Rating of the best music centers for 2024

Music accompanies a person everywhere, in a car it is provided by means of a car player, during a walk - by a smartphone. But to enjoy your favorite songs at home, you should choose the best music center.

How to choose a decent music center

Before focusing your attention on any technical characteristics of the music center, it is important to decide for what purposes and in what room it will be used. According to the dimensions and power of the music center, there are three types:

• microsystems;

They are characterized by small dimensions and weight, which is extremely important when used in small spaces. They have low power, but quite sufficient for high-quality music reproduction within a room or apartment. The functionality is rather modest, but there are exceptions depending on the manufacturer.

• minisystems;

It is logical that minisystems will be more powerful and larger. They are characterized by an average power level and greater functionality than microsystems. Can be used for discos in small areas.

• midisystems;

They are powerful and large audio systems suitable for organizing parties, discos or karaoke battles in large rooms or open spaces. They are characterized by high functionality and the presence of additional features (karaoke, light music, connection of other devices).

So, when you have decided for what room and for what purposes you need a music center, you can focus on the following details:

• equipment;

It is important to determine what functionality the center should have. This includes the presence of an optical CD (DVD) drive and the way it is loaded (for example, a tray), the presence of various inputs and outputs (for headphones, microphone, AUX, etc.), the presence of an FM-AM module or digital tuner, and support for them RDS. Also for fans of radio stations, the ability to fine-tune channels is important. An important point in completing an audio system is the presence of an equalizer. Most often, music centers are equipped with an equalizer with ready-made presets, but some models provide the possibility of manual adjustment, which is especially important for music lovers.

• sound quality;

This parameter is influenced by a huge number of factors, but the main ones will be the quality and number of speakers and the material of the speakers in which they are installed, the power of the amplifier and the presence of a good audio processor. The simplest musical setups are equipped with a stereo pair (two speakers, each with one speaker). This is the easiest option. It is clear that one speaker cannot reproduce the entire frequency range with high quality. In more powerful and expensive audio systems, the number of speakers is larger and then the sound is cleaner, without distortion. It is important to note that the speakers made of wood give better sound quality than their plastic counterparts.

• audio system power;

Here the dependence can be traced as well as possible. More does not mean better.This is due to the area of ​​the room in which the music center will be located. There is absolutely no point in placing a powerful mini or midisystem in a small apartment. Firstly, it will not be possible to fully use its potential, but also to hear high-quality sound, because in a small room, it will be distorted.

• additional functionality;

This includes wireless playback of audio from other media via Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi, as well as the ability to wirelessly combine multiple compatible devices and control the music center from a smartphone, support for streaming services, etc.

Best microsystems

Panasonic SC-PM250 Silver

Compact and functional 2.0 format micro system from Panasonic. The total power of the music center is only 20 W, but this is quite enough for high-quality listening to music in a small room. The low power of the system is compensated by its functionality. The center is equipped with an optical CD-drive that plays CDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs. In addition, it is possible to play music from USB media (USB 2.0) and via Bluetooth in MP3 format. The system is equipped with an equalizer with 5 preset modes: Heavy, Clear, Soft, Vocal and Flat and the ability to adjust the high and low frequencies. In addition to all of the above, this model is equipped with a radio tuner (AM, FM) and has the ability to memorize 45 radio stations. There is a timer that allows you to program the system on and off at the desired time.

Cost: from 5300 rubles.

• fully digital amplifier;
• high quality sound;
• adjustment of low and high frequencies;
• "Omnivorous" playback formats;
• columns are made of MDF;
• easy.

• no headphone jack;
• weak antenna for radio;
• not very convenient remote control.

