Matthew CoxAs the name suggests, floor-standing speakers are tall speakers that stand on the floor rather than on speaker stands, bookshelves, or television cabinets. These types of speakers differ from standard home theater speakers and music playback systems in several ways. Floor-standing speakers are designed and built to stand out rather than blend into your home décor and become invisible like many surround sound speakers or home entertainment units. This is partly due to their monstrous size, which makes them nearly impossible to conceal, but they’re also meant to be flashier.
Sony SSCS3
Available at a fairly competitive price, the Sony SSCS3 floor-standing speakers are an excellent addition to any home. These speakers work perfectly for music playback or home theater applications.
Our Recommendations
Best Sound Quality
Focal Chora 826
- 3-Way Speaker
- 48Hz-28kHz Frequency Response
- 40-200W @ 8 Ohms
- 91 dB/2.83 V/1 m sensitivity
The reference monitor and pro audio legends, Focal, impressed us with their 826-floor standing speakers, which provide stunning sound quality in an attractive enclosure that works for any home décor.
Budget-Friendly Choice
Jamo Studio Series S807
- 2-Way Speaker
- 42Hz – 26kHz (+/- 3dB)
- 100/200W @ 8 Ohms
- 90 dB/2.83 V/1 m sensitivity
Priced at just under 300 bucks, the Jamo Studio Series S807 floor-standing speakers provide incredible value for money with sound quality and a build that can’t be beaten at this price.
Best Design
Klipsch RP-8000F
- 2-Way
- 32-25kHz (+/- 3dB)
- 150/600W @ 8 Ohms
- 98 dB/2.83 V/1 m sensitivity
The Klipsch RP-8000F floor-standing speakers are available in some gorgeous colors and have a smart and classy look and feel that compliments any environment, with excellent sound quality to match.
Floor-Standing Speaker Overview
| Model | Type | Power |
| 1. Triangle Borea BR08 | 3-Way | 130W |
| 2. Klipsch RP-8000F | 2-Way | 100-400W |
| 3. Jamo Studio Series S807 | 2-Way | 150W |
| 4. ELAC Debut F6.2 | 3-Way | 140W |
| 5. Sony SSCS3 | 3-Way | 145W |
| 6. Focal Chora 826 | 3-Way | 40-200W |
| 7. Q Acoustics 3050 | 2-Way | 25-100W |
| 8. Klipsch R-26FA | 2-Way | 400W |
| 9. Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 | 2.5-Way | 30-150W |
| 10. KEF Q950 | 2.5-Way | 200W |
Because of their height, floor-standing speakers are generally easier to place in a listening room/home theater system since the drivers are usually already at ear level- the first step in finding a listening ‘sweet spot,’ leaving you only to handle the distance and angles of the speakers.
Because of their design and style, floor-standing speakers are commonly a little more expensive than most typical home entertainment systems, and setting up a system based on one can quickly become a rather expensive exercise. We’ve included a short buyer’s guide at the end of this list if you’re unsure what to look for in floor-standing speakers to best suit your current needs.
The 10 Best Floor-Standing Speakers
This list covers the best 2-way, 2.5-way, and 3-way floor-standing speakers. We’ve included some affordable choices for those with limited budgets.
1. Sony SSCS3
Power
145W
Type
3-Way
Weight
25 lbs
Size
9.12 x 36.37 x 10.25″
Individually priced just below $150.00, the Sony SSCS3 floor-standing speaker stands out as an ideal addition to any home theater or music playback system and seamlessly integrates into a surround sound setup with the right equipment.
Design and Build
Encased in a sleek black cabinet, the Sony SSCS3 floor-standing speakers offer the choice of exposed drivers or a more subdued look with the optional speaker grille. These speakers stand flush on the floor without carpet spikes, featuring dual 5.25-inch woofers, a 1-inch tweeter, and a ¾-inch super tweeter. The baseplate ensures stability and an ideal listening height.
