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
- Together with the TR-3 subwoofer, the Strada 2 creates a formidable speaker system, where the combined sound is better than the individual components
- Spatial re-creation is exemplary due to the lack of a baffle and the 180-degree dispersion of the tweeter, creating a wide and deep stereophonic soundstage where the speakers disappear
- Sound is reproduced with speed, good soundstaging, imaging, and resolution
Product Considerations
- Strada 2 speakers on their own do not produce real bass
- The stands can block access to the binding posts on the rear of the speakers, making banana connectors difficult to use
- The speakers tend to sound naked upon first hearing, and the sense of leanness may take some getting used to
- There can be an unexpected lack of synergy between the Stradas and some amplifiers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fritz REV 7s: The Fritz speakers offer more meat and timbre in the midrange, especially the lower midrange, but the Stradas have slightly improved speed, immediacy, and airiness
- Vs Shahinian Compasses: The Shahinians offer a majestic, opulent, and fleshed-out upper bass and midrange, making strings, percussion, and brass sound dreamy
- Vs Fritz REV 7s for rock music: The immediacy, speed, and slightly naked austerity of the Gallo combo works to the advantage of rock music—because it cleans up the massive swirling of sound
Takeaway: The Gallo Strada 2, especially when paired with the TR-3 subwoofer, is a satisfying and engaging speaker system for those who want speed, good soundstaging, and imaging. For audiophiles who appreciate thinking outside the box with their sound equipment, they are worth checking out.
All
Strada 2
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Frequency Response: 68Hz to 20hz +/- 3db (in room with boundary reinforcement, speakers within 1 foot of wall)
- Sensitivity: 90 dB/1 Watt/1 meter
- Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms
- Power Handling: 150 Watts RMS unclipped music power
- Minimum Power: 10 Watts RMS
- Tweeter: Patented CDT3 (Cylindrical Diaphragm Transducer) sporting 180° horizontal dispersion from 6kHz to above 20kHz
- Woofers: Two 4" dynamic hyperbolic carbon fibre drivers
- Crossovers: None
- Enclosure Type: Sealed with Auxiliary Bass Cavity Supplementation and Patented S2 loading
- Dimensions: 127mm (W) x 343mm (H) x 191mm (D)
- Weight: 5.2kg
- Connections: 5 way gold plated binding posts
- Enclosure Material: Powder coated cast aluminium chassis with brushed stainless steel spheres
- Warranty: 5 Years Parts and Labour
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.
Select products
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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Used
Gallo Acoustics
What if you spend more?
I am the overperforming little guy who will demand your respect after your first audition. I can be a serious 2 channel system with a subwoofer, an LCR, or a surround channel. Effortless dynamics and lightspeed transients remain the common thread of all Signature series speakers including the S4b. A bookshelf with this much technology is hard to find and can literally be the Ninja of any system. Bookshelf, main for a 2.1 system, LCR, Dominus Surround, it can transform into anything you need.
Features including our proprietary DPC-Array controlling Mid/High frequencies and centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. All transducers are developed ground up by our engineers bringing decades of research and culminating in this world class design. All S-Series speakers share the same DPC-Array and benefit from our unique timbre matching technique across the entire series utilizing Beryllium and our advanced Carbon fiber.
These speakers are an acoustic suspension to meet the demands of any listening room with unparalleled dynamic range and musical finesse. Very impressive system alone or when combined with a PERLISTEN subwoofer. Great for use in 2.1 systems or any channel of theater system utilizing subwoofers. Can be used as surround, height or LCR. Bookshelf, stand or on-wall mounting with keyhole or available bracket.
Featuring our DPC-Array as for controlling Mid/High frequencies, centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. This new tweeter/waveguide DPC-Array delivers amazing accuracy, smoothness, and directivity control to handle the critical vocal range and delicate treble. The S4b shares the same DPC-Array and benefits from our unique timbre matching technique as found in the entire S-Series range of speakers. Unparalleled dynamic range, low distortion and musical finesse. The PERLISTEN S4b continues the lineup of speakers that have the distinguished honor to be the world's first and only loudspeakers to be certified for THX Dominus – their highest rating.
