The Hi-Fi speakers category covers stereo speakers, wireless audio systems and music streaming equipment for the home. It suits anyone who has outgrown the sound of a phone or television. Our range includes over 50 models, with brands such as Magnat, WiiM, Sonos and Kanto Audio.
How to choose Hi-Fi speakers
Active or passive. Passive speakers need a separate amplifier or AV receiver, but you can build a system piece by piece and swap individual components later. Active speakers have an amplifier built in and connect straight to the source, which makes them simpler to set up.
Connections and wireless. For a television, an optical input or HDMI ARC is usually the easiest route, and for a computer a USB or 3.5 mm socket. Bluetooth is convenient for quick playback from a phone, while Wi-Fi systems (where the model supports AirPlay 2 or Spotify Connect) often give better sound quality and let you link several rooms.
Size and placement. Bookshelf speakers fit on a shelf, desk or stand. Floorstanding models reproduce deep bass more fully but take up more space. In a small room, large floorstanders often sound boomy, especially close to a wall, and the tweeters are best placed at ear height.
Matching the amplifier. With passive speakers, check the impedance (commonly 4 or 8 ohms) and the amplifier power the manufacturer recommends. An underpowered amplifier can distort at high volume, while more sensitive speakers reach the same loudness with less power.
Brands in our range
- Magnat: a German manufacturer known for Hi-Fi and home cinema speakers, and the brand with the most models in our range.
- WiiM: known for network streamers and amplifiers that add Wi-Fi music streaming to speakers you already own.
- Sonos: wireless multi-room audio systems controlled through an app.
- Kanto Audio: a Canadian manufacturer that specialises in powered speakers for the desktop.
- Pioneer and Onkyo: Japanese audio makers with a long record in amplifiers and AV receivers.
Also in our range: LogiLink, Blaze Audio, Sharp, Blaupunkt, Kenwood and Vogel's.
Frequently asked questions about Hi-Fi speakers
What is the difference between active and passive Hi-Fi speakers?
Active speakers have a built-in amplifier, while passive speakers need one bought separately. Active models only need a connection to the source and a power socket. Passive speakers give you more freedom to change the amplifier and other components later.
Can Hi-Fi speakers be connected to a television?
Yes, provided the television has a suitable audio output. Active speakers usually connect through an optical port, HDMI ARC or a 3.5 mm output, and passive ones through an amplifier or AV receiver. Check which outputs your television has before you buy.
Do Hi-Fi speakers need an amplifier?
Passive speakers do, active speakers do not. Passive models can be connected to a stereo amplifier, an AV receiver or a network amplifier with Wi-Fi. If you want the simplest setup, choose active or wireless speakers.
How do Hi-Fi speakers differ from a Bluetooth speaker?
Hi-Fi speakers are usually placed as a pair, which creates a stereo soundstage, while a single portable Bluetooth speaker plays from one point. Their cabinets are larger, and separate drivers handle different frequencies. A portable speaker, on the other hand, is easier to take with you.
