The NAMM show runs from January 20-24 in Anaheim Convention Center, Southern California. It is one of the premier music trade shows and the first of the calendar year.
This article will be updated with highlights of the show and links to more in-depth articles on new products from the manufacturers in attendance.
Manufacturers
Akai
Akai shows off the MPC XL. The most advanced MPC yet, this all-in-one production hub is made for more than sampling and sequencing alone. It’s designed to give you complete creative freedom over every sound, loop, sample, sequence, or idea for your next best beat. It’s your entire workflow—made to work for you.
- Standalone hardware with MPC3 OS for a streamlined workflow
- Gen 2 8-core processor with 4x the processing power of?previous?MPCs
- 16GB RAM for running multiple plugins simultaneously
- 256GB internal SSD storagefor saving projects,?plug-in instruments, samples, and presets
- Expressive MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology with 4 quadrants per pad
- Assignable performance touch-strip for tactile control?of Performance FX, note repeats, Channel faders, and more
- Step sequencer with 16 RGB function buttons
- 16 Q-Link?knobs with performance-control OLEDs for immediate visual feedback
- XL Channel Command allows for quick access to mixing and recording parameters (including level, sends, and outputs) at the touch of a button—with a dedicated OLED display and encoder for parameter control and visual feedback
- One-to-one function buttonsfor immediate access to every feature
- 10.1” HD multi-gesture touchscreen with tilt
- 2 XLR/TRS combo inputs with mic preamps and phantom power for?crystal-clear recordings
- 2 dedicated instrument inputsfor recording guitars and keyboards
- 8 separate line outputs for external routing and mixing
- USB-C connectivity for 24 channels of audio I/O, 32 channels of MIDI IO, and easy connectivity to sample from smart devices
- 8 stereo 1/8” CV/Gate outputsfor a total of 16 CV outs
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth To enable wireless collaboration and file transfer
- MPC Pro Pack. Powered by next-gen MPC3 OS and enhanced with new MPC Pro Pack features like studio-grade time-stretch, clip-launching, expanded CV control, and new pro plugins
- Clip Matrix. Clip launch workflow for enhanced song arranging and performance
Behringer
Behringer is showing off a number of new products, which we don’t yet have full details of.
This includes the BMX hybrid sampling drum machine based on the Oberheim DMX, the D Mini Minimoog Model D mini synth, the Juno-inspired JN-80, the JT-2 Jupiter-8 style paraphonic analog synth, and FLOW 4V 10-track 32-bit field recorder. We’ll have more info when we get it.
Casio
There’s a lot of noise around a new standalone sampler which Casio seems set to launch. Details are sparse, in fact there’s no finished product yet. At first glance it looks very much like a calculator (though this could just be because you know Casio makes a lot of calculators…) with additional controls. 4×4 pads and a built in sequencer is about the only other official info forthcoming at present — watch this space.
KORG
KORG announces the phase8 acoustic synthesizer, an eight-voice acoustic synthesizer that merges the sonic richness of the physical world with precise electronic control. With envelope shaping, sequencing, analogue wavefolding, and pitch-dependent modulation, phase8 harnesses the latest Acoustic Synthesis technology developed at KORG.
The KAOSS PAD V returns with a reimagined touch interface, expanded effects, and a workflow built for modern creators. With dual-touch performance, advanced vocal shaping, and flexible connectivity, KAOSS PAD V gives vocalists, guitarists, producers, and performers a responsive tool for real-time sound manipulation. It reacts instantly to every gesture, turning touch into expressive, musical control.
KORG intros the microAUDIO 722 and microAUDIO 22 interfaces. The 722 features an analog filter and both are audio interfaces.
The streamlined microAUDIO 22 delivers pure, essential performance with a clean and intuitive layout. It is ideal for beginners and hobbyists who want high-quality audio without unnecessary complexity.
The hybrid microAUDIO 722 takes creativity further by integrating KORG’s legendary analogue filter. It creates a rich, expressive tone that blurs the line between interface and instrument, giving artists a way to shape sound that digital processing alone cannot replicate.
KORG intros the Liano LIVE!, based on the original Liano digital pianos but with additional equipment to make it easier for performers, live streamers and the like.
