If you’ve got a passion for instrumental and lyrical rhythms or you want to listen to good music, there is nothing as important as the quality of the sound you get from your stereo system. That means that you should invest in a good stereo system. However, finding the appropriate speaker system for your needs can be pretty challenging due to the numerous models and brands available on the market. In this review, we are going to discuss some of the Best Bookshelf Stereo Systems and a straightforward buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
What is the best bookshelf stereo system?
5 Best bookshelf stereo systems reviewed
1. Edifier S350DB
Irrespective of the digital media you like most, you will want them to sound incredible. Edifier is one of the best brands that is popularly known for manufacturing high-quality electronics that are more focused on different sound systems. Despite the product you are looking for, you will always find a wide range of speaker systems that will suit your references and also satisfy your needs.
Design- Design-wise, the Edifier S350DB is a stunning set of speakers. These speakers perfectly blend an old-fashion aesthetic with modern and high-tech details, both small and big. One of the first things you will notice is the cherry wood veneer on the subwoofer and the two bookshelf speakers, which give the stereo a classy and retro appearance. Also, the front panel of the system and other details on these speakers are in matte black, giving the speakers a modern look. Moreover, they both blend pretty well to form a sound system that’ll easily fit into different PC or TV setups.
Connectivity- The S350DB is at a level of its own when it comes to the speaker’s performance. The speakers are pretty easy to use with different connection options. Regardless of the connection you want, they sound quite incredible. You can use them on your television through an optical cable and PC through their RCA connection. You can also connect them to various Bluetooth gadgets to get a good feel of how the stereo performs.
Audio quality- The S350DB stereo comes with excellent speakers that provide you with a quality 2.1 system, whether you choose to use them in the living room, or as part of your gaming set up. You will enjoy the deep low resounding noises produced by the 8-inch subwoofer that comes with the stereo set. It helps a lot when it comes to setting the atmosphere when watching horror films, and when it comes to music, this system adds an incredible oomph.
Advantage
- It comes with a high-quality, retro design
- It has an outstanding sound quality
- It has a robust and durable build quality
- It includes various connection options
- It is easy to set up and use
Disadvantage
- The LED indicator is small
- Some controls are missing
Summary: If you are looking for a stunning set of speakers, then the S350DB stereo should top your list. This stereo has it all, incredible sound quality, a unique retro design, and a wide range of connection options. Whether you want to use it on your PC, TV, or as a Bluetooth speaker, you will discover that it outshines standard speakers, which makes it the best purchase.
2. Sharp CD-BHS1050
This mini shelf speaker system features a cassette, CD changer, radio, and digital player all in one entertainment package. Its features blend well together to achieve a rich and dynamic soundscape. It has a full-logic cassette deck that allows you to listen to your old or new music.
Design and appearance- The Sharp CD-BHS1050 stereo has overall dimensions of 36.7 x 13.6 x 13.5 inches, with a total weight of approximately 34 pounds. The solid-looking speaker system looks pretty sturdy, and it is compact just like the name suggests. It also comes with a stunning cassette and 5-CD tray. That means that you can easily revive all your old music collections. It also includes an Audio line-in, a remote control, and a USB port.
Audio quality and performance- The Sharp CD-BHS1050 features various entertainment options along with a sound with approximately 350W @ 47Kohms output power. It supports different playback formats like CD-R, CD-RW, WMA, and MP3. It has two major channel speakers that include a 2 x 5.12″ woofer and a 2-inch tweeter. If you enjoy listening to the radio, this bookshelf speaker includes a digital FM/AM tuner that allows you to make a selection among its 40 resets using a single button.
Connectivity options- The Sharp CD-BHS1050 is pretty easy to use, and it supports various connectivity options. Regardless of the connections you want to use, these big speakers always sound amazing. You can use them both on your television and PC. You can also connect them to various Bluetooth and USB gadgets and dance to enjoy your favorite music.
Advantage
- It includes a remote control
- It has FM/ AM options with around 40 channels
- It has Bluetooth capabilities
- It is compatible with both Android and Apple phones
- It delivers smooth sounds
Disadvantage
- It might be slightly bigger than
- The user manual does not come in a booklet
Summary: The Sharp Sharp CD-BHS1050 stereo allows you to enjoy a full sound without giving you a boring feeling because it’ll allow you to select your type of music either in a CD player or in a radio station. With a single button, you will be able to hear some real sounds without any interruptions.
3. KEiiD KD-V02
If you want a speaker system that looks like a car stereo and works as a home speaker, then the KEiiD system combines these two different worlds to build a unique and stylish home stereo system. Generally, the result is usually better than you can ever expect. Its receiver is usually a VW stereo refit that provides the system with an incredibly modern retro aesthetic.
