Best Speakers Under $1000

Whether you’re blasting out some banging tunes and dancing the night away or you’re playing some acoustic vibes to create an elegant atmosphere at a social gathering, there aren’t many occasions where music fails to set the tone for any occasion.

However, to get the sharpest sound possible you need a decent pair of speakers. Tinny, distorted beats and crackling vocals certainly don’t help create the sort of mood you’re trying to set! And, unfortunately, most high-end speakers come with a pretty hefty price tag.

But there are some exceptions, and we’re here to prove it! Below, you’ll find a list of the best speakers under $1000. Each of these speakers produces clear, pure sound and, most importantly, they do it without breaking the bank.

If you have the space or are a true audiophile, a great pair of speakers will bring unprecedented sound quality and volume to your entertainment system. Their added size means more features, deeper bass, finer treble, and far richer sound quality.

However, there are a lot of speakers and it can be hard to determine which has the best performance and quality. This is because audio accessories are laden with jargon which can make it very difficult to understand which speaker is best for you.

Even experienced audiophiles don’t always fully understand the latest features that speakers use, but with various different frequency ranges, cone sizes, and types of the speaker it isn’t really surprising.

There’s a lot to know about speakers and it can take a lot of research to even grasp the fundamentals before you even get into deeper aspects of the hobby.

To help you find a speaker that’s right for you we’ve compiled a list of some of the absolute best speakers currently available and have focused on making this guide easy to understand while trying to explain where things get a little more complex.

If you still have questions or want to learn more about speakers, their features, and things to look out for, check out our buyers guide at the bottom of this article. There’s also an FAQ to answer some of the frequently asked questions we see regarding speakers.

Let’s get started!

General Speakers

When we say “general” speakers, we mean your everyday sort that often get confined to inside the home for everyday use, like listening to music whilst going about your daily chores or when you are working from home.

We are including bookshelf speakers- designed to sit on a shelf rather than be placed on the floor- and tower speakers – which are basically the opposite, built to stand tall on the ground- in this category. 

Edifier S3000 Pro Audiophile Bookshelf Speakers

Edifier is an excellent choice when it comes to brands that create speakers, and their S3000 Pro bookshelf speakers are stylish and practical. These speakers are the first from Edifier that offers a plug-in speaker system and a wireless option.

This makes them a particularly versatile option in terms of what kind of setup you might want. The wireless feature is utilized via Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX, making for a smooth and uninterrupted connection should you choose to use this feature. 

In terms of sound quality, the S3000 Pro features high-resolution audio that has studio-level quality thanks to this combination of exquisite audio offered by the HD decoding of Bluetooth 5.0.

The speakers utilize USB audio bitrates of up to 192 kHz that emphasize this splendid audio quality, making this a great option for professionals in the music industry as well as general music fans.

The S3000 Pro makes use of a planner silk planar diaphragm tweeter, which improves the audio quality even more so, offering crystal clear sound with rich bass- thanks to the 6.5-inch aluminum alloy diaphragm bass unit- and pitch-perfect treble.

No matter what size the room that you choose to place the speaker in is- from a large living room den to an intimate bedroom- these tweeters will be able to create vibrant, concise, and even sound.

The RMS of the speakers (relating to the electrical resistance that is used to efficiently push out air) is 256 watts in total, creating bass that will literally shake the room whilst maintaining clarity!

As well as manual buttons and controls on the speaker itself, you can control your tunes from around the house too with the easy-to-use wireless IR remote that comes with the speaker, allowing you to set up any presets, adjust volume, change tracks, and switch between input modes from anywhere.

The speakers also blend the contemporary with the classical with the dark wood vinyl covering, and they are also well-sized for various spaces, measuring at 9 inches by 10.5 inches by 14 inches.

Pros:

• Silk diaphragm tweeter with a unit for rich and powerful bass.
• 256 watts of RMS.
• Well sized for various spaces.
• Wireless functions with Bluetooth.
• Can be plugged in.
• Remote control.
• High-quality audio with clear and natural sound.
• Affordable.

Cons:

• Bookshelf speakers are not suited to be placed on the floor, so they wouldn’t be suitable if you only have floor space. 

Also available on Edifier.com.

