Good sound system. Hi-Fi and Hi-End class acoustic systems
And so, you decided to buy class acoustics Hi-Fi budget level for home, but here a dilemma arises - either buy what suits you according to the budget allocated for it, and be content with the sound you get for that money, or choose something better, but in a more expensive segment. As usually happens in life, good and cheap rarely go together. IN this review We tried to collect those models that combine these two seemingly incompatible qualities. Of course, everyone can make the final choice only by direct listening, but we highly recommend taking note of these models.
Cambridge Audio S30
The front panel of the tweeter is cut out as such in order to bring the two drivers (high-frequency and low-frequency) closer together for better integration. The design of the speakers allows the use of a simplified crossover between them, and for even better effect The speakers are connected separately by two sets of cables.
The volume of the cabinet (casing) is quite deep; the connection block and bass reflex are combined on the rear panel. The speakers are designed to be used at least 8 cm from a wall.
Victorious power and clarity. This is a wonderful speaker system that combines the winning power of the beat and the purity of sound. Bass doesn't become rumbly even when the frequency range drops to 59Hz, it's impressive without being annoying, being fast and precise, infusing any music with energy, be it hard rock or classical music.
But the S30 is particularly good in the mids and highs, and this seems to have a lot to do with the minimum crossover used. Voices are open and clear, and instruments - from acoustic to electronic - sound excellent and powerful when required.
These speakers sit on fairly heavy stands at a slight angle towards the listener, and you get a well-focused audio cabin, with really good, spacious sound.
The S30 follows the famous Cambridge acoustic formula: it looks cool, sounds great, and offers an intriguing alternative to established favorites at its level.
pros
Powerful
Very decent bass for such a small speaker system
Beautiful design
Great price
Minuses
The design won't be to everyone's taste.
A case of significant depth is not suitable for all users
Specifications:
Number of lanes - 2
Sensitivity: 90 dB
Frequency range: 55 Hz - 20 kHz
Nominal resistance: 4-8 ohms
Speakers: Tweeter: 1 x 25 mm (1") Woofer: 1 x 115 mm (4.5") Midrange/Woofer
Recommended maximum amplifier power: 100 W
Magnetic shielding: Yes
Dimensions (H x W x D): 226 x 160 x 235 mm (including grill)
Weight: 3.75kg
Boston Acoustics A 25
Compact and slightly arched, the Boston Acoustics A 25 speakers feature magnetic, removable grilles and are expertly crafted from an unusual combination of cutting-edge (gloss black) and traditional materials (leather-look vinyl) - it feels like watching your granny in Nikes. .
The A-25 features a 25mm dome tweeter and a 13cm mid-bass cone on the front panel, and a bass port at the rear along with a movable suspension mount.
The system is completely free and unpretentious in terms of placement and can serve well as a suspended speaker, but in order for it to sound better, a small free space is required and this inevitably leads to the choice in favor of placement on special racks or shelves.
The sound is impressive. Firey but not overzealous, open but pleasantly focused, the A-25 sounds balanced and without excess. With its help you can appreciate how good First Aid Kit's are in the song When I Grow Up.
This model has excellent resolution at the top end, sounds equally balanced and confident at the midrange, and has enough tonal variation at the bottom to make up for any slight lack of punch.
Decent item. The entire frequency range is perfectly integrated, and the Boston sound evokes a wonderful feeling - even the most complex recordings delight with a harmony of sound that can hardly be found anywhere else at this price.
pros
Surround, immersive, non-childish sound, with medium resolution
Minuses
Bass is not very convincing
Body made from an intricate mixture of materials
Specifications:
Type - bookshelf, passive, bass reflex type
Set includes: 2 loudspeakers
Number of lanes - 2
Recommended amplifier power - 10-150 W
Sensitivity - 89 dB
Impedance - 8 Ohm
Reproducible frequency range - 55-25000 Hz (±3 dB)
Crossover frequency - 2.4 kHz
Gold-plated connectors - yes
HF emitter - 25 mm, dome
LF driver - 133.3 mm
Removable grill - yes
Dimensions (WxHxD) - 183x271x225 mm
Weight - 4.58 kg
Price - 9,990 rub.
DALI Zensor 1
Given the high quality of this model and even some pretentiousness of compact, well-made cabinets, Dali speaker systems are quite consistent with their price tag - but the difference between the sound they produce and the numbers on the labels is quite significant.
The Zensor 1 handles the storm und drang of Kenny West's Power and the delicacy of Kate Bush's Flower of the Mountain with equal ease. Its sound is open and clear.
Amazing attention to detail. Clear, but not sterile sound, immersing you in the very core of music, where sounds merge and split - this sound quality is usually characteristic of acoustic systems that cost an order of magnitude, or even two, higher in price. They manage to combine meticulous attention to detail with ease of listening, making the longest audio session fly by in a flash.
