How to Pick a Computer Stereo System

A component stereo system makes your computer your stereo base. You can record any music or sounds you play on your stereo, like tapes and CDs, to your hard drive and save them as MP3s or other sound formats. You can then use them to make your own CDs. You will be able to hear sound coming out of your computer through your stereo's speakers and record the sound to your stereo.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Component stereo system
• Computer

Pick a Computer Stereo System

1. Establish a budget. A good component system can get expensive, but it will allow you to fully integrate your stereo with your computer. All-in-one portable systems (like boom boxes) are less expensive, but are more difficult to attach to your computer and make it harder to perform tasks like recording from the stereo to the computer or from the computer to the stereo.
2. Search for your system in "boutique" audio stores as well as at the big-name stereo retailers. Proprietors of the smaller shops may have more specific knowledge and can guide you through your purchase better than a sales clerk in a large store that sells a variety of TVs and electronic equipment.
3. Consider the sound. Pick a system that reproduces sound as accurately as possible. Pay attention to the midrange, high frequencies and the bass, which can be a budget breaker.
4. Find the right amplifier. The two basic types are solid state and tube, with solid state amplifiers generally being more reliable and less expensive. An amplifier should be powerful but not overwhelming and must have enough channels to manage your speakers.
5. Buy good speakers. Computer-based audio is the worst, so don't scrimp here. Make sure your speakers are at ear level and pick speakers that can handle the power from your amp.
6. Listen to the system before you buy it. Bring your own music along with you--something you're familiar with--and insist on a quiet listening room. Some stores will let you audition the system at home if they feel you're serious about shelling out a lot of money.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't pick a system at the first store you visit. Check around to find out where you can get the most complete system at the best price.
• Make sure that you are offered a warranty that covers your equipment for at least 1 year. Be wary of extended warranties (service contracts). They are profit makers for the stores, but most electronic equipment doesn't break down during the warranty period.

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