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.
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Ruby 25 mkII
reviews
Manufacturer details
With the appearing of a new generation of mid-woofers designed for use in the Ruby 30 set, we decided to upgrade the 25th. In the Ruby 25 mkII set the role of the mid-woofer was entrusted to a new unit equipped with a redesigned magnetic system, additionally equipped with a Faraday ring, and a larger diameter coil.
Thanks to these measures, the center of the band achieved even better transparency and neutrality, it also allowed for a small modification of the enclosure volume, which resulted in the expansion of low frequency capabilities. Finally, Ruby 25 mkII sound fuller and clearer than its predecessor.
The design was based on PSW 17.8 EXA woofers whose membrane is made of Endumax. It is a material that has a very good balance between internal damping and stiffness, with the specific weight of the membrane being lower than an analogue membrane based on fiber glass or cellulose. The top of the band recreates the silk dome, nicely emphasizing the character of the mid-woofer's sound.
The speakers are dedicated to rooms size from 18 to 35 m2.
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.
Select products
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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Used
Pylon Audio
What if you spend more?
A modern, technologically advanced speaker characterized by a strong, but colorful and spatial sound, wrapped in a tasteful, timeless housing in a vintage style - these are the slogans that guided us when designing the Jade 20. In this two-way construction, we entrusted the bottom of the band to a 12-inch midwoofer of our own design with a classic, paper membrane. The top is handled by the BMS compression driver working in a specially designed by our engineers, short tube with a Tractrix profile. The appropriate selection and efficiency of the transducers allowed us to achieve a band division around 1200 Hz.
Thanks to the 8-ohm impedance and efficiency at the level of 91 dB, the Jade 20 is easy to configure with the accompanying equipment - it can be easily driven by low-power tube amplifiers, showing its claws and full potential together with a powerful transistor amplifier. The speaker enclosures are made of massive MDF boards, additionally reinforced with internal ribs and grids ensuring the appropriate rigidity of the structure. We have optimized the whole set to work both on a low stand, which is included in the standard equipment, and on an accessory, higher stand. Jade 20 is finished with a natural, oil-waxed American walnut veneer, emphasizing its vintage aesthetic.
Jade 20 is an outstanding concert performance: a combination of "strong sound" with unlimited freedom of sound and a natural scale of instruments. The speakers sound vital, with a strongly marked foreground, rhythmic and strong bass and a colorful top of the band. We tried to compose the whole set in such a way that this set creates a friendly concert atmosphere during many hours of listening, but also works well at lower volume levels, creating a suggestive background for both work and relaxing listening. The columns are dedicated to rooms of 18 - 45 m2.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality and fit and finish, capturing the essence of the retro 70s look and feel
- A nice, warm, deep, and rich bass is produced that is not overpowering, contributing to an enjoyable listening experience
- Musical and makes everything sound good, allowing listeners to relax and enjoy music of any genre, with vocals sounding real and natural
- Easy to set up and drive, working well with low-power tube amplifiers or powerful transistor amps
- Delivers a strong sound with unlimited freedom and the natural scale of instruments—loudspeakers sound vital, with a strongly marked foreground, rhythmic, strong bass, and colourful highs
Product Considerations
- Covers can be very difficult to remove, with a risk of damaging the plastic hooks that attach them to the loudspeaker
- Stands may be required for optimal soundstage height and integration, especially in rooms with stepped seating or if seated too close to the speakers
- The compression driver can lean towards being a tad bit hot on commercial recordings, though the thick grilles don't make much of an audible difference
- Compared to the more expensive Jasper line, the Jaspers have more detail in the treble, are more airy, and have more separation between instruments and a larger soundstage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Yamaha NS-1000X, the Jade 20 sounds warmer and reveals more in the music, with fuller voices, livelier percussion, and a better stage depth
Takeaway: The Pylon Audio Jade 20 loudspeaker offers an enjoyable listening experience with a retro design and good sound quality, suitable for various music genres. They offer great value and are worth a listen for those wanting a fun and engaging musical experience.
Video review
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Diamond 25 mkII - the smallest representative of the floor-standing speaker series in the new, refreshed version, with an unusual 2.5-way speaker differentiation for the midwoofers. The top end of the frequency range is reproduced by a modified version of the well-known from the previous series tweeter by the Danish Scan-Speak, this time based on a neodymium magnetic system, with a front made of cellular rubber and a double resonance chamber. The modifications resulted in greater detail, control, and microdynamics in the highest frequencies, while simultaneously reducing non-linear distortions.
