Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • New speaker design and improved stiffness metal enclosure helps produce better bass
  • Has a lot of clean power, and a nice clean sound
  • Clean power allows the sound to spread easily into the room without needing to be turned up as loud
  • EC Play app makes it simple to use streaming services and get music playing
  • Supports Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Airplay, Qobuz, Roon and UPNP playback

Product Considerations

  • As a mono speaker, it sounds like a mono speaker when playing stereo music
  • No HDMI ARC or eARC connection
  • The wireless speakers are sold separately

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Naim Muso, the Tana SL2 uses a more traditional speaker design

Takeaway: The TANA SL2 is a discreet, high-quality music system that plays loud and is enjoyable to listen to. It's easy to fit into a room and can be a good replacement for a traditional soundbar.

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

TANA SL2

reviews

[{"title":"Electrocompaniet Tana SL2 & L2 Wireless Speakers Review","link":"https://www.pursuitperfectsystem.com/electrocompaniet-tana-sl2-l2-wireless-speakers-review","source":"Pursuit Perfect System","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Review: Electrocompaniet EC-Living Tana SL-2/L-2/Sira L-1","link":"https://stereoguide.com/hi-fi/wifi-stereo/review-electrocompaniet-ec-living-tana-sl-2-l-2-sira-l-1","source":"Stereo Guide","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Terry Talks: Electrocompaniet EC Living—TANA SL2 / L2 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mF8EVFB_HNE","source":"Elite Audio","datePublished":"2022"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Power Amplifier: 150 Watt Class AB amplifier
  • DAC: 192kHz/24bit
  • DSP: 32-bit floating-point
  • Cabinet: Rigid metal enclosure, Two way passive radiator speaker
  • Connections: 1 x USB for external storage, 1x TOSlink and COAX inputs, 1x Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbit/s
  • Wireless: Advanced 802.11 AC WiFi with MIMO, 96 kHz/24bit wireless speaker connection, Bluetooth 4.2
  • Dimensions: H250 x W180 x D180 mm
  • Weight: 7 kg
The 2nd generation TANA SL2 is an all-in-one solution. A wireless loudspeaker, an amplifier, and an audio streamer. It can play music from your collection or files from the Internet. Control is easy, either via our app or a web browser. On its own it is a perfect companion to bring music to the kitchen, home office, or living room. Combine it with the active loudspeaker TANA L2 to create a wireless HiFi stereo system. You can also add the SIRA -L1 to add even more depth to the setup.
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:

  • Electrocompaniet's design is often described as "Norwegian" or "Nordic" emphasizing a sound signature that is "relaxed," "warm," "natural," and "organic," aiming for long-term listening enjoyment without fatigue and to evoke imagery of the Nordic landscape and nature.
  • Electrocompaniet components use direct-coupled, high open-loop bandwidth topology, enhanced by high slew-rate and very high-bandwidth amplifier stages, referred to as "Ampliwire 2" technology, which emphasizes amplifying the source signal without coloration.
  • Electrocompaniet's amps offer significant flexibility by functioning in stereo, bi-amp, or bridged-mono modes, and some models include customizable DSP settings, such as speaker size, crossover, and bass gain adjustments.
  • Electrocompaniet is committed to in-house design and manufacturing, taking place entirely in Norway, with close quality control over the entire process from PCB production to final assembly.

ECI 80D:

  • Positioning: The entry-level integrated amplifier in Electrocompaniet's lineup.
  • Description: Offers a compact and versatile solution with built-in Bluetooth HD streaming and a phono preamplifier, making it ideal for small rooms or users seeking an all-in-one unit. Unlike the ECI 6 MKII, it provides less power output but includes features like dual headphone outputs, which are absent in higher models, catering to users with a focus on headphone listening and budget-friendly options.

