Audiophile Glossary: Gear

Amplifier:

A crucial component in any audio system as it is responsible for increasing the power of an audio signal, enabling it to be heard more clearly and at a higher volume. When it comes to selecting an amplifier, factors such as the power output, the number of channels, and the amplifier's distortion levels are essential to consider. In addition, amplifiers come in different types, including tube and solid-state amplifiers, each with its own unique sound characteristics and advantages.

Audio Rack:

Furniture that holds audio equipment such as amplifiers, CD players, and turntables. They come in various sizes and designs, and some are created specifically for certain types of equipment. Specific racks are important because they provide a stable and secure place to put your audio equipment, and they can also help to reduce vibrations and interference that can affect the sound quality of your equipment. High-quality audio racks can also be designed to reduce resonance and noise, improving the overall sound quality of your audio system.

Cable Attachment-Style:

Typically refers to the ways in which cables are attached to a pair of headphones. Wires can be attached to headphones in two common ways: detachable/interchangeable and fixed/hardwired. Detachable wires allow for easy replacement or customization of the cable, while fixed wires are permanently attached to the headphones and cannot be removed or replaced. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and specific use cases.

Center Channel Speaker:

Typically used in a surround sound setup and is responsible for reproducing dialogue and other center-stage sounds. It differs from other speakers in that it is designed to produce sound from a single point in space rather than from different locations like other speakers in a surround sound system. In a high-fidelity audio system, the center channel speaker is an important component as it helps to provide a more immersive and realistic listening experience, particularly for movies and other multimedia content. It should be placed in a central location, usually above or below the display screen, and should be matched in quality to the other speakers in the system for optimal performance.

Compact Disc Player (CD Player):

An electronic device that plays audio CDs using a laser to read the data encoded on the disc. When a user inserts a CD into the player, the laser reads the data and converts it into an electrical signal that is sent to the player's internal amplifier, which then amplifies the signal and sends it to the speakers or headphones.

A device that reads CDs and sends the digital audio data to an external digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for processing. It essentially acts as a transport mechanism, allowing for high-quality digital audio playback by separating the CD reading process from the digital-to-analog conversion process. This results in improved sound quality and a more accurate representation of the original recording.

An important but often overlooked component of any digital audio system. It converts digital signals into analog signals, which can then be transmitted to amplifiers and speakers. This process is crucial because most digital audio sources, such as CDs and MP3s, store data digitally, and speakers and headphones require analog signals to produce sound. Without a DAC, the digital data would be meaningless to the speakers and produce no sound.

Many different types of DACs are available, ranging from simple integrated circuits to sophisticated standalone devices. Some DACs are designed specifically for use with certain types of audio equipment, such as CD players or digital audio workstations, while others are more versatile and can be used with a wide range of devices.

Investing in a high-quality DAC can make a huge difference in the sound quality of your audio system. A high-quality DAC can help to eliminate digital artifacts and noise, resulting in a cleaner, more natural sound. Some DACs even offer advanced features such as upsampling, which can improve audio signal quality.

A type of lid that covers a turntable, protecting the platter and stylus from dust, lint, hair, and other materials that can harm your records and distort your music.

Earbuds,  earphones, in-ear headphones, also known as in-ear speakers, are small, lightweight, and portable audio devices that are inserted directly into the ear canal. They differ from headphones in that they do not cover the entire ear and instead rely on a tight seal within the ear canal to provide noise isolation and a more immersive listening experience. This seal also helps to enhance bass response, making earphones a popular choice for bass-heavy genres such as hip-hop and electronic music. Earphones are often used for on-the-go listening, as they are easy to carry and provide a convenient way to enjoy audio without disturbing others. They are also commonly used during exercise and other physical activities, as they are less likely to fall off or be dislodged during movement than headphones.

A unit or piece of software that helps to adjust the tone of the audio signal and balance the different frequencies. The EQ works by compensating for any inconsistencies or irregularities in the sound and syncing the audio to produce a more balanced and harmonious output. Different types of music and sounds require different tonal qualities and frequencies to sound their best, and by using an EQ, you can adjust the sound to meet your specific needs and preferences, whether you are using it for recording, mixing, or playback. Additionally, modern audio software often includes a built-in EQ feature that allows you to fine-tune the sound with precision and accuracy, giving you even more control over the final product.

