The best sound system for home. Best Computer Speakers Best Speakers of the Year

Almost everyone spoke about the sound industry in the eighties of the last century. However, to date, this topic is rarely touched upon. Publications about can be found only in some specialized publications. But many of us are not even aware of the possibilities that modern audio technologies can provide.

Entertainment systems

Home for every person is the place where after a hard day's work he can relax by spending time reading books or watching TV. For many of us, it is no less pleasant to listen to our favorite music or enjoy watching a movie.

In order to get the full feeling of comfort, you need a good sound system. Of course, in any technique there are built-in speakers. However, they are usually of low quality. That is why many people seek to purchase additional devices for sound output. What are the best

Requirements Criteria

How to choose a speaker system for home use? First of all, you need to decide why it is needed. Of course, good for a sensitive music lover and for an ordinary housewife is a concept far from equivalent. After all, their requirements are fundamentally different from each other.

In addition, you will need to make a real assessment of the possibilities of the premises. Even if it is good, but with high power, it is hardly suitable for a small room of nine square meters.

That is why the selection of speakers for the home is not an easy task. And when solving this issue, it will be necessary to proceed not only from the parameters of the technology that reproduces the sound, but also from its key features. Do not forget about your own preferences, as well as personal financial opportunities.

acoustic bands

Systems for sound reproduction are divided into five groups. The first of them includes one-way acoustics, the second - two-way, etc. How to choose according to this parameter? For people who do not have special requests or are simply deprived of an ear for music, it is quite enough to purchase a single-way system. All the sounds of such speakers are emitted from only one speaker.

The best system is considered to be two-way. In it, one of the speakers reproduces the sounds of medium and low frequencies, and the second - high. This is a good speaker system for watching movies or listening to music, as it transmits deep bass separately. This uses a subwoofer. This is a speaker that reproduces the low-frequency range of audio frequencies. It has a fairly powerful speaker built into it.

Good for people with a more refined musical taste - three-way. In it, high, medium and low frequencies are reproduced in separate speakers. Such a system allows you to hear a more even sound and the most intelligible speech.

Power

How to select columns based on this parameter? Some buyers believe that the most powerful speakers allow you to get the maximum volume. However, it is not. The power of acoustics does not speak at all about the strength of the sound it produces.

This parameter indicates the mechanical reliability of the system. The higher it is, the more durable the speakers will be. When choosing acoustics, one nuance should be taken into account. It will be of better quality when the speaker power is higher than the same amplifier parameter.

Active and passive

There are two types of speaker systems available on the market. The first one is active. In such a system, the amplifier is located in the column. In the passive type, it is located separately.

Speaker systems with an amplifier are simply plugged into an outlet. At the same time, they immediately begin to make sounds. Passive systems will not work this way. In order to hear sound from such speakers, you will need to connect an amplifier. Simply put, the active type of acoustics works like ordinary computer speakers. The passive system is similar in its principle of operation to headphones that are not connected to an outlet.

Acoustic systems with an active type amplifier have a big plus. It lies in their ease of use. In this regard, the whole system is quite mobile. It is easy to put it in another place or unmount it. Another plus is that each of its bands, that is, the speaker, has a separate amplifier, at the output of which there are crossover filters. They are also active. This filter is easy to adjust. And this allows you to get high-quality sound.

An important criterion when choosing will be a wider frequency range active system, as well as the presence of a volume control on the speakers, which is very convenient during operation.

The second type of systems also has some advantages. First of all, they lies in their relatively low cost. At the same time, passive systems, as a rule, are more powerful than active ones, and they can always be combined with an amplifier available in the house. In addition, such speakers do not need to be connected to a linear signal and voltage.

Sensitivity

A good speaker system capable of reproducing the loudest sounds has a high sensitivity. This indicator is measured in decibels. Their number determines the sound pressure that the speakers are able to exert on the surrounding space. The higher the sensitivity value, the louder the sound. Speakers with this value equal to 85 decibels are perfect for home use.

Frequency

This parameter is also important for those who are interested in a good speaker system. A person is able to hear only those sounds that are in a certain range. It ranges from 20 to 20,000 hertz. In this case, the frequencies are divided into the following:

Low, in the range from 10 to 200 Hertz;
- medium - from 200 to 5000 Hertz;
- high - from 5000 to 20000 Hz.

A speaker system purchased for a home theater system may have a frequency in the range of 100-20,000 hertz. Music lovers are recommended columns with a large interval. The best for them will be acoustic systems with a frequency of 20 to 35,000 Hz.

Type of shell

You should also pay attention to this parameter when choosing a speaker system. The most popular are the speakers of the closed, as well as bass-reflex type. The case of the first of them is the simplest. It can have a variety of designs and satisfy the tastes of various categories of customers.

However, when the space is closed, the frequency of the lower resonance increases significantly. This negatively affects the transmission of low frequencies. In this regard, most speaker systems use a bass-reflex enclosure.
It is an open box with perfectly matched dimensions. There is an air vent in the cabinet that directs sound from the back of the speakers to the front. This allows you to significantly increase the volume of the bass.

Material

On sale you can find speakers made of plastic, wood and chipboard. Each of these materials has its own merits. So, plastic allows you to implement the most daring design decisions. It's fairly cheap and lightweight. However, the sounds reproduced by such speakers are much simpler. This is due to the rattling of plastic at high frequencies. Such speakers, as a rule, find their application when using a computer. They are not suitable for watching movies. In such cases, the best option is a speaker system made in a wooden case.

Those who have opted for plastic are advised to select speakers without sharp corners, edges and wide panels, as well as having a high-quality reliable assembly.

Formats

Ceiling speakers are suitable for a small room. They are quite compact, have a low cost and provide good sound. Their main disadvantage is shallow bass. In addition, in-ceiling speakers have low sensitivity. Only 40 watts of power is needed to reproduce loud sound.

Good for the hall - rack. In terms of size, it is larger than the ceiling, but at the same time provides sufficient depth of low frequencies.
Very convincing bass sound thanks to floorstanding speakers. It's also a great auditorium speaker that can rock the floor of a room. These speakers produce good sound and do not need a heavy-duty amplifier.

However, the size of the loudspeakers is the main reason why they must be anchored to the floor in order to eliminate additional cabinet vibrations. In addition, when these speakers are moved away from the walls for better sound, the space they occupy increases significantly. Such acoustic systems are quite massive and attract attention. Yes, and their cost is not so small.

professional equipment

According to some lovers of good music, such audio systems are of the highest quality. However, in reality, things are different. Professional acoustic systems have their name not at all from favorably different parameters. They are simply used to carry out activities related to the reproduction of sound.

Professional acoustic systems do not have any design frills, and expensive materials are not used in their manufacture. Their main difference from amateur speakers is the use of some elements that can withstand a constant load. After all, such systems work in stores or fitness clubs all the time, during the entire working time. In addition, professional speakers have a lot of power. It is she who allows them to voice a fairly large space.

Manufacturers

Those who want to purchase the best speaker system and have sufficient funds should consider the equipment of those manufacturers who are leaders in the sound reproduction equipment market. And first of all, I would like to say about Bowers & Wilkins (B&W). In the list of the best manufacturers of acoustic systems, it rightfully occupies one of the first places. The company specializes in the production of the most advanced home theater systems. At the same time, it offers its customers only the best acoustics that perfectly reproduce any music. Such systems are not cheap. However, with their help, you can hear an almost perfect sound.

The rating of the best manufacturers is continued by Rotel equipment. It originated as a small family business, and today it is a solid company that is professionally engaged in sound equipment. Feedback from consumers who have bought its equipment for home use confirms the high quality of the devices. In addition, the company produces audio systems that are suitable for customers with different income levels.

Affordable and high-quality speakers are offered by Yamaha. This Japanese manufacturer knows a lot about not only acoustic systems. Some branches of the company also produce classical and other musical instruments, which are highly valued by consumers around the world.

Jamo audio equipment is well known to many users. The columns produced by it are of high quality and are in various price categories.

Decent sounding products are also produced by such brands as JBL, Magnat, Dali and HECO.

A home speaker system is an indispensable thing if you want to make a real home theater. At the moment, on the market you can find many top solutions that will satisfy the needs of a buyer of any level. But if you want to buy floor acoustics, first you need to figure out which of the models offered by the market is best suited for you. After all, these are not just TV speakers, they are what will provide you and your home theater with real sound quality. To determine the ideal option, let's take a look at the 10 best home speakers.

Price: 16999 rubles

And the Sony SS-CS310CR opens our rating - these are the ideal floorstanding speakers for a home theater system. With them, you can achieve complete immersion in the process taking place on the TV screen. The 5-channel surround sound system delivers even sound throughout the room and delivers incredible clarity to your content.

Sony SS-CS310CR consists of two floorstanding speakers, two satellites, and one center speaker. Together, all this will allow you to realize surround sound and achieve the effect of complete immersion. The ultra-high frequency speaker faithfully reproduces some of the movie dialogue and lyrics that other speakers can't. Such speakers are installed in the front elements of the system. Also, the purity of the reproduced sounds is guaranteed by high-quality connectors that ensure the correct connection to the audio signal source.

