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

  • Fantastic fit and finish with attention to detail
  • Clear, detailed, and smooth midrange, without any harshness
  • A sweetness and warmth similar to the midrange's character
  • The speakers create 3D holographic imaging
  • Easy to drive

Product Considerations

  • The rubber feet on the base made moving the speaker on carpeted surfaces difficult
  • The base also made the speaker a little unstable on carpet
  • Surprisingly tricky on toe-in, presenting a counter-intuitive set-up
  • Bass extension might not satisfy listeners wanting subterranean bass for organ music
  • The sound is different and, therefore, not for everyone

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Atohm GT3: The Quatuor opts to spotlight the midrange and high end, where the Atohm GT3 was focused on lower midrange and bass frequencies
  • Vs Vandersteen Model 3s: The bass made the Model 3 bass seem ponderously slow and fat

Takeaway: The Triangle Magellan Quatuor is a beautifully designed speaker that integrates well, sounds great, and is smooth. It gives great imaging and soundstage, making it an ideal flagship speaker.

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

Magellan Quatuor 40th

reviews

[{"title":"Triangle Magellan Quatuor 40th Anniversary Loudspeakers | REVIEW","link":"https://pt.audio/2024/01/07/triangle-magellan-quatuor-40th-anniversary-loudspeakers-review","source":"pt.audio","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Triangle Magellan Quatour 40th Anniversary","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/triangle-magellan-quatour-40th-anniversary-floorstanding-loudspeakers","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Type: Floorstanding speakers with front bass reflex port
  • Crossover: 3 Ways
  • Sensitivity: 91dB/W/m
  • Bandwidth (+/-3dB): 33Hz-30,000Hz
  • Nominal impedance: 8Ω
  • Minimum impedance: 3.4Ω
  • Drivers: 2x TZ2900PMMG 1 inch Magnesium Dome tweeter with horn process, 1x T16GMF100-V2 6.5 inch medium with natural paper cone and fabric surround, 3x T16GMMT15GC1 6.5 inch woofer with special Fiber-glass sandwich cone
  • Crossover Frequencies: 2500Hz-350Hz
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 250 x 1280 x 340 mm (9.8 x 50.4 x 13.4 inch)
  • Dimensions with pedestal (WxHxD): 425 x 1340 x 370 mm (16.7 x 52.7 x 13.4 inch)
  • Net weight: 47 kg (103.6 lbs)
  • Gross weight: 58.2 kg (128.3 lbs)
  • Power Handling: 260W
  • Recommended Amplifier power: 80-500 Watts (8 Ohms)
The Quatuor 40th, a 135cm high 3-way floorstander, is the flagship of the new MAGELLAN 40th anniversary edition. With a new dome made of magnesium alloy, its horn tweeter reveals the finest details of your recordings smoothly and accurately.
Music as if you were at the opera. The sound image takes on a whole new dimension here, filling the space with sophistication. The Quatuor 40th, a 135cm high 3-way floorstander, is the flagship of the new MAGELLAN 40th anniversary edition.
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:

  • Triangle leverages its Esprit Ez series paper cone technology in its more affordable Borea line, allowing for stunning realism and tonality in the midrange at an accessible price point.
  • Triangle speakers leverage their Efficient Flow System (EFS) tweeter design, pairing a silk dome with a phase plug to provide a wide sound dispersion and airy, delicate high frequencies.
  • Triangle's Borea line incorporates their Driver Vibration Absorption System (DVAS), which braces the drive units and uses high-density foam to minimize cabinet vibrations and enhance clarity, contributing to the overall sound quality.

Borea BR09

  • Positioning: The entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
  • Description: Offers a robust sound experience with its three-way design, making it ideal for larger rooms over 30m². Features three 16cm bass drivers in a bass-reflex enclosure, providing deep bass similar to more expensive models like the Esprit EZ Antal. This makes it a great choice for those seeking high power handling and a wide soundstage on a budget.

Esprit EZ Antal

  • Positioning: Mid-range floorstanding speaker, balancing performance and price.
  • Description: Features a horn-loaded tweeter and natural cellulose midrange, delivering dynamic sound and efficiency. It offers a more refined sound compared to the Borea BR09, with improved midrange clarity and bass depth, suitable for rooms between 15 and 50m².

