16 passive speakers in our rankings are DIY kits: you buy the drivers, crossover parts and usually a flat-pack or cut-it-yourself cabinet, then assemble, solder and finish them yourself. Kits skip the retail markup and cabinet finishing costs, which is why several of them measure alongside finished speakers costing far more, but the build time, tools and any crossover soldering are part of the price.
A kit is a buying format, not a sound-quality signal; a speaker’s rank here reflects its measured audio performance, the same way every other passive speaker is ranked. If you want the strongest kits picked out and explained rather than every match, see our curated best DIY speaker kits.
This is every match, grouped by size and sorted by measured sound quality.
The Speakers
Prices on this page were last checked September 23, 2026 at 11:24 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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| Select to compare | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Audio First Fidelia | £950 per pair | 84dB | 4 ohms | 53Hz | 15 lbs | |
| 6 | XMechanik Mechano23 DIY | $200 per pair | 85.1dB @ 2.83V/1m | 4.1 ohms nominal | 77.6Hz | - | |
| 20 | Carmody S2000 | $250 per pair | 84dB | below 4 ohms minimum | 85Hz | 11 lbs | |
| 27 | Parts Express C-Note | $100 per pair | 83dB | 8 ohms | 90Hz | - | |
| 61 | Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) | $168 per pair | 83dB | 8 ohms nominal | 78Hz | 9 lbs | |
| 66 | Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit | $119.98 per pair | 81dB @ 1W/1m | 8 ohms | 98.1Hz | - | |
| 72 | Zaph Audio ZA5.2 TM | $383 per pair | 82dB | 8 ohms | 60Hz | 9.3 lbs | |
| 81 | Sehlin Helium | $140 per pair | approx. 82dB | 4 ohms | approx. 170Hz | - | |
| 4 | GR-Research NX-Studio | $3630 per pair | 87dB | 8 ohms | - | 20.5 lbs | |
| 14 | DIYSG HTM-12 v2 | $920 per pair | 91dB/2.83V/1m | AVR-compatible impeda… | 67Hz | 39.9 lbs | |
| 25 | GR-Research NX-Bravo | $1540 per pair | 84.8dB | 6 ohms nominal, 5 ohm… | 77Hz | 16.1 lbs | |
| 61 | HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod | $364.99 per pair | 86.5dB | 4 ohms nominal, 3.8 o… | 60Hz | 13.7 lbs | |
| 83 | GR-Research X-LS Encore | $1300 per pair | 84.4dB | 8 ohms | 64Hz | 17 lbs | |
| 97 | DIYSG HT-10 | $496 per pair | 91.3dB | 8 ohms | 73.4Hz | approx. 28 lbs | |
| 1 | GR-Research NX-Treme | $9662 per pair | 94.5dB | 8 ohms | <20Hz | (35.3 lbs | |
| 37 | Linkwitz Lab LXmini | $610.00 per pair | 85dB upper driver / 8… | 4 ohms upper driver /… | 50Hz | - |
Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers
Ranked #1 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Audio First Fidelia: £950 per pair for the flatpack kit (assembly required) Audio First Designs eBay
Pros: Kit speaker offering exceptional value and tonal accuracy; chosen by reviewer as reference standard for future speaker tonality comparisons despite 1,250 USD price point. Achieves bass extension to 53 Hz (F3) and 38 Hz (F10) from compact cabinet. Direct-from-manufacturer availability eliminates retailer markup. Measured bass extension of 53Hz (-3dB).
Cons: Kit assembly required; lower sensitivity (~83-85 dB vs. typical 85 dB average) demands adequate amplifier power. Only available direct from UK manufacturer with associated shipping costs and lead times. Trade-off between compact driver configuration and maximum dynamic output.
Full Audio First Fidelia review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 38Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 53Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Crossover Frequency | 1560Hz |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 11.8"H x 7.1"W x 11.7"D (300 x 180 x 297.6 mm) |
| Drivers | 5" ceramic-aluminum cone woofer, 1" ceramic-aluminum tweeter |
| Impedance | 4 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 84dB |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 5.85 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.86 |
| Weight | 15 lbs (6.8 kg) each |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, rear |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Erin’s Audio Corner: The #1 Reason audiophiles Are Raving About Fidelia’s Sound Quality More from Erin’s Audio Corner →
- Erin’s Audio Corner: I Tested 250 Speakers So You Don’t Have To!
