Hi-Fi stands for high fidelity, a form of sound reproduction that has realistic sound quality with little noise or distortion, unlike earlier or cheaper audio equipment. This audio technology was initially developed by Bell Labs in the 1930s and championed by audio manufacturers like Klipsch, RCA, and Bose. The quality and caliber of Hi-Fi equipment, including speakers, are esteemed by audiophiles who want high-quality sound reproduction.