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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.

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

Sage Series L75m

reviews

[{"title":"Wisdom Audio L75m On-Wall Loudspeaker Reviewed","link":"https://hometheaterreview.com/wisdom-audio-l75m-on-wall-loudspeaker-reviewed","source":"Home Theater Review","datePublished":"2011"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

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: 4.5 ohms
  • Impedance, Woofer Section: 3 ohms
  • Sensitivity, Planar Section: 95 dB / 2.83 V / 1m
  • Sensitivity, Woofer Section: 91 dB / 2.83 V / 1m
  • Shipping Weight: 69 lbs. (31 kg)
  • Dimensions HxWxD: 76.01" x 7.2" x 5.87" (193.1cm x 18.3cm x 14.9cm)
The Sage L75m offers the ultimate high-end audiophile loudspeaker in a slim and stylish on-wall design that fully integrates into any home. Ideal for home theater and media rooms, L75m produces the highest level of sonic refinement and performance available in an architectural speaker. The on-Wall Sage L75m includes a 48" of line source planar magnetic driver – and four robust 6" woofers for low distortion, high-resolution sound, and a superior dynamic range.
The Sage L75m offers the ultimate high-end audiophile loudspeaker in a slim and stylish on-wall design that fully integrates into any home. Ideal for home theater and media rooms, L75m produces the highest level of sonic refinement and performance available in an architectural speaker. The on-Wall Sage L75m includes a 48” of line source planar magnetic driver – and four robust 6” woofers for low distortion, high-resolution sound, and a superior dynamic range. Innovative design delivers excellent bass performance in an incredibly small enclosure.
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:

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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Avg. Product Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used For Sale
5
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
372
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
68
Founding Year
1996

Our take on the brand

Wisdom Audio specializes in planar magnetic drivers and line source speaker technology, which provides consistent sound coverage throughout a room and minimizes sound distortion compared to traditional point source speakers. Their speakers are designed to be integrated into walls or ceilings without compromising sound quality.

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What if you spend more?

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Cabasse
The Pearl Keshi
26237
26237
/
8
Reviews
Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
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Product Strengths

  • Visually appealing with a distinctive, elegant, and small form factor, fitting well in smaller spaces and under monitors
  • Good build quality and finish, using excellent materials, which creates a sense of pride of ownership
  • Powerful sound for its size, offering ample audio presence and dynamic headroom
  • Comprehensive control app that is stable, logical, and offers extensive functionality, including room calibration
  • Coaxial design of the satellite speakers aims to improve stereo focus and time alignment

Product Considerations

  • Sound can be bottom-heavy or 'wonky' with an overemphasis on bass that dominates the overall sonic signature
  • Treble can be sharp, edgy, or unruly, especially at higher volumes
  • The included remote control is more stylish than ergonomic and can be unresponsive, requiring re-pairing
  • Lacks an HDMI input, which limits connectivity options, especially for TV use
  • Fixed wiring of the satellite speakers can be inconvenient if shorter cables are needed

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The KEF LS50 offers better-balanced sound and superior sound quality overall
  • Genelec is more utilitarian in design
  • The SVS Prime Wireless Pro and sub combo sounds better, but lacks the sex appeal
  • The Devialet has more intense bass, but isn't as balanced or natural as The Pearl Keshi

Takeaway: The Cabasse Pearl Keshi offers audiophile sound in a stylish and compact package with innovative features. It could be a good fit if one wants a visually striking and complete audio system that can fit in a tight space.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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
Product Page
Product image
Von Schweikert
Endeavor SE
27000
27000
/
7
Reviews

Building on the highly successful lineage of the world-class Endeavor™ loudspeakers, Von Schweikert Audio is please to present our newest offering; the Endeavor™ Special Edition. This model incorporates the highly refined full-range performance of its bigger brother, the E-5 including our critically acclaimed Beryllium tweeter which is used throughout the VR and ULTRA line of flagship loudspeakers. The Endeavor SE also incorporates other design VSA elements like our proprietary Rear-Ambient Retrieval System, Bi-Wire inputs with isolated networks and high-quality crossover components. 

Last but not least, the Special Edition comes in our high-gloss multi layer paint finish as standard, customer's can choose a custom color to accommodate their specific tastes with matching painted plinth for the highest level of fit and finish. 

Featuring advanced speaker components often found in systems many times our price: Anodized aluminum woofer cones, Kevlar midrange, and damped Beryllium dome tweeter to ensure highest level of sonic transparency possible. Rear ambience retrieval driver. 

To match the transient response and tone quality of the superb front tweeter, we have employed a 75mm ribbon tweeter driven by a Neodymium magnet system for the lowest distortion and widest frequency range we have measured from a 75mm ribbon. 

Top-class measurements with lowest distortion/coloration in its price range. Non-parallel walls and advanced cabinet design for sonic purity. Linkwitz-Riley crossover filters ensure correct phase coherence and timing.

