When it comes to home audio, few names spark as much excitement as Definitive Technology. The brand is known for crafting speakers that deliver premium sound without compromising on design. One of their standout models is the Definitive Technology BP 8020ST, a sleek tower speaker that blends high-end audio engineering with a built-in powered subwoofer.
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes the BP 8020ST special, explore its features, sound performance, and value, and answer the most common questions buyers have before investing in it. Whether you’re setting up a dedicated home theater or simply want immersive music playback, this article will help you decide if the BP 8020ST is the right choice for you.
Why the Definitive Technology BP 8020ST Stands Out
Tower speakers are a staple in serious audio setups. They provide a full range of sound and act as the foundation for immersive listening. What makes the Definitive Technology BP 8020ST unique is its bipolar speaker design. Unlike traditional front-firing speakers, bipolar speakers project sound both forward and backward. This creates a wide, room-filling soundstage that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a live performance or theater experience.
On top of that, each tower comes with a built-in powered subwoofer. This eliminates the need for a separate subwoofer in smaller spaces, while still delivering deep, punchy bass. For users who value both space and performance, this feature alone makes the BP 8020ST a compelling option.
Key Features of the Definitive Technology BP 8020ST
Here’s a breakdown of the main features that set this speaker apart:
- Bipolar Driver Design – Spreads sound in multiple directions for a more spacious, three-dimensional effect.
- Built-in 8-inch Powered Subwoofer – Provides deep bass without needing an external subwoofer.
- High-Performance Drivers – Two 3.5-inch midrange drivers and a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter for crisp highs and detailed mids.
- Slim Tower Profile – Stylish, modern design that blends well into living rooms or dedicated theaters.
- Solid Build Quality – Definitive Technology is known for durable, premium construction.
Sound Performance: What You Can Expect
The Definitive Technology BP 8020ST is designed for versatility. Whether you’re watching blockbuster movies, listening to high-resolution music, or gaming, the speaker adapts beautifully.
- For Movies: Explosions and sound effects feel powerful thanks to the built-in subwoofer, while dialogues remain clear.
- For Music: The wide soundstage makes live recordings feel realistic, with instruments clearly separated in space.
- For Gaming: Surround cues are more immersive, giving players a competitive edge in identifying directionality of sounds.
This speaker performs especially well in medium-sized rooms, where its bipolar design can bounce sound effectively for an enveloping experience.
Comparison of Sound Elements
Here’s a quick table to help visualize what each section of the BP 8020ST contributes to the listening experience:
| Component | Sound Contribution |
| Tweeter (1-inch aluminum dome) | Crisp, detailed highs (vocals, cymbals, effects) |
| Midrange drivers (3.5-inch) | Warm, balanced mids (guitars, dialogue, piano) |
| Built-in 8-inch subwoofer | Deep, powerful bass (explosions, kick drums) |
| Bipolar design | Expansive, room-filling soundstage |
Pricing and Value
While the Definitive Technology BP 8020ST is not the cheapest option on the market, it delivers exceptional value for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Instead of purchasing both tower speakers and a separate subwoofer, you get everything integrated into a compact tower design.
Pricing may vary depending on retailers, but you can usually find pairs of these speakers in the mid-to-high-end price range. For the quality of sound and convenience of built-in bass, many buyers consider it a worthwhile investment.
Tips for Choosing the Right Setup
- Room Size Matters: The BP 8020ST works best in medium-sized rooms. Larger rooms may still benefit, but consider pairing with additional speakers for full surround sound.
- Speaker Placement: Positioning them at equal distances from your seating area, slightly toed-in, maximizes clarity.
- Amplifier Match: While these speakers are powered with their own subwoofer, they still require a quality AV receiver or amplifier for the best results.
- Pairing Options: Consider adding a Definitive Technology center channel speaker for a complete theater setup.
Final Thoughts
The Definitive Technology BP 8020ST is a versatile, powerful, and stylish tower speaker that blends cutting-edge design with practical performance. Its unique bipolar design and built-in powered subwoofer make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants high-quality sound without cluttering their space with multiple audio components.
Whether you’re building your first home theater or upgrading an existing system, the BP 8020ST delivers a cinematic experience at home that’s hard to match.
FAQs
Q1: Do I still need a separate subwoofer with the BP 8020ST?
Not necessarily. The built-in powered subwoofer handles bass well for most users. However, in very large rooms, adding an external subwoofer may enhance low-end impact.
Q2: Can the BP 8020ST be used for both music and movies?
Yes! Its bipolar design makes it ideal for both immersive movie experiences and natural-sounding music playback.
Q3: What’s the difference between bipolar speakers and regular speakers?
Bipolar speakers project sound both forward and backward, creating a more spacious effect compared to traditional forward-only speakers.
Q4: Is the BP 8020ST good for small apartments?
Yes. Thanks to its slim design and integrated subwoofer, it saves space while still delivering big sound.
Q5: Where can I buy the Definitive Technology BP 8020ST?
They are available through official retailers like Definitive Technology’s website and trusted platforms like Crutchfield or Best Buy.
