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2024 Holiday Buying Guide: New and Significant Musical Instruments and Gear to Stock in Preparation for This Year’s Holiday Season

Christian Wissmuller by Christian Wissmuller
December 17, 2024
in Magazine Archive, September 2024, Special Report
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Under $50

Pix: legereASF300, legereBBF300.jpg

French Cut by Légère

Introducing the French Cut by Légère, a symphonic reed designed for alto and tenor saxophones and B♭ clarinet that offers richness, stability, and responsive play. With a completely reimagined profile, the French Cut is crafted for a dark, centered tone that supports deep emotional expression. This reed features an even distribution of material across its vamp, contrasted with a thinner tip, achieving a perfect balance between responsiveness and resistance.

The design reduces excessive high overtones while enhancing the overall resonance and warmth, making it ideal for classical and orchestral settings. This thoughtful innovation ensures a fuller sound, suitable for grand performances and discerning classical musicians.

The creation of the French Cut was a meticulous process, blending scientific research with the artistry of woodwind music. Légère refined the design through numerous iterations, taking feedback from performers who sought a reed that could surpass traditional cane. The result is a reed that meets the needs of those who have tried Légère’s other cuts but desired something more, bridging the gap between tradition and modern innovation.

Alto saxophone: $32.99

Tenor Saxophone: $35.99

B♭ clarinet: $34.99

www.legere.com

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Grip ONE from MusicNomad

The GRIP ONE is an all-in-one string winder, cutter, and puller for electric & acoustic guitar, bass, ukulele, banjo, and mandolin

The product’s unique scratch-free and clank-free rubber lined head design that fits and grips virtually all tuning pegs. Additionally, the narrow profile design keeps the user from accidentally hitting other pegs during use. Innovative precision-bearing construction provides for effortless, silent, and super-fast winding with an ergonomic comfort grip centered below the bearing for a perfectly balanced spinning rotation.

The GRIP ONE is made with strong carbon steel and works great for all string types – big and small The device’s innovative pin puller is designed to be compatible with most popular acoustic pins.

MSRP: $16.99

www.musicnomadcare.com

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BOSS BSM-20 Guitar Strap

The BOSS BSM-20 Guitar Strap combines style and durability, perfect for showcasing your favorite gear brand. Made in the USA, this high-quality strap features a repeating monogram BOSS logo pattern and is crafted from tough nylon with rugged American baseball leather strap ends, ensuring a secure hold and lasting durability through years of playing.

$35.99

www.boss.info

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Roland CB-RAC AIRA Compact Carrying Case

Intended for Roland’s portable and giftable AIRA Compact Series, this carrying case is streamlined and rugged, featuring a semi-rigid EVA shell and tough polyester exterior and a convenient interior pocket. Whether transporting the T-8 Beat Machine, E-4 Voice Tweaker, J-6 Chord Synthesizer, or S-1 Tweak Synthesizer, the CB-RAC has you covered this holiday season and beyond.

$30.99

www.roland.com

 

 

Under $150

 

Pic: WC1_D_C_CMYK.psd

Roland Cloud Connect Pro Membership and Wireless Adapter

Roland Cloud Connect delivers instant gratification with wireless connectivity. Just plug the included WC-1 wireless adapter into your supported Roland hardware and use the iOS/Android mobile app to browse and install Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, Model Expansions, and more.

$102.99

www.roland.com

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BOSS KATANA-MINI Guitar Amplifier

BOSS’s Katana amps have been favorites among guitarists and bassists for years, with high-quality sound and onboard effects at a tremendous value. The Katana-Mini offers the look, sound, and feel of acclaimed Katana amps in a portable size, allowing musicians to take the Katana tone anywhere they want to play, creating a solution for a variety of lifestyles.

$99.99

www.boss.info

 

 

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Atlas-C1A from Olor Cantus

Olor Cantus LLC, an innovative product design company, announced the launch of the Atlas-C1A, the first release in their product line, providing targeted, precision support exactly where it’s needed, the vulnerable headstock-neck junction protecting the instrument while in transit, in the stand in storage and as a bonus, serves as the perfect repair jig for the legions of previously broken headstocks out in the wild awaiting some love. Simple, practical and essential. The Atlas-C1-A is a stainless-steel tool that attaches securely but gently to the headstock area of any 3 on 3 stringed instrument. Our patent covers all stringed instruments including violins, cellos and basses Etc. The Atlas-C1-A applies adaptable mechanical resistance that counters the 130-140 pounds of string pressure created when the instrument is tuned to pitch and serves as guardian at other times. After years of research and development, the Atlas-C1-A is here and ready to address these long-standing concerns and help musicians protect their investments. Olor Cantus: The science of harmony through innovation and design. Long live the six-string!

