Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Excellent soundstage with clarity and focused imaging, creating a broadness of sound that feels like there are other speakers placed around the room
- Neutral and well-balanced tonal quality across the frequency range, with a slight emphasis on the 2-5kHz region, giving the speakers a sense of clarity
- Remarkable bass extension for their size; some reviewers note the bass is fast and tight
- Versatile with placement and less dependent on specific room acoustics due to controlled directivity; they are forgiving of room placement, making them easy to accommodate in different spaces
- Visually pleasing design, with customizable color options for the metal grills
Product Considerations
- May not be the best choice if one wants expert timing and punchy dynamics
- Might be a tad bright; some reviewers found the treble to be a little too present
- Uneven response in the midrange frequencies, but, as noted by one reviewer, the deviation here is more offensive to the eye than to the ear
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- vs PSB Imagine Minis: The Argon1s are comfortably quite a bit better, more dynamic, more extended in the bass, and more open in the midrange
- vs Buchardt S400s: The bass is faster and tighter on the Argon1s, the overall balance of the Argon1s is much more neutral, and the top end isn't as extended on the S400s
- vs ProAc Response 1 SEs: Bass response on the Argon1s was superior and also faster and tighter, but the ProAcs have this way of delivering vocals and instruments in a way that feels very natural—which the Argon1s are not quite able to match
- vs KEF LS50 META: They sit very nicely in between the KEF LS50 META and the ATC SCM11 in terms of their performance; the Argon1 has very similar bass output
- vs ATC SCM11: They sound clear and crisp and combine a mixture of the ATC SCM11's ability to communicate the musical information to you in a studio monitor speaker style, but a little bit more relaxed than the ATC
- vs Klipsch RP600M: The Argon1s are much more composed sounding; if you like the Klipsch sound, the RP600M sound, but you're looking for a speaker that is more accurate sounding, well, then maybe the Amphion range would be one to consider
Takeaway: The Amphion Argon1 is a great-sounding speaker that delivers pure audio and can be used in different environments with ease because of its versatility. It has customizable color options and a minimalist design.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Helium 510
- Positioning: A versatile bookshelf loudspeaker positioned as the most popular model in the Helium series.
- Description: Offers exceptional midrange clarity and a room-wide sweet spot, making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms. Its low crossover point and seamless driver integration set it apart from the Argon series, which focuses more on bass extension. This model is perfect for those seeking high performance at lower listening volumes without the need for extensive amplification.
Argon 0
- Positioning: A compact desktop loudspeaker designed for high performance in small spaces.
- Description: Praised for its natural sound and compact design, making it perfect for desktop use or small rooms. Unlike the larger Argon models, it focuses on delivering high-quality sound in a smaller form factor.
Argon 1
- Positioning: A reference-quality bookshelf loudspeaker offering a balance of performance and affordability.
- Description: Provides a clean and detailed sound with a surprisingly low-reaching bass, making it suitable for both music and home theater use. It offers a more refined midband compared to the Argon 0, appealing to those who prioritize sound quality over compactness.
Argon 7LS
- Positioning: A floorstanding loudspeaker known for its deep emotional impact and high performance.
- Description: Uses technologies from Amphion's flagship studio monitors, providing a wide soundstage and exceptional clarity. It offers a more immersive experience compared to the bookshelf models.
Krypton 3X
- Positioning: Amphion's flagship floorstanding loudspeaker, representing the pinnacle of their audio technology.
- Description: Features a unique cardioid midrange design that minimizes unwanted reflections, making it suitable for challenging acoustic environments. Its innovative design and powerful bass response set it apart from the Argon series, offering a full-range sound that is unmatched in the lineup.
See all the brand's products
Read the reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
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3/1/2022
Argon1
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No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
Argon1 bookshelf loudspeakers open a large, clean window into sound. They are praised for their reference-quality midband and surprisingly low-reaching bass response.
Manufacturer Specs
- Operating principle: Two-way, vented
- Drivers: 1" titanium tweeter, 5¼" aluminum woofer
- Crossover point: 1600 Hz
- Impedance: 8 Ω
- Sensitivity: 86 dB
- Frequency response: 45 – 25.000 Hz -6dB
- Power recommendation: 25 – 150 W
- Measurements (H x W x D): 316 x 160 x 265 mm (12.44" x 6.3" x 10.43")
- Grid protrusion: 8 mm (0.3")
- Weight: 7 kg (15.4 lbs)
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Average Price
$501-$1,000
Used Products
10
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
94
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
21
Founded
1998
Our take on the brand
Amphion is a Finnish hifi speaker brand that uses passive radiators instead of bass ports and places the crossover point at 1600 Hz (below critical hearing range) to achieve better phase coherence and driver integration. Their speakers, handmade in Finland, are particularly popular in professional studios due to their waveguide technology and electrically simple design that enhances resolution while creating a seamless soundstage.