The upper midrange driver is a design from the Norwegian Seas, modified by our engineers. This time, it is equipped with a phase plug instead of a dust cap, providing more faithful reproduction of the crucial midrange, eliminating colorations in the higher range caused by resonances under the dust cap. Thanks to these adjustments, vocals have gained even more space and depth while retaining the character of the predecessor.
The lower end of the frequency range is entrusted to thevmidwoofer known from the previous design, equipped with a long and light aluminum-copper coil, ensuring sufficient dynamics, speed, and versatility in reproducing the lowest registers. Both drivers were made using the Spider Ring technology developed for better control of the High-End class production process.
In comparison to its predecessor, the column's design has also undergone a subtle facelift. The shape has an increased tilt, and the transducers have been brought closer together, which, besides aesthetic qualities, improves the time integration of individual frequency bands. The column's base has also been completely redesigned, giving the ensemble a sleeker silhouette while maintaining a minimalist character.
In addition to carefully designed, precisely placed reinforcements and ribs, we have used, alongside natural sheep's wool, a new sound-absorbing material. The entire system has been tested using a laser vibrometer and our anechoic chamber. In the design of the new version of Diamonds, we have achieved an improvement in sound compared to the first version, while maintaining the same sound philosophy and a simple, timeless design. The top end of the frequency range has gained greater detail, the midrange has become more neutral and natural, while maintaining excellent depth, speed, and bass precision. These speakers are dedicated to rooms ranging from 15 to 30 square meters.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Combines minimalist design, high-quality workmanship, rich color finishes, and natural, balanced, universal sound
- Outstanding attention to detail and woodwork, especially for the price
- Offers a more dynamic and tangible sound while maintaining an even, natural, and well-balanced presentation
- Produces a three-dimensional soundstage with clear image contours and a lot of air between instruments
- Bypasses the limitations of the first generation, with improved dynamics, speed, tangibility, transparency and soundstage
- Requires a reasonable distance from the wall due to the rear-mounted bass-reflex ports
Product Considerations
- The plinths are exactly the same width as the enclosure, so it can be prone to toppling over, but a larger plinth option is available
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Diamond 25 has less powerful bass than Diamond 28, but sounds faster, tighter, and more natural, easier to position and does not require such a powerful amplifier
- mkII has more temperament, dynamics, speed, tangibility, transparency, and soundstage than the first generation Diamond 25
- Diamond 25 delivers a deeper bass than Audio Physic Classic 8
Takeaway: The Diamond 25 mkII offers great sound quality, combining balance and dynamics. It is a well-built speaker that sounds great, giving you a taste of high-end audio.
Video review
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Diamond 30 mkII is a modernized version of the top, largest floorstanding speakers from the Diamond series. Depth, speed and dynamics of the lowest frequencies in this three-way design are guaranteed by two woofers from the Norwegian Seas (Prestige series). All this thanks to massive, significantly larger than in the previous model magnetic circuits, larger, 1.5' diameter aluminum-copper voice coils and a design that ensures more piston-like operation.
The midrange driver is a Seas design modified by our engineers. Especially for the needs of Diamond 30 mkII, the popular dust dome in the center of the midrange speaker membrane has been replaced with a so-called phase cone (bullet). Therefore, the space under the protective disc has been eliminated, resonances in this space have disappeared, which in effect reduced the coloration of the upper midrange. Design features, similar to those in the case of woofers, provide, in addition to high dynamics, excellent detail of the transmission and the ability to faithfully reproduce vocals. The whole thing was made using Spider Ring technology, developed for better control of the production process for High End products.
We also refreshed the tweeter. The tweeter in the Diamond 30 mkII is a Danish Scan-Speak with a neodymium magnetic system, a double resonance chamber and a modified front made of durable cellular rubber in black, a color that better matches the design. The changes resulted in even better detail and microdynamics of the highest frequencies, as well as greater efficiency, control and lower non-linear distortions.
The design of the speaker has also undergone a slight facelift compared to its predecessor. The shape is characterized by a slightly greater inclination, which, apart from aesthetic values, improves the time integration of the individual bands. The base of the speaker has also been completely redesigned, thanks to which the silhouette of the set has become slimmer while maintaining a timeless, minimalist character.
In addition to carefully thought-out, precisely placed reinforcements and ribs, we have used, in addition to natural sheep wool, a new soundproofing material. The whole thing was tested using a laser vibrometer and our anechoic chamber.