MSRP: $129.99

www.atlas-c1.com

 

 

Pic: NIGEN Audio_NUtility Toolkit.jpg

NUGEN Audio NUtility Toolkit

NUGEN’s NUtility Toolkit is ideal for entry-level and professional music makers alike. Combining the brand’s acclaimed SigMod, AB Assist, Jotter and Aligner plug-ins into one bundled solution, it fills gaps in DAW functionality and speeds up tedious admin tasks, which is a gamechanger for audio engineers.

NUGEN’s NUtility Toolkit is available in AAX, VST3, AU and AudioSuite formats in 64-bit for both Mac and Windows OS. The bundle provides a savings of over $100 versus purchasing each of the individual tools, and existing users can upgrade to the bundle for a reduced price.

With the SigMod plug-in, users can create custom signal architecture to enhance the functionality of both the DAW and third-party plug-ins. AB Assist 2 receives and compares up to four audio sources – different takes, plug-in options, mix revisions or versions of a master, with support for all surround channel counts.

Aligner is an automatic phase and polarity alignment tool designed for convenience and speed. With the automatic linking functionality, users can connect multiple instances of the plug-in to phase-correct all channels via one single user interface. Jotter provides easy sharing of timestamped notes and comments between the plug-in and the free standalone Jotter app.

MAP: $99

https://nugenaudio.com

 

 

 

Under $500

 

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BOSS IR-2 Amp & Cabinet

The IR-2 packs the inspiring sounds of classic tube amps and mic’d speaker cabinets in a standard stompbox footprint, giving you easy access to studio-grade tones on quiet stages, fly dates, recording gigs, and practice sessions. Backed by decades of BOSS tone expertise, every selection delivers the same expressive nuance and dynamic touch response of a real amp and cabinet. Audio quality is also top-notch, thanks to advanced DSP, 32-bit floating point processing, and a 96 kHz sampling rate.

$199.99

www.boss.info

Pic: GO_Keys_3_5_PR_Montage.jpg

Roland GO:KEYS 3

GO:KEYS 3 is a portable music creation keyboard that offers an intuitive and fun way to explore music, perfect for beginners and experienced players alike. With a touch-sensitive 61-note keyboard and a built-in stereo speaker system, it delivers a streamlined set of core features that encourage creativity. Powered by Roland’s renowned ZEN-Core sound engine, the GO:KEYS 3 includes over 1000 sounds, from acoustic pianos to modern synthesizers. It’s packed with ready-made chord progressions and dynamic accompaniments, enabling users to create melodies and remixes effortlessly. Compact and battery-powered, the GO:KEYS 3 lets you make music anywhere, anytime.

$349.99

www.roland.com

 

 

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Reunion Blues Expedition Series Guitar Cases

The new Expedition Series by Reunion Blues features the brand’s hallmark impact-resistant Flexoskeleton, with a robust and efficient internal structure that effectively protects, while reducing bulk and overall weight. A newly redesigned, 2025D Ballistic AEGIS Abrasion Resistant Exterior is exceptionally durable, wears well, & delivers a modern, high-tech vibe. The interior bracing system improves stability during transport with an adjustable neck block, & user-configurable protection pads at the endpin.

All of the tried & true ergonomic features Reunion Blues is known for are included as well, from an always-comfortable hideaway backpack, easy-grip subway handle for tight spots, and the signature weight distributing Zero-G handle, to make traveling with your guitar convenient & effortless.

Best yet, RB Expedition cases no longer need to journey alone. The new SideKick™ D-ring system delivers more storage than ever, with your choice of integrating one of the new SideKick add-on bags (available in small or large), or clipping on carabiners or bungees for stowing other items right on your case. With easy to attach, but heavy duty Velcro loops, SideKick lets you bring everything you need, in one easy to carry solution.

Expedition cases are constructed utilizing industrial-grade high-tensile thread, reversed water-resistant zippers, abrasion and scuff resistant corded edges and seams, EVA backed materials, & internal reinforcement in all high stress areas, along with an industry leading limited lifetime warranty.

MAP: $269.95 MAP

https://reunionblues.com

 

 

Pic: amati.png

Amati Guitars Classic Series

Amati Guitars’ new Classic Series includes four traditional guitar styles: #70STSB Sunburst Double-Cutaway, #60STSV Vanilla White Double-Cutaway, #40TCBS Butterscotch Single-Cutaway and a sharp #90MTBK Tuxedo Black Offset Body. This lineup also includes the #43JBSB Tobacco Sunburst Bass Guitar for musicians in search of a warm, low-end. Each guitar comes with a padded Gig Bag and a laser-etched backplate. Amati Guitars: high quality at low prices.

