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BUYING
GUIDES
Here you will find brief explanations of the various checklist
parameters found in the sample and print scorecards. They
are provided as an explanation of the various features
and facilities you're rating and to help you more accurately
fill in relevant information on those scorecards ... thus
making searching for the right products even more informative.
Scoring
Tips for Front Speakers
Use
these tips to as a guide when filling out the buying scorecards
in Sofa. These let you when assess the merits of the products
you are contemplating buying and will help you shortlist
a range of suitable products, thus making investing in
home entertainment equipment a whole lot more enjoyable
and rewarding.
 PRINT
VERSION
[right click to download]
Brand
This is the name of what's usually the full range of equipment
from the relevant manufacturer. It's often trademarked.
Model
This is the number or word that references the relevant
product within a range.
Features
The function or performance parameter under which the
product under scrutiny is being judged.
Warranty
The extent that the manufacturer, distributor or retailer
(or, some, or all parties) guarantee a product from
failure in operation under normal conditions.
Cosmetic
Design
How the products look and how they will integrate with
your system and into your home environment.
Construction
quality
Does it look and feel well made?
Cabinet
finish
Is it real wood veneer or a synthetic finish?
Magnetic
shielding
It can be a good design feature to have.
Driver
array
The front panel low range and tweeter positioning.
Low
range drivers
High quality high tech designs?
High
range drivers
Dome tweeters are best for good dispersion.
Bass
loading system
Bass reflex can give added oomph in a small enclosure.
Frequency
response
Must be wide range to cater for 5.1 surround systems.
Speaker
sensitivity
Will it be difficult for the receiver to drive?
Impedance
suitability
8 ohms is best but 6 ohms could do.
Power
handling capacity
The more real watts it handles the better.
Sound
character
Your impressions of the overall sonic experience.
Sound
quality
Is it balanced and smooth across the range it reproduces?
Sound
detail
Mandatory for clear dialogue during heavy movies.
Sound
accuracy
This will manifest as an honest, natural sound.
Sound
dispersion
How many people hear centre channel sound properly.
Output
connectors
Binding posts are best
Bi-wire
compatibility
You never know when it will come in handy
Dimensions
Do the measurements match existing components and will
they fit cupboards, shelving and other storage options?
Weight
Can the player the be stacked safely with other components?
Total
Points Awarded
The tally of all scores awarded which gives you a numerical
value of the relevant product's worth.
Comments
Where you place notes of your personal experiences when
auditioning the relevant products.
Copyright
1996-2002. Virtual Magazines. All rights reserved.
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