Have you been searching for a way to upgrade your audio setup (center channel speaker) without diving into the technical details of home theater? Shop your favorite retailer for these best center channel speakers under $2000, and with excellent sound quality, you can enjoy watching a movie or drama more.
For less than $2000, you can find center channel speakers like Definitive Technology’s CS-9080, Klippsch’s RC-64 III, PSB Imagine XC, and Polk Audio Reserve R400, all of which provide crystal clear sound with ample bass, ideal for whichever size room you have and whatever your listening habits are, or your existing audio setup.
These listed center speakers feature voice-matching technology, high-quality drivers, and a wide frequency response range.
Topic: Do you need center channels speaker under $1000?
Recommendations For Best Center Channel Speaker Under $2000
![]() |
Built-in powered subwoofer Definitive Technology CS-9080 Powered Center Channel Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
Best high-end center channel speaker for movies Klipsch RC-64 III 2.5-Way Center Channel Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
Loudspeaker Definitive Technology CS-9060 3 Way Center Channel Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
Star performer PSB Imagine XC Center Channel Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
Gloss Black Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S2 Center Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
Compact Designed Polk Audio Reserve R400 Center Channel Speakers Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
High end MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL Center Channel Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
Satisfying Experience Wharfedale EVO4.C Center Channel Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
![]() |
Brother of HTM72 Bowers & Wilkins HTM6 S2 Center Channel Speaker Read More | See On Amazon |
Best Center Channel Speaker Under $2000 Reviews
Definitive Technology CS-9080 Powered Center Channel Speaker
Built-in powered subwoofer
SPECIFICATIONS
CS-9080 Recommend For: Home Theater | Mounting Type: Speaker | Color: Black | High-resolution sound: 24-bit high-resolution
Pros
+ Provide high-powered bass
+ Intelligent Bass Control
+ LED illuminated front "D" logo
+ Balanced Dual Surround System
Cons
- Big for a center
Definitive Technology CS-9080 is a name most people know and trust in the home theater industry. Audiophiles who demand the best performance have recently had the opportunity to hear the CS-9080 center channel speaker.
Benefits Of Definitive Technology CS-9080 Center Channel Speaker
The CS-9080 center channel speaker from Definitive Technology includes the BDSS technology drivers and is an excellent addition to any premium home entertainment system.
With two 5.25" mid drivers, an integrated 8" 300W powered subwoofer (crystal clear highs and mids and lows), and a 10" bass radiator and offers bass enhancement proprietary intelligent bass control, the CS-9080 Center speakers are great for movies and video games.
Definitive Technology CS-9080 is easy to set up and come with an iconic intelligent design with minimal resonance, so you can create an immersive experience by adding the CS-9080 to your set-up, and you’ll be able to hear the vital dialogue and sound effects clearly without being distracted by background noise.
The CS-9080 Center speakers provide clear sound in all directions and have the latest sound Technology, which means they can produce clear sound in all directions and has a wide range of frequencies, so your audio recordings can capture all the details you want, and there is no need to add any additional subwoofer.
Additionally, the CS-9080 comes with a user manual explaining how to set them up, and with the latest built-in amplifiers and drivers, they can handle high volume levels with no problem.
With its sleek design and clear, powerful sound, the CS-9080 will look great in any home theater or audio system.
In my home theater experience, I have never experienced any problems with this Definitive Technology CS-9080 center channel speaker, and it has turned out to be the best investment I have ever made.
For Christmas, I bought my mom a Definitive Technology CS-9080 center speaker, which she absolutely loves. Although she has a couple of different speakers, they are all different from the CS-9080. The CS-9080 is the best center channel speaker under $2000, so see for yourself.
Grab now bookshelf speaker under $1000
Klipsch RC-64 III 2.5-Way Center Channel Speaker
Best high-end center channel speaker for movies
SPECIFICATIONS
Spec: 2.5-Way Speaker Design | 1.75" Titanium Compression Driver | 99 dB Sensitivity
Pros
+ Wonderful sound
+ Great sound and clarity of dialogue
+ 2.5-Way Speaker Design
+ Cast Frame Woofer Design
Cons
- Non
Klipsch RC-64 III center channel speaker stands out among the competition as it is powerful and affordable. The Klipsch RC-64 III features a 4-inch woofer (Cast Frame Woofer Design) for powerful bass performance thanks to 4 x 6.5" Cerametallic Cone Woofers and a 1-inch silk dome tweeter for high-quality audio reproduction, and also there is compressed rubber tractrix horn with 90x90 dimensions.
