For bookshelf speakers which do not cost more than $200, you might be expecting something that isn’t up to par but there are actually great speakers for that amount that would serve whatever purpose you may want.
You could get a Prosonic BT30 Active Powered Bluetooth which costs about $93.68, way less than $200, and still get an amazing sound from your speaker. There is also an Elac BS243.4 –SB Carina which costs almost $1000.
Yet there is the option of an Edifier R1280DBs which costs about $159 – under $200 and would give you the best power and clear bass.
How we Made Our Pick
Of numerous bookshelf speakers, getting the best that is below $200 was very tricky. This is because there are quite a lot of bookshelf speakers for that price range but very few of them serve the purpose.
From thorough scrutiny and research on the specifications of this selection, we have brought out a list of those that have served numerous purposes for people. These ones outlined are one of the few best speakers for enclosed spaces (and even outdoor functions) that would give you maximum sound quality.
Here’s How to Know a Great Bookshelf Speaker for Less than $200
On a quest to get speakers that would fit your small space, affordability shouldn’t be the only paramount thing to you. Knowing the exact reason and need for the speaker is great for knowing what type of speaker to get.
There are many important things to look out for, including the capacities, these speakers come in and their functionalities.
One such thing to consider is the sound produced. Make sure it resonates with what appeals to you and would not be easily distorted. The bass and clarity of the sound are what most people have considered when picking a bookshelf speaker.
It is also important to know the speaker types as there are actually some speakers (brands) known to give better sounds than others. Also, keep in mind the space you plan on using the speaker and also have the right, matching components.
Best Bookshelf Speakers Under $200
1. Sony SSCS5 3-Way 3-Driver Bookshelf Speaker
For bookshelf speakers, the Sony SSCS5 has received so much hype for the right reasons. This piece is one that is almost a steal for the price it goes because naturally, speakers under $500 will always struggle in many areas that this under $200 piece still manages to make things happen.
This is not to suggest that they have no faults, but they manage to get the job done, keeping in mind that you are not breaking the bank to get them. The sound quality is good and the bass is not there, but it will not cause an earthquake, especially at maximum volume.
On the bright side, it is kitted with Monitor Isolation Pads. This technology is in place to reduce the vibrations from the speakers.
Features
- The set comes with a 3-way 3-driver System.
- It has a frequency response of 53 Hz to 50 kHz, 100 watts of power, and a 6 ohms impedance.
- It is designed with Monitor Isolation Pads.
- Has a Wide-Dispersion Super Tweeter
Pros
- The sound is very good.
- It has a good projection.
- It gives off tight, powerful, punchy bass because of its ported design.
- This is a kit that is designed to last a lifetime.
Cons
- It is quite heavy as the speakers weigh about 20.6 pounds.
- Its expandability is limited.
- Bass is a little weak at the highest volume.
Verdict
This speaker is great for fans of loud music as the 3-way speakers offer premium loud sounds which unless you stretch too much, doesn’t distort.
2. Edifier R1280DBS Active
The Edifier R1280DBS Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speaker is a 2.0 wireless Studio monitor speaker. It has a monitor, subwoofer, and coaxial and with all these unique additions, the speaker costs way under $200.
One of the best things you will come to realize with this piece is that it has a wooden enclosure that also prevents resonance. What is more, it comes with 5.0 Bluetooth which means you can easily connect with your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Lastly, it is beautiful and designed to last a long time.
Features
- It is Bluetooth 5.0 enabled.
- With the Sub out and Opt/Coax Inputs, lossless connections are eliminated.
- Additionally, this speaker has a 42 watts power, 13mm silk dome tweeter unit with a 4-inch sub-woofer unit.
- It comes with a wireless remote control that eases control of the speakers.
Pros
- Easy to use with PC, TV, and other devices.
- Great sound quality and balanced audio across all frequencies.
- A wireless remote control makes navigation easy.
- Bass sound adds depth and richness to sounds.
Cons
- The remote could have been better made.
Verdict
When looking for a multi-purpose speaker, this one suits you perfectly as you can connect other electronic devices to it.
3. Klipsch R-15M
This Klipsch speaker is a bookshelf outdoor speaker that gives quality sound despite its small size. This wired speaker gives versatility and power in the same package. With 94db sensitivity at 2.83 volts per minute, you can be sure to get value for a such small fee.
