Elac, the first-ever consumer audio product which once was the PW1, a turntable, however within few years expanded their name by producing varieties of loudspeakers which includes high-end as well as entry-level models.
Moreover, this brand has developed a good number of speaker technologies of its own. And most recently it has delivered some great, well-performing, well-built speakers, that includes the Elac debut reference and the Uni-Fi reference.
The Uni-Fi reference comes with a balanced and enjoyable stereo sound with a great design and well built, whereas the debut reference is one of Elac’s most attractive speakers that works great with or without the grill. You will know more about the reference audio system of Elac from this article.
So, without any ado let’s get into the brief discussion about Elac Uni-Fi and Debut reference, and know which one is better among these two.
Product Differentiator: Elac Debut reference vs the Uni-Fi reference?
Firstly, there are lots of similarities between the Elac Debut reference vs Uni-Fi reference, like their built quality, shape, color, imagining, etc. However, the similarity is not what we are gonna talk about. So, the first difference between Debut vs Uni-fi is the sound stage.
The sound-stage of the Uni-fi reference goes upper than the Debut, which is why the sound comes out really good, especially while listening to MTV unplugged. In short, I thought the Uni-fi reference imaged better ( from the vertical sound-stage perspective).
Moving on to the bass, both the devices are not perfectly fit for a bigger room, however, they are not bad either. In fact, they mostly fill up the room, which is quite great. But if I have to declare a winner in this area, it would be the Debut reference.
Also though the bass presence or the bass extension of Debut was more, the Uni-fi reference was more neutral if compared. That is, the Uni-fi provides more deep and big bass whereas the other one provides a very tight and more base extension. Besides, in terms of texture and tone, the Uni-fi reference had better bass clarity and better detailing.
Moreover, the midrange of Debut reference is not that bad, neither it scooped out or sound bad in the midrange, but if the same track played in the Uni-fi reference, it sounds more detailed and enriched. That said, at one point the listener will feel like the sound is getting fatiguing, but trust me it won’t (!).
Then comes the treble, the Elac Uni-Fi reference has more details (as mentioned earlier), sparkle, more air, and other activities. It’s not like the debut reference doesn’t have any air, it’s just the Uni-fi is better and feels more real.
Therefore, the Debut reference is a great speaker with a bit warmer and lush performance. And the Uni-fi reference is better, more clear, detailed, and neutral, especially after the update, the Uni-Fi got better.
In short, both of them are excellent speakers with different flavors.
What are the main upgrades in these bookshelf speakers?
After the hi-fi establishment or the upgrade, the Uni-fi reference provided much better compatibility and better bass as well. That said, after the upgrade the price of this bookshelf speaker has raised as well.
Further, the ungraded Uni-fi reference series comes with enhanced bracing, developed crossover design along with the improved low-frequency response.
On the other hand, the Debut reference has not gone through any big change or improvement, as it already had a great and friendly sound as well as a high-end & polished design. However, I must mention that after the upgrade the Uni-fi has got better than the Debut reference in many cases.
Which Elac Debut and Uni-fi reference speakers am I going to review/ compare?
I have picked 3 most loved and famous speakers from each Debut and Uni-fi reference, which are as follows:
Detailed Review of Elac Debut Reference Series
Elac Debut Reference DBR62
This bookshelf speaker is undoubtedly nicely made and has a solid body with 2 color options. No matter what color you pick, it looks really smart. Not only the build quality, but its mid-range sound will also charm you as well.
Specifications:
| Type | Two-way bass reflex |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 6 ohms |
| Frequency response | 44Hz to 35kHz |
| Sensitivity | 86dB |
| Weight | Each speaker weights 8.2kg |
Product’s Highlights
It comes with an improved and newly developed high-frequency response. The DBR62 has a full perimeter brace joining the side panels and the top which helps in reducing the vibration of the cabinet.
The new woofers of this bookshelf speaker help in minimizing the resonances.
DBR62’s slot port (dual flared) allows the higher bass as well as the lower noise to provide improved bass dynamics.
