The variety of multimedia equipment of Sven Company pleasantly shocks, but it complicates the test writing process at the same time, because some product lines offer models, which are similar in appearance as like as two peas, and they are delivered with absolutely identical acoustic modules, even with very similar specifications. But this time we present totally brand-new multichannel active system, which concentrated in itself all the latest innovations of the Company.
Overview
Today we will have to do with Sven HT-400 5.1 system. With what functions will Finnish engineers gladden the consumer in this case? Cubic form satellites are made of MDF. Loudspeakers with paper cones 76 mm in diameter operates as emitters. These modules are used for servicing not only front and rear channels, but for the central channel as well, acoustic surrounding is the closed case. Taking into consideration tiny dimensions of the acoustic system the manufacturer provided them not with screw, but with spring terminals, which are not intended to connect large cross-section cables, whereas standard wires are available in the package of accessories.
There is no doubt that small loudspeakers are not able to reproduce the whole sound range and they start to operate only from 120 Hz. Moreover, a satellite of similar construction is very similar to a point sound source, which is considered ideal for the formation of correct sound picture, especially as the subwoofer, which operates up to 150 Hz, takes upon itself the whole low frequency range.
If satellites have the «closed case» acoustic appearance then the subwoofer is equipped with a phase inverter port located on the case left wall, which boosts the performance at the lowest frequencies. The head with 133 mm cone is located immediately ahead and closed with a metallic grill. There are three sound volume controls, as well as the subwoofer and the center level controls, on the case right wall. The remote control included in delivery allows additionally to tune rear channels levels and to switch inputs. There is mains switch, 5.1 multichannel analog input, stereophonic input and five pairs of spring acoustic terminals for satellite connections on the subwoofer case rear wall. By this means, the LF-model combines duties of a six-channel amplifier, i.e. it is equipped with six-channel analog interface. It would seem, well what of it? With symbolical price, small dimensions and ease of installation these acoustics can be used not only for viewing films with multichannel tracks, but also for playing back high-resolution audio content, for example, DVD-Audio or SACD disks with 5.1 track. A trinket, but a pleasant one.
Naturally, you will have to connect a player with multichannel analog outputs to Sven HT-400 to form the complete system, which means built-in decoders or a personal computer with good sound card. Among other things, Sven HT-400 has a processor (DSP) which is able to convert the stereophonic signal into multichannel one, and that creates the surround sounding effect. The absence of USB-port is the only thing you may complain of, due to which it is impossible to playback audio content from a flash card. Nevertheless, such USB-port is not needed at all during operation of the acoustics in tandem with PC, and indeed most modern CD players are equipped with it, so we are not entitled to give a lower mark for this.
Sven HT-400 sounding is notable for information value, proper volume, quite good dynamics and smooth bass. Surely all of this with due regard for dimensions and the class of similar equipment. But in any case, it is impossible to name the system as cheap mass-produced item: low price is the brand policy, but not the evidence of poor quality. It is better to use Sven HT-400 in small premises – then the effect will be total.
Conclusion
This model is designed for small premises, but its application field is rather wide: from a modest home theater based on the personal computer to the use in a children's room, bedroom or summer cottage. And you get the deserved quality.
Advantages: attractive price, DSP- processor, 5.1 analog input, smooth sound.