Best Bookshelf Speakers Under $200

19 days ago

A bookshelf speaker is a speaker that mounts on the wall or stands on its shelf. These speakers are typically smaller than floor-standing speakers because they produce less bass and need to be placed closer to the listener to make up for this sound quality. If you're looking for the best bookshelf speakers under $200, we have compiled a list of 10 options that can fit your budget while still providing fantastic sound quality. The list includes models from Klipsch, Yamaha, Polk Audio, and Definitive Technology. Bookshelf speakers are perfect for smaller spaces and provide a fantastic listening experience. Without bookshelf speakers, you are missing out on a lot of music that won't be heard. Bookshelf speakers can produce sound by either firing the audio forward or having an inbuilt option to fire it from both sides for a more significant stereo effect. If one side is damaged or broken, the speaker will usually still provide mono sound (from just left/right). Bookshelf speakers can be used for various functions - either as part of your home theater system or in conjunction with other hi-fi audio equipment.

The Best Bookshelf Speakers Under $200

Some people will buy bookshelf speakers and place them on their desk at work, while others may use them to enhance the sound from their TV set in another room. Bookshelf speakers are a significant investment if you want excellent quality sound from all aspects of your life. They are typically less expensive than floor standing or tower speakers, and they won't take up as much space in the room either. You will have more options when it comes to choosing bookshelf speakers because there is such a wide variety of options available.

Table of Contents

Our Recommendations - Best Bookshelf Speakers Under $200

AWARD	PRODUCT
Best Small Bookshelf Speakers Under $200	Polk Audio RTI A1 - Bookshelf Speaker	Check Price
Best Powered Bookshelf Speaker Under $200	Edifier R1280T - Bookshelf Speaker	Check Price
Best Sounding Bookshelf Speakers Under $200	Sony SSCS5 - Bookshelf Speaker System	Check Price
Best Wireless Bookshelf Speakers Under $200	Edifier R1280DB (Active) - Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers	Check Price
Best Active Bookshelf Speakers Under 200$	Klipsch R-14M - Reference Bookshelf Speaker	Check Price
Best Premium Bookshelf Speaker	BIC America DV62si - Bookshelf Speaker	Check Price
Best Home Audio Bookshelf Under $200	Pioneer SP-BS22-LR	Check Price
Best Mid-Range Bookshelf Speaker Under $200	Polk Audio TSi100 - Black Bookshelf Speakers	Check Price
Best Surround Speaker Under $200	JBL Arena B15 - Bookshelf & Surround Speaker	Check Price
Best 2.0 Computer Speaker Under $200	Edifier R980T 4" - Bookshelf Speaker	Check Price

Polk Audio RTI A1 - Bookshelf Speaker

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Tweeter	1-inch silk/polymer
Cone	5.25-inch balance mineral/polymer
Magnet	Powerful neodynium magnet
Heat sink	Yes
Power Port	Yes

The first is Polk Audio RTI A1 speakers, designed for use on bookshelves and come with a wide range of features. They can handle 120 watts before going into distortion mode, which is more than enough power to drive the speaker at high or low volumes. Its wood design The RTI A-series speakers also have an adjustable crossover and impedance selector. It features a neodymium magnet which woofer and a silk dome tweeter. The Audio RTI A1 Power Port technology delivers the best bass response in its class. So, the Polk Audio RTI A1 is a set of speakers that are designed for use on bookshelves. Its main features are 120 watts handling power before going into the distortion model and deliver the best bass response in its class.

Pros

Good clear sound
The response is pretty fast
Budget-Friendly audiophile speakers
Suitable for movies and music
Wood bookshelf speakers
Resonance-free enclosures
Power Port technology (For port noise)
Features a neodymium magnet
The good heat sink on the back

Cons

Low-mids
Bass are weak

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Edifier R1280T - Bookshelf Speaker

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Design	CLASSIC WOOD FINISH
Sound Quality	Natural sound
Bluetooth	None Bluetooth version
AUX INPUT	2 x
REMOTE CONTROL	Yes

