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
1235A
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
Frequency Response
31 Hz - 20 kHz (± 2 dB)
Low cutoff -6dB
29 Hz
High cutoff -6dB
26 kHz
SPL
Peak SPL
≥135 dB
Maximum peak acoustic output per pair in a listening room with music material at 2 m.
Short term max SPL
≥130 dB
Maximum short term sine wave acoustic output on axis in half space, averaged from 100 Hz to 3 kHz at 1 m.
Long term max SPL
≥124 dB
Maximum long term RMS acoustic output in the same conditions with IEC weighted noise (limited by driver protection circuit) at 1 m.
Self-generated noise
Self-generated noise
≤5 dB SPL
Self-generated noise level in free space at 2 m on axis (A-weighted).
Weight
Weight
164 kg (361.6 lb)
Dimensions
Height
820 mm (32 1/4 in)
Width
1105 mm (43 1/2 in)
Depth
650 mm (25 5/8 in)
Description
The 1235A brings the sound and heritage of the iconic 1035 into the modern recording age. High SPL capability and precise imaging come together in a main monitor that adapts to your room.
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:
- Genelec stands out for its cast-aluminum enclosures with rounded edges and integrated Directivity Control Waveguide, which embody a distinctive approach to design, aesthetics, and controlled dispersion.
- The brand's SAM (Smart Active Monitoring) system, coupled with GLM software, enables automated calibration for level, timing, and equalization of room-response anomalies, optimizing performance in diverse acoustic environments.
- Genelec offers a point-source design across "The Ones" series, where the tweeter is mounted in the center of the woofer, creating a single full-range device regardless of listening distance and expanding the listening sweet spot.
- The company is known for their comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the design of each speaker, carefully considering everything from enclosure materials to the integration of amplifiers and DSP.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Genelec 8361A Stereo Pair
- Positioning: Positioned as a high-end studio monitor within "The Ones" series, offering advanced audio precision for professional environments.
- Description: Features Minimum Diffraction Coaxial (MDC) driver technology, ensuring a smooth frequency response and outstanding sound imaging. Compared to other models like the 8351B, offers a wider frequency range and higher sound pressure level, making it ideal for larger studio spaces where detailed sound reproduction is critical. Its Smart Active Monitoring (SAM) system allows for automatic calibration to the room, providing flexibility and precision in various acoustic environments.
Genelec 8351B W371A Stereo System
- Positioning: Combined with the W371A woofer system, represents a sophisticated stereo setup designed for full-range audio performance, suitable for both professional studios and high-end home listening.
- Description: Known for its compact size yet powerful performance, using Acoustically Concealed Woofers (ACW) technology to deliver controlled low-frequency directivity. When paired with the W371A, it extends the system's low-frequency response, outperforming standalone monitors like the 8361A in terms of bass depth and room adaptability.
Genelec 1236A Stereo Pair
- Positioning: Genelec's flagship main monitor, designed for large-scale professional studios requiring the highest level of audio fidelity and power.
- Description: Stands out with its massive sound pressure level and extended low-frequency response, thanks to its large enclosure and advanced Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) technology. Unlike the 8361A and 8351B, built for expansive spaces where maximum output and precision are paramount, making it the go-to choice for top-tier recording studios. Its Smart Active Monitoring capabilities ensure it adapts seamlessly to any room, providing unmatched consistency and accuracy in sound reproduction.
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Avg. Product Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used For Sale
18
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
100
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
40
Founding Year
1978
Our take on the brand
Genelec is a hifi speaker brand known for their unique coaxial driver design where the tweeter is embedded in the mid-woofer, ensuring all frequencies come from the same point in space. The brand pioneered the use of recycled aluminum for speaker cabinets in 1996, and their Smart Active Monitoring systems automatically adapt to room acoustics, making them particularly valuable for professional studio environments.
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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
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Used
Genelec
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What if you spend more?
