The Technics SC-CX700 is a stylish and versatile smart speaker that redefines the all-in-one audio experience. Its unique design, featuring a suede-like Dynamica fabric wrap in a choice of three colors, sets it apart from the competition. This compact bookshelf speaker packs a powerful punch, boasting a 6-inch woofer and a 3/4-inch tweeter, each with its own dedicated amplifier, delivering surprising bass response for its size. Beyond its impressive audio capabilities, the SC-CX700 offers unparalleled connectivity, seamlessly integrating into any modern audio setup.This comprehensive review dives into the SC-CX700's performance, exploring its sound quality, connectivity options, and app integration. We'll examine its strengths and weaknesses, comparing it to competitors like the Sonus Faber Duetto and KEF Wireless 50 to help you determine if this Technics offering is the right smart speaker for your needs. Discover whether the SC-CX700's balance of features, design, and audio fidelity justifies its price point and ultimately meets your expectations.
Pros And Cons
- Compact two-way bookshelf speaker design.
- Decent bass for its size.
- Multiple finish options (terracotta brown, charcoal black, silky gray).
- Abundant wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, etc.).
- Supports high-res audio.
- Includes built-in moving magnet phono preamp.
- Features optical audio input, Ethernet port, USB-C port, and HDMI input with ARC.
- Subwoofer output for enhanced bass.
- Stable and functional Technics Audio Center app with customization options (tone controls, DSP modes, Spacetune).
- Good center imaging, separation, and definition between speakers.
- Bass is not earth-shattering; may require a subwoofer for those who want to feel powerful bass.
- Short and inflexible included cables.
- May encounter distortion or port resonance at high volumes.
- Mid-range can sound a bit lean compared to some comparably priced speakers.
- Treble can be too prominent in some recordings, though easily adjustable via the app.
- Sound stage does not extend far beyond the speaker's outer edges.
- Requires the app for optimal performance and usability; manual controls and remote are available but less convenient.
- HDMI audio output needs to be set to PCM on some TVs to work properly.
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Design and Build Quality
The Technics SC-CX700 boasts a unique design, featuring a suedelike fabric wrap around its compact two-way bookshelf speaker. This microfiber wrap, called Dynamica, is available in terracotta brown, charcoal black, or silky gray, offering a more fashion-forward aesthetic compared to the standard gloss black finish of most Technics speakers.
The speaker features a 3/4in tweeter and a 6-in woofer, each powered by its own amplifier (60 watts for the woofer and 40 watts for the tweeter). The compact size belies its surprisingly decent bass response for its class, though a subwoofer might be desired for those who prioritize deep, impactful bass.
The two-speaker system (primary and secondary) offers convenient connectivity options. The primary speaker houses all the inputs and outputs, while the secondary speaker needs only AC power and a wireless or wired connection to the primary.
Connectivity and Features
The SC-CX700 offers comprehensive connectivity options for both wired and wireless setups. It includes analog audio inputs (with a built-in moving magnet phono preamp), optical audio input, Ethernet port, USB-C port, and an HDMI input with ARC. A subwoofer output is also available for those who want to enhance the low-end.
For wireless connectivity, the speaker supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect. It also supports various streaming services through the Technics Audio Center app, high-res audio, and Roon integration.
The Technics Audio Center app provides comprehensive control over the speaker, allowing adjustments to inputs, wireless connectivity, tone controls, DSP modes, and room correction (Spacetune) features.
Sound Quality and Performance
The SC-CX700's bass response is decent but not earth-shattering. It's deep enough to be noticeable and even felt on some impacts, but lacks the deep rumble desired by bass-heavy music listeners. Pushing the volume too high to compensate may result in distortion.
The mid-range is clean and clear, though perhaps slightly forward in some instances. Intelligibility is good, but compressed pop recordings might sound a bit lean or in-your-face. The treble has a hint of brilliance, but can become prominent in certain recordings.
Soundstage and dynamics are solid, with good center imaging and separation, but the soundstage doesn't extend far beyond the speaker's edges. Dynamics improve with increased volume, as more contrast is needed to compensate for the slightly shy bass response.
Comparisons and Conclusion
Compared to other speakers, the Sonus Faber Duetto offers a more compelling audio experience at a higher price point. While lacking some of the connectivity options, the Sonus Faber offers a fuller, more weighty sound with superior dynamics and a wider soundstage. The KEF Wireless 50 is another competitor, offering similar features at a lower price, but lacks a built-in phono preamp.
The Klipsch Sevens provide a bold, contrasty sound at a much lower cost, but lack the refinement of the Technics or KEF speakers. The Technics SC-CX700 represents Technics' first all-in-one powered smart speaker. It’s a solid performer, particularly given its price point, but some may prefer alternative solutions based on their priorities.
Ultimately, the Technics SC-CX700 offers a good balance of features, design, and sound quality for its price. However, the choice between this and competing speakers depends on individual preferences and priorities, whether it is a fuller bass, wider soundstage or a more refined sound.
