http://www.audioholics.comWhere audio and video equipment undergoes rigorous objective and subjective tests by our staff, ensuring that marketing slogans aren't the only guidelines for your home theater choices.Wed, 10 Apr 2013 20:20:00 -0000http://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/polk-audio-lsim703Over the past decade or so Polk Audio has slowly shifted their focus from mid/upper tier audio to mid/lower tier products, which might make some wonder, "Do they still know how to make a knockout audiophile lineup?" As Polk has brought down the price points of their speakers, their reputation in the audiophile community has also steadily lessened as well. The Polk Audio LSiM series is their answer to the high end crowd. In the LSiM series there is only one bookshelf speaker, the 703, and at $749/ea it is well below what some consider "high end". So, I requested a pair of LSiM703's for review to see if the company still had it in them to make a truly audiophile grade product, but at a price the general public could afford (with a little time spent saving up, of course). In short, they've still got it. The LSiM703 is a great sounding and looking speaker, but it's size and bright presentation mean it isn't for everyone. Read on for a full review.Wed, 10 Apr 2013 20:20:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/polk-audio-lsim703Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/opalum-audio-flow-.4810-preWhen you think of Scandinavian design, you think either cheap or expensive. There really isn't any in-between. While pricing for the Opalum speakers hasn't been announced, we're betting it isn't going to be cheap. With integrated amps, a unique powering method, and gorgeous looks, we're sure the new Opalum speakers will turn heads. We're just not sure if they will open wallets. Honestly, we'd love to get our hands on a pair to see how they perform. If they sound half as good as they look, that will make them light-years better than many, similarly-styled offerings out there.Sun, 10 Mar 2013 23:30:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/opalum-audio-flow-.4810-preBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/fluance-xlhtb-preGiven our experiences with the Fluance XL7F floorstanding speakers, we believe the XL7S surround (bookshelf) speakers and XL7C center speaker will be quality products. For those looking to make their first foray in home theater, looking for a present for a budding home theater nut, or just looking for a second system for their home, the Fluance XL Series speakers will easily fit the bill. Being able to mix and match the bookshelf, floorstanding, and center channel means that, no matter your room, you can find a configuration that you, and your spouse, can live with. Fluance put together a good looking, and nice sounding matching 5.0 system including their XL7F towers, XL7C center and XL7S surrounds for under $800. That's a pretty darn big deal.Fri, 01 Mar 2013 03:05:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/fluance-xlhtb-preBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/angel-city-trinityThe first thing I noticed about the Angel City Audio Trinity L/R & Center loudspeaker system was the first-rate piano black finish. It was smooth and glossy with no imperfections. The Trinity L/R speakers sounded really sweet when I first heard them at the Audioholics GTG event and continued to do so once I got them into my audio room. I found that the cabinets were built extremely well and their measurements showed them also to be well-designed speakers. Although these speakers are not perfect and of course none are, I would definitely recommend them for a smaller room with some room treatment on the side walls. The three (LCR) speakers worked very nicely together which gave for an enjoyable movie and music experience.Tue, 26 Feb 2013 04:10:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/angel-city-trinityBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/anthony-gallo-acoustics-strada-2Anthony Gallo Acoustics (AGA) showed off its new Strada 2 bookshelf speakers. The Strada 2's look a lot like their predecessor and have the same sleek and modern look. They feature updated driver technology, and a new drive circuit for the proprietary CDT 3 tweeter. The Strada 2's dispersion/wave launch pattern has also been recalibrated to project what AGA calls a "holographic sound field" into the listening area. They claim the effect is designed to be mostly independent of room acoustics. In addition, Anthony Gallo increased the efficiency of the new Strada 2 by 95% and so it will play just as loudly as its previous incarnation with just half the input power.Tue, 08 Jan 2013 19:50:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/anthony-gallo-acoustics-strada-2Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/triad-cinema-reference-cr-1To mark Triad's 