Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of audio technology, finding speakers that combine versatility, aesthetics, and exceptional sound quality is akin to discovering a sonic treasure. Nubert’s nuPro SP-500, priced at a reasonable 1,365 euros, is a true gem that has garnered acclaim for its ability to adapt seamlessly to many scenarios. This review takes you through the nuPro SP-500’s design, features, and, most importantly, its sonic prowess. Whether you want to enhance your TV’s audio, create a home theater experience, or enjoy high-quality stereo sound, these speakers offer a comprehensive solution.
Unveiling the nuPro SP-500
Nubert’s nuPro SP-500 is a testament to the idea that a compact, well-designed speaker system can significantly impact your auditory experiences. With a sleek, modern aesthetic and a wide range of settings that cater to diverse audio preferences, these speakers promise more than sound – they deliver an immersive journey into the world of music and entertainment. So, let’s delve deeper into the nuPro SP-500 and discover what sets these speakers apart.
Facts:
- Model: Nubert nuPro SP-500
- Concept: three-way active floorstanding loudspeaker with bass reflex system
- Price for a pair: 1,365 euros
- Colors: Black or White
- Dimensions & weight per box (with feet and front cover): 103.2 x 27.3 x 30.6 cm (H x W x D), 17.6 kg (master), 17.2 kg (slave)
- Special features: different sound and language modes
- Box contents: user manual, magnetic front cover, remote control, power cable, connection cable, optical digital cable, jack to RCA cable, HDMI cable, truss feet, mounting kit for attaching the feet
- Warranty period: 2 years
Versatile Design and Build Quality
The nuPro SP-500 boasts a design that’s not just about looks but also practicality. This versatility sets it apart in a crowded market. The speaker’s slim profile and modern aesthetics ensure that it seamlessly integrates into various living spaces. Its dimensions, 100 x 18.5 x 22 cm (H x W x D, without feet and front cover), make it a perfect fit for most rooms. The housing, with its rounded edges, adds an element of sophistication to its appearance, making it an eye-catching addition to any environment. Nubert has meticulously crafted these speakers, considering both form and function, a feat well-acknowledged by users.
Moreover, the nuPro SP-500’s design doesn’t just stop at aesthetics. It prioritizes user convenience. Although the included rubber-bottomed feet may leave marks on certain flooring when the speakers are moved, they are an excellent touch for ensuring stability. The rubber marks are easy to clean, and for audiophiles who prioritize optimal sound quality, the speaker provides an option for using spikes to enhance performance while safeguarding your floor. Furthermore, if you connect the nuPro SP-500 to your television, you’ll find another element of versatility – the ability to control the volume using your TV’s remote. It’s a thoughtful feature that simplifies the overall experience.
The speaker’s compact and lightweight build is a real asset regarding versatility. With only 17 kilograms each, these speakers are far from the bulky behemoths that their name might suggest. Moving them around your home is a breeze, allowing you to adapt to different situations effortlessly. Whether you want to create a stereo system in your living room, use them as TV speakers in another room, or bring them downstairs for a party, the nuPro SP-500 makes it all achievable without needing a professional setup.
In a market where speakers often compromise build quality for aesthetic appeal, the nuPro SP-500 shines. Constructed with an MDF housing, these speakers present a robust and solid build that’s exceptional for their price range. Additionally, including feet with rubber bottoms ensures they remain firmly planted on various surfaces. In the world of audio equipment, where performance and design are equally vital, Nubert has masterfully merged form and functionality in the nuPro SP-500, ensuring it’s as versatile in its design as it is in its application.
Abundant Setting Options
The nuPro SP-500 stands out for its impeccable design, build quality, and rich setting options. These settings cater to user preferences, making these speakers adaptable to various listening environments and scenarios.
One of the nuPro SP-500’s standout features is its comprehensive control. Users can fine-tune their audio experience to match their tastes and room characteristics. These settings extend beyond basic volume control and equalization, demonstrating Nubert’s commitment to delivering a tailored sound experience.
