Bookshelf Speakers Under £1K : John's Picks 2024

[@aleksandarbrzic8351]

Very useful and informative! Everybody can find great sound for thousands and thousands, but the budget category is actually the most interesting one!

[@guitar-nut]

I purchased the Lumina ii from PT and paired them with a Naim Nova. Quite a lot of top end and very detailed which i like but also the bass is very good for a small bookshelf speaker. They are not fussy with placement and can be positioned close to the rear wall. Really nice speaker.

[@kingtubby999]

Great video John, great style as you told us what you think, good & bad... Nice to do an under £2000 one....

[@Peter-Tyson]

Thanks, glad you liked it. If this video does well I'll do £1,000 - £2,000 and the same for floor standers. -John

[@ramondelgado6778]

Great review!!! Enjoyed the comparison very much!!!!

[@artSFCA]

I just bought a pair of Dali speakers. I'm so impressed by the clarity and depth. I would highly recommend to buy a pair of really good speakers makes a huge difference.

[@marty1iwilson]

Really good video. So helpful to get a shprt video comparing so many speakers. Well done indeed. My pick would be the SF....

[@Stewart-kz4bw]

I’m very happy with my Bowers and Wilkins 685 s2 speakers. Had them for some years now, but wow they sound brilliant. Very happy with them 😃

[@Adrianek81]

I just sold my oberon 3 and i got opticon 2 mk 2,you not joking,oberon 3 has amazing bass,i used with with maranrz nr1711 with audyssey mic calibration,i never heard so much bass from bookshelf speaker😁✌️

[@Akstergrind]

True, it’s incredible that such tiny speakers are able to pump out such a lot of bass!

[@stephenbowden2929]

Good video. Would be nice to see what you think of the Q Acoustics concept 30 as they get excellent reviews elsewhere

[@Peter-Tyson]

Thanks 😊. I've not heard a lot of the Q Acoustics yet, what I have heard are pretty good. Maybe a future video 👍. -John

[@perlman7376]

Thanks for posting this well done video. No annoying thumping bass and enough subjectivity mixed in with the overall objectivity. Which one would be best for reproducing an orchestra? My ideal speakers would be those that emulate my experience at Carnegie Hall being 15-20 rows back dead center.

[@ramondelgado6778]

Excellent!! Thank you for this great review and comparison!!!!

[@Peter-Tyson]

Thank you, I'm glad you liked it. I would suggest the Focal for you, you would appreciate the effortless dynamics. Other than that the Dali and Sonus Faber would be good choices. -John.

[@perlman7376]

@@Peter-Tyson Thank you for your response. All the best.

[@leonardiliong]

Hi John. Which of these speakers do you think pair the best with Marantz PM8006? I am using with oberon 3 currently but want to get ur opinion if there is a better fit for that amp.

[@Akstergrind]

Bought a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 100s from you (Peter Tyson) and absolutely love them! Had some of the B&W 607s and 606s, but they annoyed me because the grilles kept falling off whenever I went anywhere near them. Nobody else seems to’ve noticed this about them.

[@Peter-Tyson]

I had a similar thing with the covers on my 705 S2, I just put them in a drawer and forgot about them. I like the look of the naked drivers :-) - John

[@dparis2172]

You’ve never been anywhere near my grills, so why would I notice?

[@alexandrenataf8270]

Hey! What do you think about the Q Acoustic Concept 20 ? Thank you :D

[@markfortune3492]

Great video, stumbled across this today. Another shout out for £1-£2/3k. I recently joined my audiophile journey after 20+ year wait (life, wife and kids) after hearing a set of Dali stand mounts through Marantz Ki Signature separates, I was blown away. But after buying, I am now in a stage where most get to, and that is “ I wish I knew this before”. I went all out (for my budget), media wall, Arcam SA30, Triangle Genese Quartets and Kasa 500 amp for my 2 KEF built in subs. But now I am finding that as I WFH a lot I am in my office most of the time, so now I am wishing I went more AV route in living room and had focused more audiophile in office. Both are very large rooms, but low ceiling in office so will have to go bookshelf than stand mount. This video has been great for me as the route I think I will take is for office, spend more upfront on components and start off entry level speaker, knowing that this is what I will upgrade no doubt first. Gareth hearing about bass, as I am a bass lover for my sins, never grey out of the golden age of trance music. Thanks again and apologise for long post if you read it.

[@Peter-Tyson]

Thanks for the comment and for watching. I'm currently working on floor standing speakers under £1000. I will do the same for £1000-£2000. -John

[@mbvx7]

I just bought the Sonus Faber Lumia II's. I am in love with them. Still watched to see if you guys liked them as much as I do.

