By Christian Wissmuller
’Tis the season (well, almost) when wish lists get written, credit cards get maxed, and — if all goes according to plan — musical instruments and accessories get wrapped up and tucked under trees. For MI retailers, the holidays aren’t just another sales cycle; they’re the main event. A strong December can help soften the edges of a slower spring, and the right mix of inventory on your shelves come crunch time can make all the difference between ringing in the new year with confidence — or with clearance tags.
That’s why MMR’s Holiday Buying Guide has become a kind of seasonal compass. We’ve assembled a wide-ranging lineup of products, at price-points from stocking-stuffer to serious splurge, all worth a second look as you gear up for the year’s busiest stretch. Call it a cheat sheet, call it inspiration, or call it a reminder that, yes, people do still want guitars, drum kits, synths, and all manner of shiny accessories under the tree. Bottom line? The right gear, in the right place, at the right time — that’s the real holiday magic.
Under $50
Heller Electric Three-Series Cable Line with Lifetime Warranty, Available via OMG Music
OMG Music LLC introduces Heller Electric, its new in-house brand of professional instrument, microphone, speaker, and patch cables. The launch features three series – High-Standard, Braid-Matrix, and Coil-Connect – all designed for top-tier performance, durability, and backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. All models are in stock and shipping from OMG Music’s Sheridan, Indiana headquarters.
The Lineup
Braid-Matrix Series – Heavy-gauge 20AWG OFC core, 99% braided shielding, tangle-resistant woven jackets in tweed and modern colors, hand-soldered plugs, optional gold plating.
Coil-Connect Series – Vintage-style coil with modern 20AWG OFC conductor, high-density shielding, perfect for organized, low-noise stage setups. Coil-Connect Pro adds 99% “High Density Weave” shielding.
High-Standard Series – 24AWG OFC (instrument/mic) and 16AWG OFC (speaker) conductors with copper braided shielding. Rugged, kink-resistant jackets, hand-soldered all-metal plugs, and full lineup including instrument, mic, speaker, patch, and adapter cables.
Pricing & Availability
- MAP: High-Standard from $19.95 | Braid-Matrix from $29.95 | Coil-Connect from $39.95
- Channel: Authorized dealers via OMG Music LLC
● Packaging: Peg-ready, full-color designs
Superslick AlphaSynth Synthetic Lubricants
Trusted by repair techs, educators, and musicians, AlphaSynth delivers consistent, pro-level performance every time. These long-lasting synthetic formulas are safe for classroom use, easy to apply and clean, and made with premium base oils and USA-made components. Perfect for rental fleets, retail counters, or repair benches — and with the new case-friendly size, they also make the ultimate stocking stuffer for musicians.
MSRP: $3.80
Cobalt from Bari Woodwinds
Bari Woodwinds Inc. is introducing its newest reed called Cobalt.
This new reed is totally different from the current great reed lines already sold by Bari Woodwinds. The Cobalt reed is shaped like the traditional cane reed and is made from an entirely different material for maximum resonation. The material used is an expensive material which is worth the cost for the sound and playability of the reed. The material used also plays and feels like cane reeds.
The new Cobalt reed will only be available in alto and tenor and is MAP priced at $42.95. The strengths will coincide with the other reed lines, soft, medium soft, medium, medium hard and hard. Please contact Bari with any questions or inquiries you may have at Ron@bariwoodwind.com.
Solo Styles for Christmas: Classic Carols in a Variety of Popular Styles
The Solo Styles for Christmas book series from Excelcia Music Publishing contains 15 newly-arranged classic Christmas carols in over 25 popular music styles by various arrangers. Each individual carol is arranged in three distinct styles, and has corresponding free downloadable play-along tracks. The optional purchase of the iReal Pro app (available for iPad, Android, Mac, and iPhone) provides access to even more styles, creating unlimited possibilities with these festive carols.
Every solo offers an opportunity to improvise and to learn the building blocks of improvisation with written examples that are fun to play. Popular musical styles such as Jazz, Latin, Pop, and Country are included in Solo Styles for Christmas. Whether entertaining at holiday gatherings with family and friends, or performing publicly, these solos will impress and delight!
Books are available for Flute, Oboe, Bb Clarinet, Alto Saxophone or Baritone Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Bb Trumpet, Horn in F, Euphonium or Trombone or Bassoon, Tuba, Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass.
Solo Styles for Christmas books are available for $12.99 each through excelciamusic.com and music retailers.
Under $150
VOX AmPlug AP3AC
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The Vox amPlug 3 AC30 delivers iconic AC tones with switchable Normal and Top Boost channels, rich built-in effects, rhythm patterns, and an AUX input – all powered by fully analog circuitry. Compact, expressive, and perfect for practice or recording.
