Best Powered Speakers for Turntables

Product Strengths

• Excellent sound signature with crisp, detailed highs, and round, rich bass depth
• Handsome design with removable grilles
• Versatile nature, able to be used as a hifi system, desktop speakers, or a soundbar alternative
• Capable of hi-res music playback
• Lots of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI, optical, and an input for turntables

Product Considerations

• Expensive compared to newer options with similar features
• Uneven tonality
• No app or EQ support initially, limiting sound customization
• Dynamic Bass EQ might need to be turned off for music listening, and the bass can be overpowering at times
• Limited upgrade path since it's a complete system

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• The Fives provide better stereo separation, real bass depth, crisp highs, and ease of use compared to soundbars, also offering a much wider soundstage
• The Sonos Arc has a feature-packed app, however, The Fives sound better for music and offer turntable connectivity
• The Klipsch is more powerful and offers a sleeker and more slender look compared to the Q Acoustics M20 HD powered system
• The Rega Io and Triangle Borea BR03 are slightly better, particularly with vinyl playback, but the Klipsch has digital decoding

Takeaway: The Fives is a versatile and great-sounding powered speaker system that offers a stylish design and a wide range of connectivity options for various audio sources. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a simple, all-in-one audio solution with an emphasis on both music and TV audio quality.

Product Strengths

• Signature Klipsch sound, described as 'classic Klipsch concert-like sound' with a 'warm, rich' tone and detailed high end
• Powerful bass performance that in many cases negates the need for a separate subwoofer
• Retro-modern aesthetic with real wood veneers and metal control dials
• Clear and commanding presence across a multidimensional soundstage
• Versatile connectivity including HDMI-ARC, USB, optical, analog inputs (including phono), and Bluetooth

Product Considerations

• Dialogue clarity in movies could be improved
• The Klipsch Connect app can be clumsy and sluggish
• Limited tonal controls on the remote itself
• The soundstage may lack depth in some setups
• Some reviewers found the treble to be too high, requiring adjustment via the app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Q Acoustics Q Active 200: The Q Active 200 has a wider, deeper soundstage with better imaging, while The Nines has a fuller, more embodied sound with bigger, more powerful bass and less dynamic compression at higher volumes

Takeaway: The Nines is a versatile and powerful speaker system that combines Klipsch's signature sound with a range of modern connectivity options, making it a great option for both music and home theater. Its strong bass performance and classic design further enhance its appeal.

Product Strengths

• Delivers warm, powerful, and detailed sound with potent dynamics, especially for film and TV
• Features a gorgeous, retro-modern design with solid build quality and premium materials
• Provides excellent imaging and a broad, immersive soundstage
• Offers versatility as both TV speakers and a hifi system replacement—suited for both music and movies
• Offers lots of connection options, including HDMI ARC, optical input, USB, and a built-in phono preamp

Product Considerations

• Lacks built-in Wi-Fi or Ethernet streaming, relying on Bluetooth for wireless connectivity
• The indicator lights for source and volume are located on top of the primary speaker and are hard to see when seated
• The horn-loaded tweeters can sometimes skew towards sharpness, especially with stringed and choral recordings
• Remote response can be slow
• The Klipsch Connect app can be a bit frustrating to use

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs KEF LSX II and SVS Prime Wireless Pro: The Sevens offer more cinematic spectacle, while KEF and SVS offer more clarity and precision for music
• Vs Klipsch The Fives: The Sevens offer a grander physical scale and potentially a more cinematic experience

Takeaway: The Klipsch 'The Sevens' are a stylish and versatile set of powered speakers that provide rich and detailed sound, making them a great choice for those who want a simple, powerful audio system for both music and movies. They are especially suitable for people who appreciate a retro aesthetic and don't mind the lack of built-in Wi-Fi.

Product Strengths

• Excellent connectivity with USB, Optical, RCA (with phono), and Bluetooth inputs make it versatile for various audio sources
• Impressive sound quality, particularly clear highs and a generally balanced sound profile
• Handsome design looks classy with grilles on or off
• Convenient, as it doesn't require a separate stereo receiver
• Strong value for money due to its feature set and comparatively neutral sound output

Product Considerations

• Lacks sub-bass rumble, a subwoofer is recommended for deeper bass
• Bluetooth pairing can be clunky, as it doesn't automatically re-pair with devices
• The bass might be a bit strong or overdone for some listeners, and it's not adjustable
• Some reviewers found the design to be somewhat plain or boxy
• USB input may have compatibility issues with certain devices

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to soundbars, the Klipsch R-41PM offers superior audio fidelity and front left/right channel separation
• The Klipsch R-41PM exceeds the sub quality of all-in-one box soundbar kits
• Compared to more expensive powered speakers, the Klipsch R-41PM offers a surprisingly balanced sound

Takeaway: The Klipsch R-41PM is a versatile and enjoyable speaker system with plenty of connectivity options and a pleasing sound that will work for many different purposes and tastes. For its price, it offers a compelling combination of performance and features that can easily enhance the listening experience.