The Klipsch RC-64 III has a 2.5-Way speaker design and is ideal for home theaters or music systems due to its compact size, its ease of moving around the room, and high performance ensures excellent sound. You can place the Klipsch RC-64 III speaker anywhere in your room thanks to its 3-way design, and it also comes with an integrated subwoofer as part of the package.
In addition to being made from premium materials, the Klipsch RC-64 III features an advanced design that delivers the best sound quality possible, and it features 1000 and 1400 Hz Crossover Frequencies, as well as a 99 dB Sensitivity that reduces unwanted noise in your system.
The Klipsch RC-64 III is the perfect choice for small to medium-sized rooms with a Center Channel Speaker that fills your room with sound. Due to the Furniture-Grade Wood Veneer design (Black Ash), it looks premium. You can also enjoy booming sound in your room by connecting the RC-64 III to your audio source, setting it up, and using it.
Klipsch RC-64 III center channel speakers are popular among home theater enthusiasts because they have various attractive features, but they also have some drawbacks. Due to its 57 Hz to 24 kHz frequency response and 99 dB sensitivity, the RC-64 III is an excellent choice for low-end audio applications.
With a depth of 40Hz and the capability of handling high levels of power without distortion, the RC-64 III has one of the most accurate bass responses available. Klipsch RC-64 III speakers I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a high-quality yet affordable speaker. I have the Klipsch RC-64 III center speaker, and I am thrilled with it. I bought this speaker with my trusty Klipsch RP-280 II, an excellent upgrade. The sound quality is fantastic, the bass is impressive, and it is relatively easy to set up. The ability to pair the speakers with the same amp or receiver is awesome.
Topic: Have to experience a 3000-watt amplifier?
Definitive Technology CS-9060 3 Way Center Channel Speaker
Loudspeaker
SPECIFICATIONS
- Total Frequency Response: 32 Hz → 40,000 Hz
- Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
- Sensitivity: (1 watt @ 1 meter) 91 dB
- Amplifier: Class D
Pros
+ Full Range Performance
+ High-performance BDSS mid/bass drivers
+ Balanced Double Surround System
Cons
- Non
There’s only a little room for a center channel speaker in a home theater setup, but a Definitive Technology CS-9060 will fill out the soundstage and provide outstanding performance.
A ported enclosure and black design make the Definitive Technology CS-9060 center channel speaker ideal for people seeking a high-quality home theater experience. In addition to a 412-inch woofer and a 1" Hard-Dome tweeter, the CS-9060 is a powerful speaker.
As a result of its DTS Studio Sound technology, the CS-9060 also provides exceptional sound quality that will immerse you in your movies and music with deep, rich sound. The Definitive Technology CS-9060 is the ideal choice.
Features of the Definitive Technology CS-9060
This Definitive Technology CS-9060 center channel speaker supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound formats to bring the experience of immersive home theater to your living room.
In addition to its easy setup process, the CS-9060 can be easily configured with settings such as volume and EQ once connected to your home theater system. You can easily adjust the settings from anywhere in the room with the remote control that comes with the CS-9060.
With 91 dB sensitivity and a 32-40k Hz frequency response, the Definitive Technology CS-9060 has a 5-Way post, an RCA connector, and a 5-Way post. CS-9060’s audio quality is enhanced by BDSS (2nd Gen) Drivers (4.5" midrange cone woofers) and intelligent bass control, as well as the bass port, which utilizes rear-firing slot sport to increase sound efficiency and make bass deeper.
In addition to providing excellent stereo separation, the Definitive Technology CS-9060 is ideal for home theaters and other audio applications. CS-9060 has also been criticized for its durability, and some owners have reported that its sound quality has deteriorated over time, according to some owners.
The Definitive Technology CS-9060 has all the features you could want and more, including a powerful amplifier and a wide range of inputs.
The Definitive Technology center channel speaker I purchased is an excellent piece of equipment in terms of sound quality, aesthetic appeal, well-made construction, and excellent customer service.
Hence, it’s definitely worth checking out the Definitive Technology CS-9060 if you’re looking for best center channel speaker under $2000.
PSB Imagine XC Center Channel Speaker
Star performer
SPECIFICATIONS
Power Range: 20-150 | Sensitivity: 90 dB | Impedance (Ohms): 8 | Wall-mountable: No
Pros
+ Budget-friendly price
+ Slim cabinet design
+ Solid frequency response
Cons
- None noted
The PSB Imagine XC center channel speaker is a state-of-the-art product that provides excellent sound quality with 50-23,000 Hz (±3dB) frequency response and 89 dB sensitivity. PSB Imagine XC speakers are suitable for both home cinema and gaming as they have 8 ohms impedance, and to run these speakers perfectly, a power supply of between 20-150 watts is recommended.
In addition to the dual 5-1/4" clay ceramic-filled polypropylene woofers, the PSB Imagine XC has a titanium dome tweeter with neodymium magnets. A passive radiator, a bass reflex (ported) design, and gold-plated binding posts help ensure accurate low-end response on the PSB Imagine XC.
The Imagine XC features a 10-inch driver and a built-in crossover to reproduce audio accurately and features a sleek, modern design that will enhance any home theater setup.
Among the features of PSB Imagine XC there is Grille, Four Rubber feet, and Quick Start Guide included in the box. The PSB Imagine XC is an excellent choice for any audio system, thanks to its affordability, ease of use, and excellent sound quality.
The PSB Imagine XC center channel speaker is an excellent choice for those looking for a compact speaker with a black ash vinyl finish and designed with a powerful sound that will let you enjoy clear audio across all genres and is perfect for small spaces.
Additionally, the construction quality of PSB Imagine XC speakers (complaints by some consumers) could be better, which might lead to the product not lasting as long as more expensive models. In addition, walls and other nearby objects can affect the sound output, so care should be taken when putting this speaker in a room.
The PSB Imagine XC is a viable option for those looking for a high-quality and affordable center channel speaker. Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into the PSB Imagine XC center channel speaker and why you might be interested in purchasing one.
Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S2 Center Speaker
Gloss Black
SPECIFICATIONS
Enclosure: Ported | Color: Gloss Black | Tweeter Type : Decoupled Soft-Dome | Connector Type: Binding post | Power Range: 30-200
Pros
+ FST Continuum cone midrange
+ Multiple color option
+ Truly amazing sound
Cons
- Little big and fairly heavy
- Larger footprint
Audiophiles and music lovers will love the Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S2 center channel speaker as it features a coaxial design with an extended low-frequency response and has a built-in amplifier
The Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S2 center channel speaker features an exclusive design feature that cannot be found in other speakers in its class and offers the superior sound quality, and is lightweight, so you can easily move (as you want).
The Bowers & Wilkins center channel speaker offers a 3-way design, a 1" Decoupled Carbon DomeTM tweeter, and two 6 1/2" AerofoilTM Profile bass cones and has a vented cabinet with rear-firing FlowportTM for optimum sound quality and has 1-inch silk dome tweeter and active crossover network deliver seamless bass response and 50-28, 000 Hz (±3dB) frequency response.
The Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S2 is available in three colors, including black, white, or titanium, and it features the lighted logo and speaker grill, as well as an option for in-wall/in-ceiling installation.
According to a few testimonies I read, the Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S2 center channel speaker suits my budget and is exactly what I am looking for.
Polk Audio Reserve R400 Center Channel Speakers
Compact Designed
SPECIFICATIONS
Tweeter Type: Ring Radiator | Connector Type: Binding post | Frequency Response: 48-39K Hz
Pros
+ Pinnacle ring tweeter of 1 inch
+ Turbine Cone
+ Polk Newly Patented X-Port
Cons
- Large in size
There are two sizes of Polk Audio Reserve R400 speakers: the R400S, which is smaller than the R400C and is the best option for small home theater setups, and the R400C, which is larger than the R400S, is best for medium-large home theater setups.
This Polk Audio Reserve R400 speaker has a 1" Pinnacle ring radiator tweeter (integrated waveguide) and is made of aluminum alloy and composite materials, which makes it highly durable. In addition to the magnetically shielded enclosure, which ensures consistent sound quality no matter where the speaker is located, they also come with a removable magnetic grille.
