In a world flooded with tempting offers and questionable products, it’s easy to get cynical—especially after a year of Coffeezilla scam exposés and meme-worthy disappointments from sites like Wish.com. Quality seems to have taken a back seat in many industries, and music production and DJing gear are no exceptions.
That’s why we’ve made our Editor’s Choice Awards (ECA) at Magnetic Magazine a priority. The ECA is our way of spotlighting and celebrating the absolute best gear—products that go beyond being “better than the rest” to set a true standard of excellence. These aren’t just good; they’re best in show. While we award them on a rolling basis, the sheer volume of gear out there can make it easy to lose track. So, we’ve condensed all our winners into one definitive list for you here.
Links to the full review is in the subheaders if you need something more comprehensive than a quick recap of why it’s so good. And if you’re a designer, marketer, or product person who thinks we might have missed something you dropped this year or don’t want to have us overlook something you’re dropping in 2025, send us an email ([email protected]) to hear how you can have a shot at claiming an award as well.
Table of Contents
ADAM Audio D3V Monitors
The ADAM Audio D3V desktop monitors earned the Editor’s Choice Award for their exceptional combination of sound quality, compact design, and user-friendly features, making them an amazing option in 2024’s competitive market. These monitors cater to both new and experienced creators by delivering professional-grade performance in a package that’s accessible and versatile.
Their portability and flexibility make them ideal for changing creative environments, and the included features ensure they’re ready to use right out of the box.
What makes the D3V so cool?
- Exceptional Sound: The D-ART ribbon tweeter delivers crisp highs and detailed sound, while the dual passive radiators provide tight and balanced bass, perfect for mixing or casual listening.
- Plug-and-Play Convenience: Comes with all necessary cables, angled stands, and USB-C connectivity for effortless setup and direct device connection without an interface.
- Compact, Durable Design: Small enough for tight spaces yet durable enough for portability, the D3V integrates seamlessly into home studios, mobile setups, and unconventional workspaces.
Arturia AstroLab
The Arturia AstroLab is a serious contender for best keyboard of the year, and it’s no surprise it snagged our Editor’s Choice Award. This 61-key semi-weighted powerhouse merges stunning stage aesthetics with studio-grade performance.
Featuring over 1,000 presets from Analog Lab, V Collection, and Pigments, plus Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and MIDI 2.0 connectivity, the AstroLab is built for musicians who want it all—on stage and in the studio.
Here’s what makes it shine:
- Looks That Kill: With woodgrain sides, glowing blue encoders, and a matte white finish, this thing is made to turn heads on stage.
- On-the-Fly Control: Encoders, macro knobs, and instant instrument selectors mean no menu-diving—just pure sound design flow.
- AstroLab Connect App: Browse and tweak sounds wirelessly, perfect for prepping live sets or organizing your studio workflow.
Hologram Chroma Console
The Hologram Chroma Console is a pedal that breaks the mold. It’s not just another effects unit—it’s a modular sound design playground that invites experimentation and rewards creativity.
With four reconfigurable modules—Character, Movement, Diffusion, and Texture—you’re not locked into static signal paths or cookie-cutter presets. Add in Gesture recording, which lets you automate parameter changes in real-time, and you’ve got a tool that transforms everything from guitar riffs to synth loops into evolving, layered textures. No surprise it snagged our Editor’s Choice Award—this thing redefines what a pedal can be.
What Makes It Stand Out:
- Gesture Recording: Automate knob tweaks to create hands-free modulation and dynamic textures.
- Modular Routing: Rearrange effect order for wild, custom signal paths.
- True Stereo Effects: Every effect is designed to fill the room, making it perfect for synths, guitars, and full studio rigs.
Trinity Digital Drum Synth
The Trinity Digital Drum Synth snagged Magnetic Magazine’s Editor’s Choice Award for good reason—it’s modular synthesis without the headaches. If you’re a total beginner or a seasoned producer, this drum synth delivers accessible, professional-grade sound that’s perfect for everything from clean 808s to gritty, textured snares. It works standalone right out of the box, which means no extra modular gear needed, and integrates seamlessly with your DAW via USB MIDI. If modular has always seemed intimidating, Trinity changes the game by making it both approachable and ridiculously fun to use.
Here’s why it earned top honors:
- Plug-and-Play Simplicity: No need for extra modules—it’s fully functional on its own.
- Insane Tone-Shaping: Dial in everything from smooth subby kicks to crunchy lo-fi snares with controls like Grit, Shape, and Character.
- Compact but Mighty: At just 20hp, it fits anywhere and adds massive sound design power to even the smallest setups.
