Translation guide
Devices and gear for recording, playing, or processing sound. In Japanese, the term depends on context: general consumer electronics, professional studio gear, or specific items like speakers and headphones.
Everyday audio gear like speakers, headphones, portable players, and home stereo systems.
Standard term for consumer audio equipment. Covers speakers, amplifiers, CD players, etc.
I bought new audio equipment.
Slightly more formal or technical term for audio/sound equipment. Used in both consumer and professional contexts.
This store sells audio equipment.
Audio-visual equipment. Often used for home theater systems, TVs, and related gear.
Please tell me how to connect the AV equipment.
Equipment used in recording studios, live sound, broadcasting, or professional audio production.
Common term for professional audio gear: microphones, mixers, cables, speakers, etc.
We'll prepare the audio equipment for the live show.
Public Address equipment; used for live sound reinforcement, concerts, and events.
We're looking for someone who can operate PA equipment.
Studio equipment, specifically for recording studios. Includes monitors, audio interfaces, etc.
We introduced new studio equipment.
When referring to particular types of audio equipment rather than the general category.
Speaker(s). Use this when you specifically mean loudspeakers.
These speakers sound good, don't they?
Headphones. Also イヤホン (earphones) for in-ear types.
Amplifier. Often used in both consumer and professional contexts.
機器 (きき) is a general term for devices and apparatus, often used for consumer electronics. 機材 (きざい) implies tools, materials, or gear, and is more common in professional, industrial, or hobbyist contexts. For audio, オーディオ機器 is typical for home stereos, while 音響機材 is typical for stage and studio equipment.
replace one's audio equipment (home stereo)
rent audio equipment (for an event)
The English word 'equipment' is often translated as 装備 (そうび) or 装置 (そうち), but these are not natural for audio devices. 装備 is for gear/clothing/armament, and 装置 is for apparatus/installations. Stick to 機器 or 機材 for audio equipment.
(unnatural; sounds like military sound gear)
I want noise-canceling headphones.
This amplifier is for guitars.