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
- Impeccable build quality and attractive aesthetics, with various wood veneer options
- The speaker can be used in different orientations (right side up, upside down, or sideways) to accommodate unique placement needs
- High sensitivity (95dB) makes it easy to drive with a variety of amplifiers, including low-watt tube amps
- Flexible with recording quality, making even poor recordings sound good
- Large soundstage and good imaging
- The midrange is a strong point, with a sense of scale and separation that rivals more expensive speakers
Product Considerations
- Bass is linear and not boosted, so some listeners may prefer to use a subwoofer
- Can be large and heavy, making them cumbersome to move
- The full-range driver is exposed and could be vulnerable to damage
- Finding the perfect speaker stands may be a challenge
- The DW6 floor-standing version is only slightly more expensive
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Heco Celan Revolution 3, the DWX has a much larger and more neutral midrange, and extends lower with quicker bass, while the Revolution 3 is warmer and slightly bass-boosted
- Compared to the Buchardt p300, the DWX has more air, separation, and effortlessness in the treble and a more open—expansive midrange, while the p300 is warmer and has more bass quantity
- The DWX offers more placement flexibility than the DW6
- The DW6 is brighter, more alive sounding, and has more agile and higher definition bass than the DWX
Takeaway: The DWX is a well-built, versatile speaker that offers a large soundstage and impressive midrange performance, and it is easy to pair with different amplifiers due to its high sensitivity. Its ability to sound great even with poor recordings makes it a practical choice for a wide range of listening scenarios.
All
DWX
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Bandwidth: 38 - 22k Hz [in-room average]
- Sensitivity: 95 dB-SPL @ 2.8V and 39" [1.0 m]
- Impedance: 12 ohm nominal full spectrum Z-weighted, 8 ohm minimum
- Max SPL Program: 118 dB-Z (slow)
- Max Input Power: 200 W program
- Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 23 inches [30.5 x 30.5 x 58.5 cm]
- Weight: 42 pounds [19 kg]
- Driver: Zu260FRD-ND (10" paper/CNT cone, neutral-hung 2" coil on paper/Kapton former)
- Tweeter: Eminence ASD-1001
- High-Pass Network: single element mono-pole 18k Hz bezel, 12k Hz realized
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 employ a full-range driver design, often paired with a super-tweeter, to achieve a coherent and crossover-free sound across much of the frequency spectrum.
- Zu speakers are known for their high efficiency, making them compatible with a wide range of amplifiers, including low-powered tube amps.
Select products
DWX
- Positioning: Medium format monitor, versatile for various placements.
- Description: Offers a blend of versatility and realism with its front-firing port, making it suitable for confined spaces without performance loss. Compared to the Union 6 Supreme, it is more compact and affordable, ideal for those seeking a high-efficiency speaker for smaller rooms or as a studio monitor.
Union 6 Supreme
- Positioning: Medium format floor-standing speaker with vivid and transparent sound.
- Description: Known for its vivid and toneful sound, featuring the ZuGriewe and scatter plate internals for improved bass and midrange performance. It offers a more sophisticated sound than the DWX.
Soul 6
- Positioning: Mid-format floor-standing speaker with exceptional tonal performance.
- Description: Features natural and uncolored sound, with a design that minimizes the need for precise amp matching and room placement. It provides a deeper bass response than the Union 6 Supreme.
Druid 6
- Positioning: High-efficiency floor-standing speaker with a focus on power and grace.
- Description: Features a new full-range driver and cabinet design for improved resolution and bass extension. It offers a more intense and relaxed playback compared to the Soul 6.
Definition 6
- Positioning: Flagship floor-standing speaker with full-range performance.
- Description: Features reach-out-and-touch-it intimacy and clarity, with dual full-range drivers and a powered subwoofer section. It surpasses the Druid 6 in terms of low-end reach and overall power.
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Used
Zu
What if you spend more?
