Floor-standing acoustics - a budget option - comparative test. High-quality acoustic system for use at home: how to choose, what to pay attention to

A set of active acoustics, combined with a large screen, allows you to create something like a mini-cinema in your home or apartment. Modern acoustics produce very high-quality, rich sound and can operate under high loads. The speakers are installed in different parts of the apartment, saturating the room with surround sound, without loss of sound quality even over long distances. Models in the middle and premium price segment can be used not only for home, but also for professional tasks. The most common speaker system for home purposes includes five satellite speakers and one subwoofer. In another way, such a kit is called a 5.1 system.

Let's try to figure out which models turned out to be the best in our traditional rating. Acoustic sets were divided into four classes: inexpensive, mid-class, premium and super-premium. When distributing places, the following characteristics and indicators were taken into account:

• Total acoustic power;
• Dimensions and weight of speakers;
• Subwoofer power;
• Case material;
• Cost of the kit. The optimum ratio of price and quality
• Sound quality (subjective, based on user reviews).

The best inexpensive acoustics: budget up to 10,000 rubles.

3 Defender Hollywood 35

Best price
Country: China
Average price: 4,004 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.3

Third place in the ranking of the best inexpensive acoustic sets is occupied by Defender Hollywood 35. A distinctive feature is the presence of volume control separately for the subwoofer, center, front and rear, along with general control. Scope of application: premises with an area of ​​up to 25 m2. The price is the best in the Hollywood line for these specific options. The housings of all elements are wooden, with magnetic shielding, causing a nearby TV or monitor to stop responding to interference. The package includes a cable that allows you to connect to a DVD. Controlled by both remote control and subwoofer.

In reviews, users highlight two main advantages: high sound purity and the ability to place these acoustics throughout the room. Ease of management is achieved due to the ability to control each element separately. Two types of inputs allow simultaneous connection of a player and a computer. There are only 3 shortcomings: the remote control is not strong enough, the speaker wires are short, and the elements cannot be hung on the wall.

2 Yamaha NS-P150

The most affordable acoustic set
A country: Japan (made in Indonesia)
Average price: 8,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Second place in the top three is occupied by the Yamaha NS-P150 home passive system, consisting of 3 speakers: one for the center channel (65 Hz - 38 KHz) and 2 rear speakers (60 Hz - 38 KHz). The body is made of MDF with a mahogany or ebony finish. There are 2 types of placement possible: on a shelf and on a wall (the kit includes fasteners and screw terminals). The frequency range is sufficient for home cinema and listening to music. The best area of ​​application is expanding the functionality of the front speakers.

Users call the Yamaha NS-P150 the best economy class passive speaker system when used for the center and rear. Users trust the brand and the optimal price-quality ratio. The best sound is in the mid and high frequencies. The advantages also include an aesthetically attractive appearance. The disadvantages are the short length of the wires, not the best sound at low frequencies and high maintenance requirements (dust is immediately visible).

1 BBK MA-970S

Best price/power ratio. The most purchased acoustics
Country: China
Average price: 9,600 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

The first place in the ranking is occupied by BBK MA-970S, one of the most popular inexpensive acoustic sets. The original design instantly attracts attention. Single-way rear speakers are smaller than the front two-way speakers; all speakers are housed in dark wood-look MDF housings with silver-look edging. In the TOP 3, this is the most powerful speaker system, capable of delivering 280 W. The appearance of the subwoofer is simple, but consistent with the overall design. The scope of use is expanded by the presence of 2 inputs (audio 5.1CH and stereo) and a decoder that converts stereo signals into multi-channel ones. The device provides fairly good detail and richness of sound. The system is controlled using a remote control.

Buyers consider the advantages of acoustics to be the sound, which is quite sufficient for an apartment. Positive qualities are best manifested when watching films. Reviews also note decent appearance, ease of use, and price-to-power ratio. The disadvantages users include is the lack of manual control, the remote control angle is too small, the short length of the included wires and the need to find additional space for placement.

The best middle-class acoustic sets: budget up to 40,000 rubles.

3 Pioneer S-ES3TB

The best ratio of price and quality
A country: Japan (made in China)
Average price: 24,500 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Third place in the rating is Pioneer S-ES3TB, perhaps the best opportunity to build a home theater at minimal cost. The total power of this system is 660 W, the frequency range is from 40 to 3 thousand Hz, the power of the floor-standing front speakers is 150 W. This is not always enough for high-quality reproduction of complex musical works. Also, the absence of crossover filters and shielded magnets in the speakers makes itself felt. But, although the rating of the Pioneer S-ES3TB is relatively low, the system managed to confidently take the lead, leaving inexpensive stereo systems and box-based entertainment centers far behind.

