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
- Sounds unique, good, and tempting
- Bass is particularly strong and hits hard
- Offers a lively soundstage with a fine-tuned balance between analysis and the joy of music
- Can be positioned up to ten centimeters from the rear wall due to the forward-facing bass reflex port
- Beautiful wood grain finish that doesn't look cheap
Product Considerations
- The front grille doesn't attach elegantly with magnets, using dowels instead
- The single-wiring terminal is a bit outdated
- The enjoyment factor diminishes with low-powered tube amplifiers
- Distortion gently increases from mid to low frequencies from 95 dB SPL
Takeaway: The Davis Acoustics Ariane 5 speakers offer a unique and enjoyable listening experience with strong bass and a lively soundstage, making them a tempting option. They are a good choice for those who want detailed sound and musical enjoyment.
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
Ariane 5
reviews
[{"title":"Davis Acoustics Ariane 5 Review","link":"https://7review.com/davis-acoustics-ariane-5-review","source":"7Review","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
- Type: floorstanding – 3 way / 3 speaker
- Woofer: 17cm (6.5") cellulose pulp
- Midrange: 17cm (6.5") fiberglass
- Tweeter: 20 mm soft dome and foam suspension
- Frequency response (+/- 3 dB): 42-20000 Hz
- Efficiency: 92 dB
- Power (nominal/max): 80/150
- Impedance: 4 mini Ohms
- Dimensions: 90 (h) x 19 (l) x 26.2 (depth) cm
- Weight: 13 kg (one speaker)
Description
The ARIANE 5 column speaker is the technical evolution of the MAYA model, a reference at DAVIS Acoustics, which has been awarded several times by the specialized press. This last OPUS improves the listening result, by using a new woofer that allows a better descent in the bass. The sound stage becomes wider and more realistic. The high frequencies are now transcribed using a new tweeter, thin and particularly detailed.
The ARIANE 5 column speaker is the technical evolution of the MAYA model, a reference at DAVIS Acoustics, which has been awarded several times by the specialized press. This last OPUS improves the listening result, by using a new woofer that allows a better descent in the bass. The sound stage becomes wider and more realistic. The high frequencies are now transcribed using a new tweeter, thin and particularly detailed.
The ARIANE 5 is equipped with 3 speakers:
– a woofer of 16.5 cm diameter, made of treated and cushioned cellulose pulp, topped by a powerful magnetic motor. Core 37 mm diameter, decompressed. For a fast and authoritative grave.
– a 16.5 cm diameter braided fiberglass medium, which guarantees a beautiful opening and detailed and precise voices.
– a flexible dome tweeter made of cellulose pulp with a 20 mm diameter coil, which allows the extension in the extreme treble, without ever becoming aggressive.
We recommend a distance of at least 3 meters between the speakers, to obtain a very wide sound stage. Position your speakers without sticking them to the wall (at about 30cm). The vent, located at the front of the speaker, allows a level of bass to be achieved that is approximately constant regardless of the position in the room.
Available in three finishes: Black, Walnut and Light Oak.
The ARIANE 5 is equipped with 3 speakers:
– a woofer of 16.5 cm diameter, made of treated and cushioned cellulose pulp, topped by a powerful magnetic motor. Core 37 mm diameter, decompressed. For a fast and authoritative grave.
– a 16.5 cm diameter braided fiberglass medium, which guarantees a beautiful opening and detailed and precise voices.
– a flexible dome tweeter made of cellulose pulp with a 20 mm diameter coil, which allows the extension in the extreme treble, without ever becoming aggressive.
We recommend a distance of at least 3 meters between the speakers, to obtain a very wide sound stage. Position your speakers without sticking them to the wall (at about 30cm). The vent, located at the front of the speaker, allows a level of bass to be achieved that is approximately constant regardless of the position in the room.
Available in three finishes: Black, Walnut and Light Oak.
