ELAC Uni-fi UB5 vs. Micca COVO-S

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 and Micca COVO-S speakers represent two different philosophies and market segments. The UB5, brainchild of renowned speaker designer Andrew Jones, is part of ELAC's Uni-fi series and has garnered widespread acclaim for its sound quality. On the other hand, the Micca COVO-S is a compact, budget-friendly option that punches above its weight class. Both are bookshelf models, but they cater to distinctly different audio enthusiasts.

Design Philosophy and Build Quality

The ELAC Uni-fi UB5 shows its high-end lineage with a three-way design featuring a concentric driver that combines a 1-inch soft dome tweaker with a 4-inch aluminum midrange. The custom-designed 5.25-inch aluminum woofer complements the setup, all enclosed in a robust MDF cabinet with a sophisticated braced design to minimize cabinet vibration. In contrast, the Micca COVO-S opts for a more straightforward approach with a two-way design. It sports a 0.75-inch PEI dome tweeter coupled with a 3-inch wool paper cone woofer, housed in a compact and lightweight enclosure that's easier on the wallet without ignoring durability.

Sound Performance

The UB5s are a revelation with their coherence and transparency, offering an expansive soundstage that belies their modest size. The concentric driver design aids in creating a point source for sound, resulting in a more phase-coherent and time-aligned audio reproduction. This is especially noticeable in complex musical passages where instrument separation is key. The COVO-S, while not as sonically expansive as the UB5, offers a surprisingly engaging listening experience. Its sound signature is warm and inviting, with a focus on delivering clear vocals and a balanced midrange that works well for casual listening and smaller rooms.

Power Handling and Amplification

ELAC's UB5s are known to be somewhat demanding when it comes to amplification, necessitating a high-quality receiver or amplifier that can handle their 4-ohm impedance and moderate sensitivity. They shine with ample power, revealing their full potential with a robust and clean signal. The Micca COVO-S, on the other hand, is much more forgiving. Its 8-ohm impedance and higher sensitivity make it suitable for use with a wider range of amplifiers and receivers, including some lower-powered options that might struggle with the UB5s.

While the COVO-S might be ideal for those dipping their toes into the world of hi-fi audio or looking for a small room solution, the UB5s cater to a more discerning listener. The latter will likely invest in the necessary amplification to extract every ounce of performance from these speakers. This difference in power requirements is a key consideration for potential buyers when matching speakers to their existing equipment.

Value Proposition

The ELAC Uni-fi UB5s are positioned as a mid-tier audiophile bookshelf speaker, offering performance that challenges some floor-standing models. This comes at a price point that, while reasonable within the audiophile world, is significantly higher than the Micca COVO-S. Micca's speakers provide an incredible value for those on a strict budget, delivering a level of audio fidelity that exceeds expectations for their price bracket.

Ultimately, the choice between the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 and the Micca COVO-S speakers will come down to the listener's priorities. Those seeking a high-fidelity experience with the space and budget for a more extensive setup will find the UB5s a worthy investment. However, for the enthusiast looking for a capable and affordable entry point into better sound, the Micca COVO-S offers a low barrier of entry and a satisfying performance. Both sets of speakers highlight the diversity of options available to today's audiophiles, ensuring that there's a perfect match for every ear and every room.