Ranking of the best speakers in 2020

A high-quality speaker system is an extremely necessary thing for those who want to arrange a home theater and just lovers of high-quality sound from any multimedia device. The modern audio equipment market offers a diverse selection of equipment that can meet the needs of any user. Before you make a choice in favor of a particular model, you need to carefully understand which one is best for you.

It should be remembered that these are not just speakers for connecting to a TV or PC, but a source of truly high-quality audio, thanks to which you can appreciate the beauty of the soundtrack of a film, hear all the details of a musical composition, etc. This article will help you understand the intricacies of choosing speakers. and will also present the most popular models according to buyers' opinion in 2020.

What kind of speaker systems are there?

Acoustic systems have long been not just a "closed box with speakers inside", but a real work of engineering and, if you like, a separate musical instrument. This device converts an electrical signal into sound waves that the user hears. There are a huge number of types of speakers, as well as their combinations. In order not to get confused, all devices are classified into several types.

First of all, systems are divided according to the method of installation into the following types:

• outdoor;
• shelf;
• built-in;
• suspended;
• concert

Everything is simple here. It is customary to install the first type directly on the floor, the second on suspended shelves (ideal for connecting to a PC), the third is built into walls or ceilings, the fourth is mounted with special brackets, and the fifth is used in concert venues and open spaces.

The following speaker types are available depending on the number of playback strips:

• single-lane;
• two-lane;
• three-lane, etc.

The maximum number of lanes is limited to seven. Single sideband models generally cannot provide high quality sound. In multiband versions, frequencies are divided into high, medium and low, or their combinations.

By the type of low-frequency design, acoustic systems are distinguished:

• with an open body (box);
• with a closed case (box);
• with phase inverter;
• with an acoustic labyrinth;
• with a mouthpiece;
• panel - resonator, etc.

Depending on the presence of a built-in amplifier, active and passive systems are distinguished.Active systems with built-in amplifiers are most often used for home computers, small open areas, and studio monitors. Passive models are common in professional and home speaker systems.

In addition, the speakers may differ in the type of connection, the type of emitters used, radiation directivity, etc.

How to choose the best speaker system?

Which speaker system should you buy? Many potential buyers of high-quality audio equipment for home and professional use are looking for the answer to this question. Before making a purchase, you need to accurately determine the purpose of the device and expectations from it. You should not spend a lot of money in cases where you do not need ultra-clear and especially powerful sound, at the same time, you should not save money when you want to have a system with the most top-end characteristics. The criteria for choosing the best speaker system are pretty simple. When considering different options, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

1. Speaker placement and dimensions

First of all, you need to decide where the system will be placed: directly on the floor, on separate shelves, or built into the wall or ceiling. In addition, you need to choose the dimensions, moreover, you should focus not only on the size of the room - even in the smallest rooms, small speakers will have problems with the clarity of reproduction (especially low frequencies). For better sound quality, choose a larger speaker system.

2. Materials of the body and other elements

Better to focus on acoustics with a body made of wood or its "derivatives" (MDF, plywood, etc.). Cheap products made of plastic and other materials in most cases are significantly inferior to their wooden counterparts, while it is worth recognizing that technologies do not stand still and the main thing in this case is high-quality assembly.

3. Emitter sensitivity

Indicator of the sound pressure level that will be created by the speaker at a distance of one meter. Simply put - this value determines the volume of the speakers at the same audio signal strength. It is better to choose a device with a sensitivity of at least 90 dB.

4. frequency range

Probably one of the most important characteristics when choosing a speaker system. It is a well-known fact that the human hearing perceives sound waves with a frequency of 16-18 Hz to 20 kHz. It is on these numbers that you should focus on buying.

5. Impedance

The system impedance (typically 4.6 or 8 ohms). This figure is especially important in the presence of an amplifier - the output impedance of the amplifier must match the input speaker. Otherwise, the playback quality suffers noticeably.

6. Maximum power

Several power indicators should be distinguished: long-term and short-term (peak). Particular attention should be paid to long-term - it determines how much power the acoustics can reproduce for a long time without damaging the elements of the system. It is worth remembering that it is desirable to have a speaker power 30% higher than that of the amplifier - in this case, you will get an almost perfect sound without distortion. For "home" conditions, the power of the device of 50-100 watts is quite enough.