The second is the Edifier R1280T bookshelf speaker. This is a combination of both the best bookshelf speakers under 200$ and also speaker stands. For full-range sound, R1280T would be perfect as it has two drive units on each side which delivers high-frequency response with clarity. It comes with an eight-inch woofer unit to provide a deep bass response so that you won't miss out on that. The speaker includes a specially designed bass reflex port, allowing the sound to flow from inside and produce richer, more powerful sounds. It also has a tweeter unit with a silk dome diaphragm that is great for high frequencies as it makes clear mid-range tones and extended frequency response. The R1280T CLASSIC WOOD FINISH SPEAKER is a perfect speaker to have if you are looking for that classic sound. Its design features two-way speakers with a 12-inch woofer and one-inch tweeter, producing the best of both worlds: high fidelity stereo imaging along with a deep bass response. These units also come in various finishes, such as mahogany, oak, and walnut wood. The 1-inch silk/polymer dome tweeter will produce high frequencies, while the 12-inch woofer handles lower frequencies. This bookshelf speaker is made by a company that has been in the industry for over 50 years, so you know they must be doing something right with their products. The JBL LSR309s are also very affordable despite their quality, as it only costs around $199 (USD).

Pros

Reliable Performance
Combined a retro look
Modern sense of audio quality
Versatile bookshelf speakers
4-inch bass driver
Best audio experience
Precise Control
Handy remote control
Built-in tone control

Cons

Not good bass response

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Sony SSCS5 - Bookshelf Speaker System

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Type	3-way, 3-speaker system
Bass-reflex	✔
Woofer	130mmMRC cone type (2)
Super Tweeter	19mm soft dome type
Impedance	6Ω

The third is Sony SSCS5 3-way bookshelf speakers. It contains the midrange driver, tweeter, and woofer in one enclosure which gives you great sound with an outstanding sonic response for these bookshelf speaker price range under 200 dollars. The 3-speaker bass-reflex system of these speakers gives you high-quality and accurate bass reproduction with a frequency response of 55Hz-24kHz. Sony SSCS51 is also one of the best bookshelf speakers because it has a grille that provides protection to both its woofer and tweeter from dust, pets, kids, or anything else that you might get in the way. It also has a long-throw woofer to produce accurate bass and an acrylic glass tweeter, providing a high-frequency response with clarity for the best musical experience. Its Optimized Crossover makes it easy to install. So, overall the Sony SSCS5 is a great and best bookshelf speaker under 200 with high-quality features.

Pros

Wooden finish
Built on sound foundations
Bookshelf speakers are very compact
Tweeters have Air-core inductors
High-frequency notes
Woofer provides deep, stable bass
Tapered faceplate edges
Mica Reinforced Cellular cone

Cons

Incompatible with larger gauge wire

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Edifier R1280DB (Active) - Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers

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TOTAL POWER OUTPUT	R/L: 21W+21W RMS
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO	≥85dBA
INPUT SENSITIVITY	LINE IN1: 450±50mV , Bluetooth: 700±50mFFS
BASS DRIVER	4 inch
REMOTE CONTROL	Yes

The fourth is Edifier R1280DB which is a perfect choice and is quite powerful yet not too bulky, and it has a nice look to boot; the finish is matte black with silver accents that make for an attractive design. The speaker looks great sitting on your desk or mounted on the wall because there are mounting points on the back of each speaker. This is a great bookshelf speaker for those who want to mount them in their office or bedroom because it doesn't have to be anchored with screws; just use the built-in mounts and hang them from your wall. The best is you can use one as a computer monitor speaker by connecting it to your PC. So, overall the Edifier R1280DB is the best bookshelf speaker under 200 that's also a great set of speakers for your desk or office. Its BLUETOOTH WIRELESS is a great feature, and the sound quality is pretty good.

