An integrated hi-fi system can help you save money, space, and, let’s face it, quite a bit of time and effort. It can be an all-in-one microsystem with speakers, a single box of streaming, CD- or vinyl-playing electronics to which speakers must be added, or a pair of integrated stereo speakers housing everything you need.
These top hi-fi systems are all very distinct from one another in terms of cost, design, and individual appeal. We offer systems for CD and turntables, Bluetooth wireless technology, and built-in stereo speakers, all of which have different capabilities and audio prowess.
But it goes without saying that despite their variations, each of the combinations has excellent functionality, a stylish design, and industry-leading sound quality despite the fact that they are cheap audio equipment. All of these seem very unique and will be a lot more enjoyable than a single wireless speaker.
How to find your personal ideal hi-fi system
Hi-fi systems, like the ones you’ll see below, essentially combine sources, amplifiers, and occasionally speakers to perform the functions of several electronics separately in just one box.
Depending on the equipment you already own and the music sources you use, you can choose the model that best suits you. We would advise either a speaker-less microsystem or a source-and-amplifier component that allows you to simply add speakers if you currently have speakers that you’d like to maintain.
Then, since so few services now offer all three, you’ll need to decide which is more important to you: vinyl, CD, or network streaming. When you shop, be sure to pay close attention to the specifications of each item because this area has a wide range of offerings.
Denon D-M41DAB
This Denon multi-award winner has been the standard affordable all-in-one system option for years and is still at the top of its game. Denon’s own speakers are available with or without the purchase. Without, the device is known as RCD-M41DAB and is available online for less than £250.
Both the inclusion of Bluetooth and the excellent sound quality are reasons to celebrate. Bluetooth may be turned on or off without impacting the D-overall M41DAB’s performance. At a higher cost, this system could compete favourably in terms of performance with groups of isolates. The D-sonic M41DAB’s prowess is unaffected by the reduction in sound quality from a CD to a Spotify stream; it continues to be smooth, perceptive, and expressive.
Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise
The new WH-1000XM5 is Sony’s follow-up to their WH-1000XM4, which many people consider to be the king of the wireless ANC headphones, even though we adore the Technics EAH-A800 mentioned above. The XM5s have a strong claim to the crown even though the competition is a little tighter this year.
As previously mentioned, we somewhat favor the EAH-sound A800’s over the XM5’s, especially when it comes to low-end control. We think that the XM5 headphones are the most comfortable we have ever worn. On the other hand, the overall ANC strength is essentially the same for the two.
KEF LSX II
We shouldn’t forget that there is actually a third member of KEF’s wireless speaker system family – the LSX, now in its second generation. KEF’s LS50 Wireless II and newly launched LS60 Wireless stereo speaker systems have stolen a lot of headlines in recent months.
Without really changing the speaker hardware, KEF has taken what was already a successful recipe for the LSX II, added some significant changes that enhance functionality and use, and created a talented setup that sings with every genre of music sent its way.
A sleek streaming system without the extra luggage and equipment that a separate setup entails is the KEF LSX II. The LSX II will gladly fill a tiny space with crystal-clear, melodious sound if you have one. At this level, nothing else even comes close.
IFI ZEN Air DAC/Headphone Amp
A desktop amplifier with bit-perfect DSD and MQA? The new ZEN Air DAC from Ifi Audio is the best audio equipment for those just starting out. Grab one of these and listen to it if you still have any concerns about the difference in sound you can receive from a good DAC/Amp. For TIDAL listeners, essential. compatible with headphones like the Sennheiser HD 560S and the Hifiman Deva Pro.
