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

  • Excellent build quality with elegant design and choice of finishes
  • Produces a large, assertive, and powerful musical presentation
  • Delivers accuracy, clarity, and broad frequency response
  • Provides excellent stereo imaging and wide dispersion of sound, without needing to toe them in
  • Resolves vocals incredibly sharply with a clean and open midband

Product Considerations

  • Bass performance may be lacking for some listeners, requiring a subwoofer for full satisfaction
  • Positioning requires some care to avoid boomy bass
  • The nominal impedance of 4 ohms is on the low side, making the speaker a bit harder to drive
  • Cabinet may not be as solid as some competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF LS50s, the Rubicon 2 offers more clarity and detail in the highs and deeper, more textured bass, although some may prefer the more forward and fuller vocals of the LS50s
  • Vs Tekton Impact Monitors, Tekton has more bass extension and a thicker, fuller midrange, but the Rubicon 2 dominates the highs with sharper bite, brilliance, and sparkle, and offers greater clarity
  • Vs Fyne SP500, Rubicon 2 was easier to position, while Fyne had more detail in the mid/bass region, but was tonally more forward
  • Vs ELAC BS283 Solano, ELAC's JET 5 tweeter is more detailed, but the tonal presentation of the Rubicon 2 was preferred, finding it faster and more cohesive
  • Vs KEF R500s, Rubicon 2 reveals more midrange detail

Takeaway: The Rubicon 2 is a great speaker that produces good sound. It has a balanced and clear sonic signature, making it enjoyable for many kinds of music.

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

Rubicon 2

reviews

[{"title":"DALI Rubicon 2 Speakers","link":"https://www.tonepublications.com/review/dali-rubicon-2-speakers","source":"TONEAudio MAGAZINE","datePublished":""},{"title":"DALI Rubicon 2 Bookshelf Loudspeakers Review","link":"https://stereonet.com/reviews/dali-rubicon-2-bookshelf-loudspeakers-review","source":"StereoNET","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Dali Rubicon 2 review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/dali/rubicon-2-new/review","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2014"},{"title":"Dali Rubicon 2 - Product Review","link":"https://thathifiguy.blogspot.com/2015/06/dali-rubicon-2-product-review.html","source":"That Hi-Fi","datePublished":"2015"},{"title":"Dali Audio Rubicon 2 - Dane fine speakers!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yD9dyljScmk","source":"2 Channel Listening","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Dali Rubicon 2 Review vs KEF LS50 vs Tekton Impact Monitor","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txiiEAUG-xg","source":"The Audiofool","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Dali Rubicon 2 - Product Review","link":"http://thathifiguy.blogspot.com/2015/06/dali-rubicon-2-product-review.html","source":"thathifiguy.blogspot.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Dynaudio Special 40 vs Dali Rubicon 2 (6-song comparison)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U198hgUQwQ0","source":"Novomusica","datePublished":"2022"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Frequency Range (+/- 3 dB) [Hz]: 50 - 26,000
  • Sensitivity [2.83V/1m] [dB]: 87
  • Recommended Amp. Power [Watts]: 40 - 150
  • Crossover Frequencies [Hz]: 3,100
  • Crossover Principle: 2-way
  • High Frequency Driver(s): 1 x 29 mm soft dome
  • Maximum SPL [dB]: 107
  • Nominal Impedance [ohms]: 4
  • Low Frequency/Midrange Driver(s): 1 x 6½"
The RUBICON 2 builds on the design language of the popular MENTOR MENUET and takes it to new heights. This stand-mount speaker is the perfect blend of compact size and large sound performance. The solid wood laminate cabinet is the perfect working environment for the ultra-light 29 mm soft dome tweeter, 6½" low-loss wood fibre driver and gold-plated terminals.
Rich in detail with an impressive soundstage and surprisingly large bass reproduction that delivers precision and timing. The perfect blend between compact size and large sound.Soft Dome TweeterWith clear heritage from our high-end series, the lightweight dome tweeter offers best-in-classWood Fibre ConesThe wood fibre cone gives a light, rigid and uneven surface for even, piston-like motion and greatly reduced surface resonance.Patented SMCWith an SMC magnet pole-piece surrounded by a slitted copper cap, the effect of the SMC is focused and maximised to reduce distortion.Cabinet ConstructionCreating separate chambers for each driver enables us to individually tune them for optimal output.
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.

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.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
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

What if you spend more?

Product image
Dali
Opticon 1 MK2
1200
1200
/
2
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers great range, detail, and soundstage, even as a small system
  • Impresses with vocal clarity and fills the room as though larger speakers were in use
  • High-end detail pulls out the space in the soundstage, while the lows fill in natural depth
  • Smooth sound is achieved through the signature red wood-fibre cones and soft dome tweeter
  • Offers a balanced sound, tight bass, and unfatiguing listening experience for long periods

Product Considerations

  • Bass has a softer finish compared to some other brands, like Monitor Audio
  • One should not count on full sounding of large rooms with the help of "ones"

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Dali Opticon 1 MK2 maintains a softer finish to bass than the likes of Monitor Audio
  • More expensive monitors will envy the Dali Opticon 1 MK2's ability to draw a scene

Takeaway: If you need a streamlined, compact system, the Dali Opticon 1 MK2 speakers could be a great match, offering impressive sound quality for their size. They will suit multifaceted daily use of AV or music with ease.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
KEF
R3 Meta
2430
2430
/
18
Reviews

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.