Von Schweikert's speakers deliver wide soundstage dispersion through novel "ambient recovery systems," creating a 3D-like soundstage. Their large dynamic range masters both subtle details and intense macro swings.
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Our summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional sound quality, often described as unbelievable for its size, delivers a natural and balanced sound, with a clarity and realism that brings music to life
  • Impressive bass performance produces bass and dynamics that belie its moderate size, energizing rooms and reproducing bass with good pitch definition, texture, and tone
  • Wide and deep soundstage portrays space exceptionally well, creating a wide and deep soundstage with good imaging, even on mono recordings, and the rear ambient tweeter enhances this spatial quality
  • High-end components, including those found in Von Schweikert's Ultra series such as a beryllium tweeter, Masterbuilt internal wiring, and Mundorf capacitors and WBT binding posts are used
  • The cabinet construction is designed to minimize resonance and coloration, employing a triple-wall panel
  • A luxurious, automotive-grade finish is offered, which can be customized with bespoke colors, making it visually appealing and able to fit into various room decors

Product Considerations

  • Powerful amplification (at least 100 watts per channel) is beneficial to unlock its full dynamic range and potential
  • Careful setup and placement are crucial to optimize bass response, soundstage width, image specificity, and overall coherence
  • The bass could sound slightly soft at times, possibly due to the room interaction or associated equipment
  • While offering excellent value, the Endeavor Special Edition is still a significant investment, placing it in a competitive price bracket

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The ESE is a significant upgrade incorporating Ultra series technology, a new tweeter, improved binding posts, a rear-firing tweeter, and a better crossover
  • While not in the same league as the Ultra 11, the ESE provides a taste of the Ultra series' technologies at a more accessible price point

Takeaway: The Endeavor offers an immersive listening experience with exceptional sound quality and a beautiful design. Its ability to create a realistic and engaging soundstage makes it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles seeking a high-performance speaker system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Von Schweikert's speakers deliver wide soundstage dispersion through novel "ambient recovery systems," creating a 3D-like soundstage. Their large dynamic range masters both subtle details and intense macro swings.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Cabasse
Rialto
2995
2995
/
5
Reviews
Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Powerful and deep bass response for its size
  • Clear and natural sound reproduction, with vocals being particularly noteworthy
  • An 'all-in-two' system, the RIALTO includes a streamer, DAC, pre-amp, and amp, making it easy to set up and use, especially with the Cabasse StreamCONTROL app
  • Effective room correction helps to optimize the sound for the listening environment
  • Elegant design and build quality

Product Considerations

  • The lack of seamless gapless playback between digital tracks requires a workaround or use of an analog source
  • The RIALTO has a laid-back treble response, which may not appeal to listeners who prefer a brighter sound
  • Potential for technical hiccups exists, because of the amount of technology packed into the RIALTO
  • Many features are controlled with the mobile app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The RIALTO provides a more balanced—and much more natural—listening experience than the Devialet Phantom II 98 dB Stereo

Takeaway: The Cabasse RIALTO is a compact and elegant audio system that offers powerful sound and a range of integrated features, making it a great choice for music lovers who want an easy-to-use and high-performing system. The sound quality and room correction allow it to adapt well to different listening spaces, offering an immersive experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Wilson Audio
Alida CSC
17650
/
Released
2023
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 to serve as the surround sound component of a 5.1 installation while nonetheless offering the measure of frequency response and dynamic contrast that would 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 were using it as a wall-mounted speaker in two-channel music systems. Now found in bedrooms, offices, or other locations where space or architecture precluded the use of floorstanding loudspeakers, this need was recognized and the original Alida was born.
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Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
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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

Wilson Audio is often considered the quintessential American high-end hi-fi brand, a staple in premium audio dealerships across the country. Many reviewers use Wilson speakers in their own home systems, reflecting their reputation for outstanding dynamics, bass depth, and the ability to reproduce classical music with remarkable realism. Wilson focuses on creating an uncolored sound, aiming to replicate the experience of live, unamplified performances.
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.
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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

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Audio Note
AN-J
10500
/
Released
The majority of the high-end audio marketplace is occupied by ill-conceived low efficiency loudspeaker systems. These designs usually consist of several less-than-ideally matched drivers and a very complex crossover, crammed into a cabinet that exhibits the tonal and textural qualities of reinforced concrete. Their designers are blinded by the dogmatic quest for high sound pressure levels and flat response. But what of the other factors which are essential for emotionally involving music reproduction? What about coherence, full natural micro—as well as macro—dynamics, inner detail? What about LIFE? What about EMOTION? Sorry, they're just not part of the "High Performance Audio" design brief. And music suffers for it.
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Audio Note UK is one of Europe's largest manufacturers of valve-based audio equipment, designing and producing nearly all components in-house, including transformers and capacitors. The brand has achieved cult status among audiophiles who appreciate its minimalist, non-oversampling approach and its emphasis on musicality over technical specifications.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Solid bass performance for a speaker of its size
  • Able to do justice to any genre of music and at realistic volume levels
  • Very easy to drive
  • Offers a balanced presentation from top to bottom with seamlessness between the woofer and tweeter
  • Started sounding like far more than a pair of 8″ two-way monitors when properly positioned along the side walls

Product Considerations

  • Achieving the best imaging and deep bass may require experimenting with toe-in and distance from corners and the back wall
  • Does not provide much forward/backward information, with the image typically stopping at the outer edge of the speakers
  • The basic 'D' model comes only in black ash veneer, while higher-end models offer more choices
  • Bass can be overblown if not adjusted properly in room placement

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The AN-E has more bass, is easier to drive, and has a bigger presentation
  • Some may prefer the J because they find it a more taught presentation in the mid bass, as well as more "present" in the voice band

Takeaway:

The AN-J is a near full-range loudspeaker capable of articulation and organic flow, making music sound natural and engaging. If someone is looking for a communicative quality that remains consistent wherever they listen, then the AN-J could be a good fit.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Audio Note UK is one of Europe's largest manufacturers of valve-based audio equipment, designing and producing nearly all components in-house, including transformers and capacitors. The brand has achieved cult status among audiophiles who appreciate its minimalist, non-oversampling approach and its emphasis on musicality over technical specifications.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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