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
- Detailed high-end treble response, providing an airy, open presentation for movies
- Images incredibly well and throws a solid center image for stereo use
- Provides a cohesive surround sound experience due to timbre matching when used in multiple positions
- Offers mounting versatility with design elements to keep it flush to the wall
Product Considerations
- Bass response is weak, requiring the use of a subwoofer for full sound reproduction
- Midrange is a bit lean
- Faux wood finish instead of real wood
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins CT7.4—the Rubicon LCRs have a much more detailed high end
- Vs Focal Sopras—the amount of detail is nearly as good as the Beryllium tweeters found on the Focal Sopras
Takeaway: The Dali Rubicon LCR speakers provide a detailed and spacious surround sound experience. These speakers are a good choice for a simple setup with big sound.
All
Rubicon LCR
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Frequency Range [+/- 3] dB [Hz]: 59 - 34,000
- Sensitivity [2.83V/1m] [dB]: 89
- Maximum SPL [dB]: 109
- Recommended Amp. Power [Watts]: 20 - 150
- Crossover Frequencies [Hz]: 3,100 / 14,000
- Nominal Impedance [ohms]: 4
- Low Frequency/Midrange Driver(s): 1 x 6½"
- High Frequency Driver(s): 1 x 29 mm soft dome, 1 x 17 x 45 mm planar
- Crossover Principle: 2 + ½-way
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
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.
Our take on the brand
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Used
Dali
What if you spend more?
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Product Strengths
- Delivers full, rich, and detailed sound with a hybrid tweeter module, an 8" wood fiber driver, and a 10" passive carbon fiber radiator
- Offers a significant level of adjustability and customization to suit individual audio preferences and spatial requirements, and can be installed vertically or horizontally
- Features a slim design and dogleg mounting system for easy installation on any standard wall
- Meticulously designed and crafted with high-quality materials and rigorous testing processes
Product Considerations
- Its high price point might make it less accessible for some customers
- To achieve optimal sound, the speaker should be installed with the tweeter at ear height, which may require additional consideration during installation
- The manufacturing origin of the speaker is not mentioned
Takeaway: The DALI Phantom S-180 is an excellent in-wall speaker that provides great sound and can be adjusted to fit individual needs. It's a worthwhile investment for a top-notch audio experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Delivers high-quality audiophile sound.
- Runs cleanly even at extremely high volumes.
- Treble dispersion creates a surprisingly wide sweet spot.
- Provides excellent precision in sound location, even when placed against a wall.
- First class clarity
Product Considerations
- Bass extension is fairly limited without a subwoofer
- Mounting depth is 104mm
- High frequency dispersion can be problematic if used horizontally without rotating the tweeter module
Takeaway: The Dali Phantom S-80 is a superb installation loudspeaker that delivers high-quality sound and runs cleanly at high volumes, perfect for someone looking for great audio in a discreet package. Its clarity and precision make it a worthwhile addition to any audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
I am the overperforming little guy who will demand your respect after your first audition. I can be a serious 2 channel system with a subwoofer, an LCR, or a surround channel. Effortless dynamics and lightspeed transients remain the common thread of all Signature series speakers including the S4b. A bookshelf with this much technology is hard to find and can literally be the Ninja of any system. Bookshelf, main for a 2.1 system, LCR, Dominus Surround, it can transform into anything you need.
Features including our proprietary DPC-Array controlling Mid/High frequencies and centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. All transducers are developed ground up by our engineers bringing decades of research and culminating in this world class design. All S-Series speakers share the same DPC-Array and benefit from our unique timbre matching technique across the entire series utilizing Beryllium and our advanced Carbon fiber.
These speakers are an acoustic suspension to meet the demands of any listening room with unparalleled dynamic range and musical finesse. Very impressive system alone or when combined with a PERLISTEN subwoofer. Great for use in 2.1 systems or any channel of theater system utilizing subwoofers. Can be used as surround, height or LCR. Bookshelf, stand or on-wall mounting with keyhole or available bracket.
