Are you looking for a pair of speakers to listen to vinyl with good audio quality and fidelity of sound reproduction? Here are the best active and passive turntable speakers to buy in the different price ranges.
If you’re shopping for turntable cabinets, sound quality is your number one priority. Turntable speakers must have good frequency response, dynamic range, and fidelity in sound reproduction.
If your turntable already has a built-in PHONO, then we recommend connecting it to a pair of active speakers. This way you can bypass the Hi-Fi amplifier, and save both money and space.
The active speakers are also very good for versatility, because most of the models proposed also provide some other type of use, so they will also be connected to the PC, or we can use them with Bluetooth to stream from the smartphone.
Passive speakers, or not amplified, must be connected to an amplifier (here is the top of the best turntable amplifiers, in case you are looking for a suitable model).
The passive speakers are better for the separation of Hi-Fi components and allow a generally purer sound and close to high fidelity. They are also a good option for those who want an ad hoc Hi-Fi system, or for those who want to integrate the turntable into the home cinema system.
In this buying guide, we have searched for the best turntable speakers in all price ranges and for various needs. Scroll through the reviews of the various selected models to find the best pair of speakers for your needs.
1. Klipsch RP-600M
These speakers are exceptional for their liveliness of sound
The Klipsch Reference Premiere 600M are the best passive speakers for high efficiency and very high power turntables, usable with the turntable via Hi Fi amplifier and with an exceptionally lively sound. They are among the best of 100 Watt RMS speakers, offering sound quality that will make you want to come back and listen to our vinyl collection time and time again.
The design includes a 6.5-inch (165 mm) cerametallic woofer cone and a titanium tweeter set in the Klipsch signature Tractrix horn, which allows the tweeter sound to be delivered in a more expanded way, in order to hear the music with the right balance even if we are not exactly in the center point between the two speakers.
The sensitivity of 96dBit’s a lot. Probably more than you need. But with this kind of boost we can rest assured that the Klipsch speakers can handle everything that comes from the amplifier, for all genres of music.
Speaking of amp connection, the RP-600Ms offer bi-wiring at the rear. And here we also find the bass reflex port, also in the Tractrix shape. It is therefore not recommended to place the speakers close to the wall to avoid unpleasant returns.
Tested with jazz and live music , the Klipsch RP-600M literally shivers. The presence is so alive that we are catapulted into the center of the sound stage. It’s a pleasure.
Pros
Vivacity
Power and high sensitivity
Cons
High frequencies sometimes a little too bright
2. Kef Q150
Vinyl speakers for listening to high quality music
The Kef Q150 are passive bookshelf loudspeakers, among the best for sound quality and build quality. They are recommended for those who need to install a stereo system complete with amplifier (or receiver), and separate components.
The particularity that stands out the most in these bookshelf speakers is the presence of the well-known Uni-Q driver from KEF. With this system, the woofer and tweeter are concentrated in the central part of the cabinet, allowing the sound to arrive from a single source, while keeping the frequencies clearly distinguishable.
The tweeter is actually capable of generating high quality high frequencies , without distortion and without crushing the dynamics of the sound track. The woofer delivers clean low frequencies, even at very high volumes.
These two-way speakers are also equipped with a bass reflex port on the back, and we recommend installation not close to the rear wall to give breath and avoid annoying returns. The Kef Q150 are connected to an amplifier with power from 10 to 100 Watt , have a sensitivity of 86dB and a frequency response from 51Hz to 28kHz. Nominal impedance is 8 ohms.
Used as vinyl speakers , we find the Kefs to be able to deliver exceptional sonic detail. Even the less “interesting” moments of the music reproduced take on vigor. They are faithful, but at the same time they color the music with their specific character. Among the best speakers for turntables and hi-end stereo systems, the Kef Q150 are at the top of our wish list.
Pros
Great soundstage
Full-bodied mids
Design
Cons
The front grilles are missing
3. Audioengine A5 +
Amplified speakers for turntables
The best active speakers for the turntable are the Audioengine A5 + , they have a very high-end sonic character and are loud enough to fill a medium to large room. We recommend them to anyone looking for the best set of active speakers for the living room.
On the back, we find two audio input connection options: a pair of connectors for RCA cables and a 3.5mm mini-jack input. The USB port only works for charging, it cannot be used to play music from an iPod or external hardware.
You can then directly use the connectors of these RCA speakers for turntables, if the latter has a built-in PHONO. If, on the other hand, the turntable does not have a built-in PHONO, an external PHONO amplifier must be purchased to connect between the turntable and the speakers, to amplify the signal properly before sending it to the speakers.
Also on the back of one of the two speakers, we find a generous heat-sink grid , for the best dispersion of the heat generated by the integrated class AB amplifier. There is also a subwoofer output in case you want to upgrade to a 2.1 system in the future.
