Introduction

The Perlisten Audio S5m is a bookshelf speaker that aims to deliver exceptional sound performance and an immersive listening experience. Priced at 92,900 yuan for a pair in China, this premium speaker boasts a range of impressive features and specifications. In this review, we will delve into the design, sound performance, technology, and user experience of the Perlisten Audio S5m to determine whether it lives up to its high price tag.

Design and Build Quality

The Perlisten Audio S5m features a clean and neat design that exudes elegance and sophistication. With its sleek lines and minimalist aesthetic, it blends seamlessly into any home decor. The build quality of the speaker is outstanding, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship that Perlisten Audio is known for. However, it's worth noting that the S5m is quite heavy, weighing 19.5 kg per speaker. This weight can pose some challenges when it comes to installation and movement, requiring careful consideration and planning.

Sound Performance

When it comes to sound performance, the Perlisten Audio S5m truly shines. It offers a clean and transparent sound that is highly detailed and accurate. The speaker's flat frequency response from 80Hz to 20kHz ensures that every nuance and subtlety in the audio is faithfully reproduced. The S5m's ability to achieve a balanced and neutral sound signature makes it a versatile choice for audiophiles and enthusiasts who value accuracy above all else. One of the standout features of the Perlisten Audio S5m is its strong and clean bass reproduction. The speaker effortlessly handles low-frequency notes, delivering impactful bass without overpowering the rest of the audio spectrum. Whether you're listening to music or watching movies, the S5m provides a satisfying low-end experience that adds depth and richness to the overall sound. The Perlisten Audio S5m also excels in instrument positioning and timbre accuracy. Instruments are clearly defined and placed within the soundstage, creating a realistic and immersive listening experience. The vivid timbre of the S5m ensures that every instrument sounds natural and true to life, enhancing the overall enjoyment of music and movies. Furthermore, the Perlisten Audio S5m creates a wide and deep sound field effect with rich spatial overtones. This expansive soundstage adds a sense of dimension and depth to the audio, making you feel like you're in the midst of a live performance or a cinematic scene. The ability of the S5m to recreate a realistic and spacious soundstage sets it apart from many other bookshelf speakers in its price range.

Technology and Features

The Perlisten Audio S5m incorporates advanced technology and features that contribute to its impressive sound performance. It utilizes a mid/treble module consisting of a beryllium tweeter and TeXtreme carbon fiber diaphragm midrange units. Beryllium tweeters are known for their exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio, enabling them to accurately reproduce high-frequency details with minimal distortion. The TeXtreme carbon fiber diaphragm midrange units provide excellent transient response and ensure precise and detailed midrange reproduction. The S5m also features an inverted design with an inverted port outlet and grid baffle. This design minimizes air turbulence and port noise, resulting in cleaner and more accurate bass reproduction. The grid baffle further enhances the dispersion characteristics of the speaker, allowing for controlled diffusion of the sound and creating a more immersive listening experience. Another notable feature of the Perlisten Audio S5m is its THX Dominus certification. THX Dominus certification ensures that the speaker meets strict performance standards set by THX, a renowned audio certification company. This certification guarantees accurate audio reproduction, precise imaging, and low distortion, making the S5m an excellent choice for both home theater setups and dedicated listening rooms.

User Experience

While the Perlisten Audio S5m offers exceptional sound performance, there are a few considerations to keep in mind regarding the user experience. One aspect is the specific placement requirements for optimal sound diffusion. To fully benefit from the controlled diffusion characteristics of the speaker, it is recommended to position the S5m at an appropriate distance from walls and corners. This may require some experimentation and fine-tuning to achieve the best soundstage and imaging. Additionally, depending on your personal preference and the size of your listening space, you may find that the S5m benefits from the addition of a subwoofer to enhance the bass energy. While the speaker is capable of producing clean and impactful bass, some users may desire a more pronounced low-end presence. It's worth considering this potential additional investment when evaluating the overall cost of the system. Speaking of cost, it's important to note that the Perlisten Audio S5m is priced at the higher end of the spectrum. With a price of 92,900 yuan for a pair in China, it may not be within everyone's budget. However, for those who prioritize exceptional sound quality and are willing to invest in a premium audio solution, the S5m offers a compelling proposition. In terms of setup and usability, the Perlisten Audio S5m is relatively straightforward. The speaker comes with clear instructions and is easy to integrate into an existing audio system. The build quality and attention to detail also contribute to a positive user experience, as the speaker feels solid and reliable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Perlisten Audio S5m is an impressive bookshelf speaker that delivers exceptional sound performance and a captivating listening experience. With its clean and transparent sound, accurate frequency response, strong bass reproduction, and immersive soundstage, it caters to the discerning audiophile and home theater enthusiast. The S5m's advanced technology, including the beryllium tweeter and carbon fiber midrange units, along with its THX Dominus certification, further solidify its position as a high-quality audio product. However, it's important to consider the specific placement requirements and the potential need for a subwoofer when evaluating the overall value proposition of the speaker. While the Perlisten Audio S5m comes with a relatively high price tag, its exceptional sound performance and build quality justify the investment for those who prioritize audio excellence. If you're looking for a bookshelf speaker that offers accurate and detailed sound reproduction, the Perlisten Audio S5m is definitely worth considering.