№9 - YAMAHA NS-555

Price: 17775 rubles

YAMAHA NS-555 is a passive speaker system with a rated power of 200W. It belongs to premium class acoustics. The amplifier will have to be purchased separately, and it must correspond to the level of the system.

YAMAHA NS-555 has advanced magnetic shielding. This allows you to place the speakers close to the equipment, without fear that the devices can harm each other. Acoustics works in three bands, its frequency range is 35-35000 Hz.

Each speaker in the system has four speakers. This provides a balanced sound. The device produces excellent mids and is generally very versatile in terms of sound. Special attention should be paid to the design - it looks very stylish and beautiful.

#8 - JBL Arena 180

Price: 27980 rubles

The JBL Arena 180 professional bass-reflex model has a total output of 225W and boasts high-end bass. The maximum frequency of the reproduced signal is 40000 Hz. JBL Arena 180 has a closed cabinet and dome tweeter.

This is a component acoustics, which is ideal for creating a personal home theater. By becoming the owner of this model, you can fully experience the clear and powerful sound. Even in very large rooms, the JBL Arena 180 is able to provide high-quality audio playback at all frequencies. The appearance of the speakers is made in the spirit of minimalism, which allows them to harmoniously fit into any interior. JBL Arena 180 will look harmonious even in an ordinary room, even on the stage of a large theater.

No. 7 - Heco Victa Prime 602

Price: 39980 rubles

Heco Victa Prime 602's bass-reflex profile lets you negate everything extraneous sounds and noise to achieve perfectly clear sound during active work. The speakers of this premium speaker system are made of silk and cellulose. The power that this model can develop is 280 watts.

Due to the presence of a removable grille, Heco Victa Prime 602 received effective protection against mechanical damage, which makes it a very reliable and protected speaker system. The body here is made of MDF panels. We can say that this is the best option in its price category. Namely, from this segment they are most often purchased. So, Heco Victa Prime 602 enjoys a certain popularity among users.

Heco Victa Prime 602

#6 - Monitor Audio Bronze BX6

Price: 73540 rubles

Monitor Audio Bronze BX6 is a modern Hi-Fi speaker system, which is made in an original design and can offer the user wide functionality, a lot of connection options and excellent sound quality. First of all, it is worth noting the remarkable design of the device. It will look great with various interior solutions and simply decorate your room.

Monitor Audio Bronze BX6 is extremely easy to install. The speakers provide a smooth and high quality sound, quite versatile in nature. This system can be used both to create a stereo system for listening to music, and as an integral element of a home theater.

Monitor Audio Bronze BX6

No. 5 - Canton GLE 476

Price: 31990 rubles

The Canton GLE 476 multimedia system is very compact and one of the best models in this price range for small rooms. Two 180 mm drivers with aluminum cones are responsible for the bass region, and 25 mm fabric drivers are responsible for the high frequencies.

As for sound, special attention should be paid to its transparency and energy. The tonal balance is slightly raised, but this does not affect the overall sound quality at all. The speakers have an excellent dynamic range, due to which audible compression does not appear even at very high volumes. The system delivers deep, velvety bass. To get the right sound stage, you need to pay maximum attention to the placement of acoustics around the listener. Only in this way you can feel the surround sound and enjoy all the delights of your purchase.

No. 4 - Focal Chorus 615

Price: 47990 rubles

The Focal Chorus 615 is a 2.5-way loudspeaker from a well-known manufacturer, which is currently considered one of the best in its price segment. It is worth considering that for completeness of sound, you will have to separately purchase a subwoofer, center speaker and bookshelf speakers from the same manufacturer. In this case, you can achieve 5.1 channel sound. This kit is distinguished by its flexibility. He is able to amaze with a crystal clear sound even a music lover who has seen a lot. The sound played by the Focal Chorus 615 fully reveals all the effects and events from the film. So this is an indispensable item if you want to assemble a first-class home theater.

Focal Chorus 615

No. 3 - Canton GLE 496

Price: 37860 rubles

The Canton GLE 496 wireless model is one of the most popular speaker lines in Europe. At least that's what the manufacturer says. And this is quite similar to the truth, because this system knowingly opens the top three in our rating. This acoustics consists of two elements, which, when properly positioned, are able to provide surround sound of maximum quality and complete immersion for the listener. The device provides reproduction of excellent, deep bass, which literally takes your breath away.

Yes, this model is expensive, but it is able to satisfy almost all user requests. And the design in which the elements of the system are made is generally a separate work of art. The acoustics look very status.

#2 - Acoustic Energy Radiance 3

Price: 87900 rubles

Acoustic Energy Radiance 3 is a true flagship among acoustic systems. The sound here is realized at the highest level. This system provides the creation of a multi-layered canvas, which has a foreground that is somewhat moved towards the listener. However, the soundstage is very well proportioned. A special plus is the localization of sources.

Separately, it is worth noting the dynamic capabilities of this system. Acoustic Energy Radiance 3 can play music of any genre and clearly convey all elements of the composition. The midrange is fairly accurate. However, in some situations there is a slight decrease in harmonic resolution. Crystal clear high frequencies are brought to the fore. As for the design, the speakers are decorated quite stylishly and moderately minimalistically, it can be called universal.

Acoustic Energy Radiance 3

#1 - Monitor Audio Radius R270

Price: 23095 rubles

This model managed to get to the first place of our top due to the combination of high quality and relatively low price. For a system of this level, it is really very cheap. The Monitor Audio Radius R270 tweeter is made of aluminum, ceramic coating and gold. Thanks to the special HiVe ports, the air flow to the low-frequency radiators is significantly accelerated. This allows you to optimize the fade-in and fade-out parameters. As a result, the bass is very dynamic.

Computer modeling was used to create the emitters, which made it possible to minimize any sound distortion at each volume level. And thanks to the mounting of the speakers on the same axis, the intensity of internal resonance is reduced. You can be sure that this best model of those currently on the market.

Monitor Audio Radius R270

Our top contains all the most popular and high-quality models. Whichever one you choose, be sure that the result will justify the investment. The main thing is to choose exactly the acoustics that most fully meets all your needs.

A home speaker system is one of the requirements for convenience. Great sound is the foundation of any entertainment system, whether you're listening to music, playing games or watching videos. Without excellent sound reproduction, even the most chic movie and great game story instantly fade and seem unfinished. In principle, this is understandable, information is perceived by all senses at the same time, so the low quality of one of the elements instantly affects the overall perception.

There are many options for sound output, today we will focus on acoustic systems. When choosing a speaker system for your computer, the user must decide which format suits him best.

First, let's look at a few terms so that we won't dwell on them later.

Satellites (from lat. satellitis - satellite)- Speakers in x.1 formats for reproducing the mid- and high-frequency range of sounds.

Subwoofer- a speaker for reproducing the low-frequency range of audio frequencies (from 20 to 350 Hz). The subwoofer (or bass speaker) is the most powerful speaker in the speaker system and often surpasses all the satellites combined in terms of power.

And now consider the main formats of acoustic systems:

2.0 - simple stereo. The system consists of two speakers, which are most often installed on the table at the edges of the monitor. It is necessary to take into account the distance between the speakers and do not put them close together. The speakers are designed to reproduce medium and high frequencies (two-way), some models can also reproduce low frequencies (three-way).

2.1 - a subwoofer is added to the stereo speakers - a special device for reproducing low frequencies. The placement of a 2.1 speaker system is comparable to a 2.0 speaker setup, except that the subwoofer is usually placed lower (on a special shelf or floor) and away from the satellites. The subwoofer reproduces only low frequencies, and the satellites reproduce high and medium frequencies. The 2.1 system provides excellent bass that will not be superfluous in games, movies or music.

4.0 - quadraphonic acoustic system. This speaker Provides surround sound. Satellites are located at the four corners of the square, while the listener should be in the middle between them.

4.1 - quadraphonic speakers with the addition of a subwoofer.

4.1 surround- one of many surround sound formats. Two satellites are located in front of the listener along the edges, between them is the central channel, one more satellite is installed behind the listener. A subwoofer is added to the four speakers, which is installed in front of the listener, but away from the front satellites (most often, on the floor).

5.1 - the main acoustic surround sound format. The structure is similar to the 4.1 format, only there are two satellites behind the listener and they are placed at the edges, and not in the center. The feeling created by such a speaker system (for example, when watching a movie) is simply indescribable! Naturally, with the right settings. Indispensable when creating a home theater.

7.1 - the same surround sound acoustics as 5.1, but with big amount channels. More satellites are added on the sides of the listener. Naturally, this makes surround sound even better. Mainly used for home theater.

For computer games, 2.1 or 4.1 formats are suitable, stereo or quad speakers are responsible for the main environment, the subwoofer is responsible for low frequencies (explosions, voice acting of monsters and other low-frequency special effects).

