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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

  • Uni-Q driver array technology creates a large listening sweet spot
  • Uses a passive radiator for enhanced bass performance

Product Considerations

  • An optional magnetic grille is available separately

Takeaway: The Q650c uses Uni-Q driver array technology that helps create a larger listening sweet spot, and uses a passive radiator to enhance the bass. A YouTube video is available for details about the performance.

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

Q650c

reviews

[{"title":"Kef Q650c Center Channel Speaker Review","link":"https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/kef_q650c_center","source":"Erin's Audio Corner","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

  • Weight: 13.6kg (30 lbs)
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 210 x 629 x 304 mm (214 x 629 x 304 mm with Rubber Feet)
  • Design: 2.5-way bass reflex
  • Sensitivity: 87dB (2.83V/1m)
  • Frequency Range Free Field: 55Hz (-6dB)
  • Frequency Response: 64Hz-28kHz (±3dB)
  • Maximum Output: 110dB
  • Amplifier Requirements: 15-150W
  • Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms (min.4.2 Ohms)
  • Drive Units: 165mm (6.5in.) aluminium Uni-Q, 25mm (1in.) vented aluminium dome HF, 165mm (6.5in.) aluminium LF, 165mm (6.5in.) aluminium ABR
  • Crossover Frequencies: 2.5kHz
  • Finishes: Satin Black / Satin White
A centre channel needs to perfectly match the home theatre system, Uni-Q technology means the sound is as seamless as the picture. The Q650c centre channel speaker features the KEF signature Uni-Q driver array and a new crossover, it brings the on-screen action right out into the room, creating precise, captivating dialogue.
A centre channel needs to perfectly match the home theatre system, Uni-Q technology means the sound is as seamless as the picture. The Q650c centre channel speaker features the KEF signature Uni-Q driver array and a new crossover, it brings the on-screen action right out into the room, creating precise, captivating dialogue. Black cloth magnetic speaker grilles available as an optional extra.
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:

  • KEF's designs prioritize a "Single Apparent Source" through coaxial driver technology, aiming for a coherent soundstage where frequencies appear to originate from a single point, enhancing realism and spatial accuracy.
  • The brand incorporates "Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)" into its drivers, utilizing a maze-like structure to absorb unwanted sound waves from the rear of the driver, resulting in cleaner and more defined output.
  • They offer a wide range of streaming and connectivity options, with their powered loudspeakers responding to the proprietary KEF Connect app, which delivers multiple streaming services and facilitates setup and customization.
  • KEF frequently collaborates with renowned industrial designers to create visually striking products that seamlessly blend into modern living spaces, balancing aesthetic appeal with acoustic performance.

T Series

  • Positioning: The ultra-slim speaker line, designed to complement modern flat-screen TVs with a minimal footprint.
  • Description: While delivering a sleek aesthetic, the flat diaphragm driver maintains rigidity and minimizes resonance, providing clean and accurate sound. However, compared to other KEF lines like the Q or R Series, it may offer less depth in bass response due to its slim design.

Q Series

  • Positioning: The entry-level range offers versatile speakers suitable for both stereo and home theater setups.
  • Description: Features Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivering detailed and natural sound. While it provides excellent value, it lacks some of the advanced damping and driver technologies found in the higher-end R and Reference Series, which offer more refined sound reproduction.

R Series

  • Positioning: Bridges the gap between the entry-level Q Series and the high-end Reference Series, incorporating technologies from the latter to enhance performance.
  • Description: Equipped with Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivers precise and immersive sound. Unlike the Q Series, it includes Shadow Flare technology to reduce cabinet diffraction, resulting in clearer high frequencies.

The Reference

  • Positioning: As KEF's high-end line, sets the benchmark for audiophile-grade sound reproduction.
  • Description: Incorporating Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and a 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, offers exceptional clarity and detail. It also features advanced cabinet construction and flexible port technology for cleaner bass compared to the R Series. However, it doesn't achieve the Single Apparent Source configuration found in the Blade Series, which provides even more precise imaging.

Blade Series

  • Positioning: Represents KEF's innovative approach to speaker design, featuring the world's first Single Apparent Source loudspeakers.
  • Description: With Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivers coherent and precise sound. Its unique cabinet design minimizes resonances and diffraction, surpassing the traditional enclosures of The Reference Series.

MUON

  • Positioning: Stands as KEF's flagship speaker, combining cutting-edge acoustic engineering with avant-garde industrial design.
  • Description: Crafted from super-formed aluminum, the rigid structure minimizes vibrations, delivering ultra-wide bandwidth and immersive sound. While it shares the Uni-Q driver array with other KEF models, its exclusive design and limited production make it a collector's item.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
574
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
1
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
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Products Listed
95
Founding Year
1961

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.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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What if you spend more?

Product image
KEF
R6 Meta
1990
1990
/
4
Reviews
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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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Clearer, louder, and crisper sound compared to the KEF R2C
  • More prominent and distinct mid-range due to the dedicated mid-range driver
  • The Meta material absorbs sound emanating towards the back of the cabinet, resulting in a cleaner, purer treble performance
  • Nice wide dispersion, which makes it suitable to be used as a center channel in a horizontal orientation
  • Superior nuance and detail in music compared to other speakers in the same environment

Product Considerations

  • Limited bass extension; a subwoofer is recommended for deeper bass
  • Larger footprint compared to the R2C, which may present placement challenges, such as blocking the TV sensor
  • As a sealed box, it does not compete as well with ported speakers in bass extension

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. KEF Q150: More detail, nuance, and clarity across the entire frequency range—the R6 Meta is more forward in its presentation
  • Vs. KEF R2C: Clearer and louder sound with greater impact, thanks to its larger drivers

Takeaway: The R6 Meta is a fantastic speaker, especially for music, providing detail and nuance. Three of them can give a seamless front soundstage.

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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
KEF
R2 Meta
1399
1399
/
1
Reviews
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Dialogue is clear, powerful, and articulate through the R2 Meta center speaker
  • The R Series Meta cabinets can be boisterous and muscular, detailed and sweet, all at the same time
  • KEF speakers tend to be all-rounders rather than idiosyncratic

Takeaway: The R2 Meta center speaker delivers clear and powerful dialogue, making it great for movies. It provides a versatile and enjoyable sound that will enhance a home cinema.

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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Totem
Bison Center
1600
1600
/
10
Reviews
Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Small compared to others in its price range, making it suitable for smaller spaces and those with aesthetic constraints
  • Capable of expansive staging, creating a holographic presentation with good depth and dimensionality, regardless of the amplifier used
  • Delivers refined treble regardless of the price of the amplifier connected
  • Spacious sound space and large sound stage

Product Considerations

  • The claws that come with the Totem Bison are not adjustable
  • Totem recommends zero toe-in, and this seems to be a good recommendation
  • Sound may vary, based on personal height

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Totem Bison has forward side of neutral treble versus neutral to dark treble of the Buchardt S400 Mark II; the Bison is slightly warm in the midrange versus the Buchardt being warmer overall; the Bison has tonally richer bass, but the Buchardt has more bass overall
  • The Totem Bison has forward side of neutral treble versus neutral to dark treble of the KEF R3 Meta; imaging on the Bison can be the same or slightly better; the Bison has tonally richer bass, but the R3 Meta has more bass overall
  • Both the Totem Bison and Focal Aria 906 are on the forward side of neutral with treble, but the Bison's treble attack is slightly soft whereas the Aria 906's is slightly sharp; the Bison has a fuller midrange sound and slightly warmer tone, and the Bison's bass is juicier, more organic, and richer overall
  • The PSB Alpha T20s are very similar in size to the Totem Bison Towers (32.5 inches tall), thus they are smaller audiophile floorstanding speakers

Takeaway: The Totem Bison offers attributes found in many top speakers and is a good option for those with size constraints who still want great treble refinement and a holographic midrange. It can be paired with both expensive and affordable amplifiers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Focal
Aria Evo X
1458
1458
/
4
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Impactful bass moves air and adds visceral depth to music and movie effects, even without a subwoofer
  • Seamless and engaging sound makes every album feel fresh and enthralling, maintaining consistent, pleasing audio without causing listener fatigue
  • Vocal presence allows for relaxed listening and renders music in a way that encourages sharing with others
  • Attractive design blends technical prowess with stylish aesthetics, with options for different finishes like Moss Green
  • Wide dispersion offers a broad soundstage and an enveloping soundfield

Product Considerations

  • Expense relative to its capabilities is a potential consideration
  • In small rooms, performance could suffer due to the high-mounted tweeter and narrow vertical dispersion window
  • When pushed, the 'No. 2' tower center channel model, being a 2-way, may run out of headroom before the No. 2 towers
  • A slight lack of dynamics in the bass and high mids around the vocal sweet spot was noted
  • Edgy, crisp, and definitive resolution evokes excitement, though these may not be the right choice for all listeners

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to RBH Sound 61-SFM/R, the RBH digs deeper and has its tweeter at a more typical listening height, however, the Aria Evo X No.4 is undeniably better looking
  • Compared to SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacles, the Ultra Evolution Pinnacles have deeper and more powerful bass, although its overall frequency response isn't as neutral
  • Compared to JBL HDI-3800, the JBL boasts a very wide dynamic range, having a narrower dispersion but more even off-axis response
  • Compared to Arendal Sound 1723 Tower, the 1723 Towers have a bit more elevated treble on-axis, but the build quality is certainly a step above the Aria Evo X No.4 or pretty much anything at their pricing, and they can dig deeper in bass

Takeaway: The Focal Aria Evo X is a stylish speaker that sounds great, making it a good option for people who care about both aesthetics and audio quality. It offers powerful performance with seamless sound, bringing music to life.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

KEF
Q6 Meta
799
/
Released
2024
Carefully designed to be used as left/centre/right (LCR) channel, the Q6 Meta speaker is the perfect addition to any home theatre or audio system. Engineered to seamlessly integrate with any Q Series speakers, the Q6 Meta features a 12th generation Uni-Q driver array equipped with MAT™.
Check Amazon
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

  • More full-bodied sound than the Q650C, giving better sound stage and depth
  • Voices handled a little bit better than the Q650C, sounding more natural, even with a brighter tweeter
  • More dynamic and better in higher treble than the Q650C
  • Dispersion is better than the Q650C despite having a smaller waveguide and mid driver

Product Considerations

  • A 4 ohm speaker that could get warm for some AVRs, but should be fine unless blasting at very high DB

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Q6 has better sound stage and depth than the Q650C, while the Q650C has some boominess
  • The Q6 handles voices better and sounds more natural than the Q650C, while the Q650C's sibilance can be sharper
  • The Q6 is more dynamic and handles higher treble better

Takeaway: The Q6 is a great center channel speaker if you want the absolute best sound. It offers a more dynamic, full-bodied sound and handles voices more naturally.

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
Product Page
Product Page
Focal
Theva Center
649
/
Released
2023
Theva Center is the perfect complement to the speakers in your Theva home cinema system. Equipped with a TNF tweeter and two Slatefiber cone drivers, this centre speaker clarifies the dialogue of any film with a high level of detail. It has been designed to be placed on a piece of furniture or on its stand (available as an option), blending elegantly into any interior.
Check Amazon
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Sweet and smooth sound profile
  • Excellent detail for the price
  • Great balance and fluidity across registers
  • Impressive dynamics and a wide, dimensional stereo imaging, as it can deliver a stunning soundstage
  • Overall balanced tonality
  • The tweeter is made from quality materials with great care
  • Elegant, minimalist design that seamlessly integrates into any audio setup, with a sleek aesthetic and multiple color options

Product Considerations

  • Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class
  • Laid-back sound occasionally obscures some definition
  • Deep bass may require a subwoofer
  • The tweeter is exposed and needs to be handled with care
  • Some reviewers would prefer a solid painted color rather than an imitation wood vinyl veneer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but the Vestia No. 1 has more sparkling detail and pristine treble extension
  • More compact and easier to place, though the Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 looks more premium
  • The L100 presented a more precise center image for vocals and dialog, but the Theva's more laid-back sound profile made them a better listen in most cases
  • Stepped in pretty seamlessly for KEF LSX 2.1, which includes SVS's 3000 Micro subwoofer, showing impressive sonic skills, though they don't offer the same thunderous bass
  • The rear-ported design is a change from the previous entry-level line, Chora, where the port was front-mounted

Takeaway: The Focal Theva No.1 is a well-rounded bookshelf speaker that offers excellent audio performance and detail for its price, with a sleek design that fits into any space. It's a great option for those looking for a hifi experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
ADAM Audio
A44H
699
/
Released
2022
The A44H offers a low-profile alternative to the A Series A7V while delivering similar performance characteristics. With a 19-inch width, the horizontally oriented A44H can sit on a standard rack shelf or be mounted above or below a display. The completely new design also enables the A44H to serve as a center speaker in immersive and 3D speaker configurations.
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ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Compact, comfortable, and easy to place, with a lower profile.
  • Delivers a powerful, dynamic, and precise sound that delivers an enjoyable experience.
  • A rotatable tweeter allows for both horizontal and vertical placement, providing flexibility in different setups.
  • On-board DSP-based room correction options, and integration with Sonarworks SoundID Reference for refined tuning.
  • A wide sweet spot that is immersive and enjoyable to listen to.

Product Considerations

  • The bass response may not be as present or suitable for music production with many sub-bass frequencies.
  • The dial for input level adjustment is not stepped, which may make precise matching more difficult.
  • Some reviewers suggest a sub may be needed depending on the material being worked with, to supplement the 4-inch woofers.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the ADAM Audio A7X model, the A44H offers a similar response curve.

Takeaway: The A44H monitors offer a unique form factor, versatile placement options, and a detailed sound, making them a great option for smaller spaces or immersive setups. The built-in DSP and integration with Sonarworks provide extensive room correction and customization capabilities.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Klipsch
RP-504C II
699
/
Released
2022
Hear every word of the dialogue and lyrics with crystal-clear precision. A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area to create a crisper, clearer sound.
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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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The RP-504C II is a solid center channel option, especially within a surround sound setup
  • It is sonically better, more refined in the midrange and top end than previous generations, offering a balanced and open sound that can improve intelligibility
  • The speaker provides good output levels with low distortion and compression, and is capable of handling power well

Product Considerations

  • The RP-504C II has poor directivity in the horizontal region, which can lead to speech intelligibility issues for listeners sitting more than ±10° off-axis
  • It has an elevated treble response, rising to about +3dB above average sensitivity levels above 2kHz, which may impact linearity

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs RP504C (Gen 1)—the Gen 2 has a different crossover point (650 and 1950 Hz vs 500 and 1500 Hz), refined mids and highs, and the Gen 1 has a gap that's more similar to the gap in the floor standings
  • To Klipsch THX—RP-504C II sounds warmer and more natural

Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-504C II center channel speaker is a capable speaker that may increase the sonic intelligibility of a sound system. It could be a great choice for a home theater setup if clear dialogue and sound reproduction are priorities, and it has good output levels with low distortion and compression.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Paradigm
Premier 600C
879
/
Released
Check Amazon
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Attractive style and are not overly large, making them easy to implement into various home theater or living room setups
  • Magnetic grills make removing them easy and convenient, giving the speaker a cleaner and more premium look
  • The Paradigm Premier 600C delivers dialogue with presence and strength, presenting the front stage smoothly
  • The Paradigm Premier 200B and 600C offer a neutral sound signature without added coloration, providing detailed and smooth mids and highs
  • The Paradigm Premier 200B and 600C feature technology trickled down from Paradigm's higher-end speakers

Product Considerations

  • The center channel (600C) is pretty massive, requiring a lot of space
  • The speaker grills are very thin and require careful handling to avoid damage
  • Cracking sounds were experienced from the speaker cabinet when picking up the center channel and tower speakers, suggesting a potential issue with the laminate quality
  • Low-frequency punch may be insufficient without a subwoofer
  • The rubber feet on the Paradigm Premier 200B's kept falling off

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Paradigm Premier were slightly underwhelming compared to the 'wow factor' of the SVS Ultra Towers and Klipsch RF7's for music

Takeaway:

The Paradigm Premier speakers offer a blend of attractive design, good sound quality, and trickle-down technology from Paradigm's higher-end models, especially when paired with a subwoofer. If the Paradigm sound and aesthetic is appealing, the Premier series is worth considering for an immersive home theater experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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