Oh, where to begin…? Only 25 units offered in an (ultra-limited) edition at the start of 2026, unique sonic possibilities, insane versatility, and of course absolutely mind-blowing build quality. Here is the Manson Black Edition New Era, or whatever name you’d like to give it… Because indeed, Black Edition, BlackEd, 007, The Gadget Guitar are all names that fans, technicians, or even Matt himself have given over the years to the most iconic and recognizable guitar in Matthew Bellamy’s incredible arsenal. The Black Edition is the most important guitar of Matthew Bellamy’s career with Muse since its creation by Manson Guitars in 2001. It is now available for the very first time in a modern New Era version.

First appearing during the Absolution era and immortalized in the “Time Is Running Out” video, the Manson 007 (or Black Edition, or BlackEd or… okay, we get it…) is far more than a visual icon, it is a tool designed for immediate physical expression. At the heart of the instrument lies an integrated MIDI ribbon controller along the edge of the body. Unlike rotary knobs or joysticks, this ribbon allows for continuous, gestural control. Sliding, tapping, and applying pressure become part of the performance rather than simple adjustments. Connected to your MIDI device via an integrated fuzz, a theremin-style wah control, and near-infinite sustain, the guitar behaves less like a passive signal source and more like a true living control surface.

The ash body gives the 007 New Era a weight and authority that provide a physical presence matching Muse’s dense, high-pressure sound. Offered in Matt Black New Era finish, this beast features unique electronics. Developed around Matt’s playing style, the electronics place sonic manipulation directly into the musician’s hands. An integrated Z-Vex Fuzz Factory, a Z-Vex Wah Probe, a Sustainiac sustainer, MIDI control, and a kill switch are among the circuits included in the New Era version, nearly identical to the original. The bolt-on maple neck provides immediacy and precision, allowing fast response under demanding playing conditions. It was designed to remain stable through repetition, aggression, and long sessions, where control takes priority over comfort.

Built by Manson Guitars in the United Kingdom, the Black Edition reflects a typically British approach to instrument making: experimental, uncompromising, and artist-driven. Original circuit designer Ron Joyce, still involved in many iconic Manson guitars, once again designed the New Era circuits with remarkable precision. The most striking feature of the Black Edition is the shaped copper plate embedded into the upper horn of the body. Wave your hand in front of it and you control a wah effect directly with your movements. How did this idea come about? Matt explains:

“Every time we went to Japan, we always bought weird pedals. It became a habit. A lot of Chris’s synth pedals come from Japan. Some stores in Tokyo had the best collections, and I remember seeing a Z-Vex Wah Probe for the first time. I bought one, tried it, and said, ‘Let’s do this!’ The idea was to get that theremin vibe… which you could achieve by integrating it into the guitar with a sustainer to hold the note, and the Z-Vex Wah Probe to give movement to the note.”

A rare guitar, delivered with its certificate of authenticity signed by Matthew Bellamy, a MGW Premium Leather Copper Foil Strap by Manson, and its original Hiscox case.