Best Center Channel Speaker For Dialogue
Usually, most audio enthusiast newbies will settle for surround speakers that are in 2.1 setups for their home theatre. In most cases, this type of sound system will be perfect for getting an immersive audio listening experience.
But did you know that the whole setup is incomplete without the center speaker? Did you know that you can not get a detailed audio-listening experience on movies and TV shows without a good center channel speaker? It’s true!
If you pair up the best center channel speaker for dialogue with your surround sound system, you can take the home theatre setup to the next level. Yes, we know that not all of them are the same. But, if you stick till the end, it will be easy to get a quality center channel speaker that will blow you away with crystal clear audio
Best Center Channel Speakers Reviews
We checked out the sound quality of the top-rated enter channel speakers available in the market. And among them, these are the ones that shined the most when it comes to sound quality, vocal clarity, and offering neutral sound signature:
1. Polk Audio Signature Elite ES35
Whenever the thought of buying center channel speakers goes through the back of the mind of audio enthusiasts, the Polk Audio Signature series offerings stay on top. And these center channel speakers get a high priority for a very good reason. Let us explain with the ES35 center channel speaker.
The Polk Audio Signature Series ES35 is genuinely designed to deliver. This center channel speaker has got all it takes to reside among the best center channel speakers for dialogue. It is exceptionally versatile and is compatible with 9.1, 7.1, 5.1, 3.1, 2.1, and 2.0 setups.
Apart from being compatible with each popular audio setup, the ES35 center channel speaker has got an ultra-slim housing. With strikingly dynamic and bold looks, you will be looking at a center channel speaker that will make your home theater setup look fancy.
On that note, unlike any other speaker, Polk’s unmatched quality gets revamped with rounded edges and detailing of the housing. They will make the bookshelf speakers pair well with the center speaker. It gives the unit get a stylish and performance-oriented look. There is even an extended bass port that looks pretty good.
But what about the sound quality? Well, the Polk Audio Signature Series ES35 will not let you down in that regard either. The center channel speaker has six drivers and one tweeter. It will offer an unmatched cinematic experience if you pair it up with a proper surround sound system. Its vocal clarity is impressive as well.
Key features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 89 dB
- Power Rating: up to 150 watts
- Frequency: 66 Hz – 40 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Compatible with every popular surround sound setup
- Amps up the aesthetics of the existing home theater system
- Provides excellent sound quality
- Offers excellent vocal clarity
- Has six drivers and a tweeter
2. Klispch R-52C
Just like Polk Audio, Klipsch is another brand that is a go-to option for enthusiasts when it comes to the best center channel speaker. And this offering from Klipsch pretty much goes head to heat with the unit from Polk Audio that we just looked at. But does it actually offer the best sound quality? Let’s find out.
First of all, even though this center channel speaker brand might not match your home theater brand, it will not have any issues blending in. It is one of the center channel speakers with top-notch overall aesthetics. For that reason, you can expect this center channel speaker to fit right in the middle of your left and right speakers.
But fitting perfect in between your left and right speakers is not all this center channel speaker will do. It has a wide frequency range. Unlike most of the other speakers, it can offer 89 Hz to 21 kHz. With that range, you will not have any issues trying to get every nuance of musical instruments and vocals.
Another thing that makes it different than other center speakers is the Tractrix Horn. It will evenly disperse the sound and make sure you can hear every bit of the dialogue. Eventually, the horn will make the center channel offer professional quality sound to your ears.
The center channel also comes with two 5.25 inches woofers. And the sound clarity of the woofers is pretty great. There will be little to no voice distortion, and you will enjoy crystal clear dialogue from all of the TV shows and movies that will be playing on the screen.
Key Features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 95 dB
- Power Rating: up to 400 watts
- Frequency: 89 Hz to 21 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Has a wide frequency range
- Blends well with other speakers
- Provides excellent sound quality
- Utilizes Tractrix Horn
- Boasts two woofers
3. Klispch RP-250C
We have got yet another center channel from Klipsch. And if you were looking for the best center channel speaker for dialogue, you should definitely take a look at what this center channel is capable of offering.