30 year anniversary they are releasing the most "capable" loudspeaker they have every made, the Cinema Reference CR-1. The CR-1 is not cheap at $15,000/ea, but it is designed specifically for large screening rooms or home theaters. Triad claims that the CR-1 has ample headroom to handle 15-30 seat rooms. At only 10" deep it is certainly thin to undertake such a large task, but that is because it is made to go behind an acoustic transparent screen or be mounted on the wall. It can also be placed out in the open on an optional stand. It sports a 15" bass driver, dual 8" midrange drivers, and a proprietary Air Motion tweeter. We don’t expect the CR-1 to fly off the shelf, but it could be the answer for someone looking for a discrete, large-room speaker with great dynamics. The CR-1 is slated to ship 4th quarter 2012.Tue, 16 Oct 2012 02:00:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/triad-cinema-reference-cr-1Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/xtz-divine-100.33-lcr-previewAt an estimated (based on the Euro price) $2000 each, the XTZ Divine 100.33 LCR loudspeaker system isn't exactly an impulse buy. But considering the technology that is going into it, the price seems more than fair. With dual 6.5" ceramic midranges and a 1" tweeter, the ability to tune the bass and tweeter response, and gorgeous Walnut or Piano Black finishes, they are certainly eye catching. The 100.33 have only recently started shipping and we are not sure when they'll be coming to the states. When they do, we're hoping to get a pair in for review. Thu, 11 Oct 2012 01:25:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/xtz-divine-100.33-lcr-previewBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/emotiva-pro-airmotiv-5The Airmotiv 5's are Powered Studio Monitors and they're new from Emotiva Professional. The Airmotiv 5's are two-way powered speakers that can each receive either an RCA line level input, or a balanced XLR. There are three speakers in the Airmotiv studio monitor series, the 4, 5, and 6. We chose the middle of the pack, which has a single 5-1/4" polypropolene composite cone woofer and a 1" x 1-1/4" high-frequency folded-ribbon transducer. It's the ribbon tweeter that gives the speaker it's unique look and which also gives it it's signature sound. I recently had a small speaker shootout that involved many of the products I had in for review. This included bookshelf speakers, active studio monitors, passive monitors and some towers. That's an eclectic mix, but within that smorgasbord of boxes were these. And they rocked.Mon, 06 Aug 2012 03:00:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/emotiva-pro-airmotiv-5Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/def-tech-studiomonitor-65-videoDefinitive Technologies StudioMonitor 65 speakers make me want to listen to music. I like to ease into my reviews. Talk about build quality, what sets them apart, how they're made... And then move onto listening tests. These speakers make me want to jump right into telling you about the listening tests. No, actually, THESE speakers make me want to build a room onto my house just to listen to them. Obviously, I'm excited about these new speakers from Def Tech. They're billed as, and really developed to be, studio monitors, hence the name - StudioMonitor 65's. That means that at least one of the design goals was to create a speaker with enough dynamic range, fidelity, and finesse to be usable by recording studio professionals as a reference speaker for mixing and mastering music. Mon, 30 Jul 2012 12:10:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/def-tech-studiomonitor-65-videoBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/triad-bookshelf-speakers-nexus-q-preDid Triad cut corners to meet a certain price point with the Triad Bookshelf Speakers for Nexus Q? Sure. But we are still talking about a pair of Triad speaker for less than $400 a pair. That's a fraction of the price of others in the Triad stable. If you've always been interested in Triad but didn't have the money, this may be your opportunity. These could very well be the underground go-to recommendation for bookshelf speakers. We can't wait to get a review pair to see what Triad can do on a budget. Tue, 10 Jul 2012 03:40:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/triad-bookshelf-speakers-nexus-q-preBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/kef-ls50-preKEF spec's the LS50s down to 79Hz at -3dB and 47Hz at -6dB. This is pretty amazing response for a mini-monitor. The thing that makes the KEF LS50 mini-monitors so exciting, however, is the price. While $1500 a pair may be a bit extreme for some buyers for a near-field monitor, given the level of technology that has gone into them, the LS50s sound like an absolute steal to us. If you are looking for some high end speakers for your office, den, or other near-field