You probably don't need a receiver.Mar 19 '01 Write an essay on this topic.
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The Bottom Line Have you considered a mini component system?
You probably don't need a receiver. There's a bold statement to begin an article on how to choose one. You have to run your audio equipment through something for amplification, right? How about a mini component system? A mini component system consists of several of the following: tuner, cassette deck, cd player, phono and mini-disc. A worthy one will also give you an input in the back to plug in one auxiliary input. Usually this will be your television/VCR. It performs all the basic functions of a receiver, with the benefit of being very compact. Speakers which can be placed remotely will be included, and generally have non-removable wires already attached. Why would I want a mini component system instead of a receiver? Glad you asked. The first and most important is space. Most buyers of audio equipment will be using the unit to bring sound to a single room, less than 15' by 15' square, such as an apartment or living room. The speakers are very compact as well, and can be placed on a shelf or small pedestal. Elaborate and powerful systems are unnecessary to deliver good quality stereo sound, for most consumers. Then why do they sell separate receivers at all? If you already have a CD player, a cassette player, a phonograph, and you have shelf space to display them all, a receiver will be slightly cheaper than a mini component system. Only slightly, as you still have to factor in the cost of speakers. Can a mini component system support a subwoofer? You'll have to get a system with a built-in superwoofer to enjoy the thunderous bass you would expect from a separate subwoofer. And since this will most likely be delivered by your front speakers, you have to allow for vibration; padding may be necessary. JVC makes a fabulous mini component with super woofer. Can I get surround in a mini component system? Again, this is something you have to look for when you select a system to buy. Panasonic makes at least one unit with a terrific surround setup; better than many stand-alone receivers. There's only one AUX input. How can I plug more things in? Get a switch box from Radio Shack. You'll have to switch it manually when you want to go from DVD to VCR and so on, but if you're into saving money, it's worth it. How is the sound quality? It varies hugely by brand. My recommendations are Panasonic and JVC... There are several others, but these are the ones I've tested extensively. I love the higher-end ($200 and up) Panasonics and JVCs. Sony isn't the champion of quality it used to be, and Sanyo is really hopeless. Of course, each brand has its heroes and its villains. Try before you buy. I recommend bringing a favourite CD to the store with you, especially something with heavy bass that will let you know whether the mini component system can handle it without distortion or rattling of components. How are the speakers? Generally they're not bad, but some are better than others. Some distort when playing loud music, some pick up a lot of noise. Most have non-replaceable wiring and it's only 24-guage cheap stuff. Chances are you won't notice at all. If you haven't been looking at these systems you may be surprised by the level of sophistication. These are not for audiophiles. Of course, if you have any Smashing Pumpkins, Barenaked Ladies or Shania Twain in your collection, you are not an audiophile, you're probably a fairly normal person and exactly the sort who should be looking at a mini component system. If you're an absolute home theater buff, you may not be completely satisfied by the home theater capabilities of this range of equipment. If you just want to watch Star Wars at movie theater volumes, I'm sure you'll be satisfied by one of the mini component systems available. If you don't already have a CD player, or a cassette player, or a tuner, then you're probably going to find that you're saving money anyway. Try out a mini component system and see how it fits your lifestyle.  |
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