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
- Clean, uncolored, and extended sound, exceeding expectations for its compact size
- Detailed soundstage and imaging
- Unfussy placement
- Gloriously natural midrange, which conveys vocal texture superbly well and brings them to life
- Good sense of drive, and handles rhythmic changes well
Product Considerations
- The design is 'classic' in its boxy appearance
- Not ideal for bass junkies without a subwoofer
- Amplifier choice will have an effect on the sound, and this is of personal taste
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- (Compared to BBC-style monitors) DB3s are clearly highly accomplished transducers of supreme quality
Takeaway: The ProAc Response DB3 is a small speaker that delivers a rich and natural sound defying its physical size. It excels with vocals and provides a good sense of rhythm, making it a worthwhile audio investment.
All
Response DB3
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
- Recommended Amplifiers: 20 to 100 watts
- Frequency Response: 38Hz-30kHz
- Sensitivity: 88.5 dB linear for 1 watt at 1 metre
- Bass/midrange: ProAc 127mm (5") long throw unit with Pagina Mica cone and transparent dust cap
- Tweeter: ProAc 25mm (1") silk dome with special coolant
- Height (Cabinet): 12.5" (320mm)
- Width (Cabinet): 7.28" (182mm)
- Depth (Cabinet): 10.4" (280mm)
- Weight: 8.8Kg (19.6lb)
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:
- ProAc speakers are known for their natural and musical sound reproduction, avoiding harshness and fatigue even over extended listening sessions.
- ProAc's commitment to designing their own drivers, often partnering with local or specialized manufacturers to meet their exact specifications, ensuring optimal integration and performance.
- Bottom-ported designs offer flexibility in room placement, mitigating common boundary issues and contributing to a more predictable and coherent bass response, even in smaller spaces.
Select products
Studio SM100:
- Positioning: A versatile speaker suitable for both domestic and professional studio use.
- Description: Offers a smooth sound ideal for long listening sessions, featuring a bass driver with a rubber surround for enhanced power handling. Compared to the Response DT8, it is more compact and suited for near-field monitoring, making it ideal for smaller spaces and those on a tighter budget.
Response DT8:
- Positioning: The entry-level floor-standing speaker.
- Description: Stands out with its dual 6.5-inch drivers using different materials for a balanced sound across frequencies. It offers a more extended low frequency response than the Studio SM100, making it suitable for larger rooms and those seeking a fuller sound without a significant budget increase.
Response D48:
- Positioning: A high-performance floor-standing speaker designed for audiophiles.
- Description: Features a studio monitor quality bass driver and a choice between a ribbon or dome tweeter for detailed sound. It provides a larger soundstage than the DT8.
K6:
- Positioning:A high-end floor-standing speaker for audiophiles seeking smooth reproduction and a flat frequency response.
- Description: Combines ProAc's Kevlar drivers with a ribbon tweeter for detailed sound and large sound staging. It offers a more refined sound than the K3.
K10:
- Positioning: The flagship model of the ProAc lineup, offering the ultimate in sound reproduction.
- Description: Features groundbreaking cabinet design and a unique midrange unit for exceptional detail and sound stage. It surpasses the K6 in terms of power handling and detail, making it ideal for those seeking the pinnacle of audio performance in large spaces with a premium budget.
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Used
ProAc
What if you spend more?
With the DB1, ProAc has achieved in a small speaker, a sound normally associated with a larger speaker, particularly the bass response. The DB1 cabinet is made from different thicknesses of high density MDF and further damped by bitumen to control cabinet resonance. A newly designed long throw bass driver was used and ported at the rear. The cone is made from pulp and mica which is then elastic coated and fitted with our ProAc acrylic pole damping phase plug.
The crossover was designed to give a flatter response at high levels and the tweeter is the ProAc 1-inch silk dome similar to that used in other ProAc Response models. The midrange and high frequencies of the DB1 are superb and in the ProAc tradition, low in colouration and high in detail. The bass driver gives a wonderful bass quality, punchy and extended, similar to that which is experienced in a larger enclosure.
The resulting sound stage is also comparable to that of a larger speaker. Small mini monitor type loudspeakers, such as the DB1 have become very popular for those wishing for a high-quality sound with a minimal visual impact.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Bigger sized sound in a smaller package
- The sound stage is recreated beautifully and cast very wide with lots of depth, allowing the listener to hear deeper into the recording
- Weight and impact is produced for such small monitors, and the imaging is spot on with real depth, and the timbre of the instruments sounds right and realistic
- All types of music are handled with ease, and the listener is submerged into the music with fabulous abilities and attributes
- Relatively easy to drive with amplifiers ranging from 20 to 100 watts per channel
Product Considerations
- The rear cabinet is ported, which might affect placement depending on the room
Takeaway: The ProAc Response DB1's are great speakers that offer a high-fidelity sound and can handle all types of music, making them a great addition to any home. The speakers are built with quality materials and are sure to last.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
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
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. The A10 is something we are truly proud of, both in terms of sound, look and production values. It is a true celebration of our passion for amazing high-end sound, great engineering and high value products.