Featuring our DPC-Array as for controlling Mid/High frequencies, centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. This new tweeter/waveguide DPC-Array delivers amazing accuracy, smoothness, and directivity control to handle the critical vocal range and delicate treble. The S4b shares the same DPC-Array and benefits from our unique timbre matching technique as found in the entire S-Series range of speakers. Unparalleled dynamic range, low distortion and musical finesse. The PERLISTEN S4b continues the lineup of speakers that have the distinguished honor to be the world's first and only loudspeakers to be certified for THX Dominus – their highest rating.
Product Strengths
- Solidly built with an inert cabinet, contributing to overall performance
- Crazy linear/neutral sound from about 100Hz upwards
- The beryllium tweeter provides nuanced, airy, and extended highs with a hint of shimmer for realistic metallic instruments
- It creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making the speakers disappear sonically
Product Considerations
- It does not have a great deal of bass on its own and may require a subwoofer for full-range playback, starting its roll-off at around 100Hz
- While placement is flexible, a solid amplifier is required
- The styling might be an acquired taste and could be considered overcomplicated by some
- The high gloss finishes may not appear different from less expensive speakers, making it harder to justify the luxury price tag
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4: The S4B is more neutral/accurate, while the 805 D4 adds bass and treble energy
- Vs Focal Canta No. 1: The S4B outperforms the Canta No. 1, which has chestiness in its bass and midrange due to its cabinet
- Vs Revel Studio 2: The S4B reminded the reviewer of the Revel Studio 2, though the Revels had more bass
- Vs Focal Diablo Utopia: The Perlisten are a great alternative if the Utopias are outside of your reach and are a more neutral and less bright speaker
- Vs EgglestonWorks Nico Evo: The EgglestonWorks presentation is a little more mid-forward and less 3D than the Perlisten
Takeaway: The Perlisten S4b is a high-performing speaker that offers excellent clarity and a neutral sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike. The speaker's ability to create a detailed and immersive soundstage can bring music and movies to life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Many customers asked for a smaller speaker, so the development group created a smaller baby EPOS. This speaker should be a real bookshelf with a size small enough to go into typical IKEA designs for example. But how to make it? Smaller speakers are especially giving the designer some severe headaches. This has something to do with the size of the front baffle and the small baffle’s influence on a speaker’s response curve. A design for free space should be different from one that plays close to a wall or inside a bookshelf. In order to work in a semi-free space (some distance from a wall) and on a wall, the crossover filter can be changed with a switch on the backside of the speaker. Now, you are free to choose the place of your speakers without making compromises in tonal balance.
Product Strengths
- Excellent separation within the soundstage conveys a lifelike image
- A switch on the rear changes the crossover to suit different speaker placements—optimizing the speaker for on-wall or free-standing positions
- Overwhelming, tight, dry, and dynamic bass with a detailed and room-filling soundstage
- A well-made compact speaker with high efficiency, especially on the shelf
- Lively and realistic music rendering creates an authentic listening experience
Product Considerations
- While the ES-7N looks neat, it isn't particularly luxurious in appearance
- Placement needs to be considered because of the speaker's asymmetrical design
- The manual provides a suggestion for the placement of the tweeter
- Clarity and precision of sound and stereo imaging are slightly diminished if not placed optimally
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Neat Petite Classic: It is good enough to make the Neat sound a little blurred and soft
- Vs Dynaudio Heritage Special: Epos' mids were wonderfully fine and tidy, while the Dynaudio had richer bass and more generous spatial imaging—the Epos seemed more lively and multi-faceted
- Vs BBC LS 3/5a: The 7N was much more balanced and precise in the bass with lively reproduction and higher dynamics
- Vs KEF LS50: They sound much more open and dynamic, even 'bigger', especially at low volume
Takeaway: The ES-7N is a small but capable speaker that is flexible in its placement options. If a speaker that sounds good in different spaces is desired, the ES-7N could be a good choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Nice bass extension down to about 40, 45 Hertz in the room
- Very low distortion and good dynamic range
- Excellent resolution throughout the frequency range
- Hybrid tweeter widens the sweet spot and opens up the soundstage
- Well-constructed and well-engineered
Product Considerations
- The speaker sounds a little too laid back in the mid-range
- High frequency has a lot of sizzle or pop, the level of the tweeter stands out more above the mid-range