Denon DJ Prime Go+
The Denon DJ Prime Go+ landed our Editor’s Choice Award because it’s everything a modern portable DJ rig should be: compact, versatile, and packed with pro features. With a six-hour battery life, faster processing, and support for streaming from platforms like TIDAL and Beatport, it feels less like a “lite” version of bigger setups and more like a full-featured system that just happens to fit in a backpack. The updates might not scream “revolution,” but they refine the original Prime Go in ways that make this an obvious upgrade for mobile DJs.
Why it earned the Editor’s Choice Award:
- All-day portability: Six hours of battery life mean you can play gigs without worrying about finding an outlet.
- Seamless streaming: Built-in support for multiple platforms gives you access to millions of tracks anywhere.
- Next-gen processing: Faster BPM analysis and snappier performance keep things moving, even with complex sets.
AiAiAi Unit-4 Wireless Studio Monitors
The AiAiAi Unit-4 Wireless Studio Monitors earned the Editor’s Choice Award for their innovative approach to portability, versatility, and professional sound quality. Designed with Wireless+ (W+) technology, these monitors offer ultra-low-latency performance (16ms), making them ideal for producers, DJs, and creators working on the go or in unconventional spaces. Their 18–20 hours of battery life per charge and a durable, lightweight build make them perfect for mobile setups, outdoor sessions, or compact studios. AiAiAi’s signature sleek, sustainable design also adds a modern, eco-conscious touch.
Why the Unit-4 earned Editor’s Choice:
- Wireless Freedom: The W+ transmitter delivers near-instant latency for accurate monitoring during recording, mixing, or live performances.
- Exceptional Versatility: No matter if you’re producing in remote locations, DJing small parties, or playing vinyl through Bluetooth, these speakers adapt to every scenario.
- Portability & Battery Life: Lightweight yet robust, with up to 20 hours of playback, the Unit-4 makes mobile creativity seamless without compromising sound quality.
While the Unit-4 may lack the power of traditional studio monitors for larger spaces, their compact, user-friendly design and cutting-edge wireless technology make them a dope choice for creators valuing flexibility without sacrificing audio precision.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 headphones have set a new benchmark for what premium headphones can deliver, earning our Editor’s Choice Award for 2024.
These are more than just a great-sounding pair of cans—they’re a whole experience. From their rich, detailed sound profile to serious noise cancellation and a design that practically screams luxury, the Px8s are a top pick for anyone who wants their headphones to look as good as they sound.
What Makes Them Stand Out:
- Incredible Sound Quality: The 40mm carbon drivers deliver clear highs, punchy lows, and a balanced sound that makes everything from bass-heavy tracks to orchestral pieces feel alive.
- Noise Cancellation That Delivers: Blocks out distractions like a champ, it’s great when on a plane or trying to drown out the world on a busy street.
- Stylish Design: With finishes like Royal Burgundy and a partnership with David Beckham, these headphones turn heads without being flashy for the sake of it.
iLoud MTM MKII
The iLoud MTM MKII from IK Multimedia has earned its place as an Editor’s Choice Award winner for its ability to deliver pro-level sound in small spaces.
These monitors redefine what’s possible for compact, nearfield setups, packing in advanced features like ARC room correction, a versatile referencing tool, and stellar audio fidelity. It’s a sick option if you’re a bedroom producer, a pro working in tight quarters, or just someone who needs precise, reliable monitors, these are a game-changer.
Why They Shine:
- Designed for Small Spaces: Optimized for ultra-nearfield setups, perfect for modern producers working in less-than-ideal rooms.
- Room Correction Technology: Comes with ARC calibration to adjust to your space automatically, giving you better accuracy without expensive acoustic treatment.
- Exceptional Audio Quality: High-definition sound with crystal-clear detail, making it easy to spot every mix element.
Kontakt 8
Kontakt 8 snagged an Editor’s Choice Award for good reason—it takes everything that made the platform a must-have for producers and composers and cranks it up. No matter what you’re into; layering beats, scoring an indie film, or chasing that next weird, experimental sound, Kontakt 8 has something to bring to the table.
The new Leap tool makes loop manipulation faster and easier than ever, while Conflux adds hybrid synthesis to take your sound design to new places. Add in a completely revamped Factory Library and some top-tier MIDI generation tools, and this update feels like a proper evolution, not just another version.
Why Kontakt 8 Deserves the Spotlight:
- MIDI Tools that Spark Creativity: Generate chords and phrases on the fly when inspiration’s running dry.
- Leap for Loop Manipulation: Real-time loop edits without the fuss—perfect for beatmakers.