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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
Many customers asked for a smaller speaker, so the development group created a smaller baby EPOS. This speaker should be a real bookshelf with a size small enough to go into typical IKEA designs for example. But how to make it? Smaller speakers are especially giving the designer some severe headaches. This has something to do with the size of the front baffle and the small baffle’s influence on a speaker’s response curve. A design for free space should be different from one that plays close to a wall or inside a bookshelf. In order to work in a semi-free space (some distance from a wall) and on a wall, the crossover filter can be changed with a switch on the backside of the speaker. Now, you are free to choose the place of your speakers without making compromises in tonal balance.
Product Strengths
- Excellent separation within the soundstage conveys a lifelike image
- A switch on the rear changes the crossover to suit different speaker placements—optimizing the speaker for on-wall or free-standing positions
- Overwhelming, tight, dry, and dynamic bass with a detailed and room-filling soundstage
- A well-made compact speaker with high efficiency, especially on the shelf
- Lively and realistic music rendering creates an authentic listening experience
Product Considerations
- While the ES-7N looks neat, it isn't particularly luxurious in appearance
- Placement needs to be considered because of the speaker's asymmetrical design
- The manual provides a suggestion for the placement of the tweeter
- Clarity and precision of sound and stereo imaging are slightly diminished if not placed optimally
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Neat Petite Classic: It is good enough to make the Neat sound a little blurred and soft
- Vs Dynaudio Heritage Special: Epos' mids were wonderfully fine and tidy, while the Dynaudio had richer bass and more generous spatial imaging—the Epos seemed more lively and multi-faceted
- Vs BBC LS 3/5a: The 7N was much more balanced and precise in the bass with lively reproduction and higher dynamics
- Vs KEF LS50: They sound much more open and dynamic, even 'bigger', especially at low volume
Takeaway: The ES-7N is a small but capable speaker that is flexible in its placement options. If a speaker that sounds good in different spaces is desired, the ES-7N could be a good choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
Our summary
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
The R-series Monitor is a culmination of S-series patented technology with materials developed from the ground up in every part of the design just like it's big brothers. The R5m is a true Chameleon with enough bass extension to offer an amazing 2 channel experience, the heart of a reference level 2.1 system, the LCR for a home theater, or surrounds in that monster R-series System. The option for a fully vented full range experience or a sealed enclosure, help transform this speaker to adapt to any system.
Designed to be mounted on optional stand, or mounted to a wall with our tilt swivel bracket. Sharing "trickle-down" technology from our flagship S-Series, the DPC-Array here based on three 26mm domes, guarantees excellent directivity control and timbre matching with all R-Series speakers. The Silk diaphragms developed ground up, chosen specifically their smooth, effortless representation of midrange and treble.
The 165mm woofers are made from our proprietary HPF pulp, two years in development, bringing new technology to one of the oldest materials used in loudspeaker design. The R5m can be aligned as bass reflex or acoustic suspension depending on specific tastes. Rich, dynamic bass matched with advanced mid/treble directivity pattern control and silky highs offer best in class performance.
