Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Good 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.
All
Vela BS403.2
reviews

Manufacturer details
- Type: 2-way, Bass Reflex
- Woofer: 1 × 150 mm Ø, AS-XR Cone
- Tweeter: JET 6
- Magnetic Shielding: No
- Crossover Frequency: 2400 Hz
- Frequency Range (IEC 268-5): 41-50000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 86 dB at 2.83 V/m
- Impedance: 4Ω nominal, 3.2Ω minimum at 260 Hz
- Recommended Amplifier Power: 40 - 200 W/channel
- Nominal Power Handling: 70 W
- Peak Power Handling: 100 W
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 362 × 191 × 240 mm
- Weight: 7.1 kg
- Finishes: Black High Gloss, White High Gloss, Walnut High Gloss
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
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.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
Used
ELAC
What if you spend more?
Product Strengths
- Sounds spectacular considering its size
- Delivers a magnificent, dynamic result with epic scale and eye-opening wavefront for percussion
- Features a concentric mid/treble driver, making it a true three-way design
- Beguiling design makes it appear slimmer than it really is
Product Considerations
- Requires a bit of power to realize a truly rousing performance
- No grilles are available
- Removing and placing the directivity control rings (DCRs) requires some force and care
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
Takeaway: The Concentro S 503 is a compact loudspeaker that delivers spectacular sound and dynamic performance despite its size. Its unique design and advanced driver technology make it an intriguing option for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a blend of aluminum, leather, and wood veneer, or gloss paint.
- Detailed sound with excellent stereo imagery.
- Good detail and clarity.
- Wide and deep soundstage.
- Design features contribute to cabinet rigidity and reduced coloration.
Product Considerations
- May sound bright with the wrong amplifier or cables.
- May require a high-power solid-state amp.
- Needs quality amplification and may sound soft if underpowered.
- Requires stands, adding to the overall cost.
- Bass may not satisfy those seeking high-output bass without a subwoofer.
Takeaway: The 805 D4 is an excellent speaker that is beautifully built and delivers a detailed and engaging sound. It's a great option for those seeking a premium listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Delivers performance beyond what is typically associated with its price.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Full-range sound, impressive bass response, and the ability to pressurize a room, often negating the need for a separate subwoofer
- Smooth, warm, and coherent midrange provides natural and engaging vocals and instruments for long listening sessions without fatigue
- Well-extended treble presents in a naturally smooth, enjoyable, and pleasing manner
- Excellent imaging and soundstage capabilities create a realistic and immersive listening experience
- Sound reproduction makes it a speaker that one can live with
- Connectivity options are available
Product Considerations
- Quality amplification with sufficient power and current is required to achieve optimal performance and control the woofer effectively
- The backplate for bass adjustment uses wood screws, making it easy to strip if not handled carefully
- Placement and setup, especially stand height and toe-in, are crucial for achieving the best high-frequency response, it can sound dull if not optimized
- May not be ideal for listeners who prefer a brighter, more forward sound signature or those who prioritize extreme loudness levels
- Grilles may cause micro-rattling at moderate to loud listening levels due to weaker magnets
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Totem Acoustic Manny 2 Signature: The Studio 2 has a more forgiving presentation, denser midrange, and stronger bass
- Vs Klipsch Forte 3: The Studio 2 offers a more natural tone, especially in the midrange and upper bass, along with greater soundstage depth
- Vs Vienna Acoustics Mozart Symphony Editions: The Studio 2 beats them in bass and midrange
- Vs Harbeth (SHL5 and Compact 7 XTs): The Studio 2 cannot be matched by the Harbeth's articulate bass response
- Vs Celestion SL6-S: The Studio 2 has deeper roots in the trunk, and they got high branches and leaves, but they don't go all the way up to the highest branches and leaves at the tippy top
Takeaway:
The Studio 2 is a well-built bookshelf speaker that delivers a smooth, full-range sound with surprising bass and clear imaging, making for an engaging listening experience. With the right setup and quality components, these speakers can provide years of musical enjoyment in a variety of room sizes.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Integrated technology allows direct high-resolution listening without extra devices
- The speaker uses the same Pascal Class D amplification and processing technology from Dynaudio's Pro line Core series
- Discrete amplification channel per driver: 110 watts for the tweeter and 280 watts for the woofer
- Dirac Live room correction is available, which can tune some of the annoying sounds of a garage, for example, using the soft dome tweeter
Product Considerations
- Running a digital coaxial cable from one speaker to the next results in the signal being sent at 24-96 kilohertz, which is a lower quality than what the master speaker receives (24-192)
- There is no HDMI arc or e-arc connection
- Drilling holes may be required to attach the speaker to stands
- Setting up the speaker with the app is not as quick or seamless as Bluesound
- A microphone is required to do Dirac room calibration
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PSB Alpha IQs: Plays louder with a higher level of amplification
- Vs Dynaudio Core 7: The Core 7 has more power and a slightly better tweeter and woofer, but is not as aesthetically pleasing and needs a Bluesound Node
- Vs Dynaudio Evoke: It is similar to an Evoke speaker, but with a bigger woofer
Takeaway: The Focus recMsY5ljWopDD7UU is a sophisticated wireless speaker that pulls technology from Dynaudio's Pro line and features Dirac room calibration. It is ideal for someone looking for high-resolution listening without extra devices and who values sophisticated sound and aesthetics.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
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
Our Summary
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
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Solidly built with an inert cabinet, contributing to overall performance
- Crazy linear/neutral sound from about 100Hz upwards
- The beryllium tweeter provides nuanced, airy, and extended highs with a hint of shimmer for realistic metallic instruments
- It creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making the speakers disappear sonically
Product Considerations
- It does not have a great deal of bass on its own and may require a subwoofer for full-range playback, starting its roll-off at around 100Hz
- While placement is flexible, a solid amplifier is required
- The styling might be an acquired taste and could be considered overcomplicated by some
- The high gloss finishes may not appear different from less expensive speakers, making it harder to justify the luxury price tag
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4: The S4B is more neutral/accurate, while the 805 D4 adds bass and treble energy
- Vs Focal Canta No. 1: The S4B outperforms the Canta No. 1, which has chestiness in its bass and midrange due to its cabinet
- Vs Revel Studio 2: The S4B reminded the reviewer of the Revel Studio 2, though the Revels had more bass
- Vs Focal Diablo Utopia: The Perlisten are a great alternative if the Utopias are outside of your reach and are a more neutral and less bright speaker
- Vs EgglestonWorks Nico Evo: The EgglestonWorks presentation is a little more mid-forward and less 3D than the Perlisten
Takeaway: The Perlisten S4b is a high-performing speaker that offers excellent clarity and a neutral sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike. The speaker's ability to create a detailed and immersive soundstage can bring music and movies to life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
How to buy
Speakers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.



































