Pros

Bluetooth wireless technology
Contemporary style Variant
Side Panel Controls
Newly redesigned wireless remote
Optical and coaxial inputs (upgrade)

Cons

Low Dolby 5.1 decryption
Some signals are too quiet

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Klipsch R-14M - Reference Bookshelf Speaker

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Woofer	4" IMG woofer
Tweeter	1"
Cabinet	Veneer cabinet
Best Fits For	Small to medium rooms
Rear-Firing Port	Yes

The fifth is Klipsch R-14M, a pair of bookshelf speakers that can be bought for under $150. These are the most trustworthy bookshelf speakers on our list because they have much less power than other products mentioned before and are cheaper. The Klipsch R-14M comes with an MDF construction which makes it very durable and has the ability to fill a larger area than other bookshelf speakers. The Klipsch R-14M has a woven Kevlar coil, and it is because the sound quality is impressive as it can deliver clean, clear, high definition vocals with good bass. For small to medium rooms, the Klipsch R-14M is perfect and can be placed anywhere. These have been chosen after thorough research, and all these products will not disappoint you if you buy them, so go ahead pick one from this list as it's your last chance to make an informed 90x90 Tractrix Horn Speaker decision. The best thing about these speakers is that they are very lightweight even though they have outstanding sound quality. So, overall the Klipsch R-14M is the best bookshelf speaker under 200.

Pros

Linear Travel Suspension
Spun Copper IMG Woofer
Maximum connection flexibility (Rear-Firing Port)
High-output IMG woofer
Black polymer veneer cabinet

Cons

The voice of the male announcer on the TV will be echoed

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BIC America DV62si - Bookshelf Speaker

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RMS	175-Watt
Woofer Size	6-inch poly/graphite-blend
Grilles	Yes
Manufacturer	BIC America
Audio Output Mode	Surround

The sixth is BIC America DV62si which is a compact bookshelf speaker with a high gloss black finish, rounded corners and is available in both white or cherry wood. This model features an MDF construction that has been molded into two chambers for an improved bass response while still producing some clear mids and highs. The speakers are housed on either side of the cabinet and feature a six-inch poly woofer and one-inch soft dome tweeter with frequency response from 43 to 20,000 Hz; it also has an impedance rating of eight ohms. There is no crossover network, so this model will not blend as well in bi-amplified and multi-room audio installations. The Video-shielded tweeter is also a nice feature. There are some drawbacks with this model, such as the use of plastic for the speaker grills, but it does have an air vent to help keep them cool, and these speakers do not come in any other color than black or white, which can be limiting. So, overall the BIC America DV62si is an excellent bookshelf speaker that offers a simple design and easy setup.

Pros

Accurate extended bass
The custom-designed poly dome tweeter
Unique front cabinet angles
Video-shielded
Video-shielded
Black laminate finish

Cons

Average sound
Average midrange tones

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Pioneer SP-BS22-LR

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Structured Surface Woofer	4”
Soft Dome Tweeter	1"
Element Sophisticated Crossover	6
Power Handling	80 Watt
Sold as a Pair	Yes

The seventh is Pioneer SP-BS22-LR which is a perfect choice for most conventional bookshelf speakers. A budget speaker can offer an outstanding sound quality; the sound will be very clear and detailed. The bass in this speaker is tight and punchy, giving you that great music experience at home or office with no need to break your wallet. Moreover, it has also been designed with a front-firing bass port, internal crossover network. Its Soft Dome tweeter and internal power amplifier. For striking sound, the SP-BS22-LR is an excellent choice. The bookshelf curve design is also very attractive for those who want to display it in their house. So, overall the SP-BS22-LR is the best bookshelf speaker under 200, which is worth considering.

Pros

6 component high quality cross over
True bass performance
Authentic audio reproduction
Professional-quality sound
Curved-cabinet design

Cons

Low-frequency hum

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Polk Audio TSi100 - Black Bookshelf Speakers

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Woofer	5.25 inch
Tweeter	1 inch
Frequency	53Hz 25kHz
Mounting Type	Keyhole Hanger
Speaker Type	Bookshelf

The eighth is Polk Audio TSi100, a two-way passive system that also has the trademarked Power Port technology that provides high levels of portability and bass performance with low distortion so you can enjoy your music to its fullest extent on any device outdoor activities like barbeques, pool parties or camping trips. The 5.25-inch dynamic balance woofer and a three-inch high-definition silk dome tweeter make for an incredible sound reproduction which is also enhanced by the rear port and front-firing slot design. The Polk Audio TSi100 TSi enclosure is made of MDF and has a wood grain vinyl finish. Like the other best bookshelf speakers under 200, this speaker is also available in black walnut veneer or cherrywood veneer. The Polk Audio TSi100 will bring your music to life with its amazing sound quality, great features, and affordable price.

