Generally, the more the number of channels per speaker, larger the wattage of each speaker and so much the better the quality of the speakers. Normally, Hi-Fi systems have the best quality speakers followed by mini systems and then the inexpensive portables. However, it is a common myth that more number of speakers result in better sound output. More important than the number of speakers is the ability of the speakers to play all sound frequencies.

Here's a rough break up of the number of speakers for each type of music system.

• Hi-Fi systems: 2 to 7 speakers
• Mini systems: 2 speakers
• Portables: 1 to 2 speakers

Before you invest in an audio system, here are some of the features that you need to be familiar with.

CASSETTE SECTION
Auto Reverse Mode
Plays both sides of the cassette, one side at a time, without physically having to turn it to change the side. Saves you the trouble of manually changing the cassette side. This is for those of you who like their lounges too much to get up and change the cassette sides.

CD Recording
Records from a CD to a cassette tape. Gives you the benefit of CD recording.

Double Deck
Double decks have two cassette players in the same system. These enable you to do analog recordings as well as cassette-to-cassette recordings.

High-speed Dubbing
During recording, cassettes are played and recorded at a higher speed than normal. This feature mainly helps in cassette-to-cassette transfers and reduces the background noise that could also get recorded during normal speed recording. Also these save time, as the recording can be done quickly.