This system has proven itself to be an inexpensive but effective component of the modern home theater when watching movies, providing expressive transmission of special effects and soundtracks. In addition, users did not ignore the excellent bass sound, sound balance, and lack of distortion. Some offer to further improve the sound quality by connecting a stereo amplifier to the Pioneer S-ES3TB, assuring that in this case the acoustics seriously benefit.

2 Onkyo SKS-HT728

Best design. Clear and transparent sound
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 33,390.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Home acoustics set "Onkyo SKS HT728" is a device with a wide frequency range in the range from 25 to 50,000 Hz. Owners of the system can enjoy rare purity and transparency of sound. There are practically no disadvantages. Although it should still be noted that the active subwoofer (with a power of 290 W and a frequency range of 25-150 Hz) is vulnerable to significant overloads. But this nuance and the lack of a built-in amplifier only slightly affects the high rating of the device.

The power level of the stylish looking floor standing front speakers is around 520W. This is a high-quality modern acoustics that surprises with its excellent sound quality. It is worth noting the impeccable assembly. In its price category, this is perhaps the best model, fully providing an excellent level of playback, including mp3 files.

1 Bose Acoustimass 5

Best sound. Superb build quality
Country: USA
Average price: RUB 39,990.
Rating (2018): 4.9

The leader in the rating of middle-class acoustic sets is the compact Bose Acoustimass 5, equipped with two small bookshelf speakers Direct/Reflecting Series II. The model has been leading the ranking of the most popular speaker systems for several years now, successfully competing with more powerful systems. This acoustics amazes with its perfection: Bose Acoustimass 5 is not inferior to similar systems in depth and purity of sound in all frequency ranges. At the same time, users note an impeccable level of build quality.

The Acoustimass module provides amazing sound richness and low-frequency power. Domestic music lovers have already noted the excellent compatibility of Bose Acoustimass 5 speakers and a subwoofer. The system is sold complete with all the necessary marked cables (4 pcs.) and fasteners, which greatly simplifies its installation. The versatility and attractive design of the speakers makes it easy to adapt the device to any interior.

Compared to its predecessor, the Acoustimass 3 model, the device differs in the greater power of the Acoustimass module and Direct/Reflecting Series II loudspeakers. At the same time, Bose Acoustimass 5 is by far the best when it comes to the need to use the system in spacious rooms.

The best premium acoustic sets: budget up to 80,000 rubles.

3 Wharfedale Obsidian 600 5.0

Optimal price. Great design
Country: UK
Average price: 54,400 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.6

An acoustic set for all sound fans who are not looking for the smallest nuances in every note played. Equally good for listening to music and watching movies. The classic “corner” design of the speakers and subwoofer will organically fit into any interior, so you don’t have to worry about “style compatibility” when purchasing.

The kit is completely passive, but there are more than enough key features. The two rear and center speakers have two playback bands - low and high frequency. But there are three of these in the rear speakers: in addition to the usual sources, they have two 125 mm speakers for playing mid-frequency sounds. According to users, the acoustic effect largely depends on the location of the speakers. If you place them with the low-frequency drivers inward, the “subwoofer effect” will be minimal (there will be a feeling of lack of deep bass). Actually, when installing the speakers on the contrary, the result will be concomitant. The system has enormous potential for sound customization, which particularly sensitive consumers could not keep silent about. Willingly lends itself to fine tuning through receivers, accepts amplifiers and generally behaves friendly even towards “newbies”. As a result, an excellent set - there are not enough stars in the sky, but it fully justifies its price.

2 Jamo S 628 HCS

The best floor-standing acoustic kit
Country: Denmark
Average price: 56,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Second place in the rating is Jamo S 628 HCS, a time-tested floor-standing audio system that has received high praise from both professionals and amateurs. A characteristic feature of acoustics is the fundamental sound, especially noticeable in the lower register. The sound quality is confirmed by technical parameters: system power (total - 390 W), wide frequency range (37-20000 Hz), sensitivity of the front speakers - 86 dB, rear radiators and the central channel - 87 dB each.

