Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Sleek finish and rounded corners make it look more expensive than it is
  • Sounded coherent, with a consistent tonal balance and a pleasing overall sound
  • Excellent dynamics and good detail in the highs and mids
  • Big, powerful bass that doesn't swamp the soundstage
  • Easy to drive with a variety of solid-state or valve amplifiers

Product Considerations

  • Needs the right electronics, as it's easy to drive them incorrectly
  • Muddy and uncontrolled low-end, especially when used for music listening
  • Absence of a lacquered gloss black, white, or leather effect option

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The 3050i goes lower in the bass, while Definitive Technology's Demand D9 offers greater low-level detail and imaging
  • The 3050i sounds punchier, while the ELAC Uni-Fi Slim FS U5 provides a smoother sound with better-defined voices
  • The 3050i is lighter, tighter, faster—and more open than before
  • The 3050i has more expression and liveliness

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 3050i speakers offer great value, a sleek design, and good overall sound quality, especially as part of a home theater system. Impressive dynamics and detail bring movies and series to life.

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

3050i

reviews

[{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i Loudspeakers","link":"https://www.soundstageaccess.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/941-q-acoustics-3050i-loudspeakers","source":"SoundStage! Access","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/q-acoustics/3050i/review","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Great Speakers for HOME THEATER! Q Acoustics 3050i REVIEW","link":"https://www.therobinsonbrand.com/journal/great-speakers-for-home-theater-q-acoustics-3050i","source":"Andrew Robinson Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"3050i Floorstanders From Q Acoustics ","link":"https://theaudiophileman.com/3050i-floorstander-review-q-acoustics","source":"The Audiophile Man","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i","link":"https://www.hifichoice.com/content/q-acoustics-3050i","source":"Hi-Fi Choice","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i","link":"https://the-ear.net/review-hardware/q-acoustics-3050i-floor-standing-loudspeaker","source":"The Ear","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i Floorstanding Speaker Review","link":"https://www.themasterswitch.com/q-acoustics-3050i-review","source":"The Master Switch","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i Floorstanding Speaker Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/speaker/floor-standing/q-acoustics-3050i-floorstanding-speaker-review","source":"Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"REVIEW: Q ACOUSTICS 3050I FLOOR STANDING SPEAKERS","link":"https://www.stereonet.com/uk/reviews/review-q-acoustics-3050i-floor-standing-speakers","source":"StereoNET","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Q-Acoustics Q3050i Review","link":"https://www.hifireport.com/q-acoustics-q3050i-review","source":"HiFi Report","datePublished":""},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i review","link":"https://higherhz.com/q-acoustics-3050i-review","source":"Higher HZ","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i tower speakers, ready to rumble","link":"https://www.cnet.com/tech/home-entertainment/q-acoustics-mighty-3050i-towers-ready-to-rumble","source":"CNET","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"These Q Acoustics 3050i Floor Speakers Leave Their Competitors Standing","link":"https://www.forbes.com/sites/marksparrow/2019/04/03/these-3050i-floorstanding-speakers-from-q-acoustics-leave-their-competitors-standing","source":"Forbes","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Best speakers Q Acoustics 3050i review 2018","link":"https://q-acoustics-speakers.mystrikingly.com/blog/best-speakers-q-acoustics-3050i-review-2018","source":"Strikingly","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Q Acoustics’s 3050i: “fast and detailed…”","link":"https://longlivevinyl.net/2019/08/14/review-q-acoustics-3050i-loudspeakers","source":"Long Live Vinyl","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"TOP SPEAKER for Home Theater! Q ACOUSTICS 3050i Tower Speakers Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUggoekdSJs","source":"Andrew Robinson","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i Floor Standing Speakers Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfugHTm1was","source":"The Audiophile Man","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i | Floorstanding Speaker Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCZPJyGXtxw","source":"Home Theater Hobbyist","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Q Acoustics 3050i speakers + QED Silver Anniversary XT Speaker Cable. Want a musical speaker?(Day 4)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRN1ZOdQJfg","source":"Thomas & Stereo","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"3030i vs 3050i | Bookshelf Speaker vs. Floorstanding Speaker","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOn9Ov88CW8","source":"Home Theater Hobbyist","datePublished":"2021"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Enclosure type: 2-way reflex
  • Bass Unit: 2 x 165 mm (6.5 in)
  • Treble Unit: 22 mm (0.9 in)
  • Frequency Response (+3 dB, -6 dB): 44 Hz – 30 kHz
  • Average Impedance: 6 Ohm
  • Minimum Impedance: 4 Ohm
  • Sensitivity (2.83 V@1 m): 91 dB
  • Stereo Amplifier: 25 - 100 W
  • AV Receiver (2 ch. driven): 50 - 165 W
  • Crossover Frequency: 2.5 Hz
  • Effective Volume: 32.4 L (1977 cu in)
  • Dimensions H/D/W: 1020 x 310 x 320 (210mm without stabilizers) mm
  • Enclosure width: 200mm (7.9 in)
  • Weight (per speaker): 17.8 kg (39.2 lbs)
The all new, Q 3050i floorstanding speaker has been created using design principles taken from our critically acclaimed Concept 500 Series, resulting in stunning sonic performance and beautiful aesthetics.
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:

