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.
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
Droplet A'Diva SE
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
- Weight: 1485g
Description
The A'Diva SE version of Droplet provides an ultra-wide sound field and extended frequency range. The ultimate Droplet variant.
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:
- They employ a spherical enclosure design, diverging from the typical box shape to minimize internal standing waves and external baffle diffraction.
- The brand utilizes a cylindrical diaphragm tweeter (CDT) to project high frequencies in a wide, uniform 180-degree arc, creating a larger and more open soundstage compared to conventional dome tweeters.
- Gallo designs speakers with a single, full-range driver to eliminate the need for a crossover network, thereby improving transparency and coherence.
- The brand has developed a proprietary S2 damping technology, using a unique enclosure filling material to mimic a larger cabinet volume and enhance bass response in compact speakers.
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Select product comparisons
Micro
- Positioning: A compact high-end small speaker designed for versatile home audio.
- Description: Features a 4-inch all-metal spherical enclosure that minimizes internal resonance and diffraction for clear imaging. Compared to the higher-powered models, it offers a unique compact form factor with flexible mounting options while sacrificing the extended frequency range seen in later series.
A'Diva SE
- Positioning: A high-performance compact speaker focused on peak audio delivery for music and movies.
- Description: Uses a proprietary ultra-wide dispersion flat-diaphragm transducer and Optimised Pulse Technology to reduce distortion and extend frequency response. In contrast to the Micro, it provides enhanced power handling and spatial characteristics without needing extra low-end support, and stands apart from design-centric options like the Droplet variants.
Droplet
- Positioning: A design-focused variant that melds decorative aesthetics with quality hi-fi sound.
- Description: Builds on the core technologies of the Micro and A'Diva families while offering a pendant-style form factor suited to open spaces and architectural integration. Compared to the compact Micro and the performance-enhanced A'Diva SE, it delivers balanced acoustics with an emphasis on visual appeal and installation flexibility.
Strada 2
- Positioning: A reference loudspeaker engineered for audiophile audiovisual performance.
- Description: Incorporates an Optimised Pulse Technology system along with a re-engineered cylindrical diaphragm tweeter to achieve textbook dispersion and an expansive soundstage. Compared to the smaller and more design-focused models, it offers superior power handling and clarity for larger rooms.
TR-3D
- Positioning: A powerful subwoofer designed to complement the speaker lineup with precise, adjustable bass.
- Description: Features a 10-inch long-throw driver powered by a 300 Watt Class-D amplifier and patented S2 bass loading technology for smooth low-frequency performance. Unlike the full-range speakers which focus on mid and high frequencies, it allows for fine tuning of bass response to adapt to various room sizes.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
11
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
229
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
20
Founding Year
1993
Our take on the brand
Gallo Acoustics is known for its spherical speaker design that eliminates resonance and internal diffraction, along with their patented S2 fill technology that statically charges to enhance low frequencies from small speakers. Their speakers use a proprietary flat speaker cone and unique CDT3 tweeter with 300-degree dispersion, while their modular design and viscoelastic speaker bases set them apart from traditional speaker manufacturers.
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Gallo Acoustics
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What if you spend more?
Amphion
Argon3S
1615
1615
/
8
Reviews
Amphion is a Finnish hifi speaker brand that uses passive radiators instead of bass ports and places the crossover point at 1600 Hz (below critical hearing range) to achieve better phase coherence and driver integration. Their speakers, handmade in Finland, are particularly popular in professional studios due to their waveguide technology and electrically simple design that enhances resolution while creating a seamless soundstage.
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Product Strengths
- Secure imaging, believable vocal and instrumental timbres, and a superb sense of atmosphere and presence
- The speaker does a 'small-box disappearing act supremely well,' not drawing attention to itself and letting the music spill forth
- Provides tight, tuneful, convincing, and properly focused bass that securely underpins the music
- Emphasizes detail and resolution, and has one of the best detail/resolution figures that one reviewer has heard in the price range
- Has a wide sound dispersion, allowing listeners to sit anywhere in the room and still have a great sound
Product Considerations
- Can get sharp—shouty—harsh at high listening volumes
- Bass may not be sufficient for those looking for a lot of bass, and a subwoofer is recommended
- Soundstage is fairly intimate
- The treble can be a bit too hard, and some reviewers wished for a treble cut switch
- One reviewer disliked the cartoonishly large binding posts, and dangling leads can contact the passive radiator
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Buchardt S400: The Argon3S sounds more neutral and mid-centric, has a sweeter voicing, and a sharper treble
- Vs KLH Model Five: The midrange is slightly cleaner on the Argon3S, but it sounds very focused in comparison
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless PRO: The baseline clarity is considerably better for the pricier Argon3S, but the soundstage is far more holographic on SVS Prime Wireless PRO
- Vs ATC SCM 11 Version 2: Similar frame of mind, but the Amphion Argon 3S is more expressive and colorful
Takeaway: The Argon 3S is a compact speaker with a focus on detail and clarity, perfect for those who enjoy analyzing their music, especially at low to moderate volumes. Its design ensures it sounds great in various placements, making it a versatile addition to any audiophile's setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Amphion is a Finnish hifi speaker brand that uses passive radiators instead of bass ports and places the crossover point at 1600 Hz (below critical hearing range) to achieve better phase coherence and driver integration. Their speakers, handmade in Finland, are particularly popular in professional studios due to their waveguide technology and electrically simple design that enhances resolution while creating a seamless soundstage.
