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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.

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.

Manufacturer details

  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 19 x 96 x 29 cm (7.5" x 37.8" x 11.4")
  • Acoustic Principle: 2.5-way bass reflex
  • Tweeter: 25mm Aluminium-manganese
  • Woofer/Midrange: 2 x 174mm Titanium
  • Nominal Load Capacity: 110 watts
  • Music Load Capacity: 170 watts
  • Transmission Range: 25-40,000 Hz
  • Crossover Frequencies: 300 / 3,200 Hz
  • Impedance: 4-8 ohm
  • Efficiency: 89.5 dB/2.83V/1m
  • Weight: 15.2 kg (pallet weight)
The GLE 70 is the smallest floorstanding speaker in the large model range with the strong price-performance ratio. Although the speaker with its moderate cabinet dimensions is visually restrained, it convinces with a dynamic and mature sound image. Three technically excellent loudspeaker drivers on the slim baffle share the acoustic work. The result is a unique Canton sound with deep bass, neutral midrange and detailed, finely resolved treble.
The GLE Series speakers are technically convincing and visually appealing: thanks to these qualities, the attractive and versatile GLE models have been among the most popular speakers in Europe for many years. Now we have completely revised the successful GLE model range - both visually and technically. What has remained is the strong price-performance ratio and, of course, the convincingly good Canton sound. The smallest floorstanding speaker in the large model range with the strong price-performance ratio is called the GLE 70. Although the speaker with its moderate cabinet dimensions is visually restrained, it convinces with a dynamic and mature sound image. Three technically excellent loudspeaker drivers on the slim baffle share the acoustic work. The result is a unique Canton sound with deep bass, neutral midrange and detailed, finely resolved treble
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:

  • Canton's Reference line combines years of experience with advanced computer modeling and a dedicated testing laboratory, resulting in products designed with both precision and innovation.
  • The brand emphasizes high-quality construction, utilizing stiff, multi-layer laminate cabinets with strategic internal bracing to minimize unwanted resonances.
  • Canton's signature sound aims for a neutral and balanced presentation, delivering clear, detailed sound without excessive coloration.
  • They often incorporate advanced driver technologies, such as ceramic-tungsten cones and aluminum-ceramic-oxide tweeters, to achieve optimal stiffness, damping, and dispersion.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
60
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
103
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
69
Founding Year
1972

Our take on the brand

Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.

Look inside the brand

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Our interview with the brand

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What if you spend more?

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Canton
Townus 90
1468
1468
/
2
Reviews

We are proud to present our brand new loudspeaker series "Townus", with which we would like to appeal to all people for whom timeless design and high-quality appeal are important. In reference to the roots and the location of our company headquarters, in the middle of the Hessian Taunus, we have created the same sounding name Townus for the new loudspeaker models. The newly created Townus series impresses with its timeless, elegant design and its high-quality materials - ideal for urban people who value design and quality. In the word creation Townus, we also refer to the connection between the modern and pulsating life in a town and the rather quiet and rural Taunus, where the creators of this timeless and modern speaker series have their origins.

Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • More precise and tighter bass, and a separated sound, meaning the instruments do not go missing in the bass
  • A ceramic tweeter that performs well
  • Close to the GLE Series, but has a cleaner sound
  • Made with very nice finishing, and the structure of the veneer is very beautiful

Product Considerations

  • Might be a bit overwhelming at high volumes, but it is good at lower volumes
  • According to measurements, after setting all models to the same volume, it has an intensity that submerges under the Silver 500 and R7 in the higher mid range

Takeaway: The Canton Taunus 90 is good for those who want a specialist speaker for Big Beat and also has a clean sound. The speaker is made with high-quality materials, so it has a beautiful design.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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Canton
Karat GS Edition
1837
1837
/
1
Reviews

The anniversary model of the Karat floorstanding speaker remains true to its line from 2002 and also delivers the special feature of the side-mounted woofer chassis in the newly designed version. Equipped with black ceramic tungsten technology in the midrange and bass-midrange and an ceramic tweeter system, the speaker passes any sonic challenge. The Karat GS Edition impresses with audiophile Canton sound and with high dynamics in all frequency ranges. Limited to 1972 pairs, the speakers are available in the matte lacquer finishes White, Black and Dusty Green.

Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Stays true to neutral sound across all levels
  • Skillfully maintains the balance between a powerful bass, transparent midrange, and rather mild, low-distortion treble reproduction
  • Good impulse response and high efficiency
  • Offers plenty of excursion, without linearity, low distortion, and reach into the low frequencies suffering in return
  • Dynamic and reliable across all levels

Product Considerations

  • A trace of additional warmth in the midrange was missed
  • Lacking the very last degree of precision in the bass range, as well as definition

Takeaway: The Karat GS Edition provides high-quality music reproduction with neutral sound, and it offers a balanced and dynamic listening experience across different music genres

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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Q Acoustics
Concept 50
2199
2199
/
16
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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KLH
Model Five
1249
1249
/
14
Reviews

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.
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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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What competes at this price?

Canton
GLE 90 AR
943
/
Released
2021
Our newest member of the large GLE family is a true masterpiece and unique in design: the GLE 90 AR consists of the powerful 3-way floorstanding speaker GLE 90, which we have expanded with a 2-way system ideally matched to it in terms of sound. The result: a shapely and powerful-sounding all-rounder that allows you to play stereo music and Dolby Atmos movie content from just one pair of speakers - ingeniously simple and simply brilliant!
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Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers powerful, clear, and warm sound.
  • It's a top surround system capable of creating a professional, life-like experience.
  • The GLE 90 AR model with integrated Dolby Atmos technology simplifies home theater setup and saves space.
  • Versatile for both films and music.
  • High clarity presents the entire mid-high range cleanly.
  • Good high-frequency resolution and detail.

Product Considerations

  • The size of the speakers may take up a lot of space.
  • To get the full Dolby Atmos experience, some setup adjustments are needed—speaker positioning and AV receiver settings.
  • Depending on the ceiling, it may be necessary to adjust the level of the height channels.
  • Some might find the design with the angled top takes some getting used to.

Takeaway: The GLE Series/GLE 90 AR offers a powerful and immersive sound experience, making it a great choice for both movie and music lovers. It is a particularly good option for those looking for a Dolby Atmos setup without the need for multiple speakers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Canton
GLE 90
629
/
Released
2023
The GLE 90, a powerful and dynamic floorstanding speaker with a 3-way design that not only boasts outstanding sound characteristics, but also scores points with its attractive, harmonious design. This is ensured by the latest technology, which is allowed to take its place on the slim baffle and creates the unique Canton sound - recently with our outstanding drivers made of titanium, moves into the current GLE series.
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Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent build quality and design, described as simple yet modern with a unique structured lacquer on the baffle
  • Features a newly designed titanium midrange driver (174mm) and titanium woofers (192mm) with updated wave surround, whereas previous models used aluminum
  • Neutral sound signature is suitable for all music genres, avoiding artificial bass or treble boosting
  • The tweeter provides direct sound, close to a headphone experience, yet with spaciousness
  • Works well with smaller amplifiers and does not require high volume or power to perform well

Product Considerations

  • Bass performance is significantly reduced when not positioned in the ideal stereo triangle
  • A color called 'Makassar' exists, but the reviewer admits to not knowing what the color actually is, simply stating that it is 'a type of brown'

Takeaway: The Canton GLE 90 is a well-made speaker that delivers a neutral, spacious, and direct sound. It is a good option for those seeking an accurate audio experience across various music styles without needing a powerful amplifier.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canton is a hifi speaker brand distinguished by its use of ceramic tungsten in driver cones and its unique Bass-Guide system that optimizes cabinet vibrations for flexible speaker placement. The brand balances affordability with high-end performance by leveraging economies of scale from their consumer lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Klipsch
RP-8000F II
749
/
Released
2022
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.
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Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Magnepan
LRS+
995
/
Released
2022
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Dynaudio
Emit 30
849
/
Released
2021
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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