If you’re looking for a simple turntable setup, going with powered bookshelf speakers is often the most straightforward choice. Powered speakers already have amplifiers built in, so they’re ready to be hooked up directly to your turntable without any external amplification. Additionally, a few of the models on this list also feature phono preamps, which are preamps specifically designed for turntables. We should note that most modern turntables already have switchable phono preamps built in, so you won’t necessarily need speakers with integrated phono preamps. But check out What Is a Phono Preamp? for a more in-depth look.
Under $150
The 2-way Edifier R1280T is a top seller in this price category and a worthy entry point into the world of bookshelf speakers. Recommended for small spaces, these speakers aren’t designed to be blasted; for optimal sound performance, they’re meant to be played at comfortable volumes. Some nice features on this model are the bass, treble, and volume dials on the active speaker. And while the default tuning slightly favors the bass and treble over the midrange, a little tweaking of the levels will help you achieve a more balanced sound if that’s what you’re after. Although the R1280T doesn’t offer wireless connection, it’s incredibly easy to use, featuring two sets of RCA inputs in the back that can accept either phono or line-level inputs depending on your need for a phono stage.
Folks who own a Bluetooth enabled turntable might want to check out the Audioengine A1. The A1 is perfect for those who enjoy a clear and present midrange and treble. And while bass-heads might not get the low-end fix they need from these speakers, listeners who appreciate a detailed and accurate delivery will naturally gravitate towards the sound of the A1. Like the model above, these speakers are cute and compact, easily fitting on one’s desktop or bookshelf. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity the back of the active speaker offers a 3.5mm aux input, as well as a LFE variable line out for an optional subwoofer.
Under $300
Onkyo is a well-established brand in the home audio world and is known for producing great quality audio products at accessible prices. The GX-30ARC stands out for its powerful, clear, and smooth sound. It also offers a wide range of analog, digital, and wireless connectivity options, making it a smart option not only for use with turntables, but just about any kind of audio source you could think of. Digital inputs include HDMI ARC, USB-C, and optical, while analog sources can be connected via 3.5mm or RCA. This model comes with a phono preamplifier (switchable to line level), allowing you to bypass the phono stage on your turntable or connect vintage or high-end turntables that don’t have internal phono preamps. And if you prefer to go wireless, you can take advantage of the speakers’ Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. Shipped with two elegant angled speaker stands and a remote control, the GX-30ARC proves to be a feature rich and classy looking package for under $300.
Under $500
A speaker buying guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Klipsch. The R-40PM, from the famous American Hi-Fi brand, is super compact, and is best suited for desktop use or for playing in small spaces. One major upgrade employed in the R-40PM is the enhanced bass response partly thanks to the 10.1" deep MDF cabinets. However, if you want a little more oomph in your low-end you can always connect the speakers to an external subwoofer via the RCA line level output. Stream via Bluetooth or connect to other sources via the USB, optical, and 3.5mm inputs. And like some of the other speakers on this list, the R-40PM’s RCA input features a switchable phono preamp to support record players.
A big seller in this price range is the Kanto Living YU6. Available in matte white, matte black, and walnut, these handsome compact speakers boast 100W of total RMS power with 5.25-inch Kevlar woofers. Outputting an impressive amount of volume, the Living YU6 offers a relatively neutral sound signature with a touch of added warmth in the low-end. The speakers feature an RCA, 3.5mm, and two optical inputs, plus Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Like other models mentioned above, the Living YU6 accommodates a line-level and phono input, giving you extra flexibility over your phono preamp source. Other handy features include the 5V USB port that lets you charge your phone during playback, and an IR remote that allows you to control your speakers from the couch.
Under $1000
If you’re searching for professional studio style speakers with exceptional clarity and resolution, check out the G One from the fancy Finnish brand, Genelec. While these speakers feature advanced reflex port design for extended low-frequency response, we do recommend pairing them with the Genelic F One Subwoofer for some extra satisfying depth. The G One doesn’t offer the range of inputs featured on some other models on this list. However, they do include a bass port and five channels of inputs and outputs via the RCA jacks. At 10 inches tall, the die-cast aluminum cabinet is relatively small but also notably robust. Note that the G One is sold as a single speaker, so you will have to buy two.
The SVS Prime Wireless Pro is not only a fantastic sounding speaker, but is also one of the most versatile on this list with respect to its connectivity options. In terms of sound signature, you can expect tons of detail and control with a sensible serving of bass that can always be beefed up with a good subwoofer. Given that the Prime Wireless Pro is on the larger side for bookshelf speakers, this model can easily fill a medium-sized space with plenty of volume. In addition to the usual digital and analog inputs, you can also connect via Wi-Fi, allowing you to use Apple Airplay 2 and Chromecast. (Bluetooth is also available.) Enjoy the benefits of voice control and use the DTS Play-Fi app to remotely control a multi-room or whole home audio setup when the speakers are combined with additional components
$1000 and Up
The Nines, by Klipsch, aren’t the smallest bookshelf speakers. And if you have a larger room, this model, which delivers 240W of overall RMS power, will likely blanket the space. You’ll notice slightly U-shaped tuning, with the bass and high-end sitting a bit more prominently than the midrange. The Nines feature optical and USB inputs, an HDMI-ARC input, and two analog inputs, including a 3.5mm and switchable RCA for either line input or MM phono in. You’ll also find a subwoofer output along with Bluetooth support. Unlike the SVS Prime Wireless Pro, The Nines don’t have Wi-Fi streaming. However, they do sport hi-res/24-bit audio via Bluetooth 5 and support aptX and aptX HD codecs. With adjustable EQ presets (via app) and a classy mid-century design, The Nines are the perfect choice for those in the market for their first “serious” pair of turntable speakers.
The Airpulse A300 is a great choice for those in search of a particularly honest sounding speaker. Expect a tight bass with an open and transparent midrange, an expansive soundstage, and minimal coloration overall. The Airpulse 300 has optical, digital coaxial, balanced stereo XLR, USB Type-B, and stereo RCA inputs, plus Bluetooth connectivity with aptX. It employs a horn-loaded tweeter design for the midrange and treble and uses a low distortion mid-woofer for the lower half of the frequency spectrum. With a cherry wood veneer finished in a satin lacquer, the A300 cabinet is not only sleek looking, but also solidly built with a thick absorptive interior to minimize any sonic saturation.
For more information about the powered bookshelf speakers mentioned in this article, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out our detailed product pages.
