Stereos: Most Popular Articles

Top Five Speaker Picks
Speakers are the most important part of a stereo or home theater system and the key to determining the overall sound from your system. Here are my five top picks of speakers to consider. All are from respected manufacturers and are available in various price ranges.

Kenwood DNX-8120
The Kenwood DNX-8120 is a multimedia DVD receiver with an advanced Garmin navigation system and integrated Bluetooth technology

Guide to Stereo Systems
A complete stereo system has several elements including speakers, components, sources and the listening room. Whether you're a stereo novice or an experienced listener, this overview covers the essential parts of a good stereo and how to get the best sound from your system.

Five Receivers Under \$300
Despite the popularity of home theater, stereo receivers are still in demand. Here are five stereo receivers worthy of consideration and they are all priced under $300.

Top Speaker Picks
The best stereo speakers and in-wall speakers for 2007. After reviewing a lot of speakers during 2007, I've picked these as my favorites.

Whole House Music Systems
Whole House Music Systems - A description of the different types of whole house stereo music distribution systems including multizone receivers, advanced multi-room systems, whole house audio networks, computer LANs and wireless systems. This overview will help you decide which type of whole house music system is best for you.

Speaker placement
How to Place Stereo Speakers - Correct positioning of stereo speakers is one of the best ways to get great audio performance from your stereo system. These three easy steps will help you place stereo speakers to get the best performance.

How to Buy a Car Stereo System
Buying a new car stereo system can mean upgrading the existing system or replacing the entire system and starting over. This guide will help determine the best choice.

Guide to Stereo Speakers
How to Select Floorstanding, Bookshelf, In-wall and Satellite/Subwoofer Speakers, How to Install In-wall Speakers and How to Get the Best Performance from Stereo Speakers

under eaves
The easiest place to install outdoor speakers is probably under the eaves of your home. They’re easily installed and protected from direct exposure to rainfall.

connecting speakers
Connecting Speakers to a Receiver or Amplifier

Stereo Components
This overview of stereo receivers, integrated amplifiers and separate components includes a feature guide, a glossary of terms, definitions of specifications and Guide reviews of stereo components.

Understanding THD
Definition and Explanation of Total Harmonic Distortion - THD

iTrax Music Downloads
iTrax is a new website for downloading high definition audio video content. iTrax includes stereo and surround sound programs for downloading in six different audio video formats.

Build a Car Stereo System
Building a good car stereo system can be approached in stages beginning with speakers, subwoofers, amps and finally the head unit or receiver.

Audio EQ
Audio Equalizer - How to adjust the sound quality of your audio system using an audio equalizer

Surround Speakers
There are three types of surround sound speakers, Direct, Bipole and Dipole and it's important to select the right type for the way you like to listen.

Installing in-walls
Installing In-Wall Speakers - Installing in-wall speakers is a project that takes some planning. This step-by-step guide will show you how to install in-wall speakers.

Rotel Separates
The Rotel RC-1082 Stereo Control Amp and Rotel RB-1072 Stereo Power Amp separate components offer a warm, musical sound quality that I haven't heard in some time.

minisystems
Space is valuable in a dorm or apartment and a mini system is a great way to get the features and sound quality you want in a small system.

Speaker Types and Sizes
Speaker Basics - A description of the different types of stereo speakers including floorstanding, bookshelf, in-wall, in-ceiling and satellite-subwoofer stereo and surround sound speaker systems.

Buying Speakers
The most important factors in choosing speakers are personal taste, sound quality, speaker size, type, style, and your stereo components.

amppower
The benefits of more amplifier power - 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 hardly audible. The decision about how much amplifier power you need should be based on speaker efficiency and the need to handle the volume peaks found in most music.

running speaker wires
A simple way to enjoy multiroom audio is to run speaker wires from the receiver in your family room to another room.

Top 10 Stereos and Accessories
Top Ten List of Stereos and Accessories for music enjoyment and to get the best performance from your stereo system.