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
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkable sound power and early directivity indexes make it a true point source speaker.
- Special sound quality for the price offers a level of performance not typically found in speakers at this price point.
- Very good neutrality is present when the speaker is turned off axis.
- It is a very versatile speaker to drive.
- The midrange presentation is very dead center and coherent.
Product Considerations
- The bass does not reach as low as some listeners might prefer.
- The speaker can get bright at times.
- Care should be taken to place it not directly on axis, because when placed directly on axis, it is no longer a neutral speaker.
- There's no stand included in the package.
- It is made in China, and construction can be suspect.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PureAudioProject Duet 15, the SourcePoint 10 is more precise and focused, while the PureAudioProject has a bigger soundstage.
- Vs Fleetwood Deville SQ, they sounded more alike than different when in action, but SourcePoint was more extended from top to bottom and brought more lively dynamics and impact.
- Vs Klipsch Heresy IV, the SourcePoint 10 is the superior speaker in every way from build to sound, with more refinement and smoothness, and it seems just as dynamic as the Klipsch.
- Vs Dynaudio Special 40s, the SourcePoint 10 sounds much bigger, more dynamic, has much better bass, and fills a room with ease.
- Vs KEF LS50 META, the LS50 sounds smaller, leaner, and not as special in the vocal region.
Takeaway:
The SourcePoint is a speaker with a neutral sound that originates from a single point, and it has remarkable early directivity indexes. It is a speaker that offers very good performance for the money, but careful attention needs to be paid to its placement in the room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
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
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Precise and stable stereo imaging
- Good detail retrieval
- Neutral tonal balance
- Versatile directivity
Product Considerations
- Bass extension requires a subwoofer for full-range playback, especially below the mid-40Hz range
- Potential for brightness, especially when toed-in directly towards the listening position
- Requires careful setup and experimentation with placement to optimize sound, especially in relation to the rear wall and toe-in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SourcePoint 8 is more neutral, with a less elevated top end, while the SourcePoint 10 is brighter
Takeaway: The SourcePoint 8 is a well-engineered speaker that stands out for its clear imaging and ability to convey musical detail across different genres. It offers a balanced and neutral sound that makes it an engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Extremely good build quality, feeling solid and carefully assembled
- Delivers well-defined, three-dimensional imaging and a snappy sense of timing
- Combines exceptional midrange coherency
- Known for a natural, open, and detailed sound
- A beautifully three-dimensional speaker with very little perception of cabinet coloration or even cabinet presence
Product Considerations
- Inherent bass response drops away slowly
- Some recordings may sound a little sharp in the treble, but this is not the fault of the speakers
- Some limits to detail retrieval
- On the brighter side
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Lumina I: The Lumina II has meaningful extension below 50Hz, creating a believable weight and scale to the performance
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Sonus faber is easier to drive, more forgiving of less pristine recordings, and has an emotional quality that the LS50 Meta lacks
Takeaway: The Lumina II is a speaker that delivers many of the qualities that make Sonus faber loudspeakers stand out, offering an inviting and spirited sound that is also beautiful to look at. It represents an affordable way to experience Sonus faber's Italian-made craftsmanship and sonic signature.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Smooth, refined, and punchy performance, with a big, open, and clear sound makes listening enjoyable
- The cabinet design with Gelcore technology helps to reduce unwanted resonance, resulting in a cleaner, more detailed sound
- Excellent imaging creates a three-dimensional listening space
- Tonal accuracy is maintained across the frequency range and coloration is avoided, giving a natural sound
- Exceptional design and build quality make for an elegant-looking speaker
Product Considerations
- May lack dynamic subtlety, failing to fully communicate the interplay and changes in feeling within some musical pieces
- The stands, while visually appealing, are an expensive optional extra and can be difficult to assemble
- May not be as forgiving with poor recordings, revealing any flaws in the source material
- While the bass is controlled and natural, it may not extend as low as some competitors
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Concept 30 offers a smoother and more forgiving listen, and matches the KEF's creation of a three-dimensional listening space
- Vs Sonus Faber Lumina II: The Concept 30 retains the joy and ease of drive of the Lumina II, while being technically accomplished as the LS50 Meta
- Vs Acoustic Energy AE500: The Concept 30 has a presentational energy and perceived speed closer to the Acoustic Energy AE500
- Vs Q Acoustics 3030i: Concept 30 provides more forceful, focused, and precise bass, the treble is more delicate, and describes the cymbal itself in a realistic manner, giving a mature and tonally accurate presentation
- Vs Martin Logan 15i: The Concept 30 had a far stronger hold on what was going on—giving an organized and structured sound, unlike the naive and undisciplined Martin Logan 15i
Takeaway: The Concept 30 is an outstanding speaker that combines exceptional sound quality with a stunning design, making it a stylish addition to any listening room. It is a great choice for listeners who want a detailed and engaging musical experience.
Video review
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