Achieving the perfect balance between clarity and power is very difficult at any price point, so the confidence with which the Zensor 1 walks this fine line is astonishing.
pros
Quite sufficient height, sound clarity and drive
Great feeling of ease when listening
Minuses
Nothing significant
Specifications:
Type - bookshelf, passive, bass reflex type
Acoustic radiation - monopolar
Number of lanes - 2
Sensitivity - 86.5 dB
Maximum sound pressure - 106 dB SPL
Impedance - 6 Ohm
Reproducible frequency range - 53-26500 Hz (±3 dB)
Crossover frequency - 2.9 kHz
Connector for connecting to a power amplifier - screw
Gold-plated connectors - yes
Type of emitters - dynamic
HF emitter - 25 mm, dome, textile
LF driver - 133 mm
Removable grill - yes
Fastenings for installation - yes
Magnetic protection - yes
Finish options - black, walnut
Dimensions (WxHxD) - 162x274x228 mm
Weight - 4.2 kg
Price - 12,790 rub.
Mission MX1
The sound of this model is simply stunning: the Mission MX1 speakers attack any music with boundless enthusiasm, which creates an excitingly resonant sound. The key to this sound is synchronicity: James Blake's synth rhythms in The Wilhelm Scream start and stop with superb precision, and all frequency bands are clearly separated from each other, creating a seamless unity of the overall experience.
The MX1 sounds better with its removable grilles, achieving the best tonal balance when standing closer to a wall, where the rear-facing ports pump out bass without causing rumble. But actually it sounds good almost everywhere.
It's fair to say that the treble, while generally bright and pleasant, is unlikely to be the highlight of a high-quality recording, but that's more than worth it at a price that most people will be happy to pay.
pros
Impressive, clear and powerful sound
Free layout
Rugged housing
Minuses
Doesn't hide recording flaws
It is preferable to avoid atmospheric-sounding electronics
Specifications:
Type - bookshelf, passive, bass reflex type
Acoustic radiation - monopolar
Number of lanes - 2
Recommended amplifier power - 25-100 W
Sensitivity - 86 dB
Impedance - 8 Ohm
Frequency range - 58-20000 Hz (+/-3 dB)
Crossover frequency - 3 kHz
Type of emitters - dynamic
HF emitter - 25 mm, dome
LF/MF driver - 127 mm
Removable grill - yes
Finish options - black, cherry, mahogany, walnut
Dimensions (WxHxD) - 172x280x258 mm
Weight - 5.1 kg
Price - 8,890 rub.
Q Acoustics 2010i
The 'i' version has a new tweeter, a higher mid-bass cone driver and an updated crossover to match the changes made. The tweeter is now located outside to minimize the possible negative effects of any vibrations caused by the midwoofer.
The body remains unchanged, except for the new neat front panel; Considering that the system looks good, this is not a problem.
Connection is made through a pair of terminals on the bottom, each for a separate set of cables.
This system sounds a lot like its beefier 2020 award-winning variant, which isn't surprising given the similarities. specifications.
They are characterized by the same combination of purified sound and increased level of aggressiveness of the sound, and the degree of immersion in the recordings is the same.
It's not surprising that larger speakers have an advantage, but at this size and price, it's unlikely that any other model can compete with the 2010.
It's more powerful than you'd expect for its weight and will work just fine with a Denon D-M38, but if your budget stretches to something like Marantz's 6004 CD player/amplifier combo, you'll find that in exchange for For the money spent, it can give you simply magnificent sound.
It's not easy to find speakers that can boast the same harmonious and clear sound, while - thanks to a beautifully thought out and improved balance - remaining so unpretentious in terms of connectivity.
pros
In an improved form it is even more interesting
Impressive resolution
Thoughtfully built frequency balance
Minuses
Big 2020 is more tempting if you can afford something more substantial
Specifications:
Type - bookshelf, passive, bass reflex type
Acoustic radiation - monopolar
Set includes: 2 loudspeakers
Number of lanes - 2
Recommended amplifier power - 15-75 W
Sensitivity - 86 dB
Impedance - 4-6 Ohm
Reproducible frequency range - 68-22000 Hz
Crossover frequency - 2.8 kHz
Type of emitters - dynamic
HF emitter - 25 mm
LF driver - 100 mm
Removable grill - yes
Additionally
Dimensions (WxHxD) - 150x235x203 mm
Weight - 3.5 kg
Price - 16,340 rub.
Tannoy Mercury V1
The fifth model is certainly one of the best yet, thanks to a host of upgrades including a stiffer cabinet and a lighter cone-shaped midbass cone.
Just listen and you will see how easy it is to succumb to Tannoy's charm. The sound platform is larger than others in this class, and this system manages to combine the effects of space and proximity better than any other.
The fusion of flexibility and strength makes the instruments sound delightfully rich and dynamic transitions beautiful. You could evaluate it and find no faults in it, but comparison with other best of speaker systems also indicates that Tannoy is unlikely to yield to anyone in strength and assertiveness.
