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Do you know when I got my first guitar? It was a gift given to me by my parents when I turned 12, and given how learning the guitar (and multiple other instruments) has impacted my life, I’m a champion of musical instruments given as gifts. Though the calendar just touched the first day of fall, winter is on its way, ushering everyone’s favorite gift-giving holiday – Christmas!
Whether you have a son or daughter who is begging Santa Claus for an electric guitar, keyboard, or ukelele, or you have a spouse who has always wanted to take up the banjo, you should consider a musical instrument starter pack. Instrument bundles, or instrument beginner packs, as some have labeled them, not only provide the instrument you are targeting but also include essential accessories all in one, saving you the energy of purchasing multiple separate items.
That’s why we’ve compiled this ultimate guide to musical instrument starter packs. Whether you’re shopping for a budding bluegrass mandolin picker destined to be the next Ricky Scaggs, or the next guitar legend Jimi Hendrix, we’ve not only provided some tips on how to go about finding the perfect musical instrument package. We’ve gone the extra snow-blanketed mile of offering excellent instrument starter packs that you can order online, from guitars that won’t break the bank to keyboards that’ll turn Mozart green with envy.
In this guide, we’ll dive into:
• What exactly comes in typical “instrument starter packs”
• How to choose the best instrument for your giftee
• The best starter packs for guitars, keyboards, ukuleles, and more
• Options that won’t make your wallet sing the blues
• And some premium picks for those ready to play at full-throttle
Santa’s sleigh is ready for take-off! Get ready for the holiday rush by reading our ultimate musical instrument starter packs gift guide for Christmas 2024, thereby ensuring your gift hits all the right notes this holiday season.
The Best Musical Instrument Starter Packs – A Quick Glance
| Product Image | Product Name / Primary Rating / Price | Primary Button |
|---|---|---|
Best Electric Guitar Kit Under $200 |
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Best Concert Sized Acoustic |
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Best 3/4 Children's Size |
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Best Electric Piano |
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Best 61-Key Bundle |
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Best Vintage Design |
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Best Acoustic on a Budget |
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Best Beginner Mandolin Kit |
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Best Starter Banjo Kit |
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Best Bass Guitar Kit |
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Best Ukulele Starter Kit |
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Understanding Musical Instrument Starter Packs: What’s Included?
What exactly is a musical instrument package? You could see it as the Swiss Army knife of music gear – it has everything a beginner needs to start learning an instrument.
Typically, you’ll find:
- The chosen instrument
- Some essential accessories (like picks for guitars, an electronic tuner, an instrument strap, drumsticks for drums, etc.)
- A printed beginner’s guide or instructional DVD
- A gig bag or case (often)
- In the case of an electric guitar, a guitar amp with the necessary cords
Why is it advantageous to opt for an instrument bundle over the instrument by itself? Because you’ll get all the necessary extras without the hassle of piecing it together yourself. Plus, it’s usually cheaper than buying everything separately. Win-win!
Choosing the Right Instrument Bundle: Factors to Consider
When picking the best music instrument starter pack to give as a gift (or for oneself), there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Age of the recipient: If purchasing a guitar, the size is an important consideration. A kindergartner, for example, would be overwhelmed holding a dreadnought guitar. A 1/2 or 3/4 size would be more appropriate. For a more detailed guide on choosing the right instrument, check out How to Choose the Best Instrument to Learn.
2. Musical interests: Does your giftee get their kicks over hardcore metal music or enjoy country music? This should guide your choice between electric and acoustic instruments.
3. Space constraints: If you’re living in an apartment or other small living space, a drum kit or electric guitar may be a noisy, impractical choice. There are workarounds, however, if the interested party is dead-set on a louder instrument–consider an electronic drum kit/guitar with a set of headphones so they can bang/strum away without you hearing a thing!
4. Budget: You don’t need to break the bank, but remember, you often get what you pay for. Don’t immediately jump on the cheapest music starter pack out there.
5. Commitment level: Is this a “let’s try it out” gift or a serious pursuit? This can help you decide between a basic or more advanced instrument package.
Top Guitar Starter Packs for Beginners
Let’s begin with the obvious choice – the guitar. This long-standing instrument has been the popular choice of rebellious teens and soulful singer-songwriters everywhere for almost a century. For good reason – guitars are a minimal investment, fairly easy to learn, travel well, and fuel music-inspired dreams of greatness.
