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

  • Offers a 'real live' sound, effortless dynamics, and a scale of realism, making for intoxicating listening sessions with a compelling realism, regardless of source or genre
  • High build and finish quality with Baltic birch plywood cabinets and detailed finishing process
  • Uses top-quality pro audio drivers hand-picked for performance and integration, along with high-quality crossover components
  • Offers a unique level of user customization with adjustable tweeter and midrange levels via swappable resistors, to better suit equipment, room, or tastes
  • Coherent with precise imaging, excellent body, correct size pinpointed within the stage, and a wide and deep soundstage, with great dimensionality

Product Considerations

  • Measurements show anomalies in frequency response
  • Some may want a bit lower bass extension, though 35Hz is very good for its size, high-sensitivity, and price point
  • The tweeter and midrange can be forward in the presentation, which may not suit all tastes
  • Some listeners might find the midrange presentation more neutral and up-front than expected, lacking a certain 'sweetness' that other speakers offer
  • Positioning is very important to get the correct soundstage

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Razz offers higher build and finish quality, better bass, and a more refined sound when compared to Klipsch Forte III
  • Imaging was as good and satisfying as with Spatial Audio open baffle speakers, though image depth not quite as deep
  • Presents a sonic signature on par with the Volti Audio Rival SE
  • The Zu Audio Omen is not as neutral as the Volti Razz
  • The ATC SCM 100 has more control and better refined sound, but less 'bounce' and fun factor

Takeaway: The Volti Audio Razz is well-suited for listeners who value sound quality, build quality, and a beautiful finish, inspiring extended listening sessions. With its versatility and adjustable crossover, this speaker provides an enjoyable listening experience across a variety of systems.

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

Razz

reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Sensitivity: 97db (2.83v/1M)
  • Recommended amplifier power: 8wpc (min.), 80wpc continuous (max.)
  • Bandwidth: 35Hz – 20kHz
  • Nominal Impedance: 6ohm (connect to 8ohm taps)
  • Dimensions: 40" tall, 15" wide and 12" deep
  • Weight: 90 lbs. each
Volti Audio, makers of the highly acclaimed Vittora and Rival horn loaded loudspeaker systems is proud to introduce the most compact and affordable Volti horn speaker to date – the Volti Audio Razz. The Razz is a three-way, hybrid horn/bass-reflex loudspeaker, with high sensitivity, wide bandwidth, superb build quality and captivating sound.
A true horn speaker, with lightning fast dynamics, presence and immediacy, the Razz is also a horn speaker you can live with long term, because it is a refined, integrated and musically engaging performer that does not suffer from the bandwidth limitations, frequency response aberrations and colorations that characterize other horn designs.

The Razz is room-friendly and can be positioned against a wall, in a corner, or pulled out into the room. It is front-ported which allows the greatest flexibility in placement since the port does not rely on, nor is affected by, walls behind or beside the speaker. The sensitivity and ease of drive make the Razz capable of filling a very large room whereas the superb integration ensures it will also work in an intimate, near-field setting.

With a frequency response of 35Hz – 20Khz and a sensitivity of 97db (2.83v/1M), Razz delivers glorious, full range, tactile sound from as little as a handful of amplifier watts.

The Razz shares the same "Volti" sound signature as all of our speakers: Effortless power delivery, Wide dynamic range, Finely resolved articulate mid-range, Immersive, room-filling sound, Pinpoint imaging and wide soundstage, Sings-with-one-voice driver integration, Full-range bandwidth, Tight, deep bass, Accurate tone and timbre
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:

  • Greg Roberts' background in custom home building is reflected in Volti's meticulous craftsmanship and focus on heirloom-quality construction utilizing thick Baltic birch plywood and robust internal bracing.
  • By using a 2" throat for the midrange horn, instead of the typical .75" to 1", Volti speakers achieve a bigger, more expansive, and less colored sound, setting them apart from other horn designs.
  • Volti designs its crossovers with carefully selected high-quality components and offers user-adjustable attenuation of the tweeter and midrange via easily swapped resistors on the rear panel.
  • Despite using horn-loaded drivers, Volti loudspeakers are voiced to achieve a smooth, coherent soundstage and realistic tonal accuracy, defying common criticisms of traditional horn designs.

Razz

  • Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
  • Description: Offers a clear sound with its high sensitivity and wide bandwidth, making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms. Compared to the Lucera, it features a smaller 12" woofer and slightly lower sensitivity, which may appeal to those with budget constraints or limited space, while still delivering the signature Volti sound.

