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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
Sage Series C38m
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Frequency Response: 40Hz – 20kHz ± 2dB relative to the target curve
- Frequency Response, 30° Off Horizontal Axis: 40Hz – 18kHz ± 2dB relative to the target curve
- Impedance, Planar Section: 3 ohms
- Impedance, Woofer Section: 3 ohms
- Sensitivity, Planar Section: 90 dB / 2.83 V / 1m
- Sensitivity, Woofer Section: 91 dB / 2.83 V / 1m
- Shipping Weight: 39 lbs. (18 kg)
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 7.2" x 34.2" x 5.87" (18.3cm x 86.9cm x 14.9cm)
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:
Select products
Insight Series P2i
- Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for compactness and affordability.
- Description: Offers excellent sound quality with its planar magnetic driver and dual woofers, providing high-resolution sound and dynamic range. It is ideal for small rooms or budget-conscious buyers who want a compact in-wall or in-ceiling speaker without sacrificing performance. Compared to other products in the lineup, it offers a more affordable option with custom mounting flexibility.
Sage Series C20i
- Positioning: High-end in-wall speaker for audiophiles seeking superior sound quality.
- Description: Features a large planar magnetic driver and robust woofers, delivering high-resolution sound and dynamic range in a slim design. It is perfect for home theaters or media rooms where high sonic refinement is desired. Compared to the Insight Series, it offers enhanced bass performance and a more sophisticated design.
Sage Cinema Point 2 V2
- Positioning: Versatile speaker for immersive audio installations.
- Description: Features a rotatable planar magnetic driver, allowing flexible installation for various audio formats like Dolby Atmos. It is ideal for users who need a versatile speaker for immersive audio setups without requiring additional DSP or PEQ. Compared to the Sage Series C20i, it offers more installation flexibility.
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Used
Wisdom Audio
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Alida CSC
Wilson Audio’s first wall‑mount loudspeaker was designed as part of the W.A.T.C.H. (Wilson Audio Theater Comes Home) system. This foundational creation’s sole purpose was be the surround‑sound component of a 5.1 installation while nonetheless offering the frequency response and dynamic contrast to complement Wilson Audio’s large floorstanding main speakers.
Over time, however, it became apparent that the performance of the W.A.T.C.H. Surround speaker was so good that people began using it as a wall‑mounted speaker in two‑channel music systems. Now found in bedrooms, offices, or other locations where space or architecture precludes the use of floorstanding loudspeakers, this need was recognized and the original Alida was born—designed for main‑channel playback while still excelling in multi‑channel surround applications.
Ultimate Emersion
Captivating multi‑channel audio and cinematic experiences await those who choose surround systems. Alida CSC is ready. Surround‑sound content has come a long way from its infancy in the early 1980s. Dolby Atmos systems now support configurations like 5.1.2 or 7.2.4 (the last number refers to ceiling‑mounted speakers).
Because Alida CSC remains the uncompromising choice for state‑of‑the‑art multi‑channel audio and surround sound, we developed—and now offer—the Alida Ceiling‑Mount option to accommodate the most ambitious Atmos setups.
Alida CSC includes numerous upgrades to the critical elements that sculpt its sound. From the Convergent Synergy Carbon (CSC) tweeter and custom in‑house crossovers to the mounting bracket employing our proprietary V‑Material, Alida CSC delivers the timbral neutrality, dynamic response, soundstage depth, and transparency of floorstanding Wilson Audio speakers—even under the demanding conditions of surface‑mounted applications and Dolby Atmos™ ceiling installations.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- The Alida CSC tweeter matches the Alexia V and Mezzo CSC, significantly improving sound.
- Technical upgrades in the Alida CSC dampen vibrations.
- Upgrading to Alida CSC from original Alida speakers creates a more cohesive and immersive sound experience.
- The Alida CSC enhances the reproduction of delicacy, detail, and dynamics in immersive music.
Product Considerations
- Bolting loudspeakers into one's walls and ceiling can raise anxiety.
- The Alida CSC is part of a very expensive system upgrade.
Takeaway: Upgrading to Alida CSC speakers can significantly enhance the immersive music listening experience, creating a crystal-clear sphere of sound in the listening room. The improved tweeter and vibration damping contribute to a more detailed and dynamic sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
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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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.
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
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.
