Home Stereo System Buyer's Guide

Home stereo systems are great! If you listen to music in the morning to get dressed for work or school, or you're just a normal music lover; you will definitely want a shelf stereo system. Many people have strayed away from shelf systems over the past few years because of the iPod craze. Although shelf systems typically have iPod docking stations/chargers, many wish to go with a more compact, sleek sound system. However, for the true bass enthusiast, a shelf home stereo system is truly what you need.

Sound Quality

The most important thing to look for in a shelf stereo system is the sound quality. This is one of those things that you won't really be able to tell without hearing it in a store or getting customer reviews. I prefer the customer reviews via Amazon. You want home stereo speakers that will provide a loud, crisp sound.

Bass

What's a home stereo system without bass? It's preferred to have a system with a dedicated subwoofer. Some systems can steal pack a mean punch without it, but for the clearest sound and hardest hitting bass, get a system that has a dedicated subwoofer.

Disc Playback

In a world of iPods and mp3's, CD's are starting to become a thing of the past. However, most shelf stereo systems have mp3 and wma playback. With that said, you have the ability to play data cd's with over 100 mp3 songs on it. Decide how important it is for you to have a cd changer. There are some available that hold 1 to 51 cd's at a time!

Extra Features

Other features that would make for a good mini stereo system is the ability to dock iPods, iPhones, Zune's, etc. The ability to charge those devices while they're docked. Auxillary inputs and outputs to be able to connect the system to a TV, gaming system or computer. Lastly, other little neat features such as an alarm clock, and auto-shut off. With those features you can have it turn on to your favorite cd or radio station, and cut off at a programmed time.