British audio brand, Q Acoustics, has been making waves in the affordable audiophile scene with their popular M20 HD Bluetooth speakers. Now, they have released their new 5020 speakers, which are vying for a spot in the competitive midrange bookshelf speaker market. These speakers have received mixed reviews, as they excel in some areas but fall short in others.
One of the standout features of the Q Acoustics 5020 speakers is their impressive sound quality. They deliver a burst of clarity, with articulate stereo imaging and superb detail. However, in their quest to achieve this level of definition, the speakers tend to accentuate the treble and upper midrange frequencies. As a result, certain content may sound lighter and sometimes sharper than usual, particularly shouty dialog and high-register instruments and effects.
Despite this drawback, the Q Acoustics 5020 speakers have several positive aspects. Their design is sleek and elegant, with deep wood veneer cabinets that seamlessly blend with any decor. The glossy front faces complement black TV consoles and listening room setups exceptionally well. Additionally, the speakers come in different finishes, including white, rosewood, and oak, catering to various aesthetic preferences. To enhance the minimalist styling, a magnetic grille is included.
In terms of functionality, the speakers feature simple terminals for easy connectivity with banana plug wiring. They also come with bass ports and bungs for dampening, although these are not typically necessary for most rooms. Q Acoustics has incorporated Point-2-Point internal bracing into the cabinets to reduce vibrations, resulting in a more focused stereo image.
The Q Acoustics 5020 speakers boast a 1-inch tweeter and a 5-inch midrange woofer. The company’s highlight is the midrange woofer, which utilizes a C3 Continuous Curved Cone design. This design aims to deliver the powerful bass response of a traditional cone while maintaining the upper register capabilities of a flared cone. However, the bass response of the 5020 speakers may not satisfy those seeking deep low-end extension, as it is relatively light for a woofer of this size. Those looking for more bass impact may consider adding a subwoofer or opting for speakers with larger cones.
Despite the potential issue with the bass response, the Q Acoustics 5020 speakers offer remarkable clarity. They excel in delivering clear and detailed sound, allowing for fun and revealing listening sessions. When paired with a high-quality amplifier like the Naim Uniti Atom, the speakers provide a surgeon’s precision in dissecting music. The soundstage is another standout feature, as it is expansive and well-defined. However, due to the directional tweeters, it may take some time to optimize their position for the best sound reproduction.
In conclusion, the Q Acoustics 5020 speakers offer impressive sound quality and an elegant design. However, they are not without their flaws, particularly in terms of bass response and potential accentuation of certain frequencies. Therefore, if you are considering these speakers for your next purchase, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons and take into account your specific listening preferences.