The search for the perfect drawing gift is like stepping into a gallery of possibilities. Every artist, whether just beginning or already established, dreams of tools that spark creativity and turn everyday practice into pure inspiration. A carefully chosen present can fuel new ideas, add beauty to a workspace, and invite hours of joyful making.

This year, we’ve curated a collection that stands out for its innovation, design, and sheer delight. From show-stopping tools that double as objets d’art to classic essentials that never go out of style, each pick was selected to surprise and satisfy artists of every background and budget. Dive in and discover the creative treasures every artist truly wants right now.

1. Phi Ruler Artistry Edition

The Phi Ruler Artistry Edition is more than just a measuring tool—it’s a masterpiece in its own right. Inspired by the golden ratio, this ruler brings harmony and mathematical elegance straight to the drawing table. Its sculptural design instantly attracts attention, making it a statement piece for anyone who loves both art and precision.

Artists will find themselves reaching for this ruler not just for technical work, but for the sense of inspiration it brings to every project. The unique form and luxe finish add a touch of sophistication to any workspace. For creative minds who thrive on both beauty and structure, the Phi Ruler is an irresistible gift.

What we like

• Striking, conversation-starting design.
• Encourages exploration of composition and proportion.

What dislike

• Niche appeal may not suit every artist.

2. Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencil Set, Wooden case of 120

Few gifts dazzle an artist like the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencil Set. Housed in a stunning wooden case, this collection boasts some of the world’s most beloved colored pencils. The pigment is lush, the blending smooth, and each pencil feels like a jewel in the hand.

This set is a celebration of color, quality, and tradition. Artists will delight in the spectrum of shades, each chosen for its intensity and staying power. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury gift that combines beauty with performance, Polychromos pencils are a classic choice that never fails to impress.

What we like

• Exceptional pigment quality for vivid, long-lasting color.
• Beautifully presented in a wooden case.

What dislike

• Bulkier case isn’t travel-friendly.
• May overwhelm absolute beginners.

3. XP-Pen Magic Drawing Pad, 2025 version

The XP-Pen Magic Drawing Pad is a portable Android tablet that lets artists sketch and create wherever inspiration strikes. Its slim, lightweight build makes it easy to carry, while the matte, paper-like screen brings a familiar and comfortable feel to every stroke. The included pressure-sensitive stylus responds beautifully to your touch, offering satisfying accuracy and giving digital drawing a traditional twist. XP Pen also includes a drawing glove in the box, helping your hand glide smoothly across the surface and keeping your artwork smudge-free right from the start.

Artists can use their favorite Android creative apps and enjoy reduced glare thanks to the matte display. Sharing artwork is easy, whether you’re working solo or collaborating with friends. For anyone who wants digital flexibility with the tactile joy of paper, this tablet is a clever and practical gift.

What we like

• Lightweight Android tablet with portable form factor.
• Matte, paper-like screen reduces glare and feels natural.

What dislike

• Display isn’t as bright or sharp as glossy screens.
• Not as powerful as some tablets.

4. TRILObyME

The TRILObyME by Egoundesign brings modular creativity and iconic design to artists who value both innovation and responsible materials. At its heart is the CENTO3 multitool, a 3D-printed writing instrument designed by Achille Castiglioni and Gianfranco Cavaglià. The compact case holds a full set of interchangeable refills—HB graphite, black ink, red and blue pastels, and yellow and green highlighters—each with its own slot for easy organization and quick access.

TRILObyME’s commitment to sustainability is clear in its construction. Every case is made from PLA, a biobased material derived from renewable resources like potatoes and cornstarch. Naturally non-toxic and biodegradable, PLA gives the case a low environmental footprint without sacrificing style or function. With 12 colors and options, this creative kit is both eco-friendly and visually appealing—a smart gift for artists who care about design and the planet.

What we like

• Includes the innovative, 3D-printed CENTO3 multitool.
• Available in a wide range of colors.

What dislike

• Limited space for traditional or third-party supplies.

