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

  • Fast and clean on the leading edges of transients, and more transparent and coherent overall
  • Voices are reproduced with outstanding clarity, balance, presence, and naturalness
  • Explodes dynamically without losing its composure, and stops on a dime—with no overhang

Product Considerations

  • Doesn't go as deep as some large references

Takeaway: The Enigma MkII offers great clarity and coherence, making music sound very natural. It is easy to drive and can fill a room with sound without losing control, making it a great choice for enjoying all kinds of music.

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.

Enigma MKII:

  • Positioning: An entry-level integrated preamplifier designed for balanced performance and ease of use.
  • Description: Offers a clear signal path and straightforward control with a focus on reliable, basic functionality that adapts well to small rooms and moderate budgets. In comparison to the more advanced models in the lineup, it has fewer high-end processing features and connectivity options, making it suitable for buyers with basic functionality needs.

Stela:

  • Positioning: A mid-range preamplifier that bridges fundamental performance with improved components.
  • Description: Benefits from enhanced circuitry that helps deliver a more detailed sound and steadier build quality. Compared to the entry-level model, it refines the sound without reaching the complexity of higher-end models, offering a middle ground in both feature set and price.

Prelude:

  • Positioning: A mid-high product that steps up connectivity and sonic refinement for the discerning listener.
  • Description: Integrates noise reduction and analog circuit improvements to yield a larger soundstage and clearer detail ideal for critical listening in average to larger rooms. In contrast to the simpler entry-level models and even the slightly more refined mid-range option, it increases technical sophistication without the full cost of the top-tier models.

Adamante:

  • Positioning: A high-end model designed for robust performance and premium build quality.
  • Description: Uses custom integrated circuits and refined voltage regulation to enhance stability and sound fidelity in more demanding listening environments. Compared to Prelude and the lower-tier products, it offers more technical enhancements and a broader soundstage.

Forte:

  • Positioning: The flagship model delivering the utmost in performance and advanced functionality.
  • Description: Features a state-of-the-art power supply design and ultra-low distortion architectures that provide the clearest, most expansive sound profiles for large or critical listening spaces. Compared to all other products in the lineup, it stands out with the highest connectivity options and engineering refinements, positioning it for buyers with the most demanding functional and sonic requirements.
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
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer's notes

New version of our flagship 2-way speaker line. This mkII version maintains the configuration of two 22cm woofers and a large ribbon tweeter like its predecessor, but all its elements and the crossover have been reworked for substantial gains in resolution, dynamic capability, and bass register accuracy. The loading has been optimized, and special attention has been paid to the mechanical and electromagnetic damping of each driver.
This mkII version uses the same configuration as its predecessor, with two 22cm woofers and a very large ribbon tweeter, but all of its elements, as well as the filter, have been reworked for a substantial gain in resolution, dynamic capacity and rigor of the bass register. The load has been optimized, and particular care has been taken with the mechanical and electromagnetic damping of each of the speakers.
  • Frequency response: 30-30,000Hz / ±3dB
  • Sensitivity: 95 dB/2.83v/1m
  • Impedance: 4 Ω
  • Crossover frequency: 2.1 kHz
  • Drivers: 2 x 22cm woofer-midrange "Isotactic Matrix", 15 x 145mm ribbon tweeter
  • Dimensions: 254 x 406 x 1270 mm (l x p x h), with stand: 404 x 443 x 1346 mm
  • Weight: 76 kg net - 95 kg packed
  • Loading: bass-reflex / acoustic line
  • Terminals: single-wiring accepting spades and banana plugs
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Average Price
$30,001-$40,000
Used Products
3
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
320
 of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
10
Founded
1982

Our take on the brand

Apertura Audio is distinguished by its unique cabinet designs featuring non-parallel walls and laminar structure, combined with their proprietary DRIM crossover technology that uses a triple transition slope to minimize distortion.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
Brand Page
Most data on ExtremeHiFi is proprietary—researched and reviewed after thousands of hours of loving labor. We archive our site's data and its pages on Archive.org and take legal action against those repurposing the data. We also fingerprint data to know when text and numbers came from us first.
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What if you spend a bit more?