environment, you'd be crazy not to give these a listen. Thu, 14 Jun 2012 11:05:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/kef-ls50-preBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/motion-lx16MartinLogan is typically known for their hybrid-electrostatic loudspeakers; however, they are now trying their hand at more traditional speakers, with a twist. The Martin Logan LX16 (Motion 15 latest version) two-way bookshelf speakers ($799 pr.) utilize a proprietary Folded Motion tweeter. Martin Logan has reached a new price point, and consumer demographic, with the entire Motion Series. I found the LX16s to stand up to the MartinLogan name. No, the LX16s cannot really compare to MartinLogan’s iconic hybrid electrostats, but they shouldn’t be expected to at only a fraction of the cost. The LX16s have a beautiful finish, excellent aesthetics, and come in a reasonably small package. The 5.25” midrange driver hammers out a surprising amount of bass, and the Folded Motion tweeter is crisp and clean, if not a little bright. These speakers would work great in a standalone 2.1 system, or as main speakers in a 5.1 system. If you are in the market for good speakers with above average looks, give these a listen. The Motion 15's have just been released which are identical in performance to the LX16's but cosmetically refreshed.Wed, 09 May 2012 22:30:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/motion-lx16Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/emp-e56ci-e55wiWhen my sister-in-law tasked me to build her a home theater, she had three goals in mind: a system that would play cleanly at high output levels, be reasonably priced and “classy” looking. EMPtek Impression series of products seemed like the logical choice. We’ve had good experiences with their E55Ti towers and ES1010i subwoofer, so it was time to evaluate their new E56Ci 5 driver 3-way center channel and 4 driver bipole E55WI surround on-wall speaker system to get the big picture of perform of an entire EMP speaker configuration. This review explores a 7.1 EMP Impression Series speaker system’s performance while also offering valuable set-up and installation tips to ensure you too can achieve the three goals we set out for. Read the review to find out how good looks + good sound wins big WAF while also satisfying the discriminating Audioholic ear. Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:25:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/emp-e56ci-e55wiBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/paradigm-cinema-speakers-preRegardless of your needs, the Paradigm Cinema Speakers has a solution for you. Especially on a budget. With 5.1 systems starting at $1000 and tons of upgrade options, users should find all they need. From the satellite Cinema 100 speakers to the MTM Cinema 200 speakers, to the much larger MMTMM Cinema 400 speakers, all room sizes are pretty much covered. While the drivers don't change, the level of output and extension of bass does. Even those looking for a single speaker LCR have an option in the Cinema Trio. Add to that the compact Cinema Sub and Paradigm has set their sights directly at the budget conscious crowd that doesn't want to settle for poor sound. Wed, 14 Mar 2012 13:05:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/paradigm-cinema-speakers-preBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/axiom-audio-vp160Axiom Audio has added another center channel to round out its comprehensive center lineup. The VP160v3 (MSRP $570 shipped) is based on the well established W(T/M)W arrangement of drivers which is done to improve off-axis response compared to conventional horizontally mounted MTM designs. We like the direction Axiom Audio is taking with this new center channel. They built the product on a well established design principle to ensure good on and off-axis performance while also designing it to be a tonal match to their M60v3 floorstanding speakers. The VP160v3 is front ported and includes gel like rounded feet to help decouple it from panel resonances if placed inside an entertainment center. Initial feedback from forum users on the Axiom website and our forums indicate the VP160v3 is off to a successful start. Many users have made the upgrade from the VP150 claiming MUCH better vocal intelligibility on and off axis.Thu, 02 Feb 2012 22:15:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/axiom-audio-vp160Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/trends-audio-sa-10-preGiven the price, the Trends Audio SA-10 may be a very interesting speaker. Trends is obviously a small company trying to break into audio world and their speaker aesthetics and website design display how bootstrapped they are. But that doesn't mean their speaker won't sound good. We are definitely intrigued by the apparent technology they claim to use in their speaker though we are guessing it will be best