- Without some equalization or some sidewall absorption, it is a tough sell
- SMC material reduces third harmonic distortion, and some people may feel that it is too polite
- May need a cooler and livelier amplifier to get the best sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Neat Elite Classics are only just a little less capable at shifting air at low frequencies and are a little more balanced tonally, whereas the Dali's are a little recessed in the upper mid-range
Takeaway: The Dali Rubicon 6s are well-engineered speakers that offer excellent resolution throughout the frequency range. The hybrid tweeter widens the sweet spot and opens up the soundstage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile design allows for vertical or horizontal mounting, on-wall or freestanding configurations
- Clear dialog and well-sorted audio elements are produced for movies
- Accurate imaging creates a strong phantom center channel effect
- Sleek and modern aesthetics fit well in various spaces
- Clear midrange and spirited highs provide good sound quality for both movies and music
- Connectivity options are available
Product Considerations
- Bass response may not satisfy bass enthusiasts without a subwoofer
- Small hole for speaker wire in the stand pole may be too small for some speaker cables with spade connectors
- Speakers need to be closer to the wall to reinforce bass
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Focal On Wall 302 offers more versatility in application, while the Focal Vestia No. 2 has more designer finish
Takeaway: The Focal On Wall 302 is a versatile speaker that delivers excellent sound quality and offers a modern, sleek design that fits into various home theater or music setups. These speakers are a great choice for those looking for unobtrusive, elegant speakers that perform well for both movies and music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great sound and is considered one of the greatest audio bargains
- Even tonal balance, very neutral, and offers a balance of detail and exceptional musicality
- Creates a credible soundstage and reveals detail in well-recorded material, with a wide stage extending beyond the speakers and conveying depth
- Can play loudly with minimal effort due to its 89dB sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance
- Superb imaging, especially with two-channel listening
Product Considerations
- High-end finishes increase the price significantly
- Some reviewers find the grills flimsy
- Some reviewers found the speaker install difficult
- The height of the tweeter was a bit low for one reviewer, causing the soundstage to feel low at times
- Some reviewers find Axiom speakers as a whole as unforgiving or too bright
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to PSB Platinum M2 and Usher X-718, the Axiom M60 v2 could play much louder and go far lower in the bass
- Compared to Onix Rocket RS450s, there's a considerably increased size of the soundstage
Takeaway: The Axiom M60 v2 speakers are a great value for their excellent performance and ability to draw one into their music. With a seemingly boundless dynamic range, they bring music to life and can be a solid choice if space allows.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Smooth, spacious sound with good weight
- Excellent build and finish quality
- Slim design allows it to be hung on the wall like a picture
- Employs true 3-way full range drivers with pivoting Inverted Dual Concentric mid-range/tweeter modules, and C-CAM bass drivers
- Clever drive unit arrangement ensures that imaging is excellent
Product Considerations
- Midrange colouration can harm timing, potentially leading to a slightly congested presentation with complex rhythms
- Bass presence is limited due to the sealed-box design
- Without the grilles, the speakers have a stark, industrial look
Takeaway: The SoundFrame offers both stylish design and impressive sound quality, making it a good choice for those who want their speakers to blend seamlessly with their home decor. Its innovative features and well-built construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Technically the best speakers the reviewer has ever reviewed, based on objective measurements
- Optimized with a six and a half inch driver, the transition from the mid-range to the tweeter is seamless
- Great directivity index, making them EQable and sound good even without EQ
- Precise imaging creates a wide soundstage and a strong center image
- Well-made with HDF enclosure, rhodium binding posts, and good crossover components for the price
Product Considerations
- Requires a subwoofer for deep bass extension
- Aesthetics are plain, and may not appeal to those seeking visually striking speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Philharmonic Audio BMRs, the Arendal 1723 has more precise imaging, while the BMRs have a wider but softer soundstage
Takeaway: The Arendal 1723 speakers offer top-notch technical performance and precise imaging, making them great for both two-channel and home theater setups when paired with a subwoofer. Their neutral sound and EQ-ability make them a versatile and high-performing choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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