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.
All
Karl III
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Dimensions: 52 x 160 x 23 cm (W x H x D)
- Base Plate: 46 cm deep
- Weight: 88kg
- Acoustic Space Coverage: 40 – 120 m2 Room Size
- Total Power: 2400 W (per pair)
- Drivers: Accuton® Cell® Diamond BD25 25 mm Tweeter, Accuton® 4D C168 Ceramic 7" Midrange, 3 x Accuton® C173 7" Midbass, ScanSpeak® 30W Aluminum 12" Subwoofer, Topfiring Ambience Tweeter AMT50
- Amplifiers: 10 Power Amps CLASS D 4th Gen. NCORE®
Description
KARL has opened a new chapter for high end audio. A fullsize speaker with the most advanced drivers available today, each of them directly driven by a breakthrough power amplifier, seamlessly merged into a perfectly coherent system by a high resolution DSP. The concept of KARL is based on the conviction that the current generation of Accuton® ceramic and diamond drivers are capable to deliver more musical information than traditional drivers, but only when directly driven and DSP-controlled.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
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Karl-3
- Positioning: The entry-level unit designed for affordability and compactness.
- Description: Offers a clear and simple audio solution for small rooms with straightforward performance and limited connectivity needs. Compared to more advanced options in the lineup, it does not include extra refinement in circuitry or high-end features, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious users with basic functionality requirements.
Karlina
- Positioning: The mid-range line offering an improved balance of performance and value.
- Description: Brings enhanced sound clarity and build quality through better circuitry that sets it apart from the entry-level unit. When measured against higher-tier models, it provides more refined features and connectivity for standard rooms.
Karlotta
- Positioning: The upper mid-range design built to deliver wider soundstage and expanded functionality.
- Description: Integrates a distinctive engineering approach for a broader and more engaging sound compared to mid-tier options. Relative to Karlina and the entry model, it offers additional technological enhancements and connectivity features.
Karlmann Monolith
- Positioning: The high-end model that combines amplification and preamplifier functions for advanced audio performance.
- Description: Incorporates refined signal processing and circuit design that elevates dynamic range and sound precision beyond that of the lower-tier models. In contrast with Karlotta and Karlina, it provides premium build quality and extra functionality suited for larger spaces and higher technical demands.
Karlsson T
- Positioning: The flagship unit delivering top-tier performance and premium features.
- Description: Features groundbreaking engineering with advanced digital-to-analog conversion and high-grade components that outperform all other models in the lineup. Compared to Karlmann Monolith and the rest, it is tailored for users who need maximum performance, extensive connectivity, and superior sound staging for diverse and demanding environments.
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Avg. Product Price
$40,001-$75,000
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
486
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
7
Founding Year
2013
Our take on the brand
Lyravox creates fully integrated speaker systems with up to twelve high-end chassis and active electronics, handcrafted in Hamburg with extensive customization options for surfaces and room acoustics. Their Stereomaster series, including the KARL and KARLOTTA models, combines streaming technology and premium amplification with ceramic drivers, creating a holistic approach to stereophony through digital frequency separation and distortion correction.
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Lyravox
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What if you spend more?
Avantgarde
Trio G3
91000
91000
/
3
Reviews
Avantgarde Acoustic is known for its spherical horn speakers that deliver exceptional sound uniformity and can produce high volume levels with minimal power input, thanks to their unusually high sensitivity of over 104dB. Their flagship products feature advanced digital processing that corrects time and phase issues, while their Zero 1 Pro model stands out for integrating amplifiers and digital crossovers directly into a compact horn speaker design.
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Product Strengths
- Impressive midbass solidity
- Remarkable fidelity at lower volumes due to the alacrity of its drivers
- Comprehensive and dynamic sound signature with plenty of detail and clarity
- The newly developed tweeter allows for faster response and a frequency range that easily extends to 28,000Hz
- Features a modular design, offering flexibility with passive, iTron active, and all-in-one wireless streaming versions
Product Considerations
- Integrating the Spacehorn subwoofers requires careful alignment
- High-quality source components are needed to match its performance level
- Some reviewers found that the iTron amplification did not produce the requisite bloom and musicality for classical and jazz music
Takeaway: The Avantgarde Trio G3 speaker is a top-tier audio system known for its exceptional sound reproduction and flexibility with different configurations. If you appreciate high-quality audio performance and aesthetics and want a sound system that sounds exciting and sophisticated, it is an excellent option.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Avantgarde Acoustic is known for its spherical horn speakers that deliver exceptional sound uniformity and can produce high volume levels with minimal power input, thanks to their unusually high sensitivity of over 104dB. Their flagship products feature advanced digital processing that corrects time and phase issues, while their Zero 1 Pro model stands out for integrating amplifiers and digital crossovers directly into a compact horn speaker design.