The loudness switching feature allows users to enhance the bass and treble response at lower listening volumes. This can be especially beneficial when you want a fuller sound without cranking up the volume, ensuring your audio remains engaging even at lower levels.
The bass-mid/treble control allows you to precisely adjust the frequency response to suit your preferred tonal balance. Whether you enjoy the deep, resonant tones of bass or the crisp clarity of treble, these speakers empower you to find the perfect balance.
The “hearing zone expansion” function, often called the “wide” function, is a revelation for those who crave a more immersive stereo experience. It widens the stereo base, enveloping you in a spacious soundstage that can make music and movies come to life in your listening space.
Furthermore, introducing the “Voice+” mode is a notable addition. It addresses a common challenge in home entertainment – dialogue clarity. This feature is a boon when watching films, ensuring that even soft-spoken lines and subtle conversations are delivered with exceptional clarity.
In practice, these settings empower you to create a listening experience tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re enhancing your music enjoyment, fine-tuning your home theater experience, or optimizing the speaker’s performance for a specific room, the nuPro SP-500 allows you to do so easily.
These settings’ meticulous attention to detail demonstrates Nubert’s dedication to providing a holistic audio experience. By offering users the ability to shape the sound to their liking, these speakers exemplify a level of customization often reserved for more high-end and expensive audio systems. The nuPro SP-500 truly places the power of audio personalization into the hands of its users.
Diverse Connectivity Options
The nuPro SP-500 is not just about sound quality and aesthetics; it’s also a powerhouse of versatility regarding connectivity. This adaptability is crucial to its appeal, allowing users to integrate these speakers into various audio setups seamlessly.
Its range of connectivity options is at the heart of the speaker’s versatility. Whether you’re a traditionalist who prefers wired connections or a fan of wireless convenience, the nuPro SP-500 has you covered.
Starting with wired connections, the speaker offers an HDMI eARC connection, providing a high-quality digital link to your source devices. This makes it compatible with modern audio and video equipment, ensuring you can enjoy high-definition sound from your TV, gaming console, or Blu-ray player.
Including optical and electrical digital connections expands the speaker’s compatibility with different source devices. These inputs are versatile and allow you to connect various audio sources, from CD players to streaming devices and set-top boxes.
The speaker features an analog RCA option for those who appreciate analog audio. This connectivity option is a nod to classic audio sources and ensures that your turntable or older audio equipment can still be part of your setup.
Additionally, if you’re a fan of deep, room-filling bass, the Sub Out option allows you to connect a subwoofer to the nuPro SP-500. This enables the speaker to seamlessly integrate with a subwoofer, enhancing the low-end performance and creating a more immersive sound experience, particularly in home theater setups.
But that’s not all. For the ultimate convenience, the speaker also supports Bluetooth playback. It employs the high-resolution aptX-HD version, transmitting audio up to 24-bit and 48 kHz. You can stream your favorite music from your smartphone or tablet with high-fidelity sound quality.
In today’s diverse audio landscape, where we source our music and entertainment from various devices, the nuPro SP-500’s connectivity options make it a versatile hub for your audio needs. Whether you prefer the reliability of wired connections or the convenience of wireless streaming, these speakers offer a wide range of choices, ensuring you can effortlessly incorporate them into your existing audio ecosystem. This level of flexibility is a testament to the nuPro SP-500’s adaptability in today’s ever-evolving audio landscape.
Driver Configuration
The core of any speaker’s sound quality lies in its driver configuration, and the nuPro SP-500 excels in this aspect by offering a well-thought-out and meticulously designed driver setup.
At its heart, the nuPro SP-500 employs a classic three-way system with bass reflex support. This driver configuration comprises a trio of key elements harmoniously producing a well-balanced and detailed sound.
The speaker features a 25mm tweeter with a silk fabric membrane starting at the high-frequency end. This high-quality tweeter ensures that the speaker delivers crisp and clear treble frequencies, adding an element of refinement to the sound.
