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, textured sound and elaborate individual tones with fine details and physical presence
- Great three-dimensional sound stage with excellent depth
- Well-balanced, neutral, and accurate sound quality with no frequency exaggeration
- Good build quality and visually appealing design with choices of colors for the cabinet, enhancing their overall appeal
Product Considerations
- Low sensitivity, requiring a more powerful amplifier for optimal performance, especially at higher volumes
- Bass output is not as extended on the low end
- Treble can sound bright in smaller rooms, necessitating careful placement
- May be considered a bit 'soulless' or lacking emotional engagement for some listeners
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ELAC Uni-Fi UB52, UBR62 provides a more complete reproduction with low tones, resulting in a richer and more playful music experience
- Vs Buchardt p300, treble separation is better and more open
- Vs CSS Crichton 1 TD X, CSS Crichton 1 TD X has a warmer, richer, more emotionally engaging mid-range
- Vs KEF R3 Meta, KEF R3 Meta is superior in just about every way
Takeaway: The UniFi (UBR62) is a technically capable speaker that offers a balanced and accurate sound signature with a remarkably wide and deep soundstage. It is a solid choice for those seeking high-fidelity audio, a good-looking design, and well-blended drivers.
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
UniFi Reference UBR62
reviews
[{"title":"ELAC Uni-Fi Reference UBR62 Review | Crackling Sound","link":"https://cracklingsound.com/elac-uni-fi-reference-ubr62-review","source":"Crackling Sound","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"ELAC Uni-Fi Reference UBR62 Bookshelf Speaker Review || Soundstage Matters","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEPZ4nYAdY4","source":"Erin's Audio Corner","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"ELAC UBR62 Speaker Review","link":"https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/elac_ubr62","source":"Erin's Audio Corner","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"ELAC Uni-Fi Reference UBR62","link":"https://hifiandmusicsource.com/2022/07/elac-uni-fi-reference-ubr62","source":"HiFi and Music Source","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"The Elac Unifi Reference (UBR62) Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53LyAFRQA-o","source":"Hifyed","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Elac Uni-Fi Reference UBR62 Surround Speaker System Review | Sound & Vision","link":"https://www.soundandvision.com/content/elac-uni-fi-reference-ubr62-surround-speaker-system-review","source":"Sound & Vision","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Setting The Bar Higher, ELAC UniFi Reference UBR62 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EHOhimNdkM","source":"Tharbamar","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Budget R3 Meta or Bust? Elac Unifi Reference UBR62 Speaker Review.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGgyHEIHZv4","source":"Nemo Propaganda","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"FINALLY! ELAC Uni-Fi Ref UBR62 Speaker Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOeWvRbFRck","source":"A British Audiophile","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Review Elac Uni-Fi Reference UBR62 bookshelf - Three's a charm? - Alpha Audio","link":"https://www.alpha-audio.net/review/review-elac-uni-fi-reference-ubr62-bookshelf-threes-a-charm","source":"Alpha Audio","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"ELAC UBR62-BK/W Uni-Fi Reference Speaker Review One of the best price versus performance monitor loudspeakers. Review By Ron Nagle","link":"https://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0921/ELAC_UBR62_UniFi_Reference_Speaker_Review.htm","source":"Enjoy the Music","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"[Listening test] Elac Uni-Fi 6.2 Reference - bookshelf speakers with concentric midrange and tweeter","link":"https://www.tnt-audio.com/casse/elac_ubr62_e.html","source":"TNT Audio","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
- SPEAKER TYPE: 3-Way Bass Reflex
- FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 41Hz-35000Hz
- NOMINAL IMPEDANCE: 6 Ω
- SENSITIVITY: 85db
- CROSSOVER FREQUENCY: 260 / 1800Hz
- MAXIMUM POWER INPUT: 140 Watts
- TWEETER: 1" Soft Dome
- MIDRANGE: 4" Aluminum
- WOOFER: 6-1/2" Aluminum
- CABINET: CARB2 Rated MDF
- CABINET FINISH: Satin White with Oak Sides or Satin Black with Walnut Sides
- PORT: Dual Flared Slot
- BINDING POSTS: Bi-Wire 5-Way
- DIMENSIONS (WxHxD): 8.19" x 14.13" x 13.15"
- NET WEIGHT: 23.54 Ibs Each
Description
The ELAC Uni-Fi Reference Bookshelf Speakers stand at the forefront of acoustic innovation, representing a harmonious blend of cutting-edge engineering and refined aesthetics. These speakers are the epitome of precise sound reproduction, meticulously designed to unravel the subtleties of your favorite music and movies. With a commitment to delivering uncompromised audio quality, the Uni-Fi Reference Bookshelf Speakers showcase a remarkable amalgamation of advanced drivers, precision-built cabinets, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
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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Used
ELAC
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
ELAC
Vela BS403.2
2999
2999
/
3
Reviews
Combining technologies refined over 95 years of ELAC Acoustic engineering and design. High-gloss lacquered and wooden veneered cabinets with a visually stunning trapezoid shape that improves acoustics while making a profound visual impact. The VELA builds on the highly successful and high-performing Series 400 while improving stereo definition and multi-channel audio in modern furnishings.But the advantages are distinct. Combining a newly designed cabinet in combination with the crystal aluminum-sandwich woofer—and ELAC's inimitable JET 6 tweeter—this speaker is bound to make an impact.