For movie lovers, it is better to choose speakers of 5.1 or 7.1 format. The satellites will create a three-dimensional environment (the so-called Dolby Surround, “sound around”), and a separate speaker will be responsible for outputting the voice channel in the film (when viewed with a stereo system, this signal is usually muffled and the voices of the actors are hard to hear).

For music lovers, 2.0 speaker systems are recommended, since almost all music is now recorded in stereo. Of course, there are separate 2.1 and 5.1 speakers that will not spoil the sound quality, but there are quite a few of them (shoals with sound are primarily associated with a subwoofer, which introduces extra noise and overtones into the sound). As an option, you can think about a quadraphonic system, the sound, however, will not be so much voluminous as a bit unusual stereo.

When we have decided on the format of the speaker system and are ready to choose individual models, we should take a closer look at technical specifications AS.

Housing material

The sound quality is most affected by the material of the speaker cabinet. Modern speaker systems are made of plastic, chipboard, MDF or metal (some premium systems are made of special glass).

• Plastic is used for the manufacture of acoustic systems of the lower price category. The main advantage of using plastic is the ability to vary the shape and design at a low cost. In this case, there are frequent flaws in the sound, poor reproduction of the low-frequency range, rattling at high volume.
• Wood is an ideal material for making speakers, but it is very expensive (solid wood is used only in the production of elite acoustic systems). The high cost is associated with the complexity of processing processes, raw materials must be selected at the cutting stage, kept for a long time and dry naturally.
• Plywood for AC use typically has 12 or more plies, is highly absorbent, and is lighter than chipboard and MDF. But, in comparison with the same chipboard and MDF, plywood is a very expensive material, which makes it practically inaccessible for mass production of acoustic systems.
• Chipboard (chipboard) is much cheaper than solid wood and plywood. Chipboards with a thickness of more than 16 mm have a high density, which helps to reduce cabinet resonances. Due to the dense structure, chipboard does not introduce its own overtones into the sound of the speaker system. Given the low cost and good acoustic characteristics, chipboard is used by many manufacturers for speakers in the mid-price segment.
• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard, medium density fiberboard) is a common material in the manufacture of computer acoustics. The main advantages of MDF in the production of speakers are good absorption of sound vibrations and ensuring sufficient rigidity of the speaker cabinet.
• For metal cases, aluminum and its alloys are usually used. They provide good mechanical qualities of the body: lightness, rigidity and density. Aluminum allows you to reduce resonance and improve the transmission of high frequencies. At the same time, metal, like plastic, allows you to realize the most daring design decisions. The main disadvantage of the metal case is too "hard", "metal" sound.

None of the types of materials used in the manufacture of cabinets, in itself, does not provide high-quality speaker sound. A huge role here is played by the technical characteristics of the amplifier, filters, speakers, as well as the quality of assembly and detuning of the speaker system.

Power (RMS)

Many manufacturers often indicate in the technical specifications of their models "musical" power (P.M.P.O., Peak Music Power Output - peak musical power), which is determined according to the German standard DIN 45500.

According to this standard, a short-term signal with a frequency below 250 Hz is applied to the speaker system. If there are no perceptible distortions, then the speaker is considered to have passed the test. This does not take into account the nonlinear distortion of the signal. This method allows you to specify high values ​​of "power", often 10-100 times higher than the maximum sinusoidal. This parameter very poorly characterizes the real quality of sound reproduction.

For a more realistic speaker performance, the RMS (Root Mean Squared) power indicator is used. This power is measured by applying a sinusoidal signal with a frequency of 1000 Hz until a certain level of non-linear distortion is reached. If the characteristics of the model say 25 W (RMS), it means that the speaker system, when a 25 W signal is applied to it, can work for a long time without mechanical damage to the speakers.

How much power is needed for high-quality sound? This is determined by the parameters of the room in which the installation of this equipment is planned, the characteristics of the speaker itself, as well as the needs of the listener himself. For a room in a city apartment, for example, a system of up to 50 watts is more than enough.

Frequency range (AFC - Frequency response)

The frequency range is the range of frequencies reproduced by the speakers. In x.1 formats, the frequency range is divided into two parts - low frequencies are reproduced by a subwoofer, and medium and high frequencies are reproduced by satellites.

The ideal frequency range is considered to be "20 Hz - 20000 Hz" (with slight rounding, the range of sound vibrations perceived by the human ear). True, in practice, this range is unattainable by most acoustic systems.

In most cases, manufacturers indicate only the cutoff frequencies and the uneven frequency response. For example, the frequency range "40 Hz - 18 kHz" means that in this range the sound of the speaker system is even, reliable. Below 40 Hz and above 18 kHz, the unevenness of the frequency response increases sharply. Below 40 Hz, the speakers will reproduce sounds fuzzy, there may be a hum or strong attenuation of the signal, and above 18 kHz, crackling or hiss may appear.

The range value is strongly influenced by the number of speaker bands. Optimal are three-way speakers with active separation of the signal into high-frequency, mid-frequency and low-frequency ranges with the help of, with the subsequent supply of each range to separate speakers of the speaker system. Such a division allows for independent amplification in different bands of the spectrum and thereby ensure the optimal operating mode for each speaker.

For games and movies, two-way systems will do, but for music playback (especially if you are a music lover and connoisseur of pure sound), you should get a three-way speaker system.

Signal to noise ratio

The signal-to-noise ratio is a value equal to the ratio of the useful signal power to the noise power. Usually expressed in decibels.

SNR measures how noisy the speaker amplifier is (from 60 to 135.5 dB) if you turn the volume control to maximum in the absence of a signal. The higher the signal to noise ratio, the clearer the sound produced by the speakers. For high-quality speakers, this figure is in the region of 75 dB, for premium models - at least 90 dB.

Acoustic design

There are several options for acoustic design.

closed box- a completely closed case with diffusers of dynamic heads brought to the front panel. This option has low efficiency and poor reproduction of the low-frequency range, it requires a fairly powerful amplifier.

A phase inverter pipe of a certain length and section is mounted in the case. With the correct calculation of the dimensions of the pipe and the volume of the speaker cabinet, the phase inverter significantly improves the sound of the speaker system. It creates oscillations of sound waves, in-phase with oscillations caused by the front side of the diffuser. This achieves a significant amplification of the low-frequency range and the "softness" of the sound. This design is typical for AC format 2.0.

Band-pass (Band-Pass, closed resonator box)- design for subwoofers. The speaker is installed inside the case, and only the phase inverter pipe is brought out. The speaker itself does not directly participate in the formation of the low-frequency spectrum; instead, it only excites low-frequency sound vibrations, which then increase many times in volume in the phase inverter pipe. The band pass is not always suitable for playing music, as the subwoofer starts to “buzz” at certain frequencies. This is why 2.1, 4.1 and 5.1 format systems are generally not designed for music playback.

Requires the use of a complex and large body. The speaker consists of a small compression type driver mounted in the throat of the horn, due to which the efficiency of the driver is significantly increased. The main plus is deep and rich bass. In this case, the acoustics will be massive, heavy and expensive. If you try to reduce the size of the column, and therefore the horn, the efficiency of the system will drop sharply.

(transmission line) is designed to dampen and scatter the radiation from the back of the bass speaker cone. It is placed inside the housing and has an outlet, like a traditional phase inverter. The labyrinth allows you to get deep and high-quality bass, and also simplifies the load characteristics of the speakers. The acoustic labyrinth requires a large and complex cabinet, although its use provides only a slight advantage over a well-sized conventional bass reflex.

Omnidirectional (omnidirectional) speakers emit sound 360 degrees, which allows you to get a wide and voluminous stereo image. Omnidirectional acoustics are able to fill the room with sound that will be perceived by listeners in almost any place. At the same time, the sound picture between two such speakers will not be as accurate and focused as in the case of using traditional acoustics.

At electrostatic columns The diffuser emitting sound vibrations is a thin film with an electrostatic charge. This film is so light that it does not store kinetic energy and therefore does not resonate. Thanks to this effect, a transparent and clear sound is obtained, free from coloring and distortion. These speakers are great for vocal and classical music where precision and fluidity are important. The problem is that the open back panel of such speakers requires free placement in the listening room, at a considerable distance from the walls. AC requires a power source and a quality amplifier. The limited bass range necessitates the use of an additional woofer or separate subwoofer.

Planar magneto loudspeakers according to the principle of operation, they are similar to electrostatic ones, however, in them the radiating film oscillates under the influence of a passing sound signal in a constant magnetic field. Planar magneto speakers sound clean and transparent, and are great for reproducing vocals, including choral parts. Unlike electrostatic speakers, they do not need a power source. Cons are basically the same. Size, bad bass, the need for a good amplifier.

IN tape speakers To create sound waves, vibrations of a thin aluminum foil in a constant magnetic field are used. The tape radiator reproduces sound with low distortion, but is absolutely not suitable for operation in the low frequency range. In addition to bad bass, another problem with ribbon speakers is a slight metallic sound.

