Updated on December 7, 2024
If you want to get an audiophile something awesome, you’ll probably have to spend a pretty penny. But they’re worth it, right? Check out these great tech gifts for audiophiles on your list.
Audiolab 9000Q Preamplifier
The Audiolab 9000Q preamplifier is solidly built and finished with two rotary controls and a left-aligned 4.3” colour display that shows data like volume level, input selection, and format data. It also provides access to the amp’s menu system, which includes options like digital up-sampling, input sensitivity adjustment, balance control, and automatic standby switching. Bass and treble tone controls are a new feature added to the menu system. Although microprocessor controlled, these, like the volume control, operate entirely in the analogue domain and offer precision adjustment of +/-6dB in 2dB steps. Individual settings can be assigned to different digital and analogue inputs. For example, a streaming source and a turntable might benefit from different EQ. These tone controls can also be removed entirely from the signal path if preferred. Digital-to-analogue signal conversion enables digital sources to be connected directly without an external DAC. A USB Type B input caters for PCs, Macs, smartphones, tablets, and digital storage devices, alongside four S/PDIF digital inputs – two coaxial and two optical. There are also four line-level analogue inputs – three stereo RCA, and one stereo XLR for balanced connectivity – plus a phono input for a turntable. With Bluetooth, you get support for aptX HD and LDAC, aptX Low Latency, AAC, and SBC. A pair of stereo RCA outputs allow two stereo power amps to be connected in bridged mode. Hi-res audio support can handle PCM to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD to 22.5MHz (DSD512). Get it in silver or black for $2,699. It’s joined by another new audio product in the line, the 9000P stereo amplifier, which sells for $1,999. Both are available exclusively through Erikson Consumer.
Panasonic Technics SL-1300G Turntable
An audiophile might be looking for a new turntable to add to their home theatre or listening room, and Panasonic Technics is a good brand to consider. The Technics SL-1300G hi-fi turntable just launched this past September and comes equipped with ΔΣ-Drive (Delta Sigma Drive) motor control technology that combines with the iron-coreless motor to provide an enjoyable listening experience. The iron-coreless double rotor/single stator motor provides improved rotational smoothness while the coil mounting circuit board of the motor now comes with a new reinforcement with leads to a further reduction of the mechanical vibrations caused during rotation. The larger platter consists of three layers. Aluminum die-cast builds the fundament for high rigidity. A top layer of 2mm-thick brass, thoroughly fixed to the die-cast platter, further eliminates vibrations and adds an extra portion of touch and feel. Finally, heavy wight rubber underneath the platter dampens even tiny remaining vibrations, resulting in pure tracking of vinyl records for high signal precision, says the company. The two-layered bottom chassis made of aluminium die-cast and BMC (Bulk Moulding Compound) is a rock-solid fundament that enables high resistance against vibrations. The high-sensitivity S-shaped aluminium tonearm with high-precision bearings enables high initial motion sensitivity. Available starting this month, it’s US$3,3300.
Marantz Grand Horizon Wireless Speaker
There’s a caveat here: this speaker isn’t shipping until mid-January. But it will be worth the wait if you let that special someone know what’s coming. The Marantz Grand Horizon wireless speaker isn’t just a speaker, it’s also a stylish statement piece. The circular speaker can fill an entire room with full-range sound. You’ll get 370W output through an eight-inch subwoofer, three one-inch silk-dome tweeters, and four full-range drive units. Built around Marantz’s HEOS wireless music platform, you can tap into supported streaming services like Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify, and Tidal, with more services to follow. Apple AirPlay2 and Bluetooth are also included, along with analog, optical, and even HDMI inputs. You can also access music from locally connected USB-C music drives. Onboard Dolby decoding ensures compatibility with Dolby Atmos supplied via HDMI. As a HEOS speaker, you can connect it with other HEOS-enabled products, customize the listening experience, and more. With Marantz AuraControl, the speaker lights up as soon as you approach, while you can touch the illuminated ring to adjust volume. It comes in Midnight Sky, Moon Ray, or Marantz Champagne finishes with a colour-matched natural marble base. Alternatively, there are optional American walnut tripod floor stands or wall brackets for other mounting options. It’s $7,500 or if that’s too rich for your blood, you can step down to the smaller Horizon model for $4,500.
