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
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality with precision reproduction, especially considering the price range
- Strong bass performance for its size, reaching deeper than smaller models, and with good control
- Elegant and modern design available in multiple finishes
- Bluetooth connectivity, now upgraded to aptX HD
- Wide range of inputs including HDMI, optical, analog line-in, and turntable input (MM)
Product Considerations
- Cannot swap left and right channels, potentially requiring rearranging based on source placement
- Volume control on the remote can be too sensitive
- Reviewer encountered strange issues with LFE channels on Netflix and Disney+ through HDMI, while Blu-ray playback was fine
- May require a subwoofer for electronic music or in standalone configuration
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Better than soundbars in the same price range in terms of sound quality
- Better than the previous Forte A4 model due to the larger midwoofer and cabinet
Takeaway: The Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2 provides great sound and features for the price, making it a versatile option for various setups. The addition of HDMI and improved Bluetooth enhances its value and ease of use for modern users.
All
Forte A5 MK2
reviews

Manufacturer details
- Treble: 1" Softdome with Neodymium Magnet
- Bass/Midrange: 5" Custom 2-layer Cone
- Frequency Range: 40-20.000 Hz ± 3 dB
- Output Power: 4 x 80 Watts
- Amplifier Technology: Class D with Fully Digital Signal Path
- Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and AAC
- Inputs: TV HDMI ARC, Optical Digital (24-bit/96 kHz), Stereo Line-in (Analog RCA), Turntable (MM), Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and AAC
- Outputs: Subwoofer Output
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 16.5 x 27 x 23 cm (incl. front cover and terminals)
- Weight: 8.2 kg (set)
- Standby Power Consumption: <0.5 watt
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Argon Audio delivers a wide array of connectivity options, including turntable inputs, HDMI ARC, and both digital and analog inputs.
- They implement true active speaker designs with dedicated amplifiers for each driver (bi-amplification), along with DSP correction, to deliver a balanced sound signature.
- Argon Audio delivers sound quality that belies their price point, often being compared favorably to more expensive competitors and exceeding expectations for the budget category.
Select products
Fenris A4
- Positioning: Entry-level active speaker designed for approachable quality and simplicity.
- Description: Offers solid digital amplification with driver tuning aimed at clear sound in smaller rooms. Compared to other models in the lineup, it lacks some advanced connectivity and premium driver enhancements, making it ideal for buyers with basic functionality needs and a tighter budget.
Forte A55 WiFi
- Positioning: Mid-range active speaker with built-in WiFi streaming for modern connectivity.
- Description: Integrates wireless connectivity with reliable digital amplification to deliver clear audio while enabling smart-device streaming. When compared to the standard Forte and Fenris models, its added WiFi feature sets it apart, though it offers fewer high-end driver refinements than the flagship option.
Forte A55 MK2
- Positioning: Mid-tier active speaker blending robust performance with multiple connectivity options.
- Description: Features fully digital amplification with separate channels for tweeters and woofers to provide crisp, detailed sound. Relative to the Fenris series and the WiFi variant, it offers greater wired connectivity and refined driver technology, while still positioning below the flagship in overall technical sophistication.
Fenris A55
- Positioning: Upper mid-range active speaker focused on acoustic clarity and refined sound performance.
- Description: Delivers enhanced digital amplification with carefully tuned drivers to create a richer sound stage. In contrast to the Forte series, it emphasizes pure sound quality over extensive connectivity options.
Forte A5 MK2
- Positioning: Flagship bookshelf active speaker offering premium technology and high-end audio performance.
- Description: Provides exceptional digital amplification paired with advanced custom drivers for a superior dynamic range and sound fidelity. Compared to the lower-tier models, it delivers the most refined acoustic performance and connectivity features.
Our take on the brand
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Used
Argon Audio
What if you spend more?
