If you're a musician, you've probably felt the sting of a well-meant—but ultimately useless—music-themed gift. Custom guitar picks that aren't your style, keyboard neckties that aren't really anyone's style, or other quasi gear-related items that wind up gathering dust.
Treat your music-making loved ones to something they'll actually love to use. And what's better? All of these items below are available from Reverb sellers that offer free, 2-day shipping. So you know they'll get to you just in time for show time.
Zoom iQ6
The Zoom iQ6 is the same type of X/Y stereo mic you'll find on Zoom's handheld recorders. But instead of paying for extra hardware, you can easily clip this into an iPhone or other Apple device. Great for capturing samples on-the-go or recording quick demos before an idea is gone.
Zoom iQ6 mics with free, 2-day shipping are available in the US from Reverb seller Alto Music.
Bullet Cables
A stylish, well-built cable is the type of indulgence some musicians won't allow themselves to buy. If these taped-up Monster cables have held up for a decade and a half, why bother with new ones? Or so the thinking goes. But just look at these Bullet Cables—which come in a variety of sizes and colors, from red to sea foam green—and imagine the subtle lift they'd give to your own playing. Give one to someone you want to see shine.
Bullet Cables with free, 2-day shipping are available in the US from Reverb seller The Sound Parcel.
Soundbrenner Pulse Wearable Metronome
Drummers, bassists, guitarists, producers—everyone can benefit from a good time keeper. The traditional wind-up metronome is, at this point, a relic, supplanted by the audible click track of DAWs and sequencers. The Soundbrenner Pulse takes a different approach, vibrating in time right there on a player's wrist. It's an absorbing way to feel the beat—and make sure you're on it.
Soundbrenner Pulse metronomes with free, 2-day shipping are available in the US from Reverb seller Alto Music.
Arturia MicroLab Blue MIDI Controller
It could be presumptuous to buy a more elaborate MIDI controller for someone else, but this MicroLab is just the right size—and price—to toss into any rig. It's a plug-and-play USB device that nearly any computer-based music maker can use, no matter what brand computer or DAW they prefer. And its rubberized case means it can stand up to the rigors of the road.
Arturia MicroLab Blue controllers with free, 2-day shipping are available in the US from multiple Reverb sellers.
Ernie Ball Jacquard Straps
A good strap is like a good friend. Solid, dependable, and always able to bring a smile to your face. Be that friend yourself by gifting one of these Ernie Ball Jacquard Straps. Available in a ton of different patterns, they're colorful enough to compete with the music—and with more expensive straps. At just $19.99 to $24.99, they won't set you back much, but they'll make a tasty impression.
Ernie Ball Jacquard Straps with free, 2-day shipping are available in the US from multiple Reverb sellers.
Dunlop 651J Formula 65 Guitar Polish
Guitars are pieces of functional art that should be kept looking as good as they possibly can. With Dunlop's 651J Formula 65 Guitar Polish, the guitarist or bassist in your life can ensure that their instruments' finishes are looking (and feeling) their absolute best. Unlike other polishes, this one cleans and brightens things up without leaving a residue. You can get a pack of three spray bottles below.
Dunlop 651J Formula No. 65 Guitar Polish and Cleaner with free, 2-day shipping is available in the US from AudioPlayRoom.
Want to find the standout gear of the year—along with sure-to-please bestsellers? Check out our full 2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Musicians.