What is Sonic Elevation? You’re probably wondering what it is, what it means, or both. By the end of this post, you’ll have a pretty good grasp on what Sonic Elevation is, and how you can apply the concept to your life (or at least give you some food for thought). 

You’ve probably heard people say things like “music saved my life”, “music is life”, “music saves lives”, etc. It might seem like a cliche but if you’re a melomaniac, you can definitely relate. 

Do you use music to deal with the constant ups and downs of life? Do you listen to music to remember some of the good times from your past? Do you get a ton of enjoyment (some would say too much) out of showing someone a song that you just discovered?

Those are just a few examples of how we use music as a form of medicine in our lives. Music can also be used as a form of escapism. It varies from person to person, but we all have our ways of momentarily escaping a painful time/memory in life, or just as a way to let our imagination run wild. 

Some people turn to movies or TV shows as a form of escapism. Others of us turn to music or podcasts. Some view escapism as a negative thing. Escapism isn’t an inherently negative practice (unless you take it so far that you become completely unproductive in your daily life). 

You might also be familiar with the term “music therapy”. There are various forms of “music therapy” that aim to improve your life by either listening to certain types of music, creating music, or a combination of both. 

Traditional therapy can be beneficial for some, but they’re also not giving it away for free. Music therapy doesn’t have to be the act of paying someone else to walk you through a process that they came up with. 

Music therapy could be as simple as listening to music to help you process strong emotions. It could also be as simple as listening to a song that matches your mood and therefore acts as a cathartic form of release. 

You probably see where I’m going with this. Music is one of the most powerful mediums for human emotion. What we can do, is use it however we choose to, and elevate our state of mind. We can use it as pure entertainment, background noise, a bridge to connecting with other people, and even finding common ground with people you might not have otherwise. 

There are tons of different ways to consume our medicine (aka music). Some of us enjoy the old fashioned turntable, listening with a nostalgic-smelling vinyl record. We enjoy the process of looking for a record, flipping through each and every one until we find that diamond in the rough. 

Others of us prefer purchasing digital downloads and uploading them onto a portable MP3 player or iPod. It is a lot more convenient and definitely has it’s pros and cons. 

In recent history, many of us have made the switch (or added it to the other methods) of using streaming services to consume our audio. It’s by far, the easiest (and usually least expensive) way to listen to our favorite artists. 

No matter what your personal preference is, we’re all seeking the same enjoyment, escapism, or elevation. It’s not a mistake that we’re constantly evolving and innovating in this area. 

We like to do things that help us feel good, better, or ecstatic. (Especially if it doesn’t come with any negative side effects.) 

Headphones are a great way to listen to music. They’re ultra-portable, you can listen to exactly what you want to, and you won’t disturb anyone around you. 

Speakers come in all shapes and sizes and are also a useful piece of audio gear. We can share our music, change the mood of an entire room, or use them to sing along in the shower. Jamming out to a great album while you’re driving is one of my personally favorite ways to listen to music. 

It’s been more than 40 years since their inception, and during that time they’ve managed to build (and maintain) a seemingly bulletproof discography. Since you probably don’t have the time to sit down and listen to all 15 albums from start to finish – we made a list of the Top 20 Queen songs for headphones as a healthy substitute!

Top 20 Queen Songs For Headphones

You can listen to each and everyone right from this page without having to open YouTube or Spotify. Even if you’re not the biggest Queen fan, you’ll probably recognize one or two from the list. Since they have so many smash hits and underrated classics, it wasn’t exactly easy to limit our list to 20. 

Here they are, listed in no specific order (except we did save the best for last):

1. “Somebody To Love”
2. “Bohemian Rhapsody”
3. “Another One Bites The Dust”
4. “Don’t Stop Me Now”
5. “Innuendo”
6. “Killer Queen”
7. “We Will Rock You”
8. “March Of The Black Queen”
9. “You’re My Best Friend”
10. “Stone Cold Crazy”
11. “Save Me”
12. “Now I’m Here”
13. “Play The Game”
14. “A Kind Of Magic”
15. “Under Pressure”
16. “It’s A Hard Life”
17. “I’m Going Slightly Mad”
18. “The Invisible Man”
19. “You Don’t Fool Me”
20. “The Show Must Go On”

If you’re ready to start digging up some hidden gems, take a look at the first track below!

1. “Somebody To Love”

“Somebody To Love” opens up with delicate piano chords layered underneath Queen’s signature choir-style vocals. Once you get past the intro, the rest of the track features a musical structure that’s somewhat reminiscent of their smash hit “We Will Rock You“. 

The epic build decrescendos near the 3-minute mark and doesn’t wait long to pick right back up again for a strong finish to a great song. Listening to the infectious melody throughout its nearly 5 minute run time is especially enjoyable on some well-balanced headphones.

Watch the official video for “Somebody To Love” below:

2. “Bohemian Rhapsody”

If you ended up here browsing our list, there’s a 99.999% chance that you’ve heard “Bohemian Rhapsody”. (If not, stop right now and watch the official video below.) Right when you press play, the layered vocals panning from left to right will hold your attention. 

Although “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a musical journey from start to finish no matter where you hear it played – there’s something extra special about experiencing it in its full glory – listening with headphones in solitude.

Watch the official video below to refresh your memory:

3. “Another One Bites The Dust”

This is yet another super popular track that needs no introduction. Taken from The Game released in 1980, “Another One Bites The Dust” starts and ends with an irresistible rhythm. It’s pretty much impossible to listen all the way through and not walk around with the tune playing in your head the rest of the day. 

(Try it, we dare you.) When the steely guitar riff comes in around the 2:38 mark, it revitalizes the energy from the intro, bringing even more life to an already energetic and monolithic composition. There isn’t much else to say, other than grab your favorite pair of cans and listen below! 

Watch the official lyric video below to follow along:

4. “Don’t Stop Me Now”

A soothing piano melody, smooth and subtle guitar notes, sprinkled with the impressively dynamic vocal range of Freddie Mercury pretty much sum “Don’t Stop Me Now” in one sentence. If you really want to catch every nuance preserved during the initial recording process – put your favorite pair of in ear headphones in and zone out. 

Like most other ultra-catchy tunes written by Queen, this one has well over 3 hundred million spins on YouTube for a reason. If you aren’t already a longtime fan of the band, “Don’t Stop Me Now” is a great place to start!

Watch the official video below:

5. “Innuendo”

Even after the 6 minutes and 30 seconds have passed you’ll probably find yourself wanting more. The drum roll kicks off the intro leading into a foggy synthesizer backdrop. Once the smoke starts to clear, the vocals break through sounding quite a bit darker than usual. 

Throughout “Innuendo”, the music emanates a quiet sense of desperation that doesn’t really let up until the track ends. It’s definitely nice to hear a change of pace (especially if you’ve gotten used to playing the same 3 or 4 smash hits over and over again).

Take the journey with us and listen to the remastered version of “Innuendo” below:

6. “Killer Queen”

Even after experiencing huge success from hit after hit after hit after hit, Queen did it again on “Killer Queen”. Their third album titled Sheer Heart Attack takes a new approach compared to their previous work and “Killer Queen” is a prime example of the shift. 

It’s one of those songs that you’ve probably heard at least once but never realized who played it. Once again, it features an ultra-catchy, lazily bouncing rhythm that’s equally matched by the playful melodies that alternate in and out. 

Listen to the full remastered version below and let your mind drift off (in a good way) for a few minutes:

7. “We Will Rock You”

No matter who you ask, “We Will Rock You” is easily one of the most instantly-recognizable songs of all time. The steady “stomp, clap” keeps the pace while Mercury delivers vocals that, in retrospect, almost sound like rapped lyrics. 

“We Will Rock You” is a completely unforgettable anthem from the late ’70s that you can’t help but tip your hat to. It’s one of the best songs to workout to and almost never fails to raise your heart rate and start the machine.  

Watch the official video below to see them perform it for the cameras:

8. “March Of The Black Queen”

The slow-building intro for “March Of The Black Queen” sets a somber tone to perfectly match the title. It’s also one of their lengthier tunes at almost 7 minutes total. The combination of cascading notes and unique vocal delivery creates a memorable roller coaster of emotion. 

There really isn’t a dull moment to be heard and once again the left to right panning effect keeps you listening for what’s around the corner. Follow along with the official lyric video below to see if the lyrics match the musical tone:

9. “You’re My Best Friend”

Where would the world be without feel-good songs like “You’re My Best Friend”? (You don’t have to answer that.) Sometimes songs like this are almost as good as a resting your head on a friends shoulder during a tough time – okay, maybe not even close but you get the point. 

Listening to “You’re My Best Friend” blaring on your headphones is a great lighthearted pick-me-up that can help turn a blue mood around in no time. Although it’s a lot less musically extravagant, it till gets the job done.   

Listen to the full remastered version below:

10. “Stone Cold Crazy”

Right away, “Stone Cold Crazy” more than doubles the pace of “You’re My Best Friend” and it’s a very welcome addition to Sheer Heart Attack. Since it was such an upbeat and popular tune, Queen played it live for almost 4 years straight after its release. 

It fits perfectly on the album that started their transition into writing more rock n’roll focused music. We’re all a little crazy sometimes and “Stone Cold Crazy” is a good outlet for dancing like no one’s looking while you try to keep the headphones from bouncing off your head. 

Watch them play it live at The Rainbow in 1974 below:

11. “Save Me”

“Save Me” is a strong ballad from start to finish. The gentle guitar strumming and soft vocals in between each transition make each and every turn all the more explosive. Its unique blend of musicianship and uplifting vocal tones make for a very enjoyable listening experience.

“Save Me” was taken from The Game, which also happens to be the first time Queen started experimenting with a synthesizer. (We recommend listening to the entire album when you get a chance.) 

Watch the official video below:

12. “Now I’m Here”

As the vocals alternate between your left and right ear cup, it might be a little bit disorienting. Disorienting as in making you wonder, “Why don’t more songs use a similar effect?”. “Now I’m Here” is another highly underrated classic that was featured on the official soundtrack for Bohemian Rhapsody (2018).

Freddie Mercury and the rest of the band did it again, crafting yet another distinctly Queen-sounding record that’s been able to stand the test of time. 

Listen to the full 2011 remastered version for “Now I’m Here” off Sheer Heart Attack below:

13. “Play The Game”

The use of layered vocals the band is known for works just as well on “Play The Game” as it does on most of their other smash hits. The track sounds somewhat melancholy, although reluctant might be a better way to describe the overall tone. 

“Play The Game” doesn’t deviate very far from the soft intro, big chorus, slower interlude, followed by the standard guitar solo song structure (which isn’t necessarily a bad thing). While it’s definitely not our personal favorite – we can always appreciate a laid-back tune like this. 

Watch the official video below:

14. “A Kind Of Magic” 

Right when “A Kind Of Magic” starts rolling, you get the sense that there’s something really “80s” about it. Well, that makes sense since it was released as a single from the album with the same name in 1986. It’s always a breath of fresh air when a band slightly changes directions and keeps evolving along the way. 