LG CM2760

Music center in minimalist design with touch control panel. The microsystem is equipped with an optical drive supporting CD, CD-R, CD-RW media. Audio playback via USB and Bluetooth is possible. Also, the Bluetooth module allows you to control the system remotely and synchronize it with other devices (wireless connection to LG TVs). There is a 3.5 mm audio input for connecting external devices. The center supports WMA, MP3 and FLAC audio file formats. The system is equipped with an equalizer with five settings for adjusting the sound parameters. The total output power is 160 W (2 two-way speakers 80 W each), which is suitable for both an apartment and a private house. In addition, the music center is equipped with an FM tuner with RDS support (the display shows the name of the track and its artist).

Cost: from 6900 rubles.

• powerful and loud;
• plays FLAC files;
• wireless connection to the TV;
• the ability to write to USB-media.

• speaker case made of plastic;
• no headphone output;
• the equalizer does not have manual settings for bass and treble.

Pioneer X-PM12

Compact micro system with full wireless functionality. The Bluetooth module allows you to contactlessly connect to other devices and play audio files in WMA and MP3 format. If the external device is not equipped with Bluetooth, then it can be easily connected through the Audio In connector located on the front panel. There is also a headphone jack and USB. The CD drive allows you to listen to music on CD media. The built-in EQ offers typical settings: Flat, Rock, Classic, Pop, Jazz, as well as a P-BASS mode that enhances the bass. An important feature of this system is the ability to connect a subwoofer. The power of the microsystem itself is 76 W, which, in combination with the equalizer settings, produces clear and strong sound.

Price: from 10,300 rubles.

• supports smartphones based on iOS;
• the ability to listen to music from different sources;
• you can connect a subwoofer;
• you can arrange the speakers in different ways: vertically and horizontally, which changes the volume of the sound;
• radio with RDS.

• low-function remote control;
• time settings get lost when disconnected from the network;
• no manual equalizer setting.

Onkyo CS-N575D Black

Compact and functional audio system with support for various music sources. The music center has an optical CD drive that supports a variety of CD formats. There is an FM tuner with the option to scan the air and memorize radio stations. You can play music from mobile devices while connecting via the Bluetooth module. The music center can be connected to a home network or the Internet (via Ethernet or Wi-Fi). The presence of a USB connector allows you to play music from USB-carriers and connect external devices. The system is also equipped with optical, coaxial and line inputs, as well as headphone and subwoofer outputs.

Cost: from 35,000 rubles.

• clear sound;
• supports FLAC;
• the ability to listen to Internet radio;
• comfortable control knob and large display;
• solid build.

• expensive.

The best minisystems

Sony MHC-V77DW

The one-piece mini-system is easy to transport and operate. A 2.1 format speaker system with an output power of 1440 W will allow you to enjoy your favorite music not only indoors, but also outdoors. The optical drive supports CD and DVD discs. In addition, USB storage devices, as well as various mobile devices (Android, iPhone, iPad) via Bluetooth, NFC or Wi-Fi can be used as sound sources. The system is compatible with a wide variety of file formats: XviD, MPEG4, VCD, WMA, MP3, FLAC MP3, AAC, WAV / AIFF, ALAC and DSD. In addition to USB, the music center is equipped with HDMI, Ethernet RJ45 and RCA wired connections. There are also two microphone inputs and an analog audio input. Dimmable lighting and lighting effects that pulsate to the beat of the music create a club-like atmosphere in your home. And the control of the brush movement system will make you feel like a DJ on the dance floor.

Cost: from 22500 rubles.

• karaoke with a scoring system;
• a variety of both wired and wireless ways to connect external devices;
• an equalizer that adjusts the parameters of not only the played music, but also the volume of the microphone, echo, tone of voice, etc.;
• the model is equipped with casters and a handle for easy transportation;
• gesture control;
• splash-proof housing.

• heavy;
• no microphone included.

LG OK85

Monoblock music center with 2.1 speaker system and a maximum output power of 1000 watts. The system is equipped with an optical CD drive with the ability to play CD-R, CD-RW discs, as well as an FM tuner. connection of external devices is possible via Bluetooth, via 2 USB connectors, optical audio input, AUX input and 3.5 mm jack. In addition, it is possible to connect two microphones. The system can be controlled using a smartphone via Bluetooth, a TV remote control (LG). Equalizer with over 20 presets allows you to customize the sound you want. Supports WMA and MP3 file formats.