A type of audio amplifier that is designed to drive headphones. Headphones require much less power to drive than speakers, so a headphone amplifier is typically a lower-powered amplifier compared to a full-size amplifier that would drive speakers. The amplifier can provide better power and control to the headphones, resulting in clearer and more detailed sound. Headphone amplifiers may also have additional features, such as equalization settings and gain controls, allowing users to fine-tune the sound to their preferences. They can be used with various headphones, including high-impedance headphones requiring more drive power.

Headphones convert electrical signals into sound waves like speakers. They do this by using a series of components that work together to create the audio experience.

The first component is the driver, which is responsible for converting the electrical signal into sound waves. The driver consists of a magnet, a voice coil, and a diaphragm. When an electrical signal is sent to the driver, it creates a magnetic field that causes the voice coil to move back and forth. This movement causes the diaphragm to vibrate, creating sound waves that we can hear.

The second component is the earcup, which is the part of the headphone that sits over your ear. It’s designed to isolate the sound and prevent it from leaking out into the environment. This helps to create a more immersive and enjoyable listening experience.

The third component is the headband, which holds the earcups in place over your ears. The headband is adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit for different head sizes.

Finally, the cable connects the headphones to the audio source, sending the electrical signal to the driver. The cable also often includes a built-in volume control and microphone, allowing you to adjust the volume and take phone calls without removing the headphones. You may also find wireless headphones that utilize Bluetooth or wireless connectivity to connect to the source instead of a cable.

Headphone drivers are the components responsible for converting electrical signals into sound waves that we hear. They consist of a magnet, a voice coil, and a diaphragm. When an electrical signal is sent to the voice coil, it creates a magnetic field that interacts with the magnet, causing the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound.

The seven primary types of headphone drivers are:

1.   Dynamic:   The most common type, with a coil attached to a diaphragm that vibrates in a magnetic field.
2.   Planar magnetic:   A flat, thin diaphragm that vibrates in a magnetic field.
3.   Electrostatic:   A thin, electrically charged diaphragm that vibrates between two charged plates.
4.   Balanced armature:   A tiny armature that vibrates between two magnets.
5.   Bone conduction:   Transmits sound vibrations through the bones of the skull, bypassing the ear canal.
6.   Piezoelectric:   Uses a piezoelectric crystal to generate sound waves by changing shape in response to an electrical signal.
7.   Ribbon:   Mostly used for loudspeakers, these can also be retrofitted with an ultra-thin and flexible diaphragm between two magnets.

A type of speaker that can be installed directly into a ceiling. They are typically used in home theater or multi-room audio systems and can provide a discreet and space-saving way to add high-fidelity audio to a room. In-ceiling speakers are important in Hi-Fi because they offer a way to achieve immersive and high-quality audio without taking up valuable floor or wall space.

A type of speaker mounted directly into a wall rather than placed on a stand or floor. They are popular in-home theater and audio systems because they save space and can provide a clean, unobtrusive look. However, they can be more difficult to install and may not provide the same audio quality as traditional stand-mounted speakers due to their limited acoustic space.

A loudspeaker is an electroacoustic transducer that converts electrical signals into sound waves. The sound waves produced by the loudspeaker make it possible for the human ear to hear the audio being transmitted. Loudspeakers are used in home and professional audio systems and in musical instruments such as guitars and pianos. The design of loudspeakers has evolved over time, with newer models incorporating features such as wireless connectivity and voice control. Despite these advancements, the basic principles behind the operation of loudspeakers remain the same. There are different types of loudspeakers, including bookshelf, floor-standing, in-wall, in-ceiling, and subwoofer.

A type of speaker that comes in various sizes and configurations, including bookshelf and floor-standing models. They are typically passive speakers, requiring an external amplifier to power them. Many monitor speakers also feature adjustable settings such as high and low-frequency filters, allowing engineers to tailor the sound to their specific needs. They are often built with a flat frequency response focusing on accuracy.

A monoblock amplifier is an audio amplifier that uses a single channel to power a single speaker. This differs from a stereo amplifier, which powers two speakers using two separate channels. Monoblock amplifiers are often used in high-end audio systems to provide a more powerful and clear sound, as they can deliver more power to a single speaker without interference from other speakers. Audiophiles often prefer them due to their ability to provide a more detailed and accurate sound.