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:
- 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
Select product comparisons
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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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
1
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
354
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
39
Founding Year
1986
Our take on the brand
Davis Acoustics pioneered the use of materials like Kevlar, carbon, and glass fiber in speaker unit production, and their focus remains on driver technology over box design as seen in their MV One model with its unique wideband driver. Their speakers use proprietary drivers with different cable types for each driver to optimize response, setting them apart from other French brands by delivering natural sound without the harshness often associated with high-frequency reproduction.
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What if you spend more?
Davis Acoustics
Krypton 6
1573
1573
/
5
Reviews
The Krypton 6 is the smallest floor standing speaker of the KRYPTON range. Discreet by its silhouette, it is nevertheless formidable by its sound qualities. This 3-way column with bass reflex charge is ideal for rooms from 15 to 30m2.
The technical team has worked on each of the transducers to bring transparency and veracity to the sound message. Thus, the tweeter (specially designed for the range) is composed of a "rear chamber" to capture the rear wave of the dome (and thus reduce its distortion), the midrange made of a 7th generation of Kevlar cone ensures incredible precision and detail for this price category. Finally, the unique 13 cm (5 inch) woofer provides a fast and punchy bass. It is mounted in a good volume that opens into a laminar port on the front panel, which makes it easy to position in the listening room.
Available in 3 trendy finishes, the Krypton 6 is proposed with a magnetic cover equipped with a heathered fabric of the most beautiful effect. The Krypton 6 can be easily positioned by adding a stand (included) that tilts the speaker slightly backwards. Finally, the latter is equipped with a dense foam that will allow you not to scratch your floor. (however, spikes are provided for reverberant rooms).
Davis Acoustics pioneered the use of materials like Kevlar, carbon, and glass fiber in speaker unit production, and their focus remains on driver technology over box design as seen in their MV One model with its unique wideband driver. Their speakers use proprietary drivers with different cable types for each driver to optimize response, setting them apart from other French brands by delivering natural sound without the harshness often associated with high-frequency reproduction.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Refined and elegant design that can adapt to various decorations and interiors
- Precise and complete soundstage with detailed instrumental reproduction, especially in the midrange
- Versatile and can be used for streaming, vinyl, and home cinema
- Front laminar port makes placement easier
- Relatively easy to power, with a high sensitivity of 91dB
Product Considerations
- Precise placement is needed to optimize the overall result and maintain a realistic soundstage
- Some harshness in the high frequencies can occur depending on the track
- Stabilizing plinths could be wider than the speaker cabinets
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fyne Audio F501: Krypton 6s are softer and more natural in the midrange, and are easier to power and install in small rooms
- Vs Cabasse MC40 Java: Krypton 6 has richer and more textured mids, and is much more compact, making integration into a small living room easier
- Vs Elipson Prestige Facet 14F: Davis Acoustics Krypton 6s perform better in the midrange, with a richer and more textured reproduction
Takeaway: The Davis Acoustics Krypton 6 speakers are a great option for those wanting a detailed and precise sound in a compact and elegant floorstanding design. Their versatility and ease of placement make them a solid choice for various listening environments.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Davis Acoustics pioneered the use of materials like Kevlar, carbon, and glass fiber in speaker unit production, and their focus remains on driver technology over box design as seen in their MV One model with its unique wideband driver. Their speakers use proprietary drivers with different cable types for each driver to optimize response, setting them apart from other French brands by delivering natural sound without the harshness often associated with high-frequency reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Davis Acoustics
Krypton 9
2098
2098
/
1
Reviews
The KRYPTON 9 is floor standing speaker of the range. In addition to the tweeter and the 13 cm, common to all the models, it embeds two 17 cm (6.5″) diameter woofers in a bass reflex volume. The general balance of the speaker, associated with a good descent in the low register, allows to fill the space of a living room of 30 to 50 m2 without any frustration.
Available in the 3 colors of the range (Nordik, Technik or Classik (see pictures)), this model can easily be powered by many electronics. The neutral character of the product ensures a quality listening for all musical genres (from classical to rock through variety, jazz or world music).
The speaker is supplied with a tilt stand, installation tools and decoupling spikes. We recommend leaving space with the rear and side walls and orienting them slightly towards the listening area to achieve good spatialization of the sound and a three-dimensional effect.
