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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

Loudspeaker system licensed in accordance with the stringent Dolby® Atmos guidelines Can be combined with a wide range of home cinema systems from Magnat Solid housing available in a black or white high-gloss finish Suitable for use as add-on or wall-mounted speakers Specially coordinated chassis and crossovers Ready for wall-mounting
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 THX Ultra2 certified speaker sets are known for their compact design, achieving stringent THX requirements while maintaining smaller dimensions than many competitors, sometimes using only one subwoofer where others need two.
  • The AEH-400-ATM auxiliary loudspeakers offer a unique two-in-one design, functioning as both Dolby Atmos enabled speakers and direct radiators via a simple toggle switch, providing flexibility for different immersive audio setups.

Monitor S-Line S80 ATM:

  • Positioning: Entry-level line designed for affordability and studio-accurate performance.
  • Description: Offers clear and balanced sound using simple yet effective driver technology, making it suitable for smaller rooms and basic home audio use. Compared to other models in the lineup, its straightforward design and lower feature set provide a more economical choice for buyers with limited budgets and moderate functionality needs.

Transpuls:

  • Positioning: Mid-range series that blends accessible design with enhanced audio performance.
  • Description: Delivers a well-balanced sound with refined cabinet design and driver configuration that provide a step up from the Monitor S-Line S80 ATM, making it better suited for medium-sized rooms.

Signature Serie:

  • Positioning: Upper mid-range series aimed at audiophiles seeking detailed sound without entering the top-tier price range.
  • Description: Incorporates advanced driver materials and refined crossover networks that yield greater clarity and control over the audio spectrum compared to the Transpuls. When stacked against the Monitor S-Line and the premium Signature 999, its technical improvements offer a noticeable enhancement in soundstage and detail.

Signature 999:

  • Positioning: High-end option designed for enthusiasts looking for superior sonic precision and advanced engineering.
  • Description: Features next-generation driver technology and optimized cabinet acoustics that deliver high-resolution sound, clearly setting it apart from the less sophisticated Signature Serie. Compared to lower-tier models, its enhanced technical capabilities support larger room applications.

Alpha RS:

  • Positioning: Flagship series representing the pinnacle of design, performance, and advanced connectivity.
  • Description: Integrates groundbreaking acoustic tuning and state-of-the-art digital processing techniques to achieve exceptional clarity and dynamic range, surpassing the achievements of the Signature 999. When compared to every other model in the lineup, its cutting-edge features and superior construction address the most demanding use cases.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
11
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
203
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
42
Founding Year
1973

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Magnat
Symbol X 160
573
573
/
3
Reviews
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Durable build with corrosion-resistant materials and IPX5 water resistance rating makes it suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions
  • Flexible placement since it can be mounted horizontally or vertically
  • Good separation of lows, mids, and highs with bright highs
  • Requires an amplifier to function
  • White color option is prone to collecting dust when used outdoors, black is recommended for outdoor use
  • Proper wire management is crucial for a clean installation

Product Considerations

  • Does not have the low-end bass of a dedicated subwoofer

Takeaway: The Magnet Symbol X is a durable and versatile speaker suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, especially for those looking for a permanent audio solution with a clean setup. With a proper amplifier, clear and loud sound can be enjoyed in any space.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Magnat
Monitor Reference 5a
839
839
/
2
Reviews

Anyone who has ever wondered whether there are any multi-functional and fully active speakers in fully-fledged dimensions can now answer their question with a resounding yes. With the same front width as the 3A, the Monitor Reference 5A stands 908 mm tall, making it a full-size floorstanding speaker. This format leaves you in no doubt as to whether you have a real hi-fi system in front of you.

COMPACT, BUT WITH A SOUND OF A MUCH LARGER MODEL

The tweeter dome measures 25 mm (like its siblings) and is driven by the tried and tested, powerful ferrite magnet. Underneath there are two 170 mm chassis. One caters for the all-important vocal range as a bass-midrange driver, while the second is designed purely for reproducing the deep bass range. The use of materials really makes an impact here - the floorstanding speaker of the Monitor Reference series delves right down to a frequency of 28 Hz. Nevertheless, the 5A boasts a slim visual appearance and can therefore be set up in any living room environment.

There is even more amplifier power on board here: Each channel has 60 watts of continuous power (or 120 watts of peak power). An HDMI input, phono preamplifier, Bluetooth® with fast aptx® Low Latency capability, as well as analog and digital connections round off the configuration here as well. And we haven´t skimped on the material either: Weighing in at 14.7 and 13.8 kg (active and passive speaker respectively), the Monitor Reference is not unbearable, but it is still considerably sturdy.

