Strum Into the Spotlight: This Week's Hottest Guitar Gear Releases (Feb 14, 2026)
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Welcome to the latest edition of Guitar World‘s gear roundup, your ultimate source for the freshest happenings in the guitar gear universe over the past week.
With a constant stream of new electric guitars, amp model updates, and innovative accessories, the guitar industry is always buzzing with excitement. Keeping track of every new release can be a challenge,but we’re here to simplify that for you.
In this essential guide, we’ll highlight the standout releases, boutique offerings, and everything in between, ensuring you don’t miss out on what’s new and noteworthy.
This week is particularly exciting for guitar enthusiasts, featuring significant launches from renowned brands like Gibson, Kiesel, Martin, and Taylor, alongside noteworthy entries from Xotic, Behringer, and D’Addario.
Let’s dive in!
Gibson Mark Morton Les Paul
Introducing the Gibson Mark Morton Les Paul modern Quilt – YouTube
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After nearly two years of anticipation, the Gibson signature model for Mark Morton has finally arrived, and it’s a stunning instrument. Although it technically debuted last week, it deserves a mention here. The Lamb of God guitarist’s Modern Les Paul features a breathtaking quilted maple top and custom Gibson signature humbuckers.
While its design was hinted at back in 2024, it’s gratifying to see it officially launched. This limited-edition model has fans hoping for more signature releases in the future.
for more: Gibson
Gibson Flat-Top Guitars
(Image credit: Gibson)
In addition to the electric offerings,Gibson has also unveiled a new line of acoustic guitars to commemorate 100 years of their Flat-Top series. This collection features vintage-inspired models, including the LG-2, SJ-200, and J-160E.
Gibson made a significant announcement at NAMM a few weeks ago, and we had the chance to try out several models. each one appears to be a valuable addition to their acoustic lineup. My personal favorite is the LG-2 50s Original, a beautifully crafted parlor-sized acoustic that sounds and looks astounding.
For more: Gibson
Epiphone wowkie Da J-180
(Image credit: Epiphone)
Continuing with the acoustic theme, we have the Epiphone WoWkie Da J-180, marking the brand’s first signature collaboration with the popular chinese pop artist.
This signature model is a fitting tribute to the talented songwriter,known for his contributions to the Mandopop and pop-punk genres through his work with The Flowers and as a solo artist. The J-180 features a sleek black finish and star inlays, inspired by the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom J-180, along with unique bridge motifs and body artwork showcasing the WoWkie Da logo.
For more: Epiphone
Kiesel Mark 66
Mark 66 Offset Guitar – Kiesel Guitars - YouTube
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Kiesel has also made waves with the introduction of the Mark 66, a guitar that promises to deliver exceptional performance and versatility. This offset model is designed for players seeking a unique aesthetic and sound.
With its innovative features and sleek design,the Mark 66 is sure to capture the attention of guitarists looking for something fresh and exciting.
For more: Kiesel
Here’s a statement I never expected to make: “I genuinely want a Kiesel guitar.” While I’ve always appreciated Kiesel instruments, I, like many others, have often associated them primarily with progressive rock and metal genres. This perception might potentially be somewhat limiting, but it’s a common viewpoint.
However, my perspective has shifted dramatically with the introduction of the Mark 66.This brand-new, vintage-inspired model draws inspiration from Mark Kiesel’s original Carvin guitar from 1966. With its eye-catching double-cut offset body,classic color options,and P-90 pickups,it opens the door to a broader audience,moving beyond the prog-centric image that has often defined the brand.
This is a brilliant strategic move, and what a fantastic way to launch a new series of guitars. Kudos to Kiesel! I’m eager to see what othre innovative designs they will unveil in 2026.
For more: Kiesel
Manson Black Edition
(Image credit: Manson Guitar Works)
If matt Bellamy, the frontman of Muse, could choose only one guitar for life, he would undoubtedly select his Manson Black Edition. This guitar, featured in the Time Is Running Out music video, has been a staple in both studio recordings and live performances since its introduction in 2001.
To commemorate its significant influence on contemporary rock music, Manson has released three variants of this iconic model. The first is a meticulous reproduction of the original, complete with its battle scars and unique electronic features. The other two are ‘New Era’ models, available in both relic and non-relic finishes, offering a modern twist on the classic Muse guitar.
