The 10 Best 2 Way Speakers Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Polk Audio RC80i 2-way Premium In-Ceiling 8" Round Speakers
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Polk Audio RC80i 2-way Premium In-Ceiling 8" Round Speakers

Polk Audio's RC80i 2-way Premium In-Ceiling 8" Round Speakers will bring out the best in your music. With a Mineral-filled polymer cone and strong composite driver baskets, these speakers are designed to provide a wider dispersion for even sound coverage. Read Review

2. Best Powerful: PRORECK Party 12 12-Inch 1000 Watts 2-Way Powered PA Speaker System

The PRORECK Party 12 is a powerful, great-sounding PA system that you can use for any occasion. With 1000 watts of power, this system is ideal for medium-sized venues with a capacity of up to 500 people. And it includes a built-in 35-mm speaker stand and 2 transport wheels for easy mobility. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: Polk Audio RC65i 2-way Premium In-Wall 6.5" Speakers

The Polk Audio RC65i in-wall speakers are designed to deliver clear and powerful sound in a space-saving way. The speakers are made of high quality materials and offer two ways: they can be paired with our RTI series speakers for seamless imaging, or they can be added to your existing home theater system. Read Review

4. Best Versatile: Yamaha NSIC800WH 140-Watts 2-Way RMS Speaker

The Yamaha NSIC800WH 140-Watt 2-Way Speaker is a high sound quality speaker with a unique design. With magnetic grilles, this in-ceiling speaker system can be paintable, and easy to install. The Crossover Type-2-way and Maximum Frequency Response-28 kHz make the speakers ideal for use in many locations including homes, offices, and more. Read Review

When it comes to getting the best performance from your home audio system, speakers are one of the most important components. However, traditional speakers operate as unidirectional devices that only transmit sound in one direction. That’s why many users opt for two-way speakers, which combine a woofer and a tweeter in the same housing to transmit sound in two different directions: up and down.

These versatile speaker systems can be used for both home theater setups and stand-alone listening areas. Given their more complex design, two-way speakers tend to be more expensive than their unidirectional counterparts. To help you pick the right model for your setup and budget, we’ve compiled this list of some of the best 2 way speakers on the market today.

The Polk Audio RC80i 2-way Premium In-Ceiling 8" Round Speakers is aimed to bring you a more balanced and lifelike sound. With an 8" Dynamic Balance woofer and a 1" aimable tweeter, these speakers bring out the best in your music. With mineral-filled polymer cones and strong composite driver baskets, these speakers offer wide dispersion for even sound coverage.

Polk has been committed to quality for over 50 years and is one of the most trusted brands for speakers and home audio. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

