Website author headshot
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.

Product Strengths

  • Very accurate sound
  • Excellent dynamics, great for movies
  • High-impact dynamics, speed, foundational weight, and superb resolution
  • Produces seamless imaging across the front of the room
  • Clear midrange and highs with clarity and unmatched accuracy

Product Considerations

  • S150's speaker terminals don't accept standard banana plugs
  • Poor directivity through the crossover region
  • Might be too bright, and benefit from room treatment for side, front, and ceiling absorption
  • Some TV channels have harshness on this speaker system because they are mixed for standard TV speakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs legacy S150: The new S150 are a definite aesthetic improvement
  • Vs legacy S150 center speaker: The new S150 sounded better, with an improved dialogue intelligibility, especially with male voices
  • When compared to systems without a dedicated sub, the S150 had a more open choral gradient

Takeaway: The S150 is a THX certified speaker that provides excellent dynamics for a great listening experience, especially for movies. These speakers are used in mixing and mastering studios for music and film, which makes them a great choice for audiophiles.

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

S150

reviews

[{"title":"M&K Sound S150/S150t THX Ultra Speaker System Review","link":"https://www.soundandvision.com/content/mk-sound-s150s150t-thx-ultra-speaker-system-review","source":"Sound & Vision","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Miller & Kreisel S150 Speaker Review","link":"https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/m_and_k_s150","source":"Erin's Audio Corner","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"M&K Sound S150 Monitor and X10 Subwoofer","link":"https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/mk-sound-s150-monitor-and-x10-subwoofer","source":"The Absolute Sound","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"M&K Sound S150/S150t THX Ultra Speaker System Review","link":"https://www.northmar.com/thx-ultra-speaker-system-review","source":"Northmar, Inc.","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"M&K Sound S150 & X10 THX Certified Speaker System Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97OHKYpr3rM","source":"Techno Dad","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Miller & Kreisel S150 Speaker Review","link":"https://erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/m_and_k_s150","source":"erinsaudiocorner.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"MK Sound S150 THX Ultra review","link":"https://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/hi-fi-and-audio/hi-fi-and-av-speakers/mk-sound-s150-thx-ultra-680219/review","source":"techradar.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Sound Impedance: 4 ohm
  • Recommended Amplifier Power: 25-500W
  • Bass/Midrange: 2 x 5.25" Fiberglass
  • High Frequency Driver: 3 x 1.1" Soft Fabric Dome
  • Frequency Response: 75 Hz – 20KHz +/- 3dB
  • Sensitivity: 92 dB, 2.83V1m
  • Dimensions (HxWxD): 31.8 x 26.6 x 30.8 cm (12.5 x 10.4 x 12.2")
  • Weight: 11.5 kg (25.4 lbs)
The legendary S150 is the culmination of more than 40 years of loudspeaker design and acustic solution for any critical audio and video recordings. What this updated version of the legendary studio monitor does in the conveyance of exactly what is there in the recorded source, no more and no less, is difficult to formulate in just a few words. Essentially, it does pretty much nothing, except open up a wide, clean, clear window on every aspect of recorded sound, allowing you to shift your personal focus as you choose between specific details, instruments or voices, while never losing sight of the totality of the overall musical experience.
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:

  • M&K Sound speakers are frequently used as reference monitors in music and film production facilities, indicating a professional-grade accuracy.
  • The brand's Phased-Focused crossover technology is designed to create a uniform timbre balance throughout the listening room, improving the three-dimensional response from almost any position.
  • M&K Sound's Tripole speaker design combines a direct radiator for precise directional sound with a dipole for diffused sound, delivering a more immersive 360-degree soundstage.
  • M&K designs subwoofers implementing a push-pull driver configuration to reduce distortion and increase bass output, enabling a smaller cabinet size while maintaining powerful bass.

MP150

  • Positioning: An entry-level on-wall speaker designed for compact spaces.
  • Description: Offers low-compression tweeters and studio-monitor derived components to deliver clear sound in environments with limited space. Compared to higher series like the 300, M, and 950, it sacrifices advanced features and power for simplicity and affordability.

S300

  • Positioning: A compact, full-range speaker aimed at delivering reference home cinema sound.
  • Description: Uses driver mounting with isolated tweeter and woofer brackets to reduce cabinet coloration and maintain clarity. When compared with the S300T, M70, and MP950, it presents a straightforward design focused on purity of sound rather than the enhanced surround or advanced performance found in the higher series.

