Which factor is crucial for achieving high audio quality in an AV system?

Selecting high-quality microphones and speakers is crucial for achieving high audio quality in an AV system because these components directly influence the clarity, fidelity, and overall sound performance of the system. High-quality microphones capture sound accurately, preserving nuances in speech and music, which is essential for clear audio reproduction. Similarly, high-quality speakers are designed to effectively reproduce a wide range of frequencies, ensuring that both the low and high ends of the audio spectrum are delivered faithfully without distortion.

While other factors like cable management and maintaining a neat installation process can contribute to the overall effectiveness of an AV system, they do not have as direct an impact on sound quality as the selection of microphones and speakers. Low-profile equipment may serve aesthetic or spatial purposes, but it does not inherently affect audio performance. Therefore, focusing on components specifically designed for high audio fidelity fundamentally enhances the system's performance and user experience.