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
- Delivers deep and detailed soundstage with incredible resolution and transparency
- Cabinet design reduces standing waves and improves on-axis frequency response
- Provides a good level of resolution and timbral accuracy that separates high-quality speakers from others
- Impressive visual design with a trapezoid shape and beautiful gloss black finish
- Dynamics and transients are particularly good
Product Considerations
- Bass can sound a bit congested and unevenly reproduced on acoustic bass runs
- Soundstage and imaging may not be as wide or deep as some more expensive speakers
- Some minor details in recordings might be masked, reducing overall resolution compared to higher-end speakers
- Running room correction is very important—without it, they can sound subdued
- The grilles are better off left off during listening
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS Prime Bookshelf Speaker: The Ultra is a noticeable step up in linearity, with a better output capability
- Vs Von Schweikert VR5SEs: The change was not as dramatic as the price difference might suggest
- Vs Harbeth P3ESR: The reviewer prefers the SVS to the Legacy Studio HDs on most parameters, but the choice between the Towers and the Harbeth comes down to what you require and admire in a speaker
- Vs Legacy Studio HD: The reviewer prefers the SVS to the Legacy Studio HDs on most parameters, but the choice between the Towers and the Harbeth comes down to what you require and admire in a speaker
Takeaway: The Ultra Towers are great speakers that offer impressive performance for the money, particularly with their strong bass response and ability to handle various music genres at high volumes. With their attractive design and advanced features, they deliver a taste of high-end audio.
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Ultra (Surround)
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Manufacturer details
- Tweeter: Dual 1" Aluminum Dome
- Woofer: Dual 5.5"
- Frequency Response: 58 Hz-32 kHz (±3 dB)
- Nominal impedance: 8 ohms
- Sensitivity: 87 dB (2.83V @ 1 meter full-space, 300-3kHz)
- Recommended amplifier power: 20-250 watts
- Dimensions: 14" (H) x 12.3" (W) x 7" (D)
- Weight: 18 pounds
Designed with dual isolated SoundMatch two-way crossovers for each tweeter and woofer, the SVS Ultra Surround can operate in either bipole, dipole, or in the unique SVS Duet Mode, which creates two separate speakers in a single cabinet. In Duet mode, each set of drivers in the Ultra Surround speaker receives a discrete signal, so your system can deliver true 7 channel surround sound using only 5 full-range speakers.
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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Used
SVS
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Product Strengths
- Sweet and detailed audio performance with clear instrumental separation and expansive dimensionality
- Warm and full-bodied bass and midrange
- Clear yet 'mellow' treble, creating a pleasing sound signature
- Accurate sound that doesn't do much to color the recording, so listeners get a balanced presentation of the source content
- Good level of dynamic range for reasonably sized bookshelf speakers, and they can get louder than expected for their size/price class
Product Considerations
- The laid-back sound may occasionally obscure some definition
- The speakers run on the cooler side of things, never becoming too indulgent in any aspect and instead providing a sound that is accurate and slightly pulled back, but never muted or lifeless
- Asymmetry of the phase coherence of their vertical lobe can be a slight problem for anyone listening under the tweeter axis
- Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Vestia No. 1: Theva offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but is not as immediately striking in detail or treble extension
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3: Theva is more compact and easier to place, but doesn't look as premium
- Vs Polk Legend Series L100: Theva has a more laid-back sound profile, making it a better listen in most cases, while the L100 presents a more precise center image
Takeaway: The Theva No. 1 is a great speaker for enjoying detailed and smooth sound without harshness. It's a good option for different types of content, from music to movies, and is especially suited for smaller spaces.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The DALI ALTECO C-1 is a true multipurpose speaker. It adds Atmos, DTS-X and Auro-3D height information to an existing surround setup, and is a discreet on-wall solution for a stereo installation.Dual Sound ModeThe dual sound mode offers flexible placement. Select 'UP' for soft, downward sound dispersion or 'DOWN' for close listening.Wood Fibre ConesOur low-loss drivers combine low-mass paper cones with wood fibre for an uneven surface that eliminates resonance and reveals every detail.Up-FiringWhen placed on top of front or rear speakers, the angular design is perfect for transmitting Dolby Atmos, DTS-X or Auro-3D surround sound height information.Soft Dome TweeterThe ultra lightweight, weaved fabric dome tweeter offers best-in-class resolution with extended frequency response, wide dispersion and low colouration.
Product Strengths
- Designed to deliver delicate Atmos sounds and add height to the surround sound experience
- Brilliantly built and seem built to last
- Does an outstanding job in reproducing a cinematic feel
- They are full-bodied and an easy and engaging listen
- Can be used discreetly on your living room wall while providing an exceptional stereo listening experience when paired with a subwoofer
Product Considerations
- With the vinyl wrap, it looks a little bit like Ikea furniture, so it may not be the best option for a classy looking system
- Speaker terminals use a push fit spring clamp system for very thin wire, which can be annoying
- When used on top of floor standers, they do not sound as good as when wall-mounted
- Dolby Atmos content availability may be lacking
Takeaway: The Alteco C1 is a well-built speaker that adds a cinematic feel to a home theatre experience. It is a versatile speaker that can be used in different ways and is a good value for the price.
