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.
新しいオーディオ機器を買いました。
I bought new audio equipment.
Slightly more formal or technical term for audio/sound equipment. Used in both consumer and professional contexts.
この店では音響機器を販売しています。
This store sells audio equipment.
Audio-visual equipment. Often used for home theater systems, TVs, and related gear.
AV機器の接続方法を教えてください。
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.
ライブ用の音響機材を準備します。
We'll prepare the audio equipment for the live show.
Public Address equipment; used for live sound reinforcement, concerts, and events.
PA機器の操作ができる人を探しています。
We're looking for someone who can operate PA equipment.
Studio equipment, specifically for recording studios. Includes monitors, audio interfaces, etc.
新しいスタジオ機材を導入しました。
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.
このスピーカーは音がいいですね。
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.
このアンプはギター用です。
This amplifier is for guitars.
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.
オーディオ機器を買い替える
replace one's audio equipment (home stereo)
音響機材をレンタルする
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.
音響装備
(unnatural; sounds like military sound gear)
ノイズキャンセリングヘッドホンが欲しいです。
I want noise-canceling headphones.