Sound Quality
The driver array delivers exceptional sound quality across the entire frequency spectrum. The low end is deep, tight, and well-defined, while the midrange strikes a balance between warmth and crispness, enhancing vocal and dialogue clarity. The high-end impresses with its accuracy, presenting a detailed representation without sharpness, allowing you to hear nuances like never before.
Connectivity
Connecting to your system with coaxial connectors, the Sony SSCS3 floor-standing speakers operate at a 6-ohm impedance, handling up to 145W per channel.
Conclusion
In my opinion, the Sony SSCS3 floor-standing speakers rank among the best-sounding and visually appealing models available. Their versatility makes them a perfect fit for home theater or music listening systems. With the optional speaker grille, they can complement any home décor, although currently only available in black.
2. Triangle Borea BR08
Power
130W
Type
3-way
Weight
53 lbs
Size
8.1 x 12.36 x 40.16″
The Triangle Borea BR08 stands out for its remarkable sound and build quality, surpassing others in their price range. These speakers have quickly become a favorite with a gorgeous design and impressive performance.
Design and Build
Sold individually, the Triangle Borea BR08 Hi-Fi speakers come in black ash, walnut, light oak, or white finishes, adding a stunning touch to any home entertainment system. The construction quality is exemplary, with attention to detail evident in the driver selection and mounting techniques. While the connectors feel solid, the only design-related concern is that the floor spikes may not be long enough to penetrate carpet, requiring potential replacement or compromise for some users.
Sound Quality
Housing a four-speaker array primarily using fiberglass and paper for driver materials, the Triangle Borea BR08 produces a surprisingly smooth and well-connected sound. While not intrusive, the low-end energy offers sufficient depth and warmth for an engaging experience. The midrange character is notable without overly affecting tonal qualities, and the silky smooth high end allows for extended listening with minimal ear fatigue. These speakers thrive in larger rooms, with proper placement knowledge enhancing their performance.
Connectivity
Using standard speaker terminals to connect to your amplifier, the Triangle Borea BR08 floor-standing speakers operate at an impedance of 3 Ohms.
Conclusion
In summary, the Triangle Borea BR08 are not only exciting and reliable but also aesthetically pleasing. At this price point, they are a solid choice for various audio needs, be it music, film, or gaming, offering a well-rounded package that won’t disappoint.
3. Klipsch RP-8000F
Power
100-400W
Type
2-Way
Weight
114 lbs
Size
40 x 9.4 x 17.3″
The Klipsch RP-8000F is positioned as the brand’s premium tower speaker offering, promising accurate sound reproduction and top-notch build quality in a classy design.
Design and Build
Available in ebony, piano black, or walnut finishes, the Klipsch RP-8000F stand tall with a slight upward angle, ensuring an easily attainable optimal listening position. The removable grille lets you choose between a subtle blend with the surroundings or showcasing Klipsch’s traditional gold drivers. While slightly taller than traditional tower speakers, these speakers balance blending in and letting their personalities shine.
Sound Quality
Featuring a slight backward angle and being horn-loaded, the Klipsch RP-8000F is forgiving of suboptimal placement, though care is still recommended during setup. Sound-wise, they deliver thumping bass without overpowering the rest of the spectrum. The midrange and highs provide crisp details ideal for film enjoyment or critical listening yet remain delicate enough to avoid listener fatigue. Additionally, these speakers can achieve impressive volume levels.
Connectivity
Using traditional binding posts for connectivity, the Klipsch RP-8000F operate at an 8-ohm impedance, handling 150W each.
Conclusion
These speakers impress with their build quality, attractive design, and stunning sound, all at a reasonable price point. While audiophiles may consider exploring higher-end options for meticulous audio quality, these speakers stand out as some of the better-sounding options for general use and work exceptionally well for movie enthusiasts.
4. Jamo Studio Series S807
Power
150W
Type
2-Way
Weight
58 lbs
Size
45.67 x 31.1 x 11.41″
The Jamo Studio Series S807, priced just below $300.00, emerges as our budget-friendly choice, seamlessly blending stylish design, quality sound, and features in an affordable package.