KEF Q50a Dolby Atmos Speakers in Satin Black

These particular speakers aren’t intended to be used by themselves, but their high quality and great value make them a noteworthy option that needs inclusion on this list.

The KEF Q50a Dolby Atmos speakers are two-way, closed box speakers that are designed to sit on top of existing speakers in order to create a richer sound.

The Uni-Q driver featured within the speakers places the tweeter in an optimal position for excellent acoustics, as it sits within the center of the bass cone and the mid-range.

This leads to a much more accurate, three-dimensional sound that can be evenly dispersed across a room, no matter the size.

The tweeter itself is also optimized to provide the best possible sound quality, using a damped tweeter loading tube that offers a more gentle termination of the sound that is produced from the back of the tweeter.

Lower treble performance is also improved drastically because of this, whilst a low distortion inductor on the crossover makes for richer and cleaner bass.

Whilst we are on the topic of the robust bass that these speakers offer, the bass drivers within the speakers are able to replicate the nuances that can be found in bass instruments with ease and clarity.

A larger roll surround and a new kind of suspension for the drivers used in the KEF models make this possible, creating clean and precise bass even at high volumes.

As well as that, a cone structure allows for improvement of the clarity of the midrange audio, whilst the enhanced rear suspension of the auxiliary bass radiator (also known as the ABR) provides a little extra punch to the bass.

The Q50a is surprisingly versatile for a speaker that is intended to be combined with another, and is easily able to fit in with both bookshelf and floor-standing speakers.

It can also be used as a top speaker, as an integrated speaker if suspended from the wall, or even be expanded by utilizing various accessories to pair with it, including front panels (the panels designed for the drivers come with the speakers can be fixed magnetically and can be attached and removed at will!).

If that isn’t enough versatility for you, you get your pick of two colors as well: pristine white or satin black, both of which have vinyl finishes. These crisp and clean colors are both excellently contemporary and would stand out beautifully in a number of home decor themes. 

Pros:

• Rich bass and crisp treble and general high quality of audio thanks to the combination of the Uni-Q driver, the bass drivers, and the optimized tweeter. 
• Very versatile in terms of how it can be utilized as a speaker.
• Evenly dispersed sound.
• Can be expanded with accessories.
• Two different colors.

Cons:

• No wireless options.
• No remote control.

Also available on KEF.com.

Klipsch RP-600M Reference Premiere Speakers

Klipsch is a well-known and respected brand when it comes to speakers, and their bookshelf speakers capture this excellently as they combine style and function to create an excellent product that won’t set you back more than $1000.

The Klipsch speakers all have an elegant look to them and the RP-600M model is no exception thanks to the spun copper ceramic woofers that combine with the matte black finish to create a sophisticated design.

It isn’t just a pretty option either, as it also utilizes technology to create the best possible speaker experience, such as a titanium LTS vented tweeter- with a hybrid tractrix horn- and dual binding posts that are suitable for both bi-wire and bi-amps.

This tech makes for excellent quality in terms of audio, such as the tractrix horn featuring a compressed and molded silicon face that aids with a smoother frequency response whilst reducing horn resonance.

A vented, titanium tweeter reduces any standing waves that might be behind the diaphragm of the tweeter and replaces it with a smooth reproduction of higher frequency musical notes. 

The diaphragm is rigid but incredibly lightweight, helping to improve the performance and acting as a faster solution to polymer, silk, or aluminum tweeters.

The cerametallic cones of the woofers are attached to a dual-layered voice coil- which is wound with copper- to ensure perfect conductivity.

Housed in a stamped, steel basket and protected from any resonance, the woofers are secured to a magnet motor that drastically increases the accuracy of the audio whilst offering minimal distortion, making them a perfect option if you favor that natural, acoustic sound.

As well as this, these speakers also feature a tractrix port that is synced perfectly with both the woofers and the cabinet and allows for ideal airflow so that any sound turbulence or distortion is at a minimum, even when listening to music with particularly low frequencies.

As well as being an impressive technological marvel, the RM-600M speakers also have a highly contemporary style thanks to the choice of walnut or ebony for finishes and boast satin painted baffles (scratch resistant as an extra safety precaution if you are on the clumsy side!) and those striking cerametallic spun copper woofers.