That arguably natural evolution couldn’t be more apparent than it is here. Freddie Mercury’s vocal style is still instantly recognizable but the refreshing musical style is an interesting twist. Even 16 years after they formed as a band, they still succeeded at sticking out from the crowd with songs like “A Kind Of Magic”.  

Some of the vocals remind us of Michael Jackson’s work on Thriller, which they may have taken some minor inspiration from. Watch the video below to see the band play it live at Wembley Stadium in 1986:

15. “Under Pressure”

Even if you’ve never heard “Under Pressure” before, you’ll probably recognize the bassline. It was sampled on Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby” which would go on to become his most well-known track. We’re all under pressure throughout our lives and it’s nice to know that you’re not alone. 

When you need a quick fix to take the edge off, put your favorite earbuds in, turn up the volume, and blast this jam. Even if you play it below and don’t exactly love it, there’s one thing we can’t deny. The bassline is about as legendary as it gets – extremely catchy and widely recognizable in two very different genres. 

Watch the official video below to hear it in its full form:

16. “It’s A Hard Life”

The soulful guitar solo starting around the 2 and a half minute mark leads into the catchy chorus and highlights the bands penchant for creating a powerful sonic experience. “It’s A Hard Life” centers around a theme we can all relate to; heartbreak. 

Its musical presentation topped off with the electrifying solo near the end really hit the nail on the head. Although heartbreak is generally viewed as a negative emotion, by the end of this track you’re still left with a sliver of hope. 

Throw on some headphones and listen to the full remastered version below:

17. “I’m Going Slightly Mad”

“I’m Going Slightly Mad” was featured on the last album with Freddie Mercury before his passing in January of 1991. The guitar work at 2:38 is slow and simple. Sometimes less is more and their decision to take that approach at that moment definitely paid off. 

Apparently the reason Mercury was wearing such heavy makeup in the video was partially due to his worsening illness. Either way, it only adds to the overall theme and musical tone. There is a lot going on musically, which is why we recommend using some quality in-ears like the 1More Triple Driver for full effect. 

Watch the official video for “I’m Going Slightly Mad” to see an important slice of musical history:

18. “The Invisible Man”

It might seem unbelievable at first, but the intro on “The Invisible Man” sounds pretty eerily similar to some of Trent Reznor’s work with Nine Inch Nails. (We’re not saying who inspired who and can’t confirm nor deny how much if any inspiration either band took from one another.)

As you’re listening to the track, it might almost sound like a completely different band altogether. The experimental sound offers a surprisingly enjoyable twist on their previous work and we’re definitely not mad at it. 

Watch the official video below and listen for any similarities we mentioned above:

19. “You Don’t Fool Me”

“You Don’t Fool Me” was one of the last singles from Made In Heaven which was the band’s first album recorded without Freddie Mercury. The band constructed the music around old vocal recordings that hadn’t been used yet and the album went on to become hugely successful. 

Like many of their previous singles, “You Don’t Fool Me” has an irresistibly infectious chorus that will play in your head long after the track ends. It’s one of those evergreen songs that you could listen to pretty much all year round; by yourself or with some company. 

Watch the official video for “You Don’t Fool Me” below:

20. “The Show Must Go On”

We felt that it was appropriate to feature “The Show Must Go On” last to represent some form of closure. The ending isn’t always the end, in fact, it usually spurs a new beginning. This track closed out Innuendo in 1991 and it will also close out this collection. 

To close it out, we’d rather let you listen and follow along with the lyrics below than read our own explanation. Watch the official video below to see one of the last videos to feature Freddie Mercury:

Are You A Longtime Fan? Do You Have A Favorite?! 

Hopefully, you were able to discover a few hidden gems that you’d never heard before! Since Queen is such a popular band worldwide, you might’ve recognized a few from the list. (If not, at least you have now!)

Is this your first time really diving deep into their discography, or are you already a longtime fan? Do you have a favorite track? Let us know which of the Top 20 Queen songs here was your personal favorite by leaving a comment below!

If you have any song suggestions, feel free to include those as well. (They have so many classics, it’s hard to only pick a few.) Thanks for taking the time to stop by and listen to some great music, we hope you enjoyed!

Can you actually hear a night and day difference, or is it something that’s only fully captured on a frequency response graph? Many audiophiles claim they can hear a major difference, but the average listener doesn’t always share that opinion. 

Throughout this brief guide, we’ll do our best to help you understand whether or not you should believe the hype. Rather than just crossing your fingers and hoping for the best, we think it’s wise to know what you’re getting into. Keep reading to uncover the mystery and meaning behind the sticker! 

What Is High Res Audio?

The term “hi-res” is not only seen on headphones, portable amplifiers, and other audio gear but is also used to describe certain types of audio recordings. Most of the time, when you download a song from iTunes or Amazon Music – it will be in MP3 format. 

MP3s are technically lo-res recordings, but you probably want to know what sets them apart from other audio files. 

The Digital to Analog Conversion Process

Before you can listen to your digital download, it has to be converted into an analog signal that your headphones or speakers will recognize. While some people prefer digital vs. analog recordings – most hi-res files are in digital form. 

As we briefly mentioned above, MP3s are considered to be low-resolution files. This is mostly because they’re compressed into a smaller size in order to save storage space. When you compress a file, it decreases in size. Some of the sizes that’s lost during the compression process can contribute to a loss in detail when you play it back. 

When it comes to saving a ton of storage space, MP3s are a godsend. The loss in quality (and if it really matters) will always be debated. This is why some people make the argument that even though some detail is lost during the process, you still might not notice a dramatic decrease in sound quality. 

Now that you have some basic background information, it’ll be helpful to know the difference between the 2 main audio formats listed below:

• Lossy
• Lossless

Take a look at the section below to see a brief breakdown for each format!

Lossy vs. Lossless Files & How Compression Changes The Sound

Lossy files are compressed into a smaller size in order to save space. Lossless files, on the other hand, are the uncompressed version of a recording. 

In theory, smaller files tend to sound a bit more watered down and less detailed than the lossless version. Lossless files are advertised as sounding “better than CD quality”. Before we get into the debate over whether or not the average listener can actually hear the difference, here are some of the benefits of listening to lossless versus lossy (lo-res) recordings. 

How Digital Recordings & The Internet Changed Music Forever

The ability to send and receive more files is one of the main benefits of compressing files into MP3s. Before compressed MP3s and the internet, as we know it today, you would have had to physically walk to your local record store to buy new music. 

(That is unless you knew someone who had a specific CD or LP that they were willing to lend out.) The lossy formats listed below are the most commonly downloaded digital formats:

• MP3 
• AAC

The ability to instantly send, download and receive MP3s has changed the way we consume music. Some purists argue that digital downloads have watered down the quality of music.

Anyone who regularly listens to lossless files will wholeheartedly disagree. Usually, audiophiles and sometimes studio professionals download (or work with) lossless files.

Here are a few of the most commonly-used lossless formats:

• FLAC
• WAV (Uncompressed)
• ALAC (Apple’s lossless format) 
• DSD (direct stream digital) 

Many audiophiles prefer downloading FLAC or uncompressed WAV files because they claim to hear much richer, fuller, and more detailed playback. The average studio professional may or may not agree with that specific claim, but will usually record at a higher sample rate.

That way, they’re able to capture more detail during the initial recording process. When they go back to edit the track within their DAW (digital audio workstation), they’ll have more information to sift through and work with.

In a nutshell, that explains why some people prefer lossless over lossy, but we still haven’t unearthed any hard evidence to support the claim that everyone can hear a major difference between the two. It usually helps to understand the basics of how the sampling rate and bit depth affect the sound you hear. 

Sampling Rate & Bit Depth (In Layman’s Terms)

Reading online forums about sampling rates and bit depth can seem like a foreign language if they’ve never been explained to you. In layman’s terms, the sampling rate describes how many samples (per second) are taken from an analog signal, which is then converted into digital form.

Bit depth is the amount of information available used to store that signal. The sampling rate and bit depth work hand in hand to create an accurate representation of any given recording. 

Watch the short video below to see it explained in full detail: 

The wave on a measurement graph is basically a visual representation of the sampling rate after each dot is connected. Each dot represents one sample per second and the space inside each wave represents the bit depth. 

The sample rate of a CD-quality recording is 44,100 Hz (or 44.1 kHz). As mentioned in the video above, 24-bit/44.1 kHz is the generally accepted gold standard. When you look at the numbers, it might seem logical to assume that a higher sampling frequency and bit rate would translate into a more detailed and full-sounding track. 

Although a higher sampling rate does capture more information, anything above 44.1 kHz might not justify the extra data. Many believe that anything over the 24-bit/44.1 kHz standard is overkill (at least technically-speaking). Keep reading below to see a study that supports this theory!

The Listening Test – Can You Really Hear The Difference?

Most people aren’t trained to hear the difference between an uncompressed WAV file and regular MP3. If you have an above-average hearing (and/or know what to listen for), you will probably notice a slight lack of detail on a lo-res MP3. 

In this study, published in the Journal of Audio Engineering Society, 2 sample groups were given a listening test. The first group didn’t have any training before taking the test. The second group received training on how to listen for an increase or decrease in sound quality. 

What Were The Results?

After the tests were completed, they found that 1 in 2 untrained listeners (only 50%) can hear the difference between WAV and MP3 files. 

Listeners that were trained before taking the test, still only got it right about 62% of the time.

The total average of both sample groups shows that they were able to correctly guess which file was playing with only 56% accuracy! Does this mean hi-res audio is a hoax? Not necessarily. 

Are You The Exception?

Based on this study and our own anecdotal evidence, most people can’t hear a significant difference when they listen to tracks with higher sampling rates and bit depth. (Not to mention the gap between 44.1 kHz and 96 kHz.) 

Although most people can’t hear an improvement in quality more than 51% of the time, you might be the exception. 

It also suggests that simply slapping an “official” sticker on a headphone (or amp) doesn’t guarantee that they’ll automatically outperform devices without one. In most cases, the placebo effect seems to play a bigger role than we’ve been led to believe. 

If you want to test your hearing abilities, watch the double blind FLAC vs. MP3 sound test below:

How many did you guess correctly? Even if you only got 2 out of 3, you still did better than the sample group that was trained from the study above! 

Is It A Marketing Tactic or Scientific Proof?

Now that you understand what hi-res audio is and have tested your own hearing, which side do you lean towards? Is it a marketing tactic, or is it possible that we can learn how to listen for the subtle differences between an MP3 and FLAC?

After uncovering the mystery, we still hold the belief that headphones or DAPs with the black and yellow sticker usually sound pretty awesome. That said, it’s probably not a good idea to base your entire purchasing decision on the somewhat loose certification.

The best headphone brands with top-performing products don’t always rely on a sticker to prove their value. Once again, the official stamp of approval definitely looks great but doesn’t always make or break any specific model. 

When it comes to choosing between FLAC, WAV, or MP3 files, we recommend listening to a variety of formats before drawing any conclusions. The only downside to downloading lossless formats is their larger file size. If you have some extra storage space to spare, why not download a few FLAC files and see what you think?

Leave a comment or question below and let us know what you think! We usually respond within 24 hours and look forward to hearing your thoughts! Thanks for stopping by, we hope to see you here again!

