In the last few years, vinyl has made a strong comeback in the world of music. The unique experience aligned with the analog warmth and crispy audio quality makes this technology timeless. That’s why in this article, we will review the best speakers for vinyl in 2024.
Having a high-quality turntable to play your vinyl records isn’t enough: to achieve the best listening experience possible, you need a pair of good-quality speakers that are compatible with this type of record player.
Luckily, there are tons of options on the market nowadays for everyone, no matter if you prefer a vintage set or a modern one with additional functionalities such as Bluetooth connectivity.
We picked 10 of the best speakers for vinyl in our review to help you find the best option for you. In addition, we will also go through everything you need to know when buying this product so keep reading to learn more.
Tip: Many vinyl players use coaxial cables so it is a great idea to check our Coaxial Speaker Cable – The Beginner’s Guide article as well.
Top 10 Vinyl Speakers – Reviewed in Detail
1. Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers – 2.0 Stereo
A great option from a renowned brand, the Edifier R1280T is a pair of speakers for vinyl with multiple functionalities.
Product Specifications
- Bookshelf Speakers
- 2 X AUX Input
- RCA Input
- Headphone Output
- Bluetooth Connection
- Remote Control Included
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 42 Watts
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
Pros- This speaker has lots of functionalities apart from the traditional AUX input, such as Bluetooth, so you can use it either with your vinyl player or your smartphone.
- The build quality is impressive and the design looks very good.
- Comes with remote control.
- Great value for the price if you consider the power of this device.
- Removable front plate, providing you with more design options.
Cons
Cons- None.
Conclusion
This is an excellent option. Priced nearly at $200 by the time this article was written, it is one of the most complete bookshelf speakers at an affordable price value you can find in the market.
Apart from using it with your vinyl player, you can also use the Bluetooth function to connect different devices to it, such as your smartphone, so the price value is unbeatable. Definitely a great choice.
2. JBL Professional Studio Monitor, Black, 5-inch (305PMKII)
These professional studio monitors from JBL are meant to be used in music studios, so they offer superb sound quality at an affordable price.
Product Specifications
- Monitor Speakers
- Size: 5-Inch
- Balanced XLR Input
- 1/4″ TRS Input
- Built-In +4dBU / -10dBV Input Sensitivity Switch
- Built-In Boundary EQ
- Built-In 3-Position High Pass Filter
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- Since these audio monitors are made for the studio, they offer superb audio quality.
- There is a built-in boundary EQ that maintains a neutral low-frequency response when speakers are placed on surfaces and near walls.
- Built-in 3-position high pass filter and +4dBU / -10dBV input sensitivity switch for more options to tailor your listening experience.
- Sleek, neutral design that will match most ambients.
- Includes rubber pads.
Cons
- Certain vinyl players may need an adapter to connect to these audio monitors.
Conclusion
These audio monitors are great for music producers who are looking after a unit that allows them to both work on their music and listen to their favorite vinyl records. Considering these JBLs are made for the studio, it doesn’t get much better than this when it comes to audio quality.
However, for casual listeners, we wouldn’t recommend it. In this case, a bookshelf with more functionalities such as Bluetooth connectivity would be better.
3. Audioengine A5+ Plus Wireless Speaker
Audioengine is known for its high-end quality products, and with the A5+ Plus Wireless Speaker, it is no different.
Product Specifications
- Bookshelf Speakers
- AUX Input
- RCA Input
- RCA Output
- Optical Input
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 100 Watts
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- Offers 3 options of wired inputs, as well as Bluetooth connectivity, so most vinyl players are compatible with these bookshelf speakers.
- High-end components such as the Analog class A/B power amplifiers with dual analog audio inputs for connecting multiple devices at once.
- Can be combined with a subwoofer for better bass response.
- Includes several extras including an RCA cable to connect to your vinyl player.
Cons
- Expensive.
Conclusion
The Audioengine A5+ Plus Wireless Speaker is a great option for those who don’t mind spending a little more to have the best sound quality possible. Built with high-quality materials, these bookshelf speakers exceed many expectations.
