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.
All
VQ 100
reviews
Manufacturer details
Comprehensive Installation Package
The VQ 100 can be configured for use in Bi-Amp or Tri-Amp mode, in conjunction with a Lake LM26/44 digital signal processor (DSP) or Lab Gruppen PLM+ or D series platforms.
Exceptional Sound and Reliability
Our unique approach in keeping what is effectively a Dual Concentric behind a single ho gives us many performance advantages. Performance of the VQ 100 in terms of accuracy & sound quality is second to none. The VQ horn design principles provide definitive and measurable advantages over multiple-horn and co-axial designs.
The VQ 100 incorporates a unique driver technology to radiate a coherent single point source for superior dispersion control when coupled to a PSW (Point Source Waveguide). This advanced design aligns the acoustical centres of the trans...
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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Tannoy
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Product Strengths
- Beautifully made with retro design details and fine craftsmanship
- Has adjustments for treble energy and roll-off which can be helpful
- Delivers music with impressive force, scale, and ease
- Produces subtle, textured, and articulate bass
- Dual Concentric driver gives a seamless and direct delivery
Product Considerations
- The size of the Kensington GR means a big room, around 20 square metres as a minimum, is needed
- Closer placement to the rear or sidewalls can result in an unnatural bloom at low frequencies
- Some rivals have more punch and grip in the bass
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Tannoy GRF, the Kensington is more relaxed, sweeter, and warmer
- Vs Tannoy GRF, the Kensington lacks GRF's sense of scaling in the presentation
- Vs Tannoy GRF, the Kensington's presentation is more entertaining but less clinically accurate
Takeaway: The Kensington GR is a well-made speaker that delivers music with impressive force and clarity. Its detailed design and sound make it a charming and unique addition to any room.
Video review
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A New Legend is Born!
When the Beatles "All you need is love" reached the UK Top 10 in 1967, Tannoy released the legendary III LZ (Monitor Red) With a 10" Dual concentric transducer that was specifically designed for small enclosures, providing the warmth and clarity of its bigger 12" and 15" counterparts.
More than just a tribute to the legendary III LZ first released in 1967, it offers a wide-frequency response and deep bass extension for natural imaging at high SPLs.
Years of acoustic excellence have led to this moment; you'll hear every boom, breath and beat with a new level of clarity and depth.
Faithful to the Original
Every design element crucial to the STIRLING III LZ's breathtaking dynamic range, clarity of sound and classic look has been faithfully preserved. This new version of the classic benefits greatly from the evolution of driver and electronic component technology. In keeping with the Tannoy mode of excellence, each STIRLING III LZ's loudspeaker cabinets are completely handcrafted by our highly skilled team of artisans.
They are a match made in heaven if you listen to Orchestral Music, Rock, Pop, Blues or Soul. That said, they are perfectly capable of generating goosebumps when you listen to Jazz, R'n'B, Heavy Metal or anything in between.
Dual Concentric Precision
We invented the dual concentric speaker design in 1947, and it has been refined and improved continuously over the decades.
With the STIRLING III LZ SPECIAL EDITION you get the very latest incarnation of this pristine design that has won critical acclaim over and over for nearly 70 years!
The Dual Concentric driver used in STIRLING III LZ's provides class-leading coherence and point-source imaging for that highly sought after truly natural sound. Thanks to its Pepperpot Waveguide and Alnico motor system, STIRLING III LZ delivers breathtaking dynamics, powerful transient response and unparalleled realism across a wide frequency range with an almost total lack of colouration. Combine that with an aluminium-magnesium diaphragm and Mylar surround compression driver and you get studio quality tones and perfectly balanced sound pressures in all directions.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Music is delivered with impressive speed and punch, defining the leading edges of notes with crispness
- Stereo imaging is a strength, providing a focused and stable soundstage with a broad listening sweet spot
- Beautiful oiled Walnut finish that exudes a high-end look and feel with incredible build quality
- The speaker's cabinet detailing and metalwork is lovely, along with a pleasing fit and finish, and the luxurious appearance of the oiled walnut veneer
- An extremely efficient design with a 93 dB sensitivity means they can be driven with ease with a recommended amplifier from 20 watts to 250 watts
Product Considerations
- There's a lack of subtlety to the presentation that is surprising; Stirlings don't exhibit the level of finesse, refinement and articulation expected
- Tonally, these Tannoys sound lean and short of natural warmth through the midrange, leaving voices and instruments sounding thinner and harder than they should
- Bass performance is flawed with a notable shortfall of grip and definition
Takeaway: The Tannoy Stirling III LZ Special Edition speakers are gorgeous and give a superb performance. It is worth considering taking a listen to the Stirling III LZ Special Edition speakers.
