 1. Receiver. It is a combination of an AM/FM tuner and amplifier. The receiver is the centre of the system, where all audio and video components and speakers are connected and controlled. This device receives AM/FM stations, amplifies the sound, adjusts tone quality and other listening factors, selects a source for listening or viewing (CD, DVD, etc.). There is a wide range of different kinds of receivers, but in general they all either multichannel or surround sound receivers. Besides, it is still possible to find such receivers as two-channel or stereo. Your choice should be based on the way you are planning to use the receiver. For example, if you prefer to listen to music than to watch movies, you will not a receiver with many video features, it is better to give preference to a stereo receiver, a CD or DVD player and a couple of speakers.
2. Integrated amplifier. This device is like a receiver without AM/FM tuner. It consists of a source selector for selecting audio components and a two-channel amplifier.
3. Power amplifier and separate pre-amplifier. Sometimes separate components (as pre-amp/amplifier) cost as much as the hole receiver, so why do people prefer buying separate components? The answer is simple, the separate components assure better audio performance and each is the best in the specific function. Moreover, there is smaller possibility of interference between the pre-amplifier and the higher current stages of a power amp, as they are separate components. In addition, if there is a need to repair a part of receiver, you have to take the whole receiver to the service centre, in case with a separate amplifier, the repairing is easier.
4. Power output is in important factor in choosing the receiver. Power is expressed in watts per channel. The amount of power you need depends on your choice of loudspeakers, acoustic features of your listening room, and how loud you like to listen. The power requirements of the speakers should match the output power of the receiver. There is no a linear relationship between the power output and speaker volume, in other words, with the same speaker a receiver with 100 watts per channel will not play two times louder than a receiver with 50 watts.
5. Multi-room capability. If you are going to listen to the sound in more than one room, it is better to consider this fact before choosing the receiver. Some receivers are able to route signals to other rooms, but in case you decide to purchase such receiver, there will be a need to run audio and video cables to the remote zones (rooms) and add an amplifier and speakers.
6. Remote control. There will be probably a CD player, DVD player, a television, satellite receiver and DVR in your home theater. As a result you will have too many remote controls. It is a good idea to get a Universal Remote Control, which can be programmed with codes to control all of the components or can learn codes from other remote controls.
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