The only problem is that this pair is quite expensive: $569 by the time this article was written. For those looking for a more affordable option, there are similar products with just as many functionalities, such as the Edifier R1280T.
4. KEF LS50 Meta
One of the best consumer-grade speakers money can buy, the KEF LS50 Meta is designed for those looking for optimal sound quality.
Product Specifications
- Bookshelf Speakers
- Metamaterial Absorption Technology
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 100 Watts
- Available in 4 Different Colors
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- Excellent performance in the mids and highs. Can also be paired with a subwoofer for better bass response.
- This version of the speakers features the KEF’S 12th Generation Uni-Q Driver, proving a 40% increase in smoothness over the previous version.
- Slick and modern design.
- Best option for those looking to also use the speakers as a home teather.
Cons
- Needs an external amplifier to work properly.
- Needs to be paired with a subwoofer for the best bass response.
Conclusion
While the KEF LS50 Meta is an excellent choice, it is definitely not for everyone. These speakers will work best for those looking to build a hybrid setup: a home theater connected to a vinyl player.
Apart from your vinyl player, you will need to connect these to an external amplifier for it to work properly. The KEF LS50 Meta will also need to be paired with a subwoofer for you to get the best bass performance out of it.
5. ELAC – Debut 2.0 B6.2
The ELAC – Debut 2.0 B6.2 features a solid and classic design and is a great option for those looking for a vintage-looking vinyl to pair with their turntable.
Product Specifications
- Bookshelf Speakers
- Analog Inputs
- 2-Way Bass Reflex Enclosure
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 120 Watts
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- The design of these bookshelf speakers looks exceptionally good and has a vintage taste.
- Improved bass response thanks to the 2-way bass reflex enclosure.
- The front grill can be removed.
- Great response in the mids and highs.
Cons
- May require an external amplifier to function properly.
- Doesn’t feature as many functionalities as other options on the list.
Conclusion
An excellent choice of speakers for those looking for a vintage option to add to their setup. This pair has a great design with walnut details and will perform very well in most cases, especially if you like bass-heavy music genres, thanks to the 2-way bass reflex enclosure.
However, it may require an external amplifier to function properly and doesn’t feature as many functionalities as other options on the list, such as AUX input and Bluetooth.
6. SINGING WOOD BT25 Bluetooth Powered Bookshelf Speakers
With a low price of $78.88 by the time this article was written and a great design, this pair of speakers from SINGING WOOD has various interesting functionalities.
Product Specifications
- Bookshelf Speakers
- 2 RCA Inputs
- Analog Inputs
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Includes Remote Controller
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 50 Watts
- Available in 3 Colors
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- These bookshelf speakers allow you to connect multiple devices to it at a time thanks to its 2 RCA inputs, analog input, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Made with high-quality MDF wood ensuring a great design and extended durability.
- Built-in microphone for making phone calls when your smartphone is connected.
- 24 months warranty.
Cons
- None.
Conclusion
Affordable and great looking, the SINGING WOOD BT25 is one of the best options on the list when it comes to value for the price. Simply because it allows you to connect a wide range of devices to it apart from your vinyl player, such as a home theater or a smartphone.
Priced at only $78.88 by the time this article was written, it is the most affordable option for bookshelf speakers on the list, so we recommend it to everyone who wouldn’t like to spend that much on the product.
7. Klipsch R-41M Powerful Detailed Bookshelf Home Speaker
Upon first glance, the Klipsch R-41M looks exceptionally good. Pairing the exceptional design with superb quality components.
Product Specifications
- Bookshelf Speakers
- 1″ Aluminum LTS Tweeter
- Analog Input
- Impedance: 8 Ohms
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 200 Watts
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- One of the best designs on the list. The beautiful bronze color paired with the slick black wood casing looks exceptionally great.
- Will also work with a home theater system.
- Excellent bass response.
- Exceptionally good at reproducing mid and high frequencies thanks to the quality of the speakers present in these bookshelf speakers.
Cons
- May need an external amplifier to work properly.
- Fewer functionalities than other options on the list.
