Ever since the DVD age began, I've noticed that music and sound effects in movies are always WAY louder than the dialogue. It's really annoying. Will a properly configured surround sound system fix this? What is the right way to set up surround sound speakers? Are sound bars any good? [more inside]
posted by Afroblanco on Mar 11, 2013 - 12 answers

My stereo system was in storage at my parents' house for several years. When I went home to reclaim it, we discovered that they'd allowed a local junk removal service to take it away! Now I need a new system, and I don't even know where to begin. [more inside]
posted by 1adam12 on Mar 9, 2012 - 13 answers

Looking for a small home-stereo amp. Tripath or something else? [more inside]
posted by mendel on Nov 11, 2011 - 3 answers

Based on their good reviews and cheap price, I bought a pair of JBL Control 1 Pros for my DJ setup at home without realizing they were passive speakers. Any recommendations for a cheap amplifier? I just need some basic reference monitors for my turntables/mixer so I'm a little out of my depth when it comes to wading though reviews on audiophile websites.
posted by cosmic osmo on Jan 30, 2010 - 4 answers

I'm looking for a cheap (about $200) and compact stereo system for my apartment. Mainly it'd be for playing CD's and streaming audio via my Airport Express. I'm interested in the Onkyo CS-315S, CS-325 and CS-415 units, but I can't for the life of my figure out what the hell the difference is. Does anyone know about these systems, or have any other recommendations? [more inside]
posted by DLWM on Aug 6, 2008 - 6 answers

Tell me how much I need to spend on audio preamp(s) and amplifier(s) to make my home stereo system sound jaw-droppingly great. [more inside]
posted by FelliniBlank on Jul 27, 2007 - 7 answers

I need some help with home audio. [more inside]
posted by Optimus Chyme on Jul 3, 2005 - 12 answers