
Best Bookshelf Speakers
- Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speaker
- 1. Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speaker
- 2. Sonos One (2nd Gen) Bookshelf Speaker
- 3. ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers
- 4. KEF LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speaker
- 5. Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers
- 6. KEF Q150B Q150 Bookshelf Speakers
- 7. Klipsch RP-600M Reference Premiere Bookshelf Speakers
- 8. Audioengine HD3 Wireless Bookshelf Speakers
- 9. KEF Q350 Bookshelf Speakers
- 10. Jamo S 803 Bookshelf Speakers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Does Surround Sound Work with Bookshelf Speakers?
- Why are they referred to as bookshelf speakers?
- Are More Expensive Bookshelf Speakers Better Sounding Than Cheaper Models?
- Should I use an amplifier with bookshelf speakers?
- Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speaker
The term “bookshelf” refers to compact speaker systems made to easily fit on a bookshelf when discussing speakers for home theater applications. This does not preclude their placement in other locations, such as atop TV stands, desks, or countertops. These speakers should be mounted on special stands when used for audiophile tasks like critical listening, audio mixing, or mastering to reduce structural vibration and reflections.
Everybody from audio professionals to movie buffs to the typical entertainment consumer looking for an upgrade from the built-in speakers on many TVs and computers is becoming more and more enamored with the best bookshelf speakers because of their versatility and high quality.
- Best Overall Bookshelf Speaker
- Best Passive Bookshelf Speaker
- Best Active Bookshelf Speaker
- Best Sounding Bookshelf Speaker
- Best Smart Bookshelf Speaker
- Best Budget-Friendly Bookshelf Speaker
- Most Versatile Bookshelf Speaker
The Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speaker is an incredibly well-designed set guaranteed to last and provide years of high-fidelity audio quality entertainment. This speaker system uses contemporary features and design to deliver powerful performance to the audio industry.
Another award goes to the Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speakers. These passive speakers from Q Acoustics are incredibly powerful and deliver immersive, crisp, and detailed sound for any application.
Klipsch RP-600M Reference Premiere Bookshelf Speakers deliver flawless audio quality while incorporating a number of extra features into this incredibly flexible speaker setup.
Our pick for the best-sounding speakers is the Audioengine HD3 wireless bookshelf speakers, which have outstanding frequency response, THD, signal-to-noise ratio, and power handling.
The Sonos One2nd bookshelf speaker will offer convenient and interactive listening to improve your home entertainment. It is portable and incredibly versatile.
Edifier has a great product overall, and it’s priced reasonably for the performance and features it offers. For excellent audiophile speakers on a modest budget, the Edifier R1280Ts powered bookshelf speaker is a great choice.
Once again, Sonos has wowed us with their Sonos One2nd bookshelf speaker system, which is small, portable, powerful, and produces excellent sound. The second-generation One speaker from Sonos will without a doubt be the ideal addition to any home entertainment system, whether it be for music, movies, spoken word, sports, or gaming.
What distinguishes bookshelf speakers from floor-standing speakers?
The fact that bookshelf speakers are frequently placed atop a bookshelf, countertop, or television cabinet gives them their name. Bookshelf speakers are simply placed on a speaker stand to form floor-standing speakers.
Users would typically mount their speakers on specialized stands that were positioned at the right height and distance from one another, walls, and other obstructions for audiophiles and critics alike. It helps to isolate sounds by mounting speakers on stands. It enables the speakers to operate without interference from nearby materials, which could result in unwanted reflections, absorption, or further sound coloration.
Different Speaker Types: Passive, Amp, and Active
All of the speakers in this article fit into one of the aforementioned three groups. We must dissect the fundamental signal flow that occurs within an HIFI-type system in order to comprehend these various configurations, as well as the inherent benefits and drawbacks that go along with them.
The electronics that receive your signal from various sources, such as Aux, USB, CD, Radio Frequency, or Bluetooth, are our source components.
Your audio signal can move on to the following step in our signal chain once the source interface has successfully decoded it. We then encounter our amplifiers, which are divided into preamp and power amp modules. Your signal is changed and amplified in this place to an appropriate level so that the speakers can be driven.
