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

  • Neutral and uncolored sound signature
  • Seamless integration of bass, midrange, and treble, sounding like one driver
  • Excelent midrange reproduction, offering electrostatic-like purity and presence for vocals, vibes, piano, and guitars
  • Made in Finland and boasts a tasteful, Euro design with customization options for the waveguide and grills

Product Considerations

  • Sensitivity is on the low side
  • Dynamics are not the strongest point, so it is not ideal for rocking out
  • Bass is not the most powerful

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Klipsch Forte III: The Klipsch is more of a party animal and rocks out harder, with more dynamic liveliness

Takeaway: The Argon3LS is a well-built speaker that offers a smooth, neutral, and revealing sound. It's great for audiophiles who want to really listen to music and experience the beauty of midrange instruments.

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.

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

[{"title":"Amphion Argon 3LS review","link":"https://7review.com/amphion-argon-3ls-review","source":"7 Review","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Speaker Review: Amphion Argon 3LS","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQtndDfyeRA","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2020"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer's notes

Argon3LS floorstanding loudspeaker keeps its clarity and composure even when placed close to the wall. It combines the midrange detail and speed of the best monitor speaker with added weight and bass extension of a floorstander.
  • Operating principle: Two-way, passive radiator
  • Drivers: 1" titanium tweeter, 6½" aluminum woofer
  • Crossover point: 1600 Hz
  • Impedance: 8 Ω
  • Sensitivity: 85 dB
  • Frequency response: 30 – 25.000 Hz -6dB
  • Power recommendation: 50 – 150 W
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 995 x 234 x 344 mm (39.17" x 9.2" x 13.54")
  • Dimensions without base plate: 967 x 190 x 305 mm (38.07" x 7.5" x 12")
  • Grid protrusion: 10 mm (0.4")
  • Connector depth addition: 18 mm (0.7")
  • Weight: 22.5 kg (49.6 lbs)
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Average Price
$1,001-$2,500
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.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
Brand Page
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What if you spend a bit more?

T66
3450
3450
/
23
Reviews
GoldenEar

Introducing the T Series The T66 is the first model in GoldenEar’s new T Series. While it boasts several significant refinements of our time-tested design concepts, the T66 is undeniably a GoldenEar loudspeaker, placing beautiful sound and music before all else. Honoring the Triton Series The T66 honors the critically acclaimed Triton Series, sharing a similarly tall, slender profile; built-in DSP-controlled subwoofer amplification; and a driver complement comprising GoldenEar’s High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter, cast-basket mid/bass units, quadratic planar radiators, and long-throw powered sub-bass section. Onward and Upward Several important cosmetic and sonic refinements distinguish the new T66 from previous GoldenEar speakers. These include a dramatically augmented crossover design, high-quality internal wiring, a new cast-aluminum base and metal grille, and, in addition to GoldenEar’s Gloss Black cabinet finish, a vibrant Santa Barbara Red.

GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent bass performance is a defining feature, providing tight, smooth, even, solid, and tangible bass extension into the 20 Hz range, eliminating placement issues associated with separate subwoofers
  • Balanced overall sound, coherence, and ability to present music in a natural and effortless way is consistently praised
  • High levels of detail come through with the High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter and cast-basket mid/bass units
  • A holographic image over the seating area of a typical sofa is capable with excellent imaging and a wide and open soundstage, even when not seated in the exact sweet spot
  • The Santa Barbara Red finish option receives high marks for its visual appeal

Product Considerations

  • Still a significant investment, especially the Santa Barbara Red finish
  • The metal grille covering the drivers is not designed to be easily removed
  • Care should be taken with system matching, due to a slightly hot high-end

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The T66 offers more refinement and a more 'of-a-piece' sound than the Triton One.R
  • Has internal structural improvements that make it even more stable and rigid than previous generations

Takeaway: The GoldenEar T66 delivers audiophile-grade sound and aesthetics, with powerful bass and exceptional detail. These speakers are easy to incorporate into nearly any environment, and have the power to let the listener appreciate all the nuances in favorite songs or movies.

