1. The list in brief
2. Best overall
3. Best budget
4. Best premium
5. Best floorstanders
6. Best high-end
7. Best for purists
8. Best desktop
9. Also consider
10. How to choose
11. How we test
If you want a hi-fi system but are daunted by the prospect of multiple speaker and amplifier boxes or simply don't have space for separates, you may want to consider active speakers i.e. speakers with amplification built-in.
While most of the products on this list might look just like standard passive speakers, don't be fooled: there's a lot of clever processing going on inside these cabinets, and many of them support hi-res audio.
There's analogue and digital connectivity and often Bluetooth support too. Some are also complete hi-fi systems, with integrated access to music streaming services. Not only are these more practical and neater than a bunch of separate components, but they are also often cheaper too.
If you aren't quite sure what you're looking for, the how to choose active speakers section below will hopefully help. But if you do, jump right on into the best active speakers you can buy, which have all been thoroughly tested in our dedicated test rooms and handpicked for this list by our expert reviews team with over 100 years of testing experience.
I'm the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and have been testing hi-fi kit for over a decade, including my fair share of active speakers! I've seen them expand from amplified speakers with physical connections to those adding Bluetooth and, as is common nowadays, even network streaming. I've heard every pair on this list and so can vouch for their performance, and I've curated this 'best of' list to cover the most desirable pairs across various types and budgets.
The quick list
Best overall
Best overall
A stylish and complete streaming system that offers a well-rounded sonic performance and plenty of connectivity options.
Best budget
Best budget
After something more modest? This fun, affordable music system is surprisingly capable of delivering true hi-fi sound.
Best premium
Best premium
Proper hi-fi in just two boxes, this innovative and entertaining active speaker system combines a comprehensive, streaming-savvy spec sheet with a sophisticated sound.
Best floorstanders
Best floorstanders
KEF’s extraordinary slimline floorstanders pack in all the technology you need to enjoy an immersive, enthusiastic system from just two cabinets.
Best high-end
Best high-end
Beasts in both looks and sound, offering a thrill ride that few streaming speaker systems of this kind can match.
Best for purists
Best for purists
You only get analogue inputs with these 50-watt speakers – no wireless streaming – but if you want to keep things simple they do everything with a flourish.
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Best desktop
Best desktop
Unbeatable desktop speakers with gorgeous looks, streamlined design and features, and sonic talents that bely their compact stature.
The best active speakers overall
A network streamer, Bluetooth receiver and amplifier built into a compact pair of stereo speakers, the KEF LSX II is a great option for those looking for convenience and musicality in two compact boxes.
The original LSX offered plenty of choices when it came to sources – streaming over DLNA or from Tidal, Spotify Connect, Roon compatibility and Apple AirPlay 2 – but the LSX II expands on this with wider streaming support and the modern-day addition of HMDI ARC and USB-C for TV and laptop connectivity respectively.
Essentially, KEF has taken what was already a winning formula, introduced some key upgrades that improve functionality and usability, and without really altering the speaker hardware has produced a talented set-up that sings with any genre of music sent its way.
The KEF LSX II is a stylish streaming system that has none of the baggage and boxes a separates set-up brings. The cherry on the top? They come in a range of stylish colours to match your home decor.
That said, if the LSX II sit just outside of your budget, know that the new KEF LSX II LT offers the same performance at a more affordable price; they just go without a few flourishes, such as the wireless link between the speakers.
The Dali Oberon 1 C, which is slightly larger and comes with a separate hub for housing all its connectivity, is also worth considering at this price.
Read our full KEF LSX II review
The best budget active speakers
The Triangle AIO Twin may look like a pair of ‘normal’ speakers, but like the KEF LSX II above (and many others on this page) this is a fully fledged music system – just at half the price.
This system can play just about anything, from Bluetooth streams from your phone to music files stored on your home network (wired ethernet and wi-fi) and even your vinyl records thanks to a built-in phono stage. It can also be a soundbar alternative for your TV thanks to its optical input. (Other physical connections include an RCA analogue pair, 3.5mm aux input, USB-A for charging your phone, and a subwoofer output.)
All the major streaming services are supported, and you can also play internet radio using the excellent app.
This system is incredibly fun to listen to. It’s an enthusiastic performer, happy to tackle any music genre and recording quality, and simply wants you to enjoy the music being played. But there is also a mature sense of composure running through its veins that is really impressive. It organises the complicated strands of instruments and noises with confidence, and it's balanced across the frequencies: taut bass, clear voices and sparkling, clean treble that’s punchy but never bright.
It’s only with the built-in phono stage does it falter. While the peppy character remains the same, it doesn’t sound as clear, precise or expressive compared with the other inputs. The sound quality when streaming through wi-fi is far superior.
If you’re looking for a fun music system that also sounds hugely capable in hi-fi terms, and that you don’t have to pay over a grand for, this system is worth your attention.
