How to Choose an Amplifier for Your Hi-Fi System
A grounded guide to integrated, power, streaming and installation amplifiers, explaining which designs suit different sources, speakers and system layouts. More
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Stereoindex buying guides
Recommended
Expert selections, comparisons and carefully curated hi-fi recommendations built from the latest Stereoindex coverage.
The Stereoindex Speaker Shortlist: Systems, Upgrades and Essential Reading
An editorial selection of conventional speakers, modular systems, bass upgrades and space-conscious audio options, with clear guidance on formats, placement, amplification and break-in. More
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Stereoindex Picks: Serious-Listening DACs Worth Considering
A practical guide to serious-listening DACs across component, desktop and portable systems, covering conversion architecture, connectivity, streaming and headphone amplification. More
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Stereoindex Picks: Speakers for Every Kind of Listening Space
A focused selection of speakers for stereo, desktop, portable and home-cinema use, with practical guidance on amplification, connectivity, room size and installation. More
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What Makes a Turntable Remarkable? Ten Intriguing Routes Into Vinyl
From portable Bluetooth playback to balanced XLR output, field-coil cartridges and radically revised chassis design, these turntables and vinyl components reveal the many ways…
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These Standout Speakers Bring Distinct Ideas to Every Kind of Listening Space
A practical guide to distinctive speakers, soundbars and subwoofers, explaining their supported features, system requirements, placement advantages and important limitations. More
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Our Favorite Amplifiers and System-Building Components
A carefully differentiated guide to amplifier architectures, from digital integrated and hybrid designs to monoblocks, installation amplifiers, multichannel power stages, and separate preamplifiers. More
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Excellent Turntables You May Have Overlooked, Plus Serious Vinyl Upgrades
A discovery-led selection of turntables and vinyl upgrades spanning automatic playback, network audio, direct drive, moving-coil cartridges and compact system design. More
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Our Favorite AV Receivers and Home-Cinema Partners
A grounded guide to AV receivers for conventional and immersive home theaters, with advice on channel counts, HDMI capabilities, gaming features and compatible system…
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Headphones to Consider for Work, Travel and Serious Listening
Explore headphones for commuting, recording, gaming and focused home listening, with practical guidance on ANC, cables, codecs, fit and open-back design. More
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An AV Receiver System, Curated: 10 Components and Alternative Paths
Ten carefully differentiated components and system routes for building around an AV receiver, from multichannel cinema and Dolby Atmos to stereo, streaming, vinyl and…
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10 Amplifiers Chosen for Distinct Hi-Fi Systems
Ten amplifiers selected for clearly defined applications, including high-sensitivity speakers, electrostatic headphones, compact desktop listening, vinyl playback, television audio and streaming-led systems. More
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