SanjayC’s Top Gear Picks for 2025

SanjayC kicks off this video with a bang, laying down the hottest gear picks of 2025 with the authority of a seasoned DJ curating a mixtape. We’re talking about tools that don’t just make music—they make history. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or a main stage artist, these picks aim to elevate your creative process without draining your wallet. First up is the Daydreamer One Synth, a gem that surprised even Sanjay with its price and capabilities. This synth doesn’t shy away from imperfections; rather, it embraces them to offer a unique musical experience. The surprise twist? It’s fully open source, allowing you to grab the schematics and modify it as you see fit. At just $299 for a pre-built model, it’s practically begging to be picked up by anyone and everyone looking to add a little eccentric flair to their sonic arsenal. And if that isn’t enough to pique your interest, it’s the kind of instrument that reminds you why you started making beats in the first place.

Next on the hit list is the Akai MPK Mini MK4, which Sanjay describes with the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store. Finally addressing criticisms of its predecessors, the MPK Mini MK4 brings a level of integration and control that stirs excitement even in the most jaded of producers. From pitch and mod wheels to studio instrument integration, it’s decked out better than the holiday lights on Michigan Avenue. SanjayC breaks down why this mini controller is a giant leap forward, especially when it comes to virtual instrument control. It’s a power-packed little beast that goes toe-to-toe with big names like Native Instruments, offering features that are as tempting as a fresh slice of deep dish. With transport controls and dock integration, it’s like someone finally delivered the pizza just right. And of course, the pads still slap—just a little smaller this time, but packed with the same punch.

Now, let’s talk about gear that rings loud and clear with the smoothness of vinyl but won’t have you begging for spare change. SanjayC dives into the Moog Messenger—an affordable synth that offers that timeless Moog sound without the usual heart-stopping price tag. This is a real monophonic analog synth with the famed ladder filter, but what sets it apart is the extras like the wave folder on the oscillators and the aftertouch on the keys. The price point may surprise purist fans, but those controls feel like gold under your fingers.

And then there’s the SSL Revival 4000. SanjayC clearly has a soft spot for this rack-mounted callback to the legendary SSL 4000 console tone. While it might not be the same as a full console sprawling across your studio, it brings those iconic sounds into the hands of modern producers. If you’ve ever longed for that classic Peter Gabriel or Kate Bush sound, this piece of gear is like finding a thrift store gem at an unbeatable price.

If you thought MIDI controllers were stuck in the past, SanjayC would kindly ask you to hold his coffee. Enter the Roto Control by Melbourne Instruments—a game-changer he believes might just be the most innovative studio tool of the year. This ain’t your grandma’s controller either; it remembers your settings, automates movements, and integrates with DAWs like a charm. Haptic feedback and little screens under every knob make this device as cool as the other side of the pillow.

What sets the Roto Control apart is its ability to recall preset positions and move the knobs to match—dynamically shifting music production from static adjustment to interactive connection. It’s innovation like this that makes the gear scene in 2025 as buzzing as a street corner in Chi-Town during rush hour. If you’ve ever lamented static, unyielding controls, this might be the device that reignites your passion for hands-on music production.