MSRP: $59.99
Rovner Products Launches the LGX Ligature: Power, Projection, Precision
Rovner Products proudly introduces the LGX ligature, the next generation in high-performance ligatures designed for dynamic, expressive musicians across jazz, rock, marching, and military band settings.
The LGX features Rovner’s proprietary Mass-Loaded Technology® paired with its innovative Resonating Ribs™ design, delivering unmatched power without compromising tonal integrity.
Built for exceptional cut, projection, and articulation, the LGX maintains tone and intonation – even at triple-fortissimo dynamics.
Whether you’re competing with amplified instruments in high-energy live environments or driving intensity in solo performance, the LGX provides the sonic clarity and presence players need to rise above the mix.
Each ligature includes a protective Rovner cap and is proudly Made in the USA.
Available now through trusted distributors, Amazon, and www.rovnerproducts.com, the LGX is poised to become a go-to choice for musicians seeking maximum expression with uncompromising control.
From educational institutions and marching ensembles to touring professionals, the LGX equips musicians to perform with confidence, power, and finesse.
Elevate your sound. Experience the next generation of performance with the Rovner LGX ligature.
MSRP: $109.95
Blackstar BEAM Solo
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The Blackstar BEAM Solo is a next-generation headphone amp for electric, acoustic, and bass guitar that transforms practice into a fully immersive, pro-grade experience. With In The Room speaker simulation, patented ISF tone shaping, SpeedDial control, and XpressFX, it delivers real amp feel in a compact form. Connect via Bluetooth, explore Artist Patches, record direct over USB-C, and share your custom tones through the mobile app – all from your pocket.
MSRP: $129.99
Under $500
Takamine Guitars G Series GD11MCE
For more than 60 years, Takamine Guitars has been producing some of the most highly regarded and best-selling acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars for the working musician. The G Series GD11MCE is one of Takamine’s most affordable dreadnought cutaway models, but its value-packed price belies its excellent looks, feel, tone, and playability. With construction of sapele — top, back, and sides — this guitar is great for acoustic blues, bold strumming, or roots music. The low-gloss natural satin finish adds a great old-school vibe to the instrument. Also, the transition to the stage is made effortless with the addition of Takamine’s own TP-4T electronics, complete with an equalizer and chromatic tuner built-in.
MSRP: $499
Audient EVO4
The EVO series offers professional, incredibly powerful, and totally portable audio interfaces make for recording music at home or on the go. Award-winning EVO mic preamps and advanced analog-to-digital converters deliver studio quality results with no effort. The groundbreaking Smartgain feature allows the mic preamps to set their own levels and avoid clipping. Each EVO product is not just another audio interface, it’s an entirely new way of doing things. The EVO04 is a 2 in, 2 out interface equipped with 2 mic preamps, 1 instrument input, stereo monitor output, 1 headphone output and is compatible with iOS devices without the need for external power
MSRP: $179.99
Chedeville Kanter Opera Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece
Building on the success of the Kanter Cinema, the Chedeville Kanter Opera is the next evolution in our collaboration with legendary mouthpiece maker and studio musician, James Kanter. Featuring a larger tip opening than the Cinema, the Opera is designed for players seeking greater warmth and tonal breadth.
To meet Jim Kanter’s exacting standards, Chedeville engineered a proprietary tool to replicate his unique filing process, ensuring each Kanter Opera mouthpiece meets his meticulous specifications. Crafted from Chedeville’s proprietary rubber with precision manufacturing, this mouthpiece resonates across a variety of musical settings.
The Opera is the most open facing in the Chedeville Kanter series, delivering a rich sound with added depth and flexibility across all registers. It provides a responsive feel with a natural sense of resistance, allowing for expressive nuance and dynamic control. This mouthpiece rewards focused air support and musical intention, making it an exceptional choice for players across genres. Tip opening: 0.047” (1.20mm)
The engravings on this mouthpiece have been left unpainted in order to achieve Jim Kanter’s vision of a more subtle and understated look.
https://chedeville.com/product/kanter-opera-bb-clarinet-mouthpiece/
MSRP: $350, MAP: $350
ESP Guitars LTD EC-256 Black
If you’re looking for an excellent single-cutaway electric guitar, the LTD EC-256 takes many of the coolest aspects of ESP’s higher-end models and offers them in a super-affordable guitar that’s ready to rock. A classic shape that’s excellent for all musical styles and genres, the EC-256 looks amazing with multiple binding on the body and headstock — something you may only expect from much higher-end guitars. Playing the EC-256 is also a dream come true, with set-neck construction for fast and easy access to the highest frets. The EC-256 also features a mahogany body, a comfortable and fast three-piece thin U-shaped mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard with flag inlays and 22 extra-jumbo frets. This guitar features the acclaimed ESP Designed LH-150 humbucking pickups that offer great tone for all genres of music, and the sonic flexibility of coil-splitting controlled by a push-pull switch on the tone knob.
