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HiFi vs MidFi

I’m a relative noob to the audiophile scene, having just invested in an integrated amp and upscale (for me) speakers.  From time to time, I hear the term “MidFi” for some components.  Is there an objective or just largely accepted definition for this term?  I’d be curious to hear feedback on what constitutes HiFi vs. MidFi across various components.  
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Showing 1 response by sandthemall

sandthemall
544 posts
 
To me:
Hi Fi is a very relative term. It has been co-opted to mean Hi-End. But it simply means a system that puts a great priority on sound reproduction. That’s all.

Like Hi-Performance (Hi-Po) in cars, it can mean a Mustang, a Miata or a Miura (Lamborghini).

Hi-Fi covers a lot of ground. Anything that sounds pretty good is Hi-Fi. There can be budget components in a Hi-Fi system. It just needs to perform better than an average audio system.

Once you buy separate components, you are in Hi-Fi territory. An outboard phono preamp gets you there too.

Hi-End is another animal. Some people don’t consider McIntosh in the Hi-End anymore. It is a premium luxury brand for sure.

Just like Mercedes is generally considered a premium luxury brand but not really Hi-End.

Bugatti is certainly hi-end. Certain Mercedes CAN be. Certain McIntosh CAN be.

Hi-End sound at a mid-fi price is possible.
Hi-Fi sound at a Mid-Fi price is also possible.

If you are on this site, you probably have a Hi-Fi system.

I think Hi-End is at the higher end of the premium ladder.

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