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
- Good soundstage and imaging, providing a wide sonic panorama
- Mid-range holds its ground with a neutral, linear delivery
- Vocals and instruments retain an airy quality
- Solid build quality
Product Considerations
- Treble is overly pronounced and dry, leading to an artificial tonality
- Bass reproduction lacks desired depth and impact, leading to tonal imbalance
- Visible screws and hook grille attachment could be modernized
- Front plate and driver bezels appear somewhat plasticky
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The ELAC Debut Reference B6 offers a slightly more accurate rendition
Takeaway: The Ariane 2 speakers offer a wide soundstage and pleasant mid-range for an enjoyable listening experience. These are worth considering for speakers that have quality and sound good.
All
Ariane 2
reviews

Manufacturer details
- Type: bookshelf – 2 ways/2 drivers
- Woofer: fiber glass 6.5"
- Tweeter: 20 mm soft paper dome
- Frequency response (+/- 3 dB): 48-22000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Power (nominal/max): 90/120
- Impedance: 5 mini Ohms
- Dimensions: 34 (h) x 20.5 (l) x 26 (profondeur) cm
- Weight: 6.2 kg (One piece)
This compact speaker, easy to power, shows a beautiful sound opening and a sufficient output to be associated with many electronics. The DAVIS laboratory has worked to obtain a very linear sensitivity curve, in order to avoid emphasizing one part of the frequencies to the benefit of another. This ensures long hours of listening without auditory fatigue.
The speaker is equipped with non-slip pads, which slightly tilt the speaker towards the back. In addition to an aesthetic effect, this allows the start of the coils of the two drivers to be aligned in the vertical plane. The propagation of sound is then improved.
From an aesthetic point of view, the model is available in three different versions : Walnut (white front and walnut sides), light oak (with black front) and the more discreet black finish (6 black sides). The protective covers are rounded for a modern aesthetic effect.
Ariane 2 is an enclosure with a bass reflex charge, its decompression to the rear. Also, it is advisable to leave a distance of about 30 cm from the wall.
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:
- Davis Acoustics leverages in-house driver design and manufacturing, a legacy dating back to 1986, to offer unique driver combinations like Kevlar mids and carbon fiber woofers, tailored for balanced sound.
- They are known for meticulous attention to cabinet design, often employing features like reinforced MDF, internal bracing, rounded edges, and strategically placed vents to minimize unwanted resonances and optimize acoustic performance.
- A key element of the Davis Acoustics sound signature is a focus on delivering a natural and detailed midrange, frequently utilizing Kevlar drivers to achieve richness, texture, and clarity in vocal and instrumental reproduction.
Select products
Olympia One Master 35
- Positioning: Entry-level floorstanding speaker reissued for accessible performance in smaller spaces.
- Description: Offers a compact two-driver design with moderate power and simplified connectivity, making it a practical choice for smaller rooms and budget-oriented systems. Compared to the more robust Ariane 9 and other premium models, it provides basic functionality without advanced low-end impact, ideal for users with modest budget and space needs.
Ariane 9
- Positioning: Mid-range floorstanding speaker aimed at larger listening rooms with balanced sound.
- Description: Features a four-driver configuration that enhances bass descent and refines high frequencies with a new tweeter, delivering a wide and realistic sound scene. Compared to the entry-level Olympia One Master 35, it offers improved dynamics, yet remains less complex than the Krypton 10 and Stellar.
Courbet N°8
- Positioning: Mid-to-high range three-way speaker designed for large rooms needing defined and musical sound reproduction.
- Description: Integrates a fabric dome tweeter, a midrange taken from a higher model, and a fast carbon woofer to achieve an extended bandwidth and clarity. In contrast with the simpler Ariane 9 and Olympia One Master 35, its advanced design serves users with higher technical expectations while still being more approachable than the top-tier Krypton 10 and Stellar.
Krypton 10
- Positioning: High-end speaker engineered for large living spaces with a focus on powerful and authoritative bass.
- Description: Uses dual 21 cm bass drivers in parallel with a laminar port to deliver strong low-end performance while preserving detailed midrange and treble. Compared to the mid-range Ariane 9 and Courbet N°8, it targets users seeking enhanced bass and robust sound performance, though it sits just below the flagship level of the Stellar series.
Stellar
- Positioning: Flagship floorstanding speaker crafted for the most demanding audio systems in expansive environments.