ToothPIk
The ToothPik is a Bluetooth accessory for your car that allows hands-free mobile phone use and MP3/iPod integration.

DB and Watts
Decibels and Watts - Decibels and watts are two common terms used to describe stereos. They can be confusing, so here is a simple explanation of what decibels and watts mean and how they relate to stereo systems.

power output
The amount of amplifier power you need should be based on your selection of speakers, the listening room and how loud you like to listen.

Buying a Stereo System
Guide to Buying a Stereo System - If you love music and want a stereo system but don't know where to start this guide will help you make the right decisions. How to determine your needs, establish a budget, ask the right questions, audition components and make a purchasing decision are discussed in this article about how to buy a stereo system.

Definition of Optical igital
Optical digital output uses light to transmit a digital audio signal from one component to another. These are the advantages of optical digital output

Pioneer Elite PD-D6-J
The Pioneer Elite PD-D6-J player is a good choice as the primary source component for a moderately priced two-channel system.

2.1 Channel Sound
A 2.1 Channel System is a great way to enjoy home theater sound without hassling with surround sound speakers. A 2.1 Channel system uses two stereo speakers and a subwoofer combined with special decoding to create enveloping surround sound effects.

Rotel CD Player
The Rotel RC-1072 CD Player makes a great performance complement with the Rotel RC-1082 Control Amp and RB-1072 Power Amp.

BG Corp. Z-92 Stereo Speakers
BG Corp., known for their planar ribbon drivers has introduced the Z-92 tower stereo speakers as part of their Z-Series speaker line.

Car Stereo Systems
Car Entertainment Systems - An overview of current car audio components, including audio and video entertainment, navigation systems, safety and convenience features.

iPodsource
Using your iPod as music server - The iPod makes it possible to store all of your favorite music and take it with you almost anywhere. Why not use it as a music source for your home audio system as well? Learn the best ways to connect your iPod to your home stereo and use it as a music server.

Denon S-102
The S-102 system is one of Denon's latest 2.1 channel home theater systems with advanced video and networking features.

Top Mobile DVD Receivers
Top Audio Video Receivers for Mobile Entertainment - Best Car Stereo DVD Players

Must-Have Receiver Features
Most Important Features on a Stereo or A/V Receiver - Receivers are loaded with performance and convenience features. These are the most important features you should have when shopping for a new Stereo or A/V Receiver.

analog definition
Analog and digital are terms used in many fields including audio. They can also be difficult to understand. Before describing analog and digital audio technology, a few definitions and examples are helpful.

B & W Zeppelin
The new B & W Zeppelin iPod music system offers excellent sound quality for your Apple iPod music collection

System Set Up Guide
Stereo System Set Up Guide - A step-by-step guide to system installation and set up, including speakers, stereo receiver or amplifier, DVD and CD players.

Audio-Technica USB Turntable
The Audio-Technica AT-LP2D-USB LP to Digital Recording System makes it easy to convert LPs to digital files or CDs, so you can play them on a portable music player, a car stereo or on your home stereo system.

About - Stereos Buyer's Guide
Find Guide reviews, top picks, and advice you can use before you buy.

placespeakers
How to Install Outdoor Speakers in Your Garden

audio components
A description of the different types of stereo and audio components including receivers, integrated amplifiers, pre-amp/processors and power amplifiers

Room Acoustic Treatments
Room Acoustic Treatments - One of the best ways to improve audio performance is with Room Acoustic Treatments. Diffusors, absorbers and traps are the different types of room acoustic treatments.

bi-wire
Bi-Wiring and Bi-Amplifying Stereo Speakers is a good way to optimize stereo system performance.

Ebay Strategy
Ebay can be a good source for new and used stereo equipment, but since it is an auction site that uses a proxy bidding system, so some strategy and planning is necessary to make sure you get what you want and don't pay too much for it.