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
- Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
- Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
- BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
- Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
- Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
- Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
- Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
- Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers
Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The Nines powered monitors deliver room-filling sound without taking up much space
Product Strengths
- Signature Klipsch sound, described as 'classic Klipsch concert-like sound' with a 'warm, rich' tone and detailed high end
- Powerful bass performance that in many cases negates the need for a separate subwoofer
- Retro-modern aesthetic with real wood veneers and metal control dials
- Clear and commanding presence across a multidimensional soundstage
- Versatile connectivity including HDMI-ARC, USB, optical, analog inputs (including phono), and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Dialogue clarity in movies could be improved
- The Klipsch Connect app can be clumsy and sluggish
- Limited tonal controls on the remote itself
- The soundstage may lack depth in some setups
- Some reviewers found the treble to be too high, requiring adjustment via the app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Q Acoustics Q Active 200: The Q Active 200 has a wider, deeper soundstage with better imaging, while The Nines has a fuller, more embodied sound with bigger, more powerful bass and less dynamic compression at higher volumes
Takeaway: The Nines is a versatile and powerful speaker system that combines Klipsch's signature sound with a range of modern connectivity options, making it a great option for both music and home theater. Its strong bass performance and classic design further enhance its appeal.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality that is true to form for KEF
- Sleek design that appeals to many
- User-friendly KEF Connect app allows control over volume, source selection, and EQ
- Integration with streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, and Amazon Music is well done
- Versatile connectivity, including HDMI, USB, optical inputs, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Lacks analog input, preventing direct turntable connection
- Bass response may require a subwoofer for a full range experience—especially for bass-heavy music or home theater
- May exhibit some diffraction elements that can affect the sound, though this may reduce sibilance
- Not Roon Ready, though it can stream via AirPlay or Chromecast
- Can suffer when playing super bass heavy music at very high volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PSB Alpha IQ: The KEF LSX2 LT offers a mellower take on music
Takeaway: The KEF LSX II LT is a stylish, compact, and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers very good sound quality for its size. It's a great option for desktop use, small to medium-sized rooms, or as an alternative to a soundbar, especially when paired with a subwoofer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
LSX II offers the highest quality sound in its size with streaming up to 24bit/384kHz, making high-fidelity sound accessible to more listeners.
Listen to music the way you like with the minimum of fuss and in pristine sound quality.
LSX II supports HDMI ARC and USB-C inputs, making it the perfect companion for TV, laptop and more.
When partnered with other wireless speakers, you can use AirPlay 2, Chromecast or Roon to fill the entire house with the same playlist.
LSX II delivers high-fidelity sound while it is compact enough to fit into any setting. You can place the speakers on a bookshelf, desktop or even attach them to the wall with dedicated accessories.
Product Strengths
- Delivers fantastic, room-filling sound from a small footprint
- Is simple and straightforward to set up using the KEF Connect app
- Imaging and dynamics are excellent, with the sound mostly spread between, above, and behind the speakers, creating a palpable and impressive sense of the music being there in space
- Well-balanced sound with punchy dynamics and excellent instrumental separation
- Offers a wide array of connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, USB-C, and HDMI ARC
Product Considerations
- Bass is good, but those who focus on EDM or hip-hop might want a sub
- Treble can be slightly rough in the upper midrange to treble transition region, more noticeable with lower quality recordings or data rates
- For native 24-bit/192kHz playback, a wired connection is required between the speakers
- KEF Connect app lacks robust full equalizer controls
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos: KEF LSX II offer superior sound quality
- Vs Q Acoustics M20HDs: KEF LSX II has a more sophisticated app and integration of Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect
- Vs Original LSX: KEF LSX II's setup is much easier and more seamless thanks to wireless updates
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless: KEF LSX II lacks Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) present in these models
Takeaway: The KEF LSX II is a stylish and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality and is easy to set up and use. Its wide range of connectivity options and excellent imaging make it a great choice for those looking for a compact and convenient audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent value for the money
- Offers a compact and complete solution for streaming music, wired sources, and TV sound
- The sound is open and clean, with an absence of coloration
- Dynamic, energetic reproduction with powerful, tight—and precise—bass, according to its size
- Versatile connectivity with HDMI ARC, optical, RCA, and phono inputs
Product Considerations
- Bass reproduction is limited due to the small woofer size, a subwoofer may be necessary in medium to large rooms
- The speaker cannot be taken out of standby mode without using the remote control
- The remote control requires precise aiming at the master speaker
- Bluetooth module is SBC and AAC compatible only, with no support for HD codecs
- The cable to connect the two speakers is not very long, which makes the placement harder
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Sonos Five has more powerful woofers, but does not play nearly as cleanly
- The Forte A5 MK2 has more power in the bass
Takeaway: The Argon Audio Forte A4 WiFi is a great all-in-one speaker that sounds really good for the price, making it perfect for enjoying music and TV sound in smaller spaces. It has many ways to connect devices, so it is very easy to use.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality for the price, with a neutral and unconstrained sound
- Compact size and aesthetically pleasing design, with rounded edges and magnetic front fabric
- Each driver has its own 40W class D amplifier
- Versatile connectivity with multiple inputs including optical, RCA, HDMI ARC, and phono
Product Considerations
- Bass performance can become strained at higher volumes
- The left and right speakers cannot be interchanged
- Limited deep bass, due to the small 4-inch bass driver
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Dynaudio Music 1: Dynaudio Music 1 offers streaming and multi-room functionality, but with less stereo breadth
Takeaway: The Argon Audio Forte A4 MK2 is a well-rounded and versatile speaker that delivers good sound for its price and size. It is a great option for smaller rooms or as a first stereo system, particularly due to its versatile connectivity options.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wide range of connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0 aptX, Wi-Fi, RCA/Phono input, optical input, and USB input.