The design of the passive type system has been carefully designed. The kit includes an aluminum-coated cone that smooths out the midrange frequencies. The housings of the speakers and the central channel do not deform sound vibrations, as they are acoustically inert. The cone material quickly dissipates heat from the voice coil. For this reason, even at peak load the system demonstrates undistorted sound. The bass sounds especially beautiful - “velvety” (according to buyers).

Users note that at maximum volume, vibrations of sound waves are felt throughout the body, so not everyone uses a subwoofer. The design is a continuation of the solutions characteristic of the Danish company: elongated rectangular bodies. The sets are presented in three finishing options: white, “black ash” and “dark apple”. The device is ideal for watching movies and listening to music in studio apartments with an area of ​​25-30 meters.
Minor shortcomings include difficulties in selecting brackets for mounting rear speakers and the need to fine-tune the system.

1 Cabasse Eole 3

The best compact acoustic kit
Country: France
Average price: 79,000 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.8

An original set of acoustics that amazes with its dimensions and accompanying sound. Contains five round-shaped columns, of which:

• two rear speakers on a high stand with a power of 70 W each;
• two monopolar bookshelf speakers with a total power of 140 W;
• one speaker on the center channel of the same power - 70 W.

With such good total power, the speakers have a very significant advantage in compactness, which is primarily noted by users. Reproducible frequencies range from 150 to 22,000 Hz - a rather mediocre result, considering the cost of the entire set.

The active subwoofer with a power of 200 W is not without praise - it is moderately “strong” and clearly fulfills its role. It performs well in the “lower” range, reproducing frequencies with virtually no complaints (small inaccuracies can only be heard by people who are very meticulous about sound purity). According to consumers, Cabasse Eole 3 fully justifies its price tag: it is reflected in the high-quality, not devoid of creativity, the compactness of the sound-reproducing elements, and the purity of the sound itself (both when watching movies and when listening to music).

The best super premium acoustic sets

3 KEF E305

Best sound (max. frequency 45000 Hz). The most unusual design
Country: China
Average price: 88,200 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

The ceiling-type audio system KEF E305 standard 5.1 is the choice of innovators who are able to appreciate the naturalness of sound and the boldness of the design solution. The KEF E305 acoustics are well known: just say “eggs” or “Easter set”, and an experienced user will immediately imagine which model from the famous English company we are talking about. First place in the ranking of premium acoustic systems!

The main feature of the set is detail, volume and accuracy of sound reproduction. The Hi fi system earned the “Best Sound” rating due to its characteristics: a large frequency range (33-45000 Hz) and high sensitivity (86 dB). The device uses technologies found in premium models. For example, the Uni-Q coaxial speaker, which combines a tweeter and a mid-range driver. As a result, the user enjoys deep, harmonious sound: the system suppresses noise and smoothes out the amplitude of vibrations.

An acoustically invisible, but at the same time powerful subwoofer works for this purpose. Its low-frequency radiation does not dominate the rest of the sound field. The stiffening ribs of the satellite housings are made of noise canceling plastic. Users note that the best sound is in the mid and high range. The expressiveness of the sound is lost when the volume is reduced.

The second feature that immediately catches your eye is the unusual design: a dome-shaped subwoofer housing with a downward-facing emitter, egg-shaped emitters of a compact design. It is not difficult to strengthen the satellites on the walls. As an option, the speakers are mounted on stands (not included). A successful solution is a combination of an original design and the use of classic colors: dazzling white and deep black. The set fits organically into any design environment.
Among the manufacturer's shortcomings, consumers include a small angle of inclination of the speakers, which creates difficulties during placement and setup.

2 Bose Acoustimass 10

The most popular set. User selection
Country: USA
Average price: 89,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.8

It is not for nothing that the famous American manufacturer Bose is one of the best in the production of high-quality acoustics. The tenth version of the legendary Acousticmass series turned out to be what every user who needs good sound needs. And these are far from empty words (and not absurd): the consumer finds something of his own in this amazing kit, which has become extremely popular since the fifth version.

First of all, the impressive size and weight of the subwoofer catches your eye - almost 16 kilograms of low-frequency “happiness” gives really soft and “tasty” bass. The feeling of admiration does not leave the consumer even when examining the speakers: a standard set of two rear, two front and one central sources provides a total of 250 W of pure power. This is not too much, but the first time you turn on the kit it becomes clear that you don’t need more. From the very first minutes it becomes clear that Bose did a titanic job and poured in a mountain of funds and it was not in vain.

