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

  • Piega developer Kurt Scheuch assembled a 'Standbox Premium 50.2', but no strengths of the product are described

Product Considerations

  • Piega developer Kurt Scheuch assembled a 'Standbox Premium 50.2', but no considerations about the product are described

Takeaway: The provided text mentions the 'Standbox Premium 50.2' being assembled by a Piega developer There is not enough information to determine its overall value and benefits

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

Premium AP 1.2

reviews

[{"title":"Test Piega AP 1.2: die High End Minibox","link":"https://www.lowbeats.de/test-piega-ap-1-2-die-high-end-minibox","source":"LowBeats","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

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:

  • Piega speakers are crafted with seamless, extruded aluminum enclosures, designed by Swiss architect Stephan Hürlemann, which minimizes vibrations and resonances.
  • They utilize custom-designed Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeters, manufactured in-house, known for their clarity, detail, and extended high-frequency response.
  • Piega offers a unique Wireless Spatial Sound (WiSa) technology in select models, allowing for cable-free stereo or multi-channel setups without compromising audio quality.
  • The brand incorporates Tension Improve Module (TIM) technology, including TIM2 in newer generations, which tensions internal components to further reduce cabinet resonance and improve sonic purity.

Ace Series

  • Positioning: The entry-level lineup in PIEGA's offerings, designed for compact spaces and affordability.
  • Description: Features the AMT-1 Air Motion Transformer for detailed sound. Compared to the Premium Series, offers a more compact and budget-friendly option, making it ideal for small rooms or those seeking portability. While it lacks the advanced ribbon technology of the Coax and Master Line Source series, it provides a balanced sound suitable for everyday listening.

Premium Loudspeakers

  • Positioning: Sits in the mid-range of PIEGA's lineup, offering a balance of performance and design.
  • Description: Known for its elegant design and advanced ribbon tweeter technology, providing clear and precise audio. Features a reinforced aluminum structure that enhances sound clarity, setting it apart from the Ace Series.

Coax Gen2

  • Positioning: A high-end offering, positioned just below the flagship Master Line Source series.
  • Description: Stands out with its proprietary coaxial ribbon technology, delivering exceptional clarity and balance. Uses advanced TIM2 modules to reduce cabinet vibrations, offering superior sound purity compared to the Premium Series.

Master Line Source Gen2

  • Positioning: The flagship series, representing the pinnacle of PIEGA's technological innovation.
  • Description: Features innovative Line Source ribbon technology, providing exceptional sound with authentic and coherent sound reproduction. Uses a unique dipole speaker design that fills the space with a coherent cylinder sound wave, surpassing the capabilities of the Coax Gen2.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
12
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
198
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
27
Founding Year
1986

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.

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?

Our ribbon tweeters, especially the coaxial versions used in our Coax and Master Line models, deliver exceptional resolution and spatial imaging. What’s particularly noteworthy is that we have been developing these tweeters entirely in-house for over 40 years – and we still manufacture them by hand at our facility in Horgen, Switzerland. The quality is, in our view, outstanding – not only acoustically, but also in terms of technical precision and minimal unit-to-unit variance.

Our aluminum enclosures, combined with internal damping and sandwich construction, ensure distortion-free performance – even at high volumes – and are a unique feature both acoustically and visually.

What's your approach to customer support?

We generally recommend that customers first reach out to their dealer or national distributor for any questions or issues. These partners are trained and authorized to assist quickly and effectively. In more complex cases – or when customers contact us directly – we are, of course, committed to providing personal and dedicated support.

Additionally, we regularly invite customers to visit our headquarters in Horgen. During these visits – which include a tour of our production and personal consultation – very close relationships have developed, and in some cases, even real friendships have formed. We take pride in maintaining close and reliable contact, even after the purchase.

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

  • “Queen Mary” – Francine Thirteen: For dynamics and tight bass, excellent at high volume.
  • “Liberty” – Anette Askvik: For atmospheric depth and spaciousness.
  • “The Headless Horseman” – Bobby Bass: Great for vocals and evaluating seamless transitions between multi-way drivers.

What other products pair best with yours?

