Every year, the John Lewis Christmas advert becomes a talking point. But this year’s spot hit a deeper note... literally. In 2025, the festive ad shows a child gifting their parent a vinyl record, sparking an awesome music moment that’s part nostalgia, part connection, and entirely human. But whether you’re a music lover or just appreciate the ritual of putting on a record, the message feels crystal clear: vinyl isn’t just back — it’s here to stay.
Why the John Lewis Ad Resonates
Amid the sparkle and sentimentality of most Christmas adverts, this one stood out for its simplicity. No grand gestures or over-the-top effects - just a record player, a vinyl record, and the look on someone’s face when the needle drops. Despite it's stripped back festive feel, which has earned the ad it's fair share of critics - the selection of the classic club track 'Where Love Lives' taps into a generation that likely left the clubs behind a long time ago. It’s a reminder that sound - real, physical, tangible sound - can connect people across generations.
In an age when most music is consumed through streaming subscriptions or digital downloads, the act of giving vinyl feels so personal. It’s something you can hold, unwrap, display, and cherish - not just consume. Whenever you play that record you were gifted you will often think of the person who gave it to you. The John Lewis ad captured that perfectly.
The ad also captures how music can transport a listener through time. Music is woven into our nature as humans, it's a ligtening rod for memory, emotion and connection to something deep and meaningful. Music is a language we all speak. This author could tell you of lots of tracks and whole albums that spark a specific memory in time, connected to people nearest and dearest as well as those long gone.
Why Vinyl Still Matters in 2025
The vinyl revival isn’t just a passing phase. The scene in the John Lewis ad with a family having a record player in the living room is starting to become more commonplace. For nearly two decades, record sales have climbed steadily, defying every prediction of obsolescence. In 2023, vinyl outsold CDs for the first time in over 30 years, and the trend hasn’t slowed since.
Why? Because people are rediscovering what digital lost - experience. Vinyl gives you the ritual of flipping sides, reading liner notes, admiring cover art, and hearing your favourite album in full. It’s music you listen to with intention, not on shuffle.
And it’s not just nostalgia. Modern turntables, amplifiers, and speakers bring that warm, authentic sound into the present. They make vinyl playback easy, elegant, and powerful - proof that analogue can live comfortably in the digital age.
What Makes a Great Turntable Gift?
If this year’s John Lewis ad has inspired you to give not just the gift of a vinyl record, but start your loved one on the path of exploring records with their very own turntable, here’s what to look for when choosing the right setup:
• Ease of use - Look for automatic or semi-automatic models that make setup simple for beginners.
• Built-in phono stage - Some turntables include this feature, removing the need for a separate pre-amp.
• Cartridge quality - This tiny component makes a big difference in sound quality; look for reputable cartridges like Ortofon or Sumiko.
• Connectivity - Bluetooth-enabled turntables offer a convenient blend of old and new, pairing easily with modern speakers.
At Peter Tyson, you’ll find everything from beginner systems to high-end separates - ideal for anyone taking their first step into vinyl or upgrading an existing setup.
From Stream to Spin: Choosing the Right Media
Streaming changed how we listen, but vinyl has changed how we feel when we listen. A playlist might fill the room, but a record fills a moment. That’s why so many people are rediscovering physical formats - they demand attention and reward it with depth.
And the two can co-exist beautifully. Many modern amplifiers and speakers support both high-res streaming and vinyl playback, letting you choose between convenience and connection. If you’re curious how they stack up, check out our Streaming vs. Physical Media blog for a closer look.
Our Turntable Gift Picks
Whether you’re buying for a lifelong collector or someone new to the world of records, a turntable is one of those rare gifts that grows with time. Explore our range of:
• Starter turntables for beginners
• All-in-one systems that give you everything you need
• Mid-range turntables and hi-fi separates for enthusiasts
• Premium turntables and separates for audiophiles
All available now at Peter Tyson with expert advice and demos available in-store.
You could also consider vinyl care or upgrades as a great gift.
Bring It Home
This year, John Lewis reminded us that the best gifts aren’t always the newest - they’re the ones that connect us. A vinyl record and turntable do just that. They invite you to slow down, listen closely, and share something real.
Whether you’re spinning old favourites or discovering something new, vinyl makes every listen feel special. And that’s what music - especially at this time of year - should be all about.