Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- The AMT tweeter brings openness to the sound
- Next-level feet/outriggers provide superior decoupling and prevent tip-overs
- At 92 dB sensitivity, it is very easy to drive with a variety of amplifiers
Product Considerations
- Rear ports require mindful placement to avoid sounding boomy or bass-heavy if placed too close to the back wall
- Finishes can be damaged during unboxing or with wear and tear
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS' Prime Pinnacle Speakers: The biggest sonic difference will be the sound of the AMT tweeter versus the more traditional dome tweeter
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 603 S3 speakers: Expect a little less bass from the Bowers & Wilkins 603 S3 speakers, which have one less bass driver
- Vs GoldenEar Triton Seven speakers: The GoldenEar product delivers an AMT tweeter, possibly the closest analogy on the high-frequency performance
Takeaway: The MartinLogan Motion Foundation F2 speakers are audiophile-grade speakers that deliver ample bass, punchy midrange and the benefits of an open high frequency. They are easy to drive, well-crafted, and come in appealing finishes.
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
Motion Foundation F2
reviews
[{"title":"MartinLogan Motion Foundation F2 Floorstanding Speakers Reviewed","link":"https://futureaudiophile.com/martinlogan-motion-foundation-f2-floorstanding-speakers-reviewed","source":"Future Audiophile","datePublished":"2024"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Dimensions (H x W x D, with feet): 44-7/16" x 8-3/4" x 16" (112cm x 34.9cm x 22.2cm)
- Frequency Response: 36 Hz - 23 kHz ± 3 dB
- Tweeter Dispersion: 90° x 90°
- Recommended Amplifier Power: 15 - 200 watts
- Sensitivity: 92 dB
- Impedance: 4 ohms
- High Frequency Driver: 0.94" x 1" (2.4 x 2.5cm) Gen2 Folded Motion® Tweeter S with 3.5 in2 (22.6 cm2) diaphragm
- Crossover Frequency: 330Hz, 3,600Hz (3-way)
- Mid-Frequency Drivers: 5.5" (14cm) aluminum cone with cast aluminum basket
- Low Frequency Driver: 3x 6.5" (16.5cm) aluminum cones with cast aluminum baskets
- Cabinet: Rear Ported
- Binding Post Inputs: 5-way Binding Posts (Non Bi-Wire)
- Weight: 52.5lbs (23.8kg)
- Finish: Black, Walnut, and Satin White
Description
The flagship of the Motion Foundation range, the Foundation F2 offers maximum performance and value in a floorstanding design. For those looking for the most dynamic listening experience, floorstanding speakers are the ideal choice. F2 pairs the Gen2 Obsidian Folded Motion Tweeter S with 3 custom designed 6.5" aluminum woofers resulting in incredible speed, detail, and clarity.
The flagship of the Motion Foundation range, the Foundation F2 offers maximum performance and value in a floorstanding design. For those looking for the most dynamic listening experience, floorstanding speakers are the ideal choice. F2 pairs the Gen2 Obsidian Folded Motion Tweeter S with 3 custom designed 6.5” aluminum woofers resulting in incredible speed, detail, and clarity. Further enhancing the listening experience is the Folded Motion Waveguide which provides a more consistent and accurate listening experience by aligning the output of the tweeter and midrange in perfect harmony. The Foundation F2 is perfect for a high performance, high value 2 channel or home theater system.
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:
- MartinLogan's defining CLS (Curvilinear Line Source) electrostatic panel technology provides exceptionally wide horizontal high-frequency dispersion, exceeding that of traditional flat panels and offering a more immersive soundstage.
- The brand uniquely integrates powered dynamic woofers with its electrostatic panels, employing custom DSP engines and advanced crossover designs to achieve seamless blending and extended, well-defined bass response.
- MartinLogan's commitment to full-range sound reproduction, even in smaller models, results in a "large" sound that defies the speaker's physical size, projecting height and scale often unmatched by comparably sized speakers.