Video review

Our take on the brand

GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
T66
page
Product Page
Lumina V
2999
2999
/
10
Reviews
Sonus Faber

Slender Speakers with Surprising Performance.Lumina V takes inspiration from Sonus faber’s core designs and technologies, packaged in a sleek and minimalistic floorstanding speaker.LUXURY, SIMPLIFIED.Lumina V is the flagship three-way floor standing model in the collection. A slender speaker with high-power handling and fast transient response, Lumina V produces a natural, generous, and emotional sound for an immersive listening experience.LIGHTING THE WAYThe Lumina collection ushers in exciting changes while preserving the history and values core to Sonus faber. Centered on simplicity, Lumina provides an immersive and musical experience to a broader audience.SIGNATURE SONUS FABER MATERIALSLumina V incorporates multilayer wood on the front baffle and wood veneer, available in multiple finishes. The sides and top of the speaker cabinet are hand-covered in black leather.SIMPLICITY AND STYLELumina takes note of Sonus faber’s iconic natural materials.

Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Elegant design with a combination of wood and leather that gives a classy appearance
  • Impressive bass output, with some reviewers noting deep and tuneful bass
  • The midrange is articulate and expressive, delivering vocals with palpability and detail
  • Smooth and detailed high-end reproduction, thanks to the Damped Apex Dome (DAD) tweeter
  • Relatively easy to drive with a sensitivity of 89-90dB

Product Considerations

  • Requires careful placement to achieve the best balance, especially regarding toe-in
  • The bass can sometimes be perceived as boomy depending on the room acoustics
  • Some reviewers mention the included binding posts are cheap

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Q Acoustics Concept 50, the Lumina V has a more live sound, but the Concept 50 is more neutral, and more inert
  • Compared to the Polk R700, the Lumina V is sonically similar to the R700, but with slightly less bass and a smaller cabinet—with better aesthetics; the R700 is more full range and warmer
  • Compared to the Spendor A4 or ProAc Response DT8, the Lumina V is not as precise, but offers a natural sonic grace

Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Lumina V is an elegant speaker that delivers detailed sound and impressive bass. It is a great option if you want speakers that look as good as they sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Lumina V
page
Product Page
R7t
4995
4995
/
9
Reviews
Perlisten

You wanted a flagship R-Series to fill larger rooms based on the trickle-down technology from the S-Series. The second-best two-channel system in our line-up still rivals most competitor's flagship. Employing the same DPC array and long-excursion woofers for extremely low distortion and our beam forming controlled directivity down to 500Hz make this a full-range masterpiece only rivaled by our own award-winning S7t.

Designed as a stand alone 2ch high fidelity speaker with the versatility to be used as part of multi-channel systems. Sharing "trickle-down" technology from our flagship S-Series, the DPC-Array here based on three 26mm domes, guarantees excellent directivity control and timbre matching with all R-Series speakers.

The Silk diaphragms developed ground up, chosen specifically their smooth, effortless representation of midrange and treble. The 165mm woofers are made from our proprietary HPF pulp, two years in development, bringing new technology to one of the oldest materials used in loudspeaker design.

The R7t can be aligned as bass reflex or acoustic suspension depending on specific tastes. Rich, dynamic bass matched with advanced mid/treble directivity pattern control and silky highs offer best in class performance.

Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Remarkably coherent and balanced sound profile, resulting from well-engineered and matched drivers and cabinet
  • An uncanny ability to 'disappear' in the listening room
  • The DPC array design contributes to a wide horizontal dispersion, allowing a broader sweet spot for multiple listeners
  • Accurate sound reproduction and neutral enough for studio use
  • A high level of dynamic ability, good low-end control, and a cavernous soundstage

Product Considerations

  • Only available in gloss black and gloss white finishes, which might not suit all tastes or home décor
  • The price point is a significant investment, placing it beyond the reach of many
  • Some reviewers noted a mild treble roll-off, or smooth character that was overly kind on poor recordings and might lack the sparkle and excitement some listeners prefer
  • Setting up requires assistance, due to the weight
  • The lower bass extension may not satisfy deep bass enthusiasts, with extension starting to drop below 40Hz

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Perlisten S7t, the S7t offers more overall weight, bottom-end reach, resolution, and dynamic speed, but the R7t shines brightly on its own
  • Compared to the EgglestonWorks Oso, the Oso presented a more muscular version of the music with more bottom end oomph, while the R7t conveyed music's finer points with more apparent resolution
  • Compared to the KEF Reference 3, the KEF may yield deeper bass extension due to greater cabinet volume, and the scale of the soundstage may also be improved, but the Perlisten offers a superior disappearing act

Takeaway: The Perlisten R7t are well-built speakers that provide a detailed and immersive listening experience, with their advanced design and unique driver array creating a spacious soundstage. Their cutting-edge design creates a great listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
R7t
page
Product Page
Esprit 40th - Antal 40th
4000
4000
/
8
Reviews
Triangle

Antal and Comète are two emblematic models of the brand. They reflect the philosophy of the company: making sound accessible to the widest variety of customers possible through simple processes designed to foster emotion.

