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

  • Smooth and engaging sound is easy and non-fatiguing to listen to for long periods
  • Very good bass response is powerful, controlled, and extended, negating the need for a separate subwoofer for many users
  • Ability to create a wide, precise, and holographic soundstage with well-defined instrument placement
  • Attractive, understated design, especially in the gloss black finish, looks more luxurious and high-end
  • Delivers very generous return and price policy

Product Considerations

  • Treble response is somewhat recessed or laid-back, potentially lacking 'air' or 'sizzle' for those preferring brighter sound
  • While specified as 8 ohms nominal, the impedance can dip to 4 ohms, suggesting it may not be ideal for entry-level AVRs
  • Grilles attach mechanically (clip-on) rather than magnetically
  • Best suited to placement away from sidewalls to avoid excessive boundary gain
  • Fingerprint-attracting gloss black can be high maintainence

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Prime Pinnacle digs deeper with tighter base, while the Revel Performa3 F206 has slightly more openess
  • The Prime Pinnacle offers a wider sweet spot and stronger bass, though the Focal Chora 826 has more detailed highs

Takeaway: The SVS Prime Pinnacle is a well-engineered speaker that offers a lot of performance, delivering a smooth sound, powerful bass, and great imaging. It's a great option for both music listening and home theater, especially if you value a balanced sound.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Prime Pinnacle

reviews

[{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Tower Speaker Review","link":"https://www.audioholics.com/tower-speaker-reviews/svs-prime-pinnacle","source":"Audioholics","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Loudspeakers","link":"https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1358-svs-prime-pinnacle-loudspeakers","source":"SoundStage! Hi-Fi","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Review: A Floorstanding Monster","link":"https://www.themasterswitch.com/svs-prime-pinnacle-review","source":"The Master Switch","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle","link":"https://www.hifichoice.com/content/svs-prime-pinnacle","source":"Hi-Fi Choice","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Floorstanding Loudspeaker Reviewed","link":"https://futureaudiophile.com/svs-prime-pinnacle-floorstanding-loudspeaker-reviewed","source":"Future Audiophile","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Loudspeaker","link":"https://www.soundandvision.com/content/svs-prime-pinnacle-loudspeaker","source":"Sound & Vision","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Tower Speaker Reviewed","link":"https://hometheaterreview.com/svs-prime-pinnacle-tower-speaker","source":"Home Theater Review","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Loudspeaker","link":"https://www.hifinews.com/content/svs-prime-pinnacle-loudspeaker","source":"Hi-Fi News","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"SVS PRIME PINNACLE Review – Towering delight","link":"https://7review.com/svs-prime-pinnacle-review","source":"7 Review","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"A Perfect Speaker? SVS Prime Pinnacle is Darn Near Flawless","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxVGeoSIOiU","source":"cheapaudioman","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Towers Review | HEARING is BELIEVING","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHGVu9_WWRA","source":"Home Theater Gamer","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Review! SVS Prime Pinnacle","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVdBnUBEEng","source":"New Record Day","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Review | Ultra Tower Killer?? In 4k","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWa-kdn6a94","source":"That Home Theater Dude","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"SVS Prime Pinnacle Speaker Review | High Performance [4K HDR]","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGgFCT2rTmQ","source":"VillaMan","datePublished":"2020"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Frequency Response: 29Hz-25 kHz (±3 dB)
  • Nominal impedance: 8 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 88 dB (2.83V @ 1 meter full-space, 300-3kHz)
  • Recommended amplifier power: 20-300 watts
  • Cabinet Dimensions: 40.5" (H) X 8" (W) X 13.4" (D)
  • Overall Dimensions: 41.1" (H) X 8" (W) X 13.9" (D) (includes grille, feet and binding posts)
  • Weight Unboxed: 57.1 lbs (25.9 kg)
  • Weight Packaged: 66 lbs (29.9 kg)
  • Tweeter: 1" Aluminum Dome
  • Midrange: 5.25"
  • Woofer: Triple 6.5"
  • Ports: Triple 2" wide-flared rear-firing ports
  • Crossover: 3-way (Tweeter-to-Midrange: 2.1kHz, Midrange-to-Woofer: 300Hz)
The ultimate expression of what SVS sought to create with the Prime Series loudspeakers is epitomized in Prime Pinnacle. Audiophile refinement and musicality without sacrificing wide dynamic range, deep, effortless bass and all the excitement of a world-class loudspeaker. SVS acoustic engineers spent more time voicing Prime Pinnacle than any speaker in SVS history, in large part to create a loudspeaker that was equally suited to meet the demands of both discerning audiophiles and hardcore home theater fans.
The ultimate expression of what SVS sought to create with the Prime Series loudspeakers is epitomized in Prime Pinnacle. Audiophile refinement and musicality without sacrificing wide dynamic range, deep, effortless bass and all the excitement of a world-class loudspeaker. SVS acoustic engineers spent more time voicing Prime Pinnacle than any speaker in SVS history, in large part to create a loudspeaker that was equally suited to meet the demands of both discerning audiophiles and hardcore home theater fans. To go even further, Prime Pinnacle’s cabinet design was made to blend seamlessly and sound amazing in any listening environment. World-class performance in both a two-channel HiFi stereo or an immersive home theater surround sound system, Prime Pinnacle is unrivaled in its class and well-beyond.
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:

  • SVS subwoofers often integrate sophisticated DSP (Digital Signal Processing) engines, accessible via a user-friendly smartphone app, allowing for precise adjustments to parameters like crossover frequencies, parametric EQ, and room gain compensation.
  • They prioritize the design of the woofer itself, often using lightweight yet rigid materials like aluminum or composite cones paired with powerful motor assemblies for exceptional excursion and controlled bass reproduction.
  • The brand offers different enclosure designs, such as sealed, ported, and cylindrical, to accommodate various room sizes, aesthetic preferences, and sonic goals.
  • SVS consistently earns high praise for the quality and responsiveness of its customer service, which includes generous trial periods, warranties, and upgrade policies, fostering a customer-centric experience.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
77
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
22
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
40
Founding Year
1998

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.

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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From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
SVS
Ultra Evolution Pinnacle
2499
2499
/
13
Reviews

Ultra Evolution Pinnacle represents the culmination of SVS breakthroughs in driver design, component materials, and cabinet architecture, married with a relentless passion for audio excellence. The science of sonic perfection in harmony with a love of convincing and immersive sound. Never has this fusion of design elements existed in a single speaker.

Acoustically centered time alignment, diamond coated aluminum dome tweeters, force-balanced woofer array and other advancements embody an uncompromising approach to floorstanding speaker design. Acoustic innovations are brought to life with painstaking anechoic and real-world measurement and voicing. This final bit of artistry places Ultra Evolution Pinnacle among the highest fidelity tower speakers ever created.

Our mission has always been to ignite a passion for transcendent music and home theater experiences by rendering the truest sonic playback. The joy of pristine clarity, absolute transparency, stunning dynamics, and effortless bass for more people than ever. SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle deeply connects you to the emotion of sound.

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a lot of sound output and low bass, good for listeners who like full-range speakers
  • The diamond-coated tweeter offers a big sonic improvement, sounding more open and less tinny or strained on the high end
  • Exceptional value for money
  • Exceptional bass weight and presence for the price range
  • The Ultra Evolution Pinnacle offer scale, drama, and full-range sonics

Product Considerations

  • Voiced for warmth rather than accuracy
  • Can be room-sensitive in ways that other designs are not
  • Should be driven with a robust amplifier
  • The speaker's tonality is not linear, with a dip in the upper mid-range followed by a peak, making the sound somewhat shouty
  • Speakers require placement away from walls due to a wide Q bump in the lower bass region

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • vs Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4: The new tweeter in the SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle loudspeakers had a lot of that open sound when playing "Blackbird" from QoBuz, but the highs weren't as open and airy as the nearly six times more expensive Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4 speakers—the improvement over the past tweeter is notable
  • vs Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3: B&W is slightly more money and slightly more refined
  • vs MartinLogan XT F200: The SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle loudspeakers may have a different sonic signature

Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle speakers are a great option for those seeking a powerful, full-range sound with exceptional bass at a competitive price. They are the best SVS speaker yet and will make the listening experience vibrant and fun.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
SVS
Ultra Evolution Titan
1999
1999
/
6
Reviews

Ultra Evolution Titan represents the culmination of SVS breakthroughs in driver design, component materials, and cabinet architecture, married with a relentless passion for audio excellence. The science of sonic perfection in harmony with a love of convincing and immersive sound. 

The Titan's cabinet and driver dimensions are slightly smaller than the flagship Ultra Evolution Pinnacle, but its performance is no less impressive. Never has this fusion of design elements existed in a single speaker. Acoustically centered time alignment, diamond coated aluminum dome tweeters, force-balanced woofer array and other advancements embody an uncompromising approach to floorstanding speaker design. 

Acoustic innovations are brought to life with painstaking anechoic and real-world measurement and voicing. This final bit of artistry places Ultra Evolution Titan among the highest fidelity tower speakers ever created. 