- Enthusiastic and capable sound quality suitable for various music genres, with a mature sense of composure.
- Elegant and refined design with unique arrow-extended feet and premium grill, available in multiple color finishes.
- The included Triangle AIO app is well-designed, bug-free, and provides easy streaming from providers like Spotify, Qobuz, Tidal, and Deezer, as well as basic EQ adjustments.
- Includes a built-in moving magnet phono stage for playing records directly.
Product Considerations
- The quality of the built-in phono stage isn't the best compared to streaming or other inputs
- The remote control is plastic and doesn't feel as premium as the speaker itself
- The included speaker cable is basic
- WiFi connectivity can have a delay when turning the speaker off and back on
- The bright LED indicating the source can be distracting for some users, though it can be dimmed or turned off
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF LSX II, the AIO Twin is at half the price
- Triangle is more balanced, neutral, and composed than the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2, while the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2 is more V-shaped
Takeaway: The AIO is a versatile and good-sounding all-in-one speaker system that combines modern features with a stylish design, making it a great choice for those who want simplicity and convenience. The speaker's ability to handle various input sources, from streaming to vinyl playback, ensures that users can enjoy all of their music with ease.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers warm, powerful, and detailed sound with potent dynamics, especially for film and TV
- Features a gorgeous, retro-modern design with solid build quality and premium materials
- Provides excellent imaging and a broad, immersive soundstage
- Offers versatility as both TV speakers and a hifi system replacement—suited for both music and movies
- Offers lots of connection options, including HDMI ARC, optical input, USB, and a built-in phono preamp
Product Considerations
- Lacks built-in Wi-Fi or Ethernet streaming, relying on Bluetooth for wireless connectivity
- The indicator lights for source and volume are located on top of the primary speaker and are hard to see when seated
- The horn-loaded tweeters can sometimes skew towards sharpness, especially with stringed and choral recordings
- Remote response can be slow
- The Klipsch Connect app can be a bit frustrating to use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LSX II and SVS Prime Wireless Pro: The Sevens offer more cinematic spectacle, while KEF and SVS offer more clarity and precision for music
- Vs Klipsch The Fives: The Sevens offer a grander physical scale and potentially a more cinematic experience
Takeaway: The Klipsch 'The Sevens' are a stylish and versatile set of powered speakers that provide rich and detailed sound, making them a great choice for those who want a simple, powerful audio system for both music and movies. They are especially suitable for people who appreciate a retro aesthetic and don't mind the lack of built-in Wi-Fi.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a powerful, smooth and detailed sound with flexible voicing options
- High frequency reproduction balances accuracy without being harsh
- Ability to resolve fine details
- Excellent build quality, back panel controls, and layout
- Room correction presets can be saved via the partnered Sonarworks Sound ID software
Product Considerations
- Non-stepped volume controls travel a little too easily
- On/off switch and input sensitivity controls are located on the cabinet rear panel
- Network router and ethernet cables required for computer control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The A7V has a more premium sound and can be tweaked further thanks to the free A-Control software, but the ADAM Audio T7V is hard to beat due to its price-to-performance ratio
- For users coming from a set of KRK Systems Rokit 8 speakers, the A7V will be a massive improvement
Takeaway: The ADAM Audio A7V is a great-sounding monitor with multiple voicings, software integration and excellent build quality. These monitors offer a detailed audio performance, allowing users to make well informed mixing decisions.
Video review
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