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Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

What reviewers think

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

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.

Manufacturer details

  • Power Handling: 40 Watts continuous, 160 Watts peak
  • Driver: 4" mineral loaded polypropylene with nitrile rubber surround
  • Tweeter: 0.75" (19mm) ferrofluid cooled soft dome neodymium
  • Dispersion: 110° constant directivity
  • Weather Rating: IP64
  • Input Connections: Phoenix connectors input and link output
  • Line Transformer: 30W for 70V and 100V systems
Designed to excel in a wide variety of sound reinforcement applications, the full range DVS 4T is an ultra-compact 160-Watt surface mount loudspeaker that provides both exceptional value and inspiring acoustic performance. The DVS 4T is ideally suited for stereo or mono background/foreground music applications in theme parks, hotels, restaurants and bars, retail stores, as well as corporate AV, residential developments, and houses of worship.
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:

  • Tannoy emphasizes a "Dual Concentric" driver design, positioning the tweeter within the woofer for a single point source, leading to exceptional stereo imaging and a broad sweet spot.
  • They offer models with adjustable front baffle controls for treble energy and roll-off, allowing users to tailor the sound to their specific room acoustics and personal preferences.
  • Tannoy speakers are often described as providing a 3D soundstage, where instruments and vocals are distinctly positioned with air and space around them.
  • The brand values a "meaty," "strong," and "bold" sound, particularly in the bass frequencies.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
174
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
35
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
91
Founding Year
1926

Our take on the brand

Tannoy is distinguished by their unique coaxial design that places the tweeter in the center of the woofer, creating superior point-source performance that's particularly valued in recording and broadcasting studios. Their speakers feature a warm, lush sound signature that excels with jazz, acoustic instruments, and vocals, while maintaining a bold, retro aesthetic.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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From our interview with
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Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Focal
Theva Surround
649
649
/
6
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Expand Details

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

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
KEF
Q3 Meta
799
799
/
5
Reviews
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Wide soundstage and radiation pattern, both horizontally and vertically, contribute to an immersive listening experience
  • Good mid-bass punch, with an elevated bump around 120Hz that gives the perception of more impact
  • Neutral tonal balance, with a well-balanced sound that allows the music to shine
  • Excellent dispersion characteristics make them suitable for modern spaces where acoustic treatments are limited
  • Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs unwanted sound behind the tweeter for clearer sound

Product Considerations

  • Compression and strain in the upper midrange can occur at high output levels (above 90dB at 10 feet)
  • Some cabinet resonance exists
  • Some detail, clarity, or attack is lacking from the speaker
  • Not ideal for high output
  • A slight dip around 1-2kHz exists that some people may not like

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the KEF Q350, the Q3 Meta has more body and weight in the bass regions, but the Q350 is slightly better and more lively sounding in the upper frequencies
  • Compared to the Polk Audio Reserve R200, the Q3 Meta is more neutral
  • Compared to the Paradigm Premier 100B, the Q3 Meta dispersion characteristics are better, so they do not need a sub
  • Compared to the PSB Imagine B50, the B50 kept its composure better at much louder listening levels, and its tonal balance seemed somehow even more neutral

Takeaway: The KEF Q3 Meta is an enjoyable speaker with a wide soundstage and neutral sound that makes the music sound good. It's a great pick for aesthetics if one does not listen at dangerous sound levels.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
KIN By Totem
Kin One
524
524
/
4
Reviews
Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Available in multiple vibrant colors, breaking the monotony of typical speaker designs
  • Produces a surprisingly big and wide sound despite their compact size
  • The MHEX woofer reacts very fast and sounds like paper
  • Soundstage stretches from speaker to speaker

Product Considerations

  • Sound profile shows a dip in mid-range and roll-off in high frequencies, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
  • High frequencies roll off around 8k or so
  • Limited bass response, which may need a subwoofer for rock music or larger rooms
  • Not linear frequency response, which may impact sound clarity
  • Overall sensitivity is about 83.4 dB, which is below manufacturer's specs