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Large-scale audio presentation, providing more scale on movies than a similarly priced soundbar
  • Fine musical dexterity
  • Articulate highs and full-bodied mids
  • Precise imaging
  • Excellent connection suite, including HDMI ARC and phono input

Product Considerations

  • Unfulfilling low end, lacking subwoofer-like grunt
  • Sonic character can be a little bright and on the shrill side
  • Remote feels a little cheap and response can be slow
  • Tower speakers are not the obvious choice for arranging tidily around a flat panel display
  • Unrefined when pushed to the limits

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Similarly Priced Soundbar—the Magnat Monitor Reference 5A offers a completely different set of attributes due to the drivers' size and delivers a more bold and scaled performance and imaging ability, especially for music

Takeaway: The Magnat Monitor Reference 5A offers impressive music performance, while doubling as a cinema speaker system, and has plenty of connectivity options. If music is a priority and the large speaker aesthetic isn't a problem, these speakers are a good value.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Magnat
Transpuls 800A
807
807
/
2
Reviews

Active speaker system with a wide variety of connections 2 x 120 watts of peak power, 2 x 60 watts of continuous power Bluetooth (5.0) aptX for uncomplicated use with smartphones and tablets HDMI input for direct connection to a TV set Switchable phono amplifier for MM systems Sturdy retro housing

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Our summary

Product Strengths

  • Engaging and offer an astonishing amount of sound
  • The front ports allow for flexible placement against the wall
  • Warm and smooth sound with a nice bit of punch to it
  • High, distortion-free listening volume
  • Multiple connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, RCA (line or phono), volume control, subwoofer output, earth terminal, auxiliary in, optical, and Bluetooth

Product Considerations

  • Vertical orientation should be correct for the best sound, requiring alignment at ear level
  • The vinyl decor is simple but well done, which is class-standard
  • The active speaker is smaller than expected
  • Good orientation to the listening place is necessary for the best sound since the tweeter has a certain directivity

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Transpuls 800A provides better sound separation than soundbars

Takeaway: The Magnat Transpuls 800A is a versatile speaker with a retro design and modern technology that delivers a room-filling, warm sound. With multiple connectivity options, they can be used for music, movies and even with a turntable, providing an enjoyable listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Magnat
Cinema Ultra RD 200-THX
996
996
/
2
Reviews

One of the 42 mm tweeter cones is located on each sloping side at the centre of the powerful 17 cm subwoofers: The Cinema Ultra RD 200-THX follows the ideal structure of classic dipole speakers. The two tweeters are – as stipulated by THX® – connected together with reversed polarity to produce a diffuse, very three-dimensional soundscape. Because our cone operates in an extremely wide band, the Cinema Ultra RD 200-THX creates this desired diffuse sound field from as low as 1500 hertz. Despite its small size and moderate overall depth of just 16 centimetres, the effect speaker is capable of impressive sound levels - an important factor for the best cinema sound. And optimum installation is also child´s play thanks to the large number of wall-mounting options, including VESA brackets.

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The system complies with the demanding THX Ultra 2 standard, requiring exceptional technical characteristics
  • It is designed to create a very immersive soundstage, which integrates the unique vertical dimension offered by Dolby Atmos
  • The LCR 100-THX speaker is a versatile model that can be positioned either horizontally or vertically, allowing it to be used as a left, center, or right speaker
  • The system offers a graceful and benevolent sound restitution, as well as a rise in intensity that is very progressive
  • The pair of subwoofers articulate sound well without being overwhelming

Product Considerations

  • The mids are slightly set back, and the sound signature can seem a bit shy at low listening levels
  • The volume needs to be turned up to get a feeling of natural authority and a soundstage that unfolds fully

Takeaway: The Magnat Cinema Ultra THX 5.2.4 system offers an immersive home cinema experience with a focus on sound quality and control. It is designed to deliver both subtle nuances and powerful audio, making it a great fit for a variety of listening conditions.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Magnat
Symbol X 130
212
/
Released
The Symbol X 130 delivers an extremely impressive performance despite its compact dimensions. A frequency response of 34 to 36,500 Hz and an efficiency of 90 dB can be clearly heard. With a housing measuring just 151 mm wide and 249 mm high, it will fit in anywhere, even on a packed table in an editing suite. It also cuts a fine figure on a shelf when used as a classic hi-fi speaker. Thanks to a load capacity of up to 200 watts, there´s no problem if the speaker is subjected to high levels for prolonged periods. And, like all Symbol speakers, it defies outdoor conditions and is able to withstand splash water without any issue.
Check Amazon
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Durable design with a plastic housing and corrosion-resistant front grill, built to withstand the elements with an IPX5 water-resistant rating
  • Can be used both indoors and outdoors, offering versatility in placement
  • Mounting accessories included, allowing for horizontal and vertical adjustments
  • Clear sound quality, especially in the midrange and highs
  • Some reviewers are reminded of studio monitor speakers, providing a flat frequency response suitable for accurate sound reproduction
  • Requires an amplifier, which is not included

Product Considerations

  • Lacks the low-end bass of a dedicated subwoofer
  • Exposed speaker wires can be an issue if not properly hidden during installation
  • White color option is prone to collecting dust when used outdoors