Video review
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Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a blend of aluminum, leather, and wood veneer, or gloss paint.
- Detailed sound with excellent stereo imagery.
- Good detail and clarity.
- Wide and deep soundstage.
- Design features contribute to cabinet rigidity and reduced coloration.
Product Considerations
- May sound bright with the wrong amplifier or cables.
- May require a high-power solid-state amp.
- Needs quality amplification and may sound soft if underpowered.
- Requires stands, adding to the overall cost.
- Bass may not satisfy those seeking high-output bass without a subwoofer.
Takeaway: The 805 D4 is an excellent speaker that is beautifully built and delivers a detailed and engaging sound. It's a great option for those seeking a premium listening experience.
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Bring the track spirit into your home with LS60 Wireless Lotus Edition, created in partnership with and inspired by the British Racing Green of the iconic brand.
Product Strengths
- Striking, sleek, and modern design that complements modern interiors
- Incorporates KEF's Uni-Q driver array and Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) for neutral, open, detailed sound, reducing unwanted sound from the rear of the tweeter
- Includes Uni-Core force-canceling woofers that reduce cabinet vibrations, contributing to balanced and detailed bass
- The KEF Connect app allows for adjustments to fit the listening environment
- Offers high connectivity and is a true stand-alone system
Product Considerations
- Bass can be a bit too much out of the box, requiring adjustments via the app or placement considerations
- Not well-suited for those who have many signal sources to connect to
- Some reviewers found the bass lacked definition in the upper bass, with unclear instrument placement, even after adjusting EQ settings
- The included remote control is considered basic or cheap
- Mandatory online registration and administrator-level internet connection requirements for the app may be a drawback for privacy-conscious users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Bang & Olufsen Beolab 28, the LS60 Wireless can achieve similar sound quality with adjustments, at a lower price point, although the Beolab 28 sounds 'more right' straight out of the factory
- Compared to the KEF LS50 Wireless II, the LS60 Wireless is preferred stylistically, achieves near full-range playback, and has a more slim design, although it costs more and also provides much deeper bass
- Compared to the Q Acoustics Active 400 Towers, the LS60 Wireless has no issues with products not working
Takeaway: The KEF LS60 Wireless are stylish, all-in-one speakers that deliver a balanced, detailed sound with advanced technology. They are a convenient, high-performing solution for those seeking a streamlined audio setup.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Large soundstage, speed, and emotion enhance the listening experience
- Dual concentric driver design allows for a wider sweet spot and seamless sound
- Midrange is rich with a beautiful texture to the sound, particularly in the upper mid-bass frequencies
- Detailed and delicate treble mixes well with the midrange and bass
- Front-firing reflex ports allow for flexible placement, even close to a rear wall
- Exceptional build quality with a walnut veneer finish
Product Considerations
- Retro design may not appeal to everyone
- While controlled and engaging, the bass response might not satisfy bass enthusiasts without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- SGM10 provides a rock solid bass and slam, compared to the Stirling III
Takeaway: The Tannoy SGM 10 speakers bring a classic studio sound into the home. The SGM 10 are easy to listen to and enjoyable while giving a nostalgia to those who seek the heyday of home hifi.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Extremely sensitive, requiring only a small amplifier for a large sound
- Silent ports allow for placement in corners or against walls
- Built and finished to a very high standard, with furniture-grade quality
- EQ adjustment allows for modifying frequency response around 700Hz
- Delivers scale, image, and musical immersion, and can sound big at low volumes
Product Considerations
- Styling might be too old-fashioned for some
- Large size makes them a focal point in any room
- Not the most detailed loudspeaker compared to some others
- Grills, if used, may make them look even more vintage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Fyne Audio Classic Eight: The Fyne Audio Classic Eight may offer a more preferable styling and similar design principles at a lower price
- Vs. Legacy Eaton: The Turnberry handles complex music like dance music better than the Legacy Eaton
Takeaway: The Turnberry speakers offer a unique listening experience that provides scale and musical immersion, so many will find this as their last speaker purchase. It is a versatile speaker that works well with different music genres at any volume level.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Handsome cabinet constructed of MDF and birch ply is finished in oiled-walnut veneer with a cosmetic legacy from the mid-1970s
- The Dual Concentric design is a time-aligned, partially horn-loaded, coaxial driver that integrates the high-frequency driver within and on the same axis as the low-frequency driver, aligning phase and locking in imaging
- Front-firing ports are designed with calculated dimensions to provide the best bass response from the cabinet
- The speaker comes with a quality certificate including approval signatures for various stages of production
- The owner's manual includes a section on Tannoy's history and detailed setup instructions, and a tin of wood wax is also supplied
Product Considerations
- The gold-plated flat-tongue connectors used inside are very weak
- There are concerns regarding the speaker's country of origin, since the old Tannoy factory in Coatbridge manufactured everything, but the new factory address belongs to a Healthcare and a Logistics company
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonus Faber floorstander: Kensingtons (similar to Stirlings) sounded amazing in comparison, despite costing about twice as much
- Vs Spendor, Harbeth, Magnepan, Klipsch, and Bowers & Wilkins: reviewer preferred Turnberry SEs (similar) over these other brands, with no urge to replace them after 10 years
Takeaway: The Tannoy Stirling Prestige Gold Reference loudspeaker is a handsome speaker that combines vintage aesthetics with innovative driver technology for a unique listening experience. With its carefully crafted design and attention to detail, it promises to be a worthwhile addition to any audiophile's collection.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent bass performance is a defining feature, providing tight, smooth, even, solid, and tangible bass extension into the 20 Hz range, eliminating placement issues associated with separate subwoofers
- Balanced overall sound, coherence, and ability to present music in a natural and effortless way is consistently praised
- High levels of detail come through with the High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter and cast-basket mid/bass units
- A holographic image over the seating area of a typical sofa is capable with excellent imaging and a wide and open soundstage, even when not seated in the exact sweet spot
- The Santa Barbara Red finish option receives high marks for its visual appeal
Product Considerations
- Still a significant investment, especially the Santa Barbara Red finish
- The metal grille covering the drivers is not designed to be easily removed
- Care should be taken with system matching, due to a slightly hot high-end
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The T66 offers more refinement and a more 'of-a-piece' sound than the Triton One.R
- Has internal structural improvements that make it even more stable and rigid than previous generations
Takeaway: The GoldenEar T66 delivers audiophile-grade sound and aesthetics, with powerful bass and exceptional detail. These speakers are easy to incorporate into nearly any environment, and have the power to let the listener appreciate all the nuances in favorite songs or movies.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Gorgeous sound is clear, smooth, detailed, and dynamic
- Elegant design is dashingly elegant, minimalist aesthetic, and painstakingly crafted for equal parts style and substance
- Impressive bass extension and output, described as deep and firm, surprising for their size
- Clear midrange makes voices sound purposeful, characterful, and entirely present
- Versatile connectivity with streaming and input options, including Chromecast, AirPlay 2, phono pre-amp, and HDMI ARC/eARC
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers experienced streaming and HDMI ARC reliability issues
- Input and control layout can be inconvenient and awkward
- Prototype unit had operational bugs
- No bass level adjustment is available, though it could be added in mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II—the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a similarly high-end option
- Vs PSB Alpha iQ—the PSB Alpha iQ is a more compact wireless speaker package than the Sonus Faber and is comparatively lighter on bass
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Duetto speakers are well-suited for those seeking amazing sound and a beautiful design in one package. These speakers are easy to connect and use, and fill the room with rich, detailed audio.
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