- Erin’s Audio Corner: My Absolute Favorite Products of 2024 Revealed
- Erin’s Audio Corner Measurements (spinorama.org)
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Audio First Fidelia vs Philharmonic Ceramic Mini
- Audio First Fidelia vs Ascend Sierra 1 v2
- Audio First Fidelia vs KEF LS50 Meta
- Audio First Fidelia vs XMechanik Mechano23 DIY
- Audio First Fidelia vs Ascend Acoustics HTM-200SE2
- Audio First Fidelia vs Arendal 1961 Monitor
- Audio First Fidelia vs Ascend Acoustics Luna V2 Mini-Monitor Titan
- Audio First Fidelia vs Aalto Speakers Aalto 1 EVO
- See all 26 comparisons
Ranked #6 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - XMechanik Mechano23 DIY: $200 per pair DIY parts Madisound (Tweeter) Madisound (Woofer) eBay
Pros: The bass alignment is unusually well damped, with a measured Q of 0.336, among the lowest of any speaker in this catalog, so the -3dB point at 77.6Hz rolls off cleanly instead of building into a resonant bump the way many small ported designs do. On axis deviation measures a tight 0.195dB average, and Audio Science Review’s independent Klippel NFS review called the predicted in room response nearly perfect, with directivity matching that beats some commercial designs costing many times more, all from about $48 in parts. Measured bass extension of 77.6Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 85.1dB.
Cons: This is a true DIY project. There is no assembled unit to buy, drivers come from Madisound, the crossover kit comes separately from EZ Speaker Solutions, and the birch plywood cabinet has to be built and finished by hand. Listening window smoothness measures a moderate 0.47 and the sound power directivity index has more variation (standard deviation 4.02) than the tightest speakers in this catalog, so off axis energy isn’t quite as evenly controlled as the excellent on axis figures suggest.
Full XMechanik Mechano23 DIY review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 42.4Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 77.6Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Cabinet Material | 18mm Baltic birch plywood |
| Country | Design origin: United States (ASR forum); assembled by buyer |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 11.4"H x 6.9"W x 10.4"D (290 x 174 x 263 mm) |
| Drivers | Scan-Speak Discovery H2606/9200 1" horn loaded textile dome tweeter, SB Acoustics SB13PFCR25-4 5" fiber cone woofer |
| Enclosure | ported |
| Impedance | 4.1 ohms nominal (measured, ASR) |
| Port Tuning | Approximately 45Hz |
| Sensitivity | 85.1dB @ 2.83V/1m (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 4.70 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.16 |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs Ascend Acoustics HTM-200SE2
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs Arendal 1961 Monitor
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs KEF LS50 Meta
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs Ascend Sierra 1 v2
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs Philharmonic Ceramic Mini
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs Ascend Acoustics Luna V2 Mini-Monitor Titan
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs Aalto Speakers Aalto 1 EVO
- XMechanik Mechano23 DIY vs Audio First Fidelia
- See all 21 comparisons
Ranked #20 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Carmody S2000: $250 per pair eBay
Pros: CEA2034 spinorama shows good response between 100Hz and 3kHz with low room dependency thanks to smooth early-window reflections, plus reasonably wide horizontal beamwidth and directivity. A DIY kit built around a small woofer and tweeter with a 3kHz crossover, priced around $250 per pair before assembly labor. Measured bass extension of 85Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 84dB.
Cons: Energy falls off above 3kHz with a resonance around 11kHz, and directivity errors show up around the 4-5kHz crossover region. Low 84dB efficiency and an impedance that dips below 4 ohms both call for a capable amplifier. Vertical listening angle is sensitive - move off axis and you fall into a response “ditch” that loses energy.