- Conflux Hybrid Synthesis: Layer synths and samples seamlessly for fresh, unique textures.
VE-22 Vocal Performer
The BOSS VE-22 Vocal Performer is the kind of tool that makes you rethink what’s possible for vocalists. It’s not just a pedal; it’s a Swiss Army knife for your vocals, offering everything from live-ready effects like reverb, harmony, and pitch correction to studio-friendly features like subtle de-essing and layering with its built-in looper.
The presets alone cover so much ground—modern genres like Hyper Pop or classic vibes like Lo-Fi—and the ability to save 99 of your own configurations means you can completely tailor it to your sound. That kind of customization paired with ease of use? No-brainer.
Why did it snag an Editor’s Choice Award?
- Stupid Simple Design: Buttons, knobs, and footswitches—everything you need, nothing you don’t.
- Massive Preset Library: From Trap to Beatboxing, there’s something for every vocalist, and it’s all tweakable.
- Dual Threat: Just as valuable in the studio for pitch correction and vocal FX as it is on stage.
The Donner Hush 1 Pro Travel Guitar
The Donner Hush 1 Pro Guitar snagged the Editor’s Choice Award for good reason—it’s a portable powerhouse that manages to pack serious functionality into a travel-friendly design. With its modular, headless frame that assembles in under 30 seconds, this guitar feels more like a high-tech gadget than a traditional instrument. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the Hush 1 Pro lets you take your sound anywhere. It’s quiet enough for late-night practice sessions but turns into a tone monster when plugged in, thanks to its onboard effects and tone-shaping capabilities.
Why the Hush 1 Pro deserves the hype:
- Travel-Friendly: Modular design fits into a gig bag the size of a clarinet case and weighs just over 2kg, making it a breeze to take on the road.
- Built-In Effects: Features 18 onboard effects (reverb, delay, overdrive, and more), plus 8 acoustic body simulations, all adjustable via an OLED screen.
- Hybrid Playability: Play silently with headphones or connect to an amp for rich, full acoustic tones—no pedalboard required.
Yamaha Seqtrak
The Yamaha Seqtrak earned its spot as a 2024 Editor’s Choice Award winner for being a portable powerhouse that blends drum programming, synthesis, and sampling into a sleek, compact device. Designed for producers who thrive outside the box, this groovebox offers tactile controls, onboard effects, and a sequencer that lets you create full tracks on the go.
With over 2000 presets, a built-in sampler, and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity, it’s an all-in-one solution for sketching ideas, performing live, or experimenting in unconventional spaces. Its small size, rechargeable battery, and durable build make it an ideal companion for producers and DJs looking to break away from their DAW.
Why the Yamaha Seqtrak deserves the Editor’s Choice:
- Portable Design: Lightweight, durable, and packed with features like a rechargeable battery, it’s perfect for on-the-go creativity.
- Powerful Sound Engines: Combines Yamaha’s AWM2 and FM synthesis engines with 128-note polyphony for a wide range of sounds, from acoustic to electronic.
- Live and Studio Ready: Built-in effects, a sampler, and real-time sequencing make it versatile for both production and live performance.
Arturia AudioFuse 16Rig
The Arturia AudioFuse 16Rig was awarded the Editor’s Choice Award for redefining what an audio interface can offer to professional and hobbyist producers alike. With 32×28 channels, a plethora of analog and digital inputs, and seamless integration into modular or traditional setups, this interface is a dream for gear enthusiasts. It delivers exceptional sound quality that even casual listeners can appreciate and includes quality-of-life features like a built-in USB hub, customizable routing software, and DC-coupled outputs for controlling modular gear. Though its unconventional size might require some studio rearranging, the AudioFuse 16Rig proves to be a powerhouse for any producer looking to streamline their workflow and elevate their sound.
Why the AudioFuse 16Rig deserves the Editor’s Choice:
- Unmatched Connectivity: Offers a staggering number of inputs and outputs, including TRS, ADAT, and MIDI, making it easy to connect all your gear simultaneously.
- Enhanced Workflow: Features like a USB hub and rack-mountability eliminate cable clutter and simplify complex setups.
- Sound Quality: Delivers pristine audio fidelity, letting you hear every detail of your music with unmatched clarity.
Humanoid
The Baby Audio Humanoid Vocal Effects Plug-in snagged the Editor’s Choice Award because it’s one of the most inventive vocal processing tools I’ve seen. It’s not just about tweaking pitch or adding reverb—it’s about completely reshaping vocals into something new, whether that’s turning a vocal line into a bass synth or adding textures that feel like they came from another planet.
