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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

  • Higher sensitivity than the Pearl 20 and a slightly higher crossover point allows the tweeter to work more freely
  • Delivers a big, full sound, with a lower midrange and upper bass that seem slightly more important than the rest
  • Incredibly dynamic and does not 'choose' recordings with which they are 'compatible', and instead faithfully shows everything that is sent to them
  • The integration of drivers with one another, and the drivers with the bass port is excellent
  • Good timbral differentiation, and the instruments and vocals were presented with real depth in front of the listener

Product Considerations

  • In smaller rooms, it is worth trying to plug the bass port with something soft
  • Soundstage was expansive, but not especially deep—especially 'behind' the speakers
  • With recordings where vocals are not recorded particularly great, the speakers showed a slightly emphasized upper treble
  • The speaker terminals are mounted in a recess in a plastic board, perpendicular to the rear panel, making using anything other than banana connectors a real challenge

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Polish speakers sound as if they were a polished-up version of the Monitor Audio MR4, or their successors, with a corrected audibly emphasized midrange

Takeaway: The Pearl 25 is an inexpensive, nicely built speaker fully manufactured in Poland. It is a versatile design for reasonable money that is a good match for a wide range of electronics.

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

Pearl 25

reviews

[{"title":"Pylon Audio Pearl 25 Loudspeakers","link":"https://positive-feedback.com/Issue74/pylon_loudspeakers.htm","source":"Positive Feedback","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

Pearl 25 loudspeaker set suits the musical climate of well titled Peal 20 offering at the same time bigger possibilities in technical aspects of sound reproducing. The same set of speakers that works in Pearl 20 was used complementing the construction by additional specialized woofer. Pearl 25 means more power, increased dynamics, wider scale of sound and no need for dumping the tweeter. You can expect even greater naturalness and resolutions of upper bandwidth. The columns are dedicated for use in rooms with a floor area from 16 to 35 m2.
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:

  • Pylon Audio emphasizes a holistic manufacturing approach, building their own cabinets and customizing drivers in-house for optimal synergy.
  • The brand offers a high degree of customization, with a wide array of available finishes and the option for custom RAL colors, making their speakers uniquely adaptable to individual preferences.
  • Pylon Audio's speakers are voiced with a well-balanced, natural, and coherent sound signature that caters to a broad range of musical tastes.
  • They are praised for achieving high build and sonic quality while maintaining competitive prices, which stems from efficient manufacturing processes and a focus on in-house expertise.

Pearl 27  

  • Positioning: A compact, entry-level model designed for straightforward performance in small audio setups.  
  • Description: Offers a solid circuit design that delivers clear sound and reliable operation, setting a simple benchmark that is easy to integrate in limited spaces. Compared to Amber MKII and the higher-tier models, it focuses on ease of use and modest functionality for budget-conscious users with basic connectivity needs.

Amber MKII  

  • Positioning: A mid-range solution that bridges affordability with enhanced performance for dedicated listening rooms.  
  • Description: Features improved circuitry and refined build quality that enhances sound clarity and detail, making it a notable upgrade over the Pearl 27. When compared to the more complex designs of Jasper 25 MKII Active and Opal 30, it offers balanced performance and additional connectivity.

Zirkon 20  

  • Positioning: A product aimed at users seeking precise sound reproduction in compact environments.  
  • Description: Incorporates a high-precision signal path with an innovative layout that improves audio accuracy over the entry-level Pearl 27 and Amber MKII. In contrast to the fuller functionality found in the Jasper and Opal models, it focuses on delivering clear, no-frills performance.

Jasper 25 MKII Active  

  • Positioning: An active design that integrates preamplification and amplification, aimed at modern audio setups with digital connectivity.  
  • Description: Introduces a built-in active stage that enhances control and connectivity, offering a step up in versatility compared to Pearl 27, Amber MKII, and Zirkon 20. Relative to the more spacious and high-powered Opal 30, it targets users needing integrated digital functionalities in a more compact and efficient solution.

Opal 30  

  • Positioning: A high-end, premium offering designed for larger listening environments and advanced functionality.  
  • Description: Features state-of-the-art components and innovative circuitry that deliver a wider soundstage and richer detail, setting it apart from the simpler configurations of Pearl 27, Amber MKII, and Zirkon 20. When compared to the integrated approach of Jasper 25 MKII Active, it emphasizes high performance and expanded connectivity features.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
5
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
230
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
37
Founding Year
2011

Our take on the brand

Pylon Audio is a hifi speaker brand that uses advanced technologies like industrial vibrometers and an anechoic chamber, along with unique materials such as Endumax in their driver designs. The brand stands out for its exceptional woodwork that has attracted global orders from other hifi companies, and offers extensive customization through RAL color options, with 60% of their production being exported internationally.