In the mid and bass range, the nuPro SP-500 utilizes three 14.8cm polypropylene drivers. This configuration, where each driver is dedicated to a specific frequency range, ensures a more efficient and precise sound reproduction. Two of these drivers handle the low-frequency range, generating rich and powerful bass, while the third driver takes care of the midrange, ensuring clarity in vocal and instrument reproduction.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the lower separation frequency of 450 Hertz, which allows for a seamless transition between the drivers responsible for the different frequency bands. This smooth crossover ensures no part of the sound spectrum is neglected, resulting in a cohesive and harmonious audio experience.
The separation from the tweeter is equally crucial. With a relatively low separation frequency of 1800 Hertz, the nuPro SP-500’s drivers are engineered to blend their output effortlessly with the high-frequency tweeter. This low crossover point helps create a coherent and unified soundstage, ensuring the listener hears the music or audio as a holistic, well-integrated entity.
The speaker’s specified frequency range further complements the driver configuration. With a lower limit frequency of an impressive 33 Hertz, the nuPro SP-500 delivers deep, resonant bass that adds richness and depth to your audio. At the upper end, the frequency response extends to 22,000 Hertz, encompassing a wide range of sound frequencies and preserving the intricate details in your music.
Moreover, the nuPro SP-500 is powered by an integrated signal processor and digital amplifier. This all-digital signal processing chain ensures efficient operation without introducing noise during idle periods, guaranteeing clean and noise-free playback.
With such a well-considered driver configuration, the nuPro SP-500 stands out in its price range by delivering an engaging and well-balanced audio experience. The use of high-quality components and the attention to detail in driver design make these speakers a compelling choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking a satisfying and immersive listening experience.
Usability and Functionality
The nuPro SP-500 offers a seamless and user-friendly experience, making it a powerful audio solution and an accessible one. Its functionality extends beyond sound quality to enhance convenience and ease of use.
Remote Control and Front Panel: The package includes a remote control that pleasantly surprises users with its metal surface and quality feel. This remote is thoughtfully designed, with essential buttons for input selection, volume control, sound adjustments, and Bluetooth pairing. While it’s a handy tool, it’s worth noting that the remote requires precise aim at the master speaker for effective control, which can occasionally be a bit picky. Alternatively, users can control the level, input selection, and sound settings directly on the master speaker’s front panel using the illuminated rotary control. The colored LED ring around the controller provides visual feedback about the current settings, making it easy to understand and operate.
Connection Variety: The nuPro SP-500 excels in connectivity options, catering to various audio sources and preferences. Whether connecting modern digital devices through HDMI eARC, traditional sources using optical or analog connections, or enjoying wireless freedom via Bluetooth aptX-HD, these speakers ensure compatibility with virtually any source device. Including a Sub Out option for connecting a subwoofer is another practical feature, allowing users to extend the low-end response when desired.
Physical Build and Versatility: Weighing only 17 kilograms each, the nuPro SP-500’s portability is a notable advantage. Users can move them around the house effortlessly, adapting to different listening environments or event scenarios. The speakers’ slim profile and modern design look good in living rooms and fit well in various settings, from home theaters to fitness rooms. Their sleek appearance adds an element of sophistication to any space. Including rubber-bottomed feet ensures stable placement, while the ability to use spikes further enhances audio quality without damaging flooring.
Voice+ Mode and Wide Function: The “Voice+” mode effectively improves film dialogue clarity, addressing a common issue with home theater setups. This feature ensures that even soft-spoken dialogues remain intelligible amid the action. The “Wide” function widens the stereo base, creating an immersive soundstage that enhances the listening experience. Both functions can be invaluable for users seeking an improved audio experience in different media consumption scenarios.
Quick Setup: Setting up the nuPro SP-500 is quick and straightforward, allowing users to start enjoying their audio within minutes. This simplicity aligns with the slogan “HiFi has never been so easy,” reflecting the speaker’s focus on user accessibility.
Digital Processing Chain: The integrated signal processor and digital amplifier result in efficient and noise-free operation. Users can enjoy high-quality sound without the distraction of background noise, ensuring a pleasant listening experience even during quieter moments.
