I own the Harbeth P3s plus the Supermon Minis at home. P3s are incredible for vocals. Minis are incredible for soundstaging. I find most other computer speakers are too bright in the treble, but these are just right.
Welcome
You don't have to settle on cheap computer speakers. Hifi ones exist—with all the imaging and clarity you could ask for—and they work incredibly well in desktop nearfield environments. That's what these curated products have in common: nearfield tonal beauty and soundstaging. They also don't require a lot of power when they're so close to your ears, so a smaller amplifier will do just fine.
Products on this list
Harbeth
P3ESR XD
3190
/
5
Reviews
Harbeth's development team has, once again, redefined what is possible from this use anywhere loudspeaker. The completed redesign maximises the performance potential of the Harbeth exclusive 110mm RADIAL2™ Cone Technology – delivering breathtaking transparency, accurate bass and dynamic integration across the audio spectrum.
Harbeth is one of the original British hifi brands, with roots in the British Broadcasting Corporation. Their speakers are renowned for using specialized materials in their drivers, allowing for vocal reproduction with lifelike accuracy. Harbeth speakers are designed with a focus on human speech, capturing the emotional nuance of voices in a way that few other brands can. While they perform well with instruments, their mastery of vocal clarity and natural sound makes them particularly appealing for listeners who value expressive and authentic voice reproduction.
Expand Details
.svg)
What reviewers think
Product Strengths
- Breathtaking transparency, accurate bass and dynamic integration across the audio spectrum
- Capable of being used in a wide range of listening environments and optimised to present an easy electrical load to even low powered amplifiers
- Superior fit and finish
- Clean and clear of tone
Product Considerations
- The numbers reveal a not especially efficient box with less than optimal bass response
- Requires close listening distance, and careful positioning
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The P3ESR XD was always a touch warmer than the Falcon Gold Badge LS3/5a, and better balanced but thicker than the 5a in the upper bass/lower midrange, this XD version is outstandingly clean in that region
Takeaway: The Harbeth Audio P3ESR XD is a great option for audiophiles who want high-quality sound in a smaller package, and it is a remarkable value for its price. With its adaptability and refined sound, the P3ESR XD can bring a warm embrace to the musical intentions of the artists and engineers.
Video review
About the brand
Harbeth is one of the original British hifi brands, with roots in the British Broadcasting Corporation. Their speakers are renowned for using specialized materials in their drivers, allowing for vocal reproduction with lifelike accuracy. Harbeth speakers are designed with a focus on human speech, capturing the emotional nuance of voices in a way that few other brands can. While they perform well with instruments, their mastery of vocal clarity and natural sound makes them particularly appealing for listeners who value expressive and authentic voice reproduction.
P3ESR XD
Product Page
Product Page
MonAcoustic
SuperMon Mini
2200
/
6
Reviews
One of our latest offerings, the SuperMon Mini is a true marvel of product design. Created by Jun Hyeog Seo (the founder at MonAcoustic and the chief engineer), whose jazz sensibilities and experience as a guitarist certainly come in handy, our product offering seeks to combine performance with a compact frame. In terms of outer construction, the enclosure on the speaker is reinforced with the highest quality materials including a 6601-grade aluminum that promises durability thanks to its anti-corrosion properties.
MonAcoustic is a hifi speaker brand that uses isobaric designs and aluminum cabinets to achieve deeper bass from smaller enclosures, setting them apart from traditional wooden speakers. Their PlatiMon VC One speakers feature a unique virtual coaxial design with asymmetrical resonance-attenuation liners and twin rear ports specifically tailored for left and right channels, enhancing stereo imaging.
Expand Details
What reviewers think
Product Strengths
- Excellent imaging capabilities
- Over-the-top build quality and very attractive appearance
- The AMT tweeter does not leap out and scorch the ears, and the speaker is on the warmer side of sound voicing
- The build quality and design leads to longevity, and the speakers can potentially last for many decades with proper care
- Treble separation is amazing and is easily on par with speakers costing five, six, seven or even ten thousand dollars
Product Considerations
- A subwoofer is mandatory if you want to experience full range sound
- The recessed treble will not be to everyone's taste
- The waveguide may constrict the tweeter's output
- Elevated mid-bass may color the sound, and a more neutral response in that range would be preferred
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Treble separation on the SuperMon Mini is better than the Focal Canta No. 1
- Treble separation is better on the SuperMon Mini than on the Serhan Swift Mu2 Mk II
Takeaway: The SuperMon Mini is a small but mighty speaker with incredible imaging, build quality, and the potential to last a very long time. It is a great choice for those who want excellent sound in a compact and luxurious package with a preference for warmer sound and detailed imaging when paired with an appropriate amplifier and potentially a subwoofer.