  • Q Acoustics employs point-to-point (P2P) bracing and Helmholtz Pressure Equalizers (HPE) in their speaker cabinets, reducing internal air pressure and unwanted resonance.
  • They are known for their "Continuous Curved Cone (C3)" driver design in mid/bass drivers to blend bass and midrange performance seamlessly.
  • Q Acoustics consistently prioritizes a clean, modern, and minimalist aesthetic across their product lines.
  • The brand offers a sonic signature that is often described as a balance of warmth, refinement, and detail, proving easy to listen to over long periods.

Q Acoustics M40

  • Positioning: The entry-level, cost-effective micro-tower speaker designed for compact spaces.
  • Description: Offers a compact design with built-in amplification, making it ideal for small rooms or as a secondary system. Its C3 Continuous Curved Cone design provides smooth integration and controlled bass, similar to the 5040 but in a more compact form. Unlike the Q Active 400, it lacks wireless streaming capabilities, making it more suitable for users with simpler connectivity needs.

Q Acoustics 3050C

  • Positioning: The mid-range floorstanding speaker in the 3000c series, offering a balance of performance and affordability.
  • Description: Features the C3 Continuous Curved Cone for superior bass dynamics, similar to the 5040, but with a larger cabinet for more powerful sound. It includes P2P bracing and HPE technology for reduced distortion, offering a more refined soundstage than the M40.

Q Acoustics 5040

  • Positioning: The compact floorstander in the 5000 series, designed for those seeking high performance in a small footprint.
  • Description: Uses the C3 Continuous Curved Cone for enhanced bass and smooth high-frequency integration, similar to the 3050C but with a more advanced design. It features P2P bracing and HPE technology for improved sound clarity, offering a more sophisticated sound than the M40. Unlike the Q Active 400, it is not wireless, making it ideal for traditional hi-fi setups.

Q Acoustics Q Active 400

  • Positioning: The high-resolution wireless audio system, offering a modern, versatile listening experience.
  • Description: Provides true wireless connectivity with multiple streaming services, making it ideal for tech-savvy users who value convenience. Its BMR drive units deliver a wide soundstage, surpassing the M40's compact design. Unlike the Concept 500, it integrates seamlessly with modern smart home systems.

Q Acoustics Concept 500

  • Positioning: The flagship model, designed for audiophiles seeking the pinnacle of sound quality.
  • Description: Combines P2P bracing and HPE technology for exceptional audio precision, offering a more refined sound than the 5040. Its advanced cabinet design minimizes vibrations, providing a superior soundstage compared to the 3050C. Unlike the Q Active 400, it is tailored for traditional high-end audio systems, making it ideal for those with a higher budget and a focus on ultimate sound quality.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
17
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
40
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
29
Founding Year
2006

Our take on the brand

Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.

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?

What's your approach to customer support?

