Space-Age Designs at the Ibanez Booth | NAMM 2026

Thinking About Guitar we visit the Ibanez booth At NAMM 2026. Jonathan Graham chats with Ryan to check out two standout new guitars: the brand-new Ibanez Alpha series extended-range models and an ultra-resonant, almost fully hollow body electric that feels like a modern throwback.

First up is The Alpha, available in 7-string and 8-string versions. Ryan demos the A528 8-string, featuring a multi-scale (fanned fret) design for a tight, defined low end and a smooth, “buttery” feel on the higher strings. The 8-string runs 27.5″ to 25.5″, while the 7-string runs 27.2″ to 25.5″. A major highlight is the Parallel Wizard neck—super thin and the same thickness from top to bottom, with an asymmetrical grip (thicker on the bass side for more support, while the treble side stays fast for shredding). It also features Fishman Fluence pickups and new monorail bridges that ship string-through but can also be top-loaded for a different feel and tension. Finishes include Iron Pewter (7 and 8-string), plus Mirage, and a color-shifting Nebula Shift (7-string).

Ryan also shows a stunning hollow body that’s 99.9% hollow, with only a small block behind the bridge for stability. Specs include a solid spruce top, flame maple back and sides, and a Macassar ebony fretboard, plus an ornamental tailpiece and a VT14 bridge cover for pure aesthetic flair. With a multi-voicing switch, Tri-Sound switch, and Super 58 pickups, it’s built to cover everything from modern tones to traditional hollow body warmth—while staying impressively light and resonant.

See all of Thinking About Guitar’s NAMM 2026 coverage right here.