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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.

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.

Manufacturer details

  • Description: 2-way speaker with angled tweeter and front-ported bass reflex
  • Power handling: 100 W
  • Tweeter: Size 1", textile soft dome, PTC protection
  • Midrange/bass driver: Size 6.5", 35 mm voice coil, cone material: aluminum, die cast basket, vented magnet
  • Enclosure: Bass reflex, front ported, full MDF construction, volume: 15 litres
  • Frequency response: 42 to 22.000 Hz (-3dB)
  • Nominal impedance: 4 Ohm
  • Sensitivity: 88 dB (2.83V/1m)
  • Crossover point: 2.2 kHz
  • Connections: Binding posts
  • Placement options: Horizontal, inside furniture and cabinets
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 42,0 x 30,7 x 20 cm / 16.5 x 12.1 x 7.9 inches
  • Weight: 8,1 kg / 17.4 lb
  • Finish: Matte black
The Lyngdorf CS-2 is a compact full range loudspeaker specifically designed for discreet placement inside cabinets such as lowboards, sideboards and TV furniture. For this purpose, the CS-2 is constructed with the bass reflex front-ported, while the tweeter is mounted both elevated and angled. This special tweeter placement reduces sound diffractions from furniture edges inside a cabinet and also improves sound radiation toward the listening area.
The Lyngdorf CS-2 is a compact full range loudspeaker specifically designed for discreet placement inside cabinets such as lowboards, sideboards and TV furniture. For this purpose, the CS-2 is constructed with the bass reflex front-ported, while the tweeter is mounted both elevated and angled. This special tweeter placement reduces sound diffractions from furniture edges inside a cabinet and also improves sound radiation toward the listening area. While the design and shape of the elevated tweeter is useful in most furniture, it seamlessly fits the Danish Clic audio/video furniture with its elegant fabric doors.
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:

  • The brand's digital amplifiers, underpinned by proprietary Equibit technology, minimize signal conversion for a cleaner, more direct signal path to the speakers.
  • RoomPerfect technology allows Lyngdorf systems to analyze and adapt to the unique acoustic properties of any listening space, optimizing the sound for a more immersive experience.

MH-3

  • Positioning: The entry-level speaker is compact, ideal for small stereo or media room installations.
  • Description: Features a compact design, making it perfect for small spaces while still delivering dynamic performance. Uses a powerful 4-inch midrange driver with a magnet 50% stronger than traditional drivers, offering higher sensitivity and a linear frequency response. Compared to the FR-2 and Cue-100, it's more affordable and compact, making it suitable for those with limited space and budget, but lacks the advanced technologies and larger soundstage of the higher-end models.

FR-2

  • Positioning: A mid-range floor-standing speaker designed for optimal wall placement.
  • Description: Features a shallow cabinet design and high-performance woofers, providing tight and powerful bass when placed against a wall. Uses a downward-facing bass reflex port for consistent acoustic performance. While it offers better bass response than the MH-3, it doesn't match the Cue-100's advanced driver technology and customization options.

Cue-100

  • Positioning: A high-end standmount loudspeaker aimed at audiophiles and design-conscious users.
  • Description: Features Purifi USHINDI technology, which delivers ultra-low distortion and high sound purity. Its unique triangular design and customizable fabric covers offer both aesthetic appeal and acoustic excellence. Compared to the MH-3 and FR-2, provides superior sound quality and design flexibility.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
23
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
161
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
26
Founding Year
2005

Our take on the brand

Lyngdorf Audio is known for its RoomPerfect technology, which learns and corrects room acoustics, and for creating the first fully digital amplifier that converts digital signals directly to PWM without a traditional DAC. The brand's unique Boundary Woofers are designed to be placed against walls to use room acoustics for better bass, setting them apart from traditional subwoofer approaches.

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?

Our own amplifier technology sets our TDAI streaming amps apart. It is a so-called digital amplification which amplifies digital audio directly, without the common analogue conversions, signal paths, and side effects within the unit. We also have a unique, absolutely lossless way of volume control, whereas in most amplifiers the incoming music signal is attenuated.

Our second key innovation is RoomPerfect, available in our stereo and home cinema products. This calibration measures and addresses room acoustical issues, which affect even the best listening rooms, yet without linearizing and neutralizing the sound too much.

What's your approach to customer support?

Every Lyngdorf dealer can be contacted no matter where one bought the product, but we are proud to also offer direct support by our team here at the headquarters in Denmark. They have direct access to all Lyngdorf products in our demo and test rooms. Furthermore, a Backup function in our amplifiers and processors allows us to mirror customer settings remotely on our device, so we can literally look into it and give better advice — for example, for setting up or finding faults along the audio chain.

Last but not least, we can offer support and repairs even for the first Lyngdorf products made here decades ago, which includes a 24-hour burn-in test — not only to verify functions but to measure the performance-relevant specs. [email protected]

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

Three? You mean three hundred?