Totem Acoustic KIN ONE 2-Way Monitor Loudspeaker
The Totem Acoustic KIN ONE entry-level two-way monitor loudspeaker comes in five satin finishes (Pink, Blue, Orange, Black, or White with matching magnetic grills included) and is designed for younger customers as a gateway into high-end audio. It uses specific custom proprietary drivers and MHEX woofers (Multiple Strata Hex Cone) that are stiffer than metal but produce very fast responsiveness. The titanium infused soft dome tweeter is matched to both the woofer and the cabinet, resulting in what KIN calls a “perfect phase response.” Resembling a smaller version of the Element Fire v2, it uses seven high quality precision components. Totem has added a long L-shaped port that virtually eliminates cabinet resonances. This port design allows information to exist below 65Hz (i.e. 40Hz @ -12dB). A perfect gift for a younger individual or couple moving into their first home or looking to finally upgrade from subpar speakers, get it for $699.
iFi Go Bar DAC Kensei Edition
The iFi Go bar supports all higher streaming audio formats including PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz, Native DSD playback up to DSD256, 2x DXD and Full MQA decoding. A toggle button allows for enhanced bass and spatial performance. The Kensei special edition portable DAC uses Japanese steel for its construction along with special Japanese audio processing known as K2HD, developed by JVCKENWOOD. K2 technology is designed to make digital files sound less digital and truer to the studio analog recording. It’s about the size of a typical thumb drive but housed in a beautiful Japanese matte stainless steel. It is designed to by-pass the DAC components in your phone or laptop and allow the digital processing to be completed by the 32-bit Cirrus Logic chipset embedded in the Kensei. The Cirrus Logic chipset is further enhanced with the Go bar Kensei using an XMOS 16-Core Chip for lightning-fast processing power. The Go bar then uses a series of digital filters to minimize any erroneous artefacts. While obviously small, the internal amplification in the Go bar Kensei DAC is rated at 477mW which is roughly 10 times the power output of a new generation iPhone. Read our detailed review of the product, which is available in Canada through Erikson Consumer for $699, and comes with a carrying case, USB-C, and Apple Lightning adapters.
NAD C 700 V2 BluOS Streaming Amplifier
The NAD C 700 V2 BluOS streaming amplifier is a modern, versatile solution for high-resolution, multi-room music streaming. With the inclusion of an advanced ESS Sabre ES9028 DAC, the amplifier promises a refined listening experience characterized by greater precision and depth. This upgrade, along with NAD’s HybridDigital UcD amplifier technology, ensures powerful and clear sound reproduction, catering to both audiophiles and music enthusiasts. One of the standout features is its seamless integration of stereo and surround sound capabilities. The ability to switch to a 4.1 Dolby Digital Surround setup with BluOS Enabled rear channels and a wired subwoofer expands its versatility, making it suitable for both music and home theatre applications. Ready for Dirac Live, you can unlock advanced room correction capabilities with a purchase of a Dirac Live license. Using a calibrated microphone (sold separately) and the Dirac app, precision-tune their speakers to enjoy music and movies as originally intended from anywhere in the listening room. The C 700 V2 stores up to five Dirac Live profiles, accommodating different setups and room conditions. The addition of a MM phono input caters to vinyl enthusiasts who can enjoy their records with precise RIAA equalization and low noise.
Connectivity includes HDMI eARC, two-way aptX HD Bluetooth, and Apple AirPlay 2 provides flexibility for various devices, enhancing the amplifier’s integration capabilities within diverse entertainment systems. It also includes USB Type A for music playback and connecting an optional calibration mic. BluOS streaming and multi-room functionality are at the core of the C 700 V2, providing access to over 20 popular music streaming services, thousands of internet radio stations, and local digital music libraries. Its compatibility with major home control systems and voice assistants like Alexa and Siri adds a layer of convenience, making it a smart addition to modern homes. The C 700 V2’s design features a high-definition colour display and solid aluminium body with controls via the BluOS Controller app, along with the included remote and compatibility with other IR remotes. It’s $2,199, available in Canada through Lenbrook.