Takeaway: The KIN ONE speakers are small but can create a big sound with multiple color options. Though they may benefit from EQ and a sub, they can be a good option for smaller rooms.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Known for its use of handmade Torrent drivers, Kin by Totem eliminates crossover distortions to deliver clean, unaltered audio, coupled with its signature micro-size speakers that defy traditional performance limitations. The brand’s achievements include influencing compact speaker trends while maintaining premium audio quality.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Axiom
M3 (Computer Speakers)
898
898
/
3
Reviews

So, you upgraded to a gorgeous 1920 x 1080 display but you’re still using your computer’s built-in speakers? Or worse yet, the speakers in the monitor? You might as well put a v4 in a Lamborghini. High-end computer performance demands high-power output speakers, and the Axiom M3 computer speakers deliver – in spades! You’ll get output that’s up to 1400% more than common computer speakers on the market today.

Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The tapered cabinet design eliminates internal resonance, making it lightweight and rigid
  • It uses a custom-designed Vortex port that provides more volume in less space
  • A unique design allows the woofer to roll off naturally at 2.2kHz, eliminating the need for a low-cost crossover component that could degrade audio signal quality
  • Offers a neutral and realistic midrange, providing a natural and realistic sound
  • Clarity and resolution, particularly in the midrange area, is well-received

Product Considerations

  • Minute gaps were found in the seams of the custom vinyl finish under scrutiny
  • Since it is a rear port, some room will need to be left for the speaker to breathe

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the KEF Q1, the M3 had clearer differentiation and separation of choir and orchestra, and French horns had much more balance and presence

Takeaway: The Axiom M3 is a well-designed speaker that offers excellent value and performs above expectations. It could be a great choice for anyone wanting a clean, neutral sound with great dynamics for casual listening.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Tannoy
QCI A1-BL
349
/
Released
2021
Check Amazon
Tannoy is distinguished by their unique coaxial design that places the tweeter in the center of the woofer, creating superior point-source performance that's particularly valued in recording and broadcasting studios. Their speakers feature a warm, lush sound signature that excels with jazz, acoustic instruments, and vocals, while maintaining a bold, retro aesthetic.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • High fidelity sound is natural and detailed, maintaining the same sonic signature as Tannoy's professional and hifi loudspeakers
  • Tannoy Dual Concentric Driver technology allows for outstanding tonal accuracy, better-controlled dispersion, and a more natural sound
  • The Tulip Waveguide enhances the point source symmetrical dispersion properties, providing exceptional high frequency clarity and articulation
  • All-weather cabinet and grille construction allows for both indoor and outdoor applications
  • Integrated wall-fixing allows for no-hassle installation and mounting

Takeaway: The QCI A1-BL is a high-performance speaker designed for immersive audio experiences both indoors and outdoors, delivering natural and detailed sound. Its easy installation and weather-resistant construction make it a versatile addition to any audiophile system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Tannoy is distinguished by their unique coaxial design that places the tweeter in the center of the woofer, creating superior point-source performance that's particularly valued in recording and broadcasting studios. Their speakers feature a warm, lush sound signature that excels with jazz, acoustic instruments, and vocals, while maintaining a bold, retro aesthetic.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sonos
Beam
387
/
Released
2021
From music to films, the latest generation of Beam enriches all your entertainment with powerful and precise sound from wall to wall.
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Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Great upgrade for TV sound, especially dialogue clarity due to its dedicated center channel
  • Simple to set up and use, integrating seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem via the Sonos app
  • Amazon Alexa voice assistant built-in
  • Compact design, good for smaller rooms, yet still provides room-filling sound
  • Can be expanded into a full 5.1 surround sound system with other Sonos speakers

Product Considerations

  • Lacks deep bass compared to soundbars with a dedicated subwoofer
  • No full HDMI In ports
  • Google Assistant support has some lag
  • AirPlay 2 support, though it does not have Bluetooth connectivity

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sonos Arc: The Arc is more versatile, with eARC and Atmos support, deeper bass, and better surround/height performance, but the Beam performs better at max volume, and is more compact
  • Vs Sonos Playbar: The Beam is better because it has a more neutral sound profile, sleek design, supports ARC via an adapter, and is AirPlay compatible

Takeaway: The Sonos Beam is a compact and versatile soundbar that significantly enhances TV audio and offers smart speaker capabilities with voice control. Its easy setup and expandability make it a great choice for smaller rooms, providing a seamless entry into the Sonos ecosystem.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Paradigm
MilleniaOne 1.0
349
/
Released
The MilleniaOne 1.0 is a 2-driver, 2-way vented die-cast aluminum enclosure speaker with integrated baffle and chassis. Low-diffraction grilles maximize imaging and ensure smooth dispersion.
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Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • High-quality aluminum drivers, including a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter and a 4-inch aluminum cone mid-bass driver
  • Sturdily built with a die-cast aluminum enclosure, contributing to rigidity and reducing internal standing waves
  • Small size and aesthetically pleasing, designed to fit into modern lifestyles
  • Seamless integration, providing cohesive and organized surround sound

Product Considerations

  • Spring-loaded speaker terminals only accept bare wire of relatively light gauges, and they do not accommodate spades or banana plugs
  • Bass may be lacking without the addition of a subwoofer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Paradigm Atom Monitors: The MilleniaOne is made with better-quality parts that are more expensive to produce, and sounds better in terms of mids and highs, though the Atoms can get louder
  • Vs Paradigm Reference Signature S6 v.3: The Signature system goes deeper and plays noticeably louder, but the Millenia system plays plenty loud and deep for almost anyone in a small to mid-size room

Takeaway: The Paradigm MilleniaOne is a well-built and aesthetically pleasing speaker system that delivers high-quality sound and seamless integration for an immersive audio experience. If great sound in a smaller size is desired and one is willing to pay a bit more, it is worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Polk
Monitor XT15
199
/
Released
2021
Compact and affordable, Monitor XT15 maximizes the enjoyment of music, gaming, and movies with energetic, high-resolution sound with effortless bass. Use the MXT15 for front left and right channels or as side or surround speakers. It's also wall-mountable allowing for flexible placement.
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Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Clear, detailed sound with good clarity
  • Nice bass presence for its size
  • Nice looking speaker with and without the grill
  • Good value for the price, setting a new bar for budget speakers
  • Can handle some power, suitable for small to medium rooms

Product Considerations

  • Treble can be slightly harsh and fatiguing at higher volumes after prolonged listening
  • Bass response is punchy rather than deep
  • May sound a touch boomy if placed too close to the wall
  • Sensitivity is a little on the low side, requiring more power
  • Lacks wall-mounting capability

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Cambridge Audio S30, the XT15 has better soundstage, imaging, and punchier bass, but S30 has a smoother midrange and top end
  • Vs Jamo S801, the XT15 has far better bass response

Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT15 is a great budget speaker that offers clear sound and good bass for its size, making it a solid choice for a first hifi system or for music listening. It's hard to beat for the price, and it provides an excellent performance-to-price ratio.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Totem
KIN One
449
/
Released
2024
The NEW KIN ONE was created to provide a simple yet remarkable audio solution. When paired with the KIN AMP it will ensure a musical, lifelike performance. The KIN ONE doesn't follow in the steps of its predecessor as it's blazing ahead of virtually every small speaker made today.
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Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Available in multiple vibrant colors, breaking the monotony of typical speaker designs
  • Despite their compact size, the speakers produce a surprisingly big sound
  • The Kin Amp is quite versatile, with a capable phono stage and a generous range of inputs
  • Reproduces intense strikes on drums and other percussion instruments very adeptly with absolutely no slop

Product Considerations

  • The speaker's sound profile shows a dip in the mid-range and roll-off in high frequencies, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
  • Rated sensitivity is about 83.4 dB, which is below the manufacturer's spec of 89dB
  • Kin One speakers need a subwoofer to deliver deep bass—especially in a big space
  • The speaker's overall response is non-linear and it doesn't get very loud

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

Takeaway: The Kin One system is an attractive and capable compact sound system, known for its versatility and colorful design options. It's a good choice for smaller spaces where high-quality sound is desired, especially for acoustic music, jazz, and classical.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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