Matthew CoxBookshelf speakers offer a versatile solution that can be used to upgrade your listening experience in a multitude of scenarios. Bookshelf speakers are an excellent option whether you’re looking to upgrade your computer audio, add to your home theatre experience, or need a pair of speakers to pair to your vinyl player. This list highlights the best bookshelf speakers to buy based on their performance, features, build quality, and pricing.
KEF Q350
The KEF Q350 is the best bookshelf speaker to buy. While they aren’t cheap, they excel at audio performance and offer pristine build quality.
Best Overall Bookshelf Speaker
KEF Q350
The KEF Q350s are a great choice for those with a larger budget. They feature a fairly balanced sound signature with a slightly boosted bass. The aesthetics are particularly beautiful, and the build quality is top-shelf.
Best Passive Bookshelf Speaker
Q Acoustics 3020i
The Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speakers from Q Acoustics are our pick for the best passive bookshelf speakers. They pack a serious punch and provide highly detailed, crisp, and immersive sound quality for any application.
Best Active Bookshelf Speaker
Klipsch RP-600M
Klipsch RP-600M Reference Premiere Bookshelf Speaker’s reference-style bookshelf speakers succeed in providing immaculate audio quality with various additional features on board this highly versatile speaker setup.
Budget-Friendly Choice
Edifier R1280T
An overall fantastic offering from Edifier is available at an affordable price for its features and performance. The Edifier R1280Ts powered bookshelf speaker is a great option for great audiophile speakers on an entry-level budget.
Our Selection of the Best Bookshelf Speakers
1. KEF Q350 Bookshelf Speakers
Dimensions
14.25x 8.26×12.04″
Freq. Response
63Hz-28kHz
Power Output
120W
Driver Size
6.5in drivers array
KEF’s Q350 bookshelf speaker set is essentially an upgraded version of the Q150B. It is another powerful, versatile, and durable bookshelf speaker system from KEF that continues to impress high-fidelity audio fans across the globe.
Design and Features
KEF’s Q350 speakers are a bigger, more powerful, and technologically advanced revision of their previous offering. Many of the same features are included here, including “Sit Anywhere” sound technology widening, the sound stage to allow for a more immersive audio listening experience, and an impeccable dynamic range great for film-viewing and music playback. The Q350’s bookshelf speakers are housed in white vinyl or matte black cabinets and feature some sound-improving alterations to the speaker enclosure’s design.
Sound Quality
As for sound reproduction capabilities, the bigger brother of the Q150B speakers can reach a higher output volume, up to 110dB, and replicate a frequency range of 63Hz-28kHz. A greater power amplifier rating is required, 15-120W. However, this is to be expected from the greater power consumption of the Q350 bookshelf speakers. KEF has introduced a damped tweeter loading tube to smooth out harsh high-end frequencies, and refined crossover system technology allows for tighter and more accurate bass response. Unwanted resonant frequencies have effectively been eliminated due to the repositioned woofer port.
Conclusion
A great pair of bookshelf speakers for anywhere between an entry-level set and a long-lasting purchase. The speakers perform well with whatever media you aim to put through them and will prove to last and provide a lifetime of happy listening. Easy installation and great versatility make this a fantastic choice that I would recommend any day.
What We Like
What We Dislike
2. Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speaker
Dimensions
6.69×10.9×11.1″
Freq. Response
64Hz-30kHz
Power Output
125W
Driver Size
5” bass driver,
0.9” tweeter
Q Acoustics’ recent offering boasts some impressive technological designs advanced to provide a remarkable listening experience. The 3020i bookshelf speakers are specifically designed to fill any room with vibrant, warm, and colorful sound – all delivered through a slickly designed cabinet enclosure.
Design and Features
You can mount the 3020i bookshelf speakers from Q Acoustics on a wall or place them on a shelf/cabinet. The cabinet is slightly larger than previous offerings from Q Acoustics and is reinforced using point-to-point bracing engineering to improve the rigidity of certain sections of the enclosure.
This improves stereo focus and directional accuracy from the speakers and reduces rattling, providing a clearer soundstage. The speakers are also decoupled from the baffles to minimize interference between the drivers. This bookshelf speaker set is available in four colors: graphite grey, English walnut, carbon black, and arctic white to suit any bedroom/living room environment and décor.
