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
- Coaxial design creates excellent and precise imaging, described as 'aural holography'
- Functions well as a center channel speaker, mitigating comb-filtering issues common in typical center channel designs
- Offers above-average dynamic range, providing punch beyond typical bookshelf speakers
- Can be used in near-field applications—as desktop speakers—maintaining sound quality at close distances
- Can be positioned horizontally or vertically with no serious acoustic penalty
Product Considerations
- Speakers are remarkably sensitive to placement, and toe-in is crucial—harshness and unrealistic imaging can result from incorrect placement
- The speakers can sound a little bright if listened to directly on-axis
- The yellow cone may not appeal to everyone aesthetically
- They are large and heavy for bookshelf speakers, requiring sturdy stands or a wider desk if used as desktop speakers
- Optimal performance relies on use with a subwoofer, crossed over at 80Hz
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Yamaha HS8, the CCB-8 may have a little more/fuller/violent bass
Takeaway: The CCB-8 is a versatile speaker that shines when used for home theater due to its excellent imaging and wide soundstage. It is a speaker that can get loud and provide an immersive experience.
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
CCB-8
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Frequency: 50Hz – 20kHz +/- 2 dB at 15 degrees off axis
- Sensitivity: 94 dB / 1m / 2.83V in Half Space
- Recommended Amp Power: 10-400 W RMS Per Channel
- Enclosure Type: Vented ; 3⁄4" MDF
- Recommended Impedance Setting: 8 ohms
- Enclosure Dimensions: 15" H x 10 1⁄2" W x 12" D
- Dimensions with Grill: 15" H x 10 1⁄2" W x 12 1⁄2" D
- Weight: 22 lbs
- Warranty: 7 years
Description
The CCB-8, a constant directivity horn made in collaboration with Don Keele, is one of the industry's best performing speakers when it comes to smooth, musical, off-axis response. Inspired by the HSU subs, the CCB-8 offers a variable tuning feature that gives you the most flexibility for dynamic range and output.
The CCB-8, a constant directivity horn made in collaboration with Don Keele, is one of the industry's best performing speakers when it comes to smooth, musical, off-axis response. Inspired by the HSU subs, the CCB-8 offers a variable tuning feature that gives you the most flexibility for dynamic range and output.
8" woofer is the most dynamic of the two speakers (plays louder and cleaner) More efficient than the HB-1 MK2 (higher output per watt) Constant directivity horn coaxial speaker Point source ensures no lobing effects because you're always the same distance from the woofer and tweeter True constant directivity (circular) horn allows for a smooth, musical, off axis response regardless of whether you're vertically, horizontally, or even diagonally off axis Horn loaded coax gives increased efficiency in the higher frequencies Maintains linear responses even when 15 degrees off axis
Variable tuning gives you more flexibility 2 ports open: most dynamic range (louder and cleaner) 1 port open: more extension (plays lower) but slightly less dynamic range Sealed: will roll off early, and provides the least dynamic range but has a smoother roll off
You can rotate the CCB-8 so it sits vertically, horizontally, or even diagonally without affecting the sound, giving more flexibility for placement to fit into your room. Magnetic round grille that allows you to rotate by 90 degre...
8" woofer is the most dynamic of the two speakers (plays louder and cleaner) More efficient than the HB-1 MK2 (higher output per watt) Constant directivity horn coaxial speaker Point source ensures no lobing effects because you're always the same distance from the woofer and tweeter True constant directivity (circular) horn allows for a smooth, musical, off axis response regardless of whether you're vertically, horizontally, or even diagonally off axis Horn loaded coax gives increased efficiency in the higher frequencies Maintains linear responses even when 15 degrees off axis
Variable tuning gives you more flexibility 2 ports open: most dynamic range (louder and cleaner) 1 port open: more extension (plays lower) but slightly less dynamic range Sealed: will roll off early, and provides the least dynamic range but has a smoother roll off
You can rotate the CCB-8 so it sits vertically, horizontally, or even diagonally without affecting the sound, giving more flexibility for placement to fit into your room. Magnetic round grille that allows you to rotate by 90 degre...
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:
- HSU Research directly sells their products, allowing them to offer exceptional performance for the price compared to traditional retail brands.
- They provide a wide array of tuning options (EQ modes, Q control, variable port configurations) to tailor the sound to different room sizes, personal preferences, and system setups.
- HSU Research subs are known for their excellent customer service, including a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and lengthy warranties, showcasing their commitment to customer satisfaction.
- The brand offers sealed and ported subwoofer designs, each with distinct sonic characteristics and the ported offerings with flexible tuning, catering to diverse listening habits and room acoustics.
Select products
Select product comparisons
VTF-TN1
- Positioning: A compact subwoofer designed for entry-level audiophiles and small room setups.
- Description: Offers a straightforward design with a driver optimized for controlled bass in tight spaces, making it a practical choice for casual listeners on a budget. Compared to other models in the lineup, it has fewer advanced processing features and lower power output, which suits users who need basic functionality without the extra cost found in the higher-end products.
VTF-2 MK5 Subwoofer
- Positioning: A mid-range subwoofer crafted for home setups seeking balanced performance and reliability.
- Description: Features driver-coupling and tuned cabinet design that delivers smooth, even bass for medium-sized spaces. In comparison to the entry-level TN1 and the flagship VTF-3 model, it strikes a balance by offering improved output and clarity while keeping functionality straightforward for typical home use.
ULS-15 MK2 Subwoofer
- Positioning: A professional-grade subwoofer engineered for larger rooms and more demanding sound applications.
- Description: Uses advanced signal processing and precise acoustic tuning to deliver tight, controlled low frequencies. When compared with the mid-level VTF-2 and the flagship VTF-3, it offers a higher output and refined bass control for professional applications without reaching the extreme feature set of the top model.
VTF-3 MK5 HP Subwoofer
- Positioning: A high-end subwoofer built for advanced audio systems that demand top performance and extensive control.
- Description: Features state-of-the-art amplification paired with high-performance digital signal processing to deliver precise, deep bass ideal for large rooms and critical listening environments. Relative to the entry-level TN1, mid-range VTF-2, and even the ULS-15, it stands out with superior build quality and advanced tuning.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
10
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
240
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
1991
Our take on the brand
HSU Research is a hifi brand born from Dr. Poh Ser Hsu's passion for bass, starting with a seven-foot-tall subwoofer experiment that played notes beyond human hearing. Their VTF series features variable tuning technology that lets users switch between maximum output and maximum extension modes for both home theater and music, while their speakers use coaxial drivers for evenly dispersed sound and specialized woofers to solve common midrange issues.
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Brand Page
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Used
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What if you spend more?
Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
899
/
22
Reviews
Wharfedale’s new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN.
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
- Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
- Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
- Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
- Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price
Product Considerations
- Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
- Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
- Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
- Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
- The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level
Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
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Q Acoustics
5020
899
899
/
18
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
- Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
- Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
- Taut and agile bass performance
- Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
- Connectivity options such as binding posts
Product Considerations
- Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
- Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
- Bass response is somewhat subdued
- Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
- Grilles muddle the sound
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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Klipsch
RP-600M II
649
649
/
14
Reviews
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Larger horn tweeter and a new Cerametallic woofer, compared to its predecessor
- Upgraded binding posts and crossover plate elevate to Reference Premiere status
- Larger diameter voice coils and aluminum shorting rings on the woofers give the speaker better linearity throughout the bass, decrease distortion while upping power handling resulting in improved speed and accuracy
- Better detail retrieval, more articulate bass, and vastly improved soundstage width and imaging, compared to the RP-600M
- The binding posts are the same that are found on costlier Heritage speakers
Product Considerations
- Finish options did not receive an upgrade over the outgoing model, leaving customers with the same ebony or walnut wraps
- The tweeter may be too bright for some listeners who are sensitive to a more aggressive top end
- Rated sensitivity is 94.5dB, which is a decrease compared to the original's reported sensitivity of 96
- Needs a bit of space behind them and to the sides, or at least positioning on open shelves, if the powerful output from that port isn't to muddy the sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the older RP-600M, the new sounds far more linear
- The new is very easy to listen to for long periods of time, and while it still has a presence, a speed and transparency to the artist or instrument—at least with respect to the midrange—it is not as forward sounding as past designs
- The new proved to be surprisingly flat, but best of all, not the least bit fatiguing
- There was very little difference in tone with respect to the mids between the new and a costlier Revel bookshelf
- These two are actually pretty neck and neck
- As for the Wharfedale Evo 4.1, the Evo is better constructed, not to mention nicer looking
Takeaway: The RP-600M II is a refined speaker with better components, improved sound, and better bass response and imaging. It's a speaker that would be great for someone who likes to listen to a variety of music genres and wants a good-sounding speaker that can last a long time.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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SVS
Ultra Evolution Bookshelf
599
599
/
14
Reviews
SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf speaker represents the culmination of SVS breakthroughs in driver design, component materials, and cabinet architecture, married with a relentless passion for audio excellence. The science of sonic perfection in harmony with a love of convincing and immersive sound. With a big, expansive sound that's revealing and detailed, Ultra Evolution Bookshelf gives the impression of a much larger speaker without sacrificing refinement or accuracy.
Never has this fusion of design elements existed in a single speaker. Time aligned cabinet geometry, diamond coated aluminum dome tweeters, organic cellular lattice diffuser, and other advancements embody an uncompromising approach to speaker design. These innovations are brought to life with painstaking anechoic and real-world measurement and voicing. This final bit of artistry places Ultra Evolution Bookshelf among the highest fidelity speakers ever created.
Our mission has always been to ignite a passion for transcendent music and home theater experiences by rendering the truest sonic playback. The joy of pristine clarity, absolute transparency, stunning dynamics, and effortless bass for more people than ever. SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf deeply connects you to the emotion of sound.
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Incredible power handling capabilities, performing as well as speakers in the $2,000–$3,000 range
- Sound quality is comparable to stand-mount speakers in the $1,500–$2,000 range
- Build quality is phenomenal for its price point, with real wood veneer options available
- Produces a dense and deep soundstage, especially for a two-way design
- Neutral and clean sound with nice extension in the upper mid-range to high-frequency extension, avoiding a 'hot' sound
Product Considerations
- Stereo imaging is decent, but not as precise as some listeners may prefer
- The mid-range can be a weak point due to some potential resonance in the upper frequencies of the woofer's range
- The speakers are not the easiest to drive and pairing with neutral, slightly warmer amps is recommended
- The treble response is slightly forward with some extra sparkle which may not be ideal for those sensitive to higher frequencies
- While the bass is good, listeners of bass-heavy music may want to add a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SVS Nano: The Ultra Evolution has a more open and expansive midrange and more linear bass, while the Nano has punchier—slightly boosted—bass
- Vs. Heco Salon Revolution 3: The Ultra Evolution is a good replacement since the Heco is discontinued, the Ultra Evolution favors neutrality, while the Heco has a warmer midrange, but the treble is very similar on both
- Vs. KEF R3 Meta: The SVS Ultra Evolution disappears better, but the R3 Meta sounds more neutral
- Vs. Dali Opticon II Mark IIs: Dali is warmer and more nuanced in the midrange but the Ultra Evolution is a little more exciting in its presentation
Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf speakers provide exceptional performance for the price and create an immersive listening experience. They are well-built, attractive, and offer a balanced sound that makes them a strong contender in their price range.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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What competes at this price?
Q Acoustics
M20
499
/
Released
2021
Designed to deliver stunning wireless high-resolution stereo sound, the flexible M20 HD audio system is the most powerful and immersive way to enjoy music, movies and gaming sound anywhere in the home.
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Effortlessly detailed and balanced sound
- Excellent stereo imaging and dynamics
- High-quality Bluetooth streaming
- Simple setup and control
- Multiple connection options, including subwoofer output, digital input for TV, and analog inputs
Product Considerations
- No HDMI ARC for seamless control with TV remote
- No dedicated app for adjusting settings
- Bass output may be lacking for some listeners, potentially requiring a subwoofer
- Grilles are non-removable
- Speakers power down after 20 minutes at rest, requiring manual Bluetooth pairing each time
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2, the Q Acoustics M20 sounds fuller, louder and less compressed
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics M20 HD speakers offer detailed, balanced sound and are easy to set up with various devices. They're a versatile audio solution for upgrading sound, whether for music, movies, or gaming.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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SVS
Prime Bookshelf
299
/
Released
The Prime Bookshelf speakers are sonic overachievers on all levels. Stunningly dynamic, pinpoint accurate and utterly transparent, they deftly serve as reference monitor loudspeakers in a two-channel system, or as high performance front, center, or side/rear surround speakers in a multi-channel home theater.
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good ability to get loud, clean sound without distortion or compression issues above 80 Hz when paired with a subwoofer
- Really good build quality cabinet
- Very clear, immediate, vivid sounding speaker
- Ultra-focused sounding, clean, and nicely balanced vocals
- A lot of treble liveliness combined with quality clarity and crispness
Product Considerations
- Treble is a little bit bright
- Not the most neutral speaker
- Leaner sound in terms of bass delivery
- Very tight, tuneful, and on-point bass, but the perceived amount of bass is less substantial than other speakers reviewed
- Some port noise or chuffing can be heard when setting the speakers to deliver as much bass as the Klipsch RP600M
Takeaway: The SVS Prime bookshelf is a sweet little speaker that delivers clear and vivid sound and has great build quality. It's also versatile, as it can be used in a stereo setup or as part of a home theater system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Sonos
Era 100
230
/
Released
2023
Featuring next-gen acoustics and new levels of connectivity, Era 100 transforms any room with the finely tuned stereo sound and rich bass your music deserves.
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers stereo sound, unlike the Sonos One, due to angled tweeters
- Has a larger woofer, resulting in deeper bass
- Features Bluetooth connectivity, in addition to Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2, offering more flexibility
- Easy to set up and use with the Sonos app, which integrates many music sources
- Includes Trueplay room tuning, now available for Android users, which optimizes the speaker's sound based on its placement in the room, and adjustable EQ
Product Considerations
- The Apple HomePod 2 provides more natural warmth of human voices
- A separate adapter is needed for a wired connection, and it's not included in the box
- Lacks Google Assistant support
- Android users may find the Quick Tuning feature is not as capable as the iOS version
- Isn't designed for outdoor use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Era 100 has better sound quality with cleaner bass and can playback stereo content without downmixing to mono, compared to Sonos One/One SL
- Era 100 is more affordable and compact but lacks Dolby Atmos support, compared to Sonos Era 300
- Era 100 is cheaper but doesn't have a built-in battery for portability, compared to Sonos Move 2
Takeaway: The Sonos Era 100 is a versatile wireless speaker with great sound, enhanced bass, and easy integration with streaming services. It's a solid choice for anyone seeking a compact, all-in-one speaker that delivers both convenience and quality audio for an immersive listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
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SVS
Ultra (Bookshelf)
399
/
Released
2024
The SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers are the rare speaker design that deliver effortless full-range sound and an expansive soundstage with pitch-perfect accuracy and pinpoint imaging. A true reference quality speaker, critics and music lovers celebrate the absolute transparency while home theater speaker fans laud the room-energizing dynamics and palpable bass output. It’s an amazingly balanced speaker that radiates acoustic power while rendering the finest details with precision and refinement.
Every design element of the SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers was scrutinized to achieve cost-no-object audio performance and build quality to create a groundbreaking bookshelf loudspeaker. Countless design innovations and world-class build materials result in reference sound quality and stunning dynamics normally reserved for the world’s most expensive speakers.
Whether handling the warm and engaging sound of vinyl or the demanding, multi-layered soundtrack of an action movie, the Ultra Bookshelf speakers deliver a powerful and convincing audio experience and are among the top audio investments available at any price.
Read
Every design element of the SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers was scrutinized to achieve cost-no-object audio performance and build quality to create a groundbreaking bookshelf loudspeaker. Countless design innovations and world-class build materials result in reference sound quality and stunning dynamics normally reserved for the world’s most expensive speakers.
Whether handling the warm and engaging sound of vinyl or the demanding, multi-layered soundtrack of an action movie, the Ultra Bookshelf speakers deliver a powerful and convincing audio experience and are among the top audio investments available at any price.
Read
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Nice cabinets
- Fluid and captivating articulation in the mids, with warmth and clarity to voices
- The bass is good enough that one could conceivably get away without ever having a subwoofer
- Excellent clarity and tonal balance
- Able to use so much high-performance technology in products that cost so little
Product Considerations
- Has aluminum wiring
- Lacks a little bit of detail at the very top—kicks, punches, and gunshots do not quite have enough "snap" to them
- Rated at 8 ohms, but in reality, they are 4 ohm speakers
- Do not have magnetic grills, they have a pin-and-cup grill retention system
- Tendency to sound bright with modern pop and electronic music
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the SVS Prime Bookshelf Speaker, it is a noticeable step up in linearity
- The Ultra Towers' performance is beaten by perhaps only one or two other models in the same price range
- The SVS's more laid-back character and natural response remains composed compared to the JBLs, where the JBLs start to lose control and break up
Takeaway: The Ultra speakers are a good value because of their high-quality sound and build that offer performance often found in more expensive speakers. One can enjoy great sound without breaking the bank.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Polk
XT20
299
/
Released
2021
Monitor XT20 maximizes the enjoyment of music, gaming, and movies with lifelike, high-resolution sound and effortless bass. As the higher-performing bookshelf speaker in the Monitor XT line, the MXT20 can be paired with louder amplifiers and can produce deeper bass (a full half octave lower) than the compact MXT15.
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clear and natural dialogue projection for movies
- Impressive bass performance, especially in small to medium-sized rooms
- Good imaging, with elements well-placed in the mix
- Durable finish on the cabinet that is scratch resistant
- Engaging sound quality for the price
Product Considerations
- Treble can sound a bit two-dimensional
- The tweeter can be a bit harsh at louder volumes
- Bass is not very refined
- Simplistic box design
- They are heavier than expected
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cerwin-Vega LA-165s, the tweeter on the Cerwin-Vegas is better, but midrange driver from the XT20 is nicer
- Vs Sony SS-CS5, Polk gives nicer bass than Sony
Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT20 is an affordable speaker that offers good sound quality, especially with its bass performance and clear dialogue, making it a great option to put smiles on people's faces when listening to music or watching movies. Its durable build and engaging sound make it a worthwhile consideration for those starting their audio journey.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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