Gifts Under $500
FiiO X3 Portable Music Player, $339
Sure you can listen to music from a smartphone but serious music listeners prefer a dedicated portable player because of the higher quality sound. The X3 offers and all-new audiophile architecture and is purpose-built to do just one thing – deliver high quality audio. Dual crystal oscillators ensure lowest jitter and highest precision playback of music at all samples rates. Its built-in DAC supports 192 kHz/24-bit audio and even DSD playback. www.fiio.net
Totem KIN Mini Speakers, $500
Sound quality does not have to be compromised when setting up a small music system. The KIN Mini serves up an accurate, immersive sound with fantastic imaging and amazing precision that Canadian speaker maker Totem has long been praised for. Its compact dimensions and high degree of placement flexibility allow it to be placed just about anywhere without sacrificing musical enjoyment. www.totemacoustic.com
Grado Prestige SR325e Headphones, $399
Grado has been producing fine headphones for years and recently introduced their “e” line, which are their best yet. The 325e is the top model in the Prestige Series and arguably delivers the greatest price-to-performance. With a retro authentic 60’s styling, real leather padded head strap and powder-coated aluminum housings, these headphones offer a superbly open, airy and vivacious sound. The recipient of such a gift will certainly listen to music with joy over the holidays. www.gradolabs.com
Sonos: CONNECT Music Streamer, $399
Various Sonos components have been featured in our gift guide over the last few years and for a good reason. Sonos devices have transformed the way millions of people are enjoying their music. The CONNECT allows you to stream music from your home network to any existing music system, while using the Sonos app on your phone or tablet. It also allows you to access internet radio and a plethora of online streaming services. www.sonos.com
Serene Audio Talisman Powered Speakers, $495
These Canadian made speakers are handcrafted from bamboo, leather and brass and deliver a clean, accurate sound. Thanks to their built-in 20 watt-per-channel amplifiers, they can be paired with any music source – from a smartphone to a turntable, although most will likely connect them to a desktop computer. One thing is for sure, their gorgeous design will not go unnoticed wherever they are placed. www.sereneaudio.com
PlayStation 4 Disney Infinity 3.0: Star Wars 500GB Bundle, $469
Yes, the PS4 has been out for a couple years now but Sony has just released a Limited Edition Star Wars edition model and it is way cool! Fans will just love the Darth Vader inspired styling and images on the game system and controllers, while they immerse themselves in game play. It also includes a voucher for four Star Wars Classic games – Super Star Wars, Star Wars: Racer Revenge, Jedi Starfighter and Star Wars Bounty Hunter. www.playstation.com
Click here to read Part 2 of our the CANADA HiFi 2015 Holiday Gift Guide – $500 and Up Gift Ideas!
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