Speaker sizes

Compact bookshelf acoustics (~25 cm high)

Bookshelf speakers are inexpensive, compact, and can provide decent sound, at least in stereo. Usually have a neutral tonal balance.

The main disadvantage is shallow bass. In addition, bookshelf speakers have low sensitivity and require at least 40 watts of input power to get loud sound from them. If too much power is applied, on the contrary, audible distortion of the sound occurs (in the worst case, the voice coils heat up and burn out).

When located close to the wall, it is necessary to choose speakers with a phase inverter on the front panel. Among other things, such placement will allow to enhance the bass to some extent.

Rack acoustics of medium size (~35 cm high)

Rack acoustics are larger than bookshelf speakers and are able to provide already very deep low frequencies (the sound range of stringed bass instruments). Acoustics of this class is a good compromise between size and sound quality.

The main disadvantage is the large size for placing them on the workplace or bookshelf. If you use special racks, then such a system will take up space like large outdoor speakers.

Compact floor acoustics (~ 100 cm high)

Floor-standing speakers can already produce bass that is convincing and deep enough to shake the floor in your living room. With a relatively modest height, compact floor acoustics can have a low-frequency range below 30 Hz. Occupying space like a smaller rackmount speaker, floorstanding models deliver best sound, have a high sensitivity and do not require a heavy-duty amplifier.

The main disadvantages are also associated with the dimensions of outdoor speakers. By itself, such a system will look massive in a small room, and for better sound, the speakers will have to be moved away from the walls (which makes them stand out even more in space). In addition, floorstanding speakers must be well fixed to the floor so that there are no additional vibrations of the cabinet.

Large floor acoustics (over 120 cm high)

Large floorstanders can operate at high power inputs and have deep bass. Several woofers can be built into the speaker to expand the low-frequency range. Large floor-standing acoustics have high sensitivity and even with a small input power they are able to sound a room of considerable size with high quality, they sound large and comfortable, they have low bass distortion and a wide dynamic range.

The massiveness of such systems can attract attention, especially if the room is not so big. Yes, and they are, to put it mildly, not cheap.

Top list of speaker systems for January 2015

Stereo systems - 2.0

• Material - MDF
• Full musical power - 24 W
• Frequency response - 70 Hz - 24000 Hz
• Dimensions - 226 x 197 x 140 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 4.75 kg
• Color - black, brown

• Material - MDF
• Full musical power - 30 W
• Frequency response - 63 Hz - 24000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Overall dimensions - 220 x180 x140 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 6.8 kg
• Color - black, brown

• Material - MDF
• Full musical power - 42 W
• Frequency response - 75 Hz - 18000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Dimensions - 234 x 196 x 146 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 4.9 kg
• Color - black, brown

• Material - MDF
• Full musical power - 50 W
• Frequency response - 45 Hz - 24000 Hz
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Overall dimensions - 160 × 255 × 200 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 5.2 kg
• Black color

• Material - MDF
• Full musical power - 124 W
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Overall dimensions - 218 x 370 x 292 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 16 kg
• Black color

• Material - MDF
• Full musical power - 100 W
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Dimensions - 210 x 270 x 361 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 13.7 kg
• Color - black, brown

• Material - MDF
• Frequency response - 50 Hz - 20000 Hz
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Dimensions - 214 x 575 x 323 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 21.9 kg
• Color - black, brown

• Material - MDF
• Full musical power - 140 W
• Frequency response - 40 Hz - 20000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Overall dimensions - 258 x 463 x 320 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 27.8 kg
• Black color

Three-component acoustics - 2.1

• Material - plastic
• Full Music Power - 48W (2x9W + 32W)
• Frequency response - 50 Hz - 20000 Hz
• Signal/noise ratio, dB - ≥ 80
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Subwoofer dimensions - 248 x 199 x 294 mm
• Overall dimensions of satellites - 69 x 234 x 118 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 4.1 kg
• Color - black, white

• Material - MDF
• Full Music Power - 80W (2x20W + 40W)
• Frequency response - 35 Hz - 25000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Subwoofer dimensions - 265 × 265 × 265 mm
• Overall dimensions of satellites - 120 × 202 × 125 mm
• Overall dimensions of the amplifier block - 69 × 200 × 220 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 7.5 kg
• Brown color

• Material - MDF
• Full Music Power - 53W (2x9W + 35W)
• Frequency response - 55 Hz - 18000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Overall dimensions of satellites - 90 x 180 x 130 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 7.8 kg
• Black color

• Material - MDF (subwoofer), plastic (satellites)
• Full Musical Power - 200W (2x35W + 130W)
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Subwoofer dimensions - 303 × 264 × 282 mm
• Overall dimensions of satellites - 116 × 195 × 135 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 8.3 kg
• Black color

• Material - MDF
• Full Music Power - 140W (2x35W + 70W)
• Frequency response - 20 Hz - 20000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Magnetic shielding - yes
• Subwoofer dimensions - 274 x 309 x 468 mm
• Dimensions of satellites - 116 x 203 x 160 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 19 kg
• Black color

Six-channel systems - 5.1

• Material - MDF
• Full Music Power - 65W (5x8W + 25W)
• Frequency response - 30 Hz - 20000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 75
• Subwoofer dimensions - 190 x 267 x 400 mm
• Dimensions of satellites - 95 x 218 x 103 mm (center), 198 x 106 x 103 mm (side)
• Mass of acoustic systems - 10 kg
• Black color

• Material - MDF
• Full Music Power - 80W (4x8W + 10W + 38W)
• Frequency response - 45 Hz - 18000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Subwoofer dimensions - 232 x 242 x 288 mm
• Dimensions of satellites - 180 x 90 x 130 mm (center), 90 x 180 x 130 mm (side)
• Overall dimensions of the amplifier block - 78 x 255 x 250 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 12.6 kg
• Black color

• Material - MDF
• Full Musical Power - 270W (5x32W + 110W)
• Frequency response - 20 Hz - 25000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - 92
• Subwoofer dimensions - 267 x 340 x 310 mm
• Satellite dimensions - 122 x 220 x 182 (small), 240 x 1000 x 200 mm (tower), 220 x 122 x 182 mm (center)
• Mass of acoustic systems - 33.5 kg
• Brown color

• Material - MDF
• Full Musical Power - 500W (5x67W + 165W)
• Frequency response - 35 Hz - 20000 Hz
• Signal/noise ratio, dB - ≥ 95
• Subwoofer dimensions - 280 × 318 × 292 mm
• Overall dimensions of satellites -99 × 92 × 163 mm
• Mass of acoustic systems - 12.7 kg
• Black color

• Material - MDF
• Full Music Power - 540W (5x60W + 240W)
• Frequency response - 42 Hz - 20000 Hz
• Signal-to-noise ratio, dB - ≥ 85
• Subwoofer dimensions - 367 x 397 x 489 mm
• Dimensions of satellites - 316 x 117 x 157 mm (center), 116 x 203 x 160 mm (side)
• Mass of acoustic systems - 30 kg
• Black color

Penaudio Lumi are small bookshelf speakers that belong to the same "snow" series as the Talvi floorstanders, and have come to replace the wonderful kids Penaudio Cenya, the author's version of which was impossible not to notice at the autumn exhibition in 2018, they stood out so strikingly at background of other speakers.

Acoustic systems Old School On Air. Overview

Three-way monitors have always aroused great interest: they allowed squeezing out the maximum sound drive even in cramped conditions of small rooms. However, Russian developers have tried to solve another problem in this acoustics - all other things being equal, to achieve a voluminous large-scale stage. Let's see if it worked?

Old School Hobby Bookshelf Test: Vocals

Invented in Russia and embodied in Europe, the brand expands the range of bookshelf acoustics. Hobby's latest compact 2-way speaker suggests it's meant for serious music lovers. And how the name corresponds to the content - we will find out in the test listening.

Monitor Audio Bronze 2 review.

If looking at latest version Bronze 2 gives you a sense of deja vu, which is exactly what the creators wanted. The company decided not to change the formula, which has proved its success time and time again, but made several evolutionary engineering decisions, resulting in what is probably the most advanced bookshelf speaker Bronze.

Penaudio 6.6 CX Anniversary 20 Limited Edition Acoustics Test: Sound from Fairyland

Big but proud Finns live in small but proud Finland. Proud of themselves, of their country, who gave us, for example, several hundred wonderful hard-rock, des-metal and other guitar-buzzing bands and delicious milk. It was pride and love for the country that prompted Sami Penttila, the founder of Penaudio, to release the 6.6 Suomi 100 acoustics a couple of years ago - just in time for the centenary of Finland's independence. The company decided to celebrate its own anniversary brighter.

Review of the Penaudio Lumi speaker system: winter, snow, guns, music

For twenty years, Finnish engineer Sami Penttila has been creating Penaudio acoustic systems, trying to bring their sound closer to the sound of musical instruments: cello, violin, piano. In the anniversary year, the company introduced several new products, Lumi is one of them.