#70STSB Sunburst Double-Cutaway | MAP: $249
#60STSV Vanilla White Double-Cutaway | MAP: $269
#40TCBS Butterscotch Single-Cutaway | MAP: $299
#90MTBK Tuxedo Black Offset Body | MAP: $299
#43JBSB Tobacco Sunburst Bass Guitar | MAP: $359

www.amatisonline.com

 

 

Pix: ikc1, ikc2, ikc3.jpg

TONEX ONE from IK Multimedia

TONEX ONE mini pedal puts IK’s AI Machine Modeling technology on any size pedalboard, enabling you to perform with the world’s most sought-after tones in more ways than ever.

Ultra-compact and powerful, TONEX ONE stores up to 20 hyper-realistic modeled amps, cabs and stomps from a nearly infinite supply from Tone.NET. You can even load models of your own gear captured using the included TONEX software.

TONEX ONE packs the same incredible responsiveness and dynamics as the larger TONEX Pedal, but in a mini format that saves space and travels anywhere. You can fine-tune presets on the fly using the onboard gain/volume and 3-band EQ, then adjust FX levels like noise gate, compression and stereo reverb to complement any live situation. With auto save you can quickly adjust settings on the fly without needing a computer. Not only does TONEX ONE deliver jaw-dropping tones and essential effects, but also the right connectivity and controls that make it easy to sound your best at any gig or performance.

TONEX ONE represents a revolution for guitar and bass players. Throw it in your gig bag and never leave home without the best rigs in the world.

MSRP: $179.99

www.Tone.NET

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Buffet Crampon ClariMate

Upgrade your clarinet practice session with ClariMate, the silent digital practice tool and MIDI controller developed by Buffet Crampon that allows musicians to play without concern for disturbing neighbors or family members. This unique accessory converts any standard Bb clarinet into a digital clarinet, transferring real-time breath and fingering directly to your computer via USB, or to wired headphones via a headphone jack.

ClariMate is the perfect digital companion to play along to your favorite symphony orchestra or jazz combo, compose new compositions or arrangements from the comfort of your own clarinet, or venture into the wide soundscapes of MIDI! The ClariMate MIDI Mode allows you to play with VSTs and synthesizers, and Bluetooth and USB connectivity allows you to track volume, pitch, and fingering patterns.

ClariMate is ideal for touring professionals and students alike; those who need extended practice solutions in noise-sensitive environments, such as apartments or hotels, or for those who would like to benefit from a digital workspace designed for your own clarinet. Most importantly, ClariMate provides a natural and authentic playing experience with customizable features such as plugs to adjust resistance. For a limited time, your ClariMate purchase also includes a 90-day free trial to Metronaut, a practice app for classical musicians.

Retail Price: $349

www.clarimate.us

Pic: KRK ROCKIT 5 – Lifestyle_1.jpg

KRK ROKIT 5 Generation Five Studio Monitors

The five-inch KRK ROKIT 5 Generation Five Studio Monitors are advanced, active two-way studio reference monitors that feature three new voicing modes, an enhanced tweeter design, and a refreshed LCD. The three voicing modes cover all the bases for today’s music makers. Mix Mode offers a flat frequency and phase response that is ideal for mixing, mastering, and critical listening. Create Mode provides more inspirational voicing and is best used for writing, producing, and casual listening. Finally, Focus Mode has a mid-focused voicing for critical analysis of the midrange band, where vocals and instruments have the most energy.

The monitors also feature 25 evolved DSP boundary and tuning EQ combinations that help minimize and correct problems in any acoustic environment. Additionally, the newly designed tweeter benefits from a highly damped acoustic silk dome diaphragm for improved phase performance and an extended frequency range (up to 40 kHz).

The monitors also feature KRK’s iconic woven Kevlar® aramid fiber cone woofers for superior damping and modal breakup control. Class D power amplifiers drive the transducers evenly and more efficiently at reduced operating temperatures to ensure maximum transient response and dynamics reproduction for audio integrity during long work sessions.

MAP: $199/each; $398/pair

www.krkmusic.com

 

 

Under $2,000

 

Pic: td17.png

Roland TD-17KV2 V-Drums

Experience Roland’s acclaimed TD-17 Series at its most affordable price with the TD-17KV2. With an updated TD-17 sound engine, 12-inch mesh-head snare, and newly developed thin cymbals, this kit delivers a high-end experience that’s stunningly close to playing acoustic drums. In addition to its affordable price point, the TD-17KV2 is designed to be compact, making it ideal for smaller studios, homes, or apartments.

$1,449.99

www.roland.com

Pic: KTN Bass Set_angle2.png

BOSS KATANA-500 Bass Head

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The Katana-500 Bass Head raises professional bass amplification to the next level with advanced BOSS technology. Refined preamp circuity and the newly developed 500-watt Class D power amp support your touch and technique with deeply expressive tones. And with the innovative Cab Resonance feature, you can quickly calibrate the amplifier’s output voice to achieve the ideal response with any speaker cabinet. You also get a wide range of premium tools to shape your personal sound, plus expansive connectivity for every playing situation.

