10 + 1 Gift Ideas for DJs and Music Producers
Now that the holidays are just around the corner, you might be looking for a gift idea for a friend who is a DJ (or wants to become one), or perhaps you want to surprise yourself with some new gear or a specific accessory.
The good news is that there are endless possibilities to build a new DJ setup (if you are not sure how to get started, we recommend reading this article), or to expand an existing one. However, if you are buying for someone else, you should be careful not to choose something at random, as most DJs have their own specific needs when it comes to equipment like controllers or mixers.
It makes sense to first figure out exactly what the DJ is looking for, which software they prefer, how many channels are needed, and to match the technology and requirements to their budget. The same applies to purchasing accessories, as most products are designed for specific models of DJ gear. Sometimes very small details can make a difference, as many products have different versions (such as MK2, MK3, Plus, Mini, etc.), so you should pay attention to these details if you want to make a good decision.
So let's take a look at what the best gift ideas are in each category:
Table of Contents
1. DJ Controller
Controllers are perfect for any DJ who wants to start mixing, as they offer all the essential DJ functions when connected to a computer. Most controllers are bundled with software, usually Rekordbox (for Pioneer DJ), Traktor (for Native Instruments), Serato, or Virtual DJ. Some of the best options for beginners are:
- AlphaTheta DDJ-FLX2 - the affordable entry into the world of DJ controllers, it features an incredibly high number of functions and is perfectly optimised for streaming providers of all leading services
- Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4 - works with both Rekordbox and Serato DJ; resembles the layout of high-end Pioneer DJ gear, which is used by most professional DJs
- Roland DJ-202 - a popular model for getting started with Serato DJ for years. In addition to all the essential DJ features, the DJ-202 impresses with built-in drum kits from classic Roland drum machines
- Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 500 - comes with Serato DJ Lite and DJUCED DJ software; includes a beatmatch guide for easier transitions between tracks
- Gemini GMX - Affordable standalone controller with 2 channels for those who want to play quickly and easily without a laptop
- Denon SC Live 4 - This professional 4-channel controller is compatible with Denon's own Engine DJ software, Serato, and Virtual DJ, and also works as a standalone version with the integrated Engine DJ software
2. DJ Mixer
For standalone DJ mixers, at least two standalone media players such as Digital Players or Turntables are also required, or if the DJ is using the device with a laptop, they will need a mixer with a sound card. Our bestsellers include, among others:
- Pioneer DJ DJM-250 MK2 - Two-channel mixer with the standard Pioneer DJ workflow and integrated sound card
- Omnitronic TRM-202 MK3 - Robust two-channel rotary mixer with a beautiful vintage look;
- Epsilon Inno-Mix2/Epsilon Inno-Mix2-W - affordable 2-channel mixer. High quality, reduced to the essentials. Delivered with high-quality Inno-faders.
- Ecler Warm 2 - analogue two-channel rotary mixer with a very warm sound colour, as the name suggests
- Allen&Heath Xone 43 - 4-channel mixer with the typical analogue Xone sound and VCF filter
- Pioneer DJ DJM-A9 - this professional club mixer simply has everything a DJ could be looking for, from the crystal-clear 32-bit ESS converters to the BeatFX, Bluetooth, or the Sound Colour FX; it represents the high-end of DJ mixers and is a future-proof investment
3. DJ Turntables
As vinyl is experiencing a renaissance, a turntable set can be a great option and bring a lot of fun to newcomers among DJs. And luckily, there are many options to consider:
- Pioneer DJ PLX-500-K / Pioneer DJ PLX-500 - this affordable entry-level model from Pioneer DJ has been a long-running favourite for years
- Pioneer DJ PLX-CRSS12 - If you want something more digital, you are well equipped with this hybrid turntable controller
- Pioneer DJ PLX-1000 - High-end DJ turntable that is suitable for live applications and can be perfectly integrated into an existing Pioneer DJ setup
- Technics SL-1200 / SL-1210 MK7 - the latest generation of the most popular DJ turntables of all time
You can find even more information in our detailed turntable comparison HERE.