The quality of the transducers used, and the optimized study of the crossover allow a long listening of the music, without auditory fatigue. Rediscover the whole of your discotheque.
Davis Acoustics pioneered the use of materials like Kevlar, carbon, and glass fiber in speaker unit production, and their focus remains on driver technology over box design as seen in their MV One model with its unique wideband driver. Their speakers use proprietary drivers with different cable types for each driver to optimize response, setting them apart from other French brands by delivering natural sound without the harshness often associated with high-frequency reproduction.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Precise, clean, and transparent sound
- Decent bass slam without losing control due to two 17cm bass drivers
- High efficiency of 93 dB makes it suitable for less high-powered tube amps
- Deep soundstage (within the range of what tower speakers with these dimensions can achieve)
Product Considerations
- The reviewer reserved a final verdict on the smoothness/softness of the midrange because the Western Electric amp wasn't fully warmed up
Takeaway: The Krypton 9 speakers provide a precise and clean listening experience with a good bass response for their size. They are efficient and should work well with lower-powered amplifiers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Davis Acoustics pioneered the use of materials like Kevlar, carbon, and glass fiber in speaker unit production, and their focus remains on driver technology over box design as seen in their MV One model with its unique wideband driver. Their speakers use proprietary drivers with different cable types for each driver to optimize response, setting them apart from other French brands by delivering natural sound without the harshness often associated with high-frequency reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Davis Acoustics
Dhavani MK2
1851
1851
/
1
Reviews
Davis Acoustics pioneered the use of materials like Kevlar, carbon, and glass fiber in speaker unit production, and their focus remains on driver technology over box design as seen in their MV One model with its unique wideband driver. Their speakers use proprietary drivers with different cable types for each driver to optimize response, setting them apart from other French brands by delivering natural sound without the harshness often associated with high-frequency reproduction.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Great value for the price, especially considering it's a column speaker
- Retains Davis Acoustics' signature sound
- Can be played at low and high volumes while maintaining a clean sound
Product Considerations
- Less rich in the midrange compared to the Olympia 3
- The blending of highs and mids isn't as good
- The bass might be slightly 'boomier' compared to the Olympia 3
- Less cone movement than the Olympia 3
- The woofer is lower to the ground, which may affect the bass due to reflections from the floor
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Davis Acoustics Olympia 3: The Olympia 3 has better build quality
- Vs Davis Acoustics Olympia 3: The Olympia 3 has richer mids due to Kevlar—vs—fiberglass
- Vs Davis Acoustics Olympia 3: The Olympia 3 has better high frequency openness and a cleaner bass response
Takeaway: The Dhavani mk2 speakers sound like Davis Acoustics speakers and offer good value for the price, particularly for a column speaker. They can be played at both low and high volumes without sacrificing sound quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Davis Acoustics pioneered the use of materials like Kevlar, carbon, and glass fiber in speaker unit production, and their focus remains on driver technology over box design as seen in their MV One model with its unique wideband driver. Their speakers use proprietary drivers with different cable types for each driver to optimize response, setting them apart from other French brands by delivering natural sound without the harshness often associated with high-frequency reproduction.
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Q Acoustics
Concept 50
2199
2199
/
16
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Fit and finish plus performance that is a bargain for around $3k/pair
- Gelcore cabinet construction minimizes unwanted sound energy from resonance and vibrations
- A tweeter that is hermetically sealed and mechanically isolated (floating) from the baffle provides lower distortion
- Size, weight, and richness of tone belies their size, with a wider baffle to each loudspeaker pointing at you
- A mild sound throws emphasis back to the midrange that in itself seems almost holographic, as well as deeply insightful in a gentle but revealing manner
Product Considerations
- A medium to large size room is required to shine, otherwise the bass will dominate
- Flaws in poor recordings can be revealed due to their detail and accuracy—warts and all performance
- The top-end is a little soft and gentle—classic BBC like—which may require amps with some zing to compensate
- Listeners seeking absolute detail or transparency might not be satisfied because of Q Acoustics' house sound that massages treble and plumps up bass and lower mid
- They don't go sub-40Hz deep, frequency response is rated at 42 Hz – 30 kHz (-6dB)
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics Concept 50 offers excellent value with its blend of innovative design and high-quality sound, making it a great choice for enjoying music with a sense of depth and engagement. The Concept 50s are easy to listen to and fun.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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What competes at this price?
