Many turntable users, both beginners and advanced, are opting for "minimalist" turntable setups. This refers to a turntable that plugs directly into powered / active speakers (meaning amplifiers are built in to the speaker), bypassing the traditional stereo system.
These minimaist setups have two main benefits: less cost and less stuff. Here we run down 5 of our favorite powered speakers for home listening. New to turntables? Also check out our Beginner's Guide To Turntable Setups.
TIP: How do you know if a speaker is powered or passive? Powered speakers will have a power plug..
Minimalist Turntable Setup: Turntable's output plugs straight into powered speakers.
the industry standard compact
Audioengine A2+ ($279 pair)
In A Nutshell
- At the sub-$300 (per pair) price range, the A2+s are the industry standard
- Compact and loud, great for vinyl. Want bigger and louder? Check the A5+
- Overall build quality is excellent, a solid pair of speakers. High satisfaction product.
Top Features
- Clean design, look and feel from company that perfected this category of speaker
- Designed for audiophiles, maintains essential features while removing extra features that might interfere with audio output
- Built-in DAC, plug in your computer via USB for improved sound when playing digital files
- We especially like them with the DS1 Speaker Stands
Limitations
- No adjustments for bass and treble
ideal size + all the features you need
Kanto YU4 ($479.99 pair)
In A Nutshell
- Mid-sized bookshelf that falls into sweet spot of loudness + compact size
- Packed with features including AptX Bluetooth and built-in phono preamp
- User friendly design with front-panel control knob + remote control
- Customization / design-friendly, available in wide range of colors + finishes
Top Features
- AptX Bluetooth connectivity: in addition to your records, wirelessly stream phone / computer
- Built-in switchable phono preamp: works with all turntables
- Remote control: controls input, volume, L/R balance and bass + treble levels
- Optical inputs, subwoofer output, USB charge port
Limitations
- Audiophiles may want more of an emphasis on sound quality
performance + features at impossible price
Edifier: R1280DB Powered Speakers ($189.99 pair)
In A Nutshell
- Impossibly priced: great sounding + full featured speakers @ $190 per pair
- Features Bluetooth connectivity, RCA + optical / coax inputs
- Features on-board bass + treble controls, plus remote
Top Features
- Best budget speaker under $200, hundreds of positive reviews
- Versatile inputs: (2) separate RCA inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, optical / coax for TV / Gaming
- We really like the on-board bass + treble controls, especially for listening to vinyl
- Available in Black + Wood Brown
Limitations
- Build-quality not equal to other speakers on the list
the high-end option
Edifier A80 ($699 pair)
In A Nutshell
- Obvious step up in build, design, features, and sound quality
- Dynamic sound, this speaker was designed by renowned audio engineer Phil Jones
- Built with high-quality components including Transparent brand wiring
Top Features
- Loud, powerful output (100w)
- Works equally well for streaming: Hi-res audio certified, Bluetooth 5.0
- On-board treble and bass controls
- Includes acoustic isolation foam pads
easy option for merging digital and analog music
Sonos Five ($549)
In A Nutshell
- Connect a turntable to the FIVE's 3.5mm input or to the RCA inputs of the Port (Further reading: our Guide To Using A Turntable With Sonos)
- Get benefits of both digital and analog setups
Top Features
- Build your system by adding more Sonos units
- Control + customize your sound using powerful Sonos app
Limitations
- Some vinyl users prefer to have their vinyl setup independent of the streaming environment
looking for your own minimalist turntable setup?
