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
- Excellent sound quality, representing pure PSB sound
- Innovative mounting system provides flexibility in placement and positioning
- Hard pressed to do better in terms of price-to-performance ratio
- Clean, somewhat modern appearance, and the enclosure is paintable
- Well balanced in terms of frequency response and put out solid bass
Product Considerations
- Not-very-compact aspect could make it difficult for those with tight mounting options
- The realm of outdoor speakers is loaded with competitors, many of whom offer much more aggressive pricing
- Uneducated consumers might not be willing to pay extra for the added performance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Klipsch likely offers comparable sound quality with a more vanilla mounting system than the PSBs
Takeaway: The PSB CS500 outdoor speakers offer excellent sound quality and a flexible mounting system, making them a great addition to any outdoor space. This brand is a solid choice for those with discerning taste when it comes to sound.
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
CS500
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Frequency Response On Axis @ 0° ±3dB: 63 - 23,000Hz
- Frequency Response On Axis @ 0° ±1 1/2dB: 65 - 20,000Hz
- Frequency Response Off Axis @ 30° ±1 1/2dB: 65 - 10,000Hz
- LF Cutoff -10dB: 50Hz
- Sensitivity Anechoic Chamber: 85dB
- Sensitivity Listening Room: 87dB
- Impedance Nominal: 8 Ohms
- Impedance Minimum: 6 Ohms
- Input Power Recommended: 20 - 120 Watts
- Input Power Program: 120 Watts
- Tweeter: 1" (25mm) Titanium Dome with Ferrofluid Neodymium Magnet
- Woofer: 5 1/4" (133mm) Clay/Ceramic reinforced Polypropylene Cone Rubber Surround
- Crossover: 1,800Hz, LR4
- Internal Volume: 0.2 cu ft (5L)
- Design Type: Sealed
- Size (W x H x D): 7 7/8 x 10 5/8 x 9 7/8" (196 x 268 x 248mm)
- Weight Net: 7lb (3.2kg)/each
- Weight Shipping: 18lb (8kg)/pair
Description
Experience superior sound with the Custom Sound CS500 Outdoor Speakers. Designed for versatility and exceptional performance, these all-weather speakers provide an immersive audio experience in any environment. Featuring rugged construction, flexible mounting options, and a compact profile, the CS500 is ideal for both residential and commercial spaces.
No more limiting your premium listening experiences to inside your home. The CS500 redefines outdoor acoustics with its outstanding sound quality. Equipped with a 1" titanium dome tweeter and a 5¼" polypropylene cone woofer, it delivers clear highs and deep, resonant bass. Built for open spaces and perfect for your poolside retreat, it envelops any environment - in or outside - in rich, immersive sound.
Engineered in Canada, we know what harsh weather looks like. The CS500 is rugged and ready to endure extreme weather conditions. Its weatherproof design includes a UV-resistant polypropylene cabinet, rustproof terminals with rubber covers, and a sturdy aluminum grille. These features ensure protection against the harshest elements and durability even in commercial applications. Whatever Mother Nature throws your way, the CS500 consistently delivers exceptional performance.
Experience big sound without the bulky eyesore. The CS500 boasts a sealed cabinet design that delivers robust audio in a compact solution. Its discreet presence doesn't compromise sound quality, making it an ideal choice for those seeking high-performance audio without overshadowing their space. Enjoy the best of both worlds – impressive sound and a sleek, unobtrusive design that complements any setting.
Just like nature itself, the possibilities are wide open with the CS500. Its compact size, custom sound ...
Engineered in Canada, we know what harsh weather looks like. The CS500 is rugged and ready to endure extreme weather conditions. Its weatherproof design includes a UV-resistant polypropylene cabinet, rustproof terminals with rubber covers, and a sturdy aluminum grille. These features ensure protection against the harshest elements and durability even in commercial applications. Whatever Mother Nature throws your way, the CS500 consistently delivers exceptional performance.
Experience big sound without the bulky eyesore. The CS500 boasts a sealed cabinet design that delivers robust audio in a compact solution. Its discreet presence doesn't compromise sound quality, making it an ideal choice for those seeking high-performance audio without overshadowing their space. Enjoy the best of both worlds – impressive sound and a sleek, unobtrusive design that complements any setting.
Just like nature itself, the possibilities are wide open with the CS500. Its compact size, custom sound ...
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- PSB's loudspeaker designs, refined at Canada's National Research Council for 50 years, emphasize wide bandwidth, low distortion, and broad, even dispersion.