Powerful, rich sound in a compact design. Designed for both digital and analog sources, Duetto is a versatile combination of Italian style and contemporary function. Big sound in a compact design, Duetto marks Sonus faber's inaugural active stereo wireless speaker system. Powered by four bespoke amplifiers, Duetto presents an all-in-one sound solution, harmoniously blending a multitude of connectivity options while keeping the listening experience wire-free.
Double the sound, not the size. Inspired by a harmony produced by two instruments, Duetto sets a new standard for wireless high-fidelity sound in a compact design.
Ultra Wide Band Technology
Duetto employs Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, enabling communication between the two speakers. The wireless transmission avoids latency and interference by other home networks, while guaranteeing a wide frequency spectrum to send data signals at high speeds.
SENSO™ Technology by Sonus faber
The leather top panel allows the user to control and set up speaker functions — such as playback, volume, input selection, and connections — with a buttonless interface through simple fingertip gestures.
Sonus faber's iconic lute-shaped design takes inspiration from musical instruments. Crafted from wood, the cabinet ensures structural solidity, rich timbre, and musicality, while effectively eradicating internal resonances to shape the unmistakable Sonus faber Natural Sound.
Hear – and see – to believe. Duetto takes note of Sonus faber's most iconic design cues and natural materials.
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Product Strengths
- Gorgeous sound is clear, smooth, detailed, and dynamic
- Elegant design is dashingly elegant, minimalist aesthetic, and painstakingly crafted for equal parts style and substance
- Impressive bass extension and output, described as deep and firm, surprising for their size
- Clear midrange makes voices sound purposeful, characterful, and entirely present
- Versatile connectivity with streaming and input options, including Chromecast, AirPlay 2, phono pre-amp, and HDMI ARC/eARC
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers experienced streaming and HDMI ARC reliability issues
- Input and control layout can be inconvenient and awkward
- Prototype unit had operational bugs
- No bass level adjustment is available, though it could be added in mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II—the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a similarly high-end option
- Vs PSB Alpha iQ—the PSB Alpha iQ is a more compact wireless speaker package than the Sonus Faber and is comparatively lighter on bass
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Duetto speakers are well-suited for those seeking amazing sound and a beautiful design in one package. These speakers are easy to connect and use, and fill the room with rich, detailed audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The Anniversary 10 (A10) is a culmination of all the experience that we have gathered over the last 10 years of designing and building HiFi speakers. Over the last decade, we have produced and sold thousands of speakers to happy HiFi enthusiasts from all around the world. Listening to feedback from our customers, learning from the best and adding our own flavor to the mix, has created extremely popular and critically acclaimed speakers, and now, this has evolved into our best sounding speaker yet. The A10 is something we are truly proud of, both in terms of sound, look and production values. It is a true celebration of our passion for amazing high-end sound, great engineering and high value products.
Product Strengths
- Exceptional bass performance for its compact size, with bass that is fast, clear, and tight
- Multiple 'Master Tunings' offer customizable sound profiles, adapting to different room acoustics and user preferences
- A high-quality Purifi woofer and SB Acoustics tweeter contribute to clarity, detail, and low distortion
- A solid wood cabinet made in Denmark provides a luxurious look and feel
Product Considerations
- Bass output may diminish or be limited at high volumes to protect the drivers from damage
- A separate purchase of the Platin Stereo Hub may be required for full wireless functionality and room correction
- The 'Made in China' label applies to the electronics inside the cabinet
- While the A10 offers impressive bass, some may still prefer to add a subwoofer for a true full-range experience
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Buchardt S400 Mark II, the A10 is more transparent with greater inner detail, clarity, and top-end extension—and deeper, tighter bass—while the S400 Mark II is more relaxed and forgiving with harsh recordings
- Vs Buchardt A500, the A10 has comparable performance, with possibly a crisper sound in some instances
Takeaway: The Buchardt Anniversary 10 is a compact yet powerful speaker that offers a customizable listening experience. Its impressive bass and versatile tuning options make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality audio solution in a small to medium-sized room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkable sound power and early directivity indexes make it a true point source speaker.
- Special sound quality for the price offers a level of performance not typically found in speakers at this price point.
