The Best of NAMM 2024

Every year at NAMM we’re treated to a whole host of the hottest new releases from some of the most revered and iconic names in music, NAMM 2024 is no different exception, with an array of new gear and instruments from brands such as Yamaha, Korg, Martin and many more that are bound to turn a few heads.

An annual pilgrimage for music fans, NAMM is the definitive music gear extravaganza hosted by the US-based National Association of Music Merchants. Following a few years marked by scheduling uncertainties, the event is back in its rightful January place, promising a dazzling array of musical innovations, cutting-edge gear, and electrifying performances.

In this blog we’ll be going through some of the highlights so far, so let’s dive in!

Straight from the Yamaha camp, meet the Yamaha SEQTRAK, a budget-friendly powerhouse that stands as a compelling alternative to the Teenage Engineering OP-1. This all-in-one music production studio seamlessly integrates a step sequencer, drum machine, synthesiser, sampler, and mixer into a sleek, compact design. Ideal for musicians on the move, the SEQTRAK boasts a battery-powered setup with an integrated microphone and speaker, ensuring creativity knows no bounds. 

With a dynamic sequencer at its core, a seven-track drum section loaded with over 2,000 sounds, and an intuitive interface for melody creation, the SEQTRAK promises an unparalleled portable music production experience. Explore its advanced modulation, effects, and seamless app integration for a comprehensive creative journey anytime, anywhere.

When it comes to the 50th Anniversary of Martin Guitars, you can be sure they were going to pull out all the stops. Behold the Martin D-50 CFM IV 50th Anniversary Acoustic Guitar—an homage to five decades of dedication and 35 years of craftsmanship in Navojoa, Mexico. Limited to just 50 worldwide, it commemorates Chris Martin IV's legacy with a signed label. 

The D-50 boasts a gloss finish, pommele sapele back, bearclaw spruce top, and captivating "Tree of Life" inlays in Paua pearl. 

Offering a more premium design to the vastly popular electric guitar range, experience enhanced performance with Yamaha's Pacifica Professional guitars, specifically crafted for players in pursuit of their distinct sound. 

Crafted with precision in Japan, the PACP12 epitomises exceptional sound and playability, now available in four new finish options exuding sun-soaked Southern California vibes. The incorporation of Yamaha Acoustic Design technology ensures a well-balanced response, complemented by Reflectone pickups co-developed with Rupert Neve Designs for clear and articulate tones. 

With an HSS pickup configuration, a 5-way selector, and a coil-split switch, the PACP12 offers limitless tonal variations. Additional features include a newly designed alder body, a slim C-shape maple neck with a compound-radius rosewood fingerboard, medium stainless-steel frets, and Gotoh locking tuners.

In celebration of Taylor's 50th anniversary, the 314ce LTD stands as a tribute to a half-century of craftsmanship, innovation, and enduring design excellence. This limited-edition Grand Auditorium model, part of the exclusive 50th-anniversary collection, is adorned with premium enhancements, making it the coveted choice for discerning musicians.

Where we saw every model from Ibanez was given a new selection of finishes, nobody expected the return of their iconic Iceman model this year. This iconic instrument seamlessly fuses classic aesthetics with avant-garde innovation, promising an unparalleled playing experience.

At the Ibanez booth, the unexpected return of the Iceman stole the spotlight amidst a sea of new models across various series. Available in three captivating finishes, Antique Autumn Burst, Antique Blue Metallic, and Violin Sunburst, all models feature an Okoume neck and body, Jatoba fingerboard, and the renowned Super 80 pickups.

Unleash sonic mastery with the ESP LTD Bill Kelliher Royal Shiva Electric Guitar in Silver Sunburst, a striking addition to the Bill Kelliher Signature Series. Balancing monstrous tones with sleek beauty, this guitar is not only a must-have for Mastodon fans but also players in search of their new favourite six-string.

Its unique double-cutaway body, Silver Sunburst finish, and premium construction with a mahogany body, maple cap, and u-shaped maple neck offer a visually stunning and sonically resonant instrument. Elegant appointments, pro-tier hardware, signature Mojotone Hellbender pickups, and coil-splitting capability make it a versatile powerhouse.

Introducing the Electro-Voice Everse 12, a battery-powered loudspeaker that seamlessly blends Electro-Voice's legendary sound quality and reliability with the versatility of a portable design. Crafted for diverse indoor and outdoor performances, this speaker is loaded with premium features to elevate your musical experience. Boasting a 12" woofer and titanium dome compression driver, the Everse 12 ensures unmatched sound quality and impressive output capacity. 

With its patented SST port design, enjoy expansive and uniform coverage, guaranteeing that every note reaches your audience with clarity. Elevate your gigs with the power and precision of the Everse 12.

In the drumming world, revisit historic performance with the reissued Tama Superstar, released two years after the introduction of the Tama name. Tama attributes the Superstar's triumph to its tour-ready all-birch shells, pioneering the 6-ply/9mm-thick shell design.

This revival is available in four finishes: Aqua Marine, Cherry Wine, Super Mahogany, and Super Maple, each presented in a four-piece shell pack configuration featuring a 22”x14” bass drum, equally sized 10”x8” and 12”x8” rack toms, and a 16”x16” floor tom. Witness the renaissance of the much-loved kit that defined an era.

A legendary figure in the realm of bass drum pedals, the Iron Cobra celebrates its 50th anniversary with a visually striking twist from Tama. Imagine a Cobra set loose in a bowling ball factory, and you'll get the vibrant 'Marble' designs, featuring Coral Swirl and Psychedelic Rainbow. 

These distinctive finishes not only make a bold statement but also ensure you'll never confuse your pedals on a shared kit again. Beyond the eye-catching paint jobs, the Iron Cobra remains the beloved pedal we know, available in single or double configurations and equipped with Tama's Rolling Glide or Power Glide cams in both finish options.

And there you have it, that’s some of our highlights of NAMM 2024. Shop our full range of NAMM 2024 Releases. If you have any questions or queries about these products, contact PMT Online or your local PMT store to speak to one of our experts.