Sterling by Music Man has joined forces with genre-bending guitar virtuoso Rabea Massaad to unleash the Rabea Artist Series Sabre, marking the brand’s first-ever collaboration with the acclaimed player.
Massaad has been deeply involved in the design process from the ground up: “I’m thrilled with these guitars and how the Sterling team was able to preserve all the key design elements from my Ernie Ball Music Man Artist Series Sabre,” he said.
“These guitars have all the same comfort and playability as their American counterparts, and the pickups are incredibly expressive with plenty to offer in their tonal palette. We made sure the ergonomics and feel were just right — every detail was considered, from pickup voicing to neck feel. It’s simply an enjoyable guitar to play. I couldn’t be happier, and I hope everyone enjoys playing them as much as I do.”
From its Nyatoh body with a Flame Maple veneer top to the Roasted Maple neck and Ebony fingerboard, every inch of the Rabea Artist Series Sabre screams refinement.
The custom-tapered neck, ergonomic arm carve, recessed heel, and lower horn spoon cut provide effortless access to all 22 frets, making even the most technical passages feel natural. Locking tuners and a modern tremolo bridge ensure rock-solid tuning and stability, while Ernie Ball 2215 Skinny Top / Heavy Bottom strings, tuned to Eâ™ Standard, come stock for that unmistakable Massaad feel.
The electronics are where this Sabre truly shines. Working closely with Sterling’s engineering team, Massaad fine-tuned a pair of custom-voiced Alnico V humbuckers to deliver a balance of clarity, warmth, and crushing output. The 5-way pickup selector and push-push coil-split tone control open up a wide range of tonal options.
Visually, the Rabea Artist Series Sabre is as bold as it is functional. Available in two eye-catching finishes inspired by Massaad’s favorite video games, the Ashen Burst pays homage to the Dark Souls series, while the fiery Blood Flame Burst takes cues from Elden Ring. White ring fretboard inlays, glow-in-the-dark side dots, and the striking Flame Maple veneer top complete a look that’s as commanding under stage lights as it is in your guitar stand.
With a price of $979.99, the Rabea Artist Series Sabre brings boutique-level performance and aesthetics to a wider audience, offering players a professional-grade instrument at a remarkably accessible price. Get it here and keep up with all our Sterling By Music Man coverage here.