- They provide Anthem Room Correction (ARC) as an option, allowing users to tailor the bass response to their specific listening environment and achieve optimal integration between the speakers and the room's acoustics.
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Select product comparisons
Motion Series
- Positioning: The entry-level lineup, offering a balance of performance and affordability.
- Description: Uses the Gen2 Folded Motion Tweeter, which provides clear and detailed sound. Compared to the Motion XT Series, it uses Woven Fiberglass midrange drivers, making it more budget-friendly while still delivering quality sound for small to medium-sized rooms.
Motion XT Series
- Positioning: A step up from the Motion Series, offering enhanced performance and features.
- Description: Stands out with its high-performance Nomex-Reinforced Kevlar midrange drivers and Gen2 Folded Motion XT Tweeter, delivering more detail and power than the standard Motion Series.
ElectroMotion Series
- Positioning: Positioned as a mid-range option, combining advanced technologies for a superior audio experience.
- Description: Features advanced thin film transducer technologies, including electrostatic and Folded Motion designs, offering greater accuracy and style compared to the Motion XT Series.
Masterpiece Series
- Positioning: The flagship lineup, representing the pinnacle of MartinLogan's electrostatic loudspeaker design.
- Description: Renowned for its groundbreaking electrostatic loudspeakers, which provide the most immersive and detailed sound experience in the lineup. It surpasses the ElectroMotion Series with its larger soundstage and advanced engineering.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
467
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
5
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
81
Founding Year
1982
Our take on the brand
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
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Used
Martin Logan
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What if you spend more?
Martin Logan
Motion XT F100
2249
2249
/
7
Reviews
Experience exceptional sound quality with MartinLogan’s Gen2 Folded Motion® XT Tweeter featuring Folded Motion® Waveguide technology seamlessly integrated into an elegant front baffle design. The Nomex®-Reinforced Kevlar® midrange offers improved resonance reduction and clarity, while the triple 6.5” aluminum woofers provide powerful and dynamic bass. Stepping up to the XT series performance upgrades with triple bass drivers makes for a compelling option for those looking for a high-performance tower speaker. The Motion® XT F100 is sure to impress in any audio setup.
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive aesthetics and stylish design enhances room appearance
- Amazing sound, with notable clarity, balance, and overall neutrality
- Wide and precise imaging and expansive soundstage creates a 3D sound effect
- Excellent bass extension and dynamic capabilities
- Good value for the price
Product Considerations
- May be a difficult load for lower-end receivers, potentially requiring a more robust amplifier
- Larger size might not be suitable for smaller rooms
- Treble stands out a little bit, and recordings that favor the treble can start to sound harsh as the volume increases
- Heavy—each speaker weighs 76 pounds
- There isn't a grill that can be removed, however, they do come with soft fabric bags that you can put over the speakers when they are not in use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Martin Logan bests the Polk R700 with respect to attack and decay and detail and texture rendering
- Martin Logan showcased even less audible and measurable resonances than the Wharfedale Elysian 4
- Martin Logan excels in bass reproduction, but overall, the reviewer finds the KEF R5 Meta's sound profile more neutral
- Prefers the more focused and natural sound of the Martin Logan XT F100 over Definitive Technology Dymension DM70 and DM80
- Advocates for this speaker over Martin Logan's biggest bookshelf with a sub—it advocates very well for itself for why one should go this route versus, say, subwoofer satellites, unless one is just really tight on space
Takeaway: The Martin Logan Motion XT F100 tower speakers are fantastic speakers that deliver high-end reference grade sound. You'll enjoy a premium listening experience with a best-of-all-worlds value that delivers at basically every audiophile speaker level.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