Video review
About the brand
MonAcoustic is a hifi speaker brand that uses isobaric designs and aluminum cabinets to achieve deeper bass from smaller enclosures, setting them apart from traditional wooden speakers. Their PlatiMon VC One speakers feature a unique virtual coaxial design with asymmetrical resonance-attenuation liners and twin rear ports specifically tailored for left and right channels, enhancing stereo imaging.
SuperMon Mini
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
LS50 Wireless II
2499
/
24
Reviews
LS50 Wireless II is more than a high-performance loudspeaker; it's the perfect all-in-one speaker system, streaming from any source thanks to wireless compatibility with AirPlay 2, Chromecast and more, plus wired connections for your TV, games console and turntable.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
What reviewers think
Product Strengths
- Smart powered speakers combine convenience with high sound quality.
- Delivers an incredibly wide and deep soundstage with precise instrument layering and imaging.
- Produces clear mids, detailed highs, and controlled bass, creating an enjoyable listening experience.
- Great for both two-channel listening and basic 2.1 home theater setups.
- Offers multiple connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, HDMI, optical, coaxial, analog, USB, and subwoofer outs.
- Easy to set up and use with a user-friendly app, which offers custom sound profiles, bass and treble adjustments, and subwoofer integration.
Product Considerations
- Bass response may lack some organic or live quality on certain recordings, potentially sounding clinical to some listeners.
- Highs lack some sparkle for those who prefer a more metallic ring or sheen.
- While detailed, the width of the soundstage isn't as pronounced as the depth, at least in some room setups.
- The speaker prioritizes control, which could make the sound a bit sterile compared to the LS50 Meta.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LS50 Wireless 2 offers better stability and flexibility than B&W Formation Duos.
- The LS50 Wireless 2 provides a decidedly different experience than Kanto YU6.
- The LS50 Wireless II is warmer and sweeter sounding than KEF LS60 Wireless.
- KEF LS50 remind a lot of Harbeth speakers with their ability to present details without sounding fatiguing.
Takeaway: The KEF LS50 Wireless 2 is a convenient, all-in-one speaker system that delivers excellent sound quality and ease of use. They are a great choice for those seeking a high-fidelity listening experience without the complexities of separate audio components.
Video review
About the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
LS50 Wireless II
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
LSX II
1299
/
9
Reviews
Welcome to a world of High-Fidelity sound that is true enough to touch. This all-in-one speaker system in its second generation: upgraded to deliver a more balanced sound in higher resolution with all-inclusive connectivity. Simply stream anything including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify and Tidal, or seamlessly connect the LSX II to your laptop, TV and many other devices.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
What reviewers think
Product Strengths
- Delivers fantastic, room-filling sound from a small footprint
- Is simple and straightforward to set up using the KEF Connect app
- Imaging and dynamics are excellent, with the sound mostly spread between, above, and behind the speakers, creating a palpable and impressive sense of the music being there in space
- Well-balanced sound with punchy dynamics and excellent instrumental separation
- Offers a wide array of connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, USB-C, and HDMI ARC
Product Considerations
- Bass is good, but those who focus on EDM or hip-hop might want a sub
- Treble can be slightly rough in the upper midrange to treble transition region, more noticeable with lower quality recordings or data rates
- For native 24-bit/192kHz playback, a wired connection is required between the speakers
- KEF Connect app lacks robust full equalizer controls
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos: KEF LSX II offer superior sound quality
- Vs Q Acoustics M20HDs: KEF LSX II has a more sophisticated app and integration of Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect
- Vs Original LSX: KEF LSX II's setup is much easier and more seamless thanks to wireless updates
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless: KEF LSX II lacks Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) present in these models
Takeaway: The KEF LSX II is a stylish and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality and is easy to set up and use. Its wide range of connectivity options and excellent imaging make it a great choice for those looking for a compact and convenient audio solution.
Video review
About the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
LSX II
Product Page
Product Page
Brands
No items found.