Sound Quality
Q Acoustics 3020i can produce impeccable sound quality due to a collection of high-quality audio components and a modern design to promote audio superiority. The increased cabinet size promotes low-frequency response and larger sound volume. Decoupled speakers enable maximized isolation and minimized interference, allowing for a cleaner, fuller sound.
Conclusion
The Q Acoustics 3020i is an incredibly well-designed and built speaker set. Modern technological and design features improve durability, sound quality, and overall listening experience. This bookshelf speaker system may not be the cheapest, but it is most certainly worth every cent.
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What We Dislike
3. ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers
Dimensions
7.69”x 14.76”
x 10.55”
Freq. Response
44Hz-35kHz
Power Output
120W
Driver Size
6.5” woofer,
1” tweeter
Another bookshelf speaker set with modern requirements and keeping up with the latest technological advancements is ELAC’s Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speaker System. The speaker set competes with top-class systems on the market, starting at multiples of this device’s price point.
Design and Features
ELAC’s Debut B6.2 bookshelf speaker set is coated with black ash vinyl, providing a slick, professional, and modern feel. It is a reasonably compact system considering the output it can deliver. A center speaker is available for an additional fee, undoubtedly enhancing film viewing by providing a more defined soundstage.
The B6.2 bookshelf speakers build on ELAC’s previous speaker design and have new and improved features. Front-firing ports are a handy addition to the B6.2’s, lessening the impact of issues commonly faced with improper speaker placement, particularly against a wall. This allows for placement practically anywhere within the room! A newly developed tweeter design tends the speaker’s frequency response to an incredibly 35kHz, and modern woofer design promotes high-frequency definition without sacrificing any low end.
Sound Quality
The impressive new design features onboard the B6.2 bookshelf speakers provide improved audio quality compared to previous revisions from ELAC. However, when comparing these speakers against some of the leading bookshelf speakers on the market- they sure give them a run for their money. Powerful low-frequency response, crisp high end, and full warm characteristic sound definition in-between provide an excellent listening experience.
Conclusion
Overall a seriously impressive pair of speakers for the money, and the optional addition of the center driver is a nifty feature. These speakers are easy to place, install, and provide an enjoyable experience for years to come.
What We Like
What We Dislike
4. KEF LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speaker
Dimensions
12” x 7.9” x 12.2”
Freq. Response
47Hz-45kHz
Power Output
100W
Driver Size
5.25” woofer,
1” tweeter
One of our favorite audio developers, KEF, has released a powerful premium speaker set designed for those who aim to take their home entertainment to the next level. Modern design and features, coupled with innovative speaker technology and incredible sound reproduction capabilities, warrant the relatively high price of this speaker system.
Design and Features
KEF’s LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speaker System utilizes cutting-edge acoustic design: based around the Uni-Q 12 Generation model using Metamaterial Absorption Technology driver
Array – this speaker system can easily fill any room with warm, vibrant sound, even at lower listening volumes. This Metamaterial Absorption Technology design is a labyrinth-shaped structure that effectively eradicates up to 99% of undesired noise from the driver’s rear, providing a more natural, cleaner audio reproduction. The LS50s are available in various finishes, including Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White, and Royal Blue (Special Edition).
Sound Quality
When discussing the sound quality of the LS50s, there is nothing to complain about. KEF has produced a clean, accurate, powerful, and versatile speaker system that complements all music and other multimedia entertainment styles. Modern technological improvements have been implemented to reduce the coloration of the audio due to cabinet design, material, and shape. The MAT features also prove to minimize vibrations and unwanted sound, and an impressively wide frequency range promises an evenly distributed sound stage.
Conclusion
KEF’s LS50 Meta’s should be on everybody’s wish list for their ultimate bookshelf speaker pair in any dream home. While they are available at a higher-than-affordable price point, they are undoubtedly worth every cent for those with the budget to allow for it.
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What We Dislike
5. Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Dimensions
17” x 11.8” x 7.2”
Freq. Response
51Hz-20kHz
Power Output
42W
Driver Size
4” woofer,
0.5” tweeter
Edifier has continued to impress with their affordable audio solutions. With various modern features included, powerful sound, and a slick design, the R1280T bookshelf speakers are a great addition to any home entertainment system for a remarkably affordable price.
