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Originally Posted by audiophile01 /img/forum/go_quote.gif
Hey head-fiers,
Quick question, what are the main differences between bookshelves speakers, studio monitors, & loudspeakers? I'm looking to upgrade my computer speakers to something with a more audiophile taste. I've heard recommendations from av123 (x-ls) to b&w (300series) to KRP-Rokit 5's etc.
If anyone has a great link where I can research into, that would be very helpful.
Thanks!!
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Loudspeakers or Speakers for short come in many shapes and sizes and purposes.
The following is a rather broad generalization.
Bookshelf speakers are typically quite small and designed to be used near walls , this sometimes reinforces bass response. Generally small bookshelf type speakers cannot produce very low bass i.e frequences less than 60hz.
Studio Monitors are speakers designed for use in er studios, though the term has been appropriated to sometimes indicate that the speakers have the qualities attributed to studio monitors. For monitor work engineers are generally intersted in accuracy i.e the speaker playback does not deviate much from the live or recorded signal.
Speakers can also be stand-mounted , floorstanding or fixed to or in walls, in the 80s some speakers were suspended between ceilings and floors by cables, I kid you not.
Generally bigger speakers have a better ability to produce lower bass tones.
Bookshelf speakers may also be accompanied by a specialist low frequency speaker called a subwoofer to make up for their low end deficiences.
Generally traditional (non computer based) hifi speakers are not powered so external amplification is necessary. Though some are, these are sometimes called active speakers.
I have just invested in a set of JBL E20 bookshelf speakers ($27 from ebay) that I plan to connect to a vintage Nikko Amp and use for my office system.
EDIT: Knowing your budget would be useful, speakers can get very very expensive