In essence, the nuPro SP-500 marries advanced technology with a user-centric design. Its functionality and ease of use cater to both seasoned audiophiles and casual listeners. Nubert has taken a holistic approach to ensure that these speakers excel in sound quality and practicality, making them a valuable addition to diverse listening environments.
Sound Quality and Applications
The nuPro SP-500 shines in various applications. As TV speakers, they significantly enhance the audio experience with improved width and depth of sound. The loudness function and “Voice+” mode are particularly useful for better dialogue clarity. In-home theater setups with multi-channel audio, the speakers effectively handle surround sound formats like Dolby Digital and DTS.
Stereo Playback
For stereo playback, the ideal setup involves neutral bass and mid/treble settings, with the loudness and wide functions turned off. The speaker’s soundstage width is most balanced with wide function level 1, providing a natural and pleasing sound. The nuPro SP-500 delivers ample bass without overpowering and can be fine-tuned for personal preferences.
Power and Dynamics
These speakers offer impressive power and can reach high volumes without distortion. While they may not be the most dynamic in their category, they handle significant volume changes without issues. The sound presentation focuses more on smoothness than sharpness, offering an enjoyable listening experience.
Treble Performance
The speaker’s treble performance is neutral and well-balanced. It avoids excessive sharpness and works well with various music genres. With the treble set to neutral, the speakers deliver clear and pleasant high frequencies.
Midrange and Bass Character
The midrange and lower midrange emphasize a warm and inviting sound character. The bass is rich and powerful yet well-controlled. The speaker’s slight warmth makes it ideal for extended listening sessions.
Soundstage and Imaging
While not exceptionally wide without the “Wide” function, the soundstage still provides an immersive experience. The speaker’s project sound well in front of the listener, creating a three-dimensional soundstage. Instrument and voice separation is good, although not as precise as high-end speakers.
Sound Quality and Sound Test
The nuPro SP-500 isn’t just about features and specifications; it’s about the way it brings music and audio to life. This is where these speakers truly shine, as they deliver a sound quality that exceeds expectations.
A Versatile Sound Profile: The speakers offer a versatile sound profile that can be fine-tuned to match your preferences. Whether you prefer a more neutral, flat response or enjoy a slightly warmer, bass-rich sound, the nuPro SP-500 provides the tools to achieve your ideal sonic landscape. With the bass-mid/treble control and loudness adjustment, you can personalize your listening experience with ease.
Wide Soundstage: Thanks to the “Wide” function, which expands the stereo base, the nuPro SP-500 creates an impressively wide soundstage. This feature enhances the immersion, making music and movies feel larger than life. It’s particularly beneficial for films and multi-channel sound, making every scene more engrossing.
“Voice+” Mode: The “Voice+” mode isn’t just a marketing gimmick; it significantly improves the clarity of dialogue in films. In situations where conversations can get lost amidst action sequences, this mode brings voices to the forefront, ensuring you catch every word without needing to adjust the volume constantly.
Sound Test & Comparisons: The nuPro SP-500’s versatility is further evident in sound tests and comparisons. When used as TV speakers, they outshine built-in TV audio systems. Whether it’s the roar of a stadium crowd during a sports match or the explosive dynamics of action films, the nuPro SP-500 enhances the audio, providing more depth and immersion.
Music Playback: In a stereo setup, these speakers exhibit a remarkable range of performance. When configured optimally and paired with a high-quality source like the NAD music server M50.2, they deliver a compelling music listening experience. In various music genres, from rock to acoustic, the nuPro SP-500 demonstrates its adaptability. The bass is powerful but not overwhelming, the mids are expressive, and the highs are clear without harshness.
Level Stability & Dynamics: The speakers are capable of reaching high volume levels without losing composure. They exhibit robust level stability, ensuring that your audio remains clean and distortion-free even at elevated volumes. While they might not have the same level of sharp dynamics as some high-end speakers, they handle dynamic shifts effectively, maintaining a sense of balance.
Fine Dynamics & Integration: The nuPro SP-500’s strength lies in its ability to integrate sound elements smoothly. It prioritizes a flowing sound, favoring smooth transitions and cohesion over sharp, punctuated attacks. This approach might not be ideal for detail fanatics, but it is perfect for those who prefer an easygoing, engaging listening experience.