MSRP: $499
Rousseau 3.0 Classic NC Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece
The new Rousseau 3.0 Saxophone Mouthpieces are now fully manufactured from start to finish at the JodyJazz factory in Savannah, GA, taking the Rousseau mouthpieces to a whole new level. These amazing new mouthpieces are now created using the same combination of state-of-the manufacturing techniques, old world craftsmanship, and the strictest quality controls in the industry, that have made the JodyJazz mouthpieces so highly coveted.
The Rousseau Classic NC Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece was developed as a complement to the original Rousseau “R” Series, but it quickly took over as the most popular Rousseau model. When Dr. Rousseau couldn’t find any commercially available saxophone mouthpieces on the market to recommend to his classical students he decided to try and design his own mouthpiece. The R Series Saxophone mouthpieces and now with further refinements the NC Series, were inspired by a mouthpiece that Marcel Mule gave Dr. Rousseau in 1961. It has been designed with an entirely new choice of facings to meet the needs of the world’s top performers. Its features include a new rollover baffle to give good projection and a then generous dip in the chamber after the rollover baffle provides a beautiful warmth to the sound. Redesigned sidewalls give an even, centered tone, the symmetrical tip rail gives an immediate response at all volumes, and a longer shape provides a more secure fit and easier tuning. Available in 3, 4 & 5 tip openings.
https://rousseaumouthpieces.com/product/classic-nc-alto-saxophone-mp/
MSRP: $235, MAP: $164.95
EMG Pickups Announces All New E-Series Bass Pickups
EMG Pickups introduces the all-new E-Series line of active bass pickups. Featuring the commonly used slim soapbar cap design, the E-Series pickups unlock a multitude of bass models for simple, drop-in EMG upgrades.
Unlike any other EMG design, the E-Series pickups feature wide aperture coils with ceramic magnets. This potent combination delivers powerful low end while retaining the cutting articulation that the modern bass player requires. Designed with versatility in mind, the E-Series can excel in a wide range of genres and play styles and are available in 4, 5, and 6 string sizes. Just like all EMG active pickups, the E-Series are free from hum and buzz and include solderless wiring kits for DIY installation.
For further tonal shaping, the E-Series pickups are compatible with EMG’s wide range of bass EQ’s and accessories, so the possibilities are virtually endless.
Unlock the potential of your bass with the EMG E-Series pickups.
Individual E-Series pickups start at $109.00, with sets starting at $209.00.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dY2QV7mip1Q
Under $2,000
KORG microKORG2
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The new microKORG2 delivers everything musicians loved about the original, now expanded with modern performance tools. A 2.8″ color display transforms sound design, giving you animated visual feedback and an oscilloscope view to shape and “see” your sounds in real time. The new vocal processor takes the classic vocoder further, adding hard-tune pitch correction, a harmonizer, and studio-quality effects, complete with a dedicated metallic gooseneck mic. Updated natural-touch mini keys make chords and fast phrases easier to play, while a built-in loop recorder, arpeggiator, and effects including modulation, delay, reverb, and EQ unlock new creative possibilities. Compact and portable, the microKORG2 runs on AC or batteries, so inspiration can follow you anywhere.
MSRP: $699.99
Darkglass ANAGRAM
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ANAGRAM by Darkglass Electronics is the groundbreaking bass multi-effects unit that’s taken the bass world by storm. Engineered to redefine tone, flexibility, and performance, ANAGRAM offers a purpose-built solution for bassists seeking unmatched sound-shaping capabilities.
Delivering ultra-low latency, pristine clarity, and studio-grade audio, ANAGRAM replaces tedious menu diving with an intuitive block-based architecture—designed to feel and function like building a pedalboard, minus the cables. With virtually no learning curve, creating music with ANAGRAM is effortless and inspiring.
Featuring a curated selection of distinct preamps, over 50 customizable effects, a looper, tuner, and support for user-generated impulse responses (IRs), ANAGRAM empowers limitless creative exploration. Seamless integration with the Darkglass Suite application allows users to upload and manage cabinet IRs and neural models, fine-tune presets and banks, and enjoy frequent, exciting software updates.
ANAGRAM sets a new standard for bass multi-effects. It’s a modern platform built for the stage, studio, home — and beyond.
