As the music system is an eclectic product category that varies wildly in form factors, features and price, our pick of the best hi-fi systems on this page covers many types and budgets, so even if our top pick doesn't suit your needs, something in the top 10 (or Also Consider section) should. We have CD and turntable systems, just-add-speakers streaming amplifiers, and integrated stereo speaker systems, each with varying functionalities, sonic chops and, naturally, asking prices.
But whatever their differences, every combination below has in common the valuable features, appealing design and class-leading sound quality that together make them fantastic value. We test every hi-fi system that passes through our doors against competitors and under strict criteria, and naturally only those who come out of them with flying colours make it into this buying guide.
I'm the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, with over 10 years of experiencing in reviewing hi-fi, have seen first-hand the hi-fi system category evolve into what it is today. Now smarter than ever and with fewer compromises than before in the sound department, the integrated systems you see below are fantastic ways of obtaining proper hi-fi sound without needing to go the whole hog and set up a purist separates system.","strapline":"Written by"}), " -0-10/js/person.js"); } else console.error('%c FTE ','background: #9306F9; color: #ffffff','no lazy slice hydration function available'); Written byWritten byBecky RobertsSocial Links NavigationManaging Editor I'm the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, with over 10 years of experiencing in reviewing hi-fi, have seen first-hand the hi-fi system category evolve into what it is today. Now smarter than ever and with fewer compromises than before in the sound department, the integrated systems you see below are fantastic ways of obtaining proper hi-fi sound without needing to go the whole hog and set up a purist separates system.
The default budget all-in-one system choice for years, this Denon multi-Award-winner is still at the top of its game, so much so we're yet to really find anything of its type that can outdo it at a similar price.
Microsystems may seem like a dated concept nowadays, but this Denon proves that they can still be a perfect route to convenience and great-value sound. A truly remarkable system for the money based on our experience using it.
The LSX II arrived as essentially a more modest, miniature member of the clan, pretty much perfect for smaller rooms, and now this LT version has made it even more accessible by bringing the price down without cutting many corners.
It still delivers much of what has made the KEF LSX II a two-time What Hi-Fi? Award winner, including the very same musical, detailed sound and generous streaming features. It simply drops the option of a wireless link between the speakers, the aux input and a few colourway options, while lopping 300 / $400 / AU$500 off the price.
The KEF LSX II LT is therefore a fantastic value alternative to the more illustrious, expensive LSX II. By taking a great system and streamlining it without compromising the sound, KEF has nailed it once again.
Like their illustrious predecessors, the LS50 Wireless II serves as a superb all-in-one system (streaming and amplification are built-in) by dint of their advanced connectivity. Improvements include upgraded components and a new KEF Connect app where you can access the likes of Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music and Deezer. Not that you'll need to reach for any of the aforementioned apps; these speakers are capable of streaming via AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast and Bluetooth, and are also Roon Ready.
KEF's striking design is matched by stunning sonics, enhanced by refreshed Uni-Q drivers and KEF's all-new MAT absorption technology. The presentation is spacious and the addition of the new MAT technology can be heard in the refined treble and clean mids.
The SA-C600 really is a well-equipped streaming amplifier, to which you just need to add speakers. Technics has seen fit to include a CD player alongside the more usual network streaming capabilities with up to 32-bit/384kHz file compatibility.
You can get a slightly more sonically transparent combination by swapping out the Kytes for something like the Dali Oberon 1, but that doesn't mean this all-in-one triple-threat option isn't a very good one. Its keen, zealous musical presentation especially makes it a great bet for those of us who like their music with plenty of vigour and spice.
Judged as a complete package, the System One gets the basics of music reproduction spot-on, delivering musical cohesion and dynamic expression in a way that eludes most alternative set-ups. Comprehensive, easy to set up and surprisingly compact in terms of what you actually get, this is a great way to get yourself a really solid hi-fi setup without tearing your hair out in the process.
