How Does a Stereo System Work?

Stereo systems are a common electronic item that can be found in nearly every home and business. When buying a new sound system, the appearance and the quality of sound are often what people make a decision on. Understanding how stereo systems work, however, can help pick the best one.

The Basis of Stereo Audio

Stereo output depends on the broadcast of one independent audio signal being to the left ear, while the other is broadcast to the right ear in what is called a two-channel audio system. In the case of surround sound stereo the number of channels can go as high as five or seven. The effects of stereo audio is that the music sounds more realistic.

Audio Input

A stereo system starts with an audio source, or an audio input. The audio input can be inside the system, like when a CD or DVD audio player is included as part of the actual device. The audio source can also be external, such as when the stereo system is equipped with line-in inputs for outside sources. This allows for audio cables, such as RCA stereo cables, to input audio signals from another source. Stereo systems can also feature wireless receivers for wireless audio signals from other devices.

Cables

External audio inputs are typically received into a stereo system by means of cables. Traditionally this means RCA audio cables, which come in pairs, one for the left signal and one for the right signal. More modern stereo systems allow for the use of five or even seven channel audio input cables.

Amplifier

Once the audio signal has entered the stereo system, an amplifier raises the power of the signal so that it can actually be heard by people. After that the amplifier passes it onto the output system.

Output

The output is the method by which people hear the audio signal. This typically means one of two ways, a speaker system or headphones.