  • OUT OF THE BOX & RECESSED INTO THE CEILING - no mess, no extra assembly - in 3 simple steps QUICKLY & EASILY INSTALL these speakers. Leave the paintable aluminum grilles as is or spray paint to MATCH YOUR EXISTING INTERIOR and virtually make them disappear
  • THE RUBBER SEAL DRIVES better response and PREVENTS MOISTURE ACCESS, a key feature for USE IN A BATHROOM, KITCHEN, SAUNA AND COVERED PORCH
  • Polk's UNWAVERING COMMITMENT, RELIABILITY, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP, has made it one of the most trusted names in home audio speakers and entertainment systems. They bring out the BEST IN TECHNOLOGY, so you can SIT BACK, RELAX AND LISTEN WITH YOUR HEART!
  • GET SEAMLESS AUDIO QUALITY & POLK'S EXCELLENT SOUND REPRODUCTION with these timbre-matched overhead speakers that elevate the sound quality. ADD TO YOUR EXISTING HOME THEATER SETUP or build your own Polk collection for THE SAME GREAT POLK SOUND EVERYWHERE
  • EXPERIENCE MORE BALANCED & LIFELIKE SOUND – Features an 8" Dynamic Balance woofer & a 1" aimable tweeter for more depth & detail in your music. Mineral-filled polymer cone & strong composite driver baskets create wider dispersion for EVEN-SOUND COVERAGE
  • Portable 12-Inch 1000 Watt 2-Way Powered Dj/PA Speaker System with Bluetooth /USB/SD Card Reader/ FM Radio Functions
  • Package Dimensions: 30” × 12” × 30” (W x D x H) ; Package Weight: 60 lbs
  • XLR and 1/4'' Mic Inputs for balanced and unbalanced microphones ; RCA Line Input and RCA Line Output; Speakon output; 115 V/230 V power selector
  • 150-Watt RMS,1000 Watts Peak; 12" Woofer and Compression Driver with 1.35" Titanium Diaphragm; Digital LCD Screen; Master volume controls, Mic, Line, Tremble, Bass volume controls
  • Remote control included for easy operation; Integrated 35-mm speaker stand; 2 transport wheels for easy mobility
TOP Choice #3 Polk Audio RC65i 2-way Premium In-Wall 6.5" Speakers
Our Score:
9.5
Polk Audio
  • EXPERIENCE MORE BALANCED & LIFELIKE SOUND – Features 6.5" Dynamic Balance woofer & a 0.75" swivel-mount tweeter for added depth & detail. Mineral-filled polymer cone & strong composite driver baskets create wider dispersion for EVEN-SOUND COVERAGE
  • THE RUBBER SEAL DRIVES better response and PREVENTS MOISTURE ACCESS, a key feature for USE IN A BATHROOM, KITCHEN, SAUNA AND COVERED PORCH
  • OUT OF THE BOX AND RECESSED INTO THE WALL – Quickly and easily install these speakers in three simple steps. Features a paintable aluminum grille that comes in a powder-coated white shade; leave it as is or spray paint it to MATCH WITH YOUR DECOR
  • NEARLY 5 DECADES OF POLK's UNWAVERING COMMITMENT, RELIABILITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP - With our advanced technology, engineering, and innovation, we produce the BEST IN SOUND SYSTEMS AND SPEAKERS so you can SIT BACK, RELAX AND LISTEN WITH YOUR HEART
  • HEAR SEAMLESS AUDIO QUALITY AND POLK'S EXCELLENT SOUND REPRODUCTION with these timbre-matched discrete recessed speakers that elevate the sound quality, DELIVERING DEPTH OF MUSIC AND CLEAR, CRISP DIALOGUE
  • Pair with our RTI Series speakers for seamless imaging or ADD TO YOUR EXISTING HOME THEATER SYSTEM or build your own Polk collection, and enjoy the SAME GREAT POLK SURROUND SOUND EVERYWHERE
4 Yamaha NSIC800WH 140-Watts 2-Way RMS Speaker
Our Score:
9.4
Yamaha Audio
  • Sealed back cover protects against dust and moisture
  • Paintable grill and large mounting clamp
  • Driver Type-Dome; Crossover Frequency-3.50 kHz; Physical Characteristics-Diameter-10.9
  • Grain-finished acoustic baffle with spiral pattern for natural sound dispersion
  • Crossover Type-2-way; Maximum Frequency Response-28 kHz; Physical Characteristics-Color-White
  • Polypropylene mica cone woofer for high-performance mid/low sound reproduction
  • Input Power (Maximum / Nominal): 140W / 50W; Impedance-8 Ohm; Physical Characteristics-Depth-4.3
  • Slim profile design for flush in-celing or wall mounting
  • Fills medium-sized rooms with dynamic sound reproduction
  • Plays louder with less distortion than the competition
  • Enhanced 1" titanium Linear Travel Suspension horn-loaded tweeter
  • 5.25" high-output Cerametallic woofer
  • Accurate, non-fatiguing sound
  • Highly efficient design produces more output using less energy
  • Weight: 4.3 lbs each
  • Frequency response 45Hz to 24,000Hz
  • Yamaha High Quality, Durable And Incredible Sounding White, 8 inches Round, 4.3 Lbs Pair
  • Energy Star Certified
  • Sleek Design. 1 inch soft dome tweeter
  • Powder-coated grilles provide outstanding weatherproof properties
  • Simple design looks natural on a home exterior, on a patio or inside a room
  • Flexible installation options with supplied mounting brackets
  • Yamaha's advanced speaker design combines superior sound quality with excellent weatherproofing. Weatherproof cabinets that are drip, water and UV resistant.
  • Two-way bass reflex design: Powerful woofer delivers accurate mid/low frequency response; Balanced dome tweeter ensures clear high frequency response
  • WHAT’S INCLUDED: Pair of Audioengine P4 Passive Speakers, microfiber speaker bags, setup guide.
  • PREMIUM SPEAKERS THAT OUTPERFORM: The P4 Passive Speakers are beautifully designed to complement your home music system or computer desktop. Rated for 10-125W per channel, you can experience room-filling sound.
  • WARRANTY: Stellar US based customer support and 3 year product warranty is included. Based in Austin, TX, Audioengine has been changing the way people listen to music since 2005. We believe in the power of music and our passion is to inspire you to listen every day.
  • WORKS WITH: Most stereo receivers, integrated amps, tube amplifiers, and digital hybrid amplifiers. Looking for an amplifier to pair with? The Audioengine N22 stereo amplifier is designed to complement the P4s.
  • FEATURES: The P4 speakers feature a front-ported design and are constructed with custom Audioengine components. 4” aramid fiber woofers and 0.75” silk dome tweeters sit in precision-tuned and hand-crafted cabinets with gold-plated connectors.
  • No logo grills add to the minimal look and increases the “wife acceptance factor”.
  • DuPont Kevlar fiber cone drivers delivery clean bass reproduction, This lightweight transducer is a natural sound with significantly less distortion than conventional drivers.
  • Buy confidently with a 30-day money-back guarantee and our 1-year warranty.
  • Immerse yourself in airy detailed clarity with defined vocals and dialog from the pivoting titanium Silk dome tweeters of these installed speakers.
  • Enjoy caliber speakers as main home theater speakers and whole home house systems or add as Surrounds and immersive sound sources.
  • Model Number : TSF1634R
  • 200W 2 Way Full Range Car Audio Speakers
  • Impedance: 4-ohms
  • Full-Range Speaker(s)
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Tips Are Recommended To Recognize Which Of best 2 way speakers Will Satisfy You Most?

