Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • Surprising amount of bass for its size, thanks to the passive radiator design
  • Warm, full, and musical sound signature, with a velvet-like midrange
  • Excellent imaging, creating a wide and three-dimensional soundstage, with vocals locked to the center
  • High build quality and nice finishes despite being the more affordable model
  • Versatile speaker that works well with a variety of music genres and amplification, even lower powered amplifiers

Product Considerations

  • Substantial bass output can sometimes cover up lower mid-range frequencies depending on placement and the specific track
  • Sufficient space is required from the back wall to avoid bass overload and achieve optimal balance, with one reviewer finding that 40 inches from the front baffle to the rear wall sounded best
  • Binding posts are of a more basic quality compared to more expensive models
  • Decent amplification (at least 100WPC into 4 Ohms) is needed to sound its best and will scale well with higher-end equipment

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • P300 has more weight and warmth compared to the Buchardt S400 Mark II, while the S400 Mark II wins in terms of clarity and transparency
  • Compared to the KEF LS50 Meta, the P300 has more oomph in the bottom end and can play louder with greater ease, while the LS50 Meta unravels the music a little more clearly
  • Compared to the ELAC Uni-Fi Reference, the P300 is better overall with more top-end and extension
  • P300 is a little gentler, the Dynaudio Special 40 has more snap and pop up top, and is a bit more dynamic and punchy in the mids with a cleaner—more extended—top end

Takeaway: The Buchardt P300 is a great speaker with a full sound that makes music fun and enjoyable, especially for people who want a speaker that can play lots of different kinds of music very well. It's a well-built speaker with a great soundstage, a rich mid-range and a surprising bass response for its size.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

P300

reviews

[{"title":"The Buchardt P300 Speaker Review. Low $$ High End.","link":"https://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2023/01/05/the-buchardt-p300-speaker-review-low-high-end","source":"Steve Huff Reviews","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Buchardt P300 Review: The BIG sounding small speaker","link":"https://7review.com/buchardt-p300-review","source":"7 Review","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"BUCHARDT P300 -- The BIG sounding small speaker","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKmVQVcwmxU","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"The Best Hi-Fi Speaker, But Affordable! \\\\ Buchardt P300 💎","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdhWuZuR7Vw","source":"Z Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Best speaker in Class? The Buchardt P300 is Near Perfect","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGz-w_kwWyU","source":"cheapaudioman","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"EXCLUSIVE! Buchardt P300 Speaker Review. Affordable Instruments of Sound. Plus, VS the S400 II!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axLxE_ojaTo","source":"HiFi Huff","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Buchardt Audio P300 Review (vs. Sonus Faber Sonetto I , KEF LS50 Meta)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SCKLJVgmMQ","source":"Mad Audio","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Buchardt P300 vs S400 MK2 Bookshelf Speaker Review. Even more bass?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1OqXFued3w","source":"Nemo Propaganda","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"The Buchardt P300 Speaker Review. Low $$ High End. |","link":"http://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2023/01/05/the-buchardt-p300-speaker-review-low-high-end","source":"stevehuffphoto.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Buchardt P300 review w/ Comps to Martin Logan XT B100 & KEF LS50 META & Zu DW6 base model","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5rJSlIRBB8","source":"Mad Audio","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 details

  • Operating principle: 2-way passive radiator system
  • Tweeter: 1 x 0.74" Custom fine weave soft fabric textile with CDC aluminum waveguide
  • Mid/woofer: 1 x 6" Paper cone
  • Passive Radiator: 1 x 5x8" Long stroke passive radiator
  • Impedance: 4 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 86 dB
  • Frequency response: 37 - 40.000 Hz +/- 3dB (in-room)
  • Crossover point: 2900hz
  • Power recommendation: 50 - 200 W
  • Measurements (h x w x d): 365 x 180 x 280 mm (14.4" x 7" x 11")
  • Weight: 6.3 kg each / 14.1 kg shipped
  • Cabinet: 15mm Fiberboard HMR.E2 Moisture-proof with internal bracing
  • Warranty: 5 years
The goal of the P300 was to create a speaker that captures the design philosophy of the beloved S400, but where we really do everything possible to cut the price dramatically down. Doing this without sacrificing performance (in comparison to the S400 MKII) is impossible, but the P300 speakers have surpassed even our own expectations, which is why we truly believe this is a gem between speakers in its price range!
Manufacturer Site