The Antal 40th floorstander features a new rose gold anodized magnesium dome tweeter, offering high efficiency and controlled distortion. Magnesium combines two desired qualities: lightness and rigidity. It also benefits from two new bass drivers. The use of our composite membrane made of wood pulp, flax and carbon fiber, associated with a generously sized engine, ensures a remarkable delivery of the lower frequencies.

The rich and clear sound of the midrange driver made out of natural cellulose paper TRIANGLE is known for, perfectly complements this acoustic design with surprising performances.

Each speaker integrates an accessory kit with various adaptable spikes to be used depending on the flooring. They enable decoupling by eliminating unwanted vibrations; so only the sound quality remains.

The 40th Anniversary Edition has been designed and developed with thoroughness to offer you an exceptional music experience. This speaker will fit beautifully in rooms ranging from 30 to 50m2.

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent midrange imaging and naturalness, described as smooth and stunning
  • Smooth treble with a timbre and natural decay that allows for hours of listening without fatigue
  • Expansive soundstaging with good imaging, height, and depth
  • Stellar overall balance makes it an outstanding performer
  • Beautiful wood veneer with high polish lacquer and attention to detail in construction

Product Considerations

  • Bass will not reach subterranean levels, a subwoofer may be required for strong bass enthusiasts
  • Speakers may benefit from more power
  • "Messy music" (genres with rawness or grime) may not be conveyed as well, as the speaker can be a little polite
  • Excellent clarity was brilliantly showcased by Ray Gelato's Basin Street Blues, beautifully recorded on the Linn label, which may not appeal to all audiences

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the standard Antal Ez, the 40th Anniversary edition uses a lighter—more rigid anodized-magnesium tweeter for higher efficiency, lower distortion, and better directivity

Takeaway: The Triangle Antal 40th Anniversary is a well-balanced and beautiful loudspeaker with a stunning midrange that provides a musical and engaging listening experience. Its clarity, expansive soundstage, and beautiful design make it a great addition to any audiophile's setup

Video review

Our take on the brand

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Esprit 40th - Antal 40th
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

Concept 50
2199
/
Released
2022
Q Acoustics
A sonic step-up from the Concept 30, this elegant floorstander takes everything great about its standmount brother but delivers more powerful audio, a deeper soundstage and increased bass extension through its leading-edge, low resonance cabinet.
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Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Fit and finish plus performance that is a bargain for around $3k/pair
  • Gelcore cabinet construction minimizes unwanted sound energy from resonance and vibrations
  • A tweeter that is hermetically sealed and mechanically isolated (floating) from the baffle provides lower distortion
  • Size, weight, and richness of tone belies their size, with a wider baffle to each loudspeaker pointing at you
  • A mild sound throws emphasis back to the midrange that in itself seems almost holographic, as well as deeply insightful in a gentle but revealing manner

Product Considerations

  • A medium to large size room is required to shine, otherwise the bass will dominate
  • Flaws in poor recordings can be revealed due to their detail and accuracy—warts and all performance
  • The top-end is a little soft and gentle—classic BBC like—which may require amps with some zing to compensate
  • Listeners seeking absolute detail or transparency might not be satisfied because of Q Acoustics' house sound that massages treble and plumps up bass and lower mid
  • They don't go sub-40Hz deep, frequency response is rated at 42 Hz – 30 kHz (-6dB)

