Selecting a receiver and acoustics (budget hi-fi). Test of bookshelf Hi-Fi acoustics in the mid-price category. In search of real sound

Hi-Fi and Hi-End class acoustic systems differ from others in the highest sound quality. However, in order to maximize their potential, the entire audio equipment path must be of the appropriate class, including switching. Therefore, if you bought a Hi-Fi speaker and connected it to old equipment in the budget segment, then there can be no question of any quality. It will be noticeable by ear that the system has potential, but this is still far from the level that the speakers are capable of. Before buying a Hi-Fi or Hi-End class speaker system, you need to carefully consider the entire path of the equipment that you are going to purchase and how to connect it. The leading leaders in the production of acoustic systems of this class are:,.

The lion's share of high-end home speaker systems are passive due to the fact that at home there is no need to use active speakers. The advantage of active acoustics is that it is somewhat easier to switch, and there is basically no problem with selecting the optimal amplifier, since the amplifiers are already built-in, as in the example of the model. However, the disadvantage of active speakers is that the higher their power, the more the amplifiers are subject to vibrations, which, over long-term use, can damage the radio elements. Therefore, for a household Hi-Fi system it is better to buy passive speakers, since at home they are the most optimal and durable. The passive analogue of the above system is the model.

Before purchasing, you should be guided by the technical specifications. This mainly concerns the rated power of the speakers, impedance, frequency range and sound pressure. It is better to prefer power with some reserve, with the expectation that the system should not operate at the limit of its capabilities. The resistance is selected in conjunction with the parameters of the amplifier. When paying attention to the frequency range, it is necessary to be guided by the fact that the human ear perceives sound approximately in the region from 20 Hz of the lower threshold to 20 kHz of the upper threshold. Accordingly, the closer the indicators are (or even wider), the better.

Connecting passive acoustics mainly requires the use of high quality speaker cables. There are several connection types:

• traditional;
• bi-wiring;
• biamping;
• triamping.

Traditional connection speaker connection assumes a generally accepted connection, which is used to switch the lion's share of speaker systems using a double cable.

Bi-wiring connection carried out in cases where the speaker system has two independent pairs of terminals. One pair supplies a signal to the low-frequency section, the second to the mid/high-frequency section. In this case, there are already two speaker cables per speaker.

Biamping connection It works on the same principle as bi-wiring, however, the amplifier in this case has two independent outputs, that is, to the LF and MF/HF sections separately. Or, two independent amplifiers are used.

Triamping connection is the rarest and is used exclusively in Hi-End systems. In this case, three power amplifiers are used for the LF, MF and HF sections and are connected by three speaker cables.

Buy a speaker system

Before buying a Hi-Fi speaker system, we recommend that you contact our sales managers, who, in turn, will give professional advice and select the best acoustics option, taking into account your preferences. Also, you can always place an order through the shopping cart by filling out a simple form on our website. When purchasing any product from our company, you receive the best price offer and an official guarantee from the manufacturer.

The company is a leading specialist in high-quality audio and video equipment. All company products are official, certified and with a quality guarantee.

A common mistake when comparing speaker systems is to place too much emphasis on the stated frequency range. The technical specifications of many budget speakers indicate a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz or even more, although more expensive speakers may have a more modest range.

The mere ability of a speaker to reproduce certain frequencies does not mean anything. It is important how evenly in volume and with what distortions sounds at different frequencies will be reproduced, compared to the signal they received at the input. Therefore, if you really want to understand what frequencies and how exactly a particular speaker system can reproduce, look for its amplitude-frequency response (AFC) - a graph that shows how correctly (quieter or louder compared to the input signal) ) certain frequencies are reproduced.

There are many different acoustic systems produced in the world, and each of them has its own “sound signature”. And it’s not just a matter of frequency response; there are other important parameters. Unfortunately, it is impossible to write in simple words or summarize in a clear and small table a description of the sound of a particular speaker. But you can give some useful tips.

