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
- Coaxial design results in good imaging, timing, and a seamless sound.
- Equalization adjustments tailor the sound to room acoustics or listening preference.
- Three-way active design allows for optimized amplifier performance for each driver.
- Integration into simple and more complex systems offers flexibility.
- Sound is neutral or slightly warm, and not fatiguing, making it suitable for long listening sessions.
Product Considerations
- Soundstage is limited to the physical plane of the speakers, meaning it doesn't extend far beyond them.
- The lack of digital inputs and DSP requires external DACs and preamps for digital sources and advanced sound processing.
- Wireless streaming capabilities are limited to 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution unless bypassed with analog inputs.
- Some reviewers noted a lack of 'bite' or aggressiveness in the high frequencies, which might not suit all listeners or music genres.
- The high frequencies are somewhat closed in on the top end.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless, the Elac Navis does not quite have the heft or cleanly delineated bass definition of the LS50 Wireless, but is warmer and more convivial.
- Vs Dali Callisto 2C, the Elac Navis is a little more closed in on the top end.
- Vs Focal Shape 65, the highs are not as articulate as the Focal Shape 65 active speakers.
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II, the Elac Navis is not quite as mature and rich in substance at higher levels.
Takeaway: The Elac Navis is a great-sounding speaker that is easy to set up and can work with different audio gear. It makes music sound lovely, and it's a good pick for audiophiles who like to experiment with their sound.
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
Navis ARB51
reviews
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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
- Speaker type: 3-Way Powered
- Tweeter: 1" Soft Dome Concentrically Mounted
- Midrange: 4" Aluminum
- Woofer: 5-1/4" Aluminum
- Frequency Response: 44Hz - 28kHz
- Crossover Frequency: 2.2kHz / 260Hz
- Total Amplifier Power: 300 Watts
- Bass Amplifier: 160 Watt Bash Amplifier
- Midrange Amplifier: 100 Watt Bash Amplifier
- Tweeter Amplifier: 40 Watt Class AB Amplifier
- Inputs: RCA / XLR / AirX² Wireless
- Cabinet finishes: Gloss Black, Gloss White
- Height: 13.58"
- Width: 7.44"
- Depth: 9.45"
- Net weight (each): 17.85lbs
Description
Designed from the ground up, the full-range, monitor-quality Navis Bookshelf features ELAC concentric-driver technology to deliver unsurpassed mid- and high-frequency performance, coupled with a custom aluminum woofer for truly impressive bass, all in one compact, elegant package. Each of the three transducers is powered by its own dedicated analog amplifier, with a selection of RCA or XLR balanced inputs.
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:
- ELAC speakers often incorporate concentric tweeter/midrange drivers, promoting a more coherent and focused soundstage.
- The brand is recognized for blending high-performance audio with accessible pricing, disrupting the market by providing elevated products at competitive price points.
- ELAC emphasizes the importance of a seamless frequency response by carefully managing the transition between the drivers.
- The company designs its speaker cabinets with a focus on minimizing resonances, often incorporating internal bracing and specific cabinet shapes to limit unwanted vibrations.
Select products
Select product comparisons
ELAC Debut 2.0 DB62
- Positioning: The entry-level bookshelf speaker in the Debut 2.0 series.
- Description: Offers a great balance of performance and affordability, featuring a custom-designed 1-inch soft-dome tweeter for improved clarity. Compared to other models, its aramid fiber woofer provides enhanced low-frequency response, making it suitable for small to medium-sized rooms without breaking the bank.
ELAC Debut Reference DBR62
- Positioning: A step up from the Debut 2.0 series, offering enhanced audio performance and aesthetics.
- Description: Features a new waveguide and open grill design for better high-frequency response. Stands out with its full perimeter bracing and cast chassis woofer, offering superior cabinet stability and reduced coloration compared to the DB62.
ELAC Carina BS243.4
- Positioning: Part of the premium Carina series, known for its advanced driver technology.
