So I created this quick, newbie guide to have help you focus on what's really important to you.
If you are looking for recommendations (specific models), be sure to start my chat tool (Bottom right).
Step 1: Where will you use it?
Think of the application of your new bookshelf speaker.
- Home or Commercial?
- Living room or Outdoor use?
Brands have made bookshelf speakers that are better suited for each application.
Step 2: Choose your price range
How much are you willing to spend on your next bookshelf speaker?
The more you spend, the better the features. But you need a limit, a budget.
A budget will allow you to narrow down alternatives and save you time.
Step 3: Choose your bookshelf speaker size
Usually bigger is better and more expensive. When I say better I mean volume, not necessarily sound quality.
But should pay attention to how much space you have for them BEFORE you buy it. Room size
Also, be careful where you place them:
- They should be separated.
- You should avoid putting them in places that could have significant vibration, which could affect sound quality.
Tip: Put your bookshelf speakers at 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock positions. They should not be too close to a wall or close to corners, in order to avoid echos.
Step 4: Specification
The higher the number, the greater output you can expect. This is particularly relevant when it comes to matching your bookshelf speakers to an appropriate amplifier.
"Watts"
Higher means higher volume, which is better. But you may not need it depending on where you will use it.
You can also tell how loud your bookshelf speaker can get by how many decibels ("dB") it has.
"Hertz"
The lower the number, the heavier the bass is going to be.
"Drivers"
Basic bookshelf speakers have two – woofers (which generate bass) and tweeters (which produce high-frequency sounds).
A speaker set with a third mid-range will have a better full-range sound.
Wired vs wireless
A pair of wireless speakers means you only need to have a power supply.
Passive, active or powered
Most are passive because they get the power from the amplifier. In a powered speaker the signal is amplified inside the speaker cabinet.
For most people a passive bookshelf speaker is fine. If you are a minimalist who don't want lots of stuff you may consider the other types.
Step 5: Look and Design
It will likely be in your sight for a lot of time. Be sure you are ok with its design.
Also remember to consider its surroundings.
Popular Brands (Optional)
These are currently the most popular brands (In no particular order):
- Edifier
- Klipsch
- Polk
- BESTISAN
- ECHOGEAR
- Sonos
- ELAC
- Micca
- Moukey
Recommendation
This is what I recommend if you are looking for a high quality Bookshelf Speaker, that is also affordable:
If you want to buy the cheapest Bookshelf Speaker you can, but also with decent specifications:
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