It has a slightly convex dome high-frequency driver, and although this assumes the most sharp sound, believe me - it's worth it.
pros
Excellent tonal balance
Flexible, well-synchronized and dynamic
Detail-filled sound
Minuses
The drive of some competitors will be heavier
Specifications:
Type - bookshelf, passive, bass reflex type
Acoustic radiation - monopolar
Number of lanes - 2
Power - 50 W
Maximum power - 100 W
Recommended amplifier power - 10-70 W
Sensitivity - 86 dB
Impedance - 8 Ohm
Reproducible frequency range - 45-25000 Hz (-6 dB)
Crossover frequency - 3.2 kHz
Connector for connecting to a power amplifier - screw
Gold-plated connectors - yes
Type of emitters - dynamic
HF emitter - 25 mm
LF driver - 130 mm
Case material - MDF
Removable grill - yes
Magnetic protection - yes
Finish options - maple, walnut
Dimensions (WxHxD) - 170x300x255 mm
Weight - 4.5 kg
Price - 10,800 rub.
Wharfedale Diamond 9.1
The driver integration is almost perfect, with the 13cm Kevlar mid-bass cone and 25mm textile tweeter working in unison to create a wonderful, balanced sound. It's remarkably clear - although some rivals may have an edge in this department - but the speaker is quite capable of rediscovering a touching track like Nina Simone's Tomorrow with an impressive amount of detail.
The same confidence exudes from the Wharfedale speaker system when the alt-rock band Camper Van Beethoven plays Take the Skinheads Bowling. Academic and thoughtful in its focus and attention to detail, the 9.1 model nevertheless retains everything necessary qualities to make not only your head work, but also your legs.
From the top (recognizable and solid) to the bottom (robust and reliable), Diamond performs well in even the toughest materials. She can set the pace, easily return when needed, and balance the voices on her own. Exactly.
pros
Sleek design at an affordable price
Transparent, clear and rhythmic sound
Minuses
Small size for the money
Specifications:
Type - bookshelf, passive, bass reflex type
Acoustic radiation - monopolar
Set includes: 2 loudspeakers
Number of lanes - 2
Separate connection of LF and HF (Bi-wiring) - yes
Recommended amplifier power - 20-100 W
Sensitivity - 86 dB
Impedance - 6 Ohm
Reproducible frequency range - 50-24000 Hz (-6 dB)
Crossover frequency - 2.3 kHz
Connector for connecting to a power amplifier - screw
Gold-plated connectors - yes
Type of emitters - dynamic
HF emitter - 25 mm
LF driver - 125 mm
Removable grill - yes
Magnetic protection - yes
Dimensions (WxHxD) - 194x296x278 mm
Price - 7,200 rub.
Choosing acoustics is not an easy task. It would seem that there are dozens of good models on the market, each with its own characteristics and price. It looks like identical equipment, but with different power and cost, what should you pay attention to? Do the size and number of speakers affect the sound quality?
General criteria for selecting speakers
Acoustics
First, let's try to figure out what the characteristics “2.0”, “5.1” and the like, which are found in descriptions of audio equipment, mean.
1.0 – portable speakers . The sound quality is not very good, but they are travel-friendly due to their small size. Read more about how to choose portable speakers -.
2.0 –two front speakers. The effects are in stereo mode, your favorite melodies are perfectly voiced, and the sound is clearly transmitted when broadcasting movies.
2.1 – two front speakers and a subwoofer. The bass is sent to the subwoofer, and other frequencies are sent to the speakers. If you place the first device on the floor and the satellites on the table, watching movies will give you maximum pleasure, everything is transmitted perfectly sound effects. This system is not suitable for lovers of high-quality music sound, because the subwoofer drops low frequencies and the sound is slightly distorted.
4.0 – two rear and two front speakers. Provides clear stereo sound, designed for film buffs, but also quite suitable for enjoying music.
4.1 – two rear and two front speakers, complemented by another speaker with a subwoofer.
5.1 – two front speakers, two rear speakers, a center speaker and a subwoofer. Maximum sound effect guaranteed. Designed for lovers of high-quality films and games with special effects.
Power
Here you need to rely not on your preferences, but on the scale of the room. For an average apartment, 25-40 watts per channel is quite enough. If the room is large or your own home, 50-70 watts is acceptable. For those who purchase audio equipment for parties, 60-150 Watt is suitable for a large room, and from 120 Watt for an outdoor format.
Models created for discos music centers, in which the emphasis is placed specifically on performance and low frequencies. The best representative of this class is called Sony Shake-66D or LG CM9540. If you buy such equipment for a room, the sound will not reflect the proper quality and bass; it is designed for a different space.
Frequency range
Clear and pure sound is guaranteed when the frequency bands approach the range of frequencies that can be heard by hearing: from 20 to 20 thousand Hertz. High-quality equipment produces sound with higher performance levels. The lower the frequency, the stronger the bass, and the shooting in games and movies is much brighter. So bass lovers should pay attention to speakers that reproduce a frequency of 10 Hertz, while music lovers will prefer up to 40 thousand Hertz.
Material
It's not just the design, the sound also depends on the materials. For example, a wooden case gives better sound quality than a plastic one. Even at high volumes there should be no rattling or extraneous noise. If the model has legs, check that they are attached well to the body and that they are the same length. If the speaker does not stand level, the sound will also “float”.
Models made from MDF are considered to be of the highest quality; those made from chipboard are more fragile and do not tolerate moisture well. Plastic ones wear out quickly. Aluminum protects the body well, but distorts the sound.
TV speakers have their own sound characteristics, which also need to be taken into account when purchasing.