Full Carmody S2000 review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 62Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 85Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 6" x 15" x 9" (152 x 381 x 229 mm) |
| Drivers | small woofer + tweeter, 3kHz crossover (DIY kit) |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz - 20kHz (+/-5.9dB); 80Hz - 20kHz (+/-4.1dB) (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Impedance | below 4 ohms minimum |
| Sensitivity | 84dB (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 4.42 (spinorama.org) |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 6.89 (spinorama.org) |
| Weight | 11 lbs (5.0 kg) |
| Woofer Cabinet | Baltic Birch plywood |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
Ranked #27 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Parts Express C-Note: $100 per pair Parts Express eBay
Pros: CEA2034 spinorama shows a reasonably flat response in the critical midrange with good directivity control near the crossover point, courtesy of a waveguide-integrated tweeter. High power handling let it play very loud in a large room with no sign of bottoming out - unusual for a $160 pair. The MDF cabinet felt stout in hand despite the unfinished, DIY flat-pack construction. Measured bass extension of 90Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 83dB.
Cons: Reduced bass output and a resonance peak around 700Hz both show up clearly in the measurements; worst-case distortion above 1kHz sits about 40dB below listening level. Ships as unfinished MDF flat-pack cabinets, requiring assembly and finishing (gluing, painting or veneering) before use.
Full Parts Express C-Note review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 90Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) - the reviewer explicitly flagged this measurement as unreliable below 70Hz, so no -10dB figure is given |
|---|---|
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 11H x 7.5W x 9.5D in (unfinished MDF flat-pack) |
| Drivers | Dayton Audio DSA135-8 5" woofer, Dayton ND25FW-4 1" soft dome tweeter (waveguide-loaded) |
| Frequency Response | 43Hz - 20kHz +/-3dB (Manufacturer specified) |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Power Handling | 60W RMS / 120W max |
| Sensitivity | 83dB (2.83V/1m, measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 4.07 (spinorama.org) |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 6.78 (spinorama.org) |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
Ranked #61 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod): $168 per pair eBay
Pros: This is Dennis Murphy’s “Affordable Accuracy Monitor” (AAM) mod of the discontinued, budget Pioneer SP-BS22-LR: the stock tweeter is swapped for a Peerless BC25TG15 dome and a redesigned 3rd-order crossover is built to match it to the stock 4” woofer. CEA2034 spinorama shows only small variations from a flat on-axis response with some directivity error near the crossover, a marked improvement over the unmodified Pioneer, which the reviewer notes shows much more variation from flat. Distortion at 86dB SPL/1m is reasonably controlled above 200Hz, and tweeter distortion barely rises even at 96dB SPL/1m. Measured bass extension of 78Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 83dB.
Cons: Some directivity error appears near the crossover frequency. Distortion climbs in the woofer’s range (below 200Hz) at both 86dB and 96dB SPL/1m. Minimum impedance dips to about 5 ohms with a couple of resonance peaks. This is a DIY project, not a finished retail product: Murphy sold ~$168 pre-built pairs for a while but no longer does, so it now requires sourcing a used/discontinued Pioneer SP-BS22-LR pair plus building the crossover and swapping the tweeter yourself. The mod itself is public domain, but there is no current turnkey way to buy this speaker.
Full Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 60Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 78Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Crossover Frequency | 3000Hz |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 12.6"H x 7.1"W x 8.5"D (320.0 x 180.0 x 215.0 mm) |
| Drivers | 1x 4" curvilinear-cone woofer (stock Pioneer), 1x Peerless BC25TG15 1" silk dome tweeter (replacement) |
| Impedance | 8 ohms nominal (approx. 5 ohms minimum, measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Sensitivity | 83dB (2.83V/1m, measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 5.07 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.82 |
| Weight | 9 lbs (4.1 kg) |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, rear |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs Dynaudio X14
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs JBL Stage 2 250B
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs JBL L52 Classic
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs ELAC BS U5
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs Dynaudio Emit M10
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs JBL Stage A120
- Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod) vs ELAC Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52
- See all 36 comparisons
Ranked #66 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit: $119.98 per pair Parts Express eBay
Pros: Inexpensive, beginner-friendly CNC flat-pack kit with a compact 8 x 5-inch desktop footprint and only one 3.5-inch full-range driver per channel. The point-source layout avoids a conventional woofer/tweeter crossover and, when listened to around 20 degrees above the driver as intended, can produce precise near-field imaging. Erin measured roughly 81dB sensitivity, consistent with Parts Express’s specification. The included baffle-step network improves lower-midrange balance, while the optional series inductor reduces the driver’s rising top end; Erin recommends retaining it. Several remaining narrow peaks can be corrected with desktop software EQ. Bottom porting conserves desk space, and unfinished MDF invites custom finishing. Measured bass extension of 98.1Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 81dB.
