Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • Striking and unique aesthetic design, inspired by Japanese architecture, makes it a statement piece
  • Impressive sound quality for an all-in-one system is capable of room-filling sound and substantial volume
  • Automatic Room Tailoring (ART) optimizes sound based on room measurements for optimal sound in various spaces
  • Strong bass performance has reviewers noting that it eliminates the need for a separate subwoofer
  • Wide range of connectivity options includes Hi-Res Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, and analog inputs

Product Considerations

  • MUZO app can be frustrating to use and not always reliable
  • Sensitive to Wi-Fi signal strength, it may experience dropouts if the signal is weak
  • Occasional operational sluggishness occurs, such as delays in starting playback or pausing
  • The sharp point on the top of the aluminum frame could be a safety concern
  • Unclear folder structure with poor organization exists with the MUZO app, when using USB and microSD inputs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Aurora has better bass control, while the Naim Mu-so 2nd Generation has a more polished app and fuller vocal reproduction

Takeaway: The Aurora is a unique, stylish, and great-sounding all-in-one music system perfect for someone who values aesthetics and convenience. With its room correction and robust sound, the Aurora delivers a premium audio experience without the complexity of a traditional stereo system.

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

Aurora

reviews

[{"title":"iFi Audio Aurora Lifestyle System","link":"https://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0520/iFi_Audio_Aurora_Lifestyle_System_Review.htm","source":"Enjoy the Music","datePublished":""},{"title":"iFi Aurora Music System","link":"https://www.hifipig.com/ifi-aurora-music-system","source":"HiFi Pig","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"iFi Audio Aurora network music system","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/ifi-audio-aurora-network-music-system","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"iFi Aurora All in One System Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/speaker/wireless-speakers/ifi-aurora-all-in-one-system-review","source":"Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"iFi Audio Aurora Wireless Music System","link":"https://www.soundstagesimplifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/115-ifi-audio-aurora-wireless-music-system","source":"SoundStage! Simplifi","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"iFi Aurora Review: This Modern Art Piece Is Also A Killer Wireless Audio System","link":"https://www.forbes.com/sites/bradmoon/2020/02/15/ifi-aurora-review-this-modern-art-piece-is-also-a-killer-wireless-audio-system","source":"Forbes","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"iFi Aurora Review - Love At First Sight?!","link":"https://homestudiobasics.com/ifi-aurora-review","source":"Home Studio Basics ","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"iFi Audio AURORA All-In-One Audiophile Music System -- REVIEW","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xE_ZiBTpFE","source":"Dave Taylor","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"iFi Aurora Review | Love At First Sight?!?!😍","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvv5gKG0OdQ","source":"Home Studio Basics","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"iFi Aurora Review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WojA6_25toQ","source":"Luis Awesomest","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"iFi Aurora All-In-One Music System Review - Beauty AND The Beast!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vcWT5usR9c","source":"AV NIRVANA – Home Theater and AV FORUM","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"iFi Audio: Aurora ... Audio meets Art!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNLn_Uql0hc","source":"TylersEclectic","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Aurora","link":"https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/ifi4","source":"6moons.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"If Elon Musk Had A Bluetooth Speaker: ifi Aurora Hifi Bluetooth Speaker System","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQ2_BZV0kzY","source":"Luis Awesomest","datePublished":"2021"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

Style that suits your home, sound that fills it. With exclusive technologies like Auto Room Tailoring, this premium home music system transforms your living room into a concert hall.
Our designer, Julien Haziza, drew inspiration from Japanese industrial designers and architecture – namely Shigeru Ban, Tadao Ando and the Omotesandō and Harajuku districts in Tokyo. Clad in bamboo and elevated by a distinctive aluminium frame, the Aurora’s design is striking. It mimics the grand scale of Japanese architecture – crisp, clean lines intertwined with a hint of vintage. Very fitting for the tour de force that is our premium wireless music system – Aurora.
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:

  • iFi offers a wide range of devices, from portable to desktop solutions, catering to diverse audio needs and preferences.
  • They emphasize versatility, often combining multiple functionalities like DAC, amplifier, and Bluetooth connectivity in a single unit.
  • iFi employs its own custom technologies and features, such as XBass and XSpace, to enhance the listening experience, tailoring sound to individual preferences.
  • The brand is known for its commitment to high-resolution audio, supporting various formats, including DSD, MQA, and lossless Bluetooth codecs.

ZEN DAC 3

  • Positioning: The entry-level desktop DAC in the iFi lineup.
  • Description: Offers high-resolution audio support up to PCM 768kHz and DSD512, making it a great choice for those seeking high-quality sound on a budget. Features a Burr-Brown DAC chip for True Native playback, which is a step up from the ZEN Blue 3's focus on Bluetooth capabilities. Its balanced outputs and USB-C connectivity provide versatility for both headphones and active speakers, unlike the ZEN One Signature which lacks a headphone amp.

ZEN Blue 3

  • Positioning: A Bluetooth DAC in the iFi lineup.
  • Description: Notable for being the first Bluetooth DAC to support aptX Lossless, offering CD-quality audio wirelessly. Excels in wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.4, unlike the ZEN DAC 3 which focuses on wired connections. Its ability to function as a wired DAC with USB and S/PDIF inputs adds flexibility.

GO bar

  • Positioning: A portable DAC/amp designed for on-the-go use.
  • Description: Compact yet powerful, offering up to 475mW output, which is significantly more than typical portable devices. Features iEMatch and Turbo modes for optimal headphone performance, setting it apart from the ZEN DAC 3's desktop focus. Its portability and balanced circuitry make it ideal for users who need high-quality audio in a small package, unlike the iDSD Diablo 2 which is more powerful but less portable.

ZEN One Signature

  • Positioning: A mid-range DAC in the iFi lineup, designed as a home audio hub.
  • Description: Combines high-definition Bluetooth with multiple digital inputs, making it a versatile choice for home setups. Supports a wide range of audio formats, including MQA and DSD256, similar to the ZEN DAC 3 but with added Bluetooth capabilities. Its focus on connectivity and premium components makes it suitable for users who want a central audio hub, unlike the GO bar which is designed for portability.

iDSD Diablo 2

  • Positioning: The flagship portable DAC/amp in the iFi lineup.
  • Description: Offers groundbreaking power with up to 5,180mW output, making it ideal for driving demanding headphones. Features advanced technologies like xMEMS compatibility and aptX Lossless Bluetooth, providing superior audio quality compared to the GO bar's more compact design. Its high power and versatility make it suitable for audiophiles who need a portable solution without compromising on performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
82
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
19
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
19
Founding Year
2012

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.

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Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
GoldenEar
T66
3450
3450
/
23
Reviews

Introducing the T Series 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. Honoring the Triton Series The T66 honors the critically acclaimed Triton Series, sharing a similarly tall, slender profile; built-in DSP-controlled subwoofer amplification; and a driver complement comprising GoldenEar’s High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter, cast-basket mid/bass units, quadratic planar radiators, and long-throw powered sub-bass section. Onward and Upward Several important cosmetic and sonic refinements distinguish the new T66 from previous GoldenEar speakers. These include a dramatically augmented crossover design, high-quality internal wiring, a new cast-aluminum base and metal grille, and, in addition to GoldenEar’s Gloss Black cabinet finish, a vibrant Santa Barbara Red.

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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Sonus Faber
Duetto
3999
3999
/
19
Reviews

Powerful, rich sound in a compact design. Designed for both digital and analog sources, Duetto is a versatile combination of Italian style and contemporary function. Big sound in a compact design, 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.

Double the sound, not the size. Inspired by a harmony produced by two instruments, Duetto sets a new standard for wireless high-fidelity sound in a compact design.

Ultra Wide Band Technology

 Duetto employs Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, enabling communication between the two speakers. The wireless transmission avoids latency and interference by other home networks, while guaranteeing a wide frequency spectrum to send data signals at high speeds.

SENSO™ Technology by Sonus faber

 The leather top panel allows the user to control and set up speaker functions — such as playback, volume, input selection, and connections — with a buttonless interface through simple fingertip gestures.

Sonus faber's iconic lute-shaped design takes inspiration from musical instruments. Crafted from wood, the cabinet ensures structural solidity, rich timbre, and musicality, while effectively eradicating internal resonances to shape the unmistakable Sonus faber Natural Sound.

Hear – and see – to believe. Duetto takes note of Sonus faber's most iconic design cues and natural materials.

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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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Buchardt
Anniversary 10
3988
3988
/
14
Reviews

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. The A10 is something we are truly proud of, both in terms of sound, look and production values. It is a true celebration of our passion for amazing high-end sound, great engineering and high value products.

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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
MoFi
SourcePoint 10
2999
2999
/
12
Reviews
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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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

KEF
R3 Meta
2430
/
Released
2023
Three-way bookshelf speaker R3 Meta redefines bookshelf speaker's performance. Sharing the same drivers as the range-topping R11 Meta, the R3 Meta is a true three-way design. It has a 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™ and a powerful 6.5" hybrid aluminium bass driver that pushes performance to new extremes.
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KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
  • Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
  • Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
  • A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
  • Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences

Product Considerations

  • The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
  • The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
  • Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
  • The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
  • Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
  • Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
  • Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta

Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
/
Released
2022
One system. One app. All the music. Just a left and right speaker and your smart phone is all that's needed to access your favourite tracks and albums from Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, internet radio, and more. Connect your TV, gaming console, or turntable for even more music listening options.
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Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
  • Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
  • Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth

Product Considerations

  • BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
  • BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
  • Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
  • Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
  • Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
  • Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
  • Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers

Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Sonus Faber
Omnia
1999
/
Released
2022
Omnia elevates the listening experience to new heights, combining relentless artistry with cutting-edge innovation. The new technology brings the sensation of live music to every listening space.
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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

  • Elegant and luxurious design embodies the classic Sonus Faber look with a curvaceous shape, walnut wood exterior, and appealing aesthetics
  • Impressive soundstage and room-filling performance–the Crescendo technology creates a wide and immersive soundstage that exceeds the physical size of the speaker
  • Good sound quality, with solid, full, and tight bass, along with clear midrange and vocals
  • Setup is relatively easy and user-friendly, with intuitive controls and compatibility with various streaming services
  • Extensive wireless connectivity (AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, aptX HD Bluetooth, and Roon) and wired options (HDMI ARC, Ethernet, switchable phono/line input via dongle)

Product Considerations

  • Price is expensive compared to other wireless speakers on the market
  • Awkward placement of back-panel connectors, as they are buried in the base, making them difficult to access
  • Treble might be a little too soft and lacking some presence for some listeners
  • There is no bespoke Omnia control app
  • Some users reported compatibility problems with Android devices

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Naim Mu-so 2, the Omnia has a wider, more spacious soundstage and unrivalled clarity, while the Mu-so 2 has a warmer tone and superior sense of musical cohesion
  • The Omnia's curves remind some of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin

Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Omnia is a stylish and well-equipped wireless speaker that offers an immersive listening experience for smaller spaces. It is a good choice for audiophiles who appreciate both aesthetics and high-quality sound and are willing to pay a premium.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Q Acoustics
Concept 50
2199
/
Released
2022
A sonic step-up from the Concept 30, this elegant floorstander takes everything great about its standmount brother but delivers more powerful audio, a deeper soundstage and increased bass extension through its leading-edge, low resonance cabinet.
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Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Fit and finish plus performance that is a bargain for around $3k/pair
  • Gelcore cabinet construction minimizes unwanted sound energy from resonance and vibrations
  • A tweeter that is hermetically sealed and mechanically isolated (floating) from the baffle provides lower distortion
  • Size, weight, and richness of tone belies their size, with a wider baffle to each loudspeaker pointing at you
  • A mild sound throws emphasis back to the midrange that in itself seems almost holographic, as well as deeply insightful in a gentle but revealing manner

Product Considerations

  • A medium to large size room is required to shine, otherwise the bass will dominate
  • Flaws in poor recordings can be revealed due to their detail and accuracy—warts and all performance
  • The top-end is a little soft and gentle—classic BBC like—which may require amps with some zing to compensate
  • Listeners seeking absolute detail or transparency might not be satisfied because of Q Acoustics' house sound that massages treble and plumps up bass and lower mid
  • They don't go sub-40Hz deep, frequency response is rated at 42 Hz – 30 kHz (-6dB)

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics Concept 50 offers excellent value with its blend of innovative design and high-quality sound, making it a great choice for enjoying music with a sense of depth and engagement. The Concept 50s are easy to listen to and fun.

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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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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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MoFi
SourcePoint 8
1999
/
Released
2023
The SourcePoint 8 was carefully crafted the speaker to embody the same acoustic DNA as the widely acclaimed SourcePoint 10. The new SourcePoint 8 packs the same sonic excellence of its larger sibling into a more compact and manageable form factor. Andrew Jones and the team at MoFi Electronics scaled down the SourcePoint 10 to create a new speaker that can fit into a wider range of spaces, all while still delivering that big, satisfying sound that we know and love.
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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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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Precise and stable stereo imaging
  • Good detail retrieval
  • Neutral tonal balance
  • Versatile directivity

Product Considerations

  • Bass extension requires a subwoofer for full-range playback, especially below the mid-40Hz range
  • Potential for brightness, especially when toed-in directly towards the listening position
  • Requires careful setup and experimentation with placement to optimize sound, especially in relation to the rear wall and toe-in

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The SourcePoint 8 is more neutral, with a less elevated top end, while the SourcePoint 10 is brighter

Takeaway: The SourcePoint 8 is a well-engineered speaker that stands out for its clear imaging and ability to convey musical detail across different genres. It offers a balanced and neutral sound that makes it an engaging listening experience.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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