5. Japanese Drawing Pad

Minimalism meets luxury in the Japanese Drawing Pad, now offered in striking White or classic Black to suit any creative mood. Artists can choose from A4, A5, or A6 sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for studio work or sketching on the go. The smooth, heavyweight pages are a dream for pencil, pen, and ink, elevating even the simplest sketch into a tactile experience that feels truly special.

The understated cover and quality binding give this pad a timeless elegance that’s a joy to carry and use day after day. Artists who love analog will appreciate the mindful, meditative quality each page inspires. For those who believe that great art starts with great paper, this thoughtfully designed pad is a stylish, practical gift that turns every drawing session into an occasion.

Click Here to Buy Now: $26.00

What we like

• Exceptional paper quality enhances every medium.
• Sleek, minimalist visual appeal.

What dislike

• Not ideal for wet media.

6. Pentel Drafting Mechanical Pencil 60th

Timeless and precise, the Pentel Drafting Mechanical Pencil 60th Anniversary Edition is a workhorse dressed in collector’s clothing. Its balanced weight and fine lead options deliver clean, crisp lines every time. The commemorative design adds a layer of sophistication, making it a coveted addition to any artist’s lineup.

This pencil is perfect for illustrators, designers, or anyone who wants a tool that’s as reliable as it is beautiful. It’s a gift that celebrates artistic heritage and daily craftsmanship, offering a drawing experience that feels both nostalgic and new.

What we like

• Precise, consistent lines for detailed work.
• Elegant design with anniversary accents.

What dislike

• Specific lead size may not suit everyone.

7. Kingart 34pc Sketching Set

The Kingart 34pc Sketching Set is a treasure trove for artists at any stage. Everything needed to experiment and grow packed in a sturdy tin. It holds pencils, charcoals, erasers, and blending tools. It’s the kind of gift that invites creativity and makes starting (or restarting) a drawing habit easy and fun.

Whether for a student, a traveler, or someone rediscovering their love of art, this set is versatile and welcoming. It offers the freedom to try new techniques and materials without a hefty investment. The Kingart set is proof that a great gift doesn’t have to be complicated or costly.

What we like

• Comprehensive selection for exploring techniques.
• Great way to encourage beginners.

What dislike

• Materials are more student-grade than professional.
• Advanced artists may outgrow some tools.

Gifts That Inspire Every Stroke

Choosing a drawing gift is about so much more than picking a supply off the shelf. It’s about fueling someone’s creative journey and showing you understand their passion. Each pick on this list brings something special, from stunning design and professional performance to everyday practicality and pure creative joy. No matter your artist’s style or experience, you’ll find a gift here that feels personal and exciting.

Every artist deserves tools that inspire them to dream, experiment, and keep growing. With these seven standout gifts, you can give the present of inspiration all year long. Watch their eyes light up and their imagination soar—because the best art always starts with the right tools.

The post 7 Best Drawing Gifts Every Artist Actually Wants in 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

The hunt for perfect sound has pushed audio lovers way beyond basic functionality into something that feels more like sonic art. Modern turntable design isn’t just about spinning vinyl anymore – it’s embracing wild new technologies and materials that completely change how we experience music. We’re talking optical systems that don’t even touch your records and transparent builds that kill vibration before it starts.

Today’s listening experiences need gear that respects both the hands-on ritual of analog playback and the crisp precision of digital formats. These five incredible turntables show exactly how smart design can make music more engaging, whether you’re spinning classic vinyl or giving CDs the analog treatment they deserve. Each one takes a totally different approach to killer sound, mixing jaw-dropping looks with the kind of technical chops that make serious audiophiles weak at the knees.

1. Vivia CD Turntable

The Vivia CD Turntable does something really cool – it makes playing CDs feel like the analog ritual vinyl lovers can’t get enough of. That tone arm actually figures out how long your CD is and travels from the outside edge to the center while your album plays, just like a real record player would. The volume knob feels incredible in your hands, giving you those smooth adjustments that make you want to keep tweaking. Every single control on this thing connects you physically to your music.

