For those who believe that hearing is believing, Audio Physic offers a listening experience that transcends the ordinary. This German company, known for its meticulous engineering and unwavering commitment to sonic purity, has been crafting high-fidelity loudspeakers since 1985. This article explores the world of Audio Physic, from their rich history and unique design philosophy to the innovative technologies that drive their exceptional sound quality. We’ll examine their various product lines, compare them to competitors, and provide practical advice on optimizing your Audio Physic setup for the ultimate listening experience. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or simply appreciate high-quality sound, this exploration of Audio Physic will provide valuable insights into a brand that truly understands the art of sound reproduction.
Key Takeaways
- Audio Physic’s meticulous engineering delivers precise, detailed sound: Their innovative technologies, like glass fiber cones and unique woofer placement, create an immersive listening experience.
- Proper setup is essential for optimal performance: Consider room acoustics and speaker placement to fully realize the potential of your Audio Physic system. Experiment to find the sweet spot in your listening room.
- Explore the range to find your perfect fit: From the Classic series to the high-end Midex, Audio Physic offers a variety of speakers to suit different budgets and listening preferences. Listen to a few models to discover what resonates with you.
What is Audio Physic?
History and Founding
Audio Physic has been crafting high-fidelity loudspeakers since 1985. Founded by Joachim Gerhard in Brilon, Germany, the company centers its designs around an immersive listening experience, emphasizing clarity and detail. Gerhard, a well-regarded figure in the audio world, established Audio Physic’s reputation for precision engineering and high-quality construction, earning accolades from audiophiles. Suesskind Audio offers further insights into Gerhard’s work. From its inception, Audio Physic has focused on delivering exceptional sound, as exemplified by their Kronos loudspeaker, reviewed by Stereophile.
Brand Philosophy and Unique Approach
“No loss of fine detail” is more than a tagline for Audio Physic; it’s the foundation of their design philosophy, etched onto every product nameplate. This dedication to accurate sound reproduction is evident in their meticulous approach to speaker design. A HifiReport review of the Step 25 Plus bookshelf speaker showcases this commitment. Audio Physic understands that speaker design requires a blend of scientific principles and artistic judgment. They acknowledge the inherent compromises in any speaker design and strive to minimize them, pursuing the purest possible sound. This careful balancing act is explored in The Absolute Sound’s review of the Padua RR Loudspeaker. Their High End and Reference lines embody this philosophy, featuring slim, raked cabinets with proprietary drivers and unique design approaches developed by Audio Physic. This commitment to innovation is a defining characteristic of the brand, as discussed by Simply Hifi.
Audio Physic’s Innovative Technologies
Audio Physic speakers are known for their precise, detailed sound, thanks to some clever engineering. Let’s explore some of the key technologies that set these speakers apart.
Glass Fiber Cones
Audio Physic uses glass fiber for its speaker cones, a material known for its stiffness and light weight. This combination helps minimize distortion caused by the cone flexing during playback. The result? A cleaner, more accurate sound, especially noticeable in the midrange and treble frequencies. These glass fiber cones, along with advanced crossover designs and innovative cabinet construction, contribute to the overall performance of Audio Physic speakers.
Advanced Crossover Designs
The crossover is the brain of a speaker system, directing different frequencies to the appropriate drivers (woofer, tweeter, etc.). Audio Physic designs its crossovers with high-quality components and meticulous engineering. This precise frequency management ensures a smooth transition between drivers, creating a cohesive and balanced soundstage. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Audio Physic’s commitment to high-fidelity audio reproduction.
Sandwich Cabinet Construction
Audio Physic uses a “sandwich” construction for its speaker cabinets. This involves layering different materials, often including ceramic foam reinforcement, to create a rigid and non-resonant structure. A well-designed cabinet is crucial for minimizing unwanted vibrations that can color the sound. This innovative approach helps ensure that the sound you hear is pure and uncolored by the cabinet itself. The Midex speaker showcases this technology.
