All you want is a solid, lightweight and gig-worthy all-in-one instrument populated by the smooth-operation of LED encoders, a small army of control buttons, and a neat set of draw-bars: so, basically, everything that’s wrapped up in the tight form of the Yamaha YC Stage keyboard. Now available with 73 and 88 keys, as well as the standard 61.
The Hammond SK Pro Stage Keyboard Gives it All
Weighing in at just 11kg, the SK Pro is a (relative) slip of a thing with everything on it: tone-wheel simulation, a sample section for keyboard instruments including pianos, clavichords and so on; for ensemble sounds like strings and pads, and is even home to a modest yet powerful mono synth for shaping ripping prog-leads and rumbling sonic textures.
IK Multimedia Pull Another Innovative Synth-Based Rabbit Out of the Hat: The Uno Synth Pro Synthesizer
The IK Multimedia Uno Synth Pro is a unique, feature-packed analogue mono-synthesizer capable of three-voice paraphonic synthesis and provides quick and smooth controls, built-in effects, and DIN-MIDI, USB/MIDI and CV/gate connectivity. This considerable chunk of hardware is also available as a desktop edition.
Roland Present the RP701 Digital Pianos
Ultra-modern technology wrapped up in modern looks: the Roland RP701 digital piano. Backed up by the renowned SuperNATURAL sound engine, the dynamic range of the piano sound is unprecedented, and comes alongside hundreds of extra sounds, a built-in recorder, and plenty more for the modern pianist.
The Roland F701: Slots Seamlessly into the Corner of any Living Room
Besides providing a level of sound and playing feel that's able to fool even the most seasoned pianist, the Roland F701 digital piano boasts a sleek and minimalistic design able to slot seamlessly into the corner of any living room.
Korg Modwave Synthesizer: Mind-Bendingly Extensive
The Korg Modwave synthesizer is so mind-bendingly extensive that it's actually tough to put into words. So, it's definitely safe to say that even the most experienced and synth-weary of sound-designers are offered something fresh to sink their teeth into.
Korg Rework a Unique ‘70s Classic: The miniKORG 700FS Synthesizer
A remake of the Seventies synth-of-the-same-name that was made famous by the capable hands of Vangelis and Kitaro (among others). The Korg miniKORG 700FS has been loaded with same retro form-factor and more sound-shaping potential than you can shake a stick at.
The Roland FP-X Series Digital Pianos: The Complete, Portable Piano
Living-room friendly dimensions and a gig-friendly weight coupled with silent keys, contemporary functions and Roland-grade sound: the FP-X Series of digital pianos may offer the very best instrument in existence for the modern pianist, composer, and performer seeking affordable yet excellent quality.
Kurzweil Present the K2700 Workstation
The Kurzweil K2700 is the youngest member of an illustrious family that first emerged in the early ‘80s. This workstation bulges with potential backed up by a sweet handful of sound-engines and effects, and can even function as an audio interface.
The Yamaha DGX-670: The Ultimate Piano-and-Keyboard Fusion
The DGX-670 is every bit the fully-grown digital piano; filled with superior piano sounds and loaded with a hammer-action keyboard, to give the forward-thinking pianist access to a full library of alternative sounds as well as automatic accompaniment. This model mashes together the best bits of a keyboard, and the best bits of a digital piano to offer a smooth and sleek instrument.
The Yamaha CLP-700 Series Grows with the Addition of the CLP-725 Digital Piano
The Yamaha Clavinova CLP-725 could be seen as an introductory Clavinova Series model, but in reality, this digital piano offers the kind of extensive functions and innovative features that can be found across the entire Clavinova Series.
Korg Drop the Deluxe WaveState SE Synthesizer
A year after Korg surprised the world when they dropped the WaveState, the wonders have yet to cease with the introduction of the Korg WaveState SE. This hunk of synthesis follows the same concept, but comes loaded with a 61-note keyboard with aftertouch and a set of deluxe controllers.
