11 min read
Best gifts for musicians under $50, $200, and $500
We’ve done a series of gift guides for every type of instrumentalist - guitarist, pianist, drummer, bassist, you name it. And now, we’ve put together a guide for gifts for musicians on every budget. We hope you’ll find something for that special musician in your life!
Under $50 - Novelty and practical gifts
1. Harmonica
One of the most versatile instruments in the world is the harmonica, which is why it makes for a perfect gift for any musician.
Additionally, it’s pocket-sized, intuitive, easy, and cheap. For example, you can play into songs - be it blues, folk, or rock.
You can find ones with a plastic comb or bamboo wood comb, like the Hohner Marine Band Harmonica. Prices can range from USD$30 to USD$247. Our top pick for beginners is Lee Oskar Harmonica with the Key of C. It is the best gift for musicians under $50
2. Easy music sheets
Rolling Stone Magazine published books of music sheet compilations of songs from their 500 greatest songs of all time. Jam into the Guitar Classics volume 2: Classic Rock to Modern Rock.
Another similar music sheet compilation book that we love is Contemporary Disney: Contemporary Disney: 50 Favorite Songs fit for piano, vocal, and guitar. Everyone will for sure start singing together once your loved one starts playing songs from this book.
3. Guitar Capo
Just like guitar picks, capos can often go missing, which is why having an extra one wouldn’t hurt.
4. One month access to Masterclass
We can’t help but add the Masterclass series to this list! Did you know that there is a whole section just for music?
We think that this is a perfect Christmas gift as not only it is well thought-off but this also brings a lifetime of value to anybody who receives it. It's like receiving National Geographic’s yearly Almanac when you were 10 years old.
Our all-time favorite Masterclass video from the music series are composers Herbie Hancock and Hans Zimmer.
Masterclass has a “Give a gift” option.
5. Guitar mini amplifier
A perfect compact and portable guitar amplifier is always the way to go.
Blackstar electric guitar mini amplifier has amazing sound quality. You can adjust both the saturation/level and the time of the delay. Although you won’t be rocking any shows with it, you will be able to travel and enjoy playing with it. It sounds like a real amp, even though it's the size of those little pocket amps.
Under $200
1. Playtron
The Playtron MIDI Controller offers a unique way to create your own custom MIDI controller, with the ability to connect up to 16 objects using alligator clips. This allows you to use it with several mobile apps, online synthesizers, or your favorite DAW. From fruits to plants, and even toys, the possibilities are endless. Connect the clips from objects capable of conducting electricity to Playtron, and assign a different MIDI note (C1 to D#2 by default) to each object, enabling you to start playing and creating your own unique sounds.
It is available at a very affordable price for its versatile features, allowing you to combine it with other MIDI controllers or instruments to create complex arrangements. Additionally, its portability is a major advantage, as it can connect to your computer, tablet, or smartphone via Bluetooth for a wireless setup. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking very precise control, making it a fun and unique gift for musicians!
2. TouchMe
TouchMe allows you to connect to objects in the same way as Playtron. However, this is a sensory device as it is set to react differently to the touch. Meaning, that when the area of touch and intensity changes, the sound changes too, causing the pitch to go higher or lower, making this one of those very fun and unique gifts for musicians!
We love it for its overall effectiveness as a sequencer, the perfect number of keys, and its ability to combine with other MIDI controllers or instruments to create complex arrangements and performances. Additionally, TouchMe explores theremin-like sound generation, enabling dynamic and expressive music creation while fostering interaction in a collaborative musical environment. Its portability is a significant advantage, as it can connect to your computer, tablet, or smartphone via Bluetooth for a wireless setup. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking very precise control.
3. Minuendo lossless earplugs
One of the most valuable senses that we have as musicians is our hearing. Unfortunately, almost everyone neglects to take care of their ears. Minuendo lossless earplug is an innovative earplug that blocks off and protects your hearing but still allows you to enjoy your music.
It is the world’s first adjustable hearing protection. If you are not gifting this to anyone, we highly suggest that you gift this to yourself this Christmas season.
4. Ukulele
One of the easiest instruments that anyone can learn is a Ukulele. If you are looking for gifts for musicians, songwriters, or a young composer then this is the perfect present for them.
How to choose the right ukulele? The most common type of ukulele is the Soprano, and the other types are tenor and soprano. You can usually get them for less than $100. Beautifully made with Sapele/Mahogany and Rosewood Fingerboard, our favorite brand is Lohanu.
5. Stomp foot pedal
If you are looking for a studio mixing console for your band leader or a friend to set up their home studio, Behringer Xeny Musicians don’t really know that they need this until they own it. So why not do them a favor and give it to them as a gift!
Stomp is a page-turner and app controller that enables you to control your favorite music apps with just the tap of your foot. Say goodbye to the struggle of flipping through your paper music sheet.
6. DAW: Logic Pro x
This is one of those hefty gifts for musicians, but we all know it's worth it. Since it's a one-off buy unlike Adobe's DAW, Audition, or any other DAW and music composing programs, we still believe that Logic Pro X is one of the best out there and has always been the number one choice for most professionals in music production.
We know that your musically talented loved one would be grateful to receive this as a gift.
7. In-ear monitors
Discover the Wave IEMs, an in-ear monitor redefining auditory excellence. With a 10mm dynamic driver ensuring unparalleled sound clarity, this device invites you into a world of sonic intricacies, whether you’re a musician, audiophile, or casual listener. Its ergonomic design guarantees extended comfort, while 36dB passive noise isolation, facilitated by six ear tip options, creates your private musical sanctuary, blocking out the world’s distractions.
Crafted for longevity, the Wave IEMs boasts durability with its premium construction and detachable braided cable, always ready for your on-the-go lifestyle. Small yet powerful, it becomes your pocket-sized companion, promising an immersive musical journey wherever you go. Elevate your music experience with Wave IEMs— where sound meets comfort, durability, and pure listening pleasure.
Under $500 - For the special ones
1. Soundbrenner Core 2
It is rare to find a wearable accessory that is made for a musician and is stylish enough. Although this may be our own product, we truly believe that the Soundbrenner Core 2 is the perfect gift for musicians. With a tuner, dB meter, and a vibrating metronome, this is a modern watch that has everything.
2. 88 Key digital piano
This is one of the most extravagant gifts that any musician can get, a full 88-key digital piano. Even if your loved one doesn’t play piano, we really believe that it is an instrument that anybody can learn and should learn. Our favorite piece is from the brand Alesis. It is an 88-key digital piano with full-size graded hammer action weighted keys, multi-sampled sounds, and 50W speakers.
3. Vinyl record player
Who wouldn’t want a vinyl record player as a gift? It’s a classic, understated, and a must-have for any music lover. Our favorite and perfect for any newbie with turntables and vinyl is the Fluance RT81. Simple in appearance yet gives a professional sound. This is definitely one of the best gifts for musicians under $500.
4. Yamaha HS5 Studio Monitors
The Yamaha HS5 is an industry-standard reference monitor that is used everywhere, from bedrooms to the most well-known recording studios in the world. These speakers are designed to give you the most accurate reproduction of sound possible and assist you in creating the perfect mix. At $199 per speaker, they aren’t cheap, but are a worthwhile investment if you are serious about stepping up your audio production game.
5. Arturia Keylab 49 Essential Controller Keyboard
MIDI keyboards come in various sizes, usually with either 25, 49, or 88 keys. Most models offer multiple key configurations, so you can pick the best one for your needs and portability requirements. Arturia is a brand that provides a few different lines of the midi board. It is one of the best is Arturia Keylab line controllers for modern musicians.
