Best Hi-Fi System 2021 – Buyer’s Guide

CDs, audio files and music streaming services can all sound just as they were meant to with this powerful yet sleek system.

It is equipped with pretty much everything you need to deliver the music to your ears, whether you’re a CD lover, stream absolutely everything or love tuning into Radio 4 throughout the day. That’s not even mentioning the speakers, which are incredibly high quality.

High-Resolution Audio technology means that it uses higher sampling rates than the standards used in CDs, so even if you are streaming (which can occasionally lack crispness), you can fully enjoy incredible sound.

Bluetooth quality is also boosted thanks to LDAC. Three times as much data is transmitted than with ordinary connections, so there will be no signal cutouts or breaks encountered. Google Cast and AirPlay are also reachable thanks to the in-built Wi-Fi, so both new and stored music can be accessed. The DLNA connection also means you can connect and stream music from your PC, TV and portable servers to the wireless speaker via your home LAN system. Not bad for giving the user plenty of choices.

Everything can be controlled straight from your smartphone using the SongPal 3.0 app. Available on both Android and iOS, you won’t only be able to access the songs, but you’ll also be able to control the sound settings. Sometimes you want the vocals to be more prominent, and at other times it’s the bass. No worries.

If you fancy some multi-room listening, this is also possible through the app. Play the same song or a different one throughout the house, thanks to the ability to link other Sony soundbars and speakers to each other. Your music has never been treated so well.

Delivering 60W of power for the perfect sound in a small or medium room, this is a mini hi-fi system which gives the user everything you could possibly want from a speaker.

You can listen to CDs, and FM and DAB+ radio are included too. Because there is Bluetooth built-in, you can also stream from your smartphone, tablet or PC. this gives you no excuse for being restricted with choice.

The sound is delivered crisply and clearly, and this is because the circuit design inside the speaker body is simple and back to basics – no excuse for it becoming distorted, even at the highest volumes.

It is solidly built, too. If you’re after something which will last years and be able to handle those everyday marks and scratches which can’t be helped, then you’re in safe hands. We will say the aerial is a little flimsy though, so you may have to position this to get the best signal delicately.

There are all the basics included, such as radio and CD, but there are a couple of other features which would have been nice for the price, such as a USB. Those which are there should do the trick though. You still have Bluetooth which many others miss, and the sound quality is so exceptional that it is worth every penny. If you’ve recently dug out your CDs, then they will sound so much better this time round.

An incredible price for a product which hits all the right notes.

The first thing we noticed when looking at the specs was the 720W of power. This is plenty of oomph to get the party started and more. It isn’t the only party-trick the CJ45 has up its sleeve though.

AutoDJ blends one track into another, so rather than having to mess about changing equaliser settings and making it all sound a little rushed, seamless transitions are as easy as anything. You also get the Karaoke Star feature, which rids almost any song of the vocals. Don’t worry if you’ve had one too many glasses of wine and wrongly think you sound like Adele, either – with Pitch Correction, you actually can truly sound like Adele (give or take a few wobbly notes). Or Beyonce. Or maybe even Freddie Mercury.

Whether you think it is attractive or not is down to personal opinion. We wouldn’t say it is one for those who like the sleek, unobtrusive look. But for someone who likes things to be a bit jazzier and ‘technological’ looking, then it is something different.

There are no other words for it. It is a bargain. We had to check the price and check again to ensure it was correct. There are a clock and alarm, a safety lock to stop accidental volume alterations, and app controllability to round it off.

Admittedly, it takes up a fair amount of space with three speakers. But those few extra touches are well worth the possible shuffling round of furniture.

We say it comes under the ‘traditional’ sub-category, and while it isn’t necessarily your traditional hi-fi, it is certainly a fabulous novelty one.

This Jukebox has everything you could want from a hi-fi system, from the radio to a CD player and the option to connect external devices too. There is also the all-important Bluetooth, so you have access to whichever streaming music platform you use at the touch of a few buttons. The 3.5mm jack is perfect for any devices which don’t have this technology, too.

There are two speakers inside the body, which delivers a fab sound. They may only be 10W each, but you couldn’t tell them apart from some of the more powerful ones on offer at all.

Of course, the main selling point is the retro 50s/60s-themed design. If you’re after something for a games room, conservatory, kitchen or to complete a trendy audio corner in your home, then you can’t get much more throwback.

Multi-coloured lights around the edges change colour as you listen, which adds some atmosphere and allows you to get the party atmosphere started if needed. There is a remote control included which you can use to fine-tune any sound requirements or lighting adjustments, too.

It is under £100, and there are more modern models available, but in actual fact, they lack some of the features this one has. If it is a fun item you’re after, then the price is pleasant. If it is a serious music player you’re after, then it still delivers and is a steal.