Interestingly the new bass/mid unit of this device is great. Plus, the compatibility is not disappointing either. However, if you place it in rear wall positioning, it might become a bit congested, also lose balance a well. That’s why I will suggest adjusting it 20 inches out from the wall. Besides, doing so will help you to get a subtle and open sound as well.
Let’s move on to the most important part; sound. The midrange performance of the Elac Debut Reference DBR62 is awesome. It is clear, detailed, and clean, without sounding super etched or forward.
Moreover, it has a tidy and cohesive sound containing enough scale to convince the listeners. Besides, the lows are also well-balanced and blend enough to provide a good experience.
Overall, the DBR62 has a transparent midrange with excellent integration between the drivers, plus the detailing is also great. However, it has few drawbacks. Like, the presentation lacks a bit of drama, lacks some extra care in partnering as well. Furthermore, if you want something to make you feel like dancing then this device won’t be an ideal choice. Nevertheless, it is exceptional in some parts and does great at this price.
Elac Debut Reference DFR52
This Debut reference is a 3-way floor standing Elac speaker with an oak cabinet and white baffle. It produces a frequency response of 42Hz to 35kHz and also accepts a maximum of 140W of power from the amplifier.
Specifications:
| Type | 3 way bass reflex |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 6 ohms |
| Frequency response | 42Hz to 35 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 87db |
| Weight | Each speaker weights 16.7kg |
Product’s Highlights
- The Debut reference DFR52 enhances the high-frequency response.
- There are 3 dual flared ports in this device which helps to improve the bass dynamics by allowing the higher bass output and lower noise.
- The side and top panels of DFR52 is joined by the full-perimeter brace helps to
- minimize cabinet vibration and lessen the cabinet coloration.
- It has dual-cast chassis woofers.
There is an oversized ceramic magnet in each DFR52 speaker which helps to deliver bass reproduction by producing strong motor strength.
Debut reference DFR52 is a custom-built speaker for providing excellent sound to the listener. The woofers, magnets, enclosures, and crossovers are designed with an aim to deliver high-quality output.
Besides, the DFR52 comes with dual chassis woofers which helps in providing improved and better stiffness, in order to minimize the chassis resonances and giving strength in the front battle. Moreover, the 3 dual flared ports of this device help to improve the bass dynamics by allowing the higher bass output and lower noise.
Plus, the newly designed tweeter brings out smooth, extended, and accurate highs & high-frequency responses. Moreover, DFR52 ‘s side and top panels help to minimize cabinet vibration and lessen the cabinet coloration. Further, the oversized ceramic magnet in each of the speakers helps to provide bass reproduction by producing strong motor strength.
In short, the sound quality of this speaker is good. It brings out the details that the user is looking for. It produces smooth highs as well as good midrange. That said, according to some users, a subwoofer with this device is a must, in order to get a fantastic output. But it also depends on what type of genre you listen to the most.
Overall, it is a good one with neutral sound and great looks. Talking about the looks, the woods used here are fake, which won’t be an issue I guess, as long as it is providing you with great sound quality, right?
Elac Debut Reference B6.2
The Debut reference B6.2 is quite similar to the Elac Debut Reference DBR62, however, they also have some minor differences.
The B6.2 comes with a power handling capacity of a maximum of 120W and features a frequency response of 47Hz to 35 kHz.
Specifications:
| Type | 2 way bass reflex |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 6 ohms |
| Frequency response | 44Hz to 35 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 87db |
| Weight | Each speaker weights 7.4kg |
Product’s Highlights
- The Debut reference B6.2 has improved and newly developed high-frequency response.
- It comes with such cabinets that are internally supported to increase the strength and stiffness.
- The dual flared slot port of B6.2 lets the higher bass, as well as the lower noise, provide improved bass dynamics.
- The new woofers of this device help to reduce the resonances.
The Andrew Jones designed Debut B6.2 delivers a balanced stereo sound at this price.
Like, stated in the features, this device comes with cabinets that are internally supported to increase strength and stiffness. This helps to reduce the unwanted coloration by decreasing the cabinet vibration.
Also as I have mentioned earlier that the B6.2 is quite similar to the Elac Debut Reference DBR62, therefore their features are also quite similar. But the question is which one is better or more preferable in between B6.2 vs DBR62?
