The Nines are the latest in Klipsch’s wildly popular family of retro-modern, media-friendly powered speakers, which launched in 2020 with The Fives, compact powerhouses that claimed the first HDMI-ARC connection in a bookshelf speaker. Like The Fives and The Sevens before them, a pair of Klipsch The Nines speakers ($1,499) aims to deliver an expressive audio experience that seamlessly integrates with just about any entertainment setup, while exuding a heritage-inspired aesthetic that pays homage to mid-century elegance.

Sarah Jones

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Overview

• The Nines are the top of three models in the Klipsch line of Heritage-inspired powered bookshelf (or standmount) speakers.
• The brand’s signature horn-mounted driver delivers a fleshy, high-fidelity presence across an almost multidimensional soundstage.
• These are a great pair of speakers if you have numerous sources but can’t find the space or budget for discrete components.

Pros

• The sound—classic Klipsch concert-like sound
• Plentiful inputs and robust internal amps mean you can skip the added expense of an AV receiver
• HDMI-ARC makes integration in a home theater with a modern TV easy
• Can decode most digital files up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
• A built-in phono preamp means no external hardware is needed with moving magnet cartridge turntables
• Dynamic Bass feature can provide enough low-end that a subwoofer is a bonus, not a requirement (a plus in apartments)

Cons

• Price (though they’re a relative bargain compared to many connected stereo speakers)
• Height, weight, and vibration produced mean you need an extremely sizable, sturdy bookshelf, so it’s just better to pay extra for stands
• An external phono preamp can still outperform the build-in signal path

Verdict: Klipsch The Nines speakers exude retromodern style and hypermodern versatility, making them a, well, sound investment for audio-video audiophiles.

The build

The Nines’ warm-and-cozy retro exterior belies their high-tech innards. Vintage-inspired cabinets are finished with handcrafted wood veneers and top-mounted brushed-metal input-selection and volume dials. Speakers are available in walnut or ebony and feature removable magnetic grilles; I left mine off. (A collectible McLaren Edition, designed in partnership with McLaren Racing, is finished in the vibrant orange and white motif of the McLaren F1 dynasty.)

When you describe “the Klipsch sound,” anyone familiar with the brand will immediately think of the visually and audibly recognizable horns, with their clear, commanding presence. The Nines are two-way powered speakers featuring 1” titanium tweeters on Klipsch’s proprietary Tractrix horns. These 90° x 90°, silicone-composite horns stretch from edge to edge, a design optimized for the most efficient high-frequency transfer, for more detailed, accurate sound. (This proprietary technology also aims to minimize reverb from sound reflecting off walls.) Woofers are all-new 8” long-throw fiber composite cones, and cabinets feature rear-firing bass-reflex ports.

Minimalists, rejoice: Because The Nines are self-powered speakers, there’s no need to connect an external amp, receiver, or even a phono preamp. The Nines use a bi-amped design, featuring a built-in 240W RMS (480W peak) amplifier—100 watts to each woofer and 20 watts to each tweeter—optimized with a sophisticated DSP package integrating crossovers, limiters, and EQ.

When it comes to connecting all your favorite sound sources, from your TV to your turntable, these speakers are truly ready to rock (or jazz or hip-hop or house, etc.). Inputs include integrated HDMI-ARC, USB-B, optical, and analog 3.5mm; high-res aficionados will be happy to learn that digital-to-analog conversion is at 192 kHz/24-bit. (One caveat: The Nines do not accept files in the MQA or FLAC formats, so you’ll need to decode them to PCM at your source.) The Nines also have a built-in phono preamp, with a switchable phono/line RCA in and a ground connection, plus a subwoofer out (with a 60Hz crossover). Finally, the Nines offer Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, including aptX, aptX HD, and AAC support (the former two commonly found on Android devices and the latter the native Apple protocol). However, there is no built-in WiFi/AirPlay/Chromecast/Spotify Connect, etc.

Everything you need to connect your speakers is in the box, including a proprietary four-conductor cable that connects the powered speaker to the secondary speaker (either speaker can serve as left or right); an extension speaker cable; and HDMI, USB-B to USB-A, and AC power cables, plus a no-frills remote (AAA batteries included, though we always recommend rechargeables).

These are big, brawny boxes, measuring 19 x 9.5 x 13 inches, weighing around 28 pounds each, and approaching the size of commercial studio monitors. It’s advisable to place these musical monoliths on stands for optimal response and to avoid vibrations interfering with your turntable. (Klipsch stands feature hidden cable channels and threaded inserts for securing your speakers.) 

Setup is plug-and-play simple and takes just minutes. (A quick note, however, about connecting turntables: When running a phono signal directly from a turntable to your speakers, you might face longer cable paths than you would if you were connecting your turntable to a receiver; be aware that phono cable lengths longer than three feet can degrade sound quality, and plan accordingly.)

Once you’re physically up and running, pair the speakers with your smartdevice and use the Klipsch Connect App as a virtual remote and to access EQ controls and firmware updates. I found the app clumsy and sluggish to connect and update, but very easy to operate. Functions include a customizable three-band graphic EQ with presets, which can be useful if you need to boost mids to hear movie dialog better or crave extra-deep bass in your gaming soundtrack, for example, but listening to music, I left the EQ flat at all times. The app also offers processing compensating for wall or corner speaker placement, a Night Mode that adjusts dynamic range for quieter listening, and a Dynamic Bass function, which boosts low end at low volume levels.

The sound

Decades ago, Klipsch founder Paul Klipsch identified four design principles that he felt led to the most lifelike recreation of the live concert experience at home: high efficiency, low distortion, controlled directivity, and flat frequency response. Together, these principles provide the foundation for the signature “Power Detail Emotion” focus in premier Klipsch towers, and they are well-represented in The Nines.

I used The Nines in a music-only setup, streaming TIDAL over USB from my laptop and over Bluetooth on my iPhone 13 Pro. l connected an Audio-Technica AT-LP140XP direct-drive turntable, A/B-ing a direct phono in using The Nines’ built-in phono preamp and a path through an ART DJ Pre II phono preamp to The Nines as line-in. Spoiler alert: The external preamp won out, delivering slightly cleaner, slightly more dynamic sound, especially at higher volumes. But given the convenience factor, I doubt many Nines users will find their internal preamp (which only supports moving magnet cartridges, FYI) a deal-breaker. It’s just one of several signal paths you can take. These speakers could easily flank the plinth of a quality turntable (with or without a built-in preamp) to create a relatively compact, aesthetically and aurally pleasing listening station in a single connection; a quick flip of the Line/Phono switch and you’re in business.

Because the cabinet is a rear-ported design, for optimal bass response and imaging it’s best to set speakers at least 12 to 18 inches away from the wall, which I did; another selling point for stands. This two-way speaker package produces a wide frequency range of 34 Hz to 25 kHz. I found The Nines’ bass output so deeply extended and articulate that a subwoofer was unnecessary for my music-listening setup. Gamers, hip-hop fans, and action-movie junkies may seek a bigger boom. Still, given how much air these beefy 8” woofers can move, I recommend trying the speakers without a sub first, especially if you are in a shared-wall living situation.

In my large (15×20-foot) listening space, The Nines sounded balanced and natural out of the box. I never felt the need to tinker with the response, choosing instead to dive right in. (That said, if you’re hoping to tease out some nuances, the Connect App gives you access to a three-band graphic EQ with bands centered at 200 Hz, 1 kHz, and 4 kHz; you can save your preferences as custom settings.)

Feeling inspired by The Nines’ bass for days, I queued up Crystal Waters’ classic house banger, “100% Pure Love.” I was instantly transported to the clubs of my youth, triggering the muscle memory of clambering atop massive PA speakers in the days before I knew better. Everything—the bone-melting bass, the silky-smooth, snaking vocals, those knife-edged cowbell clanks—sounded incredibly clear and balanced, with deep, defined lows and ultra-clean, pinpoint-precise highs, even at blow-the-roof-off levels, which is what this track demands. Think of The Nines’ sound as effortless meets in-your-face.

The Nines showcased the modal intricacies of Miles Davis’ “Nardis,” as realized on Bill Evans’ landmark 1968 live recording Bill Evans–At the Montreux Jazz Festival, in astonishing clarity. Every textural detail was brought to life, from the sandpapery slide of bassist Eddie Gomez’ virtuosic fingers traveling down the neck of his instrument to the crisp counterpoint of Jack DeJohnette’s drums as they cascaded into a kaleidoscopic solo.

Because Klipsch speakers are highly efficient, their drivers don’t have to work very hard, which helps bring dynamic range to levels comparable to a live performance. And because they’re bi-amped, they offer great separation between high and low frequencies. To me, the overall effect was that of sitting in the front row, an expansive soundstage washing over me, each instrument presented with remarkable depth and distinct separation.

And although I generally listen at old-lady conservative levels, with The Nines, I never heard compression at high volumes or experienced fatigue over long listening sessions. I found I didn’t need the Dynamic Bass turned on to feel every articulate attack, but YMMV.

The conclusion

More and more, powered home speakers are morphing into entertainment hubs, dishing out everything from built-in streaming to sophisticated DSP to inputs that support every device you own (think the wireless network-enabled KEF LS50 Wireless II and JBL 4305P, among others). Although the all-in-one system is somewhat at odds with the audiophile “mix and match components until it’s perfect” ethos, as The Nines demonstrate, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy amazing sound in a convenient package without the expense and learning curve (and clutter!) of building a hi-fi system. The Nines even add the vinyl-friendly preamp that those other WiFi-connected speakers lack.

Considering their lineage and the success of their predecessors, it’s almost a given that The Nines sound amazing. Their sound signature can be characterized by its exceptional coherence, impressive imaging, and a sense of depth that draws you into the heart of the music. Bass is punchy and defined, and the midrange is rich and textured, for a warm and lifelike audio experience. Highs are crisp and detailed, a sparkling presence with no edgy harshness. The Nines’ comprehensive features and seamless connectivity make them standouts in their class.

Using these speakers feels a bit like enjoying the ease and convenience of a soundbar while experiencing the sonic separation, imaging, chest-thumping bass, and room-filling energy of component speakers. Add in their gorgeous vintage looks, and Klipsch The Nines speakers strike an ideal balance between versatility and charm and are sure to satisfy discerning listeners seeking to bring a new dimension of fun to gaming, movies, and, of course, music.

The post Klipsch The Nines loudspeakers review: Huge hi-fi sound, simple setup appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs		SEE IT	These crowd pleasers provide balanced sound and a secure fit.
Best Aesthetics		Loop Experience Pro		SEE IT	Form meets function in this uber-stylish set.
Best for Musicians		Minuendo		SEE IT	Seamlessly adjust sound attenuation on the fly—no batteries required.

Earplugs for concerts are the MVPs of personal accessories: They’re easy to use, comfortable, and, most importantly, protect your hearing while letting you enjoy shows in full, heart-pounding fidelity. If you spend time at concerts, work or play in noisy settings, or just want to block out the outside world and get a little peace and quiet, earplugs are essential. It’s all about finding the best earplugs for concerts for you.

When it comes to enjoying music at full volume, we’re biased by what audiologists call the “annoyance factor.” Your favorite song, cranked up in your earbuds, never really feels overly loud but the pounding jackhammer across the street is unbearably noisy—when often, they’re equally dangerous.

People adapt psychologically to loud sounds they like—like music—and assume that if sound doesn’t hurt, it’s not hurting them. But, as anyone who’s woken up after a show with ringing ears knows, nothing could be farther from the truth. Fortunately, hearing protection is a simple, affordable solution, as we’ll show you in our roundup of 2023’s best earplugs for concerts.

• Best overall: Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs
• Best aesthetics: Loop Experience Pro
• Best for musicians: Minuendo
• Best invisible: Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs
• Best electronic: Elgin Rebel
• Best budget: Etymotic ER20XS

Why you should already be wearing earplugs

Real talk: Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent. It sneaks up on you in a slow, painless progression; by the time you recognize that there’s a problem, it’s usually too late to do anything about it. Making bad decisions now can come back to haunt you decades down the line: Just ask Dave Grohl, Jucifer (the underground duo whose battle with hearing loss inspired the film The Sound of Metal), or the countless artists who have gone public about their severe hearing damage caused by spending their whole careers turning things to 11.

Noise-induced hearing damage manifests in all sorts of insidious ways, from muffled highs and frequency dropouts to tinnitus, a continual ringing or buzzing in the ears. But the great news is, this kind of hearing loss is almost always preventable. All you need is basic ear protection.

Protecting your ears is all about exposure

Sound-induced hearing damage happens as a result of sudden acoustic trauma (like an explosion) or through chronic exposure to high sound levels. The general rule is, the louder the sounds and the longer the length of exposure, the greater the risk of hearing loss. For example, eight hours of exposure to sound levels of 85 decibels (equivalent to heavy street noise) is considered safe according to decibel exposure time guidelines, but at 100 dB—the level of a typical rock concert—safe exposure is limited to 15 minutes. (Free sound-metering apps such as Decibel X can measure surrounding noise and help keep your exposure in check.)

How we chose the best earplugs for concerts

PopSci’s resident audiophiles and musicians are lifelong fans of hearing protection; we compared our own experiences using earplugs over the years, including many of the products here. It’s difficult to measure the actual attenuation level offered by earplugs without specialized equipment so, for that, we relied on provided specs. But we were able to evaluate fit and comfort across a broad range of ears and in a range of scenarios, and we put features like apps through the paces wherever possible. Because hearing loss is a medical condition, we consulted audiologists who are also musicians to get their advice on navigating the unique hazards of the concert environment.

The best earplugs for concerts: Reviews & Recommendations

At the risk of sounding like your meddling aunt, nobody can protect your hearing but you. Start your journey to safer, more enjoyable concert experiences now with our guide to the best earplugs.

Best overall: Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs

Eargasm

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Why it made the cut: These affordable silicone earplugs feel great in your ears and offer balanced attenuation, for a more natural sound profile usually only available in expensive models.

Specs 

• Attenuation: 21 dB
• Material: Silicone
• Customizable fit: Yes
• Storage case: Waterproof aluminum

Pros

• Balanced sonic attenuation
• Durable build quality
• Two shell options for fine-tuning fit

Cons

• Blue shell visibly protrudes from ear canal

Many earplugs, including standard-issue disposable foam models, do an excellent job attenuating noise but end up blocking a lot more highs than lows, leading to that dull, muffled sound that makes you want to yank them out of your ears. Perennial crowd favorite Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs incorporate filters that even out attenuation—it’s like turning down the overall volume knob, not just the treble. Eargasm’s three-tiered, flanged, conical design makes it easy to ensure a seal in your ear canal, which is critical for effective protection. And, the package includes two shells, letting you fine-tune the perfect fit. The included waterproof aluminum case attaches to a keyring for portability. Also available in a Smaller Ears model, as well as a Slide model that offers adjustable attenuation—a feature usually only seen in high-end models.

For a lower-priced option, consider Mack’s Hear Plugs flanged silicone earplugs, which preserve clear, natural sound across the frequency spectrum, using an open-air membrane filter system.

Best aesthetic: Loop Experience Pro

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: These wildly popular models offer adjustable attenuation—and are so cool looking that you can talk your teenager into wearing them.

Specs

• Attenuation: 18 or 23 dB
• Material: Silicone and foam
• Customizable fit: Yes
• Storage case: Hard hinged plastic

Pros

• Removable filters increase attenuation level
• Seven tip options for a perfect fit
• Jewelry-inspired style

Cons

• Case doesn’t include a keychain attachment

Not many earplugs double as fashion accessories. Loop Experience Pro breaks the mold, so to speak, providing robust, high-fidelity hearing protection in sleek, jewelry-inspired enclosures that look way more stylish than sticking orange wads of foam in your ears. Obviously, looks have nothing to do with hearing protection, but we’re fans of anything that ups earplugs’ cool factor if it’ll inspire you (or your kids) to wear them.  

Loop Experience Pro earplugs attenuate sound somewhat evenly across the frequency spectrum; two removable Loop Mute silicon filters let you tailor attenuation (-18 dB or -23 dB) to your surroundings and preferences, and resonant acoustic chambers inside their eponymous “loops” help optimize sound quality.

The Loop Experience Pro package includes four silicone ear tips, three foam ear tips, two sets of Loop Mute filters, and a plastic carry case. Models are available in a variety of colors and metallic finishes (such as silver, shown above) and can be washed with soap and water. A Quiet version, without adjustable filters and set at -27 dB (shown in red above), is just $20. If flash isn’t your thing, check out fully transparent Eardial earplugs, which virtually disappear inside your ears.

Best for musicians: Minuendo

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Dial in the perfect sound attenuation level—and the perfect fit—with these highly customizable passive earplugs.

Specs

• Attenuation: 7–25 dB
• Material: Silicone
• Customizable fit: Yes
• Storage case: Hard plastic

Pros

• Stepless adjustable sound attenuation
• Flat attenuation for clear, natural sound
• Eleven tip sets cover just about any ear size

Cons

• Stepless level control is easy to incorrectly set

Designed and manufactured in Norway, Minuendo silicone earplugs are touted as the first passive (non-electronic) earplugs that offer “stepless” sound attenuation. (As someone who can’t live without her active adjustable earplugs, the “battery drain” struggle is real.)

Unlike many earplugs in this class that include switches or removable filters that increase or decrease volume attenuation in specific increments, Minuendo earplugs offer seamless, nuanced adjustment that slides the membrane from “open” (-7 dB) to “closed” ( -25 dB) and anywhere in between.

Minuendo’s low-profile black design features an innovative magnetic locking feature that lets you clasp the earplugs logo-to-logo while leashed around your neck so that you can worry less about losing them. Eleven sets of tips including foam, silicone, and flange designs, fit just about any ear out there. Wipe clean with water or alcohol.

Looking for a more affordable solution? Check out Earos One High Fidelity Acoustic Filters ($40); developed by audiologists and engineers from MIT’s Acoustics Lab, these flat-response earplugs are modeled after the sound curve of your ear to provide optimal sonic clarity and hearing protection.

Best invisible: Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs

Billy Cadden

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Why it made the cut: These earplugs are made with a clear tube that makes them nearly invisible and filter out up to 22 decibels of sound.

Specs

• Attenuation: 22 dB
• Material: Silicone
• Customizable fit: Yes
• Storage case: Hard plastic

Pros

• Low profile
• Come in three sizes
• Don’t compromise sound quality

Cons

• Some users say they can get stuck in ears
• Noise reduction may compromise audio quality

If you want to protect your hearing but prefer to keep that fact incognito, Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs are a good choice. Made of silicone, their clear outer sound tubes are discreet. The eartips come in three sizes—small, medium, and large—so you can get the best fit.  

These high-fidelity earbuds filter out up to 22 decibels of sound, but instead of blocking out noise, Vibes’ earplugs use attenuating filters to lower the volume of the surrounding environment as opposed to noise cancellation, so sound quality is preserved and you can still hear what’s going on around you. These earplugs also come with a hard plastic travel case for protection and they’re washable.

Best electronic: Elgin Rebel

Elgin

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Why it made the cut: These multitasking wonders let you listen to music, take calls, command your smart assistant, and light up the room—all while protecting your ears.

Specs

• Attenuation: 25 dB
• Material: Industrial-grade polymer
• Customizable fit: Yes
• Storage case: Industrial-grade polymer

Pros

• Multipurpose earbuds let you listen to music and make calls
• Bluetooth 5.1 functionality
• Case features a built-in flashlight

Cons

• You might be paying for features you don’t need

Elgin Rebel True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds are ideal for anyone looking for quality earbuds with sound attenuation and Bluetooth noise cancellation. These active earplugs combine Elgin’s advanced earplug design with earphone technology for immersive audio with 25 dB reduction in external sound. But that’s just the beginning.

A built-in noise-isolating mic lets you make clear, uninterrupted phone calls. Rebel is compatible with Siri and Google Assistant, allowing you to control playback and volume with your voice. Battery life is impressive, with 12+ hours of continuous audio playback on a single charge. Weatherproof enclosures have an IP65 rating, which means they are resistant to sweat, dust, and dirt damage.

Earbuds and case are constructed with industrial-grade, impact-resistant polymer. This all-in package includes six pairs of foam and silicone tips and a rugged polymer storage case that provides three additional battery charges—and in a first for earplugs, includes an integrated LED flashlight.

If you’re looking for rugged earplugs that also raise the level of sounds around you during quieter moments (in noisy work environments, or while hunting, for example), Caldwell E-Max Shadows Pro plugs provide even greater noise suppression while amplifying ambient sounds.

Best budget: Etymotic ER20XS

Etymotic Research

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Why it made the cut: From trusted audiology experts, these simple silicone models offer balanced sound attenuation at an entry-level price.

Specs

• Attenuation: 20 dB
• Material: Silicone
• Customizable fit: No
• Storage case: Plastic

Pros

• Reduce sound evenly across spectrum
• Backed by decades of audiology research
• Low-profile, stemless design

Cons

• No extra eartips

With deep roots in acoustic and hearing aid research and more than 100 patents, Etymotic has been innovating earphones and earplugs for 40 years. I haven’t left the house without the company’s pro electronic earplugs in a decade—but if $300 sounds like a crazy amount of money to spend on hearing protection, Etymotic’s $20 ER20XS High-Fidelity Earplugs might be for you.

These flanged silicone earplugs reduce sound evenly across the hearing spectrum, which makes them great for enjoying concerts in balanced, natural sound. The ER20XS’ low-profile, stemless design fits snugly in the outer ear without protruding, for a discreet look and comfort under headgear. These silicone earplugs are reusable but may lose elasticity with repeated use, so Etymotic recommends replacing the eartips every three to six months. Standard and Large package options each include a neck cord and carrying case that easily attaches to a keychain; a Universal Fit version ($25) includes extra foam and silicone tips.

Things to consider before buying the best earplugs for concerts

The best earplugs for concerts allow you to comfortably listen to music without compromising your hearing—or your experience. Then, it’s about matching features to your lifestyle.

What will you be using earplugs for?

There’s a difference between blocking sound you don’t want to hear and attenuating sound you do want to hear. If you’re in a factory or at a gun range and want to block out a continuous industrial din or potentially hazardous sudden noises, simple foam earplugs or earmuff protectors offer the most robust protection. For sleeping, it’s all about extended comfort. Simple, soft foam or silicone earplugs are ideal and purpose-designed sleep models, like Loop Quiet, are so comfy you might even forget you’re wearing them. But if you want to safely enjoy music without feeling like there’s cement in your ears, your best option is to invest in a pair of high-quality, flat-response earplugs, which lower sound evenly across the frequency spectrum for a natural, high-fidelity sonic signature.

Types of earplugs

Earplugs run the gamut from cheap, no-frills off-the-shelf earbuds to balanced-response earplugs to electronic systems with adjustable attenuation to professional custom-fit models, which require a visit to an audiologist. Here, we’re focusing on universal, off-the-shelf models.

Expandable foam earplugs are made of pliant material designed to conform to the shape of the ear canal. They’re inserted by first rolling them into compressed cylinders, then placing in the ear canal, where they expand to form a seal. Foam earplugs are the cheapest option and, because they cannot be washed, are considered disposable.

Pre-molded earplugs, constructed from silicone, rubber, or plastic, retain their size and shape when inserted into the ear canal. Because they don’t expand, they’re available in various sizes and often include a range of custom tips to ensure a perfect fit. Pre-molded earplugs can be cleaned and reused.

Earmuffs completely cover the outer ear and are often available with electronic components that suppress sudden noises or let users communicate. If you hate sticking things inside your ear canal and you don’t mind a somewhat bulky profile, earmuff protection might be for you.

Earplug tech innovations

When it comes to off-the-shelf, universal earplugs, technology advancements lean toward expanded feature sets, including noise cancellation, Bluetooth functionality, and companion apps. Some earplugs, such as Loop Experience Pro, feature acoustic innovations, such as resonant chambers, that promise to improve sound quality. Earmuff manufacturers are developing high-tech materials that reduce weight and bulk yet still effectively block noise. These improvements add up to improved sound and a better experience, which is great incentive to wear your earplugs more. And, aesthetic improvements (see: Loop Experience Pro’s jewelry-inspired look) mean your kids might wear them longer, too.