Unique Woofer Placement
Some Audio Physic models, like the Codex, feature a unique woofer placement. Instead of the typical single woofer setup, these speakers use multiple woofers positioned strategically within the cabinet. This design allows for more flexibility in speaker placement within a room, making it easier to achieve optimal sound. It also contributes to a more controlled and defined bass response.
Audio Physic Product Lines
Audio Physic offers a range of speaker models to suit different needs and budgets. From the accessible Classic series to the flagship Midex, each line showcases the brand’s commitment to high-fidelity sound reproduction. Let’s explore some of their prominent offerings.
Classic Series
The Classic series provides a solid entry point into the world of Audio Physic. This recently updated line includes the Classic Center 2 center channel speaker, the Classic 3 bookshelf speakers, and a variety of floor-standing models—the Classic 5, 8, 12, 15, 22, and 25. These speakers cover a wide price range, offering options for various room sizes and listening preferences.
Midex Series
For those seeking a truly high-end experience, the Midex series stands out. The Midex speaker incorporates innovative technologies, including a unique woofer placement within its cabinet and a specialized sandwich cabinet construction reinforced with ceramic foam. High-end connectors further contribute to the speaker’s performance.
SPARK and AVANTERA
Audio Physic also offers the SPARK and AVANTERA speakers. The company positions these models as delivering exceptional musical performance, promising a captivating listening experience. You can explore Audio Physic’s current product lineup on their official website.
Key Features Across Product Lines
A core tenet of Audio Physic’s design philosophy is minimizing the loss of fine detail. This commitment is evident in their meticulous engineering and component selection. The phrase “No loss of fine detail” is even engraved on each product nameplate—a testament to the brand’s dedication. As any audiophile knows, speaker design involves a delicate balance of science and art, requiring careful consideration of various acoustic principles and inevitable compromises. Audio Physic strives to strike this balance effectively across its product lines. You can read more about their design philosophy in various reviews.
Sound Quality and Performance
Audio Physic speakers have earned a reputation for their detailed and engaging sound. But what exactly sets them apart? Let’s explore some of the qualities listeners frequently praise.
Exceptional Imaging and Soundstage
Many Audio Physic owners rave about the precise imaging and expansive soundstage their speakers create. One listener on Audiogon described experiencing the “craziest imaging and soundstage” they’d ever heard, with each instrument distinctly placed within the sonic landscape. This precise placement creates a realistic and immersive experience, allowing you to hear the subtle nuances of each instrument’s position and interaction.
Clarity and Precision
Audio Physic speakers are known for their clarity and precision, reproducing audio with remarkable detail and accuracy. User reviews frequently mention the speakers’ ability to “disappear” into the room, creating a sound that seems to emanate from the air itself, rather than the speakers. This effect contributes to a more natural and less localized sound.
Dynamic Range and Scale
From the compact Classic 20 to the larger Scorpio 25+, Audio Physic speakers deliver a dynamic range and scale that impresses. One audiophile on AVForums noted their appreciation for the dynamic scale and expansive soundstage, especially with the larger models. This ability to handle both subtle details and powerful crescendos makes these speakers suitable for various musical genres.
Immersive Audio Experience
Audio Physic’s commitment to high-performance loudspeaker design is evident in their long-standing models like the Tempo plus. With continuous refinements since its introduction in 1986, the Tempo plus, reviewed by Positive Feedback, showcases the brand’s dedication to creating an immersive audio experience. This focus on continuous improvement ensures Audio Physic speakers deliver a captivating and engaging listening experience.
Comparing Audio Physic with Competitors
Sound Characteristics
Audio Physic speakers are known for their detailed and dynamic sound. Fans appreciate the lively presentation and well-defined bass. Online discussions on Audiogon highlight the impressive imaging and soundstage, with reviewers noting how easy it is to distinguish individual instruments. The Spark Floorstanding Speakers, for example, have earned praise for their “incredible soundstage,” creating an immersive experience where the sound seems to emanate from the air, not the speakers themselves.