- The brand offers exceptional value by using lessons learned from flagship Synchrony lines in more affordable speakers, often outperforming competitors at similar price points.
- Unlike many brands, PSB resists the urge to design cost-no-object loudspeakers, remaining committed to creating high-end audio components that people can afford.
- They have developed their own Amplitude Perfect Linkwitz-Riley 4th order crossover, featuring high-voltage poly film capacitors and oxygen-free interconnect wire for precise driver control.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Alpha T20 Tower
- Positioning: The entry-level model in the PSB lineup, offering an affordable yet high-quality audio experience.
- Description: Delivers a rich and full-bodied sound with its dual 5 ¼" woofers and ¾" aluminum dome tweeter, making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms. Unlike the more expensive models, it focuses on providing excellent sound quality at a budget-friendly price, making it perfect for those who want good sound without breaking the bank.
Imagine T65
- Positioning: A mid-range offering in the PSB lineup, providing a balance of performance and price.
- Description: Stands out with its 3-way dual bass reflex design, offering deep bass and clear highs, making it suitable for both music and home theater use. It provides a more refined sound compared to the Alpha series, with better bass response and higher power handling.
Passif 50
- Positioning: A special edition model celebrating PSB's 50th anniversary, positioned as a premium offering with a vintage aesthetic.
- Description: Combines retro design with modern technology, featuring a 1" titanium dome tweeter and a 6.5" woofer with an 8" passive radiator for precise bass. It offers a unique blend of nostalgia and advanced audio performance, setting it apart from the more modern-looking models like the Imagine T65.
Synchrony T800 Tower
- Positioning: The flagship model in the PSB lineup, offering the highest level of performance and craftsmanship.
- Description: The groundbreaking Synchrony T800 Tower is engineered for audiophiles seeking the ultimate listening experience, with its advanced motor structure and sophisticated crossover design for minimal distortion and high sound pressure levels. It surpasses other models in the lineup with its superior build quality and acoustic performance, making it ideal for large rooms and those who desire the best soundstage and clarity. Its premium price reflects its top-tier status, offering features and sound quality that justify the investment for serious audio enthusiasts.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
87
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
52
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
41
Founding Year
1972
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.
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What if you spend more?
Monitor
Apex A10
750
750
/
3
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.
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Product Strengths
- Intricately detailed, articulate, and powerful sound across the soundstage
- Astonishing build quality with robust and weighty die-cast aluminium enclosures and a luxurious finish
- The Apex system delivers audiophile standard sound quality without making huge demands on living space
- The inert enclosures enable the Apex to deliver an astonishingly fast and detailed sound
- High frequencies are smooth, speech is clear, and the rear soundstage is expansive
Product Considerations
- Expensive compared to normal compact systems
- The AW12 subwoofer is quite heavy despite its compact dimensions
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Apex uses the same tech as Monitor Audio's Silver RX range, but it is 'distilled' down to fit a more compact cabinet size
- Apex is in a different league than other satellite systems, offering a level of sound quality not typically associated with satellite speakers
Takeaway: The Apex system offers detailed and powerful sound, with an astonishing build quality. It is a great choice for those seeking audiophile-level sound in a compact and stylish package.
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.