This center channel comes with two 5.25 inches woofers. Those two will do a proper job of enhancing the overall audio quality. The distortion level is pretty low, and it can provide a natural sound. Its frequency response range is pretty great as well. That will offer you a quality surround sound-listening experience.
Other than just providing immersive surround sound, the center channel has a solid overall construction. Compared to other channel speakers, it has a construction of high-quality materials and has excellent overall looks. It will blend right in with satellite speakers, bookshelf speakers, and other speakers.
On that note, the overall form factor of the center channel is pretty compact. Compared to other center channel speakers, it will take a little amount of space on your home theater desk. Also, it will fit in between surround speakers without any issues. So, you will not need to worry about the setup process that much either.
The center channel also comes with the Tractrix Horn that we just talked about. It will help make this speaker for dialogue provide room-filling sound once you pair it up with proper surround sound speakers. And if you pair it up with a power amp or external AV, you will sign up to get a stellar movie-watching experience.
Key Features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 96 dB
- Power Rating: up to 125 watts
- Frequency: 60 Hz to 24 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Offers high-quality audio
- Compact and fits easily between other speakers
- Has a solid overall construction
- Boasts a high-frequency response
- Capable of offering well-balanced sound for dialogues
4. Polk Audio T30
What if we told you that you could get a powerful center channel speaker and high-resolution audio performance without spending too much? Do not believe us? Take a look at this offering from Polk Audio.
So, what does Polk Audio has to offer with this center channel? Firstly, it has high compatibility. Apart from being compatible with other Polk Audio components, you can set this up with any 9.1, 7.1, 5.1, 3.1, 2.1, and 2.0 systems. That means you will not need to settle with a subwoofer Polk speakers system if you do not want to.
But that is not all! These value-priced speakers will not let you down when it comes to audio quality. Polk Audio has integrated two dynamic balance drivers with one 1-inch tweeter. These three will do a proper job of amplifying your movie-watching and TV shows-watching experience.
Aside from that, this center speaker from Polk Audio has sleek outlooks. It will fit right into your home theater system and enhance your setup’s overall aesthetics. And even though the form factor is pretty small, the drivers have a broad frequency response. Thanks to that, you can every detail of musical instruments as well.
Even the bass of the center speaker is pretty great. Unlike other average center channel speakers, it will make the dialogues sound distorted. It even has a large silk dome tweeter. Overall, this offering from Polk Audio is a great pick if you are looking for the best center channel speakers.
Key Features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Power Rating: up to 100 watts
- Frequency: 55 Hz to 24 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Provides powerful sound
- Has a broad frequency range
- Comes in a sleek looking housing
- Compatible with loads of different setups
- Offers high-quality bass and has a large silk dome tweeter
5. Pioneer SP-C22
While looking for a dedicated center channel speaker, you might want to get something that does skimp one bit when it comes to offering an immersive listening experience. And in that case, you should keep this offering from Pioneer in your consideration.
Let us first talk about the tweeter. It has two four inches woofers and a soft dome tweeter. Both of them offer a definitely impressive performance when it comes to sound. A crossover element is present on the center channel, which will let you enjoy a better sound quality while watching TV shows and movies.
On that note, the crossover of the center channel has six different elements. Thanks to that, the soft dome has a high-frequency response, while the woofer has a low-frequency response for handling sounds smoothly. The tweeter and dome have magnetic shielding that will further enhance the audio quality.
Setting it up will not be an issue either. You will find two rear connectors on the side of the center channel. For the connectors being on the rear of the center channel speaker, routing wires will be a piece of cake for you. And you can make your whole setup achieve a clean overall look.
Another thing that makes the center speaker reside comfortably among the best center channel speakers is the design. Its housing has a true curved design. Such housing will not only make it compact in size but also make it look aesthetically pleasing. You can expect to make your setup stand out a lot with this center channel.
