Compact systems under test

Bestselling compact system

Bestseller no. 5 LG CM2460 mini hi-fi system with stereo speakers (1 pair, 100 watts RMS) chrome/black
Bestseller no. 6 Philips mini stereo system with Bluetooth/HiFi system, DAB+, FM radio, USB, CD player, MP3, bass reflex speakers, digital sound control, 18 W/Philips Audio TAM3505/12

What is a compact system?

A compact system is a stereo system that consists of a single cabinet that houses the various components that make up a complete stereo system. The compact system usually contains the usual components for stereo systems at the time.

In detail, this means that the compact systems have a built-in amplifier have and also components such as a CD player or a Radio have.

Of course, the speakers should not be missing for the real music experience with the compact system. These can either be embedded in the compact system or connected to the system externally using cables.

The compact system was originally invented in the 1960s. With it, the numerous components of a system should be combined in one device according to the modular principle.

With the advent of the compact cassette and compact disc (CD) in the late 1980s, but at the latest since the 1990s, the compact systems consisted of a component that could be used to play cassettes, a CD player, a record player, a Radio as well as an amplifier and the associated boxes.

With the increase in digital storage media for music, the components gradually decreased again. First the turntable disappeared as a regular component of compact systems, then the cassette deck of the compact system was no longer there.

Instead, USB inputs and, more recently, Internet capability and a Bluetooth interface have gained in importance.
The compact system is also known as a mini system or as a micro system. The difference can only relate to the size. Other sources treat the three designations as synonyms.

How does a compact system work?

A modern compact system offers a number of advantages in terms of handling the stereo system based on the building block principle in terms of ease of use. Because already at Connection Even laypeople can hardly do anything wrong with the compact system, as a compact system test proves in practice.

Complete plant

Because the newer and smaller mini compact system even has built-in boxes, so that installation often only requires plugging the plug into the socket. If - as is now common - the system also includes a remote control, you probably still have to insert the batteries.

If the boxes are external, they also have to be connected, but this does not cause any problems in the test for a compact system.

The system is now ready for use. For this purpose, the power button usually has to be pressed first so that the system starts up. You should then be able to use a button to set which of the components you want to use, i.e. whether you Radio, CD or something else.

If necessary, the corresponding medium should then be inserted and the start button pressed. The volume can as well as the Klang be adjusted manually.

Advantages & areas of application of a compact system

A compact system or a mini compact system is primarily used in private living rooms or bedrooms. The system is particularly popular because it takes up very little space and therefore fits into rooms where space is limited.
Due to the often smaller depth, they also fit on narrow shelves.

An exception are the compact systems with turntables, which are naturally somewhat larger, whereupon a current Mini Hifi Attachment test indicates.

Another advantage of the mini hi-fi system is the low cost compared to a hi-fi system based on the building block principle. Because here, in contrast to the building block system, you only have to spend something once.

As shown in a test for a compact system, the individual components are ideally matched to one another. In this way, the purchase of your compact system or mini compact system is made easier for you.

You don't have to spend hours reading tests on the individual components in order to make a well-informed purchase. Rather, you only have to deal with a compact system test - or deal with a mini system test or with a micro system test.

When assembling the individual parts of your hi-fi compact system, you can rely on the manufacturer.
Another advantage of the HiFi compact system is its multifunctionality. Because with just one device, you can play numerous different music formats without much effort.

Advantages of the compact system

  • Small size takes up little space
  • economical
  • Easy installation and operation
  • multifunctionality
  • Components ideally matched to each other

What do I have to consider when buying a compact system?

If you have now decided to buy a compact system, you should think about a few aspects before you buy the right hi-fi compact system.

We have looked at the most important points for you to consider when you get one stereo want to buy a compact system or a mini hi-fi system.

1) Included Audio Devices:

The first question to ask yourself relates to the audio equipment that should be included in your system. You should think in particular about which components you or other people in your household use.

As technology advances very quickly, you should also keep in mind that you may not be using certain audio devices right now, but you might be in the future.

2) Connection options for external devices:

A second aspect that you should consider before buying your stereo compact system or your mini hi-fi system relates to the external devices that you can still connect.

Here, too, you should – similar to the previous point – consider that future purchases could also play a role here.

However, every compact system should have a headphone and a USB connection, as can be read in a current mini hi-fi system test.

3) Wireless Connections:

Wireless connections should also be included in a compact system these days. At the very least, you should be able to expect a Bluetooth interface. In addition, some compact systems now offer NFC connections.