7. Design and appearance

Here, as they say, the taste and color. The speaker system should be a nice addition to the interior design of the room. You should not buy bright devices for rooms of calm colors and vice versa. Get creative and make choices that make a good visual impression on you and your guests.

And most importantly, before buying, be sure to listen to the acoustics live - only in this way you will understand that this system is what you need. It is desirable that the connected amplifier does not have an equalizer for adjusting frequencies, and the sound source is a CD or DVD player.

To better understand the intricacies of the most popular speaker models, the rating below will help you with a description of the advantages and disadvantages, as well as technical characteristics, compiled on the basis of reviews and feedback from real owners.

Best floor standing speakers in 2020

	Yamaha NS-555	Dali zensor 5	Canton GLE 496	HECO Victa Prime 502	YAMAHA NS-125F
A type	Passive	Passive	Passive	Passive	Passive
Number of stripes	3	2	3	2,5	2
Acoustic design	Bass reflex	Bass reflex	Bass reflex	Bass reflex	Bass reflex
Power, W	100	150	150	265	120
Sensitivity, dB	88	88	90.5	91	86
Frequency range, Hz	35-35000	43-26500	20-30000	28-40000	60-35000
Impedance, Ohm	6	6	8	8	6
Dimensions (WxHxD), mm	222x980x345	162x825x253	210x1060x310	203х977х315	236x1050x236
Average price, rub	25000-32000	39000-45000	59000-70000	25000-32900	7500

Yamaha NS-555

Premium passive speaker system with a maximum output of 100 watts. Consists of a pair of speakers - the amplifier must be purchased separately, while it must fully correspond to the speaker level. NS-555 operates in three-band mode and has magnetic shielding, which allows the device to be placed close to equipment without fear of any consequences. Clear and balanced sound is provided by four speakers per speaker. The system works great in the midrange and is very versatile in terms of sound reproduction. It should be noted the original design - many users make their choice largely due to the beautiful and stylish appearance. Ideal for home theater setup in its price range.

• chic and bright appearance;
• perfect price-quality ratio;
• flat frequency range over the entire range;
• good bass;
• the ability to connect via bi-wiring;
• good power reserve for a spacious room;
• deaf body - no resonance and bounce;
• excellent build quality.

• insufficient detail and transparency of sound;
• easily soiled case;
• the inability to put it close to the wall because of the FI port.

Dali zensor 5

A compact two-way system from one of the world's leading acoustic manufacturers from Denmark. Despite the availability of more "advanced" models of this company, the Zensor 5 is still a real hit of sales. It is recommended to connect to a quality amplifier with a power of 30 to 150 watts. Excellent power and sensitivity performance is perfectly complemented by excellent high frequency response. All this provides a fairly stable sound when playing various musical genres. In addition, it is necessary to note the presence of two subwoofers, which gives the impression of the presence of a separate subwoofer. Well, you can't ignore the build quality and materials. The front panel of the Zensor 5 is varnished, while the sides are made of high quality MDF.

• excellent sound quality, especially low frequencies;
• stylish design;
• high quality materials;
• high power;
• the presence of several colors;
• the use of a domed high-frequency speaker made of textiles;
• wide range of reproducible frequencies;
• high quality connectors.

• lack of "thorns";
• great weight.

Canton GLE 496

The representative of one of the most popular lines of acoustic systems. The GLE 496 consists of two speakers that, when properly positioned, can be combined to deliver simply stunning sound and immersion. First of all, it's worth highlighting the thrilling bass and dedicated midrange driver. Wide frequency range, huge maximum power, high sensitivity - this is a real top-class in its category. Of course, the model is a little expensive for the average user, but it fully justifies the financial investment. The design of the speakers is a separate work of art, the appearance of the system is truly premium and status. It uses a screw connection to the amplifier and all connectors are gold plated.

• very high maximum power;
• excellent construction of the sound stage;
• natural and balanced sound;
• the ability to choose a color scheme;
• quite compact and lightweight;
• large frequency range;
• both elements are three-lane;
• clear sounding bass;
• real German quality.

