On the 20th anniversary of the Yamaha Disklavier, retailers have anointed the line Product of the Year for an amazing seventh time in row. Billed as the “ultimate in personal music entertainment,” these high-tech player pianos have evolved into instruments that offer many attractive features without compromising acoustic integrity. Its advanced audio system includes powered monitors which send music away from the piano for a spacious overall sound. CD- and USB- friendly, every year new easy-to-operate features are added, underlining that Yamaha is not interested in any laurel-resting. From modest upright to concert grand versions accommodate every player (and non-player), and now with a new lower-priced model just released, few will be surprised to see this instrument vying for the top prize in 2008.

While this year may be remembered as the year Taylor went electric, dealers focused on the company’s meat-and-potatoes acoustic selection at the ballot box. The 100 and 200 Series models with their accessible price point continued to be a highlight.

For a third year running, Boss is rewarded for its continuing quest for making recording equipment for musicians, not just gearheads. Small recorders as a whole saw an upsurge this year, and Boss seems to be riding the wave with stylish and reliable products at every price point.

Again and again, year after year, retailers turn to Shure for their microphones. Despite an increasingly crowded field, their SM 57, SM58, and Beta 58s continue to be the microphone of choice. The affordable PG mics also were frequently cited.

Jupiter continues to endear itself not only to players and retailers alike, earning top honors in the band category.

For a second year in a row, Yamaha claims the acoustic piano line honor as well as overall product of the year. In addition to their Disklavier, their M500F seems to have been an especially bright spot among the upright segment.

Kawai’s first digital piano with a real wooden spruce soundboard seems to have caught the attention of buyers and sellers alike. It gets top honors this year, topping an extremely competitive field.

Rounding out their hat trick, Yamaha makes an appearance in this category as well. In addition to the powerful and popular Clavinova line, the P-series has also struck a chord with players.

Mapex continues to be the go-to set for many cost-conscious percussionists, and the company is especially well regarded by independent drum stores. Their VX series was singled out as a favorite for the starter drummer.

While ADJ companies continue to expand beyond lighting, they don’t forget their roots. This is yet another solid win for them in this competitive category — their third in a row.

Numark says their TTUSB turntable is the easiest way for a DJ to digitize his or her vinyl. Apparently, MMR retailers agree.

The world’s largest print music publisher has yet to lose in a decade and a half … the volume of affiliations they forge and new titles they release every year make it easy to understand why.

Last year dealers singled out the GA-30 tuner, this year they salute entire Korg tuner lineup. This is Korg’s third appearance in a row in this category which has become increasingly important as slower times place high importance on accessory sales.