Overview of Elac Debut B5.2 speakers. One of Elac's finest creations.

The first line of speakers Elac Debut was released about three years ago and warmly received by the market. We tested the junior model of the line, the Debut B5, and highly appreciated the combination of mid-range smoothness and rhythm, although we had to note that it is inferior to the class leaders in terms of dynamics and drive. Established budget superstars like Q Acoustics and DALI didn't have to worry about competition.

Dynaudio Confidence Shelf Speaker

Like the rest of the series, the Confidence 20 features an all-new 28mm Esotar3 soft-dome tweeter, as well as a new 18cm NeoTec woofer/midrange driver with an MSP (Magnesium Silicate Polymer Composite) cone and an innovative bass reflex port, pointing down.

Audiomania receives the title of the best Monitor Audio dealer, and Sylvan Coignon presents the new Gold 5G series in the showroom on Barabanny

On March 18, at the Audiomania showroom on Elektrozavodskaya, representatives of Barnsly (the Russian distributor of Monitor Audio) and Sylvain Kuanon (manufacturer's representative) presented a new line of Monitor Audio Gold 5G speaker systems. The prize was also awarded to the best dealer in Russia for 2018, which, as expected, was Audiomania.

Finnish acoustics Penaudio Lumi: polypropylene driver and anti-resonance panels made of Karelian birch

The new two-track from the Finnish brand Penaudio is called Lumi, which means “snow” in Finnish, so it seems quite harmonious that it is released in the new Snow Line series. The "proud Scandinavian company" Penaudio (as they call themselves) says that the name of the line is associated with its northern location. This is where the winter associations end, giving way to technology.

Dynaudio's Evoke Series

The Danish company Dynaudio has introduced a completely new line of Evoke acoustics in the middle category. It was developed from scratch, but at the same time technologies from the older series were introduced. The line includes two floorstanding models, two bookshelf speakers and center channel acoustics.

Three colors of Vela: ELAC speakers of the new series are already available to domestic buyers

Luxurious ELAC loudspeakers from the new Vela range are in great demand in Europe and around the world. And now in the showrooms of the Russian dealers of this legendary German brand, the full ELAC Vela range is presented in all three finishes: black lacquer, white lacquer or lacquered walnut veneer.

DALI Oberon 3 acoustic test: one step further

The new line of Oberon acoustics from the Danish company DALI appeared exactly at the moment when the very successful and affordable Zensor series left the stage. This automatically defined Oberon as a replacement for the popular Censors. However, the closer you look at the new product, the more doubts arise that a comparison with Zensor may be appropriate. Personally, I was convinced of this when I got to the older Oberon 3 shelf speakers.

Overview of the DALI Oberon 1 speaker system

Two-way minimonitors are always a mystery. Some models captivate with linearity or detail, others with stereophonic volume or tonal liveliness. And there are such strong kids that discourage powerful dynamics and bass. Now, guess how these brand new Danish loudspeakers endeared us?

Acoustic systems DALI Oberon 3. Overview

We already know what engineering and technological features distinguish both floor models in the new DALI Oberon series. And now let's look at what they gave to the speakers, which are made in the form factor of two-way monitors. Today, the place on the racks will be occupied by the most respectable representatives.

JBL Stage Acoustic Series Test: Concert Scale

One of the notable trends in the world of Hi-Fi is the desire of manufacturers to make inexpensive acoustics beautiful, sounding and attractive in every way. If earlier, looking at inexpensive speakers, you had to forgive boring design, simple finish and rough assembly, flattering yourself with the hope that the sound will cover the shortcomings, now you have to suffer from this kind of compromise less and less. And in this trend, sometimes there are leaders who, with an extremely low budget, manage to make really cool-sounding speakers. We will study such a phenomenon from JBL now, and in two forms at once: stereo and home theater.

DALI Rubicon 2 Acoustic Test: Here's How Good Home Speakers Should Play

The Danish company DALI has a very wide range of acoustics, which is also regularly updated. At the same time, developers and marketers cope with a very difficult task from year to year: to maintain a single sound signature and an equally interesting price / quality ratio in each price group. All this allows connoisseurs of the brand to easily upgrade, moving up the lineup. Only one question remains: which series can be stopped in search of perfection? There is an opinion that Rubicon is exactly that level.

Astell & Kern ACRO L1000 DAC/amplifier test and S1000 acoustics: friendly cubes

The Korean company Astell & Kern specializes primarily in portable audio, but the niche of stylish desktop audio also seems attractive to her. And for desktop components, she created the ACRO sub-brand, within which she released a DAC / amplifier and matching speakers.

Wharfedale Diamond 11.1 shelf speaker test: Warfedale sound in bookshelf format

Wharfedale is a popular brand, our audiophiles and music lovers have known it for decades. There was a moment when he briefly left the horizon, but now he is again in sight and on hearing. But for the last few years I have been content with exclusively superficial listening to new products at exhibitions, and I have just reached a full-fledged acquaintance. And immediately a classic - the Diamond series - however, in a miniature format. The Diamond 11.1 is the average of the three bookshelf speakers in the lineup and quite compact speakers in general.

B&W 700 S2 Series 5.1 speaker set review

The B&W 700 S2 series is the latest update to the company's mid-range speakers. It incorporates many of the features first developed for the 800 series but now available in more affordable models. These speakers look similar to the CM series speakers, but have a number of design differences.

Monitor Audio Monitor 100 bookshelf acoustics test: musical notes and vintage notes

Do not think that my keyboard is jammed or started to fail text editor. Everything is much easier. Monitor Audio has updated its line called "Monitor". The novelty is one step lower in the lineup, but traditionally inherits several key technologies from the older series, which is why it is inevitably perceived as a direct competitor to the Bronze series. And indeed, if we compare the new Monitor 100 and the previously released Bronze 2, the differences in passport data will be minimal.

Old School Classic One HS Loudspeaker Test: Handling Complex Materials Effortlessly

The acoustic brand Old School was born not so long ago, but if not the speakers themselves, then at least many have already heard talk about them. New "Old School" models appear regularly, but the object of today's test is of particular interest. After all, the Classic One HS is the first speaker of this brand, the creation of which took into account the features of tube amplification.

Dynaudio Special Forty speaker review

The Dynaudio Special Forty are two-way bookshelf speakers (designed to be placed on stands). Unlike other Dynaudio acoustics, Special Forty is not included in any series, but is presented on its own. This is due to the fact that this model was released for the 40th anniversary of the company. Dynaudio already had a similar experience: in 2002, for its 25th anniversary, this company already produced acoustics called Special 25. These speakers were the best two-way bookshelf speakers that I had ever heard, so it is not surprising that in relation to Special Forty I had high expectations.

Comparative test of shelf acoustic systems in the price range of 60,000 - 70,000 rubles.

We continue to study the most demanded sector of acoustic systems, which can conditionally be limited by the price bar of 150 thousand rubles. Last time we heard from serious acoustics manufacturers DALI, Wharfedale and Tannoy. And what will we get by staying in the shelf size class, but having almost tripled the budget?

In the quiet of the office: Comparative test of shelf speakers in the price range of 22,000 - 27,000 rubles.

We recently compared Today it was decided to pay attention to shelf models from the same lines. Choosing bookshelf speakers instead of floorstanding ones in this case will save half the budget allotted for acoustics. But what will you have to sacrifice? And will it have to?

Spring novelties Arcam and Monitor Audio

On March 22, a presentation of Barnsly took place in the cozy Audiomania salon on Michurinsky Street, during which the novelties of its leading British partners Monitor Audio and Arcam were shown. For the first time in Russia, Monitor Audio introduced the Studio series speaker systems, as well as the Monitor 3G budget speaker line. As for Arcam, Alan Davidson, sales manager for Europe, came to Moscow specifically for this presentation. He brought with him "live" samples of the equipment of the new HDA (High Definition Audio) series, which was announced at CES in January 2018.

Report from Audiomania: "Continuation of the inspection on Drum"

Simultaneously with the Hi-Fi & High End Show 2018 exhibition, which was held at the Aquarium Hotel of the Crocus Expo exhibition complex, a special exposition “Continuation of the inspection on Drum” was operating in Audiomania. There one could see the equipment of the same brands as in the hotel, but in a slightly more expanded assortment and in different conditions, as well as already installed sets of recreation centers.

Bowers & Wilkins 705S2 speaker review

The Bowers & Wilkins 705 S2 speakers are in a two-way configuration and are designed to be placed on stands; they are the largest model in this class in their 700th line. At first glance, the 705 S2 doesn't look much different from the acoustics that B&W has been releasing over the past few years. In part, these speakers are similar (outwardly, of course) to the CM6 S2, which are part of the CM series. However, in fact, the design of the 705 S2 has undergone major changes.

Wharfedale Diamond 11.2 bookshelf speaker review

With its name, the Diamond series directly hints at something elitist and expensive, although in fact this acoustics in the hierarchy of the British manufacturer has a completely different place - to be the favorite of the widest range of music lovers. And now we will listen to how brilliant the newest eleventh generation of "people's diamonds" sounds.