Korg Unveil the Compact L1 Digital Piano
The all-new Korg L1 is an excellent digital piano that takes up a minimum amount of space yet offers maximum performance and features the same 88-note keybed as the full-size KRONOS LS.
Mapex Introduce the Saturn Evolution Series
The Mapex Saturn Series has already been around for while – actually, a good 25 years – and with the fresh Saturn Evolution Series, Mapex take everything a step or five further, so you’re still getting the very best of the Saturn series as well as the pick of an expanded range enahnced by various innovative tweaks and upgrades.
Roland Level-Up the Octapad
Roland introduce the SPD-20 PRO: a powered-up and improved version of the original that does everything that you would only expect of a Roland-grade drum pad – but then even better!
New Tama Gear for 2021
Highly reliable, just as innovative, and generously affordable: for decades already, both professional and amateur drummers have backed themselves up with ever-solid Tama-made gear, and this year, they update and strengthen their arsenal with plenty of interesting, and not to mention, tasty additions.
Pearl Drop a Solid Stack of New Drumming Gear.
For close to 80 years, Pearl has been giving drummers the full support of solid sound, durability, functionality and pure style, and have never stopped improving the recipe. This year, they drop a solid stack of new drumming gear.
Meinl Kick Off 2021 with Fresh Drum and Percussion Gear?
When it comes to cymbals, cajons, drum sticks, and pretty much any drumming accessory or percussive instrument you can think of, Meinl have been providing drummers and percussionists with essential tools. At this year’s NAMM, they’ve released a brand new range of gear.
The Boss WL-30XLR Snap-On System: A Wire-free Cable?
The super-smart Boss WL-30XLR microphone system transforms any dynamic microphone fitted with an XLR socket into an entirely wireless mic. Plug the transmitter into your microphone, and the receiver in your mixer or interface, and you have a fully wire-free set-up thanks to this ingenious little receiver.
Pioneer Introduce the Rightful Successor to the DJM-S9: The DJM-S7
The long-awaited heir to the DJM-S9 has arrived: the Pioneer DJM-S7. This two-channel battle-mixer provides full Rekordbox DJ and Serato DJ Pro support, a fresh Loop MIDI function and a Bluetooth interface.
The V-Moda M-200 ANC Headphones: With Active Noise-Suppression
These insanely comfortable headphones provide any well-travelled audiophile with Hi-Res, studio-grade audio supported by an app-controlled equaliser.
RANE Present the ONE and Their First Ever Fully-Grown DJ Controller
With the RANE ONE DJ-controller you get a complete DJ-set-up that comes fully backed up by the immense reliability and intuitive usability of the RANE Seventy and Twelve. This is the ultimate controller for touring and scratch DJs alike.
Electro-Voice Unveil the Evolve 50M
For all the bands, musicians, DJs, and sound-techs of the world, Electro-Voice present the Evolve 50M: a pure, professional sound solution wrapped in a compact and lug-friendly package.
Mackie Release Their SRT Series Active Speakers
The SRT active speakers are Mackie-designed, hard-working audio work-horses capable of a peak power of 1,600 Watts, packed into a hard-wearing yet modern housing, and supported by a unique SRT mixer and DSP shaped audio. This range gives the pick of a 10”, 12”, or 15” speaker, and an 18” subwoofer.
Mackie Onyx Mixers: Dependable and Modern
It’s actually been a little while since Mackie treated us to a new Onyx mixer, and this fresh batch comes packed with the same high-quality and functionality you’d expect, alongside multi-track recording options and pro-grade effects.
The Yamaha MSP3A: An Active Studio Monitor Without the Turbulence
Just like the turbulence that comes included in the price of a cheap flight, some studio monitors can come with their own brand of turbulence. The newly developed Yamaha MSP3A active studio monitor is designed to counter exactly that; reducing air-related turbulence to an absolute minimum, resulting in supremely tight bass reproduction.
