How to Pick Stereo Components

Stereo components have changed a lot over the past few years. They've gotten more sophisticated and they've gotten more complicated. Probably the most important thing to consider when you pick your stereo components is how they make your music sound. You may find that you are sensitive to certain sounds like an over-vibrating bass, so be sure that you listen before you buy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Pick Stereo Components

1. Plan ahead. Make sure that your stereo receiver has enough connections for all of your components.
2. Make a list of the stereo components you need or would like to buy. This will probably include an amplifier, pre-amp, CD player, loudspeakers, equalizer, cassette deck (you may still have a collection of tapes that you want to listen to) and a turntable.
3. Determine your budget. Donald Trump might pick a handcrafted, 27-watt power amplifier with single-ended triode circuitry and silver wire in the windings of the transformers. You'll probably settle for something more affordable as long as it takes a low-level signal and boosts it to a level that can drive your loudspeakers.
4. Do a little research before you pick your stereo components. Thumb through some stereo and audio magazines to find out what the experts recommend. The public library is a good place to start.
5. Learn which components you should shell out more of your hard earned cash for and which ones you can do a little scrimping on. It's recommended, for example, to spend a little more money on a good antenna than to spend a lot more money for a sensitive tuner.
6. Try to buy your stereo components from stores that specialize in stereo equipment. You'll be more likely to get helpful tips from the sales staff than if you buy from a large retail discounter. Buying online will often save you money, but you can't test drive the equipment and returning it may prove difficult.
7. Pick stereo components that come with good warranties and service agreements in case something goes wrong with the equipment. Also, inquire about the store's return policy.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're shopping on a budget, consider buying your components piece by piece instead of buying them all at once. That way, you can create a sound system you can enjoy for a lifetime. As long as you have a receiver and a pair of speakers, you have a FM music source for listening. Save up and begin looking for the turntable or CD player you really want instead of picking one because it's the only one you can afford at the moment.

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