Manson describes the Black Edition as the culmination of 46 years of guitar craftsmanship. It’s not merely an instrument; it’s a tool designed to expand the possibilities of guitar playing. These three models pay homage to that legacy in a truly remarkable way.
For more: Manson
Eastman Kauffmann Series
This relic’ing is INSANE – Eastman Guitars at Guitar Summit 2025 – YouTube
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Last September, I attended the Guitar Summit in Mannheim, Germany, and left with one clear impression: the Eastman Kauffmann Offset might just be my ideal guitar. Fast forward nearly five months, and after another encounter at NAMM 2026, the Kauffmann series has finally launched.
Here’s the gist: the Kauffmann series includes single-cut, double-cut, and offset models that incorporate the innovative Fullertone neck joint from the beloved D’Ambrosio series, along with stunning body shapes, all presented in a hand-relic’d format crafted by Albert Kauffmann himself.
These guitars are akin to Eastman’s Murphy Labs, and they are visually breathtaking. The Dutch-made collection is a dream realized for Eastman’s Pepijn ‘t Hart, and honestly, it’s a dream come true for me as well. I’m thrilled to see them finally available to the public.
For more: Eastman
Eastwood ETB1000
(Image credit: Eastwood)
My admiration for Travis Bean guitars began over a decade ago when I witnessed Foals perform a surprise set at the reading Festival. Yannis Philippakis wielded his Travis Bean with such passion that I was instantly captivated. It certainly helps that iconic musicians like Jerry Garcia and Slash have also been associated with the Travis Bean 1000.
Though, vintage models are scarce and frequently enough come with a hefty price tag on the second-hand market. To make this legendary guitar more accessible, Eastwood has introduced the ETB1000, wich closely resembles the original.
while it doesn’t feature the metal neck of its predecessor, it does include the signature ‘T’ hole in the headstock, making it a visually appealing instrument.
For more: Eastwood
Martin Grand Ole Opry HD-28
(Image credit: Grand Ole Opry/Martin)
this year marks the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry, and to celebrate this milestone, the iconic Nashville venue has collaborated with Martin to create a limited-edition HD-28 guitar that pays tribute to this historic occasion.
As one of the most revered music venues in the world, the Grand Ole Opry deserves a fitting tribute. This custom HD-28 features a sleek ‘Opry 100’ inlay on the fingerboard and a stunning headstock decal showcasing the Opry’s iconic WSM microphone.
Only 650 units will be produced, and they are available for $4,299 through the Grand ole Opry website.
For more: Grand Ole Opry
Taylor Paisley Park Prince 612ce
In 2004, Prince famously played a custom Taylor 612CE acoustic guitar, adorned with a vibrant purple finish and distinctive stylistic elements, during his Musicology Tour. This guitar also made an appearance in Prince’s MTV Unplugged concert.
Although this model was later released as a signature edition, it has been out of production since 2011. Now,15 years later,the guitar is making a comeback,but it will only be available in limited quantities directly from Paisley Park,Prince’s home and recording studio. This new version stays true to the original, featuring a Love Symbol inlaid on both the front and back of the headstock.
FM Guitars has unveiled the Orquidea, a stunning new model that showcases their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. This guitar is designed to cater to a wide range of musical styles, making it a versatile addition to any guitarist’s collection.
With its unique design and exceptional playability, the Orquidea is set to make waves in the guitar community. Be sure to check out the introduction video to see this remarkable instrument in action.
For more: FM Guitars
FM Guitars Unveils the orquidea
FM Guitars, renowned for their innovative double-fretboard bass guitars, has introduced a new model called the Orquidea. This headless single-cut guitar distinguishes itself from FM Guitars’ previous Esphera model, boasting a lightweight and ergonomic design that caters to musicians across various genres.
While this guitar is likely to resonate with progressive players, its features are appealing to a broader audience. The body is crafted with bevels and curves designed to conform seamlessly to the player’s physique, and it includes a convenient ‘Guitar Handle’ for easy transport. the Orquidea is available in both guitar and bass versions, offering multiple string configurations and vibrant color options.
For more: FM Guitars
Harley Benton Multi-Scale LH
(Image credit: Harley Benton)
Attention left-handed guitarists! The Harley Benton R-458MN is a multi-scale eight-string guitar designed specifically for left-handed players. This niche instrument is a rarity in the market, especially at an affordable price point.