- Description: Features a JET tweeter, delivering high-definition sound with minimal distortion. Its compound curvature aluminum woofer ensures smooth transitions and superior bass dynamics, setting it apart from the Debut series.
ELAC UniFi Reference UBR62
- Positioning: A high-end model in the UniFi Reference series, offering a true 3-way speaker design.
- Description: Features a concentric driver with an extended wide-surround tweeter for seamless integration. Its compound curvature woofer and dual flared slot port provide enhanced bass dynamics.
ELAC Vela VBS404.2
- Positioning: The groundbreaking flagship model in the Vela series, combining advanced technology with luxurious design.
- Description: Features the remarkable JET 6 tweeter, offering an expansive frequency range and exceptional clarity. Its aluminum sandwich woofer minimizes resonances, providing a clear and accurate sound that surpasses the UniFi series.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
132
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
32
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
94
Founding Year
1926
Our take on the brand
ELAC is a hifi brand known for its unique connectivity options in powered speakers, including HDMI ARC at accessible price points, and its proprietary JET tweeter technology that uses a folded ribbon design. The brand's speakers, from bookshelf to floor-standing models, consistently deliver high performance through their crystal membrane drivers and JET tweeters, making them a reliable choice for value-conscious audiophiles.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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Used
ELAC
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What if you spend more?
Sonus Faber
Duetto
3999
3999
/
19
Reviews
Powerful, rich sound in a compact design. Designed for both digital and analog sources, Duetto is a versatile combination of Italian style and contemporary function. Big sound in a compact design, Duetto marks Sonus faber's inaugural active stereo wireless speaker system. Powered by four bespoke amplifiers, Duetto presents an all-in-one sound solution, harmoniously blending a multitude of connectivity options while keeping the listening experience wire-free.
Double the sound, not the size. Inspired by a harmony produced by two instruments, Duetto sets a new standard for wireless high-fidelity sound in a compact design.
Ultra Wide Band Technology
Duetto employs Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, enabling communication between the two speakers. The wireless transmission avoids latency and interference by other home networks, while guaranteeing a wide frequency spectrum to send data signals at high speeds.
SENSO™ Technology by Sonus faber
The leather top panel allows the user to control and set up speaker functions — such as playback, volume, input selection, and connections — with a buttonless interface through simple fingertip gestures.
Sonus faber's iconic lute-shaped design takes inspiration from musical instruments. Crafted from wood, the cabinet ensures structural solidity, rich timbre, and musicality, while effectively eradicating internal resonances to shape the unmistakable Sonus faber Natural Sound.
Hear – and see – to believe. Duetto takes note of Sonus faber's most iconic design cues and natural materials.
Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
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Product Strengths
- Gorgeous sound is clear, smooth, detailed, and dynamic
- Elegant design is dashingly elegant, minimalist aesthetic, and painstakingly crafted for equal parts style and substance
- Impressive bass extension and output, described as deep and firm, surprising for their size
- Clear midrange makes voices sound purposeful, characterful, and entirely present
- Versatile connectivity with streaming and input options, including Chromecast, AirPlay 2, phono pre-amp, and HDMI ARC/eARC
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers experienced streaming and HDMI ARC reliability issues
- Input and control layout can be inconvenient and awkward
- Prototype unit had operational bugs
- No bass level adjustment is available, though it could be added in mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II—the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a similarly high-end option
- Vs PSB Alpha iQ—the PSB Alpha iQ is a more compact wireless speaker package than the Sonus Faber and is comparatively lighter on bass
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Duetto speakers are well-suited for those seeking amazing sound and a beautiful design in one package. These speakers are easy to connect and use, and fill the room with rich, detailed audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
Product Page
Product Page
Buchardt
Anniversary 10
3988
3988
/
14
Reviews
The Anniversary 10 (A10) is a culmination of all the experience that we have gathered over the last 10 years of designing and building HiFi speakers. Over the last decade, we have produced and sold thousands of speakers to happy HiFi enthusiasts from all around the world. Listening to feedback from our customers, learning from the best and adding our own flavor to the mix, has created extremely popular and critically acclaimed speakers, and now, this has evolved into our best sounding speaker yet. The A10 is something we are truly proud of, both in terms of sound, look and production values. It is a true celebration of our passion for amazing high-end sound, great engineering and high value products.
Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
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Product Strengths
- Exceptional bass performance for its compact size, with bass that is fast, clear, and tight
- Multiple 'Master Tunings' offer customizable sound profiles, adapting to different room acoustics and user preferences
- A high-quality Purifi woofer and SB Acoustics tweeter contribute to clarity, detail, and low distortion
- A solid wood cabinet made in Denmark provides a luxurious look and feel
Product Considerations
- Bass output may diminish or be limited at high volumes to protect the drivers from damage
- A separate purchase of the Platin Stereo Hub may be required for full wireless functionality and room correction
- The 'Made in China' label applies to the electronics inside the cabinet
- While the A10 offers impressive bass, some may still prefer to add a subwoofer for a true full-range experience
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Buchardt S400 Mark II, the A10 is more transparent with greater inner detail, clarity, and top-end extension—and deeper, tighter bass—while the S400 Mark II is more relaxed and forgiving with harsh recordings
- Vs Buchardt A500, the A10 has comparable performance, with possibly a crisper sound in some instances
Takeaway: The Buchardt Anniversary 10 is a compact yet powerful speaker that offers a customizable listening experience. Its impressive bass and versatile tuning options make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality audio solution in a small to medium-sized room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Product Page
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Triangle
Capella
2749
2749
/
11
Reviews
CAPELLA embodies the ambition of an enthusiastic team to combine the acoustic experience of TRIANGLE with advanced sound signal processing technologies in a refined enclosure.Made in France, CAPELLA provides a complete, intelligent audio system with unprecedented performance. Entirely configurable to suit your taste and environment, CAPELLA adapts and fits your needs.
Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent wireless stability, pairing easily and remaining connected even with other wireless activity
- Big, confident, and enjoyable sound, with surprising bass extension for its size
- Aesthetically pleasing design, with unique and attractive finish options
- Versatile connectivity options through its media hub, including multiple digital and analog inputs, plus Bluetooth, AirPlay, and Chromecast
Product Considerations
- The absence of a dedicated streaming app may require reliance on third-party apps or external streamers
- The system could benefit from a slightly more refined sonic presentation, needing a touch more sweetness and natural warmth
- There can be some audible amplifier noise at idle/start-up, depending on proximity
- The base of the speakers can be quite large, potentially requiring dedicated stands for proper placement
- No wired subwoofer output
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to KEF LS50 Wireless II, the Capella will appeal to those who would rather have a more classic, wood-cabineted speaker on show than the ultra-modern aesthetic of the Brit boxes
- Compared to Triangle Borea BR03 BT, the Triangle Capella active speaker system is much more ambitious, with more advanced drivers and superior fit and finish
- Compared to Buchardt A10, the Triangle Capella and Buchardt A10 are more similar than different, but still pretty different, as they use the same concept
Takeaway: The Triangle Capella is a convenient and stylish all-in-one system that delivers a big and enjoyable sound. It's a great choice for those seeking hifi audio without the complexities of traditional separates.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Product Page
Product Page
Kii
Seven
3983
3983
/
3
Reviews
Kii Audio's unique "Active Wave Focusing" technology creates a cardioid pattern that minimizes room reflections and directs sound energy forward, allowing their speakers to maintain consistent sound quality even when placed near walls or corners. Each Kii THREE speaker uses six custom Ncore amplifiers and multiple DACs with advanced DSP processing to deliver full-range sound from a compact design that outperforms much larger systems.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality audio and intuitive smart functionality
- Can be used in various setups—as a single speaker, stereo pair, multi-speaker surround system (including Dolby Atmos), or multiroom system
- Cardioid speaker design provides more precise bass and limits acoustic room interaction
- 'Audiophile-grade' sound due to Active Wave Focusing, ensures perfect time alignment over the entire frequency spectrum
- Versatile connectivity with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, XLR, TRS, AES/EBU, Dante, and KiiLink/KiiCONTROL
Product Considerations
- Some consumer streaming features may not be fully implemented initially due to licensing demands
- Needs space on either side to allow the side-mounted bass driver room to 'breathe'
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SEVEN is smaller and better suited to compact studio spaces, compared to the Kii THREE
