We’re Guitar Center customers, too. We get why you’re here—from being inspired by your musical heroes to the electrifying pursuit of the sound and vibe you’re after.
So, it should come as no surprise that when we were presented with this “best of 2025” staff picks article, we clamored for who got to write about what. In this article, you’ll get to hear from industry veterans working various roles within Guitar Center’s Marketing department, from marketing analysts to content producers to some familiar voices on the writing team.
Without getting too sentimental about 2025, let’s rip right into our top recording gear picks of the year.
PMC Result6 White Studio Monitor
Michael Molenda, Article Content Producer:
As a music-obsessed teen, I’d dream my bedroom was Abbey Road Studios and bounce guitar and cardboard-box drum tracks between two Radio Shack cassette decks, and listen to my so-called mixes on a set of Realistic Mach One speakers with 15" woofers.
Eventually, I co-owned three professional recording studios and got to play with Yamaha NS-10s, Auratone Sound Cubes, Tannoy Golds and monstrous “mix party” speakers by Altec Lansing and JBL. To this day, I get giddy over auditioning new speakers, and my mind is constantly blown by mini marvels such as the PMC result6 active studio monitors.
Shop Now: PMC result6 6.5" Active Studio Monitor in Limited White
These wee powerhouses can fit on a TV tray and deliver immersive, full-bandwidth sound (45Hz–22kHz). Uncanny. Although I’m tempted to believe the PMC result6s were pilfered from some sci-fi alternate universe, the monitors existing in this world are petite, powerful and precise.
They’re also classy little numbers. The stylish, limited-edition result6s come in a sleek white finish exclusive to Guitar Center, and promote the posh with a “Guitar Center Custom House” badge on the rear panel.
SSL Revival 4000 Channel Strip
Max McAllister, Sr. Longform Creative Writer:
I mix in the box, and I like to load a channel strip plug-in across every track to emulate the analog workflow. My go-to? Always the SSL 4000 E (of either the Brainworx or UAD variety). Software gets the job done, no doubt, but nothing beats the “weight” analog gear can add to a sound or the immediacy of tactile control.
The SSL Revival 4000 satisfies hardware junkies like myself. It’s pretty amazing to see a complete 4000 Series-inspired channel strip outside the B and E consoles. You can record through it or insert it at the mixing stage to impart classic analog character on your sound.
Shop Now: Solid State Logic Revival 4000 Analog Channel Strip
While not cheap, I do think it’s reasonably priced for what it is. This is one of those pieces that could take a home or project studio to the next level or be a worthy addition to an existing collection. In recent years, Solid State Logic’s been crushing it with offerings for the “everyperson” recordist seeking pro-grade sound, and the Revival 4000 is a continuation of that trend. Oh, and they also have a Super 9000(!) if that flavor’s better for your palate.
Strymon PCH Stereo DI with Headphone Amp
George Van Wagner, Sr. Longform Creative Writer:
One of my favorite new tools is the Strymon PCH Stereo DI with built-in headphone amp. Designed for guitarists as a pedalboard-friendly DI solution for silent stage setups, the console-quality, built-in headphone amp lets you hear exactly what you're sending to the board.
But it's way more than a one-trick pony. With a frequency response that is ruler flat (well, ±0.25dB from 10Hz to 80kHz) and over 130dB of dynamic range, this box is at home in the studio as a way to get any instrument with a 1/4" out into your DAW or recorder, while providing a simple way to directly monitor the source.
Shop Now: Strymon PCH Stereo Active DI Box with Headphone Amp
I've used it with keys, bass, guitars and even with oddball signal sources like old, unbalanced microphones to get immaculately clean signals into my system. And, yes, it comes off and on my pedalboard as part of a wet/dry/wet setup or used with my Helix for those silent stage gigs. Even though they're known primarily for their DSP-based effects, Strymon's analog engineers are some of the best in the business, and this DI shows that off in a spectacular fashion.
Universal Audio Volt 876 USB-C Audio Interface
Max Lauer-Bader, Sr. Manager, Content and Social Media:
For years, I've been planning a significant upgrade to my home studio, with a new audio interface the most obvious upgrade. Of course, I've been doing the thing we all do—waffling on what to buy, stuck in decision paralysis as I pored over countless specs, hands-on reviews and more YouTube videos than I'm comfortable acknowledging.
When I first made my list of "must-have" features, eight high-quality mic pres was right at the top, with ADAT connectivity right behind it. But it wasn't just that I wanted eight mic pres—I wanted mic pres with some character. While the obvious choice was the Universal Audio Apollo x8p and its fantastic Unison technology, my bank account didn't necessarily agree with that assessment.
So, where did that leave me? I'd been keeping a hopeful eye on UA's Volt lineup, which offers high-quality hardware with analog emulations of their 610 mic preamp and classic 1176 compressor (in some models) built in. As the long-time owner of a Solo 610, and the user of five different 1176 plug-ins, there really couldn't be a better option. Sadly, there just wasn't an eight-channel model … yet.
Shop Now: Universal Audio Volt 876 USB-C Audio Interface
A few months ago, I received a cryptic message from our UA rep: "I think we've got something that's going to make you very happy." Well, Dan, you were right. Shortly thereafter, the Volt 876 was announced and yeah, I'll be ordering one very soon.
Now on to easier decisions, like spec'ing out my next studio computer.
Warm Audio Fen-Tone Ribbon Microphone
George Van Wagner:
I've been a fan of ribbon microphones for decades, from the very first time I ever heard one. I also believe that every mic collection needs at least one ribbon. Their unique sonic signature is an excellent approximation of how the human ear hears, resulting in some of the most natural and satisfying audio capture you'll ever encounter.
And used in combination with a dynamic or condenser mic, you can make sonic magic. Warm Audio's Fen-tone ribbon mic combines retro styling with modern materials like a neodymium magnet and custom CineMag transformer, along with a selectable 25dB in-line preamp (no mic booster required).
Shop Now: Warm Audio Fen-tone Ribbon Microphone
From warming up a guitar cab to capturing brass that's not too peaky or acoustic guitar that's not too "squeaky," the Fen-tone will become an indispensable tool. Available as a single mic or in a matched stereo pair ideal for drum overheads or room capture, the Warm Audio Fen-tone gives you access to the warm, iconic sound of a ribbon and a price you can live with.
That’s a Wrap for 2025
Cue the ball drop festivities—2026 is upon us, and we can’t wait to see what’s next. In the meantime, head into your nearest Guitar Center store and see if you’ll come out with a new favorite toy of your own. And if you’re feeling extra determined to ring in the new year with a recording rig resolution, our expert Gear Advisers are at the ready to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.