- Sensitivity. Responsible for the volume of the sound; the higher it is, the louder the sound. If the indicators are high, then an amplifier is not needed, the data for this indicator is noted in the technical book. Acoustics with low sensitivity reach up to 88 decibels, with high sensitivity - from 94 to 102 decibels.
- Power. An important rule here: the power of the amplifier should not be higher than the power of the speakers, otherwise the equipment will simply burn out. For a small room - up to 17 square meters, 80 watts is enough.
- Frame. The best is considered to be one equipped with a bass reflex; a closed type option would be simpler. If you need low frequencies, we choose floor-standing speakers, and for high frequencies, we choose ones installed on shelves.
- Soundbar. It is called a “magic wand” that will improve any audio system. For a TV, you should choose an acoustic stand when the equipment is placed on a speaker.
The dimensions of the speaker must fit the TV stand!
Models from this series from LG, Maxell, Panasonic and Denon have proven themselves well. Excellent sound, when watching movies you get the feeling that the sound is coming directly from the center. But there is also a negative point. The stand-mounted soundbar does not cover a wide range and low bass may be felt. High-quality models provide an excellent level, but their design is poorly designed for TVs.
If you are sure that you cannot do without a soundbar, it is worth considering the following points:
- If the device will be located far from the TV, it is recommended to equip the equipment with a Bluetooth receiver. The aptX audio codec will provide good sound, but it is important to consider that wireless speakers for a TV are characterized by signal instability.
- For a room of 20 square meters, you can choose a power of 50 watts. If the TV will be placed in a room that is about 30 square meters, it is better to choose a power potential of 100 watts. Further - in increasing order. The main thing is to find out when purchasing whether the TV, according to its parameters, can transmit sound through a stand or a set of sound bars.
In home theaters, speakers are divided into:
- central, provide quality and sound effects;
- front ones, play music and audio effects;
- rear, support acoustics in general.
If there is no subwoofer, then the bass sound deteriorates and the playback load is scattered on the front speakers.
There are wired and wireless connection:
- passive, receive a signal from central block;
- active, activated via a power supply of 220 Volts.
Assembly options
For assembly home theater Two schemes have been developed: boxed and individual. The second requires the involvement of specialists and substantial financial investments, since the parts are selected at the request of the customer and adjusted to the model. It is more convenient and simpler to use the so-called boxed one, when the equipment is assembled in the form in which it was purchased. Here it is worth taking a closer look at the model with wireless rear speakers, this one costs a little more. The set includes additional block– a wireless amplifier for the rear speakers, it receives a signal from the central unit. Power supply – from 220 Volts, you will also need wires to the rear speakers.
Power
What power will be optimal for a home theater? The simplest calculation: 8-10 watts per square. If the room is up to 20 square meters, feel free to buy a system up to 200 watts. Models of 2 classes have been developed for such equipment:
- Hi-Fi. Reproduces sound well, the cost is moderate.
- Hi-End. The sound quality is much better, but the price is also higher.
For home theaters with a large diagonal, you can use systems with a total power of up to 500 Watts.
The data sheet usually indicates the highest peak power, and each manufacturer measures it differently.
Speakers for music
Experienced buyers will certainly study the data sheet and the characteristics indicated in it. When purchasing equipment for your home, it is important to consider:
- Speaker sensitivity. It is a characteristic of the degree of vocal pressure. For example, if you connect speakers of different sensitivity to the same amplifier, those with a higher sensitivity will reproduce the sound more strongly. It is better to focus on 90 decibels.
- Frequency range. We pick up sound from 16 Hertz to 20 kilohertz, so the optimal range is 18-20 kilohertz.
- Impedance. Standard - 4.6 or 8 Ohms. If you are planning an amplifier, you can choose a model with any indicators.
- Highest continuous electrical power. The data sheet usually indicates the largest or shortest, and it is important for you to know which speakers can produce for the longest possible time, without damaging the equipment. It is better to buy a system whose power is 30% higher than the power of the amplifier. For a home, 30-100 watts is enough.
Top 10 best speakers
We present to your attention the 10 best speakers, sorted by their recommended purpose.
Floorstanding speaker system
There are low-frequency and mid-frequency speakers, an amplifier. Thanks to the crossover filter, the signal is almost not distorted. The speakers are very sensitive, the system is protected by fuses. Channels 2.0, frequency 38-20 thousand Hz, sensitivity 92 decibels.
- large-scale sound;
- good volume;
- original design;
- high level security.
For home theaters
Powerful 5.1 channel speaker system. Power 250 W, has spacious multi-channel sound. Elite build.
- clear and soft sound;
- 3D Blu-Ray receiver;
- robust housing that absorbs vibrations;
- magnetic shielding technology;
- wide frequency range.
Cons: price from 100 thousand rubles.
Middle class home cinema. Channels – 2.1, power – 275 Watts.
- can be installed on a shelf or hung on the wall;
- deep bass.
Cons: high cost, both the model and the brackets.
Budget-friendly acoustics option for home cinema. Channels – 5.1, total power – 1000 W, Speakers are made of plastic.
- many decoders;
- wireless subwoofer;
- Bluetooth module.