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

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

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KEF
R3 Meta
2430
2430
/
18
Reviews

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.

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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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
Product image
PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
1299
/
18
Reviews
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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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
Product image
Sonus Faber
Omnia
1999
1999
/
18
Reviews

Relentless artistry combined with cutting-edge innovation. Omnia's new technology brings the sensation of live music to every listening space.

THE FULLACOUSTIC PACKAGE

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.

A multi-dimensional approach

to immersive sound.

Great Power, Great Nuances

7 interior speakers, limitless sound. The advanced signal processing of Omnia delivers unmatched sonic nuances at 490 watts of power.

Crescendo™ technology by Sonus faber

Developed in-house at Sonus faber, this advanced signal processing system leverages on the two full range side to deliver next-level sonic dimensionality and immersivity.

SENSO™ TECHNOLOGY BY SONUS FABER

Omnia's tactile illuminated wooden top panel

allows users to control settings directly on the device.

THE MANY FACETS OF OMNIA

Omnia is born to be displayed. Its shapes fully embody Sonus faber's devotion to Italian heritage, for a design that enhances every environment.

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.
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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
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Product image
Q Acoustics
Concept 50
2199
2199
/
16
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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Product Strengths

  • Fit and finish plus performance that is a bargain for around $3k/pair
  • Gelcore cabinet construction minimizes unwanted sound energy from resonance and vibrations
  • A tweeter that is hermetically sealed and mechanically isolated (floating) from the baffle provides lower distortion
  • Size, weight, and richness of tone belies their size, with a wider baffle to each loudspeaker pointing at you
  • A mild sound throws emphasis back to the midrange that in itself seems almost holographic, as well as deeply insightful in a gentle but revealing manner

Product Considerations

  • A medium to large size room is required to shine, otherwise the bass will dominate
  • Flaws in poor recordings can be revealed due to their detail and accuracy—warts and all performance
  • The top-end is a little soft and gentle—classic BBC like—which may require amps with some zing to compensate
  • Listeners seeking absolute detail or transparency might not be satisfied because of Q Acoustics' house sound that massages treble and plumps up bass and lower mid
  • They don't go sub-40Hz deep, frequency response is rated at 42 Hz – 30 kHz (-6dB)

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics Concept 50 offers excellent value with its blend of innovative design and high-quality sound, making it a great choice for enjoying music with a sense of depth and engagement. The Concept 50s are easy to listen to and fun.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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What competes at this price?

Pylon Audio
Jasper 23
766
/
Released
2022
Going with the times, we present the natural evolution of our flagship Jasper series - the active version. The smallest of them, Jasper 23 active is a revolutionary product, offering the highest sound quality without the need for external amplifiers and speaker cables. Convenience without compromise.
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Pylon Audio is a hifi speaker brand that uses advanced technologies like industrial vibrometers and an anechoic chamber, along with unique materials such as Endumax in their driver designs. The brand stands out for its exceptional woodwork that has attracted global orders from other hifi companies, and offers extensive customization through RAL color options, with 60% of their production being exported internationally.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Build quality and sound exceed expectations for the price
  • Beautiful lacquer finish, demonstrating mastery
  • Natural, consistent, smooth, slightly warmed, dynamic, and resolving sound
  • Very good dynamics and space, allowing for an immersive listening experience with proper positioning and equipment
  • Extremely dynamic, natural, full, and versatile sound, particularly for the Jasper 23 Active

Product Considerations

  • Stabilizing plinths are too narrow, making the speakers prone to tipping
  • Matte finishes can be challenging to keep pristine, requiring regular polishing
  • A powerful and high-quality amplifier is necessary to perform at its best, along with a high-end source and audiophile-grade cabling
  • Two bass-reflex ports at the back require more distance between the speakers and the rear wall
  • The Stereo Hub lacks a LAN jack for the active version (Jasper 23 Active)

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Jasper 23's bass focuses on rhythm, pace, dynamics and kick, whereas the Audiovector QR5 provides a subwoofer-type belly massage
  • Both the System Audio Legend 60.2 Silverback and Buchardt Audio A700 are larger than the Jasper 23 Active, making placement in a medium-sized room risky