S300T

  • Positioning: A specialized tripole speaker optimized for immersive and precisely positioned rear sound.
  • Description: Integrates isolated side chambers with additional drivers to boost surround imaging and deliver a more enveloping sound field than the standard S300. In comparison with the M70 and MP950, its focus remains on enhanced surround coverage rather than the overall higher power and advanced engineering of the premium lines.

M70

  • Positioning: A design-focused, ultra-slim on-wall speaker balancing aesthetics with modern performance.
  • Description: Features optimized crossover design and new components for easy, vibration-free installation paired with clear and dynamic sound reproduction. Relative to the entry-level MP150 and 300 series, it offers refined engineering and elegance, though it does not reach the high-powered, professional level found in the 950 series.

MP950

  • Positioning: A high-end on-wall speaker engineered for exceptional performance in demanding home cinema settings.
  • Description: Uses professional-grade drivers with a phase-focused crossover for high power handling, speed, and precise imaging that set it apart with superior sound dynamics. Compared to the MP150, S300 series, and M70, it delivers the most advanced technology.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
109
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
64
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
35
Founding Year
1974

Our take on the brand

M&K Sound invented the world's first subwoofer in 1973 and is widely used in Hollywood studios for mixing and mastering film soundtracks. Their push-pull subwoofer design cancels out harmonic distortion, and their speakers deliver professional studio monitor neutrality, making them a top choice for high-end audio production.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

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

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Gershman
Studio II
5500
5500
/
10
Reviews

Delivers performance beyond what is typically associated with its price.

Gershman Acoustics speakers use Back-wave Control Technology and bass trap designs to deliver deep, controlled bass from compact enclosures, defying expectations about speaker size and performance. Their unique cabinet designs, including truncated pyramid shapes and resonance control devices, help create an intimate, club-like listening experience with exceptional clarity and precision.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Full-range sound, impressive bass response, and the ability to pressurize a room, often negating the need for a separate subwoofer
  • Smooth, warm, and coherent midrange provides natural and engaging vocals and instruments for long listening sessions without fatigue
  • Well-extended treble presents in a naturally smooth, enjoyable, and pleasing manner
  • Excellent imaging and soundstage capabilities create a realistic and immersive listening experience
  • Sound reproduction makes it a speaker that one can live with
  • Connectivity options are available

Product Considerations

  • Quality amplification with sufficient power and current is required to achieve optimal performance and control the woofer effectively
  • The backplate for bass adjustment uses wood screws, making it easy to strip if not handled carefully
  • Placement and setup, especially stand height and toe-in, are crucial for achieving the best high-frequency response, it can sound dull if not optimized
  • May not be ideal for listeners who prefer a brighter, more forward sound signature or those who prioritize extreme loudness levels
  • Grilles may cause micro-rattling at moderate to loud listening levels due to weaker magnets

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Totem Acoustic Manny 2 Signature: The Studio 2 has a more forgiving presentation, denser midrange, and stronger bass
  • Vs Klipsch Forte 3: The Studio 2 offers a more natural tone, especially in the midrange and upper bass, along with greater soundstage depth
  • Vs Vienna Acoustics Mozart Symphony Editions: The Studio 2 beats them in bass and midrange
  • Vs Harbeth (SHL5 and Compact 7 XTs): The Studio 2 cannot be matched by the Harbeth's articulate bass response
  • Vs Celestion SL6-S: The Studio 2 has deeper roots in the trunk, and they got high branches and leaves, but they don't go all the way up to the highest branches and leaves at the tippy top

Takeaway:

The Studio 2 is a well-built bookshelf speaker that delivers a smooth, full-range sound with surprising bass and clear imaging, making for an engaging listening experience. With the right setup and quality components, these speakers can provide years of musical enjoyment in a variety of room sizes.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Gershman Acoustics speakers use Back-wave Control Technology and bass trap designs to deliver deep, controlled bass from compact enclosures, defying expectations about speaker size and performance. Their unique cabinet designs, including truncated pyramid shapes and resonance control devices, help create an intimate, club-like listening experience with exceptional clarity and precision.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PMC
PMC6-2
10000
10000
/
5
Reviews
PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Extremely clear sound, making them better for mixing and mastering than many other monitors
  • Sound like main monitors, offering a large sound footprint not typically found in near-field or mid-field monitors
  • Wide bandwidth accuracy and dependability at any volume level
  • Midrange performance is particularly notable for realistic, unhyped accuracy, especially on naturally recorded human voices
  • Bass performance combines extended bandwidth with great dynamic, pitch, and temporal accuracy