A multi-channel amplifier is an electronic device that simultaneously powers multiple speakers. The term "channel" refers to the number of speakers that the amplifier can power. Multi-channel amplifiers are often used in home theater systems, which require powering multiple speakers to create a more immersive audio experience. They are built to drive more than two speakers, making them ideal for surround sound systems that need to reproduce audio from multiple directions. In addition, multi-channel amplifiers can also be used in large concert halls, stadiums, and other public venues where sound needs to be projected to a large audience. These devices can also be used in outdoor settings, such as parks or public events, to provide audio coverage to a large area. They are an essential component of any sound system that requires the ability to power multiple speakers simultaneously and project audio to a large audience.

Also known as a power conditioner or power filter, is an essential tool in high-fidelity audio. It is a device that helps reduce unwanted noise and interference in an audio system, resulting in a cleaner and clearer sound. A typical audio system has many sources of electrical interference, such as power supplies, electronic devices, and appliances. These sources can introduce noise and distortion into the audio signal, losing detail, clarity, and accuracy.

Noise filters remove or reduce these sources of interference, allowing the audio signal to pass through without distortion or degradation. They are particularly useful in systems with many electronic devices or other sources of interference, such as home theater systems or recording studios.

In addition to reducing noise and interference, noise filters can also provide other benefits to an audio system. They can help stabilize the power supply, providing a consistent and stable power source to the audio components. They can also protect the audio components from power surges and other electrical disturbances, helping to extend their lifespan and ensure reliable operation.

An electronic device that amplifies input signals. It has two input terminals and one output terminal. The opamp uses feedback to adjust the output signal based on the inputs. This allows it to provide high gain and accuracy. The benefits of opamps include their versatility and ability to perform a wide range of tasks, including amplification and filtering. However, potential drawbacks include their susceptibility to noise and limited output current.

A type of speaker designed for use in outdoor environments. They are built to withstand harsh weather conditions like rain, wind, and extreme temperatures. Having outdoor speakers allows for high-fidelity audio to be enjoyed in outdoor spaces, adding to the overall experience of listening to music or other audio content.

A type of speaker that lacks a built-in amplifier, meaning it is not self-powered and requires an external amplifier or receiver to provide sound. Audiophiles often prefer passive speakers due to their high fidelity and ability to customize their sound with different amplifiers. In addition, passive speakers are generally more affordable than their active counterparts, which have built-in amplifiers. However, it is important to note that passive speakers require more components and setup than active ones and may not be as convenient for those prioritizing ease of use over sound quality.

The phono stage, also known as a phono preamp or phono amplifier, is an essential component in the process of playing vinyl records. Its main function is to convert the low-level electrical signal produced by the cartridge of a turntable into a standardized line-level signal that can be passed on to an external amplifier or receiver. Without a phono stage, the sound produced by a turntable would be barely audible and lacking in clarity and detail. Therefore, it is crucial to have a high-quality phono stage that can accurately amplify and equalize the signal using RIAA equalization, providing a rich and vibrant sound that fully captures the warmth and depth of vinyl recordings. Additionally, phono stages can come in various types, such as solid-state and tube, each with unique characteristics and sonic qualities.

An audio power conditioner is a device that is designed to protect audio equipment from voltage fluctuations, electrical distortions in audio, and other power-related issues. In addition to regulating and maintaining a steady power flow to the equipment, it also helps to prevent damage to the audio circuitry by filtering out unwanted noise and interference. A power conditioner can also improve the overall sound quality of the audio by reducing the amount of distortion and interference caused by power issues. Additionally, it can help prolong the audio equipment's lifespan by providing a stable and consistent power source, which reduces the wear and tear on the circuitry and components. They are a wise investment for anyone serious about maintaining the quality and longevity of their audio equipment.

A powered speaker is a type of speaker that comes with a built-in amplifier. The amplifier is usually designed to match the speaker, ensuring that the speaker delivers the best possible sound quality. Unlike passive speakers, powered speakers do not require a separate amplifier to drive them, which makes them simpler to set up and use. Additionally, powered speakers can be more versatile than passive speakers because they often come with extra features like built-in EQ, volume control, and even Bluetooth connectivity, meaning they don’t come with the hassle of setting up additional equipment.

