Keep an existing stereo
- Start with
- Music streamer or DAC with the required output
- Check
- Spare line input; volume control; app and service support
- Avoid by default
- Adding a new amplifier before proving the current one is limiting
Choose & Compare
Choose the smallest system that solves the whole task.
Start with the room, people and signal path. Product features come after connection fit, seller details and support.
Improve TV and music
- Start with
- One compatible TV-to-stereo connection
- Check
- Optical or HDMI ARC; stereo PCM; remote behaviour
- Avoid by default
- Extra surround or multi-room hardware by default
Work with headphones
- Start with
- Headphones first; desktop DAC/amp only for a defined need
- Check
- Comfort; microphone; plugs; gain; desk size
- Avoid by default
- Assuming every headphone needs a powerful amplifier
Serve more than one room
- Start with
- A repeatable platform only when another room has a real use
- Check
- Network coverage; household control; long-term app support
- Avoid by default
- Buying endpoints for rooms that are not used
Before comparing products
Write down six facts.
- Room type and listening distance.
- Every source: TV, computer, phone, turntable or disc player.
- Inputs and outputs already available.
- Who controls volume and how.
- Seller, dispatch point, return location and support route.
- What should still work if an app or network service changes.