utilized in a near-field application like an office. Paired with one of their inexpensive hybrid tube amps, however, you might be looking at an affordable step into high end audio.Fri, 16 Dec 2011 11:40:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/trends-audio-sa-10-preBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/rbh-sound-sx-61-rWhen we fired up the RBH Sound SX-61/R Reference Bookshelf speakers, all that went out the proverbial window. For the next two hours we didn't do anything but shuffle in and out various discs and tracks and listen. And I mean "lose ourselves in the moment" listening. The SX-61/R's have that signature RBH Sound midrange that let's you hear things you just don't with most bookshelf systems. The speakers just dissolve into the room and you can detect every nuance in the music. Things like a snare drum played with brushes just become ear candy and kick drums reveal that decisive snap at the top. You can listen for hours and not get tired.Fri, 21 Oct 2011 12:00:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/rbh-sound-sx-61-rBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/emotiva-pro-airmotivEmotiva launched their pro line last week, and kicking off the brand, they released 3 self powered two-way loudspeakers designed for discriminating audiophiles in both the home and studio environment. All three models feature their own proprietary ribbon high frequency driver and bi-amplification and active crossovers. Each speaker features both unbalanced and balanced input connections. All speakers come with a 5-year transferable warranty and a freer 30 day in-home trial. These speakers look pretty awesome and we look forward to conducting a full review and host of measurements.Mon, 12 Sep 2011 20:15:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/emotiva-pro-airmotivBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/definitive-technology-studiomonitor-sm45-sm55-sm65-preWhen a company like Def Tech releases a new speaker, it is news. When it is an update to a speaker nearly 10 years in the making, it sets the Internets aflame. Everything from the driver choice to the aesthetics have been changed with the new StudioMonitor offerings. With three offerings (SM45, SM55, SM65) from $399 to $899 a pair, there is something here for everyone. With Def Tech's distinctive bi-polar focus, the top two have huge, top-mounted, bass radiators. It will be interesting to see how these perform in a real room.Mon, 12 Sep 2011 11:15:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/definitive-technology-studiomonitor-sm45-sm55-sm65-preBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/wharfedale-jade-seriesSound Import, LLC is now the exclusive distributor for Wharfedale speakers in the US. Today we got treated to a preview of the Jade Series loudspeakers which is a fairly robust line with seven models, including the Jade-1 and Jade-3 stand-mounted monitors, the Jade-5 and Jade-7 floorstanding towers, the Jade-C1 and Jade-C2 center-channel speakers and the Jade-SR wall-mountable surround speaker. Jade Series loudspeakers have an interesting pedigree. They are designed and built in the International Audio Group (IAG) ISO9001 facilities using standard CAD techniques, but a Wharfedale acoustic technician individually tests each driver and crossover. Finally, each finished loudspeaker is tested and certified to Wharfedale's reference standards.Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:30:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/wharfedale-jade-seriesBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/verus-grand-reviewThe Aperion Audio Verus Grand Bookshelf speaker system is a high caliber compact system that is capable of delivering pristine fidelity. It’s a compact two-way design employing very high quality components such as 5” Kevlar woven phase plug woofer and 1” axially stabilized soft dome tweeter. These speakers sounded their best mated with a very musical and potent sub crossed over at 80Hz and this is how we recommend using to achieve full-range serious two-channel playback. In such an installation, the Aperion Verus were able to literally disappear leaving you with nothing but the music to get carried away in. These speakers performance per dollar ratio is so good that I fear Aperion has raised the bar too high for its competition. These aren’t just speakers, they are pieces of furniture that sound good. Considering their very liberal return policy, FREE 30 day home trial program and FREE shipping (both ways) I can’t say anything else other than “highly recommended!”Fri, 19 Aug 2011 03:32:58 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/verus-grand-reviewBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/bowers-wilkins-pm-1-bookshelf-speaker-first-lookWhen B&W comes out with a new speaker, people get excited. The PM-1 Bookshelf takes a lot