Affiliate Disclosure: I am grateful to be of service and to bring you content free of charge. In order to do this, please note that when you click links and purchase items, in most cases I receive referral commissions. Eventually, I may earn enough to buy a beer or two.
If you’re looking for a reliable sound system but don’t have the space for it in your house, this article is perfect for you. Because today, I’ll be giving you my top recommendations of the best bookshelf speakers for 2021.
What Are Bookshelf Speakers?
Before we tackle my list of top recommendations, some of you might be wondering: what is a bookshelf speaker and how does it differ from your normal and average speakers in the market?
Derived from the name itself, bookshelf speakers are a more compact version of your regular-sized floor speakers. They’re light enough to be placed on an elevated surface like in a bookshelf. This way, you don’t have to worry about your sound system taking space in your house.
Funnily enough, these types of speakers are actually rarely placed in bookshelves. Some do, but most of the time people use this to complement their other equipment and give it a boost.
You can easily fit them on top of floating counters, your kitchen island, or any surface you can think of! They’re a great (and just as good!) alternative for floor speakers if you’re tight on space or budget.
Why You Need A Bookshelf Speaker
Any person who is a lover of music knows that a good sound system will always be one of the best investments one can make. But if you’re on the fence about getting one, that’s completely understandable. That’s why I’m here, to help you decide whether a bookshelf speaker is for you.
A nice pair of bookshelf speakers can really change up a room’s whole ambiance. With the right kind of music, you can easily immerse yourself in anything you’re doing, and before you know it, you’re having a party of your own!
Aside from making your personal time more exciting, bookshelf speakers are also generally a good addition to your home. Don’t be fooled though, bookshelf speakers are not necessarily just made to sit atop a bookshelf. They can be quite versatile actually.
If that’s not enough, adding a subwoofer can immensely improve its sound quality for you as well. With a subwoofer, you’ll surely feel every beat thumping across your body.
I’m sure some of you might be thinking right now that you can just get an actual average-sized sound system. That’s completely fine and I agree that your regular speakers tend to have meatier and fuller sounds.
But take note that not everyone (this could also include you) has enough space nor the budget to shell out. With bookshelf speakers, you can definitely get the same experience with less cost!
So if you’re a music enthusiast like me and can’t get anything done without a nice jam, read on to get an in-depth look at this year’s best bookshelf speakers that I think would be perfect for you. From budget-friendly finds to premium and powerful sound systems, you’re sure to find one that will suit you just right!
My Top Recommendations
1. Klipsch The Fives Powered Speaker System
Overview
The Fives Powered Speaker System from Klipsch is an awesome sound system to have. They’re easy to use and they offer a lot of options for you in terms of connectivity. Set at a mid-range price, you’re definitely getting every bang for your buck with this model.
Manufactured by Klipsch, they’re one of the first USA-based loudspeaker companies since 1946 and have been producing top-of-the-line sound systems ever since. They offer loudspeakers that have great and powerful sounds that their loyal supporters would swear by.
But that’s not the only reason why The Fives Powered Speaker System made it to the top of our list of the Best Bookshelf Speakers this 2021.
This active loudspeaker is comprised of two cabinets. Both cabinets feature a 1-inch Tractrix horn-loaded titanium dome tweeter and 4.5-inch woofer (with Tractrix rear port). The system’s power, rated at 160W, comes from a pair of amps built into one of the speakers.
Impressive Connectivity
But as I’ve mentioned earlier, what really makes The Fives Powered Speaker System stand out from other more affordable competitors is the wide range of connectivity you can get from this particular model.
This sound system is equipped with digital optical and USB inputs. There’s also a line input you can switch to a moving magnet phono stage for direct hookup to a turntable. Meaning, if you love listening to your vinyl records, then you’ll absolutely love this feature as well. Plus, aptX Bluetooth is also included in the system.
Additionally, the HDMI ARC connection of The Fives makes it a great alternative from your typical sound bar.
While it doesn’t fully have multichannel decoding or the virtual surround DSP sound bars are equipped with, The Fives allows you to install the speakers with appropriate distance from each other that gives it the same potential.
Overall, The Fives Powered Speaker system is a nice all-rounder that is quite hard to beat.
Features & Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 18.5 x 17.5 x 13.5 inches (LxWxH)
- Item Weight: 28.2 pounds
- Amplification Type: Active
- Manufacturer / Brand: Klipsch
- Power Source: Corded electric.