4. DJ Headphones
Proper DJ headphones can be a decisive factor when mixing, as DJ headphones are designed to handle the noise in clubs and remain precise during EQing and beatmatching.
Some of the most common options for DJs are the Pioneer DJ HDJ-X5, Sennheiser HD25, and the Technics EAH-DJ1200. But there are also a lot of good entry-level models like the Zomo HD-3000 or the Hercules HDP DJ60.
5. DJ Flight Cases
Most beginner DJs buy their equipment and only think about transport when they are experienced enough to perform gigs. A flight case can be a good gift for any DJ; you just need to make sure that it fits their equipment. There are a variety of options:
6. Vinyl/Turntable Accessories
Vinyl records require a little more attention when it comes to care, organisation, and transport. There are many products that can make a vinyl DJ's life easier:
- Zomo VSS-01 Vinyl Service Set - a package that contains a record cleaning brush, a record cleaning fluid, a stylus cleaner, and an anti-static cloth
- PEP DS-10 Disc Stabilizer - an elegant accessory for vinyl DJs that ensures a steadier run of the record and thus a more balanced sound
- Slipmats are always a good idea as they can add some personality to a DJ setup, and there are many interesting designs in different colours
- DJ Cartridge - If you want to buy a gift for someone who owns a pair of turntables that were already delivered with a cartridge (which is usually attached to the headshell), an upgrade to a DJ cartridge can be a fantastic option, as these are much more comfortable to use and have better sound quality; Ortofon cartridges are very popular
You can find even more information in our detailed vinyl accessory guide HERE.
7. DJ Headphone Accessories
In case the DJ owns headphones with replaceable parts (e.g., Sennheiser HD25, Pioneer DJ HDJ-X series, Technics RP DJ1200/1210, etc.), you can customise them with ear pads and cables in various colours. As with all products, you should make sure to buy a compatible part for your headphones, as there are many variants here as well.
You can find all DJ headphone accessories HERE in the shop.
8. Studio Monitors
If you want to buy a useful gift for a DJ who plays with an old pair of speakers or an impractical Bluetooth speaker, a pair of studio monitors is a fantastic gift for DJs and music producers. They can be easily connected to DJ mixers or DJ controllers and are available in various sizes to suit room acoustics.
Some of the best options are monitors from Yamaha, KRK Systems, and Pioneer DJ, but there are also some interesting entry-level monitors from Hercules and Soundsation.
For perfect positioning, a stand is also recommended, such as the SMON studio monitor stands.
You can find out more about studio monitors HERE in our guide.
HERE you can find all studio monitors in the shop
9. MIDI Keyboards
MIDI keyboards and other DAW controllers are great tools to expand the creativity of a music producer or a DJ who uses a live setup. They combine the feel of playing keys by hand and adjusting parameters with the convenience of music production software.
Just about every MIDI keyboard is compatible with the most common DAWs (Digital Audio Workstation), and they are available in various sizes, from 16 to 81 keys. You should aim for a balanced ratio while keeping in mind the available space on the studio desk, the producer's preferences, and your own budget.
10. DJ Furniture
A dedicated space for DJ equipment, records, and accessories is invaluable. We cannot stress enough that an inadequate space to mix can be one of the biggest motivation killers when it comes to DJing at home. Most DJs want a place where they can simply walk in and start mixing whenever they feel like it, and where everything is easily accessible.
A DJ desk can be one of the best gifts for DJs, as it also serves as a sign that mixing is taken seriously and has its own place. You should just make sure to choose the right size, as different DJ equipment can take up more or less space. For DJs who mix with software, a laptop stand can facilitate the workflow and free up a lot of space on the desk.
In the shop, we also offer many boxes and shelves for vinyl DJs to keep records organised and accessible.
You can find all DJ furniture in the shop HERE
+1 Recordcase Voucher
If you are not 100% sure what exactly you should buy, it might be a better idea to leave it to the DJ themselves.
In our shop, you can find gift vouchers for various amounts that you can buy and give away. Every voucher is sent to you by post in an exclusive Recordcase voucher envelope. The voucher is valid for the entire product range.