How to Read and Understand Stereo Specifications

Understanding Speaker Efficiency, Amplifier Power, and Dynamic Range
A receiver's power output in watts has little meaning when it comes to maximum volume or loudness. A 200 watt/channel receiver will play only 3 dB louder than a receiver with 100 watts/channel, a difference that is barely audible. The decision about how much power you need should be based on speaker efficiency and the ability of the amplifier to handle the dynamic peaks found in most music.

What is the Relationship between Loudness and Amplifier Power?
Decibels and watts are common terms used to describe stereos. They can be confusing and here is a simple explanation of what they mean and how they relate.

What is Wideband Frequency Response and How Much is Enough?
Frequency response is the term used to describe the range of tones that a stereo system can reproduce. Typically a system is capable of frequency response that ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz, the approximate range of human hearing, and many people would consider this to be adequate. However,...

What is Signal to Noise Ratio?
Definition and explanation of signal to noise ratio specifications in stereo components

What is Frequency Response?
Definition and explanation of Frequency Response in stereo components

What is Total Harmonic Distortion?
Definition and Explanation of Total Harmonic Distortion - THD

What is Intermodulation Distortion?
Definition and Explanation of Intermodulation Distortion - IMD