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.

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.

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.
See all the brand's products

Read the reviews

[{"title":"Argon Audio SA2 Streaming Amplifier + Forus 55 Speakers - Review GREAT SOUND & COMBO!!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dc8liRHrbf4","source":"Techder Audios","datePublished":"2025"}]
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

The FORUS 55 are the best-sounding speakers in the FORUS series. We've turned everything we liked about the FORUS series up to 11, delivering the ultimate performance in this price range. These floor-standers deliver deep, visceral beats that command you to crank it up and lose yourself in the music. For any music enthusiast, they're a true value proposition that beat the rest.
  • Tweeter: 1" soft dome with neodymium magnet
  • Bass/Midrange: 2 x 5.25" Paper cone
  • Frequency range: 45-20,000 Hz ± 3dB
  • Impedance: 4 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 88 dB
  • Terminals: Gold plated connectors
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 17 x 86 x 26.6 cm
  • Weight: 12.2 kg each
  • Finish: Black, White, Walnut (PVC)
Visit Manufacturer Site
Average Price
$501-$1,000
Used Products
20
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
186
 of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
30
Founded
2003

Our take on the brand

Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
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.
Visit Full Brand Page

What if you spend a bit more?

Forte A55 MK2
1153
1153
/
1
Reviews
Argon Audio
Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Full-grown but slim floor-standing speaker with two five-inch bass/midrange units
  • Significantly more bass capacity than the Forte A4
  • Midrange reproduction is very nice, singing voices sound natural, and room reproduction is a pleasure to experience
  • Has a very good ability to recreate the difference between an intimate club recording and a concert in a large hall
  • Thoroughly digital and the only truly active speaker in the price range

Product Considerations

  • A right/left switch on the active speaker would be nice
  • Unpacking the speakers was difficult
  • The sound can be a bit sharp, and the nuance could have been better
  • The active electronics are located in the left speaker, so the living room has to be decorated around it

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Forte A55 keeps up the quality of the Forte A4 and has significantly more bass capacity
  • The Forte A55 benefits from being thoroughly digital and the only truly active speaker in the price range, compared to the Dali Zensor 5 AX and Tangent Spectrum X6 BT Phono

Takeaway: The Argon Audio Forte A55 is a great value speaker that delivers good sound for larger living rooms with deeper bass and higher sound pressure. It is a real active two-way floor-standing speaker with a 4 x 80 watt amplifier and DSP correction.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Forte A55 MK2
page
Product Page
Forte A55 WiFi
1363
1363
/
1
Reviews
Argon Audio
Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

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.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Forte A55 WiFi
page
Product Page
Concept 50
2199
2199
/
16
Reviews
Q Acoustics
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Check on Amazon
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 our
Concept 50
page
Product Page
Model Five
1249
1249
/
14
Reviews
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. The English Walnut Model Five comes with a beautiful Stone Wash Linen grille cloth that magnifies the rich finish of the real wood veneers. Meanwhile, our West African Mahogany finish is complemented by an Old-World Linen grille cloth that will stop you in your tracks. And lastly, the Nordic Noir finish is shipped wearing the lovely Medici Grey Linen grille cloth. 

Want the option of pairing any grille cloth with the finish of your choosing? Don't worry- you can purchase each style separately below! Riser base and grilles included with speaker purchase.

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.
Check on Amazon
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 our
Model Five
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

Fenris A55
629
/
Released
2022
Argon Audio
With twin 5" woofers and a huge enclosure, FENRIS A55's are capable of room-shaking bass and an unprecedented sound quality for its price. This is where you get the best sound in the FENRIS-series! But fret not, they're as simple and easy to use as their FENRIS counterparts. Our FENRIS speakers stand unmatched in versatility and sound quality within their price range. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0, HDMI ARC for easy and convenient TV audio, turntable input, and much more.
Check on Amazon
Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Can play louder and more powerfully than the Fenris A5 and A4 models
  • Has a fresh and open sound where no tonal range is left behind, making it easy to listen to
  • Has enough power to fill a large living room
  • Has a full set of analogue and digital inputs, including a turntable input and HDMI input