Features
- Dual 5.25 inches copper-spun high-output IMG woofers.
- The Klipsch R-15M dimensions are 12.5 inches x 7 inches W x 8.11 inches D.
- The finishing is a brushed black polymer veneer cabinet.
- Linear Travel Suspension tweeter that minimizes distortion of sounds.
- Rear-firing port designed to minimize turbulence.
- This bookshelf speaker also has a strong, flexible, removable grille and it adds a rich, refined look.
Pro
- It is great for giving off loud, smooth sounds no matter how small or large the space it is kept in.
- It has the ability to handle a lot of power.
- The volume and range of this speaker can resonate well in almost every room.
Cons
- It could sound too harsh for some people and with some playlists.
Verdict
This speaker has gotten good reviews over the years and has served its purpose for people who have used them. It is easier to use as Dolby speakers or paired with other speakers from this brand. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a great speaker with a loud sound, you’ve got one of the best that also costs not much.
4. Saiyin Bookshelf Speaker
The Saiyin bookshelf speaker is one of the few speakers within the $100 to $200 with a microphone input. This special feature makes it very unique from other speakers on this list. However, there are quite a few more features found on this speaker that would wow you.
Features
- It has a 6.35mm microphone input that allows you to connect both wired and wireless microphones and enjoy a day or night of karaoke.
- Has adjustments for treble and bass which allows you to tweak your sound to your choice. It also comes with a wireless remote control making adjustments to sound, easy.
- Has a 20mm silk dome tweeter and a 5.2 inches woofer that produces rich, clear bass sounds no matter the volume level.
- It has many connections which include Coaxial, RCA, AUX, Bluetooth 5.0, and SUB OUT. This means that you can connect your bookshelf speaker to other devices such as your TV, Computer, and phone.
Pros
- If you love to hear every single bass sound from your playlist, this speaker is perfect for you.
- Does not necessarily have to be paired with another speaker as this one can work perfectly well on its own.
- This pair of bookshelf speakers gives you the ability to enjoy entertainment in whatever form- whether it be you performing or listening to a playlist from your devices.
- You can add it to turntables to get the best audio experience of your sound.
Cons
- It has just one amplifier and so you can’t use 2 speakers without being connected with wires.
- It isn’t rich in treble sound and is only bass rich.
- It doesn’t sound so great for video games.
Verdict
From the given features, this speaker speaks more to people who want clear and smooth sound but with deeper bass. It is also perfect for family fun time including karaoke.
5. Yamaha NS – 6490 3-WAY
This brand has a reputation for creating appliances that produce quality audio. This particular bookshelf speaker doesn’t fall short of the already set standard as it offers great sound clarity as well as frequency response. It also serves as a home theatre set up with a magnetic shield.
Features
- Can be used as axillary speakers or as added home component sound system speakers.
- Each speaker enclosure has 3 drivers: an 8 woofer, a 4 midrange, and a 0.75 dome tweeter working together.
- Produces 45Hz to 23Khz frequency response range
- Has a 3-way acoustic suspension speaker system magnetic shield suitable for home theatre application.
- Can take up to 140 watts.
Pros
- This does not give off distorted sounds even at full power.
- This bookshelf speaker is suitable for both professional and home entertainment.
- The Yamaha NS – 6490 3-WAY bookshelf speaker has the ability to fill a room with high-fidelity sounds.
Cons
- It is big and heavy compared to some other shelf speakers.
- It may need an amplifier, depending on what you need the speakers for.
Verdict
This speaker, like most Yamaha speakers, is great. The older models of the Yamaha speakers still serve their owners and this won’t be any different. A plus is, you can use this speaker wherever you may be and it would give you a filling sound, nonetheless.
6. Cerwin-Vega Home Audio XLS
This subwoofer bookshelf speaker is a video shielding center channel speaker from the Cerwin-Vega brand. Despite its amazing sounds, it has been underrated partly because the brand isn’t well known. However, the specs of this speaker will definitely blow your mind.
Features
- 1-inch soft dome tweeters and 6.5 inches woofer with fiber-impregnated cone.