Esprit EZ Australe

  • Positioning: High-end floorstanding speaker within the Esprit range.
  • Description: Stands out with its Dynamic Pulse System, featuring a rear tweeter for enhanced soundstage, a feature borrowed from the flagship Magellan series. It offers superior bass performance with three new-generation bass drivers.

Esprit 40th Antal

  • Positioning: Anniversary edition, celebrating 40 years of Triangle's innovation.
  • Description: Features a magnesium dome tweeter and composite membrane woofers, providing a rich and clear sound. It offers a more sophisticated design and sound quality than the standard Antal, suitable for rooms from 15 to 50m².

Signature Theta

  • Positioning: Premium bookshelf speaker, designed for compact spaces.
  • Description: Combines high-density cabinets with a horn-loaded tweeter for impressive clarity and depth. It offers a more compact solution compared to the floorstanding Signature Alpha, suitable for medium rooms between 15 and 30m².

Signature Alpha

  • Positioning: Flagship floorstanding speaker, representing the pinnacle of Triangle's technology.
  • Description: Features a semi pod-mounted horn tweeter and three custom-designed woofers, delivering deep and fast bass. It offers exceptional acoustic performance with high-density cabinets, suitable for large rooms over 30m².
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Avg. Product Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used For Sale
47
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
51
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
38
Founding Year
1980

Our take on the brand

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Bowers & Wilkins
803 D4
25000
25000
/
9
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Product Strengths

  • Most affordable way into the true 800 series form factor, with the solid aluminum turbine head and the fully curved matrix-braced cabinet
  • Features a one-inch diamond dome tweeter, which is a standout strength
  • Midrange and vocal region from the Bowers favor a leaner, more technically accurate sound, going for outright clarity, and vocals sound particularly clear and clean
  • Bases have casters integrated or built into them, making them easy speakers to move around for optimal positioning, and integrated spikes can then be used to securely position them
  • Show-stoppingly gorgeous and sound simply fantastic

Product Considerations

  • A much fussier speaker in every regard and require more thought and work to get the sound balance right
  • Possible to come across maybe a little bit too lively in the treble
  • Amplifier power, quality, and capability is hugely influential—hugely important for these speakers
  • Due to their revealing nature, they don't play particularly well with poorer recordings such as metal and older rock
  • Tweeter can get fairly harsh when the volume is turned to the extreme, pushing 90+ db for louder music

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Bowers & Wilkins are a much fussier speaker in every regard than the Mission 770
  • Paradigm Persona 5H is a little more "liquid" sounding
  • Wilson Audio SabrinaX's finish is superior to that of the Bowers & Wilkins, dynamic, easy to drive, with a very familiar and very resolute sound
  • Bowers & Wilkins 803 D4s are refined like an Aston Martin, and Tekton Ulfberhts are more like a Corvette C8
  • Bowers & Wilkins 805D4 lacks the midrange prowess that the 803 has, and will most definitely need a subwoofer for even mild extension into bass

Takeaway: The 803 D4 speakers offer a fantastic listening experience with clear vocals and a grand soundstage, making music more engaging. They are an investment that can potentially improve over a long period of time through system upgrades and continued optimization.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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KEF
Reference 5 Meta
24899
24899
/
5
Reviews

The flagship of The Reference Series is the model that all other high-performance loudspeakers compare themselves against. Now with the extraordinarily capable 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™, Reference 5 Meta exemplifies the passion for innovation that underpins KEF’s design philosophy.

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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Product Strengths

  • Delivers a large, detailed—and scalable—sound that doesn't lose quality at different volumes
  • Excels in creating a wide and deep soundstage, enhancing the listening experience with a sense of expansiveness
  • Is emotionally engaging, creating a connection between the listener and the music
  • The Uni-Q driver with Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) significantly improves sound quality by absorbing unwanted frequencies, resulting in clearer and more accurate high-frequency reproduction
  • Offers customisation for bass tuning with different port options to suit various room acoustics

Product Considerations

  • Is a large and heavy speaker, requiring a substantial space and stable flooring
  • Represents a significant investment
  • While generally easy to drive, benefits from high-quality amplification to reveal its full potential

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audiovector R6 Arreté: R6 Arreté sounds extremely weightless and transparent, but doesn't have the same depth of bass as the Reference 5 Meta
  • Vs Sonus Faber Serafino Tradition: The Serafino deliver the music nicely wrapped in a warm envelope that's very addictive, while the Reference 5 Meta focuses on detail and transparency

Takeaway:

The KEF Reference 5 Meta is a high-end loudspeaker that provides a detailed, emotionally engaging—and expansive—sound experience. With its advanced technology and customizable features, it is a great option for those looking to invest in a top-tier audio system.