Sequential Offer Up the Desktop Versions of the Prophet 5 and 10
Some particularly tasty offerings from the Sequential kitchen: tight and tidy desktop versions of the Prophet 5 and Prophet 10 synthesizers. Certainly handy for anyone who's already kitted out with a perfectly solid MIDI keyboard, and a little less pricey than the full-sized, keyboard-loaded versions.
Roland Serve the MPC-Style Verselab MV-1 Workstation
The Roland Verselab MV-1 workstation is built to cater for MPC-devotees, and is sheer magic in the hands of any urban producer.
The ARP 2600M Synthesizer: More Mini, But Just as Mighty
Is the ARP 2600M able to top the ARP 2600FS, released all that time ago, in 2020? Only time will tell. What we can say with certainty, is that this complete synth has that same, much-coveted and flexible analogue sound, is more compact, and includes a roll case.
Korg Modwave Synthesizer: Mind-Bendingly Extensive
The Korg Modwave synthesizer is so mind-bendingly extensive that it's actually tough to put into words. So, it's definitely safe to say that even the most experienced and synth-weary of sound-designers are offered something fresh to sink their teeth into.
Korg Rework a Unique ‘70s Classic: The miniKORG 700FS Synthesizer
A remake of the Seventies synth-of-the-same-name that was made famous by the capable hands of Vangelis and Kitaro (among others). The Korg miniKORG 700FS has been loaded with same retro form-factor and more sound-shaping potential than you can shake a stick at.
IK Multimedia Pull Another Innovative Synth-Based Rabbit Out of the Hat: The Uno Synth Pro Synthesizer
The IK Multimedia Uno Synth Pro is a unique, quirk-packed analogue mono-synthesizer capable of three-voice paraphonic synthesis and provides quick and smooth controls, built-in effects, and DIN-MIDI, USB/MIDI and CV/gate connectivity. This considerable chunk of hardware is also available as a desktop edition.
Tascam Release the TM-70 Dynamic Broadcast Microphone
The versatile nature of the Tascam TM-70 dynamic broadcast microphone is fully focussed on podcast and radio applications, promising a response that’s been fully optimised for capturing speech with exacting clarity. It also comes including a cable, shockmount, and tabletop-stand.
sE Electronics Present Their Vintage Edition Microphones
Four of the most legendary microphones ever produced by sE Electronics have been dressed up in their familiar retro jackets, and offered up as very limited, Vintage Editions. You can now get your hands on an SE200, V7, SE8 and VR1 complete with polished chrome grille and a satisfying retro housing.
Audient Unleash the Second Generation of Their iD Audio Interfaces
The MKIIs are the natural successors to the iD Series audio interfaces, and just like the originals, these solid chunks of hardware provide the professional quality of a fully-grown mixing desk, all neatly packed up inside a desktop-friendly housing.
The Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core: Pro-Grade Quality Within Arms Reach
The Antelope Audio Zen Go Synergy Core is their very first 2-in/2-out, compact, home-studio-sized interface, and puts superbly professional audio quality within affordable reach.
Tascam Release the US-42B Broadcast Audio Interface
The Tascam MiNiSTUDIO Creator US-42B is a detailed, broadcast-focussed audio interface designed for complete beginners and at-home content producers alike. A perfect amount of functionality combined with fuss-free controls to offer everything you’re going to need.
Korg Drop the Deluxe WaveState SE Synthesizer
A year after Korg surprised the world when they dropped the WaveState, the wonders have yet to cease with the introduction of the Korg WaveState SE. This hunk of synthesis follows the same concept, but comes loaded with a 61-note keyboard with aftertouch and a set of deluxe controllers.
Korg Give Us the Drumlogue Drum Machine
The Korg Drumlogue is a hybrid analogue and digital mash-up of a drum machine loaded with the SDK- tech found in the guts of the Minilogue.