Lucera

  • Positioning: Mid-range option, balancing performance and cost.
  • Description: Features higher sensitivity and a powerful 15" woofer, providing a more dynamic sound than the Razz. It is well-suited for larger rooms and those seeking a step up in performance without reaching the premium price of the Rival.

Rival

  • Positioning: High-performance line, offering advanced features and flexibility.
  • Description: Combines strong power delivery with refined sound, featuring a 15" woofer and advanced crossover design for superior integration. It is more versatile in placement and can fill larger spaces with ease.

Vittora

  • Positioning: Flagship model, designed for ultimate performance and customization.
  • Description: A fully horn-loaded system with a unique design that delivers an expansive soundstage and refined audio quality. It surpasses the Rival with its intricate bass horn design and extended low-frequency system.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
4
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Brand Popularity
316
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Top 50 Brand
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Products Listed
5
Founding Year
2009

Our take on the brand

Volti Audio crafts speakers using 1-inch thick Baltic Birch plywood cabinets and external crossovers with premium components like Solen inductors and Jantzen capacitors. The brand sells direct-to-customer and offers customizable finishes, while their distinctive 2-inch midrange horn throats deliver a more natural, less "shouty" sound compared to other horn speakers.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Volti
Lucera
11750
11750
/
4
Reviews

The Lucera is room-friendly and can be positioned against a wall, in a corner, or pulled out into the room. It is front-ported which allows the greatest flexibility in placement since the port does not rely on, nor is affected by, walls behind or beside the speaker. The sensitivity and ease of drive make the Lucera capable of filling a very large room whereas the superb integration ensures it will also work in an intimate, near-field setting.

With a frequency response of 32Hz – 20Khz and a sensitivity of 99db (2.83v/1M), Lucera delivers glorious, full range, tactile sound from as little as a handful of amplifier watts

The Lucera shares the same "Volti" sound signature as all of our speakers: Effortless power delivery, Wide dynamic range, Finely resolved articulate mid-range, Immersive, room-filling sound, Pinpoint imaging and wide soundstage, Sings-with-one-voice driver integration, Full-range bandwidth, Tight, deep bass, Accurate tone and timbre

Volti Audio crafts speakers using 1-inch thick Baltic Birch plywood cabinets and external crossovers with premium components like Solen inductors and Jantzen capacitors. The brand sells direct-to-customer and offers customizable finishes, while their distinctive 2-inch midrange horn throats deliver a more natural, less "shouty" sound compared to other horn speakers.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Amazing tone and a pleasant tonality
  • Effortless dynamics
  • The cabinet is very strong and robust, using one-inch thick Baltic birch plywood

Product Considerations

  • The midrange horn is made out of a damped metal

Takeaway: The Volti Audio Lucera speakers are heirloom-quality speakers that give listeners a lot of enjoyment, providing a worthwhile listening experience. They have great clarity and can light up the house with clear sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Volti Audio crafts speakers using 1-inch thick Baltic Birch plywood cabinets and external crossovers with premium components like Solen inductors and Jantzen capacitors. The brand sells direct-to-customer and offers customizable finishes, while their distinctive 2-inch midrange horn throats deliver a more natural, less "shouty" sound compared to other horn speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Borresen
X3
11000
11000
/
14
Reviews

The Børresen X series loudspeakers are not only a new entry-level into the Børresen universe, but also represents a real revolution in quality and performance in its price range. These speakers are created based on all the knowledge collected in the process of the creation of the M, 0 and Z-series. You´ll find components from these exclusive series in this Børresen X series loudspeakers – for instance the brand new Spread-tow carbon membrane, the highly praised Børresen ribbon tweeter and the use of copper caps in the magnetic motor system.

The X-series membrane that consists of three skins laminated into a single unit: two layers of spread carbon fiber, with a layer of aramid honeycomb spacers in between. The combination of these materials gives this membrane its unique properties. The spread-tow carbon fiber was designed to provide a skin with optimal stiffness. This unique feature of the membrane reduces sound-disturbing vibrations and resonances to unprecedented levels.

In the X-series magnet motor system, we use double copper caps on the pole rings to achieve high flux and low inductance. The use of copper caps has been adopted from the Børresen Z-series. Copper produces a response to flux changes – the better the counter-effect of these copper rings, the flatter the inductance curve, and the lower the electro-magnetic resonance.

The tweeter chosen for the Børresen X-series has the same design used in all other Børresen loudspeaker series. However, there is a reduction in magnet and iron mass. This is possible due to the extremely high efficiency of the original tweeter design. As a result, the efficiency has dropped only slightly from the exceptional 94 dB to 90 dB, but this is still an amazing efficiency for a tweeter.

