All year round, our merchant team meets with gear manufacturers to develop special designs that are surprising, unique and 100-percent exclusive to Guitar Center. The discussions can center around custom colorways, limited-edition features or even new products that are only available at Guitar Center.
As our merchants are players themselves, it’s an exciting process to envision what would be super cool for them, as well as capture the imaginations of musicians looking for gear that’s eye-catching and unusual. It’s also big fun to tailor exclusive products for Guitar Center events such as Big Bang, Guitar-A-Thon and Black Friday.
Which brings us to our Holiday 2025 exclusive product lineup.
The guide includes only-at-Guitar Center electric guitars, acoustic guitars, basses, amps, pedals, drums, recording gear and more.
This year, we’ve also enlisted our Editorial staff—who are knowledgeable and experienced giggers, home-studio musicians and creators just like you—to weigh in on what makes each exclusive product special, why they dig it and how they might use it themselves.
Whether you are seeking new gear for yourself or for others, these 19 distinctive and singular instruments, amps and pedals look to be inspiration drivers for 2026 and beyond.
Table of Contents
Guitar Center Exclusive Electric Guitars
Guitar Center Exclusive Acoustic Guitars
Guitar Center Exclusive Bass Guitars
Guitar Center Exclusive Amps and Effects
Guitar Center Exclusive Drums and Cymbals
Guitar Center Exclusive Recording Gear
Embrace Your Exclusivity
People Also Ask ...
Guitar Center Exclusive Electric Guitars
Epiphone Les Paul Custom “Bats in Flight”
Key Features
- Mahogany body and neck
- Dual ProBucker pickups
- Custom “Bats in Flight” inlays and gloss finish
Shop Now: Epiphone Les Paul Custom Bats in Flight in Dark Purple Burst
George Van Wagner: The Epiphone “Bats in Flight” Les Paul Custom delivers the look, feel and mystique of its Gibson Custom counterpart (see it further down) in a more accessible package. I've found Epiphone's top-tier instruments to be crafted with great attention to detail, and the "Bats in Flight" model is no exception. It pairs the iconic carved-top body with ornate inlays and hardware designed exclusively for our 2025 holiday collection.
It's an instrument that captures what I love about Les Paul models, with the ProBuckers producing that familiar Les Paul growl—articulate in the highs, warm in the mids and muscular when pushed. I could certainly plug in and play this one for hours. It exhibits a balance of sophistication and swagger that makes it at home on stage or in a display case. And I'd always rather be playing.
Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul Custom and Flying V "Bats in Flight"
Key Features
- Ebony fretboard with exclusive “Bats in Flight” pearl inlays
- Handwound Custombucker pickups
- Limited production run with certificate of authenticity and custom case
Shop Now: Gibson Les Paul Custom Bats in Flight in Dark Red Burst
George Van Wagner: A centerpiece of this year’s VIP lineup, the “Bats in Flight” pairing from Gibson Custom brings gothic elegance and unmatched craftsmanship to two of the most iconic silhouettes in electric guitar history. The vibe-laden Gibson Custom Les Paul and Gibson Custom Flying V both wear deep ebony finishes and intricate inlay work that make them as much collectible art as professional instruments.
Their tone is quintessentially Gibson—broad, dynamic and endlessly musical. The handwound Custombuckers sing with nuanced clarity when played through a clean amp, and roar with authority when the amp is driven hard. I'm often of two minds about "hang it on the wall" versus "use it on stage" guitars, but, as gorgeous as these two are—from the carved maple tops to the hand-shaped neck profiles—I can see doing both with them. Plus, every element of these guitars reflects Gibson’s dedication to precision and heritage. For me, as someone who appreciates the intersection of design and tone, the “Bats in Flight” series embodies everything a Guitar Center exclusive should be—rare, inspired and built to perform.