Acoustic Guitar Packs
Acoustic guitar musical instrument bundles are perfect for the aspiring campfire troubadour. With quality brands like Yamaha or Fender, you can rest assured you’ll be selecting a reliable beginner model. Make sure the package includes extra strings, a tuner, and maybe even a capo.
#1 Best Concert Size Acoustic – Fender CC-60S Acoustic Guitar Bundle
The Fender CC-60S is an all-around excellent acoustic guitar to gift to a significant other, teenager, or other giftee this holiday season. Not only is the dark mahogany finish extremely attractive, but this guitar’s size lends to the comfort in holding it. It will sit nicely in the lap of a teen or adult woman due to its smaller proportions, and can also work well for kids ages 10 and up.
The tone on this particular acoustic is rich and warm due to its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides. It also has good action for being in a lower price bracket. Sporting a brand name that is trusted and extras like a gig bag, picks, strap, and more, this $229 purchase is well worth the holiday investment.
Fender CC-60S Acoustic Guitar Bundle • Rich, resonant all-mahogany construction for top, back, and sides
• Smooth-playing walnut fretboard with rounded edges for comfort
• Redesigned neck profile for enhanced playability
• Gig-ready bundle extras include: protective gig bag, digital tuner, guitar strap, spare strings, assortment of picks, access to Fender Play online lesson platform, and exclusive Austin Bazaar instructional DVD
#2 Best on a Budget – Yamaha GigMaker Acoustic Guitar Starter Pack
Resting comfortably at the $200 mark, you can’t go wrong with this beginner dreadnought-sized acoustic guitar by Yamaha. I’ve had many a student learn on these guitars, and I was always impressed with the bright sound, low action, and sleek look of this model. Sporting a spruce top and rosewood fretboard, the Yamaha GigMaker will inspire beginners to pursue their 6-string skills with gusto.
The instrument starter pack comes with picks, a clip-on tuner, strap, and gig bag. It’s worth noting that many of the gig bags included in these bundles are not great at protecting the guitar. They are fine to start out, keeping the guitar dry if loading it in the car on a rainy day, or protecting it from dings. However, if you are trusting the bag for ultra-protection, invest later in a hard case or very sturdy, padded soft one.
While this model is natural colored, there is an attractive Sunburst model for $20 more.
Yamaha GigMaker Acoustic Guitar Starter Pack - Perfect beginner acoustic guitar package
- Features an F310 Natural Dreadnought acoustic guitar
- Accessories include gig bag, digital tuner, strap, and picks
- Spruce Top
- Rosewood Fingerboard
#3 Best for Kids – Fender FA-15 3/4-Scale Kids Steel String Acoustic Guitar
While many parents question whether or not their children ages 5-9 are old enough to learn the guitar, the answer is a resounding, “Yes!” However, the size of the guitar is important, as younger children have smaller frames and less strength and dexterity in their hands and fingers. The Fender FA-15 model is a 3/4 size guitar, making it the best Christmas gift for a youngster. With four colors to choose from – Sunburst, Moonlight Burst, Solid Green, or Solid Black – the child that receives this acoustic guitar will be thanking Santa Claus enthusiastically.
While this guitar does come in a bit under $200, it’s worth that extra cost if you want a good quality, as many low-budget instruments tend to have high action, rendering them unplayable, or near-so, for kids whose fingers are tender. Accompanied by spare strings, picks, a guitar strap, and gig bag, this guitar starter music kit is well worth the investment.
Fender FA-15 3/4-Scale Kids Steel String Acoustic Guitar * 3/4-scale steel-string acoustic guitar by Fender
* Suitable for young players ages 6 to 12
* Features contemporary Fender 3+3 headstock design and walnut bridge
* Nato neck provides vibrant tone and feel, appealing to novice and progressing musicians
* Package includes: Gig Bag, Tuner, Strap, Picks, access to Fender Play Online Lessons, and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD
Electric Guitar Bundles
Electric guitars make great holiday gift ideas for those ready to rock the neighborhood garage-band style. Brands like Squier by Fender or Epiphone offer great starter packs. Make sure it includes a small practice amp, which is essential for those bedroom jam sessions.
#4 Best Electric Guitar Starter Pack Under $200 – Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Package
For the child, teen, or adult who dreams of rock greatness, the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster will leave your gift recipient grinning from ear to ear “Grinch-style” on Christmas morning. It’s got a slick black finish with white front plate, and sports three single-coil pickups with a 5-way switch to change up tones easily. The warmth of sound on this instrument, when set to a clean channel, is soothing, while it can definitely shoot out some funkadelic riffs when set to overdrive.