Odetta – Hit or Miss. This is an old but excellent recording from 1970. It requires a good system and room to make it sound realistic and alive. Listen for well-separated instruments, good timing, and a tuneful bass. Everything is alright production-wise, so any shortcomings rather come from the listening room and audio system.

Vestbo Trio – Italian Movie, Portuguese Wine. This is a reference for capturing the sound and dynamics of real instruments in a good recording studio. No compression or autotune involved. Listen for the space, soundstage, and realism as the song shifts up one gear. You should almost have the guys playing in your room.

Gidge – Quasar. Electronic music can be quite challenging because there are no microphones as a filter. Someone with a computer and synthesizer can just go crazy, and the audio system has to cope. This Swedish duo will test the limits of your speakers. Listen whether it sounds powerful yet pure and defined at the same time. This kind of music is rather done for clubs, so it requires good speakers, speaker placement, and ideally some degree of calibration to control the energy in a normal living room.

What other products pair best with yours?

One great advantage of our room calibration RoomPerfect is that it doesn't do what many other calibrations do — linearizing and neutralizing the sound, and therefore linearizing the characteristic sound of someone's chosen loudspeaker. What many Lyngdorf owners, dealers, and reviewers like about RoomPerfect is that it preserves what the speaker is good at, so there's real synergy here. No matter whether someone prefers a Dali, Bowers & Wilkins, Dynaudio, Sonus Faber, Spendor, or any other. Our amplifiers also have no problem driving low-impedance speakers, so really not much to worry about regarding system matching. The biggest challenge is the listening room.

From our interview with
Roland Hoffman
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
KEF
R3 Meta
2430
2430
/
18
Reviews

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.

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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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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
1299
/
18
Reviews
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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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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
MoFi
SourcePoint 8
1999
1999
/
15
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

  • 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
Product image
Sonus Faber
Lumina II
1299
1299
/
15
Reviews

Room-filling sound in a compact form.The Lumina II enriches the range of two-way speakers in the Lumina family, offering a perfect solution for smaller rooms with uncompromising Natural Sound.LARGE VOLUME IN A COMPACT DESIGNThe larger of the two bookshelf speakers in the collection, the Lumina II has a larger volume and 150mm mid-woofer.PERFECT VERSATILITYLumina II maintains a compact and versatile design perfect for placement within a bookcase or shelving unit. It can also be positioned as rear channels in a home theater system.SIGNATURE SONUS FABER MATERIALSLumina II incorporates multilayer wood on the front baffle and wood veneer, available in multiple finishes. The sides and top of the speaker cabinet are hand-covered in our iconic black leather.SIMPLICITY AND STYLELumina takes note of Sonus faber’s iconic 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

  • Extremely good build quality, feeling solid and carefully assembled
  • Delivers well-defined, three-dimensional imaging and a snappy sense of timing
  • Combines exceptional midrange coherency
  • Known for a natural, open, and detailed sound
  • A beautifully three-dimensional speaker with very little perception of cabinet coloration or even cabinet presence

Product Considerations

  • Inherent bass response drops away slowly
  • Some recordings may sound a little sharp in the treble, but this is not the fault of the speakers
  • Some limits to detail retrieval
  • On the brighter side

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Lumina I: The Lumina II has meaningful extension below 50Hz, creating a believable weight and scale to the performance
  • Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Sonus faber is easier to drive, more forgiving of less pristine recordings, and has an emotional quality that the LS50 Meta lacks

Takeaway: The Lumina II is a speaker that delivers many of the qualities that make Sonus faber loudspeakers stand out, offering an inviting and spirited sound that is also beautiful to look at. It represents an affordable way to experience Sonus faber's Italian-made craftsmanship and sonic signature.

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

What competes at this price?

Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
/
Released
2021
Wharfedale's new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN. The primary focus is on the AMT development resulting in a radically different way of reproducing high frequency detail efficiently and accurately.
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Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
  • Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
  • Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
  • Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
  • Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price

Product Considerations

  • Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
  • Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
  • Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
  • Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
  • The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level

Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Q Acoustics
5020
899
/
Released
2023
Experience all the scale and power of your favourite music without letting your loudspeaker dominate your room. The 5020 standmounting speaker will put your right in the heart of the music without putting itself at the heart of your space.
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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

  • Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
  • Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
  • Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
  • Taut and agile bass performance
  • Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
  • Connectivity options such as binding posts

Product Considerations

  • Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
  • Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
  • Bass response is somewhat subdued
  • Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
  • Grilles muddle the sound

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Klipsch
RP-600M II
649
/
Released
2022
A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area for crisper, clearer sound. The phase plug and compression molded silicone face ensure smooth frequency response.
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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.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Larger horn tweeter and a new Cerametallic woofer, compared to its predecessor
  • Upgraded binding posts and crossover plate elevate to Reference Premiere status
  • Larger diameter voice coils and aluminum shorting rings on the woofers give the speaker better linearity throughout the bass, decrease distortion while upping power handling resulting in improved speed and accuracy
  • Better detail retrieval, more articulate bass, and vastly improved soundstage width and imaging, compared to the RP-600M
  • The binding posts are the same that are found on costlier Heritage speakers