A crossover unit processes the audio signal after it develops its strength and character. The crossover unit separates the signal into frequency bands so that they can be sent to the sub, woofer, tweeter, and other drivers that are best suited to represent them. Depending on the speakers you’re using, you’ll get one or more channels of information; 2-way speakers will split their signals into low- and high-frequency bands. Full-range drivers will only get one channel.
Let’s examine the differences between active and passive systems now, without getting too technical:
Each split frequency band in an active speaker system is given a boost by its own power amplifier before reaching the designated drivers.
Before the signal is received by the drivers in a passive speaker configuration, the crossover/frequency division process takes place after amplification.
Making Use of a Bookshelf Speaker in a 2.1 System
A subwoofer would undoubtedly give your music or home theater system the extra kick you’re looking for if you want to add some depth. If your crossover system permits it, doing this can be done fairly easily.
As for positioning, I would suggest putting your sub dead-center between your left and right speakers. Doing so would enhance the stereo effect and avoid phase problems.
Our Selection of the Best Bookshelf Speakers
1. Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speaker

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 170x278x282 mm |
Freq. Response | 64Hz-30kHz |
Power Output | 125W |
Driver Size | 5” bass driver, 0.9” tweeter |
The most recent product from Q Acoustics boasts impressive technological design advancements for an exceptional listening experience. The 3020i bookshelf speakers are made to deliver vivid, warm, and colorful sound throughout any space, all through a sleekly crafted cabinet enclosure.
Design and Features
The Q Acoustics 3020i bookshelf speakers can be placed on a shelf or cabinet or mounted on a wall. The enclosure’s cabinet, which is a little bit bigger than Q Acoustics’ prior products, is reinforced using point-to-point bracing engineering to increase the rigidity of specific enclosure sections.
This creates a clearer soundstage by increasing stereo focus, directional accuracy from the speakers, and reducing rattling.
To reduce driver interference, the speakers are also separated from the baffles. To match any bedroom/living room environment and décor, this bookshelf speaker set is offered in four colors: graphite grey, English walnut, carbon black, and arctic white.
Sound Quality
The Q Acoustics 3020i’s collection of premium audio parts and contemporary design, which promotes audio superiority, enables it to produce a sound of the highest caliber. Larger sound volume and improved low-frequency response are benefits of the larger cabinet size.
Decoupled speakers produce a clearer, more complete sound while maximizing isolation and minimizing interference.
Conclusion
The Q Acoustics 3020i speaker set is exceptionally well-made and designed. The durability, sound quality, and overall listening experience are all improved by modern technology and design features. Even though this bookshelf speaker system isn’t the cheapest, it is unquestionably worth every penny.
2. Sonos One (2nd Gen) Bookshelf Speaker

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 6.36”x 4.69”x 4.69” |
Freq. Response | 20Hz-20kHz |
Power Output | 55W |
Driver Size | 4.5 in |
Sonos continues to wow the consumer-grade speaker market with their One speaker system. The second generation model, which has some fresh contemporary features, is the most recent refinement to be made.
Design and Features
The Sonos One bookshelf speaker set is a potent smart speaker with a number of useful features built-in. The Sonos mobile app, which is accessible from all app stores and features voice control, can be used to operate the speaker.
You can use the speaker to control your music, set alarms, check the news, and weather, and ask Alexa any question you like by connecting it to Apple’s AirPlay 2 and Amazon’s Alexa. The stand-alone bookshelf speaker is reasonably portable and resistant to humidity, so you can use it or store it in your kitchen or bathroom.
Sound Quality
The Sonos One lacks stereo image and spread since it is a full-range mono speaker. Although you lose the feeling of left and right stereo immersion, this tiny speaker packs a powerful punch that will fill any space with a rich, lively sound. The ability to connect more than two Sonos One speakers, which enables stereo music playback, expands its connectivity options. For surround-sound movie audio, you could also connect to Sonos’ Playbar, Playbase, or Beam.
Conclusion
The Sonos One 2nd Generation bookshelf speaker is capable of meeting all home entertainment needs because it is small, light, and very versatile. For those whose needs and budgets match those of this product, an all-in-one entertainment device with voice controllable internet connectivity comes highly recommended.
3. ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 7.69”x 14.76”x 10.55” |
Freq. Response | 44Hz-35kHz |
Power Output | 120W |
Driver Size | 6.5” woofer, 1” tweeter |
The Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speaker System from ELAC is another bookshelf speaker system that meets contemporary needs and keeps up with cutting-edge technological developments. The speaker set competes with premium systems available on the market that start at prices higher than this one.
