A Definitive Music Lover’s Gift Guide: Record Players, Books, Speakers, Vinyl and More

Finding the perfect gift for a music enthusiast can be a challenge, but Variety has curated a definitive list of the best music books, merchandise, listening devices, and instruments for everyone from the casual listener to the seasoned musician. This guide offers a wide array of options, from high-end speakers and stylish vinyl storage to essential gear for players, ensuring you can surprise your audiophile friend or guitar-playing relative with an ideal present this holiday season.

For those curious about vinyl, the Audio-Technica AT-LP60x-BK is an excellent starter record player. Priced at a budget-friendly $200, it offers superior durability to cheaper $50 models and delivers a sound quality that rivals many high-end turntables. It should be noted that this model lacks built-in speakers, requiring connection to headphones or an external audio system. Meanwhile, film and music fans will be captivated by Cameron Crowe's "The Memoir." The Oscar-winning screenwriter, best known for writing and directing the semi-autobiographical film "Almost Famous," strips away the Hollywood gloss to recount his true experiences. He details his youth as Rolling Stone's youngest-ever contributor, embedding with rock legends like Led Zeppelin and David Bowie, offering an unparalleled look into a bygone musical era.

For a more elevated audio experience, the beautifully designed Sonos 100 speaker is a versatile choice, perfect for pairing with a record player or as a bookshelf centerpiece. Two units can create a complete stereo setup, or they can be connected to a soundbar for immersive surround sound. On the instrument front, Fender provides solutions for all skill levels. The Mustang Micro Plus is a pocket-sized amp that lets guitarists plug in headphones and jam on the go with dozens of amp sounds and effects, complete with Bluetooth for a wireless experience. For beginners, the $120 Fender Avalon ukulele offers a significant upgrade from souvenir-shop models while retaining an approachable, beachy vibe. For the advanced musician, Fender's upgraded Player II series—including the Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Jazzmaster—features improved hardware and fresh colors.

Collectors have several standout options. Pink Floyd's iconic "Wish You Were Here" album is receiving a 50th-anniversary edition, dubbed "Wish You Were Here 50," which includes a wealth of previously unreleased material. These new sets arrive on December 12, just in time for holiday gifting. For the vinyl enthusiast, a gift card to Rough Trade, the renowned New York-based independent record store, is a thoughtful choice, especially with its upcoming Record Store Day exclusives and Black Friday deals. Fans of iconic bands can also celebrate with art; Sonic Editions offers gorgeous framed prints of Oasis's Liam and Noel Gallagher, a perfect memento for anyone who attended their recent reunion tour.

Questlove, the co-founder of the Grammy and Oscar-winning band The Roots, has released a new music history book chronicling the first half-century of hip-hop. As an industry titan, his account functions as both an authoritative record and a personal reflection, filled with unique stories only he can tell. In the tech realm, the Akai MPK Mini is a powerful tool for both professionals and aspiring producers, featuring 25 keys, eight drum pads, and assignable knobs, complete with software to start making music immediately. For home theater enhancement, the sleek and compact Marshall Heston 60 soundbar delivers crisp, punchy audio that clarifies dialogue and deepens bass, easily transforming any living room. Finally, unique collaborations like Hedley & Bennett's new Grateful Dead line—featuring canvas totes, aprons, and chef's knives adorned with Dancing Bears and "Steal Your Face" imagery—offer stylish, functional gifts for the dedicated fan.