Just One More Toy!!….
We’re heading into gift-buying season, and I’m often asked for my recommendations: Are you looking for something that might make your guitar playing just a bit easier—or maybe spark some inspiration again?
Over the past six months, I’ve picked up a few bits of gear that have become really useful in my day-to-day playing and teaching. None of them are sponsored, and none were sent to me—these are just things I’ve found, tried, and ended up loving.
1. D’Addario CinchFit — The Strap Whisperer
Ever tried to stretch your strap over a massive jack socket on an electro-acoustic guitar? You know the feeling… new swear words invented in the process. The CinchFit saves you from that headache.
It’s a small, clever device that cinches around your strap and locks magnetically onto the jack. No tools, no mods, no stress. The weight of the guitar keeps it closed, and it just works. Compact, clever, and one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” inventions.
D’Addario CinchFit
2. D’Addario Universal Neck Rest — Because Gravity is Not Always Your Friend
Years of awkwardly balancing guitars across my knees while restringing are finally over. This lightweight foam neck rest props up the guitar neck securely for restringing, cleaning, or tweaking.
And when it’s not in use? Mine’s currently holding a Rubik’s Cube. Multi-function.
D’Addario Neck Cradle & Hercules Stand
3. Hercules GS401B Acoustic Stand — Built Like a Tank (But Folds Nicely)
After my beloved wooden Cooperstand snapped, I needed something compact but indestructible. The Hercules GS401B is perfect: folds neatly into its own bag, holds firm, and doesn’t take over your space. Ideal for teaching, filming, or keeping a guitar handy.
Note: This one is best for acoustics. I tried an electric once… let’s just say that was “research.”
4. Looper Pedal — The Practice Buddy Who Never Gets Bored
If you don’t have a looper yet, fair warning: once you start, you might forget to eat.
I’ve been using the Line 6 DL4 MkII, but even a basic Ditto Looper opens creative floodgates. Layer rhythm parts, melodies, solos—you can basically play in your own band without the rehearsal drama. Great for timing, improvisation, and losing yourself in a musical rabbit hole.
-
- TC Ditto
-
- Line 6 DL4 mkii
Line 6 DL4 MkII – Amazon | Thomann
Ditto Looper – Amazon | Thomann
5. Drum Beats+ — The Metronome’s Cooler Cousin
Metronomes are essential, but they can be as inspiring as a spreadsheet. Drum Beats+ brings real grooves—rock, blues, funk, you name it—with adjustable BPM.
It’s brilliant for lessons, too. People instantly “get” rhythm when a kick drum thumps on one and a snare hits on two and four. Far more engaging than endless tick-tock doom.
moises & drum beats +
6. Moises — The App That Lets You Dissect Songs (Without Guilt)
This one blew my mind. Upload a song you own, and it separates the instruments and vocals. Want to isolate the guitar? Mute everything else. Need to slow it down? Easy.
It’s like having studio control without the studio. Perfect for learning tricky solos or breaking down those “how do they do that?” moments. The basic version lets you work with five free tracks a month—more than enough for most players.
None of these gadgets will instantly make you play like Jeff Beck, but they will make your guitar life smoother, more creative, and a lot more fun—and that’s the real win.
If you’d like to see them in action, I’ve put together a short video showing how I use each one:
👉 6 Guitar Gifts That Make Playing Easier (and Way More Fun!) 2025
Which one would make it onto your gear list? Drop me a comment—I’d love to hear what simple tools you swear by.
0 Comments