When they unwrap your present, it’ll prove once and for all that your ears don’t completely stop working while they’re rambling on about that new piece of gear they bought the other day. (Yes, gear acquisition syndrome is a real thing.) 

Trust us, we’re one of those fanatics too, so we totally understand why most people don’t care to have those conversations. Don’t be surprised if they or ask you “How did you know?”, or make a comment about how good you are at “doing your research”, with a pleasantly stunned look on their face. 

We think you’ll find our suggestions extremely helpful for your search, and it should at least cut your browsing time in half! No matter what the special occasion happens to be, here are 20 thoughtful gifts for an audiophile! 

Thoughtful Gifts For An Audiophile

We did our best to include a pretty wide variety of ideas for music lovers of all types. There’s something here for each style of listening – whether they prefer headphones, collecting vinyl, or shamelessly blasting their music on a pair of speakers. 

If you haven’t already asked them a few general questions, now would be the perfect time to see what they have in mind. Then again, if you’d rather make it a complete surprise – we have you covered! 

There’s no need to feel overwhelmed by all the terms and technical info – we included a brief description for each recommendation! We did our best to give you all the basics you’ll need to know before you make up your mind. Feel free to use the links below to browse whichever category catches your eye!

1. The Complete Guide To High End Audio by Robert Harley

This book is available in both a hardcover and paperback edition. It offers an extremely in depth guide/introduction into the world of high-end audio. It’s filled with helpful tips that not only newbies, but seasoned listeners can benefit from. 

They can flip through the pages and find tips for identifying problem spots in their setup and how to fix any issues! Since there are so many different types of speakers, amplifiers, and cables to choose from, having an audio encyclopedia would benefit anyone who wants to become an expert in this arena. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

The Complete Guide To High-End Audio by Robert Harley is a 578-page gem that deserves a special place on the bookshelf alongside any serious collection! 

2. Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Headphones

These professional-grade open back cans from one of the most well-respected names in audio are commonly included in countless Best Of Roundups. The Sennheiser HD 650 excel at creating a spacious soundscape that’s perfect for extremely critical listening at home or in the studio!

If you know they’ve been looking for a solid headphone upgrade, look no further. They check almost every box in each area that most listeners value. They’re extremely well-built, comfortable, and above all else – sound amazing. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

The HD 650 are a little bit harder to drive (send enough power to listen at higher volumes) – so if you really want to surprise them, it’s probably a good idea to also grab a portable amp like the one seen below!

3. iFi Audio Micro iDSD Black Label USB DAC/Amp

If you’re looking at the picture above and aren’t exactly sure what that device does, it basically makes any pair of headphones sound 10x better! It has inputs/outputs for connecting to headphones, a laptop, PC, or smartphone. 

Since it’s gotten so many positive reviews, it’s become one of the most highly-rated portable DAC/Amps on Amazon. It’s small enough that you can take it with you for portable listening, but powerful enough to use at home or in the office. 

Its low profile matte black finish and 12 hour battery life (on a single charge) only add to its extremely high-demand. If the person you’re shopping for likes to be hands-on when they fine tune their music – the iFi Audio Micro iDSD portable DAC/Amp would be right up their alley! 

What’s The Bottom Line?

For such a compact device, it packs an impressive punch that will dramatically improve any headphones performance – no matter which pair they already own!

4. Edifier S1000DB Bookshelf Speakers

The Edifier S1000DB are one of the best bookshelf speakers your money can buy. They can be paired with any smartphone or wireless digital audio player using the Bluetooth connection. If the Bluetooth 4.0 streaming quality isn’t up to par, they can be connected with a turntable, laptop, PC, or high-end receiver. 

They also come with a mini remote and 5.5″ subwoofers in each speaker. Their wood grain finish and versatile connectivity options are two features that earned them a spot on our list.  On the back of each monitor, you can control the volume, bass, and treble. One of our favorite stand out features they have to offer is their premium finish that looks great next to most household furniture!

What’s The Bottom Line?

They’re small enough to be neatly tucked away (if needed), but their sound is anything but small. If you’re shopping for someone who loves vinyl or needs a speaker upgrade in their listening room – the S1000DB are one of the best-selling sets for a reason!

5. Edifier Wood Grain Speaker Stands

These beautiful wood grain speaker stands were specifically designed to be paired with the Edifier S1000DB. The set includes one floor stand for each speaker. Their sturdy build not only not only improves the speaker’s bass response, but also minimizes excessive floor vibration.

It’s an extremely easy and stylish way to display their favorite bookshelf speakers (although we recommend using them with the S1000DB). They also make for a great addition to virtually any room, just like the speakers they were built to shelve. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

If the person you’re shopping for needs an easy-to-setup pair of speaker stands to clear up some desk space – these would be a great place to start!  

6. Emotiva Audio XPS-1 Phono Preamp

A high quality phono preamp is an absolute essential piece of turntable equipment. Without it, it’s essentially impossible to connect external speakers to most turntables. The XPS-1 acts as a low noise/low distortion pre-amplification device that’s designed to be paired in conjunction with their turntable and dedicated amplifier. 

It also has multiple external functions that allow the user to have personalized control over the power output. Even many phono preamps that cost twice as much don’t offer the same level of customization as the XPS-1. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

If you’re on a budget, but you still want to help them improve their turntable listening experience, the Emotiva XPS-1 is easily one of the best sub-$200 options! 

7. Klipsch R-15PM + ProJect Turntable Bundle Deal

Klipsch and world-renowned turntable company Pro-Ject teamed up to create an awesome bundle deal aimed directly towards vinyl lovers. This bundle deal includes one pair of Klipsch R-15PM bookshelf speakers, as well as one special edition Pro-Ject turntable. 

If you were to buy each piece of gear separately, it would cost nearly twice as much as the current value of the entire bundle! The speakers can also be paired with any Bluetooth device for completely wire-free streaming. If they decide to use a different pair of speakers (they already own) with their brand new turntable, they can use the R-15PM as a welcome addition to their TV’s sound system. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

Bundle deals that give you as much “bang for your buck” as this does are much less common than you might think. This is, without a doubt, the perfect bundle to make any turntable enthusiast ecstatic on their birthday, special holiday, or as a completely random surprise!

8. Crosley Mahogany Media Console

The Crosley media console with a hand rubbed mahogany finish is perfect for keeping their turntable on display and their record collection neatly tucked away in the bottom compartment! Its sturdy build and beautiful finish blends in very well with a variety of furniture textures and colors. (Plus, they won’t have anymore excuses for not properly storing their records.)

There’s a neat compartment on the right side for their turntable and extra storage underneath. As you can probably see in the picture above, the compartment on the bottom ride side even has built-in dividers for keeping their records organized. 

Plus, when they’re done spinning some of their favorite albums on vinyl, the top piece folds down to cover the turntable compartment. It keeps everything neatly tucked away, while at the same time keeping excessive dust from collecting on their turntable.

What’s The Bottom Line?

When it’s closed up, this best-selling media console looks like a regular wooden cabinet, when in reality, it’s actually storing a few musical treasures inside!

9. “I Only Listen To Tubes” T-Shirt

If you’ve ever seen one of those weird-looking tube amps alongside their audio setup, just know that it’s not a device they use to try and contact alien life forms. This graphic tee is extremely specific, for an extremely specific listener! If whoever you’re shopping for has what’s called a tube amp, chances are, they’re not afraid to geek out about it from time to time (especially if they built them by hand). 

The t-shirt itself is made of extremely comfortable materials and comes in a few different variations. It’s available in multiple colors, as well as men’s, women’s, and youth sizes. The classy lettering and somewhat understated graphic is stylish enough to wear around the house, or at an upcoming CanJam or live concert.

What’s The Bottom Line?

If you know they need a replacement for their old band tee that’s starting to look like a hole-filled rag – surprise them on a special occasion with a fresh, new tubes tee!

10. AudioQuest PERCH Headphone Stand

The AudioQuest PERCH is one of the most highly-rated headphone stands due to its extremely high quality build and solid base. It’s sturdy enough to support any pair of high-end headphones while evenly-distributing the weight resting on the headband. 

It can safely cradle one pair of headphones at a time and doesn’t have any extra unnecessary frills or features. It looks great by itself, but even better with a pair of quality headphones resting on its cradle. This high quality headphone stand was designed by Skylar Gray (no, not the singer) who specializes in all things sound, music, and hearing.

What’s The Bottom Line?

If you’ve noticed their “office space” or desk is getting a little too cluttered – help them take the first step towards getting organized!

11. B&O Play H8 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

B&O Play is one of the most highly-respected names in the audio world. They pay extra attention to the smallest of details and don’t take any shortcuts. The H8 (pictured above) are one of the best on-ear noise cancelling headphones that money can buy. 

They are made of soft lambskin, genuine cowhide leather, and anodized aluminum (not to mention the genuine leather smells as good as it looks). If you know the person you’re shopping for isn’t a big fan of gray or hazel, you can choose from two additional color schemes.

What’s The Bottom Line?

Aside from their ultra premium build quality, they’re known as being one of the most lightweight pair of noise cancelling headphones ever made. If that special someone enjoys a classy and comfortable listening experience, it would be a mistake not to recommend the B&O Play H8!

12. HiBy R6 Hi-Res Touch Screen Digital Audio Player

The HiBy R6 is one of the best-selling digital audio players of its kind – and for good reason. This high quality DAP features a smooth Android user interface that supports most hi-res audio formats. Its lightweight build and pocket-size shape is perfect for taking their favorite songs on-the-go!

It has 12 hour battery life and the ability to store up to 2TB of audio (which is about the equivalent of 400,000 songs)! They can also use it to access most wireless streaming apps including Spotify, Tidal, and the Google Play Store for listening to their favorite audiobooks or podcasts.

The beautiful touch screen display makes it a pleasure to scroll through and browse album artwork. It’s also easy to make simple adjustments on-the-go using the button controls on either side of the device.

What’s The Bottom Line?

There’s no doubt in our mind that they won’t get countless hours of enjoyment from this portable player, whether they prefer wired or wireless listening!

13. Sonos Playbar – Wireless TV Soundbar

If the music lover in your life also enjoys elevating the sound of their favorite movies/TV shows, it’s hard to argue against the Sonos Playbar. It has 9 separate amplified speakers behind the black covering that helps create a spacious soundscape and rumbling bass. 

It’s fully compatible with any device they connect to the TV – including gaming consoles, laptops, Roku, Apple TV, or a Blu-ray player. When it’s paired with a voice-activated speaker (like the Sonos One or Amazon Echo) you can use it as a central hub for controlling music. 

Unlike Amazon Echo devices, it uses a WiFi streaming connection for interruption and lag-free listening. Some people pair one or more Sonos devices with the Playbar to create a completely wireless surround sound setup.

What’s The Bottom Line?

If you like to watch the latest Netflix or Hulu series together, you’ll both get a ton of enjoyment out of this innovative device!

14. KEF LS50 Speakers

KEF clearly designed these speakers for the audiophile who has extremely classy and expensive taste. If you really want to “Wow!” the person you have in mind, the piano gloss finish on the KEF LS50 will not only drop their jaw, but keep them on your good side until the end of time (seriously, though).

