Q Acoustics M40 white (set of 2)

The Q Acoustics M40 embody the British approach to modern home audio: combining cutting-edge technology and sleek design in an accessible format. These compact active floorstanding speakers offer a complete solution for music lovers seeking versatility and sound quality, without the installation constraints of a traditional system. As successors to the popular M20, they take things a step further by adopting a floorstanding format while retaining the connectivity features that made their predecessor so successful.

Refined Design and Physical Construction

Described as “micro-towers” by Q Acoustics, the M40 measure 71 cm in height and just 25 cm in width, offering a measured visual presence suited to contemporary interiors. Their slim 29.6 cm depth and finishes in black, white, or walnut allow them to blend naturally into various environments. The choice of permanent grilles, while eliminating the option to remove them, contributes to the clean aesthetic by removing any visible mounting structures.

The construction uses an MDF cabinet covered in vinyl, incorporating Q Acoustics’ Point to Point (P2P) bracing system to control unwanted vibrations. The choice of an active/passive system, with one main speaker housing the electronics and a second passive speaker, simplifies installation while optimizing costs. The rear bass-reflex ports come with foam bungs, allowing you to adjust the response depending on wall proximity.

Acoustic Technologies Inherited from Q Acoustics Expertise

At the heart of the M40 are two 125 mm woofers featuring C3 Continuous Curved Cone technology, derived from the passive Q Acoustics 5000 series. This continuously curved and smooth cone design aims to reduce distortion while improving dispersion in the midrange. The 22 mm textile dome tweeter benefits from mechanical decoupling from the cabinet, isolating it from unwanted vibrations to preserve treble clarity.

The Helmholtz Pressure Equalizer (HPE) technology addresses internal standing waves, contributing to tonal coherence. The crossover frequency set at 2.5 kHz between woofers and tweeter aims for optimal balance across the frequency range. This two-way architecture, though simple in appearance, benefits from decades of Q Acoustics expertise in optimizing passive crossovers and acoustic behavior.

Comprehensive Connectivity and High-Resolution DAC

The M40 excel in connection versatility, offering five distinct inputs on the main speaker. The USB-B input turns the speakers into an external DAC for computers, handling files up to 24-bit/192 kHz. The Toslink optical input allows direct connection to a TV or digital source, while the RCA and 3.5 mm mini-jack analog inputs accommodate vintage sources and portable devices.

Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity supports SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX HD codecs for optimized wireless transmission. The aptX Low Latency codec is particularly noteworthy for users connecting a TV, eliminating the audio-video lag often found with other codecs. The range of approximately 10 meters allows comfortable use in most home spaces.

DSP Intelligence and Placement Optimization

The M40 feature an adaptive digital signal processor offering three optimization modes based on placement: free-standing, against a wall, or in a corner. This function, accessible via a button on the speaker, automatically adjusts the frequency response to compensate for room acoustics. This smart approach addresses a real issue: few users have the space or knowledge for optimal acoustic placement.

The included infrared remote control allows remote adjustment of volume, source, and EQ settings. While basic, this feature proves practical for everyday use. The control interface on the main speaker remains ergonomic, with essential controls directly accessible.

A Natural Evolution from the M20

Compared to the M20 bookshelf speakers, the M40 add an extra woofer, increased power, and significantly improved bass extension. They retain the same philosophy of extensive connectivity that made the M20 a success, while offering a more assertive physical and sonic presence. This evolution meets the demands of users seeking more impact in a still compact format.

Technical Specifications

Design and Technology

• 2-way speaker
• Bass-reflex enclosure with rear port
• Bluetooth aptX HD and aptX Low Latency compatible
• 24-bit / 192 kHz compatible

Drivers

• 125 mm C3 Continuous Curved Cone mid-bass driver
• 22 mm dome tweeter, isolated from the speaker chassis

Audio Performance

• Power: 2 × 50 W RMS
• Peak power: 2 × 100 W
• Frequency response: 38 Hz to 22 kHz
• Crossover frequency: 2.5 kHz

Wireless Connectivity

• Supported codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Low Latency
• Range: approximately 10 m

Connections

• Power port
• Optical input
• RCA stereo input
• USB-B port
• 3.5 mm mini-jack input
• Speaker link port

Included Accessories

• User manual
• Power cable
• Infrared remote control

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 250 × 710 × 296 mm
• Passive speaker weight: 11.8 kg
• Active speaker weight: 12.4 kg