Product Strengths

• Seriously clear, full audio with sparkling highs and rich bass
• Features high-performance AMT tweeters and 5.25" aluminum drivers
• Has a sleek, minimalist design, available in both black and white finishes that looks great in nearly any listening environment
• Possesses a remote control for switching between inputs, adjusting volume, muting, and controlling bass and treble, plus a sub output
• Offers extensive connectivity options, including dedicated phono, RCA, Optical TOSLINK inputs, a built-in USB DAC, and a headphone amp

Product Considerations

• Bass is thin compared to the rest of the mix and lacks realistic sub-bass depth
• Sonic balance needs work, and listening can become wearing over time
• Bluetooth is only 4.2, which is not the most up-to-date version
• Volume control can be imprecise, with each tap resulting in a larger-than-desired leap
• One reviewer experienced poor quality control issues (woofer off-center, paint chips) and difficult customer service with warranty claim

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Kanto YU6: TUK provides substantially deeper reaching sub-bass extension—delivering a lot more drive and slam
• Vs Edifier S2000 Pro: TUK provides a jump in terms of bass extension and offers better extension and more sparkle in the top-end
• Vs Bowers & Wilkins 607: There's an argument that they are still better than the TUK, but when it comes down to it, which pair one would rather have is subjective
• Vs SVS Ultra: The bass is tremendous, but it doesn't have the raw energy and grunt that one would find in a pair of speakers like the more expensive SVS Ultra, but it remains a pleasure to listen to nonetheless
• Vs Martin Logan Motion 35XTi: Martin Logan Motion 35XTi boasts effortless sound quality, particularly in the high-end, and offers superior detail and realism

Takeaway: The Kanto TUK speakers are versatile and stylish with great connectivity, making them a solid choice for those wanting excellent sound quality without a complicated setup. The AMT tweeters provide clear audio—making music and movies enjoyable.

Product Strengths

• Versatile, with multiple inputs including phono, line, optical, and Bluetooth, making it compatible with various audio sources
• Good sound quality overall, with refined mids and highs, particularly excelling in vocal reproduction
• Speakers offer a clean and balanced sound, with clarity and speed being favored over warmth
• Attractive design with multiple color options to fit various home decors, including premium finishes like bamboo
• Remote control included provides convenient access to volume, input selection, and sound adjustments

Product Considerations

• USB port is for charging only and does not support audio input from a computer
• Bass response may not be punchy enough for bass enthusiasts without the addition of a subwoofer
• Bluetooth connectivity issues such as connection problems, stutters, and dropouts
• Speakers have exposed drivers without grills, which might be a concern with kids or pets around
• The internal phono stage may lack adequate gain for some cartridges

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs SVS Prime Wireless Speaker System, the YU6 plays louder and is more suited for medium to large rooms, whereas the Prime Wireless is smaller and aimed at digital consumers
• Vs JBL Pro's 3 Series (LSR305), the YU6 has more connectivity options and is more stylish, while the LSR305's are cheaper and more neutral

Takeaway: The Kanto YU6 is a versatile and stylish powered speaker system that offers a variety of connectivity options and good sound quality, making it perfect for enjoying music from different sources in a simple setup. It is an excellent option for those seeking quality sound without the complexity of traditional audio systems.

Product Strengths

• Impressively built and well-finished speaker for the price
• Clean sound due to a very fast and agile bass
• Full midrange sounds provide a very natural presentation
• Offers wireless aptX Bluetooth streaming from smartphones, tablets, and laptops
• Includes phono stage, allowing for direct connection to a turntable

Product Considerations

• Highs are a little rolled off
• Remote control may be an issue if lost or broken
• Bass weight and dynamics are good, but nothing remarkable
• Bass can be overwhelming if placed against the wall, or in the bookshelf
• Lacks absolute transparency and finesse

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Audioengine HD6 Wirelesses: Triangle Elara LN01A are outshone by the Audioengine when it comes to absolute transparency and finesse
• Vs Klipsch The Fives: The Fives sounded bigger and more powerful than the Triangle, but slightly less refined
• Vs Totem Acoustic Kin Play: The Totem reproduced music with a bit more flow and rhythm than did the Triangle, as well as slightly superior microdynamics

Takeaway: The Triangle Elara LN01A is a convenient and versatile speaker system for smaller rooms, offering a natural sound and a range of connectivity options. It is a good choice if a compact system is needed, because it has everything necessary.

Product Strengths

• Wide range of connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0 aptX, Wi-Fi, RCA/Phono input, optical input, and USB input.
• Enthusiastic and capable sound quality suitable for various music genres, with a mature sense of composure.
• Elegant and refined design with unique arrow-extended feet and premium grill, available in multiple color finishes.
• The included Triangle AIO app is well-designed, bug-free, and provides easy streaming from providers like Spotify, Qobuz, Tidal, and Deezer, as well as basic EQ adjustments.
• Includes a built-in moving magnet phono stage for playing records directly.

