Bookshelf Audio System - Research

Research your options and needs before buying a Bookshelf Audio System

If there's any component to the home audio system that can fulfil multiple needs at one time, it is the bookshelf system. Bookshelf audio systems are making it easier to play multiple formats, such as CDs and MP3 files, on the one unit. These small units come with quality speakers providing the listener with outstanding rich sounds or music to easily create a little mood or a lot of dancing.

However, when you are actually buying a bookshelf audio system the number of different options may be confusing and it can be difficult to decide which is your best buy. The Buyz123 three step guide - Research, Evaluation, Purchase - is designed to assist you in this buying process.

The Research step firstly involves investigating essential features of bookshelf audio systems available on the market, and secondly identifying your actual needs in a bookshelf audio system.

In the Evaluation step you focus on how well the different features of individual bookshelf audio systems meet your needs, and then how well the most suitable bookshelf audio systems compare in detail, one to another.

Finally, in the Purchase step, the issues considered are: what to look for when actually buying the bookshelf audio system, what questions to ask and what information you should seek on warranty, customer service, and after-sales support.

As you work though the Buyz123 purchase strategy you will clarify your thoughts about your intended purchase, confidently compare bookshelf audio systems one to another, and then purchase a bookshelf audio system that really does meet your needs.

Step 1: Research

In order to end up with the bookshelf audio system best suited to your needs, you have to clearly understand what you are looking for and what options are available to you. This is done by researching in two areas.

Firstly, you research the market to find out what kinds of bookshelf audio systems are available, familiarizing yourself with the different features, styles and price ranges etc. Secondly, you examine your own unique requirements in a bookshelf audio system.

Research the market: Bookshelf Audio System essentials

The first part of the research step is to investigate just what's available in the bookshelf audio system market. The range of options can seem daunting, but you can make a good start by understanding the following major features:

Format: CD, MP3, mini-disc, digital music, AM/FM radio, cassette, records, compatible with dockable iPod models, satellite radio.

Durability: If you tend to move a lot, you will want to choose a bookshelf system that can withstand the traveling and still work when it gets to its new location.

Controls: Play, pause, stop, skip, forward, backward, various modes, menu options.

Size: Some bookshelf systems will be larger and necessitate more room on the shelf. Speakers also are available in a range of sizes and you may want more than a simple pair.

Colors: Bookshelf systems come in a wide range of colors and styles that can match a room's décor.

Volume levels: Most bookshelf systems will have a turn-dial or button volume control system.

Music playing capability: A good bookshelf system should be able to play MP3s, .wav, .mpeg, and other audio files as well as CDs. Some bookshelf systems will be able to hold more than one CD at a time for random song playing.

Quality: The actual system that plays the music should be capable of reproducing quality tones for all types of music.

Speaker connections: Binding and spring clips.

Cost: The price will depend on the features that you choose as well as the kinds of music you want to be able to play.

Research your needs: Questions to ask yourself

Now it's time to determine what your requirements are in a bookshelf audio system. For example, will you use the bookshelf audio system only for music in your home gym or do want to install it in your restaurant or café?

You can start this process by considering the following questions - as well as any others you think of yourself - and recording your answers.

Have I owned a bookshelf audio system before?
	If you have, work out what you did or didn't like about it. You may be looking for one exactly like it, hoping to upgrade, or even trying to avoid any particular features that you found inconvenient.

What are my main requirements in a bookshelf system?
	You probably want a bookshelf system that suits your décor and sounds great too.

Do I want all of my sound needs to be assisted by the bookshelf system - i.e. the television as well?
	If so, you will need to make sure that your other equipment is compatible with the bookshelf system.

How often will I use the bookshelf system?
	You might like to listen to music whenever you are at home or just when company comes over. Determining its usage might help you decide on what you're prepared to spend.

Where will I be using a bookshelf audio system?
	You may require your bookshelf audio system for the living room or perhaps you would like some music in your bedroom. Think about the size of the room. This will help determine the output needed by the speakers.

How much money do I want to spend on a bookshelf system?
	You may want a lot of features or you may want to choose something basic and inexpensive.

Understanding your needs is the key to a successful purchase and you can revisit your list of needs at any time during the buying process.

Once you complete this Research step, having informed yourself about the essentials of bookshelf audio systems and identified your needs, you are ready to move on to the next step: Evaluation.


Video Links

Infinity Speakers - User Review The Primus 140 speakers are each set in a solid wood box and produce high quality audio. (2m 04s)

Polk Audio RTi6 Bookshelf Speakers - User Review These speakers have acoustically inert, asymmetrically braced 3/4' MDF cabinets, finished in a real black oak veneer. PowerPort Plus bass venting for superior clean, low distortion bass. (1m 02s)

Sony SS MB350H Bookshelf Speaker - User Review Mid-priced speakers with eight inch woofer from sony. (1m 09s)

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