The Børresen X-series is equipped with a parallel crossover built with the same high-quality components from the Z Series. This makes for a very mechanically stable crossover that minimizes its self-resonance.

The surface of the cabinet is finished in black or white piano lacquer and reinforced with carbon fiber inserts. The cabinet is made of a heavily braced wood composite material that has the property of eliminating sound distortion. The material used for the cabinet also reduces mechanical influences, especially hysteresis. The sonic result is clearly audible. The X-series is equipped with bass reflex ports. The tweeter is vented to compensate for the air pressure that builds up. The bass section consists of tuned ports calibrated for musically relevant frequencies.

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.
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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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Estelon
Aura
19900
19900
/
11
Reviews

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. The AURA is more than just a loudspeaker; it's a work of art that combines form and function to provide an unparalleled audio experience. With its unique design and advanced technology, AURA is sure to be a game-changer in the audio world.

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.
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Expand Details

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
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Audiovector
Trapeze
19950
19950
/
8
Reviews

A 3-way floor standing design, the Trapeze Reimagined features a proprietary 12-inch high-power mid/bass driver. A 5-inch-high speed midrange. And the only AMT-tweeter on the market that stays true to the original design from audio genius Dr. Oscar Heil. The three drivers combine to achieve an even power, flat frequency response to match the famous Brûel & Kjaer ideal room response.

A diffraction absorbing felt area around the treble and midrange drivers helps to create a rare and natural soundstage: prepare to be transported to the atmospheric heart of a live event. The low frequency tuning adds weight and drama to any music. The extremely low distortion of the bass driver allows unusually natural and dynamic vocals as well as a beautifully rich sound without boom or bloom that just sounds so right. No problems with bass, midrange, or treble. Just an open, rich, musical, and rhythmic reproduction of all kinds of music in all kinds of settings.

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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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Product Page

What competes at this price?

Volti
Razz Limited Edition
7500
/
Released
2022
The Razz-LE is the same great Razz speaker design that we've been building for a few years now, but with a fresh new look. The front of the Razz-LE is where you'll notice the biggest difference compared to the original Razz. The Razz-LE has a veneered, finished front, with no grill to get between you and the music. You'll also find veneer on the backs of the Razz-LE as well.
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Volti Audio crafts speakers using 1-inch thick Baltic Birch plywood cabinets and external crossovers with premium components like Solen inductors and Jantzen capacitors. The brand sells direct-to-customer and offers customizable finishes, while their distinctive 2-inch midrange horn throats deliver a more natural, less "shouty" sound compared to other horn speakers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Top-notch cabinet construction uses inch-thick Baltic birch ply with full internal bracing
  • The crossover uses top-quality components such as Solen, Jantzen, and Lynk
  • Excellent coherence and tonal accuracy
  • Notes never sound overly polite

Product Considerations

  • The Razz LE is rather large
  • The midrange sound might not fit every listener's tastes due to its honesty
  • The Razz LE is a relatively large floor-standing speaker

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Charney Audio Maestro X speakers, the Volti Audio Razz LE loudspeakers are more dynamic, tonally neutral, and full-range
  • Vs ATC SCM 100 studio monitors, the ATCs are more refined sounding, but the Volti Audio Razz LE has more of a 'bounce' and fun factor

Takeaway: The Volti Audio Razz LE speakers are beautiful and make glorious noise. The Razz LE is a home run for folks who love the refinement of small, lower-powered amplifiers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Volti Audio crafts speakers using 1-inch thick Baltic Birch plywood cabinets and external crossovers with premium components like Solen inductors and Jantzen capacitors. The brand sells direct-to-customer and offers customizable finishes, while their distinctive 2-inch midrange horn throats deliver a more natural, less "shouty" sound compared to other horn speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
LS60 Wireless
5499
/
Released
2022
The LS60 Wireless delivers truly realistic, high-fidelity sound for home entertainment. Its slim, plug and play design, packed with KEF's key technology, offers the whole package: not only does it look as good as it performs, it boasts extensive connectivity options.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

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

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
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Bowers & Wilkins
703 S3
5999
/
Released
2023
The new 703 S3 now features our iconic Tweeter-on-Top configuration for the first time, alongside a decoupled FST™ Continuum cone midrange driver - enhanced by the addition of our revolutionary new Biomimetic Suspension - and twin Aerofoil Profile bass drivers.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Superb design and build quality.
  • Articulate sound, especially in the upper midrange and treble regions.
  • Very good imaging, with strong definition and delineation between instruments and performers.
  • Vivid and clear midrange, revealing subtle details in recordings.
  • Transparency ensures more of the music is heard as it was intended.

