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
- First-rate build quality of components and enclosure
- Deep bass without distortion
- Very smooth and widely dispersed high frequencies
- Smooth midrange with realistic vocals
- Physically big and wide soundstage, with superb imaging
Product Considerations
- Speakers are heavy at 79 lbs each, and require two people to unbox
- Some may mark these down for not being the most modern looking
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Dali Loudspeakers series 7 from the seventies, the Opticon 8 MK2 uses advancements in technology to stay ahead of the competition
Takeaway: The DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 speakers sound wonderful with deep bass and smooth highs, creating a stable and realistic sound image. The value of these speakers is unquestionable, and they make music sound magical.
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
Opticon 8 Mk2
reviews
[{"title":"The DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 Loudspeaker Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/speaker/floor-standing/the-dali-opticon-8-mk2-loudspeaker-review","source":"Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"DALI OPTICON 8 MK2 Floorstanding Loudspeakers Review","link":"https://stereonet.com/reviews/dali-opticon-8-mk2-floorstanding-loudspeakers-review","source":"StereoNET","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"DALI OPTICON 8 MK 2 test","link":"https://perkune.com/dali-opticon-8-mk2-test","source":"perkune.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Frequency Range [+/- 3] dB [Hz]: 38 - 30,000
- Sensitivity [2.83V/1m] [dB]: 88.5
- Maximum SPL [dB]: 112
- Recommended Amp. Power [Watts]: 40 - 300
- Crossover Frequencies [Hz]: 380 / 2,200 / 14,000
- Crossover Principle: 3 + ½-way
- Low Frequency/Midrange Driver(s): 2 x 8" / 1 x 6½"
- Nominal Impedance [ohms]: 4
- High Frequency Driver(s): 1 x 29 mm soft dome, 1 x 17 x 45 mm planar
Description
The OPTICON 8 MK2 is a powerhouse of the OPTICON MK2 family for large listening spaces, combining immense low-frequency bandwidth, volume potential and dynamic accuracy with the extraordinary detail and clarity from the dedicated midrange driver.
Release Timeline
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:
- The brand utilizes a unique "2.5-way plus half" hybrid driver configuration, blending active and passive crossover elements to optimize performance across the frequency spectrum.
- DALI emphasizes creating speakers that are versatile in placement, suitable for stand, shelf, or even wall mounting, ensuring they integrate easily into diverse listening environments.
- They develop and manufacture their own wood fiber cones and other drivers in-house, allowing for precise control over material composition and sonic characteristics.
- DALI often incorporates their patented SMC (Soft Magnetic Compound) technology in driver construction, aiming to minimize distortion and improve audio clarity.
Select products
Select product comparisons
DALI Oberon 9
- Positioning: The largest model in the DALI Oberon series, designed for high-end Hi-Fi experiences.
- Description: Offers a refined sound with a wide dispersion pattern that reduces distortion, making it ideal for large rooms. Its wood fibre cones and patented SMC technology provide a relaxed midrange and detailed sound, distinguishing it from the Opticon 8 MK2, which focuses more on dynamic accuracy.
DALI Opticon 8 MK2
- Positioning: The flagship model of the Opticon MK2 series, suited for large listening spaces.
- Description: Known for its dynamic accuracy and rich bass, features a hybrid tweeter and SMC technology for reduced distortion. Compared to the Oberon 9, it offers a more detailed high-frequency response.
DALI Rubikore 8
- Positioning: A high-end model in the Rubikore series, designed for ambitious home Hi-Fi and theatre systems.
- Description: With its Clarity Cone Technology and SMC-KORE inductors, delivers powerful sound with natural warmth. It stands out from the Epicon 8 by offering a wider bandwidth and is better suited for larger spaces due to its enhanced bass integration.
DALI Epicon 8
- Positioning: The pinnacle of the Epicon series, offering a rich and detailed sound.
- Description: Features patented SMC technology and a hybrid tweeter, providing a smooth and wide dispersion of sound. It differs from the Rubikore 8 by focusing more on reducing distortion and providing a more intimate soundstage.
DALI Kore
- Positioning: The flagship model of DALI, representing the culmination of 40 years of loudspeaker design.
- Description: Features Balanced Drive SMC technology and an EVO-K Hybrid Tweeter for exceptional fidelity and clarity. It is the most advanced in the lineup, offering the highest level of performance and is best for those seeking the ultimate in sound quality and are willing to invest in the best.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
75
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
21
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
83
Founding Year
1983
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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
Used
Dali
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Dali
Rubikore 6
8000
8000
/
4
Reviews
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Expand Details
.svg)
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent resolution throughout the frequency range
- High frequencies exhibit an airy and refined quality
- Low distortion and good dynamic range
- Robust bass extension
- Conventional and understated styling, and well put together
Product Considerations
- Mid-range can sound too laid back or recessed, and vocals may sound recessed
- The tweeter level stands out more above the mid range
- High frequency may need to be padded down or attenuated with sidewall absorption
- May sound polite or subdued in the presence region and easy listening
- Finding the right amplifier may be a struggle
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Rubikore 6 sounds smoother and more natural in the midrange and treble compared to Rubicon 6
- Rubikore 6 falls short in terms of brilliance and impact compared to Epicon 6, but excels in tonal integrity and spatial organization
- ATC SEM40 has more impactful mid-bass thump, but the Rubicore 6 possesses the more articulate tweeter
- Neat Elite Classics are a little bit more balanced tonally, whereas the Dali's are a little bit recessed in the upper mid-range
Takeaway: The Dali Rubicore 6 is a well-engineered speaker that offers excellent resolution throughout the frequency range and can deliver very balanced, mature—and high-class—sound quality. With its detailed sound and nice bass, it could be a great addition to a listening room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
LS60 Wireless
5499
5499
/
19
Reviews
Bring the track spirit into your home with LS60 Wireless Lotus Edition, created in partnership with and inspired by the British Racing Green of the iconic 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.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Striking, sleek, and modern design that complements modern interiors
- Incorporates KEF's Uni-Q driver array and Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) for neutral, open, detailed sound, reducing unwanted sound from the rear of the tweeter
- Includes Uni-Core force-canceling woofers that reduce cabinet vibrations, contributing to balanced and detailed bass
- The KEF Connect app allows for adjustments to fit the listening environment
- Offers high connectivity and is a true stand-alone system
Product Considerations
- Bass can be a bit too much out of the box, requiring adjustments via the app or placement considerations
- Not well-suited for those who have many signal sources to connect to
- Some reviewers found the bass lacked definition in the upper bass, with unclear instrument placement, even after adjusting EQ settings
- The included remote control is considered basic or cheap
- Mandatory online registration and administrator-level internet connection requirements for the app may be a drawback for privacy-conscious users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Bang & Olufsen Beolab 28, the LS60 Wireless can achieve similar sound quality with adjustments, at a lower price point, although the Beolab 28 sounds 'more right' straight out of the factory
- Compared to the KEF LS50 Wireless II, the LS60 Wireless is preferred stylistically, achieves near full-range playback, and has a more slim design, although it costs more and also provides much deeper bass
- Compared to the Q Acoustics Active 400 Towers, the LS60 Wireless has no issues with products not working
Takeaway: The KEF LS60 Wireless are stylish, all-in-one speakers that deliver a balanced, detailed sound with advanced technology. They are a convenient, high-performing solution for those seeking a streamlined audio setup.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
703 S3
5999
5999
/
11
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Superb design and build quality.
- Articulate sound, especially in the upper midrange and treble regions.
- Very good imaging, with strong definition and delineation between instruments and performers.
- Vivid and clear midrange, revealing subtle details in recordings.
- Transparency ensures more of the music is heard as it was intended.
Product Considerations
- A capable amplifier is needed due to impedance dips to 3.1 ohms.
- Not a bass-heavy speaker.
- The tweeter can become too much if listening to poorly recorded music or at very high volumes.
- The bass can sound a bit thin, depending on room size and personal preference.
- Can sound a little bit cool when playing certain types of music.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF R11 Meta—KEFs presented more physical scale with respect to soundstage, with even greater width.
- Vs Polk R700 and Klipsch RP8000F Mk2—Not better than the B&Ws, but aren't embarrassed by them either.
- Vs B&W 805 D IV—In one listening room, the 703 is nearly as good.
- Zoo sound a little bit warmer.
