Cables and speakers
Regardless of where the cables are connected – to a television, a CD or a DVD player – it's important not to skimp on quality: If you do, your audio (and video) system's performance will suffer. While somewhat pricey, gold-plated cable is especially durable, and gold is an excellent conductor. One way or the other, ask an audio expert what your best option is before you plug in your cables. As a rule, the shorter they are, the better.
Some stereo and AV amplifiers are sold with speakers, but more often than not, the speakers must be purchased separately. Your choice will depend on various factors, among them the size of the room in which you plan to use the speakers. And of course, there's no point in purchasing powerful loudspeakers if your amplifier is comparatively weak: You will not achieve better sound – quite the contrary.
The same goes if you use a low-end CD player. Speaker and amplifier power should be more or less the same. As for the materials used to manufacture the speakers – often a mix of plastic and metal or an amalgam of plastic and wood – there are no hard-and-fast rules for determining which is best. Trust your ears! And bear in mind that prices for speakers or a multi-speaker system vary considerably, depending on power output, size and the materials used.
Finally, regardless of the type of audio system you have in mind, bring one or two CDs when you're shopping around and take the time to listen to them on the systems that interest you. Ask as many questions as you can. And, of course, don't forget to carefully read the warranty.
Three tips for making the right choice
1 Bring a few of your favourite CDs to the store and give them a listen.
2 Pay special attention to the voices: They should be clear, realistic and not strident or strangled.
3 Listen at different volumes, as volume plays a major part in the impression a speaker leaves.
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