The perfect musical ambiance creates a mood that makes any event memorable – be it a slow dance, raging house party, or a yoga session; a good Hi-Fi system will consistently deliver an incredible experience. That said, what happens if you’re on a tight budget and need a unit that can bring out the best of your vinyl records? Can a micro Hi-Fi unit offer such an experience?
The best micro Hi-Fi systems come with features that offer convenient and immersive playback. These features include AM/FM and internet radio, quality speakers that deliver crisp sound, and headphone jacks for private listening. They also feature CD players, turntables, and wireless streaming.
Read on for more insights into what makes up a micro Hi-Fi system, what to look for in one, and a detailed review of the favorite budget micro Hi-Fi systems on the market.
What Is a Hi-Fi System?
A Hi-Fi system is a unit designed for audio playback. It comes with speakers that can cover all frequencies of the human hearing range. A properly tuned Hi-Fi system delivers a spatial sound stage, meaning you get an immersive listening experience.
A Hi-Fi system comprises the following:
- Audio source. It can be a radio, cassette player, CD player, or a turntable. Most Hi-Fi systems come with several audio sources.
- Speakers. Most home audio units come with two speakers that provide sound.
- Amplifier. This boosts audio signals so that they’re loud enough to hear.
What Is a Micro Hi-Fi System?
Hi-Fi systems can be grouped into either micro or mini categories based on their size. A micro Hi-Fi system is small, compact, and ideal for a lounge room or small office. Most of these systems feature an AM/FM tuner, CD player. Their high-end versions come with advanced features, such as an iPod dock.
Micro Hi-Fi audio units have less powerful speakers—their wattage usually ranges between 10W and 30W.
On the other hand, Mini Hi-Fi systems are larger and more suitable for larger rooms or spaces. They come with multi-disc CD changers, powerful speakers with wattages of up to 100W, and separate subwoofers in some cases.
What Can You Play on a Micro Hi-Fi System?
Micro Hi-Fi systems are designed to playback audio in different formats, including:
- CDs. Most micro audio units come with a CD player and can handle both the CD-R and CD-RW formats. Moreover, most of these systems can read MP3 files. Therefore, you can easily copy some of the audio files on your PC and play them on a micro Hi-Fi unit.
- Radio. Most of these units come with an AM/FM tuner, so you won’t miss your favorite radio program.
- Audio cassettes or LPs. Some micro Hi-Fi systems feature tape decks and turntables for playing audio cassettes and vinyl records, respectively.
- Phone. In most micro-units it’s possible to play music from your phone, either wireless or by connecting a cable.
What To Look For in a micro-system
When buying a Hi-Fi system, it’s best first to consider your needs: what exactly do you expect to get from an audio system?
If you’re a first-time buyer, having some insights into what to look for may come in handy. Here are some of the things most audiophiles consider when buying micro audio units:
Radio
If you love listening to radio programs, it’s best to look for a system that can play AM, FM, and internet radio. Most Hi-Fi systems can access AM and FM. However, fewer micro-systems feature internet radio.
Headphone Port
Sometimes you want to listen to music late into the night but don’t want to disturb your roommates or family members. In that case, it’s crucial to check if the unit you’ve picked comes with a headphone port.
Alternatively, ensure the unit is Bluetooth-enabled so that you can pair it with your Bluetooth headphones—and speakers.
Output Power (Watts)
Generally, a unit with an output of 20W is loud enough for an average living room. However, to cover a larger area, you may need a unit with an output of up to 100W to make sure everyone can hear the music.
DVD Playback
As their name suggests, Hi-Fi units are designed to produce quality audio. They also give you complete control over the volume, unlike television speakers.
To do that, I recommend picking a unit that’s compatible with both CDs and DVDs so that you won’t need to spend extra on a home theater system.
USB Port
A USB port would come in handy when you need to connect external devices, such as your smartphone or tablet. It lets you play audio files from the devices or record audio from your micro-system and store it externally.
Wireless Connectivity
A wireless connection makes it more convenient and enjoyable to use a micro-system. For example, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity eliminate the need to spend on cables to connect your unit to other devices like your PC.
Additionally, Wi-Fi-enabled units allow you to stream audio from internet radio and music streaming sites, such as Spotify, TuneIn, and Google Play Music.
Caveat: Although a wireless connection improves user experience, it drains the connected device’s battery much faster.
