How to choose bookshelf speakers: model ratings and selection tips

Music accompanies us everywhere - on trips and hikes, on vacation and in the store, in the car, at work and, of course, at home - and the best bookshelf acoustics should be here if you are a true music lover! Since the demand for this type of product is great, there are a lot of models on the market: your eyes widen when you come to the store and, apart from such parameters as “so that it sounds good and has bass,” you don’t know anything else. We will consider the rating of the best options for bookshelf acoustics as one of the most convenient systems for home use in this article. For you - TOP 10 popular and good models, as well as general recommendations on how to choose the best option.

The best bookshelf speaker systems: rating

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No. 10 – Elac Debut B6

Elac Debut B6
A bass reflex type model that has been in demand for many years. She manages to conquer more and more music lovers with her high-quality sound, distinguished by naturalness, and stylish appearance. This two-way bookshelf system is perfect for those who listen to a wide variety of music, as it reproduces classics, jazz, rock, heavy metal, and pop music equally well. So it doesn’t matter at all what the buyer listens to - he will definitely like the model!

There were no sharp jumps in timbre during the sound - all transitions sound smooth, that is, the listener will have an unambiguous so-called feeling of musical harmony. The rhythm and direction of the sound of the model are also at their best: you can hear all the splendor of a particular composition both being close to the speaker and located in the back of the room.

Bass lovers will be pleased with the rich, powerful sound. Many people simply fall in love with it after the first listen. As for the technical characteristics, the sensitivity of the speakers is 87 dB, the frequency range is 44-35 thousand Hz. It is quite compact in size (268*375*195 mm), and can be placed almost anywhere in the apartment. The body is made of MDF panels.

pros

• nice price
• good technical characteristics
• full sound
• convenient sizes
• juicy bass
• suitable for listening to any music

Minuses

• there are none as such

Prices for acoustics Elac Debut B6

Acoustic system Elac Debut B6

No. 9 – Magnat Shadow 203

Magnat Shadow 203
This acoustics is produced by a German company and has the appropriate quality. Of course, it simply cannot have a bad sound - it is clear and very deep and will definitely please music lovers. All notes can be heard perfectly - no extraneous sounds.

It is equipped with low-frequency speakers, which are also amplified. The frequency range has been increased and is equal to 32-48 thousand Hz, which allows the speakers to produce bright sound. It can be heard perfectly anywhere in a room up to 25 square meters.

The design of the acoustics, as befits a “German”, is pedantic and strict. It can easily be placed in almost any room, and it will fit perfectly into almost any interior style. It is made of MDF and has dimensions of 30*35*19 cm.

This is a two-way system that is of the bass reflex type. Its power, declared by the manufacturer, is 90 W, and its sensitivity is 91 dB.

As users note, the acoustics do not disappoint. It is suitable even for large rooms. You can take a variation in white or dark color.

pros

• good technical characteristics
• powerful sound
• German quality
• two color variations
• The power is enough to “sound” even a spacious room

Minuses

• not detected

Reviews and prices for Magnat Shadow 20

No. 8 - Acoustic Energy 301

Acoustic Energy 301
This model is a solid four on a five-point scale. Moreover, both in terms of price and quality. However, mostly they don’t complain about it.

Visually, the speakers are made in a minimal style. There is nothing superfluous, which allows you not to be distracted from its main characteristics - sound quality. No small details such as fasteners are visible. The speakers are made in black and white colors and are varnished.

Inside there is a 28 mm tweeter with a fabric dome and a midrange/bass driver equipped with a 110 mm cone. The slot port of the bass reflex is moved forward. Thus, the column is not bulky, and it can be installed even next to the wall.

If we talk about the sound, it is quite good, although not as perfect as it could be. However, the speakers perfectly reproduce songs of various genres, and even small elements of sound can be easily distinguished if desired. The exception is very complex musical compositions. The balance of sound and its dynamics are excellent. If you turn on the music relatively quietly, then the sound character is the best.

Like the models described above, this box is made of MDF. The declared power is 150 W.

pros

• powerful system
• excellent balance of sound and dynamics
• good sound quality at moderate volume
• excellent physical parameters - dimensions
• white and black body colors

Minuses

• There is no good sound quality at high volumes
• high price

Prices for acoustics Acoustic Energy 301

Acoustic Energy 301 acoustic system

No. 7 – Dali Zensor 3

Dali Zensor 3
A model that has long been popular among music lovers. Rich sound, clear and fat bass, clearly distinguishable top notes - these are the main characteristics of its sound. The assembly, by the way, is made in China, which in no way affects the quality of sound and equipment in general.

The acoustics produce a clear, detailed sound; all notes and elements are clearly audible and can be understood even in a complex composition. However, any of them is easy to perceive as a single whole.

The acoustics are ideal for those who love bright, rich compositions, characterized by energy and dynamic sound. This system does an excellent job of producing excellent sound with such music parameters.

The speaker is a bass reflex type, has a frequency range of 50-26 thousand Hz and 88 dB sensitivity. Its dimensions are 20*35*29 cm. It will fit perfectly almost anywhere in the apartment. But her weight is not small.

Users who tried the model were satisfied. They note that the acoustics require warming up and are somewhat sensitive to the installation location in a small room. Otherwise, it is not demanding and produces pleasant, rich bass. After just a couple of weeks of use, the sound becomes nicer and cleaner than it was originally at the time of purchase.

pros

• powerful system
• clear sound
• beautiful bass
• Excellent value for money and quality
• high-quality assembly

Minuses

• requires warming up

Prices for Dali Zensor 3 acoustics

Acoustic system Dali Zensor 3

No. 6 - Magnat Quantum 753

Magnat Quantum 753
Acoustics that have very good sound, which means they are worthy of being included in the TOP 10 best bookshelf options. Users note its timbre accuracy, clear high-quality sound and quite beautiful appearance.

In terms of price, these speakers are considered average options, which does not prevent them from being of high quality. The body is made of good materials, so the acoustics are free from excessive resonance and rattling. However, the whole system looks solid and reliable. As for the overall appearance, the system is partly varnished and partly matted, which allows it to be installed in almost any interior style.

The frequency range has been expanded. The speaker diffuser is made of aluminum and ceramics. It is noted that the voice coil has excellent ventilation. The bass reflex port is located at the rear and is equipped with a large extension.

As for the sound, the system produces it perfectly. She is able to convey all the sounds included in the composition, and moreover, deeply and richly. If desired, you can make out all the smallest details of the sound. As for the bass, it is quite deep, although on some compositions it does not sound as voluminous as we would like. These speakers are designed for listening to music loudly; at low volumes, some of their characteristics are no longer so good.

pros

• beautiful body
• powerful sound
• clean bass
• timbre accuracy
• high-quality assembly

Minuses

• Doesn't sound as good at low volume as at high volume

Prices for acoustics Magnat Quantum 753

Acoustic system Magnat Quantum 753

No. 5 - Martin Logan Motion 15

Martin Logan Motion 15
A punchy system with tight, clean bass, although not perfect sound. However, only true music lovers or musicians with excellent hearing will understand the shortcomings.

These are beautiful speakers made from thick MDF with a natural finish and a steel grille. They have a slight slope back from the side of the housing cover. In front is a black aluminum durable panel. The speaker diffuser is also made of blackened aluminum and looks stylish. The bass reflex is located on the rear wall.

On a note! The system has protection against temperature and electric current.