- The SEVEN has less low-frequency reproduction, but not by much when used normally, compared to the Kii THREE
- The SEVEN is designed as a standalone smart speaker system, while combining the THREE and SEVEN requires workarounds
Takeaway: The Kii SEVEN is a smart speaker that delivers exceptional sound in a compact size. For an all-in-one system that sounds great and sidesteps cable clutter, this could be a great option.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Kii Audio's unique "Active Wave Focusing" technology creates a cardioid pattern that minimizes room reflections and directs sound energy forward, allowing their speakers to maintain consistent sound quality even when placed near walls or corners. Each Kii THREE speaker uses six custom Ncore amplifiers and multiple DACs with advanced DSP processing to deliver full-range sound from a compact design that outperforms much larger systems.
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What competes at this price?
PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
/
Released
2022
One system. One app. All the music. Just a left and right speaker and your smart phone is all that's needed to access your favourite tracks and albums from Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, internet radio, and more. Connect your TV, gaming console, or turntable for even more music listening options.
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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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
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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Klipsch
The Nines
1499
/
Released
2023
Thanks to a custom engineered built-in amplifier, these powered speakers maximize sound output and quality — without connecting to an audio receiver. Featuring 192kHz / 24-bit decoding through all digital inputs, your Nines will flawlessly reproduce high resolution sounds straight from your TV, PC or streaming source.
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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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Signature Klipsch sound, described as 'classic Klipsch concert-like sound' with a 'warm, rich' tone and detailed high end
- Powerful bass performance that in many cases negates the need for a separate subwoofer
- Retro-modern aesthetic with real wood veneers and metal control dials
- Clear and commanding presence across a multidimensional soundstage
- Versatile connectivity including HDMI-ARC, USB, optical, analog inputs (including phono), and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Dialogue clarity in movies could be improved
- The Klipsch Connect app can be clumsy and sluggish
- Limited tonal controls on the remote itself
- The soundstage may lack depth in some setups
- Some reviewers found the treble to be too high, requiring adjustment via the app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Q Acoustics Q Active 200: The Q Active 200 has a wider, deeper soundstage with better imaging, while The Nines has a fuller, more embodied sound with bigger, more powerful bass and less dynamic compression at higher volumes
Takeaway: The Nines is a versatile and powerful speaker system that combines Klipsch's signature sound with a range of modern connectivity options, making it a great option for both music and home theater. Its strong bass performance and classic design further enhance its appeal.
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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KEF
LSX II LT
1199
/
Released
2024
LSX II LT shares the same immersive High-Fidelity sound and key technologies as LSX II at a price you'll love. Powered by KEF's Music Integrity Engine and signature Uni-Q driver array, this compact wireless HiFi speaker system delivers unparalleled sound clarity.
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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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality that is true to form for KEF
- Sleek design that appeals to many
- User-friendly KEF Connect app allows control over volume, source selection, and EQ
- Integration with streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, and Amazon Music is well done
- Versatile connectivity, including HDMI, USB, optical inputs, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Lacks analog input, preventing direct turntable connection
- Bass response may require a subwoofer for a full range experience—especially for bass-heavy music or home theater
- May exhibit some diffraction elements that can affect the sound, though this may reduce sibilance
- Not Roon Ready, though it can stream via AirPlay or Chromecast
- Can suffer when playing super bass heavy music at very high volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PSB Alpha IQ: The KEF LSX2 LT offers a mellower take on music
Takeaway: The KEF LSX II LT is a stylish, compact, and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers very good sound quality for its size. It's a great option for desktop use, small to medium-sized rooms, or as an alternative to a soundbar, especially when paired with a subwoofer.
