Hifi Separates

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• Bang & Olufsen cut costs, and hifi lineup

Introduction

Home stereo systems come in two forms, integrated and separated. Also referred to as 'separates', a hifi system made up from 'separates' is usually preferred by enthusiasts. The reason a system of 'separates' is popular, in part is due to it's flexibility, and the amount of specialist manufacturers offering superior components in comparison to integrated system manufacturers.

A system made up of separates will need an amplifier as it's base unit. An amplifier or 'amp' for short, can come in two units, a 'pre-amplifier' and a 'power' amplifier, or both integrated into the same unit. A receiver on the other hand, is an amplifier which has been integrated with either a equalizer, tuner, CD, or dvd player. Some of the latest receivers come with digital video decoders, which support the latest high definition discs.

For arguments sake, let's assume a standard amplifier is chosen as the base unit of a new system. To complete the system a 'source' is required, a 'source' unit refers to either a tuner, CD player, turntable, or cassette deck. Otherwise, there will be no piece of equipment to play a CD, LP, Cassette or the Radio. It is possible to hook a receiver to a set of speakers, but this may not officially be classified as a 'separates' hifi system.

To summerise, a traditional stereo kit is normally associated with a standard amplifier, source unit and a set of speakers. Things are changing however, due to multichannel units becoming an intrinsic part of music reproduction. While, SACD and DVD Audio have yet to become all encompassing, a steady stream of these units are being sold by retailers.

The price of a stereo kit has also gone up. Hit by the wide selection of integrated midi systems, budget 'separates' are not now a dominant sector. If your after a budget kit then the choice is slimmer, with fewer manufacturers holding court, but, quality budget brands like 'Cambridge Audio' still exist. The upside is, the overall quality now available has gone up.