Hi-fi terminology can make a simple subject sound more complicated than it is. This glossary explains common terms you will see when choosing speakers, amplifiers and digital audio equipment.
Active speaker
A speaker with amplification built into the cabinet. In a fully active design, the signal is split before power amplification so different amplifier channels can drive different frequency ranges.
DAC
Digital-to-analogue converter. A DAC turns digital audio data into an analogue electrical signal that an amplifier or active speaker can use. Read our guide: What is a DAC?
Frequency response
The range of frequencies a component is designed to reproduce, usually expressed in hertz (Hz) and kilohertz (kHz). A wider quoted range does not automatically mean better sound.
Impedance
The electrical load presented by a speaker or headphone, measured in ohms. Amplifiers need to be comfortable driving the connected load. See how to match speakers and an amplifier.
Integrated amplifier
An amplifier that combines a preamplifier—source selection and volume control—with a power amplifier in one chassis.
Passive speaker
A loudspeaker that requires an external power amplifier. The amplified signal reaches the speaker through speaker cable.
Phono stage
A specialised preamplifier that raises the very small signal from a turntable cartridge to line level and applies the required RIAA equalisation.
Sensitivity
A measure of how much acoustic output a speaker or headphone produces for a given electrical input. Higher-sensitivity speakers generally require less amplifier power to reach the same volume.
Streamer
A network-connected audio source that plays music from online services, internet radio or network storage. Some streamers include a DAC and analogue outputs; others are primarily digital transports.
Tweeter
The loudspeaker driver responsible for high frequencies.
Woofer
A loudspeaker driver designed for low frequencies. In a two-way speaker a single mid/bass driver often covers both bass and much of the midrange.