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

  • Good bass impact, coupled with a mildly more pronounced top end
  • Visually stunning, with a classy, high-end look, especially in the ash finish, described as both modern and classic
  • Clear and intelligible midrange
  • Energetic, extended, and detailed tweeter performance without being overly aggressive
  • Good soundstage width and depth

Product Considerations

  • Bass performance is source material dependent, and may need a sub-woofer for the deepest bass all the time
  • The feet look like an afterthought
  • Not the best center image
  • Midrange is not wholly neutral, described as a touch cool or lean
  • Needs some space from the wall, too close to your front wall and bass may become overpowering—potentially even boomy

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Against the Focal Chora 826, the fit and finish of the Silver Series was preferred, especially in the ash finish
  • The Monitor Audio speaker is built better than the Magnat Transpuls, but the more neutral sound of the Transpuls was preferred

Takeaway: The Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G is a lively and fun speaker that provides an engaging presence for both music and movies. With stunning looks and sound quality to match, these speakers are a classy addition to any living room.

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

Silver 500 7G

reviews

[{"title":"Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G loudspeaker\n","link":"https://www.stereophile.com/content/monitor-audio-silver-500-7g-loudspeaker","source":"Stereophile","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G Loudspeakers","link":"https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1653-monitor-audio-silver-500-7g-loudspeakers","source":"SoundStage! Hi-Fi","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"LIVING ROOM READY TOWERS! MONITOR AUDIO SILVER 500 7G REVIEW","link":"https://www.therobinsonbrand.com/journal/living-room-ready-towers-monitor-audio-silver-500-7g-review","source":"Andrew Robinson Reviews","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G Loudspeaker\n","link":"https://www.hifinews.com/content/monitor-audio-silver-500-7g-loudspeaker","source":"Hi-Fi News","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Living Room Friendly TOWER SPEAKERS!! Monitor Audio Silver Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=og0u27cm1Ek","source":"Andrew Robinson","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5rhygIK05s","source":"Radical Music Reviews","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Monitor Audio Silver 500 7g Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jx0rdgHCdSY","source":"Hifyed","datePublished":"2022"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • System Format: 3-way
  • Frequency Response, In-Room (-6dB): 27 Hz - 35 kHz
  • Sensitivity (2.83v @ 1m): 90.5 dB
  • Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms
  • Minimum Impedance: 4.1 Ohms @ 150 Hz
  • Maximum SPL (single, free-field): 111 dB
  • Power Handling (RMS): 250 W
  • Recommended Amplifier Requirements: 80 - 250 W
  • Crossover Frequency: L.F: 800 Hz M.F/ H.F: 2.7 kHz
  • Port Tuning Frequency: 36 Hz
  • Bass Alignment: Bass reflex Dual HiVe II port system
  • Drive Unit Complement: 2 x 8" C-CAM RST II bass driver, 1 x 3" C-CAM RST II mid-range driver, 1 x 1" (25 mm) C-CAM Gold Dome tweeter with UD Waveguide II
  • External Dimensions (Including Grille and Terminals): 1050 x 230 x 332 mm (41 5/16 x 9 1/16 x 13 5/64")
  • External Dimensions (including Outrigger Feet and Spikes): 1095 x 319 x 389 mm (43 7/64 x 12 9/16 x 15 5/16")
  • Weight (each): 22.5 kg (49 lb 9 oz)
  • Sold As: Pair
Punchy bass. A great high and mid-range response. Beautifully crafted looks. It's not hard to say what makes the Silver 500 7G special, but it is hard to appreciate just what a difference those things make – until, that is, you listen for yourself.
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:

  • Monitor Audio's C-CAM (Ceramic-Coated Aluminium/Magnesium) drivers, specifically their "Gold Dome" tweeters and mid-bass drivers, are consistently praised for their unique combination of lightness, rigidity, and damping, resulting in clear, detailed, and dynamic sound reproduction.
  • The "Rigid Surface Technology" (RST and RST II), employed on Monitor Audio's driver cones, enhances their stiffness and reduces distortion, leading to a fuller, more textured, and controlled sound, especially in the bass frequencies.
  • They've developed a signature sound that balances detail, clarity, and a lively, energetic presentation while being smooth and non-fatiguing, making their speakers suitable for long listening sessions across various music genres.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
191
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
23
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
58
Founding Year
1972

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.

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?