Takeaway: The Jasper 23 series offers beautiful design and great sound. It is well-built, versatile, and a good choice for those who prioritize audio quality.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Pylon Audio is a hifi speaker brand that uses advanced technologies like industrial vibrometers and an anechoic chamber, along with unique materials such as Endumax in their driver designs. The brand stands out for its exceptional woodwork that has attracted global orders from other hifi companies, and offers extensive customization through RAL color options, with 60% of their production being exported internationally.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Pylon Audio
Diamond Monitor 18 mkII
755
/
Released
2024
The first generation of Diamond Monitor 18 set the standard in its category, making designing its successor a unique challenge. In the latest version, we have improved these speakers by equipping them with upgraded drivers, enclosures, and crossovers. Additionally, we have subtly updated their design to give them an even more refined appearance.
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Pylon Audio is a hifi speaker brand that uses advanced technologies like industrial vibrometers and an anechoic chamber, along with unique materials such as Endumax in their driver designs. The brand stands out for its exceptional woodwork that has attracted global orders from other hifi companies, and offers extensive customization through RAL color options, with 60% of their production being exported internationally.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Discreet design, high-quality craftsmanship, versatile sound, seamless compatibility with a wide range of electronics, a rich variety of color options, and an affordable price
  • Dynamics, speed, tangibility, transparency, and a three-dimensional, precise, perfectly organized space
  • Bass-reflex tuning allows placement closer to the wall (25-30 cm) without creating major problems
  • A balanced, neutral, and homogeneous sound with a slight warming in the midrange
  • The drivers have been modified and improved with high-quality components in the crossover, which translated into clear qualitative progress

Product Considerations

  • The oak veneer finish, achieved by coating with oil-wax, may appear cheap compared to lacquered versions or higher-end veneers
  • The stands offered by the manufacturer are not the most stable construction
  • May require higher-quality accompanying equipment to fully realize their potential
  • The basic finish could be considered a flaw, suggesting opting for a RAL lacquer finish for a better aesthetic

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The bass performance triggered associations with Naim rhythm and punch
  • The character of the bass is spiritually bonded with Spendor Classic 2/3s

Takeaway: The Diamond Monitor 18 mkII speakers offer a balanced and versatile sound suitable for various music genres and amplifiers, making them a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded audio experience. With improved dynamics and bass response, they perform well even when placed closer to the wall, offering flexibility in room placement.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Pylon Audio is a hifi speaker brand that uses advanced technologies like industrial vibrometers and an anechoic chamber, along with unique materials such as Endumax in their driver designs. The brand stands out for its exceptional woodwork that has attracted global orders from other hifi companies, and offers extensive customization through RAL color options, with 60% of their production being exported internationally.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
/
Released
2021
Wharfedale's new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN. The primary focus is on the AMT development resulting in a radically different way of reproducing high frequency detail efficiently and accurately.
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Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
  • Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
  • Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
  • Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
  • Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price

Product Considerations

  • Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
  • Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
  • Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
  • Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
  • The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level

Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Devialet
Mania
899
/
Released
2022
Devialet Mania, our first high fidelity portable smart speaker with 360° stereo sound translates our obsession for pure sound. Metamorphic sound. Devialet Mania, the portable speaker ushers in a liberated approach to sound: more spontaneous, more adaptable, more obsession-inducing than ever. Thanks to its adaptive cross stereo, Devialet Mania offers a soundstage that morphs and adapts to any physical space, eliciting expansive 360° stereo sound.
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Devialet is a hifi brand that combines analog and digital amplification through their "Analog Digital Hybrid" technology, delivering extremely low distortion in sleek, minimalist speakers. Their signature Phantom speakers use high-pressure lateral drivers to produce ultra-deep bass down to 14 Hz, while their spherical design minimizes sound diffraction for consistent quality regardless of listening position.
Expand Details

Our Summary

No items found.

Product Strengths

  • One of the best-sounding portable Bluetooth speakers
  • Built-in Alexa support eliminates the need for additional devices to control music with voice
  • Solid design, IPX4 water resistance rating, and built-in handle

Product Considerations

  • Insufficient loudness for large rooms
  • Lacks some treble out-of-the-box
  • Battery life can be short—around 4 hours in some tests

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Sonos is likely a better value for most users since it features a longer battery life and a more balanced sound out-of-the-box

Takeaway: The Devialet Mania is a portable speaker that redefines expectations with its impressive sound quality and bass energy. It offers a unique listening experience that's worth the purchase.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Devialet is a hifi brand that combines analog and digital amplification through their "Analog Digital Hybrid" technology, delivering extremely low distortion in sleek, minimalist speakers. Their signature Phantom speakers use high-pressure lateral drivers to produce ultra-deep bass down to 14 Hz, while their spherical design minimizes sound diffraction for consistent quality regardless of listening position.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Q Acoustics
5020
899
/
Released
2023
Experience all the scale and power of your favourite music without letting your loudspeaker dominate your room. The 5020 standmounting speaker will put your right in the heart of the music without putting itself at the heart of your space.
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Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
  • Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
  • Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
  • Taut and agile bass performance
  • Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
  • Connectivity options such as binding posts

Product Considerations

  • Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
  • Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
  • Bass response is somewhat subdued
  • Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
  • Grilles muddle the sound

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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