Shop Now: Gibson Custom Flying V Bats in Flight in Dark Purple Burst
Fender American Ultra II Aurora Stratocaster HSS
Key Features
- Two Fender Ultra II Noiseless Hot Strat single-coils and one Fender Haymaker humbucker
- Fender S-1 switch splits the humbucker
- Built-in Ultra Blaster boost circuit
Shop Now: Fender American Ultra II Aurora Stratocaster HSS
Michael Molenda: Obviously, a conventional, three-single-coil Strat can deliver some very potent sounds for extreme music styles. But the Superstrat concept, born from players such as Eddie Van Halen tinkering with production-model guitars (a movement that likely elicited a big old smile from Leo Fender), proved the aggressive value of adding a humbucker (or two) to the single-coil armament. However, the Guitar Center-exclusive Fender American Ultra II Aurora Stratocaster HSS is not just about ferocious tones, the sing-sing-hum configuration expands your sonic choices to steely cleans, spanky mids, taut highs and more.
Schecter Guitar Research C-1 Electro-Resin Models
Key Features
- Available as a string-thru-body hardtail with dual Duncans or as an FR S model with a Floyd Rose Special vibrato system and Sustainiac in the neck
- Arched flamed maple tops and pale moon ebony fretboards
- Vintage-inspired mother-of-pearl block inlays
Shop Now: Schecter Guitar Research C-1 FR-S Electro-Resin in Black Burst
Max McAllister: I’m a big fan of Schecter. They’ve got a huge assortment, their designs tend toward daring (hello, look at these Schecter Electro-Resin C-1 models) and, in my experience, their Diamond Series instruments are as well fitted and finished as some guitars twice the price.
C-1 and C-1 FR-S electrics are longtime workhorses from the Schecter lineup, but it’s the exclusive Electro-Resin treatment that makes these versions wonderfully one of a kind. Schecter zaps the body with electricity, searing an organic ornamentation into every individual guitar. Eye-catching as they are, there’s an understated brilliance to them with their black-and-natural color schemes.
If you want a reliable guitar that sounds and feels great—but still turns heads and starts conversations—then Schecter C-1 and C-1 FR S Electro-Resin models meet the criteria.
Guitar Center Exclusive Acoustic Guitars
Gibson Custom Acoustic “Bats in Flight” Dreadnought Acoustics
Key Features
- Based on the Gibson Custom “Doves in Flight” acoustic
- Engraved mother-of-pearl bat inlays on the headstock, fingerboard and bridge
- Available in Purple Edge Burst, Ebony, Blood Red Burst, Midnight Edge Burst and Cobra Burst finishes
Shop Now: Gibson Custom Acoustic Bats in Flight in Midnight Edge Burst
Drew Beaupre: If you’re on the prowl for a high-end, square-shoulder dreadnought that you’ll rarely encounter in the wild, the Gibson Custom “Bats in Flight” acoustic is one you’ll want to catch while you can. I’m not one for relegating guitars to the display case—especially when they play as superbly as a Gibson Custom—but I wouldn’t fault anyone for wanting to showcase this nocturnal beauty.
And it is a player. With a Sitka spruce top; maple back, sides and neck; and an ebony fingerboard and bridge, this opaque gem is loaded with sonic character to match its unforgettable styling.
Gibson Songwriter Special
Key Features
- Solid Sitka spruce top with rosewood back and sides
- SlimTaper neck
- LR Baggs pickup system
Shop Now: Gibson Songwriter Special in Ebony
George Van Wagner: A longtime favorite among singer-songwriters, the Gibson Songwriter Special earned its place in this year’s lineup of exclusive models through its refined details and legendary reliability. I find its full-bodied acoustic voice to be rich, but with nice balance. Since I frequently shift between fingerpicking, single string runs and acoustic slide, the SlimTaper neck is a great fit for the range of material I play.
On stage, the LR Baggs electronics capture subtle nuances that can get lost with a mic, translating that resonance directly to front of house. This is the kind of instrument that makes writing and playing more part of a seamless process. And I find it to be just elegant enough without being too "bling-y"—exactly the thing for writing on my back porch or for the acoustic section of a set.