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:

  • Buchardt distinguishes itself by using a direct-to-consumer sales model, eliminating distributors and retailers, potentially offering a high level of performance for the price.
  • This brand offers "Mastertunings," DSP settings that allow users to customize the sound profile of their speakers for different room acoustics, placement options, or personal sound preferences.
  • Buchardt speakers often incorporate a passive radiator design to achieve deeper bass extension than typically expected from their cabinet size.
  • Their designs frequently emphasize a wide and evenly distributed soundstage, often incorporating waveguide technology to match the directivity of the tweeter and woofer.

P300:

  • Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
  • Description: Offers a balanced and transparent sound with a deep bass that doesn't require a subwoofer. Compared to the S400 MKII, uses a custom paper cone woofer and a simpler crossover, making it more budget-friendly while still delivering a tight bass and improved transient response, ideal for small to medium rooms with less than perfect acoustics.

S400 MKII:

  • Positioning: Mid-range line, known for its compact design and powerful performance.
  • Description: Celebrated for its deep bass and expansive soundstage, thanks to its large passive radiator and advanced crossover design. Surpasses the P300 with a more refined soundstage and deeper bass.

E50:

  • Positioning: High-end line, crafted for superior sound and build quality.
  • Description: Stands out with its solid wood cabinets and Purifi woofers, offering exceptional transparency and dynamic range. It provides a more detailed and powerful sound compared to the S400 MKII.

Anniversary 10:

  • Positioning: Special edition, celebrating a decade of innovation with advanced features.
  • Description: Features Purifi woofers and a new RFA19 tweeter, delivering exceptional clarity and detail. It offers more flexibility and customization through Mastertunings compared to the E50.

A700 Limited Edition:

  • Positioning: Flagship model, offering the most advanced technology and performance.
  • Description: Incorporates a new RFA19 tweeter and cardioid dispersion, providing superior soundstage and bass control. It surpasses the Anniversary 10 with its ability to handle larger spaces and more complex audio setups.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
12
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
153
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
8
Founding Year
2013

Our take on the brand

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Buchardt
Anniversary 10
3988
3988
/
14
Reviews

The Anniversary 10 (A10) is a culmination of all the experience that we have gathered over the last 10 years of designing and building HiFi speakers. Over the last decade, we have produced and sold thousands of speakers to happy HiFi enthusiasts from all around the world. Listening to feedback from our customers, learning from the best and adding our own flavor to the mix, has created extremely popular and critically acclaimed speakers, and now, this has evolved into our best sounding speaker yet. The A10 is something we are truly proud of, both in terms of sound, look and production values. It is a true celebration of our passion for amazing high-end sound, great engineering and high value products.

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional bass performance for its compact size, with bass that is fast, clear, and tight
  • Multiple 'Master Tunings' offer customizable sound profiles, adapting to different room acoustics and user preferences
  • A high-quality Purifi woofer and SB Acoustics tweeter contribute to clarity, detail, and low distortion
  • A solid wood cabinet made in Denmark provides a luxurious look and feel

Product Considerations

  • Bass output may diminish or be limited at high volumes to protect the drivers from damage
  • A separate purchase of the Platin Stereo Hub may be required for full wireless functionality and room correction
  • The 'Made in China' label applies to the electronics inside the cabinet
  • While the A10 offers impressive bass, some may still prefer to add a subwoofer for a true full-range experience

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Buchardt S400 Mark II, the A10 is more transparent with greater inner detail, clarity, and top-end extension—and deeper, tighter bass—while the S400 Mark II is more relaxed and forgiving with harsh recordings
  • Vs Buchardt A500, the A10 has comparable performance, with possibly a crisper sound in some instances

Takeaway: The Buchardt Anniversary 10 is a compact yet powerful speaker that offers a customizable listening experience. Its impressive bass and versatile tuning options make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality audio solution in a small to medium-sized room.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Buchardt
S400 MKII (Color Signature Edition)
2624
2624
/
10
Reviews

Even though the S400 MKII shares the same appearances as its predecessor, the speakers are actually quite a different experience when you listen to them. If we are to put this experience into words, it could be something like...

