Hitachi is a Japanese multinational conglomerate company with a diverse range of products and services. It was founded in 1910 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The company operates in various sectors including electronics, construction machinery, power systems, automotive systems, and more.

Hitachi

The Hitachi FT-MD 50 is a vintage AM/FM stereo tuner that was released in the late 1970s or early 1980s. It features analog tuning, a digital frequency display, and may have been part of a larger component audio system.

FT-MD 50


The intriguing question often arises among music enthusiasts: Can you connect an electric guitar to a home HiFi speaker system? Or even further, is it possible to interchange guitar and HiFi speakers? The question taps into a complex web of factors, including frequency response, impedance, and overall sound quality. While there's no straightforward answer, exploring the compatibility between the two realms can offer a more nuanced understanding.

## The Theoretical Underpinnings

### What Makes Each Type of Speaker Unique?

Guitar cabinets and HiFi speakers are engineered for different purposes. The former aims to emphasize a unique frequency response that colors your guitar's sound with character and warmth. On the other hand, HiFi speakers are designed to offer a balanced frequency response across the audio spectrum, aiming for a high-fidelity representation of audio signals.

### Sensitivity, Efficiency, and Distortion

Another critical area where these speakers differ is in sensitivity and efficiency. Guitar speakers are crafted to produce higher volume output for a given electrical input. HiFi speakers focus on creating a balanced soundstage rather than raw output. While guitar speakers might introduce a specific type of coloration when pushed to their limits, HiFi speakers are designed to minimize distortion, thus preserving the original audio signal.

## Practical Considerations

### The Pros and Cons

While connecting your guitar to a HiFi system won't damage the equipment, given the low output signal from most passive guitar pickups, the sound quality may be sub-optimal. Furthermore, some users have noted issues like audio lag and volume limitations that make the setup less ideal than using a dedicated guitar amp. However, for sheer convenience, especially for beginners, this could serve as a makeshift solution.

### Tailoring Your Sound: EQ and Amp Simulation

It's possible to improve the guitar tone through a HiFi system by using equalizers and amp simulators. High-quality equalizers can be used to adjust the frequency response of your HiFi speakers to more closely resemble that of a guitar cabinet. Modern guitar amp simulators have also become increasingly sophisticated, providing a fairly authentic guitar sound for home practice sessions.

### Alternative Routes

If you're looking for more reliable solutions, using dedicated guitar processors with your home HiFi system can offer a more satisfying experience. These devices usually include amp and cabinet simulation. Another option is to use a digital interface to route the guitar sound through a computer and then to the HiFi system. This setup generally provides better sound quality and versatility.

## Final Thoughts

In summary, while the idea of connecting an electric guitar to a home HiFi speaker system may be tempting, it comes with a complex set of trade-offs. Sound quality, convenience, and the level of investment you're willing to make should be considered. Additionally, although the concept of interchanging guitar and HiFi speakers is enticing, they are generally designed for distinct applications and achieving an optimal experience would require a deep understanding of each type's limitations and characteristics.

So before you make that unconventional hookup, weigh the pros and cons. Remember, sometimes the best speaker for the job is the one it was specifically designed for.

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Electric Guitars and Home HiFi Systems

Ever wondered if your electric guitar and HiFi speaker system could get along? Find out what you need to know about audio compatibility, practical considerations, and possible workarounds.


Wilson Audio, a revered name in the high-fidelity audio realm, has recently announced the release of its new Surround Sound Speaker Series. This series is a comprehensive ensemble, featuring the Alida CSC surrounds, Mezzo CSC and WASAE centre channels, and the Submerge subwoofer. Set to redefine the standards of home audio systems, this launch has sparked a blend of excitement and debate among audio enthusiasts and experts alike.

**The Alida CSC Surrounds** (£18,998 per pair) are compact, multi-channel wall-mounted satellite speakers boasting a Convergent Synergy Carbon (CSC) tweeter and custom in-house built crossovers. Noted for their sleek design and powerful performance, these speakers are especially ideal for Dolby Atmos™ configurations, offering up to 30 degrees of rotation for tailored sound dispersion.

**The Mezzo CSC Centre Channel** (£22,998), weighing a hefty 90.72kg, is a testament to Wilson Audio's commitment to aesthetic appeal and sonic excellence. It incorporates rear-wave chamber technology with CSC and features a fully adjustable tweeter module and dual 8-inch woofers, promising an extended high-frequency detail and a harmonious sonic blend.

**The WASAE Centre Channel** (£10,500) is a marvel of material engineering, featuring advanced X-Material and S-Material construction for exceptional vibration control. It includes the Convergent Synergy MK5 tweeter and a pair of 5 3/4-inch mid-woofers, delivering linear high-frequency extension and harmonic nuance.

Finally, **the Submerge Active Subwoofer** (£31,998) completes the series as a powerhouse of deep, precise bass. With a 1,600-watt built-in amplifier and a 12-inch woofer, it offers a balanced and lifelike soundstage, with sophisticated DSP ensuring ideal acoustical interaction.

