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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

  • Principle: 2-way di-pole rear speaker
  • Drivers: 3x 1/2" dome-tweeter, 110 mm woofer-midrange
  • Power Handling (RMS/Max.): 60 / 120 Watts
  • Sensitivity (2.8V/1m): 88 dB
  • Frequency Response: 42 – 32.000 Hz
  • Crossover Frequencies: 3.400 Hz
  • Recommended Amplifier Output: 20 - 120 Watts
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 149 x 250 x 130 mm
  • Weight: 2.2 kg
Compact dipole bookshelf speaker, ideal as rear speaker in home cinema systems Dipole tweeter section with two additional side-mounted tweeters A total of three 13 mm tweeters with ultra-light Mylar domes High-quality wood decors with anthracite offset baffle Device 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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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

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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.
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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
Product image
Focal
Theva Surround
649
649
/
6
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

  • Sweet and detailed audio performance with clear instrumental separation and expansive dimensionality
  • Warm and full-bodied bass and midrange
  • Clear yet 'mellow' treble, creating a pleasing sound signature
  • Accurate sound that doesn't do much to color the recording, so listeners get a balanced presentation of the source content
  • Good level of dynamic range for reasonably sized bookshelf speakers, and they can get louder than expected for their size/price class

Product Considerations

  • The laid-back sound may occasionally obscure some definition
  • The speakers run on the cooler side of things, never becoming too indulgent in any aspect and instead providing a sound that is accurate and slightly pulled back, but never muted or lifeless
  • Asymmetry of the phase coherence of their vertical lobe can be a slight problem for anyone listening under the tweeter axis
  • Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Focal Vestia No. 1: Theva offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but is not as immediately striking in detail or treble extension
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3: Theva is more compact and easier to place, but doesn't look as premium
  • Vs Polk Legend Series L100: Theva has a more laid-back sound profile, making it a better listen in most cases, while the L100 presents a more precise center image

Takeaway: The Theva No. 1 is a great speaker for enjoying detailed and smooth sound without harshness. It's a good option for different types of content, from music to movies, and is especially suited for smaller spaces.

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
Product image
Dali
Alteco C-1
600
600
/
3
Reviews

The DALI ALTECO C-1 is a true multipurpose speaker. It adds Atmos, DTS-X and Auro-3D height information to an existing surround setup, and is a discreet on-wall solution for a stereo installation.Dual Sound ModeThe dual sound mode offers flexible placement. Select 'UP' for soft, downward sound dispersion or 'DOWN' for close listening.Wood Fibre ConesOur low-loss drivers combine low-mass paper cones with wood fibre for an uneven surface that eliminates resonance and reveals every detail.Up-FiringWhen placed on top of front or rear speakers, the angular design is perfect for transmitting Dolby Atmos, DTS-X or Auro-3D surround sound height information.Soft Dome TweeterThe ultra lightweight, weaved fabric dome tweeter offers best-in-class resolution with extended frequency response, wide dispersion and low colouration.

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Product Strengths

  • Designed to deliver delicate Atmos sounds and add height to the surround sound experience
  • Brilliantly built and seem built to last
  • Does an outstanding job in reproducing a cinematic feel
  • They are full-bodied and an easy and engaging listen
  • Can be used discreetly on your living room wall while providing an exceptional stereo listening experience when paired with a subwoofer

Product Considerations

  • With the vinyl wrap, it looks a little bit like Ikea furniture, so it may not be the best option for a classy looking system
  • Speaker terminals use a push fit spring clamp system for very thin wire, which can be annoying
  • When used on top of floor standers, they do not sound as good as when wall-mounted
  • Dolby Atmos content availability may be lacking

Takeaway: The Alteco C1 is a well-built speaker that adds a cinematic feel to a home theatre experience. It is a versatile speaker that can be used in different ways and is a good value for the price.