- Connectivity Technology: Analogue phono input, MM phono, optical digital audio input, USB input, HDMI ARC, subwoofer pre-out, and a 3.5mm aux input.
- Audio Output Mode: Stereo
- Colors: Walnut and Matte Black.
- Extra Special Features: Remote, 2-Way, Bass-Reflex Design, 4.5″ Fiber-Composite Cone Woofer, and a 1″ Titanium LTS Vented Tweeter, aptX Bluetooth, 192kHz/ 24-bit decoding, Dynamic Bass EQ, and 50Hz-25kHz claimed frequency response.
Pros
- Various options for connectivity.
- Suitable for vinyl-record enthusiasts.
- No need to buy a separate phono preamp!
- Great alternative to a dedicated sound bar if you don’t have one already.
- Nice aesthetic and design.
Cons
- It’s pricier compared to other active tabletop loudspeakers in the market.
Rating: 9.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Klipsch The Fives Powered Speaker System?
2. Q Acoustics 3020i
Overview
Despite still being a fairly young brand, Q Acoustics‘ achievements and success in the last eight years have far exceeded their fledgling years. They have made it known that being new to the industry doesn’t equate to being rookies.
The company is formed by experts in the audio industry who has tasked themselves with making the best affordable loudspeakers in the world. By doing so, they have recruited world class acoustics engineers and industrial designers to make this vision a reality.
But enough about the company, how does the Q Acoustics 3020i fair from its competitors?
The Q Acoustics’ 3020i is the latest iteration of the 3020 model from their lineup. Aside from the upgrade in size and scale, dynamic reach and detail, and the slight price increase, the Q Acoustics is essentially an improved version of its award-winning predecessor.
The 3020i is basically built on the qualities we have come to know and love from the 3020 model.
Compared to the previous model, Q Acoustics have significantly improved the 3020i’s cabinets. Making them 25 percent larger, by volume, than their predecessors.
You will also notice this this particular model’s built is a lot quieter, with the point-to-point cabinet bracing adding extra support to the parts of the box that need it most. It also helps keep the enclosure from making too much noise through computer aided placement of internal bracing.
In terms of performance, the 3020i easily surpasses its predecessor. Providing you with a rich, warm sound that will easily fill up a room and make it come alive with its full bass and precise treble along with great dynamics.
Check out dedicated review of the Q Acoustics 3020i here.
Features & Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 11.1 x 6.7 x 11 inches (LxWxH)
- Item Weight: 21.1 pounds
- Amplification Type: Passive
- Manufacturer / Brand: Q Acoustics
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Audio Output Mode: Surround and stereo.
- Colors: English Walnut, Graphite Grey, Carbon Black, and Arctic White.
- What’s In The Box: 2 x 3020i bookshelf speakers, 2 x Speaker Grilles, 2 x Foam Bungs, 1 x User Manual, 1 x Handling Gloves
- Extra Special Features: High-Frequency Driver Unit, P2P Bracing, Mid/Bass Driver.
Pros
- Very affordable price range.
- Detailed and clear sounds that are warm and rich with impressive dynamics.
- Small and sleek design.
Cons
- People who like to have more oomf in their bass might find themselves wanting more from this model.
- Not as suited for wall mounting as it is marketed.
Rating: 9.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Q Acoustics 3020i?
3. KEF LS50 Wireless II
Overview
The KEF LS50 Wireless II is perfect for people who don’t mind splurging in a premium set of bookshelf speakers. Personally, I’d have to say that this sound system is near perfect at this price point. So if money is no object to you, the KEF LS50 Wireless II is worth every penny spent.
If you’re unaware of the KEF brand, they are a UK-based company that has been around since the early 1960s. Founded by Raymond Cooke, he was propelled by his love of music and refusal to compromise which ensured KEF’s position at the cutting edge of audio.
With their ground-breaking Uni-Q technology to their bar-setting LS50 Wireless lineup, KEF is determined to deliver sound that will enable their listeners to close their eyes and immerse themselves in the sound so deeply that they are transported, in their minds, to the source.
All of those promises can be seen in the LS50 Wireless II. The first generation LS50 Wireless originally launched way back in 2016. The original LS50 Wireless was an active speaker system that offered a different version of KEF’s passive LS50 speakers.