Design- The KEiiD speaker system is laid out just like a car stereo. It comes with six preset buttons situated on both sides of the LCD screen with a wide range of buttons that control various functions. There’s a separate rotary knob that’s used for regulating volume and radio tuning or track skipping. It also comes with separate controls for mid-range, treble, and bass, to help you fine-tune the speaker system to your personal preference or your room.
Performance and Audio quality- The KEiiD stereo is a single unit that comes with a two-way speaker system right and left of the receiver. Generally, each of the speakers features a 4-inch low-frequency driver with a 1-inch tweeter. It does not specify the system’s output. However, most users say it falls between 20W and 40W RMS. It has a wooden frame housing that helps in producing a punchy and low-end response. The treble and mid-range are clean and have a great high-frequency sizzle.
Input options- When it comes to connection options, the KEiiD set of speakers gives you more options than many other stereo systems. The inputs include RCA, USB, SD, ⅛-inch AUX, and Bluetooth. The speaker system also features an inbuilt front styled CD player as well as an HD FM radio tuner. It is also fitted with an active telescopic antenna to help pick up radio stations. It might sound old school, but it’s still cool.
Advantage
- It is well designed and can easily fit in any room
- It is solidly and heavily built
- It comes with an elegant design
- It includes different preset sound settings
- It supports different connectivity options
Disadvantage
- The power button of the remote control does not put it into standby mode
- It does not retain the created settings when you switch off the power button at the back of the speaker
Summary: If you love quirky items, then you will like the KEiiD stereo. It comes with a vintage retro design and in black, giving the system a more contemporary appearance. This stereo is also reasonably priced, considering that it’s a piece of decor and a stereo system as well.
4. HeroFiber Sony Stereo System
This product is a complete bundle that includes Sony Micro Stereo System, FM/ AM Antenna, Auxiliary Cable, Speaker Cable, AA Alkaline Batteries, Remote Control, HeroFiber Gentle Cleaning Cloth, and Speaker Pads. These speakers are of high-quality, and they produce dynamic and powerful sound when combined, making them one of the best buys out there.
Design- The HeroFiber Stereo System comes with a compact and contemporary design that can fit beautifully in any place in your home. It has a dimension of 14.4 x 13 x 18.1 inches and a total weight of approximately 16.8 pounds. It is pretty easy to set up, and use and you can effortlessly change your preferred bass boost and also adjust the treble or bass to have a customized kind of music.
Quality of audio and Performance- This set of speakers produces an exceptional sound that is powerful and dynamic. You should expect to hear some audio highs with the 50 W audio and the inbuilt S-Master R digital amplifiers of this stereo system. You do not have to pair your devices through a Bluetooth connection or some wires as long as your device is an NFC gadget or smartphone.
Connection options- The HeroFiber speakers are easy to use with a wide range of connectivity options. Despite the connection you prefer to use, these speakers always sound great. You can use them on your television and PC through the auxiliary cable and the RCA connection, respectively. You can also connect them to different Bluetooth and USB gadgets and dance to the amazing beat and sound you will get.
Advantage
- It has a compact contemporary design
- It comes with an inbuilt AAC and apt-X codec
- It prevents signal quality loss
- It includes a separate play and sleep timer
- It is compatible with a wide array of audio devices
Disadvantage
- It has no output power
- It is a bit expensive
Summary: If you are looking for an outstanding set of speakers, then this HeroFiber system can be a good option for you. You will experience clear audio high with the 2-way bass reflex speaker systems that deliver thumping bass. You will get a chance to relax comfortably and dance to the music with this classy stereo system.
5. Denon D-M41
Denon is among the popular brands that never disappoint. The D-M41 is usually a multi-award winning speaker system that’s of high quality, especially when it comes to styles, features, and facilities. It was released mainly as an upgrade to the popular, currently discontinued, Denon D-M40 model. It produces a clean and precise sound when compared to other products that are tweaked to sound exciting.
Design and controls- D-M41 is a compact speaker system that’s ideal in all types of rooms like in-home cinemas. It utilizes the newly-developed and discrete analog amplifier circuits to give it greater clarity and impact. The optical inputs of the D-M41 stereo can hook your TV and other devices to improve the quality of sound of what you’re watching. It comes with dimensions of 15.3 x 22.8 x 12.6 inches, which means that you can place it anywhere, even in small areas.
Connectivity- The D-M41 unit allows for different inputs, including optical, RCA, and Bluetooth. There’s also an inbuilt CD player and FM/ AM radio. If you’ve got a powered subwoofer, there’s an RCA output connection included. Furthermore, there is an optical output that allows you to connect to digital gadgets and headphone output as well.
Audio quality- The D-M41 system produces a tight bass sound along with a good amount of low-end definitions from the speakers. The treble and mid-range are well balanced, enabling them to deliver excellent intelligibility and clarity. When it comes to the quality of audio, you cannot fault the refined and sophisticated sound you will get from the D-M41 unit.