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.
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Expand Details

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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
1299
/
18
Reviews
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.
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Expand Details

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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
MoFi
SourcePoint 8
1999
1999
/
15
Reviews
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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Dali
Opticon 2 MK2
750
/
Released
2021
The OPTICON 2 MK2 is a mid-sized stand mount speaker for compact to medium size listening spaces where it has room to breathe and deliver its dynamic and explicitly defined performance.
Check Amazon
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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Balanced sound with natural vocals and acoustic instruments
  • Plays louder and handles dynamic swings easier than some competitors due to its larger size
  • Offers a wide and deep soundstage with precise location of performers
  • Detailed and clear sound quality
  • Hand-assembled in Denmark which ensures a high-quality finish and adherence to technology

Product Considerations

  • The finishes are not as premium-looking as some competitors
  • May not show as much composure with busy recordings
  • Bass response may not keep up in some instances, being a limitation of the physical size of the cabinet
  • Lows are not as deep as those offered by floorstanding speakers, but they are not frustrating
  • High frequencies can slightly prevail and draw attention to themselves, requiring attention to the quality of listening records

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Dali Opticon 2 MKII manages to maintain greater control during the most direct attacks and offers softer highs
  • Vs Sonus Faber Lumina II, the Dali Opticon 2 MKII has more pronounced bass

Takeaway: The Opticon 2 Mk2 speakers are a good choice for someone looking for a detailed and natural sounding speaker that can play a wide variety of music well. Being assembled in Denmark adds value, as does the spacious soundstage it creates.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Dali
Fazon SAT
900
/
Released
The DALI FAZON SAT is an elegant and stylish satellite speaker in die-cast aluminium. Its compact size makes it a discreet solution for any stereo, surround sound and TV setup.
Check Amazon
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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The DALI Fazon Sat has a curved chassis made from dense cast aluminum that does not resonate
  • The DALI Fazon Sat has a locking gimbaled mount to point the speaker, and a knurled knob to lock the speaker into position
  • The DALI Fazon Sat has a magnetic grille with no visible fasteners
  • The DALI Fazon Sat has a simultaneously techy and elegant look
  • The DALI Fazon Sat assembles fairly easily, whether wall-mounted or used on the stand

Product Considerations

  • The tiny screw terminals on the Fazon Sat for the speaker cables proved a little cumbersome, and limit the use of thin cables
  • Although the Fazon Sat's bass response is rated to 86 Hz, its 4 1?2-inch woofer cannot deliver much volume at that frequency without distorting
  • A high crossover point is needed to reduce upper bass distortion with the Fazon Sat

Takeaway: The DALI Fazon Sat speakers have great build quality and are easy to mount. They are sleek and will look good in your home.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
/
Released
2021
Wharfedale's new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN. The primary focus is on the AMT development resulting in a radically different way of reproducing high frequency detail efficiently and accurately.
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Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
  • Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
  • Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
  • Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
  • Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price

Product Considerations

  • Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
  • Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
  • Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
  • Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
  • The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level

Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Q Acoustics
5020
899
/
Released
2023
Experience all the scale and power of your favourite music without letting your loudspeaker dominate your room. The 5020 standmounting speaker will put your right in the heart of the music without putting itself at the heart of your space.
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Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
  • Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
  • Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
  • Taut and agile bass performance
  • Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
  • Connectivity options such as binding posts

Product Considerations

  • Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
  • Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
  • Bass response is somewhat subdued
  • Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
  • Grilles muddle the sound

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.

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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Klipsch
RP-600M II
649
/
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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Larger horn tweeter and a new Cerametallic woofer, compared to its predecessor
  • Upgraded binding posts and crossover plate elevate to Reference Premiere status
  • Larger diameter voice coils and aluminum shorting rings on the woofers give the speaker better linearity throughout the bass, decrease distortion while upping power handling resulting in improved speed and accuracy
  • Better detail retrieval, more articulate bass, and vastly improved soundstage width and imaging, compared to the RP-600M
  • The binding posts are the same that are found on costlier Heritage speakers

Product Considerations

  • Finish options did not receive an upgrade over the outgoing model, leaving customers with the same ebony or walnut wraps
  • The tweeter may be too bright for some listeners who are sensitive to a more aggressive top end
  • Rated sensitivity is 94.5dB, which is a decrease compared to the original's reported sensitivity of 96
  • Needs a bit of space behind them and to the sides, or at least positioning on open shelves, if the powerful output from that port isn't to muddy the sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the older RP-600M, the new sounds far more linear
  • The new is very easy to listen to for long periods of time, and while it still has a presence, a speed and transparency to the artist or instrument—at least with respect to the midrange—it is not as forward sounding as past designs
  • The new proved to be surprisingly flat, but best of all, not the least bit fatiguing
  • There was very little difference in tone with respect to the mids between the new and a costlier Revel bookshelf
  • These two are actually pretty neck and neck
  • As for the Wharfedale Evo 4.1, the Evo is better constructed, not to mention nicer looking

Takeaway: The RP-600M II is a refined speaker with better components, improved sound, and better bass response and imaging. It's a speaker that would be great for someone who likes to listen to a variety of music genres and wants a good-sounding speaker that can last a long time.

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
Product Page
Product Page

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