[@fencerrandy]

I prefer the ELAC B62 over the B52, the ELAC DBR62s are a good option, and I prefer Revel M16 over the ELACs and any of your suggestions.

[@lexsemenenko]

I was going to buy Sonus Faber Lumina II, for its beautiful sound and design. But got a chance to buy B&W 705 S2 for just $200 more than Lumina II . (More than 50% off) that B&W is an another tier speaker . Waiting for the speakers to arrive but am worried if I made the right decision. Any thoughts? I just loved Faber sound and didn’t listen to B&W

[@Peter-Tyson]

You did good! 705 are amazing speakers! I'd be proud to own those! -John

[@Eron55555]

Thanks John. Have you heard the Elac Unifi UB52s? I think pretty similar to the b6.2's with possibly a bit better off axis response.

[@Peter-Tyson]

I haven't, if I get chance I'll have a listen. -John

[@helmutwickler8137]

I am still using a 30 years old Audiodata Petit and looking for an alternative for around 1000€

[@RCJPOP]

Any thoughts on the Mission QX2. The last new speakers I bought and still have are Mission 763i and Mission 731i so tech has moved on a fair bit.

[@Peter-Tyson]

Hi, I've not spent any length of time with QX2, just heard them in passing. I wasn't blown away to be honest. I used to own Mission 731 back in the late 90's, great speakers. I've owned a few Mission speakers in the past, I don't think they are now what they used to be from my personal experience. Although I do quite like the modern take on the Mission 700 and 770 models. I would perhaps look at Wharfedale Diamond 12.2, Q Acoustics 5010, ELAC Debut B6.2. Great value for money. petertyson.co.uk/wharfedale-diamond-12-2-bookshelf-speakers petertyson.co.uk/q-acoustics-5010-bookshelf-speakers petertyson.co.uk/elac-debut-b6-2-bookshelf-speakers

[@nippahut]

sonus faber simply the best of that bunch !!

[@d.s.6268]

Very helpful video, thank you ! Do you have any good choice among those if I lean towards a "monitor like" sound ? Thank you.

[@Peter-Tyson]

Focal or Dali would be worth a listen for you. -John

[@theuvcrew2531]

Great comparison. What would you say are the most warm sounding speakers?

[@Peter-Tyson]

Thanks, I would say the Sonus Faber Lumina II or the Dali Oberon 3. - John

[@theuvcrew2531]

@@Peter-Tyson Thank you

[@yttean98]

Good review, very concise and to the point, most of what you said seem to correspond what i have in mind.

[@Peter-Tyson]

Thank you. -John

[@matoot]

Have you checked out the Fyne Audio F500? Really like them.

[@Peter-Tyson]

I've heard a few Fyne audio, we stock them. I've not heard the F500, I have heard the F501 though, quite like them. I have heard 3 of the Vintage Classic ones too. Not bad. -John

[@jusatin]

Is there a reason why the 607 was chosen instead of the 606?

[@Peter-Tyson]

Only the fact the demo room I used is quite small. The 606 are also fantastic speakers. - John

[@jusatin]

@@Peter-Tyson Okay, thanks! Would you rate the 606 higher than the 607?

[@Peter-Tyson]

If you have a larger room then yes, I would. - John

[@4ujase]

Well Well pleased with the Dali Oberon 3 I purchased on eBay from Peter Tyson, really works well with the Atoll IN100SE integrated amplifier.

[@Peter-Tyson]

Yes, they are very good. To be fair, I've not heard a bad Dali yet! - John

[@mbvx7]

Hey Peter, if you were to add a sub to the Sonus Faber Lumia 2's, (price appropriate 2.1 for Music, not home theater) what you get?

[@nc3419]

I have the Dali Opticon 1 MK1 (preferred even over the Menuet SE) and is closest to neutral compared to my other speakers. Martin Logan 15i which has similar punch, but less so than MA Silver 100s and even smoother and better instrument separation in the upper mids and highs, great for watching movies. Triangle Zeta if I want a more laid back and easy sound but still detailed which I like for music at times. All budget but competent, different sounding which gives variety. Did try the MA Silver 50 6th gen but preferred those I already have. While resolving with plenty of detail, it lacked that something that moves me emotionally. Also had a strange chirping sound with sibilant passages. Nothing at all like the bigger Silver 100s, not even a toned down version like the 15i seems to be. Tried Dali Spektor 1 which I liked but needs alot of power for SPLs and Oberon 1s which were ok, but not really much better than Spektor 1 IMO. The Menuet SE did some things really amazing, great resolution but seemed a bit veiled, lacking detail that every other speaker gave probably why it sounded so smooth. Also difficult to drive as the frequency curve dips well under 4 ohms for a good chunk of the curve and can really heat up a lower powered amp. Really wanted that speaker to work out but in the end, happier with Opticon. Would like to try the SF Lumina series someday, among a few others which are much higher priced. I use both a Hegel h160 (overkill) and 2 Keces E40 integrated amps (highly underated). Always looking for a third Keces E40 used and if priced right but rarely become available. With small speakers, a sub helps.

