Selecting a gift for a musician in 2023 can be overwhelming with the range of fun and innovative music tech available. Thanks to technological advancements, you can now fit a synthesizer or groovebox in your pocket and create complete songs or perform on-the-go! To simplify your search, we've handpicked our top 5 affordable and entertaining musician gadgets.

1. Stylophone Pocket Synth 

The Stylophone is a charming, mini synthesizer that can be played with a special stylus or with your fingers. By gliding across the keyboard, you can produce various tones with a built-in speaker and a vibrato effect.

Despite its compact size, the Stylophone has a rich history. It was first invented in 1968 by Brian Jarvis of Dubreq Studios in London, who stumbled upon the idea while repairing a toy piano for his niece. By replacing the keys with electronics, he created a monophonic organ with a distinctive, electronic sound.

You may have heard the iconic Stylophone tone in popular music, particularly in David Bowie's "Space Oddity."

Today, a Stylophone is an affordable option, costing less than $40! Piano or keyboard players can use it to achieve interesting and creative results. In no time, you'll be playing your favorite tunes on this unique instrument.

2. Melodica (Mouth Organ)

If you're in search of a more traditional musical instrument, the Melodica is a classic, yet unique choice. It operates without the need for batteries or charging - simply play the keys by strapping them to your hand and blowing into the attached tube.

The Melodica produces a harmonica-like sound, making it an ideal instrument for creating melancholic melodies. Its reliance on breath control makes it a perfect music-making tool for outdoor settings, such as the beach or park. The Melodica also comes with longer tubes, so you don't have to blow directly into it.

With prices for quality Melodicas becoming increasingly affordable, you can now find a good one for around $30.

3. Artiphone Orba

The Artiphone Orba is the most unique item on this list. This unique, puck-shaped device that allows you to create complete music compositions with drums, bass, chords, and lead sounds using touch-sensitive buttons. You can also control the on-board synth sounds by spinning, tilting, or shaking the device.

The Orba features a speaker and a headphone jack and can be paired with a dedicated app for greater control. It also functions as an advanced midi controller with MPE, allowing you to add an extra layer of expression when controlling your favorite music software.

While the Orba may not have gained widespread popularity, it's a quirky device that offers excellent value for its cost.

4. 8 Key Mini Kalimba

The smallest item on this list is this compact Kalimba. Made of genuine wood, it is small enough to be attached to your bag or kept in your car and comes with a lanyard for easy carrying.

Playing it can be a great way to relieve stress and anxiety, providing your fingers with a relaxing activity. The Kalimba is tuned to the key of C Major and arranged in a way that allows you to quickly learn and play familiar songs. Simply pluck the keys from the base with your fingertips. You can find many Kalimba tutorials on YouTube or get a songbook for reference.

This mini Kalimba may not have the same volume as a full-sized one, but it's loud enough to give you your own mini concert whenever you want.

And... we saved the best for last! 

5. Muro Box – Smart, App Controlled Music Box

The Muro Box is a revolutionary new app-controlled music box that brings all your musical desires to life. No longer limited to the traditional songs of a mechanical music box, you can now play your favorite tunes with the same classic sound.

The Muro Box stands in a league of its own, offering smart app control features to easily upload music compositions to a cloud library and share your creations with music box enthusiasts worldwide. You can store and play your songs at any time through the app. Here are some of the incredible features of the Muro Box music box:

Smart Alarm

You can program your Muro Box to start your music at a particular time!

Interactive App

The unique app for the Muro Box allows you to compose songs, upload and listen to music, and interact with other Muro composers.

Large Music Library

You will have an endless library space where you can store your favorite tunes and listen to them anytime you wish. 

Check out this video to see just how amazing the Muro Box is!