Design and Features
Black ash vinyl covers the Debut B6.2 bookshelf speaker set from ELAC, giving it a polished, expert, and contemporary feel. Considering the output it is capable of producing, the system is comparatively small. The addition of a center speaker, which is chargeable, unquestionably improves movie viewing by creating a more defined soundstage.
The B6.2 bookshelf speakers from ELAC add new and improved features to the company’s previous speaker design.
The B6.2’s front-firing ports are a useful addition that mitigates the effects of problems frequently associated with poor speaker placement, particularly when placed against a wall. This makes placement within the room practically unlimited! Modern woofer design encourages high-frequency definition without sacrificing any low end, and a newly developed tweeter design tends the speaker’s frequency response to an astounding 35kHz.
Sound Quality
Compared to earlier ELAC revisions, the B6.2 bookshelf speakers offer superior audio quality thanks to their impressive new design features. However, these speakers certainly give some of the top bookshelf speakers on the market a run for their money when compared to them. An excellent listening experience is provided by the sound’s powerful low-frequency response, crisp high end, and full, warm characteristic sound definition in between.
Conclusion
Overall, these speakers are seriously impressive for the price, and the center driver option is a cool feature. These speakers are simple to install, provide a pleasurable listening experience, and last for many years.
4. KEF LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speaker

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 12” x 7.9” x 12.2” |
Freq. Response | 47Hz-45kHz |
Power Output | 100W |
Driver Size | 5.25” woofer, 1” tweeter |
KEF, one of our favorite audio manufacturers, has unveiled a potent premium speaker set that is intended for those looking to advance their home entertainment. The relatively high cost of this speaker system is justified by its cutting-edge features, modern design, and innovative speaker technology.
Design and Features
Modern acoustic design is used in KEF’s LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speaker System, which is based on the Uni-Q 12 Generation model and uses a driver with Metamaterial Absorption Technology.
Even at lower listening volumes, the Array speaker system can easily fill any room with rich, lively sound.
This labyrinth-shaped Metamaterial Absorption Technology design effectively eliminates up to 99% of unwanted noise from the driver’s rear, resulting in a more accurate, cleaner audio reproduction. There are several finishes for the LS50s, including Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White, and Royal Blue.
Sound Quality
There is nothing to be unhappy about in terms of the LS50s’ audio quality. KEF has succeeded in creating a speaker system that is clear, precise, strong, and adaptable and enhances all musical genres and other forms of multimedia entertainment. Modern technological advancements have been made to lessen the coloration of the audio caused by the shape, material, and design of the cabinet. A staggeringly wide frequency range ensures an evenly distributed sound stage, and the MAT features also demonstrate their ability to reduce vibrations and unwanted sound.
Conclusion
Everyone should have a pair of KEF’s LS50 Meta bookshelf speakers on their wish list for their ideal speaker setup in their ideal house. Even though they are more expensive than most people can afford, those who can afford them should definitely invest in them.
5. Edifier R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speakers

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 17” x 11.8” x 7.2” |
Freq. Response | 51Hz-20kHz |
Power Output | 42W |
Driver Size | 4” woofer, 0.5” tweeter |
Edifier, a well-known speaker manufacturer, has once again impressed us with their R1280Ts Powered Bookshelf Speaker system. These bookshelf speakers are an excellent addition to any home entertainment system at a surprisingly low cost because they come with a variety of contemporary features, powerful sound, and a sleek design.
Design and Features
A 4-inch bass driver and a 13mm treble driver, housed in a traditional-looking wooden cabinet, reproduce an impressively wide frequency range of 51Hz–20KHz. These bookshelf speakers can be connected to your media device(s) via Bluetooth optical cable, coaxial cable, or two onboard RCA connections (2 total). The system also has remote control functionality for added convenience. From the comfort of your couch, you can use the remote to change the volume, mute or unmute functions, and toggle sound field extension! It comes with speaker connecting cables, RCA-RCA and RCA-3.5mm adapters, and a mesh speaker grille that can be removed for cleaning and aesthetic reasons.