Just like cameras, the best earplugs are the ones you actually have on you when you need them. So, no matter which models you prefer, it can’t hurt to pick up a huge vat of inexpensive, disposables such as Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam Earplugs, which are effective and ridiculously cheap at $8.99 for a tub of 50. (Left yours at home? Some cities, such as San Francisco and Minneapolis, require large venues to make free earplugs available to concertgoers.)

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best earplugs for concerts

• Best overall: Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs
• Best aesthetics: Loop Experience Pro
• Best for musicians: Minuendo
• Best invisible: Vibes High-Fidelity Earplugs
• Best electronic: Elgin Rebel
• Best budget: Etymotic ER20XS

As musicians and music lovers, we know there’s nothing better than being front and center at your favorite concert, getting lost in the song, feeling every note in your bones. Ultimately, though, loud is loud, and every time you expose your ears to high volume levels, you’re putting your hearing at risk.

Luckily, today’s high-fidelity earplugs for concerts let you experience the full spectrum of sound while protecting your hearing: Highs are clear, lows are full, and the overall presentation is rich and detailed, just like without earplugs. All while preserving your precious hearing. Save your ears now; your future self will thank you.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best earplugs for concerts in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Polk Reserve R500		SEE IT	This versatile floorstander incorporates flagship Polk technologies at an accessible price.
Best stereo smart speaker		Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin		SEE IT	Form meets function in this sleek airship piloted by Alexa.
Best for home theater		Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+		SEE IT	With support for both immersive audio and high-res streaming, this soundbar elevates music listening as well as movies.

Choosing stereo speakers used to be pretty straightforward: If speakers sounded good, matched your amp, and fit your space, they were winners. These days, that decision is a little more complicated, considering granular music preferences, streaming functionality, and whole-home connectivity. With a wide range of speaker choices available at every price point, it’s easy to be lured by long feature lists and luxurious stylings. But while all that functionality is important, remember that fidelity comes first: All of the conveniences in the world don’t matter if your speakers can’t produce thrilling, room-filling sound that brings all of the nuances of your favorite songs and movies to life, precisely as they were meant to be heard. Traditional towers to smart speakers—we’ve done the heavy lifting to jump-start your quest for the best stereo speakers that prove great sound doesn’t have to take up all your space or budget.

• Best overall: Polk Reserve R500
• Best smart speaker: B&W Zeppelin
• Best for home theater: Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+
• Best wireless: KEF LS50 Wireless II
• Best budget bookshelf: Elac Debut 2.0 B5.2
• Best budget floorstanding: Fluance Ai81 Elite Powered 2-Way Floorstanding Tower Speakers

How we chose the best stereo speakers

To select the best stereo speakers from hundreds of choices, we narrowed our focus to specific applications, focusing on listening to music in indoor spaces, with the caveat that many listeners enjoy music and movies on the same media system. We concentrated on speakers that best balance proven sonic performance, versatile connectivity features, and universal appeal. Our team of musicians, producers, and gear junkies compared, well, notes, along with input from peers, experts, and actual users. We investigated time-honored classics and the newest developments in each category, putting new speakers through hands-on listening tests whenever possible. by rounding up our favorite models in various categories, from traditional towers to smart speakers, focusing on models that overperform but can be considered a bargain.

The best stereo speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

The best brand of speakers is a subjective choice. That said, the companies profiled here are well-known for their groundbreaking speaker technologies and have invested decades in acoustics engineering and materials R&D. Some of the most widely known brands—including Bowers & Wilkins, Bose, Klipsch, KEF, and Polk—have been making top-of-the-line speakers for audiophiles for more than 50 years; others—like JBL, Dynaudio, Focal, and Quested—are market leaders in pro industries and have ported their studio-monitor and touring sound system innovations over into their consumer speakers. These companies are committed to developing great-sounding, reliable speakers that elevate the listening experience. When shopping, it’s fine to care about recognizable names, and a good idea to compare reviews, but sound is so subjective that the best approach is to set your budget, decide which features are the best fit for your space and lifestyle, and audition models in person whenever you can.

Best overall: Polk Reserve R500

Polk Reserve

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Why it made the cut: This value-priced speaker is packed with flagship acoustic technologies, exemplifying Polk’s goal to offer “great sound for all.”

Specs 

• Drivers: 3 (one 1”, two 5 ¼”)
• Dimensions: 10 1/8″ x 41 1/8″ x 13 3/4″
• Frequency response: 32 Hz – 50 kHz
• Connectivity: 5-way binding posts

Pros

• Pinnacle Ring Radiator smoothes high-end dispersion
• Advanced cabinet bracing minimizes resonances
• Refined cabinet finishes elevate home decor

 Cons

• Larger Reserve towers offer more sophisticated port technologies

Cabinets are finished in black, white, or walnut woodgrain, and have strategically angled bracing for smooth, peak-free response with open, uncolored bass and midrange. The R500 is High-Res Audio certified, as well as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX, and Auro 3D certified.

Polk’s Reserve Series, introduced in 2021, offers the ideal combination of fidelity and value, bringing acoustic technologies from the company’s flagship Legend Series to versatile, affordable sound systems for music, movies, and gaming. Nine models are available: three floorstanding speakers, three center channels, two bookshelf speakers, and a height module for spatial audio content. The R500 compact floorstanding speaker, at $599 each, is an affordable entry into the Reserve tower lineup. While it won’t reach the sonic summit, it also won’t cost the tens of thousands of dollars that achievement costs; what sets this speaker apart is the amount of people it can satisfy overall. 

The R500 borrows a lot of innovations from Legend speakers: If you’ve ever seen high-end Polk speakers, you’ve probably noticed the distinctive, Hershey’s Kiss-esque waveguides protruding from their tweeters. That’s Polk’s Pinnacle Ring Radiator, which disperses high frequencies evenly around the room for a wider sweet spot while squashing resonances for crisper, more detailed highs, and it’s a key feature of the R500.

Dual 5 ¼-inch Turbine Cone midrange woofers features molded ridges that increase stiffness without adding mass, for a clearer, more detailed sound, and the R500’s bass-reflex enclosure with patented Power Port and X-Port technologies is optimized to cut down on air turbulence, minimizing chuffing and other noises that can mask the clarity of midrange sounds. The overall frequency response is 32 Hz – 50 kHz. (Need more dynamic range but not ready to add a subwoofer? Step up to the 6.5-inch woofers of the R600 and or the 8-inch woofers of the R700.)

Best smart speaker: B&W Zeppelin

Sarah Jones

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Why it made the cut: This audiophile-grade smart speaker borrows drivers from B&W’s top-of-the-line systems. If sound and style are your biggest priorities, Zeppelin is the one to beat.

Specs 

• Drivers: 5 (two 1”, two 3.5”, one 6”)
• Dimensions: 28 x 12 x 11.6 inches
• Frequency response: 35 Hz – 24 kHz
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB (service only)

Pros

• Audiophile-grade speaker array
• Showstopping aesthetics
• Can be updated with new features and services

Cons

• Not ideal for bookshelf placement

In 2007, Bowers & Wilkins introduced the Zeppelin iPod dock, which set a new bar for stylish, audiophile-quality personal speakers. Over the past 15 years, Zeppelin has evolved with new technologies, losing the dock and adding wireless connectivity and smart-speaker functionality. The newest Zeppelin, introduced in fall 2021, incorporates advanced streaming features and the Amazon Alexa smart assistant.

Zeppelin is all about simplicity in design and function, packing five drivers and 240 watts of amplification into an elliptical enclosure measuring two feet wide, its grille sheathed in mesh fabric. (Choose from deep, black-ish “midnight grey” or light “pearl grey” finishes.) A hidden LED status indicator shining from Zeppelin’s base onto its pedestal creates a halo effect; it can be dimmed or turned off entirely.

Embossed icons on the back indicate volume and playback controls, an Alexa voice control/mic mute button, and a multifunction/pairing button. A power plug, reset button, and USB-C service port round out the back. Like many wireless smart speakers, Zeppelin has no HDMI connection or audio I/Os.

Due to its atypical shape, the Zeppelin might not fit with the best bookshelf speakers, unless it’s a very wide, uncluttered shelf; it’s more at home taking center stage atop a console or pedestal in an open-sided space. (For more options, a wall bracket is available for $100.)

Most of Zeppelin’s advanced controls are in the B&W Music app, which serves as a hub for setup and streaming. The app supports various services, including Deezer, Qobuz, TIDAL, Soundcloud, Amazon Music, and Last.fm. Zeppelin can also stream via Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth 5.0 (including the AAC, SBC, and aptX Adaptive codecs), and Spotify Connect.

The app currently streams at 24-bit/96 kHz resolution. Still, since the speaker’s converters can accept 192 kHz files, you can feed it higher-resolution audio by streaming that content over AirPlay 2 or aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, as I did.

Alexa voice control works like any smart speaker, and like most smart speakers, Zeppelin lets you mute its field microphones if you’re worried about Big Tech listening to you.

To achieve true stereo sound from a single speaker, Zeppelin features a carefully oriented five-driver complement that borrows acoustic technologies from B&W’s flagship speaker families. The array features two 1-inch, decoupled double-dome aluminum tweeters, also used in B&W’s 600 Anniversary Series loudspeakers. Dual 3.5-inch midrange drivers are borrowed from B&W’s $40,000 800 Series Diamond Line, and a 6-inch subwoofer sits in the center. The drivers deliver a frequency range of 35 Hz to 24 kHz; everything is powered by 240 watts of Class D amplification.

When I got an opportunity to spend some hands-on time with Zeppelin, I streamed high-res TIDAL MQA tracks directly. Listening to Diana Krall’s classic “The Look of Love,” Zeppelin revealed every nuance of Krall’s luxurious silk-and-sandpaper vocal stylings in a very direct, lifelike presentation. I was struck by Zeppelin’s tight, defined low-end response; piano notes were defined across the entire register, and I could practically feel Christian McBride deftly pulling his fingers across the bass strings.

Regarding stereo imaging, Zeppelin does an impressive job producing a broad, defined soundstage, with distinct separation at close range. While the lush string arrangements may not have felt as sweeping as they would on a pair of speakers, the soundstage was expansive for a single enclosure, especially inside a distance of about 4 feet.

Zeppelin is equally satisfying for those seeking room-filling sound. Going full-bore with Rage Against the Machine’s “Bulls On Parade,” the speaker delivered every gut punch with authority and clarity. The speaker never distorted, delivering clean, clear sound at levels loud enough for my neighbors to stop by and ask me what the heck was going on.

No matter what I listened to, I found Zeppelin’s tonal balance pleasing and natural, with muscular yet controlled bass; a warm, detailed midrange; and crisp highs. Zeppelin may be pricey, clocking in at $800, but it’s the best-sounding smart speaker I’ve heard. If superior sound and showstopping style are your top priorities in a smart speaker, let your search begin and end here.

Best for home theater: Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Home theatre meets hi-fi in this audiophile-grade soundbar that can serve as the hub of a wireless whole-home entertainment ecosystem.

Specs

• Drivers: 6 (two 1”, two 2”, two 4”), 2 4” passive radiators
• Dimensions: 42 1/4″ x 5 5/8″ x 3 3/4″
• Frequency response: 70 Hz – 20 kHz
• Connectivity: HDMI eARC in, USB Type A in, Toslink in, 3.5mm analog in, RCA mono subwoofer out, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Pros

• Supports high-res audio up to 24-bit/192 kHz
• Can serve as the hub of a connected home ecosystem
• Movie, Music, and Late Night modes optimize sound for a range of scenarios

 Cons

• Wall mount is somewhat flimsy

The Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+, made “by audiophiles for audiophiles,” is one of the most versatile systems on our list, despite taking a far-from-typical shape for a “stereo speaker.” Bluesound, like Sonos, offers an ecosystem of wireless products that can be used to build a multiroom audio system. Bluesound launched the first wireless multiroom system to support MQA Music technology, which “folds” digital data to allow efficient streaming of high-res audio without taking up a mountain of bandwidth. A broad range of inputs and outputs, including HDMI eARC (so don’t forget those cables), Ethernet, and 3.5mm analog in, make Pulse Soundbar+ an ideal home-entertainment hub. The soundbar can be managed through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant voice control, an existing TV remote, or the BluOS Controller app for iOS, Android, Kindle Fire, and Windows and Mac operating systems.

Suppose you’re considering a soundbar for your speaker(s). In that case, you’re probably also a movie lover who will appreciate that the PULSE is a soundbar that can expand Dolby Atmos-encoded content and virtualize two-channel to 7.1 audio into an immersive soundstage. But this soundbar’s features go way beyond screen soundtracks, with support for TIDAL, Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify Connect, iHeart Radio, Deezer, aptX HD, and AirPlay 2; in addition, files can be played back via USB drive and supported hi-res audio formats include FLAC, MQA, WAV, AIFF, and MPEG-4 SLS.

The updated PULSE SOUNDBAR+ underscores Bluesound’s commitment to superior sound quality and performance, packing audiophile-grade drivers, a high-performance digital-to-analog converter, and clean, powerful amplification behind its tall aluminum grill. Inside, a six-speaker front-facing array features two 1-inch drivers, two 2-inch inch drivers, and two 4-inch drivers, with two passive radiators beefing up the bass; built-in digital amps supply 120 watts of power. An all-new quad-core processor features a chipset optimized for music streaming, delivering high-quality audio at ultra-fast speeds.

According to our associate managing editor, who has auditioned the PULSE SOUNDBAR+, it is authoritative, throaty even, in a good way when playing vocal material recorded in standard stereo. The presentation overall is balanced, never sacrificing texture for artificial excitement. Lows and mids have warmth but don’t get fuzzy, while treble is precise without harshness. It’s not the sparkliest response but projects a clean, clear atmosphere. There is limited EQ available in the app, and bass extends naturally, but you’ll want to add the Pulse Sub+ wireless, powered subwoofer to achieve full slam. Up-converting audio (which requires two toggles in the app) results in perceivable spaciousness, though engaging more in its width than its height, given the lack of up-firing drivers. Depth does mean sacrificing some immediacy, however, so unless playing around with audio encoded specifically for Atmos (tested through TIDAL and Apple Music), the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is most compelling musically without any processing and staged within a small- to medium-sized room.

Decoding Dolby Atmos films, the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ is both direct and nuanced, casting dynamic, detailed imaging that separates dialogue and action deftly but not distractingly. And not only does the PULSE SOUNDBAR+ work well on its own, but it can also be a part of a whole-house high-res music system by combining with other BluOS components, such as the Pulse Mini 2i all-in-one bookshelf/desktop speaker, Pulse 2i wireless smart speaker, or Pulse M omni-hybrid streaming speaker. These can either pair and expand the soundbar’s soundstage, or you can pass your music off to their various zones effortlessly if they are situated around the house, allowing you to have multiple stereo systems without needing separate sources.

Best wireless: KEF LS50 Wireless II

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: High-res audio support, extensive acoustic upgrades, and future-proof connectivity enhance this audiophile-grade wireless bookshelf speaker update.

Specs

• Drivers: 2 (one 1”, one 5 ¼”)
• Dimensions: 12 x 7.9 x 12.2 in.
• Frequency response: 45 Hz – 28 kHz
• Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI eARC, Ethernet, coaxial and optical ins, subwoofer out, 3.5mm aux ins

Pros

• Robust amplification delivers clean sound at any volume
• Tons of connectivity options
• Future-proof app tech

 Cons

• Speakers and stand are both pricey

In 2016, KEF introduced the LS50 Wireless, a version of its iconic LS50 bookshelf speaker with built-in amplification and streaming features. KEF’s new LS50 Wireless II takes that evolution further, refining acoustics, expanding connectivity, and improving the KEF Connect control app—making the LS50 Wireless II one of the best powered speakers on the market.

Available in signature KEF Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White, and Crimson Red finishes (with available matching stands), the LS50 Wireless II is a stylish addition to any space. The cabinet is offset by KEF’s iconic, copper-hued Uni-Q driver, which places a 1-inch vented aluminum-dome tweeter in the acoustic center of a 5 ¼-inch magnesium-aluminum alloy woofer cone to create a wider sweet spot; Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) minimizes distortion in the tweeter assembly. A bass-reflex cabinet with elliptical rear ports is engineered for more accurate, musical low end.

Each speaker houses two custom amps that deliver 280 watts to each woofer and 100 watts to each tweeter, for plenty of room-rocking power and clean, distortion-free sound at any volume. Built-in digital signal processing lets you tweak sound to fit your space. Start with the easy Beginner mode and take more control in Expert mode; and make adjustments on-speaker or in the free KEF Connect app.

It all adds up to clean, detailed sound with an expansive soundstage; support for Hi-Res Audio further elevates audio quality. (Network file support is 24-bit/384 kHz; a wireless setup supports 24-bit/96 kHz audio resolution, or connect the speakers with the supplied CAT 6 cable for 24-bit/192 kHz support.)

The LS50 Wireless II is ready to connect with just about any device: Wired connections include an HDMI eARC, Ethernet, coaxial and optical inputs, a subwoofer output, and 3.5mm aux ins; stream music directly over Bluetooth or Wi-F, AirPlay 2, and Google Chromecast, or through the KEF Connect app, which supports Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, or Deezer. Use Chromecast to create a multiroom audio setup with compatible speakers. In addition, the LS50 Wireless II can act as an endpoint to access a Roon music server. Hence, you can access a consolidated library of advanced-resolution audio when on your local network.

At $2,799/pair (plus $449 for optional S2 floor stands), the LS50 Wireless II is pricier than the other speakers on our list. Still, its versatile connectivity makes it an ideal all-in-one listening system. You might be able to save a few hundred dollars on older-version LS50 Wireless speakers, or save over $1,000 by choosing KEF’s most compact streaming system, the LSX II. But if your budget supports it, we recommend going with the most recent generation LS50 for its improved acoustics and future-proof format support. Of course, if you want to double down, the LS50 Wireless II has an amazing synergy with the ultra-compact, incredibly expressive KC62 subwoofer. Or, if you want to expand the frequency response and your budget but keep things integrated, the surprisingly slim but shockingly sinuous KEF LS60 Wireless streaming floorstanders are a great choice. As for KEF’s passive options, the LS50 Meta, successor of the original LS50, remains one of the best compact speakers for music lovers who prefer building their signal chain.

Best budget floorstanding: Fluance Ai81 Elite Powered 2-Way Tower Speakers

Billy Cadden

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Why it made the cut: Two-way audio at its best, these speakers have excellent dual midrange drivers, a tweeter, and down-firing acoustic bass enhancement built into their design, which integrates Class D amplification and Bluetooth 5.0 for modern sonic connectivity.

Specs 

• Channels: 2 channels: 2 x 6.5-inch drivers + tweeter
• Connection: 2x RCA L/R, Bluetooth, & Digital Optical TOSLINK
• Power: 2 x 75 watts RMS
• Dimensions: 37.8 x 8.50 x 10.24 inches

Pros

• Acoustic bass enhancement built into the design
• Good frequency response
• Can be paired with a subwoofer
• Easy connectivity from multiple sources

 Cons

• Requires multiple power outlets
• No active bass

Usher your home audio into the stratosphere with the Fluance Ai81. Eschewing the need for an amplifier, these two-channel speakers are internally powered, with 150 watts of RMS divided between the two units. Each speaker contains two 6.5-inch woven glass fiber drivers and a neodymium tweeter. The speakers are also built around a down-firing natural concavity that enhances bass acoustically.

With a 30 Hz–20 kHz response (DSP enhanced), these speakers do a solid job with most of the audio spectrum passing through your living room. However, their 30 Hz low-end might not have enough oomph for some, but that’s okay because connecting a subwoofer to this system is easy. And, at only $499 a pair, these speakers leave you with enough money in your budget for some external augmentation or high-end sources.

With attractive walnut, ash, or bamboo sides, this beautiful speaker system will augment any home entertainment system visually and audibly. With multiple connection options—including RCA, Optical, and Bluetooth 5.0—it’s ready for anything you want to play.

Best budget bookshelf: Elac Debut 2.0 B5.2

ELAC

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Why it made the cut: Significant acoustic enhancements elevate this revamped bookshelf speaker to new, high-res-ready heights.

Specs 

• Drivers: 2 (one 1”, one 5 ¼”)
• Dimensions: 13.5 x 9.3 x 7.1 inches
• Frequency response: 46 Hz–35 kHz
• Connectivity: 5-way binding posts

Pros

• Extended high-frequency response
• Forgiving of placement
• Robust build quality

 Cons

• Tons of worthy competition at this price point

Elac’s Debut 2.0 Series, a refresh of the company’s iconic Debut Series speaker family, incorporates new drivers, waveguides, cabinets, and networks, for significant performance improvements and easier setup.

We’re partial to the Debut 2.0 B5.2 entry-level two-way passive bookshelf speakers, representing an incredible value in an acoustically advanced line. Driver updates include new silk-dome tweeters that extend high-frequency response to 35 kHz, and a redesigned, woven-aramid-fiber woofer that boasts improved stiffness and damping, for tight, defined bass. Thick MDF cabinets, finished in black ash vinyl, are internally braced to reduce vibrations, and a dual-flared bass port has been moved to the speaker’s front for more flexible speaker placement against walls or in bookshelves. (Ideally, place on rigid stands for the best performance.)

The Debut 2.0 B5.2s requires power; an amp offering a minimum of around 40W/6 ohms is adequate for smaller rooms; move up to about 140W/6 ohms for larger rooms and higher listening levels.

It’s no surprise that the Debut 2.0 B5.2s is a continual best seller: This speaker is solidly built, forgiving in setup, and most importantly, delivers robust, balanced, defined sound, all for a mere $279/pair. And its extended high-frequency range helps make the most of high-res audio formats.

There are tons of worthy contenders in the sub-$1,000 speaker market. But if you’re looking for a versatile bookshelf model that’s easy to configure, easy to listen to, and easy on the wallet, the Debut 2.0 B5.2 is the one to beat.

Things to consider before buying the best stereo speakers

Selecting the best stereo speakers is a very personal decision. Many factors determine a speaker’s sound, including build quality, materials, and components; amplification and inputs; and the size and sound of your room also play big roles. (And, if you’re new to the foundational technologies, check out our primer on what makes up a speaker.)

What size speakers should I get?

Picking the right size speakers for your room is important. The larger the speaker, the more powerful its output and the deeper the bass it can produce. But bigger isn’t always better. You want loudspeakers that are large enough to effortlessly fill the room with sound but small enough to perform efficiently in that space. For example, bookshelf speakers might be perfect for your home office, but floor-standing speakers might better fit your living room. Your speakers should be able to reproduce your most dynamic content effortlessly, but if they’re too powerful for the size of the room, you can’t play them at their optimal levels and they can end up sounding boomy.

Should I get active or passive speakers?

Active, or powered, speakers have built-in amplification. In contrast, passive speakers must be powered by an external amplifier, either an A/V receiver or dedicated power amp. If you’re a gear minimalist, powered speakers mean fewer components and less cable clutter, and you don’t have to worry about matching your speakers to the right amp. Audiophiles tend to prefer passive speakers because, with less circuitry being placed inside the enclosure, they generally allow for designs that sound better than equivalently priced powered speakers and allow more flexibility mixing and matching and upgrading components for their specific sonic characters (or lack thereof, for those that prize neutrality). And because passive speakers don’t have to plug into a power outlet, they allow for more placement options in some spaces, speaker wires allowing.

Do I need a subwoofer?

Sometimes it makes sense to extend the low-end range of your system with a subwoofer. Bass frequencies need big drivers to reproduce them, and speakers won the smaller side, like bookshelf speakers, can’t always deliver brawny bass by design. Consider a sub if your speakers don’t produce a sound that extends to the lowest frequencies or if your speakers produce bass that you can hear, but you want more powerful, intense bass that you can feel—especially if you like bass-heavy music like hip-hop or EDM. Subwoofers are also a common choice if you’re using your speaker system for both music and movies because they’ll add that cinematic rumble.