You can grab that tone arm and move it around to jump between tracks, just like positioning a needle on vinyl. Those Track Selector buttons work like DJ controls, letting you skip tracks while the arm moves to exactly the right spot on your CD. It’s this attention to the visual show that makes the Vivia special. This thing actually makes CD listening feel like an event instead of just hitting play on a boring digital player.

What we like

• Revolutionary approach brings analog ritual to digital CD playback.
• Tactile controls create a genuine connection between you and your music.

What we dislike

• Only works with CDs, so vinyl collectors are out of luck.
• The complex tone arm system might need more maintenance than simple CD players.

2. Miniot Wheel 3

The Miniot Wheel 3 flips everything you know about turntables literally on its side with vertical orientation and mind-blowing optical tech that reads your grooves with light instead of magnets. Your records look like they’re floating in space against that polished aluminum front, and when colored vinyl catches the light, it’s absolutely mesmerizing. These Dutch engineers basically turned record playing into a light show that transforms your whole listening space. The optical system doesn’t even touch your vinyl, which means your records could last forever.

What’s hiding under that gorgeous exterior is technology that might just change vinyl playback forever. The optical reader picks up every tiny groove variation with crazy precision, turning those microscopic bumps into pure audio without any of the mechanical headaches normal turntables give you. No tracking force to worry about, no anti-skating adjustments, no stylus wearing out on your favorite albums. The Wheel 3 is basically a glimpse into the future of vinyl, where amazing sound meets incredible visual drama.

What we like

• Optical technology means your records never wear out from stylus contact.
• Vertical design creates an absolutely stunning visual centerpiece for any room.

What we dislike

• Brand new optical tech hasn’t proven itself over years of heavy use yet.
• Vertical setup makes handling records and accessing your collection trickier.

3. RA84

Stu Cole’s RA84 takes Ron Arad’s legendary concrete stereo and gives it an eco-friendly makeover using recycled plastic that looks incredibly convincing as stone. The design keeps all that brutal, industrial vibe Arad was famous for, but cleans up the execution with smoother surfaces and those perfectly placed chipped corners that show off the material’s texture. You can get it in concrete grey or this sophisticated black that looks like expensive terrazzo. The built-in speakers mean you get a complete system that actually does something good for the planet.

That hefty construction isn’t just for show – it kills vibration, which is exactly what you want for clean vinyl playback. The recycled plastic performs surprisingly well acoustically, giving you results that rival traditional concrete or stone builds. Cole’s take on the classic design creates furniture that people will want to talk about, and it just happens to play records beautifully. This proves you can be environmentally responsible without giving up luxury or performance.

What we like

• Recycled materials make this an environmentally responsible choice without sacrificing quality.
• Integrated speakers give you everything you need in one space-saving package.

What we dislike

• Seriously heavy build limits where you can actually put this thing.
• The industrial look won’t work in every home’s aesthetic.

4. AT-LPA2

The AT-LPA2 shows off Audio-Technica’s engineering chops through that incredible 30mm transparent acrylic build that works as hard as it looks good. That thick acrylic platter pairs perfectly with the body material to create this floating effect while damping vibrations better than most traditional materials. Watching this thing work is like seeing the mechanical poetry of vinyl playback in crystal clear detail. The clean, minimal look fits right into modern spaces while delivering the kind of technical performance that makes serious listeners happy.

This isn’t just about looking cool, though – the AT-LPA2 sounds incredible thanks to careful material choices and engineering refinements. That acrylic density cuts unwanted resonance and keeps everything clear across the whole frequency range, while the see-through construction doesn’t dominate your room visually. Audio-Technica’s 60 years of experience show in every decision they made, creating a turntable that honors analog tradition while looking completely contemporary. The production improvements over their anniversary limited edition mean this thing will work reliably for years.