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Really good bass is delivered, even deep bass down to 33 hertz, vibrating the couch
  • A silky, realistic portrayal of the human voice is offered
  • A really nice and deep soundstage is offered
  • A well-implemented waveguide is included
  • The midrange is superbly balanced, serving up gorgeous vocals and clear-as-day instrumentals

Product Considerations

  • There is a touch of hardness in the upper mid-range
  • Can sound a bit bright on axis and even slightly off axis
  • Vertical placement might be a problem

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Dynaudio Heritage Special, the S400 Mark II offers equal bass, is equally as beautiful and nearly as enjoyable for a much lower price
  • Vs Emotiva B2 Plus, the S400 Mark II is more refined in the treble and mid-range
  • Vs Dynaudio Special 40, the S400 Mark II are more intimate, more neutral, and more enveloping
  • Vs KEF R3 Meta, the S400 Mark II offer a rooted–full-spectrum gravitas, with bass response that the R3 Meta just can't match
  • S400 radiation width is notably wider in soundstage radiation than Klipsch The7s

Takeaway: The S400 Mark II speakers offer great sound quality and a deep soundstage, making music more immersive and enjoyable. They are a solid choice for someone looking for speakers that provide both quality and value.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Buchardt
E50
3936
3936
/
1
Reviews

A masterpiece is achieved when you create a product that excels in all areas, from build quality, sound quality to price. The E50 is uncompromised in its materials used, making it a speaker that competes with the best of the best in its size class. With the traditional Buchardt value mindset, you can be sure that, compared to its price competitors, the E50 is exceptional value. This should be obvious from the quality of its parts alone! We hope that you would feel the same, when you see, feel and listen to the E50..

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
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Product Strengths

  • Excellent build and sound quality for its size and price
  • Uncompromised materials compete with the best in its class
  • Made with many Danish parts including cabinets, woofers, tweeters, binding posts, assembly, and testing
  • Features Purifi woofers, which are considered the best choice for a 2-way compact design
  • A mature, neutral sound with a slightly laid-back character
  • Excellent crossover design with premium Jantzen Audio components
  • A holographic soundstage presentation with a pitch-black background and air around instruments
  • Designed to serve an all-around purpose, making any type of music enjoyable
  • Solid wood cabinets are FSC certified, ensuring a lower environmental impact

Product Considerations

  • The neutral sound signature has a slight lean toward a laid-back character, which may not appeal to listeners who prefer a brighter sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Buchardt S400s: The E50 is significantly more transparent and detailed while being even more relaxed and easy to listen to, and it also offers significantly deeper bass and more power

Takeaway: The E50 speakers are crafted with quality parts and deliver a mature, neutral sound. For listeners seeking a speaker that performs well with any type of music and has a beautiful design, the E50 could be a perfect fit.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Sonus Faber
Duetto
3999
3999
/
19
Reviews

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.

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

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

What competes at this price?

Buchardt
S400 MKII
2204
/
Released
2022
The new MKII version is redesigned with a highly improved crossover, cabinet and a new paper cone woofer. Huge passive radiator for deep and controlled bass response. Works perfect in all types of rooms and placements due to its special CDC waveguide design. Neutral, transparent sound with extraordinary soundstage and imaging!
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Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Surprisingly deep and controlled bass for its size, extending down to 33Hz, is delivered thanks to its passive radiator
  • A sweet, smooth, detailed, airy, and intimate sound with a natural midrange that presents human voices remarkably well, is produced
  • A wide and deep soundstage, excelling particularly in creating a three-dimensional listening experience with a strong front-to-back depth, is offered
  • High-quality components in its crossover, including air core inductors and film capacitors, are used
  • Exemplary off-axis performance due to the CDC waveguide, leading to evenly distributed in-room frequency response, excellent imaging, bigger soundstage, and improved transparency, is presented