The KORG MetroClip lets you place this visual metronome be clipped wherever you like, and uses both sound and visuals to help you stay in time.
Kurzweil
Kurzweil announces the latest incarnation of its stage keyboard, the SP8. Designed for performers who demand expressive sound, immediate control, and rock-solid reliability, the SP8 Stage Keyboard delivers Kurzweil’s legendary performance DNA in a powerful, streamlined instrument built for the modern stage. Built on Kurzweil’s legendary V.A.S.T. engine, the SP8 combines authentic acoustic realism, deep synthesis, and intuitive hands-on control.
Reason
Reason Studios announces that Reason Rack is now available as a plugin for use in any other DAW. The Reason Rack license is available now for $199, and the Reason Rack subscription at $11.99 per month or $99 per year.
They’ve also announced price reductions on other Reason products and subscriptions.
Roland
Roland announces a number of products.
Two new digital pianos are launched: the Kiyola KF-20 and KF-25. Artisan Home Pianos Built in Collaboration with Karimoku, Japan’s Leading Manufacturer of Premium Wood Furniture.
The KF-20 and KF-25 integrate the latest Roland piano technologies within cabinets carefully crafted by Karimoku. Built with local techniques refined over a thousand years, every KIYOLA is a one-of-a-kind instrument with unique grain patterns and natural aging. Combining analog and digital, tradition and cutting-edge, KIYOLA exemplifies wa, the Japanese concept of harmony.
The GO:MIXER STUDIO is part of Roland’s GO series. Made for performance video creators and music artists, GO:MIXER STUDIO infuses our portable mixer/interface platform with new power, flexibility, and range. Enhanced sound quality, expanded I/O, and onboard effects unlock more creative possibilities, supported by an intuitive interface with hands-on knobs and a color display. Powerful companion apps make your workflow even smoother, allowing you to capture videos with multitrack audio and control deep mixing functions on the spot.
The CUBE Street Mini is a portable all-in-one PA system for performers and creators.
- Ultra-compact amplifier for solo and duo performances
- Dual channel design and integrated 2.1 speaker system with wide sound dispersion
- Main channel supports a guitar, microphone, or stereo instrument
- Mic channel features an XLR/TRS combo input for a dynamic microphone
- Individual effects for each channel (reverb/delay/chorus on the main channel and reverb/echo on the mic channel)
- Built-in rechargeable battery with up to seven hours of runtime
- Onboard guitar tuner with panel indicators
- Bluetooth® audio for streaming songs from a mobile device
- Integrated tilt stand and mic stand mount for increased projection
- Stereo mini output jack for headphones or connecting to a recorder
- USB-C® jack for charging (USB Type-C to Type-A charging cable included)
- Optional carrying case (CB-MBC1)
Zenology GX for iPad is the acclaimed ZEN-Core synthesis system captured in a powerful standalone instrument for the iPad.
ZENOLOGY GX for iPad puts thousands of genre-defining Roland sounds at the fingertips of performers and creators, complemented with a modern high-definition UI, an advanced sound browser, integrated creative tools, and much more. Due to launch early this year.
The CR-78 Rhythm Composer was an iconic programmable rhythm machines from the 1970s. Now Roland launches its software homage:
- ACB authenticity—component-level modeling of the original CR-78 sound and response
- Deep editing—per-instrument tuning, level, decay, pan, and more for precise voicing
- Advanced sequencing—variable sub-steps, accents, shuffle, last step, and more
- Cross-genre ready—from retro textures to futuristic beats, the CR-78 adapts to any style
- High-definition interface—resizable, high-DPI UI with woodgrain or black trim skins
- Preset library—curated kits and patterns spanning classic and contemporary styles
- DAW integration—AU, VST3, and AAX support with tempo sync, automation, and drag-and-drop pattern arrangement
Studiologic
Studiologic announces its special edition of the Numa X Piano GT with the introduction of the Numa X Piano GTse, featuring new sound engine, larger storage, exclusive build materials, and version three firmware.
Stylophone
Dubreq Stylophone has announced the imminent launch of two new products.
Stylophone On-The-Fly is a hands-on sequencer which turns pattern programming into real-time performance.