Key Features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Power Rating: up to 100 watts
- Frequency: 55 Hz to 24 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Offers immersive listening experience
- The dome of the center channel has a high-frequency response
- Features a curved design
- Boasts magnetic shielding
- Easy to setup
6. Pioneer Elite SP-EC73
We have got yet another center channel speaker from Pioneer for this list of the best center channel speakers. And like the previous one, this immersive surround sound system should definitely be in your consideration if you are looking for impressive sound clarity.
The first thing that makes this dedicated center speaker stand out is the Coherent Source Transducer. That will reduce the interference between the tweeter and midrange to offer you sound from all frequencies. In other words, its high-frequency response and low-frequency response will blow you away.
Unlike other center speakers, this center channel will ensure that the direct and reflected sound reaches your ears. The tweeter and the woofers are designed in such a way that sound waves face little to no restrictions while going out of the housing. So, you can expect to get a stellar TV show and movie-watching experience.
Another thing that makes it stand out from the other center channel speakers is the Atmos compatibility. You can also make this center channel run with DTS:X applications. Those will let you enhance the overall quality of the sound waves and allow you to every nuance of the sound.
This center channel speaker also has the complex crossover mechanism of the previous one. That will ensure that the audio blends seamlessly between the tweeter and the woofer. As a result, you will be hearing sounds that will have little to no distortion at all.
key Features
- Impedance: 4 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 85 dB
- Power Rating: up to 140 watts
- Frequency: 45 Hz to 20 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Has a Coherent Sound Transducer
- Offers both direct and reflected sounds to your ears
- The audio quality is pretty impressive
- Boasts complex crossover mechanism
- Ensures smooth blend of the sounds
7. Polk Audio Blackstone TL1
Center speakers should not look bland from the exterior. Well, that is exactly what Polk Audio had in mind when they were manufacturing this center speaker for the crowd.
First, let’s go over the overall outlook. As the name suggests, this center channel speaker comes with a Blackstone finish. The Hi-Gloss nature of the finish will make this center channel stand a lot out on your home theater setup. So, you will not have to worry about the setup looking out of place if you get this one.
Other than that, it has a curved shape, which is based on the Time Lens Technology. The design is there to specifically align with the acoustic centers of the mid-bass and tweeter. It will put both of them on the same plane. As a result, the center channel speaker offers sound with little to no distortions and diffractions.
This center channel speaker improve the overall quality of movies and TV shows that you will enjoy dramatically. How? It has three highly tuned drivers. Thanks to those, this center channel speaker plays audio with little to no distortion at all. Even the bass quality of the unit is pretty impressive.
You will not even have to worry about the compatibility of the center channel speaker. It will work with 7.1, 6.1, and 5.1 setups without any issues. Now, that is something that most of the center channel speakers can not guarantee. Also, the connection ports are in the right place. So, managing wires will not be an issue either.
Key Features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 89 dB
- Power Rating: up to 100 watts
- Frequency: 135 Hz to 20 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Sports a hi-gloss finish on the exterior
- Has a curved shape that improves the quality of the sound
- Provides audio with little diffractions and distortions
- Highly compatible with different setups
- The connectors are at a highly accessible spot
8. Definitive Technology Procenter 100
Want to get your hands on a center channel speaker that is compact in size and offers impressive performance? You should definitely check out what Definitive Technology is offering here.
As we mentioned, this center channel speaker has a compact footprint. Thanks to such a form factor, you will not need to worry about sacrificing too much space on your setup desk. It will fit right between your left and right speakers. This is something that most center channel speakers can not guarantee.
The center channel speaker even has intuitive controls on the body. As the buttons are large in size and have proper labeling, you will not have any issues trying to tune the center channel speaker according to your liking. Even the setup process of the center channel speaker is quite straightforward.
But that is not all! This center channel speaker will blow you away with the sound quality. It has appropriately tuned drivers, which will ensure that all of the elements of the audio reach your ears. You can expect to get a mind-blowing TV show and movie-watching experience from this center speaker.