What we like

• Transparent acrylic construction delivers excellent vibration control with stunning looks.
• Minimalist design disappears visually while taking up the same functional space.

What we dislike

• Clear materials show every speck of dust and every fingerprint.
• Premium acrylic construction pushes the price higher than standard materials would.

5. McIntosh MTI100 Sun Records Limited Edition

The McIntosh MTI100 Sun Records Limited Edition pays tribute to the Memphis label that gave us Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash by putting authentic Sun Records branding right on the glass plinth and felt mat. This collaboration between McIntosh’s legendary engineering and Sun Records’ incredible musical history creates something that celebrates American music culture. The all-in-one design packs a turntable, preamp, and amplifier together with Bluetooth and auxiliary inputs, so you just need to add speakers for a complete high-end system. The custom branding turns a premium turntable into a piece of music history.

McIntosh’s famous build quality and that warm, musical sound signature really shine through the MTI100’s impressive feature lineup. The integrated approach means you don’t have to stress about matching components, while that premium glass plinth keeps everything stable and vibration-free for maximum detail from your vinyl. The Sun Records partnership adds serious cultural weight to the technical excellence, creating audio gear that honors both engineering achievement and musical legacy. This limited edition sits right at the sweet spot where audiophile performance meets cultural celebration.

What we like

• All-in-one design eliminates the headache of matching separate preamp and amplifier components.
• Sun Records collaboration adds serious collector value and cultural significance.

What we dislike

• You’ll still need to buy speakers separately to complete your system.
• Limited edition status might make future service and support harder to find.

The Sound of Superior Listening

These five exceptional turntables show how modern audio design breaks down the old walls between digital and analog, function and art, sustainability and luxury. Each approach brings something unique to discerning listeners, whether you want the hands-on CD experience of the Vivia, the cutting-edge tech of the Miniot Wheel 3, the environmental consciousness of the RA84, the elegant simplicity of the AT-LPA2, or the cultural heritage of the McIntosh Sun Records edition.

Superior listening isn’t just about technical specs – it’s about that emotional connection between you, your gear, and your music. These turntables succeed because they make that connection stronger through thoughtful design, innovative engineering, and genuine respect for the listening ritual that transforms music from background noise into something truly meaningful.

The post Top 5 Turntables For Superior Listening Experience: Audiophile’s Guide For September 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Physical media is having a moment in 2025, and it’s not just vinyl records getting all the attention. CDs are selling $541 million worth of units, up 1% from 2023, proving there’s still plenty of love for the humble compact disc. While vinyl grabs headlines with its 18th consecutive year of growth, CDs are quietly finding their way back into music lovers’ hearts and homes.

The CD players hitting the market now aren’t the chunky, plastic boxes your parents had in the ’90s. These five designs show how far we’ve come, merging sleek looks with smart features that make sense for how we live and listen to music today. The CD comeback isn’t about looking backward. It’s about finding a middle ground between the instant gratification of streaming and the full commitment of vinyl. Sometimes you want to hold your music, read the liner notes, and experience an album the way it was meant to be heard, and these players make that feel fresh again.

1. ClearFrame CD Player

Now here is something you don’t see every day: a CD player that’s completely see-through. The ClearFrame takes transparency literally, housing everything in crystal-clear plastic so you can watch the magic happen. That black circuit board isn’t hidden away; it’s part of the show, turning your tech into something worth staring at.

It treats your album covers like mini art exhibitions. Slip in your favorite disc, slide the cover into the frame, and suddenly you’ve got a piece that works on your shelf, desk, or even hanging on the wall. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to really focus on an album, not just have music playing in the background. The whole ritual of choosing a CD and watching it spin becomes part of the experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199.00

What we like

• The transparent design turns every play session into a visual experience.
• You can mount it on the wall like an actual artwork.

What we dislike

• All that clear plastic is going to show every fingerprint and dust speck.
• The exposed electronics might need regular cleaning to keep looking sharp.

