10 Best Bookshelf Speakers of All Time Reviews and Guides

Any bedroom, home office, or studio needs at least one of the best bookshelf speakers of all time. Being the best of all time means you should give it a try at least before you die. We present to you four of such speakers that will bring your room to life with their outstanding sound and stylish look.

You need them for more than just their exceptional sound quality. They are space-saving and sizeable enough to allow you to find the right place to place them for the perfect fit and match your home décor. Read along to learn more about these innovatively created devices.

What are Bookshelf Speakers?

Knowing what bookshelf speakers are is an excellent place to start the reviews and guide. These are speakers designed to be connected to an amplifier or music player to make it a standalone music system.

They are a bit different from surround speaker systems, which are often used for televisions, music, and movies. Usually, the bookshelf speakers bring together a tweeter and a woofer, small and big drivers. The tweeter is meant for high sound ranges, while the woofer is for the low and mid portions.

What to Look for When Buying Bookshelf Speakers?

Knowing the best speakers of all time before you go shopping is one way to prepare for the dilemma the wide variety available can plunge you into. Even with these four bookshelf speakers, you will still need to narrow down to one choice.

This guide helps you know what factors to consider when choosing your next device from this collection and beyond. There may be more factors worth considering, but these are the most important ones. When you want to choose quality sound equipment, you may find it challenging to find a speaker that is the perfect fit.

Size

The bookshelf speakers found their name from their size and the fact that they are small enough to fit on the bookcase shelf. However, they can still vary in weight and size. Some are larger than others, and you can choose your next speakers based on that fact.

Each speaker has measurements that you should take note of when making your selection before you purchase. This factor is especially important when you have to move your speakers around the house, trying to find the perfect position to put them both for better sound dispersion and organization in your room.

Wired vs. Wireless

Wireless technology is slowly taking over, and wireless speakers are becoming trendier and trendier as days go by. Just like in wired speakers, the sound quality of wireless speakers is satisfactory.

We have included both wired and wireless speakers in this guide and reviewed them accordingly. Most people used to trust wired speakers more until they realized some wireless models are just as good, or even better. With technological advancement and progress, wireless is becoming common.

You can have a preference, wired or wireless; you can still find the best sound quality in both. Just weigh their strengths and weaknesses to pick the best one for your situation.

Drivers

These are part of the bookshelf speakers that produce sound. That makes them an essential part of the system. Therefore, when choosing your speaker, make sure it has the right drivers or the ones that you like. Generally, the larger the drivers, the better, even though the size is not all that matters.

It would be best if you also considered the drivers' material and location within the speaker. The speakers reviewed here all have several drivers, and each meant to handle a different frequency. That way, the music will sound smooth and precise through them.

Passive vs. Active

Bookshelf speakers are either active or passive. Passive speakers have no built-in amplifiers. And for that, you have to connect them to a stereo receiver to work. On the other hand, active speakers are more like an all-in-one solution.

They have everything, including a preamp, inputs, and volume controls, all on the speakers themselves. Each of the four speakers reviewed here is either passive or active. It is upon you to choose the one you find more convenient than you can afford.

Best Bookshelf Speakers of All Time Reviews

If you are looking for recommendations on the best sounding bookshelf speakers, check our unbiased reviews. We have researched and tested top models on the market. We only recommend the best.

 1. Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers 

Edifier is one of the companies that have earned a reputation for creating some of well-built speakers. From performance to the looks, their speakers have all it takes to make sound exceptionally sweet to the ears, which makes them exceptional. If you are looking for a speaker for upgrading your desktop or laptop sound, whether in the office or at home, you need the Edifier R1280T.

Classic wood finish

The first thing you notice on the Edifier R1280T is its classic wood finish. Many people love it just for its look, especially people who have a liking for vintage. It boasts a high-quality MDF wood build that is nicely completed with wood effect vinyl and grey speaker coverings. This combination creates a speaker that would be a great complement to your home décor.

Studio sound quality

The Edifier R1280T is the best budget bookshelf speakers in this guide, and for reasons that are so apparent. The sound that comes from it is so beautiful. You will love it even if you are the kind that is hard to please. At 42 watts, this speaker does well in small apartments and is ideal for most output sources, especially if it is just you and your desktop, laptop, or android.

Remote control

A remote control is still a feature worth talking about. If you know how convenient it is to adjust the volume at your fingertip and comfort where you are, you would understand. At the side of the main speaker, you will also find the bass and treble controls. Therefore, the setting of the sound quality and quantity is mainly in your hands.

