A hi-fi system can take innumerable forms depending on your preferences. It could be half a dozen separate units stacked together connected to a turntable and towering set of floorstanding speakers. It could also be an all-in-one micro system with built-in speakers. There are so many variations I could ramble on about, but let’s push forward before I bore you…

In essence, a hi-fi system comprises a source, an amplifier, and speakers offering 16-bit/44.1 kHz quality or above. Given the diverse range of products, prices, sizes, and features available in this category, I’m now faced with the difficult task of recommending only 11 to you.

In my list of best Hi-Fi systems, you’ll find something catering to your needs, whether that’s budget-, space-, or source-related.

1. Naim Mu-so 2 – great all-in-one hi-fi system

Key Features

• 450-Watt wireless speaker system
• Built-in speakers developed with Focal
• Compatibility with Spotify Connect, Airplay 2, Chromecast & multi-room

Pros

• Wireless streaming, amp, and speakers all in one device
• Clear and full-sounding
• Modern convenience through the touch screen control dial and Naim control app

Cons

• Not the most budget friendly

If you’re looking for a device capable of hi-fi quality while keeping your home looking minimal and modern, I highly recommend the Naim Mu-so 2. This is an all-in-one unit so there’s no need for additional speakers or amplifiers. It will take up much less space than a traditional hi-fi system but also won’t compromise on bass impact or overall sound clarity.

A touch-sensitive control dial and atmospheric lighting add to the overall aesthetic appeal, while compatibility with the Naim control app enhances user convenience. The system’s ability to connect with modern technologies, like Chromecast and AirPlay 2, over Wi-Fi, further underscores its relevance in today’s tech-savvy homes.

Despite its shockingly good looks and wide feature set, the Naim Mu-so 2 is, at its core, a powerful and great-sounding audio system. Sound output is clear and detailed while still full-bodied with great bass – especially at higher volumes. This great sound can also be credited to Naim’s collaboration with Focal on the unit’s dual three-way speakers!

Overall, with 450 Watts of power and an agile multicore DSP to provide 2000 MIPS (Million Instructions Per Second) you can expect to be impressed by the Mu-So 2 wherever you decide to place it in your home.

2. WiiM Amp & Wharfedale Diamond – great budget hi-fi system

Key Features

• Amplifier and network audio transmitter in one
• What Hi-Fi? 5-star-rated and best-selling bookshelf speakers
• Efficient and punchy Class D Amplifier with 60 Watts power per channel

Pros

• Stereo system with a compact footprint
• Versatile amp can be wireless or connected to a turntable, TV, CD etc.
• Just add speaker stands for best results

Cons

• Honestly, at this price point, we couldn’t ask for more

For a hi-fi system on a tight budget, you absolutely can’t go wrong with a WiiM Amp Streaming Amplifier and a pair of Wharfedale Diamond bookshelf speakers. While any Diamond model will work, I’d especially recommend a pair of Diamond 9.1s. These are rated 5 stars by What Hi-Fi? and were previously awarded Product of the Year within the stereo speaker category! The quality of sound and finish make these speakers worth every penny.

If you’re curious to read more about the Diamond 9.1 speakers, click here for our in-depth review!

Both WiiM and Wharfedale are known for their fantastic value so this was an easy combination to make. It’s also a no-brainer given that WiiM is taking the industry by storm with its growing range of affordable streaming devices.

The WiiM Amp, which was released in 2023, is designed to provide both amplification and streaming capabilities in a very compact package. With analogue LINE IN connectivity, you can easily add a turntable, CD player, TV, or computer to expand your stereo hi-fi system. Even if you already have a set of speakers, the WiiM Amp is an ideal and affordable upgrade to help modernise traditional hi-fi with streaming capabilities.

If you’re new to the world of WiiM, here’s a little introduction: WiiM Audio: The Future of Streaming

3. Naim Uniti Atom & KEF LS50 Meta – great premium hi-fi system

Key Features

• Network player, preamp, power amp, and DAC all in one
• Hi-res audio and multi-source streaming
• 12th generation Uni-Q driver array and Metamaterial Absorption Technology

Pros

• Extremely user-friendly with an app that’s easy to get along with
• Amplification that brings out the best in your speakers
• Superb speaker imaging that won’t need an additional subwoofer

Cons

• The LS50s can be fussy about their pairing, but luckily the Naim Uniti Atom is a perfect match

The Naim Uniti Atom and the KEF LS50 Meta Speakers, are each fantastic products but when combined, make an elite hi-fi system!

