AKRON, Ohio, May 13, 2026 – EarthQuaker Devices CEO Julie Robbins joined NAMM members and music industry advocates in Washington, D.C., this week to urge Congress to exclude musical instruments, accessories, components and raw materials from tariffs.
The visit was part of the 20th NAMM Advocacy D.C. Fly-In, which brought together 100 music business leaders and professionals representing all 50 states. Robbins represented Ohio in the delegation, making the case that tariff relief would support manufacturers, music retailers, educators and students across the United States.
EarthQuaker Devices Cites Rising Tariff Costs
Robbins said EarthQuaker Devices has paid more than $100,000 in tariffs since April 2025, calling the added costs a burden on the Akron-based effects pedal manufacturer.
“That’s money that could have gone toward good jobs for Ohioans and provided our team with more resources to innovate,” Robbins said.
EarthQuaker Devices, known for its guitar effects pedals, is among the independent music product companies affected by increased costs on imported materials and components. The company’s position reflects broader concerns across the music products industry, where tariffs can affect pricing, production planning and access to instruments.
NAMM Advocates for Musical Instrument Tariff Exemptions
NAMM members traveled to Capitol Hill to ask lawmakers for targeted exclusions for musical instruments, accessories, components and raw materials. The organization argues that tariff relief would help protect American jobs, support music education and keep instruments accessible for students and emerging musicians.
According to NAMM, U.S. music product companies paid $1.34 billion in tariffs in 2025, more than five times the amount paid the previous year. The organization has urged policymakers to adopt targeted, evidence-based trade remedies and establish an exclusion process for music products.
Robbins Continues Capitol Hill Advocacy
Robbins previously testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship in May 2025, where she discussed the impact of tariffs on independent manufacturers such as EarthQuaker Devices.
“Today, I asked Ohio’s Congressional Representatives to stand up for their constituents,” Robbins said. “And I will continue to advocate for relief as long as I have to in order to get them to join the fight in earnest.”
The NAMM Advocacy D.C. Fly-In is designed to connect music industry professionals directly with federal lawmakers on issues affecting music education, business operations and industry access.
Tariffs Raise Concerns for Music Education and Access
Industry advocates say tariffs on musical instruments and related products affect more than manufacturers. Higher costs can also pressure retailers, schools, music programs and students, especially at a time when access to music education remains a central concern for NAMM and its members.
By requesting tariff exemptions for music products, NAMM and participating companies are framing the issue as both an economic and educational priority: protecting jobs while keeping instruments and music-making tools within reach for the next generation of players.
About EarthQuaker Devices
Celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year, Akron, Ohio-based EarthQuaker Devices consistently cranks out top-notch effects pedals the hard way: by hand, one at a time, with an eye for detail, and with golden ears for listening to the classic sounds of future-past. Designed with full-frequency response and backed by a lifetime warranty, products from EarthQuaker Devices are built to last and inspire musicians to achieve their creative vision, no matter what instrument they play. EarthQuaker Devices has been praised for its commitment to inclusion, diversity and cooperation with other pedal manufacturers by Best Guitar Effects.
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