Martin LX1 Special Little Martin in White and GPC-13E Ovangkol Special
Key Features
- LX1 Special struts a comfortable Little Martin body
- GPC-13E equipped with Fishman MX-T electronics
- GPC-13E offers solid spruce top and ovangkol back and sides
Shop Now: Martin LX1 Special Little Martin Acoustic Guitar in White
Michael Molenda: Parlor-sized guitars, such as the Martin LX1 Special Little Martin, are among my favorite instruments for composing and adding different acoustic textures to recordings. They’re easy to handle, comfy to play and their tight, controlled tones don’t complicate matters with booming low end or ringing harmonics. The Martin GPC-13E Ovangkol Special offers a larger, but still sonically balanced Grand Performance body, and the onboard Fishman preamp makes it a breeze to take the guitar from unplugged songwriting at home to rocking out amplified on club stages.
Shop Now: Martin GPC-13E Ovagkol Special Grand Performance Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Taylor 214ce DLX and GS Mini-e Sunset Blvd Ovangkol
Key Features
- Figured ovangkol back and sides with solid Sitka spruce tops
- ES2 electronics
- Exclusive Sunset Blvd finish with deluxe appointments and premium gig bag/case
Shop Now: Taylor GS Mini-e Sunset Blvd Acoustic-Electric Guitar Figured Ovangkol
George Van Wagner: One of the things that I love about Taylor is their ongoing commitment to sustainability in acoustic guitar construction without compromising their signature tone. In that respect, Taylor’s “Sunset Blvd” pairing—the full-sized 214ce DLX and the travel-friendly GS Mini-e—proves that exclusive finishes and figured tonewoods can elevate even the most familiar models. The sustainably sourced, figured ovangkol makes for flowing ripples under a glossy finish, giving both guitars a warm, organic look that’s as inspiring as their feel.
Shop Now: Taylor 214ce DLX Sunset Blvd Acoustic-Electric Guitar Figured Ovangkol
The 214ce DLX delivers Taylor’s signature balance and playability, perfect for stage performers and studio players who demand consistency. The GS Mini-e, on the other hand, packs that same DNA into a compact, couch-friendly format without losing tonal depth. Whether you’re gigging, recording or just playing for pleasure, this duo embodies the spirit of accessibility, while painting the premium design, versatile tone and unmistakable easy-playing feel Taylor is known for.
Guitar Center Exclusive Bass Guitars
Fender American Ultra II Aurora Precision Bass
Key Features
- Exclusive iridescent Aurora finish gives you shifting hues of blue and green
- 10"–14" compound radius fingerboard
- Fender Ultra II active bass preamp
Shop Now: Fender American Ultra II Aurora Precision Bass
Drew Beaupre: As musicians, it’s extremely rare we get it “just right” on the first take. Well, Leo Fender wasn’t a musician, and his first go at an electric four-stringer, the Precision Bass, knocked it out of the park. While it’s undergone tweaks and refinements over the decades, its design remains virtually unchanged.
But, given we’re 75 years into the story of the P Bass, let’s run it back to the “tweaks and refinements” for a beat. The Fender American Ultra II Series represents the most cutting-edge tech and ergonomic features the brand has to offer. With its sculpted neck heel, 10"–14" compound radius fingerboard and Ultra II active bass preamp with S-1 switching, the Fender American Ultra II Aurora is the most comfortable and player-friendly P Bass you’ll find. And the mesmerizing Aurora finish and gold anodized pickguard on this Guitar Center exclusive speak for themselves.
Jackson JS Series JS3 RR-B IV Bass
Key Features
- 12"–16" compound fingerboard radius
- No-nonsense, single-humbucker configuration
- Pointy Jackson headstock and pearloid sharkfin inlays
Shop Now: Jackson JS Series JS3 RR-B IV Limited-Edition Electric Bass in Black
Max McAllister: Until earlier this year, the iconic Randy Rhoads V body shape wasn’t available in bass form outside the Jackson Custom Shop. Guitar Center’s merchant team, in partnership with Jackson, changed all that with the limited-edition X Series RR-B IV, and they’ve done it again with the exclusive, budget-friendly JS Series JS3 RR-B IV bass.
