The terms Hi-Fi and stereo are all too common in the audiophile community. Chances are you’ve heard them before and wondered what distinguishes one from the other. So, what are the differences between Hi-Fi and stereo?
There are subtle differences between Hi-Fi and stereo. For example, Hi-Fi reproduces sound in its original form while stereo splits signals to produce separated sound. Hi-Fi brings out finer audio details, while stereo creates the impression that the sound is coming from a given direction.
Spotting the differences between Hi-Fi and stereo can be challenging, even as an audiophile. However, if we consider their definitions, pros and cons, and system requirements, it becomes easier to identify what makes each unique. Read on to learn more about the ongoing Hi-Fi vs. stereo debate.
Hi-Fi vs. Stereo: Definitions
The best place to start is by looking at the definitions for both Hi-Fi and stereo. What are they?
What Is High Fidelity Sound?
Before the 1980s, audio recordings were cheaply made, often using substandard equipment. As a result, most of the garage and punk rock of the 1960s and 1970s were termed “Lo-Fi” (low fidelity) because of the high distortion and mellow sounds on their tracks.
To address the limitations of Lo-Fi, high fidelity (Hi-Fi) tech was developed.
But what is fidelity?
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, fidelity means the quality of being faithful, accuracy in details, or the degree to which a device accurately produces an effect, such as sound or image.
In this context, high fidelity refers to the reproduction of sound without downgrading its quality. Simply put, it means reproducing sound as it was originally recorded.
Therefore, Hi-Fi offers better sound quality than Lo-Fi.
With advancements in technology, lossless audio formats have made it possible to hear the more subtle details in audio tracks. Some high-resolution devices offer frequencies of up to 192 kHz at 24-bits. They capture more information, including textures and touches from recorded audio.
Because of that, they’re called Hi-FI devices.
What Is Stereo Sound?
What comes to mind when you hear the word “stereo”? Chances are you think of a sound system, thanks to phrases like “turn on the stereo.” But it’s actually a type of technology that’s existed for over sixty years.
The word stereo is an abbreviation for stereophonic, which means full sound. It comes from the Greek words stereós, which means full, and phonē, meaning sound.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, stereo is a way of recording or playing sound by separating it into two signals to produce more natural sound. Alternatively, it’s a piece of electrical equipment for listening to the radio or playing music that sounds natural since the sound comes from two speakers.
Stereophonic sound is recorded on two separate microphones and mixed so that some elements are channeled to the right and others to the left. It’s been touted as the best sound tech of the 1950s and early 1960s.
Stereophonic sounds are classified into true and pseudo-stereo. True stereo is when a sound source is recorded using two microphones. Contrarily, pseudo-stereo is simulated – it isn’t recorded in true stereo. For example, a guitar recorded using one microphone is in mono. Still, its playback is in stereo since all audio playback systems use two channels to play sound.
The Key Takeaways
Hi-Fi refers to the sound technology that reproduces sound in the form in which it was recorded, and it doesn’t compromise sound quality. Meanwhile, stereo is the tech that separates signals to produce separated sounds.
All devices that produce sound come with two channels. Therefore, all audio devices, including Hi-Fi devices, are configured in stereo.
When you buy a Hi-Fi system, there’s a 100% chance it incorporates a stereo system. However, not all stereo systems are Hi-Fi systems.
Hi-Fi vs. Stereo: Perception
How Do We Perceive Hi-Fi?
The entertainment industry is highly competitive, and artists often have to find strategies to stay ahead of the competition. Because of that, musicians often go to extremes during sound production. However, most of the deft touches in sound are usually lost during playback, which is where Hi-Fi steps in.
Hi-Fi is the pure audio output of an artist’s craft – it conveys a track the way the artist wanted it to sound in the studio. In most cases, the artist wants you to hear every minor sound on the track for an immersive, enjoyable experience.
Therefore, when listening to Hi-Fi, we get the subtle details the artist intended. That’s why you probably reacted to some of your favorite tracks with goosebumps or chills down your spine when listening on certain audio systems.
In a nutshell, Hi-Fi music brings out all sounds in a track, enabling you to understand what the artist is trying to convey, resulting in more enjoyment.
How Do We Perceive Stereo?
To understand how we hear in stereo, we have to know the ins and outs of stereo imaging. Let’s start with a no-brainer – we have two ears. Much like two eyes allow you to have stereoscopic vision, meaning the ability to process images from both sides, having two ears allows your brain to process audio from the right and left sides.
