It’s safe to say that a good pair of headphones is one of the best investments you can make. After all, everyone loves music, and being able to experience your favorite songs in all their intricate detail, ambience and balance will make you wonder how you lived with those $10 earbuds all these years.

As our understanding of audio technology evolved, enthusiasts started using the term “audiophile” to describe their passion for the ultimate listening experience. This subsequently brought a plethora of compelling audio gizmos and gadgets onto the market. While astounding in their capabilities, they often come with a price tag to match.

But you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to enjoy quality music. In fact, less than $200 will afford you any of the audiophile-approved tech we have listed below, so keep reading to find out what you should buy next.

Google Chromecast Audio

What if you could wirelessly play music from your smartphone to any speaker, television or soundbar in your home? Well, that’s exactly what Google’s Chromecast Audio aims to do. Simply plug the Chromecast unit into any 3.5mm audio jack, and you can use the Chromecast app to stream music anywhere from your Android or iOS device.

Cambridge Audio DAC 

The standard 3.5mm headphone jacks that you find in your phone and laptop use cheap digital-to-analog converters (DACs) to create sound. These built-in DACs have poor audio reproduction capabilities and a constant faint hiss in the background. This is why aftermarket DACs have become a must-have accessory for audiophiles.

The DacMagic XS V2 by Cambridge Audio is a good example of an affordable, but capable DAC. Simply plug it into the USB port of your computer and prepare yourself for an instant upgrade in the quality of your audio. The XS V2 has a built-in amplifier, allowing you to hear more detail in your favorite songs while also adding a bit of punch.

Victrola Acrylic Record Player

The Acrylic Record Player by Victrola puts a modern twist on a timeless music format by incorporating two wireless 40-watt rechargeable speakers that are Bluetooth enabled. Aside from its stylish acrylic design, it also features a 2-speed modern turntable and a 12-hour battery life, allowing you to move it around the house at whim.

Monoprice Stereo Tube Amplifier

Aside from looking extremely cool, an amplifier such as this one by Monoprice adds a warmer, more pronounced sound profile to your music. There are plenty of connectivity options, including USB, Bluetooth and RCA inputs. This amp is the perfect way to improve the sound quality of any pair of headphones and makes for a rather neat art piece in your home.

Yamaha YAS-106 Soundbar

Whether you want to boost the audio capabilities of your computer or your television, a soundbar is an effective, compact and affordable way to do it. The YAS-106 features two built-in subwoofers for a serious kick in bass-heavy songs and action movies. There’s also a variety of high-definition inputs to ensure that no detail is lost.

What is your favorite piece of audio tech? Be sure to let us know in the comments below.