All speakers are divided into powered and passive: the difference between these variants consists of the introduction of a sound amplification device. In the first type the element is installed directly in the speaker, in the second case the choice and purchase of this component fall on the shoulders of the buyer. This is an aricle for those who is ready to pay a good money for solid speakers. Hoever, if you have a limited budget or just want to look for more, welcome to our best bookshelf speakers review.

The difference between active and passive speaker systems in terms of sound can also be understood by assessing where the signal goes initially. Audio signal goes directly to an active speaker system, which distributes it independently, and in a passive speaker system the sound goes first to the amplifier, and then to the speaker. This results from a set of basic elements in the design.

Another difference between active and passive speakers is signal matching. In the first case, thanks to the built-in device to enhance the sound power, the compatibility setting has already been done by the manufacturer. In the second case, there will be a need to independently select the appropriate equipment and carry out adjustment.

Best Bookshelf Speakers Under 1000 Reviews

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Powered Bookshelf Speakers

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Audioengine HD 6: Dark Horse on Hi-Fi Market

Audioengine HD6
The Audioengine HD 6 is a rather unknown player in the Hi-Fi market. At the same time, spending $749 for this dark horse, you will not think for a second about the return. In general, the design turned out to be minimalist and extremely attractive, and, most likely, fans of the “old school” will like it.

The left speaker is responsible for power supply and carries similar inputs, which are connected with a good-quality cable, supplied in the kit. The HD 6 model converts 24-bit digital signals to the analog ones. Apple users will discover all the delights of the AAC format, while others will fully experience aptX.

As for sound in wireless data transmission, I can safely say that with the improvement of Bluetooth, the sound of the speakers has also improved. Acoustic and jazz compositions are reproduced amazingly, supported by a distinct vocal. Heavy melodies do not choke, you hear every instrument, there is an amazing mixture.

Pros
  • Realistic sound balance.
  • Suitable for both acoustic and heavy music styles.
  • Supports different interfaces.
Cons
  • Wacky remote control.
  • Bluetooth connectivity is inferior to its wired counterpart.

Klipsch The Sixes: Great Bookshelf Speaker under 1000

Klipsch the Sixes
This model of powered bookshelf speakers under 1000 differs from the others due to the built-in amplifier, background preamp, digital inputs, and Bluetooth. These speakers can sound outstanding and seem perfect for those wanting a simple lifestyle choice instead of a multi-component system.

Each speaker has a rear bass port, which makes them problematic for bookshelf use or for placement near a wall.

Such speakers will require more space for their placement, but they can also easily cope with the sound of a room of medium size. In fact, the Sixes are quite capable of claiming the role of the main stereo system of a music lover, especially considering the possibilities of connecting various signal sources.

There are a USB port, an optical input and two analog ones – one on the mini-jack connector and the other on RCA. Klipsch The Sixes is automatically detected as an external sound card for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.

Pros
  • The console, which has convenient proportions and clear button layout.
  • Easy to set up.
  • You’ll get incredible volume without sacrificing sound integrity.
Cons
  • Klipsch The Sixes does not support the network player feature.

Passive Bookshelf Speakers

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KEF LS50: Hi-Fi Bookshelf Speakers

KEF LS50
Take a look at the speakers themselves, their unusual design, the visual center of which is the electrodynamic radiator Uni-Q, which has become the hallmark of KEF. The manufacturer very carefully approached the creation of a new speaker, which is noticeable both in a well-designed exterior design and in high acoustic characteristics.

From the first moment, these passive bookshelf speakers under 1000 pleasantly surprised me with fast and transparent sound, scrupulous microdynamics, accurate stage and an abundance of previously unnoticed details in well-known soundtracks. There was a feeling that some kind of curtain had been removed from the recordings, hiding until that moment the subtle nuances of the musical works.

It is a pleasant and rare surprise that such compact monitors as the LS50 can create such a rich, voluminous sound stage that is absolutely disproportionate to their size. The patented acoustic designs and the most modern technologies developed by KEF for its newest leading Blade speaker system make it possible to achieve studio-quality sound even with minimal free space. Creating a compact body, capable of creating such surround sound, is the result of considerable research. The design of the case, the front panel lines, and the shape of the LS50 port bring its capabilities to a completely new technological level.

The music scene reproduced by the KEF LS50 shelf system as well as the audio layout of the speakers deserves all praise. With compact dimensions, the speakers are capable of providing sound with a maximum power of 100 W and decent acoustic characteristics for professional sound recording from 15 to 20 m2. A detailed audio palette with a wide frequency range picks up and conveys to the listener all the sounds of musical instruments.

Pros
  • Emitters with selected materials and sound elements.
  • High sound output power with compact speaker dimensions.
Cons
  • Light metallic color in the RF spectrum.

H4 SVS Ultra: High-End Bookshelf Speakers

SVS Ultra
The SVS Ultra Bookshelf has quite substantial dimensions (317x217x255 mm). This model is offered in two designs: black piano lacquer — for supporters of the aristocratic style, and natural black walnut veneer — for those who prefer traditional interiors. Cases have classical proportions, but the small wedge-shaped bevel of the two front faces gives the appearance individuality. The beveled edges are made to combat diffraction.

The front panel is muffled very well, the other five walls are just fine. Contrary to the current fashion, protective grids are held not on magnets, but on caps, which are more reliable. The bass reflex port is located on the back wall. It has a relatively small diameter (45 mm) and the unsophisticated form of the external socket. However, I could not detect any signs of acoustic noise caused by air movement.

With proper installation, this set can perform the duties of “rear” speakers in the home theater. There is not a lot of basses, but their structure is fairly honest: the bass is even, has a nice relief and a neat attack. The musical coverage of the SVS Ultra Bookshelf is clear and comfortable, nothing annoying in it, and you can listen to this speaker set for a long time.

Pros
  • The speaker set is equipped with two pairs of cable clips, this fact will undoubtedly please the adherents of the 4-wire bi-wiring connection.
  • The depth of the scene is well transmitted.
  • These speakers deliver an amazing spectral and dynamic experience through a pretty small volume.
Cons
  • I am not sure that the device legs 3 mm high will provide sufficient isolation of the speaker mass from the support vibrations.
  • They’re also very heavy for being passive. Do not put them on a desk.

KEF Q150: Speakers with a Heart Beating in the Rhythm of Rock’n’Roll

KEF Q150
The Q150 speaker system is ideal for small rooms. This model uses the unique technology of KEF – the Uni-Q speaker, as well as the CFD port. The Q150 provides detailed, natural sound with high definition and dense low frequencies.

These speakers sound fantastic, look great and shine when you listen to a guitar. The bass is much more impressive than I expected. The Q150 offers detailed visualization and wide appeal with good bass. The sound is smoother and more saturated with low frequencies than the Q100’s. I admit that the sound of the Q150 is slightly less detailed than that of the Q100, but more than compensates for the more complete and easy-to-listen profile. Great for near field, PC and music.

Pros
  • Passive radiators (ABR) have received a modified suspension, which “provides improved manageable and more impressive low-frequencies”.
  • They sound amazingly clear and accurate at any volume.
  • Great for vocals and acoustics.
Cons
  • Bi-amping was removed from the speakers; although, given the budget of the line, there were hardly many owners who needed it.