Because of that, you can quickly pinpoint a source of sound spatially. If the audio is louder from the right side and quieter from the left, the brain interprets that the sound is coming from the right and vice versa.
The louder a sound is in one ear than the other lets you know how far away the source is in a given direction. If the sound is directly in front, it reaches both ears equally, and the brain lets you know the source is centered.
The Phantom Sound Source
Now, have you ever heard of the phantom sound source?
When you have a well-functioning, well-setup stereo set, you won’t hear sound from two different sources. The stereo blends and reproduces sound, so you hear them coming from between your loudspeakers. Therefore, stereo speakers don’t make the sound source so obvious, an aspect experts describe as a phantom sound source, meaning your hearing locates a sound source where there is none.
This psycho-acoustic effect is necessary because the phantom source provides more natural, three-dimensional sound than mono sound.
For instance, although you can authentically reproduce a person’s recorded voice using a mono loudspeaker, it’s a different ballgame when recording an orchestra or a band. Since they form a large body on stage, mono sound doesn’t create anything close to the original.
Thus, there’s a need to create soundstage effects that are perfect for the ears, and stereo technology helps achieve it.
The Key Takeaway
Hi-Fi is used to bring out the details in sound to deliver it exactly as the artist or producer intended. In contrast, stereo is used to create the impression that a given sound is coming from a specific direction, often a central one. Both aim to deliver a worthwhile listening experience.
Hi-Fi vs. Stereo: Pros & Cons
Hi-Fi and stereo both have their pros and cons. But can we identify some differences based on their strengths and weaknesses?
To answer this question, here’s a breakdown of their advantages and disadvantages:
Pros of Hi-Fi
Here are the advantages of high fidelity audio:
- Immersive listening: Arguably, Hi-Fi delivers a remarkable experience to audiophiles. This high-resolution audio amplifies your listening experience, thanks to the better depth and clarity in acoustics. You also get to hear the entire hearing range from the original recording, allowing you to experience music as the artist intended.
- Improved timing resolution: One of the fascinating aspects of the human ear is how we can detect timing differences between the left and right ears down to fifteen microseconds. To detect these, we require a sampling frequency of 66.7 kHz. Other audio types, notably Lo-Fi, omit frequencies above 20 kHz, eliminating above, affecting our perception of sound.
Cons of Hi-Fi
Here are the cons of high-resolution audio:
The Size-Quality Trade-Off
I’ve previously mentioned that high fidelity delivers original sound quality but haven’t explained at what cost. To understand this trade-off, let’s consider one of the most popular audio file formats: the MP3.
Developed in the 1990s, MP3 was designed to shrink the CD’s size for easy storage and download of files. However, the format uses “lossy” compression, meaning some bits of data are permanently removed. Contrarily, Hi-Fi technology doesn’t omit any data during processing.
Because of that, storing audio in high-res formats — such as the Free Lossless Audio Codec (FLAC) and the Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC) formats — allows you to retain all information, delivering the same sound as the source material.
Therefore, you need more storage, a no-brainer.
Increased Distortion
Hi-Fi’s notable flaw is the intermodulation distortion effect, which occurs when different tones interfere with each other. IMD is prevalent in all audio equipment; only the degree varies.
Although it’s been reduced using advanced technology, IMD remains a challenge at ultrasonic frequencies. Therefore, although Hi-Fi is designed to cover a wider frequency, equipment that cannot reproduce such high frequencies — notably amplifiers and tweeters — may produce substantial IMD if operated at those frequencies.
Pros of Stereo
Immersive Listening Experience
A stereo system delivers an immersive experience, thanks to the creation of a phantom image. Instead of perceiving sound as emanating from either speaker, you get the feeling that it’s coming from the space between them. Depending on the blend between your speakers, you can adjust the perceived location of the sound source.
Therefore, stereo allows you to create images by playing the cues used to localize sound, allowing you to determine the sound source’s direction.
Interaural Level Difference (ILD)
ILD is the difference in the level of a sound between the left and right ears.
One of the properties of sound is attenuation. Simply put, sound reduces with distance, so the further it travels, the quieter it becomes. Now, say the sound source is directly in front of you. It takes the same-length path to both ears in that scenario, so the sound becomes equally loud to both ears.
However, if sound originates from the left side, it reaches the left ear faster and louder, and the right one slower and quieter.
Stereo image-panning, a method of creating stereo images, works on this principle.
Therefore, depending on your preferences, you can send signals to both speakers. However, send them to one at lower levels to create the impression that the audio is playing from one side.
Interaural Time Differences (ITD)
ITD is another cue we use to localize sounds.