• specific sound of aluminum diffusers;
• lack of bi-wiring connection;
• high price.

HECO Victa Prime 502

The front-end unit made in China without an amplifier demonstrates good sound uniformity in the absence of vibration. The set includes 2 Hi-Fi devices. The body is made of MDF, presented in several colors, which will allow the user to choose the best option for the interior of the room in which the equipment will be located.

The sides towards the rear eliminate the risk of standing waves in the interior of the frame. Rubber feet give stability to the device.

In order to increase the RF power, the company uses a ferrimagnetic cooling liquid. The presence of kraft paper, which covers the woofer and midrange cones, ensures the clarity of the sound of complex compositions in huge rooms.

Wired connection method: bi-wiring. There are gold plated and screw (power amp connection) connectors, spikes, and a removable grill.

• great sound;
• value for money;
• speakers are compatible with various AV-receivers;
• pins for cable fixing with biviring support;
• several colors;
• appearance.

• some users are not satisfied with the quality of the cladding.

YAMAHA NS-125F

This device weighing 7 kg 200 g, modern design, with a removable grill is ideal for rooms of 20 square meters. It will allow you to unleash the capabilities of the latest HD audio formats, provide a comfortable viewing of films and listening to music tracks. The technique conveys natural sounding in the surrounding sound, allows you to hear the necessary nuances, while no clicks or interference is detected. The speakers are melodic, ideal for listening to piano and female vocals. For those who need powerful bass, a subwoofer connection is required.

• excellent sound;
• comfortable;
• modern design (fits into any room interior);
• inexpensive;
• high-quality assembly.

• marking.

Top best bookshelf speakers in 2020

	Pioneer S-DJ50X	Yamaha NS-333	Dali zensor 3	PreSonus Eris E4.5	JBL 308P MkII
A type	Active	Active	Passive	Passive	Passive
Number of stripes	2	2	2	2	2
Acoustic design	bass reflex	bass reflex	bass reflex	bass reflex	bass reflex
Power, W	80	60	125	25	112
Sensitivity, dB	107	87	88	100	112
Frequency range, Hz	50-20000	60-35000	50-26000	70-20000	37-24000
Impedance, Ohm		6	6	10	-
Dimensions (WxHxD), mm	197x301x262	200x320x213	205x351x293	163x241x180	254x419x308
Average price, rub	9000-12500	14600-19000	32000-36000	18000	17500

Pioneer S-DJ50X

Do not pay attention to the low price - this is a fully functional and high-quality device, not much different from its premium competitors. A great option for connecting multimedia devices, including personal computers in small rooms. This device perfectly combines high quality stereo speakers and amplifier functionality. For convenient operation, the S-DJ50X is equipped with a dedicated unit with which you can adjust the volume, switch audio inputs and control the equalizer. The system has LED indicators that indicate the status of operation. Of the significant disadvantages, it is necessary to note the weak package, which includes only the speakers themselves and the power cable.

• attractive price;
• good quality and purity of sound;
• reliable assembly;
• solid design;
• excellent low frequencies;
• auto power off function after 25 minutes;
• bass reflex on the front panel;
• compact size.

• poor equipment;
• strong hum when connected to the same power outlet with a sound source.

Yamaha NS-333

Not a bad model from the Japanese Yamaha with a very affordable price and good playback characteristics.An excellent choice for creating a home theater surround back channel or for use in combination with a computer or laptop. Each element of the system is a two-way satellite with two radiators - a 25 mm aluminum tweeter and a 127 mm one for outputting low and mid frequencies. Among the distinguishing features of this device are the presence of magnetic protection, a removable grille and a convenient mount for mounting. The speakers are compact enough to fit easily on any shelf.

• low cost;
• implementation of magnetic protection against interference;
• high quality reproduction of middle high frequencies;
• wide range of reproducible frequencies;
• compact and lightweight;
• bracket for wall mounting;
• screw connectors for cable connection;
• good build - no body bounce.

• not the best low frequency output;
• lack of wires included;
• sliding on the surface.

