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
- Offers more bass extension and greater dynamics compared to the LS3/5A
- Good midrange with detail, warmth, and smoothness
- Very flat across the board, very pleasant to listen to, even at high volumes
- Cabinet construction allows for a natural tone
Product Considerations
- Bass can occasionally be over prominent, depending on the equipment
- Requires careful matching with an amplifier to avoid a peaky midrange
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the LS3/5A, the LS6 has more bass extension and dynamics, making it more versatile
- Reviewers differ, one favors the LS6 for immediacy, the other the Spendor Classic 3/1 for top to bottom cohesion
- Compared to the Dynaudio Heritage Specials, Dynaudio is more transparent and dynamic, while the LS6 feels more comfortable and familiar
Takeaway: The Chartwell LS6 is a well-designed speaker that brings both a vintage aesthetic and modern capabilities with strong performance. It's a good option for those looking for a blend of classic BBC monitor sound with added bass and versatility.
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
LS6
reviews
[{"title":"Graham Audio Chartwell LS6 review","link":"https://darko.audio/2019/01/graham-audio-chartwell-ls6-review","source":"Darko Audio","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Graham Audio Chartwell LS6 Loudspeaker - Positive Feedback","link":"https://positive-feedback.com/audio-discourse/graham-audio-chartwell-ls6-loudspeaker","source":"Positive Feedback","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Spendor Classic 3/1 Vs Graham/Chartwell LS6: A British Battle Royale","link":"https://wallofsound.ca/audioreviews/speakers/spendor-classic-3-1-vs-graham-chartwell-ls6-a-british-battle-royale/#prettyPhoto","source":"Wall of Sound","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Chartwell LS6 - StereoLife Magazine","link":"https://www.stereolifemagazine.com/reviews/item/1319-chartwell-ls6","source":"StereoLife Magazine","datePublished":"2017"},{"title":"The Graham Audio Chartwell LS6 Loudspeaker Review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX7xl6J8CIU","source":"Phonostage Audio","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Savor the sound: GRAHAM CHARTWELL LS 6","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vu35sl5-JQk","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"#Chartwell #GrahamAudio #LS6 #British #Hifi #Speakers Review of Graham Audio LS6 Speakers","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yy_BKXC-f8Y","source":"Ditton Works","datePublished":"2022"}]
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
Description
Following the success of the Graham Audio LS3/5 and LS5/9, we were curious to discover what could be done with a cabinet that was sized somewhere between the two. The result is the Chartwell LS6, designed by Derek Hughes. A custom built 6 inch long-throw bass drive unit mated to a compact 17 litre cabinet gives bass extension and power handling that is comparable to the LS5/9. The bespoke 19mm dome tweeter extends to beyond 20kHz. The overall response retains the smoothness of both the LS3/5 and LS5/9. A large rear mounted port gives effortless bass, while allowing us to minimise the size of the cabinet to allow it to blend easily into typical domestic environments. A sophisticated crossover network blends the two units and equalises the overall response for optimum performance in free space. A switch on the front baffle adjusts the tweeter level to +1dB or +2dB. This can be useful for situations where the listening position is off axis. In common with all our loudspeakers, the cabinet uses the classic BBC "thinwall" construction, where the panels are mass-loaded to ensure that resonances are moved away from the critical mid-range region, and a layer of Rockwool is held in place by fabric to provide air damping. Hand-matched veneers are applied and finished to a very high standard. The grille is carefully designed to minimise diffraction effects and is held in place by concealed rare-earth magnets.
Following the success of the Graham Audio LS3/5 and LS5/9, we were curious to discover what could be done with a cabinet that was sized somewhere between the two. The result is the Chartwell LS6, designed by Derek Hughes.
A custom built 6 inch long-throw bass drive unit mated to a compact 17 litre cabinet gives bass extension and power handling that is comparable to the LS5/9. The bespoke 19mm dome tweeter extends to beyond 20kHz. The overall response retains the smoothness of both the LS3/5 and LS5/9.
A large rear mounted port gives effortless bass, while allowing us to minimise the size of the cabinet to allow it to blend easily into typical domestic environments. A sophisticated crossover network blends the two units and equalises the overall response for optimum performance in free space. A switch on the front baffle adjusts the tweeter level to +1dB or +2dB. This can be useful for situations where the listening position is off axis.
