NAMM 2025 the biggest show for those in the music gear business is making it's return. The event promises multiple product releases as well as prominent artist visits.
NAMM 2025: A Return to Full Strength
After what has been described as a tough return after covid cancellations NAMM 2025 is shaping to be the most expansive gathering of musical instruments and technology seen in a while. Fender, Gibson, Marshall and many others are to display their latest wares. The focus is bringing people in person which has always been the shows biggest draw. This is also why several are now excited to finally meet up after such a long break. The Anaheim Convention Center will be the heart of innovation for the musical equipment market.
Show Floor Highlights
The organizers promised notable artist appearances, live performances, and many gear reveals. The focus will remain to see what will make it into production and what tech will also shape the future of musical equipment. Those attending should see that each company is bringing new and exciting elements to all products that make up the market.
New and Returning Brands
Many manufacturers that were once missing are back to showcase products. Some notable comebacks include Fender which has chosen to do private showings as they showcase new builds in the high end markets while Gibson will have media only events where they will display their line. Roland has come back after a long hiatus alongside Boss, DW, PDP and LP brands will also have presences at this show. This shows a resurgence for both large scale and smaller name companies hoping to show they are committed to the future.
First-Time Hardware Debut
Bitwig an innovator of digital audio has announced their first hardware piece “Bitwig Connect 4/12” which is a interface focused on midi integration . Their company is noted as something that challenges industry norms by providing products at a much lower price and rarely show up to trade events until this one making it extra exciting.
Notable Gear Announcements
The show also revealed new products coming to market. Fender has showcased three models: the CNCPT Stratocaster with a clear see through design and a vintage tribute of Telecasters. Then they highlighted the “Offset Stratocaster'' to show off something different.
Martin Guitar Releases
Martin Guitars showcased the 3 Millionth model “D-3 Millionth Model” which features diamond, gold and a cross section tree design. Other guitars released were "Grand J-28E DN", "Billy Strings Signature Models (D-28 & D-X2E)" to all be a part of the lineup this year. A unique blend of both luxury and a lower priced market offering for multiple income demographics.
Marshall's New Pedal Line
Marshall announced that the brand would now be in the pedal market with iconic amplifiers now available in pedal formats with the tones they are known for being available now as an amp-in-a-box concept. This will create competition while also offering a familiar sound for many musicians across all demographics and platforms of recording.
Focus on the Future
Other new companies such as Donner are working toward affordable synthesizer designs and Celestion is now showcasing new tech to reduce volume without losing the core tonality. All while large scale brands such as Native instruments are showcasing that their services will be available across all major forms of music software and controller companies in addition to what has been in the past.
Expansion of Audio Tech
NAMM 2025 will have the highest focus ever on audio gear in the North Hall area for demos of top of the line equipment in that market. The companies showcasing there will range from microphone companies to large scale sound engineering equipment bringing even more exposure for products to the larger market audience.
Showfloor Expectations
The expectation at NAMM for 2025 will be very highly concentrated on getting feedback from the musicians first. The companies will take direct feedback in addition to social media for opinions while at the event for all aspects. There will also be emphasis put on gear in action using live demonstrations which have always been something that the NAMM audience connects to.
NAMM's Return to Its Normal Space
Despite the challenges created by wild fires the show is still on to be in its normal January location with a renewed sense of direction. NAMM is committed to making the event as successful as it once was and now more expansive.
Commitment to the Musical Community
While keeping its traditions they also have shown that the future is now and this time will focus on both a high-end level of technology along with many beginner pieces so those that will need a lower end market also have the same opportunities that large market vendors enjoy in this market place. There is more dedication than ever toward meeting everyone’s needs for this industry.
Key Takeaways
- NAMM 2025 will be its largest event since 2020 with prominent brands making a come back.
- There is emphasis being placed on the expansion of audio technology into different price points of products and performance settings.
- The show features product launches for synthesizers, pedals, amplifiers and guitars giving a glimpse of all markets for new innovative technologies and old classics.
- Several major names in music gear such as Fender and Roland are having in person meetings after being away for years adding a layer of personal interactions for product launches.
- There is an added component of live artist performances throughout the days giving those that travel to the event more value for those interested in product demos and direct interaction.