Product Page
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Focal
Theva Surround
649
649
/
6
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Product Strengths
- Sweet and detailed audio performance with clear instrumental separation and expansive dimensionality
- Warm and full-bodied bass and midrange
- Clear yet 'mellow' treble, creating a pleasing sound signature
- Accurate sound that doesn't do much to color the recording, so listeners get a balanced presentation of the source content
- Good level of dynamic range for reasonably sized bookshelf speakers, and they can get louder than expected for their size/price class
Product Considerations
- The laid-back sound may occasionally obscure some definition
- The speakers run on the cooler side of things, never becoming too indulgent in any aspect and instead providing a sound that is accurate and slightly pulled back, but never muted or lifeless
- Asymmetry of the phase coherence of their vertical lobe can be a slight problem for anyone listening under the tweeter axis
- Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Vestia No. 1: Theva offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but is not as immediately striking in detail or treble extension
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3: Theva is more compact and easier to place, but doesn't look as premium
- Vs Polk Legend Series L100: Theva has a more laid-back sound profile, making it a better listen in most cases, while the L100 presents a more precise center image
Takeaway: The Theva No. 1 is a great speaker for enjoying detailed and smooth sound without harshness. It's a good option for different types of content, from music to movies, and is especially suited for smaller spaces.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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KEF
Q3 Meta
799
799
/
5
Reviews
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
- Wide soundstage and radiation pattern, both horizontally and vertically, contribute to an immersive listening experience
- Good mid-bass punch, with an elevated bump around 120Hz that gives the perception of more impact
- Neutral tonal balance, with a well-balanced sound that allows the music to shine
- Excellent dispersion characteristics make them suitable for modern spaces where acoustic treatments are limited
- Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs unwanted sound behind the tweeter for clearer sound
Product Considerations
- Compression and strain in the upper midrange can occur at high output levels (above 90dB at 10 feet)
- Some cabinet resonance exists
- Some detail, clarity, or attack is lacking from the speaker
- Not ideal for high output
- A slight dip around 1-2kHz exists that some people may not like
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF Q350, the Q3 Meta has more body and weight in the bass regions, but the Q350 is slightly better and more lively sounding in the upper frequencies
- Compared to the Polk Audio Reserve R200, the Q3 Meta is more neutral
- Compared to the Paradigm Premier 100B, the Q3 Meta dispersion characteristics are better, so they do not need a sub
- Compared to the PSB Imagine B50, the B50 kept its composure better at much louder listening levels, and its tonal balance seemed somehow even more neutral
Takeaway: The KEF Q3 Meta is an enjoyable speaker with a wide soundstage and neutral sound that makes the music sound good. It's a great pick for aesthetics if one does not listen at dangerous sound levels.
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.
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KIN By Totem
Kin One
524
524
/
4
Reviews
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Available in multiple vibrant colors, breaking the monotony of typical speaker designs
- Produces a surprisingly big and wide sound despite their compact size
- The MHEX woofer reacts very fast and sounds like paper
- Soundstage stretches from speaker to speaker
Product Considerations
- Sound profile shows a dip in mid-range and roll-off in high frequencies, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
- High frequencies roll off around 8k or so
- Limited bass response, which may need a subwoofer for rock music or larger rooms
- Not linear frequency response, which may impact sound clarity
- Overall sensitivity is about 83.4 dB, which is below manufacturer's specs
Takeaway: The KIN ONE speakers are small but can create a big sound with multiple color options. Though they may benefit from EQ and a sub, they can be a good option for smaller rooms.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
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What competes at this price?
SVS
Ultra Evolution Elevation
449
/
Released
2024
When SVS first launched the Prime Elevation speaker, it turned the home theater world on its ear by delivering a direct radiating Dolby Atmos height effects speaker that vastly outperformed any of the conventional "ceiling bounce" models and in-wall speakers. Since that time many brands tried to copy the approach, but none could deliver the total package of performance and versatility. For this reason, it emerged as one of the most popular home theater speakers in the world paired with all different brands. Ultra Evolution Elevation is a larger, higher fidelity version that unleashes greater dynamic output and deeper low frequency extension.
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Ultra Elevation speakers offer a more substantial and impressive presence compared to smaller speakers
- They have magnetic grills, which are convenient and prevent scratching the cabinet
- They maintain the neutral SVS voicing, ensuring they blend well with previous Ultra and Prime series speakers
- The sound is refined and neutral, allowing listeners to focus on the music without the speakers drawing attention to themselves
Product Considerations
- The speaker cable terminals are flipped, which might require shorter or 90-degree banana plugs depending on the mounting
- The Ultra Elevation speakers are heavier, requiring secure mounting—preferably anchored rather than relying solely on drywall screws
- These are supporting speakers and still require dual matching subwoofers for the best sound experience
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Ultra Elevations are bigger, heavier, and have a better driver and offset rear port compared to the Prime Elevations
Takeaway: The Ultra Elevation speakers are a worthwhile upgrade that integrates well into existing SVS systems to complete the sound. These speakers deliver refined, neutral audio, making them a delightful addition to any home theater setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Sonos
Beam
387
/
Released
2021
From music to films, the latest generation of Beam enriches all your entertainment with powerful and precise sound from wall to wall.
