Floorstanding speakers, also known as tower speakers, are a staple for any high-fidelity audio setup. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile, the right pair of floorstanding speakers can significantly enhance your listening experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the best floorstanding speakers available, providing a comprehensive comparison, answering frequently asked questions, and delving into the features that make these speakers stand out.
Top Picks
- 2x Klipsch Reference R-26FA Dolby Atmos Floorstanding Speaker - 2x Front Grille - 2x Top Grille - Klipsch 5 Year Limited Warranty
- Built-in Elevation Channel for Dolby Atmos
- 1" Aluminum Diaphragm Compression Tweeter
- Dual 6.5" Copper Spun Magnetically Shielded IMG Woofers
- 90 x 90 Square Tractrix Horn
- 2x Klipsch Reference R-610F Floorstanding Home Speakers (Black) - 2x Magnetic Grille - Injection-Molded Feet & Screws - Klipsch 5 Year Limited Warranty
- TRACTRIX HORN TECHNOLOGY - Klipsch exclusive 90x90 Tractrix horn technology ensures that the R-610F high frequency energy is aimed at the listener and reduces artificial reverb or filtering caused by indirect sound bouncing off of walls. Using this proprietary focused technology gives you the best clarity, dynamics, and detail
- Klipsch exclusive Linear Travel Suspension (LTS) - aluminum tweeter minimizes distortion for enhanced, detailed performances. Using Kapton½, an extremely light and rigid material, in the tweeter suspension provides high efficiency and improve resolution and detail. LTS tweeters are a hallmark of Klipsch speakers
- SPUN COPPER IMG WOOFERS - Injection Molded Graphite (IMG) woofer cones are exceptionally light while being extremely rigid providing remarkable low frequency response, with minimal cone breakup and distortion. When paired with the Tractrix Horn-Loaded LTS Tweeter, it provides speaker efficiency highest in its class.
- REAR TRACTRIX PORT - The rear Tractrix port is perfectly matched to the cabinet and woofers, creating ideal airflow with minimal distortion or turbulence even at the lowest frequencies.
- Floor standing speaker with Hi-Res Audio perfect for your home theater or music listening setup, sold individually, not as a pair.
- Amplify your movie, music, and gaming experience with a speaker that provides full frequency audio with a three-way coaxial, four-driver speaker system
- Create a robust 5.1.2 home theater setup perfect for Dolby Atmos with the complete range of CS speakers from Sony with 2 SSCS3 tower speakers, 1 SSCS8 center channel speaker, 2 SSCS5 bookshelf speakers, 2 SSCSE Dolby Atmos enabled speakers, and the SACS9 subwoofer
- ¾ in. super tweeter and 1” tweeter accurately reproduce high frequency sounds for an expansive soundstage
- Dual 5.12” woofers delivers deep, stable bass and detailed mid-range sounds
What are floorstanding speakers?
Floorstanding speakers are designed to stand on the floor, offering superior sound quality and volume compared to smaller speakers. These speakers are essential for a robust and immersive audio experience, providing deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. This guide covers the top floorstanding speakers of 2024, helping you choose the perfect set for your audio needs.
Comparison Table
| Speaker Model | Price | Drivers | Frequency Response | Sensitivity | Impedance | Dimensions (HxWxD) | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klipsch RP-8000F | $1,200 | Dual 8″ Woofers, 1″ Tweeter | 32Hz – 25kHz | 98 dB | 8 Ohms | 43″ x 10.9″ x 17.5″ | 60 lbs |
| Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 | $4,500 | 3 Woofers, 1 Midrange, 1 Tweeter | 28Hz – 33kHz | 90 dB | 8 Ohms | 38.7″ x 7.9″ x 13.9″ | 66 lbs |
| KEF Q950 | $1,800 | 8″ Woofer, 6.5″ Midrange, 1.5″ Tweeter | 44Hz – 28kHz | 91 dB | 8 Ohms | 43.1″ x 13.5″ x 15.3″ | 45.2 lbs |
| ELAC Debut 2.0 F6.2 | $600 | Dual 6.5″ Woofers, 1″ Tweeter | 39Hz – 35kHz | 87 dB | 6 Ohms | 43.18″ x 7.69″ x 9.38″ | 47.3 lbs |
| Polk Audio Signature S60 | $900 | Triple 6.5″ Woofers, 1″ Tweeter | 26Hz – 40kHz | 90 dB | 8 Ohms | 44.5″ x 11.7″ x 15.7″ | 52 lbs |
| SVS Prime Pinnacle | $1,600 | 3 Woofers, 1 Midrange, 1 Tweeter | 29Hz – 25kHz | 90 dB | 8 Ohms | 41.1″ x 8.3″ x 12.8″ | 57 lbs |
| Focal Chora 826 | $2,200 | 3 Woofers, 1 Midrange, 1 Tweeter | 48Hz – 28kHz | 91 dB | 8 Ohms | 41.5″ x 12.5″ x 15.7″ | 53 lbs |
| Dynaudio Emit M30 | $1,800 | 2 Woofers, 1 Tweeter | 35Hz – 23kHz | 86 dB | 6 Ohms | 37.9″ x 8.1″ x 11.6″ | 40 lbs |