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Focal
300 IWLCR 6
1199
1199
/
4
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Product Strengths
- Tool-less design with the Easy Quick Install (EQI) system allows for quick and easy installation
- Flax cone drivers offer light, stiff cones with good natural damping
- The design allows for both horizontal and vertical installation by rotating the high-frequency/mid-range pod
- Delivers impressive dynamics, a clean, neutral balance, and articulate dialogue handling
- Easy to drive with an amplifier
Product Considerations
- The Easy Quick Install (EQI) system may not work in all situations due to space constraints behind the wall
- The open-back design can make the speaker's balance dependent on the installation environment, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
- Adding the included black acoustic cloth to the grille darkens the overall color shade, which is not ideal for color matching applications
- If a clamp breaks on the tool-less design, it is not easily replaceable
- Requires more horizontal spacing than speakers with traditional dogears, requiring installers to be more careful about between-stud placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Kanta No. 2: The Kanta No. 2 has a weightier midrange, superlative upper frequencies, more depth, wider soundstage, and improved imaging, though the 300IWLCR6's sound quality is satisfying
- Vs PSB W-LCR: The PSB exhibits a very slight nasal characteristic, which is not noticed on the Focal LCRs
- Vs Martin Logan Axis: The Martin Logan Axis has impressive imaging and upper-end frequency output due to its folded ribbon tweeter, which is very different from the Focals' inverted dome aluminum and magnesium tweeter
Takeaway: The Focal 300IWLCR6 in-wall loudspeaker is easy to install and delivers great sound for music and movies, especially when paired with a good subwoofer. The speaker can be easily installed, and it can fit into various home theater setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Arendal Sound
1723 Height S
1700
1700
/
1
Reviews
Arendal Sound is a Norwegian-designed hifi brand whose 1723 series is THX Ultra certified for rooms up to 3,000 cubic feet, featuring cabinets made from high-density fiberboard instead of standard MDF for better sonic performance. Their speakers use a distinctive waveguide-loaded tweeter design for controlled dispersion and lower crossover points, while their subwoofers feature the Avalanche 1200 IQ amplifier with an LCD control interface.
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Product Strengths
- Technically the best speakers the reviewer has ever reviewed, based on objective measurements
- Optimized with a six and a half inch driver, the transition from the mid-range to the tweeter is seamless
- Great directivity index, making them EQable and sound good even without EQ
- Precise imaging creates a wide soundstage and a strong center image
- Well-made with HDF enclosure, rhodium binding posts, and good crossover components for the price
Product Considerations
- Requires a subwoofer for deep bass extension
- Aesthetics are plain, and may not appeal to those seeking visually striking speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Philharmonic Audio BMRs, the Arendal 1723 has more precise imaging, while the BMRs have a wider but softer soundstage
Takeaway: The Arendal 1723 speakers offer top-notch technical performance and precise imaging, making them great for both two-channel and home theater setups when paired with a subwoofer. Their neutral sound and EQ-ability make them a versatile and high-performing choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Arendal Sound is a Norwegian-designed hifi brand whose 1723 series is THX Ultra certified for rooms up to 3,000 cubic feet, featuring cabinets made from high-density fiberboard instead of standard MDF for better sonic performance. Their speakers use a distinctive waveguide-loaded tweeter design for controlled dispersion and lower crossover points, while their subwoofers feature the Avalanche 1200 IQ amplifier with an LCD control interface.
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KEF
R3 Meta
2430
2430
/
18
Reviews
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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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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What competes at this price?
Monitor
Apex A10
750
/
Released
The ultimate style speaker, combining the best of Monitor Audio technology in a stylish, compact and rigid die-cast alloy cabinet.