If we talk about sound, then this system has only one minus. It doesn't sound very good at low volumes. But at high volume its sound is close to ideal. Moreover, it is when the volume is increased that both rich bass and clearly distinguishable high frequencies appear. But the most important thing is that during the sound, these speakers do not produce any extraneous noise or sounds. As users note, speakers, on the contrary, can improve the sound quality of an obviously imperfect composition.

pros

• well made body
• great sound
• powerful bass
• protection against electric current and temperature
• improves the sound quality of some songs

Minuses

• Doesn't sound as good at low volume as at high volume

Prices for Martin Logan Motion 15 acoustics

Speaker system Martin Logan Motion 15

No. 4 - Dynaudio Emit M20

Dynaudio Emit M20
These are bass reflex speakers with clear sound, allowing you to listen to songs of various genres with pleasure. Heavy metal, jazz, and pop music sound great on them. The sound can be called accurate - all elements of the compositions are clearly distinguishable even in the depths of the room in which the speakers are located. The overall sound quality is not compromised despite all notes being heard.

As for the sizes, the speakers are quite compact - a little more than 21 * 35 * 26 cm. The body color can be white or black. Weight is 7.5 kg. The sensitivity of the system is 86 dB, and the frequency range varies between 50-23 thousand Hz.

Speaking separately about the bass, it is powerful and rich and everyone will like it. Good bass is ensured by the presence of a large speaker with a silicate-magnesium diffuser. The bass reflex is located at the rear.

The acoustics are not low in price, but in general they are in great demand among buyers precisely because of their high-quality sound.

pros

• great sound
• juicy bass
• body in two colors - black and white
• you can listen to music of any genre
• clear sound even at a fairly large distance from the speakers
• compact dimensions

Minuses

• not detected

Prices for Dynaudio Emit M20 speakers

Speaker system Dynaudio Emit M20

No. 3 - PSB Imagine B

PSB Imagine B
Excellent, stylish, good sounding system, but at a very high cost. And, perhaps, this is its main drawback. Otherwise, the model rightfully deserves the opportunity to be included in the TOP 10 ranking of the best shelf-type acoustics.

This is a bass reflex system produced by a company from Canada. It has been in demand for a long time; hundreds of music lovers have given it preference. Of course, we are talking about those who can afford to buy it.

On a note! During its existence, acoustics has already managed to earn an award called Red Dot. This is an award for a unique design and a lot of positive reviews about the product.

Indeed, the design of this system is amazing. The body is a special intersection of elliptical cylinders, and the intersection is geometrically correct and neat. In appearance, all its walls seem to be bent. The system still remains durable, reliable and even somewhat massive in appearance. The bass reflex port is located in front. The finishing of the speakers is natural high-quality veneer. Dimensions - 19*33*30 cm.

The 25mm tweeter is a titanium dome. The coil has special cooling with magnetic fluid. The diffuser of the polypropylene speaker is filled with a ceramic-clay substance.

And a few words about sound. This system has excellent sound and balanced sound in terms of frequency. By the way, the frequency range varies between 55-20000 Hz. LF and HF connections are separate. The timbre is very natural and pleasant to the ear. The music seems so real, as if you are at a concert and not at home. Moreover, it can be heard even when listening at low volume. The high-frequency range is slightly limited, so the airiness of the sound is somewhat limited. The richness of the sound and expressiveness of the composition are preserved perfectly. Bass is well-developed, although not as deep as expected.

pros

• great sound
• unique unusual design
• high quality case
• sound realism
• Sounds perfect even at low volume
• clear detail of musical compositions

Minuses

• not very deep bass

Prices for acoustics PSB Imagine B

Speaker system PSB Imagine B

No. 2 - Wharfedale Jade 1

Wharfedale Jade 1
Excellent closed-type acoustics, the sound of which you will never cease to enjoy again and again. A large frequency range, excellent body design and, as a result, excellent bass make it one of the leaders in the bookshelf acoustics market.

Deep, although not very powerful, bass from this acoustics was achieved thanks to the closed design. The speaker cone is made of carbon fiber, it is durable and does not respond well to stress. So, with a low weight, the diffuser can operate in piston mode and has almost no self-resonance. The HF and MF diffusers are made of composite materials containing aluminum and are quite rigid. The presence of phase-linear crossovers allows you to perfectly coordinate the sound of all speakers with each other.

If we talk about sound, this system has a warm, rich, deep sound. There is no shortage of frequencies. If we talk about detail, it is moderate, which does not interfere with enjoying the sound. The bass is rich and confident, and you don't need to use a subwoofer to increase its power. Even complex rhythmic patterns are conveyed simply perfectly. But when it comes to choosing a genre, acoustics are capricious: not all compositions sound perfect on them. This is a good option for fans of rock and blues.

pros

• perfectly conveys the rhythmic pattern
• juicy and thick bass
• clear detail of musical compositions
• quality materials
• reliable assembly
• popular model

Minuses

• not all genres of music sound equally good

Prices for acoustics Wharfedale Jade 1

Speaker system Wharfedale Jade 1

No. 1 - Focal-JMlab Aria 906

Focal-JMlab Aria 906
In this rating, this model occupies a leading position for good reason. Ideal sound quality, coupled with excellent build quality and a reasonable price - these are its main characteristics.

Both at mid and low frequencies the speakers sound excellent and convincing. The sound is clear, without rough transitions and various acoustic debris. When listening, music seems to flow from one state to another without the appearance of rough roughness. This was achieved due to the unique design of the system itself. It has special suspensions and inserts that frame the speakers, which is why it sounds so smooth. Moreover, a clear and beautiful sound is clearly heard even away from the speakers. The case itself is made of high-quality MDF, and its dimensions are 22*39*25 mm.

Users note that it is important to “warm up” the acoustics well before full use. After that, it begins to sound ideal - velvety and warm. But she doesn’t really like heavy music and this is its main disadvantage.

pros

• reliable assembly
• smooth sound transitions
• popular model
• Excellent value for money and quality
• convenient sizes
• interesting and special design

Minuses

• not all genres of music sound equally good
• Warm-up required

Reviews and prices for Focal-JMlab Aria 906

DALI Spektor 2

The Best Passive Bookshelf Speakers for Most People

8.7

CASHBACK for purchases, find out more...

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Speaker Power: 100W Connectivity: Wired Streaming Support: No

pros

• Available
• Detailed and expressive sound
• Compact size

Minuses

• No wireless or smart features

Danish Audiophile Loudspeaker Industries (also known as Dali) is a manufacturer of high-quality loudspeaker systems, offering a wide range of kits that can be expensive. The Spektor 2 is a much more affordable set of entry-level passive speakers that, despite being the cheapest pair on our list, deliver beautifully clear and impressive sound when paired with an amplifier worthy of their audio prowess (the equally affordable Onkyo A- 9010 is a great option).

Available in walnut or black ash with signature wood fiber diffusers that promise quick and effortless response, they're a great addition to any decor, especially when it comes to leather and wood.

Looking aside, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better pair of powered speakers at this price, thanks to their full, balanced sound that lacks the overly bright highs that some previous generations of budget Dali speakers exhibited.

Read more - full review of DALI Spektor 2

3

Bookshelf speakers: how to choose

A shelf type of acoustics is a system for listening to music, which is small in size and can be installed on a shelf or a special small stand. This is an ideal option for music lovers living in small apartments or rooms. Moreover, despite the small size, the sound quality of a number of bookshelf acoustics models is excellent.

