Glossary term

Source

The device or playback function that supplies the music signal to the rest of a system, such as a file player, disc player or turntable. Its available output determines the next required connection.

Explained in depth

Getting started & system building

What do you need for a hi-fi system?

A hi-fi system needs a music source, a way to control listening level, amplification suited to the output, and speakers or headphones. Digital and record sources also need the appropriate conversion or phono processing. These are functions, not a required number of boxes: a computer, integrated amplifier or powered speaker system can already combine several of them.

PN
Pure Neo editorial
Updated 4 Oct 2026