Apart from that, the overall looks of the center channel speaker are quite impressive as well. The black color coating makes it look quite sleek. Combined with the small form factor, you will be looking at a center channel speaker that will enhance the aesthetics of your home theater setup.
Key Features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Power Rating: up to 100 watts
- Frequency: 47 Hz to 30 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Sports a compact footprint
- Features intuitive controls on the body
- The setup process is pretty straightforward
- Provides excellent sound quality
- Sports a sleek overall outlook
9. Micca MB42-C
On the lookout for a high-end center channel speaker? If you have the budget for such a center channel speaker, the Micca MB42-C should be at the top of your priority list.
But what makes this center channel speaker so worthy? Well, the unit features a woven carbon fiber woofer. The balanced nature of the woofer will provide an impactful and transient bass. And thanks to the enhanced nature of the bass, you will be capable of hearing every bit of the dialogue through this center channel speaker.
The unit also comes with a silk dome tweeter. That will ensure that the center channel speaker can offer accurate imaging and smooth treble. Now, those two are pretty important if you want to get a high-end TV-watching experience out of the home theater setup.
You will be quite amazed by the vocal clarity of the center channel speaker. It has highly tuned drivers, which will provide an accurate and neutral sound signature. And this sound signature can enhance your overall experience even further. You will be making literally no sacrifice by getting this center channel speaker.
Besides that, the design of the unit is pretty classy. It has a compact form factor and classic housing. Those two traits will make the center channel speaker stand a lot out on your theater setup. It will not look out of place. Instead, it will make the whole setup look quite eye-catching.
Key Features
- Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 86 dB
- Power Rating: up to 100 watts
- Frequency: 60 Hz to 20 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Has a woven carbon fiber woofer
- The woofer has a balanced trait
- Provides neutral and accurate sound
- Compact and easy to setup
- Boasts a classic design
10. Fluance Signature HiFi
Last but not least, we have another high-end center channel speaker. But this time, it is from Fluance Signature. Want to know what it can offer? You need to continue reading!
Perfect vocals are the main priority of this center channel speaker. The high fidelity center channel has ultra-high-end tweeters. These Neodymium tweeters are capable of producing high frequencies and providing excellent overall sound quality. You will be thoroughly enjoying the TV shows with this unit.
The drivers can even captivate the voice clarity to the level max. Thanks to that, you will be getting a pure listening experience from this center channel speaker. Also, there are two 5 inches midrange drivers. Those will allow the sound waves to travel directly from the center of the unit.
You will even notice a pointed dome on the center channel speaker. For the trait of the dome, the center channel speaker can offer enhanced soundstage. The sound waves also travel directly from the center of the glass fiber cone. That will further enhance the quality of the sound.
What about the overall looks? Well, the unit will not disappoint you in this regard either. It utilizes high-quality components and has a solid construction. Those make the speaker achieve a premium outlook. And it will make your setup look high-end.
Key Features
- Impedance: 5.7 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 85 dB
- Power Rating: up to 120 watts
- Frequency: 60 Hz to 20 kHz
Highlighted Features
- Sports two high-end tweeters
- Produces high frequencies
- The clarity is pretty impressive
- Offers enhanced soundstage
- Has an overall premium looks
How To Choose The Best Center Channel Speaker for Dialogue
A center channel speaker plays a crucial part in enjoying any movie/series genre you prefer on a movie night. Picking an unknown model for the room can either be a blood-curling noisy experience or a surprisingly clarified one.
Why weigh your decision on probabilities when you can choose the center channel speaker based on specific features?
Aesthetics
If you are too practical, you have no idea how overpowering it is for people who match everything to minute detail. However, there is nothing crazy about choosing a center channel speaker to go with the rest of the gig.
The surround speakers are probably black, but the center channel speaker you picked comes in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Do you give it up?
That is up to you, but we would if it were on us. While a surround system with excellent sound quality is necessary, the model’s design is prominent as well.
Anybody will spot the out-of-place center channel speaker when they enter the room, especially you, with keen eyes.
Size
Is it going to devour the center space? What if I do not want something enormous? Thoughts run over the mind the second you decide to replace an old center channel speaker or get a new one for better clarity.