These high-class mini monitors have an anything-but-mini performance. Their audio performance really shines through when they’re connected to an external amp like the iFi Micro iDSD, or Emotiva XPS-1 phono preamp. They’re available in 4 different color schemes including black/gold, black on black, red/black, or white/blue.

What’s The Bottom Line?

If you’re going to spend this much on a pair of speakers, it’s absolutely essential that they’re enjoyed by someone who will really appreciate the attention to detail and expert craftsmanship!

15. Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

The newly-released Sony WH-1000XM3 are an industry-leading pair of noise cancelling headphones that improve on everything audio enthusiasts loved about the previous Sony WH1000XM2. Although their build design looks nearly identical, they have an extended Quick Charge battery life as well as a few other improvements. 

On a quick 10 minute charge, they can be enjoyed for up to 5 full hours! Their noise cancelling performance is top-of-the-line, but the Quick Charge feature may be what sets them apart from the competition. The newly-added internal Qn1 noise cancelling processor eliminates even more noise than the previous model. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

Above all, the improvements on battery life and noise cancellation technology were definitely worth the wait. If the person you’re shopping for has a thirst for travel or long commute to and from work every day – they’d gladly welcome this addition to their portable collection! 

16. Etymotic Research ER4XR In-Ear Monitors

The ER4XR feature a deep insertion in-ear design that creates an extremely unique and engaging listening experience. They’re manufactured by a well-respected company who built their reputation specializing in acoustic research and the hearing aid industry. 

These in-ear monitors (aka IEMs) have a slightly extended bass response that can be appreciated by both analytical and casual listeners. If you want to learn a little bit more about them before you grab a pair, take a look at our full Etymotic Research ER4XR review. The reality is – few deep insertion in-ear monitors can compete with their comfort and overall performance!

What’s The Bottom Line?

If you’re shopping for someone who’s mentioned needing a new pair of IEMs, and you surprise them with these – your chance of receiving an equally thoughtful gift in return is almost guaranteed!

17. Audioengine HD6 Wireless Bookshelf Speakers 

The Audioengine HD6 sound as amazing as they look. They’re consistently featured on many Best Of Roundups and continue to be one of the best-selling wireless bookshelf speaker sets. If the music lover in your life has been looking for a worthy upgrade, the HD6 might be the answer! 

They’re available in 4 different color schemes including black (pictured above), white, cherry (wood), and walnut. They can either stand out, or blend in with the rest of the furniture in any room (similar to the Crosley media console). 

They come with all the cables required for easy setup and even a few extras, depending on what equipment they’ll be connected to. They also have built-in aptX wireless capabilities for lag-free Spotify or Tidal streaming.

What’s The Bottom Line?

The HD6 offer an above-average bargain that balances both price and performance! So much so, that they’re pretty much impossible to overlook. 

18. Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The Onyx Studio 4 is a compact wireless speaker that can be paired with 2 separate smart devices at the same time. It’s completely portable and has an 8 hour battery life that’s suitable for most occasions. If you have more than one Studio 4, you can use the wireless feature to connect over 100 compatible speakers from a single source!

It also has a built-in microphone for accessing Google Assistant or Siri (but the main reason we recommend it is for its outstanding sound quality). The music lover in your life can control all their favorite music directly from their smartphone without having to touch a single button. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

It’s the perfect Bluetooth speaker for an office desk, bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen on those special occasions when you have a few friends or family over to enjoy a delicious meal!

19. Retro Mixtape Cassette Doormat

Most audiophiles appreciate both the old and new technology. This unique retro mixtape cassette doormat has a nostalgic design that gives a slight nod to the evolution of how we consume music today. It’s one of those everyday items with a practical purpose that doesn’t take up any extra room (or require an excuse for keeping it around).

It can be placed for both outdoor and indoor use, depending on how they want to use it. It looks great on the floor in front of a bedroom, listening room, or office. It’s an extremely inexpensive way to not only keep dirt to a minimum, but also display their love for what’s quickly becoming an outdated music medium. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

Even if they don’t have an extensive cassette tape collection, there’s no doubt in our mind that they’ll appreciate the clever thought behind the nostalgic design of this unique doormat!

20. Turntable Kitchen Curated Coffee And Vinyl Pairing

In our opinion, few things pair together as well as coffee and music. Take it a step further by adding vinyl to the mix and what you get is a completely one-of-a-kind monthly subscription service. Turntable Kitchen offers a 1 month, three month, or 6 month subscription package. 

Each month, they’ll send a specially-curated package consisting of an exclusive 7″ colored vinyl, plus a 12 oz. bag of fresh Seattle’s Slate coffee. On top of all that, they’ll include their latest digital mixtape with brand new music. 

What’s The Bottom Line?

If you’re shopping for someone who loves coffee as much as they do vinyl, sign them up for our most thoughtful recommendation – a specially-curated Coffee & Vinyl pairing subscription! 

Did This Guide Spark Any Unique Ideas?

We hope you found our guide helpful! If you weren’t able to find exactly what you were looking for, leave a comment below and we’d be more than happy to help! Did you come up with any of your own unique ideas as you were browsing our recommendations?

As we mentioned at the beginning, we feel confident that any one of these gifts for an audiophile would make any music lover’s day, no matter what the special occasion happens to be!

If you have any questions, or need some help deciding – feel free to ask below! We always do our best to respond as quickly as we can and look forward to hearing from you!

All 3 of these factors play an extremely important role in the final product and how we consume it. If you don’t have very much background information to go off as of now, don’t worry (you will soon). 

We’ll do our best to explain the differences (and similarities) between these 2 types of audio in a way that’s easy to understand. We hope you enjoy our instructional take on digital vs. analog audio for dummies!

Digital vs Analog Audio

Rather than attempting to explain the very specific and extremely intricate processes happening within the various components that make up all the different recording equipment – we’ll give you the detailed basics you absolutely need to know.

We’ll provide some background information as well as a detailed description of each type of sonic storage file. At the end of each section, we also listed the main drawbacks and benefits for both. 

By the end of reading this, your understanding will be broadened and you’ll be one step closer to becoming an expert in the music you consume and how it works. Let’s start with the digital aspect. 

Digital Recording Methods & File Storage

Digital audio is stored in the form of repeating numerical sequences. It can either be recorded as a digital signal or converted afterwards using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC for short). 

Once this technology was introduced, it largely replaced formerly popular methods of music storage on vinyl records and/or cassette tapes. 

Using this form of recording and storage allows for arguably greater preservation of sound quality as well as the ability to store more data in a smaller package. 

The recording and reproduction process is also generally less expensive which also contributes to why it’s become the more convenient choice for record labels and independent producers. 

These files are much easier to transfer, duplicate, and send back and forth – so it makes perfect sense that they’ve become the most popular form of data storage. (We all know how much easier it is to carry a phone or portable MP3 player than lugging around multiple crates filled with records.)

File Compression & Sound Quality

Although this form of recording and storage is extremely convenient, there are a few downsides. When you compress one of these files, the recording becomes more watered down, in a sense. 

If you’ve ever compressed an image, you’ll notice that there is a loss in quality. The more times a file is compressed, the more the quality starts to deteriorate. 

The same concept applies to sound. This is one of the main reasons why audiophiles prefer bigger files such as FLAC, WAV, AIFF, etc. 

Since the file hasn’t been compressed, the idea is that everything in that file will better match the original recording, rather than a watered-down or otherwise distorted version.

This is also why people use a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) to make their music sound better. It performs the reverse process of an ADC (covered briefly above) and attempts to essentially re-convert the signal back into the original form that the sound waves existed when they were recorded. It basically makes the recording sound more lively and fully authentic. 

Lower-fidelity recordings are usually stored in the form of MP3 files. (Whether or not you’ll be able to actually hear a significant difference does depend on the headphones/speakers you’re listening with, as well as whether or not you know what to listen for.)

Overall, some of the main benefits include:

1. Takes us less file storage space (allowing you to keep thousands and thousands of songs in your pocket)
2. Can be compressed fairly easily
3. Can be easily copied, transferred, and shared
4. Captures more detail and nuance during the recording process
5. Ability to convert downloaded songs into higher resolution files

On the opposite end of the spectrum, here are a few minor drawbacks:

1. Many bands/artists have taken a financial hit since they now sell dramatically fewer hard copies 
2. Easily reproduced by amateurs which leads to the pirating of music (and other forms of media)
3. You can’t physically hold your music (unless you still buy CDs)
4. It takes away from the routine and ritual of sitting down and fully digesting an album from start to finish

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at the original form used for recording and sound reproduction. 

Analog Recording Methods & File Storage

Analog recording has been around longer than it’s the digital counterpart and is the main method used for storing audio on mediums like vinyl records and cassette tapes.

The recording process requires different equipment which also causes a significant alteration in sound quality. The alteration doesn’t necessarily mean that the data is altered in a negative way, although there is definitely an argument that can be made to back up that claim.

The file data recorded using this method is stored in the form of continuous playback (rather than a combination of repeating numbers). The grooves on vinyl records physically represent the various frequencies and other elements of a particular recording. 

It’s kind of like a musical fingerprint, except multiple copies of the same album will share more similarities than your fingerprints will next to someone else’s prints. (The point is that no two records are exactly alike.)

Compact cassettes are another analog storage medium, instead made using the magnetic recording. The file data on cassettes is physically stored on the magnetic tape.

Recording Methods & How They Affect Sound Quality

Since this method of recording and storage tends to require more equipment (such as amplifiers, cables, and mixers) it’s also usually more expensive to produce.

Another aspect you should know about is something called ‘generation loss’. Generation loss is the term used to refer to an overall loss of quality during the recording process or after a file has been copied multiple times. 

Aside from the usually expected surface noise, the equipment used to actually record and produce the album will also have an effect on the playback. 

Since there is more equipment between the vocalist and/or musicians playing the instruments – the signals have to travel a farther distance through multiple channels which causes a slight disturbance in the recording. 

The amplifiers, microphone, and cables connecting all of the equipment have electrical power running through them which can cause audible (although barely audible in some cases) interference. 

If you’ve ever stood next to (or under) a telephone pole and heard an electrical buzzing noise, it’s a similar concept. If you haven’t had that exact experience, but you can picture that happening on a smaller scale, you understand the general idea.

Noise reduction technology was created to help minimize this effect and minor interference such as hissing sounds created when recording vinyl records or cassette tapes. 

1. Listed below are a few benefits for this file type:
2. You arguably hear a non-filtered, more authentic representation of the artist’s work
3. Playing a record forces you to pay more attention to the music and effort put into the creation
4. Allows you to physically own/hold a piece of legitimate artwork
5. You get to join a niche set of collectors within the music community
6. Certain records/cassettes hold onto (and sometimes surpass) their original value

Here are some of the main drawbacks of this form of storage and recording:

1. More expensive to produce (and reproduce)
2. Takes up more storage space
3. Generation loss often occurs
4. Limited options for producing, sharing, and/or copying

This isn’t to say that you can’t experience high-quality audio reproduction in this form, but it will definitely sound noticeably different.

From one music fan to the next, personal taste varies (sometimes pretty widely) – which plays a pivotal role in the level of enjoyment you’ll experience. Now let’s take a closer look at the debate in sound quality

Which One Sounds Better? – Is It All Subjective?