For large rooms
Three-way floor model. Wooden case, passive amplifier, power – up to 250 watts. Sensitivity 92 dB.
- surround sound;
- separate connection of LF and HF (Bi-wiring);
- monopolar acoustic radiation.
Cons: not suitable for small spaces.
For TV
Wireless subwoofer, HDMI, Anynet+, USB. Power – 310 Watt. The soundbar is divided into two speakers, the volume is well adjusted, and easy to set up. System 2.1.
- small sizes;
- many exits;
- reliable body;
- settings are lost after turning on or off;
- The subwoofer requires arrangement with sound sources.
Universal
System type – passive, power – up to 150 Watt, amplifier, bass reflex, magnetic shielding. Sensitivity 98 dB, frequency 35-40 thousand .
- high power;
- there is a loudspeaker;
Cons: the bass reflex ports are located at the rear.
Best wireless speaker system
High-frequency speakers, supports Bluetooth. Line input Line-in, and a separate one for headphones. Channel 2.0. Power 30 W.
- powerful bass sound;
- Conveniently adjustable volume;
Cons: there is no jack5 cable for PC.
High design
Takes originality: dark wood body, black protective grilles speakers. 6 loudspeakers, 2 high monitors, speakers different frequencies. The subwoofer breaks up the sound using a driver. Sensitivity 91 dB.
- high performance;
- deep bass;
Cons: significant price.
When buying speakers, experts advise looking at the following important details:
- The sensitivity of the system must be at least 75 decibels.
- Active devices have amplified speakers, and partitive filters are located at the output of the amplifiers.
- Type of connection. The most convenient one is with a mini jack cable.
- To save space, it is better to choose wall-mounted models.
- Before purchasing, be sure to listen to the sound, insisting that the amplifier only has a tone stabilizer. Sometimes sellers use a multi-band equalizer to tweak the frequency range.
- The audio source connected to the amplifier must only be a CD or DVD player with an Audio-CD disc. MP3 disrupts the sound of even expensive models.
Which speakers to choose is up to you. But before you pay for them, take a few minutes to listen to the sound at different volume levels. This will help you avoid later unpleasant surprises when connecting equipment at home. Don’t forget about the warranty card and technical instructions to defend your rights if you forget to take something into account.
In contact with
Choosing a speaker system is not an easy task. And not only because the sound is fraught with dozens of nuances that you should pay attention to when purchasing. The price segment of acoustics has a very wide range, from several hundred rubles to hundreds of thousands. Arriving at the store, you can see that there are almost identical speakers nearby, but three times more expensive, although they have less power. This is often misleading. To understand everything, you need to decide something for yourself.
Why do you need a new speaker system? Sounding system sounds of programs or listening to music? Maybe watching movies? Oddly enough, it is the appointment that will set the tone for our entire future choice.
When quality doesn't matter
If you want to connect speakers to your computer and hear only clicks Windows folders and sometimes watch a video with sound (and it doesn’t matter what kind), then you can safely choose the cheapest speakers. It doesn’t matter what characteristics they have, the main thing is to decide on the design and price, and pay attention to the assembly. It’s worth saying right away that the internal electronics here are of very low quality, so strong interference from mobile phone- a completely normal phenomenon. Sometimes at high volume in the absence of a signal some kind of radio can be picked up.
Acceptable quality
The considered ultra-budget segment has a frequency range that is not the most favorable for human hearing - even when listening to music for an hour, the sound can become very tiring. For long-term listening, it is still better to choose more serious models. The most suitable option is a two-way 2.0 system (just two speakers). Most often, such systems are active - the amplifier is hidden from view in one of the speakers. Acoustics 2.0 is especially well suited for music due to the spatial propagation of sound, but it is also a good option for films and video games. If you are not a music lover, but a cinema fan or a gaming addict, take a closer look at 2.1 speaker systems (2 high-frequency speakers and 1 subwoofer). The presence of a subwoofer will provide realistic explosions, thanks to the low-frequency spectrum. It is better to prefer a decent 2.0 to cheap 5.1 systems.
By the way, home acoustics of this level can already be considered as speakers for a TV or video player - the sound quality will clearly be better.
Good quality
If you consider yourself a music lover, like to often listen to audio recordings in good quality, or are demanding about the detail of acoustics in films, then you will have to spend money. Good acoustics is always expensive. How universal option again, it’s better to look towards a decent two-channel speaker system, for example Microlab Pro 3 or Sven Royal 2R. This option can fully satisfy the sound needs of most users; it is perfect for listening to music and watching movies. In games the sound will also be excellent. But pay attention, to realize the full potential of such a speaker system, think about purchasing a good sound card.
If spatial sound is important to you, then 5.1 is exactly what you need. The channels can be arranged to your liking; in games and films there will be a clear difference in the spatiality of actions: if a car is driving from left to right, then the sound will move from the left to the right channels. You can, of course, listen to music, the sound will be good, but the purpose of 5.1 is still somewhat different.
Home acoustics of this level will already be able to reveal the potential of Lossless formats - special formats without loss of quality (unlike the familiar mp3). You can try a CD player or a high-quality media player as a sound source - the result will be noticeable.
