Are you looking for the best bookshelf speakers to enhance the sound of your stereo system? In this home audio buying guide, we see which are the best bookshelf loudspeakers to buy today and how to choose according to your needs.
Bookshelf Hi-Fi speakers are generally recommended for those who put together a HiFi system for listening to music.
Compared to Ffloorstanding speakers, Bookshelf speakers cost less, often offer better value for money, and take up less space. And if you search among the more premium models, we’re sure you’ll find speakers loud enough to fill a large room.
They are also a recommended choice for those who want to use them in a home theater system, usually as surround-back speakers.
When choosing, the first distinction to be made is between passive speakers and active speakers. The former is for those with an amplifier, the latter for those who prefer to do without it.
If you choose passive speakers, pay attention to the power they can handle, so that they can accompany the amplifier well. In some models, you will find this indication in the technical specifications under the heading “amplifier range” or similar.
Let’s now find out which are the best bookshelf speakers to buy this year, from premium models for Hi-Fi to the cheapest ones for casual listening.
1. KEF Q350
Hi-End bookshelf speakers for stereo systems
The Kef Q350 Hi-Fi speakers are in effect the improved and more sophisticated version of the Kef Q300. For those looking for a pair of designer loudspeakers, to match their amplifier, this model has a modern and clean look, and we consider them among the best bookshelf passive audio speakers.
The front grilles are equipped with a magnetic system and the Kef logo, previously too overexposed, is now discreetly placed at the top of the speakers. They are equipped with a Uni-Q driver, the result of the latest generation of research: what may appear to be a single driver, turns out to be a 25 mm aluminum dome tweeter.
The tweeter is positioned in the center of a 165 mm driver, also in aluminum, that takes care of the mid-bass. Kef has focused on this choice to make the integration between the two drivers and the way in which the sound reaches the outside significantly more efficient.
To improve sound definition and counteract internal static waves, the Uni-Q driver has been housed in the center of the speaker.
With the aim of achieving deeper, cleaner bass and reducing both distortion and noise, the bass reflex aperture has undergone a total design overhaul and is placed on the back of the speakers. In the face of these changes, the Kef Q350 is in all respects excellent bookshelf speakers with good bass.
Furthermore, by acquiring precious centimeters of depth, the soundstage is airy and decidedly wide. To underline the brilliance of the highs, which always keep all the details intact even in the peaks of maximum height.
Pros
- Precise and detailed
- High-performance timing
- Flawless construction and eye-catching look
Cons
- Not very aggressive rhythmic impact
2. Audioengine A5 +
The best hi-fi active speakers with built-in BlueTooth
Among the best bookshelf speakers, we find the Audioengine A5 +, high-efficiency active speakers that are appreciated not only for the remarkable sound quality but also for the various interesting integrated features.
The speakers are in fact equipped with a Bluetooth receiver, a DAC, and an integrated amplifier, in Class A / B and with a developed power of 50 Watts RMS for each channel. The section dedicated to amplification and the connectors are housed inside the left speaker, while the right speaker, which is passive, receives both the signal and the power through a cable.
Sound reproduction passes through a 5-inch woofer, paired with a 0.75 ″ silk tweeter. The right speaker has a total weight of 4.4 kg, while the left one weighs 7 kg.
Regarding the technical specifications, the signal/noise ratio is 95 dB, while the harmonic distortion is less than 0.05% for a frequency response ranging from 50Hz to 22kHz.
In addition to the presence of the connection via Bluetooth with aptX, on the back of the speaker, we find an analog RCA input, an RCA output, and an analog input with a mini-jack.
If you are looking for the best speakers to listen to music, without having to connect an external amplifier, these Hi-End active loudspeakers are a highly recommended purchase.
Pros
- Built-in wood
- HiFi sound
- Bluetooth
Cons
- Limited power
3. Dynaudio Emit M10
Compact bookshelf loudspeakers
A minimal and contemporary look for the small Dynaudio Emit 10, the best speakers for those looking for technically advanced design speakers. They are passive two-way speakers equipped with a 28 mm tweeter and a 14 cm woofer, only 29 cm high.