In a micro system test, however, it is pointed out that an NFC connection only makes sense if your smartphone or tablet also has such a connection.

4) Remote control:

If you like it comfortable and don't want to get up every time you change a song, you should make sure that a remote control is included in the scope of delivery.

Mini hi-fi system test means that a remote control is usually part of the inventory, but if you decide on a retro or a used mini hi-fi system, you should take a closer look.

5) Boxes:

The Loudspeakers can – as already explained above – be installed either internally or externally.

While the internal Loudspeakers Guarantee you a more compact system that you can place in any corner of the home offer external Loudspeakers the advantage that you can achieve a more ideal sound reinforcement with them, as a mini hi-fi system test emphasizes.

6) sounds:

As practical as the hi-fi compact system may be: Experts complain that the sound of the system would suffer as a result of this advantage. However, good sound is also a subjective assessment and anyone who is familiar with today's boxes of compact hi-fi systems knows that the prejudice is less true today than ever.

A micro system test warns: What you should urgently consider when buying your compact system is the absence of distorted noises and clinking.

7) CD player:

A CD player is not just a CD player. Because some CD players can do a lot more than others these days. This means above all that the CD players recognize and play several formats. Make sure that you find the letter combinations CD+R, CD-R, CD+RW or CD-RW on the device.

This ensures that you can also listen to various self-burned CDs with your compact system. There are also differences in the various storage formats. This can be done with some CD players MP3 and play WAV, while others only accept MP3, explain the experts from a micro system test.

8) Radio:

Even when Radio differences can be identified. Because the somewhat more demanding compact systems have a digital radio in a test from 2018, while the simpler compact systems get along completely without digital and only FM- Provide radio.

9) Accessories and extras:

With a compact stereo system, accessories can also be included in the scope of delivery, and the compact stereo system can also be equipped with extras. Newer devices offer you, for example, the service of a touch display or a timer function.

An alarm clock can sometimes be switched on if you prefer to be woken up to music or maybe still in the Driving & riding bits the news from the Radio want to hear. A WLAN function is also part of one or the other hi-fi compact system these days.

FAQ for the compact system

1) Which compact system is the best?

You can find the answer to the question of which HiFi compact system is the best in a good mini system test or in a stereo compact system comparison. However, you should always consider the criteria that are important for a purchase decision.

Because not all compact systems are ideal for all requirements. So always consider your own wishes and needs when making your selection.

2) Are there still compact systems with turntables nowadays?

Turntables are making a comeback. So you don't even have to hope to buy such a system as a used antique. You can find different compact systems with turntables, some are specially marked as retro compact systems.

In this case, also see if you can find a special mini hi-fi system test that also specializes in this type of system.

3) Can a compact system be connected to the PC?

If you have your entire music collection in digitized form on your laptop, you probably wish you could hear the music in good quality.

If your compact system has the right connections, it is not a problem to connect it to the PC. This is possible with one RCA- or with a jack socket.

What types of compact systems are there?

In the case of compact systems, a distinction can be made primarily with regard to their design. A distinction must be made here between the vertical compact system and the horizontal compact system.

Complete plant

In a test for a compact system, the two designs can also be treated separately, since they differ fundamentally from one another in some aspects.

Horizontal compact system

The horizontal compact system is the typical, well-known design in which the stereo system resembles a cube. The individual components such as amplifiers, CD players and Radio are arranged one above the other.

In the past, this type of compact system also included a cassette player and a record player. The record player in particular contributed to the fact that this form was initially able to establish itself as the standard, because after all you need a sufficiently large area on which to put the LPs, can be read in a test for a compact system.

Another feature of the vertical design of the stereo hi-fi Anklage is that the boxes in this form of system are usually external. This means that not only can they be made larger and more sonorous, but the boxes can also be set up optimally in the room so that you can achieve the best sound with your mini hi-fi system.

The advantages of a mini hi-fi compact system in horizontal form:

  • Classic cube shape
  • (Often) external boxes with higher Performance
  • More powerful than vertical models

The disadvantages of a mini hi-fi compact system in horizontal form:

  • Takes up quite a lot of space
  • Doesn't fit on every shelf because of its depth
  • Not a modern, but rather a classic look

Vertical compact system

The vertical compact system is characterized by its narrow design. In this way, it also fits on particularly narrow shelves. Some models are even designed to be mounted on the wall, explains a micro system test from 2019. The vertical design of the compact system is a relatively new development.