In common with all our loudspeakers, the cabinet uses the classic BBC "thinwall" construction, where the panels are mass-loaded to ensure that resonances are moved away from the critical mid-range region, and a layer of Rockwool is held in place by fabric to provide air damping. Hand-matched veneers are applied and finished to a very high standard. The grille is carefully designed to minimise diffraction effects and is held in place by conce...
A custom built 6 inch long-throw bass drive unit mated to a compact 17 litre cabinet gives bass extension and power handling that is comparable to the LS5/9. The bespoke 19mm dome tweeter extends to beyond 20kHz. The overall response retains the smoothness of both the LS3/5 and LS5/9.
A large rear mounted port gives effortless bass, while allowing us to minimise the size of the cabinet to allow it to blend easily into typical domestic environments. A sophisticated crossover network blends the two units and equalises the overall response for optimum performance in free space. A switch on the front baffle adjusts the tweeter level to +1dB or +2dB. This can be useful for situations where the listening position is off axis.
In common with all our loudspeakers, the cabinet uses the classic BBC "thinwall" construction, where the panels are mass-loaded to ensure that resonances are moved away from the critical mid-range region, and a layer of Rockwool is held in place by fabric to provide air damping. Hand-matched veneers are applied and finished to a very high standard. The grille is carefully designed to minimise diffraction effects and is held in place by conce...
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:
- Graham Audio's designs benefit from Derek Hughes's expertise, son of Spencer Hughes (Spendor), maintaining a strong connection to the classic BBC sound.
- The brand is committed to BBC "thin-wall" cabinet construction, using birch plywood, corner fillets, and strategically placed mastic elements to manage resonances.
- Musical Fidelity speakers deliver a clean, smooth, even, and detailed sound with pleasing subtlety, tight bass, and fine imaging.
- Graham Audio's LS3/5A variants provide both a historically accurate sound reproduction and dynamic range for smaller spaces, as well as offer an opportunity for use in larger rooms.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Chartwell LS3/5
- Positioning: The entry-level model in the Chartwell series, designed for small spaces and nearfield listening.
- Description: Praised for its natural and uncolored sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize vocal clarity and detail in compact environments. Unlike larger models in the lineup, it lacks deep bass extension, which is a trade-off for its small size and portability, making it less suitable for those seeking a full-range sound in larger rooms.
Chartwell LS6
- Positioning: A mid-range model in the Chartwell series, offering a balance between size and performance.
- Description: Stands out with its modern driver technology, providing greater clarity and a bigger soundstage compared to the LS3/5. It offers a more detailed and dynamic sound.
Graham LS5/9
- Positioning: A classic model in the Graham lineup, known for its BBC heritage and studio monitor accuracy.
- Description: This model is celebrated for its superb midrange and natural vocal reproduction, making it a favorite for critical listening and professional use. Compared to the LS3/5, it offers a fuller sound with better bass response.
Graham LS5/9f
- Positioning: An advanced floor-standing version of the LS5/9, designed for enhanced bass and room-filling sound.
- Description: Enhances the classic LS5/9 design with a floor-standing cabinet, providing deeper bass and a more expansive soundstage.
Graham LS5/8
- Positioning: A high-end model in the Graham lineup, offering professional-grade performance for audiophiles and studios.
- Description: Known for its exceptional accuracy and wide frequency response. It surpasses the LS5/9 in terms of bass depth and overall power.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
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Brand Popularity
152
of 900+
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Products Listed
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Founding Year
Our take on the brand
Graham Audio is a UK-based brand that handcrafts loudspeakers following classic BBC monitor designs, using thin-wall birch ply cabinets for a natural, open sound. Their speakers, particularly the LS5/9 and LS5/5 models, are known for exceptional midrange and vocal reproduction, with an electrostatic-like openness that makes them favorites among audiophiles seeking accurate reproduction of live instruments.