Dali zensor 3

A great option from a top company. Pleasant and mesmerizing sound, surround sound stage, clear highs and mids, combined with excellent lows for such dimensions. This system has gained popularity with thousands of music lovers around the world. It is impossible not to note the amazing detail and clear sound of the Zensor 3 - on this factor, this system surpasses many competitors. The appearance of the speaker system is also beautiful - high-quality enclosures with a vinyl finish and glossy front panels. This option is perfect for those who are looking for a high-quality option, while trying not to get into the ultra-expensive speaker segment.

• energetic and dynamic sound;
• the breadth of the soundstage;
• good balance of sound;
• detailed sound and soft bass;
• excellent combination of price and quality;
• three color options;
• removable grill does not affect the playback quality;
• attractive austere appearance;
• high quality connectors.

• rather long warm-up.

PreSonus Eris E4.5

These units are the epitome of high-quality, powerful near-field units using a Kevlar woofer, a lightweight dome tweeter, a Class A / B amplifier, and a range of professional audio controls for detailed sound. They are an alternative to multimedia speakers that are not inferior to them even in price. The technique has tools for equalizing the frequency response, balanced TRS input, unbalanced TS and RCA.

On the rear panel there are controls for the working environment: amplification for high and mid frequencies, a separate 3-position low-cut filter switch for listening to signals without bass, and a space adjustment switch that helps to optimally match the technique to the acoustic characteristics of the room.

• compact;
• high-quality assembly;
• clear sound;
• convenient location of the headphone jack, volume control, power off;
• powerful.

• in large rooms a little fonite.

JBL 308P MkII

The JBL speakers are designed for mass consumption, therefore they belong to the entry-level and inexpensive segment. An equalizer mode for low frequencies has been introduced, which distinguishes the equipment from many competitive models.

The frame of the product is made of MDF 1.5 cm thick. The front panel is made of plastic, has an effective glossy finish. The FI port is brought out back (to the upper part of the case) and has a round shape. This waveguide configuration creates a more uniform sound field. A fabric dome tweeter with a diameter of 2.5 cm acts as a tweeter. The diffuser is made of polymer and mounted on a rubber suspension.

Monitors are connected via balanced XLR or TRS connectors. Setting options include: fixed input sensitivity switch for level matching, volume control, high and low frequency equalization. A two-channel CS5341 converter is used as an ADC.

It should be noted that there are small nuances in sound detail, including at high frequencies, but otherwise, in terms of sound, there are no complaints.

• sounding pretty good;
• AFC is even by ear;
• value for money;
• appearance;
• reliable;
• detail;
• 3d stereo;
• smooth inclusion;
• long service life.

• hisses;
• glossy surface.

Best built-in speakers in 2020

	Klipsch R-3800W	Dali Phantom E-80	SpeakerCraft AIM7 Two Series	JBL Control 24CT MicroPlus	Bowers & Wilkins CCM362
A type	Passive	Passive	Passive	Passive	Passive
Number of stripes	2	2	2	2	2
Acoustic design	Closed	Closed	Closed	Closed	Closed
Power, W	50	150	125	40	80
Sensitivity, dB	93	89.5	88	85	89
Frequency range, Hz	46-20000	49-25000	40-20000	80-20000	50-30000
Impedance, Ohm	8	6	8	16	8
Dimensions (WxHxD), mm	269x409x95	294х294х106	244x244x140	195х133х105	240x240
Average price, rub	20000-26000	38000-42000	50000-60000	6200-12700	17570

Klipsch R-3800W

One of the most worthy options for built-in closed-type acoustics with the ability to mount into the wall. Consists of a horn tweeter with an aluminum dome and an 8 "woofer. The maximum power of the device is 50 watts, which is a very good indicator for this segment of acoustic systems. Overall, this is a very high quality unit, capable of producing excellent stereo sound within a small room. At the same time, for a clearer sound, professionals advise to purchase a separate subwoofer, since the reproduction of low frequencies is the main disadvantage of the system. There are no complaints about everything else - an excellent model at an attractive price.

• low price;
• various color options for finishing;
• compactness and lightness;
• protective aluminum mesh;
• the possibility of placing an IR receiver;
• easy installation;
• significant reduction in distortion through the use of horn technology.

• bass is not of the highest quality;
• low power.