Read our full Triangle AIO Twin review
It's pretty remarkable that you can now get a pair of streaming-savvy active speakers at such a modest price point. These Triangles offer so much for so little, making them great upgrades on a one-box wireless speaker. I wouldn't choose such a set up if you predominantly listen to vinyl, though, as the integrated phono stages on such affordable systems tend to lack quality; check out a turntable system instead, and simply add a Bluetooth/network receiver if you need to.
The best premium active speakers
The follow-up to the outstanding KEF LS50 Wireless active speaker system improves on greatness – no easy feat, even for an audio brand as surefooted as KEF.
Like its illustrious predecessor, the LS50 Wireless II serves as a superb all-in-one (or rather, all-in-two) system by dint of its advanced connectivity and performance. Improvements include upgraded components and a new KEF Connect app from which you can access the likes of Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music and Deezer.
These active speakers are also capable of streaming via AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast and Bluetooth, and are also Roon Ready.
KEF's striking design is matched by stunning sonics, enhanced by refreshed Uni-Q drivers and the company's innovative MAT absorption technology. The presentation is spacious and the addition of the new MAT technology can be heard in the refined treble and clean mids.
Quite simply, if you are in the market for a well-equipped, highly convenient and superb-sounding system packed with streaming smarts, this sophisticated sequel (and big sibling to the LSX II above, by the way) should top your shopping list.
Read our full KEF LS50 Wireless II review
The best floorstanding active speakers
KEF redefined what you should expect from an all-in-one stereo system with the LS50 Wireless standmounters (above); and it has managed to raise the bar once again with the stunning LS60 Wireless floorstanders, which combine streaming smarts, amplification and stereo speakers into two CD-width towers.
But the KEF LS60 Wireless aren't simply floorstanding speakers based on the bookshelf version. That description just doesn’t do it justice, and as you can see from the image and price tag, the company has thrown so much more at the LS60 that it's on a whole different level. If your interest is piqued, we really do recommend you read our in-depth KEF LS60 Wireless review.
In a nutshell, though, the British brand has managed to combine impressive engineering and a comprehensive feature set with an attractive user experience and top it all off with fantastic audio quality. It’s a fine example of modern hi-fi and currently has no real rival if you are in the market for a convenient yet premium solution.
The LS60 Wireless system is a fantastic achievement and a fitting way to celebrate KEF’s 60th anniversary.
Read the full KEF LS60 Wireless review
The best high-end active speakers
Active speakers are often designed to save you space, but you’ll need plenty of it if you decide to buy a pair of JBL’s 4329P Studio Monitors.
These are big, imposing speakers – and not only because they have all of the amplification and streaming circuitry built in. Each speaker is powered by a 300-watt amplifier, with 250 watts going to the 20cm woofer, and the rest feeding the 25mm horn-loaded driver – so it’s no real surprise they weigh over 15.5kg each.
The sound they produce is equally large and powerful, but there’s no lack of subtlety or tonal balance. Dynamic expression is also very impressive, while a smooth midrange ensures vocals sound pleasingly lush and full. The treble could be a bit more refined, and Bluetooth performance is noticeably weaker than wi-fi or wired connections, but there’s no denying the JBL’s presence.
Each speaker needs mains power, and if you connect them together using an ethernet cable you unlock 32-bit/192kHz playback (the wireless link is limited to 24-bit). However you choose to set them up, there are plenty of options when it comes to music playback. Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast and DLNA are all supported, plus there are balanced XLR, Toslink/optical, USB and 3.5mm inputs. There’s also a subwoofer connection, but low-end heft is not something these speakers lack.
Looking for something with a slightly more subtle aesthetic? The similarly priced Dali Rubicon 2 C might be more up your street.
Read our full JBL 4329P Studio Monitor review
The best active speakers for purists
These Acoustic Energy active speakers might be considered a little basic in terms of what they do and how you set them up, but you won't hear any complaints from us; simplicity is no bad thing, especially when the results are as good as this.
There is no wireless connectivity, just RCA or balanced XLR inputs for connecting your source components. But the AE1 Active do feature adjustable controls for bass and treble, so you can fine-tune the sound to suit your room. Power comes from a dedicated 50-watt class A/B power amplifier module for each drive unit.
Sonically, these speakers are very impressive. There is plenty of body in the mid-range, delicate control in the treble and bags of rhythm to get your head nodding. They also have a keen sense of punch and drive, the timing is spot on, and the dynamic range subtle yet extensive.
At this price, you would be hard-pressed to find a group of separates to match this performance.
Read the full review: Acoustic Energy AE1 Active
If you want to combine stereo speakers and amplification but still prioritise sound quality, I'd recommend buying active speakers that don't integrate loads of features like network streaming – especially if you don't need them. Such implementations cost and, ultimately, chip away at the engineering budget. Something more purist, like these Acoustic Energys, offers performance and convenience while allowing you to add only the sources you need.
The best desktop active speakers
With their retro wood-and-grey styling, these Ruark Audio speakers will look at home on almost any surface, be it an office desk or a kitchen work surface. But they are not just lookers; they are the desktop speakers that come closest to sounding like a proper hi-fi set-up. So while they might be small, they are most definitely mighty.
