2024’s Sonic Marvels: 5 Stereo Combos That’ll Blow Your Mind (And Ears!)

September 06, 2024

Published on September 09, 2024Updated on September 09, 2024

We cast a spotlight on 5 components across various price points that can elevate your stereo setup to new heights

There’s no getting away from portable and wireless audio systems today that remain popular due to the convenience and affordability they offer. However, dedicated stereo systems remain the gold standard for many audiophiles. While wireless earbuds and Bluetooth speakers are convenient, they simply can't match the immersive experience of a well-crafted stereo setup. These systems offer unparalleled sound clarity, depth and warmth, turning your living space into a personal concert hall.

With a smorgasbord of options, though, choosing the right stereo system can be daunting. To aid in the quest to find the right fit for you, we’ve done some legwork and curated three stereo system combos and two speaker pairs that combine superior sound quality, innovative design and value for money. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer, these options are bound to elevate your listening experience to new heights.

But before we dive into our recommendations, let’s walk through the methodology we employed to get there.

Also Read: Building a great Stereo Sound System at Home - A Quick Guide

How We Chose

Our team of audio experts conducted extensive hands-on testing, evaluating each system's sound quality, build and features in real-world conditions. Key factors in our assessment included audio fidelity across various genres, frequency response, soundstage and dynamic range. We also considered build quality, aesthetic design and user-friendly features. The price-to-performance ratio was another crucial metric, ensuring our picks offer value at different price points.

Technological innovations were also factored in, prioritising systems incorporating cutting-edge audio technologies without sacrificing sound quality. Lastly, we considered versatility and connectivity options, recognising the importance of systems seamlessly integrating with various audio sources, including digital streaming platforms.

Now that we’ve thrown down the proverbial gauntlet, it’s time to get down to brass tacks.

Our Top Picks

After evaluating scores of products and varied combinations, we’ve arrived at five picks that represent a sound (no pun intended) investment for those serious about their audio. Let’s dive right in.

1) Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 with Rotel RA1592 MKII

Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) 702 S3 Floorstanding Speaker (Pair) Rotel RA-1592 MKII Integrated Amplifier

Characteristics	B&W 702 S3 (Floorstanding Speaker Pair)	Rotel RA1592 MKII (Integrated Amplifier)

Standout Features	Carbon Dome tweeter for precise high-frequency response	Built-in DAC with support for high-resolution audio (up to 32-bit/384kHz)
	Continuum cone midrange driver for improved clarity	Comprehensive input options viz. balanced XLR, phono stage, and USB
	Aerofoil Profile bass cones for powerful, distortion-free low-end	MQA decoding capability for high-quality streaming
Value Drivers	Premium pricing, but delivers reference-grade sound quality	Offers features and performance of pricier separates in one unit
	Competes with speakers costing significantly more	Proven reliability and build quality contribute to overall value
	Durable construction ensures longevity and long-term value	Versatile connectivity eliminates the need for additional components
Performance and UX	Relatively easy to position and set up Amp's robust power output ensures speakers perform optimally Provides intuitive controls and a clear display Smooth, fatigue-free listening experience even at high volumes
Why We Recommend It	Rotel's power and clarity complement B&W's detailed and dynamic performance Suitable for a wide range of genres, from classical to rock to electronic Room for future upgrades (e.g., adding a dedicated streamer or upgrading to monoblocks)
Where It Is Best Used	Medium to large-sized rooms (20-40 m²) where the speakers can be properly positioned Home theatre setups, especially for users who prioritise music alongside movie-watching As a high-end audio system for a living room centrepiece Hosting listening sessions

2) Dali Epicon 8 with McIntosh MA352

Dali Epicon 8 Floorstanding Speaker (Pair) McIntosh MA352 2-Channel Hybrid Integrated Amplifier

Characteristics	Dali Epicon 8 (Floorstanding Speaker Pair)	McIntosh MA352 (Hybrid Integrated Amplifier)

Standout Features	Hybrid ribbon tweeter for detailed and extended high-frequency response	Hybrid design featuring a vacuum tube preamp section with solid-state power amp
	Triple-layered wood-fibre cones for accurate and natural midrange performance	Built-in phono stage and 5-band analog tone control
	Dual bass drivers with SMC technology for deep, controlled bass	Wide range of inputs including balanced XLR and MM phono stage
Value Drivers	High-end pricing, but offers a luxurious, audiophile-grade listening experience	Combines the benefits of separates in a single, iconic unit
	Competes with speakers in even higher price brackets	Features like tone controls and VU meters add to its overall appeal
	Exceptional craftsmanship and durable materials ensure a long lifespan	Versatile feature set eliminates the need for additional components
Performance and UX	Dali speakers are capable of filling large rooms with immersive sound McIntosh amp offers intuitive controls and iconic visual appeal Amp's tone controls allow fine-tuning to room acoustics and personal preference Robust build quality of both components inspires confidence
Why We Recommend It	Dali speakers complement high-end amplifiers and sources Build quality and timeless design ensure lasting value Room for future upgrades, with flexibility to add more components
Where It Is Best Used	Medium to large rooms (25-50 m²) where the speakers can offer their full potential Those who want a statement audio system that doubles as functional art Ideal for home theatres or dedicated listening rooms Great choice for vinyl enthusiasts and modern digital setups

3) Elac Debut 2.0 F6.2 with Marantz NR1200

Elac Debut 2.0 F6.2 Floorstanding Speaker (Pair)

Characteristics	ELAC Debut 2.0 F6.2 (Floorstanding Speaker Pair)	Marantz NR1200 (AV Receiver)

Standout Features	Three 6.5-inch woven aramid-fibre woofers for powerful bass response	Slim-line design for space efficiency
	1-inch soft-dome tweeter with wide-dispersion waveguide	Wide range of digital and analogue inputs, including phono stage
	Front-firing ports for flexible room placement	AirPlay 2, Bluetooth and voice control compatibility
Value Drivers	Exceptional sound quality for their price range	Offers features typically found in more expensive units
	Compete with speakers costing significantly more	Versatile connectivity eliminates need for separate streaming devices
	Durable construction ensures long-term value	Respected brand known for reliability and sound quality
Performance and UX	ELAC speakers have a good soundstage and imaging capabilities Marantz receiver offers intuitive controls and a clear display HEOS app provides seamless streaming and multi-room audio control Neutral tonal balance suitable for a wide range of music
Why We Recommend It	Delivers high-end sound at a mid-range price point Suitable for both music and home theatre applications Streaming and multi-room capabilities ensure long-term relevance
Where It Is Best Used	Perfect for spaces around 15-25 m² where a full-sized system might be overbearing The system's efficiency and controlled bass make it suitable for closer neighbours For those who want a serious audio system in a more intimate space Those wanting high-quality sound in their main living space without dominating the room

4) Devialet Phantom I 108 dB Custom (Pair)

Characteristics	Devialet Phantom I 108 dB Custom Speaker (Pair)

Standout Features	Unique spherical design with active bass implosion (ABI) technology
	Exceptionally powerful output (108 dB SPL) from a compact form factor
	Wireless connectivity with built-in streaming capabilities
	Patented ADH (Analog Digital Hybrid) amplification technology
Value Drivers	High initial cost, but eliminates need for separate components
	Cutting-edge technology and design justify the premium pricing
	Customisable aesthetics add to the overall value proposition
Performance and UX	Impressive clarity and detail across the frequency spectrum Powerful, deep bass that belies the speakers' size Wide soundstage with good imaging capabilities Regular firmware updates to improve performance and add features Intuitive control via smartphone app
Why We Recommend It	Combines speakers, amplification and streaming in one package Offers audiophile-grade sound from a compact, visually striking design Easy to move or reposition as needed
Where It Is Best Used	Ideal for contemporary homes where design is as important as sound Perfect for spaces where traditional hi-fi setups might be impractical Capable of filling larger spaces with sound despite compact size Suitable for art galleries, boutique hotels, or high-end retail spaces

5) KEF LS50 Wireless II HiFi Speaker (Pair)

Characteristics	KEF LS50 Wireless II HiFi Speakers (Pair)

Standout Features	12th generation Uni-Q driver array for coherent, room-filling sound
	Built-in 380W per speaker Class D amplification
	HDMI eARC, optical, coaxial, 3.5mm aux
	Customisable EQ and room correction via KEF Connect app
Value Drivers	Higher initial cost compared to passive speakers, but eliminates need for separate amplification
	All-in-one nature provides value by reducing overall system complexity
	Regular firmware updates add features and improvements, enhancing long-term value
Performance and UX	Exceptional clarity and detail across the frequency range Wide, precise soundstage with excellent imaging Smooth, natural midrange reproduction Impressive bass response for the speaker size Intuitive control via smartphone app or included remote
Why We Recommend It	Equally adept at near-field listening and filling larger spaces Built-in DSP helps optimise sound for various environments Sleek, modern aesthetic that complements contemporary spaces
Where It Is Best Used	Ideal for spaces where traditional hi-fi might be overbearing Perfect for near-field listening in a work environment Controlled bass response suitable for shared buildings Excellent for computer-based audio systems

Also Read: Stereo vs Surround — Which audio system is better for you?

Our recommendations: Top 5 Stereo Systems in 2024

The B&W and Rotel combo delivers a balanced and immersive soundstage, while the Dali and McIntosh pairing offers more luxurious, emotionally engaging audio. The ELAC and Marantz pair is an excellent choice for those seeking value and performance. The Phantoms stand out for their powerful, all-in-one design whereas the KEF LS50s are perfect for those who want cutting-edge technology in a sleek package.

Each setup offers unique strengths, ensuring an ideal solution for every listener spanning a wide range of price points. Whether you're an audiophile or simply passionate about great sound, choosing the right stereo setup can be the difference between night and day in your listening experience.

Explore our premium range of stereo systems or get in touch for a bespoke solution. Our team of experts can help you get up and running in no time.

Published on September 09, 2024Updated on September 09, 2024