At Emotiva, we think about great-sounding gifts all year, but now that it’s November, it’s officially time to find the right presents for the people on your list. This season, our engineers, listeners, and support team compared notes and  focused on gear that makes movie night bigger, music more engaging, and setup simple. 

Below you’ll find our updated 2025 picks, organized by budget and by listener. Whether they need a first real system beyond the TV, a better stereo, or a top-tier theater, you’ll find it here.

Gifts Under $500

Easy gifts that make sound clearer and more enjoyable.
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BasX TA1 Stereo Preamp/DAC/Tuner With Integrated Amplifier

What it is: a single box that switches your sources and powers speakers.

Why it helps: plug in a TV, laptop, or turntable and get clean, natural sound. The built-in DAC (digital-to-analog converter) turns streaming and TV audio into music your speakers can play. The phono input supports MM/MC cartridges (two common turntable types).

Gift-giver note: all-in-one stereo that powers passive speakers. Most turntables are MM, so you are covered.

BasX PT1 Stereo Preamplifier/DAC/Tuner

What it is: a control center for systems with powered speakers or a separate power amp.

Why it helps: adds source switching, a quality DAC for digital gear, Bluetooth for phones, and a proper phono input so vinyl sounds right.

Gift-giver note: this does not power speakers by itself. Pair it with a power amp or powered speakers.

BasX CD1 CD Player & Transport

What it is: a dedicated CD player that can also send a digital signal to another device (transport mode).

Why it helps: stable, quiet disc reading so CDs sound focused and natural. Use the analog outputs for plug-and-play, or send digital out to another converter (DAC) if he has one.

Gift-giver note: great for anyone with a CD collection who wants easy, reliable playback.

Airmotiv XA2 Height / Surround / Ceiling / Reflective Speakers (pair)

What it is: compact speakers for surround or height effects (the “above/around you” sound in movies).

Why it helps: add immersive sound without too much installation/construction. The included bracket lets you mount on a wall or ceiling.

Gift-giver note: add-on speakers, not replacements for the main left and right.

Airmotiv XC2 Center Channel Loudspeaker

What it is: the speaker under the TV that carries most voices.

Why it helps: dialogue gets clearer at normal volumes, so you touch the remote less (aka “subtitle killers”).

Gift-giver note: make sure there is room in the cabinet, under the tv or on a sturdy shelf.

Gifts Under $1000

For systems that need a bit more power, better control, or real front speakers.
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BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Cinema Receiver

What it is: an AVR (audio/video receiver) that powers nine speakers and handles TV/HDMI.

Why it helps: an easy path to immersive sound. eARC (TV audio back over HDMI) simplifies hookup, and EmoQ room correction measures your space to smooth boomy or dull spots.

Gift-giver note: all-in-one box that powers speakers. Easiest surround sound starting point.

BasX TA2 Stereo Preamp/DAC/Tuner With Integrated Amplifier

What it is: a stronger version of our all-in-one stereo amp.

Why it helps: more power plus analog bass management (built-in crossover) sends deep bass to a sub so mains play cleaner. Home Theater Bypass lets stereo fronts share duty with an AVR.

Gift-giver note: powers passive speakers. Great two-channel hub that can grow into a theater.

BasX A3+ Three Channel Power Amplifier

What it is: an external power amp for the left, center, and right speakers.

Why it helps:  takes the heavy lifting off your AVR so the front soundstage gets bigger, cleaner, and more dynamic.

Gift-giver note: needs an AVR with pre-outs or a preamp/processor. Perfect LCR (left, right, rear speakers) upgrade.

ERC-4 Differential Reference CD Player and Transport

What it is: a CD player with a high-quality converter inside.

Why it helps: precise timing so music sounds cleaner and more together—notes start and stop when they should. Use XLR or RCA outputs, or feed a separate DAC through digital out.

Gift-giver note: for the CD devotee who wants a long-term, high-quality player.

Airmotiv XT1 Floorstanding Tower Loudspeakers (pair)

What it is: slim floorstanding speakers for small to mid-size rooms.

Why it helps: fuller bass and clear voices for both movies and music—often no subwoofer needed in smaller rooms.

Gift-giver note: check height and footprint in your own space. Pairs well with TA1 or TA2.

Gifts for Vinyl Lovers

Keep the ritual. Lower the noise. Make the records sing.
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PH-1 Phono Stage

What it is: a small box that makes a turntable work with a standard input.

Why it helps: adds proper gain and RIAA EQ (the curve vinyl needs) so records sound full and balanced. Works with MM and MC cartridges.

Gift-giver note: only needed if the turntable or amp does not already have “phono.” Most entry turntables are MM.

BasX TA1 Stereo Preamp/DAC/Tuner With Integrated Amplifier

What it is: an all-in-one stereo amp with a built-in phono input.

Why it helps: plug in a turntable, stream from your phone, or connect a TV. One box, clear sound, simple use.

Gift-giver note: powers passive speakers. A great first real stereo.

BasX TA2 Stereo Preamp/DAC/Tuner With Integrated Amplifier

What it is: a more powerful integrated amp for vinyl-first systems.