Video review
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Product Strengths
- Smooth, spacious sound with good weight
- Excellent build and finish quality
- Discreet and stylish design, blending easily with room décor
- Slim cabinets make them easy to hang on the wall
- Driver arrangement ensures excellent imaging, even when speakers are mounted high
Product Considerations
- Midrange colouration can harm timing
- Bass is more limited compared to some rivals due to the sealed-box design
- Can become a little muddled with complex rhythms
- Without grilles, they sport a stark, industrial look
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- When compared to rivals such as PMC's Wafer 2, the SoundFrames have the most limited bass
- SoundFrames are better than the KEF T205 system
Takeaway: The Monitor Audio SoundFrame is a stylish and innovative speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality despite its slim design. It's a great option for those who want a system that blends seamlessly with their décor without compromising on performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
M&K Sound, manufacturer of the finest loudspeakers and subwoofers and whose products are "The Choice of Professionals", has introduced the new discreet and design-conscious D Series of loudspeakers, comprising the D85 and D95 models. Optimized for placement on walls, on stands, inside bookshelves or flanking flat-panel TV´s.
The D95 boasts 91 dB of sensitivity, producing exceptional dynamics from a tiny enclosure. With a slim depth profile of 3.74 inches and front fascia only measuring a compact 11.81 (H) x 9.45 (W) inches, the larger of the two models will remain inconspicuous on a living room or kitchen wall.
Housing a 6.5-inch polypropylene cone woofer with a 90 Hz – 20 kHz frequency response, the D95 can produce a rich and fully-rounded middle- and low-end response. The D95 and D85 incorporate a second order, phase-focused crossover frequency of 1.6 kHz supporting a smooth and imperceptible transition between tweeter and woofer.
Both models can deliver extraordinary low-end detail independently, but there is always an option to pair the loudspeakers with any of M&K Sound's compact V+ Series of powerful and articulate subwoofers
Product Strengths
- Engaging, fast, and accurate performance
- Superbly made with good build and finish commensurate with the asking price
- Genuinely flexible in terms of positioning, especially for wall mounting due to its slim profile
- Impressive detail retrieval combined with a crisp and dynamic presentation
Product Considerations
- Limited bass extension, likely requiring a subwoofer for most applications
- Poor speaker terminals that won't happily accept 4mm plugs
- Not inexpensive
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Spendor A1 outperforms the D95 on a stand or shelf, but the D95 has the edge when wall-mounted
- D95 differs from ATC HTS series, since there is no center speaker version
Takeaway: The D95 is a great option for spaces where floorspace is limited, delivering a sparkling performance from an easy-to-place enclosure. It's a well-made, versatile speaker that shines when wall-mounted.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Ultra Elevation speakers offer a more substantial and impressive presence compared to smaller speakers
- They have magnetic grills, which are convenient and prevent scratching the cabinet
- They maintain the neutral SVS voicing, ensuring they blend well with previous Ultra and Prime series speakers
- The sound is refined and neutral, allowing listeners to focus on the music without the speakers drawing attention to themselves
Product Considerations
- The speaker cable terminals are flipped, which might require shorter or 90-degree banana plugs depending on the mounting
- The Ultra Elevation speakers are heavier, requiring secure mounting—preferably anchored rather than relying solely on drywall screws
- These are supporting speakers and still require dual matching subwoofers for the best sound experience
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Ultra Elevations are bigger, heavier, and have a better driver and offset rear port compared to the Prime Elevations
Takeaway: The Ultra Elevation speakers are a worthwhile upgrade that integrates well into existing SVS systems to complete the sound. These speakers deliver refined, neutral audio, making them a delightful addition to any home theater setup.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The reviewer liked the Q4 so much that they bought two more
- The reviewer was impressed with the Q4s
- Rated down to 42 Hertz in-room response, the port provides a fuller bodied sound
- It can be used as a LCR (left, center, right) speaker, making it versatile for different channels
- The driver is very much the same as in the KEF R11s as well, promising timbre matching will be no problem
Product Considerations
- The reviewer wishes the port was underneath, so it was more hidden when hanging it vertically
- The reviewer wishes KEF would make a custom grill to match the R11s
Takeaway: The Q4 sounds really good and is impressive as a center channel, performing bigger than it looks. Its ability to be mounted and act as different channels allows it to be a very versatile piece of equipment.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers dynamic and immersive sound at a budget-friendly price
- Shares advanced drivers with Polk's flagship Legend series
- Impressive build quality for the price
- Crisp, near full-range performance
Product Considerations
- Revealing sound can be slightly bright with some sources
- Speaker cabinets lack the lavish construction and wood-veneer finishes found in the Legend series
Takeaway: The Reserve series brings the advanced tech of Polk's high-end Legend series to a more affordable price point, offering great sound and build quality. This makes it a worthwhile option for listeners seeking a premium experience.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Designed to be mounted on a wall, saving space
- Simple mounting system and easy speaker wire attachment
- All models use the same speaker components, allowing for mixing and matching within a home theater setup
- Features the Fluctus tweeter for even response across all frequencies and open, effortless sound
- Uses a Kraft paper cone for mid-range and woofer components, made from renewable forests and wool fibers
Product Considerations
- The Ambient 11F does not go as low in the bass as the larger Ambient models
Takeaway: The HEIKO Ambient Series offers great sound without taking up floor space and can be easily integrated into a home theater system or used in various other applications. The consistent speaker components and design make them a versatile and visually appealing choice.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent performance, superb build quality, and high value
- The fit and finish are beyond reproach for the price level
- Features new drivers, including a revised C-CAM tweeter and RST II mid/bass drivers, contributing to improved sound quality and lower distortion
- The design language is crisp and clean, with a timeless quality
Product Considerations
- If you prefer curved cabinets, you'll have to look elsewhere
- The surround speakers and height effects speakers are only available in gloss black or satin white, potentially limiting aesthetic choices for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Monitor Audio offers real-wood veneers, while ELAC's Uni-Fi Reference and Bowers & Wilkins' 600 Series only offer fake wood-effect vinyl wraps
- Another speaker series in this price range that looks as good is Wharfedale's Evo4
Takeaway: The Silver Series 7G offers a combination of excellent performance, build quality, and value. They might be worth your time if you are looking for new speakers.
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