- Description: Uses a refined three-driver setup with premium materials for membranes, motors, and cabling to ensure precise detail and an expansive soundstage. While it outclasses the advanced features of the Krypton 10 and is pricier than the Ariane 9, Courbet N°8, and Olympia One Master 35, it represents the pinnacle of the lineup's technological capabilities.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Assembled in France, the Courbet N°3 is an impressive speaker featuring very high quality drivers designed and produced in Troyes
- The N°3's design is exceptionally well thought out, with a sleek chassis that features a solid cabinet to eliminate unwanted vibrations
- The Davis Acoustics Courbet N°3 speaker proved to be very pleasant with every genre of music, like jazz, rock, and electro
- Its sound signature is characterized by perfect handling of different frequency ranges, with intense lows, which is a pleasant surprise for a speaker this size
Product Considerations
- The highs are restituted by a new 1" soft dome tweeter present on all of the speakers in the Courbet range
Takeaway: The Courbet N°3 is melodic and smooth, but can also be authoritative when necessary, especially in the lows. The Courbet N°3 invites one to turn up the volume and get lost in a vast soundscape for hours on end.
Video review
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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.
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
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
- Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
- Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
- BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
- Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
- Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
- Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
- Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
- Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers
Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.
Video review
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Precise and stable stereo imaging
- Good detail retrieval
- Neutral tonal balance
- Versatile directivity
Product Considerations
- Bass extension requires a subwoofer for full-range playback, especially below the mid-40Hz range
- Potential for brightness, especially when toed-in directly towards the listening position
- Requires careful setup and experimentation with placement to optimize sound, especially in relation to the rear wall and toe-in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SourcePoint 8 is more neutral, with a less elevated top end, while the SourcePoint 10 is brighter
Takeaway: The SourcePoint 8 is a well-engineered speaker that stands out for its clear imaging and ability to convey musical detail across different genres. It offers a balanced and neutral sound that makes it an engaging listening experience.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
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
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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
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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
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Incredible power handling capabilities, performing as well as speakers in the $2,000–$3,000 range
- Sound quality is comparable to stand-mount speakers in the $1,500–$2,000 range
- Build quality is phenomenal for its price point, with real wood veneer options available
- Produces a dense and deep soundstage, especially for a two-way design
- Neutral and clean sound with nice extension in the upper mid-range to high-frequency extension, avoiding a 'hot' sound
Product Considerations
- Stereo imaging is decent, but not as precise as some listeners may prefer
- The mid-range can be a weak point due to some potential resonance in the upper frequencies of the woofer's range
- The speakers are not the easiest to drive and pairing with neutral, slightly warmer amps is recommended
- The treble response is slightly forward with some extra sparkle which may not be ideal for those sensitive to higher frequencies
- While the bass is good, listeners of bass-heavy music may want to add a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SVS Nano: The Ultra Evolution has a more open and expansive midrange and more linear bass, while the Nano has punchier—slightly boosted—bass
- Vs. Heco Salon Revolution 3: The Ultra Evolution is a good replacement since the Heco is discontinued, the Ultra Evolution favors neutrality, while the Heco has a warmer midrange, but the treble is very similar on both
- Vs. KEF R3 Meta: The SVS Ultra Evolution disappears better, but the R3 Meta sounds more neutral
- Vs. Dali Opticon II Mark IIs: Dali is warmer and more nuanced in the midrange but the Ultra Evolution is a little more exciting in its presentation
Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf speakers provide exceptional performance for the price and create an immersive listening experience. They are well-built, attractive, and offer a balanced sound that makes them a strong contender in their price range.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wide range of connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0 aptX, Wi-Fi, RCA/Phono input, optical input, and USB input.
- Enthusiastic and capable sound quality suitable for various music genres, with a mature sense of composure.
- Elegant and refined design with unique arrow-extended feet and premium grill, available in multiple color finishes.
- The included Triangle AIO app is well-designed, bug-free, and provides easy streaming from providers like Spotify, Qobuz, Tidal, and Deezer, as well as basic EQ adjustments.
- Includes a built-in moving magnet phono stage for playing records directly.
Product Considerations
- The quality of the built-in phono stage isn't the best compared to streaming or other inputs
- The remote control is plastic and doesn't feel as premium as the speaker itself
- The included speaker cable is basic
- WiFi connectivity can have a delay when turning the speaker off and back on
- The bright LED indicating the source can be distracting for some users, though it can be dimmed or turned off
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF LSX II, the AIO Twin is at half the price
- Triangle is more balanced, neutral, and composed than the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2, while the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2 is more V-shaped
Takeaway: The AIO is a versatile and good-sounding all-in-one speaker system that combines modern features with a stylish design, making it a great choice for those who want simplicity and convenience. The speaker's ability to handle various input sources, from streaming to vinyl playback, ensures that users can enjoy all of their music with ease.
Video review
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