Mobile Update
Mobile Audio Components - An overview of current mobile audio components, which resemble sophisticated home audio components and are nothing like the under dash 8-track or stereo cassette players many of us remember.

Definition of Coaxial Digital
Definition of Coaxial Digital

Five Ways to the Best Sound
Five steps for getting the best performance from your stereo system - These five steps will get the best audio performance from even a modest audio system. A good system should have well defined bass, open midrange and high-frequency response and good imaging and these methods will help you get the best audio performance from your stereo system.

Top New In-Dash CD Receivers
Top New In-Dash CD Receivers

Kenwood Amps
Kenwood has introduced a new line of mobile amplifiers designed to provide higher performance with a smaller footprint. The new models address the challenges of building high powered amplifiers that can be installed in the small spaces found in many vehicles.

sunfireHRS-8
The Sunfire HRS-8 subwoofer is the first model in Sunfire’s lineup of High-Resolution Series powered subwoofers and the smallest in the line. The ten-inch cube subwoofer is equipped with an eight-inch High Back-emf long-throw woofer and a built-in 1,000-watt amplifier.

Pioneer Elite SX-A9
The Pioneer Elite SX-A9 is one of the best two-channel receivers I’ve evaluated. It’s a very musical sounding receiver with smooth, natural and well-balanced tonal qualities.

Speaker B
Most receivers have a Speaker A and Speaker B switch on the front panel for connecting speakers in more than one room.

How Amplifiers Work
The purpose of an amplifier is to receive a small electrical signal and enlarge or amplify it. In the case of a power amplifier, the signal must be enlarged much more, enough to power a loudspeaker.

USB Turntable
The Audio-Technica LP2D LP to Digital Recording System is a complete USB turntable and software package that makes it easy to transfer vinyl records to digital media files and CDs.

Stereos - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Stereos guide site.

impedance
Impedance is a measure of electrical resistance

Binding Post
A binding post is a connector commonly used to connect speaker wires to the back of a receiver, amplifier or speaker (and other electronic equipment).

Aktimate Speaker System
The AktiMate High Fidelity Active Speaker System is a two-way speaker system that takes iPod and MP3 sound to a truly respectable level of high fidelity.

Monitor Audio BR2
The Monitor Audio BR2 Bookshelf Speaker is a little dynamo with sound quality that belies its size and price.

Anthem TLP 1 & PVA 2
Full review of Anthem's TLP 1 & PVA 2 affordable stereo separates

no sub output
Follow this step-by-step guide to diagnosing and correcting no bass output from a subwoofer.

Understanding IMD
Definition and Explanation of Intermodulation Distortion - IMD

Top Stereo and A/V Receivers
After reviewing a variety of stereo and AV receivers, I've picked these as my favorites.

connections
Audio and Video inputs determine the number of components you can connect to your system

typeofDJ
How much money will you need to get started?

Decibel
A Decibel is a measure of loudness and is the smallest change in loudness detectable by the human ear.

Extended Warranties
Guidelines about purchasing extended warranties for stereo electronics or components and stereo systems

Frequency Response
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 most people would consider this to be adequate. However,...

Turntable Setup
an Anti-skating control compensates for the 'skating' force that pulls the tonearm towards the center of the record.

Roomcaster
Radiient Technologies has introduced Roomcaster, a wireless network system that uses UWB (Ultra Wideband technology) to enable wireless surround sound speaker operation.

outdoor
Stereo sound outdoors adds enjoyment to outdoor activities from a BBQ, a swim in the pool or just relaxing on the patio.

Tannoy i30
The Tannoy i30 is a portable tabletop or wall-mounted iPod music system with simple, contemporary styling and easy to listen to sound quality.

Morelsub
The Morel Ultimo 12 is a beefy subwoofer designed for serious bass response in a mobile audio system.

Crossover
A crossover is a device used in loudspeakers to route the correct frequencies to the appropriate speaker or driver.

