Whether you need to replace those mediocre headphones that shipped with your MP3 player or shield those around you from your musical tastes, you'll find something in our Christmas Gift Guide.

If you fall into the former camp, you'll be interested in our selection of light, portable headphones, where, as far as we're concerned, one manufacturer has got it covered.

For use in the home, on the other hand, you might want to check out our picks of HiFi headphones.

Portable Headphones

	Budget Buyer: Jays J-Jays For the same price as the Creative EP-830, the Js offer a much warmer, richer sound.  Thanks to the extension kit that comes supplied, they're compatible with the majority of mobiles, even those that don't accept a regular headphone jack.

	Simplicity First: Sennheiser PX 100 In terms of open headphones, the PX-100 sets a standard with its good sound quality and finishing touches.

	Demanding User: Jays Q-Jays   Small, comfortable, light and incredibly powerful, the Q-Jays did well with every kind of music we threw at them. A must-have that sets the standard for others to beat.	MARCHANDS €     Ebay  249.99  Compare prices

	On The Go: Jays Q-Jays And again ... these headphones really are a pleasure to wear.  The selection of accessories could hardly be more complete, either.	MARCHANDS €     Ebay  249.99  Compare prices

	Expert: Jays D-Jays Jays knows exactly what it's doing with in-ear headphones and has proved it once again. There are few competitors as good as these D-Jays, which are a great introduction to the world of in-ear headphones if you've never tried them before.	MARCHANDS €     Ebay  149.99  Adorama  149.99  Compare prices

HiFi Headphones

     

	Budget Buyer: Sennheiser RS 130   A rounded 3D sound, excellent audio quality, incredibly comfortable--what else could you ask for?  Wireless maybe?  Well, Sennheiser have thrown that in too ...

	Simplicity First: Sennheiser HD 212 Pro Not only do you get great sound quality with these headphones, the isolation is excellent, meaning you can concentrate on the music.	Prices unavailable Recommended alternatives Editor's Choice Jays v-Jays Reinforced Headband Sennheiser PX 100-II Great Audio Insulation Jays Q-Jays

	Demanding User: Sennheiser HD 650   The reference when it comes to Hi-Fi headphones, the HD 650 has some of the best sound we've ever heard.

	On The Go: Sennheiser PXC 450 These little headphones fold up, and come with airplane adapters and a carry case.  There's also active noise cancellation that you can turn on if you're in a loud environment.	MARCHANDS €     Amazon  349.95  J&r mus...  349.95  Amazon mark...  349.95  Target  349.99  Compare prices