The sound reproduction is clear and rich in details, these are speakers with great versatility and the ability to faithfully reproduce any kind of music. Whether at high volume or in background mode, they largely meet expectations with vigorous and dynamic playback energy.
To reach the highest tuning point between the cabinet, the mid-bass driver, and the bass reflex duct, the careful design was required, but the result is an extremely rich and three-dimensional sound reproduction.
They can handle a power of 150W, have a frequency response of 50Hz – 23kHz, and an impedance of 6 ohms. The bass reflex port is located on the back and the crossover frequency is 1800Hz.
Pros
- Spatial and deep sound
- Compact and efficient design
Cons
- Not great power
4. Kef Q150
Hi-End Bookshelf Speakers for Hi-Fi Amplifier and Home Theater
Among the best Hi-Fi speakers there are the Kef Q150, which are proposed as a Hi-End solution for those who have a quality system, must be associated with an amplifier from 10 to 100 Watt, have an impedance of 8 ohms, and a frequency response of 51Hz – 28kHz.
The sound quality is exceptional, with the richness of detail and highly balanced frequency coverage. Thanks to the Uni-Q driver which includes both the woofer and the tweeter in a single array, and also allows for a more open soundstage.
Despite having a 5.25-inch woofer, therefore not very wide, the speakers are surprisingly good even in the low frequencies. For neutral listening from a turntable or for liquid music, the Kef Q150 does not need the integration of a subwoofer at all.
Excellent mid-high response, which reveals all the peculiarities of a song, in any musical genre. The tweeter covers all the ringing frequencies very well, without ever causing annoying hisses.
The separation of musical instruments is very good, these passive speakers are exceptional when used to listen to live music with an element-rich stereo soundstage, therefore also excellent to use for watching live concerts on TV.
Pros
- Outstanding soundstage
- Very detailed
- Design
Cons
- Driver cover grid absent
5. Q Acoustics Concept 20
Passive bookshelf loudspeakers
Among the best bookshelf loudspeakers for those looking for passive speakers for HiFi, the Q Acoustics Concept 20 offers articulate sound reproduction and a good presence. They are great for neutral and very low resonance listening.
They must be associated with an amplifier with a power range from 25 to 75 Watts, have a frequency response of 64Hz – 22kHz, nominal impedance of 6 ohms, the minimum impedance of 4 ohms, and 88dB sensitivity.
They have bass reflex ports on the back, and must therefore be placed on special pedestals, or on a surface about half a meter away from the rear wall.
The sound character is remarkable, these speakers are very pleasant to listen to for long periods, and listening to a CD or vinyl record attracts attention and highlights even hidden details. There is a lot of clarity and sharpness, and dynamics that do justice to more complex musical productions.
Pros
- Dynamics and detail
- Sound character
- Low resonance
Cons
Low-frequency coverage is not very extensive
6. Definitive Technology Demand Series D9
The passive Hi-Fi audio speakers with rich and three-dimensional sounds
For those looking for the best Hi-Fi speakers for separate component stereo systems, this model is definitely interesting.
The Definitive Technology Demand Series D9 are two-way speakers with a futuristic and well-finished design. To make them particularly interesting is the presence of a 2.5 cm aluminum dome tweeter, able to offer a decidedly extended frequency response.
They are characterized by the presence of a passive radiator and a 13 cm mid-woofer. To achieve controlled and dry bass, the house has focused on studying the use of the passive radiator. While thanks to the BDSS (Balanced Double Surround System) applied to the mid-woofer, a sound image rich in three-dimensionality is obtained.
Pros
- Crystalline and airy treble
- Extremely accurate stereo imaging
- Futuristic design
Cons
- Relatively high cost
7. Triangle Borea BR03
HiFi speakers with excellent dynamics
Suitable for positioning about 2 meters away from the listening position, and at least 40 cm from the rear wall, the Triangle Borea BR03 are among the best passive bookshelf speakers for the home HiFi system.
With these speakers the dynamics are magnificent, even better than other more popular models, every sonic detail is instantly visible, and the separation of the instruments is excellent.