Design and Build
Available in matte black or walnut finishes, these floor-standing speakers boast a classy and compact design suitable for any living space or home entertainment environment. Featuring two woofers and a 1-inch tweeter, the natural wood accents add a slick touch. The option to use the speakers with or without grilles caters to individual design tastes, while the steel feet, despite their slightly industrial feel, effectively isolate the speakers from the ground.
Sound Quality
Considering the price point, the performance of the Jamo Studio Series S807 speakers is noteworthy. Despite their compact size, the oval-shaped reflex ports on the front facilitate flexible speaker placement, mitigating the impact of wall proximity on low-end response. At higher listening levels, these speakers provide a distortion-free experience, with a crystal-clear high-end that avoids abrasiveness. The low-end energy is somewhat subdued, but a simple EQ adjustment on your power amp or source device can address this.
Connectivity
Using traditional binding posts for connectivity, they are passive, requiring a powered source or external power amplifier to drive these 8-ohm speakers.
Conclusion
While delivering excellent value for money, those seeking immersive sound, especially in the lower frequencies, might consider investing a bit more or adding a subwoofer to the system. Priced just below $300.00, these well-crafted and attractive floor-standing speakers offer great value, with room for potential sound quality enhancement.
5. ELAC Debut F6.2
Power
140W
Type
3-Way
Weight
43.87 lbs
Size
10.6 x 7.7 x 43.2″
The ELAC Debut F6.2, available individually, presents a compelling option in the semi-affordable price range, delivering impressive value for money.
Design and Build
Sporting three 6.5-inch aramid fiber woofers and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter, the ELAC Debut F6.2 stands just below 3.75 feet tall in a sleek black ash vinyl enclosure. With an exposed driver design and no attachable speaker grille, these speakers embrace an eye-catching industrial aesthetic reminiscent of a studio atmosphere. The build quality is commendable, and the stable floor spikes ensure a secure placement, even on most carpets.
Sound Quality
The woven aramid fibers on the woofers contribute to a tight, punchy, low-end, suitable for diverse music styles and cinematic experiences. The high-end is sharp yet unobtrusive, and the braced drivers within the cabinet are isolated for a clear and articulate sound. Particularly impressive with films, these speakers boast a wide frequency range starting at 39Hz and reaching up to 35kHz, capturing thunderous low-end and delicate high-end with clarity.
Connectivity
Connecting to your powered source device or power amplifier through binding posts, the ELAC Debut F6.2 floor-standing speakers operate at a 6-ohm impedance.
Conclusion
While sold individually, the ELAC Debut F6.2 offer an amazing blend of aesthetics and performance. Despite being reasonably priced, the quality justifies the cost, making them a worthwhile investment. Other models with optional speaker grilles are available for those who prefer a more subtle appearance. However, if you desire speakers with personality and vibe, the ELAC Debut F6.2 stands out as an excellent choice.
6. Focal Chora 826
Power
600W
Type
3-Way
Weight
46.6 lbs
Size
15.25 x 11.88 x 41.5″
Renowned for their legendary studio reference monitors, Focal introduces the Chora 826 as an elevated rendition of the Chorus series. Available in pairs or single towers, the Chora models, including the 826 variant, epitomize Focal’s commitment to audio excellence.
Design and Build
Focal’s reputation for gorgeous speakers holds true with the Chora 826. Offered in black, dark wood, or light wood finishes, these accessibly-priced speakers are meticulously crafted for durability. Standing around 40 inches tall, they feature a 3-way woofer system with a tweeter, embodying both elegance and robust construction.
Sound Quality
The Chora 826 doesn’t disappoint in the sound department. Focal’s time-alignment technology, employing an angled speaker stand for synchronized woofer and tweeter waves, creates a transformative listening experience. These speakers deliver a balanced, immersive, and exciting performance regardless of your musical preferences. The powerful and clean low end, distortion-free midrange, and well-defined high end contribute to an exceptional tonal signature that sets a high standard for other speakers.