MSRP: $1,199.99
Pro VLA III – Multivoice Tube / Opto Compressor
The Pro VLA compressor has been one of the most popular ART products for over two decades. The original has been hailed as one of the best compressors ever made at its price point, and ART has just announced the new Pro VLA III.
It’s an optical compressor in a 2U rackmount enclosure, with two channels that can be used independently or linked for stereo operation. The Pro VLA III uses a fixed-input, variable-threshold design, and features a 12AT7 tube for warmth and saturation.
New to version III, the Voice switch selects between tube and solid state signal paths. The ratio range has been extended to 1.25:1 – 20:1 to allow more subtle dynamics control than its predecessors. Headroom has been increased, background noise has been reduced, and channel symmetry has been improved in the linked stereo mode. It now features a universal power supply, and the front panel has been updated to match the Pro Channel III.
Other features include variable threshold, attack, release, and output controls, independent bypass per channel, and simultaneous metering of input level, output level, and gain reduction. The rear panel has balanced 1/4” and XLR inputs and outputs, and a button to select +4 dBu or -10 dBV operation.
The Pro VLA III will begin shipping this fall to ART dealers worldwide.
MAP: $599
Crown Series Jazz Trombone – VTRB-CSOB203
Make a bold statement this holiday season with the Crown Series Jazz Trombone by Victory Musical Instruments, finished in dark orange lacquer with a sleek black slide. Crafted for serious musicians and jazz lovers alike, this professional-level instrument delivers a rich, warm tone and smooth slide action that feels effortless under your hand.
With a .508” bore and 8” bell, it offers precise articulation and vibrant projection — ideal for soloists, section players, or advancing students ready for the next level.
This striking model doesn’t just sound great — it turns heads. A high-quality case and 12C mouthpiece are included, making it a complete, ready-to-play gift.
Whether for the stage, the studio, or under the tree, the VTRB‑CSOB203 is a standout choice in the under-$2,000 category.
Learn more at VictoryMusical.com
MSRP: $1,749
Yorkville EXM Pro10 Battery-Powered PA Speaker
Designed for endurance and high output, the EXM Pro10 represents a new milestone from Yorkville Sound; Our first lightweight battery-powered loudspeaker with a 48V battery.
It features an onboard 3-channel mixer with multiple built-in effects, so it can be used without an external console. Multiple built-in effects can be used simultaneously to tailor the sound from each input. With Bluetooth connectivity, the EXM Pro10 facilitates wireless stereo playback between two cabinets.
The versatile cabinet can be used in three performance positions; Upright, tilt, or for use as a monitor wedge.
Portable and powerful, the EXM Pro10 continues our commitment to power extraordinary gigs in extraordinary places.
MSRP: $999
ENGL Amplifiers E725 RAVAGER IR
Designed for musicians seeking a versatile, portable solution in guitar amplification, ENGL’s Ravager IR is a 20-watt, 2-channel tube amp that blends vintage tone with modern technology. A true tube amp, the Ravager IR provides a 12AX7/ECC83 in the preamp and an EL84 in the power amp section, producing dynamic, harmonically-rich tones. Its dual-channel design provides pristine cleans and aggressive overdrive, making it ideal for stage, studio, or home use. A special feature of this amp is its built-in IR Loader, enabling musicians to use up to four impulse responses (IRs), loaded via USB for unparalleled cabinet simulation. This makes recording and silent practice effortless while delivering exceptional sound quality in a compact, lunchbox-style chassis. Additionally, it’s equipped with an XLR output for live and studio applications, along with a headphone out for private practice.
MSRP: $879.99
Aguilar TH500V2
Designed for the discerning bassists, the Tone Hammer 500 offers a lightweight yet powerful solution inspired by the soulful warmth of tube amplifiers. Its rich and harmonic preamps offer a round, full-bodied character, making every note resonate with depth.
Simple and intuitively designed, the Tone Hammer 500 features a classic 3-band EQ set with bass, treble, and fully sweepable midrange controls. The Drive control adds distortion and even more tube-like grit and punch to your sound.
Equipped with the Aguilar Cabinet Suite, players have the ability to load any of our in-house designed SL/DB cabinet IRs or load their own custom IR files for cabinet emulation options via XLR or headphone out. Additional updates include universal mains, which provide worry-free voltage changes when traveling internationally, and the ability to support a 2.67-ohm load for expanded cabinet pairings.
The Tone Hammer 500 meets the performance needs of modern bassists, ensuring a flawless blend between live, studio, and at-home settings.
