How the sound quality can be judged The sound quality can be judged by the amount of linear and non-linear distortion, frequency range and timing, and on top of that, one can simply judge by wether the music is enjoyable or not.
Involved components Let's take a look at the components of a system. Some will effect the sound quality less than others.
A quality CD player or amplifier and the interconnect between them and the loudspeakers will cause less distortion than 0,01 %. Variations in frequency range or timing are also close to none.
On the other hand, a loudspeaker will cause up to 1% distortion, with it's frequency range and timing being far from perfect.
Try a (blind) test: Borrow a second sound system from a friend or hifi-shop, and swap only the CD player and/or the amplifier, whilst using the same speakers. It is important that you: a) use a record you play often and know well b) play both sets on same volume c) have a friend switch sets while your eyes are closed. d) As a second test, now swap loudspeakers!
The most critical component Now you know what is most important: Speakers!
Chose your loudspeaker based on the type of music you like to hear. Classical music for example requires best possible accuracy (linearity, transparency) whilst sub-bass below 50 Hz only plays a minor role. On the other hand, if you like to induldge in deep powerful bass, you will need to get big speakers with large scale bass drivers.
Which speaker suits you? Home