The Technics SC-CX700 wireless speakers offer a compelling audio solution for discerning listeners seeking a blend of high-fidelity sound and modern convenience. These compact speakers seamlessly integrate into any home environment, boasting a sleek design and robust build quality that promises lasting performance. Their versatility extends beyond aesthetics, encompassing extensive connectivity options that cater to a wide range of devices and streaming services. From Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth to Apple AirPlay 2 and HDMI ARC, the SC-CX700s provide effortless access to your favorite music and other audio sources.Beyond connectivity, the SC-CX700s impress with their surprisingly rich and detailed audio performance. A cleverly designed coaxial speaker system maximizes sound quality within a compact footprint, delivering crisp vocals, well-defined instrument separation, and surprisingly robust bass response. Technics' innovative Space Tune technology further enhances the listening experience by intelligently optimizing the sound profile based on speaker placement and ambient noise, ensuring optimal audio quality regardless of your room's acoustics. This review delves into the specifics of this impressive wireless speaker system.
Pros And Cons
- All-in-one system: soundbar, bookshelf speakers, power amp, streaming box
- High-quality sound reproduction across various audio sources (high-res tracks to Dolby Digital)
- 100 watts per channel
- Solid wall gap and air gap minimize vibrations and distortion
- Digital amp with separate circuits for power and signal processing
- Signal processing unit counteracts harmonic distortion at low frequencies
- Front base port design for flexible placement
- Multiple connectivity options: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, Ethernet, AirPlay, HDMI ARC, USB-C, 3.5mm jack, phono input
- Touch controls, remote control, and app for easy control
- Supports many popular streaming music apps
- Good instrument separation, especially in the lower mid-range
- Excellent rendering of sound effects and background vocals
- Clear and distinct bass
- Strong vocal reproduction
- Good sound quality at low volumes
- Precise transients
- Space Tune app for room customization and compensation
- High price ($3,000)
- Some crispness lacking in certain tracks
- Slight roll-off at the very bottom end (subwoofer port available for enhancement)
- No support for Dolby Atmos or other multi-channel surround sound formats
- Wireless connection may be subject to interference; wired connection recommended for maximum resolution (24-bit/192kHz vs 24-bit/96kHz)
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Design and Build Quality
The Technics SC-CX700s boasts a sleek and modern design, seamlessly blending into various home environments. The compact size and elegant aesthetics make them suitable for diverse spaces, from living rooms and dens to home offices. The build quality is top-notch, with sturdy construction that promises durability and longevity. The co-axial speaker design, with a woofer and tweeter housed together, is cleverly implemented to maximize space efficiency without compromising audio fidelity.
Connectivity and Features
Connectivity options are extensive, catering to diverse needs. The SC-CX700s offer Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, Ethernet, Apple AirPlay 2, and HDMI ARC, ensuring compatibility with most modern devices. A USB-C port allows for direct connection of laptops and NAS devices, while analog inputs accommodate turntables and other legacy equipment. The Technics Audio Center app streamlines control, offering a user-friendly interface for managing various sources, sound settings, and other functions.
The speakers feature touch controls on top and come with a remote for convenient operation. The app supports various popular streaming services, including Qobuz, Tidal, Amazon Music HD, Spotify Connect, Deezer, and more, delivering a versatile audio experience.
Sound Performance
The SC-CX700s delivers an impressive audio performance, exceeding expectations for its compact size. Instrument separation is particularly noteworthy, creating a detailed and well-defined soundscape. Vocals are crisp and clear, even at low volumes, showcasing the speakers' ability to handle various genres. The bass response is solid and well-integrated, not overpowering other frequencies.
While the bass might not match larger systems, it is surprisingly full for bookshelf speakers. A subwoofer output is included for users seeking deeper bass extension. The speakers handle soundtracks effectively, showcasing exceptional imaging and precise transients, although support for Dolby Atmos and other multi-channel formats is absent.
Space Tune and Room Optimization
Technics' Space Tune technology is a standout feature. This app-based room optimization adjusts the sound profile based on the speaker's placement: bookshelf, wall, or freestanding. This capability is crucial for maximizing sound quality in varied acoustic environments. The customization options ensure optimal audio regardless of setup constraints.
The system intelligently measures the ambient noise and adjusts the sound accordingly, optimizing for various placements. This ensures the best possible listening experience in different locations, showcasing a thoughtful design that addresses real-world situations.
Overall Impression and Conclusion
The Technics SC-CX700s offer a compelling blend of high-fidelity sound, versatile connectivity, and user-friendly features. Their compact size and elegant design make them ideal for various settings. While not perfect (lack of Dolby Atmos support and potential wireless interference), the sound quality, especially concerning vocals and instrument separation, is truly impressive.
The Space Tune technology is a game-changer, addressing typical placement challenges often faced with bookshelf speakers. Overall, the SC-CX700s are a top-tier option for music lovers seeking a convenient and high-quality audio system. Their strengths outweigh minor drawbacks, making them an excellent choice for a secondary system or a primary system for those seeking a streamlined setup.