Product Strengths
- Excellent coherence and homogeneity, achieving an even, wide radiation without being limited to a sweet spot
- Extremely agile display with excellent impulse fidelity and excellent resolution and transparency
- Impressive plasticity and presence, creating a superb—almost immersive—spatiality
- Voluminous, deep-reaching, yet contoured bass, even when placed close to the wall, thanks to its clever bass reflex tuning
- All speakers use a similar proprietary driver array, centered within a custom waveguide (DPC Array), just with different drivers in the R-series
- The Directivity Pattern Control (DPC) array results in excellent vertical and horizontal dispersion control
Product Considerations
- The impedance drops rather low, so the more quality power available to use with these speakers, the better
- A room resonance around 110 Hz was experienced with a large and unnatural peak in the response that needed room correction
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Mating a single or pair of the R212s subwoofers to the R5m monitors can get a large slice of the tower's sonic fun factor and might actually be preferable for certain installations
- Overall detail and tonality were very similar between the two speakers with the Revels having a touch more "zing" to cymbals and similar instruments, but the Perlisten wasn't considered soft by comparison
Takeaway: The R5m is an extraordinary monitor that delivers excellent performance in both hifi and home cinema. The monitor impresses with its spatiality, dynamics, and bass potency, making it a great choice for immersive listening and viewing experiences.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Surprisingly deep and controlled bass for its size, extending down to 33Hz, is delivered thanks to its passive radiator
- A sweet, smooth, detailed, airy, and intimate sound with a natural midrange that presents human voices remarkably well, is produced
- A wide and deep soundstage, excelling particularly in creating a three-dimensional listening experience with a strong front-to-back depth, is offered
- High-quality components in its crossover, including air core inductors and film capacitors, are used
- Exemplary off-axis performance due to the CDC waveguide, leading to evenly distributed in-room frequency response, excellent imaging, bigger soundstage, and improved transparency, is presented
Product Considerations
- A bit bright in the top end, particularly on-axis and even slightly off-axis, depending on the room acoustics, may be heard; sidewall absorption or equalization may be needed
- Vertical placement is temperamental; listeners should ensure their ears are aligned with the reference point between the waveguide and midwoofer
- A capable amplifier, ideally one with high output power and a high damping factor, is required to properly control the bass
- At high volumes, the speaker can experience compression and distortion, particularly in the higher frequencies and lower frequencies
- The direct sales model means there are no physical stores to demo the speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The S400 Mark II sounds bigger and more potent, although the LS50 Meta is more transparent and has higher clarity
- Vs Dynaudio Heritage Special: The S400 MkII offers comparable midrange and equal bass, while the Dynaudio has more sizzle on top and a little more of a plumper mid
- Vs Emotiva B2 Plus: The S400 Mark II has more refined treble and midrange, but the Emotiva is better for rock and metal music
- Vs Dynaudio Special 40: The S400 MkII is sweeter, more open, more spacious sounding, and has a more transparent midrange
- Vs Klipsch The7s: The S400 MKII has a wider soundstage radiation
Takeaway: The S400 Mark II is a great-sounding speaker with impressive bass for its size and is easy to listen to for hours. It is a good option for those looking for a high-fidelity listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent imaging capabilities
- Over-the-top build quality and very attractive appearance
- The AMT tweeter does not leap out and scorch the ears, and the speaker is on the warmer side of sound voicing
- The build quality and design leads to longevity, and the speakers can potentially last for many decades with proper care
- Treble separation is amazing and is easily on par with speakers costing five, six, seven or even ten thousand dollars
Product Considerations
- A subwoofer is mandatory if you want to experience full range sound
- The recessed treble will not be to everyone's taste
- The waveguide may constrict the tweeter's output
- Elevated mid-bass may color the sound, and a more neutral response in that range would be preferred
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Treble separation on the SuperMon Mini is better than the Focal Canta No. 1
- Treble separation is better on the SuperMon Mini than on the Serhan Swift Mu2 Mk II
Takeaway: The SuperMon Mini is a small but mighty speaker with incredible imaging, build quality, and the potential to last a very long time. It is a great choice for those who want excellent sound in a compact and luxurious package with a preference for warmer sound and detailed imaging when paired with an appropriate amplifier and potentially a subwoofer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact dimensions make them suitable for smaller rooms and wall mounting
- Delivers a big sound despite its small size
- Impressive dynamic capabilities
- Good bass performance considering the speaker size
- Clean and purposeful look in either sleek white or black satin finishes
Product Considerations
- Magnets holding the grilles in place aren't very strong
- Soundstage depth is limited, projecting sound forward of the speaker plane
- May exhibit some dynamic compression during complex musical passages
- The SA Cockpit app can be flaky and exhibit strange behavior
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Q Active 200 created a deeper and higher soundstage, while the Silverback 1 had better-defined lower notes, and dynamics were more compressed on the Q Active 200
Takeaway: The Silverback 1 system is a great option for those with limited space who don't want to compromise on sound quality, offering impressive performance in a compact and aesthetically pleasing package. They are designed to blend into a domestic space rather than dominate it.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
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