| Monitor Audio Silver 300 | $2,000 | 2 Woofers, 1 Midrange, 1 Tweeter | 32Hz – 35kHz | 90 dB | 8 Ohms | 40.7″ x 7.8″ x 12.2″ | 50 lbs |
| Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F | $1,000 | 2 Woofers, 1 Tweeter | 50Hz – 25kHz | 91 dB | 8 Ohms | 39.5″ x 8.1″ x 12″ | 40 lbs |
Best Floorstanding Speakers
Klipsch RP-8000F
Overview: The Klipsch RP-8000F is known for its dynamic sound and high efficiency. Featuring dual 8″ woofers and a 1″ titanium tweeter, this speaker delivers powerful bass and detailed highs. The Tractrix horn technology ensures a wide dispersion of sound, making it ideal for large rooms.
In-Depth Review: The RP-8000F stands out with its ability to reproduce the full spectrum of sound with precision. The combination of Cerametallic woofers and the horn-loaded tweeter provides a high level of efficiency, which means these speakers can deliver powerful sound with minimal power input. This is especially beneficial in larger rooms where filling the space with sound is crucial.
The build quality is also worth noting. The speakers are constructed with premium materials, including a strong MDF cabinet that reduces vibrations and resonance. The sleek design, available in multiple finishes, allows the RP-8000F to blend seamlessly into any decor.
Sound Quality: The sound quality of the RP-8000F is where it truly shines. The high sensitivity (98 dB) allows these speakers to produce a dynamic range of sound without distortion, even at high volumes. The bass is deep and well-controlled, thanks to the rear-firing Tractrix port, which reduces turbulence and improves airflow.
Pros:
- High sensitivity for dynamic sound
- Excellent build quality
- Wide soundstage with clear highs and robust lows
Cons:
- Requires substantial space due to its size
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
Best For:
- Large rooms
- Home theater enthusiasts
Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2
Overview: The Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 is a high-end floorstanding speaker that offers exceptional sound quality. With three bass drivers, a midrange driver with Continuum cone technology, and a decoupled carbon dome tweeter, this speaker is designed for audiophiles who demand the highest sound quality.
In-Depth Review: Bowers & Wilkins have long been associated with high-end audio, and the 702 S2 exemplifies this reputation. The speaker’s design incorporates advanced materials and technologies, such as the Continuum cone for the midrange driver, which offers superior control and clarity. The decoupled carbon dome tweeter ensures that high frequencies are delivered with remarkable precision and minimal distortion.
The 702 S2’s cabinet is elegantly designed, with internal bracing to minimize resonance and ensure that the sound remains pure and uncolored. Available in multiple finishes, including gloss black, white, and Rosenut, these speakers not only sound great but also look stunning.
Sound Quality: The sound quality of the 702 S2 is characterized by its clarity and detail. The three bass drivers work together to produce deep, impactful bass, while the Continuum cone midrange driver offers a natural and transparent sound. The tweeter delivers crystal-clear highs, making this speaker ideal for both music and home theater applications.
Pros:
- Superior sound clarity and detail
- Elegant design and superior build quality
- Wide frequency response
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires high-quality amplification to perform at its best
Best For:
- Audiophiles
- High-end home audio systems
KEF Q950
Overview: The KEF Q950 is part of KEF’s renowned Q Series, offering remarkable performance at a mid-range price. It features an 8″ aluminum woofer, a 6.5″ midrange driver, and a 1.5″ tweeter. The Uni-Q driver array ensures even sound dispersion throughout the room.
In-Depth Review: The Uni-Q driver array is the centerpiece of the Q950, combining the tweeter and midrange driver into a single unit to ensure even sound dispersion. This technology allows the Q950 to deliver a more cohesive and immersive listening experience. The dual 8″ Auxiliary Bass Radiators (ABRs) enhance the bass response, providing deep and controlled low frequencies.
The cabinet design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with internal bracing to reduce resonance and improve sound clarity. The Q950 is available in a variety of finishes, making it easy to integrate into any home decor.