The Best Budget Micro Hi-Fi Systems With a Turntable
If you’re looking for a budget micro Hi-Fi system that comes with the right features and lets you play your vinyl collection, here’s a list of your top choices:
Victrola Vintage VSC-550BT
The Victrola Vintage VSC-550BT is the perfect blend of modern and retro audio designs. It’s an excellent pick for entry-level audiophiles working on a tight budget.
Using it is a breeze – you don’t need to be an expert to operate this micro Hi-Fi system.
Some of this product’s features you’ll find attractive include:
- Three-Speed Turntable. You can tinker with the audio quality while listening to your favorite tracks, thanks to the settings that allow you to play vinyl records at 33, 45, and 78 revolutions per minute (RPM).
- Bluetooth Compatible. The VSC-550BT saves you from the clutter of cords, thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity. Simply turn on your audio equipment’s Bluetooth connection and pair it with this Hi-Fi system to listen to music.
- Compact and lightweight. The audio system comes in a 6-pound suitcase design that makes it a worthy companion to any audiophile on the go. It doesn’t require much storage space – you can put it on any table.
- Built-in speakers. The package comes with built-in speakers that deliver an unparalleled sound quality. If you need to add a sonic boost to the speakers, you can use the auxiliary jack output ports at the back of the Victrola Vintage VSC-550BT.
So, what about the drawbacks?
This system comes with small speakers, which means you won’t get much headroom. However, that shouldn’t discourage you from buying the device becomes it comes with output connectors, so you can use your high-end external speakers for a better listening experience.
VInYL MUSIC ON Record Player
This is without a doubt one of the most affordable micro Hi-Fi systems with a turntable. It comes with detachable speakers that bring life to audio, thanks to their realistic and loud sound reproduction.
What’s more, the player has a Bluetooth receiver that allows you to play music from your phone, PC, or tablet without using bulky wires.
The Record Player features a 2-speed turntable (33 and 45 RPM) and a pro-grade stylus that protects your vinyl from getting scratched and prevents audio skipping during playback. So, you won’t experience any distortion.
Additionally, this device is beautiful to look at, thanks to its natural wood appearance. The system comes with a simple, easy-to-operate setup, making it a beginner-friendly deal. Also, it has a dust cover to protect your records from damage.
If you’re looking for a great starting point for your audiophile journey, you won’t go wrong with the VInYL MUSIC ON Record Player.
DIGITNOW Bluetooth Record Player
This Hi-Fi system from DIGITNOW is an excellent option for any audiophile just getting into record collecting. It’s an affordable all-in-one model that offers a remarkable range of functionalities, including playing radio and cassette tapes.
The DIGITNOW comes with USB and SD card slots that allow you to record vinyl, cassettes, and radio. You don’t need any special software to use these features – the audio system is designed to handle all that work!
It comes with detachable speakers that produce clear, loud, quality sounds.
Bluetooth connectivity lets you play songs from your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The device also comes with a headphone jack, so you can plug in your high-end headset and enjoy private, noise-free audio without distraction.
Some customers have complained that the controls are hard to figure out. However, the user manual comes in handy if you’re stuck.
If you’re looking for a small audio system that delivers quality sound, I recommend the DIGITNOW Record Player.
Jensen JTA-575W All-in-One Modern Record Player
This audio player comes with a three-speed turntable; you can set the RPM to 38, 45, or 78 to get your desired audio quality.
The backlit LED display comes in handy when you need to listen to music with your lights off. Also, the Jensen JTA-575W allows you to get the most of listening by skipping, searching, forwarding, and selecting songs randomly, thanks to its programmable memory.
Additionally, this music system comes with a power indicator, headphone jacks, a remote control, and auxiliary jacks for connecting your MP3 player, iPod, or phone.
It also boasts two speakers that deliver an incredible sound quality characterized by resounding bass.
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT and Microlab Pro1BT Combo
The AT-LP60XBT is another entry-level micro Hi-Fi system that offers quality playback. The music system comes in a pleasing sleek, minimalist design with an aesthetic matte black plinth. It’ll definitely be the star of the show whenever you throw a party.
The AT-LP60XBT weighs 5.7lb (2.6kg), thanks to its thin plastic construction. As a result, it’s easily portable. However, that also makes it slightly fragile. Overall, the combo weighs about 23.9lb (10.9 kg).
It comes with a transparent dust cover, which not only protects your record from damage but also helps you tell when the device needs dusting.
The AT-LP60XBT comes with Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you can connect it to your phone, wireless speakers, or other wireless devices. It pairs seamlessly with any Bluetooth-enabled device – you simply need to put the second device in pairing mode and hold down the Bluetooth button on the turntable’s plinth.