Compact size. Comparative test of shelf systems: DALI Opticon 2, Wharfedale Reva 1, Tannoy Revolution XT Mini.

We continue our reviews of affordable acoustic systems. This time, the selection includes shelf speakers with a recommended retail price of up to 50,000 rubles. This category is extremely interesting - the small dimensions of the speaker cabinets allow, albeit with certain limitations in the low-frequency range, to create an amazingly detailed sound field and build a three-dimensional scene.

Audiomania at the Hi-Fi & High End Show 2018 - with the continuation of the inspection on Drum!

Audiomania once again takes part in the international exhibition Hi-Fi & High End Show, which will be held from April 13 to 15 at the Aquarium Hotel of the Crocus Expo exhibition complex. According to the already established tradition, simultaneously with the exhibition, a special exposition “Continuation of the inspection on Drum” will operate, where everyone can visit three unique Audiomania showrooms. This significantly expands the possibilities of exposition of the exhibition format of hotel rooms for visitors. This year, Audiomania will present new solutions and technologies for high-quality playback of music and movies under the brands Arslab, Old School, Penaudio, ICE, Cold Ray, Octave, Plinius and others.

DALI test Spektor 2

In terms of characteristics, the new DALI Spektor 2 speakers practically do not differ from their main competitors. They are made according to the usual formula and can serve as a standard for classic budget shelf speakers. It has everything we've come to expect from a typical sub-$20,000 pair: two-way circuitry, a bass-reflex port for bass support, a 1-inch dome tweeter, and a 13cm mid/bass driver.

Arslab Classic 1.5 bookshelf speaker review: inspiration

Having finished listening, I once again wondered: would I like to see Arslab Classic 1.5 as part of my home stereo system? I can say with confidence that yes. In any case, it would be interesting to me, since I have probably never seen speakers with such a bright, large-scale and generally convincing sound in this price category.

Arslab Classic 1.5 Shelf Monitors: Criticism is hard to come by. Overview

The Arslab model range is diverse enough to make it possible to find the best option for almost any conditions. This time we decided to listen to large shelf speakers with a 6-inch midbass and find out how omnivorous they are in terms of musical preferences. In this age of wireless and streaming technologies, this quality is becoming more and more relevant.

OldSchool - it sounds proud! (Old School Music Review)

It's no secret that many modern music lovers and audiophiles have a passion for a la vintage audio equipment. Meet and listen to the new bookshelves of Old School Music. Yes, this model evokes pleasant retro-romantic nostalgia… However, behind the “old-school” appearance and the world-old two-way design, there is a bold, “modern reading” of the classic HiFi.

Review of acoustics PMC twenty5: twenty-five in the maze again

The hierarchy of acoustic systems in our time can be considered established. Somewhere on the periphery of vision, electrostatic exoticism grows. In the center, regardless of the presence of an amplifier or Wi-Fi, the speakers use the classic driver overclocking scheme. And yet one company does it in its own way.

Shelf monitors Old School Music: filigree construction of the sound stage

We have known Old School floor acoustics for a long time, and had the opportunity to understand what the old sound school is in the view of Russian developers. Did they manage to express their idea in a compact shelf version? The design is recognizable, but will the sound be recognizable?

Acoustics Arslab Studio 10

Judging by the influx of outwardly attractive, technologically advanced, but at the same time very inexpensive speaker systems from leading manufacturers, a fierce battle is brewing in the hi-fi market for the low-budget segment. Analysts believe that small companies that do not have super-profitable production in China have nothing to catch here. But we have already found at least one exception.

Review: REGA PLANAR 2, REGA BRIO-R, DALI ZENSOR

To achieve true synergy of the system, it is necessary to find components that can bring out the best qualities of each other. One of the most simple ways to achieve this is the use of models of one manufacturer. Of course, this does not mean that you can take any two components of the same brand; however, it is not uncommon for models from the same brand to have similar personalities and strengths that, if properly approached, will benefit your audio path.

Test shelf acoustics Arslab Old School Music: old music, new speakers. Overview

The premium series of Old School acoustics from the Arslab brand is developing more and more actively. Following the successful debut of the classic three-way Superb 90 bookshelf, inspired by the legendary S-90, the line-up saw a pair of monitors similar in layout, the Monitor M2 and Classic One, the compact Monitor M1 shelf model with a coaxial speaker, and then the classic-looking Life floorstander. . Now it's the turn of traditional small shelves. The Old School Music model is an absolute two-way Hi-Fi classic: two speakers, a small cabinet with a narrow front, a bass reflex. And most importantly - the view turned out really old school.

Dali Spektor 2 bookshelf acoustics test: reveal the stage, hold the bass and are inexpensive

The impression made on me by the Dali Katch portable speaker prompted me to review the company's classic solutions. Moreover, it was the public sector that aroused interest. To my surprise, the title of the cheapest series now belongs to Spektor, and not Zensor, who has climbed a notch.

Arslab Old School Superb 90 three-way shelf speaker. Just what the rocker ordered!

After tests of Arslab bookshelves and floorstanders, there was a conviction in the overall correct approach of the company to the development, selection of components and building acoustic systems in a given design and price range. But these were speakers that fit into modern canons in terms of size and design. Therefore, it was very interesting to find out how successful the acoustics were in the non-standard design of shelf speakers, which cannot be put on a shelf and which, in terms of volume, will plug many modern “columns” into the belt. I wanted to evaluate the sound of three-band speakers in the design of a "closed box".

Penaudio Charisma Signature. Freedom of creativity

What does a creator need to create? Free him from routine affairs, allowing him to spend all his time on creativity. Small companies in the audio industry start with one person, he is the author, producer and seller. As the company and production expand, he has to spend more and more time on administrative matters. And there comes a time when there is almost no time left for creativity.

Old School Monitor Studio M2. New classic

I really love classic type monitors. Actually, it is on such monitors that I listen to music at home in my system. And I do not miss the opportunity to get acquainted with other representatives of this type of acoustic systems. Therefore, I gladly agreed to test the Old School Studio Monitor M2 speakers, which not only have the proportions and construction of classic monitors, but also look cool, combining some vintage charm, modern drivers and an atypical, but very beautiful finish.

Acquaintance with three pairs of wall acoustics Waterfall Serio, Hurricane and Elora, or Glass to sound - decoration, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

From a technological point of view, these designer acoustics have surpassed classical solutions and, what is completely unexpected, did not lose at all in terms of sound quality.

Test shelf acoustics Old School Monitor M2: and the soul is always young, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

An obvious family trait is the high level of detail in general, the high class of sound quality. Even with a solid price tag, acoustics work it out to the fullest and, it seems to me, deserves best-in-class cables and electronic components as partners

Shelf monitors Old School Monitor M2, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

We continue to get acquainted with the Old School retro line. Next in line are three-way Monitor M2 systems with body proportions similar to those of the legendary Soviet S90. However, the similarity here is only superficial - the new models are designed to meet modern sound requirements, assembled from selected components and produced in expensive finishes.

The Audiomania company decided to separate the Arslab Old School acoustics line into a separate brand and released three premium models: Classic One, Monitor M1 and Monitor M2. The novelties were first shown at the Munich High End Show this year and, according to the company, they aroused the interest of the public and distribution companies.

Dashing 90s: Arslab Old School Superb 90 speaker test, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

The impressiveness and precision of low frequencies is especially felt on club tracks, in which the abundance of bass creates not only the danger of “not pumping” it, but also the risk of drowning in the viscous masses of inarticulate buzz. In our case, even at an impressive volume, low frequencies remain under complete control.

Acoustic systems DALI Zensor. The triumph of technology, review. Portal "Soundex.ru"

And again, the triumph of technology is evident. Budget-level speakers demonstrate very good sound. Zensor speakers are versatile performers with no genre preferences that will play with just about any amp. But if you pick up a good amplifier, source and cables, you can get a very decent, but at the same time inexpensive Hi-Fi class system.

ArsLab Old School Superb90. School "s out forever (Alice Cooper), review. Portal "Soundex.ru"

If you're nostalgic for old-fashioned speaker designs but aren't willing to take the risk of choosing from online auctions, an authentic piece in mint condition without being able to adequately listen to your chosen pair, the Arslab Old School Superb 90 is for you.

Monitor Audio Bronze 1 review. Online magazine "AVREPORT.RU"

Inexpensive, compact speaker systems Monitor Audio Bronze 1 have a good sound, which is usually called the entry-level Hi-Fi - honest reproduction, although without any frills. Nevertheless, shelf speakers have something to surprise, they are unexpectedly bass for their size.

Acoustics test Monitor Audio Gold 100: all the gold that sounds, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

On the one hand, the sound is exceptionally informative and monitor, and on the other hand, it is quite comfortable and natural. The differences between the models of the previous and current generation are expressed in details that do not change the fundamentally recognizable sound signature of Monitor Audio.