Sound Quality: The KEF Q950 offers a balanced and detailed sound. The Uni-Q driver array ensures that the sound is evenly dispersed throughout the room, providing a wide soundstage. The bass is deep and controlled, thanks to the dual ABRs, while the midrange and highs are clear and precise.
Pros:
- Innovative Uni-Q driver array
- Wide sound dispersion
- Deep and controlled bass
Cons:
- Requires precise placement for optimal performance
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
Best For:
- Versatile audio setups
- Medium to large rooms
ELAC Debut 2.0 F6.2
Overview: The ELAC Debut 2.0 F6.2 is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. Designed by renowned audio engineer Andrew Jones, this speaker features dual 6.5″ aramid fiber woofers and a 1″ cloth dome tweeter. This speaker is designed by renowned audio engineer Andrew Jones, ensuring excellent performance for its price range.
In-Depth Review: The Debut 2.0 F6.2 is part of ELAC’s Debut 2.0 series, which has been praised for its performance and affordability. The use of aramid fiber for the woofers ensures durability and superior sound quality, while the 1″ cloth dome tweeter delivers crisp and clear high frequencies. The custom-designed crossover helps to ensure a smooth transition between the drivers, resulting in a cohesive sound.
The cabinet is well-built, with internal bracing to reduce resonance and improve sound clarity. The front-firing port allows for flexible placement options, making it easier to integrate these speakers into your home.
Sound Quality: The ELAC Debut 2.0 F6.2 offers a balanced and detailed sound, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The aramid fiber woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the cloth dome tweeter ensures that high frequencies are delivered with clarity and precision.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good sound quality
- Solid construction
Cons:
- Lower sensitivity (87 dB)
- Basic design
Best For:
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Smaller rooms
Polk Audio Signature S60
Overview: The Polk Audio Signature S60 offers a balanced blend of performance and affordability. It features three 6.5″ woofers and a 1″ Terylene tweeter, delivering rich, detailed sound. Polk’s Power Port technology enhances bass response, making it a great choice for both music and movies.
In-Depth Review: The Signature S60 is part of Polk’s Signature series, which is known for its high performance and value for money. The mica-reinforced polypropylene woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the Terylene dome tweeter ensures clear and detailed high frequencies. The Power Port technology helps to enhance bass response by reducing turbulence and improving airflow.
The cabinet design is both attractive and functional, with a modern look that fits well in any home decor. The front-firing port allows for flexible placement options, making it easier to integrate these speakers into your home.
Sound Quality: The Polk Audio Signature S60 offers a balanced and detailed sound, with strong bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The Power Port technology ensures that the bass is deep and controlled, while the Terylene dome tweeter delivers clear and detailed high frequencies.
Pros:
- Strong bass performance
- Good value for money
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Requires a good amplifier
- Midrange could be more detailed
Best For:
- Home theater systems
- General use
SVS Prime Pinnacle
Overview: The SVS Prime Pinnacle is a high-performance floorstanding speaker that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility. Featuring three 6.5″ polypropylene woofers, a 5.25″ midrange driver, and a 1″ aluminum dome tweeter, this speaker delivers a powerful and detailed sound that is perfect for both music and movies.
In-Depth Review: The Prime Pinnacle is part of SVS’s Prime series, which is known for its high performance and value for money. The polypropylene woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the midrange driver ensures clear and detailed midrange frequencies. The aluminum dome tweeter delivers crisp and clear high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
The cabinet design is both attractive and functional, with a modern look that fits well in any home decor. The front-firing port allows for flexible placement options, making it easier to integrate these speakers into your home.
Sound Quality: The SVS Prime Pinnacle offers a balanced and detailed sound, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The polypropylene woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the midrange driver ensures clear and detailed midrange frequencies. The aluminum dome tweeter delivers crisp and clear high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
Pros:
- Strong bass performance
- Good value for money
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Requires a good amplifier
- Midrange could be more detailed
Best For:
- Home theater systems
- General use
Focal Chora 826
Overview: The Focal Chora 826 is a high-performance floorstanding speaker that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility. Featuring three 6.5″ woofers, a 6.5″ midrange driver, and a 1″ aluminum/magnesium inverted dome tweeter, this speaker delivers a powerful and detailed sound that is perfect for both music and movies.
In-Depth Review: The Chora 826 is part of Focal’s Chora series, which is known for its high performance and value for money. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the midrange driver ensures clear and detailed midrange frequencies. The aluminum/magnesium inverted dome tweeter delivers crisp and clear high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
The cabinet design is both attractive and functional, with a modern look that fits well in any home decor. The front-firing port allows for flexible placement options, making it easier to integrate these speakers into your home.