Priced at just $285, this guitar offers exceptional value, especially considering its unique features. It’s a fantastic opportunity for left-handed musicians seeking a quality instrument without breaking the bank.
For more: Harley Benton
Gibson Aged Greenybuckers
(Image credit: Gibson)
In 2023, Gibson released the Greenybucker pickups, originally featured in the exclusive Greeny Les Paul signature guitar, as standalone products. While they captured the essence of the original pickups,their brand-new appearance didn’t quite match the vintage vibe.
For those looking to achieve both the iconic Greeny sound and aesthetic, Gibson has introduced the Murphy Lab aged Greenybuckers. Limited to just 100 sets, these pickups are priced at $449 each.
For more: Gibson
Behringer Ring Stinger
Introducing Behringer Ring Stinger - YouTube
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Behringer has returned with another affordable option to a sought-after pedal, this time introducing the Ring Stinger. This new model is a budget-kind version of the legendary Lovetone Ring Stinger modulator and octave fuzz pedal.
This isn’t Behringer’s first attempt at replicating a Lovetone pedal; they previously created a version of the Meatball envelope filter. Though, the Ring Stinger is highly likely to attract the most attention from guitar enthusiasts.The original Lovetone pedal was a favorite among shoegaze and experimental rock musicians, with notable users including Kevin Shields, Ed O’Brien, and J. Mascis.
The Behringer version retains much of the original’s charm, featuring retro-inspired controls and the iconic pink chassis. It promises to deliver the same sonic chaos that has been embraced by bands like Radiohead and My Bloody Valentine, all for under $100.
For more: Behringer
Xotic EP-Pro
introducing EP-Pro from Xotic Effects – YouTube
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Xotic has introduced the EP-Pro,a new pedal that promises to enhance your sound with its innovative features. This pedal is designed to provide musicians with a versatile tool for achieving a wide range of tones,making it an essential addition to any guitarist’s setup.
Check out the introduction video to see the EP-Pro in action and discover how it can elevate your playing experience.
For more: Xotic Effects
Introducing the Orquidea by FM Guitars
FM Guitars,known for their innovative double-fretboard bass guitars,has launched a new model called the orquidea. This headless single-cut guitar sets itself apart from the previous Esphera model, featuring a lightweight and ergonomic design that caters to musicians across various genres.
While the Orquidea may appeal primarily to progressive players,its thoughtful design elements are likely to attract a wider audience. The body is crafted with curves and bevels that conform to the player’s physique, and it includes a convenient ‘Guitar Handle’ for easy transport. Available in both guitar and bass versions, the Orquidea offers multiple string configurations and vibrant color options.
For more: FM Guitars
Harley Benton Multi-Scale LH
(Image credit: Harley Benton)
Attention left-handed guitarists! The Harley Benton R-458MN is a multi-scale eight-string guitar designed specifically for left-handed players. This niche instrument is a rarity in the market, especially at an affordable price point.
Priced at just $285, this guitar offers exceptional value, especially considering its unique features. It’s a fantastic opportunity for left-handed musicians seeking a quality instrument without breaking the bank.
For more: Harley Benton
Gibson Aged Greenybuckers
(Image credit: Gibson)
In 2023, Gibson released the greenybucker pickups, originally featured in the exclusive Greeny Les Paul signature guitar, as standalone products. While they captured the essence of the original pickups, their brand-new appearance didn’t quite match the vintage vibe.
For those looking to achieve both the iconic Greeny sound and aesthetic, Gibson has introduced the murphy Lab aged Greenybuckers. Limited to just 100 sets, these pickups are priced at $449 each.
For more: Gibson
Behringer Ring Stinger
Introducing Behringer Ring Stinger – YouTube
Watch On
Xotic has unveiled the EP-Pro, a versatile pedal that combines the functionality of both a boost and a volume pedal into one compact unit. This innovative design allows musicians to streamline their pedalboards without sacrificing sound quality.
What sets the EP-Pro apart is its integration of Xotic’s acclaimed EP Booster circuit, which has garnered praise from guitarists worldwide. This pedal not only enhances your tone but also features a toe-kicker switch that adds to its utility. It’s a practical solution for those looking to optimize their rig while maintaining exceptional sound quality.