A preamplifier (preamp) is a device that amplifies low-level audio signals from sources such as turntables, CD players, or tape decks. Preamplifiers work in conjunction with a power amplifier to boost the signal to a level that can be output to speakers. Preamplifiers have a lower gain than amplifiers and are responsible for processing the input signal, adjusting its level, and providing inputs and outputs for multiple audio sources. While amplifiers are responsible for providing power to the speakers, preamplifiers do not drive speakers independently.

Preamplifiers are similar to phono stages in that they both amplify low-level signals. However, phono stages are specific to turntables and are designed to convert the low-level electrical signal produced by the cartridge of a turntable into a standardized line-level signal that can be passed on to an external amplifier or receiver.

Preamplifiers can also include various other key features. One common feature is tone controls, which allow users to adjust the audio signal's bass, treble, and midrange frequencies to suit their preferences. Some preamplifiers include a headphone amplifier, allowing users to listen to audio through headphones rather than speakers. Other features that may be included in preamplifiers include balance controls, loudness controls, and input selection. Additionally, some preamplifiers may have built-in digital-to-analog converters (DACs), which allow users to convert digital audio signals from sources such as computers or streaming devices into analog signals that the preamplifier and amplifier can process.

An audio receiver is a device that acts as a central hub for an audio system. It receives audio signals from various sources, such as a CD player, turntable, or streaming device, and amplifies and processes the signals before sending them to the speakers. Audio receivers differ from amplifiers by typically providing multiple inputs and outputs, allowing for the connection of different devices and speakers. They can also provide features such as built-in amplifiers, equalizers, and digital signal processing (DSP) to enhance the audio quality and tailor the sound to the listener's preferences.

A home theater receiver is designed to provide surround sound for movies and TV shows, with a minimum of five channels and sometimes up to nine channels or more. It is typically used with a subwoofer and satellite speakers. In contrast, a stereo receiver is designed to provide high-quality sound for music playback, with only two channels of audio. Stereo receivers are often preferred by audiophiles for their ability to provide a more detailed and accurate sound for music listening.

Used in Hi-Fi to secure vinyl records to the turntable platter. They are designed to improve sound quality by reducing vibrations and resonance that can negatively impact the audio signal. By holding the record firmly in place, clamps and weights can help to produce a more stable and accurate sound, making them a valuable accessory for audiophiles who want the best possible listening experience.

Devices that remove dust, dirt, and other contaminants from vinyl records. There are several types of record-cleaning machines, including manual and automatic machines. Manual machines require the user to manually clean the record with a brush or cleaning solution, while automatic machines use a vacuum system to clean the record.

Record cleaning machines are important for maintaining the sound quality of vinyl records. Dirt and dust on the record can cause crackling, popping, and other unwanted noises, diminishing the listening experience. By using a record-cleaning machine, users can ensure that their records are free from contaminants and will produce the best possible sound.

Also known as a phonograph, is a device that plays vinyl records. The player consists of a turntable, a tonearm, and a cartridge that holds the stylus, which is used to read the grooves on the record. The turntable spins the record at a constant speed while the tonearm, with the attached cartridge and stylus, moves across the record, translating the grooves into an electrical signal that is amplified and played through speakers. Record players and turntables differ in that record players contain an amplifier and speakers, whereas turntables require external amplification and speakers. Additionally, record players often have built-in features such as automatic tonearm return and speed control, which are not standard on turntables.

A soundbar is a type of speaker system that has gained popularity recently due to its convenience and space-saving design. Soundbars can be placed below or in front of a television, eliminating the need for a bulky and complex home theater speaker system. In addition to being easy to use, soundbars often come with advanced audio technologies, such as Dolby Atmos, that offer a more immersive and theater-like sound experience. With a soundbar, you can enjoy all the benefits of a high-quality speaker system without sacrificing space or convenience. Furthermore, soundbars are customizable to fit your needs, with different sizes and styles available to match your home decor. So, whether you want to enjoy movies, music, or video games, a soundbar is a great choice for anyone looking for a simple and effective audio solution.

A tool used to measure the sound pressure level in decibels. It is used to ensure that sound levels are safe, comply with regulations, and calibrate and test audio equipment. Sound level meters are commonly used in industrial, commercial, and residential settings to measure environmental noise and in music and entertainment settings to measure sound levels during concerts and events.

This is a type of amplifier designed to power two speakers, one for the left and one for the right channels. Being able to drive at least two speakers is what defines a stereo experience. Unlike mono amplifiers, which only power one speaker, stereo amplifiers provide immersion and realism.