Bowers & Wilkins
803 D4
25000
25000
/
9
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Most affordable way into the true 800 series form factor, with the solid aluminum turbine head and the fully curved matrix-braced cabinet
- Features a one-inch diamond dome tweeter, which is a standout strength
- Midrange and vocal region from the Bowers favor a leaner, more technically accurate sound, going for outright clarity, and vocals sound particularly clear and clean
- Bases have casters integrated or built into them, making them easy speakers to move around for optimal positioning, and integrated spikes can then be used to securely position them
- Show-stoppingly gorgeous and sound simply fantastic
Product Considerations
- A much fussier speaker in every regard and require more thought and work to get the sound balance right
- Possible to come across maybe a little bit too lively in the treble
- Amplifier power, quality, and capability is hugely influential—hugely important for these speakers
- Due to their revealing nature, they don't play particularly well with poorer recordings such as metal and older rock
- Tweeter can get fairly harsh when the volume is turned to the extreme, pushing 90+ db for louder music
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Bowers & Wilkins are a much fussier speaker in every regard than the Mission 770
- Paradigm Persona 5H is a little more "liquid" sounding
- Wilson Audio SabrinaX's finish is superior to that of the Bowers & Wilkins, dynamic, easy to drive, with a very familiar and very resolute sound
- Bowers & Wilkins 803 D4s are refined like an Aston Martin, and Tekton Ulfberhts are more like a Corvette C8
- Bowers & Wilkins 805D4 lacks the midrange prowess that the 803 has, and will most definitely need a subwoofer for even mild extension into bass
Takeaway: The 803 D4 speakers offer a fantastic listening experience with clear vocals and a grand soundstage, making music more engaging. They are an investment that can potentially improve over a long period of time through system upgrades and continued optimization.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Cabasse
The Pearl Keshi
26237
26237
/
8
Reviews
Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Visually appealing with a distinctive, elegant, and small form factor, fitting well in smaller spaces and under monitors
- Good build quality and finish, using excellent materials, which creates a sense of pride of ownership
- Powerful sound for its size, offering ample audio presence and dynamic headroom
- Comprehensive control app that is stable, logical, and offers extensive functionality, including room calibration
- Coaxial design of the satellite speakers aims to improve stereo focus and time alignment
Product Considerations
- Sound can be bottom-heavy or 'wonky' with an overemphasis on bass that dominates the overall sonic signature
- Treble can be sharp, edgy, or unruly, especially at higher volumes
- The included remote control is more stylish than ergonomic and can be unresponsive, requiring re-pairing
- Lacks an HDMI input, which limits connectivity options, especially for TV use
- Fixed wiring of the satellite speakers can be inconvenient if shorter cables are needed
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The KEF LS50 offers better-balanced sound and superior sound quality overall
- Genelec is more utilitarian in design
- The SVS Prime Wireless Pro and sub combo sounds better, but lacks the sex appeal
- The Devialet has more intense bass, but isn't as balanced or natural as The Pearl Keshi
Takeaway: The Cabasse Pearl Keshi offers audiophile sound in a stylish and compact package with innovative features. It could be a good fit if one wants a visually striking and complete audio system that can fit in a tight space.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
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Von Schweikert
Endeavor SE
27000
27000
/
7
Reviews
Building on the highly successful lineage of the world-class Endeavor™ loudspeakers, Von Schweikert Audio is please to present our newest offering; the Endeavor™ Special Edition. This model incorporates the highly refined full-range performance of its bigger brother, the E-5 including our critically acclaimed Beryllium tweeter which is used throughout the VR and ULTRA line of flagship loudspeakers. The Endeavor SE also incorporates other design VSA elements like our proprietary Rear-Ambient Retrieval System, Bi-Wire inputs with isolated networks and high-quality crossover components.
Last but not least, the Special Edition comes in our high-gloss multi layer paint finish as standard, customer's can choose a custom color to accommodate their specific tastes with matching painted plinth for the highest level of fit and finish.
Featuring advanced speaker components often found in systems many times our price: Anodized aluminum woofer cones, Kevlar midrange, and damped Beryllium dome tweeter to ensure highest level of sonic transparency possible. Rear ambience retrieval driver.
To match the transient response and tone quality of the superb front tweeter, we have employed a 75mm ribbon tweeter driven by a Neodymium magnet system for the lowest distortion and widest frequency range we have measured from a 75mm ribbon.
Top-class measurements with lowest distortion/coloration in its price range. Non-parallel walls and advanced cabinet design for sonic purity. Linkwitz-Riley crossover filters ensure correct phase coherence and timing.