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
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ATC
SCM50
24499
24499
/
4
Reviews

The SCM50 ASL (active) and SCM50 SL (passive) are designed to perform at their best in the recording studio or at home with the finest quality hi-fi equipment. The monitors' ability to reproduce music and speech with phenomenal accuracy, transparency and dynamics lies mainly in the SM75-150S soft dome midrange driver. However, recent modifications that include the new ATC SH25-76S tweeter and enhanced port profile have brought about further improvements to all performance parameters.

Each drive unit in the active model has its own dedicated and individually matched MOS-FET amplifier, while the 234mm/9″ bass driver incorporates ATC's unique Super Linear Magnet technology. Our active crossover network consists of a wide band-width, electronically balanced input stage with high common mode rejection and very low distortion. Like the HF, mid and bass drivers, all electronics are designed and manufactured in-house to create a no-compromise active system.

In passive form, the SCM50 SL provides broad and symmetrical dispersion, excellent amplitude and phase characteristics throughout the frequency range. Speakers are supplied with stands and fabric wrapped grills.

Available Finishes

Standard Veneers – Cherry, Walnut, Oak & Black Ash.

Standard Paints – Satin Black, Satin White

Premium Veneers (up-charge applies) – Rosewood, European Crown Cut Walnut, Pippy Oak, Burr Magnolia, Burr Poplar.

High Gloss (up-charge applies) – Clear High Glossed Veneer, Piano Black, Piano White

ATC is distinguished by manufacturing all drivers in-house and using a unique dual-suspension system in their tweeters that enhances stability without ferro-fluid. The brand, widely used in recording studios, features sealed cabinet designs for tight bass control and a proprietary 75mm soft-dome midrange driver that delivers precise, uncolored sound.
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Product Strengths

  • ATC designs and builds every drive unit in-house, including voice coils, crossovers, and active amplification, allowing for complete control over every loudspeaker design decision
  • In the active version, a more clearly defined soundstage has clearer, more well-defined individual elements, where everything pops out more from the background
  • The active version has more energy, drive, and a more vivid overall presentation, resulting in a more tactile, energetic, and higher resolution sound
  • The SCM50's woofer has an enviable ability to resolve textures and timbral colors, capably rendering the skins of bass drums, the flutter of tom-toms, or the dark voicing of orchestral bass viols as bows are dragged across their strings
  • The SCM50 has an almost eerie immediacy that seems to glean the intent of the musician before their bow touches the string or a note escapes their lips, making piano reproduction breathtaking
  • Connectivity is limited to a single XLR input, which may require adapters for single-ended sources

Product Considerations

  • The active version is heavier than the passive version
  • The owner must manually turn each speaker on and off, as there is no trigger or auto startup circuit
  • The active version may pose challenges for owners of subwoofers needing high-level wiring connections, although workarounds exist
  • Careful attention must be paid to positioning a pair of SCM50s, as the full-bandwidth—ported design means that placing them too close to a boundary wall will result in bass bloom

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • SCM50 wins hands down over PureAudioProject Duet 15s for resolution, clarity, and dynamic shading
  • The active version excels over the passive in solidity of soundstage, neutrality, and ultimate detail retrieval

Takeaway: The ATC SCM50 offers exceptional sound quality, whether in its active or passive configuration, thanks to ATC's engineering and in-house design. The ATC SCM50 is a choice that will bring musical joy for years to come.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ATC is distinguished by manufacturing all drivers in-house and using a unique dual-suspension system in their tweeters that enhances stability without ferro-fluid. The brand, widely used in recording studios, features sealed cabinet designs for tight bass control and a proprietary 75mm soft-dome midrange driver that delivers precise, uncolored sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Sonus Faber
Serafino G2
26000
26000
/
4
Reviews

MASTERFULLY BUILT FOR AN ENDURING LEGACY

A nod to Santo Serafino, the legendary Italian luthier.Serafino delivers world-class sound on any stage.