The speakers have a power of 50W RMS each, and the performance is excellent even at maximum volumes, without distortion and changes in sound quality.
To arrange them on the shelf, we advise you to make some space because these boxes are quite large, and do not weigh little. Compared to other less expensive and smaller speakers though, the Audioengine A5 + offer a much more spacious and filling sound, and are a real treat for those looking for powerful Hi Fi speakers for listening to vinyl record music.
Pros
Design and build quality
Integrated AB amplifier
Powerful and precise
Cons
They are not small
4. ELAC Debut 2.0 B5.2
Hi Fi speakers with bass reflex port for turntables and stereo system
These mid-range loudspeakers are recommended for Hi Fi connoisseurs who cannot afford to invest very large amounts. The build quality is exceptional, with excellent components. The speakers have a very simple and linear black design.
From the point of view of positioning the ELAC Debut 2.0 B5.2 are decidedly versatile , and thanks to the front bass reflex port it is not necessary to position them at a great distance from the rear wall (30 cm is the recommended space). As for the orientation, good results can be obtained even without particular attention, but obviously if you have the opportunity to direct them towards the listening position they will create a wide and engaging soundstage.
Connected to a quality amplifier and a Hi Fi turntable, the ELAC Debut 2.0 B5.2 impresses with their precise, cohesive and expressive sound .
Listening in general is extremely pleasant, the speakers lend themselves to the reproduction of the most disparate musical genres thanks to a balanced sound. These speakers are an excellent starting point for your Hi Fi system, but they can continue to be used without problems even after upgrading the other components with higher-end models.
Technical data includes 86dB sensitivity, maximum power of 120 Watts RMS into 6 ohms, single-wiring connection, frequency response 46 Hz – 35 kHz and weight 5.9 kg. Recommended with an amplifier of less than 120 Watts.
Pros
Excellent build quality
Detail
Price
Cons
A little anonymous design
5. Wharfedale Diamond 12.1
Powerful compact passive speakers with excellent value for money
The Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 are turntable speakers that we recommend for anyone who is putting together a high-powered stereo system for listening to music . They must be connected to an amplifier with maximum power between 20 and 100 watts, and have a sensitivity that goes well with medium-large rooms.
They consist of a 5-inch Klarity woofer and a 1 ”tweeter. The sound is warm and balanced, with full bass and really surprising mid frequencies , excellent for the rendering of the voices. Higher-end speakers are characterized by a higher level of detail, but these Wharfedales will still satisfy most lovers of good music.
The tweeter is made of textile fiber (polyester). In this way, it manages to return an open sound with a sufficiently extended high range . To the sound test, the Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 does not present annoying distortions in the high frequencies.
The frequency response of the speakers is 65Hz – 20kHz, while the sensitivity is 88dB. The sound, even at high volumes, is quite detailed and precise, but the best performances will be obtained using them at medium volumes.
Pros
Design and build quality
Warm and pleasant sound
Price / sound performance ratio
Cons
Detail level
6. Ruark Audio MR1 MKII
The best vintage style active speakers for the turntable
The Ruark Audio MR1 MKII are audio speakers for turntables with good versatility and value for money . They are definitely recommended for those who want to invest in a pair of premium speakers for the turntable and also for streaming music from their smartphone, because they also offer the convenience of a bluetooth connection.
For the connection with the turntable, in case your model does not have a built-in PHONO, you will need to buy an external PHONO (they are cheap and easy to find) to amplify the signal before sending it to the speakers.
Ruark Audio are powered speakers, feature a 20W rated power integrated class AB amplifier. They find their best application in a medium-sized living room, or home study.
Apart from the retro design that we really like these speakers, especially for those looking for a model specifically for the turntable , it should be emphasized that the MR1 MKII’s signature sound is one of the best in this price range.
The generated sound is clean and precise, the sound image has a good aperture and the dynamic range is incredibly wide. The sound quality is incredible, we find that these bookshelf speakers are capable of producing an excellent level of detail, while staying true to the original recording.
The above qualities not only valid are for playback via the turntable. The MR1 MKIIs offer aptX bluetooth for streaming high definition music tracks wirelessly, and then there is also the TOSLINK socket to connect an external digital source and perform 24-bit / 192kHz analog digital conversions.
In short, the Ruark Audio MR1 MKII really cover many needs, and offer a particularly qualitative sound. They are the best active speakers for hybrid use and we recommend them to a large number of Hi Fi lovers.
Pros
Excellent sound
Careful design
Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
No USB
7. Kanto YU4
The best active hi-fi speakers with bluetooth for turntables
The Kanto YU4 are the best active Hi Fi speakers, a model of speakers to connect directly to the turntable without buying an external PHONO.
