|
Electronic Component Brands and Manufacturers: By Chuck Hawks  McIntosh component rack. Illustration courtesy of D&M Holdings, Inc. This is a list of component manufacturers, past and present. Some, like SAE and Dynaco, are gone (*). Other companies, like NEC and Kenwood, are completely out of the stereo component business, but still offer other consumer products (*). Still others, like Sony and Pioneer, market a few components, but the main thrust of their business has switched to other fields. Then there are those, like McIntosh, Luxman, Harman-Kardon and Marantz, that are still leaders in the electronic component field in which they have been a force for decades. Electronic components, particularly those from the top manufacturers (such as McIntosh) are very well made and durable goods, so there is an active used market. Buying used is a fine idea, as long as you are buying from a reputable dealer or a private party you know. It is a way to get a higher quality component that you could afford to buy new. There are a great many sources of electronic components and most are small companies that are not exactly household names and with which I have had zero experience. The list that follows includes only companies that I know something about, either first hand, through audiophile friends and reviewers, or by reputation. They are at least recognized in the audiophile community. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other good brands (and some bad ones) that are not on this list. If I have left out your favorite, it doesn't mean it's no good, only that I am not familiar with it. Electronics (Pre-Amplifiers, Power Amplifiers, Integrated Amplifiers, Receivers, Tuners, Equalizers)
Accuphase * = No longer in business or no longer offers product category |
