Acclaimed Quad S-2 Bookshelf Loudspeakers Play Music with Phenomenal Accuracy, Detail, and Scope: True Ribbon Tweeters and Five-Inch Drivers
Critical reviews of high-end audio gear occasionally lend to hyperbole, but in the case of Stereophile's in-depth report on the coloration-free Quad S-2 bookshelf loudspeakers, there's no exaggeration in sight – rather, an on-point summation of the stand-mounters' strengths. Ken Micallef writes that "the S-2 is fabulously dynamic, well extended, pure and clean in its revealing upper-frequency range, and offers the best low-end bass traction of any stand-mounted speaker I've heard in my MacDougal Street digs."
The fact that Hi-Fi Choice and Hi-Fi World have similar praise for the two-way, rear-ported S-2 isn't just a coincidence. Designed in England and claiming a heritage that stretches back to the company's iconic Corner Ribbon loudspeaker, S-2 features a 1.75 x 0.5-inch true ribbon tweeter that ably handles modern high-power amplifiers while also retaining Quad's trademark detail, accuracy, and smoothness. And since S-2's composite ribbon sandwich substrate tweeter functions as both the diaphragm and motor system – completely unlike conventional dome units – you'll benefit from incredible levels of efficiency, control, and transparency.
Simply position S-2 with its tweeter at or near ear level, and you're off and running. The largest S Series bookshelf model also comes with a five-inch woven Kevlar midrange driver. Linked by a sophisticated crossover network, the combination accounts for S-2's fatigue-free presentation and ability to arrange complex passages into cohesive, balanced performances.
What's more, S-2 has gorgeous looks to match its smooth, fatigue-free, and downright beautiful sonics. Graced with Italian-inspired rounded top edges at the front and rear, each S-2 cabinet arrives comprised of alternate layers of MDF and high-density particleboard with circumferential internal bracing that reduces panel resonance below the threshold of human hearing. All the better for you to experience the scale, authority, and depth with which S-2 conveys recordings – qualities certain to hold you spellbound for hours at a time. 100% Music Direct Guaranteed.
"[Few] match its wonderfully lucid delivery, smoothness, and near-total absence of fatiguing effects. Equally beguiling is the way it keeps everything in correct proportion...."
–Hi-Fi Choice
"Quad has definitely hit the mark with the S2s. They have a smooth, vibrant sound that is refreshingly uncolored and never less than engaging."
–Hi-Fi World, five-globe review
"The Quad S-2s provided me with many hours of happy listening, and left me wringing-wet with emotion and, yes, humble gratitude. Absolutely recommended."
–Ken Micallef, Stereophile
Enclosure type: vented box
Transducer complement: 2-way
Midrange driver: 125mm Woven Kevlar
Treble driver: 45 x 12mm true ribbon
Sensitivity (1W @ 1m): 87dB
Recommended amplifier power: 25-150W
Nominal impedance: 8Ω
Minimum impedance: 4.5Ω
Frequency response (+/-3dB): 48Hz - 22kHz
Bass Extension (-6dB): 37Hz
Crossover frequency: 3kHz
Cabinet Volume (in litres): 10.3L
Dimensions (HWD): 13.0" x 7.1" x 10.2"
Weight: 13.4 lbs.
User Manual (PDF, 3.8 MB)