Firstly, Naim Uniti Atom perfectly marries functionality and aesthetics through user-oriented design and lifestyle-oriented looks. From the LED control dial on top to the large LCD on the front, you’ll be wowed by the attention to detail put into this system. Another impressive feature is the motion sensor backlit remote control. However, you’ll probably find yourself using your smartphone as the primary controller, thanks to the Naim control app’s ease of use.

While the Naim Unit Atom plays well with virtually any loudspeakers, I must recommend the KEF LS50 Meta speakers for premium hi-fi systems. These are two-way bass reflex speakers that lived up to all the hype around their launch.

As well as coming in four finishes, they deliver superb neutral sound with seamlessly blended high, mid, and bass frequencies. The bass is perfectly suitable for large living spaces and won’t even need an additional subwoofer. When you get these toed in right, the imaging is flawless and you’ll feel as if the singer’s in the room with you.

The Naim amp, although small, will provide excellent control over these speakers without adding any colouration to them. It simply brings out their very best, reference-level results.

4. Denon RCD-N12 – great micro hi-fi system

Key Features

• Compact design with built-in amp, tuner, and CD player
• Equipped with HEOS Built-in for multiroom audio playback
• Provides powerful 65W output per channel

Pros

• Traditional looking in a very compact package
• Modern wireless music streaming via Bluetooth and AirPlay 2
• Offers seamless connectivity with turntables and other devices

Cons

• The traditional look and functionality might not be to some people’s modern tastes

The Denon RCD-N12 DAB Network Mini System is just what you need if you’re both short on space and into traditional features like CD and radio. This micro all-in-one has a built-in CD player, DAB/FM radio tuner, HEOS built-in streaming, HDMI ARC for great sound from a TV connection, a phono input for a turntable, and a subwoofer pre-out. All of that in this tiny ‘micro’ system!

To complete the system in a similar micro-style and match your black or white RCD-N12, you could add the Denon SCN10 Bookshelf Speakers in your choice of black, grey, or white.

One of the notable features of the RCD-N12 is the HEOS built-in technology. This feature offers seamless connectivity with other HEOS devices, enabling multiroom audio playback throughout your home. There’s also support for Bluetooth and AirPlay 2 as well as popular network streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music HD, and TIDAL for further compatibility to your smart devices and easy wireless streaming.

5. KEF LS60 – great wireless hi-fi system

Key Features

• All-in-one active floorstanding speakers in a sealed box design
• Streams anything from any source for ultimate compatibility
• 1400W total amplification with Class AB for tweeters and Class D for mid/bass

Pros

• Incredibly thin and minimalistic with a large sound
• Streaming, amplification, and speakers are all covered to a premium standard
• Can be thoroughly fine-tuned to your tastes and room environment in-app

Cons

• For those who prefer not to engage with apps, these speakers may present a slight challenge.

Today’s technology means that even over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi we can achieve hi-fi sound quality. This gives rise to beautiful wireless speaker systems like the KEF LS60s.

Unless you’re a highly scrutinising audiophile, you probably won’t notice the differences between wired and wireless speakers. Besides, the leading LS60 speaker still has plenty physical inputs and outputs on its rear for strengthening the network and inter-speaker connections as well as HDMI eARC, analogue RCA, TOSLINK optical, digital coaxial, USB A, and primary and secondary subwoofer outputs. If you’re solely using the LS60s to stream though, you’ll be virtually cable-less!

These stunning floorstanding speakers are extremely skinny (13cm to be precise) and surprisingly short too; they’re a similar height to a set of stand-mounted bookshelf speakers. This means that even though they look larger, you won’t be set back on extra floor space. You can also choose between four finishes to find the set that best fits your home interior.

In terms of sound, these speakers do resemble the character of the LS50 Wireless II but bigger and better. The imaging is beautiful and the emotion in music comes through in bags. Despite needing some toeing in and tweaking, the sweet spot envelops you; it’s difficult to pinpoint. One thing is for sure with the LS60 Wireless’  and that’s that they have few rivals in their category at this premium price point.

6. Denon DP-450, PMA-600NE & Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 – great turntable-based hi-fi system

Key Features

• Premium turntable with USB-A output for one-touch recording
• Integrated amplifier with phono pre-amp and DAC
• Multi-award winning and bestselling bookshelf speakers

Pros

• A whole turntable-based hi-fi system suitably priced for budding enthusiasts
• Analogue only mode of PMA-600NE shuts out any potential digital interference
• Belt-driven turntable with the convenience of a speed control switch

Cons

• As your audiophile ear develops, you may desire an amp or speaker upgrade

This one’s for the budding vinyl hi-fi enthusiasts out there. Each component of this bundle is ideal for you and can be chosen in either all-black or white/silver.

