Picking the right sound equipment may sound like a challenge, but it will be worthwhile to put in some effort in making the right choices if you want high-quality sound.
Whether you're looking for a surround sound system at home or want to build your own recording studio, there are a few basic rules to keep in mind when you go shopping for sound equipment.
1. Set a budget
Make sure you know how much you can afford, and then do your homework to make sure you get the best value for your money. There's no point in spending so much on one piece of sound equipment that you end up with inferior products – and inferior sound. And don't allow an overeager sales assistant to tempt you into blowing the budget!
2. Do your homework
Know what sound equipment you are looking for, and make sure you understand the different technical terms. Read online reviews, compare prices and ask as many questions possible. If you already own existing sound equipment, make sure you buy complementary products – there's no point in spending a fortune on surround sound equipment if you cannot use it on your existing television or DVD player.
3. Know what you want to use it for
If you want to enjoy movies with high-quality sound in the comfort of your own living room, your needs will differ substantially from the requirements an up-and-coming rock band will have. If you want to buy surround sound equipment for your home, you should know the details (e.g. size) of the room where you're planning to use this. If you're an up-and-coming rock star, you should decide whether you want sound equipment that will be optimal in small, intimate venues or in large clubs.
4. Remember the small things
Don't blow the budget on the speakers and forget the most overlooked item – cables. Quality cables can make a major difference to the quality of your sound, so make sure you leave enough money in the kitty for a decent set.
Whether you're looking for a surround sound system at home or want to build your own recording studio, there are a few basic rules to keep in mind when you go shopping for sound equipment.
1. Set a budget
Make sure you know how much you can afford, and then do your homework to make sure you get the best value for your money. There's no point in spending so much on one piece of sound equipment that you end up with inferior products – and inferior sound. And don't allow an overeager sales assistant to tempt you into blowing the budget!
2. Do your homework
Know what sound equipment you are looking for, and make sure you understand the different technical terms. Read online reviews, compare prices and ask as many questions possible. If you already own existing sound equipment, make sure you buy complementary products – there's no point in spending a fortune on surround sound equipment if you cannot use it on your existing television or DVD player.
3. Know what you want to use it for
If you want to enjoy movies with high-quality sound in the comfort of your own living room, your needs will differ substantially from the requirements an up-and-coming rock band will have. If you want to buy surround sound equipment for your home, you should know the details (e.g. size) of the room where you're planning to use this. If you're an up-and-coming rock star, you should decide whether you want sound equipment that will be optimal in small, intimate venues or in large clubs.
4. Remember the small things
Don't blow the budget on the speakers and forget the most overlooked item – cables. Quality cables can make a major difference to the quality of your sound, so make sure you leave enough money in the kitty for a decent set.
