Libratone Loop review
Given its mediocre sound quality, the expensive Libratone Loop left us disappointed
Specifications
Speakers: 2, RMS power output: 120W, Dock connector: None, Networking: Bluetooth (SBC, aptX), Dimensions: 333x83x333mm, Weight: 2.7kg, Streaming formats: DLNA, AirPlay
Unfortunately, acoustic performance is an area where we were left disappointed. Even with two 1in ribbon tweeters, a 5in subwoofer and a passive bass radiator inside the Loop, we found its sound signature lacked depth and detail. There wasn’t a great deal of separation between the lower frequencies and the mids and trebles, bordering on becoming overly-muddy during our folk and jazz test tracks.
For the cost of the Loop we expected to hear more crispness in the highs but these were disappointingly absent. The sound stage wasn’t particularly wide, either. There was reasonable stereo separation but there’s a distinct sweet spot directly in front of the speaker where you’ll get the best sound quality before it begins dropping off towards the sides. The Loop can at least achieve a decent maximum volume capable of filling a medium to large room, and the cabinet manages to keep rattle and reverberation within reason.
The Libratone Loop is certainly flexible when it comes to getting music to the speaker, although the most convenient is undeniably AirPlay. Considering the high price, we would have expected better sound quality. Unless you’re particularly taken by its distinct design we feel you’re better spending similar money on a multiroom capable speaker such as the Sonos Play:5 or LG Music Flow H7.
Hardware | |
---|---|
Speakers | 2 |
RMS power output | 120W |
Audio inputs | 3.5mm stereo |
Audio outputs | None |
Dock connector | None |
USB port | USB |
Memory card support | None |
Networking | Bluetooth (SBC, aptX) |
NFC | Yes |
App support | iOS, Android |
Battery capacity | None |
Dimensions | 333x83x333mm |
Weight | 2.7kg |
Streaming | |
Streaming formats | DLNA, AirPlay |
Supported servers | UPnP |
Audio formats | MP3, WAV, OGG |
Internet streaming services | Spotify |
Buying information | |
Price including VAT | £350 |
Warranty | One year RTB |
Supplier | www.libratone.com |
Details | www.libratone.com |
Part code | Loop |