Why it helps: adjustable bass management blends a sub seamlessly for rich, room-filling analog playback.

Gift-giver note: powers passive speakers and adds room-friendly 2.1 control.

BasX PT1 Stereo Preamplifier/DAC/Tuner

What it is: a quiet preamp with phono and digital inputs for separates or powered speakers.

Why it helps: clean switching and clean gain so records and digital sources both sound their best.

Gift-giver note: does not power speakers. Pair with a power amp or powered speakers.

Airmotiv XB2 Bookshelf Loudspeakers (pair)

What it is: compact speakers for shelves or stands.

Why it helps: even, natural sound that makes records and playlists feel lively without over-emphasizing clicks, hiss, or harsh highs.

Gift-giver note: easy to place. Great with TA1 or TA2.

Gifts for 2-Channel Lovers

For the person who sits down, hits play, and really listens. 
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XPA-2 Gen3 2 Channel Audiophile Power Amplifier

What it is: a high-current two-channel power amp that drives demanding speakers with ease. Connect it to a preamp or processor via XLR or RCA.

Why it helps:  stronger, deeper bass and a bigger, more lifelike presentation, with extra power in reserve for musical peaks and movie hits.

Gift-giver note: needs a preamp or processor, or an AVR with pre-outs. Not a standalone box.

XDA-3 Differential Reference DAC / Preamp

What it is: a digital control center for music that can replace a stereo preamp — it converts digital audio to analog, switches your sources, and feeds your power amp (or powered speakers).

Why it helps:  plays modern hi-res formats, takes TV audio via HDMI ARC, and uses balanced XLR outputs (noise-reducing cables) for longer runs. The volume design preserves clarity and punch at any level.

Gift-giver note: ideal if most listening is digital or from TV and streaming.

ERC-4 Differential Reference CD Player and Transport

What it is: a reference CD player with a built-in DAC. Use its analog outputs for plug-and-play, or send digital out to another DAC. It can also act as a DAC for optical/coax sources.

Why it helps: precise timing that makes music sound cleaner and more focused. Balanced XLR and RCA outputs keep the signal clean, even with longer cables.

Gift-giver note: for the disc collector who values long-term reliability.

BasX PT2 Stereo Preamp/DAC

What it is: a stereo preamp with a DAC and subwoofer control.

Why it helps: built-in subwoofer control sends deep bass to the sub so the main speakers stay clear. Home Theater Bypass (shares your front speakers with a receiver) keeps daily use simple.

Gift-giver note: does not power speakers. Pair with a power amp.

Airmotiv XT3 Floorstanding Tower Loudspeakers (pair)

What it is: full-size three-way towers for larger rooms—folded ribbon tweeter (fast, clean highs), dual 5.25" mids for voices, and three 8" woofers for deep bass.

Why it helps: big, room-filling impact for movies and a natural, lifelike presentation for music. Matches the sound of Airmotiv centers and surrounds so everything blends smoothly.

Gift-giver note: large and heavy. Check space and weight capacity.

Gifts for Home Theater

Movie night that feels like a real screening.
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XMC-2+ 16 Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Cinema Processor

What it is: the brain of a theater system. It switches HDMI sources, decodes movie soundtracks, and sends clean signals to separate power amps (no built-in amps). Also called a processor or pre/pro.

Why it helps: HDMI 2.1 with fast 8K switching and eARC keeps consoles and streamers snappy. Dirac Live room correction uses a mic to measure speakers and seats to balance bass and clarity across the room. Supports up to 16 channels including height speakers for a true 3D sound field. Reference Stereo mode serves music nights.

Gift-giver note: control center only—requires separate power amplifiers. Choose an AVR like MR1 or MR1L for an all-in-one box.

XPA-11 Gen3 11 Channel Audiophile Home Theater Power Amplifier

What it is: an 11-channel power amp for full Atmos and DTS:X layouts.

Why it helps: ives every speaker steady, clean power so action scenes stay clear and exciting—no strain when things get loud.

Gift-giver note: needs a processor or an AVR with pre-outs. Not a standalone box.

BasX MR1 11.2 Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Cinema Receiver

What it is: an all-in-one AVR that powers 11 speakers and handles HDMI.

Why it helps: eARC simplifies TV hookup, EmoQ room correction tames boomy rooms, and strong built-in power delivers theater punch without extra boxes.

Gift-giver note: easiest path to a serious surround setup in one chassis.

Airmotiv XA2 Height / Surround / Ceiling / Reflective Speakers (pair)

What it is: mountable speakers for height or surround positions.

Why it helps:  an easy way to add overhead or surround effects in living rooms and rentals—mounting hardware included.

Gift-giver note: add-on speakers, not replacements for the main left and right.

Airmotiv XC3 Center Channel Loudspeaker

What it is: a large center speaker that center and projects most dialogue.

Why it helps:  dialogue stays clear and locked to the screen at real theater levels—less volume chasing, fewer subtitles.

Gift-giver note: it’s big and heavy. Make sure your cabinet, stand, or mount is sturdy.

Gifts for Audio Newbies

First system. Real sound. No stress.
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BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Cinema Receiver

What it is: a friendly AV receiver to start a real surround setup.

