Two Channel Stereo

Nakamichi Re-2 receiver.   2 channel love in a metal box.

Lets mostly talk Two Channel, or Stereo.   Later we can get into Multiple Channels such as for Home Theater but for now lets go for the ultimate sound quality for music which is typically produced in two channel Stereo.

I think it would be a good idea to show some options in amplification, pre-amplification, and speakers.   Also interconnects, speaker cables and connectors, types of Turn Tables with their varied components, and CD players.   As a side note I have very little interest in radio but since I have so many tuners and antennae options I will go over that venue as well.  I will anticipate minimal interest in Reel to Reel or DAT and Cassette formats but will address these eventually since there is some interest out there and I have collected some of this playback equipment too.

Tube equipment is the original format for Stereo, then came Solid State, later Hybrid equipment combined Tubes with Solid State circuitry.

Tube equipment remains popular today, and among Audiophiles it is largely considered the best route to Nirvana, the Nexus of musical experience most like "being there".  In fact many compare Solid State equipment to Tube equipment by proudly saying it produces Tube like sound.  Tube equipment has disadvantages too when compared to Solid State.  Most notably Tube power as sweet as it is can be quite expensive when trying to produce higher volume levels which is where Solid State shines.  But of course a lot of high end Solid State equipment is prohibitively expensive for the budding audiophile unwashed masses.  Mid-range Solid State equipment is arguably the best avenue for the budding audiophile.  It produces the most bang for the buck and is easier to use. On average Solid State is more reliable and let me re-emphasize more affordable.

The debate rages between Tube versus Solid State or the hybridization of the types when addressing Pre-Amplifiers, Amplifiers, and even CD playback equipment.  The battle will rage on, both formats have merits over the other and a mixture of the two seldom seems to settle the debate.