Humanoid feels like a sound designer’s dream, but it’s approachable enough for anyone who wants to elevate their vocal tracks without needing a degree in audio engineering.
Why Humanoid stands out:
- Vocal Resynthesis Magic: Transforms vocal lines into basslines, synth leads, or entirely alien sounds with its FFT-based engine and resynthesis capabilities.
- Custom Wavetables: Blend your vocals with synth-like tones using built-in or imported wavetables, giving you endless sound-shaping options.
- MIDI Integration: Map vocals to a MIDI keyboard and play melodies or harmonies in real time—it’s next-level control for creative producers.
Cableguys Snapback
Snapback by Cableguys and BT earned an Editor’s Choice Award for reimagining drum layering with a blend of innovation, speed, and creativity. This plugin simplifies the tedious process of manually layering drum sounds, offering automatic hit detection, pre-transient layering, and a built-in sample library that enhances drums with precision and texture.
If you’re tightening a kick, adding groove to hi-hats, or creating dynamic snares, Snapback saves time while delivering professional results. It’s an essential tool for producers working in genres where drums are front and center, like hip-hop, house, or drum & bass.
Why Snapback earned the Editor’s Choice Award:
- Automatic Hit Detection: Instantly aligns samples to drum hits, cutting down hours of manual adjustments.
- Pre-Transient Layering: Adds a “breathing” effect to drums for a more natural and dynamic groove.
- Built-In Sample Library: Over 200 curated sounds, from vinyl textures to analog hiss, designed to make your drums stand out.
ROKIT 5 Generation Five
The KRK ROKIT 5 Generation Five studio monitors are a masterclass in balancing price, performance, and style. If you’re a producer building your first setup or just looking to upgrade without gutting your wallet, these monitors hit the sweet spot.
At just under $400 for the pair, they pack the rare value in this space, delivering solid sound quality and features that go well beyond the basics. What sets them apart, though, is the inclusion of three voicing modes—Create, Focus, and Mix—that let you shape the sound to match your workflow, whether you’re sketching ideas or dialing in the final mix.
So, why the Editor’s Choice Award?
- Exceptional Value: They outperform expectations at this price point, making them a no-brainer for new producers or budget-conscious studios.
- Customizable Sound: The three voicing modes let you adjust for creativity, critical listening, or flat mixing—versatility you rarely see in entry-level monitors.
- Clean Design: The modern, polished look feels right at home in any studio, and let’s face it, style matters when your gear is always in view.
reMarkable Paper Pro
The reMarkable Paper Pro earned its Editor’s Choice Award because it takes everything great about the reMarkable 2 and pushes it into next-level territory. This isn’t just another tech upgrade—it’s a tool that respects creativity and productivity while adding features that actually matter. With the new Canvas Color display, adjustable reading light, and insanely accurate handwriting-to-text conversion, the Paper Pro feels like the perfect blend of analog comfort and digital power. It’s not trying to replace your workflow—it’s here to make it smoother, faster, and a whole lot more enjoyable.
Why the reMarkable Paper Pro nailed it:
- Canvas Color Display: Nine colors plus blending options make notes and sketches more dynamic and organized, giving creatives serious flexibility.
- Built-In Reading Light: Late-night edits or low-light work? No problem—the Pro has you covered with eye-friendly illumination.
- Handwriting-to-Text That Works: Converts messy handwriting into clean text with shocking accuracy, keeping you in the flow without missing a beat.
Dark Matter by Monoprice 49in Monitor
Ultrawide monitors have been the envy of gamers and creatives for years, but their price tags often make them a pipe dream. Enter the Monoprice Dark Matter 49-inch Ultrawide Monitor—a $649 powerhouse (and often on sale) that delivers an immersive 5120 x 1440 resolution at 120Hz, FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility, and a wide 32:9 aspect ratio. For gamers and music producers alike, this monitor feels like a set piece that demands attention.
Why I Love It
- Massive Real Estate
Let’s not overthink this: it’s big, it’s bold, and it’s beautiful. For gaming, it pulls you into worlds like never before—Classic WoW feels like stepping into Azeroth itself. For music production, the screen space is a workflow revolution. Having plugins, timelines, and tracks open simultaneously without crowding is a dream come true. - Dual-Monitor Power Without the Bezel
The Picture-by-Picture mode turns this ultrawide into two seamless screens, ideal for keeping Spotify or a stream manager open while you work or play. Add Picture-in-Picture for a third source, and you’ve got flexibility that most setups just can’t touch. - No-Nonsense Setup
Plug it in, power it up, and you’re off. No fiddling, no endless calibration menus—just a monitor that works straight out of the box. It’s perfect for anyone who h
Joolca HOTTAP V2 Nomad Kit
Hot water is a game-changer for campers, overlanders, and van lifers, and the Joolca HOTTAP V2 Nomad Kit proves just how far portable systems have come. Compact, powerful, and modular, this kit does more than deliver hot water—it makes outdoor living feel effortless. No wonder it snagged one of our coveted Editor’s Choice Awards this year.