Bryston Bi-200 Integrated Amplifier
As the first integrated product from the company, the Bryston Bi-200 integrated amplifier allows you to connect up to six analog sources. The dual-mono amplifier produces 200 watts into 8ohms and 300 watts per channel into 4 ohms. It’s fully convection cooled so there are no noisy fans. There’s also an independent buffered headphone output. Constructed with a machined aluminum enclosure and dress panel in silver or black and 17- or 19-inch sizes (colour faceplates are available), it is two-way RS232 foe automation systems and compatible with BR-4 remote control. It’s effectively a Bryston BP-19 preamplifier and 3B amplifier in a single chassis, which saves room and affords great power and connectivity.
Audio-Technica AT-LP8X Semi-Automatic Direct Drive Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP8X comes with a VM95 Series cartridge, adjustable VTA (vertical tracking angle), and newly designed motor. It can play back 33-1/3, 45, and 78-RPM records, and tThanks to semi-automatic operation, the tonearm raises itself off the record and the motor stops at the end of a side. There’s also a pre-mounted high-performance AT-VM95E Dual Magnet phono cartridge with an elliptical stylus. The cartridge is pre-mounted on Audio-Technica’s new AT-L10 removeable headshell (available separately) for easy installation. The J-shaped aluminum tonearm is inspired by classic Audio-Technica designs and has adjustable VTA, enabling it to be optimized for virtually any phono cartridge. In addition, the AT-LP8X provides adjustments for anti-skating and tracking force and comes with a sub-counterweight that enables the use of cartridges with a weight range from 14 to 23.5 grams. The new low-torque direct drive DC motor has a speed sensor system that ensures accurate speed stability. It features a one-inch thin rubber-damped, anti-resonance die-cast aluminum platter and a rubber mat affording reduced resonance and more accurate and uncoloured vinyl playback. You’ll also get a new internal switching power supply that is optimized for audio use, ensuring minimum noise in the signal chain. US$999.
Michi Q5 Transport DAC CD Player
The Michi Q5 Transport DAC audiophile-grade CD player, transport, and DAC in one has an ESS ES9028PRO DAC and an eight-channel digital-to-analog converter. Michi has implemented the DAC in a fully balanced, fully differential circuit design to offer precision audio reproduction with an extremely low noise floor, says the company ensuring “pristine sound with minimal distortion to both XLR and RCA analog outputs.” The Q5 dedicates four channels within the DAC to each of the left and right audio signal paths, ensuring favourable detail retrieval and an expansive soundstage. For additional installation flexibility, the Q5 also delivers CD audio to both coaxial and optical outputs, allowing the unit to act as a CD Transport. The top-loading CD mechanism is constructed with precision optical laser pickup housed in a premium carbon fibre and CNC-machined aluminum chassis. Mounted on a custom floating spring assembly reduces unwanted vibrations and provides a stable platform for CD playback. The Q5 is also equipped with bespoke, dual in-house manufactured toroidal transformers that isolate digital and analog voltage supplies, significantly reducing noise and interference. The CD drive motor’s voltage and current supplies are also electrically isolated from the sensitive audio signals, preventing any potential motor noise from affecting the sound quality.
The Michi Q5 supports a range of additional audio inputs, including PC-USB (up to 32-bit / 384kHz) with MQA and DSD 4X support, plus 24-bit / 192kHz coaxial and optical inputs. The elegant front panel features a full-colour TFT display that showcases CD album artwork. The included Michi remote provides intuitive, seamless operation, while RS232 and Ethernet ports enable integration with popular automation systems, ensuring easy management of your audio setup. $8,499.
