Basic Components

There are myriad ways to set up the hi-fi system. Almost every true audiophile (literally, sound lover) builds a system over the period of time, component by component. Some people own 2 or 3 stereo systems. Below are some basic considerations.

Configuration
The simplest home stereo system is in a single box, having an AM/FM radio receiver, a tape player, and a CD player. The speakers are external generally. The assets of a so called compact hi-fi system are small size and low cost.More sophisticated hi-fi systems have separate boxes for radio receiver, tape player, CD player, and, in some cases, a turntable, a computer, or another non- standard peripheral. The units in such type component hi-fi system are interconnected with the shielded cables. This allows you to choose each unit to suit the taste and needs of your own. A characteristic component system costs several times as much as a compact system, but the sound quality is better, and you can have high-power audio.

Some of the hi-fi manufacturers build all their equipment cabinets to the standard width so they can be mounted one over the other in a rack. A rack hi-fi system has an appearance reminiscent of military hardware. This scheme saves the floor space and makes system look professional. The rack is mounted on wheels so the whole system (except for the external speakers) can be rolled from place to place.

Figure given below is a block diagram of a typical home stereo hi-fi system. The amplifier chassis must be grounded to minimize the hum and noise and to reduce the system’s susceptibility to electromagnetic interference (EMI). The AM antenna is characteristically a loop stick built into cabinet or mounted on rear panel. The FM antenna can be an indoor type, like television rabbit ears, or a sophisticated outdoor antenna. If the outdoor antenna is used, lightning safety precautions should be observed.