Design and Features
Housed within a classic-looking wooden cabinet, a 4-inch bass driver and 13mm treble driver reproduce an impressively wide frequency range of 51Hz-20KHz. These bookshelf speakers can be linked to your media device(s) using either RCA connections (2 available onboard), Bluetooth Optical cable, or Coaxial cable. The system also features a remote- controllability for added convenience- with the remote, you can adjust the volume control mute/unmute functions and toggle sound field extension all from the comfort of your couch! RCA-RCA, RCA-3.5mm, and speaker connecting cables are included in the package, and its mesh speaker grill is removable for aesthetic options and cleaning purposes.
Sound Quality
Capable of reproducing frequencies between 51Hz and 20KHz, Edifier’s R1280Ts bookshelf speakers are perfect for home theater, office, bedroom, or lounge usage. I’d recommend these speakers for anything music, film, radio/podcast, or sports-related. The R1280Ts come fitted with equalization controls on the side panel, where you can adjust bass, treble, and master volume to the output stage of the speakers, effectively fine-tuning the sound characteristics to your liking. The ability to connect more than one source device is a handy feature. The extra subwoofer output allows for great versatility for those looking to enhance the low-end response of their bookshelf speakers.
Conclusion
It is a great sounding and pretty-looking pair of bookshelf speakers capable of reproducing any task- movies, music, or spoken word audio. These speakers will last a lifetime when taken care of, and their versatility without a doubt provides a long existence of enjoyable, immersive listening.
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What We Dislike
6. Klipsch RP-600M Reference Premiere Bookshelf Speakers
Dimensions
8″ x 118″ x 157″
Freq. Response
45Hz-25kHz
Power Output
100W
Driver Size
6.5” woofer,
1” tweeter
Coming in at one of the pricier options on this best list, Klipsch is known and respected industry-wide for producing consistently incredible audio products. Their RP-600M bookshelf speaker system upholds their standards and impresses audiophiles and casual consumers alike.
Design and Features
Housed in your choice of attractive ebony, piano black, or walnut finishing, the RP-600M also features scratch-resistant material for an elegant addition to your home theater system. The speakers are well-made and guaranteed to last as their strong, flexible, magnetic grilles protect the speaker cones as well as a sleek aesthetic to complement any decorative setting.
A handy function is the ability to bi-wire or bi-amp your speakers, thanks to dual input terminals. This results in a more full, well-rounded, and safer amplifier operating condition. A rear port seamlessly matches the cabinet and woofers, allowing for reduced distortion at high listening volumes or ‘turbulence’ from heavy low-frequency sounds.
Sound Quality
Starting with the woofers, these speakers produce a serious low-end rumble with absolutely no distortion or unwanted airflow due to a combination of dual-layer, copper-wound voice coils and a ceramic cone design.
Smooth frequency response can be expected here; great for film, and the dynamic range is excellent! While the RP-600M bookshelf speakers can support any media, from music to movies or podcasts, there are better options on the market for a similar price point if music listening is your main objective. They sound great, but if you’re searching for a cleaner, more accurate, and more objective music experience, I’d recommend something with slightly less audio coloration.
Conclusion
If you’re not too fussy about enhanced low-end and slight lack of dynamics, this speaker is a great choice in bookshelf speakers if you’re looking for a powerful, warm sound to fill a living room with monstrous movie sound effects, spoken word, or music. While they are somewhat expensive compared to some other options on this list, these speakers will, without a doubt, impress and last for years to come.
What We Like
What We Dislike
7. Audioengine HD3 Wireless Bookshelf Speakers
Dimensions
11.9″x 8.9″x 11.7″
Freq. Response
65Hz to 22kHz
Power Output
60W
Driver Size
2.75” Woofer,
¾” tweeters
Popular consumer speaker manufacturers Audioengine has released a powerful Bluetooth bookshelf speaker system with many onboard tricks and features to enhance audio quality. Compatible with various source devices and a great-sounding system makes for a valuable purchase if the price is within your budget.