We experience excellent synergy with HiFi Rose electronics – both sonically and aesthetically. Setups with T+A or Cambridge Audio also pair beautifully with our speakers. And of course, there are no limits at the high end: just recently, I heard a large Burmester and McIntosh system driving our Coax 811 at a dealer – the result was absolutely stunning. 

From our interview with
Martin Bühler
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
PIEGA
Premium Wireless Gen2 301
4070
4070
/
2
Reviews

The Premium Wireless Gen 2 301 bookshelf speaker packs a potent punch with its 100-watt amplifier, offering robust performance in a compact form. This 2-way speaker combines a 140 mm MDS woofer with the LDR-2642-MKII ribbon tweeter, achieving an expansive frequency range of 35 Hz to 35 kHz. Its elegant design ensures it fits seamlessly into any space, be it on a shelf, sideboard, or stand, making it a versatile and powerful addition to your audio setup

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Very detailed and fine sound image
  • Balanced and dynamic sound with dry bass that allows for flexible placement
  • Excellent overall sound quality, with an open and very attractive sonic output
  • Many connectivity options via the Connect Plus hub, including streaming standards, Bluetooth, HDMI, and digital/analog hifi interfaces

Product Considerations

  • Fine-tuning of the Piega Control App showed some room for improvement
  • Image appears large, but two-dimensional
  • The Piega's own Connect DAC is not the best, because it can be pushed too far and it complains in a slightly edgy way at high volumes
  • Low volume performance was fair, but nothing to write home about

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF LS 50 Wireless II: KEF LS 50 Wireless II offers more natural imaging and more substantial low bass, while the Piega played much more detailed and lively and fits acoustically better in the corner or shelf
  • Vs Mission LX Connect: The Mission LX Connect is similar in concept with a multifunctional transmitter, but it cannot keep up with the Piega in terms of streaming features or sound

Takeaway: The Piega Premium Wireless 301 Gen2 offers a detailed sound and many ways to connect to favorite music sources. It is a good choice for someone looking for a compact, good-sounding, and versatile wireless speaker system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PIEGA
Ace 50 Wireless
4090
4090
/
1
Reviews
PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Slim, aesthetically pleasing design from Stephan Hurlemann, made with aluminum
  • Rigid aluminum enclosure helps resist resonance and ensures frequency linearity
  • Smooth, sweet, extended top end from the AMT-1 Air Motion Transformer tweeter
  • Sound is lithe, elegant, clean, refined, and precise
  • Confident low-frequency performance that is smoothly extended, agile, and tuneful with good articulation

Product Considerations

  • Bass is not the weightiest for its class
  • Not a speaker for very loud volume levels or trouser-flapping bass
  • Sound plays it a little too safe

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 Anniversary Edition: The Bowers & Wilkins sounds bigger and bolder with excellent detail resolution
  • Vs Scansonic M20: The Scansonic rivals the Piega's finesse, openness, and superb timing

Takeaway: The Piega Ace 50 offers a harmonious blend of style and sound with its gorgeous looks and refined sonics. It is a good choice for anyone who appreciates a clear, open, and tonally natural speaker that does well with most types of music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
GoldenEar
T66
3450
3450
/
23
Reviews

Introducing the T Series 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. Honoring the Triton Series The T66 honors the critically acclaimed Triton Series, sharing a similarly tall, slender profile; built-in DSP-controlled subwoofer amplification; and a driver complement comprising GoldenEar’s High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter, cast-basket mid/bass units, quadratic planar radiators, and long-throw powered sub-bass section. Onward and Upward Several important cosmetic and sonic refinements distinguish the new T66 from previous GoldenEar speakers. These include a dramatically augmented crossover design, high-quality internal wiring, a new cast-aluminum base and metal grille, and, in addition to GoldenEar’s Gloss Black cabinet finish, a vibrant Santa Barbara Red.

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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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
Product image
Sonus Faber
Duetto
3999
3999
/
19
Reviews

Powerful, rich sound in a compact design. Designed for both digital and analog sources, Duetto is a versatile combination of Italian style and contemporary function. Big sound in a compact design, Duetto marks Sonus faber's inaugural active stereo wireless speaker system. Powered by four bespoke amplifiers, Duetto presents an all-in-one sound solution, harmoniously blending a multitude of connectivity options while keeping the listening experience wire-free.