iFi Audio ZEN Blue 3 High-Resolution Bluetooth DAC
The iFi Audio ZEN Blue 3 hi-resolution Bluetooth DAC, distributed in Canada by Erikson Consumer, merges wireless connectivity with lossless CD quality audio transmission and audiophile-grade circuitry. There are three new operation modes including Bluetooth RX, TX, and DAC along with the aptX Lossless Bluetooth codec to receive or transmit Lossless CD-quality and Hi-Res audio over Bluetooth and a switchable low-latency mode. It uses the latest Bluetooth 5.4 spec and the aptX Lossless codec, and Hi-Res 96kHz via LDAC and LDHC/HWA. For audio connoisseurs, this means the ZEN Blue 3 allows you to stream lossless CD-quality music from your mobile phone to your Hi-Fi system. Home cinema lovers can also enjoy high-quality audio with Hi-Res Bluetooth headphones while watching movies at home. For those using the ZEN Blue 3 in transmission mode for watching video content or gaming, there is a low latency button on the front of the unit that resolves the delay issue between the video and audio, meaning audio is in sync with video content. The iFi ZEN Blue 3 three new function modes are RX mode which receives Bluetooth from a source device. TX mode which transmits Bluetooth to a device and Wired DAC mode via USB-C or S/PDIF inputs. $299.
Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Wireless Speaker
The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition, available in Solar Gold and Space Grey, employs a revised downlight that offers user-selectable choice over 15 separate colours, each with brightness adjustment options. Titanium Dome tweeters, as found in the latest generation of the 600 Series loudspeakers, are mounted at the far edges of the enclosure and are fully isolated from vibrations running through the cabinet generated by other, larger drive units. The new tweeters are paired with 90mm midrange drivers using Bowers & Wilkins proprietary Fixed Suspension Transducer FST technology. These drive units have been upgraded with increased cone damping, reducing the effects of cone break-up leading to a more open midrange sound. Along with revised DSP tuning designed to make the most of the potential of these new drive units, the result is more revealing, room-filling sound. A 150mm subwoofer is on hand to add deep, detailed and refined bass to the open, high-resolution sound of the combined system. Mounted centrally at the heart of the Zeppelin Pro Edition’s structure, its design is carefully optimized to avoid unwanted ‘rocking’ of the cabinet as it operates, resulting in a cleaner-sounding and more agile bass delivery, says the company.
With multiroom functionality built in, use it with both other new Zeppelins in a multiroom environment or a multiroom system based on Bowers & Wilkins’ own Formation range of high-resolution wireless speakers. Able to stream via AirPlay2, Bluetooth aptX Adaptive and Spotify Connect, the Zeppelin also gives you access to all the music streaming services available from the Bowers & Wilkins Music app, including Deezer, Last.fm, Qobuz, TIDAL, TuneIn and many more. This also means seamless interaction with Bowers & Wilkins’ range of wireless headphones or earbuds, which can also be controlled by the same Music app. US$799.
Marantz Model M1 Wireless Streaming Amplifier
The Marantz Model M1 wireless streaming amplifier has both analog and digital inputs and can be connected to both physical music sources and to a TV. Appealing to both first-time hi-fi buyers and the experienced audio enthusiast, its high-power amplification offers 100W of stereo output with low distortion – just 0.005% THD via its digital inputs, a figure typically found in amplifiers costing a great deal more. If desired, you can add a subwoofer for a 2.1-channel experience. The advanced configuration options allow for full adjustment of both high-pass-filter and low-pass-filter frequencies independently, along +/-15dB of subwoofer level trim. This powerful amplification is complemented by full high-resolution music support. Many compact digital amplifiers are limited to CD-quality 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution, but Model M1 supports the full high-resolution music experience over streamed services, your network or even USB, including 24-bit/192kHz PCM support and provision for DSD.
Use the HEOS app to access all the music services available on the HEOS platform, including Tidal, and share your HEOS music throughout the home with other HEOS-enabled products in the Marantz portfolio, including both stereo and AVR components, for whole-home Marantz sound quality (scalable to up to 32 discrete zones). Even pair two units side-by-side in a standard 19” equipment rack if desired. Its effective passive thermal management means no intrusive fan noise or issues with heat build-up in cabinets and a threaded mounting point on the bottom of the amplifier means you can even install the unit on a wall-mount bracket if required. In addition to HEOS, Model M1 supports Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and AirPlay2; audio can also be played from a locally connected USB-A drive. The Model M1 does not have a built-in phono stage but can of course accommodate vinyl playback using an external amplifier via the line-level RCA analogue inputs. It includes eARC HDMI and Dolby Digital+ decoding. $1,499.