On the back of the case you will notice the phono-line switch, which allows you to select the type of input that we are going to connect to the RCA sockets. In case we go to connect a turntable, just select the PHONO to amplify the signal properly and hear the music directly from the vinyl, without going through an external hi-fi amplifier.
They don’t come cheap, but the sound quality is truly exceptional. The Kanto YU4 fill the room with a wide sound and a generous breath. They offer a good level of detail and are faithful to the original sound.
For wireless connection, with Kantu YU4 speakers we can use bluetooth to receive the signal from a compatible turntable. For wired connection, there is RCA input for analog sources, and two optical ports for connecting PC or other digital music sources.
The amplified speaker also has a convenient sub output to transform the system into a 2.1 system if the need arises. The USB socket on the back is only for charging a device, and does not accept reading of digital files.
Even for not very open spaces, such as a small studio and for the PC workstation, the Kanto YU4 are among the best bookshelf and desk speakers. Their design is captivating, modern, and goes well with any type of furniture.
pros
Attractive design
Versatile
They sound great
Cons
No USB
8. ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
Passive speakers for transparent and honest listening
For Hi Fi lovers , here are a pair of turntable speakers recommended for technical listeners, for those who prefer a speaker with little character, to hear the audio recording without additional coloration.
In this, the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 are excellent, and just as unpleasant to listen to when the audio source is poor in quality. So buy them if you know for sure that your Hi Fi system is equipped with good quality components , because if you pass a low resolution mp3 from these speakers, the Elacs will be uncompromising.
The output power is 120 Wattsand 87db sensitivity. The frequency response ranges from 44Hz to 35kHz, so there is really a lot of ceiling to support the high frequencies.
The woofer measures 16.5cm and the tweeter 2.5cm. We also find the front reflex port, so they can be used on a shelf leaning against the rear wall.
Agile and precise, the Elac Debut speakers respond to any input coming from the Hi Fi amplifier without problems, and with a wide dynamic range. There aren’t too many low, and the highs never get tired. The timing is exceptional and the sound of the turntable reaches the ear directly. Great for reliability, accurate audiophiles will be delighted.
Pros
Transparent sound
Good dynamics
Cons
Not suitable for low quality audio sources
9. Dali Spektor
The best passive Hi Fi speakers in the 200-300 € range
The best passive turntable speakers in the budget range are the Dali Spektor. These bookshelf speakers from the Danish manufacturer allow a respectable Hi-Fi setup while remaining below 300 euros.
In these loudspeakers we find a mid-woofer driver in cellulose mixed with wood fiber on the lower part, a tweeter with a canvas dome membrane in the upper part. The mid-bass driver is 130mm fiber, while the mid-high driver is 25mm dome type. The sensitivity of the speakers is 84.5 dB , the frequency response 54-26 kHz with the crossover set to 2.6 kHz. The nominal impedance of the speakers is 6 ohms, and they are compatible with a 25 to 100 Watt amplifier.
Tested in the field, these Mission speakers are just convincing, perhaps the best of the whole line, and bring the audio signal to life in a balanced way, but at the same time with great expressiveness, clarity of detail and fluidity . For those who want to listen to their vinyls with a certain acoustic quality and at the same time avoid spending high amounts, the Dali Spektor are a completely satisfactory price / quality solution.
To play at their best, they need some space (at least 10 – 20 cm) between the back of the speakers and the wall, because they are equipped with a rear bass reflex port which needs to be left free from obstacles to avoid sound bounces.
Pros
Exceptional value for money
Good level of detail
Not bulky
Cons
When you consider the price, none
10. Edifier R1280DB
RCA and Bluetooth speakers for turntables
Among the best active speakers for turntables , without having to use an external amplifier, and also to listen to music from different sources, we recommend the Edifier R1280DB for sound quality, price range and versatility.
They are aesthetically pleasing bookshelf speakers, with a wooden exterior finish, 4-inch woofer and 13 mm silk dome tweeter. They have a frequency response of 55 Hz – 20 kHz, and an output power of 21 + 21 watts RMS . They are therefore recommended for listening in a small to medium-sized room.
We will be able to connect the turntable using the RCA analog inputs. If your turntable does not have a built-in PHONO, we recommend buying an external one (it doesn’t cost much, and they’re easy to find).
In addition to the turntable, it is possible to connect a TV or a computer through the coaxial input (digital audio), and there is also Bluetooth connectivity to transmit audio wirelessly from a smartphone, or other devices (even a Bluetooth turntable).
The controls on the side of the master speaker allow you to adjust volume and tones, and you can use the remote control to avoid having to get up from the listening position. You can expect neutral sound
from these Edifier loudspeakers. In this sense they are very similar to studio monitors. If you like deep bass, we don’t recommend them, but if you prefer a technical listening, the R1280DB speakers are for you, and they don’t cost too much.
Pros
Quality price
Versatility
Design
Cons
At high volume there is distortion