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great upgrade for TV sound, especially dialogue clarity due to its dedicated center channel
- Simple to set up and use, integrating seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem via the Sonos app
- Amazon Alexa voice assistant built-in
- Compact design, good for smaller rooms, yet still provides room-filling sound
- Can be expanded into a full 5.1 surround sound system with other Sonos speakers
Product Considerations
- Lacks deep bass compared to soundbars with a dedicated subwoofer
- No full HDMI In ports
- Google Assistant support has some lag
- AirPlay 2 support, though it does not have Bluetooth connectivity
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos Arc: The Arc is more versatile, with eARC and Atmos support, deeper bass, and better surround/height performance, but the Beam performs better at max volume, and is more compact
- Vs Sonos Playbar: The Beam is better because it has a more neutral sound profile, sleek design, supports ARC via an adapter, and is AirPlay compatible
Takeaway: The Sonos Beam is a compact and versatile soundbar that significantly enhances TV audio and offers smart speaker capabilities with voice control. Its easy setup and expandability make it a great choice for smaller rooms, providing a seamless entry into the Sonos ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
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Paradigm
MilleniaOne 1.0
349
/
Released
The MilleniaOne 1.0 is a 2-driver, 2-way vented die-cast aluminum enclosure speaker with integrated baffle and chassis. Low-diffraction grilles maximize imaging and ensure smooth dispersion.
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality aluminum drivers, including a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter and a 4-inch aluminum cone mid-bass driver
- Sturdily built with a die-cast aluminum enclosure, contributing to rigidity and reducing internal standing waves
- Small size and aesthetically pleasing, designed to fit into modern lifestyles
- Seamless integration, providing cohesive and organized surround sound
Product Considerations
- Spring-loaded speaker terminals only accept bare wire of relatively light gauges, and they do not accommodate spades or banana plugs
- Bass may be lacking without the addition of a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Paradigm Atom Monitors: The MilleniaOne is made with better-quality parts that are more expensive to produce, and sounds better in terms of mids and highs, though the Atoms can get louder
- Vs Paradigm Reference Signature S6 v.3: The Signature system goes deeper and plays noticeably louder, but the Millenia system plays plenty loud and deep for almost anyone in a small to mid-size room
Takeaway: The Paradigm MilleniaOne is a well-built and aesthetically pleasing speaker system that delivers high-quality sound and seamless integration for an immersive audio experience. If great sound in a smaller size is desired and one is willing to pay a bit more, it is worth considering.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
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Polk
Monitor XT15
199
/
Released
2021
Compact and affordable, Monitor XT15 maximizes the enjoyment of music, gaming, and movies with energetic, high-resolution sound with effortless bass. Use the MXT15 for front left and right channels or as side or surround speakers. It's also wall-mountable allowing for flexible placement.
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clear, detailed sound with good clarity
- Nice bass presence for its size
- Nice looking speaker with and without the grill
- Good value for the price, setting a new bar for budget speakers
- Can handle some power, suitable for small to medium rooms
Product Considerations
- Treble can be slightly harsh and fatiguing at higher volumes after prolonged listening
- Bass response is punchy rather than deep
- May sound a touch boomy if placed too close to the wall
- Sensitivity is a little on the low side, requiring more power
- Lacks wall-mounting capability
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio S30, the XT15 has better soundstage, imaging, and punchier bass, but S30 has a smoother midrange and top end
- Vs Jamo S801, the XT15 has far better bass response
Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT15 is a great budget speaker that offers clear sound and good bass for its size, making it a solid choice for a first hifi system or for music listening. It's hard to beat for the price, and it provides an excellent performance-to-price ratio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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Totem
KIN One
449
/
Released
2024
The NEW KIN ONE was created to provide a simple yet remarkable audio solution. When paired with the KIN AMP it will ensure a musical, lifelike performance. The KIN ONE doesn't follow in the steps of its predecessor as it's blazing ahead of virtually every small speaker made today.
Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Available in multiple vibrant colors, breaking the monotony of typical speaker designs
- Despite their compact size, the speakers produce a surprisingly big sound
- The Kin Amp is quite versatile, with a capable phono stage and a generous range of inputs
- Reproduces intense strikes on drums and other percussion instruments very adeptly with absolutely no slop
Product Considerations
- The speaker's sound profile shows a dip in the mid-range and roll-off in high frequencies, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
- Rated sensitivity is about 83.4 dB, which is below the manufacturer's spec of 89dB
- Kin One speakers need a subwoofer to deliver deep bass—especially in a big space
- The speaker's overall response is non-linear and it doesn't get very loud
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
Takeaway: The Kin One system is an attractive and capable compact sound system, known for its versatility and colorful design options. It's a good choice for smaller spaces where high-quality sound is desired, especially for acoustic music, jazz, and classical.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
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