Some speakers come with subwoofers, while others are matched to subwoofers by the same manufacturer. And if you’re not sure if a sub is the right investment, you can always add one down the line if you feel your current setup isn’t bringing enough thump and thunder.

What kind of connectivity should I look for?

Speaker connections can range from the ultra-minimalist (the B&W Zeppelin, for example, has no physical audio connections) to fully loaded products that offer a range of analog and digital I/Os, including USB audio inputs and HDMI ARC ports for home theater. Your audio sources will dictate which connections you need. For example, you’ll need a phono-level analog input to connect a turntable.

What about Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support?

Some speakers support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or both; these speakers are labeled “wireless speakers” (despite their need for a power cable—you’ll never confuse them for portable party speakers). Bluetooth technology lets you stream music from your mobile devices, while Wi-Fi lets you stream from the internet or a computer on your home network. (Bluetooth links devices directly; Wi-Fi requires a router to connect the devices to and through a local network.) Most speaker manufacturers offer free companion apps to streamline the process.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best stereo speakers

• Best overall: Polk Reserve R500
• Best smart speaker: B&W Zeppelin
• Best for home theater: Bluesound PULSE SOUNDBAR+
• Best wireless: KEF LS50 Wireless II
• Best budget bookshelf: Elac Debut 2.0 B5.2
• Best budget floorstanding: Fluance Ai81 Elite Powered 2-Way Floorstanding Tower Speakers

The “best” stereo speakers mean different things to different people, and the products we’ve profiled here support a range of home music-listening scenarios. First and foremost, speakers should sound incredible, reproducing every nuance of your favorite music and movies with depth and detail, effortlessly filling the room and delivering power and impact without coloring or distorting sound. Then, it’s all about prioritizing the factors that are important to you, like smart-speaker functions, connectivity features, and style. By any of these measures, choosing one of the models here will not disappoint you.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best stereo speakers for 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		JBL 4305P		SEE IT	Prosumer connectivity and hi-res streaming meets precision tuning in a premium speaker ideal for both pro and casual listening.
Best for the bookshelf		KEF LS50 Wireless II		SEE IT	This beloved powered bookshelf doubles as a full-featured hi-fi wireless hub.
Best PA speakers		Bose L1 Pro8		SEE IT	Power performances and parties with an ultra-portable all-in-one PA you can carry in one hand.

Powered speakers are a minimalist’s dream. Because they feature built-in amplification, there’s no power-matching, no racks of components, and cable clutter is essentially nonexistent: Just plug the speakers into wall power, connect your sound source, and you’re in business. Increasingly, powered speakers are being marketed as all-in-one sound hubs, combining the convenience of built-in power with wireless connectivity and smart assistants. But powered speakers aren’t just designed to spark joy in your less-is-more living space; they often offer sonic advantages over passive models. Read on to learn what’s great about the best powered speakers and how to start your journey into the maximized minimalism of a sweet new self-contained sound system.

• Best overall: JBL 4305P
• Best bookshelf: KEF LS50 Wireless II
• Best for computers: Edifier S1000W
• Best for turntables: Kanto YU6
• Best PA speakers: Bose L1 Pro8
• Best budget: Klipsch R-15PM

How we chose the best powered speakers

We explored hundreds of products in our pursuit of the best powered speakers: We concentrated mainly on companies with a lot of experience designing powered models. While we considered a range of listening applications, we prioritized speakers that offer convenience and connectivity features but focus on fidelity first. Our in-house hi-fi heads and active producers debated our favorite models, solicited input from respected peers, and collected user impressions and critical perspectives, performing listening tests whenever possible as we narrowed down the contenders.

The best powered speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

As more speaker makers add powered models to their lineups, wading through the choices can get pretty overwhelming. We’ve made things a little easier with our top choices for a range of listening scenarios, from best-loved bookshelf speakers to all-in-one PA systems to power your next pool party or jam sesh. With models here starting below $200, you’ll land on the best powered speakers for your budget and lifestyle.

Best overall: JBL 4305P

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Advanced transducer designs, hi-res streaming, and prosumer connectivity make this powerhouse speaker well-suited for both pro monitoring and casual listening.

Specs

• Driver complement: 2 (one 1-inch compression driver, one 5 ¼-inch composite woofer)
• Amplification: 300 W rms
• Frequency response: 45 Hz – 25 kHz
• Dimensions: 13.2 x 8.3 x 8.8 inches (H x W x D)

Pros

• Inputs support both consumer and pro devices
• 24-bit/96 kHz converters preserve hi-res audio
• Optimize sound with room-correction EQ

Cons

• Pro sound comes with a premium price

JBL is no newcomer to powerful speakers, introducing some of the first models as far back as the 1960s. The company’s brand-new 4305P ($2,200/pair) is the first powered model in its consumer Studio Monitor series, which pay homage to the brand’s ’70s-style speakers. This fully loaded speaker features built-in Class D amplification, 24-bit/192 kHz converters, and six audio inputs that can connect to a huge range of digital and analog sources to provide comprehensive, hi-res wired and wireless connectivity. 

The 4305P (shown in walnut above with its grille removed) aims to deliver the presence and power of a floorstanding speaker in a standmount form factor, using patented JBL transducer technologies: each speaker features a 2410H-2 1-inch compression driver mated to a High-Definition Imaging horn for crystal-clear highs and lifelike dynamics. A 5.25-inch cast-frame, fiber-composite cone woofer operates in a bass-reflex configuration with dual front-firing tuned ports. An onboard Class D amp delivers 25W to each compression driver and 125W to each woofer for a total system power of 300W rms. Other features include a bass contour control to compensate for acoustic issues introduced by speaker placement close to walls, plus a signal-sensing line-level subwoofer out (which applies a high-pass 80Hz filter when in use to give the cabinets more headroom).

The result is the lively dynamics expected from a horn-guided tweeter presented with punchy authority, especially in its beefy midrange—not surprising for a company with heritage firmly entrenched in both control rooms and live sound reinforcement. Imaging is impressively wide, though the darting transients can get bright. Thankfully, this is accompanied by bass that’s well-etched and impactful, maybe not the deepest, but capable of keeping things balanced. (A powered subwoofer—such as the aesthetically and aurally compatible L10cs, with a 10-inch down-firing polycellulose cone driven by a 250W RMS/500W dynamic built-in amplifier—is needed to really warm things up.) What stands out most about the 4305P’s innate character, perhaps, is the overall speedy response, which never loses its footing at any pace or pressure. The 4305P isn’t a laidback analytical listen and can play far louder (with minimized distortion) than you’d expect from speakers this size.

When it comes to high-res streaming, the 4305P takes quality to the next level thanks to an integrated streaming engine that provides wired and wireless network audio capabilities via Ethernet, Google Chromecast Built-in, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth 5.1. A high-resolution digital-to-analog converter preserves 24-bit/96 kHz resolution when the speakers connect wirelessly; when they are tethered with the included 2m Digital Link cable, resolution can be extended to 192 kHz. The 4305P can render MQA files (the musical equivalent of a ZIP file, a way to encode and distribute full-spectrum audio in a compressed container) and is set to be Roon Ready, giving you access to a compatible music server while on your local network. As a bonus, JBL has thrown in a 90-day Qobuz trial membership that includes a curated playlist of songs that showcase the speaker’s audio capabilities.

Analog ins include combo XLR and ¼-inch TRS phono connectors and a selectable input-sensitivity switch. This configuration provides the option for balanced XLR and ¼-inch TRS (tip/ring/sleeve) or unbalanced TS (tip/sleeve) connections, which cover both pro and consumer gear. Other I/Os include asynchronous USB and optical digital inputs and a 3.5mm analog in. In addition to front-panel controls, the 4305P includes a Bluetooth handheld remote and can be controlled as part of a Google Home or Apple AirPlay ecosystem.

The 4305P’s enclosure is constructed from 3⁄4-inch MDF with internal bracing. It is finished in wood veneer, styled in Natural Walnut with a blue grille or Black Walnut with a black grille (shown above in Natural Walnut with the grille off). With its pedigree and presence, the 4305P can look as at home flanking a mix console as it does facing your comfiest listening chair. Crave more kick? The 4329P, which debuted at CES 2023 and will ship in Q2, is a similarly self-contained, amplified system that increases the size of the woofer to a JW200P-4 8-inch pure-pulp black paper cone, with 250W delivered there and 50W to the step-up JBL 2409H 1-inch compression driver. That comprehensive connectivity/high-res rendering engine remains intact while receiving a specs bump to Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Adaptive audio. Of course, larger model means larger price, so expect these to hit the market around $4,500/pair.

Best bookshelf: KEF LS50 Wireless II

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Built-in amplification, hi-res audio support, acoustic upgrades, and futureproof connectivity add up to a full-featured audiophile-grade wireless hub.

Specs

• Drivers: 2 (one 1”, one 5 ¼”)
• Amplification: 380W per speaker
• Frequency response: 45 Hz – 28 kHz
• Dimensions: 12 x 7.9 x 12.2 inches (H x W x D)

Pros

• Set up a whole-home system with Chromecast
• Robust wired and wireless connectivity
• Future-proof app tech

Cons

• Speakers and stands are very pricey

In 2016, KEF debuted the LS50 Wireless, a successor to its classic LS50 bookshelf speaker that added built-in amplification and streaming. The next-gen LS50 Wireless II boasts refinements to acoustics, connectivity, and the KEF Connect control app.

As at home stand-mounted (shown above) or on a desktop as it is tucked in a nook, the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a “bookshelf speaker” in the classic audiophile sense, an effortlessly integrated component capable of bringing a wide sweet spot to a small room. Inside each speaker, custom amps deliver 280 watts of power to each woofer and 100 watts to each tweeter for big, clean, distortion-free sound at any volume. Digital processing lets you fine-tune the sound to fit your speaker placement and space, either on-speaker or via the free KEF Connect app.

The LS50 Wireless II is available in signature KEF Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White (pictured), and Crimson Red finishes, with optional matching stands. KEF’s striking, copper-hued Uni-Q driver orients a 1-inch vented aluminum-dome tweeter in the acoustic center of a 5 ¼-inch magnesium-aluminum alloy woofer cone to create a wide listening sweet spot; a bass-reflex cabinet with elliptical rear ports is designed to maximize accurate, musical low end. And Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) behind the proprietary 12th-generation drivers takes in unwanted reflections and reduces distortion. Much like the JBL 4305P (above) is detailed and dynamic, the LS50 Wireless II is spacious and gripping; one will sweep you up in every track while the other will let you float away. Your preference when it comes to these equally adept two-way challengers may come down to whether your listening leans nimble/bright versus natural/rounded.

The LS50 Wireless II supports Hi-Res Audio; network file support is 24-bit/384 kHz; a wireless setup supports 24-bit/96 kHz audio resolution or connect the speakers with the supplied CAT 6 cable for 24-bit/192 kHz support. Stream music directly over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and Google Chromecast, or through the KEF Connect app, which supports Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, and Deezer. In addition, you can use the LS50 Wireless II as an endpoint if you set up a Roon music library on your local network. Wired connections include HDMI eARC, Ethernet, coaxial and optical inputs, a subwoofer out, and 3.5mm aux-ins.

The LS50 Wireless II is pricey, typically retailing for $2,799/pair, plus $449 for optional S2 floor stands. (Willing to sacrifice some features to save some money? KEF also makes a baby-in-size-not-sound brother speaker system, the Wi-Fi-connected LSX II, or you can opt for just Bluetooth connectivity and pick up the Dynaudio Xeo 2s at $679/pair.) But if you crave a highly resolving, engaging experience and your budget supports it, the LS50 Wireless II’s versatile connectivity options and potent sound make it an ideal all-in-one listening system. And they’re a “bargain”—even if you toss in the sonically and aesthetically complementary KEF KC62 subwoofer—considering stepping up to the richly evocative, surprisingly slimline KEF LS60 floorstanding powered speakers are $6,999!

Best for computers: Edifier S1000W

Brandt Ranj

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Why it made the cut: The Edifier S1000W’s sound, size, connectivity, and price are in perfect alignment for computer users looking at an audio upgrade.

Specs

• Driver complement: 2 (one 1-inch tweeter, one 5.5-inch woofer)
• Amplification: 120W rms
• Frequency response: 45 Hz – 40 kHhz
• Dimensions: 13.6in x 7.8in x 11.6in (H x W x D)

Pros

• Well balanced sound
• Great mix of inputs
• High-resolution audio support
• Amazon Alexa support
• Intuitive app

Cons

• No USB port

Edifier is a company known for its ability to cram a lot of performance into audio gear with surprisingly low prices. Its S1000W powered speakers, which were released late in 2021, continue that trend, but their $550 price tag allowed Edifier to reach beyond the technical sacrifices necessary to make its most budget gear. Although these speakers can be used in multiple applications, we found they’re particularly great with a computer due to their slim, acoustically angled design and clarity at a reasonable volume.

On paper, the speakers are pretty stacked: They’re powered by a 120W Class-D amplifier, can natively play 24-bit/192kHz audio, and use a digital signal processor to control their crossovers dynamically, so optimized frequency division always reaches the titamium-dome tweeter and aluminum woofer. These features are present in other speakers in this guide, but both of those pairs cost roughly four times as much as the S1000Ws. We wouldn’t go so far as to say these speakers can stand toe-to-toe with speakers that cost over $2,000, but after spending time with the S1000W at home we can say they certainly give any pair under $1,000 a run for their money.

Midrange-heavy genres like live and acoustic music sounded superb, with plenty of detail and a wide soundstage when the speakers sat 3 feet away from one another. We connected them to a computer for use more as nearfield monitors (more on that in a little bit), but we could see how listening to live music would become even more immersive and engaging if the S1000Ws were spread further apart. And, thanks to well-handed treble reproduction, distorted guitars and crashing cymbals in lo-fi and punk songs sounded clear without requiring us to reach for the volume knob to protect our ears.

Similarly, we didn’t hear any sibilance across the board. The S1000Ws didn’t have quite as much bass as we would have liked out of the box, though hip-hop and R&B sounded serviceable. Once we tweaked the response, though, we got closer to our ideal while never pushing the woofer to the point of distortion, even at the very least low frequencies. While our experience was positive, yours will vary based on the music you listen to, how it was mastered, and even its bitrate. In general, though, you should expect to hear quite a lot of detail without much futzing.

Beyond their sound, the S1000Ws are easy to recommend because they have many of the trademark features that have endeared Edifier to price-conscious audiophiles. The speakers have physical EQ knobs on a side panel, so you can adjust their sound to your exact preference. And if you prefer digital customization, Edifier’s app is surprisingly intuitive to use and walks you through the step-by-step process of hooking them up to your Wi-Fi network without frustrating you. While the S1000Ws don’t connect to each other wirelessly, the cable that’s provided to connect one speaker to the other is long enough that you can set the S1000Ws up on a desk with your computer, or on top of a media center flanking your television.

The speakers support both Bluetooth 5.0 and Apple’s AirPlay 2, wireless protocols that complement the pair of RCA inputs, coaxial input, and optical audio input on their backside. The speakers lack a USB port, but in this day and age it’s hard to imagine your computer, your whole house, isn’t on Wi-Fi so you can stream whatever you desire directly from your laptop. In addition, Spotify Connect and TIDAL Connect are supported, so once you pick a playlist on your phone you can offload the streaming directly to the speakers. If you’ve set up a smart home, you can connect Edifier’s speakers to your Amazon Echo and tell it to play music through your streaming service of choice using Alexa. Even the S1000W’s remote is good, with input and media control buttons that depress with a satisfying click and work instantly (as well as another way to adjust EQ). All of these smaller quality-of-life decisions add up and help the speaker become greater than the sum of its parts.

If you spend a lot of time listening to music at your work desk, you owe it to yourself to check out Edifier’s S1000W speakers, especially if you’ve been making do with tinny sound coming from the built-in drivers in your computer or monitor.

Best for turntables: Kanto YU6

Kanto

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Why it made the cut: Connect all of your digital and analog gear to these stylish speakers, available in seven stunning finishes.

Specs

• Driver complement: 2 (one 1” silk-dome tweeter, one 5.25-inch Kevlar cone woofer)
• Amplification: 100W rms
• Frequency response: 50 Hz – 20 kHz
• Dimensions: 13.98 x 6.89 x 10.71 inches (H x W x D)

Pros

• Versatile inputs support turntables
• Well-balanced sound with respectable bass
• Seven gorgeous finishes elevate any décor

Cons

• USB connection is underutilized

People often ask if powered speakers are good for vinyl and we can conclusively say that if you enjoy listening to both analog and digital sound, the Kanto YU6 ($379/pair) has you covered. It’s highly capable thanks to analog RCA and 3.5mm mini-jack ins, a switchable phono preamp/line-in, optical TOSLINK inputs, and Bluetooth 4.0 streaming with aptX support.

This versatile powered speaker features 1-inch silk-dome tweeters and 5.25-inch Kevlar cone woofers, powered by built-in Class D amps (50W rms per channel); it’s all housed in rear-ported fiberboard cabinets that come in a spectrum of bold finishes, including matte black, matte white, gloss black, gloss white, gloss red, bamboo, and walnut. (Available stands support a range of desktop and home theater scenarios.)

Vinyl fans will gravitate right to the YU6’s rear-panel RCA stereo input, which is switchable between moving magnet phono preamp-in and analog line-in. Optical ins connect TV, CD player, or game console digital audio. A USB jack charges devices and a subwoofer output with 200 Hz lowpass filter provides the ability to extend the low end with a standalone sub.

One note: If you’re using the YU6 speakers for a turntable playback system, it’s best to position your turntable and cabinets on separate furniture or stands or add a turntable platform to control vibration. (Just getting started on your vinyl journey? Fluance makes some great options to consider when it comes to turntables we like, such as the RT81 and RT85.)

A front-panel control knob provides simple access to volume and input adjustments: Twist the knob to adjust volume, press it to cycle through inputs. The included remote control handles power, volume, mute, EQ, source input, and Bluetooth pairing. Rubber feet are supplied but not attached.

Looking for a step up from the YU6? Kanto’s premium TUK powered speakers ($779) feature onboard DSP, high-performance AMT tweeters and 5.25-inch aluminum drivers, active crossovers, plus dedicated phono, RCA, and Optical TOSLINK inputs, onboard USB DAC and headphone amp, and Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX HD and AAC codecs.

Best PA speakers: Bose L1 Pro8

Bose

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Why it made the cut: This all-in-one sound system packs up tight to go from vehicle to venue in a single trip.

Specs

• Driver complement: 8 2” neodymium drivers, 1 7×13” subwoofer
• Amplification: 60W (driver array), 280W (subwoofer)
• Frequency response: 45 Hz – 16 kHz
• Dimensions: 78.94 x 17.32 x 38.92 inches (H x W x D) assembled

Pros

• Eight-speaker array provides broad coverage
• Control mixes from your mobile device
• Two phantom power inputs

Cons

• Assembled system can feel unstable in windy conditions

Whether you’re a singer/songwriter, band, DJ, or just looking for a plug-and-play-simple way to transform your next BBQ into an impromptu dance party, a portable powered public address system is the perfect all-in-one sound solution. Powered PA systems are serious multitaskers, delivering pro-quality sound reinforcement with built-in amps, mixers, audio effects, Bluetooth streaming, and tons of I/Os, in self-contained systems you can schlep in one hand while you carry your guitar (or beer) in the other.

Nearly 20 years ago, Bose introduced the shockingly portable L1 PA, which became a go-to gig staple for indie artists thanks to its premium sound and built-in amplification, mixer, effects, and subwoofer. The series has been updated over the years and the L1 Pro line debuted in 2021, in driver configurations up to 32 speakers.

The L1 Pro8 ($1,199), the most portable array in the Pro series, is ideal for singer/songwriters and best for DJs. Inside, a C-shape 8-driver array that provides 40 degrees of vertical coverage and 180 degrees of horizontal coverage, with an integrated subwoofer that features an elongated RaceTrack driver, which Bose says delivers low-end performance that rivals a conventional 12-inch woofer in a slimmer footprint. All L1 Pro models feature a built-in 3-channel mixer: Channels 1 and 2 can receive signal from combo XLR/TRS jacks (with phantom power), while Channel 3 can receive signal from either a 1/8-inch headphone jack, a ¼-inch TRS jack, or via Bluetooth streaming.

This system sets up fast, is easy to operate, and packs a sonic punch, powering the speaker array with 60 watts of Class D amplification and the subwoofer with 240 watts, for 118 dB peak SPL.

Use the Bose L1 Mix App to adjust mixes and effects settings (including Bose’s ToneMatch library of custom EQ presets) from anywhere in the room. The system weighs just 35 pounds and disassembles into three pieces that pack into the base unit for effortless transport in the included travel bag.

Thinking of cutting the cord entirely? Check out Bose’s S1 Pro portable Bluetooth speaker, which has three 2 1/4-inch high-frequency drivers and a 6-inch low-frequency woofer and provides up to 11 hours of play time. Or keep all the features (and, admittedly, the price) and get the rechargeable 1,500W JBL EON ONE MK2 column PA, with 8 2-inch tweeters, built-in 10-inch woofer, and a 5-channel mixer that can run off a 6-hour battery.

Best budget: Klipsch R-15PM

Klipsch

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Why it made the cut: When it comes to price/performance ratio, these feature-packed budget beauties punch way above their class.

Specs

• Driver complement: 2 (one 1”, one 5 ¼”)
• Power rating: 50 WPC
• Frequency response: 62 Hz – 24 kHz
• Dimensions: 12.5 x 7 x 8.11 in (H x W x D)

Pros

• Diverse I/O set handles a range of sound sources
• Onboard phono amp
• Convenient remote

Cons

• Difficult to conceal cables when using stands

The Klipsch R-15PM small powered speakers boast 50 watts per channel of amplification, for room-filling sound in a super-compact footprint. Each speaker features a 1-inch aluminum diaphragm compression driver that’s integrated with Klipsch’s square Tractrix horn, which Klipsch says delivers wider dispersion and cleaner, clearer highs; a distinctive, 5-¼-inch spun copper woofer provides solid midrange, and a rear-firing port beefs up bass response. It’s all housed in resonance-deadening MDF cabinets for smooth, distortion-free response.

These speakers, which retail for an affordable $275/pair, offer an incredible array of features on top of their solid sound performance. Setup is plug-and-play easy: Connect directly to a range of sound sources, from your tablet to your TV, thanks to an onboard phono preamp, Bluetooth connectivity, and a range of analog and optical digital inputs, plus a USB Type B input. A remote lets you adjust volume and change inputs from the convenience of your couch. A mono subwoofer output connects an optional powered sub; consider Klipsch’s wireless Reference R-10SWi.

For an alternative at the same price point, check out the Audioengine A2+ wireless Bluetooth bookshelf speakers, or if you’re hoping to keep your purchase below $200, the Edifier R1700BT, at $159, is a worthy contender.

Things to consider before buying powered speakers

Buying powered speakers is a personal process, weighing subjective factors like sonic preferences along with objective benchmarks like power output, number of inputs and outputs, and convenience features. Many factors influence a powered speaker’s sound, including driver and cabinet size, type of amplification, and build quality. The size of your listening space plays a major role. Your sound sources will also inform your decision: If you’re planning to connect a turntable, for example, you’ll need phono inputs. If you want to stream music, you’ll need Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

One drawback of powered speakers is the inability to mix and match or upgrade components, such as receivers. But a pro is that, because amplification is built into a powered speaker, it’s perfectly optimized for its specific speaker driver(s) needs. Amps sit right inside the cabinet, so there’s no need to connect long lengths of wire between drivers and amplifiers, which takes cable-induced distortion and signal loss out of the picture. In addition, integrated crossover design gives the designer more control over the frequency response. [Note that not every speaker manufacturer designs its own amplifiers, sometimes relying on OEM parts. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but be sure the technologies are well implemented for the best sonic performance.]

What size powered speakers should I get?