The systems appear accordingly noble and have a particularly contemporary design. However, you have to decide what is more important to you. Because the pretty look is at the expense of the sound. The boxes are also flat and firmly mounted on the mini compact system.

The performance of the mini compact system is also lower compared to the average performance of compact systems in cube form, as can be read in a current mini system test from 2019.

The advantages of a mini hi-fi compact system in vertical form:

  • The mini hi-fi compact system fits on any narrow shelf
  • Sometimes it can even be mounted on the wall
  • It has the very latest and chicest design

The disadvantages of a mini hi-fi compact system in vertical form:

  • The sound cannot keep up with a mini hi-fi compact system in horizontal form
  • The boxes cannot be positioned well
  • The classic design of a stereo system is missing

This is how compact systems were tested

A compact system test can be found from numerous providers on the Internet. However, nothing beats the trustworthiness of a test for the best mini stereo system from Stiftung Warentest. The compact system test of the well-known consumer institute is based on the following evaluations:

Tonbei from Stiftung Warentest:

In the test for the best mini stereo system by Stiftung Warentest, the greatest value is placed on the criterion of sound. A full 55% of the overall rating depends on this criterion in the micro system test.

Lead to the decision here

1) a hearing test with subjective evaluation by experts
2) the perception of operational noise
3) the maximum volume.

Handling at Stiftung Warentest:

The criterion of handling is particularly important for most users, because after all the technical devices should also be able to be operated. Accordingly, the evaluation of this criterion in the mini system test accounted for a full 30% of the overall assessment.

Among other things, the instructions for use and the commissioning were checked. These should be particularly easy to present in the Micro System Test 2018. It was also checked how practical the system is in daily use. The display and the displays were examined for their clarity in the test.

It was also analyzed as part of the mini system test to what extent the audio devices such as CD players, FM-Radio, DAB+ radio and Internet radio are easy to use.

Versatility at Stiftung Warentest:

The multifunctionality of the systems was examined in this area. To put it simply, the assessment was made of how many functions the mini system has. This aspect accounted for 10% of the assessment.

Power consumption at Stiftung Warentest:

In times of energy shortages and rising electricity prices, the power consumption in a micro system test also plays an increasingly important role. That's why Stiftung Warentest awarded 2018% for this in its 5 micro-system test.

The conclusion of the test for the best mini stereo system by Stiftung Warentest can already be seen in the title of the test report: "Mini stereo systems in the test: good sound from 180 euros".

However, no test results for the best mini stereo system from Stiftung Warentest can be seen in the article, as these must first be activated for a fee.

However, if a good overview is enough for you, you can simply search for “compact system test chip” for the results and come across an article on the Chip.de website in which the test for the best mini stereo system by Stiftung Warentest from 2018 is summarized.

Complete plant

Incidentally, Chip did not carry out its own compact system test. Only individual copies, for example from Aldi, of a compact system have been examined in the test by Chip.

In the report on the Stiftung Warentest result from the compact system test on chip, however, all the results of the test institute are clearly presented.

The best result with a grade of 1,5 was achieved by the Yamaha MCR-N570D for around 600 euros. If you don't want to buy this quite expensive system, you can find an alternative in the Onkyo CS-N575D Micro system for significantly less money. This is available for around EUR 300 and boasts an impressive grade of 1,7.

The Onkyo is closely followed by the Panasonic SC-PMX84, which received a grade of 1,8. However, the facility, which costs more than EUR 400, is not equipped with an Internet connection. However, if you are hoping for a real bargain, you can look forward to the Pioneer X-HM26D.

You can get rich sound in your living room for under EUR 200. However, you have to do without overly powerful bass at this price. That's why the Pioneer-X-HM26D model was "only" rated 2,2.

In addition to a test in the style of Stiftung Warentest, there are also numerous other lists of the best for compact systems on the Internet, which are based, among other things, on comparisons. The following facts are the focus of interest:

Packaging and scope of delivery:

When testing a compact system, it is of course also interesting what you actually get for your money. Various aspects play a role here.

Typical elements that are included in the scope of delivery of a mini stereo system are, for example: the remote control, a WLAN connection, speakers, cables, CD player, Equalizer or a manual in paper format (which is no longer the standard these days).

Product performance:

When it comes to product performance, compact systems usually refer to the music performance, which is specified in watts. You will often find two values ​​here, which are specified individually for each box. The music output can vary significantly here: Sometimes it's only 20 watts, sometimes it's 2 X 25 watts or even 120 watts and more with some systems.