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
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- All three of the A25 speaker drivers are designed and handmade in-house in Switzerland to ensure low distortion, high precision, and the finest quality control
- Every A25 is sonically identical, meaning any two of the same model at any point in their production history will be a matched pair
- The A25M offers higher SPL at lower distortion
- Initial listening tests were very favorable, and the first things that stood out were the tight and controlled low end and super precise stereo imaging, leading to a huge sense of depth and space
- Mixes translated incredibly well to other systems, and when using them for mastering, the bass end was spot on, and the highs were incredibly detailed but not at all hyped or fatiguing
Product Considerations
- The A25Ms are very heavy, at 28.4kg each, and have the kind of proportions that make a one-person lift of such a weight risky
- The size and weight of the A25Ms mean they probably will not be considered for nearfield duties by the majority of potential users
- The overall tonal balance is a little prominent in the upper-mid band, and this sometimes adds a slight edge to some mix elements
- If considering a move to mid-field monitoring, room acoustics should probably be considered at the same time
- Enclosure color is an acquired taste
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ATC SCM45s, the ATCs just had that extra tiny level of detail in the mids—it comes down to personal choice
Takeaway: The A25M is genuinely revealing monitors that can provide great insight into the components of a mix and how they fit together. These are spectacular monitors with a tight, controlled low end and super precise stereo imaging, making them an excellent mid-field monitor for mixing and mastering.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Huge soundstage that expands beyond the confines of the room
- Incredible flexibility regarding placement and orientation, including in-wall, on-wall, and floor-standing options
- Speakers reveal a level of detail that few other systems can match
- THX Ultra certified and built to achieve true cinema reference volume levels
Product Considerations
- System should be installed by a professional
- The HFT drivers that make the sound so revealing could appear a little bright if not correctly tuned
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Monitor Audio Cinergy comes dangerously close to dethroning Perlisten in terms of movie sound
Takeaway: The Cinergy series is a fantastic option for home cinema fans, giving the best possible sound quality with a design tailored to home theater needs. A well-planned and executed Cinergy system can rival many commercial cinemas, offering a truly immersive sound experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Designed and tuned specifically to stand or be mounted flush against a back wall for ideal room integration
- Lyngdorf says the FR-2 has an ideal low-frequency impulse response, resulting in a surprisingly tight and powerful bass unheard of with most freestanding speakers
- The FR-2 features 6.5-inch woofers that marry a lightweight aluminium cone with a vented die-cast basket and an extra-strong and large magnet to facilitate high volume and efficiency
- The FR-2's minimalist design with simple baffle and satin matte finishes allows it to aesthetically blend into the background
Product Considerations
- The FR-2 is designed to be placed against a rear wall, which may not be suitable for all listening environments
- The FR-2's shallow cabinet depth may be a limiting factor for some users
Takeaway: The Lyngdorf Audio FR-2 speakers are designed for those who need speakers placed against the wall. They are designed for tight and powerful bass, and to integrate well into a room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Immersive sound quality
- Can handle a lot of dynamics
- Impressive shallow installation depth (approximately 10cm) despite its size
- Solid construction using high-quality aluminum, steel, and MDF to counteract resonances
- Easy to install with clamps and a supplied Allen key
Product Considerations
- Standard white covers may need repainting to match specific wall colors
- Some users may desire a little deeper bass for movies
Takeaway: The DALI Phantom 280S offers immersive sound and dynamic performance while being relatively easy to install within a wall. Its solid construction and good finish make it a worthwhile consideration for a home theater or high-end audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- True audiophile performance with pinpoint imaging and a huge soundstage from an in-wall footprint rivaling free standing speakers
- Reference-grade materials such as inverted beryllium dome tweeter and W Cone sandwich drivers
- Utopia models feature a slick, modular, expandable design to fit a variety of installations
- LFE signals can be sent to the IWLCR Utopia when used in conjunction with the IWSUB-Utopia
Product Considerations
- Dog ears are finicky and may have issues when installing multiple sheetrock layers near max thickness rating
- Connection plates adhering to the joints and ends of the grilles don't always sit completely flat
- An equally capable processor with advanced EQ and amplifier stable into low impedance loads is required to maximize performance potential
- IWSUB Utopia models lack a vibration damping suspension system
Takeaway: The Focal Utopia offers audiophile-grade sound with flexible installation, making it a great choice for those who want top-notch performance without taking up floor space. With its advanced features and high-quality components, it delivers an immersive audio experience.
Video review
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