Product Considerations

• The quality of the built-in phono stage isn't the best compared to streaming or other inputs
• The remote control is plastic and doesn't feel as premium as the speaker itself
• The included speaker cable is basic
• WiFi connectivity can have a delay when turning the speaker off and back on
• The bright LED indicating the source can be distracting for some users, though it can be dimmed or turned off

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to the KEF LSX II, the AIO Twin is at half the price
• Triangle is more balanced, neutral, and composed than the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2, while the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2 is more V-shaped

Takeaway: The AIO is a versatile and good-sounding all-in-one speaker system that combines modern features with a stylish design, making it a great choice for those who want simplicity and convenience. The speaker's ability to handle various input sources, from streaming to vinyl playback, ensures that users can enjoy all of their music with ease.

Product Strengths

• Delivers fantastic, room-filling sound from a small footprint
• Is simple and straightforward to set up using the KEF Connect app
• Imaging and dynamics are excellent, with the sound mostly spread between, above, and behind the speakers, creating a palpable and impressive sense of the music being there in space
• Well-balanced sound with punchy dynamics and excellent instrumental separation
• Offers a wide array of connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, USB-C, and HDMI ARC

Product Considerations

• Bass is good, but those who focus on EDM or hip-hop might want a sub
• Treble can be slightly rough in the upper midrange to treble transition region, more noticeable with lower quality recordings or data rates
• For native 24-bit/192kHz playback, a wired connection is required between the speakers
• KEF Connect app lacks robust full equalizer controls

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Sonos: KEF LSX II offer superior sound quality
• Vs Q Acoustics M20HDs: KEF LSX II has a more sophisticated app and integration of Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect
• Vs Original LSX: KEF LSX II's setup is much easier and more seamless thanks to wireless updates
• Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless: KEF LSX II lacks Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) present in these models

Takeaway: The KEF LSX II is a stylish and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality and is easy to set up and use. Its wide range of connectivity options and excellent imaging make it a great choice for those looking for a compact and convenient audio solution.

Product Strengths

• Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
• Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
• Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth

Product Considerations

• BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
• BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
• Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
• Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
• Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
• Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
• Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
• Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers

Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.

Product Strengths

• Effortlessly detailed and balanced sound
• Excellent stereo imaging and dynamics
• High-quality Bluetooth streaming
• Simple setup and control
• Multiple connection options, including subwoofer output, digital input for TV, and analog inputs

Product Considerations

• No HDMI ARC for seamless control with TV remote
• No dedicated app for adjusting settings
• Bass output may be lacking for some listeners, potentially requiring a subwoofer
• Grilles are non-removable
• Speakers power down after 20 minutes at rest, requiring manual Bluetooth pairing each time

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2, the Q Acoustics M20 sounds fuller, louder and less compressed

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics M20 HD speakers offer detailed, balanced sound and are easy to set up with various devices. They're a versatile audio solution for upgrading sound, whether for music, movies, or gaming.

Product Strengths

• Aesthetically pleasing with a unique and modern look, featuring a light oak finish and gray knit grilles.
• Superb soundstage, maintaining neat and orderly sound even at loud volumes.
• Clear mids and silky smooth treble, resulting in an incredibly well-rounded sound.
• Easy to set up and use, with intuitive design and simple pairing process with the Sound Hub.
• Wireless audio streaming delivers high-quality sound, with minimal latency ensuring no lip-sync issues when watching TV.

Product Considerations

• Slight lack of bass depth that may require a separate subwoofer for a full listening experience.
• Placement can be tricky due to the rear-facing bass port, potentially causing muddiness when placed too close to the wall.
• The remote does not always work properly.
• The Sound Hub, while adding upgradeability, increases the overall cost, which may deter some buyers.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to KEF LSX series, the Oberon 1C speakers already look and feel more impressive.
• Compared to KEF LS50 Wireless MkII, the Oberon 1C is not as suited for heavier music.
• Compared to Dynaudio Xeo 4, the soundstage was not quite as wide or as deep, instruments were more precisely positioned, meaning one could hear more deeply into the arrangement—through the Dalis, everything was a bit more mushed-together.

Takeaway: The Oberon 1 C speakers are a stylish and easy-to-use wireless audio solution that delivers high-quality sound, making them a great addition to any home. Their sleek design and wireless capabilities make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking both aesthetic appeal and excellent audio performance.

Product Strengths

• Stylish design with real walnut veneer, making it look like a furniture piece
• Good sound quality and can fill a medium to large-sized room with sound
• StreamMagic platform provides a smooth, intuitive interface
• Wide soundstage and good sound dispersion provide a good listening experience throughout the room
• Versatile connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, phono stage, and digital/analog inputs

Product Considerations

• The included remote control looks cheap compared to the unit itself
• Lacks a subwoofer output
• No automatic room correction
• At higher volume levels, the bass can be a bit much
• Can be large and take up a lot of space

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs. Naim Mu-so 2: Has a less industrial look, warmer design, and better detail retrieval
• Vs. Ruark Audio R410: Has warmer design and feel, and one will get more bass from the Cambridge Audio

Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo One is a stylish and versatile all-in-one system that sounds great in many spaces and offers many ways to play music. It provides a fun audio experience, even without a big dedicated system.