While purchasing used audio equipment can save money, its associated risks may be high. Buyers could end up purchasing working electronics that don’t work, speakers with broken drivers, or turntables with worn bearings that turntables no longer play music on.
When purchasing in person, always listen for buzzing, hissing or crackling sounds; purchasing from stores offering return policies and warranties decreases risks significantly.
Smart Speakers
Smart speakers are standalone audio devices equipped with their own virtual assistant, offering the audio equivalent of home automation systems. When connected to the internet, these smart speakers allow voice-activated control over various functions – typically activated with one “hot word,” such as Alexa or Google Assistant. Many also act as home intercom systems, connecting your smartphone and other devices so you can call directly or engage in conversations hands-free with people from around the house.
Though Amazon Echo and Google Home continue to dominate the market, more choices have become available thanks to increased competition in recent years. Many newer models are less expensive than their predecessors yet still provide many functions – for instance playing music from streaming services like Spotify, setting alarms/timers in the kitchen, controlling smart home devices as well as answering queries/providing information among many other things.
Home audio equipment for sale usually relies on Wi-Fi connectivity to work, although some Bluetooth speakers that only transmit music and podcasts without digital assistant do not need this connectivity. Smart speaker manufacturers usually include an app for controlling their device while some provide dedicated buttons or dials that offer limited functions.
Quality smart speakers vary significantly from tennis ball-sized models like Amazon Echo Dot (5th generation) and Google Home Mini to full-sized units like Amazon Echo Studio and Apple HomePod, ranging in price from around PS50 up to over PS300 depending on features included in each speaker.
Sometimes the best way to choose a smart speaker is trying it in-store. Dealers spend significant effort creating great sounds in their displays and may help you find something suitable; but keep in mind that no store can replicate exactly the conditions of your living space, so your purchase might not sound the same once at home.
Custom Hardware Setups
Home audio devices range from phonographs and AM radios to bluetooth systems and smart speakers, with each offering its own set of advantages. A basic home audio system consists of three elements: source, receiver with basic amplifier/EQ functions and speakers – you can find an optimal combination for you home’s needs!
For those aspiring to professional recordings, professional-grade sound devices and digital audio workstations will provide them with incredible sounds – whether in the studio or for live performances. These pieces of professional audio equipment will produce amazing sounds.
Abt AV equipment provides educators and business professionals with a platform for sharing ideas. Choose from our selection of projectors and displays for sharp, clear images that engage audiences. Plus, find auto-masking projection screens to guarantee flawless presentations every time. Plus, take advantage of our trade-in program so you can sell old gear in exchange for cash or credit towards new products.
Wireless Speakers
Wireless speakers offer those seeking an enjoyable audio experience a compelling alternative. While wireless speakers do away with long cables connecting stereo receivers or home theater systems to speakers, they still require wires connecting each speaker directly to its power source (or amplifier module) – either built-in to its housing or externally attached; regardless of their placement they typically run off batteries or plug into an AC outlet in order to deliver sufficient output.
Before purchasing wireless speakers, take a hard look at your goals and budget carefully. Are you an ardent audiophile looking for speakers capable of accurate reproduction of high-resolution audio formats? If that is the case for you, select high-quality wired models capable of producing stunning symphonic performances of precise sound reproduction; alternatively if portability and convenience is more important to you than sound reproduction then wireless models with Bluetooth technology enable effortless streaming music to devices with Bluetooth technology and easy setup are good choices.
Manufacturers offer models with both WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities to give you more options. These multifunctional speakers can connect to WiFi networks as well as be controlled with voice-enabled voice control from smart devices; however, keep in mind that these may not have as many AC outlets available than wired counterparts.
Considerations when purchasing wireless speakers should include their acoustic performance. From plain, boxy designs to those boasting sleek silhouettes, their shapes have an effect on how well they produce full, natural sounds. Tone settings also play a part in sound quality; many wireless models provide bass/treble controls so you can fine-tune music’s overall quality of sound.
The top performing wireless speakers will have an expansive soundstage that fills your entire room, reproducing instruments and vocals faithfully while remaining intelligible through walls and obstacles.
If wireless technology speaks to you, browse our selection of stereo and home theater speakers to find one that meets your needs. Or try our Cinehome bundle, featuring an all-in-one media center as well as our WM Series wireless speakers – something for every taste!
Home Theater Systems
Home theaters are an increasingly popular way to simulate the movie-going experience at home. While some homeowners opt for grandiose cinematic seating and popcorn machines, other simply use an array of AV devices together to produce quality video and surround sound effects.
Your TV with built-in apps and streaming options should form the focal point of any home theater setup. Devices like Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire make setting up home theater simple while providing access to an abundance of movies, shows, and games – some even come equipped with voice control features so that you can easily play back what’s important to you with just a command!
Modern home theaters feature 4K TVs and projectors for optimal viewing experiences, along with Blu-ray players for immersive audio playback. You may wish to opt for 5.1 speakers rather than stereo pairs; some AV receivers can process stereo signals into five or more channels for distribution – however this may alter the original music mix’s character.
To ensure that your home theater sounds its best, consider investing in a subwoofer with superior drivers and a broad frequency range. This will give you accurate and clear bass tones; inferior subwoofers often produce one-note bass which doesn’t articulate or extend to lower tones which can be distracting and ruin your overall listening experience.
Make sure that all of the components of your home theater system are connected securely using appropriate wires and surge protectors can help safeguard against power outages or other issues that could devastate it.
Home theater systems vary in price depending on their quality and features. High-end systems tend to cost more than budget home theaters but offer superior performance with advanced technologies and precision engineering. Working with an expert home theater designer is key for finding an appropriate solution tailored specifically to your needs and wants.