You may not expect much from the size of this machine at first glance, but in actual fact, it is incredibly clever, perfect at its job and packed with handy sound improvement technology. Which is good when looking at the price.

A digital amplifier and the JENO Engine brings out the best in your music. Every note can be heard, there is no distortion or disruption, and no matter the platform everything is still clear. From CDs and USBs to streaming through TIDAL or Amazon Music, it will be like you’re at the concert.

Then there is Space Tune optimisation, which caters your music to wherever it has been placed. Say it is up against a wall, or slap bang in the centre of the room on your side table. The sound will still be quality, with no interference.

The Technics Music app is the one you need for full control from your smartphone. Pick songs, adjust the volume and even turn off everything when the party’s over. It is available on both iOS and Android, so (almost) everyone is included.

We like the design. It is modern, yet oddly dated which makes for a fab combination. When there is a CD playing, this is illuminated. The control buttons on the top of the machine are smooth and integrated into the body, so there is no unsightly raised dials, and the little screen on the front displays a good amount of information at any one time.

We mentioned the price near the start of the review because it is high – just under £800. Anyone serious about music, style, having the latest technology and saving space with a minimalistic look will likely think that is pretty reasonable though, and the sound won’t let them down.

A rather fancy hi-fi which incorporates all of the latest technology – perfect for audiophiles and tech lovers alike.

First of all, the design is something a little different. Rounded and convex in shape, it allows for a great spread and distribution of music. It is also finely calibrated to deliver the music just how it should sound.

There are more technical design aspects at play, too. JENO (Jitter Elimination and Noise-Shaping Optimisation) eliminates distortion, and Space Tune technology lets you place it anywhere yet still delivers. LAPC (Load Adaptive Phase Calibration) gives the audio and speakers perfect alignment with no delays.

Airplay, Spotify and Chromecast are built-in, which is great for accessibility. You can also access other platforms thanks to the WiFi, such as TIDAL or YouTube. The AirPlay function lets you stream straight from Apple Music, and Chromecast allows you to connect up other speakers or a voice-controlled device.

Internet radio gives you access to sounds from around the world, as well as some gems which would otherwise have been hidden from you. The display is situated at the top of the speaker, and a small yet accessible dial houses the controls.

All this technology and innovation does come at a price, and while it could seem like a lot for something which you may only use periodically, the sound quality and adaptability mean it won’t go out of date anytime soon. Definitely for those who like to be ahead of the game or love a good bit of smart tech

This is a system pretty unlike any we have ever seen before, and we love it. It brings the radiogram bang up to date, which will appeal to those who love the idea of old-school accents in the modern world. Some may say it isn’t technically a hi-fi, but we thought it was well worth including.

Mixing the popular Scandi-style look of the moment with the ability to play brilliant-sounding music, this system really takes the all-in-one category to the next level. Four spindle legs suspend it to a really great height and also add a little something different.

It is great for radio lovers, with DAB, DAB+ and FM RDS tuners all available. Internet radio will allow you to listen to shows all around the world. You can also use the Bluetooth and wireless to connect your own music from a compatible device. And, aptX HD technology ensures the wireless connection is as good as a wired one.

You can also bring out your CD collection too, which you likely spend years and hundreds of pounds on perfecting. It plays CDs and discs encoded with MP3, WAV and other popular files, and the EQ adjustability will let you cater the sounds to what you’re playing.

We never thought we would say this about a remote, but even this is pretty special. It is the RotoDial radio link remote, which is designed to sit comfortably in your hand. It makes it easier than ever to access every button without straining. The Ruark Link App gives you control from your smartphone or tablet too, so you can change tunes while on the go.

The price is high, but we can’t really say that it is more than it deserves. You get the legs, the masses of choice and the design is sheer quality. It rids the need for a sideboard for anyone who likes a little less clutter.

A well-priced, good to control hi-fi which gives you enough control to make for a pleasant experience.

Connect to the Bluetooth, syncing even quicker thanks to NFC. Go old-style and play directly from your MP3 players or USBs. Go even more old-style and listen to your CD collection again to relive the sounds of a few years ago.

There is a DAB+ and FM radio for easy weekend listening, or if you like to catch up on the news before you head out to work while eating breakfast. With 40 pre-set spaces, you won’t have to spend ages scanning in every time you want to want to listen.

Most hi-fis on our list don’t have docking stations, but this one bucks that trend. You can charge your phone or play music from it, and still use the remote control to change settings. Sound is great even at lower settings, able to fill a small room with ease.