Why it helps: modern HDMI features, built-in amplification for nine speakers, and EmoQ room correction make the first build straightforward and rewarding.

Gift-giver note: all-in-one that powers speakers. Add speakers and you're ready to go.

BasX TA1 Stereo Preamp/DAC/Tuner With Integrated Amplifier

What it is: an easy stereo amp for TV, laptop, and turntable.

Why it helps: simple connections, clear sound, and a real volume knob that makes the system feel special from day one.

Gift-giver note: powers passive speakers. Great first stereo hub.

Airmotiv XB1 Bookshelf Loudspeakers (pair)

What it is: compact speakers for desks and small rooms.

Why it helps: small speakers, big upgrade—clearer voices and instruments without taking over the room.

Gift-giver note: small footprint. Ideal for apartments and offices.

Airmotiv Vaulta In-Ceiling / In-Wall Loudspeaker (pair)

What it is: in-wall or in-ceiling speakers for clean, low-profile presentation.

Why it helps: saves floor space and blends with the room while matching the sound of other Airmotiv speakers for a consistent system.

Gift-giver note: requires cutting and mounting. Consider a pro installer.

BTR-1 Virtual Copper Bluetooth System

What it is: a Bluetooth receiver for any system with an open input.

Why it helps: pair a phone in seconds and stream music; analog and digital outputs cover nearly any setup.

Gift-giver note: a simple, universal upgrade.

Gifts for Audio Vets

They already have a strong system. These raise the bar.
See all Advanced gifts

RMC-1+ 16 Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Cinema Processor

What it is: our flagship theater processor (the control center of your home theater)

Why it helps: 8K-ready HDMI, Dirac Live room tuning, precise bass control, and a pure two-channel mode for focused music sessions.

Gift-giver note: no built-in power. Requires separate amplifiers.

XMC-2+ 16 Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Cinema Processor

What it is: a reference-grade processor in a more compact chassis.

Why it helps: same core strengths as our flagship RMC-1+ —fast 8K HDMI and flexible layouts—kept straightforward for daily use.

Gift-giver note: control center only. Needs separate power amps.

XPA-DR3 Differential Reference Three Channel Power Amplifier

What it is: a high-end three channel amp for the left, center, and right.

Why it helps:  mirror-image amplification cancels noise for cleaner, more stable front-stage performance—voices and instruments “lock in.”

Gift-giver note: needs a preamp/processor, or an AVR with pre-outs.

XPA-11 Gen3 11 Channel Audiophile Home Theater Power Amplifier

What it is: eleven channels of clean power for multiple speakers.

Why it helps:  lifts surrounds and heights to the same quality level as the mains so effects feel seamless and dynamic.

Gift-giver note: requires a processor or an AVR with pre-outs.

CMX6+ Precision Common Mode AC Line Filter with Surge Protection

What it is: a power strip that reduces electrical noise and adds protection.

Why it helps: cuts background noise from household power (dimmers, appliances) and adds surge protection—quieter quiets, bigger impact.

Gift-giver note: safe add-on that benefits any system.

Stocking Stuffers and Gift Cards

Small add-ons that make systems easier to enjoy.
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Emotiva Gift Cards

When you aren’t sure what they need, let them choose and get exactly the upgrade they need.

BTR-1 Virtual Copper Bluetooth System

Add Bluetooth to almost any setup using analog or digital connections.

Gift-giver note: fast, useful, and universally compatible.

CMX2+ Precision Common Mode AC Line Filter With DC Offset Eliminator

Reduces power-line noise and blocks DC offset (a power quirk that can make transformers buzz) for a calmer, cleaner system.

Gift-giver note: plug-in fix for hum and hiss issues.

XHD8K 8K Certified HDMI Cable

A dependable HDMI cable that also carries TV audio back through ARC/eARC (audio return).

Gift-giver note: a safe, practical upgrade that helps prevent connection hiccups.

XXLR Balanced XLR Cable 1M

Balanced interconnects (noise-reducing cables) that keep long runs quiet and hum-free.

Gift-giver note: great for audio racks, components that aren't next to each other, or gear with XLR jacks.

Here's some extra help if you need it.

What is the simplest upgrade from TV audio?
A small stereo setup with an integrated amp and a pair of speakers. It is clearer than most bars and grows with you.

Do I need a phono preamp for a turntable?
Yes, unless your turntable or amp already has one. A phono stage adds the right gain and RIAA EQ so records sound natural.

What is the difference between an AVR and a processor with separate amps?
An AVR has processing and power in one box. A processor plus separate amps gives you more flexibility and headroom, which helps bigger systems.

Can I start small and expand later?
Yes. Every pick here can be part of a bigger system later, so you can upgrade over time.

What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return window for most products. Items should be in original condition. See the product page for any exceptions.

What about warranty coverage?
Emotiva products include warranties that typically range from 3 to 5 years depending on the product category. Check each product page for exact terms and coverage details.

Still need a hand choosing?

Email sales@emotiva.com and tell us a bit about the room, the speakers they have, and what they like to watch or listen to. We will help you pick something that feels right and is easy to set up.

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