MSRP: $999.99
JodyJazz DV JC JODY CUSTOM Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece
An exciting new addition to the acclaimed DV Series! Based on JodyJazz Founder & President Jody Espina’s personal, custom-modified DV mouthpiece, the DV JC JODY CUSTOM Alto offers a unique balance of warmth, power, and versatility. Over years of performance across diverse musical genres, Espina refined his own DV to meet a wide variety of musical demands. This special design is now available to all players for the first time.
The culmination of years of incremental, real-world performance-driven innovation, the DV JC JODY CUSTOM Alto incorporates unique internal design refinements that deliver the power and projection that metal pieces are known for while preserving an unusually warm, full-bodied midrange and bottom end. Like all the DV mouthpieces, it has the same ability to “disappear” as a metal mouthpiece in terms of feel, producing an almost hard-rubber-like warmth, that has made the various DV models some of the most popular metal mouthpieces in the world. The proprietary combination of facing, chamber, and baffle design – never before released commercially – gives the DV JC JODY CUSTOM a distinctive voice within the DV family.
Sonically positioned between the DV and DV NY, the DV JC JODY CUSTOM Alto produces a big, fat, warm tone with enough projection for contemporary settings while remaining sweet and dark enough for expressive ballads. Constructed from 14kt gold-plated virgin bell brass and available in 6, 7, and 8 tip openings, the DV JC JODY CUSTOM Alto delivers unmatched tonal richness, comfort, and flexibility for the modern player.
https://jodyjazz.com/dv-jc-jody-custom-alto/
MSRP: $595, MAP: $595
Yorkville Sound’s New 10″ & 12″ YXL Towers
Yorkville Sound is pleased to announce the release of its most affordable Column PA systems. The YXL Tower10 and YXL Tower12 are designed for performers and presenters who need a full-range solution that is powerful, lightweight, and easy to use.
These new models feature a 10” or 12” subwoofer, four 3” midrange drivers, and a high-frequency compression driver. The integrated 3-channel mixer offers mic, line, instrument, and Bluetooth® connectivity including wireless stereo playback between two systems. Three voicing modes optimize the sound for live music, recorded playback, or speech. Both offer 1550 watts of peak power, and each weighs less than 42 pounds.
The speaker column can connect directly to the subwoofer or on the included extension for additional height, and each system also includes a subwoofer cover and gig bag for easy transportation.
The YXL Towers will make their trade show debut at the CFX Loudspeaker showcase on September 23rd, and begin shipping to Yorkville Sound dealers worldwide this fall.
YXLTOWER10 – MSRP $1,359, MAP $999
TXLTOWER12 – MSRP $1,599, MAP $1,149
Under $7,500
Château CAS-80C Alto Saxophone
The Château CAS-80C Alto Saxophone is crafted with 85% copper, delivering a warm, rich tone ideal for serious and professional musicians.
Each instrument is handcrafted, ensuring exceptional quality and attention to detail. With its elegant full-body floral engraving and distinctive cognac finish, the CAS-80C is as visually stunning as it is musically expressive.
Notable features include a High F# key, Mother-of-Pearl key buttons, Pisoni pro pads, and Italian blued steel springs — all designed to provide smooth playability, responsive action, and long-lasting durability.
MSRP: $2,590
NS Design CR Zebrawood Series
The NS Design CR Zebrawood Series of instruments include violin, viola, cello, upright bass and bass guitar. These exciting instruments from award winning design innovator Ned Steinberger are crafted to the highest standards in the Czech Republic and offer musicians world-class performance capabilities and exceptional ergonomic features.
The lightweight solid-body design of the CR Violin transfers the full spectrum of sound to the pickup without feedback and is very stable even with changes in temperature and humidity. The ergonomic shoulder and chin rest provide comfortable, stable support, with removable treble side bout. The solid ebony fingerboard is hand graduated for consistent string articulation. Fine tuners are mounted on the body behind the bridge for precise, stable tuning and quick, easy string changes.
Equipped with the NS Polar Pickup System, designed to express bowing and plucking, it delivers a full, natural sound across a wide dynamic range. The preamp allows the choice between two distinct tone qualities: extended frequency response of modern low impedance electronics, for full-blown “electric” sound, and active electronic shaping to replicate the frequency response of the traditional violin, for a more “acoustic” sound.
- 720 grams (25.5 oz)
- 4, 5, and 6-string; fretted and non-fretted
- NS Electric Strings from D’Addario standard. Compatible with solid and stranded core violin strings.
- 1/8″ headphone jack for silent practice and self-monitoring
- Includes custom hardshell case with handle, shoulder strap, separate compartments for shoulder rest, accessories, bow compartment and exterior zipper pouch.
MSRP is $5,525. Please contact sales@nedsteinberger.com for dealer net and MAP information.