MATCHING BEAUTY AND SOUND

In eighteenth century Venice, Santo Serafino masterfully built violins with matching beauty and sound. In keeping with his legacy, the second generation of the Sonus faber Serafino speaker marries artistry and sonic excellence. With upgraded drivers and a refined crossover, Serafino's second generation recreates the magic of a live performance.

VIOLIN-MAKING HERITAGE

Crafted like a fine instrument, Serafino draws inspiration from the artisanship of master luthier Santo Serafino. Its rounded cabinet design mirrors the graceful curves of a violin, enhancing both its visual allure and acoustic purity by reducing internal resonances.

Handcrafted in Sonus faber's Vicenza, Italy factory, each Serafino loudspeaker seamlessly melds nine layers of natural wood, carefully paired according to grain, and culminates with nine meticulous lacquer coats. This meticulous process, rooted in Sonus faber's tradition of wood craftsmanship, ensures each speaker embodies both quality and elegance.

Italian artisan hand-sands wood for a Sonus faber Serafino G2 floorstanding speaker, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship

A FULL SOUNDSTAGE CUSTOMIZED TO ANY SPACE

Serafino G2 harnesses cutting-edge technology from our Homage collection to encapsulate the emotional resonance of a live performance within a relatively compact design - much like a finely crafted violin.

Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
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Product Strengths

  • Stunning and unique aesthetics with a high-quality finish, including nine layers of natural wood and lacquer
  • Very impressive audiophile soundstage that is layered with depth, allowing the listener to look 'through' the speakers
  • Balanced sound with a sweetness to the treble and clear, focused vocals, regardless of the music content or volume
  • Tight and controlled bass delivery that's detailed, articulate, and has a bouncy character—suitable for various room sizes
  • Easy to drive with high sensitivity and works well with a range of amplifiers, even those significantly less expensive than the speakers themselves

Product Considerations

  • Some audiophiles might find the overall dynamic liveliness a little too polite
  • The bass, while satisfying, might be considered modest and not provide huge amounts of bass for bass enthusiasts

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Serafino has a warmer sound than the Bowers & Wilkins 803 D4
  • Serafino is smoother and more relaxed in the higher frequencies than the Gryphon EOS 2

Takeaway: The Serafino speakers offer a unique blend of beautiful design and balanced sound, making them great for enjoying music for extended periods. Their elegant appearance and easy-to-listen-to nature make them worth considering for an all-around listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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What competes at this price?

Triangle
Magellan Cello 40th
13000
/
Released
2022
All the magic of music unfolds in this compact 110cm high 3-way floorstander. The real achievement lies in the transfer of the performance of the MAGELLAN Grand Concert into a modestly sized speaker.
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Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exquisitely built and finished with attention to detail, offering a sense of pride of ownership
  • Midrange performance is exciting, dynamic, detailed, and tonally accurate, drawing listeners into the music and making it highly enjoyable
  • Offers a sense of scale and creates space, especially in the top end, for an immersive listening experience
  • Surprisingly easy to drive, even with relatively modest amplifiers, due to its high sensitivity
  • Delivers a lively, open, and detailed presentation without being surgically dissecting, making it a joyful experience with any music style

Product Considerations

  • Care needs to be taken in partnering them with the right amplifier, as it did not gel well with a specific review device
  • The visual design might be too opulent for some environments, though cloth grilles are provided to tone it down
  • Requires a room size of 25 square meters and upwards to perform at its best
  • A slight lack of articulation in the lower frequencies in absolute terms compared to larger loudspeakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins 802D4: The double bass had a little more overhang to it, but considering the price difference, the Magellan Cello 40th Anniversary performs very well with low frequencies
  • Vs Triangle Antal 40th Anniversary: The Cello is more refined and comfortable with slower, gentler music
  • Vs Kudos Audio Titan 505: The Triangle might just about be the first thing to actually keep them honest regarding 'accurate joy'

