Are you a vinyl enthusiast looking to upgrade your turntable setup?
One of the most important components to consider is the speakers. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to invest in.
Should you go for passive or powered speakers? What about frequency response and power output? And of course, there’s the budget to consider.
In this article, we’ll break down some of the top speaker options for turntables on the market, from affordable to high-end, so you can make an informed decision and enjoy your vinyl collection to the fullest.
What Speakers Should I Buy For My Turntable
When it comes to choosing speakers for your turntable, there are a few factors to consider.
Firstly, you’ll need to decide whether you want passive or powered speakers. Passive speakers require a separate amplifier to power them, while powered speakers have an amplifier built-in.
If you’re looking for a minimalist setup, powered speakers may be the way to go. They’re also generally more affordable than passive speakers and amplifiers.
Next, consider the frequency response and power output of the speakers. A wider frequency response range means the speakers can handle a wider range of sounds, while higher power output means they can play louder without distortion.
Finally, budget is always a consideration. There are great options available at every price point, so it’s important to determine how much you’re willing to spend before making a decision.
Passive Vs. Powered Speakers: Which Is Right For You?
When it comes to choosing between passive and powered speakers, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Powered speakers are generally more affordable and require less physical space, making them a great option for those with limited space or a tight budget. They’re also easy to connect and use, making them a popular choice for those who want a simple setup.
However, powered speakers may not offer the same sound quality as a standalone amplifier and passive speaker combo. They’re designed to provide good sound quality for their price and intended usage, but they may not meet the standards of audiophiles or those looking for high-end stereo setups.
On the other hand, passive speakers require a separate amplifier to power them, which can be more expensive and take up more physical space. However, they generally offer better sound quality and more flexibility in terms of customization and upgrading.
If you’re looking for an easier setup or more portability, powered speakers may be the way to go. But if you’re serious about vinyl and want the best sound quality possible, passive speakers are almost always the better choice.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between passive and powered speakers for your turntable setup.
Frequency Response And Power Output: Understanding The Technical Specs
When it comes to the technical specs of speakers, two important factors to consider are frequency response and power output.
Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a speaker can reproduce. It is usually measured in Hertz (Hz) and represents the range from the lowest to the highest frequency that a speaker can play. The wider the frequency response, the better the speaker will be at reproducing all types of music, including bass-heavy tracks and high-pitched vocals.
Power output, on the other hand, refers to how much power a speaker can handle without distortion. It is measured in watts and indicates how loud a speaker can play. A higher power output means that a speaker can play louder without distortion, but it also means that it will require more power to operate.
When choosing speakers for your turntable, it’s important to consider both frequency response and power output. A wider frequency response range will ensure that you are able to hear all aspects of your music, while a higher power output will allow you to play your music loud without distortion.
It’s also important to note that different types of music may require different levels of frequency response and power output. For example, bass-heavy tracks may require speakers with a wider frequency response range and higher power output in order to reproduce the low-end frequencies accurately.
Affordable Options: Best Speakers For Turntables Under $200
If you’re on a budget and looking for the best speakers for your turntable under $200, there are a few great options available.
First on the list is the Edifier R1280DB, which has an attractive price tag of $139 USD. These powered speakers have a wide frequency response range and offer plenty of connection options, including Bluetooth for streaming and a connection to your TV. While they may not have the refinement of more expensive speakers, they are a great choice for those just starting out with vinyl.
Another option is the Micca PB42X, which are passive speakers that require an amplifier. They have a compact size and offer a decent frequency response range, making them a good choice for smaller spaces.
Lastly, the Edifier R980T Speakers are another affordable option, priced at around $70 USD. These powered speakers have a simple design and offer a decent frequency response range for their price point.
While these options may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive speakers, they offer great value for their price and are a good starting point for those looking to build their vinyl setup without breaking the bank.
Mid-Range Options: Best Speakers For Turntables Under $500
If you’re looking for mid-range options for your turntable speakers, there are plenty of great choices available for under $500. Here are some of the best options:
1. Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2: These passive bookshelf speakers offer incredible value for their price. They have a frequency response range of 44 Hz – 35 kHz and a sensitivity of 87 dB, making them capable of handling a wide range of sounds. The build quality is excellent, with a sleek design and sturdy construction.