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Used
Graham
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Graham
LS8/1
9839
9839
/
7
Reviews
Graham Audio is a UK-based brand that handcrafts loudspeakers following classic BBC monitor designs, using thin-wall birch ply cabinets for a natural, open sound. Their speakers, particularly the LS5/9 and LS5/5 models, are known for exceptional midrange and vocal reproduction, with an electrostatic-like openness that makes them favorites among audiophiles seeking accurate reproduction of live instruments.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excels in midrange reproduction, making vocals and instruments sound natural and detailed
- Greater bass extension and tighter bass than previous Hughes family descendants of the original Spendor BC1 design
- Dynamically lively, possessing what is described as 'jump factor'
- Stereo imaging is better, the stereo focus is overwhelming and fascinating
- The design rings true
Product Considerations
- May require a more powerful amplifier to deliver its full potential
- In a really large room, one might need to add a subwoofer system to good effect
- Intended to be used far from sidewalls or with sidewalls damped
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Spendor BC-1s: Has a tighter bass and is less 'floppy'
- Vs Spendor BC1: Has a more controlled, better, more modern bass
- Vs Stirling Broadcast LS3/6: Has more robust bass, stronger and more dynamically capable bass, and also more bass extension, and a slightly more forward sound at around 2kHz, but a little recession from 800–1000Hz
Takeaway: The LS8/1 offers a very clean midrange and insightful sound, while paying homage to British audio heritage. It will provide a deep and enduring level of sonic truth and musical satisfaction.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Graham Audio is a UK-based brand that handcrafts loudspeakers following classic BBC monitor designs, using thin-wall birch ply cabinets for a natural, open sound. Their speakers, particularly the LS5/9 and LS5/5 models, are known for exceptional midrange and vocal reproduction, with an electrostatic-like openness that makes them favorites among audiophiles seeking accurate reproduction of live instruments.
Product Page
Product Page
Graham
LS3/5A
5534
5534
/
7
Reviews
By popular demand, Graham Audio are proud to present the BBC-licensed Chartwell LS3/5A. The LS3/5A was produced by BBC Designs Department in response to detail changes in the performance of the drive units that were originally chosen for the LS3/5 as designed by BBC Research and Development. It is the most well-known of all the BBC loudspeakers, and remains the compact loudspeaker of choice for many today.
As you would expect, our version - engineered by Derek Hughes - includes authentic details such as the perforated metal tweeter grille, thick felt pads surrounding the tweeter, and Velcro rather than our usual hidden magnets to secure the grille frame. The cabinet uses 12mm panels and a fixed rear panel, according to BBC Designs Department's specification.
As the only company to have ever manufactured the LS3/5, and now also the LS3/5A, audiophiles are now in the unique position of being able to hear for themselves the differences that these changes made to the design originally intended by BBC R&D.
Graham Audio is a UK-based brand that handcrafts loudspeakers following classic BBC monitor designs, using thin-wall birch ply cabinets for a natural, open sound. Their speakers, particularly the LS5/9 and LS5/5 models, are known for exceptional midrange and vocal reproduction, with an electrostatic-like openness that makes them favorites among audiophiles seeking accurate reproduction of live instruments.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Midrange is clear, sweet, realistic, and natural, especially with voices, offering a 'magical' quality
- Soundstage can be surprisingly large and substantial for their size
- Smooth and even performance was a revelation—the sound is clean, smooth, even, and detailed, with pleasing subtlety
- Small size makes them room-friendly
Product Considerations
- Bass is modest and lacks low-end extension, and the lack of attack is noticeable
- Speakers are flat sounding and cannot create soundstage depth illusion
- Power handling and sensitivity are low, requiring caution with the volume control
- The speaker is a bit warm and romantic sounding, the treble is a little uneven with some perceived peakiness
- Uneven sound quality compared to larger speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Graham Audio LS3/5a sounds 'leaner' compared to the LS3/5 model, which sounds 'fuller'
- The Graham Anniversary speakers are much tauter compared to earlier versions of the Rogers LS3/5a
- Versus Harbeth P3ESR, Harbeth does a better job at fooling listeners into thinking that they are listening to much bigger speakers
- Modern speakers are more capable of delivering slam and solidity than the LS3/5A
- Speakers are not as lively and direct as the Xavian Perlas
Takeaway: The LS3/5A is a compact speaker with a magical midrange that makes music enjoyable, especially for vocals and acoustic instruments, and the LS3/5a delivers a smooth sound. It's best for smaller rooms where its small size and focus on accurate midrange can really shine.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Graham Audio is a UK-based brand that handcrafts loudspeakers following classic BBC monitor designs, using thin-wall birch ply cabinets for a natural, open sound. Their speakers, particularly the LS5/9 and LS5/5 models, are known for exceptional midrange and vocal reproduction, with an electrostatic-like openness that makes them favorites among audiophiles seeking accurate reproduction of live instruments.
