Most of us have a true music lover on our Christmas list. Fortunately, there are many options when shopping for such people; from equipment such as home stereo, HD radio, CD players, and MP3 players to gift certificates for music downloads and services such as satellite radio. Probably the most popular item, and the one that provides the most music entertainment for the money spent, is the very personal entertainment offered by MP3/MP4 players.

For the music lover who does not yet own one of these devices it can open up a whole new world of listening. However, even for those who currently have a device, a newer model may be cherished for the upgraded features. There have been some important changes to some of the primary contenders in the MP3 player world in the current year that gift givers should consider for the audiophiles on their list.

For many who have an older MP3 player, the option of adding WiFi capabilities, video- or better video, a radio feature, more memory, or a slicker looking appearance may prompt gift givers to consider some of the upgrades offered by Apple and Microsoft.

First, a review of changes to Apple's iPod models are worthy of mention. As most know, iPod introduced their next generation of devices adding in video screens to some models that did not possess them previously, beefing up storage, adding a touch screen and WiFi capabilities, and even polishing up the exterior with cool new colors. Probably the biggest news with iPod was the addition of the long awaited iPod Touch to their lineup. The Touch offers a touchscreen, 3.5 inch widescreen viewer, and WiFi capabilities. The 8GB now comes in around $299 and the 16GB at $399. Certainly the touchscreen updates the "cool" factor for the device and the screen is also a step up in the quality of the viewing experience.

While the Touch brings the new features mentioned, some of the older models have been revamped with new colors, more memory, and price cuts. iPod Nano now has a 2 inch wide screen and comes in a rainbow of colors with a 4GB model for $149 and an 8GB model for $199. With the added video capability, Nano should be an even more attractive alternative for those hoping to keep their spending under control.

While the iPod Shuffle is still around too, the iPod Video was renamed iPod Classic and can now be had for $249 (80GB) or $349 (160GB) giving users the video they want with the memory that some more ardent music fans long to have.

These iPod changes offer buyers the opportunity to add video to their listening experience and still stay within their budget with the Nano or for those who are more interested in the cool factor and connectivity, Touch should be the device given more attention.

Microsoft's Zune also announced changes that become available in November 2007. One of the most exciting changes is the introduction of the 80GB Zune with hard drive. It offers a 3.2" screen and is significantly thinner than when Zune was first introduced in 2006. This new Zune offers a touch sensitive pad and WiFi syncing while still offering a radio feature for even more listening opportunities; all for a price of $249. The 4GB Zune (with flash memory) still offers plenty of storage for most of us and comes in around $149 while the 8GB model costs $199. For those wanting a more streamlined Zune that adds radio and a hard drive as well as an economical price, the newer model could be the perfect gift.

Certainly, both iPod and Zune have been great ways to enjoy music since their initial introduction. However, with recent upgrades in storage, connectivity, and video capabilities, newer models may well move back to the top of a music lover's wish list.