The most common input into integrated and pre- amplifier.
An input that accepts only an analogue (as opposed to digital) signal (e.g. from a CD player), probably at line level and usually for the purpose of amplification to the speakers.

The need to 'make the most' of primary hifi components (amp, CDP, etc.,..) through the addition of (often controversial) ancillaries (e.g interconnects, isolation platforms, replacement valves, etc.,...).

The audio version of a clean window: Enabling the listener to have an obstructed and undistorted view of the original recording.

In simple terms, the more efficient the speaker, the lower the power requirements of your amplifier to drive them. If sensitivity is say 94dB at 1m for 1W input, then to produce your target volume, you need an amplifier of 1W ONLY!! If your speakers are rated at say 85dB sensitivity, then your amplifier needs to be 94-87=9dB louder and needs to be much more powerful to produce the same sound level.

In an active system an electronic crossover divides the audio spectrum into two or three separate frequency bands, depending on the loudspeaker type employed.

The crossover is connected between the pre-amplifier and power amplifiers. Each power amplifier is then connected directly to the appropriate loudspeaker drive unit, and only handles one frequency band. In a 2 way speaker, you would have 2 power amps; in a 3 way speaker you would have 3 power amps. This allows better control of the drive unit resulting in more accurate music reproduction. As there is no passive crossover no amplifier power is wasted and information loss is minimised.

The great potential possessed by an active system demands not only source components of the very highest quality but also for them to be perfectly matched and installed.

An active system is a term not really used as far as i know... because "Active" means "it has an amp built in", so to have active speakers it means each speaker has an amplifier built into it, which either means they run on batteries, or plug into a power socket. This is an advantage for small systems because you don't require a high-powered amplifier connected.

To have an "active system" however, must mean that the speaker components of a larger system are active, because the only other part to contain an amp should be the amplifier itself!

High Fidelity - Refers to sound reproduction equipment that reproduces sound as near to the original sound as possible.

Institute of High Fidelity: Institute founded by American manufactuers of audio equipment, devoted to the improvement of audio technology, standardization of test and measuring methods, etc. "  IHF" in audio specifications means that values were obtained in measurements according to   IHF standards.

The smearing of transients that makes bass reproduction sound muddled, usually because of improperly designed sealed (to small), ported (to small or tuned improperly), and bandpass enclosures, although the latter are sometimes designed this way on purpose by car audio manufacturers or install shops to be loud.

A device that can record and play back video to and from videotapes (video cassettes). Typical tapes can hold two to 6 hours of video, depending on quality.