[@theuvcrew2531]

While not as new as the others in this list, the Wharfedale EVO 4.1 would be a nice addition to this comparison.

[@petermusto3704]

You should check out Dynaudio Evoke 10 and 20 Danish made Speakers.

[@themarksmanABP]

If you had 3k for a speaker system in a medium sized room, that you wanted to shine for mostly rock/acoustic/vocal which speakers would you go to? Think... stereophonics, metallica, ben howard, kings of leon etc I will need to stream Tidal hifi from my phone. Not sure which total components would need to be purchased after the speakers...

[@Peter-Tyson]

If you're after smaller speakers like the ones in the video. The B&W 706 are worth considering. petertyson.co.uk/bowers-wilkins-706-s3-standmount-speakers If you're using Tidal and streaming then the Roksan Attessa streaming amp will do you proud with B&W. petertyson.co.uk/roksan-attessa-streaming-amplifier Just have to budget for some stands. I would be happy to take that system home. -John

[@themarksmanABP]

@@Peter-Tyson thank you for the reply, I will look into these in depth, you have a store not too far from me, perhaps ill have to come and demo soon as im ready

[@theuvcrew2531]

Was able to audition the Sonus Faber Lumina I, the II was unavailable at the local store. How different is the I from the II? Would it just be deeper bass?

[@Peter-Tyson]

A little deeper bass, a little more dynamic and will fill a larger room. All of the Lumina series are excellent. - John

[@theuvcrew2531]

@@Peter-Tyson Great, thank you for that.

[@chriswidden7685]

Is it me? Have I missed it somewhere. I have yet to see anyone reviewing or comparing " Bookshelf" speakers that are not on stands. I dont have room for stands. My kit has to go on a very long but very solid sideboard. It's not negotiable ( ask ny wife ! ). So which are the best small proper bookshelf speakers that perform well on a shelf or similar not a stand ?

[@Peter-Tyson]

It's a very 'hifi' thing to mount them on stands. On a solid sideboard like you describe they would all be fine. I think at least the B&W (maybe others) come with rubber feet for just that job. - John.

[@chriswidden7685]

@@Peter-Tyson Thanks . Really good to know.

[@ericmuijs1938]

Great review thanks!!

[@chrissarson8567]

Hi John, Im looking to buy a pair of speakers for my small front bedroom. Whats your opinion on the Jamo S7-25F floorstander as compared to the Jamo S7-17B bookshelf? I notice these are currently in the clearance sale at Peter Tyson. Also how would you rate the Polk Signature Elite E515 compared to say the Q Acoustics 3020i?

[@Peter-Tyson]

Hello Chris, I've not listened to the Jamo speakers so can't make an informed comment, sorry. I have only heard the Polk XT series at any length, to be fair, for the price I was very impressed. Q Acoustics are always reliable and consistent in my experience and offer lots of sound per pound. If I was choosing I would go Q Acoustics personally. - John

[@chrissarson8567]

@@Peter-Tyson Hi John, many thanks for your input. Just now trying to decide between floorstanders or bookshelf standmounts. I would initially be driving them with an old Rega Elex amp of 1990's vintage so maybe need to consider the ohm rating of the speakers. Also wondering what type of speaker will give me better performance in a small front bedroom, standmounts or floorstanders?

[@Peter-Tyson]

Very generally speaking, floor standing speakers are suited for larger spaces, the bass is often deeper and they will play louder than smaller stand mounted counterparts. Smaller speakers can sound tighter, more controlled and sometimes more musical, especially in smaller rooms where large speakers can sound boomy! It comes down to the room and your taste. Personally I think the Oberon 5 are better speakers than anything you mentioned before, they are almost half way between a floor stander and a stand mount, they are really compact and share characteristics of both. If they are a little bass heavy then pull away from the wall or corners, use the supplied foam port bungs or a even tweak on the tone control if your Rega has them won't hurt. - John

[@Xcrv]

What about dynaudio emit 20 and / or b&w 606 s3, can get both for around €720

[@Peter-Tyson]

I'm not familiar with the Dynaudio so can't comment. The B&W 606 S3 is fantastic for the price and a solid option. I took it out as I didn't want the video to be too B&W heavy. - John

[@selassie123GA]

Emit 20s have nice Bass and Vocals but too much Cabinet Resonance. Prefered the Emit 10 instead.