Von Schweikert's speakers deliver wide soundstage dispersion through novel "ambient recovery systems," creating a 3D-like soundstage. Their large dynamic range masters both subtle details and intense macro swings.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional sound quality, often described as unbelievable for its size, delivers a natural and balanced sound, with a clarity and realism that brings music to life
- Impressive bass performance produces bass and dynamics that belie its moderate size, energizing rooms and reproducing bass with good pitch definition, texture, and tone
- Wide and deep soundstage portrays space exceptionally well, creating a wide and deep soundstage with good imaging, even on mono recordings, and the rear ambient tweeter enhances this spatial quality
- High-end components, including those found in Von Schweikert's Ultra series such as a beryllium tweeter, Masterbuilt internal wiring, and Mundorf capacitors and WBT binding posts are used
- The cabinet construction is designed to minimize resonance and coloration, employing a triple-wall panel
- A luxurious, automotive-grade finish is offered, which can be customized with bespoke colors, making it visually appealing and able to fit into various room decors
Product Considerations
- Powerful amplification (at least 100 watts per channel) is beneficial to unlock its full dynamic range and potential
- Careful setup and placement are crucial to optimize bass response, soundstage width, image specificity, and overall coherence
- The bass could sound slightly soft at times, possibly due to the room interaction or associated equipment
- While offering excellent value, the Endeavor Special Edition is still a significant investment, placing it in a competitive price bracket
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The ESE is a significant upgrade incorporating Ultra series technology, a new tweeter, improved binding posts, a rear-firing tweeter, and a better crossover
- While not in the same league as the Ultra 11, the ESE provides a taste of the Ultra series' technologies at a more accessible price point
Takeaway: The Endeavor offers an immersive listening experience with exceptional sound quality and a beautiful design. Its ability to create a realistic and engaging soundstage makes it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles seeking a high-performance speaker system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Von Schweikert's speakers deliver wide soundstage dispersion through novel "ambient recovery systems," creating a 3D-like soundstage. Their large dynamic range masters both subtle details and intense macro swings.
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Cabasse
Rialto
2995
2995
/
5
Reviews
Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Powerful and deep bass response for its size
- Clear and natural sound reproduction, with vocals being particularly noteworthy
- An 'all-in-two' system, the RIALTO includes a streamer, DAC, pre-amp, and amp, making it easy to set up and use, especially with the Cabasse StreamCONTROL app
- Effective room correction helps to optimize the sound for the listening environment
- Elegant design and build quality
Product Considerations
- The lack of seamless gapless playback between digital tracks requires a workaround or use of an analog source
- The RIALTO has a laid-back treble response, which may not appeal to listeners who prefer a brighter sound
- Potential for technical hiccups exists, because of the amount of technology packed into the RIALTO
- Many features are controlled with the mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The RIALTO provides a more balanced—and much more natural—listening experience than the Devialet Phantom II 98 dB Stereo
Takeaway: The Cabasse RIALTO is a compact and elegant audio system that offers powerful sound and a range of integrated features, making it a great choice for music lovers who want an easy-to-use and high-performing system. The sound quality and room correction allow it to adapt well to different listening spaces, offering an immersive experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
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What competes at this price?
Borresen
X3
11000
/
Released
2023
Børresen has developed a new entry-level speaker at an affordable price, making the Børresen speaker universe accessible to even more people. The Børresen X3 loudspeaker has been designed on the solid foundation of Børresen Acoustics' development traditions, design philosophy and technological know-how.
Børresen Acoustics stands out for its iron-free magnetic motors and cryogenically treated metal components, which reduce inductance for clearer sound. The brand's speakers feature unique elements like zirconium-based 3D-printed baskets and a patented ribbon tweeter design, combined with series crossover networks for phase-locked electrical current across frequencies.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional imaging and soundstage.
- Detailed high-frequency reproduction.
- Tight and accurate bass.
- Elegant design and high-quality build.
- Good value for the price.
Product Considerations
- Midrange response may have a 'hole' or 'scoop'.
- Sweet spot is narrow.
- Amplifier matching benefits from good current delivery.
- Positioning requires careful attention.
- Speakers are only available in black or white.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs GoldenEar Technology T66—the X3's tweeter is in 'a whole other class of high-frequency reproduction'.
- Vs PureAudioProject Duet 15s—the X3 was faster, clearer, and had better transient response.
- Vs KEF Reference 3 Meta—the X3 seems like a faster, clearer, more transparent speaker.
- Vs Audiovector R3—the X3 has more pronounced and deeper bass.
- Vs Audiovector R6—the R6 offers more visceral dynamics and seems to go lower.
Takeaway: The Børresen X3 is a well-built and visually appealing loudspeaker known for its exceptional imaging, detailed highs, and refined sound. It is a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance speaker in its price range.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Børresen Acoustics stands out for its iron-free magnetic motors and cryogenically treated metal components, which reduce inductance for clearer sound. The brand's speakers feature unique elements like zirconium-based 3D-printed baskets and a patented ribbon tweeter design, combined with series crossover networks for phase-locked electrical current across frequencies.