Brand Page
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Amphion
What if you spend a bit more?
Argon3S
1615
1615
/
8
Reviews
Amphion
Amphion is a Finnish hifi speaker brand that uses passive radiators instead of bass ports and places the crossover point at 1600 Hz (below critical hearing range) to achieve better phase coherence and driver integration. Their speakers, handmade in Finland, are particularly popular in professional studios due to their waveguide technology and electrically simple design that enhances resolution while creating a seamless soundstage.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Secure imaging, believable vocal and instrumental timbres, and a superb sense of atmosphere and presence
- The speaker does a 'small-box disappearing act supremely well,' not drawing attention to itself and letting the music spill forth
- Provides tight, tuneful, convincing, and properly focused bass that securely underpins the music
- Emphasizes detail and resolution, and has one of the best detail/resolution figures that one reviewer has heard in the price range
- Has a wide sound dispersion, allowing listeners to sit anywhere in the room and still have a great sound
Product Considerations
- Can get sharp—shouty—harsh at high listening volumes
- Bass may not be sufficient for those looking for a lot of bass, and a subwoofer is recommended
- Soundstage is fairly intimate
- The treble can be a bit too hard, and some reviewers wished for a treble cut switch
- One reviewer disliked the cartoonishly large binding posts, and dangling leads can contact the passive radiator
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Buchardt S400: The Argon3S sounds more neutral and mid-centric, has a sweeter voicing, and a sharper treble
- Vs KLH Model Five: The midrange is slightly cleaner on the Argon3S, but it sounds very focused in comparison
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless PRO: The baseline clarity is considerably better for the pricier Argon3S, but the soundstage is far more holographic on SVS Prime Wireless PRO
- Vs ATC SCM 11 Version 2: Similar frame of mind, but the Amphion Argon 3S is more expressive and colorful
Takeaway: The Argon 3S is a compact speaker with a focus on detail and clarity, perfect for those who enjoy analyzing their music, especially at low to moderate volumes. Its design ensures it sounds great in various placements, making it a versatile addition to any audiophile's setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Amphion is a Finnish hifi speaker brand that uses passive radiators instead of bass ports and places the crossover point at 1600 Hz (below critical hearing range) to achieve better phase coherence and driver integration. Their speakers, handmade in Finland, are particularly popular in professional studios due to their waveguide technology and electrically simple design that enhances resolution while creating a seamless soundstage.
Visit our
Argon3S
page
Product Page
S400 MKII
2204
2204
/
11
Reviews
Buchardt
Even though the S400 MKII shares the same appearances as its predecessor, the speakers are actually quite a different experience when you listen to them. If we are to put this experience into words, it could be something like...
Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Surprisingly deep and controlled bass for its size, extending down to 33Hz, is delivered thanks to its passive radiator
- A sweet, smooth, detailed, airy, and intimate sound with a natural midrange that presents human voices remarkably well, is produced
- A wide and deep soundstage, excelling particularly in creating a three-dimensional listening experience with a strong front-to-back depth, is offered
- High-quality components in its crossover, including air core inductors and film capacitors, are used
- Exemplary off-axis performance due to the CDC waveguide, leading to evenly distributed in-room frequency response, excellent imaging, bigger soundstage, and improved transparency, is presented
Product Considerations
- A bit bright in the top end, particularly on-axis and even slightly off-axis, depending on the room acoustics, may be heard; sidewall absorption or equalization may be needed
- Vertical placement is temperamental; listeners should ensure their ears are aligned with the reference point between the waveguide and midwoofer
- A capable amplifier, ideally one with high output power and a high damping factor, is required to properly control the bass
- At high volumes, the speaker can experience compression and distortion, particularly in the higher frequencies and lower frequencies
- The direct sales model means there are no physical stores to demo the speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The S400 Mark II sounds bigger and more potent, although the LS50 Meta is more transparent and has higher clarity
- Vs Dynaudio Heritage Special: The S400 MkII offers comparable midrange and equal bass, while the Dynaudio has more sizzle on top and a little more of a plumper mid
- Vs Emotiva B2 Plus: The S400 Mark II has more refined treble and midrange, but the Emotiva is better for rock and metal music
- Vs Dynaudio Special 40: The S400 MkII is sweeter, more open, more spacious sounding, and has a more transparent midrange
- Vs Klipsch The7s: The S400 MKII has a wider soundstage radiation
Takeaway: The S400 Mark II is a great-sounding speaker with impressive bass for its size and is easy to listen to for hours. It is a good option for those looking for a high-fidelity listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Visit our
S400 MKII
page
Product Page
Silverback 1
2098
2098
/
2
Reviews
System Audio
For those who dream of big sound but not big speakers Silverback 1 is a new member of the award-winning Silverback family. It's made for music lovers who dream of great music and sound experiences without having big speakers in the living room. Silverback 1 is the size of a sheet of A4 paper when viewed from the front. That's how small it is. The sound (on the other hand) fills the entire room.