801 D4 Signature
55000
55000
/
14
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Each detail of the Signature has been carefully crafted and sees numerous updates over the standard 801, including crossover upgrades and a modified cabinet with a refined downward firing port
  • The bass presentation on the 801 Signature was better across the board, it was tighter, a little more pronounced and forward, and definitely more defined
  • Bass goes beyond just hitting the low notes, the woofers showcase some of the clearest, most audible detail and texture
  • Vocalists and actors have better inflection, greater scale, and detail playing at low volumes
  • When properly set up, the Signature is one of the most holographic windows to music experienced
  • Speakers need power, the Arcam was impressive and even got the 801s to play loud, but the Macintosh MC312 made the Signature sound flow-like water

Product Considerations

  • The Signature's impedance fluctuates wildly, ranging from a nominal 8 ohms and dipping lower than 3, so you need an amplifier that does more than just work
  • Placement matters: if placed too close to the wall, the bass response became too pronounced and even boomy at times
  • The Signature can come off as bright, and in extreme cases, it might be fatiguing to some
  • Poor recordings won't get a free pass, there's bound to be a track or two that's going to leave your playlist rotation

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Klipsch La Scala, both speakers excel at the recreation of space in true-to-life dynamics
  • Compared to the Wharfedale Elysian 4, the Elysian doesn't play as deep, is richer in the mid-range, and nowhere near as extended up top, so it's not the Signature's equal
  • Compared to the Wilson Audio Want Puppy, the two speakers are similar in size, driver complement, build and finish quality, price, and target market
  • Compared to the SVS Titan, the Titans sound two-dimensional and fat, compared to the Signature's far more realistic and natural-sounding bass
  • Compared to the KEF R11 Meta, the Signature's beefy presence makes for a far grander statement

Takeaway: The 801 Signature is a speaker that elevates the listening experience to another level because it is designed with incredible attention to detail. It will be an emotional and immersive experience to own these speakers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
801 D4 Signature
page
Product Page
801 D4
42000
42000
/
9
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Powerful and deep bass with fast transient attack and rich tonal shades
  • Sweeter-sounding tweeter that integrates more fluidly with the midrange without sacrificing detail
  • Balanced and coherent presentation across the frequency range
  • Sounds are reproduced with clarity, detail, and dynamic contrasts
  • Impressive soundstage imaging with accurately-sized images, providing a wide, tall, and deep soundstage

Product Considerations

  • High-quality amplification with plenty of power is required, designed for use with amplifiers of up to 1000W
  • Due to its size and the power it requires, it needs to be placed in a large room
  • The weight of over 100 kg per speaker can make placement difficult—requiring assistance for lifting and maneuvering, especially on non-smooth surfaces
  • The grilles can be a tricky fit

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs 800 D3: Faster and tighter bass register with a sweeter-sounding tweeter and improved decoupling
  • Vs 802 D4: More bass, the 802 D4 had better blend

Takeaway:

The 801 D4 is a high-performance speaker known for its powerful and nuanced sound, exceptional imaging, and refined design, and it is capable of delivering a captivating listening experience. It is worth the investment for audiophiles who want detail and high-quality sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
801 D4
page
Product Page
Alexia V
71000
71000
/
9
Reviews
Wilson Audio

Form Follows FunctionV-Material is nested in the top of the woofer and midrange enclosures for increased vibration mitigation and control. By using X-Material throughout all three modules, and methodically refining the internal bracing and panel thicknesses, Wilson Audio's Engineers have enhanced enclosure damping to a new standard for this product category.

Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Alexia V brings many of the qualities of the Chronosonic XVX to a smaller and more affordable loudspeaker
  • Spectacular bass performance delivers powerful weight and muscularity without sounding thick or overblown
  • Midrange shares harmonic beauty and warmth with the XVX, offering smoothness and ease
  • The Alexia V presents real life to the listener in a way that previous versions cannot match
  • Every detail of the design and build exudes the highest level of quality and craftsmanship

Product Considerations

  • Premium-priced, putting it out of reach for many music lovers
  • Alexia V sounds a bit more forward, incisive, and "extraverted" compared to the XVX

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Alexia V shares many sonic characteristics with the Chronosonic XVX, but sounds a bit more forward, incisive, and 'extraverted', the XVX is more subtle, refined, darker in tonal balance, and 'bigger' sounding
  • Alexia V is unequivocally superior to the Series 2 in every way

Takeaway: The Alexia V brings many of the best qualities from Wilson Audio's top-of-the-line speakers into a more manageable size and price point. The sound is both powerful and refined, making listening to music an engaging experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Alexia V
page
Product Page
Epikore 11
60000
60000
/
8
Reviews
Dali
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional transparency and is capable of reproducing quiet details with precision
  • Accessible and easy sound that draws the listener in
  • The EVO-K Hybrid Tweeter is superb, providing silky highs beyond belief, regardless of volume
  • Massive, subtly rounded, full-bodied bass which is remarkably deep, and delivers incredibly clear and defined punch

Product Considerations

  • A large speaker that will dominate a room, requiring a large listening space to truly sing
  • Bass can be somewhat elevated, depending on the room size
  • Not exactly modest in its choice of amplifier

Takeaway: The Epikore 11 is a high-end speaker that combines power and refinement to deliver a transparent, detailed and engaging listening experience. It is also well-built with premium materials and is beautifully styled.

