Glossary term

Stereo

In ordinary two-channel playback, stereo uses distinct left and right audio channels to represent spatial information. The channels are reproduced by a pair of speakers or the two earpieces of headphones.

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.

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Pure Neo editorial
Updated 4 Oct 2026