There is some debate over which form of audio reproduction sounds better. Other than the most subjective listening test – some people prefer to objectively compare using ‘double-blind listening tests’. 

A double-blind test (for this purpose) consists of one person (other than the listener) playing different types of files while the listener’s job is to carefully listen for any differences in sound quality. 

Reasons To Perform a Double-Blind Listening Test

Not knowing which type of file is playing during the test is one of the major benefits of running a double-blind sound test. 

If you sit down and compare them yourself – you’ll know when the MP3 is playing and when the higher-resolution file is playing. Doing that pretty much completely takes away from maintaining any level of objectivity since your initial bias will greatly affect your final opinion.

This is the preferred method for many people since it’s usually a pretty good way to see if you can actually hear a noticeable difference between WAV and MP3 files for example. 

Sometimes it’s used to debunk claims about how much better a FLAC file actually sounds when blindly compared side-by-side with an AIFF or MP3. 

Most people find it difficult to hear (or explain) significant differences in quality. Although we (more or less) share the same inner-ear design, many would argue that personal subjectivity trumps all else. 

Some listeners even go as far as to make the argument that running a double-blind listening test proves that there isn’t any major noticeable difference in sound fidelity. If you’re curious to see whether or not you’ll be able to tell the difference, try it out and see what you think!

When You Need To Know The Difference & Why It Matters

When it comes to forming an opinion about why you prefer vinyl and/or cassette over CD and/or MP3, etc. the way you like to consume music usually ends up being the deciding factor. 

If you don’t like purchasing or collecting music but enjoy using streaming services like Tidal or Spotify – it’s pretty obvious which one you prefer. You probably like the portability and convenience you get from being able to keep thousands of songs in your pocket, ready to play anytime you want. 

If you like collecting music memorabilia, CDs, tapes, or vinyl – there’s still a place for that as well. Vinyl is the most popular way to collect analog recordings today and it doesn’t seem like they’re going away anytime soon (despite their unpopularity among the mainstream audience). 

No matter which type of recording you prefer, both hold a place in music history and the progression of recording technology – and how we consume music. We all love listening to music (otherwise you wouldn’t be here) and without the first recording methods, we wouldn’t have the later ones. 

As you’re now aware, the difference between digital vs analog audio boils down to the 3 main aspects we listed in the intro. Here they are one more time to help it sink in: how it’s recorded, how it’s stored, and ultimately, how it will sound. 

Hopefully, it makes more sense now and you’re able to have a better grasp on the difference. If you’re still a little bit confused or need additional clarification, feel free to leave your question below. 

If you have anything to add or just want to leave any other type of comment, you can also chime in below. 

If you enjoyed reading this and want to learn more about related subjects, you’ll enjoy browsing our Audioengine D1 Review. 

You might also enjoy taking a look at How To Clean Vinyl Records By Hand if you’re curious or already have a collection that’s gotten a little dusty. Thanks for stopping by, we look forward to hearing from you!

Sonic Elevation: Ride The Waves. 

There’s no right or wrong answer to that question and it tends to vary from person to person. Metal music is just like every other genre. Some people prefer pop music, some prefer classical, and some of us like to listen to all kinds of different genres. 

Do you like vanilla ice cream or cookies and cream? Maybe you’re a fan of strawberry, cookie dough, or chocolate. Chances are, your ice cream flavor preference isn’t exactly the same as everyone else in your family, school, or the job that you work at. 

The same concept applies to your preference in music. Rather than bash someone else’s taste (especially without knowing anything about it), it can be helpful to keep an open mind and learn some of the basics before you jump to conclusions. 

Keep reading to see why someone would possibly want to listen to a seemingly chaotic collection of guitar riffs, extreme drumming, and harsh vocals that seem impossible to understand. 

Why Do People Like Heavy Metal Music?

Since we’ve already established that not only music (but every other form of art is subjective)  – let’s unearth some of the deeper meaning behind a widely misunderstood style of music that tends to get glossed over by the mainstream audience.

From the outside looking in, metal can seem off-putting, scary, satanic, or mindlessly rebellious. (A few other adjectives along those lines probably popped into your head when you read that.)

Contrary to popular belief, not all musicians who play this type of music worship Satan or sacrifice goats on the weekends. Believe it or not, wearing an upside down cross around your neck isn’t a requirement either.

Let’s take a look at some of the common themes that often serve as an undercurrent throughout the various sub-genres. 

Popular Topical Content & Sub-Genres 

Even though you might not be able to follow along with the lyrics, they are actually saying real words. If you’re interested in trying to explore the genre, it’s a good idea to look up the lyrics then press play and do your best to keep up. 

As far as popular topical content goes, there are a few key themes that albums are crafted around (or touch upon). Religion, social justice, aliens/outer space, death, suicide, romance, heartbreak, and fantasy are a few of the most common themes in metal. 

Bands will approach these subjects and more from different angles – some in support of the topics, and some against. For example, a Christian band will praise religion and present it in a positive light. An atheist band would most likely take the opposite approach. 

Another thing that’s often misunderstood is that if a band chooses to sing (or scream) about suicide – 9 times out of 10, they’re sharing a personal experience or the experience of someone they know. They’re not supporting suicide, they’re singing about it to let other people know that they’re not alone and they have someone they can relate to. 

Songs like that usually help people deal with their mental health rather than making it worse. (Mental health is another popular topic in metal, especially now that we’re becoming more aware of the symptoms and potential consequences directly related to leaving it unaddressed.)

Are Metal Bands “Satanic”?

Although “Satanic” bands do exist – they are far from the norm. In certain sub-genres it has become somewhat popular to use certain types of themes and/or imagery that might appear to be “evil” or somehow connected to “Satanism” – at least on the surface level. 

Most of the time, these images are used as a form of:

• General rebellion
• Scare tactics – “Stay away from us, we’re scary”
• Shock value – shock for the sake of shocking
• Gimmick to gain popularity

This might be surprising to some of you, but Christian metal is also a popular style of choice. It’s pretty interesting that both styles exist under the same umbrella. 

There is some debate about Christian vs. Traditional metal and which one is more “authentic” or “valid”. A good rule of thumb to follow is this – if you like the sound of the music; listen to it. If you don’t like it, don’t listen to it. 

You can’t put limitations on which arena artistic expression can exist (even though it’s a trend that will never fully die out). A similar phenomenon exists in hip-hop. There are explicitly Christian rappers, as well as the opposite, but that’s a topic for another time. 

You might be wondering, “How can two opposites live in the same world?”. They coexist in the same way that opposites exist in society. Your next door neighbor might be munching down on a pepperoni pizza while your Friday night consists of devouring a hearty vegan meal. 

We might not have the same exact interests or tastes as other people but that’s part of what makes life interesting. 

Sub-genre Confusion

Another key feature of metal that’s pretty unique to the genre is the confusion of sub-genres. When most people think “heavy metal”, bands like Metallica, Disturbed, Iron Maiden, or Slipknot come to mind. 

While those bands do fit under the umbrella of “heavy metal”, there are tons of other styles that could also share a similar classification. Today, when someone tells you that they listen to metal, most of the time they’re referring to bands that would fit into one of the sub-genres (listed below) and sounds quite a bit different than Metallica or Iron Maiden. 

Due to the confusion surrounding this issue, bands are starting to accept the umbrella term and over-generalization. The answer to which genre best describes this band or that band also varies depending on who you ask. 

For most of us, it’s easier to describe it in a way that most people can grasp. The amount of sub-genres is pretty mind-boggling and it’s gotten to the point of becoming ludicrous. Here’s a shortened list of the ever-growing terms used to describe heavy music:

• Alternative Metal
• Nu Metal
• Rap Metal
• Black Metal
• Symphonic Black Metal
• Christian Metal
• Crust Punk
• Death Metal
• Melodic Death Metal
• Technical Death Metal
• Doom Metal
• Sludge Metal
• Folk Metal
• Gothic Metal
• Grindcore
• Industrial Metal
• Metalcore
• Deathcore
• Mathcore
• Power Metal
• Progressive Metal
• Djent
• Thrash Metal
• …and many more

In any community or group of people, there will always be a certain percentage of them that try to act like they’re the official representative and whatever they think, goes. Most metal-heads aren’t mean-spirited or anti-everything. 

Food For Thought To Consider

You might be surprised by this but we all have the same basic needs and wants. Just because someone’s wearing a t shirt that has a “scary” screen printed graphic on the front, doesn’t mean that they’re “Satanic”, “evil”, or “dangerous”. 

Most of the time if you ask a question like, “Hey I like your shirt, is that a band tee?” or “Hey, is that alien on your shirt from a movie?” – they’ll be happy to answer. On the flip side, if you automatically jump to conclusions and treat them like a leper because you don’t understand the indiscernible font – you’ll probably get the expected reaction. 

We Fear What We Don’t Understand

There’s a quote along the lines of “we fear what we don’t understand” and that message definitely applies here. The plethora of sub-genres can sometimes separate listeners creating what’s referred to as sub-genre snobbery.

If person A only listens to grindcore and person B loves post hardcore and thinks that anyone who listens to grindcore is this or that – they probably won’t get along very well. 

The distinction has less to do with their personal taste and more to do with how they’re approaching it. Person A and person B can get along just fine. (Maybe they could trade off every other song or find a middle ground that they both agree upon.) 

This is what it all boils down to: a true fan of music can appreciate multiple styles and genres of music. The more exploration you do, the broader your tastes become and the more you’ll start to appreciate other styles. It’s one of the main reasons that music and empathy are inseparably connected. 

It will save you a lot of time and energy in life to do your best to approach other things with the same mindset. Once you start to realize that this concept applies pretty much everywhere you look, you can place your energy on the things that really matter. 

Do You Have To Wear All Black To Enjoy It?

This might seem like a joke but it’s a question that’s asked more than you might think. Plenty of people enjoy wearing black clothing and not all of them listen to metal. Everyone that listens to metal doesn’t wear all black all the time. 

The way that someone chooses to dress is completely up to them. If you like pink, wear that. If you like blue, wear all the blue clothing you can get your hands on. There is no governing body in music that oversees and enforces a uniform policy. 

Sometimes like minded people dress in a similar way because they share some the same interests. That being said, there are plenty of anomalies in every aspect of life where that concept doesn’t apply. To answer that question directly, no, you don’t have to wear all black or cover your body in tattoos to enjoy the music. Once again, if you enjoy it, you enjoy it.

5 Introductory Bands To Peak Your Interest – (That Won’t Scare You Away)

If this information has peaked your interest but you don’t know where to start, here are a few recommendations to get you started. 

1. Bring Me The Horizon
2. I See Stars
3. Bullet For My Valentine
4. The Devil Wears Prada
5. Avenged Sevenfold

That’s The Spirit is a great Bring Me The Horizon album that’s less heavy and more melodic. If you end up liking it, go back and listen to some of their earlier albums. (Working your way backwards would be the best approach.)

Watch the video for “Drown” to see BMTH perform one of their softer songs:

I See Stars mixes electronic, pop, metal, and even R&B elements on their albums. Digital Renegade or The End Of The World Party are both great introductory albums that most people who aren’t fans already can enjoy. 

