Bookshelf speakers - What are they really?
It can be confusing when you read about bookshelf speakers. You quickly wonder what makes bookshelf speakers special and whether there is more to them than you might think. Floorstanding speakers are generally more expensive and produce better sound than bookshelf speakers, but they take up much more space in the living room, home theater, or office.
From this definition, it is clear that it is not necessary to place so-called bookshelf speakers on a shelf, because installing them on stands leads to better sound, especially because the bass is not muffled and the sound becomes clearer. However, this can have visual disadvantages.
Bookshelf speakers or floorstanding speakers?
Bookshelf speakers generally have a maximum height of 50 cm. Floorstanding speakers, on the other hand, generally start at a height of 90 cm. The larger speaker volume also allows for higher volume. But those who have little space but still want good sound will get their money's worth with bookshelf speakers.
In summary, bookshelf speakers offer the following major advantages over floorstanding speakers:
• Lower price
• Visually less dominant
As the name suggests, bookshelf speakers are optimized for installation on a shelf, i.e., near a wall. They are not as intrusive as a floorstanding speaker or a surround sound system and are ideal for smaller living rooms.
Due to the low manufacturing costs of speakers, bookshelf speakers are generally much more affordable than similar floor-mounted speakers. The packaging unit almost always consists of two parts. However, it cannot be said that floorstanding speakers automatically sound better than speakers in a shelf. The room in which the speakers are installed is indeed a crucial factor for sound quality.
Imagine installing expensive speakers in a room that is too large; regardless of the quality of the speakers, the room determines the sound! If the acoustics of your living room meet the actual needs, most floorstanding speakers will have a number of design advantages. Not least, the appearance of a floorstanding speaker is usually very appealing. But it is also worth the money.
What bookshelf speakers are available and which ones are best suited for you?
If you choose a bookshelf speaker from a variety of options, it is probably because it is not only more discreet but also cheaper than larger models. Compared to smaller models, these speakers also offer a higher volume level.
However, it should be noted that the volume advantages are particularly noticeable in tight spaces. If you are ready to make your purchase decision for the reasons mentioned above, you can choose from three different versions of bookshelf speakers in the next step:
• Passive bookshelf speakers
• Active bookshelf speakers
• Active-passive bookshelf speakers
Active-passive speakers, as matching units, are the rule. Most speakers in the price range of 100 to 200 euros are usually this combination. However, it would not be disadvantageous to be informed in advance and thus avoid possible additional costs.
For example, if you already have an amplifier, you can make do with a cheaper passive speaker and have a few more advantages. This is used to make a decision based on individual preferences and possibilities regarding where the music comes from. The advantages and disadvantages listed below can help you make a decision.
