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Best Christmas gifts for music lovers: present ideas for everyday listeners, musicians and live music fans
Yasmine specialises in shopping advice and finding the best deals during sales events like Black Friday, helping readers get great value for their money.
Whether you're buying for a budding musician, an avid concertgoer or an everyday listener, this guide to the best Christmas gifts for music lovers will help you hit the right note.
Finding the perfect festive gift can be a tough gig, especially if you're shopping for someone who's a little picky. But if you know they're a music enthusiast, these unique and useful presents could be the inspiration you've needed.
Best Christmas gifts for all music lovers
Sony WF-1000XM5
They might be a light pair of headphones, but they go heavy on the noise-cancelling features. They have six tiny microphones to pick up your voice when you’re on a call, and AI is built in to automatically reduce the ambient noise around you that can interfere. Their stylish look oozes quality too, making them a premium gift.
We like: Stylish, noise-cancelling earbuds
We don’t like: The rounded earbud design won’t be for everyone
True wireless earbuds are a must-have for music lovers on the go, and the Sony WF-1000XM5 are a bestselling option with built-in noise-cancelling technology.
They're designed to block out sounds from the outside world, so the focus is entirely on the music with no distractions. Because of that, they're well-suited to everything from the morning commute to noisy plane journeys.
When you aren’t using them, a pocket-friendly case keeps them safe and charges them up.
Read about more of the best wireless earbuds or compare prices on the Sony WF-1000XM5 below:
JBL Wave Beam 2
My kids like wearing in-ear headphones, but it's daft to splash out on an expensive pair that are likely to get lost or stolen when our testing reveals Great Value ones sound great, and cost much less.
We like: Inexpensive noise-cancelling earbuds
We don’t like: Lacks premium features such as wireless charging
You don’t need to splash out hundreds on a pair of earphones. There are plenty of cheap alternatives that still have a lot of the same features as a pricier pair.
The JBL Wave Beam 2 wireless earbuds cost less than £50, yet still boast noise-cancelling technology, multipoint connectivity and an AirPods-esque stem design. JBL claims that the charging case will provide you with around 40 hours of music before you need to plug it in. There's also a fast charge feature, which means you only need to plug them in for 10 minutes to boost your listening time.
Read the JBL Wave Beam 2 review or compare prices below:
Marshall Emberton II
If the person you're shopping for spends more time in the back garden or beach than indoors then a portable speaker makes a great gift. The best models do a decent job at maintaining the rich and balanced sound of their bigger, housebound cousins while being small enough to sling in a bag or even fit into a pocket.
We like: Retro style, simple to use
We don’t like: This isn't the latest model
A speaker that can be used anywhere, like the Marshall Emberton II, is perfect for music lovers who spend a lot of time outdoors. This device has a stylish design that looks like a miniature version of one of the brand’s legendary amplifiers. And it doesn't just look cool, it also has 360-degree sound and a water-resistant build. Marshall claims you’ll get about 30 hours of music from each charge, too.
We’d recommend buying the Marshall Emberton II instead of the Emberton III if you're looking to save money. It’s not that different from the latest model, and it's usually much cheaper.
Read about more of the best portable speakers or compare prices below:
Spotify Premium subscription
Fed up with hearing the same two ads every 10 minutes, my husband bought me a six-month Spotify subscription the other year. I haven't looked back and now pay for my own subscription, so I can enjoy my music without annoying interruptions.
We like: Millions of songs at their fingertips
Watch out for: Some people will prefer Apple Music or Tidal
What could be a better gift for music fans than unlimited access to a ginormous library of songs? Spotify is one of the most well-known streaming services with more than 100m tracks, millions of podcasts, and thousands of audiobooks available to stream and download.
You can buy a gift card for Spotify covering a one-month, three-month, six-month or 12-month subscription. They can use it to pay for a new membership or add it to an account they already use.
Read about more of the best music streaming services or buy a Spotify gift card below:
Song lyrics artwork
Turning their favourite song into a piece of artwork is a really personal and thoughtful gift. Plus, it'll add a stylish, unique touch to any room. Every time they see it, they'll be reminded of the music, the memories, and the person who gave it to them.
We like: Transforms a memory into artwork
Watch out for: The song choice is limited
Gifting artwork inspired by their favourite songs is personal and affordable. Pick a track you saw live together, a tune that defined a special memory or an album that helped them through a tough time. There are lots of different takes on this available, so you'll be able to find the perfect one to match their style.
We particularly like these Reign & Hall prints that jumble up the track’s lyrics in a minimalist design. You can get one for Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush, Careless Whisper by George Michael or Mardy Bum by Arctic Monkeys, to name just a few. There’s also the option to create a custom design based on a song of your choice.
Shop song lyric artworks at Reign & Hall, starting from £17.
Sonos Era 100
Smart speakers give you enormous flexibility. You can have several around your home in a multiroom system capable of playing the same or different music around the house. Plus you get voice control, so you don't even need to take your phone out of your pocket to play your favourite songs and albums.
