Powered speakers (also called active speakers) have a built-in amplifier, so you can connect your turntable directly — no separate amp required. They're the simplest, most space-efficient way to complete a vinyl setup.
We focused on speakers that pair well with turntables: warm tonal balance that complements vinyl's analog character, enough bass for music listening, and clean midrange for vocals. Every pick on this list has been tested with vinyl playback.
Edifier R1280T
$99–$119The most popular budget powered speakers for a reason. Warm, full sound that flatters vinyl playback. Dual RCA inputs let you connect a turntable and a second source. Remote control included.
Why We Recommend It
- 42W total power — fills a room easily
- Dual RCA inputs for two sources
- Side-panel bass and treble controls for fine-tuning
- Remote control for volume and mute
- Compact 6.9-inch height fits any shelf
Kanto YU4
$299–$349A serious step up with a built-in phono preamp — connect a turntable directly without any extra equipment. Bluetooth support, USB input, and a surprisingly powerful bass response make these incredibly versatile.
Why We Recommend It
- Built-in phono preamp — plug turntable in directly
- Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless streaming when not spinning vinyl
- 4-inch Kevlar drivers for punchy, detailed sound
- Subwoofer output for adding bass later
- USB, optical, and RCA inputs for maximum flexibility
Audioengine A2+
$269–$299Compact desktop speakers with audiophile-grade sound. The A2+ packs remarkable clarity and imaging into a tiny footprint. Perfect for near-field listening at a desk or in a small room.
Why We Recommend It
- Custom aramid fiber woofers and silk dome tweeters
- Built-in DAC for USB digital audio input
- Incredibly compact — fits on any desk or shelf
- Hand-built with premium components
- Available in satin black, high-gloss white, and red
Klipsch The Fives
$499–$549High-end powered speakers with Klipsch's signature horn-loaded tweeter technology. These deliver the dynamics and detail that make vinyl records truly sing. Built-in phono preamp, HDMI ARC, and multiple inputs make them a complete audio hub.
Why We Recommend It
- Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter for incredible clarity and dynamics
- Built-in phono preamp for direct turntable connection
- HDMI ARC for TV audio — doubles as a home theater system
- 160W total power — serious volume and headroom
- Removable magnetic grilles for a clean look
Matching Speakers to Your Turntable
If your turntable has a built-in phono preamp (like the AT-LP120X or AT-LP60X), any powered speaker with RCA input works. If your turntable does NOT have a built-in preamp, either buy a separate phono preamp ($30–$100) or choose speakers with a built-in phono stage (like the Kanto YU4 or Klipsch The Fives).
For room size, 4-inch drivers (like the Kanto YU4 and Audioengine A2+) are perfect for bedrooms and offices. 5-inch+ drivers (like the Klipsch The Fives) fill larger living rooms. If you need more bass, look for speakers with a subwoofer output to add a sub later.
Our Verdict
For most vinyl beginners, the Edifier R1280T at ~$100 is the best value. Pair it with any turntable that has a phono preamp and you're done. If you want a premium one-box solution, the Kanto YU4 with its built-in phono preamp eliminates extra equipment entirely.
Great speakers reveal what your records are really capable of. Once you hear your favorite album through proper speakers instead of earbuds, you'll understand why people love vinyl.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect a turntable directly to powered speakers?
Only if you have a phono preamp somewhere in the chain. Either your turntable has a built-in preamp (check for a 'phono/line' switch on the back), your speakers have one (Kanto YU4, Klipsch The Fives), or you need a standalone phono preamp between the turntable and speakers.
Do I need a subwoofer?
For most music in a normal-sized room, no. Good bookshelf speakers produce enough bass for enjoyable listening. A subwoofer is a nice upgrade for bass-heavy genres (hip-hop, electronic, metal) or larger rooms, but it's not essential to start.