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

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

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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Expand Details

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
Product Page
Product image
Q Acoustics
5040
1495
1495
/
14
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent clarity and detail resolution, with leading edges of notes crisply defined
  • Accurate reproduction, with precise tonal accuracy and fine spatial definition within the soundstage
  • Superb build quality for the money, and they look more expensive than they are
  • Easy to drive without requiring excessive power to perform to their best
  • Soundstage width is better than the 3050i

Product Considerations

  • Needs care in system matching, as they are transparent and will reveal shortcomings in the source or amplifier
  • Can sound slightly lean throughout the lower midrange, and the highs can sometimes present as a bit hot depending on the content
  • Does not plumb the depths that some other floorstanders do
  • Not designed for pokey rooms and cupboard-sized man caves, they need to breathe and require adequate space
  • Some reviewers felt the build quality of the binding posts could be better

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The 5040 has a more neutral tonal balance with better-defined bass and exceptional clarity, while the 3050i delivers greater overall impact with its larger drivers and cabinet

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5040 is a well-built speaker that sounds great and looks modern, making it a good choice for those who want clarity and detail in their music, but system matching is important to avoid a bright presentation. These speakers are a strong statement in the right listening environment for the price.

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
Product image
Q Acoustics
5050
1909
1909
/
8
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Impressive clarity and scale
  • Strong dynamics with impressive bass
  • Pleasing rhythmic drive
  • Detail resolution is excellent, and there is seamless cohesion from top to bottom
  • Generates a generous soundstage that is well-focused and nicely layered
  • Well-made and well-finished
  • Modern, minimalist design that is a natural fit for any interior
  • Analytical and linear, extracting every bit of information from the sound message with constant, meticulous precision
  • Offers a well-balanced reproduction, with a perfect smooth transition between each tonal range
  • High frequencies are incredibly clear, optimizing the separation of micro-details
  • Midrange unfolds with neutrality, reproducing all the tessituras of voices and instruments with great naturalness
  • Ideal for revealing the true musicality of the associated amplifiers

Product Considerations

  • Needs careful system matching to shine
  • Works best in larger rooms
  • Tonal balance is a touch forward, so it pays to take care with system matching
  • Treble that sounds a bit hard and peaky can be an issue out of the box, which calms down but can still bite if partnered with bright or aggressive amplification
  • A slight lack of depth in bass, which can be remedied with the addition of a subwoofer
  • Handling the terminals requires great precision to avoid completely unscrewing the small clamping ring

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The 5050s offer more emphasis to the treble and upper mids and a bigger scale in terms of the soundstage, with a bass response that knocks you flat, while the Q Acoustics 3050s are far better balanced in these terms
  • The 5050s give you a big scale in terms of the soundstage, with a bass response that knocks you flat, while the PMC Prodigy 1 offers a smooth and balanced suite of upper frequencies
  • 5050 offers a more accomplished listening experience, with more generous bass and a richer midrange
  • The Q Acoustics 5050 is more balanced and accurate than the Focal Theva n°3

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5050 floorstanders offer an extra dose of authority and a slightly calmer manner to any listening experience with impressive clarity, scale and minimalist aesthetics. With their rich sound and balanced reproduction they are ideal for hifi and home theater listening.

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
Product image
Q Acoustics
M40
1272
1272
/
8
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Compact size makes them ideal for smaller spaces
  • Delivers a composed and controlled sound
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Stereo imaging is great—each element has its own space
  • Versatile wired connectivity (USB, optical, analog)

Product Considerations

  • Sound lacks dynamics and drive
  • No wi-fi streaming or control app
  • Bass response can be easily provoked
  • Treble sounds are played safe here—somewhat rolled-off
  • Volume adjustment is a slightly blunt affair

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics M40 is a versatile speaker system that's easy to set up and use, delivering great sound quality, especially considering its compact size. It is a safe and enjoyable recommendation for those seeking a less-than-big system with a big, informative and energetic sound.

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

What competes at this price?

