(August 24, 2025) Acoustic Energy has been a respected name in British hi-fi since 1987, and now North American listeners have the chance to experience its latest generation of speakers. Florida-based Essence for Hi Res Audio, an Acoustic Energy dealer, has officially brought the 300² Series stateside, marking a healthy upgrade to the company’s midrange offerings.
The new series is not a refresh. Every model has been redesigned from the ground up, borrowing heavily from the company’s flagship Corinium speakers. The lineup includes the AE300² Bookshelf ($999/pair), AE309² Compact Tower ($2,199/pair), AE320² Large 3-Way Tower ($3,199/pair), and the AE SUB Powered Subwoofer ($999). Each model incorporates new materials, new crossovers, and an entirely new cabinet structure to maximize performance.
One of the biggest changes is in driver technology. Mid bass drivers now use a paper and coconut fiber composite cone, replacing the older ceramic aluminum design. Acoustic Energy says this results in stiffer, more natural-sounding drivers with a faster transient response and less coloration. For highs, a 1" soft dome tweeter, borrowed from the Corinium, features Wide Dispersion Technology for a broad, smooth soundstage. And all new crossovers ensure seamless integration and time alignment across the frequency spectrum.
Cabinet design has also taken a leap forward. The new Resonance Suppression Composite (RSC) construction uses constrained layer damping to cut resonance and let the drivers perform cleanly. Slot-shaped rear ports help smooth out bass performance and improve room integration, while slimmer cabinet profiles and new matte finishes in black, white, or walnut deliver a contemporary aesthetic.
Perhaps the most exciting addition is the AE SUB, a sealed 12" powered subwoofer with extension to 30 Hz. Compact yet muscular, it's been tuned to integrate naturally with the 300² Series but can also serve as a flexible addition to other systems.
The flagship AE320² stands out for trickle-down engineering from the $7,999 Corinium, offering what Acoustic Energy claims is 90 percent of the flagship’s performance for less than half the price. For listeners seeking large-scale dynamics and full-range clarity in medium to large rooms, it represents one of the more compelling values in this price category.
U.S. distribution is handled exclusively through Essence for Hi Res Audio, and AV NIRVANA is proud to host an official Essence subforum where enthusiasts can ask questions, share impressions, and connect directly with the brand. Join us there and chat directly with Essence owner, Bob Rapoport!
Related Reading:
- Why HDMI ARC is Not An Audiophile Solution
- Audiophile Day Reaches Milestone with Tenth Annual Celebration on October 2, 2025
- Hot August Sale, Save 20% off the MSRP of the Alta Audio Alyssa, A British Audiophile's Best Speaker of 2024 in the $3K to $5K price range.
- Breaking News from Essence For August 2025
Last edited:
