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
- Sound is hifi and they can play bass
- Significantly more bass capacity than the A4, suitable for larger living rooms
- Midrange reproduction is very nice, and singing voices sound natural
- Treble is well-resolved, and gives a bright and delicious sound image
- Practical and good, it makes economic and technical sense to have everything together on one plate, where all the inputs and outputs are located
Product Considerations
- The sound can be a bit sharp, and the nuance could have been better
- The active electronics are located in the left speaker, which must be in the left corner of the living room
- Handling the large and 26 kilo heavy cardboard box is a task for two people
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Forte A4: the Forte A55 keeps up the quality, but has significantly more capacity when it comes to the bass
Takeaway: The Argon Audio Forte A55 is a great value speaker with the same good sound that was characteristic of little brother Forte A4, only for larger living rooms and with the possibility of deeper bass and higher sound pressure. Being a truly active speaker in its price range makes it worth buying.
All
Forte A55 WiFi
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Treble: 1" Softdome with Neodymium Magnet
- Bass/Midrange: 2 x 5" Custom 2-layer Cone With Low Distortion Motor System
- Frequency Range: 35-20.000 Hz ± 3 dB
- Output Power: 4 x 80 Watts
- Amplifier Technology: Class D with Fully Digital Signal Path
- Wireless Connectivity: Airplay2, Spotify Connect, Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 (AAC)
- Inputs: TV HDMI ARC, Optical Digital (24-bit/96 kHz), Stereo Line-in (Analog RCA), Turntable (MM)
- Outputs: Subwoofer Output
- Additional Features: Auto power up on all inputs except Phono, Auto switch inputs, Dimmable LED
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 16.5 x 85 x 25 cm (incl. front cover and foot)
- Weight: 26 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?
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Product Strengths
- Phenomenal performance combines with great aesthetics and ease of use
- The Uni-Q driver provides a great, all-encompassing sense of sound and captures every element of the track
- Offers a wealth of customization via the KEF Connect app, including EQ settings, wall mode, and bass extension
- Every driver is paired with a custom amplifier, eliminating the need to choose separate components
- Integrates multiple streaming options including Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, and Chromecast
Product Considerations
- Bluetooth 4.2 may be seen as outdated
- The included remote control is basic
- Bass can be too much straight out of the box and may require adjustment
- Some may not like the decision being taken away of choosing a specific amplifier or DAC
- Output may be limited for very large rooms
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- LS60 uses a lot of similar technology found in the KEF Blades
- LS60 can play much louder and deeper, and are more dynamic and even more open than KEF LS50 Wireless II
- LS60 goes deeper in the bass than Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duo
- LS60 has more outstanding range and bass dynamics than DALI Rubicon 6 C and PIEGA Premium Wireless 701
Takeaway: The KEF LS60 Wireless is a convenient and great-sounding speaker system with a slim design and comprehensive features that's easy to set up and customize for various listening preferences. It's a good choice if you want a simple, high-quality audio solution without needing separate components.
Video review
Our take on the brand
An entire high-resolution wireless audio system, delivering uncompromised hi-fi sound that fits conveniently and seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Product Strengths
- Expansive sound delivery thanks to BMR drivers, creating a room-filling sound
- Energetic performance and fun sound
- Solid bass response
- Extremely well made and employing a new form of 'Dart' bracing to add stiffness to the cabinet and mechanical stability to the drivers
Product Considerations
- Soundstage loses some focus, not ideal for a specific listening position
- Design is an acquired taste
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Q Active 400 delivers a bigger soundstage and deeper bass than the Q Acoustics Q Active 200
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics Q Active 400 is an impressive wireless system that sounds great and is easy to use, providing a cohesive performance with a wide delivery and powerful bass. It's a flexible system that can integrate into many different home setups to provide an all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Slim, aesthetically pleasing design from Stephan Hurlemann, made with aluminum
- Rigid aluminum enclosure helps resist resonance and ensures frequency linearity
- Smooth, sweet, extended top end from the AMT-1 Air Motion Transformer tweeter
- Sound is lithe, elegant, clean, refined, and precise
- Confident low-frequency performance that is smoothly extended, agile, and tuneful with good articulation
Product Considerations
- Bass is not the weightiest for its class
- Not a speaker for very loud volume levels or trouser-flapping bass
- Sound plays it a little too safe
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 Anniversary Edition: The Bowers & Wilkins sounds bigger and bolder with excellent detail resolution
- Vs Scansonic M20: The Scansonic rivals the Piega's finesse, openness, and superb timing
Takeaway: The Piega Ace 50 offers a harmonious blend of style and sound with its gorgeous looks and refined sonics. It is a good choice for anyone who appreciates a clear, open, and tonally natural speaker that does well with most types of music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Powerful, rich sound in a compact design. Designed for both digital and analog sources, Duetto is a versatile combination of Italian style and contemporary function. Big sound in a compact design, Duetto marks Sonus faber's inaugural active stereo wireless speaker system. Powered by four bespoke amplifiers, Duetto presents an all-in-one sound solution, harmoniously blending a multitude of connectivity options while keeping the listening experience wire-free.