The acoustics cope perfectly with their task without additional amplifiers, come in three colors and generally look like a priority choice among their competitors.

1 Focal Pack Dome 5.1

Best Sound Quality
Country: France
Average price: RUB 139,990.
Rating (2018): 4.9

An acoustic set that can change the idea of ​​ideal sound quality. This is the case when the huge cost is fully compensated by the highest precision of assembly, reliability and the sensation of listening to the reproduced sound. The speakers and active subwoofer have an aluminum housing, stylized in gloss, which can fit into any interior. A standard set of five speakers reproduces sound with a frequency from 80 to 28,000 Hz, so much so that even the most capricious consumers could not find any flaws (provided that the equalizer is adequately adjusted). As for the subwoofer, it operates at frequencies from 47 to 200 Hz.

It is advisable to use such a kit in a large, spacious room, and the dimensions clearly indicate this. The weight of each speaker is almost 1.9 kilograms with dimensions of 144x172x143 millimeters (width, height and depth, respectively), and the subwoofer weighs 11 kilograms. There is no hope of assembling the system at home - in a small room the sound will greatly disturb the neighbors, and it will not have the best effect on the health of listeners. The final advantage lies in the finishing options for the set - consumers can choose from sets in red, white and black. Ideal choice for large areas.

And so, you decided to buy budget-level Hi-Fi acoustics 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 a simplified crossover to be used between them, and for an even better effect, the speakers are connected separately with 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's 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, award-winning 2020 variant, which isn't surprising given the similar specs.

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 might evaluate it and find no fault with it, but comparison with other top speakers also shows that the Tannoy is unlikely to be inferior to anyone in terms of power and punch.
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 is exuded by the Wharfedale speaker system when playing the alternative rock band Camper Van Beethoven's "Take the Skinheads Bowling". Academic and thoughtful in its focus and attention to detail, the 9.1 model nevertheless retains all the necessary qualities to make work not only your head, 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.

We discuss these topics with our in-house experts, who are well versed in their field, be it smartwatches, gaming gadgets or even hi-fi.

Wearable gadgets can last a long time, but still their life cycle is somewhat limited - new models come out and the device manages to become obsolete faster than it fails.

Stationary Hi-Fi speakers, on the contrary, can last for years without actually requiring any care or maintenance (don’t tell me you’ve never found old speakers at home that are collecting dust for some unknown reason in the far corner).

When choosing acoustics (especially built-in ones) or assembling a set of equipment for a home theater or game room, you always want to focus on quality and durability. But in times of crisis, investing in expensive acoustics is not very successful. Is there an alternative? Let's ask our expert - Dmitry T.

iCover: Hello Dima! Tell us where your passion for Hi-Fi audio comes from? How did you come to this?

Dima:Hello. It all started with my work at a chain store that had a large area dedicated to hi-fi. As a matter of fact, the first thing I listened to was the Yamaha RX-V376 and NS-555 from them. As I later realized, this was not the most ideal package, but the seed of love for good sound was sown. Later I began to attend almost all exhibitions on this topic, and my work was directly related to Hi-Fi.

iCover: What kind of acoustic set do you use? Did you help your friends or acquaintances assemble a set of acoustics?

Dima:I have a stereo pair at home from a wonderful Danish brand– model.

I listened to a lot of things before settling on this particular model, but Zensor hooked me the most.

The interior is not mine, but the sensations from the acoustics are approximately the same!

Now everything is connected through an amplifier, the sound source is a PC, the connection is made via USB Wireworld Croma 7. The stereo pair is mainly used for listening to music (I used to do it myself, so I collected a large collection of jazz). You can tell many stories about selection and configuration to friends and acquaintances, but this will most likely require a separate article.

iCover: How do you realize that you need your own “special set” of acoustics? After all, even modern TVs have some kind of speakers (or even two).

As practice has shown, among mass TV brands there are no models whose built-in acoustics are capable of adequately reproducing an audio signal. Even if you don’t consider yourself a music lover, by installing just a budget stereo pair or soundbar you will feel the difference “with the naked ear.” And for cinema, in which sound now rules the roost along with resolution, a good audio system is simply necessary.

iCover: Perhaps the most banal question about acoustics in the world - so which one should you take, passive or active?

