Stop taking blind guesses at albums you think the music lover in your life would like. There are plenty of gift ideas that don't require a trip to the record store (though gift certificates to the latter are always appreciated). Here are some gift ideas to consider for your favorite music fan.

Gadgets: Embrace the iPod Touch

Let's start with the obvious: what music lover wouldn't kill for an iPod Touch? Assuming they don't already have one, iPod's latest media player is like an iPhone that doesn't make calls - it can hold your entire music library, that is. You can download apps, check the weather, or play Angry Birds all while listening to your favorite tunes.

If your music lover's already got an iPod Touch, why not pick up an iPod docking station instead? If your loved one's big on outdoor music, they even come in an outdoor version. Other popular versions include alarm clocks and portable docks. Just be sure to test the speaker quality – you get what you pay for when it comes to sound. If you can't try it out, go with a trusted brand and get a gift receipt.

Thinking Outside of the iPod

If you're looking for non-iPod gift ideas, try the ever-popular noise-canceling headphones, which offer some of the best listening experiences on the market. The stylish, premium Beats headphones were a hot item last year and from the looks of this year's Black Friday leaks, they are going to continue their domination of the music market. For a true splurge, go with the Sonos Multiroom Music System -- it offers amazing sound in every room of your house. Lastly, vinyl collectors will go crazy over USB turntables that let the user convert old records into CDs for preservation or portability purposes.

Be a Subscriber

XM radio subscriptions give the gift of music on the go. Other ideas include subscriptions to music streaming services like Spotify or Pandora. You could also consider a subscription to a music download service such as Napster or Rhapsody. Of course, there's always the old standby: iTunes or Amazon mp3 gift cards.

Think Outside the Box -- or the CD Jewel Case

Don't give a gift that everyone else will be giving. Why not get creative with your gift ideas? Make the ultimate mix CD. Give concert tickets to grant your music lover a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Or give them Chronicle Books' Ticket Stub Diary, a book that features slots to protect their prized ticket stubs in addition to space to write their favorite memories of each show. If your music lover's an indie music buff with a heart of gold, you may consider the Indie Rock Coloring Book. It's an honest-to-goodness coloring book with illustrations of indie acts like Bon Iver or Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. Better yet, all proceeds go to the musician-chosen charities of the Yellow Bird Project.

The bottom line is this: whatever you give, give with careful thought and consideration. Rack your brain and ask yourself: what does this person need? What do they want? What wouldn't they buy themselves? There's no better way to ensure you're giving a gift that will be truly appreciated.