Double the sound, not the size. Inspired by a harmony produced by two instruments, Duetto sets a new standard for wireless high-fidelity sound in a compact design.

Ultra Wide Band Technology

 Duetto employs Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, enabling communication between the two speakers. The wireless transmission avoids latency and interference by other home networks, while guaranteeing a wide frequency spectrum to send data signals at high speeds.

SENSO™ Technology by Sonus faber

 The leather top panel allows the user to control and set up speaker functions — such as playback, volume, input selection, and connections — with a buttonless interface through simple fingertip gestures.

Sonus faber's iconic lute-shaped design takes inspiration from musical instruments. Crafted from wood, the cabinet ensures structural solidity, rich timbre, and musicality, while effectively eradicating internal resonances to shape the unmistakable Sonus faber Natural Sound.

Hear – and see – to believe. Duetto takes note of Sonus faber's most iconic design cues and natural materials.

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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Gorgeous sound is clear, smooth, detailed, and dynamic
  • Elegant design is dashingly elegant, minimalist aesthetic, and painstakingly crafted for equal parts style and substance
  • Impressive bass extension and output, described as deep and firm, surprising for their size
  • Clear midrange makes voices sound purposeful, characterful, and entirely present
  • Versatile connectivity with streaming and input options, including Chromecast, AirPlay 2, phono pre-amp, and HDMI ARC/eARC

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers experienced streaming and HDMI ARC reliability issues
  • Input and control layout can be inconvenient and awkward
  • Prototype unit had operational bugs
  • No bass level adjustment is available, though it could be added in mobile app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II—the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a similarly high-end option
  • Vs PSB Alpha iQ—the PSB Alpha iQ is a more compact wireless speaker package than the Sonus Faber and is comparatively lighter on bass

Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Duetto speakers are well-suited for those seeking amazing sound and a beautiful design in one package. These speakers are easy to connect and use, and fill the room with rich, detailed audio.

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

What competes at this price?

PIEGA
Ace 50
2032
/
Released
2021
Don't be fooled by its slender appearance, the Ace 50 sounds surprisingly powerful. The optimised low frequency speaker chassis emits an enormous acoustic power for bass tones sounding full and crisp. This perfect speaker for medium-sized rooms leaves nothing to be desired for everyday music enjoyment.
Check Amazon
PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Gorgeous looks and a sleek aesthetic are thanks to designer Stephan Hurlemann
  • High-end build quality is ensured by its braced aluminium enclosure, which ensures absolute consistency in resisting resonance while ensuring fine frequency linearity
  • Delivers a sound that can be described as lithe, elegant, clean, refined and precise
  • Front-firing port allows for closer placement to walls
  • AMT-1 (Air Motion Transformer) tweeter offers a smooth, sweet, and extended top end

Product Considerations

  • Stabilizing plate at the base has to be screwed on, which involves aligning shiny, dinky screws with precision-cut threads
  • Removing the grilles requires a thin, flat implement because they are pre-attached, making it a quite tricky affair
  • Plinth stands, while emphasizing its slender silhouette, are not the most ruthlessly stable of stands
  • Bass isn't the weightiest compared to other floorstanders
  • Not a speaker for viscerally engaged volume levels, trouser flapping bass or the kind of percussive slam that can rearrange one's hairdo and blow out one's windows

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Scansonic M20, it possesses similar finesse, openness and superb timing, which also employs a ribbon tweeter

Takeaway: The Piega Ace 50 speakers look great and sound refined and precise, making them an excellent addition to any room. The Ace 50 could be a perfect choice for those seeking speakers that blend style with a balanced sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
PIEGA
Ace 30 Wireless
2042
/
Released
2022
The Ace 30 Wireless bookshelf speaker, while being the smallest in the series, encapsulates the largest all-in-one system with PIEGA's distinct sound. This compact loudspeaker offers the ultimate flexibility with pre-integrated streaming clients and various TV connectivity options, making it an ideal choice for any setup. Despite its modest size, it surprises with powerful bass and a space-filling sound, ensuring a perfect music experience throughout your home.
Check Amazon
PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Diverse input options are available, including digital coax/optical, HDMI eARC, analog stereo, Ethernet, and infrared, allowing for flexible setup
  • Compatible with various streaming services like Apple Airplay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, and DLNA
  • Clear and dynamic sound, with the AMT-1 tweeter providing clarity and imaging
  • Solid all-metal build with sleek design available in multiple finishes
  • Compact size allows them to fit discreetly in a room