The 10-watt Fender amp, part of the bundle, will give beginner to intermediate players all they need to perfect their playing skills. An added bonus in this instrument bundle is a guitar stand, added to the typical extras.
Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Package - Squier Debut Stratocaster, Frontman 10G amp, gig bag, strap, cable, picks, stand, and extra strings
- Backed by Fender's 75-year legacy of quality craftsmanship
- Available in Black, Dakota Red, and 2-Tone Sunburst
- Features comfortable "C" neck, laurel fingerboard, and lightweight body
- Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching for classic Strat tones
- Includes free Fender Play subscription for online lessons
- 2-Year Limited Warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship
#5 Best Vintage Design – Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Vintage Sunburst
For a very reasonable price, you’ll be investing in an electric guitar capable of rocking the heavens! It’s high-quality is immediately apparent in the well-made body smooth neck, quality switches, and superior sound. The 10-watt Electar amp works well for beginners, showcasing the possibilities magnified by its two humbucker pickups.
Accessories include a 10 ft cable, clip-on chromatic tuner, strap, picks, and quality gig bag. Another nice feature in the bundle is free downloadable guitar lessons that cover blues, rock, metal, folk, and country genres. While the gorgeous Sunburst finish is reminiscent of early rock band legends, you can also get this guitar in classic Ebony.
Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Vintage Sunburst Starter Pack * The Les Paul Player Pack by Epiphone offers a complete starter kit for aspiring guitarists
* It features an authentic Les Paul Special-II LTD guitar with dual hum bucker pickups, paired with a compact 10-watt Electra amplifier and a 10-foot cable
* Included accessories: a clip-on chromatic tuner, comfortable guitar strap, selection of medium picks, and portable gig bag
* Access to free downloadable guitar lessons from online media resources
Bass Guitar Beginner Packs: Laying Down the Groove
Bass guitars are the unsung heroes of the music world. They lay down the groove that gets people moving, even if most listeners don’t consciously notice them.
When choosing a bass kit, consider:
• 4-string vs. 5-string: 4 is standard and easier for beginners. 5 gives more range but can be overwhelming at first.
• Scale length: Short-scale basses are easier for smaller players to handle.
• Amp inclusion: A small practice amp is crucial for a bass. Make sure it’s included or budget for one separately.
Look for bass bundless that include a gig bag, cable, and maybe even some instructional material.
#6 Best Bass Guitar Starter Pack – Squier by Fender Precision Bass Guitar Bundle
If you’re looking for the perfect Yuletide gift for the aspiring bassist, the Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ bundle is an excellent choice. This bass guitar delivers the legendary Fender design and quintessential tone in a player-friendly package. Featuring a lightweight black body, attractive design, and versatile pickups, this bass will help any player lay down solid grooves that enhance the rhythm section of numerous genre-based bands.
What makes this bundle truly special is its comprehensive Rumble 15-watt amplifier, which can support both closet players and performers alike. The included padded gig bag, strap, picks, and cable make this music instrument package a must-have. As an added bonus, it comes with a three-month subscription to Fender Play, providing structured online lessons to kickstart their learning.
Squier by Fender Precision Bass Guitar Bundle - Squier Affinity Series Precision bass guitar
- Lightweight poplar body and maple neck
- Slim "C" shaped neck profile
- Versatile PJ pickup configuration
- Padded gig bag
- Rumble 15 bass amp
- Accessories include a 10-inch cable, guitar strap
- 3-month Fender Play subscription
- 2-year limited warranty
Keyboard and Piano Starter Packs: From Portable to Professional
Keyboards are fantastic for beginners – they’re versatile, apartment-friendly, and you can practice with headphones. Win!
For beginners, look for:
• At least 61 keys, with a full 88-key option for the hardcore piano enthusiast
• Touch-sensitive keys (they respond to how hard you press, like a real piano)
• A sustain pedal
Brands like Casio, Yamaha, and Alesis offer great starter bundles that often include a stand, bench, and headphones. I usually recommend weighted keys to provide a more authentic piano feel, but they do cost a bit more.
#7 Best 61-Key Bundle – Casio CT-S300 61-Key Premium Keyboard Pack
Whether you want to get your son or daughter started in piano lessons after Christmas, or you know an adult who desires a keyboard to pound, the Casio CT-S300 61-key keyboard bundle will fit the bill. It combines portability, versatility, and high-quality sound. This ultra-compact keyboard features 400 great-sounding tones, 77 rhythms with full accompaniment, and 10 types of reverb for added depth. With its full-size keys, touch response, and intuitive controls, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced players alike.