Sonically, the one-piece bolt-on maple neck is going to offer that crisp, immediate attack I personally prefer in a bass. I think the lightweight poplar body is a good complement, too, providing some additional vibrance up top, but with a smooth, balanced sonic profile overall. The lone Jackson bass humbucker delivers robust lows with enough midrange bark to help technical lines slice through the mix.
Obviously, the offset V silhouette is this bass’ biggest draw, and as a fan of extreme music, it fits the image for many of those styles. (It looks like it’d pair perfectly with corpse paint and leather.) But I also appreciate the novelty of “metal” instruments outside their usual habitat, and I’d support whoever’s brave enough to wield a razor-sharp V at a matinee folk performance.
Guitar Center Exclusive Amps and Effects
BOSS Katana Artist Gen 3 Guitar Amp in Blue
Key Features
- Tube Logic modeling
- BOSS Tone Studio software
- Limited-edition blue models available in three variants: Katana Mini X 10W 1x5, Katana 50W 1x12 and 100W 1x12
Shop Now: BOSS Katana Artist Gen3 100W Limited-Edition Amplifier in Blue
Drew Beaupre: Since 2016, BOSS Katana has sliced its way into the hearts and minds of guitarists with its series of affordable, endlessly versatile modeling amps. This modern-classic format has revolutionized what an amp can be with its library of onboard tones, drawn largely from the collective, legendary BOSS effects pedal and Roland amp arsenal. As someone whose “flavor of the day” changes constantly, I’m a fan of the Swiss Army knife approach to modeling amps—especially when they do it right.
And with its Gen 3 release, the Katana Artist 100W amp gives you some serious tube-like response and character, thanks to a revamped Tube Logic design and the Pushed Amp Type feature. Considering this sonic chameleon’s perennial top-selling status, having this “BOSS blue” model at your side will help you stand out in more ways than one.
BOSS Pedal Color Kits
Key Features
- Limited-edition colorway sets for SD-1 Overdrive and DS-1 Distortion pedals
- Includes matching BOSS instrument cables
- Classic analog circuitry with rugged metal construction
Shop Now: BOSS DS-1 Pedal Color Kit
George Van Wagner: As a player who tries to treat my pedalboards (yes, I have more than one) like art, BOSS’s limited-run Color Kits are pure fun in a box. Pairing the iconic SD-1 and DS-1 circuits with fresh finishes and coordinated cables, these Guitar Center exclusives bring style to the stompbox world without compromising on tone.
The SD-1’s smooth, mid-driven crunch and the DS-1’s biting distortion remain untouched—each pedal retains its unmistakable voice. But now, your rig can look as dialed-in as it sounds. If you're looking to add a little style to your stomps or trying to glow up a pedalboard for a friend, these kits prove that even the smallest details can inspire big creativity.
MXR EVH 5150 Bumblebee Overdrive Effects Pedal
Key Features
- Limited-edition black and yellow striped finish (inspired by Eddie’s 1979 Charvel showcased on the back cover of Van Halen II)
- Tones range from tube-like breakup to high-gain distortion
- Built-in boost and noise gate
Shop Now: MXR 5150 Bumblebee Overdrive Pedal
Max McAllister: The player-favorite MXR EVH 5150 Bumblebee Overdrive pedal is based on the Crunch channel of the EVH 5150III amplifier, and it’s received an ultracool makeover. Call me shallow, but I’m one of those players who prioritizes a pedal’s aesthetic; this one passes the eye test, and of course, the ear test.
