The Best Stereo Systems
Even as technology has changed, stereo systems have remained a staple of the modern household. There's nothing better than coming home from work or school and playing your favorite songs on a rich, full sound system that can bring the best out of them. But you probably don't need to be told there are just as many sets with crummy sound and slapdash wiring as there are ones made to bring you pure sonic joy. That's why we've made this list of the finest stereo systems you can get to live up your living room right now. Read on and crank it up.
What to Look For
These stereo systems had to answer a few questions before we could add them to our list: do they provide phenomenal audio, are they easy to set up, and do they have that perfect mix of long-lasting design and pleasing aesthetics? A few of these stereo systems turned it up to 11 in most or all of these regards. The ever-reliable Bose won the day with their sleek, lightweight model that played each song to perfection. We also had to tip our hat to Philips, who provided a lovely set with wooden speakers and expectedly-rich sound. Keep reading for a closer look and a longer listen.
Bose Wave Music Stereo System
The hi-fi highlight
Bose wound up making our favorite of these stereo systems by putting a lot of quality into a little body. This handsome lightweight set can blend in with the design of almost any home. And, weighing just a scant pound, it can easily be moved from room to room. Best of all, the sound is extraordinary, using waveguide technology to produce rich audio from minuscule speakers. This streamlined design is one of our favorite stereo systems, and no audiophile should pass it by.
Pros
- Its all-in-one design makes it very easy to set up and start enjoying almost immediately.
- Unlike other stereo systems, this one minimizes audio distortion when the sound is cranked up to high levels.
- The remote is simple to use while still letting you access most or all the features you desire.
Cons
- An extended antenna needs to be ordered separately if you want to listen to distant radio stations.
Philips FX10 Bluetooth Stereo System
Do touch that dial
While the industrial aesthetic might be imposing for some, this Philips set still sounds fantastic. Two amplifiers bolster anything you’re listening to into a full audio experience, and the MAX sound setting adds even more by increasing both volume and sonic detail. It also works with both auxiliary cords and Bluetooth. If you prefer a robust sound with lots of choices, this is the one for you.
Pros
- It’s more affordable than many other stereo systems that boast comparable quality.
- The speaker wires are 5 feet long, allowing you to place them a comfortable distance away from the main hub.
Cons
- The Bluetooth connectivity isn’t always reliable, especially when moving between rooms.
Philips Bluetooth Home Stereo System
Rich resonance
Anyone with an older record player can tell you how well wood transmits audio, and this is one of the stereo systems that prove it. The bass tones are huge, and they can be complemented further by the set’s optional preset audio options. Better yet, the simple, monochrome look fits in well with a variety of living room styles. This is one of those stereo sets that proves classic designs still have their place.
Pros
- Its remote offers a robust suite of options that also makes sure not to overwhelm the user.
- Bluetooth connects quickly and reliably to any device you want to stream music from.
- The sleep timer can be used to turn the music off after a certain amount of time, which is a rare yet super convenient feature.
Cons
- The speakers can be a bit of a hassle to wire in if you’ve never done it before.
Jensen JMC-180 Wall Mounted Stereo System
Set up your sound
Few types of stereo systems take up less space than the wall-mounted variety, but this has other advantages too. At a mere two pounds in weight and a complete installation kit, this stereo is incredibly easy to set up. Plus, the backlit LCD screen is easy to read and lets you scroll through the stereo’s sound options with ease. This is a great kit for those who want their stereo systems to perform multiple functions with good space economy.
Pros
- Its size and ease of installation make it a great “starter” set for kids who want their own stereo.
- It’s ideal for nightstands since it also functions as a digital clock.
Cons
- Due to its size and build, the bass isn’t all that loud.
LG CM4590 Xboom Bluetooth Stereo System
The wireless wonder
This is one of the more powerful stereo systems we’ve come across, and it’s a great choice for Bluetooth users. With 700 watts of power and a unique speaker arrangement, this beauty produces a booming sound that bass-heads will love. It also includes a CD player and radio tuner as well, so you can enjoy many different methods of audio delivery. The sound quality of streamed music is sometimes stigmatized, but this is one of the stereo systems that might prove the doubters wrong.
Pros
- The remote allows you to select a variety of EQ presets to help you achieve the perfect settings for your space.
- It has the bass and “oomph” of stereo systems that typically retail for a much higher price.
Cons
- It takes up more room than some of the other stereo systems on our list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes stereo systems superior to headphones?
Lots of music is made with the intent of being listened to out in the open to let the dynamics of the song thrive. Stereo systems are a great way to catch details and enjoy sonic textures that you might otherwise miss out on from your favorite songs.
Are stereo systems good at playing different genres of music?
Most stereo systems will have presets that can enhance the acoustics of the specific musical genre you enjoy listening to most. Some cheaper stereos might not reproduce a song’s bass tones with 100% clarity, but you can still enjoy high-quality sound without spending a fortune.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.