Hi-Fi speakers for music listening at home, from powered desktop and bookshelf speakers to wireless speakers that join a multiroom system. The range has over 20 models from Kanto Audio, Pioneer, Onkyo and Sonos, and suits anyone building a stereo setup or upgrading from TV speakers.
How to choose Hi-Fi speakers
Powered or passive. Powered (active) speakers have the amplifier built in and plug straight into a phone, laptop or TV. Passive speakers need a separate amplifier or receiver, which costs more but lets you upgrade each part of the system separately.
Connections. Check what you will actually plug in. Bluetooth is convenient for phones, while optical, RCA or HDMI ARC inputs suit a TV or turntable preamp. Wi-Fi models are controlled through an app and stream music services directly, without a cable from a source device.
Room size and placement. Small bookshelf speakers work well on a desk or shelf in a bedroom or study. A larger living room generally needs bigger drivers or floorstanding speakers to fill the space without distortion at higher volumes. Keep speakers away from corners if you want tighter bass.
Power consumption. Where it is listed, typical consumption in our range is 25 W or 65 W, and standby use is 0.5 W to 0.8 W. Powered speakers that stay switched on all day are worth checking for a low standby figure.
Single speaker or stereo pair. Stereo sound needs two speakers, so check whether the price is for one unit or a pair. Wireless multiroom speakers can be bought one at a time and added room by room.
Hi-Fi speaker brands we carry
- Kanto Audio: known for powered desktop and bookshelf speakers with built-in amplification and Bluetooth, and it has the most models in this category.
- Pioneer: a long-established Japanese audio maker whose home speakers are often designed as matched pairs for stereo listening.
- Onkyo: best known for home cinema and stereo receivers, and its speakers are typically paired with them.
- Sonos: makes Wi-Fi speakers that are controlled through one app and can be grouped across several rooms.
Also in our range: Blaze Audio, Sharp and Kenwood.
Hi-Fi speakers FAQ
What is the difference between active and passive Hi-Fi speakers?
Active speakers contain their own amplifier, while passive speakers do not. Active models connect directly to a source and need a power socket. Passive models must be wired to a separate amplifier or receiver, which gives more freedom to mix components.
Do I need an amplifier for Hi-Fi speakers?
Only for passive speakers. Powered and wireless speakers already include amplification, so no extra equipment is needed. If a product page does not say powered or active, assume you will need an amplifier.
Can I connect Hi-Fi speakers to my TV?
Yes, if the speakers have an input your TV can output to. Optical, HDMI ARC and RCA or 3.5 mm connections are the most common options. Passive speakers need an amplifier between the TV and the speakers.
Are bookshelf speakers good for a desk?
Yes, many bookshelf speakers are small enough for a desk, and powered models are the easiest to set up. Place them at ear height, angled slightly towards you, and leave a little space behind them. Check that the desk has room for both speakers and their cables.