There is a good amount of bass, in relation to the size of the speakers, and the low frequencies are not affected by weight. The timing is very good, the audio tracks that require a fast attack sound very good here.
The Triangle Borea BR03 HiFi speakers can handle a power of 90W from the amplifier and have 90dB sensitivity, the minimum impedance is 4.2 ohm. They are equipped with a 16cm woofer and a 25mm silk dome tweeter. There are two bass reflex ports on the front. Excellent for a room of 15 to 30 square meters.
Pros
- Detailed sound
- Bass agility
- Dynamics
Cons
- Aesthetics are not for everyone
8. Q Acoustics 3030i
Powerful bass and detailed sound
Among the best passive audio speakers for Hi-Fi, we find the Q Acoustics 3030i. With an excellent compromise between quality and price, they are the best loudspeakers to represent the sound scene with a good presence of bass, thanks to the wider woofer than the average of the speakers of this class.
They offer compatibility with an amplifier from 25 to 75 Watts of power, have a sensitivity of 88 dB, and a frequency response of 46 Hz – 30 kHz, much higher than other similar speakers.
Once run in and played for quite a few days, the sound quality is truly exceptional, thanks to the build quality and technical specifications. They should be positioned about 40 cm from the rear wall, to make room for the bass reflex port positioned on the back and avoid rumbling.
For dynamics, soundstage coverage, and tonal balance, the Q Acoustics 3030i sounds great, even with extremely complex music tracks the speakers are able to express all the details without crushing the sound. Extremely recommended, and do not require a very high investment.
Pros
- Bass present (6.5 “woofer)
- Build quality
- Sound balance
Cons
- They need to be run in
9. Audioengine A2 +
Active wireless speakers for listening to music from a mobile device
The Audioengine A2 + are excellent small bookshelf loudspeakers, especially for those looking for a wireless Bluetooth model to connect to the smartphone. These small speakers sound very good, have an appreciable design and a top-of-the-range build quality.
The total peak power is 60 watts, so we are not talking about very loudspeakers, and the frequency response is 65Hz to 22kHz. The good news is that there is the option to connect an external subwoofer via the RCA out socket.
Therefore recommended for a bedroom or a home studio, these active speakers are suitable for listening to music from smartphones, watching movies from a computer, and the sound quality is very good, with considerable presence of detail and good tonal balance.
Since the bass reflex ports are positioned on the front of each of the two speakers, they are perfect for a bookcase or a shelf leaning them against the wall. The two speakers are connected together using the included cables, and to connect an audio source via cable (if you don’t care about the Bluetooth functionality) you can use the RCA input.
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Low bass
Cons
- The volume knob on the back
10. Klipsch Reference R-51M
Loudspeakers for powerful stereo system
If you are looking for passive speakers for your HiFi and home theater system, among the best high-efficiency bookshelf speakers we find the Klipsch Reference R-51M.
The frequency response is 62Hz – 21kHz and the sensitivity is 93dB. They can handle a continuous power up to 85W and have an impedance of 8 ohms. We recommend them with an amplifier that has a power per channel of about 100W into 8 ohms.
The design is unmistakable, with vintage-colored copper woofers and MDF outer material, and in this series, we have the renowned Tractrix Horn which generates a wider listening point than other speakers in the same category.
This means being able to sit in a position that is not perfectly centered and still have a calibrated sound vision. For this reason, they are also very good to complement a home cinema system and to be connected to the receiver for watching movies and TV.
The one-inch aluminum tweeter generates crystal clear mid-highs. The 5.25 “woofer is precise and powerful, especially for rock music and for listening to live events, these speakers are very engaging.
Pros
- Energetic sound
- Classic design
Cons
- Less punchy bass
11. Q Acoustics 3020i
Compact look and refined sound quality
Small, dynamic, and with a modern character, the Q Acoustics 3020i bookshelf speakers are among the best stereo speakers with a minimal design with refined and clear audio reproduction. The high range of the sound is brilliant, the mid-range well balanced for a decidedly satisfactory result on all frequencies.