Takeaway: The Triangle Magellan Cello 40th Anniversary is a striking and beautifully crafted speaker that delivers an engaging and dynamic sound, especially in the midrange. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance speaker with a touch of Gallic flair and the ability to bring music to life.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Borresen
X3
11000
/
Released
2023
Børresen has developed a new entry-level speaker at an affordable price, making the Børresen speaker universe accessible to even more people. The Børresen X3 loudspeaker has been designed on the solid foundation of Børresen Acoustics' development traditions, design philosophy and technological know-how.
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Børresen Acoustics stands out for its iron-free magnetic motors and cryogenically treated metal components, which reduce inductance for clearer sound. The brand's speakers feature unique elements like zirconium-based 3D-printed baskets and a patented ribbon tweeter design, combined with series crossover networks for phase-locked electrical current across frequencies.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional imaging and soundstage.
  • Detailed high-frequency reproduction.
  • Tight and accurate bass.
  • Elegant design and high-quality build.
  • Good value for the price.

Product Considerations

  • Midrange response may have a 'hole' or 'scoop'.
  • Sweet spot is narrow.
  • Amplifier matching benefits from good current delivery.
  • Positioning requires careful attention.
  • Speakers are only available in black or white.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs GoldenEar Technology T66—the X3's tweeter is in 'a whole other class of high-frequency reproduction'.
  • Vs PureAudioProject Duet 15s—the X3 was faster, clearer, and had better transient response.
  • Vs KEF Reference 3 Meta—the X3 seems like a faster, clearer, more transparent speaker.
  • Vs Audiovector R3—the X3 has more pronounced and deeper bass.
  • Vs Audiovector R6—the R6 offers more visceral dynamics and seems to go lower.

Takeaway: The Børresen X3 is a well-built and visually appealing loudspeaker known for its exceptional imaging, detailed highs, and refined sound. It is a compelling option for those seeking a high-performance speaker in its price range.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Børresen Acoustics stands out for its iron-free magnetic motors and cryogenically treated metal components, which reduce inductance for clearer sound. The brand's speakers feature unique elements like zirconium-based 3D-printed baskets and a patented ribbon tweeter design, combined with series crossover networks for phase-locked electrical current across frequencies.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Estelon
Aura
19900
/
Released
2023
The Estelon AURA loudspeaker is designed and constructed by taking into consideration the environmental acoustics of real-life listening spaces. It provides an immersive and captivating audio experience like no other among speakers of this size. To achieve this, AURA has been designed with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating cutting-edge technology and unique features that set it apart from other loudspeakers in the market.
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Estelon crafts speakers using a proprietary marble-based composite material that provides advanced damping and rigidity, with their enclosures featuring no parallel walls and almost entirely curved surfaces to minimize sound diffraction. Their speakers resemble modernist sculptures and feature adjustable modules for optimizing performance in various room settings, along with premium Accuton drivers including diamond tweeters for precise high-frequency reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Striking aesthetic design is repeatedly praised, seamlessly blending into living spaces
  • Exceptional soundstage and imaging are consistently highlighted as standout features
  • Balanced presentation across the frequency range offers a smooth integration of bass, midrange, and treble
  • Well-controlled and detailed bass integrates well with the other drivers
  • Clear and detailed midrange and treble contribute to a fast presentation of vocals and instruments
  • Connectivity options are solid

Product Considerations

  • The Aura's impedance can drop to a low 2 ohms at 58 Hz, making it a demanding load for amplifiers
  • Bass output may not suit all tastes, particularly those who prefer bass-heavy music or have larger rooms
  • System matching with warmer components may be necessary to achieve a preferred sound balance
  • The placement of the binding posts and the tight space around them are a bit challenging when connecting speaker cables

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to SVS Titans, the Aura is a clear step up in clarity and transparency, but the Titans deliver more bass output
  • Compared to YG Acoustics Peaks Ascent, the AURA speaker has a very different frequency profile