- Has video shielding.
- Has high-frequency protection and a proprietary mid and high-frequency waveguide.
- It is a passive speaker and does not require a connection to wall power.
Pros
- This speaker serves well as the main and rear speakers and produces clean, natural sounds.
- You don’t need a connection to wall power and so can be comfortably used for outdoor functions.
- This speaker offers an all-around balance even for low frequencies.
Cons
- They need a lot of power to drive them and so you may need to invest in amps.
- It is a single speaker and so will not give off the type of sound gotten from double speakers. If you need more speakers, they will have to be bought individually.
Verdict
This bookshelf speaker has been given a thumbs-up by a couple of users and does indeed pass for a great speaker. It may not look so good in appearance and does not come as a pair but if your main need is a good sound without wall-connection power, you have it here.
7. Edifier R1700BT
This speaker is a Bluetooth bookshelf speaker that produces a magnificent bass sound. Thanks to its bass reflex port, the sound is clear and punchy. You know that grating metallic sound that often accompanies cheap speakers, this one does not have it.
Features
- Has both digital and analog inputs of RCA/AUX and can be used for PC turntables and the like of it.
- Bluetooth V4 0 allows for connection to phones and other like devices.
- Allows for dual device connection as long as it is a 3.5mm headphone output or dual RCA output.
- Has a remote control that aids switch input sources, volume control, and mute/unmute features.
- Classic wood finishing that adds beauty to the room.
Pros
- Because of the Bluetooth feature, this speaker enables advanced functionality from smartphones.
- It offers a good balance across all ranges of sounds.
- It looks good and is one of the best-looking bookshelf speakers.
Cons
- The Bluetooth connection is not guaranteed and can make using it stressful even though it outranks other input methods.
Verdict
If you are looking for a dual-purpose speaker, this one fits the bill almost perfectly. You can connect other devices to this speaker as it has a back panel that enables AUX/RCA connection. It is flexible and its audio quality is superb.
8. Pyle Bookshelf Speaker
Asides from the fact that this speaker looks really good with its wooden finish, it also has great specifications that make it worth more than the price. It gives off very clean sounds and has great MAX power.
Features
- Classic wood finish and wooden speaker dimensions
- Has a 1-inch dome tweeters unit, aluminum voice coils with 6-ohm impedance, and 5.25 inches woofer.
- Has a maximum of 200 watts and an RMS power of 100W. amplification.
Pros
- Gives a perfect bass sound with no distortion.
- It is very affordable but this doesn’t distort its performance.
- Has a very modern look and touch to it and can beautify your surrounding.
- Very easy to set up.
- Gives off detailed, lively sounds.
Cons
- It doesn’t work so well for some people but this is believed to be based on preference.
- When listening to a song with acoustic guitar, this speaker may sound off.
Verdict
This shelf speaker is very portable and will give a good sound. Ultimately, it is affordable and won’t cause a dent in your finances. For its unbelievable cost, it serves a perfect cause no matter where it is placed in the room.
9. BIC America DV62si
Highly underrated, the BIC America DV 62si has a great bass sound which is surprising for its price.
Features
- The BIC America DV62si shelf speaker has a 6.5 inches poly graphite woofer and a 0.75 soft dome tweeter.
- 90 dB sensitivity
- The BIC America DV62 is a video-shielded, 2-way, Venturi-turned vent shelf speaker.
- Has proper transducers and power.
- Black laminate finish.
Pros
- It has a great audio output which in turn gives great sound.
- Robust bass for lovers of bass.
- Its sensitivity is almost unmatched, especially when compared to bookshelf speakers within the same price range.
- The magnetic shield eliminates or reduces sound distortion especially if the speakers are placed close to a TV or computer.
Cons
- Weighing 25 pounds, this speaker is quite bulky and makes it difficult to carry about or place just anywhere.
- There would be a need for an EQing as the tweeters of this speaker can be too bright.
Verdict
This BIC America shelf speaker is quite affordable and gives a different feel from others within its range. It also looks good with its black laminate finish and would offer both aesthetic and a good enough sound.
10. Fluance Elite High Definition 2-Way
This speaker is a bit bigger than others for its price range but offers amazing sound performance. It is also a modern-looking speaker with an air channel behind it, allowing the sound to bounce through walls and fill the room.