Conclusion
In our opinion, one of the best features of the Klipsch R-41M is its design. It looks like nothing else on the list: the black and bronze combination looks really good. Sound-quality-wise, these bookshelf speakers feature superb components.
As with most simple bookshelf speakers, the drawback is that they may need to be paired to an external amplifier and it doesn’t feature as many functionalities as other options on the list.
8. Triangle Borea BR03 Hi-Fi Bookshelf Speakers Pair for Home Theater Systems and Music
The Triangle Borea BR03 has a design that can be called futuristic. With 100W of power and a high-efficiency pair of a woofer and a tweeter, these will give you superb performance.
Product Specifications
- Bookshelf Speakers
- Analog Input
- Bass Reflex Enclosure
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 100 Watts
- Available in 7 Colors
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- Excellent design. Also available in 7 colors with different configurations.
- Superb quality drivers. The Borea BR03 is equipped with a 25mm tweeter and a 16cm midrange/bass driver.
- Very lightweight and easy to be carried around.
- Removable front plate.
Cons
- May require an external amplifier to function properly.
- Not as many functionalities as other options on the list.
Conclusion
This particular bookshelf speaker has an excellent design and is available in 7 colors with different configurations for you to choose from. Sound-quality-wise, it leaves nothing to be desired, with superb quality components such as the 25mm tweeter and the 16cm midrange/bass driver.
Functionality-wise, it is very minimalist: it only features an analog input. No extra features such as Bluetooth.
9. Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation Wireless Speaker
This particular speaker differs from most other options on the list. It is a product that favors portability, so it is a great option for those on the go.
Product Specifications
- Tower Speaker
- AUX Input
- Optical Input
- USB Port
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Dedicated App
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- Portable and lightweight.
- This tower speaker offers several features and functionalities such as a USB port and Bluetooth Connectivity. You can even use the dedicated app to customize your listening experience.
- Excellent bass response thanks to the bass radiator acoustic system.
- Sync up to five Naim Streaming products and control via the Naim App.
Cons
- You might need an adapter to connect your vinyl player to this tower speaker.
Conclusion
With several features and functionalities, the Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation Wireless Speaker is an all-in-one solution. The unit is extremely compact and lightweight, so you can take it with you anywhere you go.
However, you might need an adapter for your vinyl player to be connected to it. An adapter from RCA/Analog output to AUX input shouldn’t cost much though.
Also Read: Naim Uniti Atom All-In-One Audio System.
10. Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 Dual 5″ 2.5-Way Tower Floor Standing Speaker
Differing from most other options on the speakers, the Wharfedale Diamond are tower speakers, excellent for those looking to create a hybrid vinyl and home theater setup.
Product Specifications
- Floor Standing Speakers
- Analog Input
- Precision-Made Magnet System
- Speaker Nominal Output Power: 150 Watts
Advantages & Disadvantages
Pros
- These floor-standing speakers are excellent if you are looking to create a vinyl setup that can also be dubbed as a home theater system.
- Super high-quality components ensure powerful lows and crispy highs.
- Can be paired with a subwoofer for better bass response.
- Great design that will look good on most interiors.
Cons
- Expensive.
- May need an external amplifier to work properly.
Conclusion
A great floor standing option, the Wharfedale Diamond has a 3-way design that gives it optimal sound quality, especially when paired with an external amplifier and subwoofer for better response in the low frequencies.
With that being said, it isn’t the most affordable pair on the list: costing $998, by the time this article was written, we felt like the price was justified by the quality of the sound and components, but there are less expensive options that are just as good.
Buying Guide for Vinyl Speakers – What to Look For?
If you’re wondering what is the best model of speakers for vinyl for your particular case, there are several factors you should take into account, such as:
- Design
- Price
- Connectivity
- Portability
Below, we will explain in detail what each of these factors means and what you should consider.
Design
Often overlooked in favor of the performance (which is just as important), vinyl speakers differ greatly from each other regarding their design. Since you’re certainly looking for something that sounds and looks good, you have to consider the design.
While some speaker models don’t offer any extra color options, there are models that offer several. The unit’s material is another important factor: you want a pair of speakers made out of a durable material: wood or heavy-grade plastic in most cases.