Dali Phantom E-80

A representative of the more expensive class of built-in speaker systems. It can be mounted both in the ceiling and in the walls, and the device is highly resistant to moisture, which does not exclude the possibility of using it even in the bathroom. Has a compact design with the ability to accurately adjust the direction of sound, as well as special modes of operation to match the room acoustics. Offset speakers create a massive soundstage and deliver excellent sound quality. This option is perfect as the "main" speakers of stereo systems in rooms of any size.

• excellent power;
• the ability to fine tune;
• versatility - suitable for any premises;
• good balancing;
• the ability to adjust the direction of the sound;
• wide frequency range;
• the ability to install both in the wall and in the ceiling.

• high price.

SpeakerCraft AIM7 Two Series

A hit model from an American manufacturer, which has not been sold in Russia for a long time. Equipped with four tweeter modules and a subwoofer with the ability to direct sound at an angle of 15 ° in any direction - now you are not limited by the design and features of the room space. Provides crystal clear sound for any music genre. Indeed, the tweeters are made of high-quality silk, and the subwoofer is made of special fiberglass. Includes a white low-profile grill with magnets. The choice of true professionals and connoisseurs of quality music.

• the possibility of turning the emitters;
• clean and balanced sound;
• good reproduction of low frequencies;
• WavePlane technology using a vortex rectifier;
• minimal transfer of acoustic energy to the surface;
• high build quality and materials used;
• profile grilles included.

• high price;
• rare specimen - hard to buy.

JBL Control 24CT MicroPlus

This model is ideal for operation in crowded places: shops, supermarkets, restaurants, train stations, shopping centers, etc. Wide 150-degree coverage + state-of-the-art crossover for exceptionally clear sound. The built-in transformer can operate in two modes 70/100 Volts. The coaxial 2-way system is easy to install in a panel and provides a high level of power output.

The enclosure has a protective grille and rails for easy installation, as well as overload protection. A 4.5-inch graphite cone woofer and a 0.5-inch polycarbonate tweeter are responsible for excellent sound quality throughout the area.

Note! The removable connector, where the inputs are connected, can be unsoldered before installing the speaker to reduce connection time.

• high level of protection;
• operational installation;
• affordable price;
• strength;
• excellent sound quality and fullness;
• good technical base.

• not identified.

Bowers & Wilkins CCM362

This model is perfectly balanced for wide angle listening, and is designed for tight spaces that have a shallow embedment depth. It sounds great even in high humidity (indoor swimming pools, for example).

The body of the equipment is equipped with a round or square grille with a minimum width frame, woofer / midrange with a polypropylene cone and a soft dome tweeter.

• high-quality transmission of sound waves;
• appearance;
• value for money;
• compact;
• long service life.

• sensitivity;
• power.

Most Popular Pendant Speakers in 2020

	Monitor Audio Radius R225	Sonus faber wall domus	QSC AD-S282H	DALI ALTECO C-1	Elac WS 1235
A type	Passive	Passive	Passive	Passive	Passive
Number of stripes	2	2	2	2	2
Acoustic design	Closed	Bass reflex	Bass reflex	Bass reflex	Bass reflex
Power, W	120	150	450	40-100	55-80
Sensitivity, dB	89	88	93	103	86
Frequency range, Hz	55-25000	60-20000	60-29500	76-24000	60-50000
Impedance, Ohm	8	6	8	6	8
Dimensions (WxHxD), mm	120x610x105	220x340x150	259x665x327	190x255x160	230x320x116
Average price, rub	26000-38000	40000-45000	70000-75000	20790	46000

Monitor Audio Radius R225

British manufacturer's speaker system with the widest possible frequency range. Despite the rather compact and elegant dimensions, the speakers contain good stuffing - the device gives out just an excellent sound picture. The maximum power is 120 watts, which is quite a high figure for this speaker category. Each element is equipped with two low-frequency radiators at once, in addition to which there is a dome-shaped tweeter, with a magnetic shield and a removable grill. Particular attention should be paid to the appearance of the R225 - the speakers are supplied in two colors of the grille (black and white), and the body can be made of rosewood or beech with a lacquer finish. A great option for good money.

• two built-in low-frequency radiators at once;
• reliable assembly and components;
• optimal power;
• good magnetic protection;
• nice design;
• good sound panorama, clarity and detail;
• compact dimensions (width and depth).

