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

  • Exceptional build quality, with a strong, rigid cabinet made from 13-layer 18mm Baltic birch
  • Capable of handling tons of power, with tons of headroom
  • Delivers high-quality, detailed sound and dynamics, similar to IMAX cinema, without distortion
  • Great value for the price, with high-quality components
  • High sensitivity of 95 decibels

Product Considerations

  • Limited bass response, ideally used with a subwoofer
  • Not recommended as standalone speakers, due to limited bass
  • Matte black paint, while non-reflective and suitable for home cinema, is not as fancy as some glossy finishes

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Noesis 110HT delivers 70-80% of the sound quality of the best JTR Towers, but is smaller and less expensive

Takeaway: The JTR Noesis 110HT speakers are a great choice for those wanting quality sound and dynamics, especially when paired with a subwoofer. They offer a fantastic home theater experience and are built to last.

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

Noesis 110HT-SL

reviews

[{"title":"JTR Noesis 110HT(SL) Review - FULL JTR CINEMA","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xk9alwXKR9E","source":"King's Cinema","datePublished":"2022"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Status: Please contact us for the most up to date lead time
  • Frequency Response: 80hz-20khz (+/- 3db, half space)
  • Sensitivity: 95db (2.83 volt, free air)
  • Usable Output: 124db (calculated peak 127db– 3db compression)
  • Recommended Amplification: up to 750 watts RMS (program)
  • Impedance: 8 ohm
  • Dimensions (HxWxD): 14"x14"x9"
  • Weight: 32 lbs
  • Construction: 18mm, 13ply, void free, Baltic Birch
  • Exterior Finish: Matte black lacquer paint
  • Connectors: Binding Post
  • Warranty: 5 year Manufacturer defect, 30 day full money back guarantee (less return shipping)
Noesis 110HT-SL (Slanted) is a 2-way audiophile loudspeaker utilizing a 10" midrange coaxial fitted with a 1" compression driver behind the acoustically transparent dust cover.
Noesis 110HT-SL (Slanted) is a 2 way audiophile loudspeaker utilizing an 10” midrange coaxial fitted with a 1” compression driver behind the acoustically transparent dust cover.
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:

JTR Captivator RS1

  • Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for compactness and affordability.
  • Description: Offers a powerful 2400-watt amplifier and an 18" driver, making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms. Its sealed design provides precise bass, but it may lack the extended low-end output of the RS2, which features dual drivers for larger spaces.

JTR Captivator 2400

  • Positioning: Mid-range option, balancing performance and cost.
  • Description: Features a bass reflex design with an 18" driver and a 2400-watt amplifier, delivering deeper bass than the RS1. It provides enhanced low-frequency performance in medium to large rooms.

JTR Captivator RS2

  • Positioning: High-performance model, designed for larger spaces.
  • Description: With dual 18" drivers and a 4000-watt amplifier, provides significant output and low-frequency extension, surpassing the RS1 in power and depth. It offers more robust performance than the single-driver 2400.

JTR Captivator 4000ULF

  • Positioning: Premium model, focused on maximum output and depth.
  • Description: Uses dual 18" drivers and a 4000-watt amplifier, offering exceptional low-frequency extension and output. It provides more depth and power than the RS2.

JTR Captivator 4000ULF-ST

  • Positioning: Flagship model, designed for ultimate performance.
  • Description: Features the same dual 18" drivers and 4000-watt amplifier as the 4000ULF but with a unique cabinet design for even greater output and efficiency. It offers superior output compared to all other models in the lineup.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
4
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
300
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
23
Founding Year
2006

Our take on the brand

JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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

There isn't really anything on the market like ours. We're combining end high, audiophile speaker technology with concert speaker technology to give people the best of both worlds. There are some companies selling pro audio type speakers for home theater but they not incorporating ultra-high-end components like we are. The company KEF makes some really nice point source speakers which are acoustically similar having a concentric mid and high frequency devices. The JTR's will provide all the detail but then also much more dynamic capability. Our speakers are voiced natural and neutral so they aren't recessed but also not forward sounding.

What's your approach to customer support?

Email support direct via JTR Speakers or call/email support via dealer networks.

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

Jeff likes Hotel California, but we usually demo with home theater content to show the dynamics of our speakers.

What other products pair best with yours?

JBL Synthesis is likely the closest match tonality.

From our interview with
Tony
.
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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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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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
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What competes at this price?

JTR Speakers
Noesis 210HT
1999
/
Released
2022
The Noesis 210HT is a 2-way loudspeaker equipped with two 10" woofers in a sealed enclosure, combined with a high-end compression driver fitted on a large, wooden horn with a 60 x 60 coverage pattern.
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JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional build quality using Baltic birch, which is stronger and more expensive than MDF
  • Very loud output levels can be achieved without distortion
  • Great detail and clarity in sound
  • Excellent directivity which responds well to EQ, allowing users to shape the sound to their liking
  • Massive binding posts that accept up to two gauge wire, giving versatility in cable usage

Product Considerations

  • The midrange area may have some linearity issues without equalization
  • Can sound 'bright' in some rooms due to a treble lift, especially when combined with early reflections, but can be remedied with EQ
  • Large size and heavy weight (85 pounds) may pose logistical challenges for placement and setup
  • Soundstage width may not be as expansive as some users prefer, although toe-out can help

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Noesis 210HT plays significantly louder and provides more detail than Arendal speakers

Takeaway: The JTR Noesis 210HT is a robust, high-output speaker that excels in delivering detailed sound for home theater enthusiasts. With equalization, this speaker can be tuned to provide sound that is improved.

Video review

Our take on the brand

JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
JTR Speakers
Noesis 110HT
1299
/
Released
Noesis 110HT is a 2-way audiophile loudspeaker utilizing a 10" midrange coaxial fitted with a 1" compression driver behind the acoustically transparent dust cover.
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JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Uses a 10 inch midwoofer with a one inch compression driver in a coaxial configuration, which is not very common
  • Exceptional build quality, made of Baltic birch, and feels like a solid brick
  • Great dynamics, very sensitive with 95 dB sensitivity, and capable of 124 dB
  • Capable of handling some pretty extreme power, and SPL is not going to be a problem, even in a larger room
  • Fantastic mid-range, with vocals being very rich and true to the recording/source and very neutral sounding
  • Delivers clear, concise, dynamic, and detailed sound with good imaging
  • Capable of tons of power with tons of headroom

Product Considerations

  • The frequency response is only 80 hertz to 20 kilohertz plus or minus 3 dB, so a subwoofer is needed to fill in the low end
  • When freestanding, the speaker only goes down to 100 hertz
  • The high end is more forward, and if there is some harshness in the recording, it's going to show
  • Good for home theater or as surround/ceiling speakers, though not as good as standalone speakers because they don't have so much bass
  • The finish is only available in matte black lacquer paint designed to be non-light reflective for home theaters

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to JTR tower speakers and center speakers, the Noesis 110HT is not as good, as those are three-way speakers with more drivers and higher quality drivers—resulting in a fuller and richer sound with better bass
  • Compared to JTR tower speakers, the Noesis 110HT is less heavy, smaller, and cheaper, but still delivers 70–80% of the sound quality

Takeaway: The Noesis 110HT is a dynamic and clear speaker that works great when cinematic sound is desired for home theater. It can also be used for music and will sound good with a subwoofer.

Video review

Our take on the brand

JTR Speakers designs hifi speakers and subwoofers that use large waveguides and coaxial compression drivers to achieve extremely high output levels with minimal power, with models like the Noesis 212HT reaching 101 dB sensitivity and handling over 1300 watts. Their speakers and subwoofers, built with Baltic birch plywood instead of typical MDF, are known for delivering deep bass and precise imaging at high volumes, making them particularly suited for both home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles who demand maximum performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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