The magnetic grilles that protect the speakers are practical but stylish, working brilliantly with the rest of the speakers to create a chic yet functional set of speakers. 

Pros:

• High-tech nature offers excellent sound quality.
• Stylish and modern design.
• Affordable.
• Tractrix port creates refined bass.
• Woofers keep audio clean and free of distortion.
• Made from high-quality, durable materials.
• Includes a removable grille.

Cons:

• Not wireless.
• No remote.

Also available on Klipsch.com

Definitive Technology BP-9020 Tower Speaker- General Speaker

This tower speaker is high-performance for those needing an extra kick with their sound. It has a wide variety of different uses- such as using it as part of a home theater setup- thanks to the high quality, efficient sound that it can produce. 

Technically speaking, the BP-9020 Tower is another is impressive and deserves to be appreciated for the sheer level of its dedication to top-level audio.

On the inside, the speaker has a balanced double surround system that improves the driver excursion, leading to a strong bass output that improves sound dispersion whilst not sacrificing the clarity of the sound.

An integrated powered subwoofer and bass vent- measuring 8 inches- are able to effectively maintain the delicate balance of soaring highs and rumbling lows, all whilst keeping sound distortion at bay.

The deep-set nature of the integrated subwoofer makes for a stronger bass without the need for any separate subwoofers.

The bass can also be changed via the intelligent bass control built into the speaker, which allows you to modulate the level of bass whilst maintaining the tonal balance of the mid-range control.

The tower speaker also utilizes a forward-focused bipolar array, which offers a strong balance when it comes to sound dispersion, but allows for flexibility in terms of placement.

As well as all that, the speakers also have an integrated hidden connector port that fits with the A90 speaker module of the same brand (sold separately) as well as aluminum dome tweeters that reproduce sound with increasing accuracy. 

When it comes to the look of the tower speaker, it is another that has a thoroughly contemporary vibe that matches its technologically advanced nature.

The modern and minimalist design has a timeless look that is made possible by the precision machined components used to create the stereo.

An acoustically transparent grille is stylish to look at and has an elegance to it, but is also highly practical as it allows you to enjoy the natural sound without having to take the grille off completely.

An LED logo is built into the bottom front panel as a way to ensure that the signal on your speaker is functioning and is also an indicator for you as to when the signal is and isn’t working (it also acts as a neat little decoration too!).

Another technologically advanced stereo choice, the BP9020 is one of the best quality speakers that you can get for under $1000 that offers clear audio, enhanced tonal balance, and a stylish design on top of that modern build. 

Pros:

• Technologically advanced for the best possible audio. 
• An LED logo that keeps you aware of signal strength. 
• Integrated woofers and aluminum dome tweeters. 
• Excellent sound dispersion. 
• Easy placement. 
• Resonance-free cabinet.
• Affordable.

Cons:

• No wireless. 
• No remote.
• Needs assembly.

Also available on DefinitiveTechnology.com.

Samsung Sound Tower MX-T70- General Speaker

Samsung’s take on the tower speaker- the MX-T70- is an impressive one that is gorgeous to look at whilst also being highly functional.

This speaker offers 1500 watts in power with stereo sound thanks to the bi-directional speakers, allowing for a wider range when it comes to sound dispersion.

A built-in 10-inch woofer creates rich and powerful bass that can be felt as much as it can be heard. This dynamic bass can also be boosted simply by pressing a button. 

The Samsung MX-T70 integrates various party-like features into its design, creating a speaker that would be exceptional for use at get-togethers.

LED party lights allow you to create a fun atmosphere thanks to the three different light modes- Dance, Party, and Ambient-, whilst the Karaoke Mode utilizes two microphone inputs to let you host a mini karaoke party.

An app designed specifically for the speaker- the Samsung Sound Tower App- lets you program and control the lighting and sound effects directly via an iOS or an Android phone.

You can also use a Bluetooth connection to pair up mobile devices and let more than one person control the speakers. This feature also lets you connect to multiple versions of the same tower speakers at the same time

These features make for a speaker that would be perfect for parties whilst still being a brilliant choice in its own right thanks to the bass and the bi-directional nature that disperse sound evenly and cleanly. 