As I’ve mentioned, sound reaches one ear faster than the other, depending on the source’s direction. Therefore, the arrival time isn’t the same. This difference in sound arrival time at each ear is called the interaural time difference (ITD).
ITD is so powerful that if a sound is equally loud in both ears, but it reaches one first, it’ll appear to have originated from the side of the ear that picked it up first. This is called the Haas effect, which is used in audio mixing applications.
To use this technique, send the same signal to the right and left speakers evenly, then start adding a delay to the left channel. The signal from the right speaker would reach your right ear first. You may perceive the sound to be coming from that side, although both speakers are equally loud.
Reduced Phase Interference
Mixing audio in stereo helps prevent phase interference. This form of interference is expected when the same sound originates from different locations, such as two speakers. It’s common when mono signals are played through stereo systems.
Mixing in stereo allows producers to pan all instruments to ensure each signal predominantly comes from only one source. This reduces interference between left and right signals, delivering audio clarity.
Cons of Stereo
Although stereo audio delivers an immersive experience, it comes with two key drawbacks:
Mono Compatibility
This is one of the critical problems with stereo audio. Specifically, although stereo audio can prevent phase interference, it can cause phase issues in some instances. For example, when listening to stereo audio on a smartphone or other mono playback devices, chances are the left and right channels will mix, resulting in signal interference, which could hurt your listening experience.
Complexity and Cost
Stereo audio is complex to set up. It requires separate amplifiers, speaker circuits, and signal chains. Because of that, it’s also expensive.
The Key Takeaways
To store sound in Hi-Fi format, you need extra storage. On the other hand, the storage aspect isn’t a clear-cut requirement when talking about stereo. Stereo is mainly concerned with how your ears process the output.
What Makes Up a Hi-Fi vs. a Stereo System?
There are subtle differences in the compositions of Hi-Fi and stereo systems. Here’s an overview of what makes up each system:
Hi-Fi System
To assemble a Hi-Fi system, you need a source, amplifier, speakers, and cables. Let’s discuss each of these in detail.
Source
Undoubtedly, this is the first item to think about when you want to play your favorite tracks.
If you want to play that curated collection you’ve stored on a hard drive, use a streaming service, such as Apple Music or Spotify. That means you’ll need a network player.
Instead, if you want to listen to your archived vinyl collection, you’ll need a record player. With Hi-Fi, the possibilities are endless — what matters more is the format in which your tracks are stored.
Amplifier
An amplifier is an absolute requirement in a Hi-Fi system. It comes in handy when you need to control the volume and power your system. In other words, it’s what sets your system in motion. Amplifiers come in different types, including pre-amps, power amps, and integrated amps.
Speakers
You’ll need a device that outputs the sounds you’re playing because, without a speaker, your setup is incomplete. In this regard, it’s a good idea to consider the speaker size, size of the room, and where you’ll position your speakers. It’s critical to note that you don’t need massive speakers to get the best listening experience.
Cables
Your units must be connected to function, so you’ll need cables. All Hi-Fi systems require interconnects, such as speaker cables, which you can buy at customized or pre-cut lengths. They also require power cables to connect to a power source.
Stereo System
On the other hand, stereo systems require a source, receiver, amplifier, and speakers to function. Here’s a little more about each:
- Source: A stereo system requires a music source, such as a CD player, turntable, or a receiver’s built-in tuner. It could also be a wireless connection. You could even use your smartphone, PC, or home network as a source in today’s digital age.
- Stereo receiver: A receiver is another critical requirement for assembling a stereo system. Conventional stereo receivers come with AM/FM tuners with 2-channel amplifiers. They also feature preamp sections, which give audiophiles control over volume, tonal balance, and source selection.
- Integrated amplifier: An integrated amplifier resembles a receiver. However, unlike the receiver, it doesn’t feature a radio turner. An integrated amp can be as large as a receiver, although several compact options are available.
- Speakers: You could use powered stereo speakers to liven up your room, kitchen, or apartment. Often, these speakers feature wireless technology and come with minimalist designs to save space. You could also link them in stereo mode, which comes in handy when you need a multi-room stereo setup. That way, you can connect speakers in different rooms to listen to your favorite chart-toppers uninterrupted anywhere.
The Key Takeaways
Traditionally, a stereo system must have a receiver, but a receiver isn’t a must-have in a Hi-Fi system.