A device that streams digital audio files over a network. It typically connects to your home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and can communicate with other devices on the network, such as your computer or smartphone. Some audio streamers also include a built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) which converts the digital audio signal into an analog signal that can be played back through a stereo system or headphones. This allows you to listen to high-quality digital music files without needing a separate computer or other equipment. Audio streamers often support a variety of audio file formats and can be controlled through a smartphone app or remote control.

Some of the most popular Hi-Fi music streaming services include Tidal, Qobuz, and Deezer. These services offer high-quality, lossless audio streaming, which can be a significant upgrade from the compressed audio files typically used by other streaming services.

Many music streaming devices now support these Hi-Fi services, allowing users to access high-quality audio through their home audio systems. For example, many popular streaming devices, such as the Sonos system, support Tidal and Qobuz, while other devices, such as the Bluesound and Naim Audio systems, support all three services. Some Hi-Fi music streaming services are integrated directly into certain audio systems, such as the McIntosh RS200 Wireless Loudspeaker System, which includes built-in support for Tidal and other streaming services.

As the demand for high-quality audio continues to grow, it is likely that more Hi-Fi music streaming services will emerge, and more devices will offer support for these services.

A subwoofer is a type of speaker specifically designed to reproduce low-frequency sounds, such as bass and drums. They are typically used in high-fidelity audio systems to enhance the overall sound quality and add depth and richness to the music. Subwoofers are usually placed on the floor and can be quite large, as they require a lot of space to produce low-frequency sounds effectively. They are often paired with speakers such as tweeters and mid-range speakers to create a full-range audio system that can accurately reproduce all frequencies. Subwoofers can also be used in home theaters to create a more immersive experience by reproducing the low-frequency sounds in movies and TV shows.

An electrical surge or spike can cause damage to your electrical devices, which can be expensive to replace. To prevent this from happening, you can use a device that is designed to protect electrical devices from such surges and spikes. These devices are commonly known as surge protectors or surge suppressors. They work by diverting the excess voltage caused by a power surge or spike away from your electrical devices and into the grounding wire. This helps to protect your electrical devices from damage and ensures they last longer. Surge protectors come in various shapes and sizes and can protect various electrical devices, including computers, televisions, and other household appliances.

A device that decodes and processes audio signals for a home theater system. It distributes audio signals to the correct speakers in a surround sound system, creating an immersive audio experience. Unlike amplifiers and receivers, which are primarily responsible for boosting and distributing signals to speakers, a surround sound processor decodes and processes audio signals to create the desired sound field. While some amplifiers and receivers have built-in surround sound processing capabilities, a dedicated surround sound processor generally offers higher quality and more advanced processing options.

Audio recordings that are used to calibrate and optimize Hi-Fi equipment for the best possible sound quality. They typically include various sounds and frequencies that are used to test the accuracy and balance of different components in an audio system. Using test records ensures that Hi-Fi equipment functions properly and produces the highest quality sound possible, which is crucial for audiophiles and anyone who values high-fidelity audio.

Devices that are used to fine-tune audio equipment, such as receivers, amplifiers, and speakers, to ensure that they are functioning optimally and producing the best possible sound quality. They work by detecting and measuring the frequency and amplitude of an audio signal and then adjusting the audio equipment to match the desired frequency response. This is typically done by adjusting the audio equipment's equalization (EQ) settings. Audio tuners are often used by audio professionals, such as sound engineers and mastering engineers, to ensure that their audio equipment is calibrated correctly and producing the best possible sound quality.

Devices used for playing vinyl records. They consist of several parts, including a platter, tonearm, cartridge, and stylus. The platter rotates the record, while the tonearm holds the cartridge, containing the stylus responsible for reading the audio from the record's grooves. Turntables have been used for decades and continue to be popular among audiophiles and collectors of vinyl records. They are often preferred over digital music players for their unique sound quality and nostalgic appeal.

A wireless music player and a music streamer are essentially the same thing, with the main difference being in the terminology used. A wireless music player is typically used to describe a device that can play music wirelessly over a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth network, while a music streamer is used to describe a device that can access and stream music from online sources such as TIDAL or Spotify. However, many devices on the market now combine both functions, allowing users to stream music from both local and online sources wirelessly.