Bookshelf acoustics DALI Opticon 1, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

Hidden under the protective grilles are mid/bass speakers with wood fiber cones - the material DALI uses in more expensive models - and without dust caps. The chaotic structure of the wood fiber prevents the occurrence of resonances and contributes to the formation of a richer sound.

The leading figure in the Hi-Fi industry, Monitor Audio (UK) has updated the Bronze series speakers. Monitor Audio Bronze loudspeakers, the new, fifth generation, now have an even more advanced design, and some of the technologies are traditionally borrowed from older lines.

Since the first award ceremony of the magazine What is hi-fi? Awards, which took place in December 1983, we met with the most striking evidence of the craftsmanship of the creators of the columns - and each year presented the Product of the Year medal to the most talented couple.

Monitor Audio Bronze: Hi-Fi cast in bronze, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

Each subsequent generation of Bronze, Silver and Gold received technologies previously used in the series above. Due to this, budget models after several generational changes invariably acquire the properties of flagships. Well, since the recently released Bronze generation is the fifth in the history of the company, one can come to a simple conclusion that the current younger models are technically superior to the older ones of the first generations.

Speakers Monitor Audio Bronze 2, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

Bronze 2 is not trying to make the sound brighter or quieter, in this respect they are extremely honest. Any distortion is not noticeable, but there is a clear volume threshold, which should not be exceeded in order to avoid coloration in the upper middle. For a room with an area of ​​20 - 25 meters, sound pressure is more than enough, no matter what music you listen to.

Acoustic kit 5.1 Monitor Audio Bronze, review. Portal "www.hifinews.ru"

I expected it to sound good, but the reality exceeded my expectations. Monitor Audio has released a set of speakers that deliver cinematic sound head and shoulders above the competition. If you're looking for truly captivating sound and natural screen accompaniment on a $2,000 budget, this is a great choice. And as a bonus, you get one of the most musical-sounding systems in this price range.

Bookshelf acoustics Arslab Monitor M1, review. Online magazine "AVREPORT.RU"

Arslab Monitor M1 is a classic design speaker with a smooth, detailed and airy sound. A wonderfully spacious, transparent music stage is a bonus. There are slight deviations from the neutrality of timbres, but they do not spoil the impression. And the price for such musical merits of the M1 bookshelves is very attractive.

Bookshelf acoustics B&W DM685 S2, review. Portal "www.hifinews.ru"

Bower and Wilkins 685 S2 deliver great sound and good looks. The nature of their sound allows you to reproduce both music and dialogues with equal success. The redesigned tweeter provides better detail without excessive sound harshness. These aren't the cheapest speakers out there, but if you're serious about getting quality sound, you should definitely check them out.

Streaming system: Cambridge Audio CXN network player, Arcam FMJ A19 stereo amplifier and B&W DM685 S2 bookshelf speaker, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

If you're looking for the most convenient system for playing your disparate music collection, this is it.
It has not only high equipment and ease of use, but also, perhaps, the best sound quality.
in the category up to $5000.

Arslab Classic 1 shelf monitors, overview. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

The first thing you pay attention to is the construction of the scene, the scale of which is disproportionately large for monitors of this size. In our system, virtual sources extended beyond the stage width, which is usually limited by the distance between monitors. And the entire foreground is densely filled with detail, thanks to which the sound of a symphony orchestra acquires amazing authenticity.

Bookshelf acoustics Penaudio Rebel Two, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

Rebel Two are groovy monitors, Sami Penttilya called them that for a reason. Among other things, they have an excellent sense of rhythm, solid energy for such dimensions and the ability to work at high volume without distortion. And with incredible harmonic resolution, their sound remains extremely comfortable.

We talked with Artem about how they manage to make “High End-class speakers at a Hi-Fi price”, why prices, despite the crisis, have not been rising for a year and a half and why one should not be afraid of “made in China”. Our conversation began with a discussion of the recently introduced Old School bookshelf cabinets and Emotion SE slanted floorstanding cabinets.

Bookshelf acoustics Arslab Old School Superb 90, review. Portal "www.hifinews.ru"

Today, Arslab has at its disposal the most modern equipment, the intellectual and engineering achievements of Yury Fomin's F-Lab laboratory and, not least, European quality management / quality control. Accordingly, it is possible to take all the best from the "old school" and at the same time create acoustics that meet modern quality criteria, giving fans of nostalgic antiquity something new and unique. And for a very reasonable price.

Bookshelf acoustics Arslab Old School Superb 90, review. Online magazine "AVREPORT.RU"

Arslab Old School Superb 90 are large bookshelf speakers with the design of speakers of the last century, but completely modern, high-quality and genre-universal sound. I would especially like to emphasize the unusually affordable cost of the models - a rare case of full-fledged High-End class acoustics at an affordable price.

Bookshelf acoustics T + A Criterion TCD 410 R, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

The musical image formed by the speakers is airy and pure. This is the first thing that is immediately felt and creates a feeling of freshness and immediacy. Acoustic systems very accurately convey the original sound material - practically without embellishing, and even more so without distorting the sound intended by the authors.

Acoustics Penaudio Rebel: bigger and louder, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

As the founder of the company, Sami Penttila, said in an interview, his idea is simple: "The main thing is not the volume, but the purity of the sound." Nevertheless, the rather loud (in every sense) and popular acoustics from the Rebel line (translated from English - “rebellion, rebel”) was updated and expanded with the Three and Four models.

T+A set: Cala D stereo receiver and CS Mini bookshelf acoustics, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

The German company T+A stands out for its avant-garde design, bold technical solutions and impeccable workmanship. And the Cala D network receiver, which we have chosen to be the central link of the system, can serve as clear evidence of this. In combination with CS Mini monitors, we have a compact high-end cabinet system with true German quality.

Bookshelf acoustics Arslab Monitor M1, review. Portal "www.hifinews.ru"

Speakers for those who yearn for new musical revelations. The sound intrigues with holographic surround soundstage realism, purity and clarity. A relatively affordable price (with appropriate sound quality) is an important competitive advantage of the model, which opens the door to the world of high sound.

Bookshelf acoustics Penaudio Rebel, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

The systems demonstrated a well-coordinated sound with due attention to all parts of the range. The sound stage is a solid five points. There is no striving for a grandiose scale, but there is the utmost accuracy of localization and the study of not only the foreground, but also distant plans.

Bookshelf acoustics B&W DM686 S2, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

The model uses a new aluminum dome tweeter reinforced with an additional aluminum ring. This modification of the dome allowed for better control of internal resonances and extended the frequency range of the tweeter. The gel suspension further reduces distortion by acoustically decoupling the tweeter from the chassis. The proprietary Nautilus tube effectively dampens unwanted vibrations from the back of the tweeter dome.

Bookshelf acoustics B&W DM685 S2, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

We did not expect such sound quality. When comparing several models, the spread in its level is often large. However, all the participants in the test are simply excellent, and each pair, in certain conditions, would be the best option. Nevertheless, the B&W 685 S2 beats the competition with little effort.

TEAC set: CR-H260i CD receiver and S-300NEO bookshelf speaker, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

In fact, you don't want to find fault with this combination of components (and they are not supplied as a kit), because it carefully wins back the slightest nuances, and only because of the small dimensions of the speakers does not ensure real scale. This system will come in handy as a solid solution for a bedroom, office or cottage.

Bookshelf acoustics Elipson Planet M, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

The sound of French systems attracts with plasticity and liveliness of reproduction. The middle as a whole seems close to natural, the upper range is surprisingly clear. Satellites are endowed with a sufficiently high overload capacity and can work successfully even in spacious rooms.

Bookshelf acoustics B&W DM685 S2, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

The tweeter is now isolated from chassis vibrations with a gel ring cushion. Practice shows that the reduction of tweeter vibrations significantly improves the clarity, transparency of the sound of the system on high frequencies. The tweeter itself is also not easy - its aluminum dome is supplemented with an aluminum ring, which strengthens its base and fights distortions characteristic of metal dome tweeters. This approach made it possible to raise the frequency of the first resonance from 30 to 38 kHz, making the dome behave more like a piston in the sound range up to 20 kHz.

Bookshelf acoustics B&W 685 S2, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

They have an absolutely breathtaking sound; enviable power, energetic dynamics and excellent detail make you want to listen to the entire collection of music again and again. These are the speakers we would choose to infect our friends with Hi-Fi love; the new B&W 685s are great.

Bookshelf acoustics Arslab Emotion 1, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

Arslab's main sound advantages come in the midrange. Here, the speakers behave extremely delicately, clearly demonstrating the nature of much more expensive acoustics. The vocal parts are thoroughly true in tonal terms and endowed with a fair amount of emotionality.

Acoustics kit 5.1 Monitor Audio Silver series, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

Monitor Audio is proud of the excellent sales of the Silver RX line and rates it as the most successful in recent times. By feedback Monitor Audio received not only a lot of positive feedback from end customers, but also some wishes, which it tried to take into account by releasing the successor - the Silver series.