Our mission has always been to ignite passion for transcendent music and home theater experiences with the truest sonic playback. The joy of pristine clarity, absolute transparency, stunning dynamics, and effortless bass for more people than ever. SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle deeply connects you to the emotion of sound.

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers excellent bass, from the upper registers down, with detail, speed, and articulation
  • Good balance between bass, midrange and treble, also described as 'coherent'
  • Diamond tweeter provides clean, clear, smooth, detailed, forgiving treble with no lack of refinement
  • Impressive soundstage capability, creating a great sense of scale, particularly with movie soundtracks
  • Well-rounded speaker that can be versatile, scales well with better equipment, and is forgiving of lower quality amplifiers

Product Considerations

  • Terminals recessed into the back of the speaker feel old-fashioned
  • Included spikes are the same as those seen on more affordable hifi products
  • Some reviewers find the speakers to be plain looking with minimal character, although some reviews did not mind the looks
  • Some find the bass a little thick, heavy, or frobby and better suited to modern music
  • The tweeter can sound a little treble forward or spicy

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF R11 Meta: The SVS Titan delivers substantially more bass with more room filling, vocals are more forward in the KEF, while bass is more emphasized in the Titan, SVS has a more open, coherent, and agile sound, but KEF has better build quality
  • Vs Polk R700: The Titan has a faster, more detailed, and more dynamic sound, the R700 sounds warmer and requires more power
  • Vs Martin Logan XT-F100: The Titan takes the best aspects of the Logan and Polk speakers, but remains firm even with more budget-oriented gear
  • Vs Q Acoustics Concept 50: The Titan delivers a more agile and open sound with more bass, though the Concept 50 is less obtrusive and expensive
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins 703 S3: The B&W has a higher build standard, but the SVS is less bright, more neutral in the midrange, and easier to control in the bass

Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Titan is a technically ambitious speaker that provides a refined sound with a strong, detailed bass presence—making it great for both music and home theater. It's a fun and engaging speaker that's good for audiophiles and anyone who wants an excellent all-around listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
SVS
Ultra Evolution Tower
1499
1499
/
5
Reviews

Ultra Evolution Tower represents the culmination of SVS breakthroughs in driver design, component materials, and cabinet architecture, married with a relentless passion for audio excellence. The science of sonic perfection in harmony with a love of convincing and immersive sound.

The smallest of the floorstanding speakers in the flagship Series, Ultra Evolution Tower outperforms everything in its class with rich, detailed sound, commanding bass, and a broad yet precise soundstage. Never has this fusion of design elements existed in a single speaker.

Acoustically centered time alignment, diamond coated aluminum dome tweeters, force balanced woofer array, and other advancements embody an uncompromising approach to floorstanding speaker design. Acoustic innovations are brought to life with painstaking anechoic and real-world measurement and voicing. This final bit of artistry places Ultra Evolution Tower among the highest fidelity tower speakers ever created.

Our mission has always been to ignite a passion for transcendent music and home theater experiences by rendering the truest sonic playback. The joy of pristine clarity, absolute transparency, stunning dynamics, and effortless bass for more people than ever. SVS Ultra Evolution Tower deeply connects you to the emotion of sound.

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Impressive bass output, with great extension and dynamics, without being boomy or bloated
  • Wide soundstage that expands far past the speakers
  • Strong dynamics and scale, offering a sense of being at a live performance
  • Impressive midrange clarity, with a seamless crossover into the bass region
  • The tweeter provides good levels of clarity

Product Considerations

  • Very placement dependent, requiring quite a bit of space from the back wall
  • Toe affects high frequencies quite a bit, with on-axis performance being more treble-forward
  • The narrow cabinet design makes the speakers somewhat vulnerable to being knocked over
  • Experimenting with positioning is key to getting the best from these speakers, as they need a decent amount of rear breathing space to avoid the low end becoming a little too overwhelming
  • The diamond carbon-coated tweeter can produce unforgiving highs that eke out hard edges and aggression in recordings

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • SVS Ultra Evolution Towers have more lively energy up top, but KEFs have better build quality and a more premium aesthetic
  • SVS Ultra Evolution Towers provide more bass and dynamics than the Martin Logans, while the Martin Logans offer better clarity in their treble performance and are less room-dependent
  • SVS Ultra Evolution Towers offer punchier bass delivery, but Dynaudio Evoke 50 can fill the room with generous amounts of low frequencies

Takeaway: The SVS Ultra Evolution Tower is a compact speaker that gives you a big, exciting sound for the price, especially when it comes to bass and dynamics. If you want a speaker that can bring your music to life and make you feel like you're at a concert, these could be a great choice.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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

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
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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
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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
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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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.

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

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