|
2torial #0577:
Learn2 Buy a
Stereo System (Continued)
 Examine different scenarios
To be forewarned is to be forearmed. Go to it.
- Situation 1: A Lower Cost Example
This system will sound very good at low to medium volumes.
It's also a good choice for small rooms, or as a first "real"
stereo. You won't feel much bass though, and you'll tire of
listening to it pretty soon at higher volumes.
- Buy an entry-level receiver from one of the major brands,
such as JVC, Kenwood, Pioneer, Sony, or Technics. Power ratings
will be anywhere from 40 to 70 Watts per channel, and it may
or may not come with "surround sound" or a remote control.
Price will be less than $200, hopefully more like $150.
- Pick up a pair of small, "two-way" speakers from a well-known
manufacturer such as Bose, Boston Acoustics, JBL or Polk (there
are quite a few more good names, these are just widely available).
Don't spend less than $150 for the pair, but don't spend more
than $300 either.
- Purchase a single-play CD player from one of the major brands
that also make receivers. It may or may not come with remote
control, but it'll sound fine, and it won't cost more than
$150 (probably less). If you'd like to add a tape deck, you'll
find decent dual-cassette models for $150 to $200 dollars.
- Situation 2: A Better System
If you like to listen to music at higher volumes, or plan on
setting up an optimum listening environment, look here. The
extra money you spend will pay off in better bass, imaging and
tireless listening at higher volumes.
- Buy a better receiver from a manufacturer such as Carver,
Denon, Harmon-Kardon, NAD, SonyES or Yamaha. Power ratings
will be anywhere from 50 to 100 Watts per channel, will probably
come with a remote and might incorporate "surround sound".
Price will vary widely, from about $300 to as much as $600
for one that has lots of bells and whistles.
- Pick up either a pair of medium sized speakers, or a good
three piece subwoofer/satellite system. In addition to better
models from the names mentioned in the lower-priced section,
you'll have access to brands such as Celestion, Klipsch, MORE
TK. Don't spend less than $400 for the pair, but try to keep
it under $1000.
- Purchase a single-play, or multi-play CD player. The same
people who make better receivers also make good CD players.
It will probably come with a remote and cost anywhere from
$250 to $350. Single cassette tape decks are generally better
than dual cassettes, but good dual ones are available also.
Cost will be $200 on up. If you have records in good shape,
look at garage sales for quality heavy, older turntables,
and put a new cartridge in the tonearm. Otherwise you'll have
to pay upwards of $200 for one of the few good ones still
being made by brands such as Dual or Thorens.
- Situation 3: A High-End System
If you're looking to really spend on a music-only system, you
probably know exactly what you want. Just in case you don't,
here are some guidelines to getting wonderful, glorious sound.
Brand names won't be mentioned, as there are many excellent
small manufacturers not widely available. It's essential to
listen extensively before you buy this equipment.
- Buy a separate amplifier, pre-amplifier and tuner from a
high-end stereo store. Look for 100+ watts per channel (how
many watts you need depends on the specs of your speakers
and your room size), large heat sinks and heavily built chassis.
You also want a total harmonic distortion (THD) rate that
is extremely low, say .02 percent to .04 percent (max). In
the best scenario, you'll be getting individual amplifiers
that are physically and electrically separate from one another.
The pre-amp will utilize a compact internal design to keep
the signal path short, while the tuner will capture and hold
fringe stations very well. Expect to pay upwards of $700 total.
Sometimes way upwards.
- Pick up a pair of larger speakers and perhaps an active
subwoofer. High design and exotic materials are the rule here;
you'll have to decide which you like most. You're looking
for extended bass response, the ability to easily locate individual
instruments and voices within the sound field, and, most importantly,
the impression that you're listening to a live performance,
than to a set of boxes in your living room. Expect to pay
more than $1000 total, possibly much more.
CD players at this level may have external D/A
converters, upgradable software, or utilize exotic
chassis materials. The price will be at least $400.
Traditional tape decks should be single cassette, 3
head and incorporate Dolby "S". DAT decks are more
the norm at this level, and will cost over $300. If
you buy a turntable, the best chassis and tonearms
are purchased separately. Let the salesperson
recommend a cartridge.
 Step
6
|