from the 800 series while bringing some new things to the table. Like a Carbon Braced Tweeter, a Foam Damping Cap on their 5" Kevlar woofer, and a price point of $2,800 a pair. Are they priced for the impulse buyer? No. Well, unless you are Steve Jobs. But they are reasonable for the audiophile crowd. Fri, 10 Jun 2011 16:20:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/bowers-wilkins-pm-1-bookshelf-speaker-first-lookBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/nht-superzero-2.0-flRather than try to be something they aren't, the new NHT SuperZero 2.0 mini-monitors are just trying to do what a small speaker can - midrange and high frequency response leaving the bass to the sub. NHT has made choices with the SuperZero 2.0 to make them easy place, easy to wall mount, and easy to afford all this without making promises (like chest thumping bass) that they can't possibly keep. The real story here, however, is the price. When the SuperZero speakers first came out in 1994, they were $250 a piece and were being hailed as a bargain. The NHT SuperZero 2.0s will run you less than $100 each. That's an impressive feat and one that should have a lot of people taking notice.Thu, 14 Apr 2011 05:20:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/nht-superzero-2.0-flBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/energy-veritas-v-5-1-videoThe Energy Veritas V-5.1 Bookshelf Speakers are... bar none... the most beautiful speakers I've ever seen. While also available in a Gloss Piano Black, the samples we have here are the Piano Rosenut finish and, as you can tell, they are absolutely pristine in terms of the veneer and the gloss coat. Everything about these speakers screams high-end, yet they cost just $400 each. While that's not exactly pocket change, it's a far cry from what many people consider "high-end" and yet most of the audiophile speakers we've seen in our day don't approach this type of build quality and styling. Let me break it down. The finish, while impressive, is just the start. This speaker is a 2-way bass reflex design. Inset within the front baffle is a custom brushed aluminum inner plate. It unites the 1" aluminum dome tweeter with heat-synched neodymium motor and 5-1/4 inch Kevlar woofer.Tue, 01 Mar 2011 07:00:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/energy-veritas-v-5-1-videoBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/active-atomThe new Paradigm Shift Active Atom A2 is a powered bookshelf/tabletop speaker designed to be used alone, as a left/right audio system or in stereo pairs with devices such as iPods and other music players, desktop computers, home DJ decks, videogame consoles and so much more. The A2 is bi-amped with 100 watts of power per speaker and designed and engineered to the exacting standards that Paradigm products are known. The A2 can be used with any devices that have a 3.5-mm mini-jack or RCA outputs or for wireless streaming. Sat, 08 Jan 2011 13:45:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/active-atomBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/jbl-synthesis-thx-sk2-3300-flThe THX Ultra2 certified JBL Synthesis SK2-3300 LCR has technology based on the flagship Project Everest. Sporting dual 10" woofers plus two ports, a heavily braced enclosure with a curved front baffle, and dual binding posts plus horn-loaded midrange and ultra high-frequency drivers with extension all the way up to 50kHz. The 1" ultra-high-frequency beryllium diaphragm driver is paired with a 60x30 degree JBL Bi-Radial horn. The horn shape is designed to increase off axis response as horn-loaded drivers are known for their directionality. The 3" beryllium diaphragm midrange/high-frequency compression driver is mated with a 100x60 degree horn. The 10" woofers are treated with JBL's Aquaplas material, has dual 3-inch heavy-duty edge-wound voice coils, neodymium motor structures, and cast-aluminum frames. In our book, if there was ever a speaker designed to be heard and not seen, the JBL Synthesis SK-3300 LCR is it. Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:45:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/jbl-synthesis-thx-sk2-3300-flBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/klipsch-rb-51-speakers-videoAround late Spring, Audioholics reviewed the Klipsch RF-62s bookshelf speakers in a tower speaker face-off. Participants in the speaker shootout seemed to rank the Klipsch very well, enjoying its clarity and high frequency definition as well as its deep bass response. Recently we were personally introduced to its "little brother", as it were, the RB-51 Bookshelf speakers. This speaker shares the same 3.5" x 2.5" Tractrix Horn and have a "deep throat" from which the high frequency, natural sound emanates and spreads into the listening area. Behind this horn lies a 1-inch titanium tweeter with a powerful neodymium motor structure that