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Monitor
Gold 300 6G
5599
5599
/
4
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Incorporates the same MPD III aerodynamic tweeters as the super flagship Hyphn, extending high-frequency response up to 60 kHz
  • The new HDT C-CAM diaphragms in the midrange and bass drivers enhance rigidity, increase bandwidth by 10%, and improve transient response
  • Cabinets are designed for maximum rigidity with thick walls, robust bracing, and through-bolt technology
  • The midrange and treble units are integrated into a decorative, strong die-cast alloy chassis that helps improve acoustic integration
  • Neutral and transparent, revealing subtle recorded detail, and it is fast and dynamic

Product Considerations

  • Given its neutrality and transparency, the Gold 300 6G would be a good match to a ruler-flat front end, but should be paired carefully with brighter components
  • Some listeners may find the sound 'uptight' with a muted transparency and rhythm, but this can be adjusted via the tensioning bolts on the back of the enclosure
  • Break-in time is recommended
  • The Gold 300 6G requires the right amount of power (at least 130 watts) to drive it and fully release its audio performance
  • The use of grilles is largely cosmetic and sound quality improves when they are left off

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Gold 300 6G has incisive transient response but Dynaudio C2 Signature offer fuller low bass and richer, more complex harmonic palette
  • The Gold 300 6G offers much of the performance of a top-tier loudspeaker but is not quite at the same level as Monitor Audio Platinum 200 3G

Takeaway: The Monitor Audio Gold 300 6G is a highly refined loudspeaker that offers a neutral and detailed sound, with great improvements to musicality and sound quality. It is a capable speaker that can handle a wide range of music and is sure to captivate.

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
Product image
Monitor
Cinergy 300
6500
6500
/
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Huge soundstage that expands beyond the confines of the room
  • Incredible flexibility regarding placement and orientation, including in-wall, on-wall, and floor-standing options
  • Speakers reveal a level of detail that few other systems can match
  • THX Ultra certified and built to achieve true cinema reference volume levels

Product Considerations

  • System should be installed by a professional
  • The HFT drivers that make the sound so revealing could appear a little bright if not correctly tuned

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Monitor Audio Cinergy comes dangerously close to dethroning Perlisten in terms of movie sound

Takeaway: The Cinergy series is a fantastic option for home cinema fans, giving the best possible sound quality with a design tailored to home theater needs. A well-planned and executed Cinergy system can rival many commercial cinemas, offering a truly immersive sound experience.

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
Product image
Monitor
Gold 500 6G
7499
7499
/
1
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Large and expansive soundstage with great clarity and presence
  • Sweet, detailed, and incisive MPD III tweeter that integrates well with the midrange
  • Strong central image, giving vocals fabulous presence
  • Instruments within the soundstage are presented vividly and accurately, in a natural manner
  • Competitive price of £5,500 considering its specifications and build quality

Product Considerations

  • High-frequency energy may require the volume to be kept down to avoid unwanted brightness, depending on the mastering balance of the music
  • Strong presence band may place the listener in a 'front seat' position, which may be better suited for larger living spaces

Takeaway: The Monitor Audio Gold 500 6G is a well-built speaker that includes innovative technology and fills the room with a glorious soundstage. It is a fine addition to its market and should be considered by those with the budget.

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
Product image
KEF
LS60 Wireless
5499
5499
/
19
Reviews

Bring the track spirit into your home with LS60 Wireless Lotus Edition, created in partnership with and inspired by the British Racing Green of the iconic 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.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Striking, sleek, and modern design that complements modern interiors
  • Incorporates KEF's Uni-Q driver array and Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) for neutral, open, detailed sound, reducing unwanted sound from the rear of the tweeter
  • Includes Uni-Core force-canceling woofers that reduce cabinet vibrations, contributing to balanced and detailed bass
  • The KEF Connect app allows for adjustments to fit the listening environment
  • Offers high connectivity and is a true stand-alone system

Product Considerations

  • Bass can be a bit too much out of the box, requiring adjustments via the app or placement considerations
  • Not well-suited for those who have many signal sources to connect to
  • Some reviewers found the bass lacked definition in the upper bass, with unclear instrument placement, even after adjusting EQ settings
  • The included remote control is considered basic or cheap
  • Mandatory online registration and administrator-level internet connection requirements for the app may be a drawback for privacy-conscious users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Bang & Olufsen Beolab 28, the LS60 Wireless can achieve similar sound quality with adjustments, at a lower price point, although the Beolab 28 sounds 'more right' straight out of the factory
  • Compared to the KEF LS50 Wireless II, the LS60 Wireless is preferred stylistically, achieves near full-range playback, and has a more slim design, although it costs more and also provides much deeper bass
  • Compared to the Q Acoustics Active 400 Towers, the LS60 Wireless has no issues with products not working

Takeaway: The KEF LS60 Wireless are stylish, all-in-one speakers that deliver a balanced, detailed sound with advanced technology. They are a convenient, high-performing solution for those seeking a streamlined audio setup.