The year of birth of Arslab Audio Technology can be called 2008, when during the CES exhibition in Las Vegas, N. Hang proposed to start producing speakers equipped with speakers from his company under the new Arslab trademark. The project was supported by an American partner, who decided to co-finance part of the development and engage in the subsequent promotion of products on the American market.

CD receiver Marantz M-CR610 + bookshelf acoustics DALI Zensor 1, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

With the receiver, the speakers work in perfect harmony, creating a well-defined medium-sized audio stage. The main emphasis is on the reliable transmission of clearly localized effects, however, the atmosphere of a concert hall or recording studio is recreated without major simplifications.

Bookshelf acoustics JBL Studio 530, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

The popularity of JBL is partly due to the fact that they combine an enviable sophistication with a playful character. They carefully work out the textured sounds of the piano in Beethoven's sonatas - but with the same zeal they shoot out juicy basses in songs of the R&B genre and sharp drums in rock compositions; amazing versatility for this category.

Bookshelf acoustics JBL Studio 530, review. Online magazine "AVREPORT.RU"

In our opinion, the ideal option would be to use this acoustics in a stereo system with closed phase inverters, supported by a high-quality, musical subwoofer. The system will turn out to be exclusively music lover, conducive to long and completely tireless listening. The minimum level of distortion, rich timbres and long overtones perfectly contribute to the transfer of the artistic component of music.

Bookshelf acoustics Burmester B10, review. WHAT HI-FI? magazine, October 2013

Looking at ordinary-looking speakers, you will probably think - what would be the reason for making noise? What is so special about them, besides excellent finishes? The answer, as is often the case, lies in the details: everything in them - from the body with stiffeners to the toggle switch that regulates the bass volume - is made to the highest standards.

Bookshelf acoustics B&W Diamond 805 D2, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

Every time I listen to B&W acoustics with Diamond tweeters, I never cease to be amazed. The upper register is so special that the perception of everything heard changes. The upper band is endless, the most subtle airy components are not veiled, the whole atmosphere is open, the drawing is replete with details.

Bookshelf acoustics Definitive Technology StudioMonitor 65, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

With even more enthusiasm, the speakers perform peppy and rhythmic compositions, and the louder the better. Well, such a bass, like that of the SM-65, is not provided by every floor model: it is deep and elastic, and is also able to make the chair you sit on vibrate and is felt by the body.

Bookshelf acoustics Acoustic Energy AE 301, review. Portal "www.hifinews.ru"

The sound of acoustics is as well-balanced and harmonious as its appearance. With their, not the smallest, dimensions, Acoustic Energy 301 are able to dissolve in the sound picture, and a fairly high sensitivity makes them not too demanding on the output power of the amplifier.

Bookshelf acoustics B&W CM5, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

Surprisingly, the last time CM5 loudspeakers appeared on the pages of our magazine was in 2009. During this time, many great speakers have come and gone; it will be interesting to know if this B&W model has maintained its position during the absence - or if new competitors have left it far behind.

Denon D-M39 and D-F109 mini hi-fi systems, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

Modern technologies make it possible to create compact equipment with very impressive performance, and the small dimensions of acoustics can be considered not only evil, but also a boon, since they provide the required rigidity of the case at relatively low cost.

Bookshelf speakers Monitor Audio Bronze BX2, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo"

Budget shelf speakers Monitor Audio have clearly inherited the features of the company's older models. For example, the tweeter is not inferior to them either in terms of sound resolution or natural reproduction in general. At medium frequencies - an exemplary order: with a minimum of coloration, I was pleased with the confident study of tonal transitions. The lower case is distinguished by significant mobility and rate of fire.

Bookshelf speakers Monitor Audio Bronze BX2, review. WHAT HI-FI? magazine, March 2013

The Monitor Audio BX2s are as good today as they were the day we first met them. They set a new quality standard for budget bookshelf speakers; besides, they are not capricious for placement. We are confident that their many advantages will be in demand for many years to come.

Acoustic kit 5.1 DALI Lektor, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

Effects move swiftly and are distributed precisely; the sound as a whole demonstrates that free and cheerful character for which we love DALI so much. Hefty, full-bodied and dynamic, the set handles the details as effortlessly as James Bond handles the ladies' toiletry pieces.

Acoustics kit 5.1 MK Sound: LCR-950 (3), SUR-95T (2), MX250, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

The sound of the set is exceptionally realistic. The scene is drawn naturally, in great detail. The sound is characterized by a high degree of comfort, the sharpest sounds do not irritate, it is possible to install enough high level volume.

Acoustic kit 5.1 Monitor Audio Bronze BX2, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

In the sound of the kit, the most striking thing is its integrity. Tonal consistency is a must for a good system, but Monitor Audio has managed to create a very open and convincing soundstage, and the effects move naturally across it.

Bookshelf acoustics DALI Epicon 2, review. Magazine "Stereo & Video"

The EPICON 2 represents the flagship DALI loudspeaker series in an absolutely worthy manner and is without a doubt the high point of the brand's current range of bookshelf speakers. In the High End segment, it is somehow not customary to talk about the price / quality ratio, however, listening to EPICON 2, for some reason I want to say that they sound much more than they cost.

Bookshelf acoustics DALI Epicon 2, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

The attention to detail in the design of the cabinets and the new high-tech drivers distinguish these speakers from most others. DALI is famous for its excellent sounding speakers. With so much effort and care put into making Epicon, they must be special...

Dali Fazon Sat + Motif SUB2 acoustic kit, review. Magazine "Salon AudioVideo".

“When buying designer acoustics,” one of the installers once told me, “the client must understand that he is not paying for the sound at all.” Indeed, when creating such speakers, manufacturers make a compromise between form and content, and not always in favor of audiophiles. This eternal problem is solved by everyone in different ways, which gives us, the buyers, freedom of choice.

Floor acoustics DALI Concept 6 / Central loudspeaker DALI Concept Center / Shelf acoustics DALI Concept 1 / Active subwoofer DALI Concept Sub, Review. Portal "www.video.potrebitel.ru".

Sound quality in theater mode: In cinema, the Danish set presents the viewer with a very detailed and extended panorama of surround sound. The kit gives a lot of detail without forgetting a single detail.

Bookshelf acoustics DALI Mentor Menuet, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

The Menuet's persuasiveness is unbelievable, especially considering the mere 4" mid/bass driver (with the same wood fiber cone as the top DALI models). They can't shake the cups on the coffee table, but they sound very dense and convincing.

Bookshelf acoustics PMC Twenty 22, review. WHAT HI-FI? magazine, February 2012

It is the transmission line that distinguishes RMS acoustics from most other brands. The essence of its functioning is that the signal coming from the midrange / woofer going back is passed through a curved internal channel that goes to a rectangular grille in the front of the cabinet.

Installers and interior designers are often asked: “Can a certain combination of colors, shape and sound instantly change the mood?”
Someone will immediately answer: “Well, it depends on ...” And a more experienced comrade will agree that any human emotions are always subconsciously formed precisely on the basis of the three listed components.

PMC Twenty.21 Review. Gramophone Magazine

These new loudspeakers are all about speed, detail and expression: test them with top-notch discs such as Linn Records' excellent Purcell sonatas by Retrospect Trio - along with high-quality electronics - and you'll have no trouble judging what these are doing. small speakers are so special.

Monitor Audio Gold GX review. Magazine "High Definition"

When I watched Pirates, I was constantly jotting down some notes in a notebook (“powerful, rich, stunning, exciting bass”, “zero deformation of the 15-inch piston”, “musical, exciting, massive”), but most importantly - I really fell in love with this acoustic.

Cambridge Audio and Mordaunt-Short, review. Magazine "WHAT HI-FI?"

In many ways, the Cambridge Audio and Mordaunt-Short set is an excellent illustration of value for money; you can hardly build another wireless music streaming system of similar quality for less than $2,000.

Penaudio Cenya review. Portal "www.hifinews.ru"

Acoustic music in the interpretation of Cenya sounds very refined - simply mesmerizing, forcing you to listen and listen. The voices are very clear and realistic. The division of the sound stage into spatial layers "closer-farther" is also impressive, if such takes place on the original recording.

Penaudio Cenya review. Magazine "High Definition"

If Rebel 3 allows you to enjoy music while doing everyday activities, then Cenya offers to sit down and immerse yourself in the composition entirely. Rare property. It was as if we did not see the acoustics, it did not betray its presence in any way, did not annoy, did not distract from the music.

Monitor Audio Silver RX2 review. Magazine "Consumer"

Listening to modern genres - be it rock, pop or dance music - with the RX2, you understand that MONITOR AUDIO has created extraordinary speaker systems with good dynamics and sound intelligibility, here they are very competitive against more expensive speakers.

TRIANGLE Esprit Comete Ex review. Magazine "Consumer"

Acoustic systems TRIANGLE Comete EX from the Esprit line show a special temper in everything. Although some things in their sound can be criticized, they have enough undeniable merits. They don't have obvious genre predilections either, everyone can play with dignity - from rock to classics, but in their own way.