2. Klipsch R-51M: These powered bookshelf speakers feature a 5.25-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter, delivering clear and detailed sound. They have a frequency response range of 62 Hz – 21 kHz and a sensitivity of 93 dB, making them capable of playing loud without distortion. The design is minimalist and stylish, with a black wood grain finish.
3. Audioengine A5+: These powered bookshelf speakers have been around since 2005 and are still considered one of the best options in their price range. They have a frequency response range of 50 Hz – 22 kHz and a sensitivity of 95 dB, making them incredibly powerful and capable of handling all kinds of music. The design is sleek and modern, with analog class A/B power amplifiers and dual audio inputs.
4. Edifier R1280T: These powered bookshelf speakers are an excellent budget option for those looking for great sound without breaking the bank. They have a frequency response range of 75 Hz – 18 kHz and a sensitivity of 85 dB, making them perfect for listening to vinyl records. The design is simple but elegant, with wood-grain vinyl finish.
All of these speakers offer excellent performance for their price range and are sure to enhance your turntable listening experience. Whether you prefer passive or powered speakers, there’s something on this list for everyone.
High-End Options: Best Speakers For Turntables Over $500
If you’re looking for the absolute best speakers for your turntable and are willing to invest over $500, there are some incredible options available on the market.
One of the top choices is the KEF LS50 Wireless II. These speakers are considered one of KEF’s flagship products and have received rave reviews from Hi-Fi critics worldwide. They are genuine active speakers, meaning that there is one amplifier for each driver in each speaker. This setup allows for a 100W analog amplifier to drive the tweeter and a 200W class D amplifier to drive the bass, resulting in exceptional sound quality. The KEF LS50 Wireless II is perfect for those who want a compact speaker setup without sacrificing sound quality.
Another great option is the Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2 Anniversary Edition. These speakers are an updated version of the popular 606 model and feature improved drivers and crossovers for better sound quality. The 606 S2 Anniversary Edition has a frequency response range of 52Hz-28kHz, allowing it to handle a wide range of sounds with ease. The speakers also have a power output of 120W, making them powerful enough to fill any room with sound.
The Focal Chorus 706 is another high-end option worth considering. These speakers feature a unique flax cone driver that provides excellent sound quality with minimal distortion. The Chorus 706 has a frequency response range of 55Hz-28kHz and a power output of 100W, making it a great choice for those who want high-quality sound without breaking the bank.
Lastly, the ELAC Debut Reference DBR62 is an excellent option for those who want exceptional sound quality at an affordable price point. These speakers feature custom-designed drivers and waveguides that provide exceptional clarity and detail. The DBR62 has a frequency response range of 44Hz-35kHz and a power output of 120W, making it powerful enough to handle any type of music.
Additional Features To Consider: Bluetooth, Wireless Connectivity, And More
In addition to the factors mentioned above, you may also want to consider speakers with Bluetooth and wireless connectivity options. These features can enhance the convenience and versatility of your turntable setup.
Bluetooth-enabled speakers allow you to connect your turntable wirelessly to the speakers, eliminating the need for cables and cords. This can be particularly useful if you want to move your speakers around or if you have limited space for cords and wires.
Wireless connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi or AirPlay, can also be useful if you want to stream music from your phone, tablet, or computer to your speakers. This can open up a whole new world of music options beyond just your vinyl collection.
Another feature to consider is the ability to customize the sound of your speakers. Some speakers come with built-in equalizers or tone controls that allow you to adjust the bass, treble, and other aspects of the sound. This can be useful if you want to fine-tune the sound to your personal preferences or if you’re listening to a particular genre of music that requires specific adjustments.
Ultimately, the additional features you choose will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Consider what type of music you’ll be listening to, where you’ll be using your speakers, and how much flexibility and convenience you want in your setup. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find a set of speakers that will enhance your vinyl listening experience.