Build Quality
Audio Physic speakers are also recognized for their robust construction. The Yara Floorstanding Speakers are a good example, described by owners as having a high-quality build and finish, along with controlled, tight bass. Even customer service gets positive reviews, with one owner relating a positive experience getting a replacement part quickly and at no charge. Audio Physic’s innovative cabinet design, considered “cutting edge,” contributes to the performance of speakers like the CLASSIC 20 model with its newly developed chassis.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
Audio Physic speakers are generally considered a premium option. While praised for their performance, some find them expensive compared to other brands. Discussions on forums like What HiFi? suggest that potential buyers carefully weigh the cost against features and sound quality of competing models. One commenter on AVForums, while impressed with the Classic 20, ultimately chose another brand. This suggests that Audio Physic sits comfortably in the mid-to-high-end range, offering a compelling option for serious listeners.
Where to Buy Audio Physic Speakers
Finding the right retailer is an important step in your high-fidelity audio journey. Whether you prefer the personalized experience of a brick-and-mortar store or the convenience of online shopping, several options are available for purchasing Audio Physic speakers.
Authorized Dealers
For a hands-on experience, visit an authorized Audio Physic dealer. These retailers offer expert advice, personalized service, and the opportunity to audition the speakers in a dedicated listening room. Audio Nexus, located near New York City, specializes in high-end audio and home theater installations. They carry a wide selection of Audio Physic loudspeakers and can help you find the perfect fit for your system.
Online Retailers
If online shopping is more your style, several reputable retailers carry Audio Physic speakers. Hawthorne Stereo offers a wide range of models and detailed product information, making it easy to research and compare different options. Buying online can be a convenient way to explore pricing and find potential deals.
Current Promotions and Discounts
Keep an eye out for special offers and promotions that can save you money on your Audio Physic purchase. Many retailers, including Hawthorne Stereo, occasionally offer sales or discounts. Check their websites or sign up for email alerts to stay informed about the latest deals. This can be especially helpful if you’re looking for a specific model or have a particular budget in mind.
Open-Box Sales
Open-box deals can be a smart way to acquire high-quality audio equipment at a lower price. These products are typically returns or demo units still in excellent condition and often come with a warranty. Check with retailers like Hawthorne Stereo for open-box availability on Audio Physic speakers, such as the Step 35, for a potential bargain.
Customer Feedback and Reliability
Audio Physic speakers consistently earn positive feedback, a testament to their quality and performance. Let’s explore what customers say about their experiences.
User Reviews and Testimonials
Audio Physic owners rave about the immersive sound. One listener describes a soundstage so expansive, the speakers seem to vanish, leaving only the music hanging in the air. This “disappearing act” creates a remarkably realistic experience, placing the sound not from the speakers, but within the room itself. Another commenter on Audio Review emphasizes how well Audio Physic speakers handle dynamic scale and soundstage, encouraging potential buyers to find a dealer for a listening experience. The consensus? Hearing is believing. Discussions on AV Forums also suggest auditioning Audio Physic speakers if possible.
Long-Term Performance
Beyond initial impressions, Audio Physic speakers maintain their impressive performance over time. Owners report sustained quality, with one long-term user on Audiogon highlighting the lively dynamics and impressive bass response. They also praise the exceptional imaging and soundstage, describing it as the best they’ve encountered. A separate review of the Classic 25 in The Absolute Sound underscores Audio Physic’s dedication to high-performance loudspeaker design, suggesting these speakers are built to last.
Customer Service Experience
Positive experiences extend to customer service as well. One owner sharing their experience on Audio Review recounts a story of a damaged speaker cover, quickly replaced by Audio Physic at no cost. This responsiveness speaks volumes about their commitment to customer satisfaction. Another customer describes the service and advice from StereoNet as “very good” and “honest,” further reinforcing the brand’s positive reputation.
Optimizing Your Audio Physic Setup
Getting the best sound from your Audio Physic speakers involves more than just plugging them in. How you place your speakers and the characteristics of your listening room significantly affect the overall performance.