As a little amp-in-a-box, the 5150 Overdrive brings EVH-style saturation to your pedalboard, so you can experience part of the Brown sound minus the endless modding and tinkering Van Halen had to do to get there. It’s versatile, too, whether you use it for a gentle push, as a primary distortion or stacked with other gain pedals in your signal chain.
Guitar Center Exclusive Drums and Cymbals
Pictured: Pork Pie Seamless Aluminum Snare Drum in Blue Ice Ink
Ludwig Striped Bronze Phonic Snare Drum
Key Features
- 14x6.5” seamless bronze beaded shell
- Imperial lugs
- Die-cast hoops, Ludwig P88 throw-off and “Vintage ’63” 18-strand steel wires
Shop Now: Ludwig Striped Bronze Phonic Snare Drum
Michael Molenda: Ludwig offers its Bronze Phonic snares in raw and polished varieties, but as stunning as those finishes are, I don’t find them as visually spectacular as this Guitar Center-exclusive version with distinct and striking bands. Some other bronze snares can appear to blur into a single hue when viewed from the audience, but fans should be able to clearly see the Ludwig Striped Bronze Phonic’s sharp pattern from the back of the club. For gigs, I’ve used nothing but bronze snares for years, because I love their wood-like resonance, loud and articulate crack, and dynamic sensitivity—whether I use sticks, brushes or rods, or hit the rim or various areas of the drum head.
Ludwig Verse EX Electronic Drum Kit
Key Features
- Adds extra tom and cymbal, as well as larger, 10" snare and floor tom pads to standard Verse kit
- Module loaded with 380 sounds, 20 factory presets and 20 user presets
- Take advantage of any VST drum program via MIDI USB
Shop Now: Ludwig Verse EX 10-piece Electronic Drum Kit
Drew Beaupre: Whenever a classic acoustic drum behemoth ventures into the world of e-kits, it’s bound to turn some heads—and, with sounds like the Black Beauty snare, Vistalite and Legacy Mahogany at its disposal, rightfully so.
But the real beauty of the Ludwig Verse EX electronic kit is how it strikes a rare balance of making everyone happy: beginners looking for an affordable system to learn their way around the kit; seasoned pros and apartment dwellers wishing for a quiet practice rig with real Ludwig sounds and a two-up, two-down configuration; and, lest we forget, your neighbors and loved ones. Sounds like a win-win to me.
Pork Pie Seamless Aluminum Snare Drum in Blue Ice Ink
Key Features
- Seamless aluminum shell
- Custom Blue Ice Ink finish exclusive to Guitar Center
- Handcrafted in the U.S. with high-end hardware and precision lugs
Shop Now: Pork Pie Seamless Aluminum Snare Drum in Blue Ice Ink
George Van Wagner: Boutique drum builder Pork Pie has long been a favorite among discerning players who value individuality and sound quality, and I've long been a huge fan of their snare drums. This limited-edition Pork Pie Seamless Aluminum snare exemplifies why. The stunning Blue Ice Ink finish catches the light with iridescent shimmer, while the seamless aluminum shell delivers tight, articulate response with impressive body.
From studio sessions to live stages, this snare will stand out in any mix—bright enough to cut through, but still warm enough to blend. It’s a modern classic that rewards nuance and dynamic playing, while being the kind of instrument that turns heads for both its tone and its craftsmanship.
Trick Titanium Snare Drum in Black
Key Features
- 1.5 mm titanium shell
- Nearly every component manufactured in-house
- Weighs 14 lb.
Shop Now: Trick Titanium Snare Drum in Black
Max McAllister: Trick currently makes the most affordable titanium snare on the drum market. Attractive as that already is, the exclusive blackened shell on this one sweetens the deal even further. I think the semi-gloss finish is quite elegant and would blend into an existing kit without screaming “look at me,” but it’s still oh-so cool up close.
We can’t forget about sound, though. The Trick Titanium snare drum strikes a tasty balance between metallic clang and wooden thwack, complete with some savory harmonic complexity and punchy articulation. The material also boasts an impressive dynamic range and can be tuned up for a whip-like crack or down for more of a boomy thud, making it a versatile tool for studio recording and gigging.
Zildjian 16" S Dark Trash, and 18" and 20" K Sweet Brilliant Crash Cymbals
Key Features
- K Sweet Brilliant releases can be elusive
- New 16" Trash Crash added to S Dark family
- Cymbal size offerings are highly limited
Shop Now: Zildjian S Trash Crash 16in.
Drew Beaupre: For a brand that’s been around for 400+ years, Zildjian’s done well to keep drummers on their edge of their throne with exciting releases such as these. I’ve always been a fan of unconventional cymbal finishes, and the one-of-a-kind murky patina on each of these Trash Crashes is no exception to that trend. At under $200, S Dark Trash Crash makes for a gorgeous gift to the drummer in your life—no judgment if that drummer happens to be you.
Miss your chance to score a set of K Sweet Brilliant Crash cymbals the last time they were available? You’ve got another shot with these 18" and 20" K Sweet Brilliant crash offerings. It’s no misnomer—they are sweet, and they are brilliant in every sense.
Shop Now: Zildjian K Sweet Brilliant Crash Cymbal 18in.
Guitar Center Exclusive Recording Gear
Trash Talk Audio Payphone
Key Features
- Creates band-passed, midrange-dominant telephone sound effect
- Constructed from NOS (new old stock) payphone handsets
- Can eliminate some post-processing from your workflow
Shop Now: Trash Talk Audio Payphone
Max McAllister: When I was regularly recording and mixing, varying degrees of “telephone effect” were often one of mine and my clients’ preferences for separating ad libs and backgrounds from lead vocals. The Trash Talk Audio Payphone would’ve been amazing to have in the studio. I can only imagine it would’ve sparked conversations, warranted laughs and gotten some animated performances from artists “getting into character” and using it like a prop. I love the concept and execution of this thing. If you want gritty, lo-fi textures at the source, look no further.
Embrace Your Exclusivity
Pictured: Fender American Ultra II Aurora Stratocaster HSS
Yeah! Anyone can bring a guitar to a gig or rehearsal session, but how many players can strut in with an exclusive Epiphone “Bats in Flight” Les Paul Custom? If you want something unique and exceptional, the Only at Guitar Center collection is where to land.That said, if you’re looking for something special, and you can’t find it in this Holiday Exclusives for 2025 guide, take a trip to your local Guitar Center and ask one of our associates to show you some select gear. You can also connect with one of our Pro Gear Advisers online and never leave your laptop. Whichever method you choose, we’re here to help you celebrate your individuality.
People Also Ask ...
Pictured: Gibson Custom Acoustic Bats in Flight in Dark Purple Burst
What are Guitar Center Exclusives?
It’s bespoke gear typically codeveloped by the Guitar Center merchant team and the company’s vendor partners, or house-branded products, such as Mitchell Guitars, Simmons, Harbinger and Livewire. Search the Only at Guitar Center collection here.
What if I want more holiday gift ideas for musicians?
There are a number of year-round gift guides for all players and skill levels at our Riffs blog. For example, you can peruse Best Gifts for Guitarists, Best Gifts for Beginner Guitarists, Best Gifts for Bassists, Best Gifts for Drummers, Best Gifts for Beginner Drummers, Best Gifts for Music Producers, Best Gifts for Musicians and more.
What if I want to know more about selected music gear before I make a purchase decision?
Our expert content team has written tons of gear histories and deep dives about almost every subject and/or product you can imagine. Our Riffs blog is a virtual musician’s resource center for gear aficionados and creators. Obviously, there are far too many articles to reference here, but just a few of the subjects include: A Spotlight on the Roland TR-808, How to Buy a Vintage Les Paul, How to Prep for a Recording Session, What Is the Difference Between Mixing and Mastering?, The History of the Fuzz Pedal, The Best Hearing Protection for Musicians and much, much more.