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Active vs Passive Speakers-
If you’ve started looking at a new hi-fi system, you’ve probably come across the terms active and passive speakers. It’s one of the most common questions we get in the showroom, and thankfully the answer isn’t too complicated.
Neither is “better” than the other. They simply suit different people and different ways of listening.To explain the differences, we’re comparing two speakers we know extremely well: the KEF LS50 Wireless II and the Monitor Audio Studio 89.
Active Speakers- (Click here for active speakers )
An active speaker has its own built-in amplifier. Some powered speakers use a relatively simple built-in amplifier, while more advanced active systems, like the KEF LS50 Wireless II, integrate amplification, DSP, DACs, streaming and digital inputs.
The biggest advantage is convenience. With fewer boxes, fewer cables and no need to choose a separate amplifier, getting up and running is quick and straightforward. Everything has already been matched and optimised by the manufacturer, taking a lot of the guesswork out of building a great-sounding system.
Passive Speakers
Passive speakers, like the Monitor Audio Studio 89, require an external amplifier.
It means a little more planning, but it also gives you complete freedom to build your system exactly how you want.
One advantage of going passive is being able to match the amplifier to both the speakers and your listening preferences. Different amplifiers can have noticeably different characteristics, some sound warmer and fuller, while others may come across as more detailed, neutral or energetic.
Pair a warm amplifier with warm speakers and it can be a bit like throwing a doona over your music. Comfortable? Absolutely. But you might lose a little sparkle.
It’s also important to choose an amplifier with enough power. An amplifier that’s pushed into clipping will distort and, over time, can potentially damage your speakers.
Pros
Choose your own amplifier, upgrade components over time, greater flexibility, easier to tailor the sound.
Cons
You’ll need an amplifier, speaker cables and source components, making the system a little more involved.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you want excellent sound with the least amount of fuss, an active system such as the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a great option.
If you enjoy building a system, experimenting with different amplifiers and upgrading individual components over time, a passive speaker such as the Monitor Audio Studio 89 gives you considerably more flexibility.
Neither is the “right” answer. It simply depends on whether you want convenience or complete control.
Still unsure? Visit our Hawthorn showroom and hear both approaches side by side. Sometimes five minutes of listening tells you more than five hours of reading reviews
A Proven Success
The KEF LS50 Wireless II is a great example of just how far active speaker systems have come. Since its launch, it has become one of KEF’s most recognised all-in-one speaker systems, earning widespread praise and numerous industry awards for combining serious hi-fi performance with the convenience of a fully integrated wireless system.
Its success has also helped demonstrate that choosing an active system doesn’t necessarily mean compromising on sound quality. For many listeners, the LS50 Wireless II offers a compelling alternative to a traditional separates-based hi-fi system, without the extra boxes, cables and system matching.