Product Page
Product Page
Vandersteen
Model Seven XTRM
94000
94000
/
2
Reviews
IT'S ALL IN THE TIMING. The Model Seven XTRM continues a tradition of pushing time-and-phase correct audio reproduction to the ultimate extreme. With new pistonic side-firing drivers matched to the patented mid-range and tweeter, the XTRM brings further clarity and harmonic accuracy in a way that surprised the designers and the expert listening board. Give yourself a treat and take a listen soon. Full XTRM updates are available to the original owner within the USA, and the cost is $30,051 to $45,633, depending on the vintage of your Model Seven.
Vandersteen Audio is distinguished by its time and phase coherence in speaker design, where all drivers move in unison through their first-order crossover design and Perfect-Piston drivers made of carbon-fiber and balsa wood. The brand's speakers feature a minimum baffle approach to reduce reflections, while focusing on high-quality internal components over elaborate cabinet designs, with models like the Seven XTRM offering precise bass response customization through adjustable trim pots.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Upgradable from older Model 7 versions, representing long-term value for owners
- Features a 'CounterForce Bass' system with opposing woofers to minimize cabinet movement and improve clarity
- Offers extensive bass adjustments for room integration, including 11 trim pots for precise frequency adjustments
- Time-and-phase coherent design ensures that all drivers move in unison
- Provides a relaxed ease and warmth that fosters musical engagement
Product Considerations
- Sensitivity is relatively low at 85dB, requiring a powerful amplifier to achieve its full potential
- Requires careful rake angle adjustment for optimal performance
- Bi-wire capable, the mandatory HP-7 filter costs extra
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF KC-62 subwoofer: Both use counter-opposing force woofers to stop cabinet movement
Takeaway: The Model Seven XTRM is a technologically innovative speaker designed for music lovers. It offers powerful bass, harmonic beauty, and exceptional tonal realism, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a high-fidelity audio experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Vandersteen Audio is distinguished by its time and phase coherence in speaker design, where all drivers move in unison through their first-order crossover design and Perfect-Piston drivers made of carbon-fiber and balsa wood. The brand's speakers feature a minimum baffle approach to reduce reflections, while focusing on high-quality internal components over elaborate cabinet designs, with models like the Seven XTRM offering precise bass response customization through adjustable trim pots.
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Meridian
DSP9
85000
85000
/
2
Reviews
Meridian Audio pioneered digital surround-sound processing and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) in speakers, and developed the Meridian Lossless Packing technology that became the standard for DVD-Audio and Blu-ray formats. The brand's unique technologies include Enhanced Bass Alignment for time-aligned frequencies, SpeakerLink for simplified digital connections using Ethernet-style cables, and MQA for high-resolution audio streaming.
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Product Strengths
- Superb resolution, incredible mid/low synchronicity, and uncanny bass extension
- Phenomenal, tight, and fast bass, playing below 15Hz
- Great balance, detail, and articulation at every volume level
- Amazing imaging and natural space in the soundstage
- DSP9 is easy to install and place in a room, due to the DSP controls available
Product Considerations
- At £60,000 per pair, the DSP9 is still expensive
- Fairly generous footprint
- Finishes other than piano gloss black are available at a premium depending on cost and complexity
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Meridian DSP8000 XE: DSP9 is smaller, lighter and more svelte, but aims to offer equally top-line performance
Takeaway: The Meridian Audio DSP9 is a sensational loudspeaker with amazing imaging, natural space, and incredibly tight bass, suitable for various music genres and volume levels. The active configuration, design, and range of finishes make it a strong proposition for premium installations.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Meridian Audio pioneered digital surround-sound processing and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) in speakers, and developed the Meridian Lossless Packing technology that became the standard for DVD-Audio and Blu-ray formats. The brand's unique technologies include Enhanced Bass Alignment for time-aligned frequencies, SpeakerLink for simplified digital connections using Ethernet-style cables, and MQA for high-resolution audio streaming.
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What competes at this price?
Meridian
Special Edition DSP7200
52000
/
Released
The Special Edition DSP7200 offers reference-level performance from its classic design format of four forward-firing drive-units. The DSP7200SE's two DSP processors and drive-unit clamp rings, combined with extreme cabinet resonance control, guarantee the listener hears the finest details. Its beryllium tweeter delivers breathtaking clarity and detail that can be enjoyed effortlessly for long periods of time. This optimum fidelity is supported by punch and control, making the DSP7200SE the perfect solution for authentic audio in small to medium sized rooms (20-50m2).