- Very good neutrality is present when the speaker is turned off axis.
- It is a very versatile speaker to drive.
- The midrange presentation is very dead center and coherent.
Product Considerations
- The bass does not reach as low as some listeners might prefer.
- The speaker can get bright at times.
- Care should be taken to place it not directly on axis, because when placed directly on axis, it is no longer a neutral speaker.
- There's no stand included in the package.
- It is made in China, and construction can be suspect.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PureAudioProject Duet 15, the SourcePoint 10 is more precise and focused, while the PureAudioProject has a bigger soundstage.
- Vs Fleetwood Deville SQ, they sounded more alike than different when in action, but SourcePoint was more extended from top to bottom and brought more lively dynamics and impact.
- Vs Klipsch Heresy IV, the SourcePoint 10 is the superior speaker in every way from build to sound, with more refinement and smoothness, and it seems just as dynamic as the Klipsch.
- Vs Dynaudio Special 40s, the SourcePoint 10 sounds much bigger, more dynamic, has much better bass, and fills a room with ease.
- Vs KEF LS50 META, the LS50 sounds smaller, leaner, and not as special in the vocal region.
Takeaway:
The SourcePoint is a speaker with a neutral sound that originates from a single point, and it has remarkable early directivity indexes. It is a speaker that offers very good performance for the money, but careful attention needs to be paid to its placement in the room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
I am the overperforming little guy who will demand your respect after your first audition. I can be a serious 2 channel system with a subwoofer, an LCR, or a surround channel. Effortless dynamics and lightspeed transients remain the common thread of all Signature series speakers including the S4b. A bookshelf with this much technology is hard to find and can literally be the Ninja of any system. Bookshelf, main for a 2.1 system, LCR, Dominus Surround, it can transform into anything you need.
Features including our proprietary DPC-Array controlling Mid/High frequencies and centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. All transducers are developed ground up by our engineers bringing decades of research and culminating in this world class design. All S-Series speakers share the same DPC-Array and benefit from our unique timbre matching technique across the entire series utilizing Beryllium and our advanced Carbon fiber.
These speakers are an acoustic suspension to meet the demands of any listening room with unparalleled dynamic range and musical finesse. Very impressive system alone or when combined with a PERLISTEN subwoofer. Great for use in 2.1 systems or any channel of theater system utilizing subwoofers. Can be used as surround, height or LCR. Bookshelf, stand or on-wall mounting with keyhole or available bracket.
Featuring our DPC-Array as for controlling Mid/High frequencies, centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. This new tweeter/waveguide DPC-Array delivers amazing accuracy, smoothness, and directivity control to handle the critical vocal range and delicate treble. The S4b shares the same DPC-Array and benefits from our unique timbre matching technique as found in the entire S-Series range of speakers. Unparalleled dynamic range, low distortion and musical finesse. The PERLISTEN S4b continues the lineup of speakers that have the distinguished honor to be the world's first and only loudspeakers to be certified for THX Dominus – their highest rating.
