Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers Review
Specs:
| MSRP | $80 |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) |
5.10” × 4.20” × 5.10” 130mm × 107mm × 130mm |
| Power Type | Passive |
| Frequency Response | 90-20,000 Hz |
Key Takeaways
TLDR Summary: The Micca COVO-S speakers punch above their featherweight class, delivering a soundstage that's surprisingly spacious for their compact stature. The co-axial design aids in a unified audio dispersion, though they falter with lower frequencies - a subwoofer pairing is a must for bass enthusiasts. Their affordability is a boon for budget audiophiles. However, power handling is modest; don't expect room-shaking volume. In essence, the COVO-S offers a respectable clarity and coherence, ideal for intimate listening spaces.
Micca COVO-S: Our Take
The Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers are an affordable audio solution for those looking to enhance their home listening experience without occupying too much space. These speakers are designed to fit conveniently on a bookshelf, desktop, or any compact area, making them a versatile choice for small apartments or rooms where space is at a premium. With their compact size and unobtrusive design, they blend easily into a variety of home décors, appealing to those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic.
Featuring a patented concentric driver design, the Micca COVO-S speakers deliver a balanced sound profile that aims to provide clarity across a range of frequencies. This innovative driver arrangement combines a 3-inch wool paper cone woofer with a 0.75-inch PEI dome tweeter, aiming for a cohesive sound that can handle both the low and high ends of the audio spectrum. For listeners interested in casual music listening or an entry-level home theater setup, these speakers promise to deliver performance that belies their compact size.
As far as connectivity is concerned, the COVO-S speakers offer straightforward compatibility with most standard audio equipment. They feature traditional speaker wire terminals that ensure users can easily connect them to an amplifier or receiver. This simplicity of use makes the speakers accessible even to those who are not particularly tech-savvy. Moreover, their impedance of 8 ohms and power handling of up to 50 watts per channel make them suitable for pairing with a wide range of amplifiers, from entry-level models to more sophisticated units.
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Audio Performance and Suitability
While the Micca COVO-S speakers are capable of delivering a decent audio experience for their size, prospective buyers should manage their expectations when it comes to sound volume and bass response. Due to their small drivers and cabinets, these speakers won't be able to produce the kind of deep, room-filling bass that larger speakers or dedicated subwoofers can offer. This may be a limitation for those who are enthusiasts of genres like hip-hop or electronic dance music where bass is prominent.
Compare to similar speakers:
However, for users who prioritize vocal clarity and detailed sound in mid and high frequency ranges, such as in acoustic music or podcasts, the COVO-S can be quite satisfying. These speakers are particularly well-suited for near-field listening, which makes them an excellent choice for desktop setups or intimate room environments where the listener is relatively close to the audio source. The COVO-S performs admirably within its intended scope, offering clarity and detail that one might not expect from speakers of this size and price range.
When it comes to longevity and build quality, the Micca COVO-S speakers feel solidly constructed for budget-friendly bookshelf speakers. The cabinets are made with dense materials that help minimize unwanted resonances and vibrations. This results in a cleaner sound and adds to the overall durability of the speakers. The simple yet attractive black matte finish is also relatively easy to maintain and resistant to fingerprints and dust, which is beneficial for keeping the speakers looking good over time.
Comparison with Similar Products
In comparison with other compact bookshelf speakers on the market, such as the Polk Audio T15 or the Sony SSCS5, the Micca COVO-S holds its own as an affordable option. The T15 and SSCS5 may offer more substantial bass response due to their larger driver sizes, but they also come at a slightly higher price point and require more space. For shoppers working with limited room or seeking an unobtrusive audio solution, the COVO-S may be more appropriate.
Another competitor in this category is the Dayton Audio B652-AIR, which is comparable in terms of price and size. The B652-AIR features Dayton Audio's renowned AMT tweeter for exceptional high-frequency detail. Buyers would need to evaluate whether the high-frequency performance of the AMT tweeter outweighs the unique concentric driver design advantages offered by the COVO-S. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference for sound signature and specific use cases.
Overall, the Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers are a viable option for those seeking an economical and space-saving audio solution. They shine in setups where space is constrained, and offer respectable audio performance within their design limitations. For those interested in more powerful bass or louder volume capabilities, alternative products with larger drivers may be more suitable. Nonetheless, the Micca COVO-S remains an enticing choice for its target demographic—consumers looking for a simple, effective way to enjoy clearer sound without breaking the bank or taking up too much space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the Micca COVO-S speakers perform in terms of sound quality for their size?
The Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers are a marvel when it comes to balancing size and sound quality. Given their compact footprint, one might expect a compromise in audio performance, but these little speakers punch above their weight. With a coaxial design that helps integrate the woofer and tweeter more smoothly, the COVO-S delivers a surprisingly coherent soundstage, projecting a good amount of detail and clarity for their class. However, due to their size, they do have their limitations in bass response and overall volume. They excel in smaller rooms and setups where space is at a premium and are ideal for near-field listening scenarios such as desktop audio systems.
Are the Micca COVO-S speakers suitable for home theater setups?
While the Micca COVO-S speakers are versatile performers, one should set realistic expectations when considering them for home theater use. They can serve as front or surround speakers in a compact home theater set-up thanks to their ability to articulate dialogues and high-frequency effects with precision. However, it is essential to pair them with a capable subwoofer to fill in the lower frequencies they naturally miss out on. Without a subwoofer, you might find the overall experience lacking, especially in the deep rumble of cinematic explosions or the full-bodied resonance of a movie score. When complemented with a subwoofer, they can form part of an impressive and budget-friendly home theater system.
Can the Micca COVO-S be used without an additional amplifier or receiver?
The Micca COVO-S speakers are passive speakers, which means they require an external amplifier or receiver to power them. They do not have a built-in amplification module, so you'll need to connect them to a stereo receiver, integrated amplifier, or a similar audio component that can provide the necessary power for them to function. This external component will also serve as your control center for volume and potentially other tone controls or source switching. The additional requirement for an amplifier or receiver is typical for bookshelf speakers in this class, as it allows for greater flexibility in shaping your audio system to your preferences and needs.