Design and Features
Compatible with Bluetooth wireless technology, Audioengine’s HD3 bookshelf speakers can operate from a wireless distance of up to 100ft, and a 24-bit DAC enables bypassed low-quality sound from most laptops or phones to improve audio fidelity. You can connect the HD3s to your source devices via various connectivity options: USB, RCA, 3.5mm, and Bluetooth Wireless Audio. This means you can connect cellphones, computers/laptops, turntables/record-player systems, televisions, gaming consoles, and more.
Sound Quality
These compact bookshelf speakers have been designed to pack a powerful punch, with built-in analog power amplifiers to provide full-bodied and vibrant audio wherever you are in the room. The HD3s can reach powerful volumes with minimal distortion introduced into the system. The speakers are constructed from Aramid Fiber Woofers and Silk Tweeters to deliver warm, crystal clear quality sound. Onboard analog power amplifiers will certainly impress audio fanatics, and a frequency response of 65Hz to 22kHz with a deviation factor of only +-2dB will guarantee a smooth listening experience.
Conclusion
I enjoy these bookshelf speakers, the ability to connect virtually any device, wired or wirelessly, over a large distance, coupled with powerful and bright audio quality, make this one of my favorite choices in bookshelf speaker systems. 100% worth every penny.
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What We Dislike
8. Jamo S 803 Bookshelf Speakers
Dimensions
20″ x 7″x 14″
Freq. Response
56Hz-26kHz
Power Output
160W
Driver Size
5″ woofer,
1″ tweeter
A highly affordable bookshelf speaker system available from a producer we haven’t touched on before is Jamo. Their S803 bookshelf speaker setup is sleek-looking, powerful, and highly versatile. Modern design and functions, at first glance, have generated some excitement in the industry. Let’s take a deeper look into what Jamo has to offer.
Design and Features
Jamo’s Studio 8 series speakers have been designed to fit beautifully in any modern and premium environment- any style of living room, bedroom, office, or studio space will not face any awkwardness, with these speakers being the center of attention! The S803s are available in white, black, and walnut finishes to suit any atmosphere.
The overall build quality of the Jamo S 803 is decent but not great, the cabinet design could be better, and one should handle them with care to avoid causing cosmetic damage, which these speakers are prone to if knocked over or scratched.
Sound Quality
A great sound-related feature here is the Dolby Atmos technology compatibility. These bookshelf speakers deliver sound from all directions, including overhead. This technology effectively fills any room with immersive, clear, and detailed sound. WaveGuide technology innovations from Jamo assist in high-frequency delivery, and a front-facing subwoofer port allows for greater maneuverability and easy placement. Overall a great-sounding bookshelf speaker set!
Conclusion
An incredible and greatly recommended bookshelf speaker system is available at a highly competitive price point. Versatile, clean, classy, and sounds the way you’d expect any decent speaker set to. However, these speakers are passively powered, so you’d need an external power amplifier to run them.
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Different Types of Speakers – Passive, Amp, and Active
The speakers in this article all fall into one of the above three categories. We need to break down basic signal flow through a HIFI-type system to understand these configurations with their inherent advantages and disadvantages.
First, our source component is the electronics that receive your signal in various forms such as Aux, USB, CD, Radio Frequency, or Bluetooth.
Once the source interface has decoded your audio signal, it can be sent to the next phase in our signal chain. Next, we meet our amplifiers, split into two modules- preamp and power amp. Here, your signal is modified and amplified to an acceptable level to drive the speakers.
After the audio signal has gained its character and strength, it is processed by a crossover unit. The crossover unit segregates the signal into frequency bands so they can be sent to the drivers best suited to represent them – sub, woofer, tweeter, etc. The number of resulting signals depends on the speakers you are using; 2-way speakers will have their signals broken into low and high-frequency bands, while full-range drivers will receive only one information channel.
Now, without getting too technical, let’s have a look at how active and passive systems operate differently:
In an active speaker system, each split frequency band is pumped with juice by its own power amplifier before reaching the designated drivers.
In a passive speaker configuration, the crossover/frequency division process occurs after amplification before the signal is received by the drivers.
Using a Bookshelf Speaker as Part of a 2.1 System
If you’re looking to add some depth to your music or home theater setup, the addition of a subwoofer would undoubtedly provide the extra kick you’re searching for. This can be done relatively simply, provided your crossover system allows for it.
As for placement, I would recommend placing your sub-dead-center between your left & right speakers; this would, in turn, improve the stereo image and prevent phase issues.