Every control responds instantly, letting you shape patterns with rhythm, pitch, and playing-style variations while the sequence is running — no menus, no stopping. With full Eurorack CV, Gate, Sync, and MIDI connectivity, it integrates effortlessly into modular, MIDI, and hybrid setups — and scales up easily with more units into a multi-sequencer system.
Program just 8 steps and instantly access multiple 16, 32 or 64-step patterns, switching between them on-the-fly or change direction without breaking the groove. Add glide, ratchets, rests, ties, or controlled randomness per step while the sequence is playing.
Stylophone Voice is a pocket recorder and sampler. Record sounds using the Stylophone VOICE from the world around you and then bend the audio with multiple effects and turn it into music. It’s really simple to capture and play your own samples using three different voices, which you can then shape with 12 built-in effects. Create quick melodies and wild sound experiments. The VOICE makes creating music fast, fun, and completely hands-on.
Yamaha
Yamaha announces new instruments and showcases otherwise which have been around for a little while but still deserve acknowledgment.
The PSR line expands with the launch of the PSR-E483 and PSR-E583 keyboards with a range of sounds, accompaniments, articulation styles, arpeggiator, and more.
The MODX M line has been out since last year but Yamaha will show off the evolved synths. Available in three versions (MODX M6, MODX M7, MODX M8) and featuring three sound engines, double the memory over the MODX/MODX+, and other improvements.
The CC1 USB controller is compatible with the Elgato Stream Deck system, combining exceptional versatility with DAW-specific controls. Ideal for all types of creators involved in music production, PC streaming, podcast and video content creation. US$435.
The URX Series audio interfaces provide extra functionality, connectivity, and sound quality, and include the URX44 6-in/4-out, URX22 4-in/2-out, and URX44V 6-in/4-out with additional HDMI.
The URX series digital interfaces mark a significant step up in quality and flexibility from entry level interfaces while retaining their greatest attributes; a compact, unobtrusive design, simple connectivity, and ease of operation. As all-in-one solutions, all three URX models come equipped with onboard DSP mixing tools and effects integrated into the touchscreen’s GUI, as well as a touch panel interface, carefully selected physical knobs, and support for compatible controllers, enabling a highly intuitive and speedy workflow.
Each URX model comes bundled with a comprehensive suite of music production software to support every stage of your workflow—from creation and audio management to system expansion. Backed by the rock-solid stability and reliability trusted by audio professionals worldwide, Yamaha and Steinberg provide the confidence you need to take on your next creative challenge.
Product Type
Audio
KORG intros the microAUDIO 722 and microAUDIO 22 interfaces. The 722 features an analog filter and both are audio interfaces.
The streamlined microAUDIO 22 delivers pure, essential performance with a clean and intuitive layout. It is ideal for beginners and hobbyists who want high-quality audio without unnecessary complexity.
The hybrid microAUDIO 722 takes creativity further by integrating KORG’s legendary analogue filter. It creates a rich, expressive tone that blurs the line between interface and instrument, giving artists a way to shape sound that digital processing alone cannot replicate.
The Roland CUBE Street Mini is a portable all-in-one PA system for performers and creators.
- Ultra-compact amplifier for solo and duo performances
- Dual channel design and integrated 2.1 speaker system with wide sound dispersion
- Main channel supports a guitar, microphone, or stereo instrument
- Mic channel features an XLR/TRS combo input for a dynamic microphone
- Individual effects for each channel (reverb/delay/chorus on the main channel and reverb/echo on the mic channel)
- Built-in rechargeable battery with up to seven hours of runtime
- Onboard guitar tuner with panel indicators
- Bluetooth® audio for streaming songs from a mobile device
- Integrated tilt stand and mic stand mount for increased projection
- Stereo mini output jack for headphones or connecting to a recorder
- USB-C® jack for charging (USB Type-C to Type-A charging cable included)
- Optional carrying case (CB-MBC1)
The GO:MIXER STUDIO is part of Roland’s GO series. Made for performance video creators and music artists, GO:MIXER STUDIO infuses our portable mixer/interface platform with new power, flexibility, and range. Enhanced sound quality, expanded I/O, and onboard effects unlock more creative possibilities, supported by an intuitive interface with hands-on knobs and a color display. Powerful companion apps make your workflow even smoother, allowing you to capture videos with multitrack audio and control deep mixing functions on the spot.