Product Considerations

  • The sound can become somewhat harsh when the volume is turned up
  • Dynamics are limited at higher volumes, with the music becoming a wall of sound
  • Requires space and should be positioned away from walls and corners for best bass response
  • There is no option to choose whether the active speaker should act as the left or right channel

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Argon Audio Forte A55, the Fenris A55 is less nuanced
  • Compared to a Bluetooth table speaker or a Sonos Play:5, the Fenris A55 provides 'bloody real stereo'

Takeaway: The Argon Audio Fenris A55 is a full-grown floorstanding speaker that plays openly and engagingly. Its multiple inputs and powerful sound can emphasize that music is taken seriously.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Fenris A55
Page
Product Page
RP-8000F II
749
/
Released
2022
Klipsch
A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area for crisper, clearer sound. The phase plug and compression molded silicone face ensure smooth frequency response.
Check on Amazon
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

  • Flat in-room frequency response, especially from 200 Hz upwards, contributes to accurate sound reproduction
  • Amplifier and receiver friendly due to its high sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance, performing well with entry-level to flagship AV receivers and amplifiers
  • The new, larger Tractrix horn waveguide design offers improved directivity control and high-frequency focus
  • Excels in dynamics, delivering raw impact and presence that enhances the excitement of movies and gaming, as well as rock and electronica music

Product Considerations

  • Treble might become fatiguing with lesser recordings or at higher volumes, and may not be agreeable with all genres for listeners seeking a very smooth top end
  • The midrange, while linear, isn't completely neutral due to some cabinet resonance, adding extra energy that may or may not be desirable depending on listener preference
  • For true full-range playback, a subwoofer is required to compensate for the lack of deep bass extension
  • The vinyl finish may disappoint fans of natural materials
  • Best listened at within a 5-degree angle, and listening at a height level with the tweeter is clearly the best choice

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Polk R700: R700 is a more versatile all-rounder, but preferred for rock and electronica
  • Vs. Sonus Faber Lumina 5: The Sonus Faber is better built and looks nicer, but more refined
  • Vs. Q Acoustics Concept 50s: The Concept 50s image a little better, disappear just a little bit better, and they are exceptional off-axis, but do not play as low
  • Vs. Heco Aurora 1000: The Heco is more linear across the range
  • Vs. SVS Prime Pinnacle: The SVS Prime Pinnacle has a tweeter that is lower in level, offering a warmer sound

Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-8000F Mark II is a speaker that brings a dynamic sound to movies, gaming, and music. For speakers that are easy to set up, are amplifier-friendly and deliver punchy, clear audio, these could be a great option.

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
RP-8000F II
Page
Product Page
LRS+
995
/
Released
2022
Magnepan
Following in the footsteps of the highly acclaimed LRS, the LRS+ takes it up a notch. "This is another slam-dunk POY (Product of the Year) nominee, and, IMO, the best buy (along with the MG1.7i) in an affordable loudspeaker for modest-sized rooms." 2022 Golden Ear Award.
Check on Amazon
Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Creates a very open and transparent soundstage, which crosses the threshold of believability in a small to medium-sized room
  • Low distortion, especially in the midrange and upper bass, making listeners realize how imperfectly transparent many speakers are
  • Highly resolving, with impressive performance on acoustical instruments and vocal reproduction
  • Offers a unique and remarkable experience due to the story and love behind the speaker's creation
  • Presents a challenge, helping users understand speaker positions as the sound changes completely with movement
  • Considered 'eminently affordable' and provides incredible sound for the price

Product Considerations

  • Requires significant time to install, tweak, and dial in due to its dipole design, making positioning critical
  • Bass is not powerful—it doesn't do pounding bass, and listeners won't feel the bass pounding on their chest, so a subwoofer might be needed, especially for rock, pop, dance, and electronic music
  • Needs good power and high current to sound clean and not cause fatigue, it is not a powerful-sounding speaker
  • The stand included is considered subpar and not very versatile

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs the original LRS, the LRS+ has ameliorated treble, has smoother upper mids, and has a reduced nosedive in the power range and midbass