• not cheap.

Sonus faber wall domus

The Italian model of excellent quality is definitely worth the money. Traditionally, premium systems use two-way technology - the speakers have two radiators - one "tweeter", the other outputs mid and low frequencies. Both are equipped with a quick-release grille, high-quality anti-interference, and a special bracket for surface mounting. Usually suspension systems are not very powerful, but this is not about Wall Domus - it can be connected to an amplifier up to 150 watts. If we add here the optimal impedance and frequency range and high-quality and reliable components, then we get a truly premium device, rightfully being among the leaders in the rating.

• clear and balanced sound;
• excellent reproduction of high frequencies;
• high power (150 watts);
• the presence of magnetic overload protection;
• quality and reliability;
• optimal impedance parameter;
• the ability to choose a color option;
• grilles are easily removed.

• great weight.

QSC AD-S282H

Two-way passive instance with a maximum power of 450 watts. It can be installed both on horizontal and vertical surfaces. The model is available in black and white and is equipped with a special swivel arm. The AD-S282H is extremely resistant to all weather conditions - its casing is made of polyester, and the sources are waterproof. A special feature of the device is a special rotary sound guide, which provides an amazing dynamic sound. System elements are completed with a special aluminum mesh. An excellent choice to complement professional stereos, especially those working in large spaces and outdoors.

• clear and accurate sound;
• stylish design with smooth lines;
• the ability to mount on walls or ceilings;
• bracket included;
• excellent maximum power;
• extended frequency range;
• maximum focusing of sound;
• the ability to choose the color of the speaker;
• durability in various weather conditions;
• the phase inverter is located on the front panel.

• high price.

DALI ALTECO C-1

A versatile model that is capable of playing various roles in home systems. However, the switches on the front panel of the speaker cannot be turned into a stereo pair.

Compact speakers with branded speakers: fabric dome tweeter, wood fiber reinforced paper cone for midrange / woofer. The beveled front panel and directional switches allow you to set the equipment in 8 ways. Dolby Atmos adds a third dimension to the phonogram without attracting undue attention, while the imaginary sound space takes up the entire visible height, its depth goes far beyond the screen, and everything is realized so naturally that you can only appreciate the difference by switching to the standard 5.1 configuration.

Despite the small volume of the case, there is no sense of balance towards the treble. The coil for the midrange / woofer is 2-layer, 2.5 cm in diameter.

• appearance;
• lightweight system - only 2 kg 800 g;
• good build;
• transparency of sound;
• many installation options;
• excellent focusing;
• two color options (black / brown);
• connects to denon PMA-30;
• affordable price;
• definition.

• limited possibilities in stereo.

Elac WS 1235

The premium model from the German manufacturer is a 2-way system with a closed-type shallow cabinet and 2 speakers. The JET-III ribbon tweeter works according to the Hale emitter principle, allowing a peak frequency range of 50 kHz. The midrange / bass driver is designed as a sandwich with a traditional rigid paper-aluminum membrane. 4 attachment points on the body allow you to fix the speakers in vertical and horizontal positions. The speakers are covered with a mesh grill with a felt lining.

A switch on the front panel next to the tweeter allows you to adjust the sensitivity within +/- 2 dB - one of the design features of the product. Magnetic shielding makes it possible to locate equipment driven into a TV without damaging the processor or built-in HDD. Special silicone pads (included) prevent the speaker cabinet from touching the wall. High protection for the entire installation is provided by a self-resetting PolySwitch fuse.

• incredible sound;
• accuracy of settings;
• overload protection;
• shallow hull depth;
• HF emitter JET III with regulation;
• installation possibilities;
• appearance.

• expensive;
• lack of bass.

Brief conclusions

Modern stores selling audio equipment offer a huge selection of speaker systems for every taste and budget. Acoustic systems differ from each other in the way of installation, size, design, as well as a set of technical characteristics.To choose exactly the device that you need, you need to be guided by a number of rules. Their strict observance will help you not to be disappointed in your purchase later. The presented rating shows the most popular speaker models in 2020. These are proven devices with huge sales worldwide. By choosing these options, you will definitely ensure yourself a purchase that will bring only positive emotions.