Pros: 

• 10-inch woofer for mind-blowing bass lines.
• Bi-directional sound for an equal level of sound dispersion. 
• 1500 watt power.
• Wireless Bluetooth connection.
• Remote control for easy use.
• Can be connected to a smartphone for a different method of control. 
• Adjustable LED lights.
• Karaoke mode for up to two people. 

Cons:

• A bit more of a novelty speaker than one for hardcore music fans.

Also available on Samsung.com

Outdoor Speakers

Outdoor speakers are pretty self-explanatory in that they are designed specifically to be used outdoors, such as at outdoor events like parties or for crowd control purposes.

If you find yourself outside a good deal of the time- whether it is for relaxation, recreation, or for work purposes- an outdoor speaker could be the right kind of speaker for you. Let’s take a look at some notable outdoor speakers. 

Klipsch KHO-7 Outdoor Speakers

The KHO-7 is another speaker from the brand Klipsche that is suitable for inside as well as outside. It offers authentic sound thanks to the use of a 1-inch silk-dome compression driver tweeter- with a tractrix horn exclusively from Klipsch- alongside a 5.25-inch poly cone woofer.

The advanced design of the tractrix horn technology increases the accuracy of the sound and lets the speaker use more of its outputting capabilities without using up too much power to do so. 

One of the most important features of a good outdoor speaker is its resistance to weather, and the KHO-7 delivers thanks to its rustproof aluminum grille and a UV- resistant ABS enclosure.

The speaker also features a port plug and one C-style mounting bracket to allow you to mount it on the walls should you so choose to.

Pros:

• Resistant to both rust and UV thanks to weather-resistant features.
• Silk dome tweeter.
• Poly cone woofer.
• Port plug.
• Mounting bracket.
• Can be used inside as well as outside.

Cons:

• No wireless options.
• No remote.

Also available on Klipsch.com

Pyle Outdoor Wall-Mount Patio Stereo Speaker

The outdoor speaker set- featuring one active and one passive speaker- that is offered by Pyle features Bluetooth functionality to allow for wireless music streaming, but it also has that weather resistance that is essential for outdoor speakers thanks to the inclusion of rainproof seals, waterproof speaker grills and stain protectors.

The seals keep water away from any cables, wires, or input ports, whilst the grills are rustproof and allow the speakers themselves to remain safe should any unexpected rainfall crash your party.

The speakers are also durable, compact, and stylish, with a prime gold plating binding post and a pristine white color palette.

The Bluetooth element of the Pyle speaker allows you to connect any device with Bluetooth so that you can stream your music quickly and simply, with a range of up to 30 feet.

You can also connect non-Bluetooth devices via the 3.5mm aux cable that comes with the speaker. A 6.5-inch woofer allows you to enjoy a long-range 2.0 stereo sound with booming bass and crisp treble that was designed to be heard when in an outdoor environment.

Pros:

• Bluetooth functionality for quick and efficient streaming of your music.
• Weatherproof.
• Woofer for powerful bass.
• Aux cable to connect to devices without Bluetooth.
• Built-in sound amplifier.
• Stylish design with gold-plated binding post speaker plugs.
• Affordable.

Cons:

• Not particularly versatile in terms of how it can be used as a speaker.
• No remote.

Also available on PyleUSA.com and Walmart.com.

Bose 251 Environmental Speakers- Outdoor Speakers

Bose is a well-known company that offers various different kinds of speakers under their brand, including this handy outdoor speaker.

They have a simple yet sophisticated and modern design, as well as being highly practical for any kind of outdoor activity or event, be it professional or casual.

That all-important weather resistance comes in the form of a water-resistant composite casing for these particular speakers, making them durable enough to withstand boiling, freezing, or drastically wet weather conditions.

They are also well-sized, weighing around 8lbs each, to easily be mounted on a wall should you wish to.

In terms of sound quality, the Bose 251 speakers offer clear and super powerful sound thanks to the use of a multi-chamber bass enclosure. They also utilize the good old-fashioned hard-wiring method, making them an excellent choice for traditionalists.

Pros:

• Weather-resistant.
• Affordable.
• Sophisticated design.
• Array speaker design makes for clear and crisp sound quality.
• Multi-chamber black enclosure.
• A great choice for those looking for a simple and traditional speaker.