Powered speakers are available in a vast array of sizes, from smart speakers you can fit in the palm of your hand to towers that top 6 feet in height. In general, the bigger the speaker, the more power it can put out, and the deeper the bass it can produce. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that more is better. Speakers should be small enough to efficiently produce space-filling sound; if they’re too powerful for the size of the room, they can’t be operated at their ideal performance levels and can end up sounding boomy. On the other hand, they must be powerful enough to easily reproduce the most dynamic music, movie, and game content. Generally, bookshelf speakers with 5- or 6-inch drivers are good matches for offices, dens, and other small rooms, while larger bookshelf speakers and floorstanding models with 8-inch drivers are more appropriate for bigger rooms, like home theatres.

What kind of features should I look for in powered speakers?

Increasingly, powered speakers offer more features than their passive counterparts, evolving into all-in-one entertainment hubs for minimalists who don’t want to navigate a sea of components and cabling. If you’re in the less-is-more camp, you’ll appreciate features like digital and analog inputs and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi streaming, in addition to built-in amplification.

Should I add a subwoofer?

You should add a subwoofer if you want to extend your system’s low-end energy and bring more visceral impact to your listening experience, whether you’re watching the latest action flick, crushing your favorite videogame, or transforming the living room into a dance floor. You can mix and match speakers and subs, but many products profiled here are designed to pair perfectly with available companion subwoofers. For instance, there is a setting within the KEF app to automatically integrate and optimize the KEF LS50 Wireless II and KEF KC62 subwoofer, allowing them to wake together and produce an amazingly musical, muscular response down to 11 Hz. Remember that you can always start small and add a sub later if you’re not feeling enough room-rocking thunder.

FAQs

Final thoughts on choosing the best powered speakers

• Best overall: JBL 4305P
• Best bookshelf: KEF LS50 Wireless II
• Best for computers: Edifier S1000W
• Best for turntables: Kanto YU6
• Best PA speakers: Bose L1 Pro8
• Best budget: Klipsch R-15PM

If you strive for a simple, minimalist setup, and don’t want to deal with connecting racks of audio components and yards of cables, powered speakers just might be perfect for you. Anytime you’re shopping for speakers, fidelity comes first. That said, we’ve spotlighted versatile products that excel in a range of scenarios. If you choose any of the speakers above, you won’t be disappointed.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best powered speakers in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

BEST OVERALL		Yamaha HS5		SEE IT	Old faithful for many picky purists, Yamaha’s white-cone wonders have been telling it like it is for decades.
BEST FOR GOLDEN EARS		Focal Alpha 80 Evo		SEE IT	No matter the genre, format, or resolution of playback, the Alpha 80 Evo presents tracks with honesty and clarity, exactly as they were intended.
BEST FOR HOME RECORDING STUDIOS		JBL LSR 305P MKII		SEE IT	An affordable way to get into pro JBL speaker technologies, these monitors aim is true.

It’s a common scenario: You’ve spent endless hours in front of your studio monitors, painstakingly polishing your sonic masterpiece to perfection. But then, when you play that finished product away from your home workstation—on speakers in another room, on your car stereo, on headphones—it suddenly sounds very different. Maybe it’s shrill, boomy, or you can barely pick out the lead vocal. No, you’re not imagining things, but you might be surprised to learn that the problem is probably due to mixing on inaccurate speakers. That’s why you should upgrade your studio monitors. Unlike hi-fi speakers, which tend to “flatter” sound by enhancing lows and highs to provide a pleasing listening experience, the best studio monitors are designed to reproduce sound exactly as intended—warts and all—so you can make informed decisions about your mix without being influenced by sonically hyped speakers. 

It’s the audio equivalent of viewing the world through a clear window versus stained glass: Stained glass creates gorgeous colors and patterns, but sometimes you just need to see what’s on the other side, even if it’s ugly out there. Let’s peer at some top choices to bring this clarity home.

• Best overall: Yamaha HS5
• Best for golden ears: Focal Alpha 80 Evo
• Best for electronic producers: KRK ROKIT 8 
• Best for DJs: Pioneer DJ VM-50
• Best for home recording studios: JBL LSR 305P MKII
• Best portable: IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitors
• Best budget: Mackie CR3-X

How we selected the best studio monitors

With hundreds of choices, we focused on the best studio monitors that balance proven performance, value, and universal appeal. All the brands here make a wide range of professional recording products; you’ll find their production tools in just about every recording studio. The monitors we profile here represent the culmination of decades of audio research and testing—a combination of personal experience, peer recommendations, critical reviews, and user impressions. They’ve been established in the market for years, have earned the stamp of approval from pros we’ve consulted, and we like them, too.

The best studio monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Wading through the options can be daunting. We’ve made it a little easier with our favorite picks for various content creators, from podcasters to EDM producers to mixers on the go. Our choices are self-powered studio monitors, meaning you won’t need a separate amplifier (though you may still need speaker wire). With models starting at $99, there are bound to be monitor speakers that fit your budget. Oh, and it’s important to note that pro studio speakers are often sold as singles, so don’t forget to pick up a pair!

Best overall: Yamaha HS5

Yamaha

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Why it made the cut: When you buy Yamaha studio monitors, you’re buying into decades of R&D and experience producing some of the most neutral speakers in the industry.

Specs

• Frequency response: 54 Hz-30 kHz
• Max SPL: 90 dB
• Power rating: 70W
• I/O: 1 XLR, 1 TRS
• Dimensions: 11.2 x 6.7 x 8.7 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: 11.7 lbs.

Pros

• Precise stereo imaging
• Accurate, pro-proven mix translation
• Built-in filters and level control

Cons

• Built-in filters and level control
• No cables included
• Narrow listening sweet spot

Since the 1970s, Yamaha’s iconic black NS10 studio monitors, with their iconic white woofers, have been recording studio standards, thanks to their unforgiving sonic accuracy. The HS Series, an evolution of that line, shares that same focus on transparency and achieves a smooth response over a wide frequency range. The best studio monitors for old-school truth seekers, these speakers are available in sizes ranging from 5-inch to 8-inch drivers and come in black and white finishes. The HS5, profiled here, is one of the best 5-inch models for home music studios (and we’ve had plenty of experience with home studio setups).

The HS5 is a bi-amplified nearfield studio monitor with its woofer coupled to a 1-inch dome tweeter and together they deliver a well-defined bottom end for its size, with clear and accurate mids and precise highs. The cabinet features three-way mitre joints, which eliminate resonances and improve durability. Built-in Room Control and High Trim Response functions help the HS5s compensate for unruly room acoustics. The HS5 offers a somewhat narrow listening sweet spot, which means you’ll need to pay extra attention to the locations of your speakers and listening position. But once you get it right, you’ll start hearing elements of your mix that you never noticed before—for better or worse. Tough love, indeed.

Best for golden ears: Focal Alpha 80 Evo

Sarah Jones

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Why it made the cut: From unprocessed guitar effects to vinyl albums to SACDs, the Alpha 80 Evos presents tracks with honesty and clarity, exactly as they were intended, allowing you to make world-class mixes.

Specs

• Frequency response: 38 Hz to 22 kHz
• Max SPL: 108 dB
• Power rating: 115W
• I/O: 2 balanced XLR, RCA, TRS
• Dimensions: 20 x 16.5 x 14 inches (H x W x D)
• Weight: 20.7 lbs.

Pros

• Expansive, detailed soundstage
• Powerful, tight bass
• Consistent sound at any volume

Cons

• Pricey for some

French manufacturer Focal has been making professional studio monitors for decades; its speakers are mainstays in many of the world’s leading music and mastering studios. Top-of-the-line Focals run well into the six-figure range; fortunately for the price-conscious prosumer, its Alpha Evo line provides an entry point into professional Focal technology at a fraction of that cost. Each Alpha 80 Evo ($549) houses a 1-inch aluminum inverted dome tweeter with custom dispersion-controlling waveguide and an 8-inch woofer with composite slate fiber/thermoplastic polymer cones, which Focal says lowers weight and improves speed, rigidity, and damping. An internally fluted laminar port optimizes airflow for more efficient low-end performance and ease of integration into small spaces.

Inputs are level-compensated to ensure consistent volume when switching sources. High and low shelving filters tailor your response to your room and taste; a sensitivity switch matches monitors to system levels. Everything’s housed in vinyl-covered 5/8-inch MDF cabinets with diffraction-taming rounded corners. Regarding a studio monitor, neutral response is paramount—but the Alpha 80 Evos proved they check all the boxes when we spent several weeks with them. Neutral isn’t the same as dry and analytical, however; the sound presentation is so richly detailed that you can feel it move the air through the room.

The Alpha 80 Evo’s sound stage is expansive, with a wide, consistent sweet spot; and sonic images are presented with pinpoint precision. Transients are crisp, with no harshness or breakup. These speakers are truly linear, delivering a consistent sonic presentation at any volume. Midrange is deep; bass is big, full, and lush yet focused and well-articulated. A subwoofer is unnecessary, but—for those mixing bass-heavy genres, game soundtracks, and immersive content, or who just want more thump and thunder in the room—Focal’s 200-watt Sub One ($999) pairs nicely with Alpha Evo Series models.

Best for electronic producers: KRK ROKIT 8 

KRK

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Why it made the cut: This fourth-generation icon is favored by club music producers for its deep, definitive bass and room-correcting DSP.

Specs

• Frequency response: 36 Hz-40 kHz
• Max SPL: 111 dB
• Power rating: 203W
• I/O: 1 XLR-1/4-inch combo
• Dimensions: 15.8 by 10.5 by 12.2 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: 45.2 lbs./pair

Pros

• Powerful, punchy bass
• Built-in room-tuning DSP with free app
• Acoustic pads on bottom help with decoupling

Cons

• DSP can be complicated for novices
• Bass-forward signature is not ideal for all genres
• Heavy

Chances are you’ve seen KRK Rokits, with their iconic yellow cones, gracing YouTube videos and Instagram posts by your favorite producers. These legendary monitors, now in their fourth generation, are pro favorites thanks to their solid build quality, natural sound, and built-in room-correcting signal processing. Rokits are particularly beloved DJs and EDM producers because of their deep, full bass response. Rokit G4s feature two-way, bi-amped designs and are available in 5-inch, 7-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch versions; here, we’re focusing on the 8-inch Rokit 8.

The Rokit 8’s 8-inch Kevlar woofer and 1-inch dome tweeter reproduce sound over a broad frequency range of 36 Hz–40 kHz. Its ultra-efficient Class D amplification ensures powerful, clean sound at any volume. An optimized high-frequency waveguide provides precise imaging and a wide listening sweet spot, and a low-resonance, ported enclosure delivers enhanced bass performance. The Rokit line’s bass-forward signature might not be ideal for every genre of music, but if you’re creating club bangers, it’ll bring you closer to the sonic experience of playback in the venue.

Rokit 8 offers built-in digital signal processing, including EQ, signal generators, analyzers, and speaker-placement tools. Make adjustments using the speaker’s built-in LCD or with KRK’s free app for iPhone or Android. All Rokits include acoustic isolation pads that help dampen monitor vibrations.

Best for DJs: Pioneer DJ VM-50

Markkus Rovito

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Why it made the cut: The Pioneer DJ VM-50 will not only look good on your livestream, but it also sounds good—getting reasonably loud while delivering distortion-free dynamics.

Specs

• Frequency response: 40 Hz – 36 kHz
• Max SPL: 107 dB
• Power rating: 60W
• I/O: 1 balanced XLR-1/4 combo and 1 unbalanced RCA input
• Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 10 (HxWxD)
• Weight: 12.3 lbs. each

Pros

• Well-defined stereo image
• Excellent separation
• Crisp, angular aesthetic

Cons

• Could be louder
• Could delve lower
• There’s no bypassing a digital processing stage, so purists beware

Livestream (or even just record) DJ sets? Consider the Pioneer DJ VM-50, which comes from a brand synonymous with festival headlining sets, and that can pull double duty as a “booth monitor” of sorts. The Pioneer CDJ digital media players have become as ubiquitous as turntables in DJ booths everywhere, and you’ll often find Pioneer controllers between the decks as well. So it only makes sense that Pioneer has taken this knowledge of what digital DJs need and applied it to mixing monitors.

Available in black or white, these sound monitors offer 60W of total power from a bi-amped configuration: 30W for the low-frequency driver (a 5.25-inch woofer) and 30W for the high-frequency driver (a 1-inch tweeter). Both sit within an oblong, hexagonal brushed aluminum 4mm-thick front baffle plate designed to suppress unwanted resonance. Immediately noticeable is the fact that the edges of the silk soft-dome tweeter’s “constant directivity horn” and the Aramid fiber woofer cone are equal width. Pioneer DJ claims this shaped design will “enable smooth frequency crossover and a natural sound” and, in our reviewer’s experience, they did produce a flat frequency response and broad soundfield. Finally, a rear-facing Vortex Bass Accelerator helps keep the bass punchy and free from unwanted vibrations and distortion.

On the rear panel, DSP controls help compensate for the speakers’ placement in a room, the room’s reverberation, or personal preference—and these filters can’t be bypassed, just set flat. All these features combine to provide a sweet spot where the mid-range frequencies sound exceptionally crisp, clear, and detailed, and the highs are crisp without being spiky. Clean and correct bass anchors the detailed playback, ensuring the kind of frequency separation you need when mixing elements of two or more songs together in a home studio or practice space. Pioneer also produces the VM-70 (featuring a 6.5-inch woofer) and VM-80 (featuring an 8-inch woofer), if you need more kick in your drums, but at a little over $300 a pair, the VM-50 delivers value without taking up too much space.

Best for home recording studios: JBL LSR 305P MKII

JBL

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Why it made the cut: Borrowing design innovations from JBL’s higher-end studio monitor lines, the LSR 305P MKII brings professional technologies to an accessible price for home studios.

Specs

• Frequency response: 43 Hz-24 kHz
• Max SPL: 108 dB
• Power rating: 82W
• I/O: 1 XLR, 1 TRS
• Dimensions: 11.75 x 7.3 x 9.9 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: 10.43 lbs.

Pros

• Wide soundscape
• Broad listening sweet spot
• Room-tuning features

Cons

• Glossy finish isn’t for everyone
• Audio cables not included

JBL has been in the speaker business for 75 years, with hundreds of offerings for recording, touring, cinema, broadcast, and casual-listening scenarios. The 3 Series MkII is the company’s midrange studio reference monitor line, with models ranging from 5-inch to 8-inch drivers. The best fit for most home recording studios is the LSR 305P, a bi-amplified monitor with a 5-woofer and 1-inch dome tweeter enclosed in an MDF cabinet with a black PVC finish and a slick injection-molded ABS front baffle (a white version is also available). The enclosure features JBL’s rear-firing Slip Stream bass port design, engineered to produce accurate bass at low playback levels.

This speaker’s highlight is JBL’s patented Image Control Waveguide, adapted from JBL’s top-line pro studio monitors. (Signature imaging horns also appear on the JBL 4305P, one of our top powered speakers with a cabinet that’s almost a stand-in for a classic ’70s control room monitor but comes with a beefier tone if you want a casual listening station to test real-world dynamics.) This bowtie-looking beveled panel housing the tweeter is designed to deliver a very wide stereo soundstage, precise imaging, and increased high-frequency detail. It also provides a broad sweet spot, which means you’ll have more leeway to move around at your listening position and still experience an accurate soundstage. (The “LSR” in the name stands for Linear Spatial Reference, JBL’s design process in which 72 measurements are taken in 360 degrees around the speaker to optimize its off-axis response, which is what you hear when you’re out of a speaker’s main line of fire.)

Best portable: IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitors

IK Multimedia

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Why it made the cut: This small-and-mighty cousin of IK Multimedia’s flagship iLoud will pack a punch in any portable rig.

Specs

• Frequency response: 54 Hz-30 kHz
• Max SPL: 90 dB
• Power rating: 70W
• I/O: 1 XLR, 1 TRS
• Dimensions: 11.2 x 6.7 x 8.7 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: 11.7 lbs.

Pros

• Built-in DSP
• Bluetooth
• Weighs less than 4 pounds

Cons

• Controls are all on rear panel
• No battery power option
• Limited bass by design

IK Multimedia hails from Modena, Italy, the birthplace of balsamic vinegar, so good taste is clearly at its core. The company started making software that emulates legendary recording studio equipment; its speaker line launched later with its now-classic iLoud monitor for mobile mixers. The iLoud Micro Monitor, a spin-off of its larger, more expensive namesake, is touted as “the smallest active studio reference monitoring system in the world.” It’s easy to see why: Unlike most speakers of this size, the iLoud Micro Monitor is designed to offer flat, neutral response without the hyped lows and highs you’ll find in comparable consumer speakers.

IK Multimedia says the monitor is optimized for “makeshift spaces”—and because it’s so small, you can sit closer to your speakers, minimizing the impact of bad room sound. It’s based on a bi-amplified design featuring a 3-inch woofer and 3/4-inch silk dome tweeter in a ported enclosure for smooth, natural frequency response extending to 55 Hz. Internal 56-bit DSP handles room correction and optimizes driver performance. An integrated isolation base keeps your speakers from coupling with the surface they sit on. Use built-in wireless for casual listening; some engineers will also reference their mixes over the air on Bluetooth studio monitors to evaluate the lossy transmission’s sonic impact. Not too shabby for a set of speakers clocking in at less than 4 pounds, making these our best compact pick. Available in black and white.

Best budget: Mackie CR3-X

Mackie

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Why it made the cut: The most affordable studio monitor on this list, the full-featured Mackie CR3-X makes a great entry-level speaker or real-world reference.

Specs

• Frequency response: 70 Hz-20 kHz
• Max SPL: 97 dB
• Power rating: 50W (pair)
• I/O: 2 x 1/4″ TRS, 1 x stereo RCA, 2 x push terminal, 1 x 1/8″/3.5 mm TRS in, 1 x 1/8″/3.5 mm TRS out
• Dimensions: 8.1 by 5.5 by 7.1 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: 7.8 lbs./pair

Pros

• Loud for its size
• Flexible inputs
• Includes workstation software and plug-ins

Cons

• Bass distorts at moderate volume levels
• No DSP/tuning
• Distinctive visual design (though that may be a pro, depending on the user)

Mackie’s CR Series Creative Reference Multimedia Monitor line is available in sizes from 3 to 8 inches, with Bluetooth options. Here, we’re looking at the 3-inch CR3-X, the only monitor in this roundup that retails for less than $100. The CR3-X has a solid build, striking looks, and offers clear, accurate audio for its small size and low price. Its solid MDF cabinet features a brushed-metal front panel with a distinctive lime-green trim that looks straight out of a Tron movie (Bluetooth models are available in white). The CR3-X comes in a pair comprising one passive speaker and one speaker containing a 50-watt power amplifier that drives both units.

Unlike the sea of sonically hyped speakers in this price range, the CR3-X is designed to present a clear, accurate sound signature, with a 0.75-inch silk-dome tweeter and 3-inch polypropylene-coated woofer providing full-bandwidth fidelity down to 70 Hz. The speaker is loud for its size, with a max SPL of 97 dB. The cabinet is rear-ported to help extend smooth low-end (this also means you shouldn’t place the speakers flush against a wall). The speaker’s low-end response is decent for its size, but you won’t experience the detail necessary to make critical mix decisions in genres that emphasize big bass. You’ll probably be fine for podcasts and YouTube videos, but if you’re looking for a little more thunder, Mackie offers the matching CR8S-XBT 200W sub with Bluetooth.

The CR3-X offers tons of I/Os: Rear-panel inputs include balanced 1/4-inch TRS and 1/8-inch stereo I/Os for connecting various devices. A front-panel knob controls power and volume, and a convenient front-panel headphone output makes referencing on headphones fast and easy (plugging in headphones automatically disables speaker driver output). At $99, the CR3-X is already a very good value. Mackie sweetens the deal by including a free copy of Pro Tools First and Mackie Musician Collection of 23 plug-ins and all the cables you need to get a starter digital audio workstation up and running (just add one of the best monitors of the visual kind). It’s the best entry-level studio monitor that can serve as a great “real-world” reference if you upgrade later.

What to consider when searching for the best studio monitors

Above all, studio monitors need to be honest and accurate. It’s easy to be tricked by speakers with a signature “sound.” Imagine that you’re listening on a very bright system: You think you hear too much treble in your mix, so you cut the highs. But when you play that same mix on a balanced system, it sounds murky and muddy. Or, let’s say you’re creating club mixes on a bass-heavy system. Things sound boomy, so you dial back the low end. But when you take that same mix to the venue, it sounds like it’s playing out of a tin can. Other monitor considerations depend on the style of content you’re creating, the size of the space you’re working in, and your room acoustics.

Match your studio speakers to the size of your space

Generally speaking, the bigger the monitor, the more power it can put out, and the deeper the bass it can produce. In the case of studio monitors, however, more isn’t always better. You want monitors that are small enough to operate efficiently in your space; if your monitors are too powerful for the size of the room, you can’t run them at their optimal levels, and they can sound boomy. On the other hand, your monitors need to be robust enough to reproduce your most dynamic content effortlessly. Generally, monitors with 5- to 8-inch drivers are good fits for home studios.

Assess your room acoustics

Speakers interact with the space they’re in. If your room has a lot of acoustic anomalies, it can color the sound of your monitors. Some speakers are designed to sound great without any adjustments; for example, they might be acoustically optimized to sit on a desktop. Other monitors feature built-in signal processing designed to minimize the influence of your space; some speakers can even self-adjust to compensate for room problems. While these features can be helpful, they’re not miracle workers, and even the best speakers can’t compensate for uncontrolled acoustics. If you’re serious about choosing the right monitor, you should be serious about taming the sound in your space—like soundproofing. (Space just can’t be tamed? Check out our guide to the best mixing headphones.)

Consider your content

Choose a monitor size that complements the type of content you create. Are you a podcaster or into acoustic music? Five-inch speakers might be fine for you. Are you a DJ or EDM producer, making music that will end up in a club? You might want to consider bigger monitors that deliver deeper bass.

When to add a subwoofer

Sometimes it makes sense to bring in a subwoofer to extend the low-end range of your system. This can be very revealing if you have smaller monitors or you’re producing bass-heavy dance or hip-hop tracks. Note that low-end sound waves travel right through the walls of home studios—something to consider if you’re trying to keep the neighbors happy. You can certainly mix and match speakers and subs, but most of the product lines here feature subwoofers—including ones from Yamaha, JBL, KRK, and Mackie—designed to pair with monitors in the series.

FAQs

Final thoughts on choosing the best studio monitors

• Best overall: Yamaha HS5
• Best for golden ears: Focal Alpha 80 Evo
• Best for electronic producers: KRK ROKIT 8 
• Best for DJs: Pioneer DJ VM-50
• Best for home recording studios: JBL LSR 305P MKII
• Best portable: IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitors
• Best budget: Mackie CR3-X

It doesn’t matter how much you invest in condenser microphones, dazzling software effects, audio interfaces, and MIDI keyboards if you can’t hear a true, accurate representation of a vocal in the mix, etc. Besides your ears, your studio monitors are the most important part of your studio, the one constant and the lens through which you evaluate your work. More than other studio equipment, monitors are an investment in your craft, and using great studio monitors will help make you a better mix engineer. Choosing a monitor is a personal decision; no single model is right for everyone. Ultimately, talent trumps technology, and audio products are tools that serve your creative vision, which is what it’s really all about.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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The Rolling Stones, “Exile on Main St.” Nine Inch Nails, “The Downward Spiral.” Billie Eilish, “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” Radiohead, “Ok Computer.” These iconic albums have one thing in common: They were all recorded at home. And while it’s true that some of those homes might have been more fabulous than others, those sessions prove that you can capture musical masterpieces with a home recording studio setup, even if you’re in a kitchen, an attic, or a garage.

It used to be that quality studio gear was out of the reach for musicians recording at home. In 2022, a home studio is a big investment, but you can set up a decent studio for less than $2,000 rather than, say, $20,000. “Perfect” is personal. It’s about your space, your budget, and, most importantly, your creative vision.