Product Page
Product Page
Martin Logan
Motion F10
1249
1249
/
2
Reviews
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- High sensitivity (92dB/W/m) allows them to work well with modest amplifiers
- Massive bass from two big aluminum drivers
- Downward-venting bass port makes the speakers easier to position
- Big, bold, room-filling sound with excellent detail and solid stereo image
Product Considerations
- Highs can be a little bit bright or forward depending on the music
- Soundstage depth may not be amazing and could require more break-in time
- The walnut finish with a matte black baffle may not appeal to everyone, giving it a 'macho' look
- Factory rates the speaker at 4 ohms, meaning it can dip below that
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The F10 is considered the 'baby brother' to the Martin Logan XT f100, with the f10 having a slightly recessed vocal
Takeaway: The Martin Logan Motion F10 speakers provide a remarkable listening experience with a powerful, detailed sound that works well with a variety of amplifiers, and are easy to set up with flexible placement. They offer excellent build quality, and their high sensitivity allows them to deliver impressive sound even at low listening levels.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
Product Page
Product Page
Martin Logan
Motion F20
1749
1749
/
1
Reviews
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- A brand new folded motion tweeter within a wave guide provides a nice wide dispersion, not only horizontally, but vertically as well
- Very detailed speakers with a crisp, clean quality to the top end, and a wider soundstage that came across wider horizontally throughout the entire room
- The F20 tower speakers' bass response digs impressively low, and the attack has a clean punchy tactile heft to them
- The C10 center channel has some growl to it, with Palpatine's chesty voice coming directly at the listener
Product Considerations
- The MP10s have a pretty hard cutoff, so they aren't producing much bass at all, and should be paired with a subwoofer
- The F20s sounded brighter than the reference speakers, and the louder that the volume turned up, the harder it got on the listener's ears
- The bass extension of the F20s is not as deep as the reference speakers
Takeaway: The Martin Logan Motion series provide detailed sounds with crisp quality to the top end, making movies and music come to life. They are a great choice for those looking for high-quality sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
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Product Page
Q Acoustics
Concept 50
2199
2199
/
16
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Fit and finish plus performance that is a bargain for around $3k/pair
- Gelcore cabinet construction minimizes unwanted sound energy from resonance and vibrations
- A tweeter that is hermetically sealed and mechanically isolated (floating) from the baffle provides lower distortion
- Size, weight, and richness of tone belies their size, with a wider baffle to each loudspeaker pointing at you
- A mild sound throws emphasis back to the midrange that in itself seems almost holographic, as well as deeply insightful in a gentle but revealing manner
Product Considerations
- A medium to large size room is required to shine, otherwise the bass will dominate
- Flaws in poor recordings can be revealed due to their detail and accuracy—warts and all performance
- The top-end is a little soft and gentle—classic BBC like—which may require amps with some zing to compensate
- Listeners seeking absolute detail or transparency might not be satisfied because of Q Acoustics' house sound that massages treble and plumps up bass and lower mid
- They don't go sub-40Hz deep, frequency response is rated at 42 Hz – 30 kHz (-6dB)
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics Concept 50 offers excellent value with its blend of innovative design and high-quality sound, making it a great choice for enjoying music with a sense of depth and engagement. The Concept 50s are easy to listen to and fun.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Product Page
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What competes at this price?
Martin Logan
Motion Foundation F1
562
/
Released
2023
The Foundation F1 is perfect for those desiring the performance of a floorstanding speaker but would prefer a more compact design. Offering a tighter footprint than the larger Foundation F2, the Foundation F1 is ideal for those with smaller spaces.