Pros

Solid MDF (3/4-inch baffles)
Beautiful pewter accents
High gloss piano-finish
Dynamic Balance technology
Klippel motor optimization
5-way binding posts

Cons

Normal Bass

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JBL Arena B15 - Bookshelf & Surround Speaker

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Frequency Response	100Hz - 40kHz
Sensitivity	86 dB
Nominal Impedance	8 Ohms
Soft dome tweeter	1-Inch
Woofer	5.5-inch

The ninth is JBL Arena B15 which is the best bookshelf speaker under 200. It has a frequency response of 50-20,000Hz with an input sensitivity of 130mV, and the nominal impedance is eight ohms. Ideal for small rooms or apartments that don’t require more than half the power to move air in your living space, you need this set of bookshelves. The best bookshelf speakers under 200$ are the JBL Arena B15s. They have an excellent range of 100Hz - 40kHz and work well with small rooms or apartments that don’t need a lot of power to move air in your space. The Arena B15s are good bookshelf speakers because their design has an excellent range of 50-20,000Hz and works well with small rooms or apartments that don’t need a lot of power to move air in your space.

Pros

Soft dome tweeter
Wall-mountable bookshelf speaker
HDI Waveguide and 1" Tweeter
Polycellulose Woofer
Woofer brings room-filling
For movies, gaming, TV shows

Cons

Normal quality mounting brackets
Normal bass

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Edifier R980T 4" - Bookshelf Speaker

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TOTAL POWER OUTPUT	RMS 12W × 2
SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO	≥85dBA
FREQUENCY RESPONSE	70 HZ-20 kHz
INPUT SENSITIVITY	700±50mV
ACTIVE/PASSIVE	Active

The tenth is Edifier R980T, an all-rounder and the perfect bookshelf speaker for a medium to a large room. It uses two-way speakers with one tweeter and one woofer, which allows it to produce deep bass but also high-quality treble frequencies as well. This means that you will be able to hear everything from the delicate sounds of a violin or flute to the deep bass of a drum or kick-drum. The Edifier R980T has an impressive frequency range from 70 HZ-20 kHz, meaning that you will be able to hear all those subtle and not-so-subtle nuances in your favorite song or movie score. They also come with built-in amplifiers for both the tweeter and the woofer, connecting them easily to an amplifier or receiver. So, overall the Edifier R980T is the best bookshelf speaker.

Pros

Enhanced quality Bass
Well-Rounded Speakers
Dual Inputs
Adjustable Bass
Flared bass reflex port
Compact in size
Both for PC and Television
Volume and bass knobs

Cons

Mid-range frequencies

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Final Remarks - Best Bookshelf Speakers Under $200

So, overall the people who have bought the best bookshelf speakers under $200 say that they would recommend them to a friend, which is an indicator of good quality. The best thing about these speaker systems for bookshelves is their versatility: According to customer reviews on Amazon, the sound quality also seems to be very high; according to customer reviews on Amazon; less muddy than some competitor products and clearer. Overall it's clear from reading through all this information that there are many options. After going over everything, we think our personal favorite has been identified as the Bose Acoustimass-15 Series III system because of its undeniable sound quality, good build and design, and customer reviews.

What Should You Look At When Buying The Best Bookshelf Speaker?

-Step one is to measure the size of your room and the space you have for speakers.

-Step two is to determine whether it will be best for music, movies, or gaming.

-Step three is to take into account which type of driver (full range, bass reflex) would work best in that particular environment.

-Step four is to consider where on your bookshelf you are going to put them!

-Step five is to know your budget. The budget you have for your bookshelf speakers will determine the type of sound quality and features available to you.

-Step six is determining if you want a subwoofer or not! This often depends on whether there's space in your room, as well as how much bass you prefer.

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Charles Koch

Hi! I'm Charles Koch. I've done graduation in Information Technology, and I love music. I buy lots of audio equipment, the latest audio interfaces, and hardware and use them to get proper knowledge, and after great judgment, I write blogs on them.