We'll get back to that. Because the most striking thing about Silverback 1 is how incredibly discreet it is, although the amazing sound quality will probably surprise you the most. The sculptural design is created to fit into your home, without demanding too much attention.
Can be placed anywhere Hang it on the wall (with one screw) or place it on a shelf. A power cord is all it needs to become part of a wireless music system or home theater.
Amazing sound experiences have been enjoyed by those who have been willing to buy an expensive music system with exotic equipment and plenty of wires that are difficult to live with.
Award-winning sound and user-friendliness We've revolutionized that with Silverback. It's a family of wireless speakers that requires nothing more than a small digital control unit and a smartphone to deliver first class audio experiences. And it's easy to use. You only need two speakers, a small control unit and a smartphone. That's all. You don't need any equipment or plenty of wires.
The international trade press has named Silverback the world's best wireless speakers four times, and for good reason. You can connect your TV, turntable, computer, CD and games console to the control unit and integrate them into the wireless universe. Your music system can be exactly as simple or complex as you want.
Uses the laws of acoustics to its advantage Silverback 1 is made for placement near a wall. There are special acoustic conditions near walls and speakers need to be built for that location to sound perfect. Silverback 1 uses the laws of acoustics and digital technology to its advantage and achieves a perfectly balanced soundstage when placed near a wall.
And the sound… The first thing people notice about Silverback 1 is the amazing and pleasant bass. The sound is rich and warm, even when playing at low volume. This is due to the specially designed woofers and their perfect match with the built-in amplifiers. It sounds like a much bigger speaker and we're especially proud of its inviting musicality.
What surprises many music lovers next is the speaker's ability to bring vocals to life and how the sound of any instrument becomes clear and detailed. Silverback 1 is a 100% digital speaker built without the use of passive components that can make the sound unclear and muddy in regular speakers. Therefore, it creates a different and immersive experience.
The tweeter's patented acoustic lens covers the living room with sound, so you hear all the nuances of the sound, no matter where you are in the room. It can play surprisingly loud considering how small it is. But the built-in digital processors monitor and protect the speaker from overload, so you only have to think about what song you want to hear next.
System Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that makes active speakers with built-in amplification, using WiSA wireless technology and low-mass drivers for fast, delicate sound that's often compared to planar speakers. Their Silverback series includes compact, wall-mountable models for spaces where traditional speakers are impractical, while their Signature series features custom-developed drive units that deliver deep, defined bass.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact dimensions make them suitable for smaller rooms and wall mounting
- Delivers a big sound despite its small size
- Impressive dynamic capabilities
- Good bass performance considering the speaker size
- Clean and purposeful look in either sleek white or black satin finishes
Product Considerations
- Magnets holding the grilles in place aren't very strong
- Soundstage depth is limited, projecting sound forward of the speaker plane
- May exhibit some dynamic compression during complex musical passages
- The SA Cockpit app can be flaky and exhibit strange behavior
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Q Active 200 created a deeper and higher soundstage, while the Silverback 1 had better-defined lower notes, and dynamics were more compressed on the Q Active 200
Takeaway: The Silverback 1 system is a great option for those with limited space who don't want to compromise on sound quality, offering impressive performance in a compact and aesthetically pleasing package. They are designed to blend into a domestic space rather than dominate it.
Video review
Our take on the brand
System Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that makes active speakers with built-in amplification, using WiSA wireless technology and low-mass drivers for fast, delicate sound that's often compared to planar speakers. Their Silverback series includes compact, wall-mountable models for spaces where traditional speakers are impractical, while their Signature series features custom-developed drive units that deliver deep, defined bass.