Speaker Placement Tips
Proper speaker placement is the foundation of a great listening experience. Audio Physic recommends placing speakers well into the room to minimize the impact of early reflections—sound bouncing off nearby walls. Aim for at least 0.5 meters from side walls to reduce interference. This helps create a more accurate soundstage, allowing you to hear the music as it was intended. You’ll find more helpful advice on speaker placement from Audio Physic.
Room Acoustics Considerations
Your room’s acoustics—how sound behaves within the space—are just as important as speaker placement. Audio Physic designs its speakers to minimize the effect of corner reflections, but proper placement is still key. Ideally, from your listening position, you should only see a small portion of the speaker cabinet’s inner side. This helps reduce unwanted resonances and creates a more immersive experience. Audio Physic offers helpful examples for visualizing this concept.
Ideal Listening Environments
Think of your listening setup as a triangle: you and the two speakers forming the points. An equilateral triangle—where all sides are equal—is often ideal for speaker placement. This creates balanced sound coverage. For surround sound, position those speakers at ear level, either beside or slightly behind your listening position. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Small adjustments can make a big difference. This article from How-To Geek offers tips for avoiding common speaker placement pitfalls. With a little tweaking, you can unlock the full potential of your Audio Physic system.
Is Audio Physic Right for You?
Audio Physic speakers have a distinct personality, so understanding their strengths and ideal use cases is important. This section explores whether these speakers are the right fit for your listening style and preferences.
Music Genres that Shine
Audio Physic speakers are known for their detailed and transparent sound, making them well-suited for a variety of genres. Fans on Audiogon praise their lively, dynamic presentation and “top-notch” bass response, making them a great choice for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic music where accuracy and nuance are paramount. However, their dynamic capabilities also translate well to rock and electronic music, offering an engaging listening experience. One reviewer described the Spark model’s sound as coming from “the air,” highlighting its ability to create a realistic and spacious soundstage.
Considerations for Potential Buyers
Placement is key with Audio Physic speakers. Their slim designs, particularly in the High End and Reference lines, are engineered to create a wide soundstage, as noted by Simply Hifi. The unique split-bass arrangement found in models like the Codex offers flexibility in positioning. This allows you to fine-tune the bass response and integrate the speakers into your room. It’s also worth noting that Audio Physic speakers often perform best with high-quality amplification and source components.
Making an Informed Decision
Audio Physic’s commitment to preserving detail is core to their design, evident in models like the Step 25 Plus. This dedication to accuracy makes them compelling for critical listeners who value fidelity. The Padua RR exemplifies the brand’s innovative engineering. Ultimately, auditioning the speakers yourself is the best way to determine if Audio Physic is right for your listening preferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Audio Physic Speakers
What makes Audio Physic speakers different?
Audio Physic emphasizes a “no loss of fine detail” philosophy, evident in their innovative technologies like glass fiber cones, advanced crossover designs, sandwich cabinet construction, and unique woofer placement. These features contribute to a precise, detailed sound, often praised for its imaging and expansive soundstage.
Are Audio Physic speakers good for all music types?
While known for excelling with classical, jazz, and acoustic music due to their clarity and detail, Audio Physic speakers also handle rock and electronic music well thanks to their dynamic range. Ultimately, personal preference plays a role, and an audition is recommended.
Where can I purchase Audio Physic speakers?
You can find Audio Physic speakers at authorized dealers like Audio Nexus for a personalized experience or explore online retailers like Hawthorne Stereo for research and potential deals. Checking for open-box sales can also offer savings.
How should I set up my Audio Physic speakers?
Proper placement is crucial. Position speakers away from walls (at least 0.5 meters from side walls) and aim for an equilateral triangle setup with your listening position. Consider room acoustics and experiment with minor adjustments for optimal sound. Audio Physic’s website offers helpful placement guides.
What do customers say about Audio Physic speakers and their customer service?
Users frequently praise the immersive soundstage and long-term performance. Positive customer service experiences are also common, with the company known for responsiveness and helpfulness. Online forums and reviews offer further insights from owners.