Connectivity
Utilizing traditional binding posts for connectivity, the Focal Chora 826 are active and can handle up to 16W per side.
Conclusion
These speakers excel on all fronts. Their impressive sound quality aligns with expectations, complemented by impeccable build quality and design. While they come with a higher price tag, they undeniably offer the best sound within their price range, making them a serious contender for those prioritizing top-notch audio quality in music playback, critical listening, or film experiences.
7. Q Acoustics 3050
Power
25-100W
Type
2-Way
Weight
39.2 lbs
Size
44 x 16 x 12″
The highly acclaimed budget-friendly 3000 series from the award-winning Q Acoustics is a revered collection in the audio world. Among them, the 3050 floor-standing model stands out as a top choice for both home theater and music playback enthusiasts.
Design and Build
Undergoing significant upgrades from its predecessor, the 2000i model, they boast aramid fiber driver materials for improved predictability and a more natural tonal signature. The shift of binding posts to the rear enhances accessibility, and the speakers, available in black or white, exude a classy appearance. The stable plinth stand, featuring floor spikes, ensures a sturdy placement on any surface.
Sound Quality
Retaining Q Acoustics’ classic sound signature, the 3050 delivers a dynamic range with punchy low-end and expressive high-end. Versatile enough for various musical genres or film and spoken word content, these speakers excel when positioned a fair distance from walls. Once the angles are optimized, you can enjoy an immersive stereo image even from a considerable distance. Particularly shining with vocal or guitar-based music, the midrange takes center stage while the low and high ends contribute detailed clarity. While their optimal performance lies in specific genres, they still hold up well across various listening styles.
Connectivity
The Q Acoustics 3050 seamlessly connect to your source device or power amplifier using standard binding posts, maintaining a 6-ohm impedance at up to 100W per channel.
Conclusion
The Q Acoustics 3050 speakers combine fun, robust construction, and excitement, offering an incredible audio experience at a reasonable price. Struggling to find comparable quality within this price range is a challenge. While the design may not appeal to everyone, those prioritizing sound quality over aesthetics will find these speakers exceptionally satisfying.
8. Klipsch Reference R-26FA
Power
400W
Type
2-Way
Weight
58.1 lbs
Size
49 x 26 x 14″
Renowned for innovation and creativity, Klipsch stands as a respected brand in both home theater and pro audio realms. The Reference R-26FA is primarily tailored for home theater and also shines in the realm of musical exploration.
Design and Build
Embracing their signature design style, Klipsch marries sophistication with flair in the Reference R-26FA. Housing gold drivers in a black cabinet, these speakers offer an optional grille for those who prefer a more concealed look. The 2-way woofer system, with a tweeter above, combines with an upward-firing woofer and tweeter combo on the top for an immersive surround sound experience. Klipsch’s meticulous attention to directivity and controlled projection is evident in this model.
Sound Quality
The well-crafted driver array, coupled with a front-firing bass reflex port and Klipsch’s expertise in driver directivity, minimizes the hassles of speaker placement. The Reference R-26FA speakers deliver an incredible audio experience in any environment, with improved performance achieved through careful placement. Starting at 38Hz, the frequency response may not delve into the ultra-low frequencies, yet it produces a warm, robust, low-end. The midrange is detailed and full-bodied, adding excitement without muddying the lows, while the distortion-free, ultra-clear high-end completes the audio spectrum.
Connectivity
Connecting to your system through binding posts, the Klipsch Reference R-26FA floor-standing speakers operate at an 8-ohm impedance, handling 400W.
Conclusion
While ideally suited for home theater, the Klipsch Reference R-26FA also delivers an engaging musical listening experience. Though potentially unnecessary, the upward-firing drivers can be managed with proper placement. The flashy aesthetic may not suit every entertainment center, but the optional grilles provide a solution for those with different preferences.