Standard analog inputs

The Edifier R1280T provides a convenient connection to any sound output device that features a 3.5mm headphone output or a twin RCA output. As you can see, this is s set of conventional bookshelf speakers offering lots of capabilities. You can connect it to two devices through AUX simultaneously. The speakers share 42 watts of power between them to give a redeeming sound.

 2. Polk Audio T Series 5 Channel Home Theater Bundle 

Palk Audio is a massive name in the speaker and home theater scene. The T series has left many big names admiring what it has and what it can do with sound. The company has a wide selection of speakers that have accumulated for generations. The Polk Audio T Series 5 Channel Home Theater Bundle is one of the best bookshelf speakers under $500, and there is no doubt about that.

An appealing and refreshing look

Before you even get to the power and all the speakers and accessories that come with the Polk Audio T Series 5 Channel Home Theater Bundle, the appearance is hard to ignore. It is the first thing that makes your heart melt when you lay your eyes on it. It is an appealing and refreshing look but also reveals the high power it the system.

Suited for a variety of situations

This is one of the most notable strengths of the Polk Audio T Series 5 Channel Home Theater Bundle. It is no doubt, entirely versatile. The speakers are compatible with home theater AV receivers and subwoofers, hence gives you many setup options. You can use them for your home cinema and even in your bedroom. Also, you can use them as a rear or front speaker in a surround configuration.

15 Speakers

Nothing makes the Polk Audio T Series 5 Channel Home Theater Bundle more phenomenal than a large number of high-quality speakers that completes the set.  It has 15 speakers that work in a well-coordinated fashion to deliver a more satisfying sound. Together they provide a well-balanced sound that nicely fills the room and even the entire house if you like.

Polk's proprietary dynamic balance technology

The company is a leader in innovation, making some of the industry's best gadgets because of its top innovative capacity. Their proprietary dynamic balance technology provides a broader dispersion of sound and minimal distortion.  And for that, every listener in the house will hear unsurpassed 3-dimensional surround sound. The bass is heart-thumping and is like nothing you have heard before.

 3. Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers 

This is even more beautiful and powerful than the previous model from Edifier. The Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers has the looks that make a room feel stylish and comforting.  The same beauty is extended to the sound, giving you the kind of sound that will soothe you and make you love whatever it is that you are listening to even better. Hence, it is the best bookshelf speakers under $300 you can find.

Bluetooth Connection

Unlike in the previous R12, this speaker has Bluetooth so that you can pair it with your phone, computer, or tablet. An Edifier with a Bluetooth connection is a too excellent speaker option for people of various tastes. That way, it offers you an authentic, hassle-free wireless experience. The Bluetooth makes the Edifier R1700BT perfect for any android, iOS, macOS, or windows device. 

Two AUX Input

The Edifier R1700BT provides a convenient connection to whatever device you want to play music, so long as it has a 3.5 mm headphone output or only a dual RCA output. You can connect two devices through the AUX at the same time. You do not even have to plug or switch anything.  That is how the Edifier R1700BT is convenient and stress-free to use.

Built-in tone control

The speaker set features conveniently-located dials on the side of the main speaker. Hence, these dials allow comprehensive control of bass, audio, and treble. That way, you can alter your music from the ease of where you are seated comfortably. The dials are clearly labeled and indicated to guide you into making the right controls. There is a push-in volume control dial that helps you select the input source.

Edifier's Classic look

The Edifier R1700BT is just as beautiful as the other speakers by the same manufacturer. This set sports a classic wood finish that would make your room look more stylish and welcoming.  You do not have to be a fan of vintage to love this speaker.  It boasts a high-quality MDF wood build and is finished with walnut wood effect vinyl. This combination serves as an excellent complement to any welcoming home décor.

 4. Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker 

Of course, there had to be a Sonny among the best bookshelf speakers of all time. Just like you would expect, the Sony SSCS5 has made it to the best four. This is a versatile speaker series that is capable of delivering an unprecedented and real audio experience. Its soundstage is amazingly expansive, inspiring the energy and passion in you in the best way possible. 

Compact bookshelf design

The Sony SSCS5 has small bookshelf speakers that are truly compact. They are well-built and are space-saving so that you find it easy to install even in tight spots. The compact design also makes them durable and capable of surviving a couple of mishandlings here and there. It is also why its sound remains true through different environments and after a long time of use.