You need to choose such acoustics taking into account your musical preferences. Some models play different genres of music differently. For fans of heavy music, it is worth choosing one model, and for fans of electronics, a completely different one. It is also important to take into account a number of technical parameters and features of speaker systems. Let's figure out how to make the right choice of speakers for yourself.

Installed bookshelf speakers

These days, there are almost as many ways to listen to music, radio, or podcasts as you can imagine. If you're heading to the gym and need a good playlist to get you going, you can throw on a pair of wireless workout headphones. If you are an avid movie buff and crave cinema-quality sound, you can connect a full-featured soundbar in your living room. There are even portable, waterproof speakers for outdoor adventures.

Of course, sometimes all you need is simple immersive audio for a specific room in your home, be it an office, workshop, garage, bedroom or even a common area. In this case, you can't go wrong with a pair of bookshelf speakers. These versatile devices can offer stereo sound without the need for bulky, floor-standing speakers. And they're small enough to be hidden on your desk, shelf, or anywhere else. Of course, as with anything (especially technology), some are better than others. That's why we've compiled below a list of the eight best bookshelf speakers that offer the best features.

Active or passive speakers

Finding a pair of bookshelf speakers, no matter what they are, isn't as simple as finding the ones you like and taking them home. Rather, there are a few important things you need to know in advance. The most important factor to consider is whether the speakers are active or passive. It's a fairly simple distinction, but the difference is huge.

Active: In terms of convenience, ease of use, and money savings, active bookshelf speakers are hard to beat. This is because this type of speaker has its own built-in amplifier, meaning it works as a standalone device and can produce sound without the need to connect to a separate receiver. This means that active speakers require their own power source - either an outlet or some kind of on-board battery. This also means you can save money by not having to buy extra hardware to make them work. The big downside to powered speakers is that they are limited in terms of sound quality since you're stuck using the built-in amplifier. So, if you have any problems with the sound itself (for example, it doesn't sound as full as you expected, or there's too much distortion), you should either sort those out or buy new speakers altogether.

Passive: If you are an avid audiophile, passive bookshelf speakers may be the best option. While they lack the convenience of active speakers, they are much more customizable as you can pair them with your amplifier of choice to shape the sound to suit your desires. If you're happy with your speakers but want more power or better control, you simply swap out the amp for an alternative and voila! - you are renewed. Another advantage of passive speakers is that they do not require built-in power, but instead operate through speaker cables that connect directly to the amplifier. Finally, because they don't have bulky power systems, passive speakers are often lighter and easier to move, making choosing the optimal installation much less frustrating and lightening the load on your wall rack.

Wired or wireless speakers

Typically, your choice between wired and wireless speakers is already made depending on whether your bookshelf speakers are active or not. Due to the lack of built-in technology, passive speakers do not provide wireless connectivity. This doesn't mean that amplifiers can't or don't have wireless technology in the form of Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but the speakers themselves—which don't have their own power source—simply can't have those features built in by definition.

For those keeping score, yes, if your main concern is being able to stream music directly through your speakers, and you don't want to deal with the hassle of purchasing a separate amplifier on top of a pair of bookshelf speakers, you'll need to invest in powered ones. However, even though the vast majority of modern powered speakers come with built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, you should still check to be sure. Only powered speakers may have built-in wireless, but it's not required, so it's better to be on the safe side. Otherwise, you may have to connect your phone or hi-fi music player directly to the speakers, which will limit their versatility.

Bookshelf speaker IKEA Symfonisk WiFi

As for our list, Ikea's Symfonisk WiFi bookshelf speaker, a collaboration with audio brand Sonos, is sold as a single unit, meaning a pair will cost $200. That being said, there are many reasons why this particular option might be at the top of your list. First, the compact design was designed specifically to work in both vertical and horizontal positions. This means you can hide it on a shelf or attach it to the wall and turn it into a shelf itself. It also integrates with other Sonos products, which is handy if you've already added smart devices to your home. And it's compatible with Airplay as well as all major streaming services. And that's just the beginning of what makes this bookshelf speaker so good.

Gain: Active Connection: Wireless Price : $100 per piece

Bose 301 Direct/Reflecting Bookshelf Speakers

One of the problems with a lot of speaker systems is that they often create a single "sweet spot" where everything sounds great. However, Bose has tried to solve this problem with its 301 Direct/Reflecting Speakers. Pairs of bookshelf speakers featuring patented room-filling technology. Designed to simulate what you would hear during a live performance. You'll of course need a receiver if you want to use these speakers, but their trio of tweeters and 8-inch woofer combine with technologies like automatic protection circuitry, a spatial dispersion speaker lens (made to distribute sound more evenly), and more. . They more than make up for their shortcomings for those who don't mind the need for an amplifier.

Gain: passive Connection: wired Price : $300

Bowers & Wilkins 606 bookshelf speakers

Although not the most popular option from Bowers & Wilkins, the 606 bookshelf speakers do benefit from the trickle-down technology developed for the award-winning 800 Series Diamond over an entire eight-year period. For reference, this cone technology, called Continuum, is designed to create a "pure and precise soundscape" designed to recreate whatever you listen to with flawless fidelity. In layman's terms, this means that what you hear from these speakers (and your receiver of choice) is recreated as accurately as possible from the original recording. These bookshelf speakers are a great option at a pretty reasonable price - just don't let the photos fool you, as these speakers don't actually come with the stand pictured.

Gain: passive Connection: wired Price : $760

Bookshelf speakers Klipsch RW-51M Reference

Part of Klipsch's award-winning reference series, their RW-51M bookshelf speakers have been specifically designed to deliver better sound and performance than the best soundbars available on the market today. What's more, they're also extremely easy to use and install in minutes, they're completely wireless (so you don't need an amp/receiver to use them), and they're loaded with exceptional Klipsch proprietary solutions. Their versatility and ability to integrate surround sound are perhaps their best features, as these speakers were designed to work both as a standalone pair and can be integrated into the brand's other reference systems - everything from a simple 2.0 stereo system to a 7.1 home theater system.

Gain: Active Connectivity: Wireless Price : $799

Bookshelf speakers KEF LSX

KEF is one of the leading names in home audio, and they have proof of it. Their LSX wireless music system has won several awards, including two for product of the year and one for best all-around system. And while their hi-fi audio is certainly one of the main factors, they also stand out for their lossless wireless technology, compact format, streaming versatility (they work with Apple AirPlay as well as a number of other services), HomeKit integration (so you can potentially control them with just your voice) and a quartet of beautiful colors. If you want superior sound in a simple, beautiful package, this KEF offering may be your best choice.

Gain: Active Connection: Wireless Price : $1000

Bookshelf speakers Shinola & Barefoot Sound

Shinola specializes in watches, which is how they started - but they've also grown into more than just a wearable accessories brand. In fact, they make everything from bags to bicycles and even Bluetooth bookshelf speakers. Featuring the brand's signature minimalist style, these speakers were created in collaboration with Barefoot Sound, a company that specializes in professional-quality audio equipment. They're drop dead gorgeous, designed to work in tandem with the brand's Runwell turntable, have both Bluetooth and USB compatibility, and (most importantly) sound incredible no matter what you're using with them.

Gain: Active Connection: Wireless Price : $1500

Dynaudio Xeo 20 bookshelf speakers

While the Dynaudio Xeo 20 bookshelf speakers look pretty basic (albeit extremely clean) at first glance, they're anything but. In fact, their minimalistic shell hides quite a few amazing high-end features. But that's what you get when a company like Dynaudio uses its 40 years of experience to create some of the best compact digital wireless hi-fi bookshelf speakers. This includes Esotec tweeters and drivers, aluminum voice coils, 65W digital amplifiers and precision tuning. For reference, these home speakers were actually based on the famous LYD 5 professional studio monitors, which means they are as close to professional sound as you can get in a home format.