Some people are apprehensive about purchasing best 2 way speakers. Numerous factors must be addressed while making a significant purchase. Our market expertise will help you make the best decision as soon as possible.

The thing has been added to the list of products that have been subjected to technical testing and evaluation. Please keep the following points in mind:

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Size And Styling

All of these speakers can be used in a living room, den or bedroom. Our best computer speakers guide will help you find the right speaker for your needs. The speakers we selected were small enough that they could be placed on large shelves or credenzas, but large enough to provide enough bass to operate on their own.

Matching With The Right Components

Match speakers with the correct amplifiers or receivers to get best results. The range of power required to power each unit is usually specified by manufacturers. A speaker might require 30 to 100 watts to function well.
For performance reasons, it is best to stick with one brand of speaker if you are using surround sound or multichannel speakers. You may need to fine tune the mix-and match situation.

Connectivity

It is essential that the speaker has good connectivity. A Bluetooth speaker that supports NFC is a great option for all types of connectivity. This makes it compatible with any device and allows for easy connection, even at low speeds. An additional advantage would be a speaker with a wired connection, in addition to wireless connectivity.
You can connect a speaker via wired or wireless connectivity. An audio system that is wired would connect to the speakers where the sound comes from. A wireless subwoofer, on the other hand, will connect to speakers via Bluetooth or WiFi.

Types Of Speakers

You have many options when it comes to speakers. It can be overwhelming to choose from so many options. However, it is possible to narrow down your search by choosing the type of speaker you prefer.
There are many types of speakers, including floor-standing, bookcase, satellite, subwoofers, soundbar, portable and others. While some types, like on-wall speakers can be placed right away, others, such as in-ceiling or in-wall, may need special installations and/or fixtures, and are best plugged in within a few minutes. You have the option of wired or wireless speakers, as well as multi-channel surround sound or a stereo pair. Your personal preference should guide your decision.

Sensitivity

The speaker's sensitivities are a measurement of its effectiveness. Speakers with high sensitivity produce higher volume at given voltages. You can use this information to determine how large an amplifier is needed to power the speakers. The measurement can be expressed in decibels per 2.83V input. Example: "88dB/2.83V." You don't need a huge amplifier to drive speakers, but you do want at least 86dB. 88dB is better.

Sound Quality

The quality of sound is an individual judgment. Every person has different taste preferences, and what is great to one may not be for another. No one speaker is the best, but there are many that appeal to different ears.
Listen to as many speakers models as you can with the music you are familiar with when shopping. To get an idea of the speaker that interests you, bring along CDs and flash drives with digital music.
You can also evaluate speakers by listening to live music. You should find the music to be natural and enjoyable for long periods.

Power Handling

The power handling indicates how strong the speaker can withstand without causing damage. A speaker rated as "100W maximum" should not be considered dangerous if it is equipped with a 200-Watt amplifier. You won't likely put this much power in the speakers. A loudspeaker's damage is usually caused by a small amplifier that drives it too high. It is the loud-level distortion that causes the most damage.

FAQs

How Can You Improve Speaker Quality?

You can improve the quality of your speakers' sound by doing a few things. First, look around at the space where you listen. Moving a chair or couch could improve your listening experience. How about your speakers? You'll need to triangulate the seating arrangement to position you at the middle of the listening area, and your speakers pointed towards you.
Try placing your speakers on the ground. Instead, place them on shelves and speaker stands. Bookshelf speakers can often be matched with your height while seated.

Do Higher Watt Speakers Sound Better?

Not necessarily. There are some high-wattage speakers out there that sound amazing and pack a lot of power, but the majority of people will be happy with 50-watt bookshelf speakers. These speakers focus on engineering and design more than just pure power.

How Many Watts Is A Good Speaker?

The term "wattage" does not necessarily mean quality. It is simply a measurement of the power that a speaker can produce. A 1,000-watt speaker might be louder that a 100-watt one, but what matters most is how the engineer built the speaker. This includes everything, from the cabinet, drivers and woofers, to the tweeter.

Do I Need A Subwoofer With My Speaker Setup? Will It Come With One?

It all depends. It depends on where you live. If not specified, most speakers don't come with subwoofers. However, soundbars usually do.

Will Speakers Work With Any Receiver?

Although technically yes, you will need to match the impedance. You might also want to invest in a bigger, stronger amplifier to support larger speakers. It is better to have more power than less, but you should be cautious to not damage the speakers.

What Features Do The Best Overall Speakers Offer?

This all depends on your needs. Consider a portable, great-sounding speaker. Look for something that is weather-proof and can connect to multiple sources (e.g. Bluetooth, Wi Fi, auxiliary). You will also need plenty of power for times when you can't access a charger. You should consider features such as wattage and resistance. It's not a good idea to have a set of high-end hi-fi speakers which are difficult to blend in with your home.

Will Speakers Accept A 3.5mm Input?

Most speakers have a 3.5mm input. Many amplifiers and receivers have an RCA input. However, you can connect a 3.5mm source with an adapter.

 

 


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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.