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
Absolut Zeth
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Frequency Response: 40 - 20,000 Hz
- Driver: VOXATIV AC-1n or others
- Efficiency: 95 dB / 1W / 1m
- Capacity: 50 W sinus
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 33 x 108 x 25 cm (13 x 42.5 x 10")
- Weight: 32 kg (62 lbs each)
- Color: Piano Finish, white or black, veneers
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:
- They distinguish themselves by hand-crafting nearly every component of their wideband drivers in-house, allowing for complete control over design and materials, including specialized paper diaphragms and unique motor designs.
- The brand's speakers often feature back-loaded horn designs and proprietary Acoustic Stealth Technology (AST) to optimize bass response and manage internal resonances without traditional crossovers.
- Voxativ creates complete audio systems, including amplifiers and cables, designed to synergize with their wideband drivers, ensuring optimal performance and a cohesive sonic signature.
Select products
HAGEN² TOWER
- Positioning: A compact, budget-friendly tower designed for small rooms.
- Description: Delivers clear, direct sound with a handcrafted AF-1.9 driver and a housing tuned with Acoustic Stealth Technology to reduce unwanted reflections. Compared to larger, more complex systems like the Alberich Array or 9.88 System, it offers practical performance for users with modest space and budget needs.
ZETH
- Positioning: An elegant, full-range tower that balances refined aesthetics with natural sound.
- Description: Features a horn guidance based on AST and a specially developed full-range driver for fast transient response and precise bass integration. Compared to the simple design of the Hagen² Tower and the modular configurations of Alberich models, it appeals to users seeking a higher level of sonic detail.
ALBERICH² METAL
- Positioning: A premium, metal-crafted loudspeaker known for its resonance-free performance.
- Description: Impresses with a fully metallic housing engineered to eliminate resonance and deliver balanced sound even at low volumes. Compared to the more straightforward Zeth and the versatile Alberich Array, it offers elevated build quality and technical sophistication.
ALBERICH ARRAY SYSTEM
- Positioning: A modular speaker system crafted for expansive sound and tailored performance.
- Description: Stands out by integrating three drivers with pure copper cabling and an option for pure aluminum enclosures to provide a resonance-free, immersive audio experience. Compared to the rigid design of the Alberich² Metal and the highly configurable 9.88 System, it allows users to customize performance for larger spaces while balancing cost and versatility.
9.88 SYSTEM
- Positioning: A groundbreaking, hybrid-active system engineered for ultimate audio customization and room-filling power.
- Description: Combines a new full-range AC-4NP driver with an optional .01 Mid-Module and an active subwoofer to deliver deep, precise bass and highly personalized sound curves. Compared to the modular Alberich Array and the premium Alberich² Metal, it targets users with the highest budget and complex functional needs who desire extensive tuning options for large spaces.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
At Voxativ, we follow the philosophy of absolute signal purity – this is why we design and build our own wideband drivers entirely in Berlin, without any crossover components in the signal path. One key innovation is our patented Acoustic Stealth Technology, which allows the drivers to produce full-range sound with stunning resolution and dynamics, all from a single voice coil.
Secondly, we believe in the synergy of engineering and craftsmanship: all our cabinets are handmade with precision joinery and fine veneers, acting as musical instruments rather than mere housings. This holistic approach results in a level of emotional engagement that we believe is quite rare in high-end audio.
What's your approach to customer support?
We always encourage customers to contact their local dealer or distributor first – they are part of the Voxativ family and trained to assist with all typical needs. However, if a customer prefers, or if the issue is more specialized, they are always welcome to contact us directly.
We pride ourselves on building long-lasting relationships with our clients, and that includes aftercare. Whether it's helping a customer reconfigure their system, adjust positioning, or even upgrade older components, we're always just a phone call or email away. We've even flown across the globe to personally install or fine-tune systems – because music, like friendship, deserves personal attention.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
Keith Jarrett – Köln Concert (Part I): This piece shows how naturally and intimately our systems reproduce piano timbre and room acoustics.
Youn Sun Nah – My Favorite Things: Her voice, full of subtlety and nuance, is a great test of transparency and realism.
Yello – The Race: Dynamic, detailed, and rhythmically complex – a thrilling way to show off bass precision and soundstage layering.
What other products pair best with yours?
Used
Voxativ
What if you spend more?
The Alberich2 system is completely made of Metal This loudpspeaker consists of two handcrafted components: A set of Voxativ Hagen2 Metal monitors equipped with Voxativ AF-2B drivers which then sits upon a Voxativ Alberich2 Metal bass module. Both housings are completely made from Aluminium plates that are properly welded together. No wood is on this speaker system. The weight is 182 lbs (90kg).
Alberich2 plays wonderfully without any amplification. This is caused in the nature of our new premium black cone 5" driver. The AF-2.6. This driver combined with the complete resonance free housing will make you forget about other possibly bigger speakers. Closing your eyes strings and voices will drive you to tears and the bass makes your ceiling oscillate. Hope your neighbors are are real friends of yours.
But also at low volumes this is a wonderful new speaker that will amaze you due it's excellent musical balance caused by the ultra level Voxativ black series widebander. Given the high-efficiency nature of our drivers, Alberich2 pairs nicely with low wattage tube amps that also offer pre-amp RCA outputs to connect to the active bass module.
We do offer Alberich2 as a package. The inclusion of your choice of three integrated amps: A Voxativ T-211 Integrated tube amp to be included as a bundled system A Lyric Ti100 Integrated tube amp, special Voxativ modified, to be included as a bundled system. The Symphonic Line RG14, Voxativ version if you prefer solid state.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- The revised Hagen2 is purpose-tuned as part of the Alberich2 system, which improves the sound
- Ripol subs are faster and better tuned than other available subs
- Compact double decker packs the aces on bandwidth, LF control, and cosmetic footprint
- Physical separation of bass bin from light-coned main driver
- Dedicated bass volume control and adjustable filter hinge for in-room tonal balance
Product Considerations
- Client complained of the total cost when added to Hagen2 pair
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Alberich2 is head-on competitive with Cube Audio's Nenuphar v2, packs the aces on bandwidth, LF control, and cosmetic footprint
Takeaway: The ALBERICH2, when combined with the Hagen2, creates a purpose-tuned speaker system that improves the sound. The ability to adjust bass volume and filter settings allows for tonal balance, and its size is compact for its class.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
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
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.
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
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
Our summary
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
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Combining a high-efficiency unfiltered 5' widebander with adjustable active bass is a golden ticket for flea-watt amps
- Ripol subs are faster and better tuned than any other available subs
- The Hagen in the Alberich2 system has been modified to strengthen the 100-300Hz response
- The woofer has been upgraded to a paper-cone neodymium woofer mounted to a 6mm steel plate for optimal silence
- Offers adjustable frequency, level, and phase
Product Considerations
- A client complaint about the cost of the subs when combined with the Hagen2 speakers
- The design and concept are unconventional and not for the mainstream
Takeaway: The Alberich2 is an exciting product due to its bandwidth, LF control, and cosmetic footprint advantages over competitors. It offers physical separation of bass bin from the main driver, plus bass volume control for tonal balance
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
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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
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
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
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