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

What competes at this price?

GoldenEar
T66
3450
/
Released
2024
The T66 is the first model in GoldenEar's new T Series. While it boasts several significant refinements of our time-tested design concepts, the T66 is undeniably a GoldenEar loudspeaker, placing beautiful sound and music before all else.
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GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent bass performance is a defining feature, providing tight, smooth, even, solid, and tangible bass extension into the 20 Hz range, eliminating placement issues associated with separate subwoofers
  • Balanced overall sound, coherence, and ability to present music in a natural and effortless way is consistently praised
  • High levels of detail come through with the High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter and cast-basket mid/bass units
  • A holographic image over the seating area of a typical sofa is capable with excellent imaging and a wide and open soundstage, even when not seated in the exact sweet spot
  • The Santa Barbara Red finish option receives high marks for its visual appeal

Product Considerations

  • Still a significant investment, especially the Santa Barbara Red finish
  • The metal grille covering the drivers is not designed to be easily removed
  • Care should be taken with system matching, due to a slightly hot high-end

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The T66 offers more refinement and a more 'of-a-piece' sound than the Triton One.R
  • Has internal structural improvements that make it even more stable and rigid than previous generations

Takeaway: The GoldenEar T66 delivers audiophile-grade sound and aesthetics, with powerful bass and exceptional detail. These speakers are easy to incorporate into nearly any environment, and have the power to let the listener appreciate all the nuances in favorite songs or movies.

Video review

Our take on the brand

GoldenEar Technology stands out for its High-Velocity Folded Ribbon tweeter, which moves air like an accordion to avoid the distortion common in metal dome tweeters, and its built-in powered bass sections with DSP eliminate the need for separate subwoofers. The brand delivers high-end sound quality at more accessible price points through its Triton series, which uses passive radiators to achieve powerful bass from compact cabinets.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sonus Faber
Lumina V
2999
/
Released
2021
Lumina V is the flagship three-way floor standing model in the collection. A slender speaker with high-power handling and fast transient response, Lumina V produces a natural, generous, and emotional sound for an immersive listening experience.
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Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Elegant design with a combination of wood and leather that gives a classy appearance
  • Impressive bass output, with some reviewers noting deep and tuneful bass
  • The midrange is articulate and expressive, delivering vocals with palpability and detail
  • Smooth and detailed high-end reproduction, thanks to the Damped Apex Dome (DAD) tweeter
  • Relatively easy to drive with a sensitivity of 89-90dB

Product Considerations

  • Requires careful placement to achieve the best balance, especially regarding toe-in
  • The bass can sometimes be perceived as boomy depending on the room acoustics
  • Some reviewers mention the included binding posts are cheap

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Q Acoustics Concept 50, the Lumina V has a more live sound, but the Concept 50 is more neutral, and more inert
  • Compared to the Polk R700, the Lumina V is sonically similar to the R700, but with slightly less bass and a smaller cabinet—with better aesthetics; the R700 is more full range and warmer
  • Compared to the Spendor A4 or ProAc Response DT8, the Lumina V is not as precise, but offers a natural sonic grace

Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Lumina V is an elegant speaker that delivers detailed sound and impressive bass. It is a great option if you want speakers that look as good as they sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Perlisten
R7t
4995
/
Released
2022
You wanted a flagship R-Series to fill larger rooms based on the trickle-down technology from the S-Series. The second-best two-channel system in our line-up still rivals most competitor's flagship. Employing the same DPC array and long-excursion woofers for extremely low distortion and our beam forming controlled directivity down to 500Hz make this a full-range masterpiece only rivaled by our own award-winning S7t.
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Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Remarkably coherent and balanced sound profile, resulting from well-engineered and matched drivers and cabinet
  • An uncanny ability to 'disappear' in the listening room
  • The DPC array design contributes to a wide horizontal dispersion, allowing a broader sweet spot for multiple listeners
  • Accurate sound reproduction and neutral enough for studio use
  • A high level of dynamic ability, good low-end control, and a cavernous soundstage

