You can’t just pick and choose a speaker system: more than ten expert guides, tests and reviews

Buying a kit or assembling in parts

Currently, radio electronics and acoustics stores offer various systems, including kits that include two- or three-way speakers, as well as a center channel and a subwoofer. In each specific case, the choice will be entirely individual. Some people prefer not to complicate their lives and buy a ready-made kit right away, while others collect individual elements from different manufacturers that optimally match each other in sound.

Most of the acoustic sets offered today are designed primarily for the mass consumer, and accordingly, the sound quality of such speakers will not be at a high level. Therefore, if you are a music lover or would like to choose high-quality speakers for your stereo system and home theater, then it is best to buy all the speakers separately.

Sensitivity

For home theater acoustics, the sensitivity is in the range of 84-102 dB, which means the following: with a signal with a power of 1 W and a frequency of 1 thousand Hz, the system components at a distance of one meter exert exactly this sound pressure. The larger this parameter, the louder the sound at constant power will be significantly higher, but one negative aspect must be taken into account - a rather delicate and sensitive acoustic system can be damaged by a very powerful amplifier; the speakers simply cannot withstand it.

Therefore, when independently selecting all the components of the future cinema, it is necessary to take into account their coordinated and safe operation.

Briefly about harmonic distortion factor

The mechanism for converting an electrical signal into a sound signal has only one drawback - during playback, sounds equal to the fundamental frequency appear, they are called harmonics. Not every manufacturer indicates such a parameter in the characteristics of the speaker systems they produce, although it has an international designation - THD or Total Harmonic Distortions (total harmonic distortion), which is specified in % or dB.

The lower the value of this parameter, the better the sound of the entire acoustic system.

The frequency response

The amplitude-frequency characteristic is the dependence of the amplitude of the output signal on the natural frequency of the incoming signal. Ideally, the graph looks like a straight line, but in practice this is impossible, because at different frequencies it has rises and falls.

Our unique hearing aid is capable of perceiving and distinguishing sounds with a frequency of 20 Hz - 20 kHz, however, this is a purely individual feature of each person - with age, the recognition of high frequencies decreases, so older people do not hear everything that is said to them.

The acoustics have a subwoofer that reproduces low frequency sounds of 2-250 Hz. Therefore, speakers are not required to have good amplitude-frequency characteristics at such frequencies, the main thing is that the specified values ​​​​are not exceeded.

The best manufacturers

The world has already formed a rating of undisputed leaders in the production of acoustics:

• Yamaha is a brand from Japan that delivers exceptionally clear and loud sound in a stylish design. It produces a lot of speakers and musical instruments. The assortment includes acoustics with mounting on the ceiling, walls, shelves, and floor. Their power and functionality are very different. Suitable for both amateur and professional.
• Monitor Audio Bronze is an expensive brand aimed at equipment for cinema halls, recording studios, etc. A distinctive feature of the products is a wide frequency range, maximum tonal accuracy and dynamic range. Produces functional, ergonomic and loud speakers with clear sound.
• JBL. In terms of sound quality, devices from this manufacturer are not inferior to cinema speakers. The design includes a waveguide that provides imaging. JBL products are known for their high power, audio clarity and relative affordability.
• Heco. The manufacturer follows the strictest international standards, which has a positive effect on the quality and realism of sound. Heco speakers are distinguished by their ability to reproduce all audible frequencies and their perfect design. In terms of cost and quality, the acoustics of this manufacturer often take leading positions.
• Sony. The brand is interesting due to the constant introduction of innovations and a huge range of speakers. Widely represented in the budget niche. At a relatively low price, the acoustics are always powerful, characterized by fairly clear sound and no distortion.

Popular home speaker models in 2022

Below is a review of the best acoustic sets for the home, based on customer reviews, from the most budget options to the super premium class.

BBK MA-880S

A high-quality budget set of home acoustics made in China. The acoustics are represented by a 5.1 system with two front, two rear and center speakers and a bass reflex subwoofer, which provides good surround sound and is used primarily for connecting to a TV. There is an input for a memory card from which you can listen to your favorite music. Controlled by remote control, has an organic design, made of MDF.

BBK MA-880S

Advantages:

• Excellent quality at an average price of up to 7,000 rubles;
• MDF body, which improves sound;
• Power 150 W;
• He is good at dubbing films.

Flaws:

• Weak bass;
• Short wires.

Boston Acoustics A-25

Another good budget acoustic kit. It is represented by two speakers with a diffuser on the front panel and a bass reflex at the rear. The result is very good sound, as with all inexpensive options the bass is insufficient. However, you can listen to music in good quality; the lack of bass affects the volume of sound in special effects. For those who like to play a computer game effectively, this set will not be interesting.

Boston Acoustics A-25

Advantages:

• Excellent price - within 10,000 rubles;
• Sufficiently spacious sound;
• You can hang it on the wall, but for better sound it is advisable to install it on stands at some distance from the wall.

Flaws:

• Weak bass.

Yamaha NS-P150

A budget option for a speaker system with a passive radiator from one of the best manufacturers. Consists of three speakers - central and two front. Typically used for listening to music. You can also watch movies. Provides decent sound. Can be placed on a shelf or attached to a wall. Good sound of high and mid frequencies. Made from MDF.