Price
As we’ve seen in our list, there are speakers with several different price tags available on the market. Vinyl speakers can range from as low as $50 up to several thousand dollars. Doesn’t mean that the more expensive option is always better, though.
Some ultra-expensive options are made for audiophiles and music professionals. If you’re an average listener, looking for a consumer-grade option that balances functionality and quality is often much better.
Take the SINGING WOOD BT25 for example. It offers a wide range of functionalities, sounds good, and only costs $78.88. Contrary to some high-end models with fewer functionalities that cost almost $1000.
Connectivity and Extra Functionalities
For the sake of versatility and convenience, many consumers would also like their vinyl speakers to work as Bluetooth and home theater units as well. There are several options on the market that allows you to do just that.
Take for example the Edifier R1280T: it can be used not only with vinyl players but also with different types of connections. It is useful if you want to connect your smartphone or personal voice assistant such as Alexa to it.
If you’re looking to build an all-vintage setup, a simpler and minimalist setup may work best.
Portability
While most vinyl listeners keep their setup in a fixed position, it is good to choose a lightweight and portable pair of speakers if you’re constantly on the move or want to listen to your vinyl records in different rooms at your house.
Options such as the Edifier R1280T and the SINGING WOOD BT25 offer the best balance between quality and portability.
You could also, alternatively, hook up your vinyl player to a portable speaker such as a JBL Go provide you have the right adapters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use any Speakers for Vinyl?
It will largely depend on the model of your vinyl player and the particular speaker you have an eye on. Most turntables use an RCA cable to make the connection between the unit and the speakers.
If your speakers don’t have an RCA input, that’s no problem, since you can always buy an adapter or an RCA to 3.5mm cable to hook your turntable to the AUX input of the unit.
Do Active Speakers Need a Preamp?
Passive speakers will need an external amplifier while active speakers won’t. Whether you need one will also highly depend on your turntable: smaller models usually don’t have a built-in amp while larger ones do.
What Kind of Amplifier do I Need for a Turntable?
If you find out that you need an external amp for your particular setup, then most phono amplifiers and A/V receivers will do in providing your speakers with the needed amount of power.
Does Vinyl Sound Good on Bluetooth Speakers?
If you use a high-quality adapter to convert your RCA output to Bluetooth, then the result will be excellent regardless of your vinyl player model or speaker unit.
Also Read: 20 Best Mini Bluetooth Speakers
Conclusion
As you can see, there are several options for the best speakers for vinyl in the market. We decided to include several units with different features and functionalities so as to help you find the best particular model for your use case.
We also divided our top picks into 4 categories: best overall, most affordable, best bookshelf, and best vintage speakers for vinyl. Keep reading to learn why we chose each particular model.
Audioengine A5+ Plus Wireless Speaker – Best Overall Speakers for Vinyl
While these speakers are expensive, the high price is justified by its build-quality, durable design, superb components, and the number of different features and functionalities. With so many pros, you can’t go wrong with the Audioengine A5+ Plus Wireless Speaker.
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers – 2.0 Stereo – Most Affordable Speakers for Vinyl
Edifier is a well-renowned brand so you can be sure you’re buying a quality product. Thanks to the great design and price of this unit: $119.99, by the time this article was written, we chose it as our top pick for most affordable speakers for vinyl.
Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 Dual 5″ 2.5-Way Tower Floor Standing Speaker – Best Floor Standing Speakers for Vinyl
If you’re looking for a set of floor-standing speakers that can be used both with your vinyl player and as a home theater, then this is one of the best options. While not as affordable as other models on the list, the price is justified by the high-end built quality and design.
ELAC – Debut 2.0 B6.2 – Best Vintage Speakers for Vinyl
If what you’re after is a minimalist pair of speakers with a vintage feel, the ELAC – Debut 2.0 B6.2 is a great option. While it doesn’t offer as many functionalities as some other options on the list, it will perform great with any vinyl player.
How to Buy
You can find the link to each product at their respective titles on the list. We hope this article was helpful in helping you find the best speakers for vinyl in 2024.