Product Strengths
- Solidly built with an inert cabinet, contributing to overall performance
- Crazy linear/neutral sound from about 100Hz upwards
- The beryllium tweeter provides nuanced, airy, and extended highs with a hint of shimmer for realistic metallic instruments
- It creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making the speakers disappear sonically
Product Considerations
- It does not have a great deal of bass on its own and may require a subwoofer for full-range playback, starting its roll-off at around 100Hz
- While placement is flexible, a solid amplifier is required
- The styling might be an acquired taste and could be considered overcomplicated by some
- The high gloss finishes may not appear different from less expensive speakers, making it harder to justify the luxury price tag
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4: The S4B is more neutral/accurate, while the 805 D4 adds bass and treble energy
- Vs Focal Canta No. 1: The S4B outperforms the Canta No. 1, which has chestiness in its bass and midrange due to its cabinet
- Vs Revel Studio 2: The S4B reminded the reviewer of the Revel Studio 2, though the Revels had more bass
- Vs Focal Diablo Utopia: The Perlisten are a great alternative if the Utopias are outside of your reach and are a more neutral and less bright speaker
- Vs EgglestonWorks Nico Evo: The EgglestonWorks presentation is a little more mid-forward and less 3D than the Perlisten
Takeaway: The Perlisten S4b is a high-performing speaker that offers excellent clarity and a neutral sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike. The speaker's ability to create a detailed and immersive soundstage can bring music and movies to life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
- Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
- Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
- A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
- Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences
Product Considerations
- The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
- The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
- Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
- The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
- Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
- Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
- Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta
Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
- Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
- Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
- BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
- Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
- Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
- Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
- Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
- Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers
Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Precise and stable stereo imaging
- Good detail retrieval
- Neutral tonal balance
- Versatile directivity
Product Considerations
- Bass extension requires a subwoofer for full-range playback, especially below the mid-40Hz range
- Potential for brightness, especially when toed-in directly towards the listening position
- Requires careful setup and experimentation with placement to optimize sound, especially in relation to the rear wall and toe-in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SourcePoint 8 is more neutral, with a less elevated top end, while the SourcePoint 10 is brighter
Takeaway: The SourcePoint 8 is a well-engineered speaker that stands out for its clear imaging and ability to convey musical detail across different genres. It offers a balanced and neutral sound that makes it an engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Extremely good build quality, feeling solid and carefully assembled
- Delivers well-defined, three-dimensional imaging and a snappy sense of timing
- Combines exceptional midrange coherency
- Known for a natural, open, and detailed sound
- A beautifully three-dimensional speaker with very little perception of cabinet coloration or even cabinet presence
Product Considerations
- Inherent bass response drops away slowly
- Some recordings may sound a little sharp in the treble, but this is not the fault of the speakers
- Some limits to detail retrieval
- On the brighter side
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Lumina I: The Lumina II has meaningful extension below 50Hz, creating a believable weight and scale to the performance
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Sonus faber is easier to drive, more forgiving of less pristine recordings, and has an emotional quality that the LS50 Meta lacks
Takeaway: The Lumina II is a speaker that delivers many of the qualities that make Sonus faber loudspeakers stand out, offering an inviting and spirited sound that is also beautiful to look at. It represents an affordable way to experience Sonus faber's Italian-made craftsmanship and sonic signature.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Smooth, refined, and punchy performance, with a big, open, and clear sound makes listening enjoyable
- The cabinet design with Gelcore technology helps to reduce unwanted resonance, resulting in a cleaner, more detailed sound
- Excellent imaging creates a three-dimensional listening space
- Tonal accuracy is maintained across the frequency range and coloration is avoided, giving a natural sound
- Exceptional design and build quality make for an elegant-looking speaker
Product Considerations
- May lack dynamic subtlety, failing to fully communicate the interplay and changes in feeling within some musical pieces
- The stands, while visually appealing, are an expensive optional extra and can be difficult to assemble
- May not be as forgiving with poor recordings, revealing any flaws in the source material
- While the bass is controlled and natural, it may not extend as low as some competitors
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Concept 30 offers a smoother and more forgiving listen, and matches the KEF's creation of a three-dimensional listening space
- Vs Sonus Faber Lumina II: The Concept 30 retains the joy and ease of drive of the Lumina II, while being technically accomplished as the LS50 Meta
- Vs Acoustic Energy AE500: The Concept 30 has a presentational energy and perceived speed closer to the Acoustic Energy AE500
- Vs Q Acoustics 3030i: Concept 30 provides more forceful, focused, and precise bass, the treble is more delicate, and describes the cymbal itself in a realistic manner, giving a mature and tonally accurate presentation
- Vs Martin Logan 15i: The Concept 30 had a far stronger hold on what was going on—giving an organized and structured sound, unlike the naive and undisciplined Martin Logan 15i
Takeaway: The Concept 30 is an outstanding speaker that combines exceptional sound quality with a stunning design, making it a stylish addition to any listening room. It is a great choice for listeners who want a detailed and engaging musical experience.
Video review
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