ECI 6 MKII:

  • Positioning: The mid-range integrated amplifier, offering more power and sophistication than the ECI 80D.
  • Description: Features a robust power supply and sophisticated preamplifier module, delivering substantial and dynamic sound suitable for larger rooms. It lacks the streaming capabilities of the ECI 6DX MKII but offers a more powerful output than the ECI 80D.

ECI 6DX MKII:

  • Positioning: The high-end integrated amplifier with advanced streaming capabilities.
  • Description: Combines high-quality amplification with a built-in DAC and streamer, supporting services like Tidal and Spotify. It offers similar power to the ECI 6 MKII but adds extensive digital connectivity and streaming options.

AW250-R:

  • Positioning: The versatile stereo power amplifier positioned for high-performance audio setups.
  • Description: Features Electrocompaniet's Floating Transformer Technology, providing twice the current of conventional designs, which is beneficial for users seeking high current delivery for demanding speakers. It offers a balanced link for bi-amping, unlike the AW 300 M.

AW 800 M:

  • Positioning: The flagship monoblock power amplifier, representing the pinnacle of Electrocompaniet's power amplifier offerings.
  • Description: Features a heavily updated power supply with 210,000 uF filtering, providing an exceptionally clean and noise-free output, perfect for users seeking the ultimate in sound purity and power. It surpasses the AW 300 M in power output and flexibility, offering mono, stereo, and bi-amping modes.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
14
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
149
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
18
Founding Year
1973

Our take on the brand

Electrocompaniet, a nearly 50-year-old hifi brand recognized by audiophiles and major recording studios worldwide, specializes in amplifiers with unique features like Floating Transformer Technology and fully balanced operation. Their amplifiers are designed with direct-coupled high open-loop bandwidth topology and zero feedback class A operation.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

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?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
PIEGA
Premium Wireless Gen2 301
4070
4070
/
2
Reviews

The Premium Wireless Gen 2 301 bookshelf speaker packs a potent punch with its 100-watt amplifier, offering robust performance in a compact form. This 2-way speaker combines a 140 mm MDS woofer with the LDR-2642-MKII ribbon tweeter, achieving an expansive frequency range of 35 Hz to 35 kHz. Its elegant design ensures it fits seamlessly into any space, be it on a shelf, sideboard, or stand, making it a versatile and powerful addition to your audio setup

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Very detailed and fine sound image
  • Balanced and dynamic sound with dry bass that allows for flexible placement
  • Excellent overall sound quality, with an open and very attractive sonic output
  • Many connectivity options via the Connect Plus hub, including streaming standards, Bluetooth, HDMI, and digital/analog hifi interfaces

Product Considerations

  • Fine-tuning of the Piega Control App showed some room for improvement
  • Image appears large, but two-dimensional
  • The Piega's own Connect DAC is not the best, because it can be pushed too far and it complains in a slightly edgy way at high volumes
  • Low volume performance was fair, but nothing to write home about

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF LS 50 Wireless II: KEF LS 50 Wireless II offers more natural imaging and more substantial low bass, while the Piega played much more detailed and lively and fits acoustically better in the corner or shelf
  • Vs Mission LX Connect: The Mission LX Connect is similar in concept with a multifunctional transmitter, but it cannot keep up with the Piega in terms of streaming features or sound

Takeaway: The Piega Premium Wireless 301 Gen2 offers a detailed sound and many ways to connect to favorite music sources. It is a good choice for someone looking for a compact, good-sounding, and versatile wireless speaker system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PIEGA
Ace 50 Wireless
4090
4090
/
1
Reviews
PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Slim, aesthetically pleasing design from Stephan Hurlemann, made with aluminum
  • Rigid aluminum enclosure helps resist resonance and ensures frequency linearity
  • Smooth, sweet, extended top end from the AMT-1 Air Motion Transformer tweeter
  • Sound is lithe, elegant, clean, refined, and precise
  • Confident low-frequency performance that is smoothly extended, agile, and tuneful with good articulation