High-quality structure

The Sony SSCS5 speakers are built on sound foundations. It boasts a robust and ported enclosure that allows for rich, resonant acoustic. Its smart wooden finish is black and would therefore blend with most contemporary interiors. Generally, you will have a bookshelf speaker that looks and sounds powerful. Besides, it would make your room look more attractive and create an environment welcoming in terms of looks and sound.

Rich Acoustics

The Sony SSCS5 stands out in many ways, but its rich acoustics sets it apart even more. Its ported all-wood enclosures are correctly built for resonant acoustics. It is engineered in such a way to dampen and absorb any unwanted vibrations. Its solid construction includes interior joints strengthened with a rigid wooden structure, which perfects the sound. That is why it is one of the best powered bookshelf speakers.

High precision tweeter

Also, the Sony SSCS5 features a 0.98-inch soft dome main tweeter with polyester fiber. This structure and organization largely contribute to the faithful and authentic music that the speaker produces. Sony did well to provide precise acoustic tuning, with advanced sound-absorbing felt, and eliminate the high-precision tweeters' rear sound pressure to give you more natural-sounding vocals.

Read More :

Best Yamaha Bookshelf Speakers Reviews

 5.  Audioengine A5+ (Plus) Powered Speaker

If you love listening to music, then you would love using these speakers. They will make you want to listen to music or watch movies every day. This speaker offers you the best sound and bass quality. Talk of a tight, punch bass with an awesome growl that will make you enjoy watching regardless of volume level. 

Ease of set up

You don’t need a professional to help you set up this speaker.  It doesn’t include any network setup or passwords, making it easy for you to set up. Ensure you read the manual carefully and follow the instructions to the later. With the manual, you will realize that setting it up is just a piece of cake.  The process is straightforward and will only take a few minutes of your time.

Durability

Durability of any product goes hand in hand with the type of material used in making the product. The audio engine speaker is made with the best quality material that lasts for a period of time. With its life span, you don’t have to replace it now and then worry about the money to use in the repairs.

All in one music systems

You can either choose to connect your devices wired or wirelessly for superb stereo. They are made of small speakers with a big sound to fill any room.  They are very much powered to produce the greatest of sounds and bass qualities. The A5 speakers constitute of custom audio engine components, including built-in power amps. These power amps are wrapped in precision-tuned and hand-crafted cabinets.

Ease of use 

It is effortless for you to use these speakers. It has no network setup, passwords to enter, or buttons to push. All you have to is connect it to your phone, computer, TV and let the speakers do the magic. There’s no hassle for you, just connect to the source of the music and enjoy listening.

 6.  ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers

These speakers have raised the bar high for bookshelf performance.  I usually set up a small home theatre setting when I’m watching Netflix. These speakers get the job done as they give me a feeling of being in a movie cinema. If you hear how amazing they sound, you will know they are a must have. Get to experience what this high-end system has to offer.

Newly developed woofer

These speakers have a timid fiber woofer that are designed with new tighter weave pattern.  These woofers provide a smoother high-frequency response.  The woofers are also incredibly powered to deliver a clean tight bass that will make you enjoy watching. The woofers also work great in transitioning the sound and making sure you get clear and non-distorted sounds.

Front-firing posts

The firing posts are meant to provide you with easy room placement. With this, you will reduce problems associated with having the speaker close to the back wall. When the speaker is placed well in the right direction, it serves you well. It will be able to produce the sound of your preference without interfering with it.

Internal bracing 

The ELAC Debut 2.0 bookshelf speakers are designed with internal bracing meant to reduce cabinet vibration. With the reduced cabinet vibration, the cabinet's influence on overall sound quality is minimized.  This is literally meant to give you a clean speaker sound that is not interfered with in any way. You wouldn’t go through the hassle of struggling to hear sounds when watching your favorite movies with clear sounds.

Compact design

A beautiful compact design is used to design the ELAC Debut 2.0. With this design, the speaker takes a small space. It will not take a lot of space in your living room or your bedroom.  You can easily carry the speaker from one place to another. You can also easily place it in a fitting space without it taking too much space. The cabinets are specially made for the speakers.

 7. ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speaker  

If you are looking for a perfect speaker for home theater, then this is it for you. I am a music lover, and this speaker has always sounded magical to me.  The speaker is advanced and of better quality. Its vocal quality is more forward and really quality.   With its 3-way design, you can be assured of a more accurate sound than the 2-way design.