Whether you’re camping at Mount Hood or spending a weekend by Suttle Lake (anecdotal evidence from this Pacific Northwest dude), this system shines in its balance of portability, robust performance, and ease of use. Its quick-connect fittings, sturdy construction, and thoughtful accessories like the foldable sink and shower tent make it one of the best ones you can grab. Plus, the 37,500-BTU burner heats water in seconds, while the customizable temperature and flow controls offer versatility for everything from a warm shower to cleaning up after dinner.
What Stands Out
- Build Quality & Modularity
The compact, durable design is paired with quick-connect fittings and magnetic mounts, making setup a breeze and adding flexibility for varied outdoor needs. - Performance & Filtration
Instant hot water up to 122°F with a steady flow of 1.6 GPM feels more like home plumbing than a campsite hack. The two-stage filtration system also ensures safety when using natural water sources. - Accessories & Usability
Bundles like the Nomad Kit include extras like the foldable sink and privacy-enhancing shower tent. These accessories enhance functionality and make it family-friendly for long weekends off-grid.
The Ignik Firecan Deluxe Portable Firepit and Grill
As someone who splits time between backcountry camping and music festivals, I’ve tried a lot of portable fire pits and grills, but the Ignik FireCan Deluxe Portable Firepit and Grill has quickly become an essential piece of my outdoor kit. It’s not just a fire pit—it’s a multipurpose tool that combines the warmth and ambiance of a campfire with the functionality of a portable grill. In a world where fire bans and environmental concerns are increasingly common, this propane-powered fire pit is a game-changer.
Compact, efficient, and ready to go out of the box, the FireCan Deluxe features a stainless steel grilling insert, collapsible legs, and a removable grease tray for easy cleanup. The flame adjustment knob ensures precise temperature control if you’re grilling burgers or roasting veggies.
What I Love About the FireCan Deluxe
- Dual Functionality
Switch seamlessly between grill mode and fire pit mode, with excellent heat output for cooking and a strong flame for chilly evenings. Perfect for music festivals or family camping trips. - Portability and Convenience
Everything nests inside the can for easy packing, and the five-foot quick-release hose makes setup a breeze—even after a long day outdoors. - Environmentally Conscious Design
Raised off the forest floor, the FireCan Deluxe is a safer alternative to wood-burning campfires, especially during wildfire season.
The Luno Portable Air Mattress
I’m not ready for a roof tent just yet, but I still like the safety and convenience of just opening up the back of my Jeep Wrangler and making a nest out of it. The custom-sized Luno Air Mattress systems (available for various trucks, SUVs, and camper vans) have made sleeping in your vehicle simple, convenient, and quite comfortable. In fact, Luno has an entire ecosystem of products that are worth a look, from pillows to wood carriers. Need some camping advice? They’ve got you covered with a ton of excellent guides filled with tips.
Who is it for? These systems are for people who want the ease and safety of sleeping in their vehicle and are a great alternative to a roof tent. So, if you have a camper van, SUV, or truck, this could be your dream system.
Cloud Layer Double – 3 Season Sleeping Bag
The Cloud Layer Double sleeping bag is kind of a must if you are going all in on the Cloud Layer system. The bag is designed with layers to cozy up or cool off, suitable for 20° nights and 60° summer evenings. Designed to work with two of the Cloud Layer Large air mattresses tethered together, you have a bed that is slightly bigger than a queen mattress, giving you plenty of room to roll around. There is even an organic cotton sheet layer inside for that homey feeling. Its multiple-layer combinations can dial you in perfectly temperature-wise, and there is even a double zipper to let your feet hang out if you need those toes to get some fresh air.
Features:
- DRAW-TIGHT HOOD: Wraps you in warmth during cold weather.
- CUSTOM INNER POCKET: Holds your device and helps keep you organized.
- QUILTY AS CHARGED: Removable quilt layer for use as a cozy camp blanket.
- FLANNEL LINING: Flannel lining and durable poly-fill designed for comfort and warmth.
- DOUBLE ZIPPER: Allows open ventilation for your feet. Fold back either side or fully remove.
- SIDE BAFFLES: Generous side baffles create extra height from bottom to top for maximum roominess.
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