keeps it cool, and thus efficient, delivering excellent dynamics and highs that don't suffer from compression or lack of definition - even at loud volumes.Wed, 13 Oct 2010 12:25:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/klipsch-rb-51-speakers-videoBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/aperion-audio-zonaAperion Audio unveiled a new surround sound wireless bookshelf speaker system called Zona which is said to produce audiophile grade sound using the reliable and proven technology for up to 150ft. The Aperion Zona Speaker System consists of a compact wireless transmitter and two two-way powered speakers (consisting of a 4.5" woofer and 1" soft dome tweeter) with tuned port and built-in wireless receivers. Intended applications include surround sound, PC gaming or any other environment where small compact high performance speakers are required without the clutter or inconvenience of running speaker cables.Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:35:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/aperion-audio-zonaBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/atlantic-technology-h-pasAtlantic Technology showed off a prototype compact bookshelf loudspeaker using the company's revolutionary H-PAS bass technology at the 2010 CEDIA Expo. This is the first time industry insiders were able to see a bookshelf version of the well-regarded AT-1 H-PAS floorstanding speakers. We remember the first time we got a look at the larger models - it was easy to wnder just where exactly all that bass was coming from.Wed, 22 Sep 2010 02:07:21 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/atlantic-technology-h-pasBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/cabasse-ambrose-3-lcr-flLooking for an LCR with a coaxial tweeter/midrange, propriary woofers, and great aesthetics? The Cabasse as got all that and more. They employ a D'Appolito design in a sealed enclosure with non-parallel sides and magnetic grills. They are rated down to 75Hz with a receiver friendly impedance of 8 ohms. Now all you need is to shell out $3000 each. Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:25:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/cabasse-ambrose-3-lcr-flBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/adam-a7-monitorsThe ADAM A7 ($1149/pr) is a two way near-field studio monitor with the aforementioned tweeter and a 6.5 in. carbon mid/bass driver. This is all powered by two 50-watt amplifiers (one per driver.) Housed in an attractive black cabinet that weighs 18 lbs and measures 13in. high x 7.5in wide x 11in deep, the top front edges are beveled to reduce surface reflections from the tweeter.Tue, 02 Mar 2010 23:45:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/adam-a7-monitorsBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/snell-acoustics-phantom-center-loudspeaker-first-lookAt last year's CES, Snell Acoustics announced their $25,000 a pair near-flagship loudspeaker, the Phantom B7. You know it was only a matter of time before they came out with a matching center. Apparently, it only took them a year to bring out their new Phantom Center. At $7,500, it's actually quite affordable compared to the larger brethren. What remains to be seen is what surrounds they'll come out with for this line. Snell is obviously not interested in being slowed down by the economy. Instead they've got higher ambitions with this uncompromising loudspeaker system aimed at the most serious audiophiles that have big enough wallets to match their aspirations. Time will tell if their strategy will pay off.Wed, 27 Jan 2010 06:00:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/snell-acoustics-phantom-center-loudspeaker-first-lookBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/elemental-designs-a6-6t6-center-channel-speakerThe eD A6-6T6 Center is a very unique speaker. At 10" high and 40" wide, it certainly isn't going to fit in everyone's systems. But for those that can swing it, they are going to get a speaker that promises vocals and center information with an authority that smaller centers just can't touch. Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:00:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/elemental-designs-a6-6t6-center-channel-speakerBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/intimus-5bThere is little not to like about the Intimus 5B bookshelf speaker system. The Intimus 5Bs have the ability to disappear into a room thanks to their excellent imaging capabilities and very detailed open sound. Aperion Audio proved in droves that they could combine great sound, aesthetics (score one for the wives) and build quality into a compact package that most budding audiophiles can afford. Their masterfully executed fit and finish of the cabinetry make these pieces of furniture that just happen to sound really good. Mated with a powered subwoofer, you’ve