Cons: Despite the ‘full-range’ label, output rolls off around 120-150Hz and a subwoofer with an unusually high 100-200Hz crossover is effectively mandatory. Native response has resonances near roughly 2.1kHz and 8kHz plus a broad 14-20kHz rise of 5-8dB, so it is not smooth without the supplied network and additional EQ. Distortion already exceeds 3% in places at 86dB/1m and becomes extreme at 96dB. Erin’s multitone test approached -10dB distortion (roughly 30%) full-range at the highest level, accompanied by 3-4dB compression; even a 200Hz high-pass leaves roughly 3-5% distortion and 2-3dB compression. The angled cabinet demands a specific near-field ear height, and its very low sensitivity plus 10W RMS power rating leave almost no clean-output headroom for room listening.
Full Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 69.3Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 98.1Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 8"H x 5"W x 6.5"D (203 x 127 x 165 mm) |
| Drivers | 3.5" Dayton Audio PS95-8 full-range driver |
| Frequency Response | 120Hz-20kHz +/-3dB (manufacturer specified) |
| Impedance | 8 ohms (manufacturer specified) |
| Power Handling | 10W RMS / 20W maximum; 25W RMS with 50Hz high-pass |
| Sensitivity | 81dB @ 1W/1m (measured by Erin's Audio Corner and manufacturer specified) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.11 (spinorama.org) |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.35 (spinorama.org) |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, bottom |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs JBL Stage A120
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs Pioneer SP-BS22-LR (Philharmonic AAM Mod)
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs Jamo S 803
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs JBL Studio 530
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs KEF Q150
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs Neumi BS5
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs Arendal 1961 Monitor
- Parts Express Copperhead Desktop Kit vs KEF LS50 Meta
Ranked #72 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Zaph Audio ZA5.2 TM: $383 per pair Madisoundspeakerstore eBay
Pros: CEA2034 spinorama shows a fairly smooth on-axis response. Cumulative spectral decay (waterfall) is clean overall, with only minor lingering energy around 400-700Hz. Measured bass extension of 60Hz (-3dB).
Cons: Predicted in-room response is tilted upward toward the treble, which the reviewer flagged as a likely audible brightness. Low sensitivity of about 82dB requires more amplifier gain than typical. Relative harmonic distortion is excessive in the low frequencies, climbing to 6-8% under a 10-volt test signal in the 60-150Hz region - notably worse than typical two-way designs in this price range. Impedance runs close to 7 ohms through much of the audible range, with additional peaks that make it a moderately demanding load for a low-sensitivity design. Vertical directivity narrows unevenly above about 1kHz, typical of this MTM-adjacent tweeter/woofer spacing.
Full Zaph Audio ZA5.2 TM review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 40Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 60Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 14"H x 8"W x 9.5"D (355.6 x 203.2 x 241.3 mm) |
| Drivers | 5" ZA14W08 aluminum cone woofer, 1" DQ25SC16-04 titanium dome tweeter |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 82dB |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 4.53 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 6.73 |
| Weight | 9.3 lbs (4.2 kg) |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, front |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
Ranked #81 of 88 in Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers - Sehlin Helium: $140 per pair eBay
Pros: An entire pair of drivers and crossover parts costs about $140, with a Parts Express flat-pack enclosure keeping the build simple - genuinely small enough to fit in the palm of a hand. Measured bass extension of 170Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 82dB.