The URX Series audio interfaces provide extra functionality, connectivity, and sound quality, and include the URX44 6-in/4-out, URX22 4-in/2-out, and URX44V 6-in/4-out with additional HDMI.
The URX series digital interfaces mark a significant step up in quality and flexibility from entry level interfaces while retaining their greatest attributes; a compact, unobtrusive design, simple connectivity, and ease of operation. As all-in-one solutions, all three URX models come equipped with onboard DSP mixing tools and effects integrated into the touchscreen’s GUI, as well as a touch panel interface, carefully selected physical knobs, and support for compatible controllers, enabling a highly intuitive and speedy workflow.
Each URX model comes bundled with a comprehensive suite of music production software to support every stage of your workflow—from creation and audio management to system expansion. Backed by the rock-solid stability and reliability trusted by audio professionals worldwide, Yamaha and Steinberg provide the confidence you need to take on your next creative challenge.
Controllers
Yamaha announces its CC1 USB controller, compatible with the Elgato Stream Deck system, combining exceptional versatility with DAW-specific controls. Ideal for all types of creators involved in music production, PC streaming, podcast and video content creation. US$435.
Digital Pianos
KORG intros the Liano LIVE!, based on the original Liano digital pianos but with additional equipment to make it easier for performers, live streamers and the like.
Studiologic announces its special edition of the Numa X Piano GT with the introduction of the Numa X Piano GTse, featuring new sound engine, larger storage, exclusive build materials, and version three firmware.
Kurzweil announces the latest incarnation of its stage keyboard, the SP8. Designed for performers who demand expressive sound, immediate control, and rock-solid reliability, the SP8 Stage Keyboard delivers Kurzweil’s legendary performance DNA in a powerful, streamlined instrument built for the modern stage. Built on Kurzweil’s legendary V.A.S.T. engine, the SP8 combines authentic acoustic realism, deep synthesis, and intuitive hands-on control.
Two new Roland digital pianos are launched: the Kiyola KF-20 and KF-25. Artisan Home Pianos Built in Collaboration with Karimoku, Japan’s Leading Manufacturer of Premium Wood Furniture.
The KF-20 and KF-25 integrate the latest Roland piano technologies within cabinets carefully crafted by Karimoku. Built with local techniques refined over a thousand years, every KIYOLA is a one-of-a-kind instrument with unique grain patterns and natural aging. Combining analog and digital, tradition and cutting-edge, KIYOLA exemplifies wa, the Japanese concept of harmony.
Gadgets
The KORG MetroClip lets you place this visual metronome be clipped wherever you like, and uses both sound and visuals to help you stay in time.
Home Keyboards
Yamaha’s PSR line expands with the launch of the PSR-E483 and PSR-E583 keyboards with a range of sounds, accompaniments, articulation styles, arpeggiator, and more.
Portables
Stylophone On-The-Fly is a hands-on sequencer which turns pattern programming into real-time performance.
Every control responds instantly, letting you shape patterns with rhythm, pitch, and playing-style variations while the sequence is running — no menus, no stopping. With full Eurorack CV, Gate, Sync, and MIDI connectivity, it integrates effortlessly into modular, MIDI, and hybrid setups — and scales up easily with more units into a multi-sequencer system.
Program just 8 steps and instantly access multiple 16, 32 or 64-step patterns, switching between them on-the-fly or change direction without breaking the groove. Add glide, ratchets, rests, ties, or controlled randomness per step while the sequence is playing.
Akai shows off the MPC XL. The most advanced MPC yet, this all-in-one production hub is made for more than sampling and sequencing alone. It’s designed to give you complete creative freedom over every sound, loop, sample, sequence, or idea for your next best beat. It’s your entire workflow—made to work for you.