Sound Quality
The Edifier R1280Ts bookshelf speakers are ideal for home theater, office, bedroom, or lounge use because they can reproduce frequencies between 51Hz and 20KHz. These speakers are great for listening to music, movies, podcasts, radio, and sporting events. The R1280Ts are equipped with equalization controls on the side panel, allowing you to fine-tune the sound characteristics to your preferences by adjusting the bass, treble, and master volume to the speakers’ output stage. It’s useful to have the option to connect multiple source devices. Those looking to improve the low-end response of their bookshelf speakers have a lot of flexibility thanks to the additional subwoofer output.
Conclusion
It is a stylish and excellent-sounding set of bookshelf speakers that can handle any task, including the reproduction of spoken word, music, and movies. When maintained, these speakers will last a lifetime, and their adaptability unquestionably ensures a long life of enjoyable, immersive listening.
6. KEF Q150B Q150 Bookshelf Speakers

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 21″x 16″ x 17″ |
Freq. Response | 51Hz-28KHz |
Power Output | 100W |
Driver Size | 5.25″ woofer, 1″ tweeter |
Another outstanding product from KEF, one of our favorite speaker companies. KEF, which is celebrating 50 years in the audio technology industry this year, presents us with an amazing bookshelf speaker system that once again causes a stir in the audio industry with its cutting-edge technology, design, and methodology.
Design and Features
The Q150B bookshelf speakers have a number of cutting-edge technological features, including an impressive “Sit Anywhere” feature that improves the soundstage and widens the listening “sweet spot.” This is accomplished by positioning the tweeter in the midrange driver’s acoustic center, which results in a cleaner, fuller, and more immersive listening experience. This technology, when combined with a rear-facing subwoofer port, also lowers unwanted resonant frequencies, resulting in an audio reproduction quality that is crystal-clear and un- “colored.”
Sound Quality
Regarding sound quality, I have no complaints; even at high output volumes of up to 108Db, the Q150B bookshelf speakers can produce a wide range of frequencies (51Hz-28KHz) without adding any noise to the system! This speaker set is a wonderful addition to any home entertainment system, office space, or bedroom because it has a wide soundstage and a comparatively flat frequency response.
Conclusion
I was impressed with these KEF Q150B bookshelf speakers. They make excellent sound for any application, including music, movies, podcasts, and spoken word. The Q150B’s honor some technological advances in the audio sector and are reasonably priced given their features. A positive listening experience is assured!
7. Klipsch RP-600M Reference Premiere Bookshelf Speakers

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 8″ x 118″ x 157″ |
Freq. Response | 45Hz-25kHz |
Power Output | 100W |
Driver Size | 6.5” woofer, 1” tweeter |
Despite being one of the more expensive choices on this list of the best, Klipsch is renowned and respected throughout the industry for consistently creating excellent audio products. Their bookshelf speaker system, the RP-600M, more than lives up to their standards and continues to dazzle both audiophiles and average buyers.
Design and Features
The RP-600M is a stylish addition to your home theater system and comes in your choice of attractive ebony, piano black, or walnut finishing. It also has scratch-resistant material. The speakers’ sturdy, flexible, magnetic grilles shield the speaker cones and have a sleek appearance to go with any decorative setting, making them well-made and guaranteed to last.
The ability to bi-wire or bi-amp your speakers is a useful feature made possible by the dual input terminals. As a result, the operating condition of the amplifier is more complete, balanced, and secure. Rear ports that are perfectly matched to the cabinet and woofers allow for less “turbulence” from loud low-frequency sounds and reduced distortion at high listening volumes.
Sound Quality
Starting with the woofers, the dual-layer, copper-wound voice coils and ceramic cone design of these speakers result in a serious low-end rumble with no distortion or unwanted airflow.
Here, a smooth frequency response can be anticipated; this is excellent for film, and the dynamic range is also very good! Although the RP-600M bookshelf speakers are perfectly capable of supporting any media, including music, movies, or podcasts, if music listening is your primary goal, there are better options on the market for a comparable price point. They have great sound, but if you want a cleaner, more accurate, and more objective music experience, I’d suggest looking for something with a little less audio coloration.
Conclusion
This speaker is a great option for bookshelf speakers if you don’t care too much about the enhanced low-end and slight lack of dynamics and are looking for a strong, warm sound to fill a living room with terrifying movie sound effects, spoken word, or music. Even though they are more expensive than some of the other options on this list, these speakers will undoubtedly impress and last for many years.