Double the sound, not the size. Inspired by a harmony produced by two instruments, Duetto sets a new standard for wireless high-fidelity sound in a compact design.
Ultra Wide Band Technology
Duetto employs Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, enabling communication between the two speakers. The wireless transmission avoids latency and interference by other home networks, while guaranteeing a wide frequency spectrum to send data signals at high speeds.
SENSO™ Technology by Sonus faber
The leather top panel allows the user to control and set up speaker functions — such as playback, volume, input selection, and connections — with a buttonless interface through simple fingertip gestures.
Sonus faber's iconic lute-shaped design takes inspiration from musical instruments. Crafted from wood, the cabinet ensures structural solidity, rich timbre, and musicality, while effectively eradicating internal resonances to shape the unmistakable Sonus faber Natural Sound.
Hear – and see – to believe. Duetto takes note of Sonus faber's most iconic design cues and natural materials.
Product Strengths
- Gorgeous sound is clear, smooth, detailed, and dynamic
- Elegant design is dashingly elegant, minimalist aesthetic, and painstakingly crafted for equal parts style and substance
- Impressive bass extension and output, described as deep and firm, surprising for their size
- Clear midrange makes voices sound purposeful, characterful, and entirely present
- Versatile connectivity with streaming and input options, including Chromecast, AirPlay 2, phono pre-amp, and HDMI ARC/eARC
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers experienced streaming and HDMI ARC reliability issues
- Input and control layout can be inconvenient and awkward
- Prototype unit had operational bugs
- No bass level adjustment is available, though it could be added in mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II—the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a similarly high-end option
- Vs PSB Alpha iQ—the PSB Alpha iQ is a more compact wireless speaker package than the Sonus Faber and is comparatively lighter on bass
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Duetto speakers are well-suited for those seeking amazing sound and a beautiful design in one package. These speakers are easy to connect and use, and fill the room with rich, detailed audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size makes them ideal for smaller spaces
- Delivers a composed and controlled sound
- Easy to set up and use
- Stereo imaging is great—each element has its own space
- Versatile wired connectivity (USB, optical, analog)
Product Considerations
- Sound lacks dynamics and drive
- No wi-fi streaming or control app
- Bass response can be easily provoked
- Treble sounds are played safe here—somewhat rolled-off
- Volume adjustment is a slightly blunt affair
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics M40 is a versatile speaker system that's easy to set up and use, delivering great sound quality, especially considering its compact size. It is a safe and enjoyable recommendation for those seeking a less-than-big system with a big, informative and energetic sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Kin Play Tower 2s are active speakers, meaning they have a built-in amplifier, offering a cleaner and simpler setup compared to passive speakers that require an external amplifier
- The speakers are reported to have a frequency response range down to 30Hz, meaning that a subwoofer may not be necessary for many listeners
- Available in black and white satin finishes, the speakers are compact enough to fit in various listening spaces, combining good looks with good sound
- Multiple inputs including HDMI ARC, optical inputs, Bluetooth, stereo RCA, line-level, and active phono inputs offer versatile connectivity options
Product Considerations
- Modern connectivity options fall a little short, opting for HDMI ARC instead of eARC, and lacking WIFI and/or Ethernet
- Bypassing the internal preamp using the 'amp in' input can cause the speakers to play at full volume, potentially damaging the speakers or hearing if the connected device has a fixed volume output
- At higher volumes, the five-inch drivers can struggle with demanding bass sections, so the speakers may benefit from the support of a subwoofer when playing bass-heavy music
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Kin Play Tower 2s have a bass that is punchy and dynamic, while Martin Logan Towers tend to have deeper sounding bass
- Bowers & Wilkins speakers are brighter
Takeaway: The Kin Play Tower 2s are convenient and versatile active speakers that sound great and are easy to set up. They offer a clean aesthetic and multiple connectivity options, making them suitable for those seeking quality audio without a complex setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Elegant and luxurious design embodies the classic Sonus Faber look with a curvaceous shape, walnut wood exterior, and appealing aesthetics
- Impressive soundstage and room-filling performance–the Crescendo technology creates a wide and immersive soundstage that exceeds the physical size of the speaker
- Good sound quality, with solid, full, and tight bass, along with clear midrange and vocals
- Setup is relatively easy and user-friendly, with intuitive controls and compatibility with various streaming services
- Extensive wireless connectivity (AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, aptX HD Bluetooth, and Roon) and wired options (HDMI ARC, Ethernet, switchable phono/line input via dongle)
Product Considerations
- Price is expensive compared to other wireless speakers on the market
- Awkward placement of back-panel connectors, as they are buried in the base, making them difficult to access
- Treble might be a little too soft and lacking some presence for some listeners
- There is no bespoke Omnia control app
- Some users reported compatibility problems with Android devices
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Naim Mu-so 2, the Omnia has a wider, more spacious soundstage and unrivalled clarity, while the Mu-so 2 has a warmer tone and superior sense of musical cohesion
- The Omnia's curves remind some of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Omnia is a stylish and well-equipped wireless speaker that offers an immersive listening experience for smaller spaces. It is a good choice for audiophiles who appreciate both aesthetics and high-quality sound and are willing to pay a premium.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
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
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