From the name itself, they are a pair of wireless stereo speakers equipped with built-in amplification and streaming smarts.
The Original LS50 Wireless Vs. The LS50 Wireless II
Despite the original LS50 Wireless’ success, it wasn’t perfect. There were a few hiccups here and there in terms of connectivity and its app. Now with their latest iteration, the LS50 Wireless II, KEF has addressed and revamped the flaws that were found on the original model.
They have completely improved the app and the system now comes in untethered. At the same time, packing it with new impressive features. All thanks to the introduction of the new KEF innovation called Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT).
In a nutshell, MAT is revolutionary tool that helps in eliminating unwanted sound from the rear of the driver, providing the listening with a purer, more natural performance.
You can read more about MAT here.
When it comes to performance, KEF has taken the Wireless II in a whole new other level. Which is expected especially at this price point. With the LS50 Wireless II, you get a much cleaner and more defined sound with unparalleled precision and detail. The MAT technology in the system certainly helps with that.
Check out dedicated review of the KEF LS50 Wireless II here.
Features & Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 23 x 16 x 15 inches (LxWxH)
- Item Weight: 51.9 pounds
- Amplification Type: Active
- Manufacturer / Brand: KEF
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Airplay, Wi-Fi, HDMI eArc, TOSLINK, Digital Coaxial, Analog 3.5mm Auxiliary, and RJ45.
- Colors: Black, Grey, White, and Red.
- Extra Special Features: Supports a plethora of streaming services such as Spotify Connect, Tidal, Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, QQ Music, Internet Radio, and Podcasts, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, ROON Ready, UPnP Compatible, and Bluetooth 4.2.
Pros
- Unparalleled sound quality.
- Impressive wireless connectivity.
- Supports plenty of streaming services to choose from.
- Overall huge performance leap from the original LS50 Wireless.
Cons
- Sound quality slightly decreases in resolution when being played in higher volumes.
Rating: 9.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The KEF LS50 Wireless II?
4. Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Home Audio Bookshelf Loudspeakers
Overview
The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR by Andrew Jones is one of the more affordable models in this list. You can easily get this for under $200. That’s not to say that it lacks behind in performance. If anything, despite its toned down and subtle design, it’s still a pretty solid product overall.
When it comes to the build quality, the SP-BS22-LR is equipped with cabinets made from MD. Furthermore, it’s also lacking a specific baffle at the front. However, each transducer does comes with its own surround that makes this particular model stand out from the bunch.
In terms of design, there’s nothing really special about the SP-BS22-LR. It looks pretty much your average bookshelf speaker with the overall black color and a glossy wood-grain vinyl. some would like it, some might find it a little basic. But the subtle design does make it easy for this model to fit in any interior of the house.
Moving on to the SP-BS22-LR’s performance, I would have to say that this is easily one of the better performing sound systems within its affordable price range and compared to its direct competition.
The impressive sound quality it delivers is what makes it stand out from the rest of the budget bookshelf speakers you can find in the market right now.
The SP-BS22-LR has no problem playing complex crossovers and provides flawless transitions between different parts of trebles, mids, lows, and so on. That being said, any music with demanding instrumentals will play smoothly and clearly with this particular unit.
However, bass-heavy tracks can sound a little shallow with this model. So if you’re looking for a sound system that delivers well on bass-heavy instrumentals, this isn’t the one for you. But if you have your eyes set on this model, you can easily improve the bass quality by adding a subwoofer.
Nevertheless, Pioneer definitely offered lots of great qualities in this awesome bookshelf speaker which you don’t often see in more budget-friendly loudspeakers.
Features & Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 8.45 x 7.13 x 12.55 inches
- Item Weight: 9.12 pounds
- Amplification Type: Passive
- Manufacturer / Brand: Pioneer
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Audio Output: Stereo
- Colors: Black only.
- Extra Special Features: Structured Surface Woofer, 1″ High Efficiency Soft Dome Tweeter, and a 6-Element Sophisticated Crossover.
Pros
- Affordable and budget-friendly price point.
- Impressive transitions and overall sound quality.
Cons
- Lacks in bass.
- Design is pretty basic.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Andrew Jones Home Audio Bookshelf Loudspeakers?
5. ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers
Overview
The ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers have been the more popular choice for music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike in the past recent years. They have proven that you don’t have to burn a hole through your wallet to have the luxury of a good music-listening experience with these amazing bookshelf speakers.
