Behind the headstock of Nuno Bettencourt’s latest mystery guitar lies a flurry of speculation—and excitement—as the Extreme guitarist teased what could be the beginning of a new signature line. At the “Back to the Beginning” concert in Villa Park, he broke away from his usual Washburn N4, rocking a Strat-style, natural-finish instrument emblazoned solely with a bold “Nuno” logo on the reverse headstock .
Aesthetically, the guitar is a hybrid—boasting two light wood stripes inset into a darker tonewood body, with a Floyd‑Rose trem equipped with a D‑Tuna, dual humbuckers, single volume control, and a pickup switch tucked into the treble horn—mirroring specs on his long-standing N4 signature . The filled‑in curve on the bass horn also echoes design elements exclusive to his N4, reinforcing connections to the Washburn lineage .
But what really steals the show is the absence of Washburn’s name. With no badge beyond the “Nuno” script, speculation is rife about whether this signals a departure from Washburn or a creative pivot: possibly a new boutique partnership under the same OEM relationship, similar to Zakk Wylde’s Wylde Audio model, or even a fully independent launch under Bettencourt’s own brand .
Adding to the intrigue, boutique outfit Iconic Guitars commented on his Instagram teaser, hinting at a potential collaboration in building this custom instrument . Meanwhile, the timing couldn’t be more strategic—unveiled during a high-profile supergroup showcase, this isn’t just about playing a new guitar; it feels like a calculated move toward a bigger announcement.
So, what’s really happening? Is Bettencourt planting seeds for his own brand, or simply enjoying the buzz? Only time will tell—but one thing’s certain: this unbranded “Nuno” axe has the guitar world talking, and anticipation is electric.