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Intricately detailed, articulate, and powerful sound across the soundstage
- Astonishing build quality with robust and weighty die-cast aluminium enclosures and a luxurious finish
- The Apex system delivers audiophile standard sound quality without making huge demands on living space
- The inert enclosures enable the Apex to deliver an astonishingly fast and detailed sound
- High frequencies are smooth, speech is clear, and the rear soundstage is expansive
Product Considerations
- Expensive compared to normal compact systems
- The AW12 subwoofer is quite heavy despite its compact dimensions
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Apex uses the same tech as Monitor Audio's Silver RX range, but it is 'distilled' down to fit a more compact cabinet size
- Apex is in a different league than other satellite systems, offering a level of sound quality not typically associated with satellite speakers
Takeaway: The Apex system offers detailed and powerful sound, with an astonishing build quality. It is a great choice for those seeking audiophile-level sound in a compact and stylish package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
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Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
/
Released
2021
Wharfedale's new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN. The primary focus is on the AMT development resulting in a radically different way of reproducing high frequency detail efficiently and accurately.
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
- Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
- Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
- Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
- Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price
Product Considerations
- Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
- Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
- Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
- Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
- The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level
Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
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Devialet
Mania
899
/
Released
2022
Devialet Mania, our first high fidelity portable smart speaker with 360° stereo sound translates our obsession for pure sound. Metamorphic sound. Devialet Mania, the portable speaker ushers in a liberated approach to sound: more spontaneous, more adaptable, more obsession-inducing than ever. Thanks to its adaptive cross stereo, Devialet Mania offers a soundstage that morphs and adapts to any physical space, eliciting expansive 360° stereo sound.
Devialet is a hifi brand that combines analog and digital amplification through their "Analog Digital Hybrid" technology, delivering extremely low distortion in sleek, minimalist speakers. Their signature Phantom speakers use high-pressure lateral drivers to produce ultra-deep bass down to 14 Hz, while their spherical design minimizes sound diffraction for consistent quality regardless of listening position.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- One of the best-sounding portable Bluetooth speakers
- Built-in Alexa support eliminates the need for additional devices to control music with voice
- Solid design, IPX4 water resistance rating, and built-in handle
Product Considerations
- Insufficient loudness for large rooms
- Lacks some treble out-of-the-box
- Battery life can be short—around 4 hours in some tests
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Sonos is likely a better value for most users since it features a longer battery life and a more balanced sound out-of-the-box
Takeaway: The Devialet Mania is a portable speaker that redefines expectations with its impressive sound quality and bass energy. It offers a unique listening experience that's worth the purchase.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Devialet is a hifi brand that combines analog and digital amplification through their "Analog Digital Hybrid" technology, delivering extremely low distortion in sleek, minimalist speakers. Their signature Phantom speakers use high-pressure lateral drivers to produce ultra-deep bass down to 14 Hz, while their spherical design minimizes sound diffraction for consistent quality regardless of listening position.
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Q Acoustics
5020
899
/
Released
2023
Experience all the scale and power of your favourite music without letting your loudspeaker dominate your room. The 5020 standmounting speaker will put your right in the heart of the music without putting itself at the heart of your space.
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
- Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
- Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
- Taut and agile bass performance
- Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
- Connectivity options such as binding posts
Product Considerations
- Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
- Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
- Bass response is somewhat subdued
- Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
- Grilles muddle the sound
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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Klipsch
RP-600M II
649
/
Released
2022
A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area for crisper, clearer sound. The phase plug and compression molded silicone face ensure smooth frequency response.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Larger horn tweeter and a new Cerametallic woofer, compared to its predecessor
- Upgraded binding posts and crossover plate elevate to Reference Premiere status
- Larger diameter voice coils and aluminum shorting rings on the woofers give the speaker better linearity throughout the bass, decrease distortion while upping power handling resulting in improved speed and accuracy
- Better detail retrieval, more articulate bass, and vastly improved soundstage width and imaging, compared to the RP-600M
- The binding posts are the same that are found on costlier Heritage speakers
Product Considerations
- Finish options did not receive an upgrade over the outgoing model, leaving customers with the same ebony or walnut wraps
- The tweeter may be too bright for some listeners who are sensitive to a more aggressive top end
- Rated sensitivity is 94.5dB, which is a decrease compared to the original's reported sensitivity of 96
- Needs a bit of space behind them and to the sides, or at least positioning on open shelves, if the powerful output from that port isn't to muddy the sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the older RP-600M, the new sounds far more linear
- The new is very easy to listen to for long periods of time, and while it still has a presence, a speed and transparency to the artist or instrument—at least with respect to the midrange—it is not as forward sounding as past designs
- The new proved to be surprisingly flat, but best of all, not the least bit fatiguing
- There was very little difference in tone with respect to the mids between the new and a costlier Revel bookshelf
- These two are actually pretty neck and neck
- As for the Wharfedale Evo 4.1, the Evo is better constructed, not to mention nicer looking
Takeaway: The RP-600M II is a refined speaker with better components, improved sound, and better bass response and imaging. It's a speaker that would be great for someone who likes to listen to a variety of music genres and wants a good-sounding speaker that can last a long time.
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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