Video review

Our take on the brand

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Monitor
SoundFrame 1 (On-wall)
686
686
/
2
Reviews
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
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Product Strengths

  • Smooth, spacious sound with good weight
  • Excellent build and finish quality
  • Discreet and stylish design, blending easily with room décor
  • Slim cabinets make them easy to hang on the wall
  • Driver arrangement ensures excellent imaging, even when speakers are mounted high

Product Considerations

  • Midrange colouration can harm timing
  • Bass is more limited compared to some rivals due to the sealed-box design
  • Can become a little muddled with complex rhythms
  • Without grilles, they sport a stark, industrial look

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • When compared to rivals such as PMC's Wafer 2, the SoundFrames have the most limited bass
  • SoundFrames are better than the KEF T205 system

Takeaway: The Monitor Audio SoundFrame is a stylish and innovative speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality despite its slim design. It's a great option for those who want a system that blends seamlessly with their décor without compromising on performance.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

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
Revel
W553L
425
/
Released
Revel in-wall loudspeakers provide unparalleled value and are known for their standard-setting low sonic coloration and their freedom from distortion over an extraordinarily wide dynamic range.
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Revel is a hifi speaker brand that uses beryllium tweeters and Deep Ceramic Composite cones, combined with Harman's extensive acoustic research, to achieve exceptional sound quality.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Fairly neutral sound
  • Good horizontal response, about plus or minus 45 to 60 degrees

Product Considerations

  • Midrange can sound slightly thin at times
  • Bass region is bumped up about 1 to 2dB, which may be why the midrange sounds thin
  • Compression does some weird things at higher volumes, particularly with the tweeter
  • Compression increases below about 80 Hz

Takeaway: The Revel W553L is a fairly neutral sounding in-wall speaker, and could be a good choice on a moderate budget. For side surround speakers, this could be a great choice because of its good horizontal response.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Revel is a hifi speaker brand that uses beryllium tweeters and Deep Ceramic Composite cones, combined with Harman's extensive acoustic research, to achieve exceptional sound quality.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
Ci160TR
349
/
Released
Boasting the latest incarnation of our formidable 4.5in. mid/bass T Series driver and powerful 1in. tweeter, the ultra-slim Ci-T Series speakers open up new possibilities for enjoying KEF's uncompromised sound quality where space above the ceiling is at a premium.
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KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The KEF Ci160TR is a great solution for those looking for ultra-slim flush ceiling speakers for shallow ceiling voids
  • The slim and compact design does not compromise on sound quality
  • The grilles can be painted
  • It makes life easy if you have a very limited space in which to install the speakers since they require a mounting depth of just 36mm

Product Considerations

  • It needs accompanying speakers or a subwoofer to deliver the bass
  • It requires bass from elsewhere, such as a subwoofer
  • It has a recessed mid and upper bass, eventually settling on 150Hz as providing a good balance
  • It doesn't claim anything much in the way of bass performance

Takeaway: The Ci160TR is a great speaker if you need something that fits in a small space but still sounds good. It is especially useful when paired with other speakers to help with the bass.

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
KEF
Q4 Meta
499
/
Released
2024
The slender and sleek Q4 Meta is a highly versatile on-wall speaker that can be used as left, centre, and right (LCR) speaker, or as a surround speaker. Featuring a 5.25" 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT™, the HiFi speaker delivers an expansive, immersive soundscape without taking up valuable floor space.
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

  • The reviewer liked the Q4 so much that they bought two more
  • The reviewer was impressed with the Q4s
  • Rated down to 42 Hertz in-room response, the port provides a fuller bodied sound
  • It can be used as a LCR (left, center, right) speaker, making it versatile for different channels
  • The driver is very much the same as in the KEF R11s as well, promising timbre matching will be no problem

Product Considerations

  • The reviewer wishes the port was underneath, so it was more hidden when hanging it vertically
  • The reviewer wishes KEF would make a custom grill to match the R11s

Takeaway: The Q4 sounds really good and is impressive as a center channel, performing bigger than it looks. Its ability to be mounted and act as different channels allows it to be a very versatile piece of equipment.

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
Polk
RC85I
279
/
Released
2023
Build a completely stealth home theater system and use the floor space you save to add more chairs for those friends you invite some friends over.
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Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Good clarity in home theater and video game applications
  • Punchy sound for in-wall speakers, especially in video games
  • Good separation from left and right channels in video games

Product Considerations

  • The 100-watt max can be limiting, especially for whole-house music listening
  • Music performance is not as good, with clarity and separation being negatively impacted
  • The template for installation might be a millimeter smaller than the actual opening

Takeaway: The RC85I speakers are great for home theaters and shine in video games, providing clear and punchy sound and are an affordable solution for surround sound. Due to their limitations, they are best used as rear speakers for surround sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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