Sound Quality: The Focal Chora 826 offers a balanced and detailed sound, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the midrange driver ensures clear and detailed midrange frequencies. The aluminum/magnesium inverted dome tweeter delivers crisp and clear high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
Pros:
- Strong bass performance
- Good value for money
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Requires a good amplifier
- Midrange could be more detailed
Best For:
- Home theater systems
- General use
Dynaudio Emit M30
Overview: The Dynaudio Emit M30 is a high-performance floorstanding speaker that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility. Featuring two 6.5″ woofers and a 1.1″ soft dome tweeter, this speaker delivers a powerful and detailed sound that is perfect for both music and movies.
In-Depth Review: The Emit M30 is part of Dynaudio’s Emit series, which is known for its high performance and value for money. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the soft dome tweeter ensures clear and detailed high frequencies. The cabinet design is both attractive and functional, with a modern look that fits well in any home decor. The front-firing port allows for flexible placement options, making it easier to integrate these speakers into your home.
Sound Quality: The Dynaudio Emit M30 offers a balanced and detailed sound, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the soft dome tweeter ensures clear and detailed high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
Pros:
- Strong bass performance
- Good value for money
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Requires a good amplifier
- Midrange could be more detailed
Best For:
- Home theater systems
- General use
Monitor Audio Silver 300
Overview: The Monitor Audio Silver 300 is a high-performance floorstanding speaker that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility. Featuring two 6.5″ C-CAM RST woofers, a 4″ midrange driver, and a 1″ C-CAM Gold Dome tweeter, this speaker delivers a powerful and detailed sound that is perfect for both music and movies.
In-Depth Review: The Silver 300 is part of Monitor Audio’s Silver series, which is known for its high performance and value for money. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the midrange driver ensures clear and detailed midrange frequencies. The C-CAM Gold Dome tweeter delivers crisp and clear high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
The cabinet design is both attractive and functional, with a modern look that fits well in any home decor. The front-firing port allows for flexible placement options, making it easier to integrate these speakers into your home.
Sound Quality: The Monitor Audio Silver 300 offers a balanced and detailed sound, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the midrange driver ensures clear and detailed midrange frequencies. The C-CAM Gold Dome tweeter delivers crisp and clear high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
Pros:
- Strong bass performance
- Good value for money
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Requires a good amplifier
- Midrange could be more detailed
Best For:
- Home theater systems
- General use
Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F
Overview: The Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F is a high-performance floorstanding speaker that offers exceptional sound quality and versatility. Featuring two 6.5″ woofers and a 1″ X-PAL dome tweeter, this speaker delivers a powerful and detailed sound that is perfect for both music and movies.
In-Depth Review: The Monitor SE 6000F is part of Paradigm’s Monitor SE series, which is known for its high performance and value for money. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the X-PAL dome tweeter ensures clear and detailed high frequencies. The cabinet design is both attractive and functional, with a modern look that fits well in any home decor. The front-firing port allows for flexible placement options, making it easier to integrate these speakers into your home.
Sound Quality: The Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F offers a balanced and detailed sound, with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. The woofers provide excellent low-frequency response, while the X-PAL dome tweeter ensures clear and detailed high frequencies, making this speaker ideal for both music and movies.
Pros:
- Strong bass performance
- Good value for money
- Attractive design
Cons:
- Requires a good amplifier
- Midrange could be more detailed
Best For:
- Home theater systems
- General use
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Floorstanding Speakers
What are floorstanding speakers?
Floorstanding speakers, also known as tower speakers, are large speakers designed to stand on the floor. They typically contain multiple drivers, including woofers, midrange drivers, and tweeters, to cover a wide frequency range. These speakers are ideal for delivering high-quality, immersive sound in medium to large rooms.
Why choose floorstanding speakers over bookshelf speakers?
Floorstanding speakers offer several advantages over bookshelf speakers:
- Sound Quality: They generally provide better sound quality with deeper bass, clearer mids, and more detailed highs.
- Volume: Floorstanding speakers can play louder without distortion, making them suitable for larger rooms and home theaters.
- Frequency Range: They cover a broader frequency range due to their multiple drivers and larger cabinets.
- Presence: Their larger size makes them a prominent feature in your room, which some people prefer for aesthetic reasons.
How do I position floorstanding speakers for the best sound?
Proper placement of floorstanding speakers is crucial for optimal sound quality:
- Distance from Walls: Place them at least a few feet away from walls to reduce reflections and improve bass response.