Product Considerations

  • Initial setup can be frustrating, especially for iOS users requiring the Google Home app
  • The Piega Control app can be unreliable
  • Limited dynamic variation and punch—not musically engaging
  • Limited transparency compared to competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. KEF LS50 Meta: The KEF LS50 Meta are more musical and offer better dynamic variation and scale
  • Vs. Bluesound Pulse 2i: The Bluesound Pulse 2i is a little more familiar to most consumers in terms of design and footprint
  • Vs. Triangle Borea BR08: The Triangle Borea BR08 are floorstanders, unlike the Piega Ace 30, which are bookshelf speakers

Takeaway: The Piega Ace 30 Wireless Speakers offer convenience and flexibility with their compact size, multiple streaming options, and solid build quality, making them a good choice for those seeking a high-end, discreet audio solution. They can serve as main speakers in a compact stereo system or integrate seamlessly into a whole-home or surround sound setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PIEGA is a hifi speaker brand that uses aluminum cabinets and Air Motion Transformer tweeters to achieve better sound quality than traditional speaker designs. The brand is known for making compact speakers that perform like much larger ones, with their TMicro 40 model reaching deep bass notes down to 50Hz despite its small size.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
R3 Meta
2430
/
Released
2023
Three-way bookshelf speaker R3 Meta redefines bookshelf speaker's performance. Sharing the same drivers as the range-topping R11 Meta, the R3 Meta is a true three-way design. It has a 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™ and a powerful 6.5" hybrid aluminium bass driver that pushes performance to new extremes.
Check Amazon
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
  • Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
  • Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
  • A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
  • Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences

Product Considerations

  • The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
  • The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
  • Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
  • The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
  • Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
  • Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
  • Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta

Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.

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
PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
/
Released
2022
One system. One app. All the music. Just a left and right speaker and your smart phone is all that's needed to access your favourite tracks and albums from Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, internet radio, and more. Connect your TV, gaming console, or turntable for even more music listening options.
Check Amazon
Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
  • Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
  • Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth

Product Considerations

  • BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
  • BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
  • Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
  • Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
  • Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
  • Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
  • Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers

Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sonus Faber
Omnia
1999
/
Released
2022
Omnia elevates the listening experience to new heights, combining relentless artistry with cutting-edge innovation. The new technology brings the sensation of live music to every listening space.
Check Amazon
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 and luxurious design embodies the classic Sonus Faber look with a curvaceous shape, walnut wood exterior, and appealing aesthetics
  • Impressive soundstage and room-filling performance–the Crescendo technology creates a wide and immersive soundstage that exceeds the physical size of the speaker
  • Good sound quality, with solid, full, and tight bass, along with clear midrange and vocals
  • Setup is relatively easy and user-friendly, with intuitive controls and compatibility with various streaming services
  • Extensive wireless connectivity (AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, aptX HD Bluetooth, and Roon) and wired options (HDMI ARC, Ethernet, switchable phono/line input via dongle)

Product Considerations

  • Price is expensive compared to other wireless speakers on the market
  • Awkward placement of back-panel connectors, as they are buried in the base, making them difficult to access
  • Treble might be a little too soft and lacking some presence for some listeners
  • There is no bespoke Omnia control app
  • Some users reported compatibility problems with Android devices

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Naim Mu-so 2, the Omnia has a wider, more spacious soundstage and unrivalled clarity, while the Mu-so 2 has a warmer tone and superior sense of musical cohesion
  • The Omnia's curves remind some of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin

Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Omnia is a stylish and well-equipped wireless speaker that offers an immersive listening experience for smaller spaces. It is a good choice for audiophiles who appreciate both aesthetics and high-quality sound and are willing to pay a premium.

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

How to buy

Speakers

Search all hifi products

Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.