Advantage
- It comes with a straight and simple circuit design
- It has a triple noise reduction
- It boosts the signal-to-noise ratio
- It has a big volume robust base
- It supports different input and output connections
Disadvantage
- It has a bit of distortion from its input selector
- It doesn’t come with a powered subwoofer
Summary: The D-M41 stereo allows you to enjoy a high-quality sound regardless of where you are. Whether you are in your living room, hanging out in the bedroom, or at the office, this unit will easily blend with your lifestyle.
What should I look for when buying a bookshelf stereo system?
Stereo systems can be quite complicated at times, so we have put together a comprehensive guide to some of the important specifications and factors to consider before making your purchase. This guide will assist you in making an informed decision when choosing the best stereo for your needs.
1. Connections- A typical stereo system should only read compact discs. But with the development of technologies, compact discs are no longer convenient. Therefore, your stereo system should provide you with other connectivity options like Bluetooth, SD card slot, and USB port, so that you can play your music from different sources as per your convenience. Nowadays, numerous models support USB gadgets, including iPod devices. The Bluetooth connectivity enables you to stream your favorite music from your phone, which means that you can purchase digital albums and then play them using your stereo system.
2. Controls- The stereo system you are purchasing should provide you with all the controls you want. Many models do not offer an option to adjust the treble, and bass, and there are numerous modes available that allow you to listen to different types of music with high output. Furthermore, some of them come with radio systems, and if you like listening to the radio, then you should check if it’s available. Besides, some stereos are programmable, which means you can easily set different settings according to your requirements.
3. Size- The first thing you want to consider is your room size. If you have a large room, then you’ll want to make sure that you get a stereo system that’s powerful enough to fill the space. If you have a small room, you’ll want to ensure that you get a compact stereo system that won’t take up too much space.
4. Positioning- Before you purchase a stereo system, you should consider the available space. If the stereo comes with additional speakers, do you have a place to put them? Or will a single unit with some inbuilt speakers suit you best? If you can answer these questions, then you will get the right stereo for your needs.
5. Power- There are different methods of measuring the power requirements, and one of the best methods is by checking the Root Mean Square or RMS power draw. It refers to the average power across the operating range of the speakers. Generally, higher RMS normally means high power draw, and hence, louder audio.
6. Frequency Response- Generally, the frequency response is the range of the sounds that a stereo can produce. In most cases, manufacturers provide that in the form of a detailed graph, with the higher values in the high or low-frequency range, which signifies that the stereo system favors treble or bass. Ideally, you will see a perfectly straight line that indicates perfectly identical capabilities throughout all frequencies, but you should look for a stereo system with a relatively balanced curve.
7. Price- Finally, you’ll want to consider your budget when choosing a bookshelf stereo system. There is a wide range of options available, from high-end models that cost hundreds of dollars to more affordable options that cost less than $100. Decide how much you’re willing to spend, and then look for a bookshelf stereo system that fits within your budget.
Frequently asked questions about bookshelf stereo systems
What is a bookshelf stereo system?
A bookshelf stereo system is a complete, stand-alone music system that includes speakers, amplifiers, and often a CD player. A receiver may also be included.
Are bookshelf speakers good for music?
Yes, bookshelf speakers are generally good for music listening. They tend to have a more accurate sound than many other types of speakers and can reproduce a wide range of frequencies. Additionally, bookshelf speakers are often less expensive than floor-standing or tower speakers.
What are bookshelf speakers used for?
Bookshelf speakers can be used for various purposes, including playing music, watching movies, and listening to podcasts. They are often used in pairs and as part of a surround sound system.
What are the benefits of a bookshelf stereo system?
There are several benefits to owning a bookshelf stereo system:
- They are relatively affordable.
- They take up less space than a traditional stereo system.
- They often include features that appeal to music lovers, such as a built-in amplifier and superior sound quality.
Do bookshelf speakers need an amp?
No, active bookshelf speakers do not need an amplifier. However, passive bookshelf speakers will require an amplifier to work properly. Active bookshelf speakers have an amplifier built-in, while passive speakers do not. It will be very quiet if a passive bookshelf speaker is used without an amp.
How do I get more bass from my bookshelf speakers?
If you are looking for more bass from your bookshelf speakers, there are a few things you can try:
- Make sure the speakers are properly positioned.
- Try using a subwoofer.
- Consider using a speaker with a built-in amplifier.
- Make sure the audio source is high quality.
The Final Words (Summary)
You can see that all of the stereos discussed above are great. Some of them are incredibly stunning stereo systems that’ll enhance your room’s decor and others pride themselves on their surround sound or thumping bass. However, all of them are attractive systems that would make an excellent addition to most households. If you are looking for an outstanding stereo at an affordable rate, you will find all the features you are searching for in the Best Bookshelf Stereo System highlighted above.
