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Explainers
Audio Explained — Types, How They Work, and What Features Matter
From earbuds and headphones to speakers and sound systems, these explainers cover the fundamentals of audio technology — how each type works, what the specs mean, and what to understand before you're ready to buy.
Featured
Featured Audio Explainers
Start with the big ideas—what each audio type is for, the features that actually matter, and the trade-offs worth understanding before you shop. These featured explainers help you get oriented fast, then dive deeper into specific categories.
All Explainers
All Audio Explainers
This is the complete Audio explainer library — fundamentals, types, features, and practical guidance. Browse every article in one place, or use the sections below to narrow your focus.
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Audio Explainers by Category
Choose a Audio category to explore its full explainer library — fundamentals, how-it-works breakdowns, and practical guidance.
Explainers
Learn earbud types, driver tech, fit styles, and what specs like ANC and codec support actually mean.
Explainers
Understand open vs. closed-back, over-ear vs. on-ear, impedance, and how headphone drivers shape sound.
Explainers
Covers system components, channel configurations like 2.1 and 5.1, and how each part shapes your listening space.
Explainers
Explains driver types, passive vs. active designs, frequency response, and how placement affects sound quality.
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Want to go from general audio knowledge to the right pick for your needs? Explore our top picks, narrow options with comparisons, or go deeper with hands-on reviews.