Binding posts

The binding posts in these speakers are usually custom-designed. The custom terminals are designed in a way that provides the flexibility of the speaker and wire connections. They also ensure optimal electron transfer from the cables of the speaker to the speaker itself. This is what makes this speaker really unique compared to other speakers. The advanced details make it stand out among all the other ELAC speakers available in the market.

Crossover design

THE ELAC UB5 Bookshelf speaker has a sophisticated crossover design.  When the design is combined with a sturdy cabinet, it delivers an audio experience that is unimaginable. A clear sound will enable you to have fun listening, so you don’t have to struggle to listen. Nobody wants to go through problems trying to get a clear sound with these speakers. You will also experience better sounds that are of high quality and sound extremely magical.

3-way balanced design 

A 3 – way design is way advanced compared to the traditional design, which was a 2-way. Thanks to this design, the speaker has access to more accurate sound, which is satisfying. The design comes with many advantages in a system that is full range. With the design, the speaker assigns the drivers to the different frequencies to work on their optimization. Complement 3-way speaker gives room for straightforward crossover and design of a cabinet, therefore eliminating complex solutions.

Concentric driver 

The concentric driver is very much custom based. The combination of a soft dome tweeter and an aluminum midrange cone gifts you a sonic symphony perfection.  Also, the concentric positioning of the tweeter within the midrange coil of the voice achieves a uniform pattern. The driver also gifts you with enhanced imaging suitable for both on and off-axis positions of listening.  Just power these features properly, and you can be sure to experience sound that’s life-changing for you.

 8. Polk Signature Series S15 Bookshelf Speakers 

Upgrade your home's sound system with this amazing bookshelf speaker. It provides a reliable base and deep base to eliminate distortion. Therefore, you will enjoy watching movies and listening to music. The speaker's sounds are crystal clear and very accurate. This speaker series give good value for every cent you spent.

Audio performance

The Polk signature series produce high-resolution audio performance. It delivers high end and clear response for improved vocals in music and also in movies. It also has a support of 40kHz to reproduce audio files that are of high resolution. The audio files combined with audio extensions produce the best of sounds you will enjoy. With that sound, you will feel like you are in the concert hall with your favorite artist, hearing all the music you like and enjoy.

Bass Technology 

The Polk Signature series speakers come with exclusive Polk power port technology. This technology delivers a bass response that is a deeper comparison to traditional speakers with ports at the back. This base technology transitions air to flow smoothly from your speaker into your listening area. With this, you will experience a deep and extended impact on the bass and minimize distortion of the sound. With minimized distortion and turbulence, you can enjoy the bass effect pretty well.

Easy to install

Installing these speakers is a pretty easy thing to do. It will take the least time possible, giving you time to go on with your other duties. All you have to do is follow up on the instructions on setting it up and doing it on your own. You don’t have to call a professional to help you with the job. This is because you can easily do it on your own and with less time. With the correct tools, you are set to go.

Acoustic Array

These speakers consist of an acoustic array designed with Polk dynamic balance.  The fiber spiders combine to create drivers that bring you the best sound and bass.  With these drivers, you get access to high efficiency and clear bass with no distortion. You will enjoy listening to the sound coming from the speaker due to lower distortion.  With clear bass, you can experience the best of sound accuracy and sound quality. Also, with these, you be bear witness to the greater durability of the speakers.

 9. Swan Speakers - T200C Bookshelf Speakers 

If you want to experience award-winning sound, then the Swan Speakers T200C are the real deal. Thanks to these speakers' compatibility with blue tooth, you can play the music that you like the most anytime. All you have to do is pair it with your phone and enjoy music from anywhere in your house. It’s audio sound output is on the top of it’s game.

Volume control

You can be able to do control the volume of the speakers thanks to the remote. If you want to tone down or up the volume, you can do it from where you are fitted. You don’t have to walk up to the speaker's table to adjust the volume.  You can also adjust the treble and the bass to your desired preference using the remote. You can modify the sounds to your liking when you are listening to your music.

Acoustic designs

It comes with a front metal panel that ensures that both low and high frequencies reach the audience.  The speakers' asymmetric structure reduces the waves that are standing to provide you with clear sound. Also, with the design, the speakers provide sound that fills the room without taking a lot of space. Acoustic design assures your sound with clarity and high performance without any sound coloration whatsoever.