Start small with your first home recording studio

When you’re starting from scratch, less is more. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or voiceover artist, you can get a recording studio up and running with just a few basic elements. A microphone to record, a decent PC, audio “workstation” software, studio monitors, and an audio interface to link everything together.

Even when you focus on those criteria, there are a lot of options. The choices can be overwhelming. Start by getting specific: Figure out exactly what you need your gear to do. Will you be mobile? Maybe a portable recorder is for you. Are you producing podcasts with a single narrator? You can probably get by with a single microphone. Do you want to record a big rock band? You’ll need more mics and lots of audio inputs.

It’s also important to weed out things you definitely don’t need. Home studio gear often features a lot of bells and whistles, but it’s better to prioritize recording quality so you won’t be stuck with mediocre gear with tons of superfluous features that you’ll eventually outgrow.

Let’s explore the five essentials and how to choose the gear that’s right for you.

Beef up your computer

Your computer is the nerve center of your home recording studio—your recording, processing, and mixing hub. In an ideal world, you would have a dedicated computer for music production, but it’s not critical. Most modern computers have the processing power to handle basic audio recording, like a podcast (and the best laptops for music production can handle far more than that).

The moment you add more people or instruments, audio production quickly starts gobbling up processing resources (and storage space). If you’re hoping to create elaborate multitrack productions with your eight-piece band, you’ll hit a wall, fast. 

At the very least, beef up your RAM as much as you can and consider storing your files on an external drive. High-resolution, multitrack audio files are very large and can take a long time to process, so you don’t want slow data transfer speeds holding up your workflow. The rugged SanDisk Extreme portable SSD is a great choice, with a read speed up to 1,050 MB/sec.

Your DAW defines your workflow

A digital audio workstation (DAW) is an application that enables you to record, edit, and mix your tracks into a single, complete audio file. Any workstation app can get the job done, but the programs vary when you get down to the specifics. The differences in DAWs have to do with interface and workflow, track count, and number and quality of effects. Most DAWs come with built-in tools for sculpting your tracks with reverb and other effects; you can expand your palette with the best music production software.

For recording most music, AVID’s Pro Tools is the industry standard, used by most professional recording engineers. If you’re looking for more features aimed at songwriters and composers, check out Apple Logic Pro. Ableton Live is preferred by a lot of electronic music producers. If you’re just starting out, there are many free apps for simple recordings, like Apple GarageBand and Audacity. All DAWs offer trial versions, and you can find lots of comparison videos online, so there’s no risk in exploring your options. Most of these programs have companion apps for working on tablets. 

The ins and outs of audio interfaces

Your home recording studio will need a way to get sound from your gear into your computer; this is where an audio interface comes in. An audio interface converts analog signal coming from your microphones, instruments, and other audio sources into digital information that your computer recognizes, and routes audio from your computer to your studio monitors. Interfaces come in endless configurations for connecting to all types of audio sources so, first, think about what you want to record: The more tracks you plan to record at once, the more inputs you’ll need. If it’s just you and your guitar, a 2-channel interface should suffice. But if you’re tracking a live band, you might want to spring for 8 channels. 

Microphones, instruments, recording gear, and consumer devices all connect using different types of inputs—which is not the same as an interface’s total channel count—so make sure the I/O configuration matches your needs. Other considerations include digital I/O and high-speed computer connectivity (a USB interface might be the perfect place to start for more casual set-ups). Some interfaces even include built-in mixers and effects. If you’re looking for a place to start, we like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo, PreSonus AudioBox USB 96, and Universal Audio Apollo Twin. Or maybe you’re simply capturing field recordings or on-the-go audio with your smartphone. Consider something compact, casual, but capable like the Roland Go: Mixer Pro-X. The options are plentiful and you’d be amazed how quickly and easily you can assemble a mobile recording rig.

Multitasking microphones

There are multiples types of microphones, not to mention countless models, so shopping for one can be overwhelming. And when you’re starting out, you’ll probably be working with just a few mics, so take care to choose versatile models that will capture gorgeous performances, no matter what you want to record. Put simply, mics fall into two general categories:

Condenser mics are more sensitive to sonic nuances, making them an especially great choice for both instruments, as well as a perfect microphone for vocals. A multipattern condenser, which lets you adjust its directivity, is a versatile studio workhorse.

Dynamic microphones feature rugged, simple designs that are not very sensitive to high frequencies and high sound pressure levels, which makes them perfect for recording loud instruments, such as drums or electric guitar.

If you’re recording podcasts, a multipattern USB condenser like the Blue Yeti (ubiquitous for good reasons) might be the way to go. If you’re a musician, consider picking up an all-purpose dynamic microphone like the iconic Shure SM57 (you’d be amazed at how many legendary records were recorded with this $99 wonder) and a versatile, large-diaphragm condenser like the RØDE NT1. If you’re recording yourself singing with piano or guitar, or you want to record a drum set, consider a dedicated stereo microphone, such as the Audio-Technica AT2022, or a matched pair of mics (try the sE Electronics sE8).

Studio monitors keep you honest

Studio monitors are speakers designed specifically for audio production. They provide a single source of sonic truth, the lens through which you’ll judge your mixes. Unlike commercial or “hi-fi” speakers and headphones, which enhance lows and highs to provide a more “enjoyable” listening experience, studio monitors are designed to provide neutral, uncolored sound.

If you’re recording with microphones and listening back in the same space, you’ll need to use the best mixing headphones to prevent feedback caused by playing real-time recordings through speakers. In general, audio engineers tend to prefer open-back headphones for their airy feel and open soundstage. We particularly love the Sennheiser HD 800 S and the more affordable beyerdynamic DT 1990.

For a true home recording studio vibe, though, you can’t beat studio monitor speakers. The most important thing to consider with large speakers is size. You’ll want speakers that are small enough to operate efficiently in your space but powerful enough to effortlessly reproduce your most dynamic content. Five-inch and 8-inch models, such as the KRK Rokit 5, JBL 305, and PreSonus Eris E5 are all great fits for a home studio. 

Home recording studio extras and accessories

Here’s where we drop the fine print: You actually have to buy more than five pieces of gear to build a working home recording studio. These five devices make up the core recording station, but you also need a few basic accessories, such as cables for your microphone, to get things working. From there, you can add upgrades like a pop filter, mic boom arm or stand, and a portable acoustic shield, which serves as a mini vocal booth.

If you’re making music with synths or other MIDI devices, you’ll need a hardware MIDI controller. Its functionality should match your production style—whether you like to use a keyboard, faders, jog wheels, or pads. Other add-ons: a power conditioner, a tuner, backup storage (either physical or cloud), and a great chair.

Acoustic treatment is pretty complex, but it’s easy to make big improvements to your space by learning how to soundproof a room. Just remember that foam and other wall treatments designed to manage the sound inside your space don’t perform actual soundproofing. Things might sound better in your room, but if you crank the sound up, it’ll pass right through your walls.

Keep your home recording studio in perspective

Gear Acquisition Syndrome, that unrelenting urge to upgrade and expand your setup, is real. The more comfortable you get with your home recording studio, the more you’ll want to add new and shiny equipment to the mix, whether you need to or not. It won’t take you long to get the hang of your new home studio setup and you might find yourself browsing around for more microphones, more effects, more everything, sooner than you think.

At the end of the day, better studio equipment doesn’t make you a better performer. Your gear is here to serve you, not the other way around. The goal is to spend less time tinkering and more time creating, so choose straightforward, high-quality tools that’ll give you confidence in your creative process.

The post Here’s the home recording studio gear every project needs appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Focal Utopia 2022		SEE IT	Sheer audio opulence, with a price tag to match.
Best audiophile		Sennheiser HD 800 S		SEE IT	Reference-quality cans beloved by audio engineers and audiophiles alike.
Best noise-cancellation		Sony WH-1000XM5		SEE IT	Upgrades and refinements make these the wireless model to beat.

For many people, headphones have become a necessity in their daily lives. As more workers settle into remote roles, headphones are becoming home-office staples for blocking out distractions and piping in colleagues. A growing number of content creators, from podcasters to musicians, rely on headphones to help them produce their best work in shared spaces. And, of course, some people just use them for pure transportive pleasure, as a means to decompress after the demands of the day. The best headphones provide an immersive aural escape, whether you’re bringing your entertainment along on your commute, fueling your workout, focusing at your desk, or just relaxing at home, luxuriating in your favorite songs.

• Best open-back headphones: Focal Utopia 2022
• Best closed-back headphones: Focal Stellia
• Best audiophile headphones: Sennheiser HD 800 S
• Best planar-magnetic headphones: HiFiMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Version
• Best noise-canceling headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5
• Best mixing headphones: beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro

How we chose the best headphones

We spend a lot of time at Popular Science musing over facts and figures, but music is probably a close second when it comes to what’s on our minds. With all our Slack sessions sharing song suggestions fresh in our memories, we started our list of the best headphones based on our personal experience with the best over-ear headphones. We then polled peers about their favorite headphones for music, parsed through critical reviews and user impressions, and narrowed it down to what we believe are headphones that can appeal to the widest range of listeners without pandering to any single type of tonality other than awesome.

The best headphones: Reviews & Recommendations

The best headphones will reproduce every nuance of your favorite songs, movies, podcasts, and game soundtracks with superior clarity, dynamics, and detail. It’s important to note, however, that there is no perfect headphone—just the headphone that’s perfect for you and what you listen to. 

Some purists search for end-game neutrality, picking everything in their signal chain to preserve a linear, studio-grade frequency response. Others may get a reference headphone that responds well to EQing, etc. Then they use components—like the best digital audio converters and tube-driven amplifiers—to add “color” to this baseline. Still others want a specific tuning no matter what the source and buy a headphone known for the signature that matches their genre of choice. (What works best for opera, EDM, Americana, and black metal is rarely the exact same thing.) Here are some of our favorite choices for various scenarios, each category featuring both a price-no-object pick and budget alternatives:

Best open-back headphones: Focal Utopia 2022

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: If you’re looking to invest in blue-chip components, these are the best-of-the-best open-back headphones.

Specs

• Style: Open-back/over-ear
• Drivers: 40mm “M”-shaped beryllium dynamic
• Frequency response: 5 Hz–50 kHz

Pros

• Unrivaled fidelity
• Fit (and feel) like a glove
• Stunningly lifelike soundstage

Cons

• Price is out of reach for most

We’re kicking off our hot list with the undisputed cream of the crop, the best overall headphones: the instantly, enduringly iconic Focal Utopia. (Yes, it has a jaw-dropping $4,999 price tag to match. But stick with us because, price-wise, it’s all downhill from here!)

French manufacturer Focal built a reputation for producing some of the most beautiful and best-sounding speakers available. That tradition continued with the launch of the company’s portable pinnacle in 2016. Utopia—Focal’s flagship open-back, over-ear headphones—produced an astonishingly revealing, deep soundstage. Inside, a pair of 40mm beryllium “M”-shaped dome dynamic drivers took advantage of the precious metal’s extreme lightness and stiffness to produce a smooth, ultrawide frequency response reminiscent of Focal’s premium speaker drivers. (A note about beryllium: This metal is hazardous in certain forms and contexts but is generally considered safe inside headphones and speaker drivers. For more information, see Focal’s documentation outlining precautions for use.)

The Utopia immediately established itself as one of the top aspirational audiophile headphones thanks to engineering that suspended its angled drivers in an open-air chamber to achieve an open, lifelike sound stage and remarkable detail reproduction. Utopia’s cozy fenestrated lambskin earcups connected to the plush headband with a carbon fiber yoke to minimize both weight (490g) and acoustic coupling, allowing pairs to stay effortlessly on the head of proud owners who extolled their pleasure continuously for the last five years. In 2022, however, the Utopia underwent an aesthetic makeover and sonic refinement. The voice coil, previously all aluminum, is now a blend of 30% copper and 70% aluminum, while the interior grill is now curved to match the driver.

These changes increase the headphones’ durability and conscientiously tweak its tuning, slightly shelving treble without dulling clarity and slightly extending subbass without affecting cohesion. It all adds up to an incredible sound stage with stunning realism and an emphasis on revealing musicality rather than unforgiving transparency (check out the Sennheiser HD 800 S below for that). Neutral-warm with immaculate imaging, able to deliver the attack and decay of each note with authority, the Focal Utopia 2022 is the idyll ideal—impressive not because of its sheer power but because of its absolute prowess.

While the 80-ohm Utopia can play nice with most sources, experiencing every lithe, lightning-quick transient at its best requires you use a great balanced amp and feed these headphones a quality signal. A most synergistic option is the Naim Uniti Atom Headphone Edition (shown below topped by the now-discontinued Utopia 2020, a repackaging of the original Utopia with expanded accessories that is still a great buy at around $3,000). This amp/DAC/streaming music player supports Roon, TIDAL, Spotify, AirPlay 2, up to 32bit/384kHz via UPnP, etc., and features a dynamic voicing and presentation in lock-step with the pace, rhythm, and timing of any Utopia (especially when using the included balanced cable). If you’re looking for sonic solace, this pairing is pure bliss.

Utopias giving you sticker shock? We feel you. The Focal Clear Mg (for Magnesium, the driver’s material) is the company’s “entry-level” open-back at only $1,599, if you want to sample the company’s spacious dynamics. Suppose you’re just interested in dipping a pinkie toe rather than cannonballing into audiophile-oriented open-back headphones. Our top recommendation for headphones that punch well above their price point would be the Meze Audio 109 PRO, which uses a new beryllium-coated polymer + cellulose-carbon driver for a precision-driven high that comes on with a comfortable balance of euphoria and technicalities. Meanwhile, the Philips Fidelio X2HR, a $148 over-ear model, is adored by connoisseurs of high-performing budget headphones. As for a more affordable amp/R2R DAC that can drive anything (including the Utopia) with verve, the $599 HiFiMan EF400 is highly recommended.

Best closed-back headphones: Focal Stellia

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: For fans of closed-back headphones, flawless sound, and French fashion-forward styling, Stellia is a star performer.

Specs

• Style: Closed-back/over-ear
• Drivers: 40mm “M”-shaped beryllium dynamic
• Frequency response: 5 Hz–40 kHz

Pros

• Intimate soundstage with superior isolation
• Exquisite design and finishes
• Precise, controlled bass

Cons

• Heavy

Fans of Focal’s venerated Utopia headphones will find similar sonic gratification in the company’s Stellia headphones. This closed-back design offers two-thirds of Utopia’s outstanding soundstage (leaning more tall than wide). Like the Utopia, Stellia features light, rigid beryllium drivers (a material you can read about more above), which deliver a detailed, intimate sound profile. Transients are crisp, bass is warm yet defined. All of this comes with better isolation than the Stellia’s Utopian sibling (because, as you can see comparing the images above, there is an additional acoustic membrane beneath the Stellia’s grill.

Stellia’s headband and earcups are lined in designer leather and filled with memory foam, making them somewhat heavy. Still, the headband and yoke mechanical features are adapted from the Utopia, which informs their high comfort factor, regardless of the shape and size of the listener’s head.

These headphones look as gorgeous as they sound, with aluminum-accented full-grain leather and mocha and cognac finishes. Accessories include three detachable oxygen-free cables and a ¼-inch adapter, plus a form-fitting, padded, purse-like case. Everything is housed in a sturdy leatherette box.

Those interested in a more “affordable” sampling of Focal’s balance of bass extension and treble precision can pick up the Celestee, which features an “M”-shaped aluminum/magnesium driver, for only a grand.

If you prefer your headphones to cost less than a used car, the stylish, wood-finished Meze Audio 99 Classics over-ear, closed-back headphones only cost a few hundred. They will appeal to those who want efficient and non-fatiguing headphones that offer a warmer sound signature. Or, for those that want an even more bass-enriched sound, consider a legacy brand like Sony, which offers dozens of choices ranging from workhorse closed-back podcast/recording classic like the MDR-7506 to our top wireless pick, the WH-1000XM5, to the summit-fi MDR-Z1R.

Best audiophile headphones: Sennheiser HD 800 S

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Why it made the cut: If you crave accuracy, transparency, and openness that rival the most balanced studio monitors, look no further.

Specs

• Style: Open-back/over-ear
• Drivers: 56mm Ring Radiator
• Frequency response: 4 Hz–51 kHz

Pros

• Balanced sound signature
• Superior build quality
• Extremely comfortable during long wear

Cons

• You’ll need an amp to get the most out of these

Sennheiser introduced its top-of-the-line HD 800 over-ear, open-back headphones more than a decade ago. They immediately became instant classics in both the studio and audiophile worlds, thanks to their exceptionally detailed response and nimble, neutral presentation. 

The latest-model HD 800 S is hand-assembled, just like its predecessors. It’s based on Sennheiser’s 56mm, D-shaped Ring Radiator, which the company claims is the largest driver ever used in a dynamic headphone. Inside, carefully tuned resonators smooth out peaks and undesirable vibrations. You’ll be blown away by the expansive detail spread out well beyond your ears as you revel in your favorite tracks: The HD 800’s seemingly endless soundstage and pinpoint imaging rival that of the most balanced studio monitors, whether you’re doing some critical listening or just immersing yourself in your favorite songs. If our best overall pick, the Focal Utopia, projects your music with a natural luminescence, a properly powered Sennheiser HD 800 S puts each track under a spotlight, letting you pick out every individual element no matter how quickly it darts and ducks.

These airy headphones weigh just 330 grams, making for effortless long wear. They also feature an improved yoke and a sleek matte-black finish. If you have $1,600 to spend on headphones, these will never disappoint. They even come with a certificate of authenticity.  

Prefer to keep your headphone purchase price in the triple digits but still want an expansive soundstage with expressive mids? The Massdrop x Sennheiser HD 6XX, an adaptation of the revered HD 650 developed through a community partnership with Drop, is just a couple hundred and likely the best value in all audiophile equipment (not to mention an amazing headset for PC gaming that requires inch-perfect positioning). As an alternative, consider the AKG K712 Pro over-ear, open-back headphone, which delivers every nuanced directional cue and costs less than $300.

Best planar-magnetic headphones: HiFiMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Version

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: These neutral, transparent headphones are an accessible introduction to the world of planar-magnetic technology.

Specs

• Style: Open-back/over-ear
• Drivers: 130mm orthodynamic
• Frequency response: 8 Hz–65 kHz

Pros

• Extended low-frequency response
• Highly detailed sonic profile
• Relatively affordable category entry point

Cons

• Pleather head strap is not designed for longevity
• Earcups may be overly long for smaller heads, touching the jawline

If you crave an experience that’s as distinct as you are, the best planar magnetic headphones, such as the HiFiMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Version, deliver the goods.

Planar-magnetic technology combines the principles of dynamic and electrostatic drivers, featuring a thin, flexible electrostatic-style material sandwiched between two arrays of evenly spaced magnets.

Planar-magnetic headphones are known for their bass response, which goes low but never gets boomy, remaining supple thanks to these headphones’ large driver surface area and powerful magnetic force. Whereas a traditional headphone driver measures around 30mm to 50mm, the nanometer-thick drivers in the HiFiMAN Arya Stealth measure a whopping 130mm across and can vibrate faster and more expansively. This latest revision of the Arya (the third) is open-backed, featuring a Window Shade grill on a teardrop earcup for an open, airy feel; it incorporates a new Stealth Magnet design that allows sound waves to pass through without generating interference. This translates to a transparent profile with a perceived quickness to the detail retrieval that reveals the leading edge and decaying trail of every note in the mix without extraneous noise.

The HiFiMAN Arya Stealth is articulate, neutral-warm, and just plain musical, though it may not be the most “audiophile” pair of planar headphones. One of the main reasons it ranks as the “best” planar magnetic, however, is how it over-delivers at $1,599. That sounds like a lot, but for many listeners, the Arya Stealth is a mid-tier investment that can confidently, convincingly take on the lower upper tier. (Flagship planars can easily reach many thousands.) The Arya Stealth isn’t the final word in resolution, but its appealing timbre, imaging, and excitement ensure that its price-to-performance ratio really can’t be beaten. Plus, its performance scales gorgeously as you increase amplification. We love these beauties so much that we count them among the best over-ear headphones out there.

If you’re new to planar magnetic headphones, be sure also to browse models from industry pillar Audeze, which offers this technology at a range of price points from the $799 Audeze LCD-2 Classic to the flagship LCD-5, which clocks in at $4,500. If you’re a music producer, the $1,699 MM-500 headphones can be both a daily driver and a sonic scalpel as it makes music (particularly vocal-led tracks) equally approachable and transparent by presenting lithe transients, spacious midrange, and energetic bass. Fans of gaming headsets would do well to consider the Mobius, a PC gaming headphone that features head tracking and virtual surround-sound features, as well as the console gaming-friendly Penrose. Audeze has even encapsulated the punchy, well-paced planar magnetic experience in an in-ear monitor, the exemplary Euclid. And If you’re looking for a purely musical flagship Android Bluetooth experience, the $399 Edifier STAX Spirit S3 pairs Audeze-derived planar magnetic components with an aptX HD/Adaptive connection to great effect.

Closed-back planar magnetics, meanwhile, are harder to come by and even harder to get right. The $2,000 Meze Audio LIRIC, however, is so impressive it might end up taking the best closed-back headphones spot in a future update to this roundup. There’s a depth to it that responds eagerly and agilely to a bass boost, and a surprising width considering it’s a closed-back model. Each note’s impact and decay are crisp and coherent, and layering never gets convoluted. The headphone’s custom voice coil and airflow systems impart a natural presence, rich with mids and minutiae, capable of low-end rumble but never in an intrusive way. Similarly, the headphone’s exactingly machined and hand-assembled suspension makes for long listening sessions as effortless as the multidimensional sound.

Best noise-canceling headphones Sony WH-1000XM5

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: The latest in this line of beloved Bluetooth headphones showcases the results of continual technology refinements.

Specs

• Style: Closed-back/over-ear
• Drivers: 30mm carbon fiber and Thermoplastic Polyurethane dynamic
• Frequency response: 4 Hz–40 kHz

Pros

• Superior adaptive noise reduction
• Long battery life
• Ultra-lightweight at 8.82 ounces

Cons

• Lackluster industrial design

When it comes to the best wireless headphones, Sony models are the on-the-go holy grail thanks to heavyweight features packed in a featherweight frame. The company’s previous model, the WH-1000XM4, has been a perpetual list-topper and perennial bestseller since its 2020 introduction, thanks to superior comfort and sophisticated digital circuitry that tailors the sound for the best experience in even the noisiest environment. Now the WH-1000XM5 introduces even more ways to ensure you hear less of your surroundings and more of your soundtrack.

And what you can do with all that serenity is nearly unlimited as the 1000XM5 offers multipoint connections, 30 hours of battery life, and comprehensive touch-capacitive awareness/call/music playback controls. Packed with V1 and QN1 custom processors and eight microphones, the WH-1000XM5 filters out low frequencies with its Auto NC Optimizer, while the uber-isolating oval earcups ensure more incidental noise is negated. Sonically, the WH-1000XM5 sticks with Sony’s consumer-minded tuning, emphasizing bass and lower mids. It’s more of a strut than a slap, however. Treble is also goosed just enough to keep all the details intact without coming in hot. If you want more or less of this V-shaped signature, the Sony Headphones app is one of the most comprehensive on the market, including a multiband EQ. 

Ultra-lightweight at 8.82 ounces (even lighter than the 1000XM4), the 1000XM5 virtually disappears on your head, though not quite as much in your bag as the redesigned chassis now folds flat, rather than inward, making the low-profile case less compact. Still, the WH-1000XM5s can go anywhere you go and will stay comfortable the whole time (unless that somewhere is the rain or the gym, as these headphones have zero water resistance). Accessories include a short USB-A to USB-C charging cable (you must supply your own AC adaptor), a 3.5mm headphone cable (which works with noise cancellation and without power), and a two-prong airplane adapter. We think these full-featured headphones are more than worth their $399 price tag (though if you want to save a bit and still get an overperforming feature set, the WH-1000XM4 remains available for $350, less when on sale).