- Separation: Ensure they are spaced adequately apart (usually 6-10 feet) to create a wide soundstage.
- Angle: Toe-in the speakers slightly so they are angled towards the primary listening position.
- Height: Ensure the tweeters are at ear level when seated.
Do I need an amplifier for my floorstanding speakers?
Yes, most floorstanding speakers require an amplifier to power them. The amplifier should match the speaker’s impedance and power requirements. A good amplifier ensures that the speakers perform at their best, delivering clear and powerful sound.
What should I consider when buying floorstanding speakers?
When buying floorstanding speakers, consider the following factors:
- Sound Quality: Listen to the speakers if possible, or read reviews to ensure they meet your audio preferences.
- Room Size: Choose speakers that are appropriate for the size of your room.
- Amplifier Compatibility: Ensure your amplifier can drive the speakers effectively.
- Design: Consider the aesthetic and build quality of the speakers.
- Budget: Set a budget and find the best speakers within that range.
How do I take care of my floorstanding speakers?
To maintain your floorstanding speakers:
- Clean Regularly: Dust the cabinets and drivers with a soft cloth.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent damage to the finish and components.
- Control Humidity: Maintain a stable humidity level to avoid damage to the wooden cabinets.
- Handle with Care: When moving them, handle the speakers carefully to avoid damaging the drivers or cabinets.
Can I use floorstanding speakers for home theater systems?
Yes, floorstanding speakers are excellent for home theater systems. They provide a full range of sound that enhances movie and TV audio. Pair them with a center channel speaker, surround speakers, and a subwoofer for a complete home theater setup.
How do floorstanding speakers compare to other types of speakers?
Floorstanding speakers generally offer better sound quality and higher volume levels compared to other types of speakers, such as bookshelf or satellite speakers. They typically have larger cabinets and multiple drivers, allowing them to cover a wider frequency range and deliver more powerful sound. However, they also require more space and can be more expensive than smaller speakers.
What is the difference between passive and active floorstanding speakers?
Passive floorstanding speakers require an external amplifier to power them. They have no built-in amplification and rely on the external amplifier to provide the necessary power. Active floorstanding speakers, on the other hand, have built-in amplifiers and can be connected directly to a source without the need for an external amplifier. Active speakers are often easier to set up and can provide a more integrated solution, but they are generally more expensive than passive speakers.
Are there wireless floorstanding speakers available?
Yes, there are wireless floorstanding speakers available that offer the convenience of wireless connectivity without compromising on sound quality. These speakers typically use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to connect to your audio source, eliminating the need for speaker wires. Wireless floorstanding speakers can be a great option for those looking to reduce clutter and simplify their audio setup.
How important is the room acoustics for floorstanding speakers?
Room acoustics play a significant role in the performance of floorstanding speakers. The size and shape of the room, as well as the materials used in the walls, floors, and furniture, can all affect how sound is reflected and absorbed. To optimize the sound quality of your floorstanding speakers, consider the following tips:
- Use Acoustic Panels: Place acoustic panels on the walls to reduce reflections and improve sound clarity.
- Add Rugs and Curtains: Use rugs and curtains to absorb sound and reduce echo.
- Avoid Hard Surfaces: Minimize the use of hard surfaces, such as tile or hardwood floors, which can cause sound reflections.
- Experiment with Speaker Placement: Try different speaker placements to find the best position for optimal sound quality.
What are some tips for optimizing floorstanding speaker performance?
To get the best performance from your floorstanding speakers, consider the following tips:
- Use Quality Cables: Use high-quality speaker cables to ensure a clean and clear signal.
- Bi-Wire or Bi-Amp: If your speakers support it, consider bi-wiring or bi-amping to improve sound quality.
- Calibrate Your System: Use a calibration tool or software to optimize the sound settings for your room.
- Use an Equalizer: Adjust the equalizer settings to fine-tune the sound to your preferences.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your speakers clean and well-maintained to ensure they perform at their best.
Do I need a subwoofer with floorstanding speakers?
While many floorstanding speakers provide excellent bass response on their own, adding a subwoofer can enhance the overall sound quality, especially for home theater systems. A subwoofer can provide deeper and more powerful bass, improving the overall listening experience. If you enjoy bass-heavy music or action-packed movies, a subwoofer can be a valuable addition to your audio setup.
Conclusion
Choosing the right floorstanding speakers can significantly enhance your audio experience, whether for music or home theater. This guide has highlighted some of the best options available, catering to various budgets and preferences. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can find the perfect pair of floorstanding speakers to enjoy high-fidelity sound for years to come.