Product Considerations

  • Require a significant break-in period
  • To get the most out of them, an interface that can connect via AES is needed, as the conversion when using analog is not as transparent
  • Correct placement is crucial; at least four and a half feet of distance is needed between the listener and the monitor to be able to get all of the sound that it's trying to give
  • SoundAlign software, while useful for EQ adjustments, may introduce unwanted digital artifacts to the sound
  • Expensive, these monitors are at the higher end of this sector and share that space with some well-respected designs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs ATC SCM25a: The reviewer finds an absence of 'not hearing the box' evident in the 6-2 compared to the ATCs
  • Vs Neumann KH310s: The 6-2s outperform them in every respect, sounding much better, with other monitors sounding colored by comparison
  • Vs ATC 150s: The reviewer prefers these PMC6-2s over the ATC 150s

Takeaway: The PMC6-2 is a high-performance studio monitor that delivers exceptional clarity and detail. For those seeking accurate and dependable sound at all volumes, these monitors are worth consideration.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PMC
PMC6
6100
6100
/
5
Reviews

The PMC6 is packed with innovation and providing the same sonic signature as our renowned larger monitors, it's ideal for smaller control rooms or for use in larger immersive systems, where its astounding resolution allows critical mix decisions to be made with absolute confidence. 

With 20mm of excursion, the bespoke 6-inch bass driver is designed specifically to integrate with our latest ATL™ bass-loading and Laminair™ airflow technologies. The combination outperforms most 8-inch monitors, offering unparalleled bass extension, headroom, dynamics, and low distortion at all levels. 

The high end is courtesy of a one-inch precision-built fabric soft-dome tweeter, with a shallow waveguide that creates wide, tonally consistent dispersion and rock-solid imaging. Both the bass and treble drivers are precisely and individually controlled by a pair of 200W ultra-low-distortion, high-damping-factor Class-D amplifiers. 

Whether in portrait or landscape placement, the PMC6's sophisticated DSP engine automatically adjusts the crossover, ensuring optimum tonal accuracy, phase and imaging. The monitor can be calibrated using the rear-panel controls or with PMC's intuitive browser-accessible SoundAlign™ software. 

The PMC6 can be upgraded by adding a PMC8 SUB to create a full-range, free-standing PMC6 XBD system. Activating the 'XBD' DSP mode ensures the perfect marriage of the two units, creating a clean LF extension down to 25Hz. 

"Active 2-way nearfield reference monitor with ATL™ bass loading Frequency response: 39Hz - 25kHz (- 3dB @1m full space, on-axis) Max. cont. SPL: 106dB @1m (half space value calculated as +3dB from full space measurement. Un-weighted input,20-20kHz Pink Noise (IEC) with 12dB CF for 2 hours AES2-1984 duration) State-of-the-art Class-D amplifiers: HF 200W, LF 200W Analogue/AES3 digital input (16/24-bit, 18 -192kHz sample rate) Digital 'through' output (AES3 24-bit 96kHz) SoundAlign™ network control interface for single or group EQ & settings Sophisticated DSP crossover, driver protection, EQ, and delay/polarity options Automatic portrait/landscape placement DSP correction PMC6 + PMC8 SUB creates PMC6 XBD, with LF down to 25Hz Ceiling-mount yoke allows suspension in multi-channel or immersive systems"

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Detailed and accurate sound reproduction
  • Extended bass response due to PMC's Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology
  • Exceptional stereo imaging allowing for precise mixing and monitoring
  • Easy configuration through the SoundAlign web interface, offering versatile adjustments
  • Attractive and versatile design suitable for both portrait and landscape orientations

Product Considerations

  • Minor dip in the frequency response around 300Hz, potentially due to transmission line harmonics, though it doesn't affect the overall performance
  • High mids may be revealing and fatiguing to some users
  • Users need to ensure proper network connectivity for using the SoundAlign app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs ATC SCM20ASL Pro Mk2, the PMC6 has a stronger low-end, while the ATC offers unmatched clarity and articulation in smaller rooms
  • Vs PSI Audio A21-M, the PMC6 is more powerful
  • Vs Genelec 8341A, the Genelec has a wider frequency response