First of all, your source: the Denon DP-450 Hi-Fi Turntable. This is a premium turntable equipped with a USB-A output for recording your vinyl favourites into MP3 or WAV formats. It is belt-driven for precise sound but offers the convenience of speed selection so you can switch between 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM with ease. It’s going to be a long-lasting staple of your hi-fi systems well into the future.

To accompany your turntable you’ll need some speakers, and now that you’ve got yourself a premium turntable, why splash out when the Wharfedale Diamond 9.1 bookshelf speakers will far outdo their class? They’re fantastic for starting out and beyond but can be easily upgraded later on in your hi-fi journey. If you want some other ideas, we’ve got an article dedicated to the best bookshelf speakers for turntables. Head there for more help with your hi-fi decision-making.

To amplify both your turntable and speakers at this level, I recommend the Denon PMA-600NE. This integrated amp combines Bluetooth, hi-res D-A conversion, and a built-in phono pre-amp. If you’re worried about interference from the digital circuitry onboard the PMA-600NE, don’t be. Simply switch into analogue-only mode to satisfy your cravings for clean and clear audio.

7. Audio Technica AT-LP60X-BT & Klipsch KD-400 – great wireless turntable-based hi-fi system

Key Features

• Active speaker and Bluetooth turntable wireless bundle
• Speakers use Klipsch’s unique Dhorm tweeters
• Bluetooth turntable connects to both speakers and headphones

Pros

• Cuts down the need for a separate amplifier in your system
• Full turntable automation is convenient and ideal for beginners
• Unfussy speakers can be positioned flexibly

Cons

• More discerning audiophiles may wish to spend more and upgrade this turntable

The Audio Technica AT-LP60X-BT Bluetooth Turntable and Klipsch KD-400 Powered Bookshelf Speakers are a great combo for a wireless turntable-based hi-fi system. Being powered speakers means that one of the KD-400s has a built-in amplifier; you can find out more about this in our active, powered, and passive speaker guide.

To expand the system, you could add a subwoofer via the sub-output on the active speaker. The speakers’ unique Dhorm tweeters then ensure clean, smooth high-frequency content and good power efficiency.

The AT-LP60X-BT and KD-400s are Bluetooth-compatible for an easy setup.

8. Mission 778X, Wiim Pro & Dali Oberon 3 – great streaming-based hi-fi system

Key Features

• Compact class AB amp with high-quality DAC and preamp
• Comprehensive audiophile-grade streaming in a tiny, affordable box
• Wide dispersion and large sound from the 7-inch SMC mid-bass driver

Pros

• Diverse speakers for changeable or wide-ranging genre preferences
• Adds comprehensive modern streaming to traditional stereo hi-fi
• Very small amp and streamer take up minimal space

Cons

• Large speaker bass port needs careful positioning

If streaming is your preferred and most common music source but you still like the look of a traditional stereo hi-fi system, this package might pique your interest. It combines Mission’s 778x Integrated Amplifier, the WiiM Pro Audiophile Grade Multi-Room Streamer, and the Dali Oberon 3 Bookshelf Speakers.

The Mission 778x is a compact, ’80s-inspired integrated amp with class AB power amplification, a highly efficient toroidal transformer, onboard DAC, and preamp. It generates 45 Watts in 8 ohms and 65 Watts in 4 ohms for robust performance across various audio inputs.

The WiiM Pro taps into audiophile-grade multi-room music streaming while seamlessly integrating into any hi-fi system – modern or traditional. It’s the key to extremely easy and versatile modern hi-fi. Plus, itt supports a wide range of crucial platforms like Spotify & Tidal Connect, Airplay 2, Chromecast, and voice assistant like Siri, Alexa, and Google.

Completing the system are the Dali Oberon 3 Bookshelf Speakers which deliver large-scale sound with wide-dispersion and plentiful bass. They are great all-rounders, ideal for anyone who enjoys a broad variety of music genres and needs something to cope with it all.