got audiophile performance and aesthetics on the cheap. Considering their very liberal return policy, FREE 30 day home trail program and FREE shipping (both ways) I can’t say anything else other than “highly recommended!” Sat, 01 Aug 2009 03:56:19 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/intimus-5bBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/snell-lcr7-xlThe LCR7 XLs are one of their premier speakers that feature a design by Snell Chief Engineer Joe D’Appolito memorializing the 30th anniversary of Snell Acoustics. Utilizing a D'Appolito array (or Mid-Tweet-Mid, MTM for short, design) and the renown SEAS XL drivers, the LCR7 XL represent the pinnacle of what you can achieve through components and experience. At $6000 a pair, they certainly seem to be sparing no expense. Performance-wise, they are tops with a fantastically clear high end and nearly limitless power handling. These are speakers you can drive practically until your amp gives out since they seem to have no real upper limit.Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:40:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/snell-lcr7-xlBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/elemental-designs-w6-6tcThe W6-6TC speakers are a joint venture with Swan Loudspeakers and have definitely benefited from the partnership. They feature a 1.5" silk dome tweeter and a 6.75" pressed poly cone midrange driver. The midrange has a whopping 3" voice coil! The W6-6TC’s offer a quoted response from 43 Hz-20 kHz, reaching well within the range of some tower speakers at a fairly compact size. These speakers were designed with 2.0 and 2.1 reference listening systems in mind. For a limited time, Audioholics readers can get over 25% off! See the article for details.Mon, 18 May 2009 10:20:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/elemental-designs-w6-6tcBookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/infinity-primus-p162The Infinity Primus P162 Bookshelf speakers have been selling like hotcakes at the Audioholics store - that's just a fact. They've got a lot of buzz right now. If I was designing a set of budget bookshelf speakers and I wanted to sell, I'd focus on a few things. Great center image, wide soundstage, and the lowest response I could muster. Well, Infinity hit the nail on the head with this one. These are the perfect entry level speakers.Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:00:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/infinity-primus-p162Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/thiel-scs4The Thiel SCS4 speaker system has certainly met my expectations for performance, and the amount of low end exceeded it. The SCS4 is a well thought out and well made effort. The materials and workmanship are both first class. The front baffle and speaker are cosmetically a thing of beauty, and the overall construction is excellent. The average user will find this system suitable for all but the largest rooms, and biggest amplifiers. If you have limited space, and the wife will not let you buy that floor standing speaker you really want, the Thiel SCS4’s can provide you with years of excellent sound and aesthetics to please the true audiophile in you. Wed, 28 Jan 2009 21:45:40 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/thiel-scs4Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/budget-bookshelf-shootout-2009Budget bookshelf speakers are a great first step into the world of high fidelity. But which ones to choose? A few of our forum members decided to take on the daunting task of comparing some of the more popular (and available) affordable bookshelf speakers. The list included Yamaha NS-6490, Polk Audio R15, Behringer B2030P, Yamaha NS-333, Aperion Audio Intimus 4B, Infinity Primus P162, EMP EF30, and more! The results may surprise you as spending more money doesn't always equate to better performance.Mon, 26 Jan 2009 18:05:23 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/budget-bookshelf-shootout-2009Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakershttp://www.audioholics.com/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/axiom-audio-epic-midi-400Axiom Audio's Epic Midi system is a great "home theater-in-a-box killer" that starts at just $1338 and is built around the small M2 (v2) speakers. To get the most out of it, however, you'd want to opt for the much more sophisticated and powerful EP400 subwoofer - a $600+ premium that lands the system among stiff competition in the ~$2000 5.1 home theater speaker market. While expensive, the EP400 was the most impressive part of this system and stole the show as it certainly outperformed the expectations we had for what an 8-inch subwoofer could do.Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:55:00 -0000/reviews/speakers/bookshelf/axiom-audio-epic-midi-400Bookshelf Speaker ReviewsLoudspeakers