This speaker system is one of the most expensive among the ones tested, but apparently, this price hasn’t been picked at random because there are some engineering solutions worthy of high-class equipment. Consider its appearance, for example: the MDF cabinet is covered with noble ebony imitation; the glossy black front panel is finished with piano lacquer.

By the way, it’s not just a decoratory plastic plate, but a high-quality finish ‘a-la mature speakers’. There are no protection grilles on the drivers, but it would be a real sin to conceal such beauty. Midrange-woofer drivers have braided diaphragms. Besides, it’s not a decoration either, everything is real. There is a chiseled bullet in the center of each driver whose main purpose, without going into much theory, is to improve the sound when the speaker is situated at an angle to the listener (for those who like technical details, it’s called ‘the Vente body’, and the rest can just enjoy good sound).

ТThe tweeters have classical silk dome-shaped cones. The system is controlled by means of electronics, there is no conventional volume control knob – everything is done with buttons. On the first glance, it’s unusual, but as soon as you give it a try, you understand that in fact the whole thing is conveniently arranged – the adjustment steps are optimal, the buttons on the cabinet are ergonomic and, what’s important – they virtually rule out accidental strokes. The speakers come with a remote control. It’s conveniently sized and shaped – not a ‘card’ with plain buttons. The speakers connect to each other with a piece of conventional audio cable via quite solid metal binding posts, which arouses respect.

As to its sound, the system compared to other contestants hasn’t disappointed us. The bass is rich and taut, with nearly no buzzing. Besides, when you turn up its volume with a timbre control knob, it doesn’t become boomy and ‘muddy’ but remains fleshy. The reasons are the relatively solid cabinet and well-chosen dimensions of the bass reflex port, traditionally rear-mounted. Voice reproduction is clear and bright enough; it definitely doesn’t sound as if the performers are covered with a dusty blanket. The highs have no haziness or squeaking, and though they don’t have the ‘airiness’ audiophiles appreciate, they are still pretty natural.

Pluses

• The speakers connect with an ordinary audio cable
• Rugged cabinet, solid appearance
• Decent volume range
• Good sound