Gain: Active Connectivity: Wireless Price : $2499

Bookshelf speakers Q Acoustics Concept 300

The Q Acoustics Concept 300 bookshelf speakers are non-powered - meaning you'll need an amplifier/receiver - but they're second to none in their category. Sure, they're very expensive, but the design and engineering of these speakers (based on the acclaimed Concept 500 floorstanding speakers) are worth their weight in gold. In addition to their beautiful design and three available color options, these speakers boast exceptional sound quality. Innovative isolation base suspension system to prevent vibration from escaping from the bottom of the speakers, P2P cabinet mounts to prevent unnecessary energy dissipation and increased noise levels. And they come with specialized steel tripod stands (though they work just as well on a shelf). Yes, they come at a premium price, but they are also some of the most exceptional bookshelf speakers ever made.

Gain: passive Connection: wired Price : $4500

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Column division depending on price

To make it easier, all speakers can be divided into three categories depending on cost. The fact is that the lower or higher the price, the more the systems will differ in their technical parameters.

Table. Categories of systems depending on prices.

Before deciding which speaker to buy, you should evaluate your budget and your needs. In many ways, this will determine which models are worth considering for purchase and which are not.

Acoustics at an average price Heco Elementa 300 White Satin

Which bookshelf speakers are the best?

The best powered bookshelf speakers for most people are the Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2 . These are affordable powered speakers that deliver truly impressive sound... and look elegant, with classic walnut or gray lacquer finishes, and their smaller size means they'll fit easily into any space or desk.

Movies and music are presented with excellent sound quality, and while there's no Wi-Fi or built-in smart assistant, you get plenty of flexibility with Bluetooth, a wired audio input, and an auxiliary input with a convenient built-in control dial in addition to the included remote.

We've also selected the Dali Spektor 2 , which are incredibly affordable for the level of sound quality you get from them. If you're just starting out with a vinyl system or just want to get the most sound for the money, these are ideal.

1

What to consider when choosing: room and placement of acoustics

No matter how strange it may sound, it’s not only power that needs to be taken into account when choosing acoustics. An important parameter is even the size of the room, the parameters of the acoustics itself and its location in the house.

So let's start with size. Shelf acoustics are an option that is suitable for small rooms up to 24 square meters. Some models can be placed in more spacious rooms, but this is rare. Basically, they are designed for exactly that area value. Only in such rooms will the acoustics themselves look harmonious and perfectly cover the entire area with their sound, ensuring full sound and audibility everywhere.

Attention! If the room is smaller in area, then there is a risk of constantly hearing an unpleasant hum or rattling of walls and windows.

When choosing speakers by size, you must take into account the size of the room. The main task of any speaker is to move air. And the larger the room, the larger the acoustics you need to buy so that it can cope with the displacement of more air. In small rooms, large speakers will sound muffled and heavy, and very small ones will not be clear and rich enough, they will simply “get lost.”

Bookshelf speaker installation option

An important point: you should think in advance about the place where the speakers will be located. The sound quality will greatly depend on this, as well as on the acoustic design of the speakers themselves.

Depending on the acoustic design of the systems themselves, they can be divided into one or another type. However, the most common are speakers with a special hole called a bass reflex. It is this detail that helps create deep and beautiful bass, and the sound is clear and clearly distinguishable at low frequencies. And depending on where this element is located, it is important to choose the location of the system in the apartment and room. For example, if the bass reflex is installed in front of the speaker, then it can be placed very close to the wall. The main thing is that there are no barriers between the listener and the acoustics, otherwise the sound will not travel well enough.

If the bass reflex is located on the back, then the speaker will have to be placed so that it is open on all sides, otherwise the sound will be bad. That is, even to the wall you will have to maintain a certain distance (at least 10 cm). It is also important that the tweeters are at the level of the music lover's head. It is also not recommended to place any acoustic parts in corners. They should be at the same distance from the listeners.

On a note! Placement against the wall is a priority for small bookshelf speakers, as well as for small rooms. The wall will help increase the bass power.

AuDDio Top-9
Wall speakers can be placed on wide and hard shelves. They must be strong; it is best if they are specially made for speakers. All elements of the system should be located far from each other - it is advisable to maintain a distance of at least 2.5 m. This is an ideal placement option. When placing speakers in parallel, the sound becomes worse, but is perceived wider. So you'll have to experiment with speaker placement to find the best fit.

Criteria for choosing active bookshelf speakers

If previously floor-standing Hi-Fi class acoustics for the home had practically no competitors, now music lovers often prefer to buy bookshelf speakers with good bass. Unlike floor-standing speakers, bookshelf speakers are small in size.

As the name suggests, these are acoustic systems (hereinafter referred to as speakers) that are installed on a shelf; they should be located at the level of the listener’s head. Of course, it is not necessary to specifically buy shelves to install speakers; it is much more convenient to use special racks. This will solve the surface resonance problem and improve sound quality. In addition, the racks provide space for placing wires.

Main selection criteria:

1. Acoustic design is a key characteristic when choosing speakers for a studio. If you are purchasing equipment for your home, then this criterion is important only for true music lovers. There are five types of acoustic design. The most common type is a bass reflex. It produces bright bass, but the sound detail is not brilliant. The second type, a passive radiator, is suitable for lovers of powerful bass. The open type will allow you to create an acoustic zone with complete immersion, provided that the speakers are placed correctly. But the bass of the open type is lame. The closed type provides accurate sound transmission, but less power. Models with a strip body are recommended for those who like loudness; they provide a powerful sound.
2. Number of stripes. This indicator affects the depth and volume of the sound. The more bands, the more multifaceted the sound.
3. Power and sensitivity. Everything is clearer here, the higher the indicator, the louder the sound will be.
4. Frequency range. Shows the speaker's sound interval.
5. Connection type. Depending on the type of connection, there are two types of speaker systems: wireless Bluetooth and wired. In wireless models, sound transmission or file exchange with a smartphone can occur using the built-in Bluetooth transmitter.

The choice and price of equipment also influences. The more powerful and spacious sound you plan to get, the more you will have to pay.

A few words about power and sensitivity

Even small acoustics can sound powerful. It usually has low sensitivity, and therefore requires the supply of large powers in order to “swing”. So often amplifiers are also used for such speakers.

But when choosing an amplifier and in general when making a decision, you should not forget about the laws of physics. If you turn on music very loudly on weak speakers running through an amplifier, it will sound strained on a number of compositions. You just have to understand that the speaker that provides the bass moves air to create sound. The diffuser moves quickly. But if the speakers are small, then the diffuser will not be able to move fully.

Important! Trying to make weak acoustics sound powerful and loud can greatly distort the sound.

Acoustics on speakers Aurham with FI Tornado No. 9 ZM
In some cases, increasing the volume of a bookshelf speaker by using an amplifier can not only not achieve the desired sound quality, but also ruin the speakers. So it’s better not to try to amplify small acoustics further, but simply use them in a room of the appropriate size.

Table. Types of speakers and amplifiers.