Whichever audio format you prefer, and whether assembling a Hi-Fi or stereo system, it’s better to aim for getting a flat, smooth frequency response. The playback shouldn’t emphasize midrange, high, or low frequencies. Instead, it should accurately reproduce the timbre of recorded audio. Each voice or instrument’s unique tonal characteristics should come through, along with a sense of where each sound source is situated.
What To Consider When Choosing a Home Stereo/Hi-Fi System
Having described some of the differences between Hi-Fi and stereo, it’s evident that the two audio systems are designed to give you the best listening experience. Therefore, you should always look for audio systems that help achieve that goal. You don’t want to suffer from buyer’s remorse because of a slapdash decision, right?
To choose the best home audio system, consider the following:
Size
It’s essential to consider where you anticipate placing the system to help pick an appropriate size. Think about the dimensions, weight, and whether your household surfaces can accommodate them. You can also choose a minimalist or a massive system, depending on whether you’ll be placing it on a shelf, tabletop, entertainment center, or TV stand.
Types of Speakers
There are so many speaker brands that it can make selecting a home audio system intimidating. However, it helps to narrow down the type of speakers you prefer, like floor-standing, satellite, subwoofer, portable, or bookshelf speakers.
Generally, floor-standing and bookshelf speakers deliver the best sound. However, they take up more space. Other types, like on-wall speakers, are easy to place and plug-in, while in-wall and in-ceiling speakers require special fixtures and installation.
Wired vs. Wireless
Most home audio systems are powered by electrical outlets. However, some are wireless — they run on rechargeable batteries and can operate over internet networks. Although they’re portable, which is convenient, they’re reliant on an uninterrupted internet connection. Therefore, wired systems are more reliable.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is a subjective topic. Our opinions vary depending on tastes, so what I consider fantastic may sound awful to you. Therefore, there’s no “best-ever speaker.” For example, we can’t pinpoint which is superior between Hi-Fi and stereo.
Therefore, it helps to get a feel for the speakers on the market before buying one. You can do that by carrying your favorite albums when shopping or reading the specs and other customer reviews if ordering online.
Generally, quality audio systems should produce natural sound, have balanced sound, and enjoyable for extended periods without causing fatigue.
Controls
Controls determine several aspects, like the comfort and convenience home audio systems offer. Hi-Fi and stereo systems often come with manual features, such as turn-knobs. Some feature digital buttons, while others have a remote control. Therefore, you should pick the one with the controls you consider the most user-friendly.
Rooms and Acoustics
Speakers’ performance varies, depending on the size of a room and where you place them. For instance, although a small speaker may sound great in your bedroom, it may sound pale when placed in a larger room, like a family room. Conversely, larger speakers may come out too loud in tiny spaces.
Room dimensions, materials, and content, like exposed walls, furniture, bare floors, cushions, rugs, and carpets, affect audio. Therefore, it’s critical to consider whether the audio system you choose would perform well, depending on your rooms’ features.
Based on these criteria, here are four of the best home stereo and Hi-Fi systems to buy:
- LG CM4590 XBOOM: As evidenced by its 700-watt rating, the XBOOm is designed to deliver powerful sound. This stereo system features wireless capabilities, allowing you to sync audio devices or HDTV directly without spending any extra cent on wires. It comes with a dual-USB port for multi-device connectivity and an Auto-DJ feature for a seamless transition from one track to another.
- Bose Wave SoundTouch: The Wave SoundTouch is proof of Bose’s unwavering commitment to producing the best audio systems. This system features USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity. You can also link it with your home network, thanks to the Ethernet port. The minimalist design avoids clutter by eliminating buttons – you can simply touch the speaker or control it remotely using the SoundTouch app.
- Onkyo Home Audio System: This audio system comes with a compact yet powerful design to fill your room with quality sound. It features a digital amplifier for uniform sound distribution, remote control AM/FM tuners, and a CD player.
- Logitech Z623: Reviewers describe the Logitech Z623 as an audio pumping machine, and they’re right in that regard. This is one of the most precise, high-powered systems, as evidenced by its THX certification. With a rating of 400 watts, rest assured this speaker delivers excellent power. It comes with USB ports, RCA connections, and 3.5mm jacks and can simultaneously connect up to three devices.
Wrapping Up
The differences between Hi-Fi and stereo are so subtle that you can’t pinpoint them instantly. On the one hand, Hi-Fi stands for high fidelity, which means it reproduces audio without removing any data from its original form.
On the other hand, stereo is a form of technology that creates the impression that the audio source is in a specific place, which may not be the case. Also, stereo could be a system designed to achieve a similar goal. Despite their differences, these technologies are both designed to improve your listening experience.