The Triangle AIO Twin is an all-in-one wireless speaker system akin to the superb KEF LSX II (above) but at half the price. That was more than enough to pique our interest: music systems that integrate all amplification, connectivity, streaming and more features into one box or a pair of speakers are an increasingly neat and attractive way to get hi-fi sound into your home.
So do you buy a microsystem? A just-add-speakers streaming amplifier? A vinyl system? Or a fully fledged stereo speaker system? It probably won't surprise you to read that your decision will likely come down to two things: what sources you use, and what budget you have.
If your budget is limited to hundreds as opposed to thousands, your best bet is to consider either a complete stereo speaker system like the KEFs and Triangle above, or an entry-level streaming amplifier like the Technics with a separate pair of stereo speakers. That'll ensure you have a complete music system in two or three boxes without breaking the four-figure barrier.
A bigger budget will open doors to better sound quality, and unless you are set on having everything within two cabinets, as the JBL system on this page offers, we'd recommend going down the streaming amplifier plus speakers route.
Equally, be wary of buying a system with more features than you need, as you could be paying for them! If you don't need network connectivity because you'll primarily be connecting a turntable or using Bluetooth, look into a pair of active speakers or an integrated amplifier with Bluetooth instead.
Here at What Hi-Fi? we review hundreds of products every year, including plenty of hi-fi systems, and in our dedicated, state-of-the-art testing facilities in Reading and London, where our expert reviewers do all of our in-house testing.
Collectively, the What Hi-Fi? team has more than 150 years experience of in reviewing, testing and writing about consumer electronics. Our strict criteria and unique listening room environment give us complete control over the testing process, ensuring consistency and scrutiny within an industry-leading context of every core field in hi-fi.
All hi-fi systems are tested in comparison with rivals in the same price category, so when a new one comes along it will be listened against the most similar What Hi-Fi? Award winner or five-star competitor in the field. All review verdicts are agreed upon by the team as a whole rather than a single reviewer, too, helping to avoid individual subjectivity. That's why our reviews are trusted by retailers, manufacturers and shoppers alike.
Every category of product we test has a Best Buy buying guide like this one, and only the top products feature in them. So if you take the plunge and buy one of the products recommended above, or on any other Best Buy page, you can rest assured you're getting a What Hi-Fi?-approved product.
Becky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of Australian Hi-Fi magazine. During her 10+ years in the hi-fi industry, she has reviewed all manner of audio gear, from budget amplifiers to high-end speakers, and particularly specialises in headphones and head-fi devices. In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake."}), " -0-10/js/authorBio.js"); } else console.error('%c FTE ','background: #9306F9; color: #ffffff','no lazy slice hydration function available'); Becky RobertsSocial Links NavigationBecky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of Australian Hi-Fi magazine. During her 10+ years in the hi-fi industry, she has reviewed all manner of audio gear, from budget amplifiers to high-end speakers, and particularly specialises in headphones and head-fi devices. In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake.
The DDR-66BT is the flagship all-in-one music system for SANGEAN. It offers many possibilities, such as internet radio, DAB+ and FM radio, Spotify streaming, audio streaming via Bluetooth, music via CD player or the possibility to play mp3 files from different media sources. As usual, the DDR-66BT has excellent sound thanks to acoustically matched wooden housing in an elegant design.
In addition to radio and audio streaming, the DDR-66BT is able to play music in the formats MP3 / AAC and WMA: the music files can be played on the device via USB, SD card or CD. Furthermore, the SD card and USB can be connected for recording purposes. You can connect additional playback media such as an mp3 player via AUX-In and an external loudspeaker via LINE-out.
Thanks to the elegant wooden case, this device reproduces all frequency ranges cleanly and makes the heights fine and clear and the depths full. If you are not convinced, the DDR-66BT offers the possibility to adjust the sound with an equalizer in order to take full advantage of the sound capabilities and also to meet the individual taste of the listener. You can choose between the preferences Flat, Jazz, Rock, Classic, Pop and News or use 'My EQ' for custom bass and treble control.
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