Product Considerations

  • A bit bright in the top end, particularly on-axis and even slightly off-axis, depending on the room acoustics, may be heard; sidewall absorption or equalization may be needed
  • Vertical placement is temperamental; listeners should ensure their ears are aligned with the reference point between the waveguide and midwoofer
  • A capable amplifier, ideally one with high output power and a high damping factor, is required to properly control the bass
  • At high volumes, the speaker can experience compression and distortion, particularly in the higher frequencies and lower frequencies
  • The direct sales model means there are no physical stores to demo the speakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The S400 Mark II sounds bigger and more potent, although the LS50 Meta is more transparent and has higher clarity
  • Vs Dynaudio Heritage Special: The S400 MkII offers comparable midrange and equal bass, while the Dynaudio has more sizzle on top and a little more of a plumper mid
  • Vs Emotiva B2 Plus: The S400 Mark II has more refined treble and midrange, but the Emotiva is better for rock and metal music
  • Vs Dynaudio Special 40: The S400 MkII is sweeter, more open, more spacious sounding, and has a more transparent midrange
  • Vs Klipsch The7s: The S400 MKII has a wider soundstage radiation

Takeaway: The S400 Mark II is a great-sounding speaker with impressive bass for its size and is easy to listen to for hours. It is a good option for those looking for a high-fidelity listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
R3 Meta
2430
/
Released
2023
Three-way bookshelf speaker R3 Meta redefines bookshelf speaker's performance. Sharing the same drivers as the range-topping R11 Meta, the R3 Meta is a true three-way design. It has a 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™ and a powerful 6.5" hybrid aluminium bass driver that pushes performance to new extremes.
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KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
  • Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
  • Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
  • A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
  • Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences

Product Considerations

  • The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
  • The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
  • Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
  • The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
  • Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
  • Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
  • Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta

Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
/
Released
2022
One system. One app. All the music. Just a left and right speaker and your smart phone is all that's needed to access your favourite tracks and albums from Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, internet radio, and more. Connect your TV, gaming console, or turntable for even more music listening options.
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Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Expand Details

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

Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Product Page
MoFi
SourcePoint 8
1999
/
Released
2023
The SourcePoint 8 was carefully crafted the speaker to embody the same acoustic DNA as the widely acclaimed SourcePoint 10. The new SourcePoint 8 packs the same sonic excellence of its larger sibling into a more compact and manageable form factor. Andrew Jones and the team at MoFi Electronics scaled down the SourcePoint 10 to create a new speaker that can fit into a wider range of spaces, all while still delivering that big, satisfying sound that we know and love.
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MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Precise and stable stereo imaging
  • Good detail retrieval
  • Neutral tonal balance
  • Versatile directivity

Product Considerations

  • Bass extension requires a subwoofer for full-range playback, especially below the mid-40Hz range
  • Potential for brightness, especially when toed-in directly towards the listening position
  • Requires careful setup and experimentation with placement to optimize sound, especially in relation to the rear wall and toe-in

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The SourcePoint 8 is more neutral, with a less elevated top end, while the SourcePoint 10 is brighter

Takeaway: The SourcePoint 8 is a well-engineered speaker that stands out for its clear imaging and ability to convey musical detail across different genres. It offers a balanced and neutral sound that makes it an engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Sonus Faber
Lumina II
1299
/
Released
2021
The Lumina II enriches the range of two-way speakers in the Lumina family, offering a perfect solution for smaller rooms with uncompromising Natural Sound.
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Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Extremely good build quality, feeling solid and carefully assembled
  • Delivers well-defined, three-dimensional imaging and a snappy sense of timing
  • Combines exceptional midrange coherency
  • Known for a natural, open, and detailed sound
  • A beautifully three-dimensional speaker with very little perception of cabinet coloration or even cabinet presence

Product Considerations

  • Inherent bass response drops away slowly
  • Some recordings may sound a little sharp in the treble, but this is not the fault of the speakers
  • Some limits to detail retrieval
  • On the brighter side

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Lumina I: The Lumina II has meaningful extension below 50Hz, creating a believable weight and scale to the performance
  • Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Sonus faber is easier to drive, more forgiving of less pristine recordings, and has an emotional quality that the LS50 Meta lacks

Takeaway: The Lumina II is a speaker that delivers many of the qualities that make Sonus faber loudspeakers stand out, offering an inviting and spirited sound that is also beautiful to look at. It represents an affordable way to experience Sonus faber's Italian-made craftsmanship and sonic signature.

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

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