Sound accuracy

If you need a sound that is so accurate and transitions smoothly, then these are the speakers you need for your house.  It provides you with clear sounds by obtaining a smooth frequency response and low sound distortion in any environment. With this, you will experience sound images that are very accurate and high-frequency performances. Nobody enjoys watching movies or listening to music with sound that is not accurate. That will be a water of time, and you will keep straining trying to get clear sounds.

Wireless harmony

Thanks to the wireless harmony feature, you can play your favorite music or watch your favorite show or movie. The Bluetooth compatibility allows you to connect your phone or a digital device of your choice easily.  If you are in the kitchen, doing dishes, or cooking, the Bluetooth module enables you to connect to the speakers. You will be able to do your work as you listen to your favorite music for motivation.

 10. HiVi - DIY 2.2A - DIY Speaker Kit - 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers 

This is another amazing bookshelf speaker that offers a full range of sound. On top of that, you will also enjoy a balanced frequency response. It can withstand elevated temperatures, and it works great when it comes to reproducing female vocals.

Solid construction

The HiVi DIY 2.2 A speaker consists of the best and high-quality materials.  The speaker is a component of the solid construction and contributes greatly to holding the pieces together. The solid construction ensures that the speakers do last for the longest time. You will not angle to experiences a lot of repairs thanks to the high-quality material used. The compact design of the speakers gives them an excellent quality that everyone is going for.

Easy to assemble

When it comes to assembling the speakers' parts, you can do it with your eyes closed. It is one process that is pretty easy, and it will take the least of your time.  With all the sound system’s necessary parts equipped, you can work on it faster.  You only need some tools to get the work don’t by yourself without any help. Follow the simple instructions and work on the speakers accordingly.

Quality sound

The quality of the sound is always a speaker’s number one priority. If a speaker isn’t able to produce high-quality sound, then it’s as good as dead.  The sound quality of these speakers are very phenomenal and high-quality. You can enhance quality sounds using the throw woofers that help in transitioning sound from the source. The sound hits pretty good, and you can be able to enjoy yourself listening to it.

Done tweeter 

Fabric is used in making the dome tweeter in the sound system, and it is shielded. The tweeter withstands temperature that are elevated. With this tweeter, the speaker can stay in perfect condition even in elevated temperatures. It has also proven to be extremely good when it comes to reproducing female vocals. This is one unique and amazing feature that this speaker posse that other speakers don’t.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many drivers do bookshelf speakers have?

A: With the small size of the bookshelf speakers, they have a limited number of drivers. They have two drivers, to be specific, which are the two circular speakers found on the front. They are what creates the sound. One is a tweeter for high frequencies, while the other is a woofer that handles the mids and the bass.

Q: What does the dB measurement on my speakers stand for, and what does it mean?

A: The dB is short for decibels. It measures the amount of power put through a speaker and can help you figure out how loud the speaker is.

Q: What is the low, average, and high decibels ranges, and which range is reasonable?

A: Anything less than 86 decibels is considered low, 87-95 decibels is average, and over 95 decibels is high. It is the last range that you should worry about if you have glass windows that can shutter. Anything within the 87-95 range will give you excellent sound.

Q: What is the main difference between passive and active speaker styles?

A: Passive speakers have no built-in amplifiers, so that you have to connect them to a stereo receiver. On the other hand, active speakers have everything from volume controls, preamp, and speakers.

Q: Which one has larger drivers between active and passive speakers?

A: That would be the passive speaker because active speakers accommodate more hardware in their housing, which may leave a smaller room for drivers. Hence they are fitted with smaller drivers.

What Are the Benefits of Using Bookshelf Speakers?

Bookshelf speakers are still prevalent for a wide variety of reasons, and they have continued to be improved, incorporating new technologies into them to make them better and up to date. If you usually listen to music that does not put a massive emphasis on bass, like rock, jazz, or folk, then a bookshelf speaker is all you need.

It makes such kind of music sound better. These speakers also provide the right balance of size, sound, and style for your office or home theater. They do not take up much space, and it is easy to find the right position to put them both for convenience and the perfect sound dispersion. Bookshelf speakers are proof that small sets of speakers can give a pretty fantastic listening experience. You do not need a large space for them.

Final Verdict

Now that you know what the best bookshelf speakers of all time are, you should not make the kind of purchase that will leave you disappointed and regretting later. Some of these devices can better serve the purpose than some of the best bookshelf speakers under $1000.

The guide will help you understand the factors you need to prioritize when making your selection right before purchasing. The secret behind a speaker's durability lies in making the right choice and taking good care of it. Whether you have extensive experience regarding speakers or not, you need this guide.