Firstly the B6.2 is a decent speaker. At this price range, it has great detailing, imaging, and pace. Once you put a good signal into them, you can enjoy a nice audiophile experience.
On the other hand, the DBR62 is more transparent, has better braced cabinets, bass extension & definition, clarity and crossover. Obviously, the price range of this speaker is also better!
In short, the sound quality of both of them will feel the same initially (to the noobs), but with time you can feel the difference. The DBR62 is better in every possible way.
Detailed Review of Elac Uni-Fi Series
Elac Uni-fi UBR62
The Uni-fi UBR62 of Elac has a luxurious sound profile along with an elegant look.
It features wood grain vinyl on both sides & back, front baffles which are satin finished, and improved drivers.
Specifications:
| Type | Three way bass Reflex |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 6 ohms |
| Frequency response | 41Hz to 35000Hz |
| Sensitivity | 85 db |
| Weight | Each speaker weights 22.5 kg |
Product’s Highlights
- The tweeter or the midrange of this device provides absolute clarity.
- The new tweeter of UBR62 produces better high & low frequency than its previous series.
- It produces accurate bass and vivid dynamics.
- The crossover with multi-elements as well as high-grade components ensures easy and smooth passage between drivers.
- UBR62’s internal bracing helps in reducing the cabinet vibration which is responsible for causing undesired sonic coloration.
- It has dual binding speaker terminals for bi-wiring or bi-amping.
The Uni-Fi series of ELAC is well known for its clarity and detailed output, which you will get in this Elac Uni-fi UBR62 as well. It also includes the famous concentric driver array that is responsible for placing the tweeter in exactly the middle of the driver in the midrange. Plus, this alignment helps to create a nice “unified source,” along with all the frequencies reaching the user’s ears instantly. It also helps to deliver a more accurate and coherent sound.
Taking of the speaker’s design the performance of this device is up a notch. Also, this Uni-fi smoothly delivers spacious, refined, fluent sound making the listeners fall in love with this bookshelf speaker.
Furthermore, this series comes with all-new or well-functioned drivers. It helps to produce better high & low frequency than its previous series. Moreover, the user will also get an accurate bass along with great dynamics. Interestingly, the impedance rating of this speaker is not 4ohms rather 6 ohms, which means this device should provide better performance and work better as well with its vast range of amps and receivers.
Besides, as mentioned earlier, the UBR62’s internal bracing helps in reducing the cabinet vibration which is responsible for causing undesired sonic coloration.
Not only that, the fine-tuned crossover with multi-elements as well as high-grade components ensures easy and smooth passage between drivers.
Overall, the Uni-fi UBR62 is a great pair of speakers providing good bass and great sound quality
Elac Uni-fi UCR52
This pair of devices enhance your favorite TV show’s or movie’s sound and dialogue with the help of its three-way center channel facility. It comes with a power handling capacity of a maximum of 140W and features a frequency response of 47Hz to 35 kHz.
Specifications:
| Type | 3 way bass reflex |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 6 ohms |
| Frequency response | 47Hz to 35 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 85db |
| Weight | Each speaker weights 13.2kg |
Product’s Highlights
It has 2 flared front-facing bass ports which help in providing an enhanced and smooth low-frequency production.
The wide-surround tweeter of this device has improved the bleeding making the midrange better.
The UCR52 features an aluminum cone in the bass driver which is responsible for the improved low-end reproduction.
This Uni-Fi device implements a full-parameter bracing which has an impact on the audio quality as it reduces cabinet coloration and cabinet vibration.
The cast chassis newly designed in the Elac Uni-Fi UCR52 delivers better clarity by minimizing the reflection back to the cones.
This quality full and sophisticated Uni-Fi series provide high quality components for the better experience of the users. Their crossover design delivers a smooth and clean transition mid, high as well as bass drivers.
Besides, the wide-surround tweeter of the UCR52 has improved the bleeding making the midrange better. Not only that, its 2 flared front-facing bass ports also help in providing an enhanced and smooth low-frequency production.
