Get ready to rock the music world because Ernie Ball Music Man is pulling out all the stops for NAMM SHOW 2026! Celebrating 50 years of the legendary StingRay bass, they're unveiling a treasure trove of new gear that's sure to make any musician drool. But here's where it gets exciting: alongside the anniversary celebrations, they're introducing a slew of innovative instruments that push the boundaries of design and sound. Let's dive into the highlights!
The StingRay Turns 50: A Golden Jubilee Extravaganza
For half a century, the StingRay has been the gold standard for bold, forward-thinking bass tones. To honor this legacy, Ernie Ball Music Man is releasing the 50th Anniversary StingRay Special, available in two jaw-dropping limited-edition finishes: Molten Gold and Liquid Gold. But this is the part most people miss—the Liquid Gold version is hand-numbered and limited to just 50 instruments worldwide, making it a collector's dream! Both models feature a roasted flame maple neck, ebony fretboard with gold inlays, and glow-in-the-dark side markers, ensuring you'll never miss a beat on stage. The Molten Gold variant, limited to 300 pieces, boasts a metallic gold finish on the body and headstock, each with its own unique character. Paired with gold hardware and a 50th Anniversary-stamped bridge, these basses are as much art as they are instruments. Each comes with a deluxe hardshell case and a certificate of authenticity, because why not?
DarkRay II: When Bass Meets Innovation
Now, let's talk about the DarkRay II, the modern bass player's dream. Building on the aggressive foundation of the original DarkRay, this beast adds fully integrated octave up and down effects, giving you a sonic palette that's as vast as your imagination. But here's the controversial part—is this too much innovation for a traditional bass? With a master volume, bass and treble EQ, distortion control, and octave control, the DarkRay II lets you switch between tight, punchy tones and massive, harmonically rich textures effortlessly. Available in Black, Showtime, Spectralite, and Mean Green Burst, it's a statement piece for any stage.
Majesty Premium Select & Jason Richardson Cutlass: Precision Meets Personality
For the guitarists, Ernie Ball Music Man is introducing the John Petrucci Signature Majesty Premium Select, a masterpiece of refined tone and versatility. Crafted with a mahogany neck-through body, alder wings, and a thick maple top, it delivers unparalleled depth and sustain. But what really stands out is the 20+ dB onboard gain boost, perfect for those soaring solos. Available in stunning finishes like Carnelian Red and Purple Nebula II, it's a guitar that demands attention.
And for the modern technical players, the Jason Richardson Artist Series Cutlass HT 8-String is a game-changer. With a multiscale design (25.5”–27” scale length) and Jason Richardson HT humbuckers, it offers crushing output and precise note definition. But here's the kicker—it's available in three translucent finishes inspired by iconic video game locations: Water Temple, Death Mountain, and Kokiri Forest. Is this the ultimate fusion of music and gaming culture?
30th Anniversary Axis & Custom Design Experience: Nostalgia Meets Customization
Celebrating 30 years of the Axis, Ernie Ball Music Man is revisiting the translucent finishes that made it a legend in 1996. From Translucent Gold to Purple, each guitar is a nod to the past with a modern twist. But what's really exciting is the Custom Design Experience, an online configurator that lets you build your dream StingRay bass. With 14 new finishes and endless customization options, the only limit is your imagination. But here's the question—in an age of mass production, is customization the future of guitar making?
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Continues
As Ernie Ball Music Man celebrates these milestones, they're not just looking back—they're pushing forward with innovation and style. From the golden StingRay to the futuristic DarkRay II, each release is a testament to their commitment to quality and creativity. But what do you think? Are these new releases a step in the right direction, or is there something you'd change? Let us know in the comments—we'd love to hear your thoughts!