While platform-agnostic and supportive of Apple’s preferred AAC codec, the WH-1000XM5’s Bluetooth 5.2 connection really shines with Android devices that can take advantage of high-resolution LDAC transmissions (especially if you use a lossless audio streaming service, like TIDAL). We get that Apple acolytes out there typically want to stick to that ecosystem, so they can’t go wrong with the visually and sonically impressive AirPods Max. These $479 headphones, while significantly less travel-ready than even the Sony models, offer equally robust noise cancellation plus distinctive features like dynamic head tracking for spatial audio. They work seamlessly with iPhones, iPads, and macOS laptops and are poised to take advantage of more personalized listening features in the upcoming iOS 16.

If straying from these keystone brands is not an issue, this is the most competitive headphone market sector, so options are plentiful. Suppose both your appreciation for industrial design and your pockets are deep. In that case, the Bang & Olufsen BEOPLAY HX and Bose 700 offer sleek looks, polished sound, and impressive ANC performance in a similar price range as the above options. While the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is a flagship of sonic finesse if $699 is within your budget. The Philips Fidelio L3, meanwhile, is a great alternative closer to the $200 mark. And if the write-ups at the top of this page piqued your curiosity about the benefits of beryllium, but you want to take those high-speed transients on the go, you have two premium options: Focal’s own $799 Bathys and the $999 Mark Levinson No. 5909, both of which offer a highly resolving wireless experience, as well as built-in DACs for wired listening, that’ll please even the most discriminating audiophiles.

Best mixing headphones: beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: For many professional audio engineers, these open-back models set the benchmark for a portable mixing reference.

Specs

• Style: Over-ear/open-back
• Drivers: 45mm Tesla neodymium dynamic
• Frequency response: 5 Hz–40 kHz

Pros

• Wide imaging and airy soundstage
• Swappable earpads tailor sonic profile
• Flawless build quality

Cons

• Some find fit uncomfortable

As we are often fond of saying here at PopSci, the best mixing headphones tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. They’ll help you focus on the fine details, and your late-night headphone mixing sessions will never annoy the neighbors.

German audio brand beyerdynamic has been handcrafting headphones since 1937 and makes some revered audiophile-oriented flagships, such as the T5 (3rd Gen.). The tuning of those headphones, however, paints evocatively in darker hues. (Sludgy doom metal and live albums, for instance, are an amazing match.) Professional audio engineers gravitate toward open-back headphones as the best approximation of studio monitors, with their airy, open feel and wide, natural imaging. These qualities drive the design and performance of beyerdynamic’s DT 1990 Pro studio headphones. With the DT 1990s, beyer has funneled its engineering expertise into highly efficient, accurate 45mm Tesla neodymium drivers designed to deliver high-resolution sound with powerful lows, detailed mids, and smooth highs.

The DT 1990s feature titanium-coated acoustic fabric and precision-woven textiles that help inform its balanced sound. These sleek, black cans feature big, perforated earcups and come with two sets of interchangeable earpads, which let you choose between sonic profiles with a neutral frequency response or a slight bass boost. At $559, the DT 1990s are a big investment for home studio aficionados, but beyer helps you justify the expense by throwing in tons of accessories, including the earpads, straight and coiled cables, hard case, and a cleaning solution and pad. Bonus: The qualities that make the DT 1990s great for mixing—detailed imaging and crisp transients, for example—also make them great for gaming, giving you an immersive experience and maybe even a competitive edge.

Fan of the DT 1990s but not their hefty price tag? Consider beyer’s 900 PRO X open-back headphones, which feature a newly developed driver and provide a similar-style reference vibe but cost around $279. (For a deep dive into the entire PRO X line, check out our review.) For those tracking on a stricter budget, Audio-Technica’s wildly popular ATH-M20x over-ear, closed-back mixing headphones run just $49.

Things to consider when buying the best headphones

Nowadays, there’s a pair of headphones for everything and everyone. Best Bluetooth headphones? You’re spoiled for choice. Best headphones for kids? Safe, durable options abound. Best headphones for sleeping? Don’t sleep on these picks. And in-ear monitors and earbuds … well, that’s a separate, exhaustive topic. What we’re looking at here, however, are the best for unadulterated audio reproduction, the best-sounding headphones you can pick whether your budget is a couple hundred or multiple thousands. When choosing the best headphones, fidelity comes first, but great sound isn’t the sole defining factor. Comfort is critical and, depending on how you use your headphones, noise isolation and cancellation, connectivity, portability, and durability come into play. Let’s look at some top considerations:

Which style of headphones is best for me?

To decide which style of headphones is best for you, consider where you like to listen and what kind of sound signature you prefer. Headphones are available in open-back and closed-back models, and in over-ear and on-ear styles.

Open-back headphones have earcups with vented backs that allow airflow and provide a spacious feeling and a wide, airy soundstage that feels almost like listening on speakers. (After all, headphones are just speakers you strap to your head to deliver your own personal collection of sound waves.) Closed-back headphones have sealed outer earcups, which provide a bit deeper bass and significant sound isolation for all parties—perfect for a public space (such as an office) where you need to block out your surroundings and not annoy the people around you with your guilty pleasures playlist. 

Over-ear headphones have big, cushy earpads that surround your ears, which makes them generally more comfortable than on-ear headphones over long listening sessions because these earpads sit around your ears instead of pressing on them. Over-ear models usually have large drivers; generally, the larger the driver, the more expansive the frequency response, especially in the low end. On-ear headphones sit directly on your ears; they’re smaller and lighter than over-ear headphones, making them ideal portable companions. However, they are less isolating and provide a less expansive listen, so you won’t find any on this particular list.

What kind of features should I look for?

The kind of features you should look for depends on how you plan to use your headphones. If you want to bring your headphones everywhere, look for folding models with sturdy cases. Some headphones come with washable/replaceable earcups, which can be a lifesaver if you wear them extensively, especially to exercise or while traveling outside. Active users (especially those with a modern smartphone that doesn’t have a headphone jack) should also consider the convenience of headphones that pair with iPhone and Android devices via wireless Bluetooth protocols.

If you rely on headphones for calls, look for models with built-in microphones and call-management controls on the earcups. For the best gaming experience, you’ll want headphones with deep bass and surround-sound features, and you’ll probably want a built-in mic. Active noise cancellation can be useful in just about any situation, from loud subway commutes to noisy offices. Some noise cancellation-equipped headphones use the same microphones that feed the ANC circuitry to enable a “transparent” mode that amplifies sounds around you, which can be important for safety, especially in busy urban environments.

Do I need a headphone amplifier?

Do you need a headphone amplifier? Perhaps. An amplifier increases your sound source’s power output, bringing it to the level needed to drive your headphones at optimal levels so they can produce better sound. This doesn’t matter when you’re, say, plugging mass-market earbuds into your phone or working with an interface with built-in amplification, or even when you use a digital audio player purpose-built for power-hungry headphones. There are no hard rules here, but some less sensitive headphones require a lot of power to reach an enjoyable, distortion-free decibel level; these are usually high-impedance models, rated above 50 to 100 ohms. 

Underpower a high-resistance headphone and not only will you push your volume level into insane territory, but the sound will only get louder, not fuller. While headphone amps won’t improve the sound quality of cheap headphones, premium high-impedance headphones—like our top models, including the Focal Utopia 2022 and Sennheiser HD 800 S—require amplification to perform at their full potential.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best headphones

Ultimately, the best headphones are headphones that work for your listening preferences and your lifestyle. Certainly, sound comes first. But the best headphones don’t just sound amazing; they also sound consistent at any volume level, they feel great for long periods of time, and they’re durable enough to stand up to whatever you dish out. Then, it’s all about finding the right style for your needs. Trust us, your ideal pair is out there; it’s just a matter of setting a budget, determining your favorite sonic and physical style, and prioritizing your must-have features, and you’ll be on your way to homing in on that perfect match.

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BEST OVERALL		Yamaha HS5		SEE IT	Old faithful for many picky purists, Yamaha’s white-cone wonders have been telling it like it is for decades.
BEST FOR GOLDEN EARS		Focal Alpha 80 Evo		SEE IT	No matter the genre, format, or resolution of playback, the Alpha 80 Evo presents tracks with honesty and clarity, exactly as they were intended.
BEST FOR HOME RECORDING STUDIOS		JBL LSR 305P MKII		SEE IT	An affordable way to get into pro JBL speaker technologies, these monitors aim is true.

Whether you’re a professional audio engineer or a weekend warrior, chances are, you have headphones in heavy rotation. The best mixing headphones provide a reliable audio reference in a world of chaotic sound environments. They’ll help you focus on the fine details and they’ll never disturb the neighbors. Like studio monitors, mixing headphones are highly personal and with so many designs and styles out there, homing in on the perfect pair can feel a little daunting.

• Best overall: beyerdynamic DT 1990
• Best for DJs: Sony MDR-7506
• Best wireless: AKG K371-BT
• Best audiophile: Sennheiser HD 800 S
• Best in-ear monitors: Etymotic ER4XR
• Best budget: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

The best mixing headphones: Reviews & Recommendations

Ideal mixing headphones will unveil new sonic detail and reconnect you with music as it was intended to sound—whether that’s your own mixes or your favorite playlists. Here are some of the best mixing headphones for a variety of scenarios.

Best overall: beyerdynamic DT 1990

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Professional audio engineers will tell you that open-back headphones provide the best approximation of studio monitors, with their airy, open feel and wide, natural imaging. As the best mixing headphones for studio purists these qualities are central to the design and performance of DT 1990 studio headphones from German manufacturer beyerdynamic, which has been handcrafting headphones since 1937. With the DT 1990s, beyer has funneled all those decades of engineering expertise into highly efficient, rich but accurate 45mm Tesla neodymium drivers designed to deliver high-resolution sound with powerful lows, detailed mids, and smooth highs. Titanium-coated acoustic fabric and precision-woven textiles help round off the DT 1990’s balanced sound quality. You’ll be giving off Death Star vibes in these sleek, black cans with big perforated earcups. But all that metal remains comfortable because of the two sets of interchangeable earpads, which let you choose between sonic profiles with a neutral frequency response or a slight bass boost. At $559 (and maybe an amp to fully realize the 250-ohm design’s potential), DT 1990s will make a dent in your gear fund, but beyer softens the blow by throwing in tons of accessories, including the earpads, straight and coiled cables, hard case, and a cleaning solution and pad. Plus, you’ll make it back when you mix a hit banger.

Best for DJs: Sony MDR-7506

Sony

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Sony MDR-7506 headphones, the best mixing headphones for DJs celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2021. These enduring, lightweight, foldable headphones can be found everywhere professional audio engineers work: in music studios, on broadcast stages, on location. While the $99 MDR-7506s are officially studio headphones, DJs love them for the same reasons that engineers do. They deliver bright, crisp, neutral sound, they offer superior isolation with minimal leakage, and they’re built like a tank. Their all-black, straightforward design is more utilitarian-looking than other models, but what they lack in swagger they make up for in performance features that appeal to DJs. These over-ear, closed-back headphones offer well-balanced sonic clarity that cuts through club noise. Their high sensitivity means they’re easy to drive loud and their 40mm drivers deliver low-frequency extension to 10Hz, which translates to defined bass, no matter how low you go. The MDR-7506’s well-padded, close-fitting earcups swivel, and a beefy 3-meter coiled cable may be cumbersome for commuting but allows plenty of free movement onstage. As longtime users can attest, however, the vinyl earpads are notorious for wearing out quickly, which has led to a robust market for replacement options.

Best wireless: AKG K371-BT

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The K371-BTs are mid-level professional studio headphones from AKG, the 75-year old Austrian company behind the iconic studio microphones used to record many of your favorite songs. These over-ear, closed-back cans are designed to marry pro performance with Bluetooth convenience, featuring beefy 50mm drivers and pure oxygen-coated voice coils for clear, balanced sound, with an extended frequency response of 5Hz to 40kHz. You’ll hear every detail you need to make informed mix decisions, from the deepest lows to the most sparkling highs, and their memory foam earcups’ sound-isolating qualities let you hear without distractions. K371-BTs ($179) also bring the advantages of Bluetooth 5.0, like extended range and long battery life, but curiously, don’t support the aptX codec, only AAC and SBC, which means limited higher bitrate streaming capability. But this is a minor issue, given that Bluetooth features are meant to be mere conveniences and while they’re good to test how an average Spotify user might hear a track, professionals should be plugging in to listen critically to full-bandwidth audio. And if you’re as busy booking the next session as you are sculpting frequencies, a built-in microphone allows two-way Bluetooth communications; earcup gestures control answering calls, adjusting volume, and playing and pausing music. (If Bluetooth doesn’t matter to you, these AKG headphones are available in a non-Bluetooth variant.) The K371s are designed for mobile lifestyles: Wire-free operation lasts 40 hours; earcups swivel 90 degrees, and metal-reinforced hinges add brawn to a somewhat slight headband design. Three mini-XLR to 3.5mm cables are included.

Best audiophile: Sennheiser HD 800 S

Sennheiser

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When Sennheiser introduced its flagship HD 800 over-ear, open-back headphones more than a decade ago, they became instant icons in both the pro audio and audiophile worlds, thanks to their richly detailed, natural response and open, neutral presentation. Like the originals, the newer HD 800 S headphones are hand-assembled in Germany. They’re based on Sennheiser’s 56mm, D-shaped Ring Radiator, which Sennheiser claims is the largest driver ever used in a dynamic headphone, and incorporate resonators that smooth out subtle resonances and peaks. That may sound like a lot of bulk, but these airy headphones weigh just 330 grams, making for effortless long wear. They also sport an improved yoke and a sexy matte-black finish. But back to the sound…you’ll be stunned by the detail you unveil when you hear your go-to reference tracks spread out across the headphones’ 4-51,000Hz frequency response. Their accuracy, transparency, and openness rival that of the most balanced studio monitors, whether you’re doing highly technical critical listening or just enjoying your favorite music. If you have $1,600 to spend on top-of-the-line mixing headphones, these are widely, wisely considered the best in the game. They even come with a certificate of authenticity.  

Best in-ear monitors: Etymotic ER4XR

Etymotic

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In the right situations, IEMs, or in-ear monitors, are perfect studio headphones despite not being technically headphones at all. Because they sit in your ear canal and block out external sound, they take a bad-sounding mixing environment right out of the equation, giving you a consistent reference anywhere you work. And thanks to their size, they’re perfect if you like to work everywhere. On top of packing light, IEMs let you monitor at lower volumes, so you’ll have less ear fatigue during marathon sessions. 

There’s a lot of market pressure to deliver “big bass sound” in in-ears; in response, Etymotic’s ER4XR IEMs ($197) depart from the company’s traditional uber-analytical frequency profiles by slightly nudging bass presence to add a bit of warmth. While this may make them a little less flat than others in the bunch, they’re still more accurate than most IEMs in their class and they’re pleasing to listen to, whether for studio material or as stage monitors. IEMs need a perfect fit to provide long-term listening comfort, great isolation, and full-bandwidth sound. The ER4XRs come with a range of tip styles and sizes, but to ensure a good seal you have to insert long triple-flange silicone tips pretty deep into your ear canal, which can feel disconcerting at first. Once you dial in that perfect fit, however, you’ll experience an impressive 42dB of isolation. If you love the precision, isolation, and versatility of IEMs but even slightly elevated bass isn’t your jam, check out Etymotic’s ER4SRs, which offer the same performance and features as the ER4XRs without the enhanced low-end tuning.

Best budget: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

Audio-Technica

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If you’re looking a bass lover looking for the best mixing headphones, Audio-Technica’s wildly popular ATH-M20x mixing headphones deliver the goods. These versatile, all-purpose studio headphones feature 40mm neodymium drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils tuned for deeper bass performance. They weigh just 190 grams, making them comfortable (if a bit warm) over long sessions. Their over-ear, closed-back design provides great isolation for tracking or mixing in loud environments and, at just $49, they’re affordable enough to stock up for everyone in the studio. Plus they’ll let you test just how much air your track can push. If you’re looking for a few more bells and whistles, try the ATH-M50x ($149), pro studio faves that offer larger drivers and wider frequency response, and come in wired and wireless versions.

Things to consider when picking the best mixing headphones

When you’re mixing, it doesn’t matter if you recorded with the world’s most gorgeous microphones and dazzling special effects, if you straddled up to your Shure SM7B to put on your best NPR podcasting voice, if you aren’t able to hear a true sonic representation of your tracks. This is where professional mixing headphones differ from their consumer cousins. Consumer cans are designed for an enjoyable listening experience, so they tend to have a sonic profile emphasizing big bass and extra-shimmery highs. But this is the sonic equivalent of an Instagram filter: You may perceive that your music has too much bass, for example, but that’s really the headphones talking. So maybe you dial that bass down, but then you play your new mix on another system and suddenly it sounds thin and weak. Professional mixing headphones, on the other hand, are all about presenting an honest, accurate translation of your mix—even if it isn’t pretty. When your mix is exposed, warts and all, you can listen critically and make informed decisions without compensating for the “sound” of your headphones.

Do I want open-back or closed-back headphones?

Open-back and closed-back mixing headphones each bring sonic advantages; the right choice for you largely depends on the way you work. Closed-back headphones have earcups sealed on their outer face. This design offers significant acoustic isolation, keeping sound from leaking out while blocking ambient sounds from creeping in. This sound-insulating quality makes closed-back headphones perfect for mixing without distractions in noisy environments and for recording in the studio when performers need to hear their mixes without sound leaking into their mic. Open-back headphones have earcups with vented backs that allow airflow and provide a spacious feeling and a wide, airy soundstage. Their natural, speaker-like response makes them ideal for critical listening, which makes them preferred by professional mixing and mastering engineers.

Should I get over-ear or on-ear headphones?

Headphone earcup designs fall into two categories. Over-ear (or circumaural) headphones have big, cushy earpads that encircle your ears. They tend to provide more spacious sound imaging than on-ears because their drivers are positioned away (sometimes at custom angles) from your ears, producing acoustic effects that more closely mimic sound coming from speakers. Over-ear headphones usually feature large drivers; generally, the larger the driver, the more expansive the frequency response, especially in the low end. On-ear (or supra-aural) headphones sit directly on your ears. They’re smaller and lighter (and generally cheaper) than over-ear headphones, making them a great choice for life on the go. Over-ear headphones are more comfortable than on-ears during long sessions because their earpads surround your ears versus pressing against them. 

Do I need a headphone amplifier?

You might be wondering if there’s any benefit to adding a headphone amplifier to your rig. The short answer: Maybe, but probably not. An amplifier increases your sound source’s power output to the level needed to drive your headphones to reach the output level you want, so they can provide better sound. This doesn’t matter when you’re, say, plugging earbuds into your phone. And if you’re using a mixer or an interface, it already has built-in amplification. But some types of headphones require a lot of power to play loud; these models are usually high impedance, above 50 to 100 ohms. Headphone amps won’t do much to improve the sound quality of cheap headphones. High-end, high-impedance headphones, however, may require amping for significant improvements in clarity, detail, and dynamics.

FAQs

The final word on choosing the best mixing headphones

At the end of the day, headphones are an entirely personal choice. When choosing mixing headphones, sonic performance is paramount. But the best mixing headphones don’t just sound great. They present an honest, accurate picture of your mix; sound consistent at low and high volumes; are comfortable to wear for hours on end; and are rugged enough to survive heavy use. Beyond that, it’s all about finding the right style for your needs, whether you’re recording and mixing in the studio, performing, or just seeking your own private paradise where you can get lost in your songs.

The post The best mixing headphones of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Ask recording engineers to name the most important gear in their studio, and they’ll point to their reference monitors. No matter what kind of music you make, or whether you’re a pro or a hobbyist, your monitors are the lens through which you evaluate your work. The best studio monitors provide an honest, accurate translation of your mix, presenting every nuance with depth and clarity.

French manufacturer Focal has been making audiophile loudspeakers and professional studio monitors (as well as PopSci‘s best overall headphones) for decades; its speakers are mainstays in many of the world’s leading music lounges and mastering studios. Top-of-the-line Focals run well into the six-figure range; fortunately for the price-conscious prosumer, its Alpha Evo line provides an entry point into professional Focal technology at a fraction of that cost.

With the second-generation Alpha Series, Focal introduces a range of features and upgrades and expands the family with two new models. Focal bills the Alpha Evo Series as offering a transparent sonic profile with deep, powerful bass; a wide sweet spot; and consistent tonal balance at any volume. I put these qualities to the test in the studio with a pair of the new flagship Focal Alpha 80 Evo two-way, bi-amped 8-inch monitors.

Focal

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Exploring the Alpha 80 Evo

Each Alpha 80 Evo (which retail for $549) houses a 1” aluminum inverted dome tweeter with custom dispersion-controlling waveguide and an 8” woofer with composite slate fiber/thermoplastic polymer cones, which Focal says lowers weight and improves speed, rigidity, and damping. Frequency response is 38 Hz to 22 kHz. The tweeter and woofer are powered by internal 35-watt and 80-watt Class D amplifiers, respectively, delivering a max output of 108 dB SPL. 

The previous model’s dual-port design has been replaced by an internally fluted laminar port, improving airflow for more efficient low-end performance and ease of integration into small spaces.

RCA, TRS, and balanced XLR inputs connect just about any pro sound source; inputs are level-compensated to ensure consistent volume when switching sources. High and low shelving filters let you tailor response to your room and your taste; a sensitivity switch matches monitors to system levels. A standby mode, selectable via a rear-panel switch, turns the speaker off after 15 minutes of inactivity and wakes it back up when signal returns. 

Everything’s housed in vinyl-covered 5/8-inch MDF cabinets with diffraction-taming rounded corners; inserts allow speakers to be affixed to walls or a ceiling.

Alphas in action

I set up the Alpha 80 Evos on stands in my 9×10-foot dedicated home studio, and I spent three days burning them in before doing any critical listening. Studio sound sources included commercially released tracks and mastered and unmastered .WAV files, played from Apple Logic through an Antelope Audio Discrete 4 Pro converter. Later, I moved the speakers to my open, wood-paneled 20×14-foot living room, where I listened to vinyl tracks and streamed TIDAL Master Quality Audio high-definition files (up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution). For comparison, I usually reference mixes at home on KRK passive Rokit 5s and I’ve logged a lot of hours in front of Meyer Sound, JBL, Yamaha, and Genelec monitors in commercial rooms.

When it comes to a studio monitor, neutral response is paramount—but the Alpha 80 Evos check all the boxes. Both finished and unfinished rock, blues, and Americana mixes were reproduced with accurate tonality and imaging, revealing details usually exposed in much more expensive speakers. But listening to advance tracks from jazz saxophonist Jane Ira Bloom’s Picturing the Invisible: Focus 1, a sumptuous collection of spare, improvisational duets recorded in ultra-high-resolution 32-bit/384 kHz, was a revelation: The sound presentation was so richly detailed, I felt like I could feel the air in the room. 

The Alpha 80 Evo’s sound stage was expansive, living up to its promise of a wide, consistent sweet spot; and sonic images were presented with pinpoint precision. Transients were crisp, with no harshness or breakup; I experienced no fatigue even over long listening sessions. These speakers are truly linear, delivering a consistent sonic presentation at any volume.

Midrange was deep; bass was big, full and lush yet focused and well-articulated. I found a subwoofer unnecessary, but for those mixing bass-heavy genres, game soundtracks, and immersive content, or just want more thump and thunder in the room, Focal’s 200-watt Sub One (which retails for $999) pairs nicely with Alpha Evo Series models.

Music is experienced in the context of its medium. From unprocessed guitar effects to vinyl albums to SACDs, the Alpha 80 Evos presented tracks with honesty and clarity, exactly as they were intended.

So, who should buy the Alpha 80 Evo?