Product Page
Product Page
Graham
LS8/1F
9547
9547
/
1
Reviews
Graham Audio is a UK-based brand that handcrafts loudspeakers following classic BBC monitor designs, using thin-wall birch ply cabinets for a natural, open sound. Their speakers, particularly the LS5/9 and LS5/5 models, are known for exceptional midrange and vocal reproduction, with an electrostatic-like openness that makes them favorites among audiophiles seeking accurate reproduction of live instruments.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Very clean midrange
- Rich listening experience
- Insightful sound
- Very good finish and 'retro' design
Product Considerations
- Tripods (stands) are separate and considered too expensive
- The unusual design with two tweeters may appear weird to some
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Reviewer notes visual similarity to their Spendor BC2 speakers from 1977
Takeaway: The Graham LS8/1 is a well-designed speaker with a focus on clean midrange and an insightful sound, making it a good choice for listeners who appreciate a detailed and engaging audio experience. The speaker's good finish and retro design contribute to its appeal.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Graham Audio is a UK-based brand that handcrafts loudspeakers following classic BBC monitor designs, using thin-wall birch ply cabinets for a natural, open sound. Their speakers, particularly the LS5/9 and LS5/5 models, are known for exceptional midrange and vocal reproduction, with an electrostatic-like openness that makes them favorites among audiophiles seeking accurate reproduction of live instruments.
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
805 D4
9500
9500
/
22
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.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a blend of aluminum, leather, and wood veneer, or gloss paint.
- Detailed sound with excellent stereo imagery.
- Good detail and clarity.
- Wide and deep soundstage.
- Design features contribute to cabinet rigidity and reduced coloration.
Product Considerations
- May sound bright with the wrong amplifier or cables.
- May require a high-power solid-state amp.
- Needs quality amplification and may sound soft if underpowered.
- Requires stands, adding to the overall cost.
- Bass may not satisfy those seeking high-output bass without a subwoofer.
Takeaway: The 805 D4 is an excellent speaker that is beautifully built and delivers a detailed and engaging sound. It's a great option for those seeking a premium listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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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What competes at this price?
GoldenEar
T66
3450
/
Released
2024
The T66 is the first model in GoldenEar's new T Series. While it boasts several significant refinements of our time-tested design concepts, the T66 is undeniably a GoldenEar loudspeaker, placing beautiful sound and music before all else.
GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent bass performance is a defining feature, providing tight, smooth, even, solid, and tangible bass extension into the 20 Hz range, eliminating placement issues associated with separate subwoofers
- Balanced overall sound, coherence, and ability to present music in a natural and effortless way is consistently praised
- High levels of detail come through with the High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter and cast-basket mid/bass units
- A holographic image over the seating area of a typical sofa is capable with excellent imaging and a wide and open soundstage, even when not seated in the exact sweet spot
- The Santa Barbara Red finish option receives high marks for its visual appeal
Product Considerations
- Still a significant investment, especially the Santa Barbara Red finish
- The metal grille covering the drivers is not designed to be easily removed
- Care should be taken with system matching, due to a slightly hot high-end
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The T66 offers more refinement and a more 'of-a-piece' sound than the Triton One.R
- Has internal structural improvements that make it even more stable and rigid than previous generations
Takeaway: The GoldenEar T66 delivers audiophile-grade sound and aesthetics, with powerful bass and exceptional detail. These speakers are easy to incorporate into nearly any environment, and have the power to let the listener appreciate all the nuances in favorite songs or movies.
Video review
Our take on the brand
GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
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Sonus Faber
Duetto
3999
/
Released
2023
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.
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
- 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.
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Buchardt
Anniversary 10
3988
/
Released
2023
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.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional bass performance for its compact size, with bass that is fast, clear, and tight
- Multiple 'Master Tunings' offer customizable sound profiles, adapting to different room acoustics and user preferences
- A high-quality Purifi woofer and SB Acoustics tweeter contribute to clarity, detail, and low distortion
- A solid wood cabinet made in Denmark provides a luxurious look and feel
Product Considerations
- Bass output may diminish or be limited at high volumes to protect the drivers from damage
- A separate purchase of the Platin Stereo Hub may be required for full wireless functionality and room correction
- The 'Made in China' label applies to the electronics inside the cabinet
- While the A10 offers impressive bass, some may still prefer to add a subwoofer for a true full-range experience
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Buchardt S400 Mark II, the A10 is more transparent with greater inner detail, clarity, and top-end extension—and deeper, tighter bass—while the S400 Mark II is more relaxed and forgiving with harsh recordings
- Vs Buchardt A500, the A10 has comparable performance, with possibly a crisper sound in some instances
Takeaway: The Buchardt Anniversary 10 is a compact yet powerful speaker that offers a customizable listening experience. Its impressive bass and versatile tuning options make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality audio solution in a small to medium-sized room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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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MoFi
SourcePoint 10
2999
/
Released
2022
The SourcePoint 10 is designed like a cost-no-object loudspeaker, a complete from the ground up approach, to deliver the highest sound quality and value.
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkable sound power and early directivity indexes make it a true point source speaker.
- Special sound quality for the price offers a level of performance not typically found in speakers at this price point.
- Very good neutrality is present when the speaker is turned off axis.
- It is a very versatile speaker to drive.
- The midrange presentation is very dead center and coherent.
Product Considerations
- The bass does not reach as low as some listeners might prefer.
- The speaker can get bright at times.
- Care should be taken to place it not directly on axis, because when placed directly on axis, it is no longer a neutral speaker.
- There's no stand included in the package.
- It is made in China, and construction can be suspect.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PureAudioProject Duet 15, the SourcePoint 10 is more precise and focused, while the PureAudioProject has a bigger soundstage.
- Vs Fleetwood Deville SQ, they sounded more alike than different when in action, but SourcePoint was more extended from top to bottom and brought more lively dynamics and impact.
- Vs Klipsch Heresy IV, the SourcePoint 10 is the superior speaker in every way from build to sound, with more refinement and smoothness, and it seems just as dynamic as the Klipsch.
- Vs Dynaudio Special 40s, the SourcePoint 10 sounds much bigger, more dynamic, has much better bass, and fills a room with ease.
- Vs KEF LS50 META, the LS50 sounds smaller, leaner, and not as special in the vocal region.
Takeaway:
The SourcePoint is a speaker with a neutral sound that originates from a single point, and it has remarkable early directivity indexes. It is a speaker that offers very good performance for the money, but careful attention needs to be paid to its placement in the room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
MoFi Electronics is known for their turntables featuring unique engineering choices like chassis with constrained layer damping and 10-inch tonearms for superior sound quality. Their speakers use concentric driver designs that minimize cone displacement and enhance clarity, while their phono stages offer uncommon features like front-panel adjustability for gain and cartridge load.
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Perlisten
S4b
3995
/
Released
2021
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.
Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Solidly built with an inert cabinet, contributing to overall performance
- Crazy linear/neutral sound from about 100Hz upwards
- The beryllium tweeter provides nuanced, airy, and extended highs with a hint of shimmer for realistic metallic instruments
- It creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making the speakers disappear sonically
Product Considerations
- It does not have a great deal of bass on its own and may require a subwoofer for full-range playback, starting its roll-off at around 100Hz
- While placement is flexible, a solid amplifier is required
- The styling might be an acquired taste and could be considered overcomplicated by some
- The high gloss finishes may not appear different from less expensive speakers, making it harder to justify the luxury price tag
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4: The S4B is more neutral/accurate, while the 805 D4 adds bass and treble energy
- Vs Focal Canta No. 1: The S4B outperforms the Canta No. 1, which has chestiness in its bass and midrange due to its cabinet
- Vs Revel Studio 2: The S4B reminded the reviewer of the Revel Studio 2, though the Revels had more bass
- Vs Focal Diablo Utopia: The Perlisten are a great alternative if the Utopias are outside of your reach and are a more neutral and less bright speaker
- Vs EgglestonWorks Nico Evo: The EgglestonWorks presentation is a little more mid-forward and less 3D than the Perlisten
Takeaway: The Perlisten S4b is a high-performing speaker that offers excellent clarity and a neutral sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike. The speaker's ability to create a detailed and immersive soundstage can bring music and movies to life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
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