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Monitor Audio – Silver Series 2 Speaker Review

Initial Impressions

When I first heard about the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 speakers, the feedback from other audiophiles seemed promising. Given my prior experience with the Bronze series from Monitor Audio, which had specific, almost unbearable highs, I was hopeful that the Silver Series 2 would address those issues. After much deliberation and significant research, I finally purchased the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 for $444, a great deal considering their usual price point.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing about the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 is its sheer size. These are different from your average bookshelf speakers; they are large enough that wall mounting would not be an option. The build quality feels robust and premium, aligning well with the expectations set by the higher-end audio equipment. The cabinets are well-finished and aesthetically pleasing, which blends seamlessly with my home décor. Their substantial weight also adds to the feeling of quality and durability.

Sound Quality

This is where the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 shines. Compared to the Bronze 2, the Silver Series 2 offers a more refined sound. The highs are tamed and rolled off, which was crucial for me since the Bronze series tended to be piercing and harsh, especially with the letter ‘S’ in vocals. This refined high-end makes listening for long periods much more enjoyable.

The midrange is clear and detailed, allowing vocals and instruments to come through naturally. The bass is also more pronounced and controlled compared to its predecessors. The Silver Series 2 provides a balanced soundstage that is both wide and deep, making it ideal for various music genres and home theater use.

The Silver Series 2 rounds out the audio experience when integrated into my surround sound system. It complements my Silver Series standing towers and center channel exceptionally well, providing a cohesive and immersive surround sound experience.

Performance in Different Scenarios

Whether it’s the delicate notes of a classical violin, the thunderous explosions of an action movie, or the soothing background jazz while you work, the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 is a versatile performer. These speakers handle the intricate details of a violin solo and the deep, rumbling sounds of a blockbuster movie with equal finesse. The clear distinction between instruments and vocals is a testament to their detailed sound reproduction capabilities, giving you confidence in their performance across a range of scenarios.

One downside I experienced was the delay in delivery. It took one week longer than initially advertised to receive the speakers. This delay was due to [specific reason for the delay], which was a bit of a hassle as I was eagerly waiting to set them up. Although this did not affect their performance, it’s a minor inconvenience worth noting for those planning to purchase them online.

Monitor Audio Studio Premium Review (1)

Setup and Usability

Setting up the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 was relatively straightforward. However, due to their considerable size, finding the perfect spot for them took some planning. These speakers are not designed to be inconspicuous, so you’ll need to allocate ample space for them. Their weight also means moving them around frequently once placed could be better.

The high-quality connectors make securing a good fit for the speaker wires easy. Once set up, these speakers delivered clear and powerful audio, requiring minimal tweaking. They are designed for easy integration into existing systems, a massive plus as I had already invested in other components from the Silver Series range.

Value for Money

When you consider the sound quality, build, and overall performance, the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 is a clear winner in terms of value for money. At $444, these speakers are a solid investment for anyone serious about upgrading their sound system. They deliver performance levels usually associated with much higher-priced models, making them a reassuring addition to any home audio setup.

While the price might be higher for some, the performance you get makes it worth every penny. The Silver Series 2 stands out for its balanced sound and refined highs compared to other speakers in the same category.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Refined and tamed high-frequencies
  • Clear and detailed midrange
  • Well-controlled bass
  • Impressive build quality and design
  • Great for both music and home theater systems
  • Good value for money

Cons:

  • Large size, not suitable for wall mounting
  • Delivery took longer than advertised
  • Heavy, making them difficult to move once placed

Comparison to Average Qualities in the Market

In comparison to average speakers in the same category, the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 definitely holds its own. While many other speakers might suffer from exaggerated highs or inadequate bass, the Silver Series 2 provides a well-rounded sound profile that appeals to many different listening preferences. The build quality is superior, and the overall audio experience is richer and more immersive.

However, due to their large size, there might be better choices if space is an issue in your home. They are designed to make a statement, both in terms of audio performance and physical presence. This could be a downside for those looking for a more discreet option.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2 has been a delight. The refined highs and clear midrange offer a listening experience that surpasses the Bronze series. The initial delivery delays were a minor inconvenience, but the sound quality and performance more than made up for it. Despite their size and weight, these speakers deliver on their promise of high-quality audio, leaving me excited about the improved listening experience they offer.

I hope this provides your insights if you want a comprehensive review of the Monitor Audio Silver Series 2. These speakers are a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio setup and are particularly advantageous for those integrating them into an existing Silver Series setup. Their balanced sound and durability make them a worthwhile investment.

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Bass Response
8
The bass response is strong and delivers a powerful low-end sound, suitable for both music and movies. However, considering these are bookshelf speakers, extremely deep bass might not be as impactful as larger tower speakers.
Treble Detail
7.5
The highs are noticeably more controlled compared to the previous MA Bronze 2 series. There's no harshness with the letter S sounds, making the listening experience more pleasant in this frequency range.
Midrange Clarity
8.8
The midrange on the Silver Series 2 is clear and precise, allowing vocals and mid-frequency instruments to shine through with excellent detail and without any noticeable distortion.
Design
7
Design-wise, these speakers are large for bookshelf models, so they're not ideal for wall mounting. However, they have a solid build quality and look great alongside other components in the Silver Series.
Sound Quality
9
Across the board, the sound quality is exceptional. These speakers fit perfectly into a surround sound setup or can even hold their own in a more basic stereo configuration. The overall audio experience is rich and well-balanced.
Value for Money
8.5
Monitor Audio - Silver Series 2 provides great sound quality for the price, especially if you can pick them up used for a bargain as one of our group members did for $444. Overall, it's a solid investment, though keep in mind that shipping might take longer than expected.
8.1
Total Score
Rating Summary
Monitor Audio - Silver Series 2 delivers a fantastic audio experience that stands out, especially in its price range. The value for money is impressive, particularly when purchased at a reduced cost. The bass response is substantial for bookshelf speakers, while the treble detail is well-tamed and less piercing compared to earlier models. Midrange clarity is a highlight, offering detailed and distortion-free sound in this frequency range. The overall sound quality is exceptional, making these speakers a solid choice for both dedicated audiophiles and casual listeners. On the downside, the design is on the larger side for bookshelf speakers, making wall-mounting impractical, and shipping times can be longer than expected. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Silver Series 2 is a high-performing, excellent-sounding speaker that adds value to any home audio setup.