Don’t be fooled by the Focal Alpha 80 Evo’s (relatively) low price. You can make world-class mixes with these monitors. And you’ll also enjoy kicking back with your favorite playlists. They’re not the cheapest studio monitors in the mix category but, in my experience, their performance blows away models costing twice the price, and they could just as easily occupy the bookshelves of an analytical music consumer’s listening station. I highly recommend them for anyone looking for incredible value in true professional-grade studio monitors that prioritize accuracy but never sacrifice musicality.

The post Focal Alpha 80 Evo studio monitor review: Next-gen pro powerhouse appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best-sounding		B&W Zeppelin		SEE IT	Form truly meets function in this gorgeous ellipsoidal speaker.
Best portable		Sonos Move		SEE IT	An all-weather sonic companion with long battery life.
Best soundbar		Bose Smart Soundbar		SEE IT	Atmos meets AI in this premium sound system.

The best smart speakers don’t just sound great; they’ll stream your favorite playlists, call your friends, order groceries, and tell you dad jokes—all at the sound of your voice. You don’t need to have a smart home to use a smart speaker, but integrating a smart speaker into your connected ecosystem opens up all sorts of automation features, from turning up your lights to strengthening home security. If you’re ready for a sound system that’ll also bring a new level of control and convenience to your home, we’ve got the line on the best smart speakers of 2023, whether you want to spend $40, $400, or really treat yourself (or someone else).

• Best-sounding: Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin
• Best with voice control: Apple HomePod mini
• Best portable: Sonos Move
• Best with alarm clock: Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) with Clock
• Best with screen: Google Nest Hub Max
• Best soundbar: Bose Smart Soundbar 900

How we selected the best smart speakers

To select the best smart speakers, we considered about two dozen units, exchanging opinions based on our team’s own experiences with speakers in our homes and putting new units through the paces where possible. We also investigated the most recent developments in each category—considering some models debuting just weeks before publication. Our evaluations started with sound performance: While smart speakers aren’t designed to deliver the power and expansiveness of large stereo or multichannel sets, even the smallest should reproduce speech and music with clarity. With smart speakers, however, audio quality is just one part of the picture—we also evaluated each model’s ease of setup and use and ability to detect and process voice commands. Privacy features—including the ability to turn off microphones and cameras—were also must-haves.

Things to consider before buying a smart speaker

When it comes to smart speakers, fidelity isn’t necessarily the defining factor. It’s just as much about connectivity as it is connecting with your favorite artists. Digital assistants are at the heart of every smart speaker, with three worthy contenders: Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. The general consensus is that Google Assistant is the most human-like and Alexa offers the best third-party compatibility, but it’s more about playing nice within your existing home ecosystem. Beyond that, the biggest considerations are audio quality, size, security, and price.

Smart speakers and sound quality: What to look for

What makes up a speaker generally is the larger the speaker, the louder and better the sound. Because low frequencies are bigger than high frequencies, bigger speaker drivers are needed to reproduce them. The simplest smart speakers contain just one speaker, which reproduces all of the frequencies that it can handle. So if that speaker is small, it will be limited in its ability to reproduce sound in the bass range. But these mini multitaskers are designed for convenience and smaller often equals better in that context. As a result, most smart speakers just aren’t designed to fill the room with chest-thumping music.

That said, audiophile-grade smart speakers are available, though they’ll command a premium price for premium fidelity. If fidelity is a top priority, look for a smart speaker that incorporates separate woofers, which reproduce low frequencies; and tweeters, which reproduce high frequencies. In this two-way system, each speaker driver is optimized for its frequency range; the two drivers operate more efficiently, combining to produce cleaner, more precise sound. Some smart speakers incorporate a built-in subwoofer, which actively extends the speaker’s bass response, producing deeper, richer, quicker sound. Others, such as the Apple HomePod mini, use passive radiators, which vibrate in response to air pressure to create a bigger bass sound without the weight or power requirements of additional amplification.

It’s impossible to experience a stereo soundscape in a single speaker unless it has dedicated drivers reproducing both the left and right channels. Models at the top of our range here, such as the B&W Zeppelin and the Bose Smart Soundbar 900, feature built-in left and right speakers that work together to deliver true stereo sound; as a result, these speakers are much wider physically (and sonically) than the other models on this list.

Smart-speaker privacy and security concerns

Nobody likes the idea of a device eavesdropping on them 24/7. With smart speakers continually listening for commands, it’s right to be concerned about the information being collected and the potential for recordings to be exposed to humans as tech companies refine their AI assistants. Amazon, for example, discloses that training its Alexa assistant “relies in part on supervised machine learning, an industry-standard practice where humans review an extremely small sample of requests to help Alexa understand the correct interpretation of a request and provide the appropriate response in the future.”

The good news is, just about every smart speaker on the market provides the option to mute its microphone when it’s not being used and even delete recorded interactions. (Of course, the device won’t respond to your voice commands until you turn it back on.) Some smart speakers, such as the Echo Dot and the B&W Zeppelin, have physical microphone controls, while others, such as the Apple HomePod mini, mute the mic using their AI assistant or app. All of the units profiled here offer mic muting, and the Google Nest Hub Max also has a camera-off switch.

The best smart speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

Ready to make the leap to a smart speaker? With hundreds of choices out there, the search can get pretty overwhelming. We’ve made things easier by narrowing down our top selections for every scenario and budget. We’ve even included models with visual displays and speakers you can take outdoors. No matter your preferred assistant ecosystem, there’s a smart speaker here for you. 

Best-sounding smart speaker: Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin

Sarah Jones

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Why it made the cut: This sleek audio airship uses reference-grade drivers adapted from the company’s audiophile speakers. If superior fidelity and iconic design matter most to you, there’s no comparison with this best sounding smart speaker.

Specs 

• Assistant: Alexa
• Drivers: 5
• Dimensions: 28 x 12 x 11.6 inches
• Frequency response: 35 Hz to 24 kHz

Pros:

• Audiophile-grade speaker array
• Elegant, minimalist design elevates any decor
• Scalable platform can be updated with new features and services

Cons:

• Bookshelf placement can impact sound quality

When Bowers & Wilkins introduced the Zeppelin in 2007, it set a new bar for visually arresting, audiophile-grade speakers. Since then, it has evolved with new technologies and features; the newest model, introduced in fall 2021, brings advanced smart functions into its feature set.

Zeppelin, like most smart speakers, is all about minimalist design and ease of use. Its 14 pounds poised atop a curved metal pedestal, the Zeppelin’s five front-facing drivers are clad in creaseless “midnight grey” (black) or “pearl grey” (gray) fabric, while the rear is equally smooth plastic save for embossed icons on the top for volume and playback controls, an Alexa voice control button, and a multifunction/pairing button. Finally, on the lower back is a recessed panel housing a power plug, reset button, and USB-C port (for service only). (Zeppelin has no audio I/Os, so put that 3.5mm cable back in the drawer—with a speaker like this, however, that’s sort of the point.)

Setup was a simple matter of connecting with the B&W Music app, which provides built-in (subscriber) access to a range of streaming services including Deezer, Qobuz, TIDAL, Soundcloud, and Last.fm, plus curated B&W playlists. (What you won’t find is much in the way of EQ/tone sculpting/correcting, etc., but the finesse of the speaker’s tuning means you won’t feel you’re really missing anything.)

Zeppelin can also stream via Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth 5.0 (including the AAC, SBC, and aptX Adaptive codecs), and Spotify Connect, which streams Spotify tracks from the cloud, versus your phone. (The app and current digital audio converter defaults decode streams at 24-bit/96 kHz resolution, but since the speaker converters are capable of accepting 192 kHz files, you can feed it higher-resolution audio by streaming that content over Wi-Fi using AirPlay 2, as I did.) Amazon Alexa voice control lets you stream music, control the speaker and music playback, and access typical Alexa skills and functions.

With an audiophile brand like B&W, fidelity is paramount. This is a company with products constantly among the best speakers for music. Zeppelin’s elegant speaker features proprietary Fixed Suspension Transducer technology trickled down from the company’s flagship (read very pricey) 800 series speakers, with two 1-inch, double-dome tweeters and two 3.5-inch midrange drivers flanking a single 6-inch subwoofer in the center. Together, the drivers deliver a frequency range of 35 Hz to 24 kHz. Everything is powered by five channels of Class D amplification totaling 240 watts.

Zeppelin’s broad elliptical design isn’t just about aesthetics. Because its tweeters are positioned at its outer contours, you’ll experience as much stereo separation as possible from a single speaker. (Due to its irregular shape, the Zeppelin isn’t the best choice if you’re looking for the best bookshelf speakers to nestle amongst other personal audio gear and physical media, but this imposing airship does make a great centerpiece and conversation piece in the right room.)

My first impression of the Zeppelin is that this speaker delivers an incredibly powerful, dynamic sonic presentation at any volume level, with a cohesive sonic signature that’s especially favorable to vocals and other midrange sounds.

Listening to Diana Krall’s “The Look of Love,” the Zeppelin revealed every nuance of Krall’s luxurious silk-and-sandpaper vocal stylings in a very direct, lifelike presentation. I was struck by Zeppelin’s tight, defined low-end response; piano notes were defined across the entire register and I could pick out, practically feel, Christian McBride deftly pulling his fingers across the bass strings.

While the lush string arrangements may not have felt as wide as they would on a pair of speakers, directional cues are audibly reproduced and the soundstage was expansive for a single enclosure, with defined stereo separation at a close distance, say within 3 or 4 feet. No transients are lost, attack and decay are handled with aplomb, it’s just more tightly focused unless you’re at a closer proximity.

That said, not many people are spending their days sitting in front of their smart speakers musing on how the Zeppelin has far more imaging than the average all-in-one. Luckily, the Zeppelin is equally satisfying for those seeking room-filling, body-rocking sound to energize their abode. Going full-bore with Rage Against the Machine’s “Bulls On Parade,” the speaker delivered every gut punch with authority, clarity, and true linearity, never distorting even at levels loud enough for my neighbors to ask me what the heck was going on.

Ultimately, any smart speaker will turn on the lights and order groceries. But if powerful sound and equally dynamic style are your top priorities, Bowers & Wilkins’ Zeppelin is the one to beat.

Best smart speaker with voice control: Apple HomePod mini

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: If you’re Team Apple, this best smart speaker with voice control is the way to integrate a smart speaker with built-in Siri into your ecosystem.

Specs 

• Assistant: Siri
• Drivers: 2
• Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.3 inches
• Frequency response: 70 Hz to 6 kHz

Pros:

• Only smart speaker with Siri built in
• Advanced acoustic design
• Easy to set up and use

Cons:

• Limited compatible smart devices

If your world runs on Apple, HomePod mini is here to provide the soundtrack. A surprising amount of acoustic features are packed into this tennis ball-sized speaker: a full-range driver works with a proprietary acoustic waveguide to deliver 360-degree sound, while two passive radiators beef up the bass. Two minis can be paired for true stereo and multiple HomePod minis can be connected for whole-home sound. One of our editors loves having one (pictured here) perched on the kitchen counter as a hands-free timer and to indulge his dinner-prep soundtrack requests, among many other uses.

Apple recently introduced blue, yellow, and orange models, in addition to standard white and space gray options. These cheery spheres bring the cute factor along with a ton of Apple-centric functions: an Intercom function that sends messages to other speakers in your home and the ability to hand off audio from an iPhone to the mini by holding the phone over the speaker bring extra value to this little orb. Users can sign up for Apple Music’s new Voice plan, an Apple Music tier that’s accessed only through Siri voice commands and listened to exclusively on Apple devices, for just $5/month.

HomePod mini is limited to controlling HomeKit-enabled devices, so if you’re not invested in that ecosystem, you won’t get the most out of its smart features. But if you’re already all-things Apple, it’s the only speaker with Siri built in and it’s a very affordable way to bring a smart speaker into your setup.

Best portable smart speaker: Sonos Move

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Why it made the cut: This rugged, weather-resistant speaker effortlessly transitions from Wi-Fi to Bluetooth and bedside to poolside. 

Specs

• Assistant: Google, Alexa
• Drivers: 2
• Dimensions: 9.44 x 6.29 x 4.96 inches
• Frequency response: 49 Hz to 18 kHz

Pros:

• Trueplay optimizes audio performance for any space
• 11-hour battery life
• Robust dirt, dust, and water protection

Cons:

• Heavier than most portable speakers

Sonos has been in the home hi-fi game for 17 years, but Move is its first portable speaker. Move is a Bluetooth speaker with (lots of) added benefits: As the best portable smart speaker, it integrates with the Sonos ecosystem when it’s in Wi-Fi mode, which means you can sync it to other Sonos components in a multiroom system, and even pair two Moves as a wireless stereo pair over Wi-Fi. When you’re ready to take it outside, simply switch over to Bluetooth 4.2 operation.

Move answers to Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands (though, no, you can’t chat with both at the same time.) Access a range of streaming services (including Sonos’ Radio HD) using Sonos’ mobile app. Because Apple AirPlay 2 is built in, you can stream audio directly from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac computer.

Move isn’t exactly a feather-light speaker, clocking in at almost 7 pounds, but that beefy build allows for bigger speakers and a battery that provides up to 11 hours of playback. Inside, a woofer and downward-firing tweeter are powered by two Class D amps. Trueplay tuning technology continually optimizes Move’s sonic response for its surroundings. (A smaller sibling, the Sonos Roam, comes in closer to 1 pound and with similar song-casting/network-friendly features, though far less robust sound.)

This rugged, weatherized speaker is IP56 rated for protection against dust, dirt, and sprayed water, making it the best smart speaker for bathroom karaoke shower sessions as well as backyard BBQs. In short, it’s the ultimate sonic companion for all of your adventures—indoors or out, rain or shine. 

Best smart speaker with alarm clock: Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) with Clock

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Why it made the cut: This fourth-generation speaker is the simplest entry point to the Amazon smart-home ecosystem.

Specs

• Assistant: Alexa
• Drivers: 1
• Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches
• Frequency response: Not Provided

Pros:

• Offers basic Amazon Guard home protection
• Controls are easier to reach than in previous versions
• Multipurpose clock display

Cons:

• Minimal bass output

Amazon’s Echo Dot smart speakers are available in various sizes and feature sets; the popular Echo Dot 4^th Generation with Clock is the newest of the bunch and our pick for best smart speaker with an alarm clock. This newest evolution of Echo Dot has the same functions and spherical form as the previous model but adds an LED clock display that can display alarms, outdoor temperature, and timers.

Like most of the smart speakers on our list, the Echo Dot is all about minimalist design: The top of the unit offers simple volume up, down, and mic mute buttons plus a multipurpose Action button that performs functions like waking Alexa, silencing alarms, and resetting the speaker. Models are available in Glacier White and Twilight Blue (a version without a clock is available in gray).

Echo Dot will play music from various streaming services, including Amazon Music, Apple Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Spotify, and TuneIn. Because it uses Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant, it can answer general questions, control smart-home devices, make calls, and make voice calls to other Alexa devices. Using Amazon Guard home protection, Alexa can send you phone alerts if the Echo Dot detects the sound of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, or glass breaking.

The tiny 1.6-inch front-facing speaker isn’t designed to fill the room with as much sound as the three-driver flagship Echo might—and even though it’s round, it’s very directional, though a 3.5mm line out lets ambitious audiophiles send the output to a more robust system. Echo Dot will, however, deftly execute your Alexa commands while offering a cool, convenient way to wake up to your favorite songs, listen to the news at your desk, or play podcasts in the kitchen.

Best smart speaker with screen: Google Nest Hub Max

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Why it made the cut: This is the best smart speaker with a screen because this fully loaded system provides media streaming, videoconferencing, AI assistance, and home security functions at an accessible price point.

Specs

• Assistant: Google Assistant
• Drivers: 3
• Dimensions: 9.85 x 7.19 x 3.99 inches
• Frequency response: Not Provided

Pros:

• Can be controlled with hand gestures
• Robust 2.1 audio system
• High-resolution video display

Cons:

• No physical camera shutter

Google Nest makes dozens of speakers, doorbells, cameras, hubs, and accessories for its smart-home ecosystem. The Google Nest Hub Max, introduced in 2019, is Nest’s largest smart display, featuring a 10-inch screen and premium 2.1 sound.

In addition to the full functionality of its built-in Google Assistant, Nest Hub Max supports Google Cast; plays news, podcasts, and audiobooks; and streams music from apps like YouTube Music, Spotify, Pandora, and more.

The Nest Hub Max is designed to deliver a bigger sound than its predecessors. Its large footprint allows for a speaker configuration powered by two 18mm tweeters and one 75mm woofer. 

Its marquee feature, though, is its camera—a first for Nest displays—which facilitates video calling with services like Duo, Zoom, and Google Meet, and allows the unit to function as a security camera. The camera also opens the Nest Hub Max up to innovative features like customizing features for individual household members and giving users the ability to use hand gestures to pause music playback.

For those (rightly) concerned about privacy, the Nest Hub Max has a kill switch that disables both its camera and microphone, but the camera doesn’t offer the reassurance of a physical shutter—the only minor drawback of this robust, full-featured box.

Best smart soundbar: Bose Smart Soundbar 900

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Why it made the cut: An elegant way to bring truly cinematic sound into your connected smart home.

Specs 

• Assistant: Alexa and Google Assistant
• Drivers: 7
• Dimensions: 4.21 x 41.14 x 2.29 inches
• Frequency response: Not Provided

Pros:

• Dolby Atmos surround sound
• Elegant design
• Optional surround add-ons

Cons:

• Only one HDMI port

Most smart speaker manufacturers use “smart” as a point of departure, with sound quality coming in a close second. Bose, on the other hand, has been making audiophile-quality speakers for nearly six decades. As the best smart soundbar, The 900 combines the best of both worlds, adding Atmos and smart functions to an already-impressive soundbar.

Inside this low-profile, glass-topped enclosure (available in black or white), a seven-driver speaker array includes a dedicated center channel and two up-firing drivers that deliver Atmos height content; Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and hi-res 24-bit/192 kHz content are also supported via a single HDMI ARC/eARC port (DTS and DTS:X, however, have to be decoded at the source and sent as PCM). The 900 will create an immersive presentation with any sonic content, though, using Bose’s proprietary PhaseGuide virtual-surround technology. ADAPTiQ calibration prepares the 900 to perform its best based on your space. And if that’s not enough, Bose offers several bass modules and surround satellites to expand your soundstage. Want to listen in private? Pair the Soundbar 900 with Bose Bluetooth headphones (like the Bose 700 Headphones) using Bose’s SimpleSync technology.

Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are built in, making it easy to control the Soundbar 900 and other connected smart devices, regardless of your preferred way to request music, the weather, etc. Use the Bose Music app to stream music from supported services—including Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, TuneIn, Deezer, and SiriusXM—whether over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, Apple AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect.

The app can also control the soundbar; a physical remote is also included. Alexa users can take advantage of Bose’s Voice4Video, which lets you control your TV and soundbar with your voice and combine several steps into single commands. If you’re looking for a versatile system that supports Dolby Atmos, the Bose 900 is the best smart speaker for TV sound that’ll make your hair stand on end.

FAQs

A final word on choosing the best smart speakers

The “best” smart speakers mean different things to different people and the versatile products here meet the needs of a range of scenarios. Ultimately, the best smart speakers marry great sound, versatility, and ease of use, and if you choose any of the models profiled here, you won’t be disappointed.

The post Best smart speakers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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These days, it’s easier and more affordable than ever to make amazing recordings at home, whether you’re creating music, podcasts, voiceovers, presentations, or video blogs. But home recording presents some serious challenges, from noisy neighbors to nuisances created by your room itself. Fortunately, you can make effective improvements without getting a Ph.D. in physics, breaking your lease, or draining your bank account. Here’s our advice on how to soundproof a room—and get your recordings on the right wavelength.

Soundproofing a room versus acoustic treatment

The first thing to know about how to soundproof a room is that you won’t actually be soundproofing in the literal sense. Soundproofing blocks the sound inside your space from escaping to the outside and prevents outside sounds from leaking into your space. You don’t hear cars, dogs, or leaf blowers, and your neighbors don’t hear you hammering out your guitar riff.

This type of isolation is what you’ll find in professional recording studios, which are built from the ground up to achieve a perfect acoustic environment. Home studios, on the other hand, often are wedged into awkward rooms that may double as sleeping, working, or even parking spaces, making soundproofing extremely difficult and costly.

When most people talk about room soundproofing, they’re actually referring to acoustic treatment, which shapes the behavior of sound inside a space to provide a true, accurate sonic experience. The ideal recording studio uses a combination of both methods. But home studios are about compromise, making the most of space, budget, and physical limitations.

Sound Wave 101

Solving the acoustic problems in your room starts with understanding what’s causing them in the first place. Put simply, it’s all about following the path of a sound wave. Sound energy is generated when something vibrates in a medium such as air. When a sound source vibrates, it creates accordion-like pressure variations that emanate in all directions, sort of like the way ripples radiate out from a pebble thrown into a pond. These patterns of compressed and stretched air are sound waves.  

Reflections and reverb: Sound in enclosed spaces

Sound waves travel through any medium, including gases, liquids, and solids. What happens when a sound wave hits an obstacle? Depending on the size of the wavelength of the sound and the hardness, density, and thickness of the surface it hits, it’ll be absorbed, reflected, or pass right through.

In enclosed spaces, direct sound travels straight to your ear or microphone, while reflected sound is slightly delayed as it bounces off surfaces on its way to you. As these reflections continue to bounce off room surfaces, creating second and third reflections, and so on, they build up, generating reverberation, or reverb, which is the sound that’s heard in a space after a source has stopped sounding. (A great example of reverb is that awesome echo you enjoy when you sing in the shower.) These frequencies reinforce each other and cancel each other out, creating peaks and valleys in volume, even though your speakers and ears are working just fine. These anomalies lead to two very common issues:

Room modes are resonances that exist in a room. They create spikes and dips at specific frequencies: You might hear buzzing every time you play certain bass notes, you may notice exaggerated low frequencies, or you might hear no bass at all.

The other is flutter echo, a rapid series of noises created by sound repeatedly bouncing back and forth between two untreated parallel surfaces. You know that metallic twang you hear when you clap your hands in a stairwell or bathroom? That’s flutter.

How to soundproof a room: Start taming that room tone

At its simplest, a great-sounding home studio should strike a comfortable balance between live (echo-ey) and dead (muffled), and should not emphasize or de-emphasize frequencies. Basic room treatment involves two techniques: managing mid- and high-frequency reflections with a balance of absorptive and diffusive materials, and reining in bass anomalies with low-frequency absorbers.

Get to know your space

Improving your room’s acoustics starts with an honest assessment. Listen to familiar recordings to get a sense of your room’s acoustic characteristics. Study mixes with wide dynamic range and detail; commercial tracks are great references because they’re designed to translate to a range of listening environments. Audio engineers are partial to meticulously recorded tracks by Steely Dan and Roxy Music (hands up if you’ve ever heard Avalon booming through the arena sound system before a big concert); Jay-Z’s The Black Album and Radiohead’s OK Computer are also iconic references. Do your favorite records sound boomier or bassier than usual? Do they sound thin and wimpy? Make notes.

Find room modes by walking around while listening to music. You’ll notice that the bass might be loudest in corners of the room and practically nonexistent in other areas. You can also check for room modes by doing a frequency-sweep: Play a recording of an ascending sound wave; as the tone rises, listen for frequencies that stick out or vanish.

Do a flutter echo test: walk around clapping your hands and listen for the telltale “metallic” ring of flutter echoes.

Aim high: Absorptive and diffusive treatments

Conquering mid and high-frequency reflections means breaking the cycle of sound waves reinforcing and canceling each other out as they bounce around the room. The simplest way to do this is to apply surface treatments that absorb and scatter waves. There are numerous treatment options out there, from single panels to all-in-one packages and lines from top studio designers.

Absorptive wall panels

Acoustic foam panels work very well to absorb mid-to-high-frequencies and squash reflections. Absorptive wall panels and ceiling tiles are available in a range of thicknesses, dimensions, surface patterns, and Noise Reduction Coefficient ratings, which measure absorption effectiveness. The higher the frequency, the shorter its wavelength—frequencies at the top of our hearing range have wavelengths of just a fraction of an inch—so the thicker the foam, the more frequencies you’ll treat. Standard panels run about two inches thick.  