KEF LS50 Wireless II

Incredible premium wireless bookshelf speakers

7.9

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Speaker Power: Bass: 280W, Treble: 100W Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Digital Coaxial, Analog, Ethernet, RCA Streaming Support: AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Roon ReadySpotify, Tidal, Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, QQ Music, Internet radio, podcast

pros

• Great design
• Lots of connectivity options including HDMI for TVs
• Wonderful sound quality

Minuses

• Existing KEF owners may prefer the newer design
• Expensive

The second most expensive pair of speakers on our list are the powered sets from KEF, which are at least a lot cheaper than the Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duo. What's more, they have plenty of connectivity options right out of the box, without having to part with extra cash for any additional options.

Impressively, the LS50 Wireless II features optical, digital coaxial, analog and RCA connections, not to mention HDMI eARC for super-easy connection to your TV, allowing you to adjust volume using your existing remote control. If that wasn't enough, you have AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Tidal and other wireless streaming options. Their sound, thanks to KEF MAT sound absorption technology, is incredibly precise, crisp and clear.

An ideal choice for those who want high-quality speakers that will work with virtually any device and service, without extra cost. Oh, and let's not forget KEF's iconic minimalist design and color scheme, which we're big fans of.

6

System finishing

What the body is made of also matters. Moreover, this is reflected not only in appearance, but also in sound quality.

So, an aluminum case will convey high frequency sound well, but the overall sound will be harsh. Plastic products are inexpensive, but they can rattle at high volumes, which means it’s pointless to talk about sound quality.

The ideal option is speakers made of wood and its analogues. They are, of course, more expensive than other options. From wood analogues such as MDF, the system will cost less than from solid wood.

On a note! An acoustic box made from MDF is better than one made from chipboard, as it is stronger, not so afraid of water and has a high density. And in general, such acoustics transmit sound well and do not distort it.

Bookshelf speakers Dynaudio Contour 20
For beauty, the base material can be covered with laminated material or vinyl. Expensive systems are covered with veneer and varnish. The speakers can also be painted or varnished. These coatings may affect sound quality. The best thing is a varnish coating.

Even more affordable acoustics - we share reviews of three pairs of remarkable bookshelf systems

Previously, we talked about budget “studio units” and “monitors” for multimedia. Let's continue the topic and discuss examples of inexpensive “shelf holders” for small spaces.

In the photo: DALI Spektor 1. Source: Audiomania.ru

[13,690] DALI Spektor 1 is a fairly prominent model in the basic price segment. Equipped with a 4.5” [114 mm] woofer on an elastic suspension with a diffuser made of pressed wood-paper pulp and a 21 mm tweeter with a fabric dome. As you can see in the photo above, there is no bass reflex on the front panel - it is on the rear.

Reviews praise the system for its excellent bass and note that there is more than enough power [sound pressure - 103 dB, impedance - 6 Ohms] for small rooms. The corresponding dimensions are: 140 x 237 x 195 mm. Spektor 1 weighs only 2.6 kg. Compact and versatile design makes it easy

to almost any interior. The cabinets here are made of fiberboard and covered with vinyl film [black ash or walnut], and the front panel of the speaker has a neat rounded frame.

There is no need to place these acoustics on a shelf or buy stands. It can be placed on the desktop and, of course, this will not lose its sound. Especially if you move it slightly away from the wall, untie it from the surface and carefully set the angle of inclination.

[18,390] ​​DALI Spektor 2 - Best in Category According to What Hi-Fi? and the only model that has held positions in our top 5 “bookshelves” since 2019. Compared to the DALI Spektor 1, the range is wider, the emphasis is on mid-frequencies, and the sound pressure is slightly higher [105 dB, impedance 6 Ohms]. The woofer is larger - 5.25" [133 mm], but its design is similar: a diffuser made of wood-paper pulp is used, and the bass reflex is located at the rear - directly opposite the woofer. The tweeter here is also slightly larger - 25 mm.

In general, this line has a wide polar pattern and allows you not to worry about the ideal placement of speakers in the room. The cabinets of Spektor 2 are not much different from the first model - fiberboard and wood-look vinyl film are used. Another thing is that they are more massive - they weigh 4.2 kg and take up more space [170 x 292 x 238 mm].

You can look at the compact photo review and read about the results of the system test performed by Stereo.ru experts here, and a few words about Spektor 2 from “What Hi-Fi?” is here.

Pictured: Klipsch R-41M. Source: Audiomania.ru

[22,000] Klipsch R-41M - part of the brand’s budget line called Reference Base. The model is equipped with a small 4” [102 mm] woofer and a copper-coated diffuser made using injection molded graphite technology. The bass reflex here is located on the rear panel of the speaker. The tweeter - an inch with an aluminum dome - has a design that Klipsch used only for high-end acoustics. Located on a suspension made of Kapton - a lightweight and durable polyimide film. As you can see in the photo above, the Tractrix horn has chosen the classic square shape.

The maximum sound pressure of the system is 105.5 dB, impedance 8 Ohms.

In terms of appearance, the R-41M offers a recognizable mix of black and gold-copper colors. For situations where it is necessary to smooth out the bright appearance of the speakers, there is a protective “grill” of high acoustic transparency. It is attached using magnets. In addition, the cabinets are equipped with improved damping and are finished with a durable film imitating natural wood. They turned out to be average in size [146x287x200 mm] and weight [3.2 kg].

[26,000] Klipsch R-51M is the older brother of the previous model. The “woofer” here is more than an inch larger [133 mm], the horn has been adapted, but the inch tweeter is the same. The reviews emphasize that both models have a noticeable “colored” sound , which is considered characteristic of the Klipsch line, and refer it closer to concert sound. Therefore, be sure to take time to listen to the model in the process of choosing acoustics and making a purchasing decision.

Like the R-41M, it is suitable for small spaces and does not require any special arrangement. This system is also ready for listening in a desktop version.

In terms of appearance, of course, it does not differ in design and construction from the younger model, it just turned out to be a little larger [178x338x215 mm] and heavier [5 kg].

Pictured: ELAC Debut B5.2. Source: Audiomania.ru

[22,590] ELAC Debut B5.2 is a powerful alternative to the competitors above. There is a 5.25-inch [133 mm] woofer mounted on a cast basket with anti-resonance properties. A different location of the bass reflex was chosen - on the front panel. All this, together with an inch tweeter with a wide suspension, which allows you to expand the directivity of the radiation, looks and sounds very, very interesting. Basic parameters of the model: maximum sound pressure level - 90 dB, resistance - 6 Ohms.

The “debut” cabinets are made of MDF and covered with black ash vinyl film. There are no special differences from their analogues, but as one would expect, the B5.2 turned out to be quite massive compared to them [5.9 kg, 180x341x234 mm] and will not fit on every desktop. Although they are not considered capricious in terms of location, the system can be installed close to the wall. An alternative use case is to use it as the rear channels of a home theater [this may require stands].

[26,190] ELAC Debut B6.2 for the second year received the highest rating from the experts of the publication “What Hi-Fi?” and occupy third place in our top “half-timers”. Like the younger model, they have a classic monitor configuration, and therefore differ from the conventional Klipsch ones in their relatively neutral sound . The woofer is expectedly larger – 6.5” [165 mm] and is mounted on an anti-resonance chassis. The inch tweeter is covered with a protective mesh. In terms of the body, the differences are only in weight [7.4 kg] and dimensions [195x375x268 mm]. An alternative use of the system is in the front channels of a home theater.

