In today’s technologically advanced world, audio has seen significant advancements, making buying speakers more intricate. Whether you’re an audiophile looking to enhance your home audio experience or someone seeking to upgrade your car audio, the vast array of options available can be overwhelming.
The choices are endless, from the compact bookshelf speaker to the towering floorstanding speaker. This comprehensive speaker buying guide is designed to navigate you through the intricate world of audio, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
Imagine sitting in your living room, feeling the sound waves from a pair of speaker units perfectly reproducing your favorite song’s bass frequencies. Or perhaps you’re setting up a home theater and on the hunt for the ideal center channel speakers to complement your TV deals.
Maybe you’re an avid gamer or a work-from-home professional, and computer speakers with clear audio signals are what you need. Or you could be an adventurer for whom portable audio, especially portable Bluetooth speakers, are essential. Whatever your audio needs, understanding the nuances of different types of speakers is crucial.
The world of speakers isn’t limited to just home audio. Many are passionate about car audio, ensuring their drives are accompanied by crystal clear sound. The advancements in car audio are noteworthy, from car stereos to car speaker units equipped with GPS navigation and voice control.
And for those who love the open seas, marine audio, including marine radio and marine speaker systems, ensures that your maritime adventures are musically enriched.
But what about those who need audio solutions for larger spaces or events? PA system’s live sound equipment, including PA speakers and microphone bundles, cater to commercial audio needs, ensuring sound reaches every vast space corner.
Studio monitors and pro audio equipment are indispensable for musicians and recording artists. In the age of smart homes, smart speakers with wireless connectivity and voice control have become household staples, integrating multiroom audio and wireless home systems seamlessly.
However, diving deeper into the technicalities, understanding terms like frequency response, speaker impedance, and sensitivity ratings becomes essential. For instance, the difference between powered and passive speaker units, or the choice between a 3-way speaker and channel speakers, can significantly impact the audio output.
Furthermore, the crossover network in a speaker determines how audio signals are split and directed to various speaker drivers. For those keen on ensuring their speaker’s sound is amplified perfectly, pairing them with a powerful amplifier based on power handling specifications is crucial.
Beyond the primary speaker units, audio accessories, including speaker accessories and audio cables, are pivotal in enhancing the overall sound experience. And in today’s digital age, where everything from fitness trackers to air purifiers is interconnected, integrating your audio system with other smart devices can elevate your living experience.
Whether you’re checking out speakers for your computer audio needs, setting up a home stereo, or exploring marine audio for your boat, this speaker-buying guide aims to provide clarity, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.
You have a lot of choices when it comes to speakers. If you’re not sure which is best for your needs, here are 10 things you should consider before making your purchase.
Table of Contents
10 Things to Take Into Account Before Buying A Speaker
#1) How powerful does the speaker need to be?
The size and power of the speaker will depend on what type of sound system you want (e.g., home theater or stereo). The more power, the louder it will be; however, this also means that the bigger speakers may require more electricity to operate at full capacity.
You can find smaller amplifiers with lower wattage ratings if you only need low-volume sound output. It’s important to take into consideration how large an area you’ll be filling with sound as well — large speakers are required for bigger rooms, while smaller speakers are great for small spaces.
- Includes four satellite speakers outfitted with Dolby Atmos technology, this system delivers height effects from the front AND back for a world-class experience
- Provides an incredibly immersive and realistic 360° audio experience, no matter the content
- Exclusive Tractrix 90° X 90° horn technology and aluminum tweeters deliver impressive high-end response and greater extension
- The built-in all-digital subwoofer amplifier delivers ample power with high efficiency and true-to-source accuracy
- Use as front speakers or surround speakers
- Accurate, non-fatiguing sound provides hours of listening pleasure
- Dynamic .75" tweeter, 5.25" high-output woofer
- Dimensions: 12.5" H x 7" W x 8" D
- Contemporary finish to integrate with any decor with ease
#2) What is the speaker’s wattage rating?
Wattage can affect your speaker system’s sound quality. Generally speaking, more watts suggest a better-sounding product, but this isn’t always the case — factors like impedance and distortion levels can have just as much of an impact on sound quality.