Dima: If I had been asked this question 3 years ago, I would have answered unequivocally – passive. But now there are good brands on the market with active multiroom acoustics that serve perfectly as a home theater. Let's take, for example, the same thing - networked acoustics, which, like a Lego set, can be assembled gradually, starting with the most accessible components.

iCover: Is assembling acoustics for your home an expensive pleasure? To save money, take “noname” Chinese acoustics - do such acoustics even exist?

Dima: In fact, if we compare ordinary home theaters from mass brands and budget lines of Hi-Fi acoustics, the difference in price will not be so great. But you have more opportunities to upgrade and update your system. I wouldn’t risk taking pseudo-brands; I myself witnessed how the speakers delaminated after the first wet cleaning.

Nowadays it is quite easy to buy ready-made sets of Hi-Fi acoustics at a budget price. For example:

Minimalist kit

iCover:What does this kit consist of?

Dima: To create a Hi-Fi home theater, you just need to purchase a receiver and 5.0 acoustics. The subwoofer is purchased as needed - it is often not used, because... the front pair often reproduces the low-frequency signal at the desired level. The signal source is up to your taste; lately the sound has simply been taken from the TV via ARC, and the built-in media player has been used.

iCover:Often in the description of acoustic sets you can find references to “classic” or “modern” design. How justified is such a division? Where did the concept of “classical acoustics” come from?

Dima: Classic is what many people imagine when they mention the term “Hi-Fi” - massive speakers trimmed with wood, straight lines, screw terminals. As an example, we can name classic models from

American classic

Or a little more modern

Modern classics from seasoned Hi-Fi manufacturers

iCover: The question often arises about ceiling systems - what is it, why bother installing it? Is it possible to get by with shelf ones?

Dima: Typically, ceiling speakers are used if you need to create an acoustic design for a room with a minimum of visible speakers, but now ceiling speakers will also be in demand, thanks to Dolby Atmos.

Usually, when I am asked to recommend bookshelf speaker options, I offer five time-tested options (for collecting 5.0 acoustics):

• The same classic set
• Also with a discreet design
• Passive bookshelf kit
• Shelf set
• Central channel
• Central channel

iCover:Which acoustics (which set in which form factor) would you choose for yourself and why?

Dima:Personally, the 2.0 system is enough for me, but this is due to the fact that I mainly listen to music. For movie lovers, I recommend installing a 5.1.2 system; this form factor is acoustics for Dolby Atmos.

iCover:Is there innovation in this product segment? Or have they not come up with anything better than a modern speaker?

Dima:Products in this area are constantly being improved, new materials and technologies are used. Often, a lot of time and human resources are spent on developing new technologies.

iCover:In what cases is it worth paying more than 100 thousand rubles for acoustics?

Dima:When you buy Hi-Fi speakers, you pay for the opportunity to get a completely new sound experience, to feel like a participant in the events of a movie or a spectator of a concert. At the same time, Hi-Fi acoustics are something that will serve you for a long time and will be relevant for many years.

Achieving clear and spacious sound is not the easiest task, especially when it comes to budget segment acoustics. High-quality systems allow you to transmit sound with maximum detail and reproduce high, mid and low frequencies in a balanced manner. What types of acoustic speakers exist, and how to choose the right equipment for home use?

An acoustic system is a device for sound reproduction, consisting of an amplifier, several emitters (most often dynamic) and electrical filters for dividing the reproduced frequency range between loudspeakers. The optimal spectrum for mid- and high-class speakers is considered to be a frequency from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This allows you to produce a noticeable “springy” bass and crystal clear vocals. Of course, frequency range indicators cannot fully reflect sound quality. For this purpose there is an amplitude-frequency characteristic.

There are two main types of speaker systems - active and passive. Active speakers, in addition to the crossover and speaker, contain a built-in power amplifier inside the housing. This makes them more versatile and compact than passive component systems. Active closed-type acoustics can include not only a sound source, but also a player, a pre-processing console, and even an entire instrument. This allows you to quickly configure and assemble the equipment. However, active systems are not suitable for large halls and clubs because they concentrate sound in one specific location.

Passive acoustics require a separate amplifier, and in some cases a crossover. It will not be convenient for small halls or clubs, since it takes up quite a lot of space. But such equipment copes better with creating a sound atmosphere in large rooms. Another advantage is the even distribution of power, reducing the risk of amplifiers overheating.