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.
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KEF
LSX II
1299
/
Released
2022
Welcome to a world of High-Fidelity sound that is true enough to touch. This all-in-one speaker system in its second generation: upgraded to deliver a more balanced sound in higher resolution with all-inclusive connectivity. Simply stream anything including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify and Tidal, or seamlessly connect the LSX II to your laptop, TV and many other devices.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers fantastic, room-filling sound from a small footprint
- Is simple and straightforward to set up using the KEF Connect app
- Imaging and dynamics are excellent, with the sound mostly spread between, above, and behind the speakers, creating a palpable and impressive sense of the music being there in space
- Well-balanced sound with punchy dynamics and excellent instrumental separation
- Offers a wide array of connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, USB-C, and HDMI ARC
Product Considerations
- Bass is good, but those who focus on EDM or hip-hop might want a sub
- Treble can be slightly rough in the upper midrange to treble transition region, more noticeable with lower quality recordings or data rates
- For native 24-bit/192kHz playback, a wired connection is required between the speakers
- KEF Connect app lacks robust full equalizer controls
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos: KEF LSX II offer superior sound quality
- Vs Q Acoustics M20HDs: KEF LSX II has a more sophisticated app and integration of Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect
- Vs Original LSX: KEF LSX II's setup is much easier and more seamless thanks to wireless updates
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless: KEF LSX II lacks Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) present in these models
Takeaway: The KEF LSX II is a stylish and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality and is easy to set up and use. Its wide range of connectivity options and excellent imaging make it a great choice for those looking for a compact and convenient audio solution.
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.
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McIntosh
RS150 Wireless Loudspeaker
1200
/
Released
2021
The RS150 Wireless Loudspeaker is an easy-to-use wireless speaker, that while relatively compact, still delivers a larger-than-life home audio sound performance that McIntosh is known for. It is a stand-alone, complete wireless speaker solution that does not require any dedicated control app. Instead, it has a variety of built-in casting technologies such as Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast, and Roon Ready, letting you easily stream to the RS150 from your smart devices.
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent connectivity, including Apple Airplay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Roon, and Bluetooth 5.0, making it a 'connectivity monster'
- It boasts the classic McIntosh design, including the glass panel, signature blue dB meter, two-knob layout, and illuminated logo
- Impressive bass response for its size
- It offers high-resolution audio streaming capabilities up to 24-bit/192kHz
- A balanced sound with smooth, detailed treble and a slightly warm tone is suitable for various music genres
Product Considerations
- It is a single-channel speaker, delivering a mono sound output
- The gloss black finish is prone to fingerprints and dust
- After a period of inactivity, it enters a sleep mode and must be woken up manually, though this can be disabled
- While it accepts a stereo signal, it is not truly a stereo experience
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos Five: The RS150 has a more distinct style and hifi aesthetic, while the Sonos Five has features like self-tuning technology and a companion app for easy speaker grouping
Takeaway: The RS150 is a stylish and easy-to-use wireless speaker that delivers impressive sound quality and supports various streaming options. It is perfect for those who appreciate the McIntosh aesthetic and want a high-quality, all-in-one audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
McIntosh is one of the most iconic amplifier brands in the world, recognizable for its signature blue LED displays and distinctive industrial design. With a legacy spanning decades, McIntosh is known to many, even outside the audiophile community, and is sold in both mass-market retailers and specialized hifi stores. Their amplifiers are characterized by a warm, tube-like sound that enriches the midrange and smooths out the overall tonal balance.
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