Visit our
Silverback 1
page
Product Page
M5
1947
1947
/
1
Reviews
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Axiom
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clean, effortless, and neutral sound
- Outstanding clarity
- Handles music with beefy bass in a powerful but neutral manner
- Can play loudly, cleanly, and effortlessly
Product Considerations
- Lacks that sense of a three-dimensional acoustic space, sounding thinner and more compressed, compared to The Greatest
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Revel Performa3 F206: Both reproduce tight, powerful lows, but the Revels dig deeper and sound fuller
- Vs Revel Performa3 F206: Both portray a clear soundstage with real senses of depth and width
- Vs Revel Performa3 F206: Axiom M5HP conceded little to them in midrange reproduction
Takeaway: The Axiom Audio M5HP is a high-quality speaker that competes with far more expensive options and is made in North America. It provides incredible sound, superb engineering—and fantastic build quality at a reasonable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Visit our
M5
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Q3 Meta
799
/
Released
2024
KEF
The Q3 Meta HiFi speaker is designed to deliver precise sound quality in a midsize package. Featuring a 6.5" 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT™, you can enjoy sound with pristine clarity, every time. Whether you're enhancing your home theatre system or enjoying your favourite music, the bookshelf speaker delivers high-fidelity sound with exceptional depth and detail.
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wide soundstage and radiation pattern, both horizontally and vertically, contribute to an immersive listening experience
- Good mid-bass punch, with an elevated bump around 120Hz that gives the perception of more impact
- Neutral tonal balance, with a well-balanced sound that allows the music to shine
- Excellent dispersion characteristics make them suitable for modern spaces where acoustic treatments are limited
- Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs unwanted sound behind the tweeter for clearer sound
Product Considerations
- Compression and strain in the upper midrange can occur at high output levels (above 90dB at 10 feet)
- Some cabinet resonance exists
- Some detail, clarity, or attack is lacking from the speaker
- Not ideal for high output
- A slight dip around 1-2kHz exists that some people may not like
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF Q350, the Q3 Meta has more body and weight in the bass regions, but the Q350 is slightly better and more lively sounding in the upper frequencies
- Compared to the Polk Audio Reserve R200, the Q3 Meta is more neutral
- Compared to the Paradigm Premier 100B, the Q3 Meta dispersion characteristics are better, so they do not need a sub
- Compared to the PSB Imagine B50, the B50 kept its composure better at much louder listening levels, and its tonal balance seemed somehow even more neutral
Takeaway: The KEF Q3 Meta is an enjoyable speaker with a wide soundstage and neutral sound that makes the music sound good. It's a great pick for aesthetics if one does not listen at dangerous sound levels.
Video review
Our take on 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.
Visit
Q3 Meta
Page
Product Page
Kin One
524
/
Released
2024
KIN By Totem
Experience exceptional audio performance with the KIN One, a compact speaker designed to surpass the expectations of small speaker systems. Leveraging Totem's latest advancements in driver technology and cabinet design, the KIN One delivers a remarkably large soundstage and immersive audio experience. Perfectly paired with the KIN AMP, this speaker offers powerful, lifelike sound in a sleek, modern package.
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Available in multiple vibrant colors, breaking the monotony of typical speaker designs
- Produces a surprisingly big and wide sound despite their compact size
- The MHEX woofer reacts very fast and sounds like paper
- Soundstage stretches from speaker to speaker
Product Considerations
- Sound profile shows a dip in mid-range and roll-off in high frequencies, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
- High frequencies roll off around 8k or so
- Limited bass response, which may need a subwoofer for rock music or larger rooms
- Not linear frequency response, which may impact sound clarity
- Overall sensitivity is about 83.4 dB, which is below manufacturer's specs
Takeaway: The KIN ONE speakers are small but can create a big sound with multiple color options. Though they may benefit from EQ and a sub, they can be a good option for smaller rooms.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
Visit
Kin One
Page
Product Page
M3 (Computer Speakers)
898
/
Released
Axiom
High-end computer performance demands high-power output speakers, and the Axiom M3 computer speakers deliver – in spades! You'll get output that's up to 1400% more than common computer speakers on the market today. It's not just about volume: all that extra power means your speakers will play movies, music and games with uncompromised clarity – no cutting out or compressing when the action gets hot.