Cons:

• No wireless.
• No remote.
• A somewhat basic design for those looking for a more technologically advanced speaker.

Also available on Bose.com.

Polk Audio Atrium 6 All-Weather Speakers – Outdoor Speakers

Polk Audio is another brand that is well known for its speakers, and they also have an outdoor speaker option that is built ruggedly to endure a wide range of weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and heavy rain. 

Technically, the Atrium 6 has all the features that you need from an outdoor speaker. A water-resistant power port bass vent allows for the smooth transition of airflow from the speaker, making for powerful bass with minimal distortion. 

The steeply angled baffle design also makes for audio that is well dispersed and easily able to fill a large, outdoor space cleanly.

The speaker also features a dynamic balance aluminum dome tweeter for a smooth response and good handling, as well as a long-throw mineral-filled polypropylene cone driver to make that bass sound even richer. 

This speaker is also incredibly easy to mount on a wall thanks to the speed lock mounting system, wherein all you need to do is mount the bracket, place the speaker on it and click it into place by pointing it downwards and tightening it.

It has a simple and efficient design that should streamline the mounting process.

Pros:

• Weather-resistant.
• Affordable.
• Easy to set up thanks to the speed lock mounting system.
• Excellent sound dispersion for large areas.
• Cone driver and aluminum tweeter.
• Water-resistant power port venting.
• Rich bass.

Cons:

• No wireless.
• No remote.

Also available on PolkAudio.com

Portable Speakers

Portable speakers will often utilize Bluetooth (though not always) to allow for music streaming whilst out and about.

They are an incredibly popular form of speaker in our modern world, so let’s take a look at a few noteworthy choices.

Sony SRS- XP700 X-Series

When you think of a portable speaker, you’d be forgiven if you immediately imagined a party boom box or something similar!

This is what portable speakers tend to be used for, and the Sony SRS-XP700 is one of the best options for blasting tunes with friends thanks to its omnidirectional party sound.

The rear and front tweeters of the speaker make this multi-directional sound possible, whilst the speaker units themselves create a punchy bass line.

It also features an input port in the rear that allows for the connection of a microphone or a guitar to show off some particular party tricks!

In terms of connectivity, the SRS-XP700 utilizes both wireless Bluetooth and a USB play and change system, wherein you can both charge the device and play music from a flash drive via a USB port.

That’s not all, though, as this speaker has a “Party Connect” feature that lets you connect up to 100 wireless speakers via Bluetooth to significantly boost your audio.

It also features indirect illumination lighting, which can sync with the music, as well as a connecting app from Sony called “Fiestable” that lets you control said lighting and the music. You can also control the music and lights from the Sony Music Center app too.

The speaker features a long-lasting battery of 25 hours and is able to handle 3 hours of playback after just 10 minutes of charging. It also features a highly modern design as well as splash resistance in case of any unwanted spillages.

The portability of the speaker comes from its compact nature combined with the integrated carrying handle, making it super easy to grab and take with you anywhere.

As a party speaker, this is an essential product, but as a regular speaker, the SRZ-XP700 offers tons of versatility that make it easily adaptable to any environment.

Pros:

• High level of connectivity thanks to Bluetooth, Party Connect, and connectivity via the apps.
• Indirect LED lighting that syncs with music.
• Long-lasting battery.
• Simple portability.
• Affordable.
• X-balanced speaker makes powerful bass.
• Can be placed on its side or upright.
• Inputs for guitars or microphones.
• Splash resistant.
• Multidirectional sound.

Cons:

• Somewhat niche as a party speaker, but still able to be used as a general speaker.

Also available on Sony.com.

Bose Portable Smart Speaker

Bose’s take on the portable speaker is an incredibly versatile choice that can be used as a portable item or as a regular home speaker thanks to the design, intended to radiate clear sound in all directions and offer strong and crisp audio. 

This is a particularly durable portable speaker, built to withstand all matter of bumps and drops and also featuring water resistance.

It utilizes both a Bluetooth speaker- for wireless streaming of music from your device- and a smart speaker that can be used for voice control if connected to Wi-Fi.

It also has up to around 12 hours of charge and is perfectly portable thanks to the handle. The wide range of connectivity- thanks to that voice control as well as the Bluetooth function- makes the Bose Smart Speaker a very modern choice that is versatile enough to be used in all sorts of living spaces as well as outside.

