Acoustic Energy AE500

 

 Acoustic Energy is bound to ping up on the radar. Its iconic AE1 from the late eighties pretty much made the case for the existence of the breed. The AE500 has little in common with this icon in technical terms, aside from its clear philosophical approach.

Despite being the joint least expensive product here along with the SVS Ultra Bookshelf – this is one of the  with good-quality components. 

The refl ex-loaded cabinet is conventionally shaped, but uses the company’s Resonance Suppression Composite material in effect, constrained layer damping. Its panels are 18mm thick and there’s a choice of piano gloss white or black, and American walnut wood veneer, plus a magnetic grille is supplied. Its rear-fi ring slotted refl ex port lets it work up close to rear walls. It’s of average sensitivity in this group not as power hungry as the ATC or Spendor.

Sound quality Despite its modest price, the AE500 never sounds out of its depth in this company thanks to a super clean, well  defi ned and detailed sound that has a penchant for rhythms and dynamics.

Listening to The Human League’s Open Your Heart is like being pushed along on a roller coaster ride. The AE500 sprays out large amounts of detail, yet keeps it coherent and under control and the result is a highly propulsive listen. It’s particularly good on leading edges of notes, with the attack of the drum machine’s hi-hat cymbal sounding quite special.

The 500 Series features our newly developed carbon fibre tweeter and mid/bass drivers, designed to match the pistonic power and accuracy of our legendary ceramic aluminium drivers but with improved self-damping for a smoother, more transparent sound. Offering unparalleled levels of performance, quality and value the result is an audio product with clean, uncluttered lines delivering a thrilling and powerful presentation discerning Acoustic Energy owners have come to expect for over 30 years. Finished in a choice of Piano Gloss Black, Piano Gloss White or American Walnut wood veneer finishes, the AE500 will easily integrate within any home décor placed on speaker stands or bookshelves.

At the same time the bass synthesiser is packed with energy, rather than just plodding along.

Texturally, you get a distinctive sound that’s rather special. The Congos’ Days Chasing Days is warmer and smoother than most here; there’s a subtle sweetness to vocal tones and percussion that’s likely down to the carbon fibre. At the same time, it’s not in any way excessive; it just makes things sound more even, less strident and easier to listen to.

Cocteau Twins’ Crushed really highlights this; those loud, processed vocals aren’t hard work at all. Indeed, the track is rendered with a delicacy completely at odds with its price.