8. Audioengine HD3 Wireless Bookshelf Speakers

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 11.9″x 8.9″x 11.7″ |
Freq. Response | 65Hz to 22kHz |
Power Output | 60W |
Driver Size | 2.75” Woofer, ¾” tweeters |
A robust Bluetooth bookshelf speaker system from well-known consumer speaker manufacturer Audioengine has been released with a variety of onboard features and tricks to improve audio quality. If the price is within your price range, a great-sounding system that is compatible with a variety of source devices is a worthwhile investment.
Design and Features
With Bluetooth compatibility, Audioengine’s HD3 bookshelf speakers can operate wirelessly up to 100 feet away, and a 24-bit DAC allows the low-quality sound from most laptops or phones to be bypassed to increase audio fidelity. The HD3s support a variety of connectivity methods, including USB, RCA, 3.5mm, and Bluetooth Wireless Audio. This implies that you can connect devices like smartphones, laptops, turntables, record players, TVs, video game consoles, and more.
Sound Quality
With integrated analog power amplifiers, these small bookshelf speakers are built to deliver rich, vibrant sound no matter where you are in the room. The HD3 speakers can produce loud volumes with little distortion in the system. Silk Tweeters and Aramid Fiber Woofers are used in the speaker construction to produce a warm, clear sound. Audiophiles will undoubtedly be impressed by the onboard analog power amplifiers, and a frequency response of 65Hz to 22kHz with a deviation factor of only +-2dB will ensure a comfortable listening experience.
Conclusion
I like these bookshelf speakers because they can connect to almost any device, wired or wirelessly, over a great distance. This makes them one of my favorite options for bookshelf speaker systems. Absolutely worth every cent.
9. KEF Q350 Bookshelf Speakers

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 14.25″ x 8.26″x 12.04″ |
Freq. Response | 63Hz-28kHz |
Power Output | 120W |
Driver Size | 6.5in drivers array |
The Q150B series we looked at earlier in this article is basically upgraded into KEF’s Q350 bookshelf speaker set. KEF continues to dazzle us and fans of high-fidelity audio all over the world with yet another potent, adaptable, and robust bookshelf speaker system.
Design and Features
The Q350 speakers from KEF are a larger, more powerful, and technologically advanced update of their previous offering, the Q150B bookshelf speakers. The same features are present, such as the “Sit Anywhere” sound technology, which widens the sound stage for a more immersive audio listening experience, and the excellent dynamic range, which is excellent for watching movies and listening to music. The bookshelf speakers in the Q350 come with some changes to the speaker enclosure’s design that improve the speaker’s ability to produce sound.
Sound Quality
The larger brother of the Q150B speakers can reproduce a frequency range between 63Hz and 28kHz and can produce an output volume up to 110dB. A more powerful amplifier with a 15-120W rating is needed. However, given the Q350 bookshelf speakers’ higher power consumption, this is to be expected. To mitigate harsh high-end frequencies, KEF has developed a damped tweeter loading tube, and improved crossover system technology enables tighter and more accurate bass response. The repositioned woofer port has successfully eliminated unwanted resonant frequencies.
Conclusion
A great set of bookshelf speakers that can be used as either an affordable set or a long-term investment. The speakers deliver excellent sound quality regardless of the media you try to play through them, and they will last and deliver years of enjoyable listening. This is a fantastic option that I would suggest any day due to its simple installation and excellent versatility.
10. Jamo S 803 Bookshelf Speakers

Specs & Features
Dimensions | 20″ x 7″x 14″ |
Freq. Response | 56Hz-26kHz |
Power Output | 160W |
Driver Size | 5″ woofer, 1″ tweeter |
A very affordable bookshelf speaker system is offered by Jamo, a manufacturer we haven’t yet reviewed. Their S803 bookshelf speaker system is stylish, potent, and incredibly adaptable. At first glance, modern design and functions have caused some excitement in the sector. Let’s examine Jamo’s capabilities in more detail.
Design and Features
The Studio 8 series speakers from Jamo have been created to seamlessly blend into any contemporary, luxurious setting. This means that they can be the focal point of any living room, bedroom, office, or studio without creating any awkwardness. To complement any setting, the S803’s come in white, black, and walnut finishes.