Connectivity Options
Let’s go over some common connectivity options you will find on most bookshelf speakers. This is very important as you need to ensure your source devices are compatible or if you need to purchase additional adaptors/converters.
3.5mm Jack: An auxiliary or ‘aux’ jack is the most common in small design speakers for recreational use. Most cellphones, computers, televisions, and CD players/HiFi systems work by using this connection, but be sure to check this out first, as some modern designs use alternative connections.
¼ inch Jack: The ¼ inch jack is available in two different configurations, designed to transfer information in one of two ways: mono or stereo. The technicalities of this cable and its connector are not too important when dealing with bookshelf speakers, but beware that this connection is not found too commonly on consumer-grade music/audio devices and is a more specialized connection. You can purchase these cables online or in-store at any electronics, audiovisual, or music store.
3.5mm RCA: A connection we are familiar with, known as the group of red, yellow, and white cables that establish a connection between most televisions and DVD players, and similar devices.
Bluetooth: Our familiar friend Bluetooth works by transmitting radio waves along with a limited distance decoded by the receiving device. Bluetooth technology is available in various formats regarding encoding, decoding, transmission speed, signal strength, and quality. Most modern devices utilize Bluetooth modes 4.0 – 5.0.
Below is a short buyer’s guide briefly explaining some technical terms and specifications used to describe a set of bookshelf speakers and other considerations to look at when purchasing a new bookshelf speaker setup.
Wired vs. Wireless Bookshelf Speakers
Wireless technology appears more and more in our daily lives and to some, can be an absolute necessity. I do not see the need for wireless capabilities for a set of bookshelf speakers. These are mostly used for TV, radio, gaming, etc., but wireless features would surely benefit those wanting to stream music from their phone/laptop.
Sound Type: Stereo, 2.1, Surround Sound, etc.
Bookshelf speakers are available in various configurations, each designed specifically for single purposes or multiple uses. While stereo setups are most common as they are all most will need, a 2.1 setup – 1 x stereo speaker pair plus 1 x subwoofer – can certainly enhance your gaming, viewing, or listening. A surround sound rig could also greatly affect the overall experience and assist in the impressiveness of your chosen media.
Sound Quality:
Easily the most important factor to consider when looking to buy a bookshelf speaker set. Always refer to technical specifications, and expert reviews and, if possible, perform a demo of the speakers yourself to trial their performance when tested against your preferences in entertainment and uses.
Device Versatility:
Can the bookshelf speakers be used with different devices such as my cellphone, television, or stereo system?
This all comes down to the connectivity options available on the device. Luckily, most computer speakers are designed to be fed through a 3.5mm jack cable, which is compatible with most TVs, cellphones, and stereo systems.
Connectivity:
It is very important to double-check the connectivity options available on your prospective bookshelf speaker system to ensure you will make full use of your speakers. As far as connectivity/inputs are concerned, there are generally a few standard choices: 3.5mm jack (or ‘aux’ cable), Bluetooth, or USB. All of which are compatible with virtually every computer, television, cellphone, or tablet.
Impedance
Impedance in audio devices is simply the resistance added to the audio circuit and is expressed on a technical specification sheet. Bookshelf speakers come in a variety of impedances, ranging from 4 – 16 Ohms. This specification is only necessary to look at when you are running sensitive, professional-grade stereo setups or music equipment and want to ensure optimal performance from your gear and prevent damage to any components in the signal chain. You can ignore this information for simply streaming music through a computer, TV, HiFi, or other common source devices.
Audio Controls – How Can I Control the Unit?
All bookshelf speaker systems will include onboard controls, such as power on/off and volume up/down. Many will also feature additional controls for subwoofer Activation and equalization options such as bass boosting, dimming (reducing volume at a set level), or controlling the lights of the speakers. Some computer speakers will even include voice command functionality or remote control, which comes in handy when using them for film viewing or live meetings, interviews, or conferences.
Power Source
Always ensure your new bookshelf speaker setup’s power cables are compatible with the plug points of your country/region. They should always come with power cables in the box.
Drivers Sizes- Bass and Treble Speakers
As discussed in our introduction to bookshelf speaker systems, the driver’s size and material severely impact sound quality and execution. Be sure to read up on these specifications. They will significantly affect how you enjoy your speakers based on your intended uses for them.