Cons: CEA2034 spinorama shows an uneven response that the designer’s own re-measurements confirmed rather than explained away as error. The reviewer described the sound as muffled, boomy, and gritty even up close, concluding “this is a failing attempt” relative to larger designs. Maximum output is limited to about 80dB SPL, well below normal listening levels for most rooms.
Full Sehlin Helium review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | approx. 70Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) - low confidence - this tiny single-driver design has a highly irregular response with a deep notch around 30Hz, not a simple monotonic rolloff |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | approx. 170Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) - low confidence - this tiny single-driver design has a highly irregular response with a deep notch around 30Hz, not a simple monotonic rolloff |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 6.5W x 4.5H x 5D in (0.04 cu. ft. enclosure) |
| Drivers | Dayton Audio ND91-4 3.5" full-range driver (single-driver design) |
| Impedance | 4 ohms (Dayton Audio ND91-4 driver) |
| Sensitivity | approx. 82dB (2.83V/1m, measured, Audio Science Review - low confidence, irregular response with no clear flat region) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.58 (spinorama.org) |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.46 (spinorama.org) |
| Woofer Cabinet | sealed |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
Large Size Bookshelf Speakers
Ranked #4 of 130 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - GR-Research NX-Studio: $3630 per pair Gr-research eBay
Pros: Ultra clean burst decay/waterfall plot. Amazingly open sounding due to the semi open baffle Neo3 ribbon tweeter, will image better than any other bookshelf speaker. Neo3 ribbon tweeter is one of the best ribbons around for detail. Bass will be very tight and fast due to the sealed enclosure, but may possibly need a sub.
Cons: Bass will be very tight but won’t be quite as deep as others due to the sealed woofer enclosure.
Full GR-Research NX-Studio review and specifications →
| DIY Kit | Yes |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 18"H x 8.5"W x 15.5"D (457.2 x 215.9 x 393.7 mm) |
| Drivers | GR-Research M165NQ 6.5" paper cone, non-resonant polymer frame, copper shorting rings and aluminum phase plug sealed enclosure woofer, GR-Research Neo3 Planar Magnetic Ribbon open baffle tweeter |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 87dB |
| Weight | 20.5 lbs (9.3 kg) each |
| Woofer Cabinet | sealed |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs KEF Reference 1 Meta
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs March Audio Sointuva AWG
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs Perlisten S4b
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs AsciLab C6B
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs Audio First Cadentia 3
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs KEF R3 Meta
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs KEF Q Concerto Meta
- GR-Research NX-Studio vs Wharfedale Aura 2
- See all 49 comparisons
Ranked #14 of 130 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - DIYSG HTM-12 v2: $920 per pair per kit DIY Sound Group eBay
Pros: Purpose-built high-output cinema kit pairing a 12-inch woofer with a compression driver in a large SEOS waveguide. Erin measured 91dB/2.83V/1m sensitivity, extraordinarily low distortion (still below 1% to about 60Hz at 102dB) and only about 0.5dB tweeter compression at the same level. Horizontal directivity is consistent and crossover integration is unusually good, so response corrections remain EQ-friendly. The benign impedance curve can be driven by many capable AVRs. Measured bass extension of 67Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 91dB.
Cons: Erin measured F3 at approximately 67Hz, the normal efficiency/bass-extension tradeoff of a high-sensitivity 12-inch design, so a subwoofer is mandatory. A few narrow resonances appear in the response, impedance and decay plots; Erin suggested crossover/component investigation could improve them. Vertical radiation narrows around the crossover, the unfinished kit requires cabinet assembly and finishing, and its broad baffle is visually and physically substantial.