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

Budget Audio
You get a lot for your money with today's home electronics.

sunfireces2008
Sunfire Corp. has introduced its new TGR-401 AV Receiver and new Bi-Polar Surround Speakers. The receiver features new connectivity features and a new industrial design and the surround speakers are a new addition to the company's XT Series of Cinema Ribbon loudspeakers.

Top Pick Portables
Tabletop audio systems offer great sound quality and come with many advanced features. Here are a few of my favorite picks.

remote control
The benefits of a Universal Remote Control

Watt
A Watt is a unit of energy like a joule, horsepower, etc.

AES/EBU
Definition of AES/EBU Output

Basic Features
An overview of stereo receivers, integrated amplifiers and separate components

One Channel Out
Troubleshooting one channel out - Troubleshooting is the process of identifying and isolating problems with a stereo system before attempting to repair one channel not working.

multi-room
Multi-room audio has become a very popular feature and many receivers allow you enjoy stereo sound in more than one room

quantization
Quantization is the process of converting...

Frequency Response Specs
Definition and explanation of Frequency Response in stereo components

analog components
Analog component connection guide

Rebooting
Stereo receivers and disc players contain mulitple microprocessors, or microchips, and like a PC they sometimes need to be reset, or re-booted.

Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Stereo Systems - Troubleshooting a stereo is the process of identifying a problem with a stereo system before attempting to correct it. Finding the problem is the first step in troubleshooting a stereo system.

Top Pick Disc Players
A disc player is a must-have component for a stereo or home theater system. Here is a list of the top three CD and DVD disc players.

equalizer
An Audio Equalizer is a component used to...

Line Level
A Line Level Audio Signal is...

Bipolar Speakers
A bipolar surround speaker has two or more speakers that output sound in multiple directions.

number of channels
A description of 2.0, 2.1, 5.1, 6.1, or 7.1 channel stereo and home theater systems and their features.

Eclipse AVN6620
The Eclipse AVN6620 combines a dual-zone multichannel DVD entertainment system and a full-featured GPS navigation system with a 7" LCD widescreen monitor for a factory-installed look.

Portables
For some music lovers, iPod and MP3 personal audio players have become a primary source of music, replacing their home stereo.

Stereo Receiver Features
This guide describes the advantages of common features found on stereo receivers.

htib system
A home theater in a box system is a convenient way to purchase a stereo or home theater system but there are several factors to consider before buying a pre-packaged system.

personalhifi
One of the best ways to enjoy music is without a big stereo system. Just a pair of very high quality headphones and a disc player is all you need for a great personal stereo system.

Hertz
Hertz is an term that designates frequency. It is named after scientist Heinrich Hertz

Damping Factor
Damping Factor is an amplifier specification related to the amplifier's output impedance.

Audio Formats
Monaural, Stereo, Multichannel and Surround Sound - A description of common sound formats in audio components such as Monaural, Stereo, Multichannel and Surround Sound.

Bass Management
bass management LFE low frequency effects point-one channel .1 channel bass

Dynamic Range
Dynamic Range in an audio system is a critical feature for accurate sound quality. Matching amplifier power and speaker sensitivity will help ensure good dynamic range in your system.

reading
There’s a lot to know about stereo and home theater systems and understanding the basics will help you make smart buying decisions. I would highly recommend these books that helped me along the way.

lossy vs lossless
File compression, also known as data reduction is a process that uses lossy or lossless compression to reduce the size of the file.

Stereo Component Guide
This overview of stereo receivers, integrated amplifiers and separate components includes a feature guide, a glossary of terms, definitions of specifications and Guide reviews of stereo components.

upgradability
Modern receivers are like computers, with many offer the capability of upgrading or customizing the system settings using a PC

mixing and scratching
DJ mixing and scratching - how to set up your turntable and DJ system for mixing and scratching.

IEC
An IEC Power Cord is...