Takeaway: The PMC6 is an impressive nearfield monitor that provides trustworthy sound to work on your audio and mixes. It's a valuable studio tool because it allows users to make mix choices with confidence.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PMC is a hifi speaker brand known for its Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology, which enhances bass response and reduces distortion, and its LaminairX technology in the Prophecy series, which reduces turbulence and harmonic distortion by up to 3dB. Their active speakers are preferred by music and audio professionals for their tonal accuracy and dynamic range, with user reviews particularly praising their accurate midrange and detailed sound compared to brands like Dynaudio and B&W.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
ATC
SCM25A Pro Mk2
9790
9790
/
2
Reviews

The SCM25A Pro Mk2 is a compact 3-way high-performance active studio monitor loudspeaker, based around a 6.5”/164mm bass driver. The monitors combination of exceptional mid-range clarity, high output, extended bass response and modest size makes it ideal for nearfield monitoring in a wide range of critical applications. The latest Mk2 version is updated with ATC’s latest SH25-76S ‘Dual Suspension’ tweeter, extending the high-frequency response along with a reduction in distortion. These improvements ensure faster decision making and outstanding translation outside the studio.

ATC is distinguished by manufacturing all drivers in-house and using a unique dual-suspension system in their tweeters that enhances stability without ferro-fluid. The brand, widely used in recording studios, features sealed cabinet designs for tight bass control and a proprietary 75mm soft-dome midrange driver that delivers precise, uncolored sound.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Broad dynamic range with extended high frequencies and low distortion
  • Precise and detailed high end that is clean and dimensional
  • Highly dimensional, reach-out-and-touch-it midrange representation
  • Full, firm, and punchy low end
  • Tonal consistency is good no matter where you are in the room

Product Considerations

  • Requires the purchase of a left and right model
  • Low mids may be more forward than some users are accustomed to
  • Needs a robust speaker stand due to its weight
  • The sweet spot seemed a bit shallower in depth than other monitors produce

Takeaway: The SCM25A is a studio monitor with great clarity that can help make better mixing decisions and identify problem areas in tracks. It's built to provide accurate and trusted counsel, making the technical parts of tone-building quicker.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ATC is distinguished by manufacturing all drivers in-house and using a unique dual-suspension system in their tweeters that enhances stability without ferro-fluid. The brand, widely used in recording studios, features sealed cabinet designs for tight bass control and a proprietary 75mm soft-dome midrange driver that delivers precise, uncolored sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Buchardt
Anniversary 10
3988
/
Released
2023
The Anniversary 10 (A10) is a culmination of all the experience that we have gathered over the last 10 years of designing and building HiFi speakers. Over the last decade, we have produced and sold thousands of speakers to happy HiFi enthusiasts from all around the world. Listening to feedback from our customers, learning from the best and adding our own flavor to the mix, has created extremely popular and critically acclaimed speakers, and now, this has evolved into our best sounding speaker yet.
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Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional bass performance for its compact size, with bass that is fast, clear, and tight
  • Multiple 'Master Tunings' offer customizable sound profiles, adapting to different room acoustics and user preferences
  • A high-quality Purifi woofer and SB Acoustics tweeter contribute to clarity, detail, and low distortion
  • A solid wood cabinet made in Denmark provides a luxurious look and feel

Product Considerations

  • Bass output may diminish or be limited at high volumes to protect the drivers from damage
  • A separate purchase of the Platin Stereo Hub may be required for full wireless functionality and room correction
  • The 'Made in China' label applies to the electronics inside the cabinet
  • While the A10 offers impressive bass, some may still prefer to add a subwoofer for a true full-range experience

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Buchardt S400 Mark II, the A10 is more transparent with greater inner detail, clarity, and top-end extension—and deeper, tighter bass—while the S400 Mark II is more relaxed and forgiving with harsh recordings
  • Vs Buchardt A500, the A10 has comparable performance, with possibly a crisper sound in some instances

Takeaway: The Buchardt Anniversary 10 is a compact yet powerful speaker that offers a customizable listening experience. Its impressive bass and versatile tuning options make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality audio solution in a small to medium-sized room.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Dynaudio
BM 15A
3158
/
Released
Check Amazon
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