Full DIYSG HTM-12 v2 review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 45Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 67Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 25"H x 18"W x 9.5"D (635 x 457.2 x 241.3 mm) |
| Drivers | 12" woofer; compression driver in SEOS waveguide |
| Impedance | AVR-compatible impedance profile (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Sensitivity | 91dB/2.83V/1m (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.41 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.02 |
| Weight | 39.9 lbs (18.1 kg) assembled |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
Ranked #25 of 130 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - GR-Research NX-Bravo: $1540 per pair kit with finished cabinets (assembly required) Gr-research eBay
Pros: Vertical dispersion is unusually wide for a two-way bookshelf: tonal matching holds from about 50° above the tweeter axis down to 20° below it, well beyond the roughly ±10-20° typical of most two-ways. Horizontal dispersion is also wide at about ±70° through the midrange, widening further when toed out, so sidewall acoustic treatment isn’t really necessary. Burst decay is extremely clean with essentially no ringing - the reviewer compared it favorably to a $13,000/pair speaker that showed significant ringing at 120Hz and 500Hz. A deliberate dip around 7kHz reduces sibilance while the 1-4kHz upper-midrange stays neutral, so the sound doesn’t come across as laid-back or recessed. Easy to drive electrically, with a 5-ohm minimum impedance and 2.5-ohm minimum EPDR. Available from $700 as a kit up to about $2,500 fully finished, with the option of the designer’s flush-mount tube/banana-plug terminals for a cleaner look. Measured bass extension of 77Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 84.8dB.
Cons: Pointed straight on-axis there’s a deliberate ~5dB high-frequency bump meant to compensate for narrowing dispersion off-axis; it needs about 15° of toe-out (aimed to cross behind the listener) to sound balanced, which won’t suit every room layout. Higher-than-normal high-frequency distortion becomes audible in sine-sweep testing at higher output, and multitone distortion crosses the reviewer’s 3% threshold around 96dB, making roughly 88dB the safer output ceiling. SPL-limited by the manufacturer’s own admission - not intended for loud, full-range playback and best paired with a subwoofer, as with most two-way bookshelf designs. F3 of 77Hz and F10 of 45Hz mean bass only reaches about 50-60Hz in-room. A minor enclosure or port resonance shows up in the frequency response (though not in burst decay), likely a non-issue but visible in measurements. Adding a subwoofer reduces midrange distortion but doesn’t address the elevated high-frequency distortion.
Full GR-Research NX-Bravo review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 45Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 77Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 14"H x 7.5"W x 11.5"D (355.6 x 190.5 x 292.1 mm) |
| Drivers | GR-Research M165 6.5" paper cone, non-resonant polymer frame woofer, GR-Research Neo3 Planar Magnetic Ribbon deep rear cup tweeter |
| Impedance | 6 ohms nominal, 5 ohms minimum (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Sensitivity | 84.8dB (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 4.33 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 6.67 |
| Weight | 16.1 lbs (7.3 kg) each |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs Wharfedale Linton 85
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs MoFi SourcePoint 8
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs KEF Q Concerto Meta
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs KEF R3 Meta
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs ELAC Debut 3.0 DB63
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs AsciLab C6B
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs March Audio Sointuva AWG
- GR-Research NX-Bravo vs Klipsch RP-600M II
Ranked #61 of 130 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod: $364.99 per pair for the kit (assembly required) Amazon eBay
Pros: CEA2034 spinorama shows a mostly smooth on-axis response for a DIY three-way kit. Horizontal beamwidth of about ±70 degrees is wide and consistent. Distortion stays under control down to 40Hz at 96dB SPL/1m, a strong result for a 6.5” woofer in this class. Measured bass extension of 60Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 86.5dB.
Cons: Some directivity error appears around 2.1kHz on-axis. Predicted in-room response needs about 1-2dB of correction to fit an ideal target curve. Vertical directivity is just okay, so listening height matters more than with a coincident design. Minimum impedance dips to 3.8 ohms with several peaks, a moderately demanding load. Requires DIY assembly (kit only), with additional Sehlin-mod parts and labor beyond the base kit price.