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics Concept 50 offers excellent value with its blend of innovative design and high-quality sound, making it a great choice for enjoying music with a sense of depth and engagement. The Concept 50s are easy to listen to and fun.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Concept 50
Page
Product Page
Model Five
1249
/
Released
2021
KLH
Model Five acoustic suspension speakers are known as one of the finest and most sought-after speakers for audiophiles, both new and seasoned. Our updated version of this classic speaker has real wood veneers, cast aluminum baskets, and uses acoustic suspension design principles made famous by founder Henry Kloss. The KLH Model Five vintage speaker is offered in three gorgeous finishes (English Walnut, West African Mahogany, and Nordic Noir), allowing the loudspeaker to blend with all home decor.
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KLH Audio pioneered the first-ever high-selectivity FM table radio and the first full-range electrostatic loudspeaker, with their Model Nine being recognized as one of the twelve best loudspeakers ever built. The brand is known for its acoustic suspension design that uses the air volume inside the housing as an air spring, which significantly reduces distortion compared to conventional bass reflex structures, and includes an Acoustic Balance Control that lets users adjust the speaker's output to their room acoustics.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Retro aesthetics reminiscent of vintage speakers, with a well-applied veneer and woven front panel
  • Balanced sound with clarity in the midrange and treble, creating an immersive listening experience
  • Good sensitivity makes them relatively easy to drive with a range of amplifiers
  • Acoustic suspension design provides tight bass and allows for flexible placement near walls
  • Three-position attenuation switch allows for adjustment to different room acoustics

Product Considerations

  • Can sound a bit bright out of the box, requiring a break-in period
  • Sound can harden a little when provoked by poor or bright recordings, and they are finicky about upstream electronics
  • Bass might not be punchy enough for some listeners, potentially requiring a subwoofer or EQ adjustments
  • Lack of provision for spikes to fasten the speakers to the carpet
  • Grilles need to be off for best sound, according to one reviewer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the JBL L100, the Model Five is better balanced and more enjoyable to listen to
  • Compared to the NHT C3, the Model Five is an upgraded variant, offering deeper, wider sound and more resolution
  • Compared to the Buchardt S400, the Model Five sounds more open, brighter, and more detailed—with better instrument placement
  • Compared to the Aurender S5W, the Model Five reaches lower frequencies and has better overall resolution and detail
  • Compared to the Graham LS6, they perform on par, albeit via a different approach, trading in some refinement for a more direct—in-your-face sound

Takeaway: The KLH Model Five is a speaker with retro style and balanced sound. They are versatile and can be used in different listening spaces.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KLH Audio pioneered the first-ever high-selectivity FM table radio and the first full-range electrostatic loudspeaker, with their Model Nine being recognized as one of the twelve best loudspeakers ever built. The brand is known for its acoustic suspension design that uses the air volume inside the housing as an air spring, which significantly reduces distortion compared to conventional bass reflex structures, and includes an Acoustic Balance Control that lets users adjust the speaker's output to their room acoustics.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Model Five
Page
Product Page
5040
1495
/
Released
2023
Q Acoustics
5040 is a notably compact floorstander with a modest footprint - which means it's ideal for those environments where space is at a premium but the desire for full-scale audio excitement (as well a visual gratification) is strong.
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Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent clarity and detail resolution, with leading edges of notes crisply defined
  • Accurate reproduction, with precise tonal accuracy and fine spatial definition within the soundstage
  • Superb build quality for the money, and they look more expensive than they are
  • Easy to drive without requiring excessive power to perform to their best
  • Soundstage width is better than the 3050i

Product Considerations

  • Needs care in system matching, as they are transparent and will reveal shortcomings in the source or amplifier
  • Can sound slightly lean throughout the lower midrange, and the highs can sometimes present as a bit hot depending on the content
  • Does not plumb the depths that some other floorstanders do
  • Not designed for pokey rooms and cupboard-sized man caves, they need to breathe and require adequate space
  • Some reviewers felt the build quality of the binding posts could be better

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The 5040 has a more neutral tonal balance with better-defined bass and exceptional clarity, while the 3050i delivers greater overall impact with its larger drivers and cabinet