Takeaway: The Estelon Aura speakers combine striking aesthetics with high-end sound, offering a balanced and engaging listening experience that works well in various rooms. They are a strong contender for audiophiles seeking a speaker that is both visually appealing and sonically refined.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Estelon crafts speakers using a proprietary marble-based composite material that provides advanced damping and rigidity, with their enclosures featuring no parallel walls and almost entirely curved surfaces to minimize sound diffraction. Their speakers resemble modernist sculptures and feature adjustable modules for optimizing performance in various room settings, along with premium Accuton drivers including diamond tweeters for precise high-frequency reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Audiovector
Trapeze
19950
/
Released
2024
In 1979 Ole Klifoth launched the Trapeze. In doing so, he created the blueprint for all Audiovector speakers to come – including the pioneering focus on linear dynamics and linear phase through a true 6 dB per octave crossover. Fast forward 45 years and the new Trapeze Reimagined is based on the same principles as the original heritage model. And brought up to date with the very best, most innovative technology available. A homage to the company's very first loudspeaker. The embodiment of our passion, innovation, and love of music.
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Audiovector, a Danish speaker brand, stands out for the founder’s relentless rethinking of every component in their designs. Their use of unique materials, innovative technologies, and unconventional theories on sound results in speakers that genuinely sound distinct—especially in the R series. The flagship models in this series are known for creating exceptional soundstage depth, the kind you’d typically expect from dipole speakers, not cone-driver designs. Audiovector also focuses on minimizing harsh treble, ensuring smooth, fatigue-free vocals. Their speakers consistently receive high praise from reviewers and often win best-of-the-year awards.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Clarity and seamless presentation, along with excellent dynamics and punch
  • Impressive bass power, agility, and grip
  • The design makes it less obtrusive in a domestic setting than most alternatives
  • AMT tweeter provides a crisp, revealing treble
  • Damping feature allows for a degree of flexibility in matching the speaker with amplifiers

Product Considerations

  • The design lacks the visual elegance of other high-end Audiovector speakers
  • Stereo imaging could be more expansive
  • The Freedom Grounding cable is expensive as an optional purchase

Takeaway: The Audiovector Trapeze Reimagined combines retro inspiration with modern technology, creating a speaker that puts entertainment first with clarity, dynamics and impressive bass. With its unique design and adaptable sound, it's a great pick for music lovers that want fun and high-end performance.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Audiovector, a Danish speaker brand, stands out for the founder’s relentless rethinking of every component in their designs. Their use of unique materials, innovative technologies, and unconventional theories on sound results in speakers that genuinely sound distinct—especially in the R series. The flagship models in this series are known for creating exceptional soundstage depth, the kind you’d typically expect from dipole speakers, not cone-driver designs. Audiovector also focuses on minimizing harsh treble, ensuring smooth, fatigue-free vocals. Their speakers consistently receive high praise from reviewers and often win best-of-the-year awards.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Focal
Sopra N°3
12999
/
Released
Compactness, design and high-fidelity sound are the hallmarks of the Sopra N°3 luxury loudspeaker, which comes close to the ultimate performance of Focal's Utopia loudspeakers. It offers more powerful bass than its little sister, Sopra N°2, with its larger woofers. All music lovers will be seduced by Sopra N°3, which harmoniously deploys the bass.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent bass extension and higher dynamic range due to its larger size.
  • The cabinet is designed to maximize bass performance using segmented inner chambers.
  • A Beryllium tweeter is precisely positioned at the best height for listening, and the midrange is placed above the tweeter to time-align the drivers for coherency at the listening position.
  • The midrange driver has Tuned Mass Damper technology, similar to what is employed in racecars and seismic building stabilization, allowing the driver to perform more consistently without losing performance.

Product Considerations

  • A small apartment may not be the best destination for it, as it is a large speaker.
  • Only a single pair of binding posts is included, so bi-amping or bi-wiring isn't an option.
  • It may not be suited to very small rooms where the bottom end can be overpowering, and positioning is important to get the most out of the speaker.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Focal Sopra N°2: It betters it in terms of scale, presence, dynamics, and detail, resulting in a bolder presentation, greater subtlety, separation, texture, and brings more individual character to voices and instruments, a function of its far more sophisticated harmonic development.
  • Vs. Wilson Audio's Sasha W/P: The Focal Sopra N°3 is a more enjoyable speaker to listen to and costs less; the Sopras are lush and wonderfully pleasant to listen to, as opposed to the Wilsons, which are more analytical and difficult to tune in properly.
  • Vs. Focal Utopia Scala V2: The Sopra N°3 is a price and performance stepping-stone to the Utopia line.
  • Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 800 D3 speakers: Bowers & Wilkins speakers can often be a bit laid back and polite, making the Sopra N°3 a different alternative.

Takeaway: The Focal Sopra N°3 is a high-performing speaker that is able to play any type of music with subtle sounds and unbridled force. It brings the listener closer to the music, so they can feel all the energy of a live performance.

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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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