Video review

Our take on the brand

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Epikore 11
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

802 D4
31000
/
Released
2021
Bowers & Wilkins
Built to similar proportions as the flagship 801 D4, the 802 D4 offers much of the performance of its sibling, including the same Turbine™ Head enclosure for its midrange drive unit, yet is more affordable overall.
Check on Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional build quality with meticulous sanding, polishing, and assembly
  • High level of detail reproduction with a clean and uncolored treble, thanks to the diamond tweeter
  • Stable and efficient design with a wide frequency range and high sensitivity
  • Iconic design with a teardrop-shaped cabinet to minimize diffraction and internal Matrix skeleton to reduce resonances
  • Delivers music with extremely low distortion, allowing complex passages to breathe freely

Product Considerations

  • Wheels underneath may mark parquet floors
  • May lack some punch and dynamics in the mid-bass for some listeners
  • Setup can benefit from careful physical adjustments for optimal performance
  • Grills may be compelling as toys for young children

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The 802 D4 is more musically compelling than the 802 D3
  • The 802 D4 delivers more accuracy, especially in the mids and highs, than the 800 D2/D3
  • The 802 D4 has an advantage in airiness, transparency and resolution, though the KEF Blade Two Meta has more brutal dynamics
  • The 802 D4 has less exaggerated sibilance, though the Focal Sopra No3 is more powerful in the midrange

Takeaway: The 802 D4 is an ultra high-end speaker that combines advanced technology and top-shelf materials, delivering exceptional detail and a clean soundstage for an immersive listening experience. It is a speaker that may fill the soul with music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
802 D4
Page
Product Page
Diva Utopia
39999
/
Released
2024
Focal
DIVA UTOPIA combines the best of Focal Acoustics and Naim Electronics. This active bass-reflex speaker offers high-quality sound, the latest wireless technologies, and extensive connectivity for exceptional listening experiences. Whether it's music, movies, or video games, it revolutionises home listening and frees you from all constraints. With DIVA UTOPIA and its unique design, simply plug in, connect, and enjoy the pure sound of Focal.
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Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent clarity, detail resolution, and agility in sound reproduction
  • Impressive bass definition and punch, delivering huge amounts of bass effortlessly
  • Combines muscularity, insight, scale, and attack for an engaging listening experience
  • Design is unique and striking, with impeccable build quality and a flawless finish
  • Offers extensive specification and numerous control options, all implemented expertly

Product Considerations

  • Sonic presentation might be a little too 'safe' or 'civilizing', potentially losing some of the vibrant energy in music
  • Lacks some features compared to competitors regarding connectivity and adjustability
  • Requires a large listening space to avoid overpowering the room
  • The provided remote casing feels cheap and insubstantial compared to the overall package
  • Room correction (ADAPT) is not as automated or precise as some other systems and the application may crash

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF LS60 Wireless: KEF LS60 offers more flexibility, including a subwoofer output, but at higher volumes, Focal Diva is the clear winner
  • Vs Bang & Olufsen Beolab 90: Beolab 90 is in a league of its own and provides a more complete audio experience
  • Vs Scala Utopia Evo: Diva Utopia is cheaper in the long run, as the Scala Utopia Evo needs additional components, such as Naim Classic components
  • Vs Diablo Utopia Color Evos: The Color Evos may represent the ultimate Focal experience

Takeaway: The Diva Utopia is an all-in-one speaker with impressive sound that expertly combines performance and design. It offers a unique blend of luxury and high-end audio quality that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a simplified audiophile experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Diva Utopia
Page
Product Page
Three BXT
31155
/
Released
Kii
The Kii THREE BXT system is an exceptional upgrade designed to enhance any Kii THREE setup's acoustical accuracy and clarity. This system adds eight extra drivers and a powerful 2,000 watts of amplification per speaker (16 drivers and 7,000 watts total per pair) in a sleek floor-standing module. It extends the range and sound pressure level of the Kii THREE and preserves its unique room-friendly cardioid system for precise, proper directionality.
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Kii Audio's unique "Active Wave Focusing" technology creates a cardioid pattern that minimizes room reflections and directs sound energy forward, allowing their speakers to maintain consistent sound quality even when placed near walls or corners. Each Kii THREE speaker uses six custom Ncore amplifiers and multiple DACs with advanced DSP processing to deliver full-range sound from a compact design that outperforms much larger systems.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • When combined with the BXT module, the system delivers tight, dynamic, and nuanced bass reproduction
  • The addition of the BXT allows the system to reveal subtle details in the lower frequencies that are typically missed
  • The BXT system offers a balanced sound, with the midrange frequencies benefiting from the addition of the BXT module
  • Are relieved of some bass duties, letting them focus more on the mids
  • The combination with the BXT module creates a cardioid dispersion pattern, reducing reflections from side and rear walls—minimizing the influence of room acoustics
  • Ease of use is another strength of the concept