Technical differences:

When it comes to the technical differences, it is primarily the connections that are highlighted in the tests. Mentioned here are, for example, USB, Cinch, Klinke, line-in or DAB/FM antenna Furthermore, the options for wireless operation of the mini system are examined. The type of boxes is also interesting for music and technology experts.

Price-performance ratio:

In the price-performance ratio, all performances of the mini stereo system are considered as a whole in the test and analyzed in relation to the price. The Pioneer-X-HM26D model, which only came 10th in the ranking, is an example of the result of the mini system test by Stiftung Warentest, but in view of its price of less than 200 euros it performs very well.

Information on leading manufacturers and brands of compact systems

The best-known manufacturers of compact systems include:

  • Sonoro
  • Philips
  • Panasonic
  • Yamaha
  • Onkyo
  • Sony

Where is the best place to buy a compact system?

Have you now decided to buy a compact system? Then you are probably wondering where you can even buy the compact system. In response, we can usually give you two general options: retail and the internet. But what is the better solution now?

Where can you find the best compact system? And where is the best place to save? There are some pros and cons to both, which we've put together to help you make the right online versus retail decision.

If you want to buy a new compact system on the Internet, you immediately come across a major disadvantage: On the Internet you are on your own and cannot benefit from personal advice.

Here you will not find a salesman who will face you directly and answer all your doubts and questions directly. The aspect that you do not have the compact system as material in front of you can also be criticized.

Because photos are always something different and the design can sometimes not be properly evaluated. What is much more drastic, however, is that you cannot judge the sound directly either. With the sound you are completely dependent on the opinions of other buyers.

Complete plant

But if you come to this consideration, then you have already arrived at the advantages that the Internet offers: Because when you buy on the Internet you have an insight into customer reviews or you can consult a compact system test from current vintages.

You can also look at more than just one compact system test and compare the best list from the respective compact system test from 2018, 2019 or from a compact system test from earlier.

On this basis, you can then weigh up which device is actually an ideal compact system for you. Another advantage of online shopping is that you get cheaper prices due to the better comparison possibilities. In addition, the selection on the Internet is much more extensive.

For fans of imported goods: You may even find models online that are not otherwise available in Germany and are imported. If you are not convinced of the design and the sound of the compact system after receiving your system, you can make use of your right of return.

Advantages of buying online

  • Bigger selection
  • Better comparisons
  • Cheaper prices
  • Refund policy
  • Research options through tests and comparisons
  • Insights into customer reviews

Disadvantages of buying online

  • No personal advice
  • View by photos only
  • No "test listening" possible

If you decide to buy your new compact system from a retail store, you can also count on some advantages and some disadvantages. A clear advantage is certainly that you get personal advice from a real dealer.

You see the compact system right in front of you, you can admire the design and you can even listen to a sample.

In addition, you can personally convince yourself of the processing and the material. Finally, and this is also a compelling benefit, retail is simply faster. Because here an immediate purchase is possible: You decide, pay and take the system home with you immediately.

For these advantages, however, you also have to accept some disadvantages. For example, you have no means of comparison. You cannot choose the optimal system based on customer reviews or with the help of a leaderboard from a compact system comparison.

The compact system recommendation from the seller is all you can rely on. And this recommendation is unfortunately often influenced by the small selection in the shop of your choice, since sellers naturally only recommend a product that is in stock in the shop.

Also in terms of price, in retail you have to accept what the store gives you. You hardly have any means of comparison and cannot switch from one shop to the next like you would online.

Retail Benefits

  • Personal Consulting
  • On-site audition
  • appraisal of the goods
  • Purchase from today to tomorrow

Disadvantages in retail

  • No comparison possibilities
  • Mandatory price with no alternative
  • No research options on site
  • Dependence on the statement of the seller
  • Small selection

If you take a closer look at these advantages and disadvantages, your decision should actually already have been made: because - with a clear conscience - we can recommend that you should select a compact system from the Internet. The advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages.

However, there is one exception: If you absolutely need the compact system today, you will have to make do with the next retail store.

Sources

https://www.golem.de/news/kodi-mit-raspberry-pi-pimp-up-your-hi-fi-receiver-1903-140147.html
https://www.likehifi.de/
https://www.bild.de/digital/multimedia/hifi/stiftung-warentest-testet-kompaktanlagen-55493100.bild.html
https://www.chip.de/news/Mini-Stereoanlage-Test-Sieger-der-Stiftung-Warentest_139697264.html
https://www.thomann.de/intl/index.html