Product Considerations

  • A capable amplifier is needed due to impedance dips to 3.1 ohms.
  • Not a bass-heavy speaker.
  • The tweeter can become too much if listening to poorly recorded music or at very high volumes.
  • The bass can sound a bit thin, depending on room size and personal preference.
  • Can sound a little bit cool when playing certain types of music.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs KEF R11 Meta—KEFs presented more physical scale with respect to soundstage, with even greater width.
  • Vs Polk R700 and Klipsch RP8000F Mk2—Not better than the B&Ws, but aren't embarrassed by them either.
  • Vs B&W 805 D IV—In one listening room, the 703 is nearly as good.
  • Zoo sound a little bit warmer.

Takeaway: The 703 S3 makes listening engaging and fun, with dynamic sound suitable for both music and movies. It brings clarity to vocals, especially at lower volumes, making it great for late-night listening.

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
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
702 S3
6999
/
Released
2022
Our flagship, the 702 S3, is a state-of-the-art tower speaker that defines new standards for performance in its class. If you want the best, this is it.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Trickle-down technology from the 800 series narrows the gap with higher-end models
  • Improved clarity of details, accuracy, and soundstage width compared to previous 702 models
  • Clean and articulate bass is often attributed to the downward-firing port and plinth arrangement
  • Excellent imaging and soundfield, with impressive width and height
  • Delivers high definition and low coloration, offering a taste of the 800 Series experience

Product Considerations

  • Careful positioning is required to achieve optimal tonal balance and musicality
  • A reasonably powerful amplifier (minimum 75W recommended) is needed to perform at its best
  • May not be a great match for valve amplifiers, preferring solid-state options
  • The satin black MDF plinths are integral and require additional floor space
  • Difficult to move around due to their weight (over 40 kg each) and lack of handholds

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the 702 S2 and 702 Signature, the S3 has improved clarity, accuracy, and soundstage width
  • Compared to the Focal Aria 936 K2, the reviewer prefers the aesthetics of the 702 S3

Takeaway: The 702 S3 is a well-built loudspeaker offering a significant upgrade in sound quality. Trickle-down technology gives a taste of Bowers & Wilkins' flagship series at a more affordable price.

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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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KEF
LS60 Wireless Lotus Edition
6599
/
Released
2023
LS60 Wireless is our vision of high-fidelity sound for the future. An all-in-one speaker system that allows you to stream from any source and connect to any home audio devices with audiophile-grade power. Inspired by the British Racing Green of the Lotus heritage, it was created to bring the track spirit into your home in a harmony of design and innovation.
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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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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality, with reviews noting neutral and balanced sound, meticulous detail retrieval, and delicate micro-dynamics
  • Good imaging and soundstage, with the ability to create a wide and immersive soundstage with precise imaging
  • Sleek design, with their elegance and ability to complement modern interiors
  • Powerful and well-controlled bass, thanks to the Uni-Core driver technology
  • Wide array of connectivity options, including HDMI eARC, optical, coaxial, RCA, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, and Qobuz

Product Considerations

  • Relatively expensive compared to other active speaker systems
  • Some reviewers noted occasional signal dropouts between the primary and secondary speakers when connected wirelessly
  • The KEF Connect app is essential for full functionality and optimal setup, which may not appeal to users who prefer physical controls
  • Bass output can be sensitive to room placement and may require adjustments to avoid boominess
  • Connecting multiple external devices can result in significant cable clutter, despite being marketed as wireless

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bang & Olufsen Beolab 28: The LS60 offers comparable performance at roughly half the price, though the Beolab 28 is noted as sounding better out-of-the-box without EQ
  • Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II: The LS60 offers improved performance and near full-range playback, but at a higher price, the LS50 Wireless II offers similar clarity with a slightly warmer sound
  • Vs Klipsch Forte 4: The LS60 is more suited for home theater use and surface more detail
  • Vs Q Acoustics Q Active 400 Towers, Dali Oberon 7C Wireless, and Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duos: The LS60 is considered a better, more refined and adjustable package
  • Vs Hegel H190 & KEF LS50 Meta with KEF KC-62 Subwoofer: The LS60 communicates the forward force of music better and has features such as Tidal Connect and room EQ
  • Vs Lindemann TD-AI1120, KEF LS50 Meta & KEF KC-62 Subwoofer: The LS60 cannot be matched in scale and effortless dynamics

Takeaway: The KEF LS60 Wireless is a fantastic, all-in-one speaker system that sounds great and looks stylish. They are easy to set up and use, and will fill a room with music for years to come.

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

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