In This Article:
Introduction
With so many loudspeaker options available to consumers in 2024, it’s an almost impossible task for one person to sort through all of the options that are truly worth exploring and seeking out. That’s where eCoustics comes in with our reviews and “Editor’s Choice” buying guides that offer our top picks of what is currently available.
The reality is that high-end brands rarely put their best models on sale because they want to maximize the level of interest and profitability for those specific models.
However, with the economy still somewhat sluggish and the market being more competitive than it used to be, manufacturers seem to offering up some of their “better” models at decent discounts this holiday season and we are on the lookout for the best deals for our readers.
Our Black Friday list will grow over the next week and we are only recommending speakers that the eCoustics team has actually reviewed or auditioned and would recommend to friends and family who are in the market.
Why Spend More on Loudspeakers?
There are great options available at almost any price point. Spending more on a loudspeaker will usually provide you with a larger size speaker with lower bass extension and greater dynamic range or one that can present music and movie sound in a manner that is more realistic and more involving. The size thing generally holds true when staying within the same series within the same brand. However, with so many speakers to choose from across so many brands, the size of a loudspeaker only provides an indication how it could perform assuming it’s designed well. In other words, bigger isn’t always necessarily better.
Beyond size, build quality generally improves with price, which could include better cabinet materials and/or use of higher quality parts (crossovers, woofers, tweeters) as well as external finishings (high gloss, paint colors, wood veneers). Better build quality should also contribute to a speakers’ longer lifespan and a nicer fit and finish that will improve its aesthetic appeal.
The tradeoff between size, build quality, design, and engineering ingenuity ultimately contribute to better sound quality. Spending more increases the likelihood a brand checked more of the right boxes that contribute to better sound.
Buying the best speaker you can afford provides better long-term listening satisfaction. However, there is a subjective point where the degree of price difference doesn’t necessarily mean that you will be able to hear the difference.
Best Speaker Deals Under $400
SVS Prime Elevation Speaker
Looking for Dolby Atmos height channel speakers without having to install in-ceiling speakers? SVS Prime Elevation speakers are the solution. They mount high on the wall beneath the ceiling and can be mixed and matched with any brand of speaker. Available in black or white. They can also be used as bookshelf or stand-mounted speakers in a multi-channel home theater system.
KEF Q150 Bookshelf Speakers
Although the KEF Q150 bookshelf speakers debuted in 2017, they remain a favorite entry-level loudspeaker among audiophiles. They feature a proprietary Uni-Q (coaxial) driver design that radiate all frequencies equally for improved clarity and work well in small rooms.
Best Speaker Deals Under $600
Klipsch R-800F Floorstanding Speaker
Now half off, the Klipsch R-800F are a discontinued 2021 model that provides a lot of value for those with the space for floorstanding speakers. They feature horn technology with dual 8-inch woofers and are extremely efficient, so they’ll play loud with any amplifier.
Best Speaker Deals Under $1,000
JBL Stage 260F
The JBL Stage 260F is the second to largest floorstanding loudspeaker in the new Stage 2 range for 2024. We got extensive listens of all Stage 2 speakers at JBL’s launch event and the 260F really hits the sweet spot for price and performance. It’s available in espresso black or latte white.
KEF LS50 META
Even though the KEF LS50 META was released in 2020 it remains a favorite of music lovers, audiophiles and audio reviewers worldwide. Available in white, black, blue, gray.
Best Speaker Deals Under $2,000
DALI Oberon 5 Floorstanding Speaker
DALI is a very popular Danish manufacturer across Europe. Their Oberon 5 is the company’s entry-level tower speaker that delivers a punchy low end with a midrange that provides excellent vocals. Available in four finishes; white, dark walnut, light oak, and black ash.
Best Speaker Deals Under $5,000
FOCAL Vestia N°4 Floorstanding Speaker
Focal’s Vestia speaker range is a step-up from the entry-level Theva models. The Vestia No. 4 is the largest floorstanding speaker in the series, which features Slatefiber cones and a ‘M’-shaped dome TAM tweeter made in France. Available in Black High Gloss, Dark Wood, or Light Wood shades with a black or white leather effect on the front panel.
The Bottom Line
The speaker deals above are ones we feel are noteworthy that one or more members of our team have heard and reported on previously. SVS and KEF are running their deals for the rest of 2024, as long as supply lasts. The others don’t have specific end dates, but may be available only for a limited time.
Keep in mind all speakers listed need accompanying amplification and proper placement in a room. Of course, don’t forget the required speaker wire, and also be aware of the dealer’s return policy and the manufacturer’s warranty conditions.
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ORT
November 25, 2024 at 5:01 pm
I bought two pair of the Klipsch 800 series a year or so ago. I like them but they aren’t very attractive. I may give a pair to a friend from work that I talk with. That and a Denon AVR that I bought for one of my brothers but since it doesn’t have preamp in/out to add a much more powerful amp for his main channels he doesn’t want it.
I like Klipsch very much but both of my brothers say the highs bother them. I have to abide by their preferences. Dammit…I have considered KEF Q towers but perhaps I should just stay away from larger speakers as I am too weak now to move them around. Even the Q550 is too heavy now.
Two things remind me that God does indeed have a sense of humor. A trip to WalMart and a mirror.
ORT
Ian White
November 25, 2024 at 5:35 pm
ORT,
So happy to hear from you.
Email me.
IW
ORT
November 26, 2024 at 3:43 pm
Ian –
’tis done.
ORTson Welles