Music Man Drops New Albert Lee HSS & BFR Guitars
Ernie Ball Music Man expands Albert Lee lineup with new HSS model and limited BFR edition in Malibu Burst, both handcrafted in California.
Ernie Ball Music Man has officially announced the expansion of its legendary Albert Lee lineup, releasing two breathtaking new models handcrafted in San Luis Obispo, California. Both instruments utilize the distinctive, retro-modern Albert Lee body shape but cater to very different types of players. Whether you're seeking a versatile everyday workhorse or a premium collector’s piece, these latest electric guitar releases bring serious tone and unmatched American craftsmanship.
The Albert Lee HSS: The Versatile Everyday Player
First up is the all-new Albert Lee HSS, an instrument purpose-built to cover a massive spectrum of genres. Joining the standard lineup for the first time, this versatile electric guitar merges humbucker power with single-coil clarity.
Key Specs and Features:
Pickups: It features a custom DiMarzio humbucker in the bridge—first developed for the iconic Music Man Axis—paired perfectly with Albert Lee's signature Seymour Duncan custom single coils in the middle and neck positions.
No More Noise: Equipped with Music Man's innovative Silent Circuit preamp, players can enjoy true single-coil tone without the dreaded 60-cycle hum usually associated with traditional designs.
Controls & Hardware: A 5-way pickup selector alongside a master volume and tone lets you dial in everything from bright, snappy twang to full-throttle humbucker overdrive. It also features a reliable Music Man vintage tremolo and Schaller locking tuners for flawless tuning stability.
Body & Neck: Built on a resonant ash body and paired with a stunning roasted figured maple neck. It boasts 22 stainless steel frets for a smooth playing feel and long-term durability.
Learn more: https://www.music-man.com/instruments...
BFR Albert Lee in Malibu Burst: A Premium Limited Edition
For players and collectors craving absolute exclusivity, Ernie Ball Music Man has also introduced the Ball Family Reserve (BFR) Albert Lee in Malibu Burst. This premium model is strictly limited to just 75 instruments worldwide, making it an instant rarity.
Key Specs and Features:
Premium Tonewoods: This BFR edition upgrades the foundation with a gorgeous figured maple top layered over a lightweight okoume body, all finished in the striking Malibu Burst colorway.
Exquisite Neck Finish: The roasted figured maple neck and fretboard are treated with Ernie Ball's renowned hand-rubbed oil and wax finish, providing an incredibly smooth, fast feel.
Striking Details: Visually, it stands out with elegant white pearl Atlante block inlays and practical glow-in-the-dark side dots for easy stage navigation.
High-Octane Electronics: It is loaded with dual custom-wound DiMarzio humbuckers—the exact same high-output pickups found in the renowned Axis model.
Hardware: Outfitted with a Music Man vintage tremolo, a compensated nut for superior intonation, and Schaller locking tuners.
Learn more: https://www.music-man.com/bfr/albert-...
- +Versatile HSS pickup configuration covers wide genre range
- +Silent Circuit preamp eliminates single-coil hum without compromising tone
- +Roasted maple neck offers smooth playability and stability
- +Stainless steel frets provide durability and smooth feel
- +BFR limited to 75 units makes it a true collector's piece
- +Premium figured maple and okoume construction on BFR model
- +Reliable Music Man hardware and vintage tremolo
What pickups does the Albert Lee HSS feature?
The Albert Lee HSS combines a custom DiMarzio humbucker in the bridge with Seymour Duncan custom single coils in the middle and neck positions. The guitar also includes Music Man's Silent Circuit preamp to eliminate 60-cycle hum from the single coils.
How many BFR Albert Lee guitars will be made?
The Ball Family Reserve Albert Lee in Malibu Burst is strictly limited to 75 instruments worldwide, making it an exclusive collector's piece.
What finish options are available for the Albert Lee HSS?
The Albert Lee HSS is offered in three finishes: Cosmos, Firemist Silver, and Honey Burst. All models feature a roasted figured maple neck and ash body.
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