Whether you are putting together an audio system to allow the quiet of chamber music or punish your dashboard with pounding bass, specifying correct components and precise setup is key. First let's talk budget -- a basic high performance setup can range anywhere from $2000 to as much as $10k+ depending on the grade of parts and how extravagant you plan to go with your system.
Speakers are the heart of any high-performance audio system. Say perfect speakers until they can have at least 100 watts RMS to ensure clear sound without distortion on high volume. Bookshelf speakers like the $1,500 KEF LS50 are a perfect example; with sound quality to die for (47 Hz – 45 kHz), they're ideal if you have ears that need serving.
In fact, amplifies are the main component ensuring that you can drive your speakers well! A good amplifier will be matched up to the power requirements of your speakers, Meaning enough wattage while not pushing distortion. In high-performance home audio systems, for example, they may recommend a 100-watt per channel amplifier. A YAMAHA A-S1200 – AVAILABLE FOR $3,000; this BRAND known for its CLEAN ONLY POWER & RELIABILITY.
It is better to have an A/V receiver and then add on sources like CD players, turntables (yep people still use them) or streaming devices that will help establish whether this product support 2-channel sound only. A good quality DAC (digital-to-analog converter) processes digital audio files and offers more clarity, details. Chord Electronics Qutest DAC The $1,200 Chord Electronics has an awesome rap sheet and a mind-blowingly wide range of capabilities.
Room acoustics, as the name suggests are responsible to a very great extent for how well an audio system does in any given room. Items such as bass traps and diffusers can further assist with sound reflection management & suppress unwanted resonances. Improved Sound Quality: Performance Acoustic Panels In the first instance, GIK Acoustics offers room treatment packages beginning at $500 which can be customized depending on rooms dimension including shape.
While something as boring as cables and interconnects are easily forgotten, they make all the difference when it comes to sound quality. AudioQuest makes high-quality cables that make sure the audio signal is sent without any interruption or delay. But spending around $200 on very good cables can clean up clarity and detail significantly.
If you want a really immersive experience then think about investing in a subwoofer for your low end. A 200-watt subwoofer with frequency response all the way down to 20 Hz will provide you more depth and impact with your system. SVS SB-2000 Pro (around $1,000): For about another Benjamin more than the REL T/9i you get a lot of performance and build quality in your woofer.
The first two stages are about calibration and set-up to get the best sound from your system. Practice balancing the volume levels of your speakers and subwoofer with an SPL meter. Adjust the speaker position and listen to some of your favorite tracks until you find a comfortable spot where the sound is evenly distributed in all corners.
When it comes to specifying high performance audio systems, choosing components wisely and taking into account aspects like power handling, room acoustics and precision alignment are crucial. These elements come together to form a home audio system that sounds great and makes your listening experience sound more engaging.