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5040 is a well-built speaker that sounds great and looks modern, making it a good choice for those who want clarity and detail in their music, but system matching is important to avoid a bright presentation. These speakers are a strong statement in the right listening environment for the price.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
5040
Page
Product Page
Ultra Evolution Pinnacle
2499
/
Released
2024
SVS
Ultra Evolution Pinnacle represents the culmination of SVS breakthroughs in driver design, component materials, and cabinet architecture, married with a relentless passion for audio excellence. The science of sonic perfection in harmony with a love of convincing and immersive sound. Never has this fusion of design elements existed in a single speaker.
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SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a lot of sound output and low bass, good for listeners who like full-range speakers
  • The diamond-coated tweeter offers a big sonic improvement, sounding more open and less tinny or strained on the high end
  • Exceptional value for money
  • Exceptional bass weight and presence for the price range
  • The Ultra Evolution Pinnacle offer scale, drama, and full-range sonics

Product Considerations

  • Voiced for warmth rather than accuracy
  • Can be room-sensitive in ways that other designs are not
  • Should be driven with a robust amplifier
  • The speaker's tonality is not linear, with a dip in the upper mid-range followed by a peak, making the sound somewhat shouty
  • Speakers require placement away from walls due to a wide Q bump in the lower bass region

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • vs Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4: The new tweeter in the SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle loudspeakers had a lot of that open sound when playing "Blackbird" from QoBuz, but the highs weren't as open and airy as the nearly six times more expensive Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4 speakers—the improvement over the past tweeter is notable
  • vs Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3: B&W is slightly more money and slightly more refined
  • vs MartinLogan XT F200: The SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle loudspeakers may have a different sonic signature

Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle speakers are a great option for those seeking a powerful, full-range sound with exceptional bass at a competitive price. They are the best SVS speaker yet and will make the listening experience vibrant and fun.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Ultra Evolution Pinnacle
Page
Product Page
Forte IV
2499
/
Released
2021
Klipsch
Since its inception in 1985, the Forte has been a standout speaker. The new Forte IV features updated cosmetics and the latest advancements in acoustic engineering for premium performance.
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Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers weighty bass that can be felt due to its 15-inch passive bass radiator, a unique feature among Klipsch Heritage speakers
  • Offers an open, transparent, true-to-life sound and a greater sense of scale compared to smaller Klipsch speakers, getting very close to the standards set by the La Scala in midrange clarity
  • Detailed and nimble high frequencies, refined and easier on the ears than past Klipsch designs due to crossover updates
  • Known for superb imaging, even better than some high-end bookshelf speakers, with a clean, sparkly, detailed, and 3-dimensional sound character
  • Plays bigger, fatter, and taller than most speakers under £10,000, delivering effortless dynamics and a full-blooded, immediate sonic presentation

Product Considerations

  • Placement is crucial; close to the wall can result in too much bass, compromising clarity, while too far can diminish bass capability
  • May reveal faults in recordings, with some modern recordings not sounding as good as expected, and proper amplifier matching is essential to avoid tweeter hiss
  • Can sound a bit more treble centric and forward compared to other Heritage speakers, potentially sounding hotter on top and thinner in the mids with certain amplifiers
  • Requires careful amplifier matching, as the speaker can reveal weaknesses in the system

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Heresy Mark 4: Forte IV has more bass and scale, though some may prefer the size and styling of the Heresy
  • Vs La Scala: Forte IV gets close to the La Scala's transparency but provides more bass
  • Vs KLH Model 5: Forte IV is the better speaker overall, with greater scale, openness, and dynamics, but the Model 5 is easier to place and more forgiving of poor recordings
  • Vs JBL L100 Classic: Forte IV has a more open and live sound

Takeaway: The Klipsch Forte 4 is a highly regarded speaker, offering a great blend of detail, dynamics, and bass performance making it a very enjoyable listening experience. With careful placement and amplifier matching, it can deliver exceptional sound quality that rivals more expensive speakers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Forte IV
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

  • Neutral and uncolored sound signature
  • Seamless integration of bass, midrange, and treble, sounding like one driver
  • Excelent midrange reproduction, offering electrostatic-like purity and presence for vocals, vibes, piano, and guitars
  • Made in Finland and boasts a tasteful, Euro design with customization options for the waveguide and grills

Product Considerations

  • Sensitivity is on the low side
  • Dynamics are not the strongest point, so it is not ideal for rocking out
  • Bass is not the most powerful

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Klipsch Forte III: The Klipsch is more of a party animal and rocks out harder, with more dynamic liveliness

Takeaway: The Argon3LS is a well-built speaker that offers a smooth, neutral, and revealing sound. It's great for audiophiles who want to really listen to music and experience the beauty of midrange instruments.

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.

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