  • Delivers greater tightness and precision from the crossover point on down
  • Delivers an extended high-frequency range, with greater detail and more openness without harshness
  • Stereo imaging is amongst the best
  • Has no sweet 'spot', which allows the engineer, producer, and client a fairly similar listening experience
  • Has a smoothly extended bass response that reveals what is really going on in that elusive bottom octave

Product Considerations

  • The BM-15As may be overkill for a smaller mixing environment and better suited for larger rooms
  • High end is as clean and accurate as the BM-12s, but the mids were a little lacking
  • While they have a slightly forward characteristic, it doesn't get in the way of accurate monitoring

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Dynaudio BM-12 MK3s—BM-15A has more bass extension and pure raw SPL power
  • Vs Dynaudio BM-12 MK3s—BM-12 MK3s have more detail in the mid-range
  • Vs Dynaudio BM-12 MK3s—BM-15A are far louder and put out substantially larger amount of energy in the bass and subs
  • Vs Genelec, Focal, Neumann, and Event—the Dynaudio BM series are in the same class as these monitors

Takeaway: The BM15A is a speaker that gives great stereo imaging with a wide frequency range, and produces an accurate sound which is nice to listen to for long periods. Full-range monitoring in a smaller studio is possible with these speakers.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Product Page
Musical Fidelity
LS3/5A
2799
/
Released
2023
The LS3/5A is a industry standard closed type monitor speaker. The LS3/5A was originally designed for listening places where space was limited, like mobile control rooms for television. The goal was a linear frequency response down to 100Hz with an excellent sound quality.
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Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a clean, smooth, even, and detailed sound with pleasing subtlety and fine imaging
  • Midrange is incredibly natural and fatigue-free with a slight warmth
  • Exquisite build quality
  • This version is reportedly one of the best-sounding LS3/5A variants on sale

Product Considerations

  • Rolled-off bass response may need a subwoofer
  • The sensitivity is very low, requiring more power from the amplifier
  • Uppermost treble may lack the extension and air of ultra-modern speakers
  • Some compression may be heard at high volumes

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sonos Faber Lumina 2: The Lumina 2 is even crisper up top, but leaner in the mid-bass

Takeaway: The Musical Fidelity LS3/5A is a classic speaker design reborn, offering a smooth, detailed, and natural sound that is particularly well-suited for small listening rooms and those who prioritize midrange richness. It can work well with a variety of music and amplifiers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Musical Fidelity
LS5/9
4799
/
Released
2023
The LS5/9 is a two-way bass reflex speaker which was designed to reproduce sound at high levels to fulfil the complete range of music genres from classical to pop music. As the speaker was originally designed for recording studio applications, a low level of coloration was the goal to keep the music itself untouched.
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Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Harwood LS 5/9 is a largely faithful replica of the legendary BBC monitor
  • It has a pleasingly high efficiency of 88 dB
  • It has a pleasingly linear progression of impedance, phase and EPDR, making it easy to drive with almost any amplifier
  • High maximum level of 95 dB (continuous) and up to 105 decibels with music
  • The sober and precisely tuned bass range enables the listener to push the LS 5/9 close to the rear wall without excessive booming bass

Product Considerations

  • The replica tweeter is a good 2 decibels quieter than the original, which called the original BBC poll into question
  • The LS 5/9 has a restraint in the mids (between 1.5–4 KHz), which is also reflected in the sound
  • The LS 5/9 is not among the liveliest loudspeakers under the sun
  • The tweeter adjustment requires re-soldering cables to the tweeter on the front

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The LS 5/9 plays lively compared to the LS 3/5a, which has virtually no dynamics at all
  • The LS 5/9 is roughly on a par with the Dynaudio Heritage Special in terms of agility
  • The Dynaudio Heritage Special produces much more and deeper bass from a considerably smaller cabinet
  • The Dynaudio Heritage Special presented details in the mids and highs with even more grip, finesse, and airiness
  • The LS 5/9 offers a very independent, highly cultivated form of reproduction that can be a charming alternative to equally expensive, modern designs
  • The Harwood LS 5/9 sounds like an original Rogers model from the late 1980s

Takeaway: The Harwood LS 5/9 is a well-made replica that offers a musically natural tuning. It is electrically undemanding, making it suitable for any amplifier, and offers a charming alternative to modern designs.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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