Commodity in the Treble: The speakers’ treble performance is another noteworthy aspect. The treble frequencies are neutral to slightly reserved, avoiding excessive brightness or sharpness. This is particularly beneficial for genres like rock and metal, where harsh treble can be fatiguing. The speakers maintain a pleasant balance in the treble range.
Emotional Midrange: The lower mids, in conjunction with the bass, give the nuPro SP-500 a slightly warm and emotionally engaging character. This warmth is particularly appreciated for vocals and acoustic instruments, where it adds depth and resonance to the sound.
In conclusion, the nuPro SP-500 impresses with its sound quality across diverse scenarios. Whether you’re a cinephile seeking immersive home theater experiences or an audiophile enjoying music in its full spectrum, these speakers prove their worth. Their adaptability and ability to excel in various listening situations make them a versatile choice for those who value both audio quality and convenience. While they might not be the go-to choice for extreme audiophiles, they provide an engaging and user-friendly audio experience that resonates with a broad spectrum of listeners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Nubert nuPro SP-500 represents an exceptional package of versatility, audio quality, and user-friendliness. These active speakers redefine what’s possible in a compact and affordable audio system, making them a compelling choice for a wide range of users. The nuPro SP-500’s design and build quality exemplify German engineering excellence, with a slim, modern look that seamlessly integrates into any living space. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about practicality too, as the speakers offer portability, stable placement, and various connectivity options to adapt to different listening environments.
The sound quality of the nuPro SP-500 is impressive, with the flexibility to suit various musical tastes and listening scenarios. It excels as both a stereo system and TV speaker, enhancing the audio of sports events and films. With an array of settings to personalize the listening experience, from fine-tuning bass and treble to widening the soundstage, these speakers cater to individual preferences. While they might not be the ultimate choice for audiophiles seeking the utmost in detail and precision, they provide a well-balanced and immersive sound experience that can captivate a broad audience. All in all, the Nubert nuPro SP-500 represents a tremendous value proposition, offering an adaptable, high-quality audio solution that complements modern lifestyles and diverse listening needs.
Why You Should Buy the Nubert nuPro SP-500:
- Versatile Design: These speakers are incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into various living spaces, whether it’s your living room, home theater, or even a home gym.
- Outstanding Build Quality: Nubert’s commitment to quality is evident in the design and construction of the nuPro SP-500. The attention to detail, choice of materials, and build quality exceed expectations for speakers in this price range.
- Abundant Setting Options: The speakers offer many setting options, allowing you to customize your sound experience. From bass and treble control to voice enhancement for movies, you can tailor the sound to your liking.
- Diverse Connectivity: With a wide range of input options, including HDMI eARC, optical, analog, and Bluetooth aptX-HD, these speakers cater to various audio sources and devices, ensuring compatibility with your existing setup.
- User-Friendly: The remote control, front-panel controls, and quick setup make these speakers accessible for users of all experience levels. The illuminated rotary control and visual feedback simplify adjustments.
- Wide Soundstage: The “Wide” function enhances the stereo base, creating a captivating soundstage for an immersive listening experience, particularly beneficial for movies and multi-channel content.
Why You Might Not Buy the Nubert nuPro SP-500:
- Not for Audiophile Precision: If you are an audiophile seeking the utmost precision and detail in your sound, you might find the nuPro SP-500, with its more forgiving sound profile, not to your taste.
- Bright Sound with “Wide” Function: While the “Wide” function widens the soundstage, it can make the sound overly bright for some listeners. It’s a feature that’s effective but may not suit everyone’s preferences.
- Remote Control Precision: The remote control, while impressive, requires precise aim at the master speaker for effective control, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.
In summary, the Nubert nuPro SP-500 offers a compelling audio solution for a wide audience. Its adaptability, build quality, and sound quality make it a valuable addition to various listening environments. However, if you prioritize audiophile-grade precision or have a strong aversion to any potential brightness in sound, it might not be the ideal choice for you.
