Callisto or Rubicon?
Contents
The question arises how the Callisto series and the Dali Rubicon 2C relate to each other. The Callisto 2C is a € 3.500 all-in solution. (So Sound Hub included). It has a lower price tag than the Rubicon 2C. But the difference is small. If you prefer a floor stand, the Callisto 6C is priced more or less the same as the Rubicon 2C. What would we recommend?
Well, despite the higher price, we think the Rubicon offers more value for money; it is more detailed in presentation of the music and it is faster. Both properties add something to what the English call PRAT: precision, rhythm & timing. Whether it’s due to the larger share of SMC technology in the Rubicons compared to the Callisto’s, we don’t know exactly. But in all cases, our choice would go to the Rubicons. They simply play at a higher level. So we also prefer the Rubicon 2C over the Callisto 6C.
Price/Quality
With active systems, especially in this price range, it takes some getting used to; 4,650 euros for two speakers and a sound hub. The Dali Rubicon 2 in passive version costs € 950 each. An integrated amplifier with a similar number of inputs and capabilities is the Hegel Röst for € 2,500. Signal and speaker wires still need to be added. Not to mention we don’t have streaming at the level of Bluesound. And we bet a good bottle of Danish wine that the Dali Rubicon 2C sounds better that a Rubicon 2 with the Röst (that might be more neutral, but not better per-se). With active, you pay for an integrated system where the components are no longer visible, because built into the speaker. The logic of the good old stereo motors is giving way to invisible technology. Get used to it.
Are there alternatives?
Yeah, there are alternatives. KEF has the LS50 Wireless. Devialet has the Phantom. But those are really different in terms of sounds and price. Bowers & Wilkins has Formation. We’re going to test it extensively. Dynaudio has wireless models, but not really up-to-date and they do not have the multiroom streaming system that Dali does offer. Kii? Grimm? Different price range and again no multiroom audio. If you wish to combine all this, you end up with a passive loudspeaker with an amplifier, preferably with built-in dac and streamer. And then the question arises: what is better? In our humble opinion: active.
To be helpful…..I’m not a fan of unexplained acronyms. I know this is an older review, yet as the Rubicon 2C is still available, others may also return here. The acronym ‘SCM’ used here is for the underlying technology that Dali believes makes their lineup special. From the Dali website: “SMC (Soft Magnetic Composite) is a coated, magnetic, granular material that offers a highly unusual combination of very high magnetic permeability and very low electrical conductivity.” They suggest that this material lowers distortion and excessive or undesirable coloration. You can find more including a video explanation on their website.