Yamaha NS-P150

Advantages:

• Well-known nonsense guarantees the quality of the equipment;
• The cost of the equipment is around 10,000 rubles;
• Great for music lovers;
• Has an attractive design;
• Convenient fastening system.

Flaws:

• Short wires;
• Does not provide surround sound and is not suitable for home cinema.

Samsung HW-N650

Set made in South Korea. Valued by customers for the excellent quality and reliability of the company. In terms of price, it can be classified rather as in the mid-price category. The cost of the equipment is about 25,000 rubles. This price segment includes systems that can satisfy the needs of the discerning buyer. Acoustics and excellent sound, however, the lows still fall short of ideal. The package includes 5.1 surround sound. There is a wireless subwoofer, which together with the soundbar produces a power of 350 W. This is more than enough for an apartment. Can be used for listening to high quality music, watching movies, and playing computer games.

Samsung HW-N650

Advantages:

• There is a line input;
• You can connect a USB flash drive to the speakers;
• You can connect a smartphone;
• The subwoofer is wireless.

Flaws:

• Bass weakness is noticeable.

Vector HX 5.0

Equipment from Great Britain. It has a wide frequency range, which allows you to hear the bass well without a subwoofer, which in an apartment can disturb neighbors. According to buyers, this is one of the best audio equipment sets. It is often purchased specifically to obtain high-quality sound, and not to create special effects. It is not suitable for computer game lovers. The average price is 25,000 rubles.

Vector HX 5.0

Advantages:

• Great sound;
• Presentable appearance;
• Does not need a subwoofer;
• Suitable for use in apartment buildings.

Flaws:

• Connection only via wires;
• To connect all parts of the system, you need to buy a receiver.

LG LHB 655NK

Home cinema and karaoke made in Korea. Very laconic design. The connection is wired, but wireless via Bluetooth is also available. Perfectly supports 2D and 3D, DVD and CD discs. You can connect via USB, there is an HDMI connector, but only one. It is also possible to connect to the Internet. Price of the set: about 22,000 rubles.

LG LHB 655NK

Advantages:

• 50 tuner settings;
• Karaoke with various effects;
• The kit includes a microphone;
• You can record.

Flaws:

• No WiFi.

Wharfedale movie star DX-1

This UK-made product opens up the premium segment. The cost of such a kit will cost approximately 45,000 rubles. It is chosen by fans of surround sound for home theater and computer games. It is not suitable for listening to music. It comes in two colors – even and white, so it can fit into any interior. A big plus is the wireless connection.

Wharfedale movie star DX-1

Advantages:

• Wireless connection;
• Surround sound;
• Great power;
• Stylish look.

Flaws:

• If the volume is too loud, the sound changes;
• It is highly specialized, which can be considered a drawback conditionally.

MT-Rower Performance 5.1

The ideal speaker system for home cinema. Country of origin: Great Britain. 5.1 surround sound provides powerful acoustics of 1190 watts. This option is not suitable for a small apartment, but for an area of ​​50 sq.m. would be an ideal option. The cost of the system is from 55,000 rubles. The powerful subwoofer delivers bass perfectly. When purchasing a system, it is advisable to take care of additional soundproofing of the walls in an apartment building. The cable connectors are gold plated and require the same type of plugs.

MT-Rower Performance 5.1

Advantages:

• Great surround sound;
• Transmits all sound combinations: from high to low;
• Beautiful design in white or black colors.

Flaws:

• Receiver required;
• The connection is wired.

Yamaha NS-777

Another worthy representative at an average price. Speaker cost: within 42,000 rubles. Suitable for home cinema. When listening to music, the sound in the upper and mid frequencies is noticeably not the best. When the sound is reduced, the defect decreases. The system is three-way, there is no subwoofer, which reduces the risk of receiving complaints from neighbors. The strips can be connected separately.

Yamaha NS-777

Advantages:

• Format 2.0;
• There is no urgent need for a subwoofer;
• Biamping.

Flaws:

• The quality of high- and mid-frequency vibrations is not always high.

KEF E350

Opens the rating of super premium acoustics. A distinctive feature of this class of equipment is not only the exorbitant price, but also the excellent sound quality. There are many people who are seriously interested in good sound and are willing to pay for the pleasure. The 5.1 surround sound is very natural. The sound is reproduced accurately. The Hi fi system has a large frequency range and super sensitivity. The subwoofer is very delicate and does not allow the bass to interrupt other frequencies. The cost of the system is more than 90,000 rubles.

KEF E350

Advantages:

• Unique rounded design;
• Suitable for any purpose;
• Does not disturb neighbors;
• Great sound.

Flaws:

• The mounting of the speakers is not well thought out.

Yamaha YSP-2700

Provides professional 7.1 surround sound, while only having a subwoofer and one speaker. Great sound is achieved by the soundbar projector's ability to detect the location of the listener and provide ideal sound. When installing such equipment in a room, it is necessary to ensure that the sound, while moving, does not encounter insurmountable obstacles. The power of this acoustics is low, but this does not prevent it from providing excellent sound. Universal speakers. The cost starts from 80,000 rubles.

Yamaha YSP-2700

Advantages:

• Clear sound;
• Suitable for everything - watching movies, playing games and listening to music;
• Great design;
• Very ergonomic.

Flaws:

• May lack bass.

Comparison of characteristics of the best models

The key parameters of the considered columns are described in the final table. If the reader does not know how to decipher the characteristics, it is worth returning to the instructions for choosing home acoustics.