Even in the year 2021, bookshelf speakers are very much still a part of the audio experience.
While we rely on portable Bluetooth speakers, earbuds, and headphones for most of our listening, they simply can’t fill an entire room with crisp, clear sound. That’s where bookshelf speakers come in.
Reasons for Buying Bookshelf Speakers in 2021
The best bookshelf speakers of 2021 can be used in a number of ways, however, the two main reasons one might use them are for a home theater system or for a listening station (think connecting them to your vinyl record player).
Below you’ll find the best bookshelf speakers at every price point. Calculate what you’re willing to spend, then use this roundup to help you build an out-of-this-world listening experience.
Before You Read Further, Here’s Our AVR Recommendation
For some of our younger readers out there, AVR stands for “Audio/Video Reciever.” You’re going to need an AVR for some of these bookshelf speakers. If the speakers don’t have internal power, then that means they’re meant to be connected to an AVR.
A quality AVR is a great pickup for your home or apartment. They serve as the heartbeat to your audio setup, so it’s important to get one that’s going to last. We recommend this best-selling one from Sony to start.
Sony STRDH190 2-ch Home Stereo Receiver with Phono Inputs & Bluetooth
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The Best Bookshelf Speakers of 2021
Klipsch Synergy Black Label B-200 Bookshelf Speaker
With a dynamic .75″ tweeter and a 5.25″ high-output woofer, the B-200 is one of the best bang-for-your-buck speakers.
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Edifer R120T Bookshelf Speakers
A sleek retro look combined with modern audio quality goes a long way in explaining why these bookshelf speakers are a number one bestseller—they’re typically priced right around a c-note.
Polk Audio T15 Bookshelf Speakers
These 100-watt bookshelf speakers are a great choice for anyone just getting into the turntable game. They pack a punch with their heavy bass levels.
Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers
You’re going to be hard-pressed to find any other quality bookshelf speakers at such a low price. That makes the Micca’s ideal for anyone getting started. They also are great space-savers compared to other speaker options.
Sony 3 Way 3 Driver Bookshelf System
The 3-way 3-driver offers a tweeter and super tweeter over badass bass. This allows for High-Resolution Audio. Think Hi-Def, only for your ears instead of your eyes. We choose these for blasting music.
Fluance SX6WH High Definition Two Way Bookshelf Loudspeakers
These bookshelf speakers work great either as main speakers or as rear surround sound speakers. Our favorite aspect of the Fluance is its modern design.
Audioengine A5+ Plus Wireless Speaker
A premium bookshelf speaker with internal power and Bluetooth pairing capabilities. Connect your phone or laptop to these bad boys whenever you please. Then flick on a movie like The Dark Knight later in the day and channel your inner Bruce Wayne.
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Jamo S 803-WL
Elegant European design, these bookshelf speakers offer a lot of quality sound while maintaining a contemporary look that will blend in with your setup.
Klipsch Synergy Black Label B-100 Bookshelf Speaker
The B-100 has a smaller high-woofer output of 4″ as opposed to the B-200s 5.25.” Nonetheless, you’re still getting great quality—and at a cheaper price, we might add.
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ELAC Debut 2.0 Bookshelf Speakers
Power and clarity are brought to the forefront here with these bookshelf speakers, which aim at getting the sound to you as seamlessly as possible thanks to front-firing ports.
John is the Style & Gear Editor for BroBible. You can contact him on Twitter @johnthompsoniv or via email John@brobible.com
The BroBible team writes about gear that we think you want. Occasionally, we write about items that are a part of one of our affiliate partnerships and we will get a percentage of the revenue from sales.