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 How to Build a Hifi System
Introduction There are a number of advantages to a hifi system comprised of separate units. First off, there is the flexitbility of expenditure, unlike with an integrated system, separate units can be purchased or upgraded one at a time. Which means, a person can begin with the core components, and build from there. A chief disadvantage is the complexity, and the potential mismatching of components. The first decision to make is whether you'll want a stereo or surround sound system. If all you're after is to play CDs and LPs, then a two channel stereo speaker kit is the answer. Two channel systems are thought to produce superior sound reproduction for CDs and LPs. The reason being, the sound and power is not split into lots of channels, and is dedicated to perform one task. An audiophile, budget allowing, will pick two dedicated system, one for music, and one for movies. However, if your budget cannot stretch to two systems, it's probably wiser to plump for the multichannel option, the performance of multichannel kits is dramatically increasing, and it's fair to say it's performance will satisfy most pairs of ears. Next, set a budget your willing to spend. For a traditional core system you'll need three unit, an amplifier, a source unit, and speakers. For example, if your budget is £1000, then spend an equal amount on the amp, source unit and speakers. However, always keep an open mind, it's not a hard and fast rule. Source Unit Picking a source unit, is for some, the most important aspect of a system. Some people believe that 50% of a system's budget should be spent on a source unit. The choice is between a CD player, DVD audio player, cassette deck or turntable. If your picking a CD player, then going to a retailer to audition your prospective unit is vital. Take along a selection of CD's, a mellow music band like the Beatles, a classical concerto, and something more thumping like 50 Cent will give your prospective 'source' unit a good test run. A good source unit will provide both analogue and digital outputs. An RCA plug usthe most common type of analogue plug, but balanced XLRs provide increased performance. Co-ax and optical connections are the most common digital outputs, the former usually provides superior performance Amplifier The role of an amplifier is to take the audio signal from the 'source' unit and make it louder. A good amplifier should keep the audio signal free of distortion, and give as little sonic loss to the speakers as possible. Stereo and mulitchannel amps are the most widely available. A stereo amp is less complicated, and does not require an SPL meter to judge the correct channel balance. The most important thing is to make sure your amp can provide enough power to drive your speakers. Next, ensure your amp has enough inputs for your requirements, for example, a record player requires a phono stage input. There is the option of buying an integrated amplifier, with the preamp and power amp in the same box, or the two box option, with preamp and power amp in their own boxes. The more expensive and usually superior option is the two box one (it helps protect the delicate components of the preamp from being effected by the sonic production of the power amp). Speaker inputs, or 'terminals' as they known, come with two choices, spade connectors and banana plugs. For the best contact pick a spade connector, but the banana plug are less fiddly to use. Speakers Speakers are the final piece of the puzzle. Most audio enthusiasts believe that speakers are the hardest component to choose. The size of a speaker is never a good yard stick, and is certainly no indication of quality. For subwoofers however, size is important, and a big subwoofer is needed to drive a big system. A good speaker will use reflex ports for tuning low frequency sounds. But, the design of these ports means they cannot be placed against a rear wall. Therefore, if a speaker has a reflex port, ensure you have enough rear space, otherwise you will achieve an inferior defined bass note. Stand mounts for a speaker are advisable, they help decouple the speaker from the surface it's placed on. Conclusion Overall, to make sure a hifi system will meet your exact needs: visit a retailer with a listening room. It's next to impossible to judge how a system will sound from magazine reviews, and matching stats from brochures. To play it safe, if you're buying online, choose an amp and source (turntable) from the same manufacturer, such as Nad, Arcam, Denon or Marantz. Good cables are a must. Spend around about 15% of your total system budget on cables/interconnects. The typical attributes audiophiles look for in a high end system are as follows,
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