Placement

Based on their location in the apartment, acoustic systems are divided into shelf, floor, built-in and wall-mounted. They differ in size, sound transmission quality, ergonomics and service life. Let's discuss each type of accommodation in more detail.

Shelf

Such speakers are installed mainly in small rooms up to 18 square meters, but there are models that can fill even large concert halls with sound. Shelf systems are not nearly as compact as they seem at first glance. They can only be installed on special mounts. That is, saving space, as is the case with built-in or wall-mounted acoustics, will not work. If you try to install bookshelf speakers on a regular table or shelf, they will begin to resonate and vibrate strongly, which will certainly spoil the sound quality.

Some people think that bookshelf speakers are great for home theater use. But it’s still better to use floor-standing equipment, as it gives richer bass and creates an immersive effect. At the same time, the quality of sound transmission depends not so much on the type of speaker, but on the quality of the speakers, components and room area. For small rooms it is better to use shelf units, for large rooms - floor units.

Advantages:

• good sound quality;
• take up less space than floor systems;
• more resistant to external damage than floor-standing equipment;
• Suitable for small clubs and bars, as well as for background playback in mega centers or sports clubs.

Flaws:

• resonate when placed on the floor or table;
• not as compact as built-in and wall-mounted models.

Floor

Floor-standing speaker systems are most often used in halls and clubs with an area of ​​more than 20 square meters. The richness of the sound in such systems directly depends on the chosen amplifier. As a rule, floor-standing devices are more demanding of load, so an incorrectly selected amplifier can damage the equipment. Before purchasing, be sure to compare the power ratings of the speakers with the power ratings of all components. If you over- or under-estimate your receiver, it may not deliver its full audio potential or may cut out when the volume is turned up.

Advantages:

• the sound is more powerful than other types of speaker systems;
• Suitable for large concert halls, clubs or other public areas;
• the bass is more noticeable in comparison with similar devices of other categories;
• wide functionality.

Flaws:

• take up a lot of space;
• the cost is usually higher than for wall and shelf devices;
• more difficult to configure.

Built-in

Built-in speaker systems are most often installed in ceilings or walls. Unlike shelf and wall-mounted devices, their housing is completely hidden and does not take up space. Usually only the speaker grilles remain visible, but there is special “invisible” equipment where even the emitter is covered with a thin layer of plaster. Such speakers are suitable for commercial premises such as clubs, supermarkets, sports centers, etc., as they are resistant to external factors. They are distinguished by less natural sound transmission, but good compactness. Nevertheless, you will also have to pay a large sum for the process of installing acoustics.

Advantages:

• do not stand out from the general interior;
• do not take up space in the room;
• Excellent for both home theater and commercial premises, such as sports centers, shops, etc.
• protected from external damage.

Flaws:

• installation takes a lot of time and effort;
• don't sound as good as other devices;
• They are much more expensive due to their compactness and ergonomics.

Hanging (wall-mounted)

Hanging speakers are a budget-friendly and fairly compact alternative to shelf systems. They save space in the room because they have a small emitter and a lightweight body. Hanging systems are great for home theaters and TVs because they have sufficient sound performance for watching movies and other video files. However, the playback quality is not up to par with floor-standing or bookshelf acoustics, so music lovers should pay attention to more professional models.

Advantages:

• affordable cost, in comparison with other types of acoustics;
• take up little space because they are placed on walls or ceilings;
• serve as an excellent addition to a home theater or TV;
• do not require expensive components;
• easy to install in any room.

Flaws:

• they lag behind other types of acoustics in sound quality;
• do not fit well into the interior;
• not suitable for large rooms as they are quite quiet.

How to choose for your home

When choosing speakers for your home, you need to pay attention to technical characteristics, such as frequency range, number of bands, playback area, impedance level, maximum sensitivity and compactness. Here are some useful tips to help you choose acoustics for your home:

1. The frequency range does not matter. Often, budget models have a wider frequency range than professional speakers. The fact is that it is quite difficult to measure exact spectrum indicators, so manufacturers sometimes indicate range limits at random. It is better to focus on the amplitude-frequency characteristic, which more accurately indicates the expressiveness of different tones.
2. The more stripes, the better. Bands are emitters that reproduce different parts of the frequency range. The more speakers the speakers have, the better the sound will be. Two-way and three-way audio systems are perfect for home use, but for professional use it is better to take more functional models.
3. The larger the room, the more powerful and louder the system should be. For small rooms up to 18 square meters, active built-in, suspended or shelf acoustics are suitable. For large rooms, it is better to choose a floor-standing one with several modules.
4. Sensitivity controls volume. The higher the sensitivity, the louder the device will sound. The main thing is to make sure that the sound does not distort at high volume levels.
5. The power of the speakers should be equal to the power of the amplifier. Do not underestimate or overestimate the potential of the device - just compare the power ratings of the speakers with the power of the receiver.