Meridian Audio pioneered digital surround-sound processing and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) in speakers, and developed the Meridian Lossless Packing technology that became the standard for DVD-Audio and Blu-ray formats. The brand's unique technologies include Enhanced Bass Alignment for time-aligned frequencies, SpeakerLink for simplified digital connections using Ethernet-style cables, and MQA for high-resolution audio streaming.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- DSP use smooths out frequency responses in rooms with non-standard shapes
- Enhanced Bass Alignment (EBA) technology delivers deep and fast bass
- Built-in DSP and DACs
- Finished in high-gloss piano lacquer
- The new tweeter has a 1' beryllium dome for high power handling and superior transients, increasing dynamic range and contrast
Product Considerations
- Requires a digital streamer to feed it source files
- Requires AC cables and an Ethernet cable between speakers
- The balance is dark, with recessed midrange and treble
- Placement may require more distance to walls than usual
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Kii THREE speakers can sit on a desktop
Takeaway: The Meridian DSP7200SE loudspeaker is a technologically advanced speaker with great sound quality and a sleek design that simplifies a home audio system. The built-in technology helps the speaker sound good in different kinds of rooms.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Meridian Audio pioneered digital surround-sound processing and Digital Signal Processing (DSP) in speakers, and developed the Meridian Lossless Packing technology that became the standard for DVD-Audio and Blu-ray formats. The brand's unique technologies include Enhanced Bass Alignment for time-aligned frequencies, SpeakerLink for simplified digital connections using Ethernet-style cables, and MQA for high-resolution audio streaming.
Product Page
Product Page
YG Acoustics
Vantage 3 Live
66297
/
Released
2023
Vantage 3 Live is a unique product: a complete system delivering stunning audio quality combined with exceptional convenience and flexibility. Vantage 3 Live will have you re-listening to all your favorite recordings, enjoying its unrivaled dynamics and scale, breathtaking detail and delicacy. Most of all, it has a musical, natural sound with all types of music, whether recreating an intimate acoustic recording or the spine-tingling, electric atmosphere of a rock concert.
YG Acoustics makes speakers with unique DualCoherent crossover technology that ensures both perfect frequency response and phase coherence, while their BilletCore drivers are machined from solid aluminum billets for enhanced precision. Their modular design allows users to upgrade and expand their systems over time, and they use proprietary software that optimizes both frequency and phase response, capabilities not commonly found in other hifi brands.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Three 700W amplifiers are included, one for each driver; each has been optimized for its particular driver
- 25' ST optical fiber cables are included, which attach to the control module
- YG Acoustics developments include a new lattice tweeter, and an enclosure made from an "aerospace alloy"
Product Considerations
- The sound wasn't perfect, but it had some hard-to-describe arresting qualities that held many in the room in its spell
Takeaway: The Vantage 3 Live combines YG Acoustics' speaker design with Bel Canto's amplification and digital processing in an all-in-one system. The speaker system aims to deliver high-quality sound through optimized components and innovative materials.
Video review
Our take on the brand
YG Acoustics makes speakers with unique DualCoherent crossover technology that ensures both perfect frequency response and phase coherence, while their BilletCore drivers are machined from solid aluminum billets for enhanced precision. Their modular design allows users to upgrade and expand their systems over time, and they use proprietary software that optimizes both frequency and phase response, capabilities not commonly found in other hifi brands.
Product Page
Product Page
Avantgarde
Duo GT
51949
/
Released
2022
The DUO GT "Grande Twin" is the third evolutionary stage of a horn system that has been in Avantgarde Acoustic's portfolio since 1993. The proven innovative spherical horn architecture combined with the improved XM2 midrange driver, the new XT3 Supertweeter from the TRIO and the XB12 bass drivers with huge voice coil from the SpaceHorn.
Avantgarde Acoustic is known for its spherical horn speakers that deliver exceptional sound uniformity and can produce high volume levels with minimal power input, thanks to their unusually high sensitivity of over 104dB. Their flagship products feature advanced digital processing that corrects time and phase issues, while their Zero 1 Pro model stands out for integrating amplifiers and digital crossovers directly into a compact horn speaker design.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Avantgarde Acoustic is known for its spherical horn speakers that deliver exceptional sound uniformity and can produce high volume levels with minimal power input, thanks to their unusually high sensitivity of over 104dB. Their flagship products feature advanced digital processing that corrects time and phase issues, while their Zero 1 Pro model stands out for integrating amplifiers and digital crossovers directly into a compact horn speaker design.
Product Page
Product Page
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