Takeaway: The 703 S3 makes listening engaging and fun, with dynamic sound suitable for both music and movies. It brings clarity to vocals, especially at lower volumes, making it great for late-night listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
702 S3
6999
6999
/
9
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Trickle-down technology from the 800 series narrows the gap with higher-end models
- Improved clarity of details, accuracy, and soundstage width compared to previous 702 models
- Clean and articulate bass is often attributed to the downward-firing port and plinth arrangement
- Excellent imaging and soundfield, with impressive width and height
- Delivers high definition and low coloration, offering a taste of the 800 Series experience
Product Considerations
- Careful positioning is required to achieve optimal tonal balance and musicality
- A reasonably powerful amplifier (minimum 75W recommended) is needed to perform at its best
- May not be a great match for valve amplifiers, preferring solid-state options
- The satin black MDF plinths are integral and require additional floor space
- Difficult to move around due to their weight (over 40 kg each) and lack of handholds
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the 702 S2 and 702 Signature, the S3 has improved clarity, accuracy, and soundstage width
- Compared to the Focal Aria 936 K2, the reviewer prefers the aesthetics of the 702 S3
Takeaway: The 702 S3 is a well-built loudspeaker offering a significant upgrade in sound quality. Trickle-down technology gives a taste of Bowers & Wilkins' flagship series at a more affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
GoldenEar
T66
3450
/
Released
2024
The T66 is the first model in GoldenEar's new T Series. While it boasts several significant refinements of our time-tested design concepts, the T66 is undeniably a GoldenEar loudspeaker, placing beautiful sound and music before all else.
GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent bass performance is a defining feature, providing tight, smooth, even, solid, and tangible bass extension into the 20 Hz range, eliminating placement issues associated with separate subwoofers
- Balanced overall sound, coherence, and ability to present music in a natural and effortless way is consistently praised
- High levels of detail come through with the High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter and cast-basket mid/bass units
- A holographic image over the seating area of a typical sofa is capable with excellent imaging and a wide and open soundstage, even when not seated in the exact sweet spot
- The Santa Barbara Red finish option receives high marks for its visual appeal
Product Considerations
- Still a significant investment, especially the Santa Barbara Red finish
- The metal grille covering the drivers is not designed to be easily removed
- Care should be taken with system matching, due to a slightly hot high-end
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The T66 offers more refinement and a more 'of-a-piece' sound than the Triton One.R
- Has internal structural improvements that make it even more stable and rigid than previous generations
Takeaway: The GoldenEar T66 delivers audiophile-grade sound and aesthetics, with powerful bass and exceptional detail. These speakers are easy to incorporate into nearly any environment, and have the power to let the listener appreciate all the nuances in favorite songs or movies.
Video review
Our take on the brand
GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
Product Page
Product Page
Sonus Faber
Lumina V
2999
/
Released
2021
Lumina V is the flagship three-way floor standing model in the collection. A slender speaker with high-power handling and fast transient response, Lumina V produces a natural, generous, and emotional sound for an immersive listening experience.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Elegant design with a combination of wood and leather that gives a classy appearance
- Impressive bass output, with some reviewers noting deep and tuneful bass
- The midrange is articulate and expressive, delivering vocals with palpability and detail
- Smooth and detailed high-end reproduction, thanks to the Damped Apex Dome (DAD) tweeter
- Relatively easy to drive with a sensitivity of 89-90dB
Product Considerations
- Requires careful placement to achieve the best balance, especially regarding toe-in
- The bass can sometimes be perceived as boomy depending on the room acoustics
- Some reviewers mention the included binding posts are cheap
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Q Acoustics Concept 50, the Lumina V has a more live sound, but the Concept 50 is more neutral, and more inert
- Compared to the Polk R700, the Lumina V is sonically similar to the R700, but with slightly less bass and a smaller cabinet—with better aesthetics; the R700 is more full range and warmer
- Compared to the Spendor A4 or ProAc Response DT8, the Lumina V is not as precise, but offers a natural sonic grace
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Lumina V is an elegant speaker that delivers detailed sound and impressive bass. It is a great option if you want speakers that look as good as they sound.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Perlisten
R7t
4995
/
Released
2022
You wanted a flagship R-Series to fill larger rooms based on the trickle-down technology from the S-Series. The second-best two-channel system in our line-up still rivals most competitor's flagship. Employing the same DPC array and long-excursion woofers for extremely low distortion and our beam forming controlled directivity down to 500Hz make this a full-range masterpiece only rivaled by our own award-winning S7t.
Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkably coherent and balanced sound profile, resulting from well-engineered and matched drivers and cabinet
- An uncanny ability to 'disappear' in the listening room
- The DPC array design contributes to a wide horizontal dispersion, allowing a broader sweet spot for multiple listeners
- Accurate sound reproduction and neutral enough for studio use
- A high level of dynamic ability, good low-end control, and a cavernous soundstage
Product Considerations
- Only available in gloss black and gloss white finishes, which might not suit all tastes or home décor
- The price point is a significant investment, placing it beyond the reach of many
- Some reviewers noted a mild treble roll-off, or smooth character that was overly kind on poor recordings and might lack the sparkle and excitement some listeners prefer
- Setting up requires assistance, due to the weight
- The lower bass extension may not satisfy deep bass enthusiasts, with extension starting to drop below 40Hz
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Perlisten S7t, the S7t offers more overall weight, bottom-end reach, resolution, and dynamic speed, but the R7t shines brightly on its own
- Compared to the EgglestonWorks Oso, the Oso presented a more muscular version of the music with more bottom end oomph, while the R7t conveyed music's finer points with more apparent resolution
- Compared to the KEF Reference 3, the KEF may yield deeper bass extension due to greater cabinet volume, and the scale of the soundstage may also be improved, but the Perlisten offers a superior disappearing act
Takeaway: The Perlisten R7t are well-built speakers that provide a detailed and immersive listening experience, with their advanced design and unique driver array creating a spacious soundstage. Their cutting-edge design creates a great listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
Product Page
Product Page
Triangle
Esprit 40th - Antal 40th
4000
/
Released
2023
Antal and Comète are two emblematic models of the brand. They reflect the philosophy of the company: making sound accessible to the widest variety of customers possible through simple processes designed to foster emotion. The Antal 40th floorstander features a new rose gold anodized magnesium dome tweeter, offering high efficiency and controlled distortion.
Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent midrange imaging and naturalness, described as smooth and stunning
- Smooth treble with a timbre and natural decay that allows for hours of listening without fatigue
- Expansive soundstaging with good imaging, height, and depth
- Stellar overall balance makes it an outstanding performer
- Beautiful wood veneer with high polish lacquer and attention to detail in construction
Product Considerations
- Bass will not reach subterranean levels, a subwoofer may be required for strong bass enthusiasts
- Speakers may benefit from more power
- "Messy music" (genres with rawness or grime) may not be conveyed as well, as the speaker can be a little polite
- Excellent clarity was brilliantly showcased by Ray Gelato's Basin Street Blues, beautifully recorded on the Linn label, which may not appeal to all audiences
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the standard Antal Ez, the 40th Anniversary edition uses a lighter—more rigid anodized-magnesium tweeter for higher efficiency, lower distortion, and better directivity
Takeaway: The Triangle Antal 40th Anniversary is a well-balanced and beautiful loudspeaker with a stunning midrange that provides a musical and engaging listening experience. Its clarity, expansive soundstage, and beautiful design make it a great addition to any audiophile's setup
Video review
Our take on the brand
Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Product Page
Product Page
Acoustic Energy
AE320
2899
/
Released
2021
The AE320 is a new slim-line floor-standing loudspeaker with compact dimensions, suitable for medium to large sized rooms.
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
- Deep, strong, and powerful bass conveys music on a scale that may not be expected
- Excellent musical communicator with a relatively clean and open midband, and a surprisingly polished treble for its price
- Well-rounded sound with perfect tonal balance and the ability to create perfectly stable and three-dimensional sound sources with great tonal differentiation
- Delivers on quality while being easy to drive from even moderately powered amps due to its impressive sensitivity
Product Considerations
- May require a medium to large room to avoid overpowering smaller environments
- The snappy character of the ceramic/aluminum drivers needs sympathetic amp matching, as it is best not partnered with a brighter-balanced transistor amplifier
- There is some cabinet coloration
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins' 603 S2 Anniversary Edition, B&W is a more 'grown-up' sounding speaker in that it's more discreet, controlled, measured, and refined
Takeaway: The AE320 is a well-designed and well-made speaker that sounds warm, open, and cohesive across the frequency range. It offers great value for its price and is ideal for those looking for a floorstanding speaker with excellent detail and impact.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
How to buy
Speakers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