The company, ELAC, has been around the business since the 1980s and have constantly released great products to deliver to their users and loyal fans while maintaining fairly budget-friendly price points. They believe that every music lover in the world should have easy access to great music without compromising their budget.
The first iteration of the Debut had already received so many high praises from reviewers when it was originally released in 2015. It took the market by storm and now, even after receiving such an iconic status with the previous model, ELAC decided to further improve on the original unit and gave us the Debut 2.0.
The Debut 2.0 is well equipped with a much better build quality and an overall upgrade in terms of sound performance. In comparison, the original Debut is just a little shorter and chunkier than the 2.0, having a slightly more slender build and length.
Apart from that, I found the 2.0 a lot more forgiving in being closer to walls for mounting purposes than the original Debut.
As for the performance, without a doubt, this is one of the best sounding budget bookshelf speakers you can get your hands on. The original Debut was already so good! But the 2.0 is just on a whole new level.
The 2.0 has a clearer and much livelier sound than its predecessor. It’s easy to listen to and can effortlessly make a whole room come alive. Additionally, the 2.0 can easily take on demanding mixes and instrumentals without flattening out. You will be able to listen to your audio with great definition and a more refined sound.
Features & Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 7.7 x 14.8 inches
- Item Weight: 16.31 pounds
- Amplification Type: Passive
- Manufacturer / Brand: ELAC AMERICAS INC.
- Power Source: Corded electric.
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Colors: Black and walnut.
- Extra Special Features: New tweeter with Wide-dispersion waveguide, new woven Aramid-Fiber woofer, and better cabinets for easier placement.
Pros
- A great improvement from its predecessor.
- Clear and livelier sound quality.
- Better functionality with the design compared to the original Debut.
- Affordable and has great value for its price.
- It’s a popular and reliable choice for any music enthusiast looking to get a pair of bookshelf speakers.
Cons
- Pretty basic design.
Rating: 9.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers?
6. Edifier S1000MKII Audiophile Active Bookshelf 2.0 Speakers
Overview
The Edifier S1000MKII is probably one of the most unique-looking bookshelf speakers out of the bunch in our list here. Admittedly, it’s pretty eye-catching and refreshing after looking through a series of the standard boxy loudspeaker you’re used to.
But compared to its predecessor, there are actually very few details that were changed in terms of appearance. Despite the minimal changes, there have also been significant improvements with the S1000MKII that makes it well worth the upgrade.
One improvement I really liked is the brand new remote control the S1000MKII comes with. The remote control is divided into two parts while having a particular key for each function. You can easily switch between the two options without a fuss.
One switch allows input remote control function: two analog inputs, two digital inputs, and a wireless Bluetooth input. The other features offer playback control in the central area of the remote control, letting you shift through your audio choices seamlessly.
The S1000MKII also allows multiple devices to be connected and I have encountered no problems with the Bluetooth multi-device switching whatsoever. Everything seemed to be convenient and worked as it should without any hassle.
Moving on to performance and sound quality, the S1000MKII retained the same HiFi combination of titanium treble and bass in the aluminum alloy diaphragm just like the S1000. That said, they gave off pretty powerful sounds that are punchy and clear that won’t require any additional amplifiers.
Features & Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 10.63 x 8.07 x 13.23 inches (LxWxH)
- Item Weight: 40.5 pounds
- Amplification Type: Active
- Manufacturer / Brand: Edifier
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Auxillary
- Colors: Wood/Black
- Extra Special Features: Wireless Remote Control, multiple Bluetooth pairing.
Pros
- Easy and fuss-free Bluetooth pairing. You can use your smartphone to pair it up with this model for audio streaming.
- The wireless remote allows for easy controls.
- Powerful sound quality.
Cons
- Not a lot of improvements made compared to the original S1000.
Rating: 8 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Edifier S1000MKII Audiophile Active Bookshelf 2.0 Speakers?
7. SVS Ultra Bookshelf Speakers
Overview
Another more premium choice in our list is the SVS Ultra Bookshelf Speakers.
In case you’re unfamiliar, SVS is known for their unparalleled and legendary subwoofer performance. But how does the Ultra Bookshelf Speakers live up to the company’s reputation?
Firstly, the Ultra Bookshelf Speakers are a two-way, rear-ported speaker with a 6.5-inch glass fiber cone and a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter. It has a glossy black finish that makes the overall appearance and aesthetic look classy and sleek.
