Introduction to the PMC Active twenty5.23i Speakers

The PMC Active twenty5.23i speakers are active 2-way column models from the British brand, PMC. They are part of the new Active twenty5i series, which incorporates the sound architecture of the passive twenty5i series launched in 2016, with an amplification module in each speaker.

Design and Construction

The Active twenty5.23i speakers boast an elegant and timeless design, typical of PMC’s creations. Their slim and tall cabinet, available in several finishes, allows them to blend discreetly into any interior. The front panel features a 19mm Sonomex dome tweeter and a 140mm high-excursion G-Weave woofer.

The speakers’ construction utilizes high-quality materials, selected for their acoustic performance. The speakers benefit from PMC’s proprietary ATL (Advanced Transmission Line) technology. This is an acoustic conduit folded inside the speaker, which charges the woofer. With a length of 2.4m for this model, it delivers deep and detailed bass without distortion or lag.

Integrated Amplification

The main evolution of the Active twenty5i series is the integration of an amplification module in each speaker. This delivers a power of 2 x 100 W, with 100 W dedicated to the tweeter and 100 W to the woofer, allowing optimal and customized driving of each speaker.

The amplification is paired with an active filtering that precedes the power stages. The incoming signal, received via an RCA or XLR input, is divided into two to separately feed the amplifiers of the bass and treble. This active filtering offers great precision and perfect integration of the speakers. Its adjustment is specific to each model in the range.

Thanks to this active configuration, the twenty5.23i speakers can be directly connected to a source, such as a preamplifier or a network player with volume control. This greatly simplifies the hi-fi system by eliminating the need for a separate power amplifier.

Sound Performance

In terms of sound, the PMC Active twenty5.23i speakers impress with their transparency, dynamics, and ability to reproduce the finest details of the music. The soundstage is ample and precisely defined, with each instrument perfectly located and lifelike.

The bass benefits greatly from the ATL charge, which gives it depth, speed, and clarity. It extends effortlessly down to 28 Hz. The midrange is highly neutral and demonstrates a beautiful fluidity. The highs are airy, precise, and perfectly integrated, resulting in a natural and balanced overall sound.

Despite their relatively compact size, these column speakers are capable of a high sound level without distortion. They are suitable for sounding medium to large-sized rooms. Their dynamic behavior is exemplary on all types of music, even at high volume.

Advantages of the Speaker

Exceptional sound transparency and realism
Deep and controlled bass thanks to the ATL charge
Perfectly adapted integrated amplification
Precise and customized active filtering
Luxurious finishes and timeless design

Technical Specifications

Transducers

Woofer: 140 mm long-throw G-Weave cone, cast alloy chassis
Twenty5i series tweeter, 19 mm:
- Sonomex soft dome
- Ferrofluid cooling
- 34 mm suspension
- Dispersion grille

Acoustic Performance

Frequency response: 28 Hz - 25 kHz
Advanced Transmission Line (ATL): 2.4 m
Crossover frequency: 1.75 kHz
Directivity: 90° (horizontal and vertical)
Sensitivity:
- Low setting: 96.5 dB SPL at 1 m (1 Vrms)
- High setting: 106.5 dB SPL at 1 m (1 Vrms)