Even more acoustic reviews:

• Hi-Fi system with great sound and streaming function
• Test of bookshelf acoustics DALI Opticon 1 MK2: big from small
• The best budget hi-fi speakers of 2020
• When less is more: review of Yamaha NS-3000 speakers
• Classic design and original character: Arslab Superb review

Speaker cables

To properly connect the speakers, you need to choose the right cables connecting them. The right wires are the key to good sound. The most popular are the so-called low-resistance multicore cables. The sound signal transmission in this case is the best.

Advice! In order not to lose sound quality, it is recommended to use a cable with a cross-section of 1.5 to 4 mm.

By the way, if you choose specialized cables for acoustics, you don’t have to worry too much about the sound quality. Even if they are not expensive, the sound will still be good, since these are special wires.

But the longer the wire, the worse the sound quality may be. The problem can be partially solved if you connect the speakers via two cables. For example, HF are connected through thick conductors in a smaller number, and LF through thin, but in large quantities. Some speaker models have a special connector block that allows you to connect the system in different ways.

Best bookshelf speakers 2022: from budget to premium

Buying Guide for the Best Bookshelf Speakers: Welcome to What Hi-Fi's roundup of the best bookshelf speakers you can buy in 2022?

Large speakers can give you the richest sound, but not everyone has the space, budget, or slant for a set of floorstanding speakers. Instead, a small set of speakers can give you an amazing listening experience.

These are called bookshelf (or sometimes stand-mount) speakers. And, as the name suggests, they are small enough to fit on a bookshelf, on a stand, or on a desk or desk.

But a bookshelf isn't necessarily where you should put them. Some speakers require a little more space to perform at their best, so be sure to check the manufacturer's recommendations before purchasing, while all of these speakers would benefit from a separate pair of speaker stands.

You should also see how easily these speakers interact with other products, as your complete system will determine the final performance. And of course, size is another consideration, as some are significantly smaller than others - once you've done your research, see what works for your space.

Here are our favorite bookshelf-friendly speakers.

• The 40 Best Albums of the 1990s to Test Your Speakers

KEF LS50 Meta

These stands set new standards in price.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 79-28,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 85 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 30.2 x 20 x 27.8 cm

Reasons for purchase

Exceptional sound transparency
Subtle and precise presentation

Innovative technology

Reasons to avoid

Nothing at this price
The KEF LS50 Metas are no different from the LS50, and in many ways they are the same. The company considered revisiting this beautifully crafted case, but concluded that little could be improved.

The only area ripe for improvement was the Uni-Q LS50's driver array, where the tweeter sits in the middle throat. /bass block. It has been thoroughly redesigned, taking into account all the improvements KEF has developed over the past eight years and adding something new in the form of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), KEF's way of dealing with sound coming from the back of the 25mm glass. aluminum tweeter dome.

It doesn't take long to realize that the LS50s have improved significantly. While the underlying sonic character is immediately familiar, the new ones have the clarity and refinement that the originals only hinted at.

Read the full review: KEF LS50 Meta

Elac Debut B5.2

Perhaps the most skillful budget stands we've heard.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker Connectors: Single | Mid/Woofer: 5.25cm | Tweeter: 25mm | Sensitivity: 86 dB/W/m | Dimensions: 34 x 18 x 23 cm (H x W x D) | Sensitivity: 86 dB/W/m

Reasons for purchase

Detailed and organized sound
Durable construction

Unassuming character

Reasons to avoid

Fierce Competition
Elac has been in the speaker business since the 1980s and has produced many excellent products during that time. It's fair to say that these new Debut B5.2 speakers should be considered one of the company's best efforts.

The Elac Debut B5.2 are great performers for the money. The speakers feel solid, are unpretentious in placement, and easily handle whatever music you throw at them. They have the dynamic expression, detail resolution, and tonal sophistication to handle it all, and the scope to be even better with a system above their natural price range. For the money they are exceptional.

Read the full review: Elac Debut B5.2

B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition

B&W has been honing its 606 struts with great success.
SPECIFICATIONS

Sensitivity: 88 dB/W/m | Driver: Continuum 16.5cm mid/bass, 25mm tweeter | Impedance: 8 ohms | Maximum power: 120 W | Speaker terminals: two wire | Dimensions: 35 x 19 x 30 cm (H x W x D)

Reasons for purchase

Superior clarity
Flexible and articulate bass

Impressive dynamic impact

Reasons to avoid

Nothing at this price
Dacha & Wilkins 600 is 25 years old. On paper, the low-key nature of the 606 S2's changes leaves us underwhelmed by the significance of the anniversary. Cosmetically, these amount to the addition of an oak finish to complement the existing black and white options and a lettering on the tweeter surround denoting its Anniversary status.

The only performance-related change is the redesigned crossover, which now features higher quality capacitors, some of which were originally used in the recently announced and more premium 700 Signature Series.

Given the modest nature of the engineering changes, we weren't expecting much of a difference in sound. We were wrong. While maintaining an overall similar sonic character, the 606 S2 Anniversary Editions proved to be significantly more powerful than their predecessors.

Read the full review: B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition

Dali Spector 2

Excellent build, great sound and good price.
Speaker Connectors: Dual | Frequency response: 54-26,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 85 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 29.2 x 17 x 23.8 cm

Reasons for purchase

Flexible, clear and expressive
Small

Unassuming

Reasons to avoid

Nothing special
On paper, these tick all the boxes, but give them a go and it's clear they're beyond the scope of a decent pair of budget bookshelf speakers. They offer a range of skills that few can match at this price.

The vocals are distinctive and powerful, sounding with nuance and precision, and the performance is filled with energy. They handle dynamics flawlessly and the soundstage is impressively expansive. They are also easy to work with. Highly recommended.

Read the full review: Dali Spector 2

ProAc Response D2R

As insightful and interesting as any speaker at this level.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker terminals: dual | Frequency response: 30-30,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 88.5 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 42 x 20. 3 x 26 cm

Reasons for purchase

Responsive and dynamically expressive
Tight, powerful and melodic bass

Impressively transparent

Reasons to avoid

Installation requires maintenance
ProAc has long offered the option of a ribbon tweeter instead of a dome. in the more expensive Response floorstanding speakers, but this is the first time floorstanding speaker buyers have had this choice.

You'll need to do a little work to install these speakers if you want to get the most out of them. Our review samples took about three days of continuous use to sound their best after initially sounding limited and lacking in tonal warmth. So don't be too quick to judge whether you're hearing factory-fresh samples.

But despite their apparent transparency, these ProAcs never seem like analytical tools to us. Given enough talented partners, these speakers excel at highlighting the music. We can't ask for more than that.

Read the full review: ProAc Response D2R

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition

Happy Anniversary to these updated B&W 607 S2 speakers
Speaker Connectors: Dual | Frequency response: 52-28,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 84 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 30 x 16.5 x 20.7 cm

Reasons for purchase

Increased clarity and detail
More expressive than predecessors

Tighter, more agile bass

Reasons to avoid

Nothing at this price
Try to find a pair of better sounding speakers for under fifteen hundred dollars - we dare you. Little has changed between last year's B&W 607 and this year's Anniversary Edition, other than some new capacitors and lettering around the tweeter, but the sonic gains have been huge.

It's cleaner and more insightful. and an overall more attractive performance from a pair of speakers that were already among the best you could buy for their money. The older versions would have remained at the top of the tree if they weren't knocked down by the 607 S2 Anniversary Edition. But when both couples are in the same audition room, it's hard to go back.