Kanto REN Active Speaker With HDMI ARC
Want something affordable yet premium with powerful sound? The Kanto Audio REN active speaker is finally here after months of waiting. Distributed in Canada by Gemsen, it’s the Canadian brand’s first active speaker with HDMI ARC. The REN is a high-performance 100W active speaker that also includes Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, optical inputs, analogue line-in, and a dedicated sub-out. Connect everything from your smartphone to a PC or Mac, digital audio player, or even traditional analogue audio sources like record players. They come in pairs in Matte Grey, Matte Orange, Matte Blue, or Matte White, for $700/pr.
DALI IO-8 Wireless Headphones
The DALI IO-8 wireless headphones are a premium pair of passive analogue headphones that can also be used wirelessly. They are great for both at-home listening as well as travel thanks to the built-in active noise cancellation (ANC) technology with transparency mode. Equipped with custom 50mm drivers, aptX adaptive, and support for up to 24-bit/96kHz audio for both wireless and wired operation, there are dual sound modes for Hi-Fi and Bass so you can choose according to what you’re listening to at the time. DALI speaker driver diaphragms are made exclusively from proprietary paper and wood fibre materials. The paper fibre material used in the IO-8 drivers employs randomly aligned fibres of variable length to create a light yet stiff diaphragm that offers optimal damping. The result, says the company, is natural, relaxed sound quality. The IO-8 ear pads are finished in high quality real leather. In addition, the headphones feature a radial brushed and anodized finish to the ear cup external surfaces. The price when converted from Euros, would be just under $900 in Canada.
Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ80 True Wireless Earbuds
Want a pair of true wireless earbud that won’t cost a fortune but sound great? There are glowing reviews for the Panasonic Technics EAH-AZ80, which cost a mere $200 in Canada, even less than some basic models. They come equipped with 10mm drivers, noise cancellation, and a special acoustic structure. There’s seamless device switching among three devices, long battery life of up to seven hours with ANC on (24 hours back-up with the Qi charging case), and a natural concha fit that Panasonic says keeps them in place and comfortable to wear, even during activity like runs or gym workouts. The signature Technica hifi sound is characterized by powerful, low distortion bass. Supporting LDAC high-res wireless audio, there are customizable touch sensors ad JustMyVoice technology with eight mics and advanced wind suppression to isolate speech from background noise during phone calls. At its price, you get tremendous value.
Qobuz Subscription
What good is a hifi system without great music sources to enjoy? A great gift for someone who loves music and loves enjoying every nuance of its sound is Qobuz. The high-quality music streaming and download platform, which launched in Canada two years ago, offers a catalogue of more than 100 million titles, all lossless, downloadable files that are high-res and CD quality. This includes high-res FLAC files at up to 9,216 kbps with a sample rate up to 24-bit/192kHZ. The service is also about music discovery with access to content like artist interviews, in-depth articles, and a section dedicated to Hi-Fi hear within its online magazine. Each week, the expert editorial team also provides a list of recommendations and featured albums including both known and emerging artists. These are across a variety of music genres, like rock, jazz, classical, pop, R&B, electronic, world, and metal. Building a community, the Qobuz Club offers audiophiles and music lovers from all over the world a unique place where they can share their musical discoveries and recommendations as well as advice on Hi-Fi equipment.
A standard Solo subscription is $13/mo. if you go month-to-month or $130/yr., which works out to $10.83/mo. if you commit to the full 12 months. The Duo option is $18/mo. on a monthly plan or $15/mo. for the year at $179.88/yr. A Family can subscribe for $21.90/mo. or save by pre-paying $215.88 for the year, which works out to $18/mo. There’s also a Sublime subscription that includes access to the entire catalog of albums in studio quality for both streaming download as well as exclusive discounts on Hi-Res purchases of up to as much as 60% off. These plans are $180/yr. for Solo or $15/mo., $269.89/yr. for Duo or $22.50/mo., and $350/yr. ($29.17/mo.) for the Family subscription. Consider starting them out with the basic Solo subscription and pre-pay for the year, deciding if this will be an ongoing gift or if they’ll take over paying once the year is up.