Product Considerations

  • Only available in gloss black and gloss white finishes, which might not suit all tastes or home décor
  • The price point is a significant investment, placing it beyond the reach of many
  • Some reviewers noted a mild treble roll-off, or smooth character that was overly kind on poor recordings and might lack the sparkle and excitement some listeners prefer
  • Setting up requires assistance, due to the weight
  • The lower bass extension may not satisfy deep bass enthusiasts, with extension starting to drop below 40Hz

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Perlisten S7t, the S7t offers more overall weight, bottom-end reach, resolution, and dynamic speed, but the R7t shines brightly on its own
  • Compared to the EgglestonWorks Oso, the Oso presented a more muscular version of the music with more bottom end oomph, while the R7t conveyed music's finer points with more apparent resolution
  • Compared to the KEF Reference 3, the KEF may yield deeper bass extension due to greater cabinet volume, and the scale of the soundstage may also be improved, but the Perlisten offers a superior disappearing act

Takeaway: The Perlisten R7t are well-built speakers that provide a detailed and immersive listening experience, with their advanced design and unique driver array creating a spacious soundstage. Their cutting-edge design creates a great listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Perlisten Audio's speakers feature a unique Directivity Pattern Control array that combines a beryllium tweeter with thin-ply carbon diaphragm midrange drivers to control sound dispersion and enhance imaging precision, and they're the first brand to achieve THX Dominus certification. Their speakers use proprietary thin-ply carbon diaphragm material that's 30% lighter than standard carbon fiber, with their DPC array designed to minimize floor and ceiling reflections while maintaining precise horizontal soundstage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Triangle
Esprit 40th - Antal 40th
4000
/
Released
2023
Antal and Comète are two emblematic models of the brand. They reflect the philosophy of the company: making sound accessible to the widest variety of customers possible through simple processes designed to foster emotion. The Antal 40th floorstander features a new rose gold anodized magnesium dome tweeter, offering high efficiency and controlled distortion.
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Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent midrange imaging and naturalness, described as smooth and stunning
  • Smooth treble with a timbre and natural decay that allows for hours of listening without fatigue
  • Expansive soundstaging with good imaging, height, and depth
  • Stellar overall balance makes it an outstanding performer
  • Beautiful wood veneer with high polish lacquer and attention to detail in construction

Product Considerations

  • Bass will not reach subterranean levels, a subwoofer may be required for strong bass enthusiasts
  • Speakers may benefit from more power
  • "Messy music" (genres with rawness or grime) may not be conveyed as well, as the speaker can be a little polite
  • Excellent clarity was brilliantly showcased by Ray Gelato's Basin Street Blues, beautifully recorded on the Linn label, which may not appeal to all audiences

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the standard Antal Ez, the 40th Anniversary edition uses a lighter—more rigid anodized-magnesium tweeter for higher efficiency, lower distortion, and better directivity

Takeaway: The Triangle Antal 40th Anniversary is a well-balanced and beautiful loudspeaker with a stunning midrange that provides a musical and engaging listening experience. Its clarity, expansive soundstage, and beautiful design make it a great addition to any audiophile's setup

Video review

Our take on the brand

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Acoustic Energy
AE320
2899
/
Released
2021
The AE320 is a new slim-line floor-standing loudspeaker with compact dimensions, suitable for medium to large sized rooms.
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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

  • Deep, strong, and powerful bass conveys music on a scale that may not be expected
  • Excellent musical communicator with a relatively clean and open midband, and a surprisingly polished treble for its price
  • Well-rounded sound with perfect tonal balance and the ability to create perfectly stable and three-dimensional sound sources with great tonal differentiation
  • Delivers on quality while being easy to drive from even moderately powered amps due to its impressive sensitivity

Product Considerations

  • May require a medium to large room to avoid overpowering smaller environments
  • The snappy character of the ceramic/aluminum drivers needs sympathetic amp matching, as it is best not partnered with a brighter-balanced transistor amplifier
  • There is some cabinet coloration

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins' 603 S2 Anniversary Edition, B&W is a more 'grown-up' sounding speaker in that it's more discreet, controlled, measured, and refined

Takeaway: The AE320 is a well-designed and well-made speaker that sounds warm, open, and cohesive across the frequency range. It offers great value for its price and is ideal for those looking for a floorstanding speaker with excellent detail and impact.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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