If you're looking for a pair of low-midrange speakers and the B&W 606 S2 is just outside your budget range, then this is an excellent option—and a pair of speakers worth celebrating. any silver anniversary.

Read the full review: Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition

Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2

Fantastic desktop speakers with great design and superb sound.
SPECIFICATIONS

aptX Bluetooth: Yes | Inputs: optical, linear | Output: Subwoofer | Dimensions: 17 × 13 × 13.5 cm (H x W x D)

Reasons for purchase

Amazingly musical sound
Subtle dynamics

Stylish, compact design

Reasons to avoid

No USB input
We really liked the first Ruark Audio MR1 desktop speakers that came out in 2013. Retro looks, intuitive design, superb Bluetooth sound - it was a winning combination, winning two consecutive What Hi-Fi? awards. . But for a while the MR1s were knocked off their feet by KEF's lovely eggs.

But it was only a matter of time before Ruark Audio introduced the MR1 Mk2. And of course, Ruark Audio is back with a vengeance, having reclaimed the crown over the last couple of years. The performance improvements are impressive and the Ruark MR1 Mk2s are even more attractive than before. Simply put, these are excellent speakers if you're short on space.

Read the full review: Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2

B&W 606

The famous B&W 600 series is back with a bang.
Sensitivity: 88 dB/W/m | Driver: Continuum 16.5cm mid/bass, 25mm tweeter | Impedance: 8 ohms | Maximum power: 120 W | Speaker terminals: two wire | Dimensions: 34.5 x 19 x 34 cm (H x W x D)

Reasons for purchase

Smart, stylish design
Superbly balanced sound

Dynamic and detailed

Reasons to Avoid

Nothing to write home
about The B&W 606 speakers feature a typically smart design, fit into the ideal mid-size speaker shape and ultimately deliver immersive, engaging and perfectly balanced sound. Building on the all-conquering B&W 685 S2 speakers, the 606s could be even more successful.

A great size and price for anyone with more than just an interest in music, the 606s will breathe new life into your favorite tracks. They're upbeat and energetic, delivering punchy, solid bass and offering class-leading levels of detail and dynamics.

Read the full review: B&W 606

Dali Oberon 1 C

Attractive and adaptable active speaker package.
SPECIFICATIONS

Bluetooth: aptX HD | Power: 4 x 50 W Class D amplifiers | Finishes: 4 | Weight: 4.4 kg | Dimensions: 27 x 16 x 23 cm (H x W x D)

Reasons for purchase

Detailed musical sound
Excellent midrange clarity

Two Sound Hub options

Reasons to avoid

Not the last word in authority
Slight lack of bass depth

It's clear that the Oberon 1 C was designed to appeal to more than one type of buyer and device. This rack-mount kit is part of the three-power speaker series of active speaker systems, which also includes the 7 C floor stands and the On-Wall C wall speaker, and is based on the Danish company's Oberon series of passive speakers.

However, the Oberon C models are somewhat different from their active system counterparts, mainly due to their more affordable nature. It's in terms of technology and sound that combine detail and musicality with a balance that can be at home in even the smallest of rooms.

Read the full review: Dali Oberon 1 C

Revel Concerta2 MI6

The best speakers we've heard about under the big.
Tweeter: 25mm | Mid/Woofer: 16.5cm | Impedance: 6 ohms | Sensitivity: 86 dB/W/m | Dimensions: 37 x 22 x 27 cm (H x W x D)

Reasons for purchase

Strong dynamics, authoritative bass
Excellent integration

Rhythmic and assertive

Reasons to avoid

Caution required in partnerships
We're surprised that a brand like Revel hasn't made a big impact on the UK speaker market. It seems like all the ingredients for success are there; the products are well made, solidly engineered and, in our experience, usually sound good. The brand even has the might of parent company Harman to provide added reassurance.

The results speak for themselves: the M16 is a fun experience. Sure, they may not be the most sophisticated choice, but they entertain in a way that few competitors can match on price. Worth every penny.

Read the full review: Revel Concerta2 MI6

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Triangle Borea BR03

New contender for best in class
SPECIFICATIONS

Tweeter: 25mm | Mid/Woofer: 16 cm | Impedance: 4.2 ohms | Sensitivity: 90 dB/W/m | Dimensions: 31.4 x 20.6 x 38 cm

Reasons for purchase

Refined, detailed sound
Impressive sense of scale

High quality dynamic bass

Reasons to avoid

Aesthetics not for everyone
Slight harshness in high frequencies

We love surprises like this. French speaker maker Triangle has entered the tough, crowded end of the stereo speaker market—and delivered great results. This pair of affordable bookshelf speakers truly deserves a spot on anyone's list.

Triangles have a huge sense of scale, far greater than competitors such as the formidable B&W 607. They also boast impressive separation and precision. There is detail and understanding of the frequency range, and considering their size, the amount of bass is quite acceptable. Where previous Triangle speakers could sound harsh or bright, they are perfectly balanced.

With a distinctive design and quality finish, the Borea BR03 represents seasoned music artists with a great sense of scale and an even greater commitment to transparent and mature presentation of music. Deserves attention.

Read the full review: Triangle Borea BR03

Acoustic Energy AE1 Active

Capable of outperforming any number of systems consisting of individual components for similar money.
Power: 2 x 50 W | Dimensions: 30 x 18.5 x 25 cm (H x W x D) | Inputs: RCA and balanced XLR

Reasons for purchase

Clear, balanced and detailed
Rhythmically exciting

Impressive dynamic range

Reasons to avoid

Nothing special
It's hard to think of an amplifier/passive speaker combination that can beat these Acoustic Energy active speakers on price. They do everything successfully.

And that's not just by the standards of directly competing powered speaker alternatives, but also by what we've been able to achieve in any comparably priced amplifier/speaker combination. .

You'll have to find a couple to find out for yourself.

Read the full review: Acoustic Energy AE1 Active

KEF R3

These excellent stands set the standard at this price.
SPECIFICATIONS

Sensitivity: 87 dB/W/m | Impedance: 8 ohms | Maximum power: 180 W | Biwire: Yes | Dimensions: 42 x 20 x 34 cm (H x W x D)

Reasons for purchase

Exceptional insight and resolution
Balanced and interesting sound

Excellent fit and finish

Reasons to avoid

Nothing at this price
Part of the company's premium R series, the R3 offers much of the engineering content and sonic performance of the more expensive Reference 1 at a fraction of the cost.

And it's a winning combination. The R3s are brilliant all-rounders. They are professionally balanced in sound and work well with a wide range of systems, but they still deliver top-notch sound, and they will deliver sound good enough to bother most installers below the big two mark. This is one to buy with confidence.

Read the full review: KEF R3

Q Acoustics 3030i

A great addition to the 3000i series speakers.
Bi-wire: No | Driver: MF/LF 16.5 cm, tweeter 22 mm | Sensitivity: 88 dB/W/m | Impedance: 6 ohms | Dimensions: 32.5 x 20 x 33 cm

Reasons for purchase

Insightful and expressive
Impressive, well-integrated bass

Excellent build

Reasons to avoid

Stiff competition
The Q Acoustics 3030is is now the largest of the three stands in the 3000i range, and with all current models already receiving five-star reviews, they had quite a bit of legacy to maintain.

Give these boxes a few days to settle down and they produce a familiar but surprisingly muscular sound compared to other 3000i series racks. Like the others in the line, these are impressively cohesive performers with smooth tonal balance and easy-going character. Rivals such as Dali's Oberon 1s or B&W's 607s may produce a brighter, more exciting sound, but the Qs counters this with balanced, slightly understated but always engaging quality.