Pros:

• Durable.
• Affordable.
• Easy to use portability.
• Strong level of connectivity thanks to voice control and Bluetooth function.
• Modern design.
• Available in two different colors.
• Versatile and can be used outside and inside.

Cons:

• It would be most beneficial to those who utilize music streaming services rather than general music fans.

Also available on Bose.com.

Buyer’s Guide

Those are just a few prime examples of excellent speakers for a wide range of occasions that manage to be both affordable and stylish. All of these choices are less than $1000, are of exceptional quality, and make for great value for money.

You might still be wondering how to go about making a decision when it comes to a speaker, though, so we are going to help you out with that thought process too!

We have put together a handy buyer’s guide to help you figure out exactly what kind of speaker is most appropriate for your particular needs by looking at various factors that are useful to consider before you make a purchase.

Let’s take a look. 

Budget

Knowing your budget and being able to stick to it is so important when it comes to purchasing a speaker. All the options that we have mentioned here are under $1000, but speakers can often go way beyond that barrier.

You don’t want to end up investing in a super expensive pair of speakers only to find that they aren’t suitable for your needs. Decide on a budget and stick to it.

That way- when you are searching online- you can use filters to find speakers that only fall within that price range. 

What Do You Want This Speaker For?

A lot of speakers are pretty accommodating if you are only in the market for a speaker in general terms.

However, if you have a more specific purpose in mind, it is better to look at certain kinds of speakers. If you know that you are going to be taking this speaker to various places, peruse the portable section.

If you hold a lot of outdoor events, speakers for outdoor use are where you need to be looking. If you are a top-tier audiophile who requires a certain quality and tone to your music, then search for speakers that are more technologically advanced.

If you have a dog who cocks his leg on every single new item in your home, you are going to want a bookshelf speaker rather than a standing tower or floor speaker!

Think carefully about why you want this speaker and what your situation is in terms of environment, space, and how you will connect it, and you should find yourself at least a little closer to finding the perfect speaker. 

Size

Size can be a very important factor when deciding on a speaker, as some can be rather large and take up a fair amount of space.

They might also need to be placed in a particular kind of space to avoid damage and ensure maximum audio quality, such as a bookshelf speaker, which shouldn’t be placed on the floor and needs to be angled in the direction of the listener for the best experience.

Speaker listings should have the measurements of that particular product, so make sure that you know exactly what the size is by checking these measurements thoroughly. 

Wireless

Wireless connectivity can be a make or break feature for some when it comes to a speaker, whilst it might mean very little or even be detrimental for others.

If you are sure that you want a speaker that offers wireless function, research is going to be vital in your search for the perfect speaker. On the other hand, if you prefer a classical style of speaker, then the same rules apply.

You don’t want to accidentally end up purchasing a high-tech, mostly wireless speaker when you only wanted a plain and simple plug-in.

Check all the specifications before you go to buy to make sure you are getting exactly what you are expecting. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Damage Speakers By Playing Music Too Loud?

Yes! You can damage or even break your speakers by playing them too loud. Mechanical and electrical failures are what cause speakers to become overpowered and overwhelmed, and these issues can be exacerbated by overly loud music.

To avoid this problem- be it a physical tear or an electrical overload from too much power burning out the voice coils of the woofers- try and maintain a steady volume level of around 25%.

Always check the recommended volume level from the manufacturers as well to make sure your speakers stay safe whilst you blast your tunes!

Can Leaving Your Speakers On Whilst Not Using Them Damage Them?

Yes, it definitely can. As with any electronic item, speakers can overheat if they are left on, even when not being used.

Heat is not your friend when it comes to electronics, and speakers are no exception! Always switch speakers off when you aren’t using them to avoid premature breakdowns.

Can Leaving Speakers Switched On Be A Fire Hazard?

We are pretty sure you can guess the answer to this one from the answers to our previous questions!

Speakers are like any other electronic item in that they can be very dangerous when left switched on and unsupervised, including becoming a fire hazard.

It really doesn’t matter if the chances of this happening are relatively slim. It is a risk that no one wants to take, so don’t do it!

Last update on 2023-02-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API