Micca COVO-S vs. Pioneer SP-BS22-LR

Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$80 $160
Dimensions (H × W × D)
5.10” × 4.20” × 5.10”
130mm × 107mm × 130mm
12.56” × 7.13” × 8.44”
319mm × 181mm × 214mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
90-20,000 Hz 55-20,000 Hz
ASR Score
n/a 5.0
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
n/a 7.5
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of budget-conscious audiophiles, the Micca COVO-S and Pioneer SP-BS22-LR stand out. The COVO-S, with its compact form, is an underdog, delivering surprisingly clear mids and highs from its concentric driver design, yet it lacks the low-end presence. Meanwhile, the SP-BS22-LR, designed by revered engineer Andrew Jones, offers a more balanced and natural sound with a rich bass response, thanks to its sophisticated crossover and larger cabinet. For small spaces, Micca may suffice, but for a fuller, room-filling experience, the Pioneer is the clear choice for discerning ears on a budget.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to compact bookshelf speakers that are both affordable and capable of delivering a satisfying audio experience, both the Micca COVO-S and the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR have been making waves among budget-conscious audiophiles. Though at a glance they might appear similar, as both are entry-level speakers aimed at those taking their first steps into a more serious listening experience, they have distinct characteristics that cater to slightly different preferences and uses.

The Micca COVO-S speakers are renowned for their compact size and unconventional design. Each speaker houses a 3-inch woofer paired with a 0.75-inch tweeter that sits in a concentric arrangement. This design choice is quite unique in its category and gives the COVO-S a distinctive sound signature. On the other hand, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR features a more traditional design, with a 4-inch woofer and a 1-inch dome tweeter. Designed by the acclaimed engineer Andrew Jones, these speakers have a solid reputation for their well-balanced and accurate sound reproduction.

Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
Micca COVO-S arrow (at Amazon.com)

Design and Build Quality

The Micca COVO-S flaunts a simple, almost industrial look with a boxy shape and black finish, which is quite appealing for users who appreciate minimalism. The build quality is quite impressive for the price point, and although the enclosures are compact, they feel sturdy. Conversely, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR has a curved cabinet design that not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also enhances the acoustical performance by reducing standing waves inside the cabinet. The Pioneers feel more substantial and are finished with a wood grain vinyl that gives a more upscale vibe.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is, without a doubt, the crux of any speaker comparison. The Micca COVO-S performs admirably for its size, delivering clear highs and mids. However, due to the small woofer size, bass response is limited. These speakers are best suited for small rooms or as desktop speakers where their size and sound can be appreciated without pushing them beyond their capabilities. The Pioneer SP-BS22-LR, on the other hand, manages to provide a fuller and more balanced sound. The bass is richer and more pronounced, thanks to the larger woofer and sophisticated crossover design, ensuring that the mids and highs are seamlessly integrated.

Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR arrow (at Amazon.com)

Listening to the Micca COVO-S, one can enjoy vocal clarity and detailed instrumentals, but the speakers may struggle with complex tracks or at higher volumes. In comparison, the Pioneers offer a more expansive soundstage and a degree of clarity and precision that belies their price point. Whether listening to classical, rock, or jazz, the SP-BS22-LR speakers maintain composure and depth, making them suitable for a wider range of music genres and larger rooms.

Value for Money

Considering the price-to-performance ratio, the Micca COVO-S offers great value for those in search of a very compact solution for modest listening setups. They're ideal for users who have space constraints but still want an upgrade from built-in speakers or low-quality desktop speakers. On the other hand, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers, while typically coming in at a higher price point than the Miccas, present a significant step up in audio quality. They could be considered an investment for those looking to delve deeper into the audiophile world without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, the choice between the Micca COVO-S and the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR bookshelf speakers boils down to the listener's space, budget, and audio quality expectations. For small spaces and tight budgets, the Micca COVO-S stand as a capable contender. For those who can accommodate a slightly larger speaker and are willing to invest a bit more for enhanced sound quality, the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR speakers prove themselves as a remarkable option that could easily serve as a gateway into high-fidelity audio.


Check Current Prices:

Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Pioneer SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Speakers
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.