From input to output, recording musicians rely on loads of gear to make the magic happen. And while it is possible to create intriguing audio and expressive performances with the most basic recording setup, musicians like options. If you’re not sure what to get the recording musician in your life, then we’re here to help. Check out these gift ideas for recording musicians — we’re sure you’ll find something to put a smile on their face, and they might even give you an album credit.
Shure SM7B
Though it doesn’t always get the acclaim that other Shure microphones do, the SM7B dynamic microphone has consistently created outstanding vocal recordings for decades. Its wide and flat frequency response makes it a true studio workhorse. And some innovative features help it excel in any recording environment: the internal suspension and shock-isolation system practically eliminates mechanical noise transmission, and its effective shielding prevents broadband interference.
sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite
And, while we’re talking microphones, the sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite in-line mic preamp can improve the performance of any dynamic mic. When using low-output dynamic and ribbon microphones, it’s often necessary to crank up the preamp’s input gain to achieve an adequate signal level. The fact is, many mic preamps get noisy and don’t sound their best when running at max gain. The DM1 Dynamite in-line preamp is intended to be used between the mic and the preamp — like a pre-preamp — adding 28dB of transparent gain to allow the main preamp to run at its optimal gain setting.
Universal Audio Apollo Solo
Every recording musician needs an audio interface if they want to record to their computer, and the Universal Audio Apollo Solo Thunderbolt 3 interface offers more than you’d expect for its compact size. It features built-in UAD DSP for running UAD Powered Plug-ins — spot-on emulations of vintage studio gear that some computers can’t use without DSP assistance. The Apollo Solo provides pristine audio performance and UAD SOLO processing for UAD Powered Plug-ins. It’s also compact enough to use for mobile recording and mixing sessions, and it’s compatible with UA’s LUNA software, giving you a tightly integrated recording, editing, and mixing environment.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio
Speaking of audio interfaces, one of the most popular compact interfaces we’ve seen at Sweetwater recently is the third-generation Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. And, with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio bundle, you not only get a top-notch USB interface, but you get a high-quality studio condenser microphone and great-sounding closed-back headphones, as well. There are many reasons that the Scarlett is so popular, but foremost among them are the acclaimed Focusrite mic preamps and its high-quality 24-bit/192kHz digital conversion. What is also noteworthy is the Scarlett’s ultra-low latency, which allows musicians to record and monitor through software effects in real time. And new to the third generation is Focusrite’s acclaimed Air effect that, with a push of a button, adds openness and sparkle to vocal and instrument recordings.
JBL 305P MkII
Monitors are a studio’s source of truth, and a high-quality pair can be the difference between cobbling a merely good recording and crafting a truly great one. JBL is a studio monitor powerhouse, and the 305P MkII 5-inch active nearfield monitors punch well above their weight. A rear-ported design delivers accurate low-frequency monitoring — even at quiet volumes — and the 305P MkII’s smooth high end lets musicians mix for hours without ear fatigue. Sweetwater offers the MkII speakers individually or bundled in a pair along with a set of On-Stage Stands studio monitor stands — a perfect all-in-one monitoring package!
Even if you know nothing about gifts for recording musicians, chances are they’ll be thrilled that you’re showing some support for their passion. And if you’re not sure what to get the recording musician in your life, then just give your Sweetwater Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700. Most of us are recording musicians ourselves, so, at the very least, we can tell you what we would want to receive.
