10 Best Stereo Speakers 2026 in the United States

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound 2 (3rd Generation) is a stylish tabletop stereo speaker designed for those who want premium sound spread evenly around a room. Its 360-degree sound feature means you don’t have to sit directly in front of it to enjoy balanced audio, which is great if you move around or have a larger space. The speaker uses a 5.25-inch dynamic driver, delivering clear and powerful sound, complemented by a solid 60-watt output for most home listening situations.

It connects easily via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2, making it convenient for streaming from phones or tablets and integrating into multiroom setups. The accompanying Bang & Olufsen app adds useful controls like customized sound profiles and alarms, which is a bonus for those who enjoy tweaking audio settings.

The speaker offers a premium build with aluminum and metal, weighing 9 pounds, and is intended for indoor use on a stable surface since it is not water-resistant. The price and rank indicate it is a niche, luxury option rather than a budget-friendly choice. For those seeking a high-end, beautifully crafted speaker with rich sound and smart multiroom capabilities, the Beosound 2 is a compelling option. It suits adults who prioritize design, ease of streaming, and ambient sound coverage in their living spaces.

The PreSonus Eris 3.5 studio monitors are compact, powered speakers designed mainly for near-field music production and desktop listening. They offer a clear and accurate sound with a surprisingly strong bass for their size, thanks to their woven-composite 3.5-inch woofers and silk-dome tweeters. With 50 watts of power (25W each side), these monitors can deliver enough volume for small rooms without distorting the sound. The frequency response goes up to 20 kHz, which covers typical audio needs, though very deep bass might be limited without an added subwoofer.

Impressively, you can adjust the sound to fit your room or setup using the built-in tuning controls, which is helpful if your speakers are on a desk or bookshelf. Connectivity is flexible with balanced ¼-inch inputs for professional gear, unbalanced RCA, and a convenient front aux input for phones. A headphone output on the front is also a nice touch for private listening. One limitation is the relatively small driver size, meaning these monitors are best suited for close listening rather than filling large spaces with sound. For more bass, you’d need to add the optional Eris Sub 8BT subwoofer. The power-saving mode is a practical feature to reduce energy use when idle.

These speakers are well suited for hobbyist musicians, podcasters, or anyone wanting decent, accurate sound on a desk without requiring a high-end studio setup.

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound A9 (5th Generation) is a stylish and powerful stereo speaker that excels in delivering room-filling sound, thanks to its seven drivers. One of its standout features is Active Room Compensation, which helps optimize sound based on the speaker's placement in your room, ensuring a tailored listening experience. This speaker is designed not only for impressive audio performance but also for aesthetics, making it an attractive addition to any home.

In terms of connectivity, it supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing for easy streaming from various devices. The Bang & Olufsen app enhances user experience, offering customization options like sound profiles and playback controls. Additionally, it supports multi-room audio, meaning you can connect it with other Bang & Olufsen speakers for a more expansive sound setup.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The speaker is quite heavy at 32.4 pounds, making it less portable compared to smaller options. While it offers a robust sound experience, it may not suit casual listeners who are looking for something less sophisticated or more straightforward. The price point, typical for Bang & Olufsen products, might be higher than what some users are willing to spend on a speaker.

Lastly, the Beosound A9 is not water-resistant, which limits its use in outdoor settings or areas where spills might occur. It's best suited for home audio, small events, or for those who appreciate high-quality sound in an elegant design. If you're looking for a premium speaker with advanced features and don't mind the price tag, this could be a great fit for your audio needs.