Premium quality
In one article it is impossible to tell all the nuances of choosing acoustics for a home of this level, but it is worth noting that with such requirements, an ordinary computer in an ordinary room is not the most suitable option. Not only is a spacious room required for the correct placement of channels, but also a special computer with low level noise and premium sound card(HTPC), or a specialized CD / vinyl player. Good hifi a system (this segment is called that) can cost up to a thousand dollars, and even more: a separate external amplifier is required, which can be 35-40% of the cost of the entire system. People who are interested in such acoustics for the home already know the brands Monitor Audio, Canton, Meridian, so recommendations are unnecessary here.
A little about power
So how many watts are required? It's safe to say that if you are not going to have a disco, then for an average apartment 25 watts is enough to the channel. For a large room in private house 40 watt will be more than enough, but if you are planning a party, you need at least 60 watts for indoors and 100-120 watts for outdoors. By the way, there are special music centers specifically for parties, where more attention is paid to power and low frequencies rather than to the overall sound picture, for example Sony Shake-66D or LG CM9540. Of course, you can buy such an acoustic system for a room for private use (the appearance is captivating), but the potential will not be revealed, the money will be overpaid, and the sound will not live up to it.
Build quality
When choosing acoustics for your home, it is recommended to pay attention not only to appearance and characteristics, but also to materials and build quality. Even at high volumes there should be no extraneous sounds, be it the crackling of the speaker, the rattling of the case, etc. If the speakers have legs, they must be strictly the same length and firmly attached to the body. It should also be remembered that a wooden case (more precisely MDF) always “sounds” better than a plastic one.
Results
In order to spend your money with maximum impact, it is important to decide what you are spending it for. It is the purpose of your future home acoustics that will be the main vector in your choice. And remember, louder and bigger are not always better.
What to do when you want to listen to music loudly, with high quality and good bass, but your budget is limited? What to choose? There are no magic recipes to solve this problem, you just need to find the best floor-standing speakers you can afford. Even if you are within a very strict price range, you can find many interesting models from well-known manufacturers
Test participants
15,000-21,000 RUR *
CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION
Because it is obvious that floor acoustics such a cost is a set of compromises, we will be prepared in advance for the fact that complete set none of the models may receive stars for all three criteria. In this test, we will give the “design” and “quality/price” ratings a reference nature, and the “sound” rating will be the decisive factor. The criteria for sound quality will be basic properties: smooth tonal balance, expressiveness (as a combination of dynamics, resolution and richness of timbres), good volume reserve, as well as the ability to reproduce bass deep enough so that when listening there is no desire to connect a subwoofer.
Pivot table
|
Firm |
Boston |
Energy |
Neso Victa |
Magnat |
Polk Audio |
Wharfedale |
|
|
Number of lanes |
|||||||
|
Frequency range, Hz |
45—25 000 |
43—20 000 |
26—38 000 |
19—38 000 |
35—25 000 |
38—24 000 |
|
|
Sensitivity, dB |
|||||||
|
10—175 |
20—200 |
30—300 |
30—360 |
20—150 |
20—120 |
||
|
Impedance, Ohm |
|||||||
|
Crossover frequency, Hz |
No data |
1600, 2000 |
400, 3200 |
300, 3500 |
No data |
140, 3800 |
|
|
HF diameter, mm |
|||||||
|
Midrange/bass diameter mm |
|||||||
|
Dimensions, mm |
891x320x225 |
915x313x180 |
1050x305x230 |
950x320x210 |
924x292x177 |
850x278x194 |
|
|
Weight, kg |
No data |
||||||
|
Sensitivity (1 W/1 m, 1 kHz), dB |
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Impedance max/min, Ohm |
6,79/33,59 |
5,97/33,10 |
4,29/15,67 |
3,94/9,30 |
3,62/22,87 |
5,25/11,64 |
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Impedance, average value, Ohm |
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Average THD (100-20,000 Hz, 94/88/82 dB), %: |
0,29/0,25/0,24 |
0,22/0,18/0,17 |
0,22/0,21/0,25 |
0,35/0,26/0,33 |
0,22/0,19/0,20 |
0,29/0,22/0,22 |
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Frequency response unevenness (100—20,000 Hz), +/-DB |
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Frequency response unevenness (160—1300 Hz), +/-dB |
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Frequency response unevenness (1300—20,000 Hz), +/-DB |
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Frequency response unevenness (300—5000 Hz), +/-dB |
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Lower limit frequency (-10 dB), Hz |
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results
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BOSTON A250 |
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***** Sound |
The winner was chosen based on a combination of sound characteristics,
but it turned out that this is also the most stylish test model.