**User Reactions and Discussions:**

As news of the release spread, users and audiophiles shared mixed reactions. There's palpable excitement about the potential transformation of home audio experiences, with many looking forward to the immersive auditory experience promised. However, alongside the anticipation, there's a wave of skepticism, particularly regarding the pricing and whether it reflects the performance or the prestige of the brand.

Discussions are also rife about the design and aesthetics of the series, with opinions varying from admiration of the futuristic and intricate design to critiques comparing some elements to household appliances. Additionally, the continued use of certain design elements and the comparison with alternative brands and setups are hot topics among technical aficionados.

**Cultural and Market Impact:**

The release is not just a discussion about technology and design; it also touches on cultural tastes and preferences in audio equipment. Wilson Audio's products often cater to a niche market that appreciates a specific aesthetic and sonic experience, reflecting the subjective nature of high-end audio design.

**In Conclusion:**

Wilson Audio's latest Surround Sound Speaker Series is a bold step in the high-end audio market, promising an unparalleled listening experience. As the world anticipates the delivery of these speakers, starting 22nd December for most of the series and March 2024 for the Submerge subwoofer, only time will tell how they will be received and whether they will live up to the high expectations set by both the manufacturer and the potential consumers.

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Wilson Audio's Surround Sound Series and Its Convergent Synergy Carbon Technology

Wilson Audio's latest series redefines home cinema with harmonious sonic blends and innovative design.

As the High-End Show Munich approaches, scheduled for May 9-12 this year, Meze Audio is poised to make a significant impact with the introduction of its latest headphone innovations. Attendees are eagerly anticipating the unveiling of the Liric 2nd Generation and Empyrean II, along with an exclusive first look at two future products that promise to redefine the brand's offerings.

The Liric 2nd Generation brings enhancements that elevate the beloved Liric series to new heights. It features a sophisticated new striped ebony wood finish that not only enriches its visual appeal but also contributes to superior acoustic performance. A key innovation in its design is the inclusion of a Quarter Wavelength Resonator Mask (QWRM), which helps mitigate high-frequency peaks, thereby ensuring a smoother auditory experience. This model continues to employ the cutting-edge planar magnetic technology expertly tuned by Rinaro, delivering a sound that balances clarity with a touch of warmth.

Simultaneously, the Empyrean II builds on its predecessor’s legacy with upgraded audio capabilities that maintain Meze Audio’s hallmark of excellence. This model exemplifies the brand's commitment to merging high fidelity sound with innovative design, ensuring an unparalleled listening experience.

Additionally, Meze Audio is set to preview two highly anticipated products: the 105 AER and the ALBA IEM. The 105 AER, an open-back headphone, is designed for those who appreciate both the aesthetics of sound and space. It features an Art Deco-inspired design that blends ornamental elegance with robust functionality. The ALBA, aimed at the modern and mobile listener, offers a durable build and a sound profile that combines Meze’s signature audio quality with practical versatility.

The High-End Show in Munich is not merely a platform for Meze Audio to display their latest advancements but also a crucial opportunity for direct engagement with the audio community. Feedback and interactions from this event are invaluable, directly influencing future innovations and enhancements.

Looking ahead, Meze Audio is not slowing down. The remainder of the year will be bustling with further product developments and exciting projects, continuing to push the boundaries of audio technology. This event is set to be a cornerstone for Meze Audio, showcasing their ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in the high-end audio space.

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Meze Audio to Showcase New Innovations at High-End Show Munich

Meze Audio stands as a distinct brand in the world of high-fidelity audio, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and design excellence. The brand distinguishes itself through a dedication to creating audio products that deliver not just superior sound quality, but also a high level of craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal. Meze Audio's product range, which includes headphones and earphones, is marked by a harmonious blend of technical performance and a visually appealing design ethos, catering to audiophiles who value both auditory and tactile experiences.

Meze Audio

Discover the latest from Meze Audio, featuring the new Liric 2nd Gen and Empyrean II at Munich's High-End Show

The Meze Audio Empyrean 2 is a remarkable achievement in the realm of high-fidelity audio, representing the pinnacle of Meze Audio's craftsmanship and technical innovation. Building on the legacy of its acclaimed predecessor, the Empyrean 2 combines cutting-edge sound technology with an artistic and luxurious design. Featuring the advanced Isodynamic Hybrid Array Driver, it offers an unparalleled listening experience, characterized by exceptional clarity, depth, and precision. The headphone's ergonomic design, with options for customizable earpads, ensures superior comfort for extended listening sessions. Its sophisticated aesthetic, marked by CNC milled frames and art deco-inspired elements, makes it not just an auditory masterpiece, but also a visual delight.

FT-MD 50

by Hitachi

Interesting articles

Electric Guitars and Home HiFi Systems

Wilson Audio's Surround Sound Series and Its Convergent Synergy Carbon Technology

Meze Audio to Showcase New Innovations at High-End Show Munich