Here’s the video for the acoustic version of “Running With Scissors”:

Bullet For My Valentine is another band that’s easy to digest and won’t scare you away in the first few seconds. Their debut album The Poison is a certified classic and features a strong mix of heavier songs as well as melodic tracks. (They also play a mean live show which you can read about here if you’re interested).

Listen to “Tears Don’t Fall” to see if you want to hear more from The Poison:

The Devil Wears Prada is another band that not only plays heavier tunes but also more melodic, slow, soft jams. If you want to take the jump and give their heavier stuff a listen, With Roots Above and Branches Below is the best place to start. For a mix of both worlds, listen to Transit Blues. 

“Louder Than Thunder” is one the best songs from these guys (and it doesn’t have any screaming at all):

Avenged Sevenfold is pretty popular in the mainstream but especially for fans of hard rock, metal, and good music in general. The Stage is a 73 minute journey and expert display of musicianship that will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. 

The official video for “The Stage” is a good album sampler for you to watch:

If you want some more recommendations, take a look at our Best Metal Albums of 2017 list. There is a wide range of styles to listen to and you’ll probably like at least one of the albums there. 

Do You Have An Open Mind? – Will You Give It A Try?

What do you think? Did any of this surprise you? Are you willing to give it a try and see if there’s something you might like? Did we do a good job of answering why do people like heavy metal music?, or do you still have more questions?

If you do, feel free to ask below. If you’d like to add your personal opinion on the subject, leave a comment and we’ll respond as quickly as we can. If you know anyone else who’s asked the same question – share this page with them on your Twitter, Facebook, or email. 

If you want to stick around, click here to see one of our favorite pairs of headphones for listening to metal. To learn more about music and how it can affect your memory, click here. 

Thanks for stopping by to become more informed on one of the most commonly misunderstood genres of music! We hope to see you here again! 

Sonic Elevation: Ride The Waves. 

After reading through our comparison, you’ll be an expert at explaining the difference and why one is better/worse than the other. If you’re ready to learn one of the technical aspects of the audio that you listen to, let’s get started! 

Difference Between WAV and MP3?

Aside from the obvious difference in spelling, there are some pretty important differences between these two audio file types. At their core, they both act as a vehicle for the digital data that makes up your favorite songs, albums, audiobooks, and podcasts. 

Unless you want to buy a new turntable and start collecting vinyl – most digital players are compatible with one (or both) of these file formats. We’ll start with WAV files, then go into MP3s, and finally – breakdown the major differences and reasons for both. 

WAV (or WAVE) – Waveform Audio File Format

WAV files come in both compressed and uncompressed formats. When it comes to preserving the audio quality of a recording, uncompressed files tend to have a higher level of sound quality. This is mainly because the compression process can “water down” a high-fidelity recording. 

Uncompressed WAV files are sometimes used by radio station broadcasters like BBC Radio and Global Radio. This way, they’re able to broadcast high quality recordings over the airwaves. 

File Size and Portable Audio Players

Uncompressed audio files are larger and therefore take up more space on your harddrive, MP3 Player, iPod, or smartphone. For some, this is one reason why they tend to steer away from using WAV files on their portable devices. 

For most audiophiles, the WAV format has to be used over an MP3 file once you’ve heard the difference in quality. This is also one reason why many high-end portable audio players have a micro SD slot. It makes it easier to expand the amount of memory that you can carry around in your pocket – without sacrificing basic audio quality. 

Let’s say you have a player that’s micro SD-compatible and you bought a card that can hold up to 8 GB of data. You load up your card with enough songs to max out your 8 GB limit, but you still have a ton of music or podcasts that you want to listen to on your player. 

Instead of having to go back and manually delete some of the songs that you can live without, just grab another micro SD card and load the rest on there. 

Unlike an iPod that has a set amount of storage space (and no micro SD card slot), the players with expandable memory are much better for hi-fi audio enthusiasts. It becomes a juggling act of balancing audio quality and memory space. 

MP3 – MPEG-1 Audio Layer III or MPEG-2 Audio Layer III

MP3s are the third iteration of MPEG audio file formats (hence the “3”). MP3s are a better version of the previous MPEG-2 format. MP3s are compressed using “lossy compression”. Lossy compression is a less accurate form of data encoding used to minimize the audio file’s size.

The files are made to be smaller but the main downside is that the final product is ultimately degraded. Here’s an analogy that might help you visualize the process. 

How Sound Quality Is Affected By Compression

Picture a band, artist, or solo musician that came from nothing. The hunger, ambition, and raw drive to succeed served as a consistent undertone in their earlier songs. 

A few years pass. They’ve started to pick up steam, made their first million, bought a house, and have managed to secure a comfortable lifestyle for themselves. 

When they release the next album, you notice that something feels and sounds different now. It’s missing something that you can’t quite place your finger on. Then, you realize what’s missing. 

The chords sound more simple, the vocals are watered down, and the lyrical content isn’t very lyrical at all. The hunger’s been filled and replaced the raw drive you recognized before into a more apathetic musical approach. (I don’t want to name any specific bands or musical artists, but I’m sure a few come to mind when you think about it.)

Once audio has been heavily compressed, the overall essence and quality of the file starts to suffer. While there are some well-designed lossy compression programs, ultimately the original quality won’t transfer over.  

Differences In File Size To Consider 

Another important thing to keep in mind is the difference in actual size between these two file types. An MP3 will take up less space than the typical WAV file will. Since MP3 files are highly compressed they take up less space, which means you can store more songs in the same amount of GB space. 

For example:

WAV Stereo-

• 8 GB of WAV files at 44.1 kHz = approx. 12 hours 45 minutes
• 8 GB of WAV files at 48 kHz = approx. 11 hours 45 minutes

MP3 Stereo- 

• 8 GB of MP3 files at 64 kbps = 282 hours 40 minutes
• 8 GB of MP3 files at 128 kbps = 141  20 minutes

You can see the full recording times chart for MP3 and WAV files here. That should give you a better idea of one of the key separations between file type. 

Can You Hear The Difference In Sound Quality?

The compression (or the lack of compression) both impact the difference in sound quality between these two file types. Another factor that will affect this is the audio gear that you’re using to listen to both file types. 

Try This At Home

A lower-priced pair of headphones is able to play both types but it will be harder to hear an actual difference. On the other hand, a higher-end pair of ‘phones was specifically designed to produce hi-fi audio quality. 

If you listen to an MP3 file on a $35 pair of headphones and then (using the same pair) listen to a WAV file – you will most likely not hear any difference at all. 

Another Example You Can Experiment With

In the second example, you can try the same experiment – but this time with a higher quality pair. In this case, even an untrained ear can hear an increase in overall quality, volume, and detail. 

This is where it starts to become more important when you’re trying to decide if you should invest in a more expensive pair of cans, or stick with buying multiple cheaper pairs. If you don’t need (or want) to hear the finer details in your audio then by all means stick with spending less. 

For hi-fi enthusiasts, the sound quality takes precedence above all else. This is why some people are willing to spend upwards of $5,000 on a new pair of headphones. Whether or not a $5,000 pair sounds “out-of-this-world” better than a pair that costs $500 is a topic for another time. 

What Devices Support WAV file Playback and Which Ones Don’t

Most MP3 players that have a micro SD card slot will be able to play WAV files. On the flip side, a player like Apple’s iPod doesn’t support the WAV file format. Although you can listen to them uncompressed within your iTunes library, they won’t transfer over to your iPod. 

Apple does have it’s own version of lossless audio formats like the AAC and AIFF formats, but even then – an iPod Classic won’t play AIFF files. When you download an album from iTunes it comes in AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) format by default. They also tend to sound better than MP3s. 

The majority of portable devices still support the MP3 format but devices that play WAV files have to be researched on a case-by-case basis. This is partly due to the larger amount of space that they take up and partially due to a simple lack of compatibility. 

This isn’t to say that you have to spend a huge amount of money to experience higher-quality audio playback. There are plenty of affordable portable players (like the Sandisk 8GB Clip Jam MP3 Player) that support the WAV format. 

When it comes to smartphones – most Android devices support WAV file playback. As of now, Apple’s iPhones do not support direct WAV playback. If you own an iPhone and want to play this type of file, you’ll have to first convert the file into another format. Unfortunately, that’s the only way to do it until they decide to change the compatibility.  

Which One Should You Use?

If you’ve made it this far you’re probably wondering which file type you should use – and why. To answer this question, first, you have to ask yourself what your goal during listening happens to be. 

Consider This and Ask Yourself:

• Do you just need the waves of audio to enter your ear and set off your brain’s sensory system to get you through your day? 
• Are you a melomaniac to the point where you come off as a “weirdo” or “music nerd” because you know too much about your favorite albums and artists?
• Maybe you don’t fit in either category but you’re interested in experiencing a higher level of sound quality. 

If you fit the first description, I would recommend saving on storage space and sticking with MP3 listening. 

My recommendation for those of you in the second category would be to do some self-experimentation. Try the side-by-side test we went over above and see which one you think sounds better. Keep in mind that if you’re planning to use your smartphone as your primary listening device, the WAV files will take up more space. 

If You’re Just Curious…

Lastly, if you’re just curious about how big a difference it will actually make – the best way to find out is to give it a try! A lot of people out there have strong opinions about what headphones sound the best, what audio files produce the highest level of sound quality, and so on. 

While there are some pretty clear cut rules of thumb, there’s no reason you can’t try it for yourself and reach your own conclusion. For example, going against the advice of others out of curiosity and trying less well-known pairs of headphones like the Status Audio CB-1 studio monitors can result in you being very pleasantly surprised. On the other hand, some of the other stubborn self-experimentation (against the recommendations of others) won’t produce a similar result (but hey, at least you gave it shot, right?). 

Do you share a similar opinion? Do you think the world of audio is as cut-and-dry as some claim it to be? Will you try converting some of your audio files and trying a new file format, or are you just as happy sticking with MP3s?

Were you able to get a satisfying answer to your original question “What’s the difference between WAV and MP3?” or would you like some additional clarification? If you’d like some more information, feel free to ask your question below. Also, feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts and opinions. I always do my best to respond as quickly as I can!

Thanks for stopping by to learn about new ways to listen to your favorite audio, I hope you enjoyed it!

Sonic Elevation: Ride The Waves. 

We all know that music can alter, elevate, or (in the worst case) ruin our mood. So, if music affects our emotions and emotions affect our memory – does music improve memory? Keep reading to find out. 

Does Music Improve Memory?

The short answer is yes, the evidence points towards this being true. It’s more complex than a simple yes or no answer, so you’ll have to keep reading to see how it improves memory.

You may have heard of something called the “Mozart Effect“. Basically, the term comes from research that has shown that listening to Mozart improves short term memory. Sometimes it gets interpreted as suggesting that the act of listening to Mozart alone, makes you smarter. 

Classical Music Makes You Smarter?

Although that’s not technically true, there have been studies that have shown how listening to classical music during childhood can have a positive effect. (I hate to break it to you but listening to classical music won’t boost your IQ, sorry.) But how does it affect memory?