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Estelon
Aura
19900
/
Released
2023
The Estelon AURA loudspeaker is designed and constructed by taking into consideration the environmental acoustics of real-life listening spaces. It provides an immersive and captivating audio experience like no other among speakers of this size. To achieve this, AURA has been designed with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating cutting-edge technology and unique features that set it apart from other loudspeakers in the market.
Estelon crafts speakers using a proprietary marble-based composite material that provides advanced damping and rigidity, with their enclosures featuring no parallel walls and almost entirely curved surfaces to minimize sound diffraction. Their speakers resemble modernist sculptures and feature adjustable modules for optimizing performance in various room settings, along with premium Accuton drivers including diamond tweeters for precise high-frequency reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Striking aesthetic design is repeatedly praised, seamlessly blending into living spaces
- Exceptional soundstage and imaging are consistently highlighted as standout features
- Balanced presentation across the frequency range offers a smooth integration of bass, midrange, and treble
- Well-controlled and detailed bass integrates well with the other drivers
- Clear and detailed midrange and treble contribute to a fast presentation of vocals and instruments
- Connectivity options are solid
Product Considerations
- The Aura's impedance can drop to a low 2 ohms at 58 Hz, making it a demanding load for amplifiers
- Bass output may not suit all tastes, particularly those who prefer bass-heavy music or have larger rooms
- System matching with warmer components may be necessary to achieve a preferred sound balance
- The placement of the binding posts and the tight space around them are a bit challenging when connecting speaker cables
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to SVS Titans, the Aura is a clear step up in clarity and transparency, but the Titans deliver more bass output
- Compared to YG Acoustics Peaks Ascent, the AURA speaker has a very different frequency profile
Takeaway: The Estelon Aura speakers combine striking aesthetics with high-end sound, offering a balanced and engaging listening experience that works well in various rooms. They are a strong contender for audiophiles seeking a speaker that is both visually appealing and sonically refined.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Estelon crafts speakers using a proprietary marble-based composite material that provides advanced damping and rigidity, with their enclosures featuring no parallel walls and almost entirely curved surfaces to minimize sound diffraction. Their speakers resemble modernist sculptures and feature adjustable modules for optimizing performance in various room settings, along with premium Accuton drivers including diamond tweeters for precise high-frequency reproduction.
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Audiovector
Trapeze
19950
/
Released
2024
In 1979 Ole Klifoth launched the Trapeze. In doing so, he created the blueprint for all Audiovector speakers to come – including the pioneering focus on linear dynamics and linear phase through a true 6 dB per octave crossover. Fast forward 45 years and the new Trapeze Reimagined is based on the same principles as the original heritage model. And brought up to date with the very best, most innovative technology available. A homage to the company's very first loudspeaker. The embodiment of our passion, innovation, and love of music.
Audiovector, a Danish speaker brand, stands out for the founder’s relentless rethinking of every component in their designs. Their use of unique materials, innovative technologies, and unconventional theories on sound results in speakers that genuinely sound distinct—especially in the R series. The flagship models in this series are known for creating exceptional soundstage depth, the kind you’d typically expect from dipole speakers, not cone-driver designs. Audiovector also focuses on minimizing harsh treble, ensuring smooth, fatigue-free vocals. Their speakers consistently receive high praise from reviewers and often win best-of-the-year awards.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clarity and seamless presentation, along with excellent dynamics and punch
- Impressive bass power, agility, and grip
- The design makes it less obtrusive in a domestic setting than most alternatives
- AMT tweeter provides a crisp, revealing treble
- Damping feature allows for a degree of flexibility in matching the speaker with amplifiers
Product Considerations
- The design lacks the visual elegance of other high-end Audiovector speakers
- Stereo imaging could be more expansive
- The Freedom Grounding cable is expensive as an optional purchase
Takeaway: The Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined combines retro inspiration with modern technology, creating a speaker that puts entertainment first with clarity, dynamics and impressive bass. With its unique design and adaptable sound, it's a great pick for music lovers that want fun and high-end performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audiovector, a Danish speaker brand, stands out for the founder’s relentless rethinking of every component in their designs. Their use of unique materials, innovative technologies, and unconventional theories on sound results in speakers that genuinely sound distinct—especially in the R series. The flagship models in this series are known for creating exceptional soundstage depth, the kind you’d typically expect from dipole speakers, not cone-driver designs. Audiovector also focuses on minimizing harsh treble, ensuring smooth, fatigue-free vocals. Their speakers consistently receive high praise from reviewers and often win best-of-the-year awards.