Buying a Car Stereo
Buying a new car stereo system can mean upgrading the existing system or replacing the entire system and starting over. This step-by-step guide will help determine the best choice.

soundstage
Soundstage is the ability to visualize the size of the musical performance in a music recording

receiverswitchesoff
If the receiver suddenly switches off for no apparent reason, there are possible causes.

Bag End E-Trap
Bag End has introduced the E-Trap, an active or powered bass trap that provides an electronic solution to room bass problems.

unpacking
Unpack speakers and components

Stereos - TopPicks
An index of TopPicks for the Stereos guide site.

DynamicEQ
Audyssey Dynamic EQ selects the correct frequency response and surround sound volume levels on a moment-by-moment basis, taking playback level into account.

Subwoofer
A subwoofer is used in audio and home theater systems for low bass in music and low frequency effects (LFE) sounds in movie sound tracks

GEORGE
The GEORGE, from Chestnut Hill Sound is not just an iPod docking station, but also an alarm clock and a tabletop ‘bandless’ AM/FM radio that comes with a slick multi-function remote control that controls all the functions of the system, including the iPod.

Haas H1000 GPS System
Haas GPS has introduced the Haas Text-N-Track™ H1000 GPS Tracker, a revolutionary new product for enhanced vehicle security and monitoring.

Mono
Monophonic, Stereophonic, Multichannel and Surround Sound - A description of common audio formats found in audio components such as Monaural, Stereo, Multichannel and Surround Sound.

CineTraps bass traps
CineTrap Bass Traps - CineTrap bass absorbers tame boomy, heavy bass response. This review is about CineTrap Bass Traps by MSR-Inc.

Amp
Definition of Amplifier

Stereos - FullReviews
An index of FullReviews for the Stereos guide site.

AutoEQ
The listening room is the most important component in your system. Correct speaker placement and room acoustic treatments help and so can the automatic equalization or Auto EQ features found on some AV receivers.

Stereos - Articles
An index of Articles for the Stereos guide site.

real time analyzer
A Real Time Analyzer is a professional audio device...

Pioneer DVJ-1000 DVD Turntable
The Pioneer DVJ-1000 is a full-featured DVD turntable for DVD Video and Audio playback.

DVDPlayers
A basic guide to understanding audio and video features on DVD players .

Alternating Current
Alternating current is the flow of electrons through a wire.

Music File Types
A breakdown of the most common types of digital music files used in portable and personal audio products

DJs Move to Digital and Video
DJs turn to Digital components and video - DJs are increaslingly turning to CDs, MP3 files on computers and video to entertain their audiences. Manufacturers are encouraging DJs to 'leave their vinyl at home' and use the new digital tools.

SACD
Super Audio Compact Discs (SACD) are optical discs designed for very high-fidelity audio reproduction

DJ gear
Here is a list of the audio gear you need to get started with a DJ business

Direct Current
Direct current, also known as DC is electrical current flowing through a wire.

High Pass
A High Pass Filter is...

low pass
A Low Pass Filter is...

Negative Feedback
Negative feedback is used to reduce amplifier distortion.

slipmat
A slipmat is a piece of felt that replaces the rubber mat on a turntable

LFE channel
The LFE (Low Frequency Effects) channel is a separate track used for low bass in music and special bass effects in movie soundtracks on DVD discs.

Stereos - Profiles
An index of Profiles for the Stereos guide site.

Graphic EQ
A Graphic Equalizer is an electronic component with sliding controls for adjusting frequency response.

Intermodulation Distortion
Intermodulation distortion is a specification that defines the amount of distortion that results when two different frequencies pass through an amplifier.

Kenwood SEMA 2007
Kenwood will be showing three new affordable CD receivers and five new Performance Series Speakers at SEMA 2007

Consumer Buying Tips
Before you buy any high-tech consumer electronics product, do your homework and know the right questions to ask the salesperson.