Since your memory is innately intertwined with emotion, it seems to make sense that you could draw a direct connection between the two. You might be wondering, “Do I have to listen to classical music to get a positive effect, or can I listen to other styles to help remember things?”. Let’s take a closer look at how the effect may vary by genre. 

Does The Genre You Listen To Make A Difference?

Based on the current research, the evidence points towards the genre as being less important than you might think. Dopamine seems to be the most important factor. When we listen to music that we love our brain releases dopamine, which makes us feel good. 

When we’re in an elevated mood and we “feel good”, it’s easier to remember things that we might not have otherwise. Let’s say you’re having a hard time studying for an upcoming exam. Someone suggests you listen to some Beethoven because they’ve “heard that it makes you smarter”. You might be a fan of classical music but if you’re not this next part is for you. 

If we hate the sound of classical music and try using it to help study for a test or other mental task – it might actually hurt rather than help memory. As the audio waves stream into your ear a negative reaction occurs. Instead of being hyper-focused on the material you’re studying – you’re hyper-focused on disliking the music. This, in turn, becomes a distraction rather than an aid. 

The genre you choose will definitely have an effect on your focus but it’s not the sole factor. Rather than classical music being the focal point that determines whether or not you’ll be better at retaining memories, the release of dopamine seems to be much more important. 

Do Some Trial and Error

If all else fails, the best way to find which style of music works best for you is to try a few different kinds. Once you start seeing positive results, you know what songs to add to your “Study Playlist” (and which ones to leave out). Self-experimentation might not be the best option for things like treating strep throat or diagnosing yourself with cancer but a little music never hurt anyone. 

Listening to a laid back EDM playlist might help you retain information when your friend might fare better listening to fast, loud drumming. (Not even one-size-fits-all hats actually fit everyone.)

The Relationship Between Music and Dopamine

Listening to music you enjoy while actually performing a mental task can be helpful for retaining information but it’s not the only way to see positive results. 

In the study we linked to below, it shows that the music itself isn’t a “miracle memory-improving-drug”. Instead, the natural release of dopamine is the key. This study shows that music can be extremely helpful for improving cognitive function in people after experiencing a middle cerebral artery stroke.

The middle cerebral artery is one of 3 main veins that take blood to the part of your brain that processes/controls a large part of your brain’s overall function. (I’m sure you can imagine how important it is for everyday function.) 

Verbal Memory Benefit – From Everyday Listening

The study also demonstrates that healthy people who listen to their favorite music on a daily basis get more verbal memory benefit than those who don’t. If you’re a melomaniac and a day doesn’t go by without you jamming out to your favorite songs, by all means, keep doing that!

If you’re not someone who streamlines music into your brain on a daily basis, maybe try listening to 10-15 minutes when you wake up in the morning. Once you get into the habit of making it a part of your routine, it’ll be easier to “get in the zone” and use it as an aid in remembering things. 

When Should I Listen To Music To Retain More Information?

We’ve come to the conclusion that you should use music when you’re studying for school, researching information you don’t want to forget, and any other time that you need help retaining information. (On top of any regular listening you already do, of course.)

Effects On Memory Loss From Dementia

Now you know some of the positive benefits for healthy people, but can it also help with memory-related brain diseases? By no means am I an expert in this field but after some diligent research these were the findings of how listening to music can affect dementia/Alzheimer’s-related memory loss. Since dementia is related to a deficient supply of dopamine it makes sense that adding a supply of the missing chemical would have positive effects. 

Here are some of the studied benefits for helping with Dementia-related memory loss:

• Gives a surge of dopamine to a dopamine-deficient brain
• Provides the ability to recall previously forgotten aspects of their identity
• Brings excitement and visible animation
• Unlocks past memories
• Improves overall quality of life
• Can (in certain cases) allow for a lowering of the antipsychotic medication dosage

Non-profit organizations like Music & Memory have music-specific rehabilitation programs that are used to ease the suffering of patients with dementia. They produced a documentary released in 2014 called Alive Inside: A Story of Music and Memory. If you’d like to get further information on the relationship between the two, click the image below and you can stream it for free on Amazon Prime. 

Did The Results Surprise You?

Will you use music the next time you need to do some studying for an upcoming final? Did the results surprise you or confirm your suspicion? Do you already listen to a special playlist when you need to cram for a tough test?  

When have you used audio waves as an aid for retaining information? You might be an audiophile or everyday listener already so this might be more of a confirmation than surprise. It’s always good to have the facts to back up your claim and now you have them. 

The next time someone questions your decision you can give them a solid explanation with real-life evidence supporting your stance. If you don’t want to do the explaining yourself, just send them a link to this post and they can see for themselves. You might’ve heard the saying “Whistle while you work” – we prefer “Listen while you work”. (By all means, do both if that’s your cup of tea.)

If you enjoyed this quick read, share it on your Twitter or Facebook and spread the knowledge. You’re definitely not the only person to ask “Does music improve memory?” and plenty of other people out there would also benefit from taking a look!

Do you want to learn about some of the other therapeutic uses for music? Take a look at this post about the relationship between Music and Empathy. You might also enjoy reading about Music Addiction Disorder and whether or not it’s real or fake. 

Let me know what you think by leaving a comment below, I look forward to hearing some of your thoughts! Thanks for stopping by, I hope you found the answer to your aquestion and hope to see you here again! 

Sonic Elevation: Ride The Waves. 

Sometimes they show their love by wearing a band tee, hanging up album artwork in their room, or drinking a hot cup of coffee with a clever music quote on the side. It’s never a bad time to show your love for music. Here are 20 awesome Christmas gifts for music lovers that will make any music fanatic very happy!

20 Awesome Christmas Gifts For Music Lovers!

Music lovers always appreciate any collectable item or memorabilia to add to their collection. If it can double as an item for everyday practical use, that’s even better. 

Here are the Top 20 unique picks we know they’ll love:

1. Vinyl Record Disc Coasters
2. Amped Amplifier Novelty Coffee Mug
3. Fender Bistro Mug
4. Booze & Vinyl: A Spirited Guide to Great Music and Mixed Drinks
5. Lost In The Supermarket: An Indie Rock Cookbook
6. Lil Wayne Logo Water Bottle
7. Anker Classic Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
8. CFZC Wireless Headphone Beanie
9. Decourhouzz Embroidered Pillow Cover
10. 3D Music Note Table Lamp
11. The Beatles – Street Color Puzzle
12. Grateful Dead Dancing Bears Dog Collar
13. 1000 Record Covers by Michael Ochs
14. Dust & Grooves: Adventures In Record Collecting
15. Tool – Lateralus Vinyl LP
16. Linkin Park Embroidered Logo Keychain
17. Aerosmith Wings Keychain
18. Grateful Dead Custom Bi-Fold Wallet
19. Kurt Cobain Collage Card Case
20. Red Hot Chili Peppers Asterisk Drawstring Bag
21. *Bonus Recommendation*

We did our best to include a pretty wide variety of ideas to pick from – ranging from backpacks to hats, posters, and unique table lamps. We hope you enjoy our favorite picks as much as we think you will! 

1. Vinyl Record Disc Coasters (Set of 6)

This set of Vinyl Record Disc coasters will keep your tables clean and your guests happy. Each coaster has a clever saying that would be great for starting a conversation or sharing a laugh with your guests. 

The rubber grip on the bottoms will keep your drinks on the table so you don’t have to worry about major spills. 

Click here to see this coaster set on Amazon!

2. Amped Amplifier Novelty Coffee Mug

Coffee always tastes good, but in a mug like this, it’ll taste even better (even if it’s just a placebo effect). You can store up to 24 oz. of your favorite liquid in the Amplifier Amped mug.

Get amped up in the morning with a hot cup of joe and your new mug. (There is one major downside – the amp won’t actually play music.)

Click here to see to see this mug on Amazon!

3. Fender Bistro Mug (14 Oz.)

Whether you like your coffee black, with a little cream, or a lot of cream – the 14 oz. Fender Bistro mug would be a great addition to any music lover’s coffee collection. 

For fans of playing the guitar or fans of the sound of a guitar, this would be a great, inexpensive gift to receive. 

Click here to see this mug on Amazon!

4. Booze & Vinyl: A Spirited Guide to Great Music and Mixed Drinks – Hardcover

Mix your music and your booze while you flip through Booze & Vinyl: A Spirited Guide To Great Music and Mixed Drinks.

See how each drink recipe and song intertwine as you sip on your cocktail. Pair a mixed drink that fits the mood of the song you’re listening to for the ultimate music lover experience. 

Click here to see this book on Amazon!

5. Lost In The Supermarket: An Indie Rock Cookbook

Everything goes better with music – especially good food. Named after the song by The Clash, you’ll have a good selection of recipes, songs, and a few dashes of history to flip through. 

Follow along and get Lost In The Supermarket – whip up a nice, home-cooked meal and dance along to the music. (This would be a great date night gift.)

Click here to see this cookbook on Amazon!

6. Lil Wayne Logo Water Bottle

Keep yourself hydrated and your beverage cool in this 25 oz. Lil Wayne water bottle. The flip-top plus the carabiner make this a great travel bottle for festivals, concerts, and other outdoor activities. 

Click here to see more information on Amazon. (*This item is currently unavailable.)

7. Anker Classic Portable Bluetooth Speaker

We all love the portability and convenience of listening to our favorite music wire-free. The Anker Classic Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker has 20 hours of battery life, an aux port, and a wireless connectivity range of up to 33 feet. 

It’s perfect for carrying to an outside event (or for use at home in a bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom) without the hassle of trying to find a plug. Charge your speaker up, grab your backpack or purse, and take your music with you. 

Click here to see this Bluetooth speaker on Amazon!

8. CFZC Wireless Headphone Beanie

This CFZC Bluetooth 3.0 Wireless Headphone Bluetooth beanie has a built-in mic, speaker, and button control system. Choose from 11 colors and keep yourself warm and entertained. 

Answer calls or just listen to music from your phone with the Bluetooth 3.0 connection. 

Click here to see this beanie on Amazon!

9. DecorHouzz Embroidered Pillow cover

Choose one of 6 different designs from DecorHouzz’s Music Lover’s embroidered pillow cover selection. This cover will fit pillows that are 18″ x 18″ and under.

You can rest easy that the music lover in your life will love this pillow cover. 

Click here to see this pillowcase on Amazon!

10. 3D Music Note Table Lamp

Put this awesome Visual 3D Night Light Music Note Lamp anywhere you want in the house. (It would look great on a nightstand next to a bed, or in the man cave where you listen to music.)

You can switch between 7 different display colors if blue isn’t really your jam. You only need to know how to push one button to operate this table lamp. Give the gift of light. 

Click here to see this lamp on Amazon!

11. The Beatles – Street Color Puzzle

If the music lover that needs a present is a fan of The Beatles, they’d love this 20 in. by 27 in. collectable Beatles street color puzzle. 

You can even help them put it together while listening to The Beatles. 

Click here to see this puzzle on Amazon!

12. Grateful Dead Dancing Bears Dog Collar

Is the music lover in your life also a dog lover? Kill two birds with one stone when you give this Grateful Dead Dancing Bears Dog Collar as a gift. The dog will love it and so will their owner. 

