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PMC ACTIVE twenty5.22i
The more substantial Active twenty5.22i is a true performer, able to fill larger spaces with compelling sound, and is equally at home on its dedicated stands, console, or other furniture.
Want to fill a larger space with sound while using neat, standmount speakers? The Active twenty5.22i, while a little larger than Active 21i model, will fit into any room with still trim dimensions belying the 200W of active amplification and lengthy ATL™ within: the amps combine with the powerful 6.5-inch g-weave bass driver and Laminair™ vent to deliver a clean, uncluttered, and powerful low-end, perfectly matched with the detailed high frequencies from the precision soft-dome treble unit, via the optimised active crossover. Its performance is agile and dynamic; whether on its dedicated stands or shelf, the active amplification elevates the performance to new levels.
With 2x100W of amplification in each speaker, the Active twenty5i series just needs a preamplifier or streamer with volume control for a world-class music system.
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Powerful, studio-grade dynamics and uncanny three-dimensional imaging define the ACTIVE twenty5.22i, delivering punchy, controlled low end from its ATL-loaded cabinet and precise midrange detail. The integrated analogue crossover and twin 100W amps give effortless headroom and revealing transient response, making these compact monitors a potent choice for listeners after articulate dynamics, expansive imaging and tight bass extension. The Ear praised its monitor-like clarity.
Pros
- Class-D amplification with an analogue electronic crossover provides exceptional headroom and dynamic impact.
- Remarkable soundstaging and imaging that can make the speakers 'disappear', producing highly three-dimensional presentation.
- ATL transmission-line cabinet and long-throw driver deliver surprisingly deep, controlled bass for a bookshelf monitor.
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Cons
- Trades a degree of tonal finesse compared with some high-end passive amp plus speaker pairings.
- Lowest bass extension still falls short of larger floorstanding speakers — bigger designs will reach deeper.
Sound Quality
91/100
Bass
90/100
For the box size the ATL-loaded 6.5" driver extends impressively to 39Hz and reviewers called the bass 'very impressive for the box size' and able to 'rumble' with 'weight and crunch'. The transmission-line design and long-throw cone are credited for the depth and control; reviewer caveat: 'bigger examples will go lower.'
Mid
92/100
Reviewers praised transparency, immediacy and natural timbre — 'transparency and vitality', 'immediacy and zing' on acoustic instruments. The monitor-like presentation and timing give vocals and acoustic textures strong presence and detail.
Treble
90/100
Treble is detailed and refined with air and sparkle (examples: 'diamond dust from the trumpet') and no reviewer-reported harshness. The SEAS/PMC SONOMEX soft dome with ferrofluid cooling supports clean, extended HF to 25kHz.
Soundstage Imaging
93/100
The reviewer noted an uncanny three-dimensionality and that the 'soundstage totally escaped the cabinets' — the speaker 'disappears' and the sound takes over. Imaging is exceptional for a two-way bookshelf and benefits from the active design.
Dynamics
92/100
Active amplification and analogue crossover deliver strong macro- and micro-dynamics: 'ability to play at higher levels without effort' and 'degree of torque that few passive speakers can match.' Dynamics are a clear strength of the active implementation.
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Build Quality
91/100
High-quality components and construction: long-throw g-weave cone in cast alloy chassis, ferrofluid-cooled 19mm tweeter, and PMC's advanced transmission-line cabinet are all highlighted. The engineering and finish are described as 'superbly executed.'
Features Connectivity
90/100
Active design includes analogue electronic crossover, pair of 100W amplifiers (one per driver), balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, and upgradeability to use the active board in other twenty5 models. The analogue crossover (rather than DSP) and built-in power make the feature set strong for an active monitor.
Value for Money
90/100
Reviewer commented that while they 'might look expensive' the speakers are 'extremely capable' and deliver dynamics/imaging that compare favorably to a passive speaker plus amp 'for the price.' Given the performance and integrated amplification, reviewers positioned them as a compelling, if premium, value.
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