Sound Quality
The compatibility with Dolby Atmos technology is a fantastic audio-related feature. Sound is delivered from all directions, including above, by these bookshelf speakers. With the help of this technology, any space can be filled with rich, detailed sound. Jamo’s WaveGuide technology innovations aid in high-frequency delivery, and a front-facing subwoofer port enables easier placement and greater maneuverability. An excellent bookshelf speaker set all around!
Conclusion
At a very competitive price, a fantastic and highly recommended bookshelf speaker system is offered. versatile, spotless, elegant, and produces the kind of sound you’d expect from a good speaker set. Since these speakers are passively powered, a separate power amplifier is required to operate them.
How Does Speaker Size Affect Sound Quality?
Without a doubt, the quality you hear will differ depending on the size of the speaker. The presence of low-frequency energy in space will be the most obvious change. A larger speaker cone on the woofer will typically produce a fuller, warmer, and more complete sound, whereas a smaller cone will lack some characteristics.
Smaller speakers can be installed inside a lightweight, less expensive woods and plastics that do not resonate as well as larger speakers, which are typically housed within stronger, heavier, and more expensive cabinets made from special woods or molded plastics.
Is a Woofer Required or Important?
The woofer is in charge of handling all low frequencies, as we mentioned earlier in the article. The short answer is that it all depends on what you plan to listen to. You’d want a dedicated low-frequency speaker set up to ensure maximum intelligibility on the lower end of the frequency spectrum when listening to bass-heavy music or watching movies that carry a lot of low-end information (such as action/combat), in order to get the full immersive effect of explosions, bass drops, and similar sound effects.
Connectivity Options
Let’s discuss some common connectivity options that can be found on the majority of bookshelf speakers now. This is crucial because you need to make sure your source devices are compatible or if additional adaptors or converters are required.
3.5mm Jack: The most frequent jack found in small speakers intended for recreational use is an auxiliary or “aux” jack. This connection is used by the majority of cellphones, computers, televisions, CD players, and hi-fi systems; however, some contemporary designs employ different connections, so be sure to check this out first.
1/4 inch Jack: The 1/4 inch jack can be used to transmit information in either mono or stereo and comes in two different configurations. When working with bookshelf speakers, the specifics of this cable and its connector are not that crucial, but be aware that this connection is more specialized and is not frequently found on consumer-grade music/audio devices. These cables are available for purchase online or offline at any electronics, audiovisual, or music retailer.
3.5mm RCA: A connection that most televisions, DVD players, and similar devices use is made by a trio of red, yellow, and white cables that we are all familiar with.
Bluetooth: In order for Bluetooth to function, radio waves must be transmitted over a short distance and decoded by the receiving device. Regarding encoding, decoding, transmission speed, signal strength, and quality, Bluetooth technology is available in a number of formats. Bluetooth modes 4.0 to 5.0 are used by the majority of modern devices.
Best Bookshelf Speaker Buyer’s Guide
Here is a brief buyer’s guide that defines some of the technical terms and characteristics used to describe a set of bookshelf speakers as well as some additional factors to take into account when making a new bookshelf speaker purchase.
Wired vs. Wireless Bookshelf Speakers
More and more wireless technology is used in our daily lives, and for some people, it is a necessity. I don’t see why wireless functionality would be necessary for a set of bookshelf speakers. Wireless features would undoubtedly be useful for those who want to stream music from their phone or laptop, even though these are primarily used for TV, radio, gaming, etc.
Sound Type: Stereo, 2.1, Surround Sound, etc.
Bookshelf speakers come in a variety of configurations, each one created specifically for one use or a variety of uses. The most common setups are stereo because that is all most people require, but a 2.1 setup, which consists of a stereo speaker pair and a subwoofer, can improve your gaming, viewing, or listening. A surround sound setup could also have a significant impact on the overall enjoyment and help make your chosen media more impressive.
Sound Quality
Clearly, the most crucial aspect to take into account before purchasing a set of bookshelf speakers. Always refer to the technical details, and professional opinions, and, if practical, try out a demo of the speakers yourself to evaluate how well they perform when put to the test against your personal entertainment and usage preferences.