Polk Audio Reserve R400 speakers have well-built and feature quality sound reproduction, but they are also relatively affordable, and you can find them cheaper online than at your local store if you’re interested in purchasing them. Overall, the Polk Audio Reserve R400 is impressive with its sound quality and small size, making it easy to place anywhere in the house and allowing a remote controlling option. In this case, the Polk Audio Reserve R400 is the best center channel speaker under $2000.
MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL Center Channel Speaker
High end
SPECIFICATIONS
black satin finish | Watt: 20-300 watts | FQ: 66-23,000 Hz (±3dB) | Impedance: 4 ohms
Pros
+ Great clean sound
+ Best center clarity
+ Outstanding Center Speaker
Cons
- Expensive upgrade
With its unique CenterForceTM bass system and two opposite-facing 5-1/4" high-excursion woofers that provide incredible voice-matched performance, the MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL is a good choice.
MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL has small-format center channel speakers designed and has excellent woofers and two electrostatic midrange drivers and are designed with a polymer spider frame that is extremely stiff and strong.
The MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL famed Folded tweeter is housed in a precision-sealed box and advanced passive radiating port design to deliver crystal precise audio reproduction.
Technical Details
- Tweeter with 5-1/4" x 1-3/4" diaphragm
- Two 9" x 6-3/8" transducer
- Two 5-1/4" high-excursion woofer
- Frequency response: 66-23,000 Hz (±3dB)
- Sensitivity: 89 dB
- Impedance: 4 ohms
Wharfedale EVO4.C Center Channel Speaker
Satisfying Experience
SPECIFICATIONS
Enclosure: Ported | Color: Black | Tweeter Type: AMT (Ribbon) | Connector Type: Binding post | Power Range: 25-150
Pros
+ Center channel speakers under $900
+ Bi-amp/bi-wire capability
+ Removable grill
Cons
- Non
A pair of Wharfedale EVO4.C center channel speakers are designed for home cinema and music listening. It is available in black or white. With its sleek, stylish design, the Wharfedale EVO4.C has a 2" soft-dome midrange, an AMT (Air Motion Transformer), Kevlar cone woofer that allows higher volumes.
Wharfedale EVO4.C is designed to produce superior sound quality and is made from high-quality materials such as purpose-built cabinet design, ensuring long-term durability and performance.
Technical Features
- 2" soft-dome midrange driver
- Two 6-1/2" woven Kevlar cone woofers
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Bass reflex design
Bowers & Wilkins HTM6 S2 Center Channel Speaker
Brother of HTM72
SPECIFICATIONS
Enclosure: Ported | Color: Black | Tweeter Size (inches): 1” | Connector Type: Binding post
Pros
+ Best for convenient spaces
+ 38kHz breakup performance
+ Optimized crossovers
Cons
- Nothing found yet
The Bowers & Wilkins HTM6 S2 stands out from the rest with a new design, upgraded internals, and a new construction method.
A look at Bowers & Wilkins HTM6 S2 design revealed a pre-installed grille, four self-adhesive rubber feet, a two-piece foam plug, and two jumper straps, as well as a vented cabinet and rear-firing port with magnetic grilles that are removable and finished in a stylish natural finish, as well as four self-adhesive rubber feet.
The HTM6 S2 features a frequency response of 72-28k Hz and rated power of 30-120 watts RMS, sufficient for most home theater setups. This Bowers & Wilkins HTM6 S2 features a 1" aluminum double dome tweeter along with dual 5" ContinuumTM cone woofers and 87 dB sensitivity and has an 8-ohm impedance for deep bass sounds.
Any home theater system, whether in front of the TV, as surround speakers, or as two channel systems, can benefit from Bowers & Wilkins' HTM6 S2 Anniversary Edition center channel speaker.
Technical Spec
- Dual 5" Continuum cone woofers
- Sensitivity: 87 dB
- Impedance: 8 ohms
What Are Center Channel Speakers?
In an audio system, a central channel speaker provides a central focus for audio and is usually placed in the system’s middle.
Many people wonder: why are center channel speakers influential? To answer this question, the team at Wooster Audio believes the center channel speaker is compelling because it can provide a more balanced sound in a room, which is essential when listening to music or watching a movie.
Center channel speakers can contribute to this by providing the main focus of sound in the center of the room, which means that even if the instruments and vocals are scattered throughout the room, all of them will be clearly heard.
