A receiver is one piece of a stereo system that combines the functions of two components: the power amplifier and the tuner. While some people prefer to use a separate tuner and amplifier, a majority of those who use a full stereo system utilize a receiver as its centerpiece.
Power Rating
The main specification to notice in a receiver is its power rating, expressed in "watts per channel."
Front Panel
Most receivers have a lighted front panel that shows the tuner dial and also many of the component's functions.
Special Dials or Switches
The front panel also contains switches for volume, radio tuning, tape monitor, speaker selectors, headphone jacks, and audio options such as bass-treble controls or graphic equalizers.
Back Panel
A typical receiver contains inputs for a CD player (the AUX input must be used in pre-1980s models), phonograph, at least one tape deck, and at least one auxiliary input for unspecified extra components. Some models have fuses accessible on the back panel.
Speaker Jacks
The receiver has also at least one pair of speaker output jacks, and often two. Older models use RCA connectors for all components, while newer ones may have coaxial jacks or an optical cable connection for pure digital sound.
Requirements
Receivers must be matched with speakers of the same impedance (expressed in "ohms"). The speakers should also be rated for wattage appropriate to the output of the receiver.
Tags: stereo system