When designing the modernized version of the Diamonds, we managed to improve the sound and design of the predecessor, while maintaining the same philosophy characteristic of the series in terms of both sound and appearance. The lowest frequencies have gained depth, speed and control. The midrange is even more natural and neutral, and the top has become much more detailed. Simplicity, impeccable presence and refined sound are the undeniable advantages of the new 30s. The speakers are dedicated to rooms of 28 - 48 m2.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Easy placement with strong vertical and lateral dispersion, making them suitable for various room sizes and listening positions
- Outstanding resolution and clarity with a brilliant yet smooth treble and deep, punchy bass result in a very dynamic and musical sound
- Perfect tuning suitable for all music styles eliminates the need for a subwoofer or super tweeters
- High-quality construction with isolation spikes and magnetic protection grilles for the drivers features a surface very resistant to wear
Product Considerations
- Heavy and hard to handle due to their size
- A good amplifier and DAC is required to reach their full potential
- The full black color can be less visually appealing compared to the natural wood finish
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Diamond 30 MKII offers higher dynamic range, better driving power, more impact, better bass, and better treble shimmer, sounding fuller without the metallic harshness of the Amphion S5W
- The Diamond 30 MKII has fuller, deeper, and more satisfying bass, more detailed and vivid midrange, and a wider, deeper soundstage compared to the Amphion Argon3s
- The Diamond 30 MKII produces a fuller, deeper bass with better impact and quicker response, cleaner and more detailed midrange, and a more natural shimmer in the treble compared to the KLH Model Five
Takeaway: The Pylon Audio Diamond 30 MKII speakers deliver exceptional sound quality with superb resolution and detail, making them an excellent choice for audiophiles. Their easy placement and versatile performance ensure an enjoyable listening experience in various setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Diamond 28 Mk II - The Next generation of the bestselling Diamond 28.
In the Diamond 28 Mk II, we have introduced specially designed by our engineers mid-range drivers from the Norwegian company Seas. They stand out with an unusual 2.5-way design combination: the upper midwoofer with a phase plug and a lightweight 1-inch voice coil, and the lower woofer with a massive magnetic system and a 1.5-inch coil with a wide linear range of motion. Both drivers have been closely matched to each other, ensuring a consistent sound source that is less sensitive to changes in listening height, with improved cooperation in the acoustic field.
We have also refreshed the tweeter. It is a Scan-Speak design with a neodymium magnetic system, a dual resonant chamber, and a changed front made of durable cellular rubber in a black color that complements the design. These changes contribute to even better detail and microdynamics in the highest frequencies, along with increased efficiency, control, and reduced nonlinear distortions.
In comparison to its predecessor, the design has undergone a subtle facelift. The shape features a slightly greater tilt, which, besides its aesthetic appeal, enhances the time integration of individual frequency bands. The column base has also been completely redesigned, giving the system a sleeker silhouette while maintaining a timeless, minimalist character.
In addition to carefully considered and precisely placed reinforcements and ribs, we have applied a new sound-absorbing material alongside natural sheep's wool. The entire setup has been tested using a laser vibrometer and our anechoic chamber.
All these changes have resulted in a significant improvement in the sound of the Diamonds. The lowest frequencies have gained in depth, speed, and control. The midrange exhibits even greater naturalness and neutrality, while the high end has become even more detailed.
In creating the Diamond 28 Mk II, we aimed to enhance as many possible acoustic and aesthetic features of its predecessor, all while maintaining the same characteristic and sound philosophy of the Diamond series. The columns are dedicated for use in rooms with a floor area from 25 to 45 m2.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Presents itself as a playful speaker that can rock out when needed
- Balanced sound with a good bass foundation and smooth highs, creating a nice soundstage
- Creates a clean and airy sound, with good placement of instruments
- Can produce a punchy bass when the music calls for it
- Doesn't emphasize any particular frequency range but recreates the mood of the music
Product Considerations
- It was found necessary to give the speakers time to break in to reach their best performance
- Depending on the room, the bass may need to be adjusted by repositioning the speakers or closing the bass reflex ports
Takeaway: The Pylon Audio Diamond 28 mk II is a versatile hifi speaker suitable for relaxed listening, but also capable of delivering powerful sound when desired, and it can integrate into the living room with different colours. If one wants a speaker for everyday listening and for parties, the Diamond 28 mk II should be considered.
Video review
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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
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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
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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
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Our Summary
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
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.
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