Klipsch
RP-8000F II
749
/
Released
2022
A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area for crisper, clearer sound. The phase plug and compression molded silicone face ensure smooth frequency response.
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Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Flat in-room frequency response, especially from 200 Hz upwards, contributes to accurate sound reproduction
  • Amplifier and receiver friendly due to its high sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance, performing well with entry-level to flagship AV receivers and amplifiers
  • The new, larger Tractrix horn waveguide design offers improved directivity control and high-frequency focus
  • Excels in dynamics, delivering raw impact and presence that enhances the excitement of movies and gaming, as well as rock and electronica music

Product Considerations

  • Treble might become fatiguing with lesser recordings or at higher volumes, and may not be agreeable with all genres for listeners seeking a very smooth top end
  • The midrange, while linear, isn't completely neutral due to some cabinet resonance, adding extra energy that may or may not be desirable depending on listener preference
  • For true full-range playback, a subwoofer is required to compensate for the lack of deep bass extension
  • The vinyl finish may disappoint fans of natural materials
  • Best listened at within a 5-degree angle, and listening at a height level with the tweeter is clearly the best choice

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Polk R700: R700 is a more versatile all-rounder, but preferred for rock and electronica
  • Vs. Sonus Faber Lumina 5: The Sonus Faber is better built and looks nicer, but more refined
  • Vs. Q Acoustics Concept 50s: The Concept 50s image a little better, disappear just a little bit better, and they are exceptional off-axis, but do not play as low
  • Vs. Heco Aurora 1000: The Heco is more linear across the range
  • Vs. SVS Prime Pinnacle: The SVS Prime Pinnacle has a tweeter that is lower in level, offering a warmer sound

Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-8000F Mark II is a speaker that brings a dynamic sound to movies, gaming, and music. For speakers that are easy to set up, are amplifier-friendly and deliver punchy, clear audio, these could be a great option.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Magnepan
LRS+
995
/
Released
2022
Following in the footsteps of the highly acclaimed LRS, the LRS+ takes it up a notch. "This is another slam-dunk POY (Product of the Year) nominee, and, IMO, the best buy (along with the MG1.7i) in an affordable loudspeaker for modest-sized rooms." 2022 Golden Ear Award.
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Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Creates a very open and transparent soundstage, which crosses the threshold of believability in a small to medium-sized room
  • Low distortion, especially in the midrange and upper bass, making listeners realize how imperfectly transparent many speakers are
  • Highly resolving, with impressive performance on acoustical instruments and vocal reproduction
  • Offers a unique and remarkable experience due to the story and love behind the speaker's creation
  • Presents a challenge, helping users understand speaker positions as the sound changes completely with movement
  • Considered 'eminently affordable' and provides incredible sound for the price

Product Considerations

  • Requires significant time to install, tweak, and dial in due to its dipole design, making positioning critical
  • Bass is not powerful—it doesn't do pounding bass, and listeners won't feel the bass pounding on their chest, so a subwoofer might be needed, especially for rock, pop, dance, and electronic music
  • Needs good power and high current to sound clean and not cause fatigue, it is not a powerful-sounding speaker
  • The stand included is considered subpar and not very versatile

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs the original LRS, the LRS+ has ameliorated treble, has smoother upper mids, and has a reduced nosedive in the power range and midbass

Takeaway: The Magnepan LRS+ is a special speaker with an open soundstage, great details, and makes music sound real and enjoyable. Though not perfect, it is well worth buying because it offers an excellent way to experience a panel speaker without spending too much.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnepan is known for their unique planar magnetic speakers that use thin Mylar film and aluminum foil strips instead of traditional speaker cones, creating sound from both front and back of the panel for a more natural, box-less sound. Their speakers are particularly appealing for jazz and classical music listeners due to their lifelike reproduction of acoustic instruments, and they're popular among audiophiles for offering high-end performance at relatively affordable prices.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Dynaudio
Emit 30
849
/
Released
2021
Emit 30 is a compact two-and-a-half-way speaker designed to impress whether it's used as a stand-alone stereo pair or as part of a 5.1-channel (or more) home cinema. Like its little brother, Emit 10, it uses 14cm MSP woofers similar to those used in the Evoke series – this time doubled-up in each speaker for more low-frequency muscle, plus midrange clarity and punch.
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Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Emit 30 delivers a satisfying and full-bodied sound, particularly excelling in the midrange, making vocals, piano, strings, and horns sound 'right'
  • Bass performance is impressive for its size, delivering clean, fast, and airy bass with low distortion
  • Good clarity and detail, rendering a wide range of recordings
  • Good dynamics and energy, making music lively and engaging
  • Top-notch build quality

