Exciting new Releases from Sterling by Music man at NAMM 2025
NAMM 2025 Highlights: Sterling by Music Man has unveiled budget-friendly versions of its innovative Kaizen guitar, along with signature models from renowned guitarists Rabea Massaad and Ryan ‘Fluff’ Bruce.
Teh Kaizen: A More Accessible Option
Initially introduced at NAMM 2022, the Kaizen is a collaboration between Music Man and the exceptionally talented Tosin abasi of Animals As Leaders. Over the years,the model has been showcased in vibrant neon colors and unique finishes that evolve with play. However, the demand for a more affordable Sterling by Music Man variant has finally been met.
With the original music Man Kaizen priced at nearly $3,999, it was clear that a more accessible option was needed.While some high-end features, such as the Infinity Radius fingerboard and Steinberger Locking Gearless tuners, have been omitted from the Sterling version, the instrument still boasts extraordinary modern elements.
The new model retains Steinberger tuners,a roasted maple neck,and high-output pickups designed by Sterling by Music man,replacing the premium model’s Music Man humbuckers. The Kaizen is available in both six-string ($849.99) and seven-string ($899.99) configurations,although hopes for an eight-string variant remain unfulfilled for now.
(Image credit: Sterling by Music Man Artist Series 2025)
Rabea Massaad’s Signature Sabre
Joining the Ernie Ball family in 2023, Rabea massaad introduced two signature Sabres at NAMM 2024. By the following summer, he hinted at the growth of Sterling alternatives, which have now come to fruition.
Designed for “modern playability,” the Sabre features ergonomic enhancements, including recessed carves on the lower horn for improved comfort. The roasted maple neck maintains a familiar profile, complemented by glow-in-the-dark side markers for easy navigation in low light.
While Massaad’s original Bare Knuckle silo humbuckers have been replaced with custom-voiced Alnico 5 pickups to keep costs reasonable, the guitar still offers versatility through a five-way switch and push-push coil-splitting capabilities. The aesthetic appeal is heightened with signature inlays and a stunning flame veneer top, along with locking tuners and a Sterling by Music Man tremolo system.
This model is priced at $899.99 and comes in two striking finishes: Ashen Burst and Blood Flame Burst.
(Image credit: Sterling by Music Man artist Series 2025)
Ryan ‘Fluff’ Bruce’s Signature StingRay
Guitarist and YouTube sensation Ryan ‘Fluff’ Bruce has also received a budget-friendly version of his signature StingRay model. The original, launched in 2023, featured Fishman Fluence pickups, which have now been replaced with a pair of Seymour Duncans—specifically, a JB Jr. in the neck and a Trembucker in the bridge.
Claimed to be “crafted to Fluff’s exact specifications,” this model includes a roasted maple neck and locking tuners, and it comes strung with Ernie Ball Beefy Slinkys, tuned to drop C# for that metalcore edge.
(Image credit: Sterling by Music Man Artist Series 2025)
The Sterling by Music Man Fluff Artist Series StingRay is priced at $879.99 and is available in two eye-catching finishes: amana Boat Blue and Rula Thumb Red.
Looking Ahead
These exciting new releases come on the heels of Sterling’s broader lineup for 2025, which includes a range of electric guitars and basses. Highlights from this lineup feature a P-90-equipped StingRay, a Sub Series Cutlass, and a five-string DarkRay bass developed in collaboration with Darkglass.
For more facts, visit Sterling by Music Man.