Full HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 38Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 60Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 16.5"H x 8.5"W x 13"D (420.0 x 215.0 x 330.0 mm) |
| Drivers | 6.5" Kevlar woofer, 2" Dome midrange, 1" Soft Dome tweeter |
| Impedance | 4 ohms nominal, 3.8 ohms minimum (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Sensitivity | 86.5dB (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 5.8 (derived from ASR thread measurement data) |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.6 (derived from ASR thread measurement data) |
| Weight | 13.7 lbs (6.2 kg) |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, rear |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs Klipsch RP-600M II
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs ELAC Debut 3.0 DB63
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs GR-Research X-LS Encore
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs Polk Monitor XT20
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs MoFi SourcePoint 10
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs KEF Q Concerto Meta
- HiVi Swans 3.1A Sehlin Sound Solutions mod vs KEF R3 Meta
- See all 11 comparisons
Ranked #83 of 130 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - GR-Research X-LS Encore: $1300 per pair Gr-research eBay
Pros: An amazing value, especially if you managed to snag one of these built by AV123 in the early 2000s for $200-300. CEA2034 spinorama shows a generally flat on-axis response, especially in the listening window. Predicted in-room response is generally smooth and on-target. Distortion at 86dB SPL/1m is pretty clean above 200Hz. Measured bass extension of 64Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 84.4dB.
Cons: A slight depression in the upper bass and some peaking in the lower bass shows up on-axis, along with directivity error in the crossover region. Vertical directivity requires staying within about 20 degrees of the tweeter axis. At 96dB SPL/1m distortion becomes “rather unhappy,” with bass distortion, a possible woofer issue around 2kHz, and a tweeter problem above 7kHz. As a DIY kit, it requires building the cabinet and crossover yourself.
Full GR-Research X-LS Encore review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 44Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 64Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 13.5"H x 8.5"W x 12.1"D (342.9 x 215.9 x 308 mm) |
| Drivers | 6.5" Peerless M-165 paper composite cone, non-resonant polymer frame woofer, 1" Peerless India T26SG tweeter |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 84.4dB (measured by Audio Science Review; 87dB manufacturer specified) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 5.05 (measured, spinorama.org) |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.42 (measured, spinorama.org) |
| Weight | 17 lbs (7.7 kg) each |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs Dynaudio Special Forty
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs Mission LX-3 MKII
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs SVS Prime Bookshelf
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs KEF Q3 Meta
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs Polk Monitor XT20
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs Philharmonic BMR Monitor
- GR-Research X-LS Encore vs Sonus Faber Lumina II
- See all 48 comparisons
Ranked #97 of 130 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers - DIYSG HT-10: $496 per pair DIY Sound Group eBay
Pros: A distinct kit design from DIY Sound Group’s HTM-12 v2, a 10” ported LCR/surround box built around a Celestion woofer and compression tweeter. Sound-power smoothness of 0.197 is solid for a budget DIY kit. Measured bass extension of 73.4Hz (-3dB), with a measured sensitivity of 91.3dB.
Cons: On-axis deviation of 0.537dB is rough, with a pronounced -0.43dB per octave downward tilt giving it a notably dark tonal character, a somewhat resonant bass-alignment Q of 1.76, and the Harman in-room bass extension estimate is a modest 56Hz for a 10” woofer. It ships as a flat-pack cabinet kit requiring assembly, sold in a minimum order of two units.
Full DIYSG HT-10 review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 73.4Hz (measured, spinorama.org) |
|---|---|
| Country | United States (kit design) |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 15W x 19.5H x 9D in |
| Drivers | Celestion TF1020 10" woofer, Celestion CDX1-1445DA compression tweeter |
| Enclosure | Ported, MDF flat-pack cabinet kit |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 91.3dB (measured average 300Hz-3kHz @ 2.83V/1m, spinorama.org); 95dB manufacturer specified |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 3.39 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.94 |
| Weight | approx. 28 lbs (12.7 kg) assembled |
- Links
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- Head-to-Head Comparisons
Large Size Floorstanding Speakers
Ranked #1 of 71 in Large Size Floorstanding Speakers - GR-Research NX-Treme: $9662 per pair for the kit with subs (assembly required) Gr-research eBay
Pros: Amazing in terms of soundstage and imaging as the speaker can radiate in all directions and not have internal reflections due to there not being a speaker box. One of the highest sensitivity speakers around. Open baffle mids, highs and bass (using GR-Research Open baffle subs). If you have not heard open baffle bass, you must hear it in person, there’s no going back. Amazing in terms of imaging as the speaker can radiate in all directions and not have internal reflections due to there not being a speaker box. Can easily be driven by tube amps due to the mild impedance. Measured bass extension of <20Hz (-3dB).
