2. speakers
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What are some quality bookshelf speakers that can actually be used on a bookshelf?

OK, I have concluded that the dated Spendor S3/5 speakers used in my office on a bookshelf need to be updated. It is not an ideal setup and there is zero chance to change it but I need to have music.  I have a shelf about 2.5 feet above and in front of my head on which the speakers sit. The shelf is about 14 inches high and deep where the speakers have to fit. My PC monitor sits about 24 inches out from the wall the shelf is on on a desk and my printer, router, phone etc sit under the shelf on another platform which has no room for speakers. So I am listening to speakers above my head from that shelf with only a little room behind them to the wall. I prefer passive speakers as I have a Marantz PM8005 and currently run a Wiim Ultra for streaming while working. I live in Hawaii, so no place to listen. I am guessing that I need something that has no ports or ports that face front or can be stuffed. Listening is eclectic from jazz to blues to rock to Hawaiian slack key and other acoustic guitar. I figure I can spend up to $1000 US (new buy)  but if there are things a little below that, that is ok too. I figure I am looking at AMZN, Audio Advisor, Crutchfield, Music Direct as likely sources to save on shipping. I have done some searches on stuff but been overwhelmed with how much is out there so I am hoping some of you have faced similar needs and filtered out the winners. I tried some of the online YT reviewers but there is lots of noise from folks that dont seem to be really knowledgeable. In my other systems, I am using Ohm 2000s and Kef R300s. I have been happy with the Kefs and like their sound but they are bigger than the space is so thoughts of trading up died....Thanks in advance for any and all input

joekapahulu

Showing 1 response by rar1

rar1's avatar
rar1
1,811 posts
 

The speakers are not the problem, where you have the speakers placed is the problem.  No traditional bookshelf speaker is going to help you here, so stop fussing about it and save your money.

The speakers are 'up in the air' relative to your sitting position.  The speakers' sound thrust misses your head completely.  I have a similar situation with my Golden Ear BRXs, which I have placed on top of bookcases that are roughly 5 feet tall.  Speakers sound good, but not as good as they could sound if placed lower.  

Are these shelves wall mounted or part of a larger unit?  If part of a larger unit, you could attach wooden shelves to the sides of the unit at about the height of your ears and place the speakers on them.  Might not look pretty, but could work.  If the shelves are wall mounted, can you lower a shelf?   

I guess you could go with a portable bluetooth speaker like the JBL Authentic 300 and place it anywhere in the room.  Won't sound as good as your Spendors though.   Your Wiim Ultra should work out fine.  Don't know how the Marantz would fit into this though.  Hopefully some blue-toothers here can help you out.

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_109ATH300B/JBL-Authentics-300.html?tp=63340

My step daughter lives on big island.  You are not kidding when you say you can't audition much.

Be well,

Rich 

 

 

 

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