Libratone Loop review

An enjoyable sound from a unique-looking speaker Tested at £400

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

An enjoyable sound from a unique-looking speaker

Pros

  • +

    Bright and open signature

  • +

    Tight bass

  • +

    Well-timed and articulate

  • +

    Flexible placement

Cons

  • -

    Treble can sound sharp

  • -

    Non-Apple users may find it slightly limiting

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“What’s that?” is the common reaction when we show people the Libratone Loop. It’s a wireless speaker. Honest.

We’ve tested the Loop before, but there were some issues that needed to be addressed with updated firmware.

Now that’s been sorted out, it’s time to revisit this odd-looking product.

Design

Libratone has a thing about fluffy speakers. As was the case with the Zipp, Live and Lounge before it, the Loop simply demands to be stroked.

The company aims for its products to look more like pieces of showroom furniture than tech.

So, just as a sofa might have changeable covers, the Libratone Loop has a removable coat, which is made of wool and comes in eight different colours.

Under the cover? It’s a flat, circular speaker. Plug in some feet to make it stand. There’s a bit at the back that looks like a reflex port, but it is actually a type of handle that can be used to hang the Loop on the wall.

Performance

The Loop shares a similar sonic character to its siblings: the presentation is bright and open and we’d normally expect the sound from a relatively small speaker (diameter: 33cm) to be a little tinny or boxy, but here the presentation is sweet and airy.

At some frequencies, particularly at high volume, the treble verges on sharp, losing a touch of the fine textures and nuances at the very top.

Taking the volume down a notch will help here. The brightness is more apparent in a midrange that could do with more weight. It’s articulate and has plenty of detail, but we think it needs more body.

The bass response is impressive for such a slim unit. Punchy basslines are pumped out with ease.

Last time we tested it, we found an occasional rattle from the passive radiator pushing against its grille. A recent firmware update seems to have fixed this issue, because it doesn’t occur this time.

We like the speed and agility of the sound.

Overall, it’s balanced and exciting, while Libratone’s Fullroom technology does a good job of widening the sound (ideal for parties).

You will lose a bit of focus, but it’s worth trying and it’s activated using the Libratone app (free on iOS devices). This allows you to customise it based on how you will use it – on a wall? Near a wall?

The Loop is aimed at Apple users, because it’s mostly an AirPlay speaker. Owners of Android and Windows Phones can use the 3.5mm input. Alternatively, you can use a third-party, DLNA-ready app to stream.

Set up is easy. We plug an iPad into the USB port, and within seconds we are prompted to transfer our wi-fi settings across.

Verdict

Sadly it’s not a class-leader in audio performance, and some will find the AirPlay-only approach somewhat limiting.

But the Libratone Loop is lovely. Its unconventional looks will split opinions, but we enjoy using it.

MORE: Best Hi-Fi speakers

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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