$799.99

www.boss.info

 

 

Pic: POG3_Lo_Front.jpg

POG3 from Electro-Harmonix

The POG3 is the most powerful pedal in Electro-Harmonix’s revered line of polyphonic octave generators that continues to inspire musicians of all styles. The POG3 delivers lightning-fast tracking and perfect polyphony over 4 octaves with smoother tone and performance than ever before. From 12-string jangle to 6-voice drawbar organ sounds, the POG3 delivers an endless possibility of tone creation. The pedal has received many updates that further expand its tone shaping possibilities to enhance your performance on stage and in the studio.

Featuring 6 voices: DRY, -2, -1, +5th, +1, & +2, you can mix each with individual sliders and create enveloping stereo effects with dedicated pan knobs and selectable LEFT/RIGHT/DIRECT outputs. The effects section has been expanded to offer envelope control and adjustable Q for the new multi-mode FILTER, enhanced DETUNE section with SPREAD, plus the famous ATTACK slider for subtle or dramatic swell effects. All voices, effects, and additional features are controllable via expression and MIDI for more creative control. Unlock new expression effects including Freeze, Glissando, Volume, Filter, X-Fade, and Warp with advanced programming and performance controls. The INPUT GAIN slider is an old friend from the original POG that can add dirt to your tone mix.

U.S. Street Price: $645

www.ehx.com

 

 

Pic: gatchell.jpg

CS011C Cello Case from Gatchell Violins
The CS011C Poly Carbon Cello Case is ultra-durable for protection of your beloved instrument. It weighs just 6.5 pounds and is one of the lightest cases available! Includes backpack design and full suspension. Exterior finish is black/silver weave. Other colors may be available upon request. Lightest weight, excellent protection, and fantastic price!

MSRP $699.99

www.gatchelviolins.com

 

 

Pic: DPA Microphones_2017.jpg

DPA Microphones 2017 Shotgun Microphone

DPA consistently pushes the barrier of innovation, and the 2017 is no exception. Designed to capture authentic sound with high directivity, clarity and consistency, the 2017 excels in various challenging live performance and live recording scenarios. Its ability to withstand difficult environments or extreme weather make the 2017 ideal for theatre performances, concerts or outdoor music festivals. It is also great as a crowd pickup for in-ear monitoring.

Built to stand out from the crowd, it hits every check box: optimized pickup for live performances, leading acoustical properties and reliable, durable construction. This allows it to capture the energy of any event while providing exceptional value for professionals. Measuring just 184mm (7.24 inches) in length, the 2017 also offers impressive technological features in a compact form.

DPA has prioritized versatility with the 2017, creating an easy to set-up mic that is ideal for indoor or outdoor environments. Audio professionals can now pick up accurate, clean sounds from even the most minute sources—the clapping hands of a musician or a singer’s voice against a loud crowd, as well as loud, ambient audio when preferred.

MAP: $995

www.dpamicrophones.com

 

 

Pic: NS Design .png

NS Design WAV Electric Violin

The NS Design WAV Electric Violin is a highly versatile and affordable instrument that offers exceptional performance for musicians of all levels. Crafted with precision, the WAV features a maple body and neck, providing both durability and a resonant, rich tone. Its lightweight design ensures comfort during extended play, making it ideal for both stage performances and practice sessions.

Equipped with the innovative NS Polar Pickup System, the WAV Electric Violin captures the nuances of both bowing and plucking, delivering a full, natural sound across a wide dynamic range. The instrument’s ergonomic design includes a patented shoulder rest and chin rest both of which are fully adjustable, ensuring a perfect fit for any player. This violin has passive circuitry with high impedance output, with volume and tone controls.

  • 4 String: 670g and 5 String: 695g
  • Available in a full range of finish options
  • D’Addario Prelude Strings are standard. Compatible with solid and stranded core violin strings.
  • Includes custom hardshell case with handle and shoulder strap with separate compartments for shoulder rest and accessories, a bow compartment and exterior zipper pouch.

MSRP for the WAV4 is $1,120. Please contact sales@nedsteinbereger.com for dealer net and MAP information.

www.thinkNS.com

 

 

Pic: chateau.png

Château CAS-50 Alto Saxophone

The Château CAS-50 Alto Saxophone features a large bell that enhances volume and produces a rich, dark sound. Available in stunning finishes, each saxophone is adorned with elegant engravings on the bow and bell. Its ribbed construction design ensures durability and excellent sound quality. This series is well-suited for solo performances. RECOMMENDED FOR: Beginners to high-intermediate saxophonists and students.

Our distributor: Château Music USA, Inc.

MSRP: $1,899

https://chateauusamusic.com/

 

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