Cost: from 29,200 rubles.

• Pro DJ function that makes you feel like a DJ;
• DJ Sharing function allows you to mix tracks from two USB-carriers;
• a large number of voice effects in karaoke.

• supports few file formats.

YAMAHA PianoCraft MCR-N670

The mini-system consists of three independent components: a CD-player, an amplifier and a speaker system. The model is distinguished by its laconic and elegant design. The appearance of the music center alone evokes positive emotions, not to mention the quality of the sound produced. The system is equipped with an optical CD drive, FM tuner, USB connector and Bluetooth. It is possible to play streaming audio from DNLA storages, Internet services, music files from a computer. Communication via AirPlay, Wi-Fi is possible. The center supports the following formats WMA, MP3, FLAC. System output power 130 W.

Cost: from 59,000 rubles.

• excellent Hi-Fi sound;
• wide functionality;
• supports Android and iOs;
• there is an output for connecting headphones and a subwoofer;
• stylish design.

• not suitable for music with strong bass;
• expensive (but this price is fully justified by the sound quality).

The best midisystems

LG OK99

Compact one-piece speaker system 2.1 with full output power of 1800 watts. Suitable for both loud karaoke parties and personal use. The festive atmosphere will be created by lighting that changes to the rhythm of the music, and the Pro DJ function will make everyone feel like a DJ. The optical CD drive supports CD, CD-R and CD-RW. Two USB connectors allow not only listening to files in WMA and MP3 formats, but simultaneously playing audio from two different USB media. In addition, it is possible to play music from external media and control mobile devices (Android and iOS) via Bluetooth. Synchronizing with TV via optical cable or wirelessly will allow you to enjoy your favorite movies with first-class sound.

Cost: from 34,500 rubles.

• powerful bass;
• DJ effects;
• the backlight flashes to the beat of the music;
• can be used outdoors.

• in karaoke, you cannot turn off the vocals in the track;
• speaker case made of plastic.

Sony MHC-V90DW

Powerful music center with 2.2 speaker system for a big party from Sony. Adjustable backlighting, 10 horn speakers that transmit sound as far as possible, wide sound generator - all this allows you to use the Sony MHC-V90DW at parties in large rooms and outdoors. In addition to powerful sound, this model boasts a wide range of functions. It is equipped with two microphone inputs and a guitar input, which will please anyone who likes to accompany himself. In addition, applications for Android and iOS can be controlled from mobile devices not only for playback and sound settings, but also for equalizer, lighting and other effects. The optical DVD drive supports media from CD to DVD-RW, which allows you to enjoy not only music, but also movies in good sound (connection to TV via HDMI). Also in this model the possibilities of wireless streaming are maximally presented: Bluetooth, NFC, Wi-Fi. At the same time, the USB connector is preserved and in addition to playing files in a variety of formats (MP3, AAC, WAV / AIF, FLAC, ALAC and DSD), it can be used to recharge a smartphone. The total output power of the system is 2000 W.

Price: from 54,400 rubles.

• distortion-free sound even at high volume;
• wide functionality;
• a large number of playable formats;
• gesture control;
• interesting lighting accompaniment;
• the ability to connect via Wi-Fi up to 10 compatible speakers;
• suitable for discos and karaoke parties.

• plastic wheels for transportation;
• large (height 1.7 m);
• difficult to figure out the settings.

In conclusion, it is necessary to repeat once again that when choosing a music center, it is important to rely not only on digital technical characteristics and someone else's opinion, but also to listen to each of the options for audio systems without fail and rely on your personal perception. At the same time, ideally, on each musical system, listen to fragments of the music that you most often listen to. After all, audio systems, even with the same technical characteristics, can produce the same audio in completely different ways.