Best for budget
Cabaret Voltaire, 36 Blair Street
Basically a atmospherically well-lit cave, this live music haunt is known throughout the capital for its cheap and cheerful tickets ranging from around £5–£10. Londoners Charles Howl and classically-trained singer Kirsten Adamson both have live sets scheduled in the next couple of months.
Also try: The Caves, The Mash House, Voodoo Rooms.

Best for pop
BT Murrayfield Stadium, EH12 5PJ
Glasgow's Hydro has pop sewn up but in Edinburgh, the home of Scottish rugby is transformed occasionally into a live music venue for big-name acts. Global superstars One Direction performed here last year, and popular American rock group Foo Fighters are due to play a gig this month. There are currently no big pop shows on the horizon, but keep your eyes peeled for any announcements.
Also try: Edinburgh Castle, Queen's Hall, Corn Exchange.

Best for rock
Liquid Room, 9c Victoria Street
After closing for a brief refurbishment, the Liquid Room returned better than ever a few years ago. Dead Kennedys, Stiff Little Fingers, The Wombats and Vampire Weekend are among the acts to have graced their stage. Dundee rockers The View are set to play in October.
Also try: Summerhall, Electric Circus, Opium Alternative Bar.

Best for DJs
Sneaky Pete's, 73 Cowgate
This tiny bar, club and venue hosts a range of live music acts, but it has become especially well known for booking popular DJs. Daniel Avery and David Barbarossa are scheduled to appear in September.
Also try: The Bongo Club, Studio 24, 99 Hanover Street.

Best for acoustic
Out of the Bedroom at The Kilderkin, 67 Canongate
Every Saturday this Royal mile pub offers new and emerging artists the chance to be heard at open mic night Out of the Bedroom. So if you fancy something acoustic and a bit different, then make sure to drop in.
Also try: Sandy Bell's, Royal Oak, The Jazz Bar.

Best for up-and-coming artists
Henry's Cellar Bar, 202 Cowgate
This independent arts venue and late night music club proclaims to play host to 'the acclaimed and the obscure'. Many up-and-comers opt to play this intimate wee venue, with The Head Henchmen, Numbers are Futile and Garden of Elks having appeared here recently.
Also try: The Wee Red Bar, Bannerman's, Pleasance.