Gift Guide: Musical Instruments and Gear Under 200 EUR
By Milo
Looking for a musical gift but not sure where to start? We have put together our favourite instruments and gear under 200 EUR, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just treating yourself.
For the Guitarist
A quality capo (15-25 EUR). Every guitarist needs one and most people buy the cheapest one they can find. A good capo, like a G7th or a Shubb, makes a noticeable difference in tuning stability and ease of use. It is the kind of upgrade people never buy for themselves but always appreciate.
A clip-on tuner (15-30 EUR). The TC Electronic Polytune Clip is our recommendation. Fast, accurate, and works in noisy environments. Much more reliable than phone apps.
A pre-owned acoustic guitar (100-200 EUR). Yes, you can get a playable, good-sounding acoustic guitar for under 200 EUR if you buy pre-owned. We always have a selection in this range. Come in and try a few.
For the Pianist
A sustain pedal (20-40 EUR). Most keyboards come with a cheap plastic pedal. Upgrading to a proper half-pedal style sustain pedal transforms the playing experience.
A keyboard stand (30-60 EUR). A sturdy X-stand or table stand makes practice more comfortable and keeps the instrument accessible. The difference between “I will practice later” and actually practicing is often just having the keyboard set up and ready.
For the Drummer
A practice pad (25-50 EUR). The Evans RealFeel or Vic Firth pads are industry standards. Essential for building technique without waking up the neighbours.
Quality drumsticks (8-15 EUR per pair). Sticks are consumable. A pack of three pairs of Vic Firth 5As or similar is always a welcome gift.
For Anyone
A ukulele (40-80 EUR). The gateway instrument. Easy to learn, impossible not to smile while playing. We recommend the Kala KA-15S for beginners, great value, decent sound, and it stays in tune.
Guitar or music lessons (50-150 EUR). A few lessons with a good teacher can change someone trajectory as a musician. We can recommend instructors in Barcelona for most instruments.
A gift card from Shine (any amount). When in doubt, let them choose. Our gift cards work in-store and cover instruments, accessories, and repairs.
The Rule of Thumb
The best musical gifts are things the musician needs but would not splurge on for themselves. Strings, cables, cases, straps, picks, drumsticks, the consumables and accessories that make playing better. You do not need to buy a whole instrument to give a meaningful gift.
Not sure what to get? Come into the shop and tell us about the person you are buying for. We will help you find the right thing.