Personally, this is one of my favorite finishes in a bookshelf speaker. My only gripe is that it is such a magnet for fingerprints. If you prefer a different aesthetic, this model also comes in with a real black oak finish.
In terms of performance, the Ultra Bookshelf Speakers does not disappoint at all. It gives great tonal balance, stunning dynamics, impressive highs, and amazing low frequency extension while delivering effortless full-range sound and an expansive soundstage with pitch-perfect accuracy and pinpoint imaging.
In summary, the sound quality you’ll be getting is powerful and detailed, which is to be expected at this price point. It’s a great high-end option if you don’t mind the splurge and looking for exquisite listening experience.
Features & Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.5 x 15 inches
- Item Weight: 19 pounds.
- Amplification Type: Passive
- Manufacturer / Brand: SVS
- Power Source: Corded electric
- Colors: Black piano gloss, and real black oak
- Extra Special Features: Dual gold-plated 5-way binding posts, 1.7” wide-flared rear-firing port, Cloth grille with pin/cup retention system, and Elastomer stick-on bumper feet.
Pros
- Amazing dynamics in terms of sound quality.
Cons
- This sound system is a little bit on the heavier side.
Rating: 8.0 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The SVS Ultra Bookshelf Speakers?
Before You Buy
Now that I’ve completely covered our list of the best bookshelf speakers for 2021, let me give you a few pointers and considerations to keep in mind before you head on out to buy your desired sound system.
Size
While bookshelf speakers are generally mid-sized, they are not all built equally. The same goes for every product you see in the market. Some bookshelf speakers can either be a few inches or centimeters bigger or smaller.
Spare Space
Earlier, I have talked about how compact bookshelf speakers are. Compared to the average sound systems in the market, they significantly take up less space. But they do still need it. So before you pick a model you like, consider the amount of space you can spare for it first.
That way, you can easily narrow down your choices by comparing the dimensions of the product and your shelf space.
Note that speakers placed way too close against surfaces or walls can overall affect the sound quality. They can get muddy or undefined. And that’s the last thing we want. It’s best to place your bookshelf speakers a little further away from actual surfaces to get the best listening experience.
Sound Quality
In general, when you’re buying a bookshelf speaker or any sound system for that matter, the most important thing to look for above all else is the sound quality. When investing in such devices, you need to make sure the one you have chosen performs well even under demanding tracks and instrumentals with little to no distortion.
The best sounding loudspeakers will provide you with great clarity and refined sound quality throughout your listening sessions. In terms of bass, some speakers excel in this aspect while some might sound a little more shallow.
Thankfully, a lot of companies in the industry offer great options. The best ones will come at a cost, but it’s up to you which one will fit you the most.
Passive Vs. Active Speakers
When choosing your desired bookshelf speakers, it’s important to note that there are two types in the market: passive and active.
In summary, an active speaker is a sound system that has its own amplifier built into the cabinet. Meanwhile, a passive speaker needs to be connected to an external amplifier via speaker wire.
Test It Before You Buy It
I honestly cannot stress this enough. When it comes to buying speakers, I really highly suggest going to your local store to test run your bookshelf speakers first. No amount of online reviews and tests will really compare to an actual and physical test run.
In order for you to know if the sound system will be right for you and your house, I recommend taking that short trip to a physical store.
Conclusion
Overall, I think bookshelf speakers are great in what they do.
They’re so compact and light enough to be placed on a higher or raised surface so you won’t have to allot floor space for these sound systems. In addition, they’re perfect for smaller to medium-sized rooms and can really elevate your surroundings. They’re pretty useful for more intimate gatherings or situations too!
With the right tabletop loudspeaker set, you can really make a room come alive without spending too much money.
Already own a bookshelf speaker? Did your favorite make it in our list? Let me know about your experiences and insights regarding this article in the comments section below! I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Recommended reading for you:
Best Bluetooth Speakers For The Shower 2021: Sing Along And Make Your Showers More Fun
The 10 Best Bluetooth Speakers For Camping This 2021: Which One Is The Best For You?
The KEF LS50 Wireless II Review: Your Best All-In-One Loudspeakers
The Q Acoustics 3020i Review: The Best Affordable Bookshelf Speakers
Buyer’s Guide To Getting The Best Sounding Bookshelf Speakers 2021
