Before we exactly tackle what the stereo is, let us have a peek at its modest beginnings. In the early 1930s, Harvey Fletcher, a scientist at Bell Laboratories, experimented with the formation of sound through stereophonic recording and came up with the concept of "Wall of Sound." Hundreds of microphones are placed side by side in front of an orchestra, and act as loudspeakers for the benefit of listeners.
But it was during the late 1950s, when the idea of creating sounds was brought to new heights.
Monaural recording (a single-channel method of recording sounds) was introduced to the public. The method of simultaneous playing and recording sounds was still unheard because of the limited technology of the time. But still, it was a great invention, since it served as the fuel for manufacturers to further improve the system.
Later on, an assembly of amplifiers and speaker systems that played two or more channels at the same time was introduced to the public. The device is called a stereo. It can imitate quality sounds through multi-channel audio recording and playing.
A stereo is a device that reproduces sound through two audio channels or speakers. Depending on the way it is built and the features it comes equipped with, stereos can play music, record sounds or play and record – known as the dual channel sound reproduction system – all at the same time.
The basic elements of a stereo are a CD or cassette player, amplifier designed to deliver balanced electrical impulses to the speakers that come out as audible sounds. Speakers produce the sounds that you can hear. They come in various shapes and sizes – from the dynamic loudspeakers down to tiny earphones, tuners and equalizers.
The height of satisfaction and entertainment a stereo provides depends largely on the functionality of the stereo system that you have. Although, all stereos are designed to mimic a pleasant sound quality that you will enjoy listening to.
Considering the amount of avant-garde technology we have now, you can expect added features and functions incorporated in stereos that are all designed to further enhance your listening experience. Take for instance the different types of music systems like home theaters, digital sense-surround systems and audio technology designed for cars and those that come with USB ports and plug-ins.