Cons: Very tall and will require GR-Research open baffle subwoofers one on each side
Full GR-Research NX-Treme review and specifications →
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | <20Hz (With GR-Research open baffle subwoofers) |
|---|---|
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Dimensions | 85"H x 17"W x 20"D (2159 x 431.8 x 508 mm) (plus a subwoofer on each side) |
| Drivers | Eight 6.5" M165 open baffle woofer, Two 6.5" M165NQ open baffle midrange, GR Neo 3 Magnetic planar open baffle tweeter; Three 12-inch Rythmik Audio servo-controlled subwoofers; Three 12-inch Rythmik Audio servo-controlled subwoofers; Three 12-inch Rythmik Audio servo-controlled subwoofers; Three 12-inch Rythmik Audio servo-controlled subwoofers |
| Impedance | 8 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 94.5dB |
| Weight | (35.3 lbs (16 kg)) |
| Woofer Cabinet | open baffle |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- No independent measurement review is linked for this model; it is ranked from hands-on listening and comparison against similarly priced speakers.
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs KEF Blade Two Meta
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs MoFi SourcePoint V10 Master Edition
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs MoFi SourcePoint 888
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs Revel F328Be
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs JBL Studio 698
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs Revel Concerta2 F35
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs Klipsch Forte IV
- GR-Research NX-Treme vs Polk T50
Ranked #37 of 71 in Large Size Floorstanding Speakers - Linkwitz Lab LXmini: $610.00 per pair Madisound LXmini Kit eBay
Pros: Open-baffle/dipole upper driver and cylindrical woofer enclosure create a very large, open soundstage with unusually little cabinet signature. Erin praised the stable, well-controlled directivity: despite using a nominal full-range upper driver, off-axis response retains composure beyond its beaming region and the directivity index is smooth enough for reliable DSP voicing. Imaging can be precisely adjusted through placement and toe angle. Erin measured F3 at 50Hz and F10 at 33Hz, impressive for the narrow footprint, and found the system satisfying for much music without a subwoofer. The supplied miniDSP configuration is readily editable; broad shelf correction near 550Hz and a handful of narrow filters can make the response substantially more linear. The kit is mechanically simple, highly customizable and based on well-documented Linkwitz engineering. Measured bass extension of 50Hz (-3dB).
Cons: This is not a conventional passive pair: it requires a construction-plan license, assembly, miniDSP, four matched amplifier channels and careful gain/setup work, so the apparent kit price is not the complete system cost. Output below about 50Hz lacks kick-drum weight and benefits from subwoofers. Erin found rising second-order distortion near 1.5kHz on both samples, accompanied by an impedance blip that may indicate an enclosure reflection or driver-compliance effect. At high output the system behaves as if electronically limited even with miniDSP limiting bypassed, reducing bass and subjective dynamics. Default voicing is less linear than expected, with irregularities above roughly 2kHz, though its controlled directivity makes these correctable. Dipole rear radiation demands meaningful distance from the front wall and makes placement less flexible than a box speaker.
Full Linkwitz Lab LXmini review and specifications →
| Amplifier Power | Four channels, 50W/channel minimum with identical voltage gain |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 33Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 50Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Crossover Frequency | 700Hz LR2, active DSP |
| DIY Kit | Yes |
| Drivers | 6.5" SEAS woofer in sealed tube, 4" SEAS full-range dipole driver |
| Impedance | 4 ohms upper driver / 8 ohms woofer nominal (separate actively bi-amplified loads; manufacturer specified) |
| Sensitivity | 85dB upper driver / 87dB woofer @ 1W/1m (individual driver specifications; complete active-DSP system sensitivity is not directly specified) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 3.89 (measured, spinorama.org) |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 5.77 (measured, spinorama.org) |
| Woofer Cabinet | sealed cylindrical enclosure; open-baffle upper driver |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons