The full review
Dali Spektor 2 Bookshelf Speakers Review
First Impressions and Purchase Motivations
In my search for a pair of high-quality speakers that could satiate my ever-evolving auditory desires, I stumbled upon the Dali Spektor 2 bookshelf speakers. After reading countless reviews online, the descriptions lauded them as "an exciting speaker with thin, lightweight soft dome material" that offers a detailed, extended, and particularly transparent high range and a warm and full low range. I then decided to pull the trigger and purchased the Dali Spektor 2s for my own independent Dali Spektor 2 review.
Unboxing the Dali Spektor 2
My anticipation peaked from all the favorable mentions of the Dali Spektor 2 speakers from around the internet. Picking up the package, I could already sense that there was indeed a fantastic value inside the box. The packaging revealed two speakers, solidly built and neatly presented. My first impression was that the built quality was outstanding, which indicates money well spent.
The Speakers in Comparison
In the past, I have owned a range of speakers like the Wharfedale Diamond 220s Dentons and Reva 4s, so I spent about two weeks comparing them with the Spektor 2s. The Diamond 220s were balanced but lacked excitement for me, especially in the low range, and had less of the punch and presence I expected.
The Dentons were warm and subtle, with a strong bass and excellent mid-range, but they lacked a sound stage and exciting center activity. They were highly well-tamed and neutral but failed at producing great details, let alone the transparent highs that the Spektor 2s promised.
Building Features
When analyzing the Spektor 2s' design, the focal point was their "thin and light" approach, which I had never experienced in other speakers I had owned. Their fragile and lightweight soft dome material for the tweeter initially drew me to them. Though their cabinet didn't impress much in aesthetics, their performance outshone this little downside.
Setting It Up
Connecting these speakers was a breeze; they were ready to test in my bedroom system in no time. I had them neatly placed on stands and fired up the stereo. I use a Sonos amp in my current setup, although I have occasionally experimented with a Yamaha N-R602 80 w/pc and a Sony UDA-1 DAC/AMP.
Performance and Sound Quality
Sound Quality in General
Powered by a modest Teac UD-301 and Adcom GFA-535ii directly from my Mac, the Spektor 2s exhibited rich mid tones, crystal clear and impressively transparent highs, a strong and dominant bass that sounds far beyond the size of its woofer. For the cost I paid, I believe they were worthwhile. Their most significant strength is their ability to dissolve the barrier between you and the music and bring you into the musical performance.
Audiophile Sound
In a small to medium-sized room, the Spektor 2s generated arguably the best sound when their lowest frequencies are chopped off by setting a small speaker and subwoofer YES on any AV receiver. Their sound was spectacular and superior when powered by my Marantz NR1508 AV receiver, compared to the grainy sound of the Fosi class. These speakers were astonishing and worth the hype.
Volume and Sensitivity
Although some might point out that the sensitivity of the Spektor 2s is on the low side, at about 85 dB/m/W, it's nothing a sturdy amplifier can't handle. I discovered this when I connected them to my Sony UDA-1 DAC/AMP. The Sony UDA-1 pumped up the volume perfectly, and I never needed more than 25% volume for a reasonably loud level.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Obvious high notes
- Strong bass
- Exceptional mid-range
- Compact and simple design
Cons:
- Speakers may seem bright after extended listening
- Unappealing cabinet design
Conclusion
If you're after a detailed, clear sound with satisfactory bass and excellent mids, investing in the Spektor 2s might be your best bet. The speakers are sleek and compact and produce an incredible sound. Whether it's classic rock, grunge, instrumental jazz, or classical music, every melody, string, and beat springs to life on these speakers; overall, the Spektor 2s are an excellent investment worth every penny.