Bookshelf Speakers - Linn
Bookshelf speakers, or standmount speakers, are an excellent alternative to floorstanding speakers for smaller rooms or those wanting something smaller. In many cases, they are an excellent choice for accurate sound and many studios use bookshelf sized speakers for monitoring.
We prefer to call them "stand mount" rather than "bookshelf" as they generally sound better on dedicated speaker stands which prevent a "boomy" sound in smaller spaces. You can control bass response by choice of stands. All speakers here are passive and require a suitable hi-fi amplifier. While we usually recommend this type of system (hi-fi separates and passive speakers) for the very best sound quality, we also sell excellent wireless and active speakers. Prices include free mainland UK delivery and full 30 day money back guarantee if you change your mind, so buy with confidence.
Linn is an iconic hi-fi manufacturer. Their current range spans from mid-level Majik systems, through to high-end Akurate and Selekt, to flagship Klimax systems along with the iconic LP12 turntable and a variety of upgrades for enhanced music. For more info on the current range, see our Linn range guide or contact us for advice.
Founded in 1973, Linn all began with one very special product - Linn's debut - that turns heads and ears to this very day: the Linn Sondek LP12 turntable. A product so perfect, very little has changed about it in over 40 years. Linn have carried the same principles and methods of design and manufacture with them throughout, and their products are produced to the same high standards as the turntable that still outsells its competitors.
Linn now produce a range of power amplifiers, digital network streamers and loudspeakers all categorised in to entry level Majik and Selekt, mid-level Akurate or flagship Klimax series to suit your budget and personal taste. The range also includes digital crossovers and power supplies and in-wall or in-ceiling speakers.
Founder Ivor Tiefenbrun was unsatisfied with the performance of a hi-fi system that he had purchased in Glasgow in the very early 70s. Upon experimenting, he came to the conclusion that the sound produced by the turntable was being affected by sound pressure variations within the loudspeakers.
He worked as an engineer for his father at the time, and with his help alongside a few of their colleagues, they crafted a precision engineered LP record playing turntable that was immune to acoustic feedback from loudspeakers. This was the Linn Sondek LP12, and with it was born the now widely accepted 'source-first' notion.
The 'source-first' notion was a challenge to the conventional wisdom of the day, which held that the loudspeaker was the most important part of the hi-fi system, rather than the individual components making up the system. Fast forward to the present day and Linn are still masters of source-first.
To this end, they now produce and manufacture their own music under the record company aptly named 'Linn Records'! They understand that good music is the key to good hi-fi and carry this to the core, with hi-fi designed to deliver the best quality music the very best possible way.
Click the banner above to view our guide to Linn's product ranges or if you are an existing LP12 owner, find out how we can help service and upgrade your Linn LP12.
Traditionally, floorstanding loudspeakers are considered the ultimate to Hi-Fi with bookshelf speakers being largely perceived as too lightweight or compact to compete with their larger counterparts. However, the past 20 years has seen a drastic improvement in manufacturing and miniaturisation techniques so these standmount speakers can compete with floorstanders adding their own advantages as well.
Bookshelf speakers typically have more attack and rhythm than floorstanding models so they are more suited to complex tracks and rhythmic music. This is often viewed as a compromise between the weight and dynamics of a floorstanding speaker and the musicality possible with a bookshelf speaker.
Driver design and material is crucial when selecting a bookshelf speaker. There are various driver materials from Kevlar to paper – the top distinction being metallic or non-metallic drivers. A metal driver, typically aluminium, benefits from accuracy and precision. However, some listeners may describe this as "bright" or "analytical". Non-metallic drivers generally feature more engaging musicality and warmth at the expense of the absolute precision of a metal driver.
Tweeter design also hugely impacts the sound signature. Typically, entry-level and mid-range models incorporate a dome-shaped tweeter while higher-end speakers use a ribbon tweeter incorporating a diaphragm of stretched metallic ribbon. This delivers more lucid and broadly-dispersed highs, for better imaging and soundstage.
Most configurations employ a main bass/mid frequency driver paired with a separate tweeter handling high frequencies. However, some manufacturers choose to house the tweeter in the centre of the main driver to improve dispersion and imaging and make positioning easier and more versatile.
Dedicated speaker stand are ideal to position bookshelf speakers at the optimal listening height with the tweeters at ear level from the usual seating position. This achieves best imaging and ensures coherency and integration between the woofer and tweeter. They also add weight and authority to enhance bass extension. Many stands are fillable, letting you add weight and mass to further tweak the bass performance of your speakers. Base spikes ensure isolation from the floor and stop unwanted resonance from degrading the sound of your speakers.
Don't forget to buy a suitable pair of speaker stands and a good speaker cable as well! Call or e-mail us if you need any further help in choosing your new pair of speakers.
Bookshelf Speakers - Linn
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