Product Considerations

  • The Emit 30's presentation might favor sophistication over excitement, with rhythmic drive being somewhat muted
  • High-frequency non-linearity
  • Some reviewers found the upper frequencies 'off', sometimes a little too soft
  • The vinyl finish may be a drawback for some, as it is not as luxurious as real wood veneers
  • Speakers like a bit of power

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Triangle Comet: The Emit 30 is rich, warm, and sweet, whereas the Comet is fast, quick, hyper-detailed, and exciting
  • Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Emit 30 gives a more complete, full-bodied sound, while the LS50 offers clearer vocals and more air

Takeaway: The Dynaudio Emit 30 is a well-rounded speaker that offers a satisfying and engaging listening experience with impressive bass and midrange performance. It's a great value for those seeking a refined and capable floorstanding speaker without breaking the bank.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Acoustic Energy
AE109²
999
/
Released
2022
The AE109² is designed to offer effortless, room filling performance from a slim-line floor-standing loudspeaker in much the same way the world acclaimed original AE109 did 20 years ago.
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Acoustic Energy is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique 3.5-way Corinium design that separates bass drivers from midrange and tweeter, creating sound similar to a standmount speaker with a bass module. Their speakers feature distinctive materials like coconut husk-paper blend drivers and carbon fiber domes, along with specialized cabinet designs using inert mass damping to reduce coloration and enhance clarity.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Well-rounded sound for the price
  • Easy to drive with various amplifiers
  • Easy to place in a room, even close to a wall, thanks to the rear slot port design
  • Wide sound dispersion, making them suitable for enjoying with friends and family
  • Smooth, warm, and non-fatiguing sound, suitable for long listening sessions

Product Considerations

  • Bass can sometimes muddy the midrange, especially with tone controls that increase bass
  • Soundstage depth may fall a bit short compared to more expensive speakers
  • The provided spikes attach directly to the base of the cabinet, which could affect side-to-side stability
  • Accessories could be better

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Magnepan LRS+—AE109² easier to own, less finicky with amp requirements and placement, and better for sharing due to wider sweet spot, though Magnepan sounds better
  • Vs DALI Spektor 6—AE109² presents a genuine challenge, with better looks, though DALI has more 'fizz' of excitement

Takeaway: The AE109² is a budget-friendly floorstanding speaker that provides a balanced and enjoyable listening experience, especially for those prioritizing ease of placement and a wide soundstage. These speakers are a great option for creating a solid system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Acoustic Energy is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique 3.5-way Corinium design that separates bass drivers from midrange and tweeter, creating sound similar to a standmount speaker with a bass module. Their speakers feature distinctive materials like coconut husk-paper blend drivers and carbon fiber domes, along with specialized cabinet designs using inert mass damping to reduce coloration and enhance clarity.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
PSB
Imagine T65
999
/
Released
2023
Experience the ultimate sophistication and high-definition audio with Imagine T65 tower speakers. These flagship speakers offer cutting-edge technology, refined aesthetics, and unmatched performance. The T65 delivers rich, full-range sound with deep bass frequencies, bringing your music and movies to life with true-to-nature sound.
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Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Imagine T65 benefits from technologies passed on from the company's flagship Synchrony Series
  • The dual 6.5-inch woofers produce serious bass, with good depth and authority
  • Features a dedicated 5.25-inch midrange driver, leading to a more resolved and clear midrange
  • Strong output capability and low distortion
  • The speakers have a wider vertical window for better home theater use than is typical

Product Considerations

  • The midrange may need some equalization work, especially if dialogue in movies and vocals in music are not at the forefront
  • The white cabinet finish might look and feel a little more like primer than high-quality paint
  • The upper bass range might be a bit much from time to time, and tunable ports may have helped
  • The gold-plated binding posts are nice, but the large, plastic fixture might be undesirable
  • Placement in too small a room could overwhelm it, resulting in muddied sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sonus Faber Lumina V: The Lumina V may edge out the T65's in mid-bass performance, but they are more different—not overall better
  • Vs Paradigm Premier 700F: The Paradigm is a remarkably refined loudspeaker that has a smaller form factor than the T65

Takeaway: The PSB Imagine T65 is a refined and powerful speaker that provides a lot of energy, making it great for both two-channel and home theater environments. It is a good choice for those looking for a full-range speaker that plays clean and loud.

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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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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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