We like: Alexa smarts in a sleek speaker
We don’t like: Not compatible with the Google Assistant
Sonos is one of the most well-known audio brands in the world, and Alexa is one of the most popular smart assistants. Combining the two into a sleek wireless device, the Sonos Era 100 is sure to be appreciated by any music lover this festive season.
It won’t be an eyesore in a modern home and it’s small enough to slot neatly on a shelf. You can connect your phone to it on wi-fi or Bluetooth and there’s a port to connect an auxiliary cable. It can even be hooked up to a turntable. What’s more is that it has Trueplay technology, which Sonos says analyses the space it's in to automatically optimise the EQ.
Read the Sonos Era 100 review or compare prices below:
Roberts Rambler Midi radio
The cracking Roberts Rambler Midi DAB+ radio has a stylish and portable design. The single speaker, located behind the front grill, is capable with good volume. It has a nifty handle and can also be powered by AA batteries, making it a superb option to travel with.
We like: Modern radio with retro style
We don’t like: Finicky to navigate
For those who would prefer to listen to a radio station rather than a music streaming service, this Roberts Rambler Midi radio will be a gift they will get a lot of use out of.
It has both DAB+ and FM wavebands, as well as Bluetooth streaming, so you can use it as a radio or a wireless speaker if you’d like to.
The bamboo design, with a leather handle and a brushed aluminium dial, gives it a modern yet retro look. Plus, it doubles up as a bedside alarm clock, and you can move it around the house and garden, because it has the option to be powered by batteries.
Read about more of the best DAB radios or compare prices on the Roberts Rambler Midi below:
Sennheiser Accentum Plus Wireless headphones
We like: Adaptive noise-cancelling headphones
We don’t like: They’re pretty bulky
Many people prefer over-ear headphones to true wireless earbuds. Some find them more comfortable, more immersive, with better audio and longer battery life.
The Sennheiser Accentum Plus Wireless are a popular pair of ANC headphones that claim to have a 50-hour battery life, so you rarely need to charge them. The noise-cancelling technology adapts to the environment you're in and the sound is fully customisable via the accessory app.
Read more about more of the best noise-cancelling headphones or compare prices on the Sennheiser Accentum Plus Wireless below:
Best Christmas gifts for audiophiles
An Audio-Technica turntable
Nothing sings to an audiophile like vinyl and this top-tier turntable is ideal for playing them. It's also stylish, well built and fully manual, giving it a retro feel.
We like: Simple and stylish
We don’t like: It’s fully manual
A turntable makes a nice addition to any space and could spark a new hobby.
Many prefer the warmer, richer sound delivered by a record player, and it will add a nice touch to the aesthetics of the living room, particularly if you opt for something like the Audio-Technica AT-LPW50BTRW. It promises high-fidelity audio paired with a sleek rosewood-finished veneer design.
Read about more of the best record players and turntables or compare prices on the Audio-Technica AT-LPW50BTRW below:
Audio Pro C20 speaker
Even music purists with shelves packed with vinyl can appreciate the ease of playing a song from their phone on a wireless speaker. Having a great sounding device ready to receive the countless songs on streaming services wherever you are in the house is a simple joy that helps you listen to more music.
We like: Modern with multi-room technology
We don’t like: Lacks voice control
Audiophiles will appreciate receiving a powerful home speaker that offers both wireless and wired connectivity. They will be able to stream high-fidelity audio as it’s meant to be heard using an auxiliary cable, as well as the convenience of wireless listening. It's the best of both worlds.
The Audio Pro C20 could be a worthy choice, promising immersive audio thanks to a built-in amplifier and finely tuned drivers. It’s also compatible with most popular streaming services, there are several ways to connect, and it has multi-room, so you can listen to the same music across your entire home at once. Plus, it’s a stylish piece of kit, which is ideal for a minimalist, modern home.
Read more about the best wireless speakers or compare prices on the Audio Pro C20 below:
Vinyls
Vinyls of their favourite song or album have proved a hit for my family. From classic tunes for my dad - who remembers vinyl all too well - to a Taylor Swift limited release for my sister, they're cool with every generation.
We like: Thoughtful and long-lasting
Watch out for: Pointless without a record player
A vinyl is a present that they will appreciate for years to come. Whichever one you choose will help them grow a collection they already have or encourage them to start one.
You could pick an album from one of their favourite artists or choose something that holds a special meaning between you to make the present even more personal.
Most popular artists, old and new, sell their music on vinyl.
Shop vinyls at retailers such as Amazon and HMV or compare prices on Back to Black by Amy Winehouse below:
A Which? subscription
Relaxing with a magazine is one of life's little pleasures. I find it the perfect way to wind down in the evening or in the garden when the weather is nice. Whether it's a lifestyle, cookery or gardening magazine or something like science, current affairs or tech, there's something out there to suit all interests.
We like: An inspiring present to broaden their knowledge
For the audiophile who loves to stay on top of the best tech, a Which? subscription is the perfect gift. It will help them discover top-rated headphones, speakers, soundbars, and more. They will also get expert advice on how to get the most out of their gear and music subscriptions.
An annual gift subscription to one of our magazines is a brilliant present – as well as Which?, there's Which? Tech, Which? Money, Which? Gardening and Which? Travel.