The size and flexibility would make it a great addition for a bedside table, too. The alarm and snooze ability would allow you to wake to the radio, chosen CD or a simple buzz, and continue listening while you’re getting dressed to make those early morning starts a little easier.

It also is great for something to transport to different locations. Say you’re going on a staycation, or want to move it into the conservatory for an afternoon relaxing in the sun. The screen is clear enough to see easily and gives you the time and which input is currently being used, which isn’t a lot but is enough

A wall-mountable design for anyone who loves to keep their surfaces completely clutter free, this Panasonic is great as both a standalone item and part of a wider sound system.

It is surprisingly great at delivering sound. There is no distortion, and various modes to cater your music to what is playing. Surround sound mode is fab for creating an atmosphere, and there is also a D.Bass function for delivering thumping low notes.

To turn it into part of a system, simply connect up to eight more Panasonic Music Streaming devices. The dedicated Music Streaming App is the hub of all of this control. You can also operate the CD playback, change the DAB+ radio station and access your streaming apps such as Spotify.

Plug an external device into the auxiliary port, and it will immediately start playing, even if it is currently powered off. The perfect easy way to kickstart your party without any issues. Why not connect it up to a smart speaker with this port and handily boost the sound quality ten-fold?

The wall mounting kit is all included, so you’re good to go no matter the positioning you choose. Because of this ability, it would be brilliant also in a room where surface space is limited. Despite its slim build, it is surprisingly powerful and easily fills the room with sound once you get this positioning correct.

Instructions are a little on the unclear side for anyone with no previous experience with similar appliances. But it is all pretty self-explanatory, and you can easily learn as you go along.

If you want to comfortably spend under £100, then this slightly older (yet still fabulous) Panasonic hi-fi is a solid option to consider.

It has many of the features of the newer models. There is the 20W of power, hidden display screen which only comes on when in use, concealed CD player and LCD screen display. While it lacks the DAB+ radio, there is an alarm function so it can help you wake up in the mornings with your favourite CD or radio-based tunes.

This can be set to just weekdays or weekends, so if it is a 6am start Monday to Friday, but you give yourself until 9am on the other days, you don’t have to spend ages setting it all at night. Auto-tuning also takes the strain out of scanning in all of the FM radio stations as it will save the ones which are strongest.

A standard remote will allow you to place it anywhere in the room and still control it from the comfort of your bed/sofa. You can wall mount it for a more space-saving look, too.

It lacks the Bluetooth and wireless capabilities of many other hi-fis these days, albeit this is reflected in the price. Not everyone out there will need a smartphone-controlled device, or to stream from a pay-monthly app. The price is still great for what you do get. If you’re after something which is primarily there for a handy radio or CD listening session, or needs a fancy alarm to get you up and at it in the mornings, then you can’t go wrong.

First things first – it isn’t the prettiest. But for the price, which is under £100, it is one which rivals many of those which are well over this amount.

You can stream straight from your compatible devices through Bluetooth and NFC, and there is the usual CD player and FM radio. But there is also the DAB option which some other hi-fis really do miss in this day and age, and you can preset up to 40 channels.

The actual radio scanning is very tiresome and frustrating at times. You have a station in mind, but you can’t seem to find it. When you do know the frequency, you have to scroll to get there. DAB is even more difficult.

Another little niggle we picked up is that for the screen to not be displayed, you have to turn it off completely at the plug. Then, turning it on again basically resets the device, so you lose all of the little changes you’ve made to the radio station you left it on/brightness of the display screen/volume level etc.

But still, they’re easy enough to adapt again and not massive issues which take away from the overall experience of using the speakers. The remote is easy to get to grips with, and while it may be unsightly for some, the screen is nice and clear to view. It comes in a lovely gun metal grey colour, and there is the option to change the EQ settings based on what you’re listening to. After all, Taylor Swift and Guns N Roses do require slightly different.

The whole ‘evident two speakers’ design isn’t for everyone, so if you’d like a completely seamless look then this Sony not only ticks that box, but also delivers on the other important factors.

It is just over £100, and great for anyone short on space yet wanting to still achieve quality sound. It is neat and unobtrusive, and the design is flush. Control buttons are all at the same height level as the body, which adds to the design and makes it nice and easy to wipe clean.

You have Bluetooth connectivity for easy streaming and access to more songs than you could ever listen to in your life through your chosen platform, and the FM radio is perfect for any easy background listening.

Our biggest nit-pick is that the information display screen is not visible when looking at the speaker, and only from above. If you’re changing the channel from afar, then a little guesswork could be necessary.

The sound is still great for those background music needs, say when you are cooking or cleaning, and the slimline design will comfortably slot anywhere. It could be louder, but it just means that it isn’t necessarily one for completely filling your home with sound. Stick to medium size rooms. We’d have also liked a digital radio for the price, but the FM will likely suffice for many.