Klipsch
RP-8000F II
749
/
Released
2022
A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area for crisper, clearer sound. The phase plug and compression molded silicone face ensure smooth frequency response.
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
- Flat in-room frequency response, especially from 200 Hz upwards, contributes to accurate sound reproduction
- Amplifier and receiver friendly due to its high sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance, performing well with entry-level to flagship AV receivers and amplifiers
- The new, larger Tractrix horn waveguide design offers improved directivity control and high-frequency focus
- Excels in dynamics, delivering raw impact and presence that enhances the excitement of movies and gaming, as well as rock and electronica music
Product Considerations
- Treble might become fatiguing with lesser recordings or at higher volumes, and may not be agreeable with all genres for listeners seeking a very smooth top end
- The midrange, while linear, isn't completely neutral due to some cabinet resonance, adding extra energy that may or may not be desirable depending on listener preference
- For true full-range playback, a subwoofer is required to compensate for the lack of deep bass extension
- The vinyl finish may disappoint fans of natural materials
- Best listened at within a 5-degree angle, and listening at a height level with the tweeter is clearly the best choice
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Polk R700: R700 is a more versatile all-rounder, but preferred for rock and electronica
- Vs. Sonus Faber Lumina 5: The Sonus Faber is better built and looks nicer, but more refined
- Vs. Q Acoustics Concept 50s: The Concept 50s image a little better, disappear just a little bit better, and they are exceptional off-axis, but do not play as low
- Vs. Heco Aurora 1000: The Heco is more linear across the range
- Vs. SVS Prime Pinnacle: The SVS Prime Pinnacle has a tweeter that is lower in level, offering a warmer sound
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-8000F Mark II is a speaker that brings a dynamic sound to movies, gaming, and music. For speakers that are easy to set up, are amplifier-friendly and deliver punchy, clear audio, these could be a great option.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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Magnepan
LRS+
995
/
Released
2022
Following in the footsteps of the highly acclaimed LRS, the LRS+ takes it up a notch. "This is another slam-dunk POY (Product of the Year) nominee, and, IMO, the best buy (along with the MG1.7i) in an affordable loudspeaker for modest-sized rooms." 2022 Golden Ear Award.
Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Creates a very open and transparent soundstage, which crosses the threshold of believability in a small to medium-sized room
- Low distortion, especially in the midrange and upper bass, making listeners realize how imperfectly transparent many speakers are
- Highly resolving, with impressive performance on acoustical instruments and vocal reproduction
- Offers a unique and remarkable experience due to the story and love behind the speaker's creation
- Presents a challenge, helping users understand speaker positions as the sound changes completely with movement
- Considered 'eminently affordable' and provides incredible sound for the price
Product Considerations
- Requires significant time to install, tweak, and dial in due to its dipole design, making positioning critical
- Bass is not powerful—it doesn't do pounding bass, and listeners won't feel the bass pounding on their chest, so a subwoofer might be needed, especially for rock, pop, dance, and electronic music
- Needs good power and high current to sound clean and not cause fatigue, it is not a powerful-sounding speaker
- The stand included is considered subpar and not very versatile
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs the original LRS, the LRS+ has ameliorated treble, has smoother upper mids, and has a reduced nosedive in the power range and midbass
Takeaway: The Magnepan LRS+ is a special speaker with an open soundstage, great details, and makes music sound real and enjoyable. Though not perfect, it is well worth buying because it offers an excellent way to experience a panel speaker without spending too much.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
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Dynaudio
Emit 30
849
/
Released
2021
Emit 30 is a compact two-and-a-half-way speaker designed to impress whether it's used as a stand-alone stereo pair or as part of a 5.1-channel (or more) home cinema. Like its little brother, Emit 10, it uses 14cm MSP woofers similar to those used in the Evoke series – this time doubled-up in each speaker for more low-frequency muscle, plus midrange clarity and punch.
Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Emit 30 delivers a satisfying and full-bodied sound, particularly excelling in the midrange, making vocals, piano, strings, and horns sound 'right'
- Bass performance is impressive for its size, delivering clean, fast, and airy bass with low distortion
- Good clarity and detail, rendering a wide range of recordings
- Good dynamics and energy, making music lively and engaging
- Top-notch build quality
Product Considerations
- The Emit 30's presentation might favor sophistication over excitement, with rhythmic drive being somewhat muted
- High-frequency non-linearity
- Some reviewers found the upper frequencies 'off', sometimes a little too soft
- The vinyl finish may be a drawback for some, as it is not as luxurious as real wood veneers
- Speakers like a bit of power
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Triangle Comet: The Emit 30 is rich, warm, and sweet, whereas the Comet is fast, quick, hyper-detailed, and exciting
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Emit 30 gives a more complete, full-bodied sound, while the LS50 offers clearer vocals and more air
Takeaway: The Dynaudio Emit 30 is a well-rounded speaker that offers a satisfying and engaging listening experience with impressive bass and midrange performance. It's a great value for those seeking a refined and capable floorstanding speaker without breaking the bank.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
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Acoustic Energy
AE109²
999
/
Released
2022
The AE109² is designed to offer effortless, room filling performance from a slim-line floor-standing loudspeaker in much the same way the world acclaimed original AE109 did 20 years ago.
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
- Well-rounded sound for the price
- Easy to drive with various amplifiers
- Easy to place in a room, even close to a wall, thanks to the rear slot port design
- Wide sound dispersion, making them suitable for enjoying with friends and family
- Smooth, warm, and non-fatiguing sound, suitable for long listening sessions
Product Considerations
- Bass can sometimes muddy the midrange, especially with tone controls that increase bass
- Soundstage depth may fall a bit short compared to more expensive speakers
- The provided spikes attach directly to the base of the cabinet, which could affect side-to-side stability
- Accessories could be better
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Magnepan LRS+—AE109² easier to own, less finicky with amp requirements and placement, and better for sharing due to wider sweet spot, though Magnepan sounds better
- Vs DALI Spektor 6—AE109² presents a genuine challenge, with better looks, though DALI has more 'fizz' of excitement
Takeaway: The AE109² is a budget-friendly floorstanding speaker that provides a balanced and enjoyable listening experience, especially for those prioritizing ease of placement and a wide soundstage. These speakers are a great option for creating a solid system.
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.
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PSB
Imagine T65
999
/
Released
2023
Experience the ultimate sophistication and high-definition audio with Imagine T65 tower speakers. These flagship speakers offer cutting-edge technology, refined aesthetics, and unmatched performance. The T65 delivers rich, full-range sound with deep bass frequencies, bringing your music and movies to life with true-to-nature sound.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Imagine T65 benefits from technologies passed on from the company's flagship Synchrony Series
- The dual 6.5-inch woofers produce serious bass, with good depth and authority
- Features a dedicated 5.25-inch midrange driver, leading to a more resolved and clear midrange
- Strong output capability and low distortion
- The speakers have a wider vertical window for better home theater use than is typical
Product Considerations
- The midrange may need some equalization work, especially if dialogue in movies and vocals in music are not at the forefront
- The white cabinet finish might look and feel a little more like primer than high-quality paint
- The upper bass range might be a bit much from time to time, and tunable ports may have helped
- The gold-plated binding posts are nice, but the large, plastic fixture might be undesirable
- Placement in too small a room could overwhelm it, resulting in muddied sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonus Faber Lumina V: The Lumina V may edge out the T65's in mid-bass performance, but they are more different—not overall better
- Vs Paradigm Premier 700F: The Paradigm is a remarkably refined loudspeaker that has a smaller form factor than the T65
Takeaway: The PSB Imagine T65 is a refined and powerful speaker that provides a lot of energy, making it great for both two-channel and home theater environments. It is a good choice for those looking for a full-range speaker that plays clean and loud.
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.
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