This all-in-one bundle comes with everything needed to start making music right away, including a power supply, music rest, and Samson headphones. The CT-S300’s Dance Music Mode allows for easy creation and remixing of EDM tracks, while the built-in library of 60 songs offers loads of practice material. Yet another nifty feature is that the keyboard can connect to the free Chordana Play app for iOS and Android, offering additional learning resources. Whether it’s for personal practice or jamming with friends, this Casio keyboard bundle is sure to bring joy and musical inspiration this holiday season.
Casio CT-S300 61-Key Premium Keyboard Pack • Portable 61-key keyboard with touch sensitivity
• Diverse sound library featuring 400 Tones and 77 Rhythms
• EDM creation and remixing with Dance Music Mode
• Versatile connectivity: USB-MIDI, AC power, and battery option
• Compatible with Chordana Play app for iOS/Android, offering lessons and additional features
• Bundled with Samson Headphones (either HP30 or SR350 model)
#8 Best Electric Piano – Alesis Recital 88-Key Digital Piano Starter Pack
The Alesis Recital Recital 88-Key Digital Piano Keyboard makes for a holly jolly Christmas gift, offering a perfect combo of feel and sound. With 88 full-sized semi-weighted keys and adjustable touch response, this digital piano feels like the real thing, yet is portable. Other perks include adjustable Reverb and Chorus, and Layer and Split Modes. The 20-watt built-in speakers and 128-note maximum polyphony deliver realistic sounds, making this instrument a quality choice for practice and performance.
The “Lesson Mode” divides the keys into two zones, allowing students and teachers to interact. Additionally, the bundle includes 3 months of Skoove Premium – online piano courses that support any skill level and offer feedback. With its varied features and educational options, the Alesis Recital keyboard bundle will make for a life-changing gift for aspiring musicians this Christmas season.
Alesis Recital 88-Key Digital Piano Starter Pack • Customizable Electric Piano: 88 full-sized semi-weighted keys with adjustable touch response
• Versatile Sounds: 5 voices (Piano, E-Piano, Organ, Synth, Bass) with built-in effects and dual 20W speakers
• Connectivity: Sustain pedal input, headphone output, and stereo RCA outputs
• Portable: Uses AC adapter or batteries for on-the-go performance
• Learning Tools: Multiple play modes, 128-note polyphony, and 3-month Skoove subscription
• Online Lessons: 30-day Melodics Premium access with 100 virtual lessons for various genres and techniques
Ukulele Starter Sets: Compact and Fun for All Ages
Ukuleles are small, cute, and guaranteed to make people smile. They’re perfect for beginner musicians because they’re easy to hold and the nylon strings are gentle on fingers.
When choosing a uke, consider the size:
• Soprano: The classic, smallest size. Great for kids or travel.
• Concert: A bit bigger, with a fuller sound.
• Tenor: Larger still, popular with adults and performers.
Look for packs that include a case, extra strings, and a clip-on tuner. Some uke sets even come with built-in tuners.
#9 Best Ukulele Starter Pack – Ranch Tenor Ukulele Starter Bundle
As already stated, ukuleles come in three sizes – soprano, concert, and tenor. Our choice for the best uke bundle happens to be a tenor version, which sports the lower end of the spectrum in regards to pitch. Tenor ukes project full, mellow tones that will soothe even the most stressed-out personality. The Ranch Tenor Ukulele Starter Bundle is a great option, given its lovely finish, attractive ink design circling the sound hole, and superior playability.
This Hawaiian treasure comes with a light blue travel case, picks, a strap, a chart with basic chords to get you started learning, a clip-on tuner, and more. Once you give that special someone this amazing uke, it could be no time before you’re being serenaded with the classic song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow!”
Ranch Tenor Ukulele Instrument Bundle • Acoustic Tenor ukulele with arched back for fuller, warmer tones
• Soft Aquila strings produce clear, sweet resonance
• Elegant Sapele wood body and mahogany neck
• Lightweight design for warm Hawaiian harmonies
• 26" size ideal for adults and intermediate players
• 12 easy-to-follow online video lessons included
• Chrome die-cast tuning pegs for stable tuning
• Complete set with gig bag, strings, strap, digital tuner, and polishing cloth
Folk Instrument Packages: Exploring Mandolins and Banjos
For those with a penchant for folk, bluegrass, or country, these instruments can be a real treat.