Also pay attention to the dimensions of the device. You should not choose bulky speakers for small apartments, as they will take up a lot of space and will not provide the desired sound. Powerful acoustics in small rooms can hum or distort the sound.

Manufacturers

Buying a home audio system from a reliable manufacturer means getting a long warranty period, good service and constant customer support. If you are ready to spend enough money to buy a quality device, we present you a list of the best audio equipment manufacturers:

• Edifier
• Microlab
• Genius
• Logitech
• Klipsh
• Yamaha

Each of these brands creates excellent equipment for any occasion. The equipment lasts a long time and pleases with good sound quality.

Rating 2018

Manufacturers produce many models of acoustic speakers, but not all of them sound good. It is especially difficult to find a high-quality device among representatives of suspension systems. We have compiled a rating of the top 9 best acoustics of different types, based on reviews and customer feedback:

Floor

• high sound quality;
• excellent assembly;
• no need to get tangled in wires;
• suitable for any interior thanks to its laconic design;
• Hi-Fi sound lovers will like it.

• need a subwoofer;
• require warming up.

The best acoustics from the Censors range. It has a durable aluminum base that protects the case from external damage. The side panels are made of MDF and covered with high quality laminate. The suspension design and patented wood-finished diffuser provide excellent sound transmission and long-lasting music listening.

• high-quality sound;
• suitable for home cinema;
• Excellent sound in both stereo and five-channel mode.

• low quality cladding;
• great weight and size.

Home acoustics that can provide excellent sound quality even in large rooms. The speaker cones are covered with a layer of craft paper. Thanks to a special ferromagnetic fluid, the system operates stably at high volumes and does not overheat. The device is suitable for both home and commercial use.

• high power;
• deep and springy bass;
• smooth amplitude-frequency response.

• you need an equally expensive amplifier.

Premium acoustics from the famous American manufacturer Polk Audio. Balanced six-layer laminate design with five liquid layers creates the best shear suppression system. The special rounded wall shape reduces resonance and reduces distortion.

Hanging

• affordable price;
• two playback bars;
• high sensitivity;
• quick installation.

• lacks bass.

Inexpensive 2-way wall-mount stereo system. It is positioned by the manufacturer as all-weather, since it has a protected housing and speakers. Equipped with high-quality surge protection and a 90 by 90 degree HF horn.

• suitable for outdoor use;
• takes up little space in the apartment;
• high sound quality.

• you need a good amplifier.

All-weather speaker system from the GLE range - one of the most popular series in Europe. Equipped with an innovative frequency filter and bass resonant hole. Suitable for both connection with a home theater and for use in music classes, cafes, restaurants, sports clubs, etc.

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

Since it is obvious that floor-standing acoustics of such a price are a set of compromises, we will be prepared in advance for the fact that none of the models may receive a full set of stars according to 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 Model		Boston A250	Energy Connoisseur CF-30	Neso Victa 701	Magnat Monitor Supreme 1000	Polk Audio TSi 300	Wharfedale Diamond 10.4
	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
	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
	Impedance, average value, Ohm
	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
	Frequency response unevenness (100—20,000 Hz), +/-DB
	Frequency response unevenness (160—1300 Hz), +/-dB
	Frequency response unevenness (1300—20,000 Hz), +/-DB
	Frequency response unevenness (300—5000 Hz), +/-dB
	Lower limit frequency (-10 dB), Hz

results

BOSTON A250 21,000 RUR *

***** Sound ***** Design ***** Quality/price

The winner was chosen based on a combination of sound characteristics,
but it turned out that this is also the most stylish model of the test.

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. The Polk Audio TSi 300 can be considered a candidate for the role of monitor acoustics for a stereo system, which periodically turns into a home studio. 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 the general impression of the tested models, then, in addition to the sound, I would note the interesting design and high-quality manufacturing of most participants, which is certainly pleasing in this price range. And in general, all the speakers performed better than one might expect.

*THE PRICE IS APPROXIMATE