Each acoustic system that participated in the test showed its own individual character, which in itself destroys the myth that inexpensive acoustic systems are not fundamentally different from each other. It was nice to realize that each manufacturer offers something truly original and even “poor students” have a very rich choice. If you primarily expect assertive, meaty bass from floor-standing speakers, feel free to take the Magnat Monitor Supreme 1000, you won’t go wrong. For those who love sophisticated vintage sound in the spirit of paper wideband speakers, I highly recommend getting acquainted with the Neco Victa 701. For connoisseurs of jazz and any beautiful, sublime music, I recommend taking a closer look at the Energy Connoisseur CF-30, and for those who want to experience the classic English sound, I suggest listening to Wharfedaie Diamond 10.4, acoustics from the legendary series of the famous British brand. A contender for the role of monitor acoustics for a stereo system, which periodically turns into home studio, it is quite possible to consider the Polk Audio TSi 300. Well, the Boston A250 model demonstrated, in my opinion, the most balanced sound, combining good resolution, genre versatility and exceptional expressiveness. Ironically, this particular model turned out to be the least bassy, but the quality and dynamics of the bass completely compensate for its quantity. As a result, the winner of the test is the Boston A250, and the prize of choice is the vintage sound of the Neco Victa 701 model and the exceptional price/quality ratio that the Energy Connoisseur CF-30 acoustics showed us. If we talk about general impression from the tested models, then, in addition to the sound, I would note the interesting design and high-quality manufacturing of most participants, which in this price range is certainly pleasing. And in general, all the speakers performed better than one might expect.
*THE PRICE IS APPROXIMATE
– extraordinary design and excellent sound; 2 - the best floor-standing acoustics.
Having an active speaker system in the apartment and big screen, you can enjoy all the delights of a cinema without leaving your home. Modern systems have very powerful, high-quality sound and are able to work in intensive mode. Speakers located in different parts of the apartment provide surround sound without losing sound quality, even in large rooms. Mid-price and premium systems can work not only at home, but are also used for professional purposes. Especially popular for home use are sound systems that include two front speakers, two rear speakers, a center speaker and a subwoofer, or, as they are also called, 5.1 systems. In this article we will try to find out which systems were the most popular among users last year.
Best Budget Speaker Systems
Score (2018): 4.5
Advantages: Great price
Manufacturer country: China
| Advantages | Flaws |
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The Defender Hollywood 35 is in third position in the ranking of popular budget sound systems. Characteristic feature model is the ability to control the volume both separately for each channel and for the entire system as a whole. The system is capable of functioning efficiently in rooms with an area of about 25 m2. The cost of the system is the best in model range Hollywood with the appropriate parameters. All elements have wooden cases using magnetic shielding, which allows nearby equipment to work without interference. The kit includes a cable for DVD connections, control occurs using a remote control or subwoofer.
Users most often cite excellent sound quality and the ability to place the system around the entire perimeter of the room as advantages. The system is also convenient to manage thanks to separate control of each individual element. There are separate inputs for both computer equipment and the player. The disadvantages are the insufficiently long cable for the speakers, a fragile remote control and the impossibility of attaching elements to the wall.
Score (2018): 4.5
Advantages: Budget passive speaker system
Manufacturer country: Japan (Indonesia assembly)
Second position in the rating the best models belongs to the budget category passive system Japanese manufacturer, made in Indonesia - Yamaha NS-P150, which consists of two rear and one center speakers. The body material is MDF, finished in ebony or mahogany. The system can be placed on a shelf or attached to a wall; fastening elements and terminals are provided for this purpose. The frequency range covered is quite sufficient for comfortable watching movies at home and listening to music. The best way to use this system is to expand the functionality of the existing front speakers. According to consumers, this system is one of the best in the budget segment for use as rear and central systems. IN in this case The name of the global company and the best ratio of cost and quality are trusted. The main advantages are also excellent sound at mid and high frequencies, nice design. Well, the disadvantages include insufficient cable length, lower sound quality on low frequencies oh, and the fact that the system requires maintenance (dust is instantly noticeable).
Score (2018): 4.7
Advantages: Best selling acoustics. Best value for money and power
Manufacturer country: China
The leader among budget sound systems is the BBK MA-970S, which is one of the best-selling budget sound systems. The model immediately attracts attention with its interesting design. The rear 1-way speakers are slightly smaller in size than the front 2-way speakers; the speakers have a housing made of MDF with a dark wood finish with silver edging. The system has a power of 280W, this best indicator in this category. The subwoofer has a simple design that matches the overall composition. The scope of application is slightly expanded due to the presence of audio and stereo inputs, as well as a decoder capable of converting stereo sound into multi-channel. An undeniable advantage here is a rich sound palette with a full range of frequencies. Control is carried out using the remote control.
Users consider the main advantage of the system to be sound; it is quite sufficient for apartment conditions and is especially well revealed when watching movies. Good appearance is also often mentioned, convenient use and full compliance with cost and offered power. Well, the disadvantages are the short range of the remote control signal, the impossibility of manual control, insufficient cable length, and also the fact that the system requires extra space for installation.
The best mid-price acoustics
Score (2018): 4.4
Advantages: Best Value between price and quality
Manufacturer country: Japan (China assembly)
The model of the Japanese brand, produced in China - Pioneer S-ES3TB, occupies the third position in the rating and is, perhaps, the best option to create a home theater for little money. The system is capable of operating in the frequency range 40-3000 Hz and has a total power of 660 W, while the front floor-standing speakers have a power of 150 W. For listening to complex music with high quality the sound of this is not quite enough. In addition, the sound quality is affected by the lack of magnetic shielding of the speakers and crossover filters. But, nevertheless, despite this, the system was able to surpass the majority of inexpensive music centers and budget home theaters in popularity among users. This sound system has proven itself well as a budget, but at the same time quite effective element of a cinema for viewing at home, coping with the reproduction of all special effects and musical compositions very well. Among the advantages, users note excellent transmission of low frequencies, balanced sound with minimal distortion. The downside is the sound quality, which can be improved if necessary by connecting a stereo amplifier. According to users, this significantly improves the system's capabilities.