- Standalone hardware with MPC3 OS for a streamlined workflow
- Gen 2 8-core processor with 4x the processing power of?previous?MPCs
- 16GB RAM for running multiple plugins simultaneously
- 256GB internal SSD storagefor saving projects,?plug-in instruments, samples, and presets
- Expressive MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology with 4 quadrants per pad
- Assignable performance touch-strip for tactile control?of Performance FX, note repeats, Channel faders, and more
- Step sequencer with 16 RGB function buttons
- 16 Q-Link?knobs with performance-control OLEDs for immediate visual feedback
- XL Channel Command allows for quick access to mixing and recording parameters (including level, sends, and outputs) at the touch of a button—with a dedicated OLED display and encoder for parameter control and visual feedback
- One-to-one function buttonsfor immediate access to every feature
- 10.1” HD multi-gesture touchscreen with tilt
- 2 XLR/TRS combo inputs with mic preamps and phantom power for?crystal-clear recordings
- 2 dedicated instrument inputsfor recording guitars and keyboards
- 8 separate line outputs for external routing and mixing
- USB-C connectivity for 24 channels of audio I/O, 32 channels of MIDI IO, and easy connectivity to sample from smart devices
- 8 stereo 1/8” CV/Gate outputsfor a total of 16 CV outs
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth To enable wireless collaboration and file transfer
- MPC Pro Pack. Powered by next-gen MPC3 OS and enhanced with new MPC Pro Pack features like studio-grade time-stretch, clip-launching, expanded CV control, and new pro plugins
- Clip Matrix. Clip launch workflow for enhanced song arranging and performance
Samplers
There’s a lot of noise around a new standalone sampler which Casio seems set to launch. Details are sparse, in fact there’s no finished product yet. At first glance it looks very much like a calculator (though this could just be because you know Casio makes a lot of calculators…) with additional controls. 4×4 pads and a built in sequencer is about the only other official info forthcoming at present — watch this space.
Stylophone On-The-Fly is a hands-on sequencer which turns pattern programming into real-time performance.
Every control responds instantly, letting you shape patterns with rhythm, pitch, and playing-style variations while the sequence is running — no menus, no stopping. With full Eurorack CV, Gate, Sync, and MIDI connectivity, it integrates effortlessly into modular, MIDI, and hybrid setups — and scales up easily with more units into a multi-sequencer system.
Program just 8 steps and instantly access multiple 16, 32 or 64-step patterns, switching between them on-the-fly or change direction without breaking the groove. Add glide, ratchets, rests, ties, or controlled randomness per step while the sequence is playing.
Software/DAW
The Roland CR-78 Rhythm Composer was an iconic programmable rhythm machines from the 1970s. Now Roland launches its software homage:
- ACB authenticity—component-level modeling of the original CR-78 sound and response
- Deep editing—per-instrument tuning, level, decay, pan, and more for precise voicing
- Advanced sequencing—variable sub-steps, accents, shuffle, last step, and more
- Cross-genre ready—from retro textures to futuristic beats, the CR-78 adapts to any style
- High-definition interface—resizable, high-DPI UI with woodgrain or black trim skins
- Preset library—curated kits and patterns spanning classic and contemporary styles
- DAW integration—AU, VST3, and AAX support with tempo sync, automation, and drag-and-drop pattern arrangement
Zenology GX for iPad is the acclaimed ZEN-Core synthesis system captured in a powerful standalone instrument for the iPad.
ZENOLOGY GX for iPad puts thousands of genre-defining Roland sounds at the fingertips of performers and creators, complemented with a modern high-definition UI, an advanced sound browser, integrated creative tools, and much more. Due to launch early this year.
Reason Studios announces that Reason Rack is now available as a plugin for use in any other DAW. The Reason Rack license is available now for $199, and the Reason Rack subscription at $11.99 per month or $99 per year.
They’ve also announced price reductions on other Reason products and subscriptions.
Synthesizers
KORG announces the phase8 acoustic synthesizer, an eight-voice acoustic synthesizer that merges the sonic richness of the physical world with precise electronic control. With envelope shaping, sequencing, analogue wavefolding, and pitch-dependent modulation, phase8 harnesses the latest Acoustic Synthesis technology developed at KORG.
Also the KAOSS PAD V, with a reimagined touch interface, expanded effects, and a workflow built for modern creators. With dual-touch performance, advanced vocal shaping, and flexible connectivity, KAOSS PAD V gives vocalists, guitarists, producers, and performers a responsive tool for real-time sound manipulation. It reacts instantly to every gesture, turning touch into expressive, musical control.
The MODX M line has been out since last year but Yamaha will show off the evolved synths. Available in three versions (MODX M6, MODX M7, MODX M8) and featuring three sound engines, double the memory over the MODX/MODX+, and other improvements.