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Audio Note
AN-J
10500
/
Released
The majority of the high-end audio marketplace is occupied by ill-conceived low efficiency loudspeaker systems. These designs usually consist of several less-than-ideally matched drivers and a very complex crossover, crammed into a cabinet that exhibits the tonal and textural qualities of reinforced concrete. Their designers are blinded by the dogmatic quest for high sound pressure levels and flat response. But what of the other factors which are essential for emotionally involving music reproduction? What about coherence, full natural micro—as well as macro—dynamics, inner detail? What about LIFE? What about EMOTION? Sorry, they're just not part of the "High Performance Audio" design brief. And music suffers for it.
Audio Note UK is one of Europe's largest manufacturers of valve-based audio equipment, designing and producing nearly all components in-house, including transformers and capacitors. The brand has achieved cult status among audiophiles who appreciate its minimalist, non-oversampling approach and its emphasis on musicality over technical specifications.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Solid bass performance for a speaker of its size
- Able to do justice to any genre of music and at realistic volume levels
- Very easy to drive
- Offers a balanced presentation from top to bottom with seamlessness between the woofer and tweeter
- Started sounding like far more than a pair of 8″ two-way monitors when properly positioned along the side walls
Product Considerations
- Achieving the best imaging and deep bass may require experimenting with toe-in and distance from corners and the back wall
- Does not provide much forward/backward information, with the image typically stopping at the outer edge of the speakers
- The basic 'D' model comes only in black ash veneer, while higher-end models offer more choices
- Bass can be overblown if not adjusted properly in room placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The AN-E has more bass, is easier to drive, and has a bigger presentation
- Some may prefer the J because they find it a more taught presentation in the mid bass, as well as more "present" in the voice band
Takeaway:
The AN-J is a near full-range loudspeaker capable of articulation and organic flow, making music sound natural and engaging. If someone is looking for a communicative quality that remains consistent wherever they listen, then the AN-J could be a good fit.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio Note UK is one of Europe's largest manufacturers of valve-based audio equipment, designing and producing nearly all components in-house, including transformers and capacitors. The brand has achieved cult status among audiophiles who appreciate its minimalist, non-oversampling approach and its emphasis on musicality over technical specifications.
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Focal
Sopra N°3
12999
/
Released
Compactness, design and high-fidelity sound are the hallmarks of the Sopra N°3 luxury loudspeaker, which comes close to the ultimate performance of Focal's Utopia loudspeakers. It offers more powerful bass than its little sister, Sopra N°2, with its larger woofers. All music lovers will be seduced by Sopra N°3, which harmoniously deploys the bass.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent bass extension and higher dynamic range due to its larger size.
- The cabinet is designed to maximize bass performance using segmented inner chambers.
- A Beryllium tweeter is precisely positioned at the best height for listening, and the midrange is placed above the tweeter to time-align the drivers for coherency at the listening position.
- The midrange driver has Tuned Mass Damper technology, similar to what is employed in racecars and seismic building stabilization, allowing the driver to perform more consistently without losing performance.
Product Considerations
- A small apartment may not be the best destination for it, as it is a large speaker.
- Only a single pair of binding posts is included, so bi-amping or bi-wiring isn't an option.
- It may not be suited to very small rooms where the bottom end can be overpowering, and positioning is important to get the most out of the speaker.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Focal Sopra N°2: It betters it in terms of scale, presence, dynamics, and detail, resulting in a bolder presentation, greater subtlety, separation, texture, and brings more individual character to voices and instruments, a function of its far more sophisticated harmonic development.
- Vs. Wilson Audio's Sasha W/P: The Focal Sopra N°3 is a more enjoyable speaker to listen to and costs less; the Sopras are lush and wonderfully pleasant to listen to, as opposed to the Wilsons, which are more analytical and difficult to tune in properly.
- Vs. Focal Utopia Scala V2: The Sopra N°3 is a price and performance stepping-stone to the Utopia line.
- Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 800 D3 speakers: Bowers & Wilkins speakers can often be a bit laid back and polite, making the Sopra N°3 a different alternative.
Takeaway: The Focal Sopra N°3 is a high-performing speaker that is able to play any type of music with subtle sounds and unbridled force. It brings the listener closer to the music, so they can feel all the energy of a live performance.
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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