Opera Grande Mezzo review

Opera continues its good run with these attractive and competent Grande Mezzo floorstanders Tested at £1500.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

The Grade Mezzo combine classy aesthetics with a hugely capable sound. They’re well worth a listen

Pros

  • +

    Impressive build quality

  • +

    even-handed nature

  • +

    seemless integration between drive units

Cons

  • -

    Could do with a little extra bite and more grip at the lowest frequencies

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Italian speaker manufacturer Opera has been on a good run of late and these Grande Mezzos continue the high standard.

These towers stand tall at 95cm high, but they are slim and the cabinet quality is top class, with quality veneer and a leather-covered top panel.

Set-up is straightforward, though we'd like a better spike arrangement for the rear: a single bolt fixing for the crossbeam isn't quite secure enough.

An unfussy nature
The Mezzos prove to have an unfussy nature. Their well-judged tonal balance means that the highs and lows are kept in check, and positioning them anything from around 50cm from the rear wall works well.

The uniform tonality also means they're not too picky about partnering kit. As long as it's suitable for a speaker at this price level there's a good chance these Operas will sound good with it.

Positioned with a touch of toe-in, these floorstanders set up a stable image.

There's no shortage of scale or weight, leading to enjoyable results with larger scale symphonies from the likes of Tchaikovsky. Dynamic swings are delivered with confidence, high volumes shrugged off with ease.

Just a little bite required
You can add pleasing integration and a decent turn of speed to the plus side of the equation, too.

However, listen to the likes of Santogold's debut album and a few minor shortcomings become apparent.

An extra degree of bite – these towers sound a little polite – and a little extra grip in the bass wouldn't go amiss. That said, they remain a good listen.

The Grande Mezzos aren't superstars, but they are capable alternatives to the likes of Spendor's A5s. If you like your music with added civility, give them a good long listen.

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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