If you’re a DIYer looking for how to soundproof a room, you can make your own treatments from fiberglass or rockwool, which are excellent sound-deadening materials. Installing carpeting won’t help much with absorption, but it can cut down on reflections coming from a hard floor.

Acoustic diffusers

Unlike acoustic panels that are designed to absorb sound, acoustic diffusers scatter sound in randomized patterns to break up reflections. Use diffusors to manage resonances and flutter echo. Diffusive panels are available in a range of surface patterns and sizes; applying them involves a bit of trial and error, depending on the severity of your acoustic issues. Bookcases loaded up with books and gear also make great diffusers.

Never try to soundproof walls with materials that aren’t rated for fire safety, such as egg crates, blankets, and packing materials. Use nontoxic materials that are purpose-designed, and always check fire ratings.

Mirror, mirror on the wall: Placing panels

Here’s a great trick for dialing in the ideal spots for wall treatment: Have a friend hold a mirror against your walls and watch from your listening position as they slide the mirror along the surface. The point where you can see one of your speakers in the mirror is a sound reflection point; that’s where you should place treatment. (Remember to check the ceiling and the wall behind you!)

All about that bass (trap)

In small studios, the biggest acoustic offenders tend to be bass frequencies, which are so long that they extend beyond your room dimensions, making them difficult to manage.

Because bass frequencies have such long wavelengths, foam acoustic panels would need to be several feet thick to absorb them. (For perspective, the wavelength of a low E string on a bass guitar stretches more than 27 feet.) Instead, bass traps are the first line of defense for home studios. These large, thick absorbers typically take the form of triangle boxes or panels filled with sound-absorbing material. Bass traps are typically placed in corners, where low frequencies naturally congregate. Start by placing them in upper corners, to conserve floor space. If you have room, run them from floor to ceiling. You can build your own bass traps from fiberglass, rockwool, or foam.

Portable treatments

Say one day you’re recording a podcast and need to isolate your narrator, but the next day you’re tracking a group of instruments. Portable acoustic panels give you flexible sound control that you can adapt to different recording scenarios.

Stand-mounted acoustic panels, or gobos, can be moved around to create temporary recording areas or to separate musicians or speakers. If you record a lot of vocals—spoken or sung—you might benefit from a reflection filter, an acoustic shield that wraps around a mic to form a portable vocal booth.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by these processes, suppliers offer prefab room kits, personalized design services, and free analysis software.

How to soundproof a room: Keeping sound contained

Yes, it’s very difficult to soundproof a room, but these tricks can help keep sound from leaking out of your space and outside sound from sneaking in.

Mind the gap(s)

Sound takes every opportunity to escape your studio through air and structures. When it comes to air gaps, doors are obvious culprits, but also look for spaces around air vents, outlets, and windows. Seal cracks and holes with stripping or acoustic caulk; block space under a door with a door sweep or draft stopper. Use a flashlight and a partner to root out and seal errant cracks.

Truly committed and ready to take isolation to the next level? Upgrade a hollow-core door to a solid model (or fill the door with spray insulation), and upgrade single-pane windows to double-panes.

Add mass

Loading surfaces with extra mass will cut down on sound transfer. If you can spare a few inches of space and you’re down for some advanced DIY soundproofing, consider adding a second layer of drywall or vinyl sound-insulation sheets to your walls, leaving an air gap between layers to further reduce sound transmission.

How to soundproof a room: More ways to bring down the noise

Minimizing noise in your studio calls for some literal out-of-the-box thinking. If you have the luxury to choose where you set up, avoid sharing a wall with a kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, elevator, or a sensitive neighbor.

Create some acoustic separation between your computer and your microphone by keeping them as far apart as possible. If you can, put your computer in a closet or in an adjacent room. If you use a laptop, keep it on a stand to allow extra air circulation, which will keep your laptop’s fans from kicking in as frequently.

If you’re feeling ambitious, line heating and cooling ducts with soundproofing duct liner.

Block sound transfer between structures by isolating contact points or breaking the path entirely. Professional studios decouple spaces by building floating floors and double walls. At home, keep gear and instruments off the floor, or place them on stands, rubber mats, or carpet. (Whether your speakers are on a desk or stands, add monitor isolation pads for more acoustic separation.)

Location, location, location

You can go a long way toward improving your studio sound without touching a hammer or spending a dime, just by placing your workspace correctly in the room.

Aim for symmetry, but avoid sitting in the center of the room, where room modes can build up. Face a short wall, rather than a long wall, to minimize bass issues. When you’re dealing with a window, orient your workspace toward the window, so your speakers can fire away from the window and toward treated walls and surfaces.

Orient your speakers and listening position in an equilateral triangle and set your speakers at a height that aligns with your ears. (Height-adjustable speaker stands make adjustments easy.)

You’ve got this

Acoustic processes sound complicated, but how to soundproof a room all boils down to simple physics. Introducing even just a few simple treatments will go a long way toward transforming the sound of your home studio. Take your time, be realistic about your budget and physical constraints, be open to trial and error, and you’re well on your way to creating a studio space that’s conducive to creating stunning mixes that will sound great everywhere. And that’s what it’s all about.

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Creative souls know that inspiration can strike anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, YouTuber, or recording engineer, downsized digital recording equipment makes it easier than ever to capture a sonic spark whenever and wherever it ignites. The great news is you don’t need much technical expertise to learn how to build a mobile recording rig, as we’ll show you.

Years ago, owning a portable recording rig meant schlepping around what felt like a truckload of gear (sometimes literally—see, for instance, the Rolling Stones’ infamous mobile rig sessions for “Exile on Main St.” in the South of France). Now, anyone with a smartphone is essentially walking around with a studio in his pocket. Even artists like Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West have laid down epic tracks on iPhones and iPads.

It doesn’t take much gear to capture sound on location. You can certainly get away with just dropping your phone on a table and hitting Record. But, if you’re reading this, you’re likely striving for better quality than that, so here’s our guide for getting the best take even when you can’t take a lot with you. 

How to build a mobile recording rig that grows with you

While you can do advanced audio production on a laptop or mobile device that’s tricked out with virtual instruments, effects, and recording software, we’re focusing in this article on the simplest mobile rigs for straightforward sound capture. If you have a smartphone or tablet, you’re already halfway there. But by adding just a few pieces of equipment, you’ll be on your way to recording professional-quality sound.

Building out your mobile recording rig starts with asking yourself what you want from your portable studio. Maybe you want to make simple recordings of your band rehearsals or gigs. Maybe you want to do interviews on location. Maybe you have access to your friend’s gorgeous baby grand, or you want to do some tracking in a wild space with killer acoustics.

Do you want a very basic system to do simple grab-and-go sound captures or something more advanced that will let you do things like multitrack recording and overdubs? Think about track count and inputs. Will you be recording speakers or music? Knowing this will help you narrow down the best microphone for vocals. Will you be working in areas without AC power? Look for battery-powered devices. Aim for ease of transferability, the ability to bring your files into your home recording system to edit your work. If you’re making videos, look for systems with video capabilities or that can sync to video.

Nothing but the basics: The ultra-minimalist mobile rig

If you can only add one piece of gear to your phone or tablet rig, make it a microphone. Even the most basic external mic is a vast improvement over your device’s tiny internal mic, which distorts easily and is not designed for full-bandwidth recording. The simplest choice here is a USB microphone, which can plug directly into Android phones using an On-The-Go (OTG) adapter or on iOS devices using a Lightning-to-USB camera adapter.

While recording directly to your mobile device is convenient, broadcast-quality 24-bit/48 kHz audio takes up a lot of space—we’re talking about a gigabyte per hour of stereo recording—so if you don’t want to eat up limited device space, consider using a digital recorder such as the iZotope Spire Studio rechargeable wireless interface/recorder, which has inputs for mics and instruments and intuitive features like automatic level check.

This kind of bare-bones rig is a great starting point (really, anything that gets you out there in the first place is a win) but incorporating a few pieces of dedicated hardware will give you even more flexibility and significantly improve the quality of your recordings.

The building blocks of a mobile recording rig

At its simplest, a remote recording rig includes just a few key elements: a way to capture sound; a way to store sound; a way to transfer sound somewhere else; and a way to hear what’s being recorded. This translates to a microphone, audio interface, a recorder (either your device or a dedicated standalone recorder), and headphones.

Microphones are multitaskers

If your budget is limited and you’re packing light, bring along a single multipurpose microphone that will perform well in a range of sonic scenarios. Many different types of microphones have variable pickup patterns, letting you focus on a single sound source in front of the mic or capture all ambient sounds around you.

USB microphones house a traditional microphone and add a built-in preamp and analog-to-digital converter, which means they can plug directly into a computer or mobile device. USB mics are plug-and-play simple and often have volume and pattern controls and other functions right on the mic.

Dynamic microphones are ideal for remote recording situations because they can handle high sound input, they tend to be a little less sensitive to sonic nuances than some of the best condenser mics (meaning they won’t pick up as many sonic distractions in noisy environments), and they work for just about everything. (And, unlike condenser mics, dynamics don’t require phantom power.)

If you’re looking for a versatile, all-purpose model, check out the Blue Yeti microphone, which features onboard audio controls and three-directional patterns for recording single sources, dual sources such as interviews, or everyone in the room. Or, go for the classic, bulletproof Shure SM58 dynamic microphone, a workhorse handheld vocal mic that’s a standard on stages around the world.

If you’re doing very specific work such as recording your café sessions or narrating travel videos on location, it makes sense to bring along microphones designed for that specific purpose. For capturing stereo recordings of acoustic music performances, consider using a matched pair of condenser microphones; try the Lewitt LCT 040s. For hosted video, consider a discreet, clip-on lavalier microphone such as the RØDE SmartLav+. For capturing location sounds, try a highly directional shotgun mic such as the RØDE NTG1. One word of advice: test your microphones before you take them to any critical sessions to make sure they are optimized for the job and environment at hand.

Connect your sound sources with an audio interface

If you aim to capture professional-quality recordings with your computer or mobile device, you’ll need an audio interface. A dedicated interface will significantly improve the quality of your recordings and give you the ability to connect a range of sound sources. With hundreds of options out there, choices range from the most basic boxes to full-featured interfaces with built-in mixing features and studio-quality microphone preamps.

When choosing an interface, prioritize high-resolution audio quality and flexible inputs. Start by determining how many sound sources you need to connect at once: If you’re capturing a couple of people speaking or ambient stereo recordings, a two-input interface will be fine. If you’re adding more microphones, instruments, and other sound sources, add an extra input for each source and make sure the interface has the correct type of input to connect each source.

Going off the grid? Look for a USB interface if you’re working on a laptop or a battery-powered interface for a phone or tablet rig. Solid two-channel USB interfaces include the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and the Presonus Studio 24c; the Zoom U-44 and Yamaha AG03 are ideal for scenarios that require battery power. There are even interfaces specifically designed for livestreaming audio with a connected device, such as the Roland GO:MIXER Pro-X.

Headphones take noisy environments out of the equation

You’ll need a way to reference the audio you’re recording on location. For mobile recording, some sturdy mixing headphones are the best choice: They’re compact and portable and, unlike speakers, a pair of closed-back headphones won’t bleed sound and interfere with what you’re trying to capture. Even better, they provide a consistent audio reference in unpredictable environments.

The best headphones for mobile recording are over-ear, closed-back models, which offer the most acoustic isolation, blocking out noisy distractions while preventing your sound from disrupting folks around you. The Sony MDR-7506 and Audio-Technica ATH-M20X are go-to’s for many remote recording engineers.

Remove the guesswork with standalone recording devices

A dedicated standalone portable digital recorder captures high-quality recordings in a streamlined setup. Standalone recorders are usually handheld or stand-mountable; they store audio on removable media; and have built-in microphones and simple mixing functions.

The Zoom H6, for example, can record up to six tracks of MP3 or WAV audio files to a swappable SD card, has a built-in X/Y microphone capsule (microphones can be swapped out for shotguns and other mic styles, or extra inputs), and includes four combination inputs to plug in additional mics or other sound sources.

If you prefer to use a simple box to capture song hooks and ideas, basic standalone recording devices—such as the Roland R-07, which is tricked out with a built-in speaker and Bluetooth—are perfect.

If figuring out how to build a mobile recording rig feels daunting, consider getting a mobile recording kit that includes everything you need to get started, including cables and accessories, usually at a better price than the same products purchased separately. You’ll take the guesswork out of the process, and you’ll be up and running in no time.

Simplify things with an all-in-one system

For the ability to do more production on the go, all-in-one recording systems are portable recorders on steroids. These full-featured mobile workstations are like a tiny recording studio in a box, offering everything from sound inputs to mixers to effects.

The Zoom LiveTrack L-8 podcast recorder can record up to ten discrete tracks, with a range of inputs/outputs (I/Os), an 8-channel mixer, built-in EQ and effects. Or, check out the vintage-styled Model 12 from TASCAM, maker of the original PortaStudio cassette multitrack: Features include a 12-input interface, mixer, built-in compression and EQ, MIDI functionality, and dual headphone outputs.

Be ready for anything with the right accessories

Now that you know how to build a mobile recording rig, pack your go bag with a few key accessories that will keep you ready for anything your location gigs dish out. It’s a great idea to carry a few backup high-capacity storage cards. A microphone windscreen and pop filter will help you capture clean tracks in challenging environments. Other essentials: mic cables, a foldable mic stand, USB hub, battery charger bank, USB-to-lightning adapter, extra storage cards, extension cords, power conditioner, a mini flashlight, and gaffer tape.

A note about recording software: Although we’re focusing on straight sound capture here, if you are looking to add production capabilities to your portable rig, some of the best DAW systems are also available in app versions for mobile devices, including Apple GarageBand and Steinberg Cubasis.

Now, go work your magic with your mobile recording rig

When you’re thinking about how to build a mobile recording rig, remember that some of the best recordings in history were captured in funky spaces, as single takes, with everyone performing together. So, prioritize equipment that focus on simple tasks—the most important being capturing clean, clear tracks—so you can stay present and keep your mind on the creative flow. After you record, you can take your files back to your home studio rig to take full advantage of the best production software for editing, processing, adding instrumentation, and mixing it all so you can get to sharing your masterpiece with the world.

The post How to build a mobile recording rig—It’s simpler than you think appeared first on Popular Science.

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When Bowers & Wilkins introduced its Zeppelin in 2007, it set a new bar for visually arresting, audiophile-grade personal speakers. Over the past 15 years, versions of this compact standout have advanced with new technologies and features, evolving from the original iPod dock to a fully loaded wireless smart speaker. The newest Zeppelin, introduced in fall 2021, brings advanced streaming functions and the Amazon Alexa assistant into the Bowers & Wilkins speaker’s feature set.

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A sleek ship

The 4th-generation Zeppelin, like most smart speakers, is all about minimalist design and ease of use. But unlike most smart speakers, this imposing airship is meant to take center stage in any space. A 14-pound ellipse that seemingly floats atop its curved metal pedestal, Zeppelin packs five drivers and 240 watts of amplification into an elliptical enclosure measuring more than 2-feet wide, its grille sheathed in luxe mesh fabric. (Choose from deep, black-ish “midnight grey” or light “pearl grey” finishes.)

A hidden LED light radiating down from Zeppelin’s base creates a ghostly halo effect, reinforcing the illusion that the speaker is levitating above its stand. This downward-facing light indicates status and functions and lets you know when Alexa is thinking; it can be dimmed or completely turned off, but I liked the subtle glow.

The speaker’s backside is finished in smooth, matte plastic, which is featureless save for embossed icons running along the top that indicate volume and playback controls, an Alexa voice control/mic mute button, and a multifunction/pairing button that displays a range of colors indicating tasks. The buttons are easy to find by touch, which is helpful since Zeppelin doesn’t have a remote, but I found myself tipping the speaker forward to locate the right controls. People who aren’t into frequent bicep curls will find it more convenient to control the speaker through its companion app.

On the lower back, a recessed panel houses a power plug, reset button, and USB-C port (for service only). There’s no HDMI connection, which might disappoint anyone hoping the speaker can multitask as a soundbar, and put that 3.5mm cable back in the drawer because Zeppelin has no audio I/Os—but with a speaker like this, that’s sort of the point.

Getting started with the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin

Zeppelin is designed for simple use; once you get past the initial setup, you won’t have to fuss with it again. Its minimalist approach extends to packaging, which is reminiscent of Apple products: the box included a quick guide and power cord and that’s about it.

The heaviest lift during setup may literally be physically placing the speaker. Due to its irregular shape, the Zeppelin isn’t the greatest choice if you’re looking for the best bookshelf speakers to nestle amongst other personal audio gear and physical media. But, let’s face it: Zeppelin is meant to be shown off. It works well sitting atop a flat surface such as a console, or on a pedestal that can serve as a centerpiece—and conversation piece—in your space. If you really want to get creative, or you’re out of furniture space, a discreet wall bracket is available for $100. For the time Zeppelin was in my (very small) home, it took up residence on my bar cabinet, which sits against a wall in a space that’s open on all sides.

Let the app be your guide

Most of Zeppelin’s advanced controls are in the B&W Music app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. The app, which serves as a hub for setup and streaming, takes you through setup, including configuring your network, naming your speaker, and linking your subscribed music services. Once plugged in, the Zeppelin becomes discoverable in the B&W app, so keep your device within range of the speaker as you add the product.

When I first booted up the speaker, however, nothing happened. A mysterious red indicator light appeared on the front; I figured this was a sign that something was amiss, but couldn’t find answers in the less-is-more literature that came in the box. A quick chat with B&W led me to a firmware upgrade, which was a completely friction-free process in the app. A simple reset and I was back in business, navigating prompts to add Zeppelin to my network. A long press of the multifunction button also puts the speaker into direct pairing mode, selectable in your device’s Bluetooth settings, and it will remember up to eight devices that can stream to it without sharing the Wi-Fi.

Streaming simplicity

The B&W Music app provides built-in (subscriber) access to a range of streaming services including Deezer, Qobuz, TIDAL, Soundcloud, Amazon Music, and Last.fm (Spotify Hi-Fi will be supported when the service launches in 2022). Once you connect, you can access music playlists, podcasts, radio stations, and recently played tracks without ever leaving the app. B&W also offers curated playlists and suggestions; the app learns your preferences based on your music “likes,” applying them across all of your streaming services and improving accuracy over time.

The app is clean, simple, and very easy to use. You won’t find much in the way of EQ/tone sculpting/correcting beyond basic Bass and Treble faders, but the speaker’s tuning is so finessed, you won’t need these unless you have to compensate for room issues. I never had to adjust the EQ during my tests.

The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin can also stream via Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth 5.0 (including the SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive codecs), and Spotify Connect, which streams Spotify tracks directly from the cloud via Wi-Fi versus your phone. Compatibility with B&W’s Formation multiroom setup is promised in 2022.

The app currently streams at 24-bit/96 kHz resolution, but since the speaker’s converters are capable of accepting 192 kHz files, you can feed it higher-resolution audio by streaming that content over AirPlay 2 or aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, as I did. (A CD, for comparison, is only capable of 16-bit/44.1 resolution, meaning some streaming services do a better job of presenting select music in original studio-grade fidelity, which isn’t impacted by physical media format limitations.)

Getting to know Alexa

Amazon Alexa assistance is set up through the app, where you can link to an existing account. Alexa voice control lets you stream music, control the speaker and music playback, and access typical Alexa skills and functions.

Voice control works exactly the way it does on any Alexa smart speaker: press the Alexa button to summon the assistant or speak commands beginning with “Alexa.” Like most smart speakers, Zeppelin lets you mute its field microphones if you’re (rightfully) concerned about Big Tech listening to you, just press and hold the Voice Service button.

With an audiophile brand like B&W, fidelity is paramount. To achieve true stereo sound from a single speaker, and establish it as one of the best-sounding Bluetooth speakers, Zeppelin features a carefully oriented five-driver complement that borrows acoustic technologies from other B&W speakers.

Two 1-inch, decoupled double-dome aluminum tweeters—the same high-frequency drivers used in B&W’s 600 Anniversary Series loudspeakers—are mounted at the outside edges of the driver array, at the speaker’s outermost points. Each tweeter features an extremely thin and light aluminum dome surrounded by a thicker aluminum ring that adds rigidity and prevents audible distortion.

Zeppelin’s broad elliptical design isn’t just about aesthetics. Because its tweeters are positioned at its tapered outer contours, you’ll experience as much stereo separation as possible from a single speaker. B&W says the tweeters’ placement also isolates them from vibration caused by the larger drivers in the enclosure.

Dual 3.5-inch midrange drivers, taken from B&W’s $40,000 800 Series Diamond Line, feature proprietary Fixed Suspension Transducer technology, which maximizes the benefits of aramid fiber by improving cone response times and integrity of sound transmission. B&W’s “surroundless” suspension improves outer-edge cone termination, for clean midrange response. A long-throw 6-inch subwoofer in the center fills the room with bass.

Together, the drivers deliver a frequency range of 35 Hz to 24 kHz. Everything is powered by five channels of Class D amplification totaling 240 watts.

The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin sound

My first impression of the Zeppelin was that this speaker delivers an incredibly powerful, dynamic sonic presentation at any volume level, with a cohesive sonic signature that’s especially favorable to vocals and other midrange sounds.

I streamed high-res TIDAL Master Quality Authenticated tracks directly, circumventing the app’s current limitations. (Think of MQA as the musical equivalent of a ZIP file, a way to encode and distribute full-spectrum audio in a compressed container that unfolds in the listener’s device—a process TIDAL calls “musical origami.”) Listening to Diana Krall’s “The Look of Love,” recorded with a blockbuster jazz combo and the London Symphony Orchestra, Zeppelin revealed every nuance of Krall’s luxurious silk-and-sandpaper vocal stylings in a very direct, lifelike presentation. I was struck by Zeppelin’s tight, defined low-end response; piano notes were defined across the entire register and I could easily pick out, practically feel, Christian McBride deftly pulling his fingers across the bass strings.

When it comes to stereo imaging, no single speaker will ever offer the separation of a discrete pair and it would be unfair to compare the experiences. But Zeppelin does an admiral job at producing a broad, defined soundstage, with distinct separation at close range. While the lush string arrangements may not have felt as wide as they would on a pair of speakers, directional cues are audibly reproduced and the soundstage was expansive for a single enclosure, most defined inside a distance of 3 to 4 feet. Transients are sharp, and attack and decay are handled with aplomb, it’s just more tightly focused unless you’re at a closer proximity.

That said, not many people are spending their days sitting in front of their smart speakers musing on how Zeppelin offers far more imaging than the average all-in-one. Luckily, Zeppelin is equally satisfying for those seeking room-filling, body-rocking sound to energize their abode. Going full-bore with Rage Against the Machine’s “Bulls On Parade,” the speaker delivered every gut punch with authority and clarity and exhibited linearity at any volume. Here, I detected ever-so-slight compression when I pushed Zeppelin to the max, but the speaker never distorted, delivering clean, clear sound even at levels loud enough for my neighbors to stop by and ask me what the heck was going on.

No matter what I listened to, I found Zeppelin’s tonal balance to be pleasing and natural, with muscular yet controlled bass; a warm, detailed midrange; and crisp highs. And given Zeppelin’s single-speaker design, the soundstage remained relatively consistent as I moved around the room.

So, who should buy the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin?

At $800, Zeppelin is a pretty expensive wireless speaker. But it’s also the best smart speaker I’ve heard. It’s gorgeous, it’s easy to use, and it’s optimized for modern streaming and high-resolution audio. Deciding whether Zeppelin is right for you starts with knowing what you want out of your sound system. Ultimately, any Alexa speaker will turn on the lights and order groceries. But if superior sound and showstopping style are your top priorities, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin is the network-connected speaker to beat.

The post Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Review: Rebirth of the cool appeared first on Popular Science.

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