For more: Xotic
D’Addario Micro-Fiber Cleaning Glove
(Image credit: D’Addario)
Introducing the D’addario Micro-Fiber Polish Mitt, a product that promises to provide a “faster, easier way to clean your gear.” While it may seem like a luxury, this glove has practical applications for musicians. Struggling to reach those hard-to-clean areas around your tuning pegs? Finding it difficult to dust off the nooks and crannies beneath your strings? This glove could make those tasks considerably simpler.
For more: D’Addario
Strum into the Spotlight: This Week’s Hottest Guitar Gear Releases (Feb 14, 2026)
Strum Into the Spotlight: This Week’s Hottest Guitar Gear Releases (Feb 14, 2026)
1.Gibson Mark Morton Les Paul
The Gibson Mark Morton Les Paul has finally hit the shelves, and it’s already making waves in the guitar community. This stunning instrument features:
Quilted Maple Top: A visually striking finish that enhances its aesthetic appeal.
Signature Humbuckers: Custom pickups designed to deliver a rich, powerful sound.
Limited Edition: Only a select number of these guitars will be produced,making it a collector’s item.
fans of Lamb of God will appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into this model. It’s perfect for both stage performances and studio recordings.
2.Eastman Kauffmann Series
Eastman has launched the Kauffmann series, which includes:
Model
Body Style
Price
Kauffmann single-Cut
Single-Cut
$1,499
Kauffmann Double-Cut
Double-Cut
$1,599
Kauffmann Offset
Offset
$1,699
These guitars feature a unique Fullertone neck joint and are hand-crafted by Albert Kauffmann, ensuring top-notch quality and playability.
3.Behringer ring Stinger
Behringer has introduced the Ring Stinger, an affordable alternative to the Lovetone Ring Stinger modulator and octave fuzz pedal. Key features include:
retro Design: Maintains the classic look of the original Lovetone pedal.
Versatile sound: Perfect for shoegaze and experimental rock genres.
Price Point: Available for under $100, making it accessible for all musicians.
This pedal is ideal for those looking to add a unique flavor to their sound without breaking the bank.
4. Xotic EP-Pro
The Xotic EP-Pro combines a boost and volume pedal into one compact unit. This innovative design features:
EP Booster circuit: Renowned for its ability to enhance tone.
Compact Design: Saves space on your pedalboard.
Toe-Kicker Switch: Adds convenience for live performances.
This pedal is a must-have for guitarists looking to optimize their rig while maintaining exceptional sound quality.
5. D’Addario Micro-Fiber cleaning Glove
The D’Addario Micro-Fiber Polish Mitt is a handy tool for keeping your gear clean. Benefits include:
Easy cleaning: Reaches challenging areas around tuning pegs and strings.
Convenient Design: Fits comfortably on your hand for effortless use.
Durable Material: Made from high-quality micro-fiber for effective cleaning.
This glove is perfect for musicians who want to keep their instruments in pristine condition.
6. Harley Benton Multi-Scale LH
The Harley Benton R-458MN is a multi-scale eight-string guitar designed for left-handed players. Highlights include:
Affordable Price: Priced at just $285, it offers great value.
Unique Features: Multi-scale design for enhanced playability.
Lightweight build: Easy to handle during long practise sessions.
This guitar is a fantastic option for left-handed musicians seeking quality without a hefty price tag.
Benefits of the Latest Guitar Gear
Investing in the latest guitar gear can significantly enhance your playing experience. Here are some benefits:
Improved Sound Quality: New pickups and pedals can elevate your tone.
Enhanced Playability: Ergonomic designs make playing more cozy.
Increased Versatility: Modern gear allows for a wider range of sounds and styles.
Practical Tips for Choosing Guitar Gear
When selecting new guitar gear, consider the following tips:
Know Your Style: choose gear that complements your playing style.
Test Before You Buy: always try out gear in-store if possible.
Read Reviews: Look for feedback from other musicians to gauge quality.
first-Hand Experience with New Gear
Many musicians have shared their experiences with the latest gear. As an example, players have noted that the Gibson Mark Morton Les Paul offers a rich, full sound that enhances their performance. Similarly, the Behringer Ring Stinger has been praised for its ability to create unique soundscapes, making it a favorite among experimental musicians.
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