Features
- MDF wood construction reduces cabinet resonance.
- Has a Butyl rubber suitable for long-lasting performance.
- Banana plug and speaker wire compatible connectors on all speakers
- The premium crossover features Butterworth design fit for audio equalization with an 18 gauge internal lead to reduce signal degradation.
Pros
- It has a high-quality gold-plated connection.
- The Fluance bookshelf speaker has a large-diameter woofer.
- Great high-frequency response.
- Vibrations are reduced as the primary speaker box is lifted off the foundation.
Cons
- The speaker doesn’t allow for wireless connectivity and as such requires carrying a lot of wires.
Verdict
For the cost of this speaker, it would wow you what sound it can produce. It is easy to love by those who are fascinated by good–looking speakers that perform well too. It has a modern spec and sleek veneer.
The Best Ways to Care for and Maintain your Bluetooth Speakers
For bookshelf speakers and speakers in general, there are a few ways to maintain them. Some of these ways are;
1. Dusting and Cleaning
There are a handful of ways to dust and clean your bookshelf speakers and these include removing the grill (for those who have grills), dusting with a dust pad, dry cloths, or vacuum cleaners.
You can also choose to wipe with a clean microfiber cloth run under water. When you do this, also dry the speakers with dry micro-fiber clothes.
Also, blow out the dust that may be stuck in certain corners of the speaker.
Above all, regularly ensure that your bookshelf speaker and even the bookshelf it is placed on, are clean and dust-free.
READ ALSO:10 Best Bluetooth Speakers from $100 to $200- Great Performance (Review)
2. Avoid Exposure to Heat
Heating agents like the sun can be detrimental to the longevity of your speakers. When these speakers are exposed to sunlight, they could overheat and cause damage to certain components and in the end, ruin the sound produced by the speaker.
Therefore, it is advisable to avoid overexposure to the sun. There may be times when you would have outdoor functions and so need your speakers out of the room, in such moments, endeavor to keep a shade over the speakers.
Also, do not keep your bookshelf speakers close to fires, heaters, or vents. Ultimately, keep your bookshelf speakers away from any heating agent.
3. Invest in Anti-static Surfaces
Anti-static surfaces such as anti-static floor mats and non-metallic/magnetic surfaces are great for speakers. This is because they reduce the static electricity that would build up in your speakers if they are placed on surfaces like carpets.
It is important to avoid whatever would cause your system to burn out. If you stay in a very dry area, it is best to get a humidifier which also helps to lessen the build-up of static electricity.
4. Ensure there’s Enough Air in the Surrounding
Just like keeping the speakers away from heat, make sure their surroundings are well-ventilated and air flows freely.
All speakers need enough airflow in order to ensure they are kept relatively cool whenever they are powered on.
Easy ways to get this done are by keeping a fan blowing it or just placing the speakers far from tight corners or the wall.
Bookshelf speakers are even better placed on stands where adequate air can get to them.
5. Control the Power Getting to your Speakers
One important care for your speaker is to regulate the amount of power it gets. Irrespective of the type of speaker (active or passive), it is important to control how much power has access to it.
Regularly unplug speakers from sockets and power stations when not in use, to avoid damage in case of a power surge.
You can also invest in surge protector strips if unplugging and plugging your bookshelf speakers would be too tasking.
6. Avoid Leaving the Speakers Damp and Cold
While heat is detrimental, dampness and cold can also cause damage to your bookshelf speaker. In low temperatures, condensation builds within the speaker terminals and may cause a short circuit damaging the speakers.
However, it is easy to avoid damaging your speakers through dampness and condensation if only you leave the speaker unplugged and off.
Our Top 3 Affordable Bookshelf Speakers
Based on Affordability – Edifier R1700BT is the most affordable on the list and would also serve your needs.
Editor’s Choice – Personally, the Yamaha NS-6490 3-way bookshelf speaker is very appealing, and as regards its sound clarity and delivery, it is top-notch.
Overall Best – Consumers and lovers of speakers have, over time, been mostly drawn to the Sony SSCS5- 3way 3-driver bookshelf speaker. This may be because of its punchy bass sound or the other features it comes with.
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