9. Wharfedale Diamond 12.3
Power
30-150W
Type
2.5-Way
Weight
48.06 lbs
Size
38.38 x 7 x 13.7″
Wharfedale, renowned for its PA innovations, extends its excellence to floor-standing speakers, a must-examine model given its widespread use in the professional industry. The 12.3 dual 5” floor-standing speakers, delivered as a pair, serve equally well for music playback and as part of a home surround sound system.
Design and Build
Encased in walnut, white, black, or light oak, the Wharfedale Diamond floor-standing speakers exude elegance in any setting. Sporting a 3-way array of drivers utilizing Klarity cone material (a blend of polypropylene and mica), these speakers, though slightly smaller than average, demand careful placement consideration for optimal performance. The well-crafted base plate and carpet spikes ensure stability.
Sound Quality
In essence, the Wharfedale Diamond boasts an impeccable balance. The low-end delivers excitement, especially at higher volumes, without overpowering. The midrange exudes warmth and character, while the distortion-free highs pack a punch. These speakers maintain their prowess at various volumes, showcasing an impressive dynamic range and a wide yet immersive stereo image.
Connectivity
Utilizing traditional binding posts, the Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 Dual 5” seamlessly connects to your amplifier, operating at an impedance ranging from 5 to 8 Ohms and handling 150W per channel.
Conclusion
While not on the cheap end, the Wharfedale Diamond fall on the budget-friendly spectrum, considering their exceptional quality. The breathtaking build and design are complemented by audio quality and compatibility, suitable for any music or film genre at any volume. Sold as a pair, these speakers offer remarkable value for money.
10. KEF Q950
Power
200W
Type
2.5-Way
Weight
30 lbs
Size
30 x 17 x 14″
KEF’s Q950, part of the Q Series tailored for home theaters, offers an enticing option for both casual and critical listening, as well as integration into a surround sound system.
Design and Build
Available in black, white, or walnut finishes, the Q950 speakers boast a slightly more compact footprint than typical floor-standing models but deliver a formidable audio presence. The speakers come with attachable grilles, and their sophisticated aesthetic seamlessly blends into any room. However, while not necessarily eye-catching, the industrial-style floor mounts and carpet spikes serve a functional purpose.
Sound Quality
Each Q950 speaker houses a 5.25-inch Uni-Q driver array, a 5.25-inch woofer, and a pair of 5.25-inch auxiliary bass radiators to cover the entire frequency spectrum. The low-end is robust and dynamic, catering to the preferences of bass enthusiasts across various genres and enhancing the cinematic experience. Yet, the powerful low-end might be a tad overwhelming for those seeking a more balanced sound signature. The midrange offers a well-rounded profile, delivering depth and punch, while the high-end injects a breath of fresh air into the audio. At higher volumes, there can be some harshness, a concern that can be mitigated with basic equalization.
Connectivity
The Q950 seamlessly integrate into your system using a 3.5mm auxiliary input, operating at an 8-ohm impedance and handling power between 15 and 200W per channel.
Conclusion
If your audio preferences lean toward the exciting and bass-heavy side, the KEF Q950 floor-standing speakers are a fitting choice. Film enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the immersive experience these speakers provide. While audiophiles and critical listeners might find the exaggerated low-end slightly irksome, adjustments can be made. Including an auxiliary connection enhances their versatility, though it’s important to note that a powered source is still required.
Buyer’s Guide to Floor-Standing Speakers
This buyer’s guide aims to help first-time buyers and budding audio enthusiasts by explaining some of the terminology used in floor-standing speakers, along with some considerations to remember when purchasing.
Driver Configurations (2-way vs. 3-way)
Most floor-standing speakers can be separated into three primary types: 2-way, 2.5-way, and 3-way.
These terms are used to describe the drivers utilized by each speaker. A speaker’s performance is improved when each driver has its role in covering particular frequencies. Speakers that offer only one driver will tend to lack low-end bass and the brightness and detail of the treble. This is because these different frequencies require very different designs to excel.
The term 2-way and 3-way does not represent the number of total drivers in the speaker design but rather the number of different driver types used.