Device Versatility
Can I use my smartphone, television, or stereo system with the bookshelf speakers?
The device’s connectivity options are what ultimately determine this. Thankfully, most computer speakers can be powered by a 3.5mm jack cable, which works with the majority of TVs, smartphones, and stereo systems.
Connectivity
To make sure you will utilize your bookshelf speaker system to the fullest, it is crucial to confirm the connectivity options offered. In terms of connectivity/inputs, there are typically only a few options that are considered standard: Bluetooth, USB, or a 3.5mm jack (or “aux” cable). They are all virtually compatible with every computer, television, smartphone, and tablet.
Impedance
Impedance is simply the resistance that is added to the audio circuit in audio devices, and it is specified on a technical specification sheet. Bookshelf speakers are available in a range of impedances, from 4 to 16 Ohms. Only when using sensitive, professional-grade stereo setups or music equipment is this specification necessary to look at in order to get the best performance and avoid damaging any signal chain components. If you’re just streaming music from a computer, TV, hi-fi, or other common source devices, you can disregard this information.
Audio Controls
All bookshelf speaker systems will come with onboard controls, including volume up/down and power on/off. Many will also have extra controls for subwoofer activation and equalization options, such as bass enhancement, dimming (volume reduction at a set level), or controlling the speaker lights. When used for live meetings, interviews, or conferences or for watching movies, some computer speakers even have voice command capabilities or remote controls.
Power Source
Make sure the power cables for your brand-new bookshelf speaker system are appropriate for the plugs in your nation or region. Power cables should always be included in the box.
Drivers Sizes
The driver’s size and construction have a significant impact on sound quality and performance, as was covered in our introduction to bookshelf speaker systems. Make sure to educate yourself on these requirements. Depending on how you plan to use your speakers, they will have a big impact on how much you enjoy them.
Frequency Response
When purchasing any audio-related device, one of the most crucial specifications to consider is frequency response. This can be defined as the capability of a device to faithfully reproduce the audio source signal that is transmitted through it.
The frequency response is shown as a graph and a figure. Any audio-related device you purchase should have a flatter frequency response. Certain frequencies will either be unnecessarily accentuated or omitted the more “rocky” the frequency response is.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
A further piece of information that is crucial for any audio product. The amount of unwanted noise that enters your speakers as volume levels rise is measured by the signal-to-noise ratio.
This is particularly important if you’ll be using your computer speakers for virtual meetings or interviews because you might need to turn up the volume on your end to compensate for the other party’s microphone levels, which will amplify system noise.
Warranty
Finally, we like to look at the product’s warranty policy to make sure that it covers potential factory flaws, damage from shipping, and other minor to major annoyances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Surround Sound Work with Bookshelf Speakers?
Due to their relatively flat frequency response and overall superior sound quality compared to entry-level television speakers, bookshelf speakers can be set up in a surround sound configuration. However, this would necessitate more sophisticated wiring and additional signal chain components. A 5.1 surround sound setup is the most popular for home theater applications among the various surround sound system configurations.
Five speakers and one subwoofer (the “point one”) make up a 5.1 surround sound setup, and they are arranged as follows:
Subwoofer, Left Surround (back left corner), Right Surround (back right corner), Center (behind the screen), Left, and Right Surround (center, below screen)
Make sure your crossover system supports this many speaker outputs and the amplifier can handle the output necessary to drive five speakers if you intend to set up a 5.1 surround system.
Why are they referred to as bookshelf speakers?
Bookshelf Speakers got their name from being frequently placed atop a bookshelf. However, this does not preclude their placement in other places. A pair of Bookshelf Speakers can function just as well while placed on your desk, a TV cabinet, a standalone speaker stand, or even a kitchen counter!
Are More Expensive Bookshelf Speakers Better Sounding Than Cheaper Models?
As more high-end components and materials, such as circuit board components, drivers, speaker cabinets, connectors, and cables, are used in the manufacturing process, the price of a pair of bookshelf speakers will have a significant impact on the sound quality. You should be prepared to spend a little more money than you would on entry-level speakers if you want speakers with exceptional sound quality. You get what you pay for.
Should I use an amplifier with bookshelf speakers?
All speakers need some sort of amplifier to boost the signal to a level that will drive them effectively. Active speakers can be driven on their own, whereas passive speakers require an external amplifier.