Should you want a hi-fi system with everything – several inputs, CD, WiFi/Bluetooth/NFC, radio, brilliant sound and a whole lot of fun – then Sony must have had you in mind when they made this pretty wonderful collection.

The Sound Pressure Horn lets you actually feel the bass. Enhanced LDAC Bluetooth minimises the likelihood of you losing the connection and leaving your guests less than impressed. There is lighting to add to the party atmosphere. A guitar input, DJ effects and karaoke mean that no matter the theme of the party, you won’t be let down.

Talking of LDAC, this relatively new technology form doesn’t only help the connection, but also transfers up to three times more data than conventional Bluetooth, so there is every chance your streamed songs will sound perfectly like quality vinyl.

Something else we really loved was that you can connect it up to your TV with an HDMI cable. You have struggled to choose between a hi-fi and a soundbar because while you love your telly marathons, so many people rely on you for the party hosting. Do both with one product. Game Of Thrones and Formula One has never sounded quite so wonderful.

Have you had a look at some other powerful Megasound speaker systems and been put off by their design? Some do look rather bulky, and more suited to a real DJ set up than your living room.

So this one’s for you. It is a single large body as opposed to three separate items, but this doesn’t mean it loses any performance in comparison. In fact, it does better. It doubles it at the very least. A whopping 1700W of power will never have you begging it does better.

Airquake Bass has your back when you want a bit of a thumping sound, and multiple internal drivers deliver the sound in pristine quality. The back to back subwoofers minimise any vibration or distortion which usually comes with loud volumes, so you can turn the dial up as far as it will go and still be able to enjoy the music.

This is also helped by the hexagonal design, which isn’t there just to look fancy – it provides noise reduction and helps it reach further. It also makes the build incredibly strong. If you want something which can also be used for TV sound, then this isn’t your best bet as it can get a bit much, but for music and partying, it has your back.

We noted that it was a little temperamental when connecting the Bluetooth device, and it doesn’t seem to be able to comfortably hold two connections at the same time.

We would have also liked DAB radio as opposed to FM for the price, but if you’re after party music then the likelihood you’d use this function is slim. You can store your favourite music on the in-built memory which makes up for it.

Hugely powerful. Plenty of handy control features to keep you on top of your party hosting game. Lighting and DJ sound effects to help you add to the atmosphere. This is a system which will make any wannabe DJs out there live their dreams.

The power delivers a big, satisfying sound which is problem-free and allows you to enjoy every single note. The dedicated Panasonic MAX Juke App gives you control from anywhere, from altering the basic functions to requesting songs in a playlist which can be shared with your guests. Just make sure everyone knows it wasn’t you who picked the bad songs.

Up to 2GB of music can be stored in the internal memory using the Jukebox function if you still want to give people some free choice but restrict everything down slightly. You can also access a USB device with Mix Play mode. A large rotary dial allows you to browse the collection before you settle.

Stored music can be transferred to a USB, and it also means you can play from iPods or MP3 players. The 3.5 mm aux-in jack gives even more opportunities. EQ presets include Jazz, Rock and Pop, and there is even a Football Mode to get you immersed in the big game. Champions League Final followed by a party to celebrate/take your mind off the score? It only takes this one system to enjoy both.

A three-colour illumination function will further turn your living room into a night out, and the colour will change depending on what you are listening to. The two speakers perform best when as far apart as possible or else sound seems to become a little distorted. We guess they kind of drown each other out. But the wires are quite short, so you aren’t going to be able to spread them too far.

Beware that bass is very strong, and we don’t say this lightly. If you’re likely to be listening to something that doesn’t require much, then purchasing a slightly smaller all-in-one may be best for those occasions.

A pretty handy speaker system to get the party started, for just over £100. There is plenty to get you going, from a choice of inputs to colourful party lights to make everything a bit more serious.

There is 250W of sound, which is enough to get the party going without drowning out conversation and making it so powerful that it becomes uncomfortable. Bluetooth lets you make your playlist on Spotify or Apple Music, and play it through the speakers. This way, you can keep the phone in your possession, but there are wired inputs available too if you don’t want to risk a connection getting lost if you nip out to the garden.

You can turn the bass up if you move onto the heavier tunes, and five pre-set equalisers will let you hear every song just how it was meant to be. Don’t worry if you’d rather let professional DJs do the work though – FM radio tuning is available so that you can catch up with your favourite Friday night shows.

The design won’t be for those who are bothered about aesthetics and everything looking sleek and contained. But it could be for those party-lovers who want everyone to know why the songs are sounding so good. The display screen is nice and clear, and you get a remote for simple changes and control.