Product Considerations

  • Bass is not the weightiest for its class
  • Not a speaker for very loud volume levels or trouser-flapping bass
  • Sound plays it a little too safe

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 Anniversary Edition: The Bowers & Wilkins sounds bigger and bolder with excellent detail resolution
  • Vs Scansonic M20: The Scansonic rivals the Piega's finesse, openness, and superb timing

Takeaway: The Piega Ace 50 offers a harmonious blend of style and sound with its gorgeous looks and refined sonics. It is a good choice for anyone who appreciates a clear, open, and tonally natural speaker that does well with most types of music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

PIEGA
Ace 30 Wireless
2042
/
Released
2022
The Ace 30 Wireless bookshelf speaker, while being the smallest in the series, encapsulates the largest all-in-one system with PIEGA's distinct sound. This compact loudspeaker offers the ultimate flexibility with pre-integrated streaming clients and various TV connectivity options, making it an ideal choice for any setup. Despite its modest size, it surprises with powerful bass and a space-filling sound, ensuring a perfect music experience throughout your home.
Check Amazon
PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Diverse input options are available, including digital coax/optical, HDMI eARC, analog stereo, Ethernet, and infrared, allowing for flexible setup
  • Compatible with various streaming services like Apple Airplay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, and DLNA
  • Clear and dynamic sound, with the AMT-1 tweeter providing clarity and imaging
  • Solid all-metal build with sleek design available in multiple finishes
  • Compact size allows them to fit discreetly in a room

Product Considerations

  • Initial setup can be frustrating, especially for iOS users requiring the Google Home app
  • The Piega Control app can be unreliable
  • Limited dynamic variation and punch—not musically engaging
  • Limited transparency compared to competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. KEF LS50 Meta: The KEF LS50 Meta are more musical and offer better dynamic variation and scale
  • Vs. Bluesound Pulse 2i: The Bluesound Pulse 2i is a little more familiar to most consumers in terms of design and footprint
  • Vs. Triangle Borea BR08: The Triangle Borea BR08 are floorstanders, unlike the Piega Ace 30, which are bookshelf speakers

Takeaway: The Piega Ace 30 Wireless Speakers offer convenience and flexibility with their compact size, multiple streaming options, and solid build quality, making them a good choice for those seeking a high-end, discreet audio solution. They can serve as main speakers in a compact stereo system or integrate seamlessly into a whole-home or surround sound setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sonus Faber
Omnia
1999
/
Released
2022
Omnia elevates the listening experience to new heights, combining relentless artistry with cutting-edge innovation. The new technology brings the sensation of live music to every listening space.
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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

  • Elegant and luxurious design embodies the classic Sonus Faber look with a curvaceous shape, walnut wood exterior, and appealing aesthetics
  • Impressive soundstage and room-filling performance–the Crescendo technology creates a wide and immersive soundstage that exceeds the physical size of the speaker
  • Good sound quality, with solid, full, and tight bass, along with clear midrange and vocals
  • Setup is relatively easy and user-friendly, with intuitive controls and compatibility with various streaming services
  • Extensive wireless connectivity (AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, aptX HD Bluetooth, and Roon) and wired options (HDMI ARC, Ethernet, switchable phono/line input via dongle)

Product Considerations

  • Price is expensive compared to other wireless speakers on the market
  • Awkward placement of back-panel connectors, as they are buried in the base, making them difficult to access
  • Treble might be a little too soft and lacking some presence for some listeners
  • There is no bespoke Omnia control app
  • Some users reported compatibility problems with Android devices

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Naim Mu-so 2, the Omnia has a wider, more spacious soundstage and unrivalled clarity, while the Mu-so 2 has a warmer tone and superior sense of musical cohesion
  • The Omnia's curves remind some of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin

Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Omnia is a stylish and well-equipped wireless speaker that offers an immersive listening experience for smaller spaces. It is a good choice for audiophiles who appreciate both aesthetics and high-quality sound and are willing to pay a premium.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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