2. Portable CD Cover Player

This little player gets something that streaming services still struggle with: album artwork matters. The built-in pocket for your CD’s cover art means you’re not just hearing the music, you’re seeing it too. It’s a simple idea that makes a huge difference when you’re trying to connect with an album the way the artist intended.

The portable design with its own speaker means you can take your music anywhere without dragging along extra equipment. Kitchen counter while cooking? Perfect. Bedroom nightstand? Works great. Want to hang it up somewhere? Go for it. This player understands that sometimes you want your music to be the main event, not just background noise.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199.00

What we like

• The album art display brings back the full music experience.
• Built-in speaker means no fussing with separate audio gear.

What we dislike

• A single speaker can’t deliver true stereo sound.
• The compact size might mean compromising on audio quality.

3. Orion

The Orion takes minimalism to its logical conclusion: a flat metal box that does one thing exceptionally well. That powder-coated finish gives it an industrial vibe that’s both tough and elegant. The front-loading slot eliminates the flip-top mechanism, creating cleaner lines and fewer things that can break.

This is for people who want their music equipment to disappear into the background. Just a large eject button and an IR sensor interrupt the otherwise perfect surface. There’s something almost meditative about using gear this simple; it forces you to focus on the music instead of fiddling with settings.

What we like

• The industrial design is both beautiful and built to last.
• Front-loading slot means fewer moving parts to worry about.

What we dislike

• Minimal controls might leave you guessing about basic functions.
• Still in concept phase, so you can’t buy one yet.

4. SYITREN R300

The R300 doesn’t try to hide what it is; it’s a CD player that’s proud of its heritage while embracing modern tech. Those finish options (wood, white, and that fascinating fruit green) show that audio gear doesn’t have to be boring black boxes. The MUSE Design Gold Award isn’t just marketing fluff; this product really does nail the balance between looks and performance.

It handles different types of music amazingly. CDs, burned discs, MP3s, WAV files – it plays them all without breaking a sweat. The Bluetooth 5.3 is cutting-edge wireless tech, while the headphone jack and optical output keep traditional connections happy. That 2000mAh battery gives you over six hours means you’re not constantly hunting for outlets.

What we like

• Multiple color options let you match your style.
• Handles practically any audio format you can throw at it.

What we dislike

• The retro styling might feel too nostalgic for some tastes.
• All those features could make simple tasks more complicated than they need to be.

5. Frame CD Player

The best designs usually know when to quit, and the Frame CD Player nails this philosophy. Clean lines, minimal fuss, and just enough features to do the job right. It’s a clever design that fits into modern spaces without screaming for attention, which is exactly what you want from good design.

The Bluetooth 5.0 connection is where old meets new in the best way. You get the ritual and sound quality of CDs with the freedom to use your favorite wireless headphones or speakers. The rechargeable battery keeps things portable without turning the whole thing into a compromise.

Click Here to Buy Now: $169.00

What we like

• The clean design works in any room without looking out of place.
• Bluetooth lets you go wireless while keeping the CD experience.

What we dislike

• The minimal controls might mean reaching for your phone more than you’d like.
• The simple design could mean missing out on advanced playback features.

CDs Are Having Their Moment Again

Something interesting is happening with how people consume music. After years of endless streaming playlists, there’s a growing appetite for the complete album experience. These CD players tap into that desire for intentional listening. When you put on a disc, you’re committing to the artist’s full vision, not just hunting for the next dopamine hit. CD sales climbed by just under 6.5% at independent record stores, which tells you this isn’t just a fad.

People are actively choosing physical media again. The broader picture shows physical purchases comprised 11% of the $17.7 billion in music revenue recorded in 2024, up 5% from 2023, proving there’s real money behind this trend. These five players solve the biggest problems CDs always had: ugly design and limited functionality. They keep what made CDs great, excellent sound quality, durability, and the satisfaction of actually owning your music, while adding the connectivity and style that make sense for how we live now.

The post Top 5 Modern CD Players That Prove CDs Are Making A Comeback In 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.