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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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Good overall sound quality
- Natural and open high-frequency extension, creating a wide and natural sound field
- It can emit a sound that exceeds the size of the speaker
- Beautiful-looking speaker
- Sounds good even at low volumes
Product Considerations
- Lacks attack and clarity in the mid and high frequencies
- Requires a bit more amplifier power due to the 86dB sensitivity and low impedance
- Deliberate voicing with a dip and peak in the crossover around 2kHz, which may not be preferred by everyone
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Vela's sound is a bit warmer than the Technics SPC 700, while the SPC 700 is more neutral
- Has better treble than the Focal Aria 906
Takeaway: The Elac Vela BS 403 is a speaker that does everything right. It provides a high-end sound with very good instrument separation and a mid-range that sounds natural.
Video review
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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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.
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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.
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MoFi
SourcePoint 10
2999
2999
/
12
Reviews
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkable sound power and early directivity indexes make it a true point source speaker.
- Special sound quality for the price offers a level of performance not typically found in speakers at this price point.
- Very good neutrality is present when the speaker is turned off axis.
- It is a very versatile speaker to drive.
- The midrange presentation is very dead center and coherent.
Product Considerations
- The bass does not reach as low as some listeners might prefer.
- The speaker can get bright at times.
- Care should be taken to place it not directly on axis, because when placed directly on axis, it is no longer a neutral speaker.
- There's no stand included in the package.
- It is made in China, and construction can be suspect.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PureAudioProject Duet 15, the SourcePoint 10 is more precise and focused, while the PureAudioProject has a bigger soundstage.
- Vs Fleetwood Deville SQ, they sounded more alike than different when in action, but SourcePoint was more extended from top to bottom and brought more lively dynamics and impact.
- Vs Klipsch Heresy IV, the SourcePoint 10 is the superior speaker in every way from build to sound, with more refinement and smoothness, and it seems just as dynamic as the Klipsch.
- Vs Dynaudio Special 40s, the SourcePoint 10 sounds much bigger, more dynamic, has much better bass, and fills a room with ease.
- Vs KEF LS50 META, the LS50 sounds smaller, leaner, and not as special in the vocal region.
Takeaway:
The SourcePoint is a speaker with a neutral sound that originates from a single point, and it has remarkable early directivity indexes. It is a speaker that offers very good performance for the money, but careful attention needs to be paid to its placement in the room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
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What competes at this price?
ELAC
Solano 2.0 BS283.2
1999
/
Released
2024
Embark on a sonic journey of unparalleled clarity and precision with the ELAC Solano Bookshelf Speakers. Melding cutting-edge technology and German engineering finesse, these speakers redefine the boundaries of premium audio. The star of the show is the esteemed JET 6 tweeter, renowned for its exceptional precision and fidelity. Immerse yourself in rich, detailed highs that resonate with lifelike realism, as these bookshelf speakers deliver an auditory experience that epitomizes ELAC's commitment to superior sound quality.
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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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- A Jet 5 ribbon tweeter, handcrafted in Germany, produces precise highs and retrieves a lot of detail
- Impactful, authoritative, and detailed bass, especially for dance tracks
- Good imaging, allowing the listener to pick out different instruments and their locations
- Fantastic overall build quality, especially the binding posts at the back
- Can be used for both music and movies, performing phenomenally well in both scenarios
Product Considerations
- Being a four-ohm speaker, it is a little harder to drive, requiring an amplifier between 40 to 200 watts
- May require pulling away from the wall due to its down-firing bass port, causing too much bass gain, especially in smaller rooms
- At around £1500, they are not the most affordable speakers
Takeaway: The Elac Solanus BS283 is a compact speaker that produces an astonishingly good sound with impactful bass and detailed highs, making music and movies feel more immersive. If a speaker that performs well for both music and movies is desired, this could be a good choice.
Video review
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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KEF
R3 Meta
2430
/
Released
2023
Three-way bookshelf speaker R3 Meta redefines bookshelf speaker's performance. Sharing the same drivers as the range-topping R11 Meta, the R3 Meta is a true three-way design. It has a 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™ and a powerful 6.5" hybrid aluminium bass driver that pushes performance to new extremes.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
- Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
- Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
- A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
- Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences
Product Considerations
- The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
- The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
- Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
- The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
- Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
- Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
- Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta
Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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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.
Product Page
Product Page
MoFi
SourcePoint 8
1999
/
Released
2023
The SourcePoint 8 was carefully crafted the speaker to embody the same acoustic DNA as the widely acclaimed SourcePoint 10. The new SourcePoint 8 packs the same sonic excellence of its larger sibling into a more compact and manageable form factor. Andrew Jones and the team at MoFi Electronics scaled down the SourcePoint 10 to create a new speaker that can fit into a wider range of spaces, all while still delivering that big, satisfying sound that we know and love.
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
Expand Details
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
Our take on the brand
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
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Sonus Faber
Lumina II
1299
/
Released
2021
The Lumina II enriches the range of two-way speakers in the Lumina family, offering a perfect solution for smaller rooms with uncompromising Natural Sound.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Extremely good build quality, feeling solid and carefully assembled
- Delivers well-defined, three-dimensional imaging and a snappy sense of timing
- Combines exceptional midrange coherency
- Known for a natural, open, and detailed sound
- A beautifully three-dimensional speaker with very little perception of cabinet coloration or even cabinet presence
Product Considerations
- Inherent bass response drops away slowly
- Some recordings may sound a little sharp in the treble, but this is not the fault of the speakers
- Some limits to detail retrieval
- On the brighter side
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Lumina I: The Lumina II has meaningful extension below 50Hz, creating a believable weight and scale to the performance
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Sonus faber is easier to drive, more forgiving of less pristine recordings, and has an emotional quality that the LS50 Meta lacks
Takeaway: The Lumina II is a speaker that delivers many of the qualities that make Sonus faber loudspeakers stand out, offering an inviting and spirited sound that is also beautiful to look at. It represents an affordable way to experience Sonus faber's Italian-made craftsmanship and sonic signature.
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.
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