Read the full review: Q Acoustics 3030i

Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2

A pair of mature and discreet speakers.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker terminals: single | Frequency response: 44-35,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 87 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 37.4 x 19.5 x 26.8 cm

Reasons for purchase

Extremely transparent
Don't force your own character

Rhythmic and dynamic

Reasons to avoid

Unforgiveness of Bad Sources
The older brothers of those Elacs presented at the top of this page, B6. The 2s are a pair of amazingly transparent floorstanding speakers. They don't give your music their own character, they offer mature performances that shed light on the electronics in the rest of your network. This can be a problem if the rest of your system isn't quite up to scratch, but you'll be hard-pressed to find a more honest pair of speakers at this price.

Read the full review: Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2

Q Acoustics Concept 20

Looking for high quality budget bookshelf speakers?
Ignore them at your own peril. SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 64-22,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 88 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 26.5 x 17 x 28.2 cm

Reasons for purchase

Stunning Clarity
Refined Sound

Brilliant design

Reasons to avoid

Dear Excerpts
These may be oldies, but—as their inclusion on this list attests—they are certainly treats. The soft dome tweeter, carbon fiber, and ceramic-coated paper mid/bass deliver surprisingly effective bass, especially for such a small speaker. They exhibit equally impressive dynamics and clarity across the entire frequency range, with crisp yet subtle presentation. But what really stands out is the transparency, meaning that they manage to stay put together even when they're really checked out. To hear them at their best, you will need special stands, which are not cheap. However, one listen and you'll know it's worth every penny.

Read the full review: Q Acoustics Concept 20

Wharfedale Linton

The best of old hi-fi combined with the best of new.
Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 40-20,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 90 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 56.5 x 30 x 33 cm

Reasons to buy

Effortless bass production
Detailed open soundstage

Authentic appearance

Reasons to avoid

The look won't be to everyone's taste.
If you want a new speaker built using modern techniques and materials, but it requires an old-school approach to style and sound, then you may well want the new Linton version, released to celebrate Wharfedale's 80th anniversary. A pair of rear trigger reflex ports provide powerful bass sound without distorting the balance, and they pair perfectly with the custom vinyl carrying racks. Pair it with some punchy electronics and you can buy with great confidence.

Read the full review: Wharfedale Linton

Dynaudio Contour 20i

The Model 20 builds on the solid foundation of the previous version and remains one of the best value.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 39-23,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 86 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 44 x 21.5 x 36 cm

Reasons for purchase

Composite and muscular sound
Excellent detail resolution

Pleasant rhythm and dynamics

Reasons to avoid

Care required when placing
The amp should grumble a little

We've been fans of Dynaudio's Contour 20 stands for a long time. The combination of a muscular and expressive sound coupled with excellent build quality made them a solid recommendation for the price. This latest version of the Contour 20i builds on that strong foundation without changing the foundation of a great product.

Look past the impressive sonic authority and scale and you'll find that these Dynaudios dig into a lot of detail, more than we remember for the first generation model. They offer best-in-class insight, tracking subtle instrumental threads with ease and superbly reproducing sonic textures. Dynamic nuances are also handled with great skill.

Read the full review: Dynaudio Contour 20i

Quad S-1

Beautiful compact speakers that amaze with enchanting sound.
Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 58-20,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 84 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 28.5 x 15.6 x 24 cm

Reasons for purchase

Detailed, accurate sound
Excellent highs and mids

Excellent build and design

Reasons to avoid

May appear more authoritative
Talk about handsome—these speakers have a sophisticated appearance with a wood finish that's reminiscent of a fine dining table. They'll also make the perfect soundtrack to any dinner party, and the vocal performances are especially impressive - they have an intimate quality that will make you fall in love with your music collection all over again. Elsewhere there is plenty of fine detail and great clarity, while tonal balance is very good indeed. They're not as authoritative as some larger competitors, but if you're looking for intimate, cozy sound, there's a lot more to it than just looks.

Read full review: Quad S-1

KEF Q350

The sophisticated, insightful presentation of these speakers goes beyond their modest price.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 63-28,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 87 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 35.8 x 21 x 30.6 cm

Reasons for purchase

Stunning clarity and detail
Enormous sound scale

Excellent synchronization

Reasons to avoid

Disadvantage of the drive
Requires high volume

Amazing sound meets sleek looks at a price that will make the competition sweat. From a design perspective, they are clean and modern, with an elegant, minimalist style that is both contemporary and timeless. The sound is also impressive, offering levels of clarity and subtlety rarely heard at this price. Nuances pop out and reveal themselves, breathing new life into tracks you may have grown tired of. There is also huge scale and beautiful uniform delivery across the entire frequency range. A mature set of speakers whose looks match their put together sound perfectly.

Read the full review: KEF Q350

Dynaudio Emit M20

Another fun set of speakers that are as meticulous as they are fun.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 50-23,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 86 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 35.5 x 21.5 x 26.5 cm

Reasons for purchase

Sharp dynamics
Tons of understanding

Huge scale

Reasons to avoid

Nothing
Dynamically, these speakers are always on the move, proving to handle major changes just as well as they do. While some speakers may only be good at certain genres of music, the M20s are comfortable with whatever you throw at them, be it rock, pop, jazz, classical or anything in between. You'll need to place them with enough space to get the most out of their tonal balance, but once you do, there's no looking back.

Read the full review: Dynaudio Emit M20

Dali Menuet SE

Tiny speakers that pack a ton of sonic talent.
SPECIFICATIONS

Speaker Connectors: Single | Frequency response: 59-25,000 Hz | Sensitivity: 86 dB/W/m | Dimensions (hwd): 25 x 15 x 23 cm

Reasons for purchase

Superior detail resolution
Class-leading maneuverability and accuracy

Superb fit and finish

Reasons to avoid

Size limits sound power and bass
To achieve excellence, you need to pamper yourself

For those short on space, the choice of speakers is quite limited. One of our favorite options for this situation is the long-running Dali Menuet range. We originally reviewed them about ten years ago, and they haven't changed much since then.

Instead of replacing them, Dali has now added this SE model. It's clear that the company didn't want to mess with the winning recipe, so the changes are relatively minor.

These Dalis are tiny speakers, meaning larger alternatives will invariably deliver more when it comes to low-frequency muscle, audio power and dynamic reach. But when it comes to detail, agility and dynamic expression, especially in the mid-range, they are as good as it gets for the price.

Read the full review: Dali Minuet SE

22. Dali Rubicon 2 C

A great pair of premium active stands
SPECIFICATIONS

High Resolution: Wireless up to 24bit/96kHz | Outputs: 2x optical, coaxial, RCA, 3.5mm | Bluetooth version: aptX HD | Dimensions (hwd): 35 x 20 x 34 cm

Reasons for purchase

Transparent and well integrated
Welcomes most sources

Easy installation and operation

Reasons to avoid

No phono input
Sound Hub does not match speakers

Essentially, the Rubicon 2 Cs are an amalgamation of Dali's five-star Rubicon 2 passive speakers (they borrow the drivers and cabinet design) and the Active 2022 Callisto. speakers from which they take the company's Class D amplifier technology, as well as the third unit in the setup, the Dali Sound Hub.

The result is an extremely interesting wireless system with convenient proportions. with all the talent that can replace your traditional hi-fi system. Just make sure you save enough pennies.

Read the full review: Dali Rubicon 2 C

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