When choosing speaker systems, you must first of all be guided by the parameters of the room in which the speaker systems will be installed, and the recommended amplifier power in combination with the specified impedance. Be sure to check the minimum acoustic impedance level allowed for your amplifier.

If you want to clarify how loud a particular speaker system can produce, pay attention to the “sensitivity” parameter. It shows what sound pressure (in dB) the system produces from a distance of 1 m with an input power of 1 W. Doubling the power will result in a 3 dB increase in sound pressure. For example, if the acoustics have a sensitivity of 88 dB/W/m, then when applying a power of 4 W we will get a sound pressure of 94 dB at a distance of 1 m. Some manufacturers list sensitivity based on a 2.83V applied voltage rather than 1W power. In this case, for comparison, 3 dB should be subtracted from the indicated number.

Finally, it is recommended to listen to the selected speakers yourself. Fortunately, listening rooms in specialized stores are not uncommon. If this is not possible, try to find the most detailed review that tells you exactly how this acoustic system sounds. Even better if this is a comparison of several models of the same class.

When listening, it is advisable to use equipment that is as close in parameters as possible to what you have at home - the same class and preferably the same manufacturer, and it is also important that the listening takes place in a similar room. All speakers sound different when used with different equipment. To the audition, bring with you the music that you usually listen to and know well. This is the only way you can find exactly “your” speakers.

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

results

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

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

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 disadvantages: 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

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 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 speakers and center 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 more is not needed. 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.

Given your budget, it is better to consider the option of a regular stereo Hi-Fi, and even in this case it will most likely have to be increased. At least you won’t experience severe disappointment from a bunch of useless boxes cluttering up the room, which you won’t even want to turn on after a short time.

DAVIS ACOUSTICS KvK 5 set MKII

Mordaunt Short, Carnival 2 front, Carnival 5 center, Carnival 1 rear.

In principle, an option that has a right to exist and sounds quite decent in small living rooms. I can draw a conclusion only from the nature of the sound of its individual components in stereo (I haven’t heard it as a set, but based on many years of experience I can make a fairly confident assumption). BUT:

Connect it to cheap Yamahas, Denons, etc. means simply throwing money away;

They require the purchase of acoustic stands (required!) and placement of at least the fronts in a sufficient free field (at least 20 cm from the rear wall (FI for the speakers in the front) and about 30 cm from the sides, and preferably 40-50 cm). For the rear junior Carnival, this parameter is leveled to a minimum and, in principle, they can be mounted on the wall;

It is necessary to connect ALL speakers of this set, with the exception of the subwoofer, with high-quality speaker cables with the so-called. "silver-plated" conductors, such as the QED Silver series. OFC copper will give some lack of air at the HF and they will sound aggressive, with a tendency to lisp (these speakers are very sensitive to the quality of the cables);

The minimum receiver for this kit is the Cambridge CXR120;

The set needs subwoofer support for cinema, but the proposed sub (Carnival 7) is better to bypass the tenth road, look towards the initial REL, you can easily buy it on the secondary.

As a result, you will get a good seamless covering of a room of 20-24 sq.m. in a movie with a fairly good implementation of surround effects, but in a small comfort zone (for about a couple of people on the couch), the playback level of a regular stereo is the same as that of a good budget Hi-Fi system (it’s better to turn off the sub, or immediately set its cutoff frequency to no higher than 70 Hz and carefully phase with the fronts). If we consider from the point of view of budgetary costs, then the option of a recreation center for the living room, taking into account racks, cables, receiver and speakers, will cost approximately from 200 tr., cheaper options are a waste of money and a sea of ​​​​disappointment, which can “delight” only inexperienced teenagers and extremely unpretentious consumers who buy a DC on the “shob bulo” principle, for half the amount you can buy a good stereo setup with a much more predictable and high-quality result.

If you are potentially not ready to make such expenses, then it is better to focus on a soundbar or so-called. DC "out of the box", i.e. completely ready-made kits from one manufacturer. At least you will experience less disappointment and save money.