DALI Opticon 2 Speakers

Description

The DALI Opticon 2 is a compact two-way loudspeaker from Danish manufacturer DALI (Danish Audiophile Loudspeaker Industries). Introduced in 2016, it occupies the middle ground between the company’s smaller Opticon 1 and larger floorstanding models, offering a more substantial mid/bass driver in a cabinet designed for bookshelf or stand-mounted use. Its combination of distinctive Scandinavian styling, carefully engineered drive units, and an energetic musical presentation made it an appealing choice for serious stereo listeners.

Design and engineering

At the heart of the Opticon 2 is a 6.5-inch mid/bass driver featuring a paper cone reinforced with wood fibers. This material is intended to provide a useful balance of stiffness, low mass, and controlled behavior, helping the driver reproduce vocals, instruments, and bass notes with clarity. DALI’s approach emphasizes low-loss driver operation and broad sound dispersion, rather than relying on unusually narrow listening positions to achieve a convincing presentation.

High frequencies are handled by a 28mm ultra-light soft-dome tweeter. Unlike the larger Opticon models, which incorporate a hybrid dome-and-ribbon tweeter arrangement, the Opticon 2 uses a single dome tweeter. Its design favors smooth integration with the mid/bass driver while maintaining the speed and openness that characterize the range.

Another important feature is DALI’s Soft Magnetic Compound (SMC) magnet technology. Developed for the company’s higher-end Epicon range before being incorporated into the Opticon family, SMC is designed to reduce undesirable magnetic effects and lower distortion in the driver’s motor system. The result is a technically sophisticated speaker that benefits from engineering developed for more expensive products.

The cabinet is a rear-ported bass-reflex design, with a single set of gold-plated speaker terminals. Available finishes included Black Ash, Light Walnut, and White Matt Satin, with selected versions featuring contrasting high-gloss front baffles. At approximately 14 inches tall, the Opticon 2 is large enough to provide meaningful bass output without dominating a typical living room.

Sound quality and listening impressions

The Opticon 2’s defining characteristic is its lively, articulate midrange. Vocals emerge clearly, guitars have convincing texture, and rhythmically complex recordings retain their momentum. Rather than sounding overly analytical or clinical, the speaker aims to make music engaging, with strong dynamic contrasts and an expansive stereo image.

In its review published in August 2016, What Hi-Fi? described the speakers as “precise, insightful and fun-loving,” highlighting their energetic performance, strong dynamics, and open midrange. The publication particularly praised their ability to communicate musical expression without requiring extremely high listening levels.

Bass performance is impressive for a standmount design of this size. The 6.5-inch driver delivers a satisfying sense of weight and rhythmic definition, although the lowest bass notes lack the depth and physical impact available from larger floorstanding speakers or a subwoofer. Positioning near the rear wall can improve bass fullness, but careful experimentation is important because excessive reinforcement can make the presentation sound less controlled.

The treble is detailed and lively, though some listeners may find it a little forward with bright recordings or poorly matched electronics. What Hi-Fi? specifically noted that the upper frequencies could become overly enthusiastic at higher volumes, recommending careful system matching. A smooth-sounding amplifier and sensible speaker placement can help achieve a more balanced result.

System matching and overall appeal

With a nominal four-ohm impedance and 87dB sensitivity, the Opticon 2 benefits from a capable amplifier. DALI recommends amplification rated between 30 and 150 watts per channel. Good-quality stands, with the tweeters positioned near ear height, help maximize imaging and tonal balance.

A separate review from audioFi.net described the speakers as delivering “excellent soundstaging and imaging,” praising their balanced presentation, natural vocals, and ability to handle a wide variety of musical styles.

The DALI Opticon 2 remains an attractive choice for listeners seeking a well-built, musically engaging compact loudspeaker. Its combination of refined driver technology, lively dynamics, and convincing stereo imaging makes it suitable for everything from jazz and acoustic recordings to rock and electronic music. Its overall versatility and engaging character make it a noteworthy member of DALI’s Opticon family.

DALI Opticon 2 specifications

• Type: Two-way, passive standmount/bookshelf loudspeaker

• Enclosure: Rear-ported bass reflex

• Tweeter: 28mm ultra-light soft-dome

• Mid/bass driver: 6.5-inch (165mm) wood-fiber-reinforced paper cone

• Frequency response: 59Hz–27kHz (±3dB)

• Sensitivity: 87dB (2.83V/1m)

• Nominal impedance: 4 ohms

• Recommended amplifier power: 30–150 watts per channel

• Maximum SPL: 107dB

• Crossover frequency: 2,000Hz

• Bass-reflex tuning frequency: 46.5Hz

• Inputs: Single pair of speaker terminals

• Magnet technology: DALI Soft Magnetic Compound (SMC)

• Dimensions (H × W × D): 14.0 × 7.8 × 11.9 inches (351 × 195 × 297mm)

• Weight: 17.2lb (7.8kg) per speaker