Score (2018): 4.6
Advantages: Great design. Purity and transparency of sound
Manufacturer country: Japan
The sound system of the Japanese manufacturer Onkyo HT728, which is in second position in the rating of this category, has a wide frequency range (25-50000 Hz). Owners of this system note excellent clean and transparent sound. Stylish front speakers have a power of 520W. This is a modern system with excellent sound quality. Users also note the excellent assembly of the model and the excellent level of playback, including MP3 files, as the main advantages. In its price segment, this is probably the best system with virtually no drawbacks. Except perhaps for some vulnerability of the subwoofer when increased loads and the fact that the model does not have an internal amplifier. But this only to a small extent affects the popularity of the system among consumers.
Score (2018): 4.9
Advantages: Great sound and build quality
Manufacturer country: USA
The first place in our TOP of mid-price acoustics belongs to BOSE Acoustimass 5, made in a minimalist form factor and equipped with a pair of compact Direct/Reflecting Series II speakers. This set has already firmly established itself on the tops comparative reviews acoustics, while competing equally with a higher price category. Almost everything in this set of acoustics is admirable, because in terms of sound transmission quality it is difficult to find an alternative in its segment. As for the build quality, here you can be absolutely calm - it is perfect. The Acoustimass module is responsible for transmitting the sound palette in general, as well as bass in particular. And he copes with this simply superbly. Further confirmation of this is the reviews on specialized forums from the owners, in which the overwhelming majority are laudatory epithets. The kit includes branded high-quality cables and fasteners that allow you to install the system without any problems. The ergonomics and appearance of the satellites allow it to fit into absolutely any living space. If we compare it with the previous Acoustimass 3 model, we can talk about a noticeable increase in the system’s power. At the same time, the hero of our today's review is the undisputed leader when using this kit in fairly large spaces.
The best premium speaker systems
2 Jamo S 628 HCS
Score (2018): 4.5
Advantages: The best floor-standing acoustics
Manufacturer country: Denmark
| Advantages | Flaws |
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The silver medalist in the rating of this category of sound systems is a model made in Denmark - Jamo S 628 HCS, which has long proven itself to be excellent among both amateurs and professionals. A distinctive feature of this system is its fundamental sound, which can be felt especially well in the lower frequency ranges. The total power of the system is 390 W, with a wide frequency range (from 37 to 20000 Hz), front speakers with a sensitivity of 86 dB, and rear and center speakers with 87 dB each, this provides very high quality sound. The passive type system has a very thoughtful design. The presence of an aluminum-coated diffuser included in the kit ensures smoothing of mid frequencies. The speakers and center channel have acoustically inert housings, so there is no deformation of sound vibrations. The heat from the voice coil is dissipated quite quickly due to the diffuser material. And all this ensures excellent undistorted sound even under extreme loads. The most beautiful, “velvety” sound, according to users, is in the lower registers. Some buyers note that they do not use a subwoofer, since at maximum volume you can feel the wave vibrations of the sound literally throughout your body. Appearance system is typical for this manufacturer - these are elongated rectangular housings with three possible options colors: dark apple, black ash and white. For rooms with an area of about 30 m2, this sound system is ideal for watching movies or listening to music.
Score (2018): 4.8
Advantages: Extraordinary design and great sound
Manufacturer country: China
This six-channel ceiling type kit from Chinese manufacturer is a kind of symbiosis of realistic sound transmission and innovative thought in terms of design and ergonomics. All satellites are made in an oval, streamlined shape, and just one glance at them is enough to tell which model is in front of our eyes. What can I say? Major League... And this is our champion!
An undeniable advantage of this model is the sound panorama. All its components, such as volume, detail, etc. receive a well-deserved 10 out of 10. This set received many praises due to its excellent parameters: a huge frequency range, an increased sound pressure threshold. Modern technical solutions, implemented in this model, also place it in the premium segment. All this is designed so that the owner can immerse himself in an ocean of realistic and detailed sound.
Speaking about the transmission of low frequencies, one cannot fail to mention the subwoofer of this model. It has high power, but, nevertheless, does not push all frequencies of the sound picture into the low range. The design of the speakers uses special plastic that suppresses noise. Owners speak very flatteringly about the transmission of high and medium frequencies. It is worth noting that as the volume decreases, the sound picture loses its saturation.
And again let's return to what attracts the eye - ultra-modern design, which cannot leave indifferent a person who appreciates beauty. In addition to ceiling installation of the system, you can also mount the kit on walls, as well as on special rack mounts. This sound system will absolutely various designs premises, from hi-tech to art deco.
As for the minuses, we can only talk about the rather small angle of rotation of the satellites, which causes certain problems in installing the system.