Buying Guide for the Best Edifier Bookshelf Speakers
Choosing the right bookshelf speakers is all about matching your listening habits, room size, and sound preferences. Instead of focusing on just one feature, you should consider how the speakers' design, size, and technical specifications work together. Think about how you plan to use the speakers—whether it's for music, movies, or gaming—and how they will fit into your living space. It's important to look for a balanced sound that fits your taste and needs, so pay attention to the specifications and try to understand what each one means for your listening experience.Speaker SizeSpeaker size refers to both the physical dimensions of the speaker cabinet and, more specifically, the diameter of the main drivers (woofers and tweeters). Bigger drivers can often deliver deeper bass and a fuller sound, but larger speakers may not fit well in smaller rooms or on crowded shelves. Typically, smaller speakers are easier to place but may be limited in bass output, while larger ones can fill bigger spaces with sound but require more space. If you are in a small room or need to place speakers on a compact shelf, opt for smaller drivers. If your room is medium to large and you desire more powerful sound—especially in the bass—choose bigger drivers.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output measures how much electrical power the speakers can handle and deliver, usually expressed in watts (W). Higher wattage generally means louder volume and a greater ability to handle dynamic music without distortion. Small wattage values (under 20W per channel) are suitable for desktop use or quiet listening, mid-range wattage (20-50W per channel) is good for most living rooms, and higher wattage (above 50W per channel) works best for larger spaces or if you enjoy listening at high volumes. Match the output to your room size and typical listening level—there’s no need for excessive wattage in a small or quiet space.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response tells you the range of sounds the speakers can reproduce, from the lowest bass to the highest treble, typically measured in hertz (Hz). A broader range means the speaker can play deeper bass and clearer highs. For everyday use, a range of about 60Hz–20kHz will suffice, but if you want strong, deep bass look for speakers starting at 40Hz or lower. If your music tastes require crisp highs, look for a speaker with a high upper limit, though most human hearing tops out at 20kHz. Pick a frequency response range that matches the detail and bass level you want for your typical music or movie preferences.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options refer to how you can connect your bookshelf speakers to other devices like computers, phones, or TVs. Common types include RCA, 3.5mm AUX, optical, Bluetooth, and sometimes USB. Analog inputs (like RCA and AUX) are standard for most traditional devices, digital (like optical or USB) can offer higher quality if your sources support it, and Bluetooth allows wireless use for convenience. Identify the main devices you’ll connect—such as a turntable, TV, or smartphone—and make sure the speakers offer compatible connections to meet your needs.
Built-in Amplifier (Active vs Passive)Some bookshelf speakers come with built-in amplifiers (often called active speakers), while others require a separate amplifier (passive speakers). Active speakers are more convenient for general users because they don’t need extra equipment—just plug and play. Passive speakers are for those who want to customize their sound system and perhaps already own an amplifier. Choose active speakers if you need simplicity and a tidy setup; consider passive speakers only if you want full control and customization over your audio components.
Controls and AdjustmentsControls and adjustments on bookshelf speakers may include knobs or buttons for volume, bass, treble, or balance, sometimes placed on the speaker body or a remote. These help you fine-tune your sound for different music types or room acoustics. If you like adjusting your sound based on your activity or placement (like moving between music and movies), having easy-access controls will be useful. Decide whether you want these adjustments at your fingertips or if basic volume control is enough for you.
Build Quality and AestheticsBuild quality refers to how well the speakers are constructed, including cabinet material, finish, and overall durability. A well-built speaker often sounds better due to reduced vibration and distortion and tends to last longer. Aesthetics matter if the speakers will be a prominent feature in your room. If durability and longevity are important, or if your speakers will be exposed to frequent movement, choose models with sturdy cabinets and quality finishes. Otherwise, pick a look that suits your room and taste.