Speaker Sensitivity
Most manufacturers provide the sensitivity of a speaker in their specifications and is a number that represents how efficient that speaker is in converting power into sound. Speakers with low sensitivity (<85dB 1m/1w) will require more power to achieve the same SPL as a high-sensitivity speaker (>90dB 1m/1w).
Speaker sensitivity is important because it relates to your amplifier’s power. There are ways to understand your overall SPL potential by looking at the sensitivity of a speaker in conjunction with its power handling, as we’ve outlined in our more in-depth guide on speaker sensitivity.
Acoustic Considerations
In many cases, floor-standing speakers are an investment, and ensuring you buy the right design for your space is essential in preventing buyer’s regret. Room acoustics play an important part in determining the speaker model that will sound the best.
Room Size and Volume Recommendations
The size of your room, as well as its shape, will influence the acoustic presentation of your speakers. While all rooms have their distinct designs with varying shapes and sizes, here are some guidelines around room sizes and what they require in terms of volume to achieve a high-quality audio experience:
Small Room: 30-60 cubic meters
Medium Room: 60-100 cubic meters
Large Room: 100-200 cubic meters
There’s no math equation to determine the exact speaker specifications you need for your installation. However, these are some general guidelines around the types of SPL (Sound Pressure Level) you want to be aiming for in these room sizes:
For small rooms seated 2-3 meters from your speakers, you’ll want speakers that can produce between 80 and 90dB for general entertainment and listening and between 90 and 100dB for a party environment.
Assuming you are seated 3-5 meters from your speakers in a medium-sized room, you’ll want around 85 to 92dB for general entertainment and listening. For parties and other loud listening purposes, aim for between 92 and 105 dB.
In large rooms, with an average of 150 cubic meters, assuming you are seated 3 to 8 meters away from your speakers, you’ll want to aim for a speaker output that can range from around 85 to 98 dB for general purposes and between 95 and 110dB for parties and other loud listening.
Surface Composition
The materials that make up the surfaces of your listening area also play a role in how the acoustics perform. Soundwaves can bounce off of hard surfaces and cause audio reflections, which, depending on the size and shape of your room, can vary in how noticeable they are.
If, after setting up your floor-standing speakers, you notice unusual behavior in the acoustics, particularly with certain sounds overlapping each other and causing a decrease in listening quality, your environment may need some tweaking. A common way to improve this can be the use of acoustic treatments.
You can always bring in an audio expert to help you iron out any problems you have with the acoustic performance of your speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many floor-standing speakers do I need?
While the answer to this question is mostly two (to form a left and right pair), if you’re looking to build a surround sound system based on floor-standing speakers, you’ll certainly need a few more. Depending on the system you plan on assembling, you’ll need anywhere between two and seven or a few more if you’re serious about getting an immersive setup. For most home theater uses, a stereo pair along with a center channel speaker and subwoofer does the trick, although an extra pair of left and right surround will go a long way!
Note: some of the floor-standing speakers on this list are sold as individual units rather than as a pair of speakers, so be sure to check this out before purchasing to avoid disappointment or last-minute compromises.
What about power handling and impedance?
The impedance ratings and power handling capabilities of your ideal floor-standing speakers depend on two main factors: the rest of your equipment (ensuring cross-compatibility) and the size and shape of your listening environment. A larger home theater, for example, will require more powerful/larger speakers than a tiny room, but again, this is entirely up to you and what you’d like to achieve. As for the technical side of things, take a look at the outputs, impedance, and power of your amplifier or powered source device and make sure your new tower speakers will work with your current setup unless you’re prepared to purchase a new amplifier, of course, then you’d have to work backward.
Can I use floor-standing speakers in smaller rooms?
Floor-standing speakers can be used in rooms of any size. However, some speakers will perform best in bigger rooms, while others are best heard in closer proximity. This depends on the driver size and technology, cabinet design, and power handling, among other specifications. If you follow the rules on speaker placement versus listening position, you should have a great time with all the speakers on this list, and if you know what you’re doing, you can experiment with different angles and distances to find the best position for your needs/uses.
Bryn De Kocks