Moreover, this pair of Uni-Fi features an aluminum cone in the bass driver. It is responsible for improved low-end reproduction. Moreover, this newly developed cone provides better linearity as well as improved low frequency response in comparison with other Uni-Fi speakers.
Another new feature, that is the slot vents of UCR52 utilizes external as well as internal flares resulting in higher bass output and lower noise for better dynamics in the low-frequency.
Now the question is, does the user need any extra sub with this device for better performance?
Honestly, a sub with a speaker is never a loss; it only provides great sound and brings more bass to your favorite shows and movies. So having it won’t be a bad choice. But again, it’s not that essential either. One can easily enjoy this Uni-Fi speaker with or without a subwoofer.
Elac Uni-Fi UB5
This is one of the most hyped 3 ways bookshelf speakers producing a nicely balanced stereo sound with the help of your amp. Its cabinets are internally supported to increase strength and stiffness which also helps it to provide better performance.
Specifications:
| Type | 3 way bass reflex |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 4 ohms |
| Frequency response | 46Hz to 25 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 85db |
| Weight | Each speaker weights 7.5kg |
Product’s Highlights
The tweeter or the midrange of this device provides absolute clarity.
The high-grade components along with the crossover with multi-elements ensure easy and smooth passage between drivers.
The woofers of this device are made of aluminum containing a big magnetic cone which is responsible for the improved low-end reproduction.
The internal bracing of Uni-Fi UB5 helps in reducing the cabinet vibration which is responsible for causing undesired sonic coloration.
Honestly, it is a great sounding speaker at this price range. It is decent looking and delivers detailed, clear, and impressive sound with nice imaging as well as a deep sound-stage.
The bass performance of Elac Uni-Fi UB5 is nice. The large vented and magnet poles of the woofer increase the bass’s power handling capacity making it more clear, powerful, and clean. Moreover, the firing port helps in increasing the bass performance and keeps it tuneful & tight.
Besides, similar to the UCR52, the magnetic cone provides better linearity as well as improved low frequency response. That said, this feature is not available in every Uni-fi device.
Anyways, the UB5 is a great device that is at a time affordable, provides nice sound, and good detailing as well. Personally, I feel it is good for rock music. Also, this soundbar has few drawbacks. Like, it is not that great for larger rooms especially if you don’t have any subwoofer. Plus, you may need an amp to get the best out of it. But again, at this price, I think it is not at all disappointing.
Conclusion
Lastly, to put it all together, both Debut and Uni-fi has a good number of speakers with great sound quality and different price range. They have few differences as well as similarities which I think you know already.
However, if I have to pick one I would go for the Uni-Fi, as it is very neutral and detailed, and I prefer the kind. On the other hand, the Debut reference is richer but less detailed.
Note that, sometimes users avoid lively or neutral sounds as they think it might cause fatigue like most other speakers, but I didn’t feel any sort of fatigue in the Uni-Fi.
No matter whatever device you choose if you connect it with a low quality kit, it might sound good but not great. Therefore, I would suggest you connect with a higher quality front end in order to get a blissful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This FAQ section is here to talk about some of your problems. We are almost at the end of the article, and still trying to help you with some of your queries. let’s find out more!
Which one is better between Elac Debut B6 vs Uni-Fi UB5?
The Uni-fi UB5 is better. The debut is warmer and the uni-fi is more neutral.
How is Elac Uni-fi Reference?
The Uni-Fi is very neutral and detailed. Also, after the hi-fi establishment or the upgrade, the Uni-fi reference provided much better compatibility and better bass as well.
Is DBR62 a good choice?
Elac debut reference DBR62 amplifier has transparent midrange with excellent integration between the drivers, plus the detailing is also great. But a subwoofer with this device would be great, in order to get a fantastic output. But it also depends on what type of genre you listen to the most.
Review Elac Debut reference DFR52.
The sound quality is good. It brings out the details that the user is looking for. It produces smooth highs as well as good midrange.
How is Elac Debut Reference?
The Debut reference is richer but less detailed.
Which one is better between Elac Debut vs Klipsch Reference premium?
Both are great at different things. Like, the Klipsch will be great for movies and the Debut will be awesome for casual music listening. Also, you can use both in other works as well.
Student and Tech journalist.