Loudspeakers come in different sizes. The best floorstanding speakers are often regarded by experts as the best-presenting type. Due to their large build and better drivers (the separate speakers in the housing), column speakers often sound much better than bookshelf speakers. But that is often only an option if you have enough space for it. In smaller living rooms, a more compact speaker set can sound just better. Do you miss the low tones with bookshelf speakers? If your hi-fi set contains an amplifier with a sub or pre-out output, you can add an extra subwoofer. This is a special speaker that only produces the low tones, in addition to the small speakers. Adding a subwoofer is an upgrade that can make a lot of difference in terms of sound.
There is also an intermediate form: stand-mount speakers. They are more compact than floorstanders but are too large to simply place on a piece of furniture or shelf. Usually you have to place them on a speaker stand.
Speakers must match your stereo. Check whether your amplifier is suitable for the number of ohms of your speakers. You can often find that specification at the back of the speaker or on the manufacturer's website. It is important that you do not connect speakers with a low value (for example 4 ohms) to an amplifier with 8 or more ohms.
Speakers are also classified based on the amount of built-in speakers or drivers. 2- or 3-way is common. In addition to drivers, loudspeakers often also have passive woofers and bass ports or reflexes. These solutions ensure that speakers spread more low tones. Keep in mind that a bass port (a hole in the housing) at the back will provide more or less bass if the speaker is closer or further from the wall. |