This dog collar comes in black and is 1.5 in. wide with an adjustable length. It comes in more than three different sizes (13-18 in., 16-23 in., and 18-32 in.)

Click here to see this dog collar on Amazon!

13. 1000 Record Covers (Artwork Collection) by Michael Ochs

Michael Ochs (author) gives us a peek into his private archive of photography footage that he’s been collecting as far back as the ’50s. Flip through this #1 Best-Selling hardcover or paperback and marvel at the collection of record covers over the years. 

See how album art reflects the events of the time from the 1960s all the way to 1990s in 1000 Record Covers. (It would be fun to flip through the covers and play some of the records at the same time.)

Click here to see this collection on Amazon!

14. Dust & Grooves: Adventures In Record Collecting

Take a peek inside some of the most dedicated record collector’s vinyl rooms. Dust & Grooves: Adventures In Record Collecting is full of photographs taken by Eilon Paz (founder of dustandgrooves.com) and intimate interviews with the collectors. 

This would be the perfect gift for a vinyl collector, audiophile, and/or fan of learning the ins and outs of the vinyl community. 

Click here to see this book on Amazon!  

15. Tool – Lateralus – Vinyl LP

Lateralus by Tool sold over 555,200 copies in the first week of its release. Even today it’s still heralded as a classic album that’s a must-have for fans of Tool and other hard rock/metal bands. 

It’s been named as the #1 hard rock/metal album of the 21st century, and for good reason. Give the gift of music. 

Click here to see this album on vinyl!

16. Linkin Park Embroidered Logo Keychain

Chester Bennington may be gone (R.I.P.) but his spirit lives on through the music of Linkin Park. This Linkin Park stencil logo oval keychain is embroidered on 1.5 in. x 3 in. piece of cloth. 

Once you add it to your set of keys, it’ll last for years to come (and you can support one of the most influential bands of all time).

Click here to see more information on Amazon. (*This item is currently unavailable.)

17. Aerosmith Wings Keychain

Aerosmith needs no introduction. Even decades after their inception, they continue to be among the most popular bands in the world. 

This Aerosmith wings keychain would be a nice shiny addition to any music lover’s keyring (and it won’t break the bank). 

Click here to see this keychain on Amazon!

18. Grateful Dead Custom Bi-Fold Wallet

Even if you’re not a fan of the Grateful Dead’s music, you can appreciate the level of artistry this custom wallet displays. 

Each Space Your Face wallet is custom made to order. Keep your money and cards safe in this ultra-stylish, spacey, bi-fold custom wallet. 

Click here to see this wallet on Amazon!

19. Kurt Cobain Collage Card Case

The legend of Kurt Cobain lives on. Music lovers everywhere appreciate the legacy and musical footprint left by Nirvana on records like Nevermind. 

Help them show their support for arguably one of the most powerful musical acts in recent history by carrying this Kurt Cobain Collage Card Case. 

Click here to see this card case on Amazon!

20. Red Hot Chili Peppers Asterisk Drawstring Bag

This Red Hot Chili Peppers drawstring bag is great for carrying an extra shirt, water bottle, shoes, flip flops, or your phone charger. 

This type of bag is super lightweight and convenient for everyday walking or traveling. (Not to mention the iconic logo in red and white featured on the back.)

Click here to see this bag on Amazon!

21. *Bonus Recommendation* – KOHLER GPM Moxie Shower-Head/Wireless Speaker

With the KOHLER GPM Moxie Shower-head/Wireless speaker you can literally bring your music in the shower with you! It’s Bluetooth compatible at up to 32 feet away so you don’t even have to bring your phone in the bathroom. 

All you have to do is choose one of the 4 color options and replace your old shower-head with the new one. Put the Moxie in place and start singing along in the shower to your favorite tunes. This would blow most music lovers away and is our favorite pick off this list. 

Click here to see this shower-head/speaker on Amazon!

Did You Find Something Special?

Did you enjoy browsing our favorite Christmas gifts for music lovers? Who is that special someone that you need a unique present for? No matter who they are, they’ll be more than happy to receive a nice, thoughtful present from someone who cares enough to browse lists like this for great ideas!

How excited will that special someone in your life be when they unwrap the unique present you got for them? If you have any questions about any of the choices we included here, feel free to ask by leaving a comment below! 

Thanks for stopping by, we hope you found our unique recommendations helpful!

Are you a Rolling Stones fan? What about The Beatles? Maybe you’re a classic metalhead and you like Kiss or Metallica. No matter which band is your favorite, we have something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the best vintage concert t-shirts and relive the nostalgia. (Don’t worry, there are both men’s and women’s options to choose from.)

Vintage Concert T-Shirts From 9 Classic Bands!

I’ve listed two different designs for each of the bands below. There will be a men’s design and a women’s design. If you decide that you want to see more designs from that band, I’ll leave a link for you to check out more. I hope you have as much fun browsing through this collection as I did putting it together!

1. Led Zeppelin
2. Elvis Presley
3. Rolling Stones
4. Journey
5. Pink Floyd
6. Run DMC
7. Eagles
8. The Beatles
9. Billy Joel

1. Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin has sold 111.5 million units worldwide. They continue to make waves and sell records – even 50 years after they formed a band. Begin the journey on the Stairway To Heaven by grabbing one of their tees below to wear In The Evening (or whenever else you want to). 

Cities 1977 Tour Tee

• Zeppelin airship and logo print on front
• 1977 U.S. Tour details on the back
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

Women’s Flag Logo Tapered Tee

• Blue, tapered shirt fit
• “LED ZEP”  print on the front (in red, white, and blue)
• Sizes available: S, M, and L

(Use the link below to check current availability)

If this design isn’t really your style, you can see more Led Zeppelin designs here.

2. Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley has sold 136 million units worldwide and was one of the most well-known musicians of all time. If you can’t wait for a Blue Christmas to snag some vintage Elvis merch, check out our picks below. 

Men’s Custom “In Concert” Tee

• 100% Cotton
• Cream shirt with custom Elvis design print on front
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

Women’s “In Concert Las Vegas” Raglan Tee

• “Elvis In Concert – Las Vegas” print on front 
• 3/4 sleeve raglan design
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

If these designs don’t really match your style or they don’t have your size, you can see more Elvis Presley designs here.

3. Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones have sold 66.5 million units worldwide and continue to be a fan favorite even 56 years after they got together. You’ll be saying “I can’t get no satisfaction” over and over again to yourself until you try one of these premium tees. 

Men’s “Keith Vintage Live” Tee

• Print on the front has tour dates, song titles, and a side profile of a younger Keith Richards
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

Women’s Skull Tongue Tee

• “Rolling Stones” in Old English-style font
• Classic logo + skull on tongue print (front only)
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

If you don’t see something that makes your heart race you can see more Rolling Stones designs here. 

4. Journey

The journey has sold 48 million units worldwide and still tours as a live band to this day. Don’t Stop Believing that there’s still hope for finding a classic design from this powerhouse of a band. Check out our picks below to show your support. 

Men’s “Japan ’81” Tee

• Features Japan ’81 Tour print on front
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

Women’s Custom 1980 Black Short Sleeve

• Custom 1980 Departure design printed on the front
• 60% cotton/40% polyester
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

We weren’t able to list every single one on this page, but you can see more Journey designs here. 

5. Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd has sold 75 million records worldwide and will forever remain a mainstay in popular rock n’ roll culture. Do you want to be just Another Brick In The Wall, or sitting Comfortably Numb in one of these premium graphic tees? It’s your choice, take your pick!

“Wish You Were Here 1975” Premium Soft Tee

• Premium soft fabric
• Features 1975 “Wish You Were Here” print on front
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

“The Wall” Vintage Distressed Distressed Boyfriend T-Shirt

• Print on the front features art from “The Wall” album cover
• Vintage, distressed material design
• Sizes available: L, XL 

(Use the link below to check current availability)

If you love Pink Floyd but you need more options, you can see more Pink Floyd designs here. 

6. Run DMC

Run DMC was the first hip-hop group to be inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame and has sold — a million units worldwide. Are you a fan of this iconic music group?… Or should I ask, “Can You Rock It Like This?” Grab one of our picks below and prove that you’re Down With The King. 

Men’s Vintage Tour Tee

• Grey vintage material
• Features Run DMC logo/group print on front
• Sizes available: M, L, XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

Women’s Chevron Striped Tee

• Gray (with turquoise and red striped detail)
• Classic Run DMC logo with Chevron Striped design
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

If you don’t see your size (or favorite graphic) above, don’t worry – you can see more Run DMC designs here. 

7. The Eagles

The Eagles have sold 101 million units worldwide. Take It Easy and absorb that Peaceful Easy Feeling while you’re lounging around in your new vintage tee. 

“Greatest Hits” Distressed Logo Tee

• Features “Eagles Greatest Hits” artwork print on the front (picture taken by Boyd Elder)
• Distressed material (for a rugged, worn look)
• Sizes available: S, L

(Use the link below to check current availability)

Women’s “Foil Rose Crest” Tee

• Foil Rose Crest and Lyrics from “Hotel California” printed on the front 
• Form-fitting design for a snug fit
• Sizes available: S, M

(Use the link below to check current availability)

The sizes are limited to what we’ve shown above, but you can see more Eagles designs here. 

8. The Beatles

The Beatles have sold 178 million units worldwide and will forever remain a constant fixture in the world of music. Some say “You Can’t Buy Me Love”, but you can get pretty close when you show up wearing one of these classic tees. Come on now, Don’t Let Me Down. 

“United States 1964” Men’s Tee

• White with the red graphic that symbolizes The Beatles first trip to the U.S.
• Sizes available: S, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

“NYC 1964” Women’s Tee

• Features black and white Beatles picture 
• “1964”, “The Beatles”, and “New York” printed on the front
• Sizes available: M, L, XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

There’s a lot more to choose from than what’s pictured above. For more sizes, color options, or styles, you can see more Beatles designs here. 

9. Billy Joel

Billy Joel has sold 82.5 million units worldwide. Do you want to be a random guy on the street or The Stranger with a New York State of Mind? Show off your Shameless fandom for this iconic act in a brand new (but vintage) graphic tee. 

Custom “The Stranger” T-Shirt

• 100% Cotton, slim-fit
• Custom “The Stranger” album cover graphic printed on the front (in black and white) 
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

Women’s Custom “Piano Man Cover” Tee

• 100% Cotton
• Features iconic “Piano Man” artwork on the front
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, 2XL

(Use the link below to check current availability)

There are quite a few additional options to pick from on Amazon. See more Billy Joel designs here.

How Was The Nostalgia?

If you’re anything like me, it’s always a good time browsing through collections of music memorabilia (or grabbing it at a concert) and finding a diamond in the rough (RIP to the mom and pop record stores.) The smell’s not quite the same (browsing on a computer or your phone), but it makes it a lot more convenient for everyone to do it that way, right?

If you weren’t able to find exactly what you were looking for, let me know in the comments and I’ll do my best to help you find it. Thanks for stopping by and tuning in, I hope you found something from this vintage concert t-shirts selection that you couldn’t resist!