The LED light flashes blue and red when in pairing mode. It settles on blue once the connection is complete, a feature that comes in handy when you need to troubleshoot connectivity problems.
The system also supports wired connections, so you can connect it to hi-res external speakers for better audio quality.
Also, this device comes with a CSR BT chipset, allowing you to pair it with any device that supports the aptX codec. This comes in handy when you need better sound quality – the aptX codec offers more refined, detailed, pleasing sounds than the standard SBC codec.
The package includes a pair of Microlab Pro1BT speakers, which deliver a superior listening experience, thanks to their 4-in subwoofers and 0.75-in. tweeters that provide top-notch acoustic performance. These speakers are Bluetooth compatible, ensuring you enjoy quality audio streaming from Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Besides, the Microlab Pro1BT speakers have onboard control, including bass and treble knobs, and volume control, allowing you to define your listening experience.
The only downside of this combo is that the turntable’s tonearm is a bit fragile. However, that doesn’t mean the components are poorly designed – they work very well.
Voksun 3-Speed Precision Turntable
The Voksun 3-Speed Precision Turntable comes with a vintage look. It features an MDF plinth encased in an artificial walnut veneer. The 15-watt MDF speakers are equally beautiful to look at. They feature midrange speakers and tweeters that deliver a warm sound.
Rest assured that this micro Hi-Fi system delivers a consistent top-of-the-class audio performance, thanks to the precision belt drive that minimizes vibration.
Also, the metal tonearm and diamond-tipped tonearm deliver incredible quality sound during playback.
This audio setup comes with a minimal design. It features three knobs that make it easy to switch playback speed, adjust the pitch, turn on Bluetooth, and control the volume.
With its built-in radio functions and wireless connectivity, the system proves to be a good all-rounder. The turntable can cope with 33, 45, and 75 RPMs, as well as LPs.
In a nutshell, if you’re just starting out with high-fidelity audio and want an affordable system that delivers crisp audio, you’ll never go wrong with the Voksun 3-Speed Precision Turntable.
Boytone BT-28MB
Classic style meets modern technology in this well-thought-out audio system. It features a turntable with a Bluetooth receiver, allowing you to stream audio from your smartphone, tablet, or PC. also comes with easy-to-access front-load CD and cassette slots
The Boytone BT-28MB can convert your favorite songs from vinyl to MP3 without a computer. It has two speakers, a 3.5mm input, and a USB slot in case you need to play music from your PC or other external devices.
It features a large LCD screen and a programmable memory that allows you to search, skip, forward, or repeat songs during playback.
Besides, the Boytone BT-28MB comes with USB and SD slots, so you can save music on your USB flash disk or SD card.
LP & No.1 Retro Belt-Drive Turntable
This music system comes with an adapter and a built-in program that stops playback automatically once you’ve reached the end of your record. So, it helps maintain your vinyl collection’s longevity.
It features two powerful speakers that deliver clean sound, ensuring you get the best listening experience.
The Bluetooth receiver comes in handy when you need to listen to music from a Bluetooth-enabled device. The setup is simple, making the music system an excellent option for beginners.
The Retro Belt-Drive Turntable comes with a natural wood housing that makes it pleasing to the eyes. The speakers are flexible—you can place them on a record shelf or bookshelf, depending on the amount of space available.
This micro Hi-Fi system also features a removable hinged dust cover that keeps it in the best shape without affecting audio playback.
Crosley 1975T
This micro-system comes with a Bluetooth receiver, allowing you to stream audio wirelessly from a Bluetooth-enabled phone, tablet, or PC. It features a two-speed turntable that plays 33 and 45 RPM records, a CD player, aux input, and AM/FM radio.
Besides, the knobs are intuitive to use and give you control over bass, treble, and pitch. However, some argue the range could be improved to provide audiophiles complete control over these audio features. The Crosley 1975T also comes with RCA outputs, allowing you to hook it up with your stereo system.
The headphone jack comes in handy when you need some privacy listening to your favorite songs.
Final Thoughts
Besides producing a stunning sound, the best micro-systems come with AM/FM and internet radio, CD players, and wireless connectivity. They also feature headphone ports so you can listen to your favorite tunes without disturbing your neighbors,
To top it up, retro music fans can use these micro-units to listen to vinyl recordings, share or stream audio content from their phone, PC, or tablet, to mention but a few. So why not get yourself one today?