Takeaway: The Symbol X speakers are a durable and versatile option for creating a permanent audio setup in an outdoor space. With a good amplifier, they can provide clear and consistent sound for years to come.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Magnat
Interior IC 82
124
/
Released
The IC 82 is the larger of two strong-sounding built-in ceiling loudspeakers in the Interior series. As with all models in the series, the bass/mid-range cone has been manufactured from a carbon-glass-fibre mix – which guarantees extremely high stability and a very clear and dynamic sound. The two built-in coaxial tweeters make two circuit versions possible – sound directed over a wide area or at specific points. A sophisticated fastening system allows the loudspeaker to be quickly installed with extreme ease.
Check Amazon
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Sound quality receives positive feedback
  • Impressive design
  • Impressive size
  • Bass quality is appreciated
  • Usability is mentioned favorably

Product Considerations

  • There are mixed opinions about the price

Takeaway: The Magnat Interior IC 82 appears to be a well-regarded speaker with a good design and size. It is worth considering if one needs a speaker with good sound and bass.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Q Acoustics
M20
499
/
Released
2021
Designed to deliver stunning wireless high-resolution stereo sound, the flexible M20 HD audio system is the most powerful and immersive way to enjoy music, movies and gaming sound anywhere in the home.
Check Amazon
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Effortlessly detailed and balanced sound
  • Excellent stereo imaging and dynamics
  • High-quality Bluetooth streaming
  • Simple setup and control
  • Multiple connection options, including subwoofer output, digital input for TV, and analog inputs

Product Considerations

  • No HDMI ARC for seamless control with TV remote
  • No dedicated app for adjusting settings
  • Bass output may be lacking for some listeners, potentially requiring a subwoofer
  • Grilles are non-removable
  • Speakers power down after 20 minutes at rest, requiring manual Bluetooth pairing each time

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2, the Q Acoustics M20 sounds fuller, louder and less compressed

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics M20 HD speakers offer detailed, balanced sound and are easy to set up with various devices. They're a versatile audio solution for upgrading sound, whether for music, movies, or gaming.

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
Product Page
SVS
Prime Bookshelf
299
/
Released
The Prime Bookshelf speakers are sonic overachievers on all levels. Stunningly dynamic, pinpoint accurate and utterly transparent, they deftly serve as reference monitor loudspeakers in a two-channel system, or as high performance front, center, or side/rear surround speakers in a multi-channel home theater.
Check Amazon
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

  • Good ability to get loud, clean sound without distortion or compression issues above 80 Hz when paired with a subwoofer
  • Really good build quality cabinet
  • Very clear, immediate, vivid sounding speaker
  • Ultra-focused sounding, clean, and nicely balanced vocals
  • A lot of treble liveliness combined with quality clarity and crispness

Product Considerations

  • Treble is a little bit bright
  • Not the most neutral speaker
  • Leaner sound in terms of bass delivery
  • Very tight, tuneful, and on-point bass, but the perceived amount of bass is less substantial than other speakers reviewed
  • Some port noise or chuffing can be heard when setting the speakers to deliver as much bass as the Klipsch RP600M

Takeaway: The SVS Prime bookshelf is a sweet little speaker that delivers clear and vivid sound and has great build quality. It's also versatile, as it can be used in a stereo setup or as part of a home theater system.

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
Product Page
Product Page
Sonos
Move 2
419
/
Released
2023
Upgraded inside and out, our most powerful portable speaker delivers heart-pumping stereo sound wherever you want.
Check Amazon
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Improved stereo sound compared to the original Move, due to the addition of dual tweeters
  • Significantly longer battery life—advertised up to 24 hours—making it suitable for extended use indoors and outdoors
  • Designed with portability in mind, featuring a built-in handle for easy carrying and an IP56 rating for dust and water resistance
  • The speaker benefits from the Auto Trueplay feature, which automatically optimizes the sound to the unique acoustics of your space, delivering a balanced audio experience
  • Versatile connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2, and can even stream Bluetooth audio to other Sonos speakers

Product Considerations

  • Considered hefty and not as easily portable as smaller options like the Sonos Roam
  • Google Assistant is no longer supported, which may be a drawback for users heavily invested in the Google ecosystem
  • It cannot be used as a speakerphone for calls
  • Despite being a stereo speaker, channel separation isn't always very distinct, and it can sound more like an expansive mono speaker
  • An adapter is needed for a line-in connection, and a carrying case are sold separately, which increases the overall cost

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sonos Move: The Move 2 offers stereo playback—as opposed to mono—longer battery life, and more connectivity options
  • Vs Sonos Roam: The Move 2 sounds better and gets louder, but the Roam is smaller and lighter
  • Vs Sonos Era 300: The Era 300 has Dolby Atmos support, but is not portable or water-resistant like the Move 2
  • Vs Sonos Era 100: The Move 2 can be taken on the go unlike the Era 100 and is rated for dust and water resistance
  • Vs Bose SoundLink Max: The Sonos Move 2 sounds a bit more balanced out of the box, and its battery can even be replaced down the line, while the Bose has a longer-lasting battery and doesn't require an adapter to connect to analog line-in sources, but it can't connect to Wi-Fi

Takeaway: The Sonos Move 2 is a versatile and improved portable speaker, offering great sound and battery life for both indoor and outdoor use, and its integration with the Sonos ecosystem makes it an easy choice for existing Sonos users.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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