Frequency Response
Frequency response is one of the most important specifications to analyze when buying any audio-related device. This can be described as a device’s ability to represent the audio source signal passing through it accurately.
Frequency response is represented in graph form and as a figure. When buying any audio-related device, a flatter frequency response is the aim. The more ‘rocky’ the frequency response becomes, the more certain frequencies will be either undesirably accentuated or omitted.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
Another critical piece of information for any audio product. Signal to Noise Ratio describes the amount of unwanted noise introduced into your speakers as volume levels increase.
This is particularly important if you’ll be using your computer speakers for virtual meetings or interviews, as the other party’s microphone levels may require you to push volume on your end, resulting in amplified system noise.
Warranty
Lastly, we always like to take a look into how the product’s warranty plan works to ensure coverage from possible factory defects, transportation damage, and other minor to major inconveniences.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that you may still have questions regarding bookshelf speakers. We’ve provided answers to some of the most common questions, but if you find your question is still unanswered, please leave a comment below so we may assist.
What is the Difference Between Bookshelf and Floor Standing Speakers?
Bookshelf speakers inherit their name as they are commonly placed atop a bookshelf, countertop, or television cabinet. Floorstanding speakers are simply bookshelf speakers placed atop a speaker stand.
For audiophiles and critics alike, users would generally place their speakers on dedicated stands situated at the correct height and distance from each other, walls, and other obstacles. The placement of speaker stands promotes sound isolation. It allows the speakers to perform without being affected by other materials around them, which can cause unwanted reflections, absorption, or additional sound coloration.
Does the Size of the Bookshelf Speaker Affect Sound Quality?
Whether a speaker is smaller or larger will, without a doubt, affect the quality you will experience. The most noticeable difference will be the low-frequency presence in the room. Generally, a larger speaker cone on the woofer will produce a fuller, warmer, all-around ‘deeper’ sound, while a smaller cone will lack some attributes.
Larger speakers are typically housed within sturdier, heavier, and more premium cabinets manufactured from special woods or molded plastics, while smaller speakers can be placed inside lightweight, more affordable woods and plastics that do not resonate as effectively.
Is a Woofer Important or Necessary?
As we mentioned earlier in the article, the woofer is responsible for handling all low frequencies. So, for a short answer: it all depends on what you intend to listen to. For bass-heavy music or watching films that carry a lot of low-end information (such as action/ combat), you’d want a designated low-frequency speaker set up to ensure maximum intelligibility on the lower end of the frequency spectrum to get the full immersive effect of explosions, bass drops and similar sound effects.
Can Bookshelf Speakers be Used for Surround Sound?
Bookshelf speakers can be set up in a surround sound configuration due to their relatively flat frequency response and above-average sound quality compared to entry-level television speakers. However, this would require more advanced wiring and extra components within your signal chain. Surround sound systems come in various structures- a 5.1 surround sound setup is most common for home theatre applications.
A 5.1 surround sound configuration consists of 6 components- 5 speakers and one subwoofer (the ‘point one’), and they are arranged as follows:
Left, Center (behind the screen), Right, Left Surround (back left corner), Right Surround (back right corner), Subwoofer (center, below screen)
If you plan on setting up a 5.1 surround system, you must ensure your crossover system allows for this many speaker outputs and the amplifier can handle the output required to drive five speakers.
Why Are They Called Bookshelf Speakers?
Bookshelf Speakers inherited their name due to common placement atop a bookshelf. However, this does not mean they cannot be situated elsewhere. A pair of Bookshelf Speakers can perform equally sitting on a TV cabinet; standalone speaker stands, desk, or kitchen counter!
Do Expensive Bookshelf Speakers Sound Better Than Cheaper Ones?
The price of a pair of bookshelf speakers will affect sound quality in many ways as more premium components and materials are used in the manufacturing process, including circuit board components, drivers, speaker cabinets, connectors, and cables. If you’re looking for exceptional sound quality, be prepared to spend a little extra money than entry-level speakers. You get what you pay for.
Do Bookshelf Speakers Require an Amplifier?
All speakers require some sort of amplifier to bring the signal to an acceptable level to drive the speakers sufficiently. Passive speakers need an external amplifier, while active speakers are driven on their own.