[@OffordDarcy]

I love these videos

[@allentd55]

Love your review. Brilliant

[@Peter-Tyson]

Thanks 👍 - John

[@psyphonyxaudio]

Have the Lumina 2 - a great speaker ( for those that enjoy a tilted top end )

[@Peter-Tyson]

They're not the last word in accuracy but I really enjoy listening to them, there's just something about Sonus Faber. -John.

[@psyphonyxaudio]

@@Peter-Tyson - Agree =) The Amator versions should be a delight to compare. I've requested they get a spot on other channels as well. ( they also look WAY sexier ) =)

[@Peter-Tyson]

We have them here, the sound is not radically different to be honest. Personally i prefer the sound of the original if anything. Maybe I've just spent more time with them than the new ones. You're right, the finish is stunning! - John

[@manugrandest1683]

​@@Peter-Tyson Bonjour Quelle différence de sonorité pour vous ?

[@Khalantho]

Thanks for the video 😊

[@Peter-Tyson]

You're very welcome, thanks for watching. -John

[@daveconroy6859]

Outstanding company

[@ENGBriseB]

The Wharfedale Dimiond 12.3 Speakers are a very good. And are very well made heavy. And are a lot better than their price which is a good thing.

[@computerenthusiast402]

What the best center channel under $300 to pair with the Elac B5.20?

[@Peter-Tyson]

Always try and match manufacturer and models with centre and front channels. A uniform sound across the front channels is so much better. -John

[@sujitbose7411]

I have a penchant for acoustic music, and I crave a sonic experience that faithfully reproduces the instrumentation with utmost precision. I desire to discern each instrument - be it the violin's soaring highs, the drum's dynamic attack, the flute's airy subtleties, or the guitar's rich timbre - with crystal clarity and definition. a sound signature that is unfatigueing and suitable for extended listening , very easy to ears , an all day speaker .Furthermore, I seek vocals that are layered, lively, and nuanced, with a sense of depth and dimensionality. Finally, I require a bass response that is taut, nuanced, and capable of conveying the subtlest textural details, thereby immersing me in a truly captivating sonic landscape. Sir, please suggest me a under 500 dollar speaker best suited for my requirements and preference.🙏

[@Peter-Tyson]

Hello, that's an awful lot to ask of budget speakers! I'm afraid the experience you have so eloquently described there is achieved with speakers at a much higher level. Think Bowers & Wilkins 801 S4, Linn 360, or even Sonus Faber Suprema. Unfortunately they cost considerably more than $500!

[@dragonstone6594]

Which one do you think is better the B&W 607 S3 or the Monitor Audio Silver 7G 50?

[@Peter-Tyson]

Personally I would choose the B&W every time. - John

[@dragonstone6594]

@@Peter-Tyson Nice. I'm going to get the B&W and pair it with Marantz Cinema 50.

[@Ricky-cl5bu]

Ok good job 👍

[@kingtubby999]

Thanks John

[@Sandoz-tq7qj]

I love them all 😛

[@davidpungercar5430]

Wheres polk r200 great bookshelf speakers

[@winstonwolff]

Not european

[@futures2247]

KEF LSX 2 are amazing

[@tonym8358]

Do you ship to USA?

[@Peter-Tyson]

Hi, no, sorry. UK deliveries only. - John

[@steveopenshaw1219]

9:50 “Isn’t that lovely” 😆 Why do I feel that the way he says this translates to “Isn’t that a load of pretentious bullshit!”

[@Peter-Tyson]

I have to admit, your comment made me laugh.... - John.

[@delstone3801]

Emotiva b1+ , not a work of art but darn good .

[@bobgauthier1569]

Love my very inexpensive JBL 530s in my small room they sound great 😊

[@Peter-Tyson]

If you love them.....that's all that matters 🙂. I'm quite looking forward to trying some JBL speakers. -John.

[@mkmkmk845]

You forgot Polk R200 which can throw most of them out of park

[@Marie579]

Hi John from Ba…… Hi John from pang and Tyson…… Hi John from …. Arghhh !!!! 😂 Crappy jokes aside, I think you reviewing various brands actually suits your style, you’re presumably free to give a candid and honest review of components. And I assume you’re your own boss. Nice to hear you again even though you’re quite elusive…👍👍👍

[@Peter-Tyson]

That made me laugh! I can safely say I've found my new home now and have no plans to go anywhere else! You're right, it's great fun to have so many brands and products to review and compare. Thanks to people like you that watch me on KZbin. I hope that I can grow this channel and do this for a long time. -John

[@Marie579]

Good on you John, I genuinely hope you’ve found your niche now.

[@StrangeBrewReviews]

you should check out the new Cerwin-Vega! LA165 , at only $270 for the pair they hit way way above their price...best speakers under $500 easily on par with some $1k speakers.