We found this trick to be helpful when you are out of ideas. How big is your TV? Or how long the other speakers?
Simply note down these two points and figure out how big of a center channel speaker you want for clear dialogue.
Hence, go to the living room or area where you keep the home theater system and look at the speakers with newfound vision!
Do not spend too long contemplating here because the main feature is all about compatibility.
Compatibility
This is the first most essential factor in picking the perfect surround sound setup. You can live with mismatched colors and designs, but can you live with the wrong power system for center channel speakers altogether?
The only way to ensure you achieve the best sound quality is by verifying the linking process toward the whole system. Center channel speakers are complicated devices if you do not research properly.
Do not assume purchasing from the same brand will resolve it all. Many had to return a center channel speaker because the frequency response range was a bust. Then how do you acquire the dedicated center channel speaker for your setup?
Contacting customer service of the selected products might boost your confidence since they can tell you which option best fits your current setup.
Also, get the same power as the other speakers in your crib. It increases the compatibility to a significant level.
Performance
There are a few terms you should search and have some basic clue about. For example, do you want floor-standing, wall-mount, or bookshelf speakers?
Next, some specifications in regards to soundstage will make you feel quite smart! Impedance, wider frequency response, the configuration of surround sound, power, etc., are some terms.
Then, do not forget to research the tweeters or drivers of the center channel speakers. They include soft or metal dome tweeters (we prefer metal due to durable features).
Moreover, go for something slightly bigger than 3-inch woofers. You will notice the improvement right away.
If you wish to enhance speaker output without getting any extra gear, check out the bi-amping in the drivers. Similarly, look for an additional wire for bi-wiring – it helps reduce the frequency difference to mid-range.
To sum up, the high-end performance should yield audio quality that users not only sitting in front of the center channel speaker can hear but also the ones who sit sideways.
Sensitivity
This is the second core feature that makes up a quality center channel speaker of any brand. Being sensitive here is a good trait though it should not be the single reason behind buying a speaker for dialogue.
The loudness of the sound is related to how sensitive the speaker is. And we measure sound quality in decibels (dB). If you have come across this feature, you already know how important sensitivity rating is.
Pay attention to the rating as it will impact the other speakers surrounding the center channel. The average choice is something around 88 dB. You can always find something higher/lower based on the room dimension.
Budget
We never plan on buying anything without considering how much you are willing to spend. The price range for center channel speakers varies depending on size, design, additional facilities, etc.
Our recommendation always begins from $100 to higher. The features of speakers should offer high-quality audio.
Your budget will rely on the brand you choose and where you get it from. Besides, some online stores offer promotions – check them out occasionally!
Just do not spend too much on a product that is probably not essential for the house (extra functionalities).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different center channel speaker brand for my current setup?
It is specifically about compatibility than different brands matching up. If the other speakers from the sound system work well with a center channel speaker from another brand, you are all good!
Is a center channel speaker necessary for small rooms?
Your goal should be about well-balanced sound quality surrounding the room – big or small. The audio grade better has an immersive experience for you to enjoy playing on TV.
As long as the sound picks up a pin-drop noise or distant water drips from a horror movie, the room size does not really matter.
Is a soundbar the same as a center channel speaker?
They may look similar, but the functions vary. Due to this notion, it is better not to set up a soundbar with the rest of your surround speakers to avoid further damage. And you will not experience greater sound depth.
Can I purchase center channel speakers based on power only?
No, include your budget, performance, sensitivity, specifications, etc., alongside. The power alone cannot determine compatibility.
How do I connect the speaker for dialogue to TV?
It is super easy! There should be an AV receiver with the system. Connect the TV to it (a cable will be provided). Next, connect the center channel speaker the same way using a cable.
Final Words
Choosing the best center channel speaker for dialogue can become a piece of cake when you know which models to consider and what things to look for. And we can assure you that no matter which one you pick from our list, you will get nothing but a stellar TV-watching experience. They all checked the crucial criteria! So, what are you waiting for?