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The tapered cabinet design eliminates internal resonance, making it lightweight and rigid
- It uses a custom-designed Vortex port that provides more volume in less space
- A unique design allows the woofer to roll off naturally at 2.2kHz, eliminating the need for a low-cost crossover component that could degrade audio signal quality
- Offers a neutral and realistic midrange, providing a natural and realistic sound
- Clarity and resolution, particularly in the midrange area, is well-received
Product Considerations
- Minute gaps were found in the seams of the custom vinyl finish under scrutiny
- Since it is a rear port, some room will need to be left for the speaker to breathe
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF Q1, the M3 had clearer differentiation and separation of choir and orchestra, and French horns had much more balance and presence
Takeaway: The Axiom M3 is a well-designed speaker that offers excellent value and performs above expectations. It could be a great choice for anyone wanting a clean, neutral sound with great dynamics for casual listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Visit
M3 (Computer Speakers)
Page
Product Page
Symbol X 160
573
/
Released
2022
Magnat
The big sister of the X 130 is equipped with a 165 mm bass-midrange driver. With an extended bass range that delves down to 30 Hz and an upper cut-off frequency of 36,500 Hz, it ensures full music enjoyment regardless of whether it´s used as a monitor speaker directly on a workstation, or as a speaker in a hi-fi configuration on a shelf or sideboard. An efficiency level of 92 dB and a maximum load capacity of 220 watts ensure a high dynamic range.
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Durable build with corrosion-resistant materials and IPX5 water resistance rating makes it suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions
- Flexible placement since it can be mounted horizontally or vertically
- Good separation of lows, mids, and highs with bright highs
- Requires an amplifier to function
- White color option is prone to collecting dust when used outdoors, black is recommended for outdoor use
- Proper wire management is crucial for a clean installation
Product Considerations
- Does not have the low-end bass of a dedicated subwoofer
Takeaway: The Magnet Symbol X is a durable and versatile speaker suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, especially for those looking for a permanent audio solution with a clean setup. With a proper amplifier, clear and loud sound can be enjoyed in any space.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Visit
Symbol X 160
Page
Product Page
M2 (Bookshelf)
698
/
Released
Axiom
Axiom's smallest bookshelf speaker, the affordable M2, is distinguished by unusually musical and natural sound. Winner of the SoundStage! Reviewer's Choice Award, the M2 delivers smooth convincing bass, highly detailed treble, and extremely realistic-sounding male and female vocals that put the performance right in your room. The M2 features a 5.25-inch aluminum-cone woofer - unheard of in this price category - and crystal clear 1-inch titanium dome tweeter.
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The M2's are the least colored speakers in its group, offering neutrality
- Impressively involving and capable of delivering music well
- Can reach substantial volume levels before showing signs of harshness
- Exceptional imaging, great precision through the midrange, and a wall-to-wall soundstage
Product Considerations
- A subwoofer is needed to complete the sonic picture, as it lacks deep-bass reproduction
- Fit and finish is adequate but not particularly impressive
Takeaway: The M2 is a neutral and musical speaker that performs well and can be used in a budget or high-end system with a subwoofer. It delivers clear and precise sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Visit
M2 (Bookshelf)
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Excellent soundstage with clarity and focused imaging, creating a broadness of sound that feels like there are other speakers placed around the room
- Neutral and well-balanced tonal quality across the frequency range, with a slight emphasis on the 2-5kHz region, giving the speakers a sense of clarity
- Remarkable bass extension for their size; some reviewers note the bass is fast and tight
- Versatile with placement and less dependent on specific room acoustics due to controlled directivity; they are forgiving of room placement, making them easy to accommodate in different spaces
- Visually pleasing design, with customizable color options for the metal grills
Product Considerations
- May not be the best choice if one wants expert timing and punchy dynamics
- Might be a tad bright; some reviewers found the treble to be a little too present
- Uneven response in the midrange frequencies, but, as noted by one reviewer, the deviation here is more offensive to the eye than to the ear
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- vs PSB Imagine Minis: The Argon1s are comfortably quite a bit better, more dynamic, more extended in the bass, and more open in the midrange
- vs Buchardt S400s: The bass is faster and tighter on the Argon1s, the overall balance of the Argon1s is much more neutral, and the top end isn't as extended on the S400s
- vs ProAc Response 1 SEs: Bass response on the Argon1s was superior and also faster and tighter, but the ProAcs have this way of delivering vocals and instruments in a way that feels very natural—which the Argon1s are not quite able to match
- vs KEF LS50 META: They sit very nicely in between the KEF LS50 META and the ATC SCM11 in terms of their performance; the Argon1 has very similar bass output
- vs ATC SCM11: They sound clear and crisp and combine a mixture of the ATC SCM11's ability to communicate the musical information to you in a studio monitor speaker style, but a little bit more relaxed than the ATC
- vs Klipsch RP600M: The Argon1s are much more composed sounding; if you like the Klipsch sound, the RP600M sound, but you're looking for a speaker that is more accurate sounding, well, then maybe the Amphion range would be one to consider
Takeaway: The Amphion Argon1 is a great-sounding speaker that delivers pure audio and can be used in different environments with ease because of its versatility. It has customizable color options and a minimalist design.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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