Learn the pros and cons of each before making a final decision

The quality of active versus passive speakers for two-channel audio systems is a long-running debate among passionate audiophiles. And like most debates over the performance assessment of one type of speaker compared to another, there is no “right” answer.

The best type of speaker for your Morris County, NJ, home audio system depends on many factors, including space constraints, music preferences, and specific system needs. Let’s look at the pros, cons, and best-practice usages for active and passive hi-fi speakers.

SEE ALSO: 2 Hi-Fi Speaker Types for High Performance Audio Systems

 

Active Speakers

An active speaker is one with built-in amplification that doesn’t require an external preamp/power amp or integrated amplifier to drive sound. Already, this brings up an excellent use case for active speakers: they’re a great choice if you have space constraints and don’t have enough room to add an amplifier to the mix.

A well-designed set of active speakers will deliver excellent audio performance in your home. One advantage active speakers have over passive ones is the internal crossover network. The crossover network splits audio signals and sends them to the appropriate drivers — the woofer, midrange, or tweeter. Active crossovers have better precision and signal control than passive crossovers, resulting in less loss and distortion. In recent years, active speakers with wireless capabilities and digital signal processing (DSP) have made them a quality choice for simple home audio setups.

Another benefit is that the drivers, crossover, amplifiers, and other internal components are all designed to work together, thus eliminating problems that occur when an external amp under or overpowers a set of passive speakers.

On the other hand, active speakers are much less upgradeable than passive speakers. There’s no mixing and matching new speakers and amps when you’re ready to upgrade your system — the speaker and amplification are a package deal and upgrading means starting over from scratch. Finally, active speakers are heavier and require more wiring per speaker.

Passive Speakers

A passive speaker does not have internal amplification. A system using passive speakers requires a preamp/power amp or integrated amplifier to drive sound. Traditional two-channel systems are frequently designed with a high-quality set of passive speakers and external amplification.

Passive speakers are far more common than active ones and are available in various sizes and styles. Additionally, you have the freedom and flexibility to mix and match speakers, preamps, and power amps to find a system that best fits your need. Upgrading a passive speaker system is easier because you can upgrade each component separately over time. Additionally, passive speakers are more lightweight and require less cabling to set up.

Hi-fi separates systems have been the staple of two-channel audio for decades. Leading speaker brands like Bowers & Wilkins, McIntosh, and Magico have proven performance records for delivering the most dynamic and clean high-fidelity sound that the industry has to offer.

Demo Hi-Fi Speakers in Our State-of-the-Art Showroom

Still not sure which type of speaker is the best choice for your two-channel audio system? Come to our showroom and demo a selection of hi-fi speakers for yourself. We sell a range of active speaker models from Meridian and passive models from brands like Magico and Bowers & Wilkins. Bring your favorite music source and let your ears guide you to the right choice for your home.

Call, fill out an online form, or start a live chat below to connect with our team and schedule a showroom visit. We look forward to hearing from you soon!