Although higher wattages generally indicate higher quality sound, it doesn’t mean that lower wattage speakers aren’t just as good; low watt ratings may mean longer periods of listening time before the amp needs to be recharged or replaced by a new one. It also means less wear and tear on your batteries or electrical socket over time. For example, a 100-watt speaker will take less power from your charged amplifier than a 50-watt model.
Must read: Best Speaker Brands
#3) What type of speaker is right for you?
f you’ll be using your speakers in any harsh outdoor conditions, Metal Speaker’s would be the best choice because metal speakers are great for vibration and weather resistance. For indoor use, there is no difference between metal and plastic speakers. It all depends on how much volume you need and how loud you want them to play.
- 【Long play Time】: Up to 5 hour/ 60-song playtime and LENRUE's industry-leading power MANAGEMENT technology.
- 【Various output mode】: The Bluetooth speaker supports Bluetooth Connection, 3.5mm aux cable connection .You can enjoy music for multiple connection ways. Experience your music in full-bodied stereo realized through high-performance drivers.
- 【Compact Metal Speaker】: This portable speaker is made of Aluminum Alloy, absolutily not same to the other plastic speakers on the market. small size and lightweight, 2.7*2.7*1.8 inch, 200G; 33 ft Wireless range support. You can enjoy music with this small wireless Bluetooth speaker outdoor and indoor.
- 【Bluetooth 5.0 technology】: Compatible with all Bluetooth-enabled devices. Instantly connect to your smartphone or tablet from up to 33 feet away. Sound core reconnects automatically to the last device used. Built-in mic for hands-free calls.
- 【What we offer】: LENRUE A2 Bluetooth speakers, cables, user manual, thanks card*1, 1-year warranty Quality Guarantee, 24H friendly customer service and email support.NOTE: Please don't use fast charger to charge the speaker.
- Notes: This magnetic sticker speaker only when stick on Metal Surface can get good sound.🍏【Special Sound Quality】Muzen Sticker Speaker produces different sound quality by combining with contact surface. Usually, the metal surface will produce better sound effect, so it is widely sticked on surface of fridge, coffee machines and metal cabinets.
- 🍋【Vintage Modern Design】The style of old-fashioned radios, the beeping sound of Morse code, the fashion luminous dial, the fridge stickers called "memory magnets" by collectors. The perfect combination of retro and fashion, these are high-value aesthetic elements to decorate your life.
- 🍈【Quick Bluetooth Match】5.0 Bluetooth can compatible with most bluetooth devices. same Bluetooth and product name ) is very easy and quick. Easily connect to tablet, computer or any other bluetooth enabled device in seconds.
- 🥦【Battery Powered & Fast Charging】Quick charging via USB Type-C, super long battery life over 5 hours. Let you fully heart enjoy the music flowing from Muzen Sticker.
- 🍐【Portable & Easy Use 】 It's mini size can be carried at anytime and anyplace. Then you enjoy the music simply by operate one button/dial can complete all functions(Turn on/off, Match/Connect,Volume +/- , Reset,etc). Everyone can learn to use it in seconds.
#4) How long must the battery last?
The lifespan of an average battery or rechargeable battery can vary anywhere from 20 hours to 100 hours. The lifespan of the battery will depend on the volume level and type of playback you’ll be using.
If you need your speakers to last all day at a music festival, for example, plan on buying extra batteries so they can easily be replaced when needed.
#5) Should you get wireless or wired speakers?
A lot of people choose wireless speakers because there is no risk of them being unplugged by accident or tripping over wires during use.
Wireless speakers enjoy more benefits than just limited physical entanglements — convenience features like Bluetooth connectivity and remote controls can help with playing and pausing songs without having to stop what you’re doing to hunt down the right controls. Wireless speakers are also great if you plan on using the device in several different locations since they don’t require an outlet for charging or the use of extension cords.
But wireless speakers aren’t perfect; low battery life is one of their biggest drawbacks. Some models can barely last eight hours before they need to be charged again (wired speakers, on the other hand, can run for days without needing juice). Bluetooth connectivity is another potential downside; although no sound is lost in transmission during playback, some music files may not work with certain types of Bluetooth connections.
- 5.1 Channel Surround Stereo Sound: Bobtot surround sound system has two modes of 5.1/2.1 channel, switch via remote control or front panel. Pro surround function provides you with more advanced enjoyment. Via the Remote you can also independently control the volume of each speaker and the subwoofer.
- 5.0 Bluetooth Connection & 2 Wireless Rear Satellite Speakers: The 2 front speakers with built-in cable to connect with the subwoofer, 2 wireless rear satellite speakers are long enough can be placed anywhere. The wireless rear speakers usually are connected automatically when the home stereo system is turned on. Cable Length: Front Speakers L/R: 13Ft, Center Speaker: 13Ft. Bluetooth 5.0 technology supports you to directly connect with Bluetooth devices.
- 800W Peak Power: Home theater system speakers can reach up to 800 watts of power, 6.5 inch Subwoofer with a built-in receiver, high volume but with professional sound quality and excellent bass sound, deliver the cleanest, most natural sound possible. Bring you and your family with full cinema experience at home.
- Multimedia Supported: 5.0 Bluetooth speakers can connect to various smart devices, and support multiple input modes like TV ARC/OPT/COA/AUX/USB/DVD, Additional cables include HDMI ARC cable/Optical cable/Coaxial cable/RCA cable/Antenna cable/Aux cable that can support any application in need.
- Home Surround Sound Speakers: Bobtot surround sound speakers use Top quality MDF wood cabinets with plastic front panels, and have LED lighting effects and digital display functions. It also have a built-In FM Receiver with Amazing Reception. USB input. 2 ¼” MIC Inputs with Echo function for karaoke.
- 5.1 digital surround sound: Hear every detail in your Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks the way the studio intended. Sub woofer: 165 Watts.Waterproof : No
- THX certified home theater speakers: Your assurance of true cinema quality sound. Satellites : 4 x 67 W, wall mountable
- Delivers a continuous 500 watts of power, with the ability to deliver a peak of 1,000 watts under certain circumstances: Provides rich audio and thunderous bass that let you truly hear and feel every detail
- Flexible setup: Connect upto six devices : Computer, music player, TV, game console and more; Infared remote
- Easy sound control: Compact control console and wireless remote let you instantly personalize your surround sound experience, Digital optical input: 2 (up to 1080p)
Network compatibility issues between older phones and newer speakers might also arise. Wired speakers don’t have any of these problems because there’s no chance they’ll run out of power unexpectedly or lose their connection to the source device. And if you don’t want anyone tripping over cords, wired speakers are your only choice.
#6) What is the speaker’s sound quality like?
There’s no way to be sure how good a speaker sounds until you try it — just because one company makes great speakers doesn’t mean that every product they make will live up to those same high standards. Every speaker system is different, and its sound quality will vary depending on what kind of hardware and software was used in its construction as well as the wattage and frequency ratings.
The best method for narrowing down your selection is by reading reviews from other customers who have already bought and tested these products so you’ll know exactly what kinds of features to look out for before you buy.
Must Read: Yamaha YHT-5960U
#7) Are the speakers multi-functional?
Every speaker system is multi-functional in some way, but some brands have more features than others. For example, a great feature to look for in a Bluetooth speaker is a built-in microphone so it can be used to make and receive phone calls free of charge without having to touch your phone while driving or at other busy times.
Many wireless speakers also have volume control buttons on the main unit rather than from inside your device’s menu, which allows you to change the volume levels even when the software volume limits won’t let you turn it any higher or lower.
#8) What style do they come in?
Speakers don’t just come in different styles — they also come in many different colors. You’ll also be able to choose between having speakers that are portable, stationary, or easily mountable on a wall or ceiling if you need them out of the way for whatever reason.
#9) Is the speaker durable enough?
If you’re looking for durability, you’re going to have to expect some compromises when it comes to portability. Portable speakers are smaller and lighter than their larger counterparts, but can’t produce as loud or bassy sounds if they aren’t made from durable materials like metal or plastic.
A good rule of thumb is that the more features your speaker have (like Bluetooth connectivity), the less likely it’s going to hold up through heavy use over time.
#10) How easy is the speaker to set up and use?
Just because a product looks great on paper doesn’t mean it’s going to be as simple as just plugging it in and playing your music. Look for some of the most common uses before you buy any speaker system, such as making sure that wireless speakers can connect to all Bluetooth-enabled devices and that wired speakers automatically switch between multiple sources without having to unplug and plug them back again every time you start using a different device.
- Built with high quality gold plated copper connectors that resist oxidation and corrosion (Gang box/Mounting bracket not included)
- Easy to install and remove with no soldering or special tools required. Mounts to standard size gang boxes.
- Eliminate the clutter of wiring along your baseboards which results in a clean and tidy installation. Matching binding posts on front and back with color coded thumbscrews.
- 2 RCA jacks. Allows connection of up to 7 speakers, 2 subwoofers. Dedicated labeling on the front plate. Use with banana plugs, spades or bare wire.
- Accommodates banana plugs on both front and back sides of the plate at the same time depending on depth of gang box.
- [COMPATIBLE WITH 4K@60Hz] Fosmon 3-Gang 7.1 Surround Sound Distribution Wall Plate is compatible with 4K@60Hz for your high resolution needs.
- [GOLD-PLATED HIGH-SPEED CONNECTORS] This wall plate has gold plated connection for improved quality and performance.
- [CLEAN CONNECTION POINT FOR YOUR A/V EQUIPMENT] Wire your house cleanly and efficiently for audio/video with this HDMI wall plate from Fosmon. Remove cable clutter by hiding cables in your walls.
- [ALL-IN-ONE FOR YOUR SURROUND SOUND] This wall plate provides all your needs to set up a surround sound system.
- [NOTE] Banana jacks do not work with Paired/Dual banana plugs. Only works with single/individual banana plugs.
Speaker systems with advanced features like multi-room connectivity may require specific software or hardware setups first so look out for those red flags and make sure you read each manual carefully before unpacking your new purchase.
Also read: Hiding Speaker Wires
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying speakers for home speakers’ needs, car audio, or commercial purposes is filled with technicalities and choices.
However, this journey can be rewarding with the right knowledge and understanding of what each type of speaker offers.
From the deep low frequencies produced by a floor-standing unit to the crisp sound from bookshelf speakers, every speaker has a unique charm. It’s essential to align your audio needs with the specifications and features of the speaker.
Whether you’re a professional looking for studio-grade monitor speakers or someone simply wanting to enhance your home audio, always remember that the essence of sound lies in its purity and clarity. Let this speaker-buying guide be your compass in the vast ocean of sound, guiding you to the perfect audio destination.
FAQs about Speaker Buying Guide
What are speaker drivers, and why are they important?
Speaker drivers are the components in a speaker that convert electrical signals into sound waves. They are crucial in determining the speaker’s sound and overall audio quality.
I’m new to audio equipment. Is there a comprehensive speakers buying guide I can refer to?
Absolutely! Our detailed speaker’s buying guide provides insights into various types of speakers, their features, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
What does speaker impedance mean, and how does it affect my audio setup?
Speaker impedance refers to a speaker’s resistance to the current flowing from an amplifier. Matching the speaker impedance with your power amp to ensure optimal performance and prevent damage is essential.
Should I opt for floor-standing or in-wall speakers for my living room?
Floor-standing speakers, or tower speakers, are standalone units offering powerful sound output. In contrast, in-wall speakers are built into the walls for a seamless look. Your choice depends on room aesthetics, space availability, and audio preferences.
How do wireless systems differ from traditional speaker setups?
Wireless systems eliminate the need for physical cables, offering a cleaner setup. They connect to audio sources via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, making them convenient for multi-room audio setups.
Can I integrate CD players with modern speaker systems?
Yes, most modern stereo speakers come with inputs that allow you to connect a CD player. Ensure the powered speakers or power amp you choose has the necessary ports for such integrations.
What’s the difference between standing speakers and inceiling speakers?
Standing speakers, whether floor-standing or tower speaker models, are designed to stand on the floor and often serve as the primary audio source. In-ceiling speakers are mounted into the ceiling, offering a space-saving solution, and are often used for surround sound or ambient audio.
How do I decide the type of speaker suitable for my room?
The ideal type of speaker depends on your room size, audio needs, and aesthetic preferences. Our speaker buying guide offers insights into various speaker types, helping you make an informed choice.
Is it powered vs. passive speakers? Which one should I choose?
Powered speakers have a built-in amplifier, eliminating the need for an external power amp. Passive speakers, on the other hand, require an external amplifier to function. Your choice depends on your setup preferences and available space.
Are home stereos compatible with various speaker types?
Most home stereos are versatile and can be paired with various speakers, from floor-standing to in-wall speakers. Ensure you check the compatibility and impedance matching before setting up.