Product Considerations

  • Some perceive it as sounding 'too digital' or 'too analytical' on its own, lacking the warmth of other speakers, but the BXT module helps to address this
  • The display on the Kii Control is considered small, making it difficult to read in poor lighting conditions

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus ATC speakers, ATC speakers have a warmer, more colorful sound

Takeaway: The system, especially when paired with the BXT module, delivers exceptional sound quality with deep, controlled bass and reduced room interaction. For those wanting a system with great clarity and power, this could be a good pick.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Kii Audio's unique "Active Wave Focusing" technology creates a cardioid pattern that minimizes room reflections and directs sound energy forward, allowing their speakers to maintain consistent sound quality even when placed near walls or corners. Each Kii THREE speaker uses six custom Ncore amplifiers and multiple DACs with advanced DSP processing to deliver full-range sound from a compact design that outperforms much larger systems.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Three BXT
Page
Product Page
Jubilee
35998
/
Released
2022
Klipsch
The Klipsch Jubilee is founder Paul W. Klipsch's (PWK) final project. His dream was to create a loudspeaker to satisfy even the most ardent audiophiles. Originally intended to be the successor to the Klipschorn, PWK soon realized it was much more than that.
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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

  • Extraordinary bass response that goes down to 18 hertz
  • They play quietly very well, maintaining detail and presence even at low volumes
  • The sound is dynamic and powerful, with an effortless quality
  • They don't sound like horns
  • Wide soundstage, and imaging is precise and focused

Product Considerations

  • At $36,000 a pair, the Jubilee speakers represent a significant financial investment
  • The DSP has the potential for problems
  • A larger room where the speakers can be placed further apart and further away would improve the sound further
  • The speaker is large, which may pose aesthetic or practical challenges for some rooms

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Jubilee is considered a step up from the Klipschorn
  • The Jubilee is a whole different thing than the Klipsch Cornwall
  • Jubilee tends to have better bottom end and better top end than the Klipschorn

Takeaway: The Klipsch Jubilee is a unique speaker that sounds great and can fill a large room with ease. It offers a powerful and dynamic listening experience that is different from other 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
Jubilee
Page
Product Page
The WATT/Puppy
38500
/
Released
2024
Wilson Audio
Introducing a remastering to one of, if not the most, iconic loudspeaker designs: The WATT/Puppy. Inspired by the original WATT/Puppy's legacy, the development of this instantly recognizable design began with a hopeful vision: to create a WATT/Puppy that would honor the original designer by utilizing current technologies and innovations refined for more than 50 years. Simply put, to build a WATT/Puppy that Dave Wilson would have built if he had the resources then that Wilson Audio now possesses.
Check on Amazon
Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Remarkable soundstage width and depth, creating a vivid and immersive listening experience
  • Excellent detail retrieval and clarity across the frequency spectrum
  • Powerful and controlled bass response
  • Evolutionary transmutation that embodies Wilson Audio's entire current philosophies and peak technologies

Product Considerations

  • The price point may be a limiting factor for some potential buyers, especially given the proximity to the Sasha V's price
  • Requires careful setup and positioning to achieve optimal performance
  • Bass response may be overblown at times

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sabrina X: The WATT/Puppy clearly betters the Sabrina X
  • Vs Sasha V: Uses identical drivers but the Sasha V deploys larger cabinetry
  • The Wat Puppy is a little dog that is demanding of attention versus the Sasha—which is effortless
  • Vs Watt Puppy System 8: The WATT/Puppy outperforms the System 8 in every area, from low frequency extension and slam, to soundstage depth and width

Takeaway: The WATT/Puppy is a high-performing speaker system that combines advanced technology with a legacy design to provide a detailed and engaging listening experience. Its ability to create a wide and deep soundstage while maintaining clarity and control makes it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles

Video review

Our take on the brand

Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
The WATT/Puppy
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

  • Fast and clean on the leading edges of transients, and more transparent and coherent overall
  • Voices are reproduced with outstanding clarity, balance, presence, and naturalness
  • Explodes dynamically without losing its composure, and stops on a dime—with no overhang

Product Considerations

  • Doesn't go as deep as some large references

Takeaway: The Enigma MkII offers great clarity and coherence, making music sound very natural. It is easy to drive and can fill a room with sound without losing control, making it a great choice for enjoying all kinds of music.

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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