9. Astell&Kern A&norma SR35 – great portable hi-fi system

Key Features

• Personal hi-fi with 20-hour battery life (continuous use)
• Benchmark sound quality with richness, power, and delicacy
• Touchscreen with straightforward user interface

Pros

• Hi-fi that fits in your pocket and won’t wake the neighbours
• Exceeds the sound quality of any smartphone or tablet
• Ultimate down-sizing solution if you’ve no room for speakers and amps

Cons

• Slight burden of carrying both a phone and DAP around with you

Now, this next recommendation is far from a typical hi-fi system, but bear with me! The Astell&Kern A&norma SR35 Digital Audio Player – and all DAPs from Astell&Kern to be honest – are incredible pocket-sized hi-fi devices. They require you to plug in a good quality pair of headphones and then you can sit back and enjoy hi-fi from anywhere. On your commute, a long flight, or a day at the office, the DAP gives you the quality of a traditional hi-fi system privately and portably.

The A&norma SR35 was chosen as What Hi-Fi?’s best portable music player of 2023 and it’s no wonder. It supports the full decoding of MQA 8X for native MQA streaming from the device. Moreover, Dual Wi-Fi, AK File Drop, Quad-DAC configuration, and Roon Ready make this device’s musical functionality as convenient as can be.

It’s understandable that some people might not want to carry around a DAP in addition to their smartphone, but there is certainly a niche of people for whom DAPs like the A&norma SR35 massively fit the bill.

10. Marantz Melody X M-CR612 & KEF Ventura 5 – great outdoor hi-fi system

Key Features

• All-in-one amplifier, CD player, and network streamer
• 60W output with two channels driven (6 ohms)
• Weatherproof and salt-spray-tested speakers withstand -40 to +70 degrees Celsius

Pros

• Enables long-lasting outdoor entertainment
• Combines CD playback, radio, streaming, and amplification in one elegant unit
• Multi-room integration with other HEOS-compatible devices

Cons

• Lacks the raw power of larger standalone amps

Why keep the entertainment confined to your indoor space? If you enjoy having friends and family around, hosting garden parties, or if you run a business with outdoor seating, this system is for you. It consists of a Marantz Melody X M-CR612 All-In-One Hi-Fi System and a pair of KEF Ventura 5 Outdoor Speakers.

To set a system like this up, plan where you will position each component, ensuring the amp remains indoors. The Ventura 5 speakers are designed for both vertical and horizontal alignment, so can be placed on walls or ceilings to suit your space. They also come with a wall-mountable design, meaning you don’t need to worry about complicated brackets.

Then you can measure the space, separating your amp and speakers to find the appropriate length of speaker cable needed. This cabling will need to extend from the amp’s outputs all the way to the back of the speakers. It may involve in-wall or in-ceiling installation for a more concealed cable trail. Alternatively, you can tidy up unsightly cables around your amp with nifty cable tidies.

11. KEF R11 Meta, Marantz AV 10 Pre-Amp & Merantz AMP 10 Power Amplifier – great hi-fi system for large rooms

Key Features

• Exceptional 4-Ohm speakers require powerful amps with upwards of 100 Watts
• KEF implement award-winning Metamaterial Absorption Technology
• Yamaha amps with vintage-inspired level metre, knobs, and lever switches

Pros

• Patented floating circuitry design limits ground noise for pristine sound
• Amp combo specifically selected to suit low-impedance speakers
• Accurate, nuanced, coherent speakers portray music accurately with no colouration or cabinet noise

Cons

• Larger systems like this are trickier to do on low budgets

For a premium hi-fi system that effortlessly fills large rooms with accurate, uncoloured sound, consider combining the KEF R11 Meta Floorstanding Speakers with the Marantz AV 10 Pre-Amp and AMP 10 Power Amplifier Bundle.

The KEF R11 Meta speakers, the largest in the R Series, deliver breathtaking hi-fi experiences with their 12th generation Uni-Q driver array and four 6.5″ hybrid aluminium bass drivers. Paired with the Marantz AV 10 Pre-Amplifier, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality delivery, and the AMP 10 Power Amp, which ensures a stable, balanced output, this trio is sure to have you in awe.

To expand this system even further, add the Pro-Ject Xtension 10 turntable, Ortofon Quintet Black S Moving Coil Cartridge, and Cyrus Phono Signature Phono Stage if you’re a vinyl enthusiast. They guarantee a warm and authentic sound reproduction, complementary to the rest of the system.

Alternatively, if streaming is your preferred source of sound, the DMP-A8 from Eversolo – the talk of 2024 – offers a premium solution to hi-res network streaming. For more intimate listening sessions, consider adding the Chord Electronics Hugo 2 DAC and Headphone Amplifier, known for its precision and clarity. With a system comprised of all these, you’ll be shocked at how good music can sound.