The chosen ones

Best new Modular digital system: AIRA System-1m (above)

Roland's Aira series has not only revived their classic 909, 808 and 303 but now takes a leap into modular with this rack version of the System 1. It's essentially the same beast but with lots of inputs and outputs opening it up to modular wizardy. There's also a new series of FX modules you can link with an iOS app. £449, www.pmtonline.co.uk

Best new DJ Controller: Native Instruments D2

Tech-house jocks like Luciano, Hawtin and Carola have been all over NI controllers for a while. But with Rekordbox an increasing threat to Traktor, the D2 is well timed. It boasts a high-res display and aims to be the go-to controller for a new audio format: Stems, where tracks are broken down into parts to enhance multi-channel mixing. £369, www.gak.co.uk

Best new sexy analogue effects: Moog Minifoogers

Analogue producers are noted for an ability to bore loved ones to death with their love of Moog. And now two new Minifoogers with a sumptuous new design, the MF Chorus and MF Flange, have arrived to kill afterparty banter the world over. Jokes aside, they're a thing of beauty. No really... where are you going...? Come back! £159, www.dolphinmusic.co.uk

Best guitar synthesizer: Boss Sy-300 Guitar Synth

Roland's on fire again. Its new Boss pedal brings together the world of synthesizers and guitars. Polyphonic guitar synthesis is finally now possible from a jack cable, meaning you can plug your normal guitar in and give it the soul of a synth. £499, www.gear4music.com