Elac BS243 review

Thrilling in short bursts, but can become tiring over time Tested at £1050

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Crave excitement from your music? You’re not alone...

Pros

  • +

    Intriguing looks, solid build

  • +

    exciting, up-and-at-’em sound

Cons

  • -

    Remorseless attack can be tiring

  • -

    get a bit shouty at high volumes

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Thanks to a new distribution deal, Elac is again a presence in the UK market. Good news for anyone who craves excitement (visual or audible) from their speakers.

The BS243 are dramatic lookers thanks to the JET foil membrane tweeter and contoured 15cm mid/bass driver.

The drama keeps coming. Pacey, hefty and texturally varied at the bottom end, with space and attitude to spare in the midrange and whippet-like levels of speed and substance at the top, the Elacs tear into The Flaming Lips’ The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song with real purpose.

Nothing short of thrilling
Substantial dynamic shifts present no problems, the soundstage is cohesive and secure at all times, and timing is decent if a little short of the stop/start alacrity of their best rivals.

There’s no let-up, mind you: the Elacs are dogged in their quest for energy and excitement, and this relentlessness can get wearing over time. In short bursts, though, they’re nothing short of thrilling.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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