The soundstage is gloriously spacious, giving each instrument enough room to breathe, and the sound is bathed in rich detail and fluid dynamics. Their timing is also a highlight. Put them in any room, and they will immediately add character along with some brilliant sonics. Close your eyes, and you will think there's an orchestra in front of you, not a pair of bookshelf speakers.
They have won our 'Best Desktop Speaker' Award for years on the trot, so you can be assured of their brilliance.
As an alternative, Elac's Debut ConneX DCB41 are nowhere near as compact, but they do come with an HDMI ARC connection rather than the MR1's optical one, which makes them an even better bet for connecting to a TV.
Read our full Ruark MR1 Mk2 review
Also consider
KEF LSX II LT: If you're after powered speakers that have networking streaming built in but come in below the four-figure mark, KEF's latest stereo speaker system is highly recommendable. Over the pricier LSX II, it simply drops the wireless link between the speakers, the aux input and a few colourway options.
Elac Debut ConneX DCB41: Another powered set-up (where one speaker contains all the electronics while the other is a conventional passive design), this is as entry-level as stereo speakers such as these come. So it's surprising how well-featured (HDMI ARC, USB, line/phono, optical, Bluetooth) and decent-sounding they are.
Klipsch The Fives: A one-stop shop for home audio, these decent active speakers will suit those who want a pair for movies as well as music. No network streaming, but they will connect to virtually anything – an HDMI ARC socket for TVs is joined by analogue RCA/phono, 3.5mm aux, digital optical, USB and Bluetooth.
Dali Rubicon 2 C: A very fine pair of active speakers that prioritise performance over ticking every feature box. With optical, coaxial, RCA and 3.5mm connections housed in a separate hub box, the speakers are simple to operate and enjoyable to listen to.
Recent updates
- March 2024: Added an 'also consider' section (above) to give readers more recommendable options to consider.
- January 2024: Added a 'how to choose' section (below) to help readers learn what aspects should determine their buying decision.
- November 2023: Newly crowned What Hi-Fi? Award winners added and labelled. List curation becomes more focused.
How to choose the best active speakers for you
To decide which active speakers are best for you – or whether you want them in the first place – it's useful to know what they are and how they work. Stereo speakers can be categorised into two different species – active and passive. Passive speakers are your 'standard' driver-filled boxes that require an external stereo amplifier to make a sound. Once the signal from the amplifier reaches these boxes, an internal crossover filters the appropriate frequencies to each driver.
Some speakers are passive in nature but still have an amplifier built in – often squirrelled away into just one of the two boxes. These are commonly referred to as 'powered' and represent most of the more affordable amplified speakers, such as the Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2 on this list.
Now, active speakers. These have amplifiers built in as well, but this time they have one amp dedicated for each 'way'. So, a two-way speaker with one tweeter and one mid/bass driver unit will have two power amplifier modules. These models are fed by an 'active' digital crossover that works at a much lower voltage than their passive cousins. That means the components can be optimised for precision rather than pure power handling, resulting in a potentially better integrated, more precise sound. (See! That was quick, wasn't it?)
Active speakers have traditionally required sources to be connected to them, but nowadays many integrate Bluetooth and sometimes even network streaming, essentially making them complete hi-fi systems – such as the KEF LS systems above. As with everything, though, streaming implementation costs and can affect the engineering of a product, so choose active speakers with it included only if you intend to use the feature.
Generally speaking, while sound and aesthetic preferences are important factors in your buying decision, so are connectivity options – which active speakers you choose should be based on how much source integration you require. For example, if you want to connect a TV as one of your sources, look for a pair with an optical input or, better yet, an HDMI socket.
How we test active speakers
We have state-of-the-art testing facilities in London and Reading, where our team of experienced, in-house reviewers test every bit of hi-fi and AV kit that passes through our door – including active speakers.
What Hi-Fi? is all about comparative testing, so we listen to every pair of active speakers we review against the current leader in its field to gauge how it compares to the best-in-class competition. We keep What Hi-Fi? Award winners, such as the Ruark Audio MR1 MkII and KEF LS50 Wireless II in this category, in our stockroom so we can always pit new products against ones we know and love. And we do our best to review as many new models in as many markets as possible to ensure our contextual knowledge is the best it can be.
We are always impartial in our testing and ensure we hear every pair of active speakers at its optimum, with sources we know and like. We test them in their best use case with different partnering source kit, whether that's a phone or laptop playing from a supported streaming service over wi-fi or Bluetooth, or a wired source component. And we play plenty of different types of music through them. Naturally, we give each pair several days of listening time (and at least 48 hours to run in), too.
All review verdicts are agreed upon by the team as a whole rather than an individual reviewer, to eliminate any personal preference and to make sure we are being as thorough as possible. There is no input from PR companies or our sales team when it comes to the verdict, with What Hi-Fi? proud of having delivered honest, unbiased reviews for decades.
You can read more about how we test and review products on What Hi-Fi? here.
MORE:
- Our expert pick of the best speakers of every type and size
- Want a desktop system instead? These are our best computer speakers
- Spinning vinyl? Here are the best record players we've tested