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Crisp and detailed highs due to the Gen2 Obsidian Folded Motion Tweeter (FMT) and Folded Motion Waveguide
- Clear, detailed, and well-balanced sound through the combination of the Folded Motion XT tweeter, mid-range drivers, and woofers
- User-friendly manual and straightforward setup
- Sleek, modern, and beautifully made design
- Versatile for different media types due to its wide frequency range, making it suitable for movies, music, and gaming
Product Considerations
- May require a stout amplifier due to its 4-ohm nominal impedance
- Sensitive to placement, requiring trial and error to find the optimal position for the best sound quality
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Martin Logan Foundation F2: The F1 has a more compact design and is suitable for smaller spaces, while the F2 has a larger footprint and delivers more substantial sound with deeper bass, but the F2 comes at a higher cost
Takeaway: The MartinLogan Motion Foundation F1 speakers offer exceptional sound quality and a sleek design, making them a worthwhile investment for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. They are versatile speakers that enhance the listening experience across various media types.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Martin Logan is one of the most established names in high-end audio, best known as a pioneer of electrostatic panel speakers. Electrostatics offer a unique, tactile transient response that many audiophiles find addictive—once people hear them, they often become lifelong fans. In some ways, these speakers are comparable to Magnepan’s dipole designs. However, Martin Logan also offers more traditional cone-driver speakers, providing something for a range of tastes and setups.
Product Page
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Klipsch
RP-8000F II
749
/
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.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Flat in-room frequency response, especially from 200 Hz upwards, contributes to accurate sound reproduction
- Amplifier and receiver friendly due to its high sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance, performing well with entry-level to flagship AV receivers and amplifiers
- The new, larger Tractrix horn waveguide design offers improved directivity control and high-frequency focus
- Excels in dynamics, delivering raw impact and presence that enhances the excitement of movies and gaming, as well as rock and electronica music
Product Considerations
- Treble might become fatiguing with lesser recordings or at higher volumes, and may not be agreeable with all genres for listeners seeking a very smooth top end
- The midrange, while linear, isn't completely neutral due to some cabinet resonance, adding extra energy that may or may not be desirable depending on listener preference
- For true full-range playback, a subwoofer is required to compensate for the lack of deep bass extension
- The vinyl finish may disappoint fans of natural materials
- Best listened at within a 5-degree angle, and listening at a height level with the tweeter is clearly the best choice
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Polk R700: R700 is a more versatile all-rounder, but preferred for rock and electronica
- Vs. Sonus Faber Lumina 5: The Sonus Faber is better built and looks nicer, but more refined
- Vs. Q Acoustics Concept 50s: The Concept 50s image a little better, disappear just a little bit better, and they are exceptional off-axis, but do not play as low
- Vs. Heco Aurora 1000: The Heco is more linear across the range
- Vs. SVS Prime Pinnacle: The SVS Prime Pinnacle has a tweeter that is lower in level, offering a warmer sound
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-8000F Mark II is a speaker that brings a dynamic sound to movies, gaming, and music. For speakers that are easy to set up, are amplifier-friendly and deliver punchy, clear audio, these could be a great option.
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.
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Magnepan
LRS+
995
/
Released
2022
Following in the footsteps of the highly acclaimed LRS, the LRS+ takes it up a notch. "This is another slam-dunk POY (Product of the Year) nominee, and, IMO, the best buy (along with the MG1.7i) in an affordable loudspeaker for modest-sized rooms." 2022 Golden Ear Award.
Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Creates a very open and transparent soundstage, which crosses the threshold of believability in a small to medium-sized room
- Low distortion, especially in the midrange and upper bass, making listeners realize how imperfectly transparent many speakers are
- Highly resolving, with impressive performance on acoustical instruments and vocal reproduction
- Offers a unique and remarkable experience due to the story and love behind the speaker's creation
- Presents a challenge, helping users understand speaker positions as the sound changes completely with movement
- Considered 'eminently affordable' and provides incredible sound for the price
Product Considerations
- Requires significant time to install, tweak, and dial in due to its dipole design, making positioning critical
- Bass is not powerful—it doesn't do pounding bass, and listeners won't feel the bass pounding on their chest, so a subwoofer might be needed, especially for rock, pop, dance, and electronic music
- Needs good power and high current to sound clean and not cause fatigue, it is not a powerful-sounding speaker
- The stand included is considered subpar and not very versatile
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs the original LRS, the LRS+ has ameliorated treble, has smoother upper mids, and has a reduced nosedive in the power range and midbass
Takeaway: The Magnepan LRS+ is a special speaker with an open soundstage, great details, and makes music sound real and enjoyable. Though not perfect, it is well worth buying because it offers an excellent way to experience a panel speaker without spending too much.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
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Dynaudio
Emit 30
849
/
Released
2021
Emit 30 is a compact two-and-a-half-way speaker designed to impress whether it's used as a stand-alone stereo pair or as part of a 5.1-channel (or more) home cinema. Like its little brother, Emit 10, it uses 14cm MSP woofers similar to those used in the Evoke series – this time doubled-up in each speaker for more low-frequency muscle, plus midrange clarity and punch.
Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Emit 30 delivers a satisfying and full-bodied sound, particularly excelling in the midrange, making vocals, piano, strings, and horns sound 'right'
- Bass performance is impressive for its size, delivering clean, fast, and airy bass with low distortion
- Good clarity and detail, rendering a wide range of recordings
- Good dynamics and energy, making music lively and engaging
- Top-notch build quality
Product Considerations
- The Emit 30's presentation might favor sophistication over excitement, with rhythmic drive being somewhat muted
- High-frequency non-linearity
- Some reviewers found the upper frequencies 'off', sometimes a little too soft
- The vinyl finish may be a drawback for some, as it is not as luxurious as real wood veneers
- Speakers like a bit of power
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Triangle Comet: The Emit 30 is rich, warm, and sweet, whereas the Comet is fast, quick, hyper-detailed, and exciting
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Emit 30 gives a more complete, full-bodied sound, while the LS50 offers clearer vocals and more air
Takeaway: The Dynaudio Emit 30 is a well-rounded speaker that offers a satisfying and engaging listening experience with impressive bass and midrange performance. It's a great value for those seeking a refined and capable floorstanding speaker without breaking the bank.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
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Acoustic Energy
AE109²
999
/
Released
2022
The AE109² is designed to offer effortless, room filling performance from a slim-line floor-standing loudspeaker in much the same way the world acclaimed original AE109 did 20 years ago.
Acoustic Energy is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique 3.5-way Corinium design that separates bass drivers from midrange and tweeter, creating sound similar to a standmount speaker with a bass module. Their speakers feature distinctive materials like coconut husk-paper blend drivers and carbon fiber domes, along with specialized cabinet designs using inert mass damping to reduce coloration and enhance clarity.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Well-rounded sound for the price
- Easy to drive with various amplifiers
- Easy to place in a room, even close to a wall, thanks to the rear slot port design
- Wide sound dispersion, making them suitable for enjoying with friends and family
- Smooth, warm, and non-fatiguing sound, suitable for long listening sessions
Product Considerations
- Bass can sometimes muddy the midrange, especially with tone controls that increase bass
- Soundstage depth may fall a bit short compared to more expensive speakers
- The provided spikes attach directly to the base of the cabinet, which could affect side-to-side stability
- Accessories could be better
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Magnepan LRS+—AE109² easier to own, less finicky with amp requirements and placement, and better for sharing due to wider sweet spot, though Magnepan sounds better
- Vs DALI Spektor 6—AE109² presents a genuine challenge, with better looks, though DALI has more 'fizz' of excitement
Takeaway: The AE109² is a budget-friendly floorstanding speaker that provides a balanced and enjoyable listening experience, especially for those prioritizing ease of placement and a wide soundstage. These speakers are a great option for creating a solid system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Acoustic Energy is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique 3.5-way Corinium design that separates bass drivers from midrange and tweeter, creating sound similar to a standmount speaker with a bass module. Their speakers feature distinctive materials like coconut husk-paper blend drivers and carbon fiber domes, along with specialized cabinet designs using inert mass damping to reduce coloration and enhance clarity.
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