Mandolin Starter Sets
These tiny eight-stringed wonders are great for bluegrass enthusiasts. Look for instrument bundles that include a case, picks, and maybe even a book of easy songs.
#10 Best Beginner Mandolin Package – ADM Acoustic Mandolin Instrument Starter Pack
Beginner mandolins are tricky little beasts. Many have high action and not-so-great intonation, and given their doubled string sets, they can potentially be torturous to play. Enter the ADM Acoustic Mandolin! This stellar mandolin model has shocked many a purchaser with its sweet intonation, beautiful finish, and most importantly – fairly low action. The result is a very playable instrument.
This bluegrass-inspired instrument crosses over well into other genres like country, folk, and even pop or rock music. Its chrome-plated tuning pegs hold the tune securely. The bundle includes a secure strap, gig bag, spare strings, a digital tuner, and even a stick-on pick-up to play plugged in. Better still, it comes ready to play straight out of the box with no extra costs dedicated to a set-up job.
ADM Acoustic Mandolin Instrument Starter Pack • Maple wood construction with sunburst finish
• 8-string A-style design for crisp sound
• 20-fret range
• Chrome-plated hardware for easy tuning
• Accessories: padded gig bag, strap, strings, tuner, picks, and attachable pick-up
• Ideal starter instrument for beginners of any age
Banjo Kits
Banjo kits meet the needs of aspiring country and folk players. Five-string banjos are most common for beginners. These affordable starter kits include everything you need to start pickin’ and grinnin’ Hee-Haw style.
#11 Best Starter Banjo Package – Vangoa 5 String Full Size Banjo Pack
The last of our featured musical instrument starter packs is a Vangoa Banjo 5-String banjo pack. The person you grant this downhome holiday treasure to will be ripping through 3-finger rolls as fast as a runaway reindeer-drawn sleigh! The full-size Vangoa Banjo Bundle produces sweet yet twangy sounds via its high-quality Remo drum head for lively banjo picking. With its mahogany construction and adjustable string height, this instrument offers durability, comfort, and smooth playability.
The bundle includes a beginner manual, self-adhesive pickup, backup string set, clip-on tuner, adjustable strap, Allen key, tuning key, cleaning cloth, padded carrying bag, and three finger picks. At such a reasonable price, you’d almost imagine this banjo is a holiday fantasy. Don’t be fooled – it’s the real Christmas deal!
Vangoa 5 String Full Size Banjo Pack • 5-string banjo featuring resonator, remo drum head, and 22 frets
• Adjustable string height via truss rod
• Mahogany construction for durability and aesthetic
• Glossy finish for a smooth playing experience
• Includes accessories: bag, tuner, strap, pickup, strings, picks
• Beginning banjo method book
Where to Buy: Online vs. In-Store Musical Instrument Packages
In my experience, it’s best to try out instruments in person if you are purchasing one for yourself. That’s why I generally recommend buying in-store if possible. You can feel the instrument, hear it, and make sure it’s comfortable to hold. However, if you don’t know much about instruments and are looking for a quality instrument bundle, there are many folks who have tested them and offer quality advice.
Armed with a little knowledge, buying an instrument online is a fine way to go, plus online shopping has its perks:
• Wider selection
• Often better prices
• Convenience of home delivery
- If you do shop online, make sure to buy from reputable dealers with good return policies. ZZounds, Sweetwater, Guitar Center, and Amazon all offer a wide selection of instrument bundles with customer reviews to help guide your choice.
In-store, besides the big chains, don’t forget to check out your local music shops. They often have knowledgeable staff who can offer personalized advice.
Conclusion: Striking the Right Chord with Your Musical Gift
Thanks for journeying with us through the vast world of musical instrument starter packs, from budget-friendly ukuleles to premium guitars. Remember, the perfect gift isn’t about getting the most expensive kit – it’s about matching the instrument to the person. Consider their interests, their living situation, and their commitment level. A keyboard might be perfect for an apartment-dweller, while a guitar could be ideal for someone who dreams of playing in a band.
Most importantly, remember that you’re not just giving an instrument – you’re giving your loved one the gift of music. It’s a Christmas gift that can bring joy, self-expression, and maybe even a new passion into someone’s life.
*This post may contain Amazon affiliate links or affiliate links from other companies, which means The Musically Sound earns a percentage of sales from any qualifying purchases at no additional cost to the buyer. Learn more on our Private Policy page.
