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psb Speakers Alpha AM5 - Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Bookshelf speakers that turn sound into story
Redefine how you approach home theatre sound with the Alpha AM5. Known around the world for its iconic performance, the AM5 sets the standard for entry-level bookshelf speakers. From versatile connectivity to rich, full-range sound, you can expect nothing but sonic excellence all within an elegant, simple design.
Where rich sound meets an immersive experience
Every sound has a story. With the Alpha AM5, elevate your home audio and be captivated and immersed in the narrative. Its thoughtfully designed driver set ensures a balanced and accurate sound across the spectrum. The Alpha AM5 features a ¾” aluminum ferrofluid-cooled tweeter and a 5 ¼” midbass woofer to capture any sound's intricate levels and subtle nuances. Simply put, it’s what you expect from one of the world’s most iconic speakers.
Customizable sound modes for a personalized experience
The Alpha AM5, like its counterpart ( Alpha AM3 ), is easy and intuitive to set up: simply pair to your device and play. Equipped with Qualcomm aptX Bluetooth, streaming from your mobile device, computer, or TV has never been simpler. For vinyl enthusiasts, connect to your turntable easily with the dedicated RCA phono input. To deepen your bass further, hook up to your preferred subwoofer. Take charge of your listening with different modes that allow you to accentuate dialogue, soundstage and more.
Placement Flexibility
Designing a speaker that sounds good no matter where it’s placed requires innovation and collaboration. Leveraging the expertise of our sister brands allowed us to create a level of precision necessary for near-field listening. By harnessing the power of digital signal processing, the Alpha AM5 boasts a pristine sound that transcends the confines of an enclosed space.
A subtle statement piece that elevates your décor
Showcase your Alpha AM5 as a statement piece on your living room’s bookshelf to elevate the entire room. While its sound demands attention, its simple, sleek look will never overpower your space. Again, the Alpha AM5’s flexibility shines through, blending effortlessly with your unique style or décor. Choose between matte black and matte white acoustically transparent detachable magnetic grilles to harmonize with the rest of your interior design.
Dealers selling psb Speakers near you
Small but mighty, the Alpha AM5 pairs a tight, punchy low end driven by MaxxBass DSP with a clean, well-bodied midrange and articulate treble, making vocals and dialog sing. Reviewers praised its built‑in phono stage, versatile inputs and aptX Bluetooth, and an expansive wide soundstage that belies the footprint (see Peter Lo Raso, Gordon Brockhouse).
Pros
- Surprisingly robust, punchy low end for its size thanks to MaxxBass DSP, delivering perceived bass extension beyond the cabinet’s physical limits.
- Comprehensive onboard connectivity — quality phono MM stage, USB DAC, optical, aptX Bluetooth and tone controls — makes it a versatile all‑in‑one desktop or small‑room system.
- Wide, enveloping soundstage and precise imaging for the class, with DSP modes (WideSound/Dialogue) that broaden the sweet spot and improve clarity for movies and vocals.
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Cons
- Limited true deep‑bass authority below ~40Hz—some material can sound muddy or boomy; benefits noticeably from adding a subwoofer for low‑end control.
- Minimal front controls and persistent/status LED can be fiddly or overly bright; remote unlocks most features but some users found the front‑panel cycling awkward.
Sound Quality
88/100
Bass
88/100
5.25" woofer with bass-reflex enclosure and DSP (MaxxBass) yields surprisingly deep, robust low end for the size. Reviewers noted very satisfying punch and extension, though a few tracks exposed mild muddiness/boom below ~40Hz and benefits from adding a sub.
Mid
90/100
Clear, well-bodied midrange with good vocal presence; Dialogue mode further improves clarity. Reviews repeatedly praise vocal timbre and naturalness, with only minor edge at very high playback levels.
Treble
86/100
Aluminum dome tweeter provides decent extension and air without being bright or harsh in normal listening. At high volumes some reviewers heard a slight hardness on sibilant material or aggressively struck percussion.
Soundstage Imaging
89/100
WideSound DSP mode creates an impressively large and enveloping soundstage; imaging is precise if not absolutely pinpoint. Depth is good though reviewers noted width/tallness as the system's strongest dimension.
Dynamics
87/100
Speakers deliver punchy, dynamic presentation with good transient attack and rhythmic drive for their size. Some listeners noted slight compression compared with larger monitors, but overall dynamics were engaging and musical.
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Build Quality
88/100
Sturdy MDF cabinets, well-made perforated metal grilles (magnetic), and solid fit/finish. Tapping reveals well-damped construction and no tacky embellishments; overall craftsmanship praised.
Features Connectivity
92/100
Comprehensive active feature set: 50Wpc Class-D amp, phono MM stage, USB DAC, optical, aptX Bluetooth, subwoofer out, tone controls, DSP modes and remote. Connectivity and DSP add clear usability and versatility.
Value for Money
90/100
Multiple reviewers called the AM5 a strong value (reviews reference $599 MSRP) given built-in amplification, phono, DAC and DSP. Even at product-data price ($699) reviewers' language supports a compelling value proposition vs peers.
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