Takeaway: The Magnepan LRS+ is a special speaker with an open soundstage, great details, and makes music sound real and enjoyable. Though not perfect, it is well worth buying because it offers an excellent way to experience a panel speaker without spending too much.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
LRS+
Page
Product Page
Emit 30
849
/
Released
2021
Dynaudio
Emit 30 is a compact two-and-a-half-way speaker designed to impress whether it's used as a stand-alone stereo pair or as part of a 5.1-channel (or more) home cinema. Like its little brother, Emit 10, it uses 14cm MSP woofers similar to those used in the Evoke series – this time doubled-up in each speaker for more low-frequency muscle, plus midrange clarity and punch.
Check on Amazon
Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Emit 30 delivers a satisfying and full-bodied sound, particularly excelling in the midrange, making vocals, piano, strings, and horns sound 'right'
  • Bass performance is impressive for its size, delivering clean, fast, and airy bass with low distortion
  • Good clarity and detail, rendering a wide range of recordings
  • Good dynamics and energy, making music lively and engaging
  • Top-notch build quality

Product Considerations

  • The Emit 30's presentation might favor sophistication over excitement, with rhythmic drive being somewhat muted
  • High-frequency non-linearity
  • Some reviewers found the upper frequencies 'off', sometimes a little too soft
  • The vinyl finish may be a drawback for some, as it is not as luxurious as real wood veneers
  • Speakers like a bit of power

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Triangle Comet: The Emit 30 is rich, warm, and sweet, whereas the Comet is fast, quick, hyper-detailed, and exciting
  • Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Emit 30 gives a more complete, full-bodied sound, while the LS50 offers clearer vocals and more air

Takeaway: The Dynaudio Emit 30 is a well-rounded speaker that offers a satisfying and engaging listening experience with impressive bass and midrange performance. It's a great value for those seeking a refined and capable floorstanding speaker without breaking the bank.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Emit 30
Page
Product Page
AE109²
999
/
Released
2022
Acoustic Energy
The AE109² is designed to offer effortless, room filling performance from a slim-line floor-standing loudspeaker in much the same way the world acclaimed original AE109 did 20 years ago.
Check on Amazon
Acoustic Energy is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique 3.5-way Corinium design that separates bass drivers from midrange and tweeter, creating sound similar to a standmount speaker with a bass module. Their speakers feature distinctive materials like coconut husk-paper blend drivers and carbon fiber domes, along with specialized cabinet designs using inert mass damping to reduce coloration and enhance clarity.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Well-rounded sound for the price
  • Easy to drive with various amplifiers
  • Easy to place in a room, even close to a wall, thanks to the rear slot port design
  • Wide sound dispersion, making them suitable for enjoying with friends and family
  • Smooth, warm, and non-fatiguing sound, suitable for long listening sessions

Product Considerations

  • Bass can sometimes muddy the midrange, especially with tone controls that increase bass
  • Soundstage depth may fall a bit short compared to more expensive speakers
  • The provided spikes attach directly to the base of the cabinet, which could affect side-to-side stability
  • Accessories could be better

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Magnepan LRS+—AE109² easier to own, less finicky with amp requirements and placement, and better for sharing due to wider sweet spot, though Magnepan sounds better
  • Vs DALI Spektor 6—AE109² presents a genuine challenge, with better looks, though DALI has more 'fizz' of excitement

Takeaway: The AE109² is a budget-friendly floorstanding speaker that provides a balanced and enjoyable listening experience, especially for those prioritizing ease of placement and a wide soundstage. These speakers are a great option for creating a solid system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Acoustic Energy is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique 3.5-way Corinium design that separates bass drivers from midrange and tweeter, creating sound similar to a standmount speaker with a bass module. Their speakers feature distinctive materials like coconut husk-paper blend drivers and carbon fiber domes, along with specialized cabinet designs using inert mass damping to reduce coloration and enhance clarity.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
AE109²
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.

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.

Want to see more similar products?

Head on over to our Search page to browse our entire database. Find the perfect hifi gear for your system.

Visit Search Page