Different Types Of Center Channel Speakers?
For a deeper understanding of the types of center channel speakers and their benefits, here is a list of the most common types of center channel speakers:
2-Way Center Channel Speaker
2-Way, one of the most common center channel speakers, has two drivers, a tweeter and a woofer, and they offer high and low-frequency handling at an affordable price.
3-Way Center Channel Speaker
Compared to two-way center channel speakers, the three-way speaker features three drivers, a tweeter, a midrange driver, and a woofer, all of which provide more accurate and detailed sound.
Bipolar Center Channel Speaker
The Bipolar center channels feature two sets of drivers facing in opposite directions and offer a diffuse sound field so that a large space can benefit from the room-filling sound.
Horn-Loaded Center Channel Speaker
These types of center channel speakers use horns to amplify the sound produced by the speaker drivers so that the sound that comes to you will be more powerful and efficient. So, if you have a home theater with a large screen, then Horn-Loaded center channel speakers would be a great choice.
Bass reflex Center-Channel Speakers
These speakers have a unique design that increases the impact of low-frequency sounds and are ideal for use in large rooms with important low-frequency sounds.
So Team Wooster Audio will recommend you to choose a center channel speaker that will meet your needs from the different types available.
How Do You Choose The Right Center Channel Speaker?
You need to consider various factors when choosing the right center channel speaker for your home theater system, including compatibility,voice-matching, room size, sensitivity, frequency response range, reviews, and last but not least, a budget (an important factor).
Listening Environment
If you plan to use your center channel in a small or large room with a lot of background noise, you must first decide what kind of listening environment you will be in.
Room Size
It’s up to you if you are looking for a small center channel speaker for a bookshelf or an under-the-TV speaker. Channel speakers can be found in all sizes to fit any room, from a bedroom to an office.
Budget
What’s your preference: an expensive center channel speaker or one that’s cheaper and still provides high-quality sound? Our list includes center channel speakers in all budgets and with pros and cons.
Sound Quality
Choosing speakers for the central channel should also be based on their sound quality. I will also recommend that you don’t go for a select price when purchasing any center channel speakers since cheaper speakers may have low-quality audio components, so no matter how much the speaker costs, choose one that is well-made.
The sound from a good center channel speaker will be clear in all directions, thus making it the perfect speaker for the stage, as well as reproducing lower and higher frequencies accurately.
Listening requirements
Depending on the music you listen to, a smaller or medium-sized center-channel speaker may be best for you. However, a larger or heavier speaker may be better if you enjoy hip-hop and pop.
In A Nutshell
The Klipsch RC-64 III and the MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL are the most expensive center channel speakers on the list, priced under $2000, respectively.
The Definitive Technology CS-9060 and the Polk Audio Reserve R400 are the most affordable options, priced at $700, respectively.
The PSB Imagine XC, Wharfedale EVO4.C, and both Bowers & Wilkins options fall in the middle of the price range, with prices ranging from $699 to $899.
Center channel speakers can be difficult to choose, especially if you are on a budget, since there are many options available. Using this article, you can narrow down your selection to determine the type of center channel speaker most suits your needs.
Topic: Can’t attach speaker to laptop?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use center speakers for surround?
The center speakers are often thought of as stereo speakers only and used for primary channel for dialogue and also can use as surround speakers (some cases). A center speaker reproduces human speech in the range of frequencies that are suitable for human hearing wheres for higher and lower frequencies you will not find them suitable as they are typically associated with surround effects.
Do I need a center channel speaker in a small room?
A center channel speaker can make a difference in sound quality, especially in small rooms. Although some people think a center channel speaker is unnecessary in a small room, this is not always the case. You should seek the advice of an audio professional if you are unsure whether a center channel speaker is necessary for a small room. It can fill the room with sound and make it more immersive.
Should the center speaker be louder than the front?
There are many arguments about which speaker should be louder - the center speaker should be louder because it is closer to the driver, or the front speakers should be louder because they are closer to the road. Which one is accurate? It depends on your preference.
In the debate over whether the center speaker should be louder than the front speakers, there is some debate. The center speaker should be quieter to make the car sound spacious, while others feel it is important to hear the dialogue in the movie or TV show. Ultimately, it is up to you which speaker you prefer to be louder.