10 Best Stereo Speakers 2025 in the United States

The Sonos Era 300 is a modern and feature-rich wireless smart speaker designed for those who value high-quality sound. It is equipped with six strategically positioned drivers that support Dolby Atmos, providing an immersive audio experience with sound projected in all directions, including overhead. This makes it ideal for users who enjoy spatial audio and a well-rounded soundstage. The custom waveguides further enhance the stereo sound, allowing it to fill the room effectively.

The speaker offers flexibility with connectivity options, including WiFi, Bluetooth, and auxiliary input, making it versatile for various audio sources. Its power handling capability of 300 watts is impressive, ensuring robust performance for most listening environments.

The use of polycarbonate for the cabinet design likely contributes to its durability, though it might not offer the same acoustic benefits as wooden cabinets. At nearly 10 pounds and a relatively compact size, it is a bit heavy for a tabletop speaker but still manageable. Its integration with Alexa and Sonos Voice Control adds convenience for hands-free operation, and regular software updates ensure it stays current with new features. Users seeking a sleek, powerful, and immersive smart speaker with extensive connectivity options will find the Sonos Era 300 appealing.

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 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.