Product Considerations

  • Finish options did not receive an upgrade over the outgoing model, leaving customers with the same ebony or walnut wraps
  • The tweeter may be too bright for some listeners who are sensitive to a more aggressive top end
  • Rated sensitivity is 94.5dB, which is a decrease compared to the original's reported sensitivity of 96
  • Needs a bit of space behind them and to the sides, or at least positioning on open shelves, if the powerful output from that port isn't to muddy the sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the older RP-600M, the new sounds far more linear
  • The new is very easy to listen to for long periods of time, and while it still has a presence, a speed and transparency to the artist or instrument—at least with respect to the midrange—it is not as forward sounding as past designs
  • The new proved to be surprisingly flat, but best of all, not the least bit fatiguing
  • There was very little difference in tone with respect to the mids between the new and a costlier Revel bookshelf
  • These two are actually pretty neck and neck
  • As for the Wharfedale Evo 4.1, the Evo is better constructed, not to mention nicer looking

Takeaway: The RP-600M II is a refined speaker with better components, improved sound, and better bass response and imaging. It's a speaker that would be great for someone who likes to listen to a variety of music genres and wants a good-sounding speaker that can last a long time.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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SVS
Ultra Evolution Bookshelf
599
/
Released
2024
Reference flagship bookshelf speaker is a technology tour-de-force that stands toe-to-toe with the finest loudspeakers in the world delivering reference sound for both two-channel audiophiles and home theater fans. The SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf speaker represents the culmination of SVS breakthroughs in driver design, component materials, and cabinet architecture, married with a relentless passion for audio excellence.
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SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Incredible power handling capabilities, performing as well as speakers in the $2,000–$3,000 range
  • Sound quality is comparable to stand-mount speakers in the $1,500–$2,000 range
  • Build quality is phenomenal for its price point, with real wood veneer options available
  • Produces a dense and deep soundstage, especially for a two-way design
  • Neutral and clean sound with nice extension in the upper mid-range to high-frequency extension, avoiding a 'hot' sound

Product Considerations

  • Stereo imaging is decent, but not as precise as some listeners may prefer
  • The mid-range can be a weak point due to some potential resonance in the upper frequencies of the woofer's range
  • The speakers are not the easiest to drive and pairing with neutral, slightly warmer amps is recommended
  • The treble response is slightly forward with some extra sparkle which may not be ideal for those sensitive to higher frequencies
  • While the bass is good, listeners of bass-heavy music may want to add a subwoofer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. SVS Nano: The Ultra Evolution has a more open and expansive midrange and more linear bass, while the Nano has punchier—slightly boosted—bass
  • Vs. Heco Salon Revolution 3: The Ultra Evolution is a good replacement since the Heco is discontinued, the Ultra Evolution favors neutrality, while the Heco has a warmer midrange, but the treble is very similar on both
  • Vs. KEF R3 Meta: The SVS Ultra Evolution disappears better, but the R3 Meta sounds more neutral
  • Vs. Dali Opticon II Mark IIs: Dali is warmer and more nuanced in the midrange but the Ultra Evolution is a little more exciting in its presentation

Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Bookshelf speakers provide exceptional performance for the price and create an immersive listening experience. They are well-built, attractive, and offer a balanced sound that makes them a strong contender in their price range.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Triangle
AIO Twin
799
/
Released
2022
The AIO TWIN speakers are packed with technologies and TRIANGLE know-how. Versatile and in a sleek design, they are a state-of-the-art product. With all the features and performances of a modern Hi-Fi system, they offer a rich, precise, and detailed sound. With Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily stream your music in high-resolution (24 bits / 192 KHz) from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. They also feature a Phono input, compatible with most turntables available on the market.
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Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Wide range of connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0 aptX, Wi-Fi, RCA/Phono input, optical input, and USB input.
  • Enthusiastic and capable sound quality suitable for various music genres, with a mature sense of composure.
  • Elegant and refined design with unique arrow-extended feet and premium grill, available in multiple color finishes.
  • The included Triangle AIO app is well-designed, bug-free, and provides easy streaming from providers like Spotify, Qobuz, Tidal, and Deezer, as well as basic EQ adjustments.
  • Includes a built-in moving magnet phono stage for playing records directly.

Product Considerations

  • The quality of the built-in phono stage isn't the best compared to streaming or other inputs
  • The remote control is plastic and doesn't feel as premium as the speaker itself
  • The included speaker cable is basic
  • WiFi connectivity can have a delay when turning the speaker off and back on
  • The bright LED indicating the source can be distracting for some users, though it can be dimmed or turned off

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the KEF LSX II, the AIO Twin is at half the price
  • Triangle is more balanced, neutral, and composed than the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2, while the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2 is more V-shaped

Takeaway: The AIO is a versatile and good-sounding all-in-one speaker system that combines modern features with a stylish design, making it a great choice for those who want simplicity and convenience. The speaker's ability to handle various input sources, from streaming to vinyl playback, ensures that users can enjoy all of their music with ease.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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