NAMM 2026 Global Media Day Highlights: Strandberg, PRS & Martin Innovations

The NAMM 2026 Global Media Day offered an early look at some of the most exciting developments across the guitar industry. Hosted as part of the NAMM Show, the event brought together leading manufacturers to preview new technology, artist collaborations, and fresh models before the convention floor officially opened.

From innovative hardware solutions to artist-driven signature guitars and updated acoustic classics, several announcements stood out during the NAMM 2026 Global Media Day. Here are a few highlights from Strandberg, PRS, and Martin.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Crve9rmEKh8

Strandberg Introduces a New Tremolo System

Strandberg has built its reputation around ergonomics and playability, and the company continued that mission at the NAMM 2026 Global Media Day with the introduction of a new patent-pending tremolo system.

The system is designed to improve pitch control while addressing some of the long-standing tuning frustrations that come with traditional tremolo designs. According to the team presenting the instrument, the redesign focuses on enhancing control and stability while maintaining the comfort-focused philosophy that defines Strandberg guitars.

The tremolo system is launching initially on two models, with additional guitars expected to follow later in the spring. The new design reflects Strandberg’s ongoing focus on solving real-world performance challenges for players.

Artist collaborations also remain a major part of the brand’s lineup. Signature instruments from players like Per Nilsson are already in the lineup, and the company hinted that more signature guitars could be arriving later this year.

PRS Reveals Ed Sheeran Cosmic Splash Limited Run

PRS also had major news during the NAMM 2026 Global Media Day, unveiling a collaboration with Ed Sheeran called the Cosmic Splash Limited Run Baritone.

The instrument is limited to 1,000 pieces and was developed to help Sheeran achieve a very specific sound for an upcoming record. The guitar features a dual-output piezo system and a 277 baritone scale, giving it a unique tonal range suited for layered recording and live performance.

Although Sheeran was unable to attend the event in person due to his ongoing tour in Australia, he appeared virtually during the presentation. The prototype of the guitar even appeared in the trailer for the upcoming F1 film, where Sheeran used the instrument before the collaboration officially moved into production.

PRS also shared an update on its long-running partnership with John Mayer. The newest Silver Sky release introduces a matching headstock and body color, a design feature fans have been asking for since the model first launched.

Martin Showcases Acoustic Craftsmanship

Acoustic legend Martin also delivered one of the strongest presentations at the NAMM 2026 Global Media Day, introducing two notable models aimed at very different players.

The first is a Dreadnought inspired by Molly Tuttle’s personal 1943 Martin, based on the company’s flagship D-18 platform. Priced at $4,199, the guitar features rear-shifted bracing designed to enhance projection and punch. A vintage-inspired 1935 sunburst finish, ebony fingerboard and bridge, faux tortoise binding, and detailed inlays help capture the feel of a classic pre-war instrument.

The second model offers a more accessible entry point into the Martin lineup. Built at the company’s Navojoa, Mexico facility, the guitar is priced at $999 while still maintaining Martin’s traditional tone and build standards.

According to Martin’s team, both instruments reflect the company’s ongoing philosophy of balancing heritage with innovation. While the designs draw heavily from classic Martin history, they also incorporate modern manufacturing and design improvements developed by teams in both Nazareth, Pennsylvania and Navojoa, Mexico.

Innovation Across the Guitar World at NAMM 2026 Global Media Day

One of the biggest takeaways from the NAMM 2026 Global Media Day was the continued push toward innovation across the guitar industry. From Strandberg’s engineering-driven tremolo system to PRS artist collaborations and Martin’s blend of vintage design with modern production, manufacturers are clearly exploring new ways to evolve the instrument.

At the same time, many companies remain deeply rooted in tradition—combining decades of craftsmanship with modern technology to shape the next generation of guitars.

As NAMM continues to highlight both heritage and forward-thinking innovation across the guitar industry, events like NAMM 2026 Global Media Day give players a glimpse of where the instrument is headed next. From new hardware designs to artist collaborations and modern takes on vintage classics, the future of guitar continues to evolve in exciting ways.

Don’t forget to stay up to date with all of Vintage Guitar Legacies’ NAMM coverage, as we have more interviews, features, and behind-the-scenes looks coming soon. Stay tuned, and we’ll see you in the next update.