To obtain this remarkable brilliance in the sound, substantial changes were necessary compared to the previous model: the cabinet is in fact reinforced and supported in the points where greater stability is required.
The 2 cm thick soft dome tweeter is no longer combined with the deflector, to allow it to be isolated from vibrations coming from the driver. In addition, the tray that houses the connectors has been modified with terminals placed directly in the cabinet.
Pros
- Energetic and detailed sound
- Simple to place
Cons
- Not very dynamic soundstage
12. Dali Spektor 2
Bookshelf loudspeakers with a vintage design
With a compact design and a vaguely vintage taste, the Dali Spektor 2 are among the best bookshelf hi-fi speakers for those looking for an energetic and precise audio quality.
As for the technical specifications, the Dali Spektor 2 is equipped with a 25 mm tweeter with a canvas dome membrane and houses a wood fiber and cellulose mid-woofer driver inside.
An important aspect to consider is the sensitivity of these speakers, which is quite low. To overcome this deficit, it is advisable to combine them with an amplifier capable of developing a satisfactory amount of watts.
Pros
- Good tonal balance
- Articulate sound
Cons
- Build quality and discreet details
13. Wharfedale Diamond 220
The ideal bookshelf speakers for lovers of deep bass
The Wharfedale Diamond 220 are bookshelf speakers that stand out for their crisp, detailed, and well-balanced sound, as well as having one of the best bass yields in this price range.
The Diamond 220 have a discreet look that therefore aims to surprise with a renewed audio quality, moreover, they can also be positioned in confined spaces, thanks to the novelty of the slot doors that allow them to be housed just 15 mm away from the walls.
The bass driver featured in these speakers is made of woven Kevlar for added stiffness. They feature one-inch tweeters, while the woofer is 5.1-inch.
Pros
- Balanced sound
- Deep and controlled bass
Cons
- Unfinished design
14. Edifier R1280DB
Active speakers for listening to music
The Edifier R1280DB are active shelf speakers, to be used also for the PC station. They are good for those who do not need very high sound definition and offer a good compromise between price, build quality, and connectivity options.
The speakers are made of wood, are solid and robust, and offer a total power of 42 Watts RMS. The frequency response is 55Hz-20KHz, which is not bad for a cheap pair of speakers.
The speakers must be used without an external amplifier, it is possible to send an analog signal through the RCA connections, or digital audio through the optical and coaxial inputs. For those who want to play music wirelessly from their smartphone, there is the option to connect to the speakers via Bluetooth.
To adjust the sound equalization, just use the side controls, and we recommend increasing the low frequencies slightly, depending on your needs.
The sound is quite natural, and pleasantly balanced for neutral listening. The sonic details are there, especially if we listen to high-definition music through the optical port, and the dynamics, in general, are appreciable. The Edifier R1280DB is a smart solution for those looking for entry-level loudspeakers.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Audio inputs
Cons
- Low punch
15. Magnat Monitor Supreme 202
The best economical high efficient speakers
The Magnat Monitors Supreme 202 are amazing speakers for the stereo system, recommended for their power and ability to express an excellent range of frequencies.
The frequency response is in fact from 34 Hz to 40,000 Hz, incredible for a pair of bookshelf speakers, these are numbers that belong most to floor speakers. Once connected to an amplifier, the result is truly amazing, given the price range.
The bass is powerful but not confusing, the mid-highs are clear and not sharp. The sound character is quite flat, the fact that on the model name there is the word Monitor suggests that these speakers have been designed for neutral listening, but for HiFi use, they are still very good.
On the back of the case, the recommended power of the amplifier from 100-200 Watts is specified, the impedance from 4 to 8 ohms and the sensitivity is 93 dB, so the Magnat Monitor Supreme 202 are also classifiable among the high-efficiency speakers.
By connecting a turntable, or a CD player, the tracks are reproduced with excellent detail, and with good dynamics. Extremely recommended for those who put together a first Hi-Fi system without spending a lot.
Pros
- Exceptional price-quality
- Very high-frequency range
- Power to sell
Cons
- Slightly flat sound character