Best Christmas gifts for fans of live music
Band merchandise
My husband claims that seeing Oasis was the best day of his life, trumping even our wedding. While I'm tempted to skip his Christmas presents, I will be doing a haul on Adidas for any Oasis merchandise he hasn't managed to snap up yet.
We like: Oasis x Adidas merchandise is a fashion statement
Watch out for: Pick a band or artist they love if they aren’t an Oasis fan
Shopping for someone who can't stop talking about a concert they went to recently? Why not get them some official merchandise from the show?
The Oasis x Adidas collaboration, for example, was a huge hit this summer. If you can get your hands on a T-shirt, jacket or hat, it would be a perfect gift for a fan of their music. If the clothes you want to get are in stock, act fast, as lots of the pieces regularly sell out.
Shop Oasis merchandise from the Adidas online store.
Loop earplugs
I was recommended these for Glastonbury this year by friends who had used them before. They were great. Could still hear the music (bass and high notes) very well but helped dull the loudness of festival speakers. Pretty comfortable when in use and would recommend the loop link (which I regret not getting) as they could fall out.
We like: Protects hearing at loud events
Watch out for: They might fall out while dancing
Live music events, from concerts to DJ sets and festivals, are a fun way to connect with your favourite songs. But the volume can be loud and potentially damaging to your ears, especially if you attend a lot of them.
That’s why Loop Experience 2 earplugs make a practical gift for any fan of live music. They will keep their ears safe while still letting them enjoy the full sound experience and still hear everything clearly, just at a more comfortable volume.
Compare prices on the Loop Experience 2 earplugs below:
Ticketmaster gift card
A Ticketmaster gift card is a brilliant way to treat someone who loves live music. Instead of trying to guess the perfect artist or gig, you’re giving them the freedom to choose the show they’re most excited about. You can set a custom amount to suit your budget and, because it’s delivered by email, it’s ideal for a thoughtful last-minute gift.
We like: Allows them to choose which event to go to
Watch out for: Consider the price of concerts when you decide how much to spend
Ticketmaster is a go-to for tickets to the latest concerts, tours and live events. If you're buying for someone who regularly goes to gigs, a gift card will definitely be put to good use.
You can give them either a physical or virtual card, and you can load it with any amount you wish, giving them the gift of a new, unforgettable memory of their own choosing.
Buy a Ticketmaster gift card from Amazon or directly from Ticketmaster.
Best Christmas gifts for musicians
Personalised plectrums
Personalised gifts are a fantastic way to celebrate a musician's passion. Engrave or print their name onto accessories like plectrums, instrument cases or drumsticks. It will be both practical and personal!
We like: Useful and bespoke
Watch out for: Some musicians have quite specific preferences
Every guitarist, from beginner to seasoned pro, has a collection of plectrums.
While some might prefer picks made from wood or metal and others might stick to acrylic, a personalised pick is a useful and thoughtful gift. For other types of musicians, consider a personalised case or strap for their instrument, or a set of custom drumsticks.
Shop personalised plectrums from Amazon, Not On The High Street and Picktown.
A karaoke machine
We like: Lots of fun for keen singers
Watch out for: It’s a noisy gift
A karaoke machine is a fun Christmas gift for the people in your life who are always singing. It will bring hours of enjoyment for them and for everyone else, too. They will be able to host their own karaoke nights or just practice on their own. You might want to reconsider if you live in the same house, though, as it will be noisy.
The Vocal-Star VS-275 comes with two wireless microphones, built-in party lights and has a rechargeable battery, so you can move it around without needing access to mains power.
Read about more of the best karaoke machines or compare prices on the Vocal-Star VS-275 below:
Masterclass subscription
Anyone who loves learning and is always picking up new hobbies will get a lot out of a Masterclass subscription. You can take courses in a wide range of subjects, from DJing and playing guitar to cooking and interior design.
We like: They will learn new skills
Watch out for: Check that the instrument they want is included
Whether they’re just starting out or are a seasoned professional, a Masterclass subscription will be a useful gift for musicians. They will be able to learn a new instrument, get to grips with DJ decks, produce their own tracks or find out how to succeed in the music industry. The online courses are all taught by notable professionals, including Ringo Starr, Christina Aguilera and deadmau5.
Give them a year’s subscription to give them plenty of time to learn. They will be able to use their account on two devices and download courses to watch offline.
Buy a Masterclass subscription from the online store.
A USB microphone
A good-quality microphone is an essential piece of kit. If you don't want the microphone sitting in front of you all the time, you might want to invest in a microphone arm for your setup – that way, you can keep your desk space clear and uncluttered.
We like: High-quality recordings
Watch out for: Check their current setup
An easy-to-use microphone will be a great gift for content creators and musicians. It will allow them to record their instruments and vocals in much better quality directly to their laptop.
This Rode plug-and-play microphone features a long 6-metre USB cable, allowing for precise positioning in the space, and a pop filter to reduce breath noises when singing.
Compare prices on the Rode USB-NT microphone below:
Looking for more festive gift ideas? Take a look at our other guides: